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AirAsia inflight Magazine TRAVEL 3Sixty°

53 December 2011

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AirAsia InFlight Magazine

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CHECK-IN Contents December 2011

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NAVIGATOR

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10 AWESOME YEARS... AND COUNTING

AirAsia Celebrates its 10th Anniversary

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FOLLOW THE STAR Parol Makers of Philippines

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PILOT’S PERSPECTIVE

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Tall Tales & Embellished Anecdotes

Art of the Australian Aborigines

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UNDER THE RAINBOW SERPENT

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TRAVEL LOG

Chasing Chengdu

DUDE, WHERE’S DA NANG?

City in Central Vietnam

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BOARDING CALL

48 HYPER TECH

08 CAPTAIN’S ADDRESS

50 SLEEP INNS

10 EDITOR’S NOTE

56 HIT LIST

10 Awesome Years!

Hello from the Travel 3Sixty° Team

12 INBOX

The Buzz from our Guests

14 RED FORT

News from AirAsia

152 MY AIRASIA

Future Forward

Happy Holidays

Dreams do Come True

134 KIDS SPACE Strictly Kids

STYLE FILE 124 OFF THE RACK Holiday Chic

Inside Guide to Philippines

126 VANITY FARE

FLIGHT PLAN

128 JETSETTER

24 SPOTLIGHT

Stuff you’d Love to Know

IN FLIGHT

32 HOT DATES

136 PLANE FUN

Christmas Bounty

Henry Golding

December Events to keep a Lookout for

Puzzles & Games

34 COMPASS

Photos Taken by AirAsia Guests

Time to Travel

138 PERFECT PICTURE

36 QUICK BITES

140 GET COMFY

38 PAGE TURNER

PORT OF CALL

December Foodie News

Stocking Fillers

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Joy of Flying

142 ROUTE MAP

40 MONEY MAKER Show Me the Money

42 PRESCRIPTION Mind over Matter

44 SCORE BOARD Intel on Sports

148 AIRASIA SALES OFFICES & STATIONS 150 TOUCHDOWN Penang, Malaysia

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AIRASIA INFLIGHT MAGAZINE

PUBLISHER MANAGING EDITOR

Kathleen Tan R. Rajendra

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ART DIRECTOR

Kan Seak Hong

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INDONESIA

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

CONTRIBUTORS ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES

Fazlina Bee Binti Abdul Rashid Fadillah Kamarudin Alice Yong, Captain Lim Khoy Hing, Efi Hamzah, Joey Gan, Pete King, Shantini Suntharajah Indran Balavishnu (Malaysia) indran.balavishnu@pharpartnerships.com Mairianne Reardon (Singapore, UK and International Markets) m.reardon@pharpartnerships.com Charuphan Pojchanart (Thailand) charuphanp@airasia.com

NOW EVERYONE CAN FLY

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GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Adam Lee

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PHOTOJOURNALIST

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HELP SAVE THE EARTH. READ THE MAGAZINE ONLINE AND STOP STEALING ME! www.airasia.com/travel360

ON THE COVER AirAsia Celebrates 10 Awesome Years!

Vikhram Radhakishnan (Indonesia) vikhram.r@pharpartnerships.com Tel: +6 03 7962 5813 (Phar Partnerships Malaysia) E-mail: sales-T360@airasia.com Travel 3Sixty° wishes to thank Lovatts Crosswords & Puzzles, MPH, Pansing Marketing, Quikmark Media EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES PUBLISHED BY

PRINTING

PRE-PRESS SERVICES

travel3sixty@airasia.com Travel 3Sixty° c/o AirAsia Berhad

LCC Terminal, Jalan KLIA S3, Southern Support Zone, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, 64000 Sepang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia. Tel: 603-8660 4333

Percetakan Zanders Sdn. Bhd.

No. 16, Jalan BK 1/11, Bandar Kinrara, 47180 Puchong, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.Tel: 603-5623 9393

CONTENT

WEB DEVELOPERS WEB DESIGNERS

Have a question regarding travelling with AirAsia?

Get your answers here at airasia.com/ask! We’ll help you out via chat, twitter.com/askairasia or E-mail if you need further assistance AirAsia on Twitter for information & assistance on simple requests: www.twitter.com/AskAirAsia For exciting news, bytes and tweets from AirAsia: www.twitter.com/airasia

Matthew Mok, Jayne Kam, Irvin Hanni

AirAsia on Facebook: www. facebook.com/AirAsia. For AirAsia promotional updates, travel stories & news: www.facebook.com/airasia

Iyan Yudhiana Ong Chin Han, Jason Phoon, Mohd Sufian Charmaine Wong, Goh Wee Kee, Howard Choong

All rights reserved. The opinions and statements of contributors in Travel 3Sixty° do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or AirAsia Berhad. Travel 3Sixty° and AirAsia Berhad are not responsible or liable in anyway for the contents of the advertisements, articles, photographs or illustrations contained in this publication. We reasonably assume that all articles are factual and not plagiarised or intentionally libellous. The editorial team reserves the right to edit and / or re-write all materials according to the needs of the publication upon usage.

Reproduction of material from Travel 3Sixty° in any form is strictly prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. Unsolicited materials will not be returned unless accompanied by sufficient return postage. All information correct at the time of printing.

PP15075/07/2012(029856)

Find us at

airasia.com/ask

Digiscan Services Sdn. Bhd.

No. 26, Jalan 4/62A, Bandar Manjalara, 52200 Kuala Lumpur. Tel: 603-6273 6386

TRAVEL 3SIXTY˚ DIGITAL TEAM

WEBMASTER

FOR QUERIES, ASSISTANCE AND FEEDBACK, YOU CAN REACH US HERE:

www.facebook.com/travel3sixty

AirAsia blog to share travel experiences and stories: http://blog.airasia.com Find us on Weibo at http://t.sina.com.cn/airasia Follow us on RenRen at http://page.renren.com/airasia

12 CAPTAIN’S ADDRESS 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

10 AWESOME YEARS! It is an unbelievable feeling! It seems like only yesterday I sat down with Din (Dato’ Kamarudin Meranun) and Aziz (Dato’ Aziz Bakar) trying to figure out how to get an airline license. We met up with Dato’ Pahamin and the rest, as they say, is history.

December 8, 2011 is our 10th Anniversary and I’d like to take this moment to thank everyone, especially you, our guests, for making it happen for us!

You’ve probably heard this story before and I’m afraid you’ll hear it from me time and time again. What started off with just over 200 employees and only two planes carrying 200,000 guests, has grown into a company of about 10,000 staff and a fleet of over 90 planes carrying over 130 million guests to date. This began with just a dream!

In just a decade, we have survived some unimaginable adversities. We’ve overcome SARS, rising fuel costs, price wars and bombings. And through it all, we’ve also championed many firsts. were also the first of

Tan Sri Dr. Tony Fernandes

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Dato’ Aziz Bakar

many. AirAsia was the first to raise the retirement age of Flight Attendants, and hire female pilots. The number of staff employed has grown tremendously; we even have Ramp Agents who’ve become flight attendants, a pilot who is now a CEO (Capt Dharmadi of IAA), and Guest Service Agents and FAs who’ve trained and graduated as pilots.

Along the way, great partnerships were formed and we are indeed very grateful for this. What’s truly special is the bond and partnership that has been cemented with you, our guests. I must admit that not everyone likes us but we certainly have made a lot of people happy!

So, in this newly revamped 10th anniversary issue of Travel 3Sixty, my heartfelt gratitude goes out to each and every one who has stood by us through thick and thin.

We simply couldn’t have made it without you.

Thank you everyone and happy 10th birthday, AirAsia!

Tan Sri Dr. Tony Fernandes

Dato’ Kamarudin Meranun

Dato’ Pahamin A. Rejab

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A PERFECT 10!

A hot Korean man!

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To be the richest girl in the world!

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Scarfing down brownies!

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Becoming a walking Wikipedia!

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The mind of Steve Jobs!

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Travel 3Sixty˚ Web Team: 1.MATT: Starbucks skinny latte 2.JAYNE: Food, music and Johnny Depp 3.IRVIN: A kitty on my belly 4.JASON: Money and success 5.CHARMAINE: Coffee and donuts 6.HOWARD: Date with Jessica Alba.

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But don’t take my word for it. Have a look and enjoy the new and improved Travel 3Sixty˚. A gentle reminder: Please do leave the magazine in the seat pocket when you exit the aircraft for the reading benefit of other guests. We are also trying to cut down on waste of natural resources due to printing and as such, offering you the option of downloading a copy of the magazine at www.airasia.com/travel360 is our way of going green.

It is also the Christmas/New Year season and the team has been hard at work all year to put out great reads. So, here’s the AirAsia Travel 3Sixty˚ editorial, sales and web team wishing you Happy Holidays and a wonderful 2012!

Sky-diving from my private jet!

Dilla

Power of invisibility!

Ad am

Welcome to the 10th Anniversary issue, which incidentally, is also a brand new, revamped Travel 3Sixty˚. We have made some major changes to the overall look and feel of the magazine, starting with the new masthead that spreads across oss th the cover page.

Layout and design too have e taken on a cleaner, more streamlined look, which ch many will find kin kinder on the eyes. The content, nt, however, is jam-packed with the kind of interesting eresting travel and lifestyle articles tthat you’ve grown accustomed to and expect from Travel 3Sixty˚. We think this is a great way to celebrate 10 years of success and, to usher in the new year and many, many years of continued growth for AirAsia.

WHAT WOULD MAKE YOUR LIFE PERFECT?

HERE’S WISHFUL THINKING BY THE TRAVEL 3SIXTY˚ TEAM.

www.airasia.com/travel360

12 INBOX 2011

www.airasia.com/travel360

I enjoy reading the articles found in your magazine but was particularly attracted to Vividly Wild Vacations (Nov 2011). I am quite LETTER an outdoorsy person OF THE MONTH! and have played many sports during my school days. But the article offered even greater options. What I truly appreciate about the write-up is the wealth of information on BASE Jumping, Rock Climbing and Bog Snorkelling. Snorkelling in mud? That sounds like loads of fun and gives me a good excuse to start practising in the muddy patches near my house! My wife is not going to like it though.~ Muhammad Fauzi Ismail, Sepang, Malaysia I read your article Small Investment, Huge Relief (Oct 2011) while on my flight back from Singapore. I used to to cancel the offer for travel insurance whenever I purchased tickets online, thinking nothing untoward would happen during my travels. It never occurred to me that I should protect myself and my belongings as anything can happen at any time without warning. This article h hit me right in the face. I would definitely buy AirAsia travel in insurance in the future. ~ Patricia Poh, via email

LETTER OF THE MONTH WINS A RM918 VOUCHER TO BE REDEEMED AGAINST AN ATC 0912 28’’ LUGGAGE.* *T&C apply. *Luggage shown here for illustration purpose only. Colours may vary.

Reading your article How A Pit Stop Works (Sept 2011) on board a flight to Singapore, several days before the Singapore F1 race was really exciting. I never had plans to watch the race but after reading the article in Travel 3Sixty°, I am now aware of how the technology, racers and management team work together efficiently and in harmony to win the race. Good job, Travel 3Sixty °! ~ Simon Gunawan, via email

HERE’S THE BUZZ ON AIRASIA’S TWITTER, FACEBOOK AND WEIBO PAGES It’s so convenient now to check-in with @AirAsia. You just have to scan your barcode from your Smartphone and it’ll print it for you. Sam Zahri Great, comfortable and sweet flight with @AirAsia from HKT– DPS today. It’s my second flight with you and already it’s my best choice! Esther I finally was invited as @AirAsia BIG! Can’t wait for the BIG Card and to collect my BIGGIES. Scorpioritta

Thanks again AA! I have just made another booking for the next year :) Such good prices!

That is two holidays to Phuket for 2012. Woohoo! Lauren Rosentreter-mcnall

Good job AirAsia again. I flew with you on 25th Oct from KL to Mumbai. Flight departed from KL right on time 6.05pm and landed in Mumbai 20 mins before time.

Great job & yes the Chicken Briyani was amazing. :) Looking forward to a good flight with you while going back to SG from Mumbai. Sandeep Wadia.

A very big thank you to AirAsia.

Myself and my mum who is in a wheelchair travelled from Melbourne to Phuket return earlier this month and the customer service and the way the staff looked after her was outstanding. They were courteous, helpful and had an ambulift waiting for us with her wheelchair to transport us around the airports. Dana Gardiner

AirAsia is a well known low cost airline. A lot of things have been done to lower the cost. It’s a good choice for us backpackers! Lil’ penguin In-flight meals are limited, so don’t forget to pre-book your meal while booking tickets, and the FA will serve passengers with their pre-booked meal first. Simon889 Wow! What good news! Finally AirAsia is coming to Chongqin!

Let’s go to Bangkok! :D Amyxiaoya

Like what you read in Travel 3Sixty°? Share your thoughts with us! To show you how much we appreciate your feedback, we’ll give the best letter of the month a fabulous prize and the other two letters will receive a RM50 e-gift voucher each. Email your feedback to travel3sixty@airasia.com. Travel 3Sixty° reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and length, and only letters regarding articles in the magazine will stand to win a prize.

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12 RED FORT 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

DRUM-ROLL, PLEASE! Tan Sri Dr. Tony Fernandes, AirAsia’s Group CEO was named CNBC’s inaugural ‘Travel Business Leaders Award’ Asia Pacific winner at the Asia Travel Leaders Summit Gala Dinner in Singapore. This award recognises business leaders who demonstrate excellence in driving growth, success and profitability, while advancing innovation, formulating strategies and capitalising on key trends.

“I am indeed grateful to receive this recognition from CNBC, and I attribute this award to my passionate and dedicated team of AirAsia Allstars who’ve made AirAsia what it is today.” ~ Tan Sri Dr. Tony Fernandes AirAsia’s Nonexecutive Director, Conor McCarthy was named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year® (EOY) award winner in the ‘Emerging’ category.

Having joined the AirAsia team in 2004, McCarthy, who is also Chairman of Dublin Aerospace, has been instrumental in keeping the airline’s business direction on course, and towards the democratization of travel.

M.L. Bovornovadep Devakula, Director of Business Development, Thai AirAsia (third from the left) with Suraphon Svetasreni, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand flanked by AirAsia flight attendants at the 22nd Annual TTG Travel Awards 2011 Ceremony.

After votes from over 49,000 readers, AirAsia has been named Best Asian Low-Cost Carrier by Asia Pacific’s leading travel news publisher TTG. This award recognises AirAsia’s popularity among travel trade insiders and the travelling public.

“This is the fifth time we have been given the award and it reflects AirAsia’s commitment to excellence, not only to our guests but also to industry insiders.” ~Tassapon Bijleveld, CEO of Thai AirAsia

AirAsia Customer Care Manager, Frank Bateman receiving the ‘Customer Lover’ award from lead judge, Timothy O’Neil-Dunne.

AirAsia won the WITovation ‘Customer Lover’ Award recently for its innovative approach in engaging guests via AskAirAsia, a user-friendly one-stop help and information portal. Praising AirAsia’s use of an avatar to build rapport with users, the judges concurred, “This service exceeds customer expectations regarding budget airlines where cheap equates minimal service.” AskAirAsia is accessible at airasia.com/ask

“We are always introducing innovative methods to enhance our guests’ experience and we’re ready to invest more in technology in order to adapt to their needs.” ~ Zaman Ahmad, AirAsia Regional Head of Customer Experience and Technology.

FOURTH FROM LEFT: Senthil Balan, AirAsia X Head of Route Planning and Regulatory Affairs with his team.

AirAsia X bagged the Best Network Performance accolade by an airline route planning team at the prestigious World Routes Awards 2011 in Berlin in October, adjudicated by the Airline Networking Planning Community. AirAsia X was recognised for its efficient network management, clear network strategy, identification of emerging markets, maximisation of fleet and, strong partnerships with key stakeholders. AirAsia X is the only airline in Asia to be nominated for this category, winning the award in its fourth year of operation.

“We are humbled to have won the award at the very first time the award is launched, which is testimony to the passion, dedication and drive of everyone at AirAsia X in driving our growth since our inception in 2007.” ~ Senthil Balan, AirAsia X Head of Route Planning and Regulatory Affairs

Tony’s credo is “Dream the impossible, believe the unbelievable and never take ‘No’ for an answer!”

TRAVEL FOR ALL!

GO CHENGDU!

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In October, AirAsia X inked a MOU with Chengdu Tourism for closer cooperation in promoting Chengdu, the capital of China’s Sichuan Province.

This new partnership includes numerous joint marketing efforts, advertising campaigns and the establishment of a Chengdu Tourism Centre in Malaysia.

AirAsia X operates direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Chengdu four times a week. Visit www.airasia.com for the full flight schedule.

WHEN IN CHENGDU…

“We have seen a significant jump in passenger load with over 84% traffic both inbound and outbound for the Kuala Lumpur – Chengdu route.

We are positive that this partnership will help give the extra push to further increase tourist numbers into Chengdu.” ~Azran OsmanRani, CEO of AirAsia X

• Enjoy a traditional tea performance at one of Chengdu’s teahouses.

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• Observe endangered giant pandas at the Chengdu Panda Breeding and Research Centre.

• Savour delicacies like fiery mapo tofu and other Sichuan dishes cooked with the province’s famous tongue-numbing pepper.

• Catch a colourful Chinese opera performance in Chengdu, the home of Sichuanese opera.

In 2008, AirAsia teamed up with the Barrier Free Environment & Accessible Transport organisation (BEAT) to enhance services for disabled guests, and stay true to AirAsia’s motto ‘Now Everyone Can Fly’. Steps taken include officially launching AirAsia’s Special Assistance Services, unveiling the airline’s own Ambulift vehicle, and working with representatives from BEAT to develop and conduct Disability Equality Training for AirAsia’s staff and cabin crew.

This year, AirAsia is ramping up its Special Assistance Services by conducting Disability Equality Training (DET) and Disability Related Service Training (DRST) at AirAsia Academy. In October, the airline also arranged for disabled participants from Thailand and Indonesia to attend the training session, to empower them as trainers in their respective countries.

For details and clarification regarding AirAsia’s Special Assistance Services, please visit www.airasia.com for details.

HELLO GATWICK! To celebrate AirAsia X’s move from London’s Stansted International Airport to Gatwick Airport in October, the airline offered incredible fares as low as RM 689! Very soon, AirAsia X will also increase flight frequencies with five to six weekly flights from Kuala Lumpur to London. So, be sure to check out facebook.com/AirAsia and twitter.com/AirAsia for real-time updates on upcoming promotions.

“We believe that our move into Gatwick Airport will help this route grow as we are now providing guests with greater choices for connectivity such as better and faster rail and bus connections into London, Europe and beyond via Gatwick Airport. “ ~ Darren Wright, Head of Commercial AirAsia X

REACHING OUT In response to the flood disaster in Thailand, which is considered the worst the country has seen in 50 years, Thai AirAsia has been working tirelessly with NGOs to prepare and distribute hot meals, clean drinking water and other relief items to flood survivors around Bangkok, Don Muang, Laksi and Ayutthaya. The airline is also accepting donations of clean water at all airport counters in Thailand to be distributed in Bangkok and its surrounding areas.

“We are committed to the philosophy that no corporation can live apart from the community it serves.

The goal is to bring help and hope to the people of Thailand who have been affected by this devastating flood.” ~ Kathleen Tan, AirAsia Regional Head of Commercial.

LOCKED & LOADED

(L-R): Guy Stephenson, Commercial Director for Gatwick Airport welcoming Darren Wright, Head of Commercial for AirAsia X, flanked by AirAsia X flight attendants at Gatwick Airport.

In October, AirAsia became the official airline for the Paintball World Cup Asia 2011 (WCA), the final leg of the Paintball Asia League Series (PALS) 2011. Held in Langkawi, Malaysia from November 10 to 13, this 4-day event involved 1,600 participants from 33 countries, and was the world’s first ever paintball tournament held indoors. Not one to be mere onlooker, Tan Sri Dr. Tony Fernandes entered the fray to wage colourful combat alongside Team Kronos Numbers in Division 4.

Meanwhile, AirAsia sent in its very own red-hot force – the AirAsia Allstars Paintball Team – to conquer Division 3.

SEAMLESS CONNECTIONS Guests travelling to London from Australia, New Zealand, China and Taiwan can take advantage of AirAsia’s Fly Thru flight deals, which help guests avoid the hassles of going through Immigration clearance, applying for a transit visa, and checking-in for a second time.

Fly Thru flights give you time to relax, shop and dine before catching your connecting flight.

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Member of Team Kronos Numbers.

HAVE BIGGIES, WILL TRAVEL!

(Third from left) Khairul Nisa Ismail, Head of Marketing & Communications of Financial Services & Loyalty; Santisuk Klongchaiya, Director of Commercial, Thai AirAsia; Eakapong Vichayapinyo, Product Manager of BIG, Thai AirAsia and Lucy Loo, Product Manager of BIG AirAsia with AirAsia Allstars.

AirAsia presents BIG, its very own loyalty programme that’s the first of its kind to reward guests with free flights on the world’s best low cost airline. Put simply, guests earn points whenever they use their BIG Card at any BIG partners worldwide, and these points can be redeemed for free flights and other exciting rewards. It’s that simple!

LEARN THE BIG LINGO BIG: AirAsia’s Global Loyalty Programme BIGGIES: Redeemable points earned when you use your BIG Card. One BIGGIE per RM2 spent!

BIGSHOT: A guest who signs up for red carpet treatment. Apply for BIG at www.tune2big. com to be the first to hear about flight promotions and hotel offers, and enjoy priority booking.

BIG PARTNERS: AirAsia, AirAsiaMegastore, AirAsiaRedTix, AirAsiaGo, AirAsiaCourier and other participating partners where you can earn BIGGIES. View the full list at www.tune2big.com

WE HAVE YOUR BACK Always striving to serve guests better by integrating comfort and safety into the airline business, AirAsia recently signed a deal with underwriter Toko Assurance to make AirAsia INSURE Travel Protection Plan available in Laos for outbound passengers.

This means that AirAsia guests departing from Laos’ Watay International Airport now have the option of being covered onboard, as well as throughout their trip when they purchase AirAsia INSURE Travel protection.

“More than just your flying partner, we also provide protection for you and your loved ones anytime, anywhere.” Johan Aris Ibrahim, Regional Head of Financial Services & Loyalty

Johan Aris Ibrahim, AirAsia Regional Head of Financial Services & Loyalty (Front row, 5th from left) with Kong Hock Sian, President of Tokojaya Lao Assurance Co., Ltd and General Sinthavong Saiyakhone, Deputy Minister of Ministry of Public Security.

AIRASIA INSURE TRAVEL PROTECTION OFFERS • Personal accident benefit • Travel inconvenience benefits (flight delay and cancellation, loss of and damage to baggage and personal effects, missed flight connections.)

• 24 Hours Worldwide Travel Assistance Services • Medical and emergency evacuation www.airasiainsure.com

HOT TIP! Forgotten to purchase an AirAsia INSURE Travel Protection Plan? Just use your Smartphone to add this to your booking. AirAsia Mobile is supported on iPhone, BlackBerry, Android and WAP-enabled phones.

VISA SPECIAL AirAsia’s ‘Fabulous FlyDay’ campaign is getting more fabulous with Visa as credit card partner. Now, all Visa card holders who use their card to take advantage of AirAsia’s ‘Fabulous FlyDay’ low fares, stand a chance to win a holiday package to a mystery destination, inclusive of return air tickets for two and accommodation for 3N/2D. This promo is on till December, so be sure to book a flight every Friday from 11am till 4pm (GMT+8) online at www.airasia.com or via AirAsia’s BlackBerry, iPhone and Android apps.

12 SPOTLIGHT 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

MAKE AN IMPRESSION Get limited edition giveaways when you visit the exhibition Dreams and Reality: Masterpieces of Painting, Drawing and Photography from the Musee d’Orsay, Paris at the National Museum of Singapore. The exhibition, which runs until February 5, 2012, features 145 masterpieces, including works

by Paul Cezanne, Claude Monet and Vincent Van Gogh and, female Impressionists Berthe Morisot and Marie Bracquemond.

Purchase two tickets to the exhibit and receive a set of three badges, a magnet or a lanyard, or purchase four tickets and receive a bag emblazoned with images of Cezanne’s The Card Players or Monet’s Woman with a Parasol Looking to the Right. Available while stocks last. www.nationalmuseum.sg

A Moving Masterpiece: The Song Dynasty As Living Art, the largest art exhibition the city-state has ever seen opens at the Singapore EXPO Hall this month. The exhibition showcases life in the Song Dynasty, one of the golden ages of China and, its centrepiece is a 128m x 6.5m animated painting of Qing Ming Shang He Tu that features moving and talking characters. Audio-guides for visitors in English, Malay, Japanese, Mandarin, Cantonese, Hokkien and Teochew will be available at the exhibition. www.amovingmasterpiece.com

WORDS: CHITRA S

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HIKE IT UP Go on guided walks along the Milford, Routeburn and Greenstone Tracks traversing the Fiordland and Mt. Aspiring National Parks in New Zealand with Queenstownbased Ultimate Hikes. All walks include transport to and from Queenstown, accommodation, meals, snacks, backpacks and rain jackets. The walking season runs until late April. Minimum age for walkers on the Ultimate Hikes experience is 10 years. www.ultimatehikes.co.nz GETTING THERE AirAsia flies from Kuala Lumpur to Christchurch, NZ, four times weekly. Visit www.airasia.com for details.

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR GIVING Celebrate the holidays while doing your bit for charity by sending family and friends greeting cards illustrated by children affected with HIV/AIDS. All proceeds will go to the M.A.C AIDS Fund. Available in packs of six or 12 cards with envelopes at all M.A.C counters. www.maccosmetics.com

LUXURY IN KLIA For a luxurious stay in an airport hotel, you cannot go wrong with the Pan Pacific Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The hotel was awarded the Global Luxury Airport Hotel at the 2011 World Luxury Hotel Awards in Croatia recently. This is the second consecutive win for the 441-room hotel by the panel which recognises global luxury hotels, lodges and resorts dedicated to providing worldclass facilities and services. www.panpacific.com/en/KLairport

LET’S TALK ABOUT WINE Explore vineyards and sample the wines of New Zealand’s Central Otago region with Queenstown-based Appellation Central Wine Tours. This wine tour company recently picked up the International Best of Wine Tourism Award in the Wine Tourism Services category, an honour accorded by the Great Wine Capitals Global Network. Enjoy world-class wines amidst awe-inspiring scenery and learn about the vineyards in Queenstown, Gibbston, Bannockburn and Cromwell during the tours. www.appellationcentral.co.nz

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TRAVEL APPS WA IN YOUR HANDS Exploring Western Australia is easier with Tourism WA’s smartphone application, Experience WA – a free application for iPhone and Android models. Whether its dining options in the Margaret River region that you’re after or swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef, the app is a handy pocket guide with more than 7,000 listings of places to see, eat, drink or stay in Western Australia. Download the app from iTunes or Android Marketplace. www.westernaustralia.com

DISCOVER ASIA Plan a luxurious getaway with The Innkeepers’ Guide to Discovering Asia iPad application by Relais & Châteaux that lists charming destinations in Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Singapore, Indonesia, China, India and Sri Lanka. Get the inside scoop on where to stay and what to do with profi les on properties, destination reviews and recommendations.

Foodies can also try out local recipes suggested by the Maitre de Maison innkeepers. http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id473155021?mt=8

ISLAND OASIS Located in Kuta, Waterbom Bali has exciting rides for visitors of all ages. The park recently received the World Waterpark Association Industry Leadership Award for the Best Waterpark 2011, a testament to it’s popularity. Whether experiencing the thrills and spills of the Climax, Superbowl and Boomerang or,floating leisurely down the Lazy River, Waterbom Bali will promise you a riproaring time! www.waterbom-bali.com

HOT DATES 12 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

DEC 2011 PARIS

BATMAN LIVE DEC 21-25 Catch your favourite caped crusader from the DC Comics as he fights crime in Gotham City in an action-packed theatrical extravaganza filled with circus stunts and special effects at Palais Omnisports de Bercy, Paris. www.bercy.fr

MALAYSIA

8TH PENANG ISLAND JAZZ FESTIVAL DEC 1 – 4 Tropical Penang serves up a smooth dose of jazz with artistes such as Nina Van Horn, Yuri Honing Wired Paradise, Rio Sidik Quartet and Ulf & Eric Wakenius – Father and Son. www.penangjazz.com

JAPAN

HAGOITA-ICHI THE PHILIPPINES

THE SLEEPING BEAUTY DEC 2 – 11 Ballet Philippines stages this much loved fairy tale with brilliant choreography set to Tchaikovsky’s lush music score at Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo in Pasay City, Manila. www.balletphilippines.org 32

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UNITED KINGDOM

COLDPLAY

DEC 9 British alternative rock band, Coldplay, performs hits from its fifth studio album Mylo Xyloto at The O2 Arena in London. www.theo2.co.uk

DEC 17-19 Buy yourself a little luck at the HagoitaIchi or Battledore Fair at Tokyo’s Senso-ji Temple. The hagoita, a rectangular board once used in a popular New Year game called hanetsuki, is now sold as an ornamental good-luck charm. www.jnto.go.jp

EVENTS ALADDIN THE MUSICAL DEC 1 – JAN 2, Be transported to the magical world of Askabar when the West End production of Aladdin is staged at Sunway Lagoon, Malaysia. With the help of a rapping Genie and magic carpet, Aladdin transforms from a street rat into a prince, fights the evil Jaafar and wins the heart of Princess Jasmine.

MALAYSIA MUSIC FEST DEC 3 The inaugural Malaysia Music Fest or M-Fest at Stadium Badminton Cheras reveals hidden talents from across Malaysia, and serves up a diverse programme with collaborations between some of the country’s most popular artistes.

SINGAPORE

WICKED

Dec 7 – Jan 29 Catch one of Broadway’s hottest musicals at Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands this December. Set before Dorothy arrives in Oz, Wicked is the untold story of the amazing bond between Glinda, the Good Witch and Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West. www.ticketworld.com.ph

ALEXANDER LIVE IN KL SOLO SHOWCASE

THAILAND

PHUKET KING’S CUP REGATTA DEC 3 – 10 Asia’s best sailors chart their course to Phuket for a competition that is touted as the premier sailing event of the Eastern hemisphere. What began as a tribute for Thailand’s HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s 60th birthday in 1986 has morphed into a must-sail regatta. To celebrate the regatta’s 25-yearhistory and recognise a new sailing discipline that’s fast gaining popularity, the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta will also feature a kiteboarding event with pro riders from the KTA World Tour. www.kingscup.com

HONG KONG

SCROOGE: THE MUSICAL DEC 12 – JAN 2 Adapted from Charles Dickens’ famous novel A Christmas Carol, this award-winning musical celebrates love and goodwill, and shows at the Hong Kong City Hall Theatre. www.hkrep.com

AUSTRALIA

A DINNER TO DIE FOR DEC 3 & 10 Don a flapper dress and get into character at a whodunit musical dinner party set in the Roaring 20s. This quirky event will be held at The Imperial Hotel and The Retreat Hotel, Melbourne. http://adinnertodiefor.com

ELSEWHERE… MALAYSIA Quiksilver Best Event Surf Contest DEC 2 – 4 www.quiksilver.com.my Chingay Competition & Parade DEC 17 & 18 www.visitpenang.gov.my JAPAN Chichibu Night Festival DEC 2 & 3 www.jnto.go.jp UNITED KINGDOM QuoFest 2011 DEC 11 www.theo2.co.uk INDONESIA Numplak Wajik Ceremony DEC 28 www.indonesia.travel

DEC 18 Alexander, a former member of boyband U-Kiss, is flying solo. Following the release of his digital single, this multi-lingual artiste will be performing in Kuala Lumpur’s Cheras Leisuremall.

MOOVMENT 2011 DEC 3 Party all night long with hot Asian hip-hop act Far East Movement, known for hit singles like Rocketeer and Like a G6, and DJ Earworm, the first mash-up artist to have a bootleg mash-up enter the American Billboard Charts.

This sizzling party happens at the Indoor Arena at Bukit Kiara Equestrian Park, Kuala Lumpur.

MALIQ & D’ESSENTIALS IN CONCERT DEC 16 Popular Indonesian soul & funk band Maliq & D’Essentials performs hits like Terdiam, The One, Pilihanku and singles from their fourth album The Beginning of a Beautiful Life at KL Live in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

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BE OUR FAN ON FaceBook.com/ AirAsiaRedTix, FOLLOW US ON Twitter.com/ RedTix AND PURCHASE TICKETS TO THESE HOT EVENTS AT AirAsiaRedTix.com

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COMPASS 12 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

TIME TO TRAVEL

From the hottest destinations around the globe to handy packing tips, here are our suggestions to make your travels memorable.

LONELY PLANET’S TOP 10 FOR 2012 Globetrotters take note. Travel expert, Lonely Planet, has released its annual Best in Travel: Top 10 Cities list.

MUSCAT, OMAN is well known for its traditional lifestyle and a long coastline for never-ending days in the sun.

IMAGE: INMAGINE

BENGALURU (aka Bangalore), India’s hippest metropolis that offers delicious food and a lively art scene.

LONDON the host city for the 2012 Olympics

SANTIAGO, CHILE that’s brimming with top of the line dining and an exciting nightlife.

ORLANDO, US

IMAGE: INMAGINE

is a surprise entry that hosts the NBA All Star Weekend in February.

It’s also packed with theme parks, eateries, microbreweries, and tattoo parlours.

PORTUGAL’S GUIMARÃES, the European Capital of Culture in 2012 features architectural wonders including an awe-inspiring castle, mansions, palaces and medieval homes.

DARWIN, AUSTRALIA is a worldclass beauty with much of its natural splendour intact.

STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN is a cosmopolitan city that gained international attention from Stieg Larsson’s bestseller, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.

WORDS: SHANTINI SUNTHARAJAH

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HONG KONG the only Asian city on the list for its high-roller lifestyle.

CADIZ, SPAIN is a charming town that comes to life every February when it hosts a dazzling 10-day carnival of drinking, singing and dancing.

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MANILA MUST-EAT

Adrere Amellai

ECCENTRIC ACCOMMODATIONS While luxury resorts, villas and chic hotels are plentiful and more affordable than ever, seasoned travellers know that all hotel rooms, eventually, end up looking alike. For something different, head to New Zealand.

In Waitomo, located about a two and a half hour’s drive from Auckland, you can stay inside a 1950s Bristol Freighter plane. The aircraft, one of the last Allied planes to leave Vietnam, has been transformed into a two-room motel and has a permanent spot at Waitomo’s Woodlyn Park. www.woodlynpark.co.nz In Egypt, try Adrere Amellai, a beautiful eco lodge in the middle of the Saharan desert. This one-of-a-kind hotel is part desert palace, part bedrock. It’s easy to imagine how ancient Egyptians lived, especially at night as there’s no electricity and the place is lit entirely by candlelight. http://adrereamellal.net

For people who enjoy introducing new tastes to their palate, food is a great reason to travel. If you’re open to exotic flavours, possess a strong stomach and aren’t easily shaken by the bizarre, try balut in the Philippines. However, do bear in mind that this Manila must-eat is not for the faint-hearted! The English translation for balut is ‘aborted duck egg.’

Balut is essentially a boiled duck egg with a foetus inside, typically between 17 to 20 days in gestation.

Balut is believed to have healing properties and is also a popular aphrodisiac for men. Foreigners might flounder at the idea of ingesting half-formed duck foetus but balut is as common on the streets of Manila as hot dogs are in New York.

PACK LIKE A PRO One of the hassles of travel is arriving at your destination with a bagful of wrinkled clothes. The secret to arriving with presentable outfits is in knowing how to pack your clothes. The most important thing you need to know is that clothes of different fabrics, when piled on top of each other, will inevitably crease.

Follow this rule of thumb the next time you pack: Soft fabrics, need to be folded on top of other soft clothes. Harder material, like denim, needs to be stacked separately. This doesn’t guarantee crumplefree outfits although it will certainly help minimise unsightly creases.

FIRST AID KIT ESSENTIALS Traveling without a personal First Aid Kit is like jumping out of a plane without a parachute.

The sudden change in climate, exotic food and unusual routine are bound to have an effect on your body and health. Travel experts believe the following essentials should be safely stashed in every travellers First Aid Kit: • Pain medication like paracetamol • Aloe Vera or other lotions to soothe sunburns • Hand sanitiser • Packs of tissues, which will come in handy in bathrooms without toilet paper • Lozenges to soothe sore throats • Sea and air sickness medication • Adhesive bandages for unexpected cuts • Medication such as carbon tablets to combat digestive problems.

PREMIUM COMFORT AirAsia X Premium Flat Bed seats are available on all AirAsia X flights and exclusively designed for travellers who want first-class comfort without having to empty their wallets. These seats are on par with those found in top-notch business class cabins in airlines around the world. AirAsia’s Premium Flat Beds are spacious pockets of comfort that recline into a full flat bed. The seats also feature adjustable head and footrests, universal power sockets, personalised reading lights and foldaway tables. www.airasia.com

SANTA’S IN TOWN Dec 25 is almost upon us and if you’d like to experience a beautifully traditional, white Christmas, there’s no better place than the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland. The Finnish believe Saint Nick lives in the northern part of the country and go all out to celebrate their most cherished resident.

You will clock up major travel miles journeying to this country but you’ll find it’s well worth the effort when you catch sight of picture perfect snowcovered fir trees, reindeer-dotted countryside and the big, generous jolly man in a bright red suit. www.santaclausvillage.info

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QUICK BITES 12 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

CREATE A STIR THIS DECEMBER!

Deck your halls with these goodies and more beyond the 12 days of Christmas. Also, check out our tips and tricks on how to add even more sparkle and pizzazz to your year-end celebrations!

EAT! TURKEYS TO GO Imagine this golden, thyme-scented roast turkey gracing your festive dinner table, complete with traditional chestnut stuffing, giblet puree with herb gravy, cranberry sauce with orange zest, and trimmings – sautéed mixed vegetable and roasted garlic mashed potatoes. Available for takeaway until Dec 31, 2011. Price: RM388++ for 5kgs and RM488++ for 6kgs. Etoilé Bistro, Hotel Equatorial Kuala Lumpur. www.equatorial.com

A CHOCOLATEY CELEBRATION Chocolate Home Smoked Salmon, Chocolate Pear Anise Tart, Rocky and Ginger-spiced Chocolate Fruit Cake are some of the chocolatey delights served for Christmas Eve buffet dinner (RM108++ per person) and Christmas Day brunch buffet (RM98++ per person) at Essence, Sheraton Imperial, Kuala Lumpur. Lucky diners will also receive special chocolate bars – some containing a magical golden ticket that entitles the ticket holder to free hotel stays and other goodies. www.starwoodhotels.com

SPICING UP NEW YEAR’S EVE DRINK! Say ‘cheers!’ with these two festive tipples from The Sphere bar cum lounge at Malaysia’s One World Hotel Petaling Jaya. www.oneworldhotel.com.my

RASPBERRY SPARKLES COCKTAIL 3 fresh raspberries 15 ml vodka 15 ml whipping cream 30 ml champagne Muddle raspberries and mix with vodka and champagne.

Pour into a tall glass and top with whipping cream.

HURRICANE MOCKTAIL 15 ml lime juice 30 ml pineapple juice 5 ml sugar syrup 1 cup ice cubes 30 ml raspberry syrup WORDS: ALICE YONG

Blend lime juice, pineapple juice, sugar syrup and ice together. Then pour raspberry syrup into a glass. Add in the earlier blended juices to serve.

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Relish a six-course New Year’s Eve set dinner (RM190.00++ per person) comprising tuna skewer with Korean chilli vinaigrette, crabmeat cake, togarashi prawn with grapefruit salsa, and a choice of roast lamb rack with portobello mushroom or pan-fried codfish fillet with soy passion fruit sauce followed by hazelnut parfait, pineapple compote and green tea crème brulée at Spices Restaurant & Wine Bar, Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur. kualalumpur.concordehotelsresorts.com

CHRISTMAS INDULGENCE Enjoy a slap-up Christmas dinner buffet on Dec 24 and 25 at Tonka Bean, Impiana KLCC Hotel, 13, Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur at RM98++ per person. www. impiana.com

CELEB’S CHOICE Wanna know what tickles the tastebuds of Malaysia’s ‘Most Wanted Woman’ Hannah Tan?

IMAGE: www.hannahtan.com/scream4u.com

“Seafood! My family lives in Kuching where there’s some of the best seafood.

Every time I head back for any festivities, seafood’s what we usually pig out on. It’s impossible to do a hit-andrun dinner when crabs are involved, so scrumptious seafood dishes are great for keeping the family together at the dining table.”

BE MERRY!

LOOK EAST FOR THE NEW YEAR Traditionally eaten to celebrate the New Year or shogatsu or oshogatsu in Japan, Osechi Ryori is a colourful festive set meal prepared ahead of time prior to New Year’s Day. Each delicate offering is meticulously cooked and presented; a symbol of auspiciousness, prosperity, happiness, health and fertility. Such festive sets can be ordered from fine restaurants (Kampachi at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, www.kampachi.com.my) and Japanese supermarkets like Isetan. Naturally, nothing beats the real deal in Japan!

AirAsia X flies to Haneda, Tokya, 3 times weekly and to Osaka 4 times weekly from Kuala Lumpur. Visit www.airasia.com for flight schedule and details.

EXPERT TIPS

IT’S A STEAK OUT Here are some expert tips from Meat & Livestock Australia on how to test meat’s readiness using the ‘touch test’ method.

Press outside centre of the meat lightly with tongs. If it feels soft and springy, it’s in the medium-rare range. If it feels slightly firm and springy, it’s medium. Any firmer to the touch, it’s close to well done.

AN EAST WEST X’MAS BREW HO HO Now you can brew up café-style espresso, cappuccino, latté macchiato and mocha effortlessly at home or in the office with the stylish Nescafé Dolce Gusto!

Quick, convenient and so easy to use, both the Piccolo (pictured here) and Circolo models would be this season’s hottest gifts!

The Collectable Design Tin set from Crabtree & Evelyn is a lovely keepsake that can be treasured even after you have enjoyed the delicious all butter chocolate chip cookies, white chocolate & raspberry cookies, strawberry preserve and the afternoon tea. This and other food hampers are available at Crabtree & Evelyn outlets.

www.dolce-gusto.com.my

www.crabtree-evelyn.com

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12 PAGE TURNER 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

STOCKING FILLERS From seasonal reads to evergreen titles, here’s this month’s suggested book list alongside an eye-opening chat with the vault-keeper of Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

TIMELESS CLASSICS

YULETIDE BABIES Bestselling author and comedian David Sedaris, known for short story collections like Naked and When You Are Engulfed in Flames. Born: December 26, 1956.

Juan Ramón Jiménez, a Spanish poet, recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature and advocate of ‘pure poetry’, which prioritises the musical nature of language over the delivery of message or narrative. Born: Christmas Eve, 1881

THE POLAR EXPRESS by Chris Van Allsburg is an award-winning illustrated children’s book that captures the innocence of childhood and the magic of Christmas. Boarding a train to the North Pole, a young boy meets Santa Claus and receives a silver sleigh bell as a Christmas gift. Although his parents think the bell is broken, the young boy and his friends hear its beautiful music. Years later, when his friends can no longer hear the bell, the boy, now a man, says

Stephanie Meyer, author of the hugely popular vampire romance series, Twilight. Born: Christmas Eve, 1973.

“Though I’ve grown old, the bell still rings for me, as it does for all who truly believe.”

Robert Ripley, creator of the famous Ripley’s Believe It or Not! newspaper cartoon panel series that spawned radio and television shows, books and museums around the world. Born: Christmas Day, 1890.

HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! by Dr. Seuss was first published in 1957, and is a children’s book written in rhyming verse with illustrations. Some say the story takes swipes at the commercialisation of Christmas, but for those who prefer not to intellectualise it, Dr. Seuss’ tale is a delightful one that depicts the true meaning of Christmas. Although the Grinch tries to ruin Christmas for the happy Whos, Christmas is as joyous as ever,, and the Grinch learns what the celebration is really about.

WORDS: BEVERLY RODRIGUES

IMAGES: WWW.SXC.HU, ADAM LEE

Quentin Crisp, an English writer who became a gay icon after the publication of his memoir The Naked Civil Servant in the 1970s. Born: Christmas Day, 1908.

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A CHRISTMAS CAROL by Charles Dickens was written at a time when Britain was experiencing a nostalgic return to old Christmas traditions. In this tale, the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge experiences a positive transformation after being visited by the spirit of his old business partner Jacob Marley and, the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come. First published in 1843, this book remains a classic, and has been adapted for film, opera, ballet and theatre. A Christmas Carol is also thought to have restored the festivity of the season in Britain and America, popularised the greeting ‘Merry Christmas’ and inspired the term ‘Scrooge’ – referring to a stingy person.

GET CRAFTY! Learn how to make fabulous ous Christmas baubles and tree ornaments, nts, cute stockings, beautiful snow globes, festive centrepieces and wreaths reaths with Martha Stewart’s HANDMADE HOLIDAY CRAFTS. AFTS.

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ITALIA

Jo Seager

Le Learn how to make ro rosewater panna cotta an and ravioli in sage butter sa sauce with this gorgeous re recipe book that captures th the spirit of Italian cooking.

S Seager shares culinary ttips learnt in the kitchen of her Italian mentor and offers beautiful READ snapshots of daily OF THE life in Italy.

MONTH!

ALEPH Paulo Coelho Suffering a crisis of faith, Coelho himself embarks on a quest for happiness and spiritual fulfilment that spans time and space. Along the way, Coelho meets the woman he fell in love with and betrayed 500 years before, and discovers a path to love, forgiveness and courage.

BELIEVE! Celebrating the possibility of the seemingly impossible, in this 10th anniversary issue of Travel 360, we interview the man behind some of the world’s most ‘unbelievable’ truths: Edward Meyer, Vice President of Exhibits & Archives for Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

STARTING AT RIPLEY’S

THE STORY OF BEAUTIFUL GIRL

I was hired as an archive assistant to catalogue the famous Ripley’s Believe It or Not! newspaper cartoon feature in 1978.

It was a summer job after college, but I’ve been with Ripley’s ever since.

Rachel Simon

INSPIRATION

The author of Riding the Bus with My Sister weaves a poignant tale of enduring love. One night, a couple escapes from the School for the Incurable and Feebleminded, and leaves a newborn infant in a stranger’s protection.

And so, unfolds an extraordinary story that spans 40 years.

Ripley’s is all about human curiosity. People are fascinated by things they’ve never seen or heard of before, and in things that seem too weird and wonderful to be true. But as Ripley used to say: Truth is often stranger than fiction. That same human curiosity drives me every day. I’m still looking for something so amazing even I won’t believe it!

SHANTI BLOODY SHANTI Aaron Smith Fleeing a hitman, Smith escapes to India where he stumbles upon a murder mystery, evades a terrorist attack and meets eccentric characters while soaking up the chaotic charm of the country.

FAVOURITES FROM STRIKINGLY TRUE In no particular order: The Lizard Man, the catacombs of Paris, the portrait made of ants, the bullfighter who survived being gored in the neck, the Indian gentleman who sweats blood and the young Thai girl with the ‘Werewolf Syndrome’. If I had to pick just one, it would be the story of a Russian doctor stranded near the South Pole, who performed an appendectomy on himself!

THE STRANGEST THINGS I’VE EVER SEEN The strangest thing I’ve ever acquired is the taxidermied head of a full-size African elephant with two working, fully developed trunks! Another one of a kind amazing piece would be the skeleton of a two-headed baby or the three-legged horse named Buttons. Those were acquired by Robert Ripley himself.

THE STRANGEST THING ABOUT ME Before my beard turned white, I used to have a natural twotoned beard. Believe it or not, my beard used to be half black and half red, divided naturally down the middle. For years, people thought it was the reason I got my job!

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MONEY MAKER 12 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

SHOW ME THE MONEY

Exciting adventures await in the business world in 2012, as we move into the unforeseeable future, let’s look at some ideas that may help protect your wealth in the new year.

PROTECT YOUR WEALTH The August 2011 stock market scare echoed the debilitating banking crisis of 2008.

The difference is that much of the crippling bad debt carried by banks has now been passed on to governments and taxpayers. The recent drop below 5, 000 points in FTSE 100 should have consumers thinking of a protection plan. Here’s how you can rotect your wealth PROTECT YOUR INCOME: Insurance ensures that you are protected against sudden hardships. There are various plans available but ask your insurance agent and shop around carefully for the best plan. There are policies that offer Family Income Benefits where family members you leave behind upon your demise will receive a fixed monthly sum.

PROTECT YOUR HOME: Invest in a Mortgage Reducing Term Assurance (MRTA) plan, aka Mortgage Life Insurance, on your home loan. With this plan, a specific sum is put into the MRTA plan (based on the amount you’ve borrowed); and when you’re unable to make payments, the bank will deduct it from the insurance account. But this merely buys you time; you have to make good on your mortgage payments owed and re-pay the sum deducted from the plan.

USD

6.2

billion is the projected amount smartphone users will spend on apps in 2012. (www.entrepreneur.com, Oct 2011)

USD

14.4

WORDS: EFI HAFIZAH HAMZAH

billion is the value of fitness clubs and the health store industry as at mid-2011; a US$1 billion jump from the year before – in a recession, no less. (www.entrepreneur. com, Oct 2011)

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million photos were uploaded on Facebook on 2011 New Year’s weekend. (socialmediababe.com, Oct 2011) TRAVEL 3SIXTY˚

ACCIDENTAL SUCCESS You can get five minutes of fame on the Internet, but some people get a whole lot more. Here’s a peek at 2011’s top web celebs: BRITISH JOURNALIST AND INTERNET ENTREPRENEUR, NICK DENTON. Founder/Owner Gawker Media (a collection of nine successful websites), and managing editor of New York-based Gawker.com. His money comes from lifestyle-gadget site, Gizmodo, with an estimated net worth of US$320 million.

PINT-SIZED TEENAGER KEENAN CAHILL. Started his own channel on youtube two years ago. His current estimated net worth is US$425,000. Original and cute, he’s had 50 cent, David Guetta and Tyra Banks guest starring in his videos.

GOSSIP BLOGGER PEREZ HILTON (REAL NAME MARIOLAVANDEIRA).

Runs perezhilton.com, a Hollywood celebs gossip. Been on the Forbes Web Celeb list for four years running, with 7.2million hits a month on the website and over 1.77million Twitter followers daily. Estimated net worth: US$30 million and growing.

Source: www.theriches.org

IMAGE: INMAGINE

PROTECT YOUR SAVINGS: A 2% inflation rate yearly means the same goods will cost 2% more every year. If you pay basic tax rates of between12% and 20%, you need to earn a minimum of 3% to 6% interest on your savings yearly to keep up. For this, you need to place your savings in an environment with a strong growth rate that makes a difference over longer periods of time. Consider offshore annuities. Income earned from an offshore variable annuity is automatically tax-deferred until you cash in the contract or receive payments from it.

THE WARREN BUFFET WAY Words to live by in building long-lasting businesses.

“SOMEONE IS SITTING IN THE SHADE TODAY BECAUSE SOMEONE PLANTED A TREE A LONG TIME AGO.”

“You can’t make a good deal with a bad person.”

“NO MATTER HOW GREAT THE TALENT OR EFFORTS, SOME THINGS JUST TAKE TIME. YOU CAN’T PRODUCE A BABY IN ONE MONTH BY GETTING NINE WOMEN PREGNANT.”

12 PRESCRIPTION 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

MIND OVER MATTER Another year zooms past, and we’re headed for new challenges. Best keep our overall health in check to take the dawning dragon by its fiery spirit.

EASING THE MIND

WORDS: EFI HAFIZAH HAMZAH IMAGES: WWW.SXC.HU

NOTE: ALWAYS CONSULT A DOCTOR BEFORE YOU EMBARK ON ANY ALTERNATIVE THERAPY OR EXERCISE REGIME.

Yoga has long been practised as a wholesome form of exercise for long lasting health. Each asana (pose) balances the body, mind and soul. Constant practice will help you learn how to breathe properly, relax and regain your vigour. Go to www. yogajournal.com for inspiration. Better yet, sign up for a class as it’s better to have a qualified teacher show you the ropes.

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90

percent of the global burden of neglected diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS are believed to be borne by one country – Africa.

WHO (International Research, 2011)

828 million urban residents live in slum conditions worldwide with poor health facilities.

WHO (International Research, 2011)

80

percent of yoga practitioners worldwide are estimated to be women. Spiritual Teachings of the Avatar: Ancient Wisdom for a New World (Jeffrey Armstrong, 2010)

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KNOW YOUR PAIN As we age, aches and pains naturally set in. But how much pain should we feel in direct correlation to our age?

Constant pain can be a symptom of something more serious like fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) or chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) or even systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). As such, it’s best to see a doctor for a full check-up. But you can complement your medical treatments with alternative therapies.

GINGER: Years of ayurvedic practice indicate that ginger can calm arthritis pain, possibly by lowering prostaglandin levels.

Have it with tea or drink boiled ginger water with honey.

CAYENNE PEPPER: 1tsp cayenne powder + 2 ounces olive oil = effective pain relief ointment. Rub into aching joints and sore muscles; the capsaicin in cayenne inhibits secretion of prostaglandin, a substance that transmits pain to the brain.

VITAMIN D: Research by the University of Minnesota found that 93% of patients with non-specific musculoskeletal pain were vitamin D deficient. Taking Vitamin D and CoQ10 can help alleviate pain.

Alternatively, get adequate amounts of sun exposure to naturally synthesise Vitamin D.

WORLD AIDS DAY DECEMBER 1, 2011 Since the epidemic began in the 1970s, more than 30 million people have died from AIDS-related health issues according to statistics by the World Health Organization as at 2009. The number of people living with HIV rose from about 8 million in 1990 to 33 million by the end of 2009 but, the spread has stabilised in recent years. The number of new cases has steadily declined in the past five years, and statistics show that early antiretroviral therapy (ART) has helped prolong lives.

12 SCORE BOARD 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

INTEL ON SPORTS

As we draw the curtains on 2011, here’s a quick round-up of innovative ideas and sports trivia. via.

QUICK TAKES The prestigious prest Laureus World Spo Sports Awards winners oof 2011:

HAVE SPORTS, WILL GO FAR!

Sportsman: Sportsma

• Sainsbury’s Grocery Store in London offers the Sky Go Trolley – carts with tilting iPad holders, speakers and self-charging solar panel. Download www.sky. com/shop/tv/sky-go/ Sky Go streaming app onto your personal tablet, load it into the shopping cart’s dock and select the Sports Channel of your choice – no reason now to miss any big game while shopping with the missus.

Rafael Na Nadal, Tennis

• Striiv is a portable fitness device that motivates users into action through games and personal challenges, while offering donations to charities with every physical step you take. You can earn rewards and bonuses by walking to lunch or, taking the stairs. Launched in the US, Striiv aims to expand its concept of “creating movement around movement”. www.striiv.com

Lindsey V Vonn, Alpine Skiing

• Aspiring sportsmen and women can be proactive now in carving out their sports careers instead of waiting for talent scouts. Sign up on the website (the fee at press time is £19.99 for a year’s membership) and create your profile. To raise your visibility, enter all relevant sporting details and upload photos and/or videos of your activities. You’re now mere steps closer to your sporting dreams. www.needasportsagent.com.

Sportswoman: Sportswo

SET FFOR LIFE! SPORTS IN HISTORY OLYMPICS: There was only one event in the first Olympic Games in Olympia, 776 BC – a foot race that ran slightly over 200 yards in length (190 metres). The winner, Coroebus of Elis, was awarded an olive branch.

SOURCE: THE KNOWLEDGE COMMONS (PORTABLE PRESS, ASHLAND, OR, 2008).

DISCUS: In 600 BC, a Greek athlete named Protiselaus threw a discus 152 feet from a standing position. His record was not broken until over 2,500 years later, when Clarence Houser threw a discus 155 feet in 1928.

SOURCE: DOUG LENNOX, NOW YOU KNOW: THE BOOK OF ANSWERS (THE DUNDURN GROUP, TORONTO, ON, 2001).

WORDS: EFI HAFIZAH HAMZAH

IMAGES: WWW.SXC.HU

Today’s streaming technologies and Internet innovations bring not only convenience to your fingertips, they also transform how your future is going to work out for you.

Here are some innovative ideas that kill more than just two birds with one technology.

THE ROMAN EMPIRE GAMES: During the 100 days of the opening games at the Colosseum in Rome 80 AD, over 5,000 animals were killed, including elephants, tigers, lions, elks, hyenas, hippopotamuses and giraffes.

SOURCE: ISAAC ASIMOV’S BOOK OF FACTS (HASTINGS HOUSE, 1979).

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Bless David Beckham for wearing Adidas since he was 12! It looks like the soccer midfielder will continue to wear Adidas till the day he dies... to the tune of US$160 million since signing an endorsement deal with the sports brand. He is said to have received half the money upfront, with payouts of US$4million a year over the next 40 years on the balance.

Beckham also receives a percentage of the sales profits and payment for promotional work. The deal was set to prevent competitors from enticing Beckham to switch teams. Nonetheless, the Adidas deal only accounts for about 15% of Beckham’s annual income.

IN 7TH HEAVEN

Muhammad Zulfahmi Khairuddin rewrote records to become the first Malaysian after Shahrol Yuzy Ahmad Zaini to score points in his home grand prix, when he passed the chequered flag in 7th place at the 125cc class Shell Advance Malaysian MotoGP held from Oct 21 to 23, 2011.

Fahmi displayed a composed performance throughout the 18-lap race, storming 3 places up the grid at the start, making his way to 8th on lap 13. At that stage, he kept himself in the hunt for points with the second group alongside Danny Kent (Red Bull Ajo Motorsport), Alberto Moncayo (Andalucia Banca Civica) and Jakub Kornfeil (Ongetta-Centro Sera) as they alternated places throughout the remaining few laps.

The AirAsia-SIC-Ajo rider then made his move at the last lap, overtaking Kornfeil to set up a storming finish clocking 41’12.986 and in the process, grabbing 9 points.

From a wildcard to 7th placing in a world championship race in just two years, Fahmi is proof that Malaysians have the ability to compete internationally.

“While his achievement did not come instantly, we kept on believing in him. That’s what development is all about. This goes to show that with great support and patience, we can bring more local talents on to the world’s stage.” ~ AirAsia Group CEO Tan Sri Dr Tony Fernandes

(Second from left) Jasmine Lee, AirAsia Commercial Director; Datuk Razlan Razali, CEO of Sepang International Circuit and Zulfahmi Khairuddin showing off a specially-designed birthday cap for Fahmi, prior to his 20th birthday bash.

COURT IN SESSION

On October 22, 2011, more than 300 aspiring young athletes from various schools in Pampanga in the Philippines were treated to a whole day of intensive basketball training, courtesy of AirAsia Philippine Patriots.

The AirAsia Philippine Patriots basketball clinic was set up with the aim of providing aspiring basketballers the fundamentals of the game and, helping them develop discipline and self-confidence. The full day event saw an eager bunch of children participating excitedly in the various coaching sessions. The morning session started with passing and dribbling techniques for beginners aged six to 12, while the 46

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afternoon session was geared towards improving the shooting and passing skills of participants aged 12 and above.

“AirAsia has constantly dedicated itself to supporting sports. We are the title sponsor of the AirAsia Philippine Patriots, the country’s representative to the AirAsia ASEAN Basketball League. Today, we are taking our partnership a step farther with a community project that aims to involve Filipino kids in basketball,” said AirAsia Inc. (AirAsia Philippines) CEO Maan Hontiveros during the opening ceremony at the Philippine Air Force gymnasium in Clark, Pampanga.

Hontiveros also paid tribute to PBA legend Billy Ray Bates who showed his skills in shooting, ball handling and dribbling. He was recently appointed as skills coach of the AirAsia Philippine Patriots and was also inducted into the PBA Hall of Fame.

More AirAsia Philippine Patriots’ basketball clinics will be conducted soon with a session on December 5, 2011 in Angeles City. Keep a lookout for future events by becoming a fan of AirAsia on Facebook and Twitter.

Guests will also receive real-time updates on latest promotions and interact with AirAsia via Facebook. com/AirAsiaPhilippines and twitter.com/AirAsiaPh.

12 HYPER TECH 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

FUTURE FORWARD

With the latest technology favouring storage of data in remote servers, you’ll be freeing up precious space from your memory card. Read all about this and other exciting new developments in technology in this issue of Travel 3Sixty°.

UP IN THE CLOUDS Even if your phone or data device has internal memory or a card, the future trend is in storing data in the Cloud. Like the term ‘Net’ or ‘Web’ for the Internet, Cloud was coined to indicate a remote storage server. In fact, chances are, you’re already using Cloud without even realising. Google, Hotmail and Yahoo! Mail all store e-mails in this manner. Moreover, like most new eBook readers, Kindle Fire stores eBooks in the Amazon Cloud server. So, any time you run out of memory or card space, look up for the Cloud. Check out DropBox, which stores all kinds of files, including music. www.dropbox.com

GO GOOGLE+ Everyone and anyone’s mother and even grandmother are on Facebook these days. If you feel crowded out, there is another social networking player in town: Google+. You can choose which friend to drop into which Circle, and also pick only the news you want streamed to your homepage.

These and other cool features at https://plus.google.com

BENDABLE FUTURE The future of your phone’s display is bent – literally. Nokia recently demonstrated this at the Nokia World 2011 with its Kinetic prototypes. Unlike today’s touchscreen, with Nokia’s bendy screen, you bend and twist it to scroll through menu, pan and zoom images. What’s more, it still works even when dropped or under water. Nokia plans to release its Kinetic displays in 2013. www.nokia.com

ULTRA THIN A MacBook wannabe, this is what some are calling the new category of notebooks, due to the similarity in thinness to the Apple computer.

One sterling feature is that the ultrabook can ‘wake up’ from sleep in just over a second. MacBook fanatics, however, say this is all that the ultrabook can emulate. Even so, the ultrabook’s much lower pricing is a great plus point.

Check out the Acer Aspire S3. www.acer.com

WEBSITE IN SECONDS

WORDS: PETE KING

3D YOUR YOUTUBE

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YouTube now allows more than your usual three minutes of online fame. For an even stronger impact than what Bieber achieved with his first YouTube video, you can now edit your video right inside YouTube with such features as effects and titles. Best of all, you can even convert your video into 3D. That’ll certainly make that karate chop pop! www.youtube.com TRAVEL 3SIXTY˚

This is the age of fast food and even faster communication using only 140 characters (Twitter) max! So, it’s no surprise that Pen.io lets you create your webpage within seconds, and you don’t even need to register. Simply type in your URL, a password and you are set to go with your own website. http://pen.io

LIGHTER TRAVEL

With eReaders, travellers these days don’t need to lug their reading material around. Convenience aside, it also saves money on the excess luggage you would have paid on flights.

KINDLE FIRE

NOOK COLOR

Everybody’s favourite Kindle gets colourful and features one-touch function for emails, videos, music, photos, games, eBooks and documents including Word and PDF. It stores data in the device or, at Whispersync to Amazon’s server.

The Amazon Silk browser allows surfing the Net at blazing speeds; USD199. www.amazon.com

At 7 inches, the Nook Color touch screen is bigger and better for playing Angry Birds, surfing the Net and emailing with WiFi. More than just reading, you can also watch videos and listen to audio from enhanced eBooks; USD249. www.barnesandnoble.com

SONY READER PRS-T1 A little expensive for a B&W eReader, the Sony PRS-T1 is still worth a look for its high contrast, print-like touch display. The micro SD card slot stores even more Epubs, PDFs, Word documents, pictures and MP3s than in the inbuilt 2GB storage space. A stylus lets you write notes; USD149. http://store.sony.com

KOBO VOX With a 7-inch colour display, the Kobo Vox plays MP3s, videos, games, and stores eBooks and photos up to 8GB and more up in the Kobo iCloud server. It also connects to Facebook and enables you to check your emails for up to 7 hours; USD199. www.kobobooks.com/kobovox

IRIVER STORY HD The first eReader to connect to Google eBookstore, the HD feature aptly indicates the high resolution display in the one-colour touch function.

With a 2GB storage and more with a SD card, the iRiver’s fast processor refreshes and turns pages in no time; USD140. http://local.iriver.com

BENQ N READER K60 Weighing 220g and measuring just 11mm in thickness, this eReader’s bezel’s pearly hue reflects the display’s ePaper, while the WiFi and 3G connect you to online bookstores to buy, read and store eBooks. www.benq.com/ product nreader/55/230

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12 SLEEP INNS 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

As we bid adieu to 2011, here’s a collection of hotels from around the region that will welcome you with their warm hospitality and help you celebrate the year-end holidays in style.

SERIOUSLY PLEASURABLE

EDITOR’S CHOICE!

It may be billed as a business hotel, but the Putrajaya Marriott Hotel & Spa makes pleasure its priority. So, whether work or play, be prepared for some serious indulgence at this hotel located about 30kms from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. (to check distance) Begin with an exquisite lunch at Midori, a modern Tokyo-style Japanese restaurant that serves creative fusion delights like sushi rolled with tuna belly, spring onions and bird’s eye chilli, and oysters baked with cod roe and oba leaf. For dessert, the ice-cream filled tepanyaki burger is divine. This humble signature item is not on the menu; you have to request for it.

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Other palate-tickling outlets include d’Oracle Coffee Lounge that serves English scones with apricot marmalade, blueberry jam and clotted cream at teatime; Summer Palace Chinese Restaurant with its authentic Szechuan and Cantonese cuisine; the all-day-dining Zest with breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets; and Tuscany, where you can savour American Italian, Mediterranean and modern central Italian fare, and be serenaded by a strolling band too!

REST & RELAX For some pampering, head to the renowned Dewi Sri Spa by Martha Tilaar. Here, you’ll find a wide range of traditional Balinese and Javanese therapies and products made of rice extracts and pure essential oils. For total rejuvenation, opt for the Dewi Sri Body Bliss Reviving series at Dewi Sri Spa. This body treatment invigorates using peppermint and lemon oil, and involves gentle exfoliation, steaming, a relaxing massage, body mask and warm herbal bath – leaving you fresh and tingly.

PLAY TIME If you’re looking for fun activities at the hotel, belt out your favourite songs in a private karaoke room, swim in the lagoon-shaped pool, tee-off at the nearby Palm Garden Golf Club’s 27-hole championship golf course, or hop on a free shuttle to nearby shopping centres.

Kids looking for some ‘me’ time, can visit Kiddies World, a funky playland that even turns adults green.

Besides a cool mini theatre and reading corner with Internet facilities, kids have cushy private play station booths and an air hockey table!

PUTRAJAYA BY NIGHT Before you retire for the night in a cocoon of fluffy pillows and 300 thread count sheets, experience Putrajaya by night with a complimentary tour that’s both informative and fun. The administrative capital is a sleek city filled with futuristic-looking buildings and glittering bridges criss-crossing a manmade lake. A beautiful end to a pleasure-filled day!

A

IOI Resort City · Sepang Utara, Malaysia

Visit www.airasiago.com for attractive room deals on this hotel.

GETTING THERE AirAsia flies to Kuala Lumpur from various destinations.

Visit www.airasia.com for the full flight schedule.

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LIVIN’ THE GOOD LIFE Need a little timeout to rest, rejuvenate and enjoy a healthier lifestyle? Check into The Spa Resort Chiang Mai set in the sprawling hillside of Mae Rim. The resort is founded upon the ‘Five-Habit System to Longevity’ principle, which means cleansing through detox, training your body to breathe correctly with yoga, cultivating good eating routines, developing a daily exercise regime, and clearing your mind through meditation.

DELICIOUSLY HEALTHY Here, you’ll learn that you don’t need to deprive yourself to be healthy. A meal at the Radiance Restaurant, which specialises in vegetarian, vegan and raw foods, and serves fruits and vegetables from the local villages and the resort’s organic farm, will convince you that nutritious dishes can be yummy. Just try the Vietnamese spring rolls, spa seaweed soup, green curry with tofu and raw pad Thai, and savour desserts like chocolate mousse and mango coconut flan.

If you’re looking for more drastic measures, the Detox Bar offers detox and weight loss cleansing programmes. Otherwise, just kick back with fresh fruit juices and delicious smoothies.

To get into shape, enjoy a good workout at the resort’s swimming pools, outdoor cardio vascular circuit, tennis court and jogging track; take yoga and Pilates classes in scenic salas; try qi gong and reiki; follow a guided hike or bike ride; and learn to meditate at a local wat.

For a much-deserved spot of relaxation, the Bamboo Spa offers soothing therapies like a classical Thai massage to correct energy imbalance, aloe vera body wrap to revitalise the skin, and Ayurvedic Bliss Therapy to revitalize body, mind and spirit.

The Spa Resort Chiang Mai A 165, Moo4, Huaysai, Mae Rim, 50180 Chiang Mai, Thailand T +66(0)53-920-888 E info@thespachiangmai.com (to replace with web address) GETTING THERE AirAsia flies to Chiang Mai, Thailand from various destinations. Visit www.airasia.com for the full flight schedule.

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KAPAMPANGAN HOSPITALITY Just a 5-minute drive from the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport, the Holiday Inn Clark, is a valuefor-money, family-friendly hotel that promises warm hospitality and a comfortable stay.

Its strategic location in Angeles City, which is popular with bar-hoppers and high-rollers, makes it a great base for partying, golfing, and exploring Pampanga’s many attractions. In fact, the city also serves as a gateway to Mount Pinatubo.

Location aside, the hotel’s spacious apple-green rooms are well-appointed with all the comforts you’d expect, including a 32-inch flat screen TV and wireless Internet connectivity. For a peaceful stay amid greenery, check into the lovely private Garden Villas.

Dining options here include the Rodizio Roof Top Grill with stunning mountain views and a hearty menu of Brazilian barbecue meats, Mongolian grilled items and certified Angus Beef steaks; and Mequeni Restaurant with extensive daily breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets.

Probably one of the best things about staying in Angeles City is the warm Kapampangan hospitality that you’ll receive from the bellboy and even random hotel staff you meet during your stay.

Visit www.airasiago.com for attractive room deals on this hotel.

GETTING THERE AirAsia flies to Clark, the Philippines from various destinations.

Visit www.airasia.com for the full flight schedule.

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Available at leading department stores in: Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines, Myanmar, and Cambodia.

HIT LIST 12 2011

www.airasia.com/travel360

DREAMS DO COME TRUE

Lost your passion, forgotten your dreams and feeling dragged down by the monotony of life? It’s time you regained the wanderlust in your heart and explored the world with a fresh pair of eyes.

WORDS: EFI HAFIZAH HAMZAH

SEE THE PYRAMIDS Did you know that the great pyramids of Egypt now stand a full three miles south of the spot where they were originally built? That’s how much the earth’s surface has shifted in the last 4,500 years.

This is but one of thousands of facts about the mystical pyramids; to see it for real would truly be a magical experience. Here’s another fact to tickle your pyramid-sighting fancies: The Great Pyramid at Giza in Egypt, constructed around 2,500 BC, remained the tallest building in the world until the Eiffel Tower was erected in 1889.

Seeing one of the world’s seven wonders is definitely worth the journey.

Plan your trip to Egypt: www.egypttourspecialist.com

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IMAGE: GETTY IMAGES

Seeing that the time for new resolutions is a mere glint away, throw caution to the wind and embark on that adventure you’ve always wanted to experience.

It may be something exciting, eye-opening or, just quiet and calming. But this is your dream, and you alone decide how you want the story to unfold. Time to make that dream come true!

IMAGE: INMAGINE

CROSS COUNTRY MOTORCYCLE RIDING That’s right! Make your own Motorcycle Diaries. It’s one of those things that look hard to do... but isn’t necessarily. All it takes is the gumption to do it right. While you need to determine where in the world you want to start and end your ride, it’d be wise to first get a motorbike license. The preparation for the big trip would include determining if the route is on proper streets, dirt paths or both, and knowing possible climate changes within the routes you’re taking. Yes, this dream may be tedious to achieve, but certainly not impossible. The type of motorbike you choose is of course, the most important. And there is such a thing as a ‘crotch rocket’! It’s a sport bike that’s useful on dirt paths.

Choose your ride and maintenance: motorcycleinfo.org Choose your routes and tips: www.openroadjourney.com Overall preparation for this new hobby: www.notsoboringlife.com/outdoor/motorcycle-riding/

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SCRAPBOOKING AT HOME If the years seem to zoom past with nary a halt, fret not, for those moments may be caught on camera. A great way to treasure your memories is by framing them through artful scrapbooking techniques.

This is a simple dream, yet possibly one of the hardest to achieve. Why? Simply because it’s not time-off for a vacation or a short course that requires practice to perfect; it’s a development of a skill that requires you to carve out time from your daily routine.

Scrapbooking is perhaps one of the most calming and creative pastimes one can have, provided it fits your personality. So here’s the main thing about this hobby – you create the opportunities to beautify cherished moments in your life. You may even enter a competition to show-off your stunning creation. Just google ‘world scrapbooking competitions’ and you’ll find at least 6.38 million listings on the subject – not all useful, but they do have something to do with scrapbooking.

IMAGE: GETTY IMAGES

IMAGE: CORBIS

On all things Scrapbooking: scrapbooking.com

RAILWAY JOURNEY The National Geographic Expedition calls it ‘The Epic Train Journey’ – reason being that this journey crosses one-third of the world – from Beijing to Moscow on the TransSiberian Railway. You will traverse the Gobi Desert to Lake Baikal’s remote shores and follow the footsteps of Genghis Khan deep into Russia, while sighting some of the most exquisite architecture.

This heady adventure can take between nine and 18 days, depending on your preferred routes.

One thing is for sure, you will return with a whole different perspective on the world. Seeing how far weve come in life will definitely bring about a wave of self-awareness, if not some deep, selfintrospection.

Plan your Trans Siberian adventure: www.seat61.com/TransSiberian.htm Trans Siberian adventure: Luxury: www.mircorp.com/ accommodations-tsarsgold.asp Trans Siberian adventure: Economic: www.onthegotours.com/ Trans-Siberian/Journeys-from-Beijing

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TIPS TO GET STARTED ON YOUR DREAM(S) TALK ABOUT IT You need to know what is needed to get started.

Look for resources that are informative and helpful, and speak to people who have done something similar. Write down all the questions you have about what it is you want to do and start looking for answers. It’s only when you talk about it, that you can make realistic plans.

CHOOSE WISELY Now that you’ve talked about it and gotten your answers, you need to choose wisely.

Here are two ways to help you make your decision: 1. See what really matters to you. If doing this brings pleasure, growth and fulfilment to you, then do it!

Don’t let doubts and fears squash your dreams.

2. Next, consider your priorities (family, finances, career, relationships, work).

You need to know what’s on the top of your list and figure out what kind of compromises or sacrifices you’re willing to make in fulfilling your dreams.

IMAGE: GETTY IMAGES

COMMIT

POLE DANCING What was once associated with dingy bars and clubs, is now an artistic exercise of stamina, fitness, and endurance. Pole dancing has gone mainstream and even has its very own national competitions and world dance championships. It’s also no longer just for women; men too can shimmy down the pole.

Apart from learning to be in tune with your body, pole dancing burns up to at least 400 calories per hour.

Some of the world’s best trainers are from the UK, where the world championships are held. So, if you’re planning a trip for the London Olympics 2012, set your own sports record by signing up at Pole Passion Fitness, where many of the masters have trained.

Once you get started, there’s no sliding off the pole. It’s a fun and addictive activity. There’s even a ‘portable pole’, which requires mere minutes to set up; so, you can kick up your heels (or sneakers) and, swing and slide anywhere you fancy.

Types of pole dancing: thepolepower.com Pole Passion Fitness: www.polepassion.com World Pole Dance Championships: www.worldpoledance.com

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The moment you’ve sorted out the above two, make your choice and stick to it. The commitment will ensure your dream is met successfully.

DARE TO DREAM MORE DREAMS...

• Sail to Europe on an ocean liner – the old fashioned way.

• See the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in Northern Norway.

• Write a novel and get it published.

• Participate in a triathlon (start training!)

• Take up the cello and play it expertly as Julie Miller (Lori Singer) did in the TV series, Fame.

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12 COVER STORY 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

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CHINA

I

INDONESIA

NOW EVERYONE CAN FLY

I

I

LONDON

INDIA

megastore.com

megastore.com me

NOW EVERYONE CAN FLY

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THAILAND TH

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BIG

shot

ES

S

www.tune2big.com

OME Y

A E

R

A

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I’m a

airline to one of the largest and most respected budget carriers in the world, AirAsia proves that passion and perseverance can propel a simple dream to a spectacular reality.

TING UN

AND C O From a two-aircraft

WORDS: SHANTINI SUNTHARAJAH

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NUMBERS THAT MATTER

2

aircraft were initially in service when AirAsia first started operations in 2001.

ABOVE: AirAsia made travel more affordable by scrapping administration fee in June 2009.

IT ALL BEGAN WITH A DREAM Back when AirAsia’s Group CEO, Tan Sri Dr. Tony Fernandes was a boarding school student in England, his dearest wish was to fly home to Malaysia during his half-term holidays. Unfortunately, for the homesick adolescent, this simple desire remained out of reach. Flight tickets were prohibitively expensive back then, and regular visits home were out of the question. So, young Tony dreamt of a day when a flight from London to Kuala Lumpur would be affordable enough for people to make the trip without worrying about cost. It was the first spark that instilled a deep desire to make air travel accessible to everyone.

It would take more than 30 years but this dream would become a reality in a way that Fernandes himself could not have imagined. He didn’t know it then but he would one day be the man who could honestly proclaim: Now Everyone Can Fly.

THE ONE RINGGIT MAN The true story of AirAsia is so incredible that it might have been lifted from a Hollywood movie.

Although Fernandes had that first notion for cheap flights between England and Malaysia back in boarding school, it was not a dream he pursued from the word ‘Go’.

He graduated from the London School of Economics, worked in finance for some time and then became a successful music executive. Although not a businessman by profession, Fernandes certainly displayed business acumen when he foresaw a dim future for the music industry at that point. In a surprise move that foreshadowed his trademark spontaneity, Fernandes quit his job at the peak of his career.

It was around this time that he and a number of talented colleagues from the music business heard about an ailing airline, which belonged to a government-owned conglomerate. Together with partners Dato’ Pahamin Rejab (former chairman of AirAsia), Dato Kamarudin Meranun (present Deputy Group CEO, AirAsia), and Dato Aziz Bakar (present Chairman of AirAsia), Tony Fernandes founded Tune Air Sdn Bhd in 2001. His vision was to democratise air travel and free it from the clutches of the elite by offering low fares and quality air travel. The four partners bought the then bleeding AirAsia from its Malaysian owner DRB-Hicom, for a token RM1 (USD 0.25 cents), and agreed to take over the airline’s RM40 million debt!

Driven by Fernandes and his team of capable partners, AirAsia repaid that debt in less than two years – despite the fact that it was operating in an extremely challenging environment in the post-September 11, 2001, era. It started with two planes (Boeing 737-300s), one destination (Langkawi island) and a staff of just 250.

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6

flight simulators are in operation at AirAsia Academy, comprising four Airbus A320s, one Airbus A330 and one Boeing 737, which are run and maintained by CAE, a leading provider of integrated training solutions, advanced simulation, and control technologies to the aviation industry.

11

aircraft are in service with AirAsia X (nine A330-300s and two A340-300s).

25

minute turnaround time is put in practice for AirAsia to optimise cost for improved aircraft utilisation and crew efficiency.

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destinations and growing, with Da Nang in central Vietnam being the latest to join AirAsia’s network.

ABOVE: AirAsia AllStars are trained to assist guests with disabilities for a smoother travel experience.

PERFECT TIMING Fernandes remained unperturbed by what others believed to be an incredibly bad time to purchase an airline. This was also the year the world witnessed the most horrifying tragedy in aviation history – the 9/11 attacks in the US. The future seemed decidedly bleak. Airlines across the world were retrenching employees, and travellers feared air travel. The entire aviation industry seemed on the verge of collapse.

Fernandes and his team saw this as a golden opportunity to revive the industry by introducing a brand new airline with an unusual business model. The slump in the aviation industry steered many skilled and experienced industry workers to the fledgling airline. Expanding the fleet of aircraft also proved to be cheaper than expected, as lease prices were at an all time low. It was the most opportune time to expand the airline with bigger and better plans for the future.

A SUCCESS STORY It is 10 years on and AirAsia will go down in the annals of global history as the airline that could. The carrier has come a long, long way from its modest beginnings. At last count, the airline has a fleet of more than 104 aircraft. Red and white AirAsia planes take off and land in more than 76 destinations worldwide, and cover 132 routes – 40 of which are offered exclusively. Along with its low-cost, long-haul affiliate, AirAsia X, AirAsia now connects people travelling through three continents namely Asia, Oceania and Europe.

Millions of passengers have been safely transported around the world and in October 2010, the carrier flew its 100 millionth guest – a young, Indonesian newlywed visiting her husband in India. At present, the figure exceeds 140 million guests.

ABOVE: Guests pose with AirAsia AllStars during the welcoming ceremony of the first AirAsia X flight from Gold Coast to Kuala Lumpur in November 2007.

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93

aircraft (A320) in service with AirAsia.

200

new A320 NEO aircraft purchased at the Paris Air Show 2011.

2,268

flight attendants provide service with a smile across AirAsia (Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Singapore) and AirAsia X routes.

AirAsia’s reputation as an excellent employer, where staff is considered to be part of the AirAsia family, has attracted top-notch personnel. There are currently about 10,000 people, collectively known as ‘AllStars’, in employment with the airline.

AWARDS & ACCOLADES In less than a decade, AirAsia has transformed into a force to be reckoned with and the world has certainly taken notice. The budget carrier has won multiple awards such as The Best Asian Low Cost Carrier for 2010 by TTG and the Air Cargo Industry Newcomer of the Year Award, ACW World Air Cargo Awards. The carrier has also won the prestigious World’s Best Low Cost Airline from Skytrax not just once but three consecutive times. Skytrax is a London-based aviation consultancy and this award is especially respected, as it is based on the results of an Annual World Airline Survey that polls over 16 million air travellers from across the globe.

9,880

AllStars are in employment with AirAsia: Malaysia AirAsia (MAA) 5,101; Thai AirAsia (TAA) 1,966; Indonesia AirAsia (IAA) 1,499; AirAsia X (AAX) 1,187 and Philippines AirAsia (PAA) with 127.

EVERYBODY’S FAVOURITE AIRLINE AirAsia’s modern, state-of-the-art aircraft fleet, ever-expanding flight network, high flight frequencies along with easy-to-use booking systems and excellent services are some of the secrets of its extraordinary success. The low-cost airline regularly tops everyone’s favourite list due to its comfortable yet affordable flight experience, which allows passengers to personalise their air travels with clever options like choosing their own meals and seats and, upsizing baggage. It doesn’t hurt that the company has a remarkable aptitude for keeping up with the times and staying fun and fresh by initiating the latest and best technological advances in passenger services.

140,000

hotels worldwide work together with AirAsiaExpedia offering AirAsia guests a wide range of accommodation to choose from.

RM311,622

was collected from the AirAsia-IJN (National Heart Institute) Donate Your Loose Change campaign.

AirAsia matched RM1 for every RM1 collected. The money was channelled towards medical treatment for patients diagnosed with heart disease.

ABOVE: AirAsia X launched flights to Christchurch, New Zealand from as low as RM199.

RIGHT: AirAsia actively sponsors sporting activities such as the Asean Basketball League (2010/2011), and teams such as the Philippines Patriots.

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2,160,000

copies of Travel 3Sixty have been printed since the magazine was first published in August 2007.

2,479,941

followers on AirAsia social media networks with 1,930,097 on AirAsia Facebook, 354,370 on Twitter, 173,005 on Weibo and 22,469 on Ren Ren.

33,090,963

kilogrammes of Cargo & Courier transported by AirAsia and 27, 266, 188 kilogrammes of Cargo transported by AAX.

ABOVE: The CEOs of AirAsia came dressed in Transformer costumes for a party to celebrate winning the third Skytrax award in 2011.

Over the past 10 years, AirAsia has marked hundreds of amazing milestones.

Some of the most outstanding include becoming the first airline in the world to offer a total, comprehensive booking system targeting mobile phones and wireless devices in 2005. Two years later, AirAsia X, the long haul equivalent of AirAsia, was launched, allowing passengers to travel greater distances at lower costs. In 2009, AirAsia set a new world record when it launched its 1 Million Free Seats campaign and 402, 222 seats were snapped up in 24 hours.

These fantastic feats are certainly attention-grabbers but it’s the carrier’s ongoing thoughtful passenger services and savvy innovations that have kept it well ahead of its peers – some of which have been in the industry far longer. AirAsia is now the largest low-cost airline in Asia and the only truly ASEAN (The Association of South East Asian Nations) airline serving 600 million people in the region with 10 bustling hubs in Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia along with a virtual hub in Singapore.

139,064,262 guests have flown return so far on AA and AAX.

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT As a globally recognised ASEAN brand, the sky’s the limit for AirAsia. Over the years, the company has retained unwavering focus on its vision to provide the lowest cost airfare and the highest possible quality of service for every guest that boards its aircraft. AirAsia also offers affordably priced and even free tickets annually, which means that air travel is now a reality for people who previously only dreamt of, exotic, far-flung destinations.

While AirAsia’s amazing accomplishments, awards and accolades take centre stage, it can’t be denied that the true heart of this incredible tale lies in the people who make up the AirAsia workforce. Every red and white aircraft that streaks across the sky is a reminder that passion and persistence have the power to defy logic and break through boundaries.

As AirAsia celebrates its 10th year, its success serves as an inspiration to anyone who has dared to envision a bigger, brighter future.

So, when things get tough, it’s good to remember that, one of the most successful airlines in the world began with a dream… and now everyone can fly.

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US$3.48 BILLION

is the total market capitalization of AirAsia.

PILLARS OF AIRASIA

The airline was built on sheer grit, determination and the hard work of countless AllStars – all driven by passion to fly the red and white of AirAsia’s colours high and proud. Here, some of the pioneers speak to us about the journey thus far.

ABOVE: Kathleen Tan (centre, holding inflatable guitar) with the AirAsia Commercial team.

KATHLEEN TAN Regional Head of Commercial, MAA

Looking back, I clearly remember arriving in Kuala Lumpur seven years ago, knowing nothing of the aviation industry. My background was in the fashion and music industries and suddenly, I was facing a whole new kettle of fish. Armed with two suitcases, I arrived in Kuala Lumpur and thus began an amazing journey of self-discovery, empowerment and actualisation.

Tony’s mission for me was both challenging and daunting: ‘Go Change China’. Knowing next to nil about the airline industry was already unnerving but now, I was asked to break into the Chinese market, a country unfamiliar with e-Commerce or Low Cost Carrier models – both essential business elements to AirAsia. Not one to decline a challenge, I saw this as a chance to further enhance my learning curve and, bring to the table the opportunity to tap into one of the world’s biggest consumer markets. China wasn’t easy but I simply armed myself with a huge map of the country, my reliable laptop, lots of googled information and, a ‘never say die attitude’.

AirAsia now flies to seven destinations in China and more locations are coming up soon. Not only have we successfully penetrated the Bamboo Curtain, we have also established a huge network that has opened up opportunities for travellers and local citizens. Millions of 72

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young Chinese, who had never flown out of their country before were suddenly presented with the chance to fly to exotic parts of the world. I frequently get messages on my personal and AirAsia’s Weibo accounts, especially from youth, thanking AirAsia for making global travel possible for the Chinese.

I am also passionate about nurturing young talent. In AirAsia, we pride ourselves on pioneering innovative approaches. My personal motto echoes Tony’s favourite phrase, ‘Nothing is Impossible’. Being a part of AirAsia inspires me to discover my own potential. I thrive in this amazingly exciting but challenging environment. It literally has been ‘Blood, Sweat and Tears’ all the way, but more importantly, I’m able to see the importance of working with a young and enthusiastic workforce who is eager to embrace change. As a leader, I tap into these characteristics and find ways to mould the young uns’. I am as much a boss as I am a mentor, constantly challenging and creating a work environment that brings out the best in these young people. As clichéd as it may sound, we really do offer young people satisfying careers, and if you’ve got the talent, drive and aptitude, we want to hear from you.

The AirAsia success story is unique but it is one that was built on sheer determination and hard work. I believe the company will grow to even greater heights with newer destinations, services and features, and I am proud to be part of this global airline brand that has revolutionised travel. Happy 10th birthday, AirAsia.

KRISTINA ARIYANTI Admin Executive CEO’s Office, IAA

In my five years at AirAsia, I have achieved so much, and I am proud to an AllStar. I have been given the opportunity to deal with complex issues and come up with solutions. In achieving this, I’ve met and worked together with amazing colleagues and bosses. The goal is simple: to deliver world-class service to our guests and create a sense of caring and belonging amongst staff. What more can you ask for in a job?

MULYANA Station Head, Medan, IAA

CHERALYN LUCIA THESEIRA Resourcing Executive, People Department, MAA

I enjoy the environment at AirAsia and want to continue working here for a long, long time! AirAsia places a lot of emphasis on trust, and allows AllStars to showcase their talents. It encourages staff to be proud of what they are doing and rewards them without hesitation.

There is no putting a value on the experience that I have gained here. I have grown so much, and I can honestly say, “AirAsia offers a career, not a job!”

Over the last five years of working at AirAsia, I have been trained to offer our guests the best service. I started off as a Guest Service Assistant at the Jakarta station in 2006, but was able to showcase my talent and execute the various responsibilities entrusted to me. From there, my career just kept growing. I was made the station head for Palembang and subsequently, Medan. My most joyous moments with AirAsia were when I shared the stage with Tony Fernandes at our annual dinner in 2010, and performed with CEO of IAA Pak Dharmadi at the Skytrax Party in Bangkok.

ANA CHRISTI GRAGEDA-GALURA Ground Operations, MAA, Diosdado Macapagal International Airport, Clark Civil Aviation Complex

I joined AirAsia three years ago and God willing, I hope to retire here because I’ve learnt from the best. My superiors are not just my bosses, they are my mentors. They teach by doing and living the AllStars credo. They put their faith in you, so you know they’ve got your back. Meritocracy is strictly practised, thus you are inspired to work because you are valued for your contributions. With AirAsia, I feel I’ll never grow old because it is a company that truly brings out the best in me.

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LAU KI KIN CHOY Director of IT, MA MAA

WHAT CHANG CHANGES IN TECHNOLOGY HAVE YOU SEEN TAKE PLACE AT AIRASIA? Over the years years, the booking engine has evolved from just allowing you to book a seat to catering for virtually everything you need for your flight. Keeping up with new technology, we have the mobile platform that mirrors all the functionalities of AirAsia. com. In short, a lot of self-service initiatives are being made available to empower our guests to mana manage their own bookings.

HOW HAS TH THE RESPONSE BEEN FROM AIRASIA GUESTS? When we want wanted to drive sales via the Internet in 2002, people were sceptical as not many people, eespecially Asians, transacted online. Fortunately, sceptics were proven wrong and Inte Internet sales, driven by our super low fares, increased steadily and now clocks in at ab about 90% of our total sales. Self-service options allow guests to check-in online, mana manage their flights, and purchase ancillary products like in-flight meals; the respons response towards these initiatives has been great. Guests feel that they have more co control over their bookings. They don’t have to contact the Call Centre, or pay aadditional charges for these services.

W WHAT ARE SOME OF THE NEW TECHNOLOGY THAT GUESTS CAN E EXPECT FROM AIRASIA IN THE FUTURE? We are constantly enhancing and improving all interaction channels with our guests. In future, AirAsia will have easier and more userfriendly systems to ensure a satisfying user experience. Briefly, we aare looking at reducing queues for guests wanting to check-in their bag baggage, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology for bagtracking, and N NFC (Near Field Communications) for self-boarding. The usage of phones and th the Internet onboard is definitely something we are working on as well.

BO LINGAM COO Operations & Planning, MAA

AS ONE OF THE AIRLINE’S PIONEERS, WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MILESTONES YOU’VE WITNESSED THAT HAVE TRANSFORMED AA INTO A GLOBAL BRAND? I’ve seen AirAsia grow from two to 100 planes, covering the whole of ASEAN and beyond. With our strong brand presence and, sponsorship of and association with high profile brands, we are now a household name. The most compelling achievement I’ve witnessed is the development of staff who started initially as Guest Service Assistants or cashiers, and didn’t have the means to pursue their dreams. Working with AirAsia enabled them to make their dreams come true by training to become pilots, engineers, managers and flight attendants. I am very proud of this!

TO BE HONOURED WITH A PLANE LIVERY OF YOURSELF IS SUCH A GREAT TRIBUTE. HOW WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE ALLSTARS TO LIVE THE AIRASIA SPIRIT? It was an honour indeed to have a plane livery dedicated to me. Work hard, go beyond the call of duty and respect others, irrespective of one’s position in the company. Most importantly, treat our guests with the utmost respect and kindness, and do not forget to LISTEN when someone’s talking to you.

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KANCHANA JASAEN (IMMY) Corporate Culture. TAA

AUGUSTINE PALUS Ramp Team Leader, MAA

The most memorable event during my service with AirAsia was when I was selected to help set up and open Bintulu Station, Sarawak in 2004. Together with my then Station Manager, Sudirman Khusairi, we did everything to get the station ready to receive guests. We had to find vendors to supply office equipment, and meet and discuss matters with the airport authority. This was an amazing challenge for me but with great help from my colleagues in Kuala Lumpur and cooperation from the airport authorities, we managed to settle everything before the first AirAsia flight landed at Bintulu Airport on Aug 30, 2004.

To me, being an AllStar means that I’m a point-of-contact for AirAsia guests. My colleagues and I are the connecting dots that help deliver exceptional service to our guests.

AirAsia has created praiseworthy service by continuously improving our quality beyond customer expectations and in forging a strong corporate culture by building on the good things from all the countries we fly to. This motivates me to keep trying harder in making our guests’ experiences with AirAsia memorable at all times.

SUHA SUHAILA HASSAN Flight Attendan Attendant Manager, MAA

HOW MANY FAs DO YOU MANAGE AND WHAT CHALLENGES DO YOU FACE? As AirAsia Fl Flight Attendant Manager, I’ve about 1,000 boys and girls under my supervision.

Managing all that intelligence and gorgeousness on a daily basis is no easy feat! This is a hot seat I’m in, but I h have learnt to handle them with patience as this is perhaps the best way to deal with the Gen Y youn youngsters. As a former FA myself, I underwent training that was strict and pressure-ridden.

At present, presen we have changed our training to FUN and FRIENDLY. WHAT A ARE THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT THE CAREER OF A FLIGHT ATTEN ATTENDANT AND HOW IS AIRASIA HELPING TO CHANGE THIS PERCEPTION? You’d probably have heard that the job of a Flight Attendant is just a glorified waiter in the sky, pushing the service cart down the aisle. This is the biggest misconception about Fli Flight Attendants. At AirAsia, we offer them a career. FAs can work all the way up to the retirement age of 55. We also encourage them to pursue their dreams within the org organisation. For example, some FAs have trained to become pilots. We’ve also injected a lo lot of warmth into their personalities in making them fun and friendly personalities in tthe sky. These FAs are also trained extensively to understand our aircraft and safety proc procedures, and offer sterling customer service.

WHA WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TRAIT THAT A FA NEEDS? A FA’s job and lifestyle is not a walk in the park, as it carries huge responsibilities. When we find po potential candidates, we try to help them achieve their dreams. We gather these raw ‘diamon ‘diamonds’ during interview sessions, take them to our training academy and polish them to sheer bri brilliance. If you are bubbly, humble, fun and friendly, come and join our great team!

THE FUTURE These are the newcomers to AirAsia, a new breed of AllStars who are brimming with passion, energy and enthusiasm.

Hailing from diverse backgrounds and expertise, the young guns speak about their drive and how AirAsia is helping them chart newer territories in their profession and personal lives.

RAJESH GILL Chief Pilot Technical, Development & Regulatory Affairs, MAA

WHAT CHALLENGES DO YOU FACE DAILY IN MANAGING PILOTS AND THE HE WORK THAT THEY DO? There are many challenging issues, both personal and operational that crop ht up – anything from a pilot unable to turn up for work because his house caught fire to dealing with a volcano erupting and spewing ash over Indonesia, where a decision has to be made if we fly in or not... these are but some of the daily challenges. I could probably write a book filled with such incidents and events over the past two and a half years.

TELL US ABOUT THE TRAINING THAT PILOTS ARE SUBJECTED TO AT AIRASIA? All our pilots go through an extensive ground and flight training program, which depending on the level of experience upon entry into the system, could take anywhere from a month to six months. This includes many hours in the classroom, flight simulator and line training before they are cleared as operational Flight Crew on a normal commercial flight.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR ASPIRING PILOTS WHO WISH TO JOIN AIRASIA? ia AirAsia offers equal employment opportunities to all who wish to join the AirAsia family. Should you be offered an opportunity to interview with AirAsia, take the time hoose out to work hard and prepare for the selection process. It is designed to only choose the best out there. So, if that’s you, we want you!

VIJAYA PRIYA

MATTHEW MOK

Communications Executive, MAA

Content Manager, Digital Services, MAA

Anyone who walks into our company will feel the positive vibes in the office.

We are more than just a team; we are a family. Here, our work isn’t executed just as an assignment but as a responsibility. This is a people-based company that encourages flexible working conditions, with opportunities that offer challenging and meaningful career paths. One of the most important things I’ve learned here is persistence – never give up, the solution is probably right in front of you.

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Besides offering everyone a chance to travel, AirAsia strives to innovate and offer better products and services, despite the numerous challenges. We work hard to overcome setbacks and come up with great solutions! To me, that makes AirAsia an exciting and fun place to contribute my skills. Opportunities for self-growth simply abound within this company.

BHIM CHANDRA RAI

HO WEI LEK

Special Project Assistant, Operations, MAA

Purchasing Executive, Finance, MAA

Hailing from Khotang district at the foothills of Mt Everest, AirAsia is my home away from home.

Everyone from the bosses to the receptionists greets you with a smile and make you feel like family.

I come in to work an hour early every day because I just can’t wait to see my ‘family’ and begin my day.

It is a vibrant and exciting environment to work in and I am very proud to call myself an AllStar.

DEVINDER SINGH BINDRA Distribution & Business Development Manager for India, Sri Lanka & Bangladesh, MAA.

WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES OF INTRODUCING AIRASIA SERVICES TO THE INDIAN MARKET? The Indian market is a highly challenging and volatile one where different cities have entirely different travel dynamics. Offering an entirely revolutionary airline product to such diverse markets was probably the biggest challenge as we had to be careful to stress how AirAsia would meet and exceed the expectations of each of these markets. The Indian domestic market is one of the fastest growing.

There has been a spill-over of this traffic onto the international air travel market as well especially for low cost services like AirAsia.

HOW HAS AIRASIA REVOLUTIONISED AIR TRAVEL IN INDIA? For a country with a middle and upper class population that’s roughly 200 million, air travel is still in its infancy in India. India has emerged as the first market globally where the share of Low Cost Carrier (LCC ) traffic exceeds that of legacy carriers. AirAsia, as the leading LCC in Asia has thus, become a welcome option for middle class Indians. By bringing the LCC model into smaller towns and cities, AirAsia has not only opened up new access points for India’s rapidly growing secondary cities but in a way, also inspired Indian LCCs to follow suit.

WHAT’S THE BEST COMPLIMENT YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED FROM A GUEST WHO HAS FLOWN WITH AAX? A guest once said, “Thanks to AirAsia, my entire family of eight can travel together on holiday, including my Mom & Dad.”

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Happy 10th anniversary AirAsia! This is really a wonderful company to work for – dynamic, energetic, happening and fun. I enjoy working here and the Allstars are one big, happy family.

Of course, there are differences in opinion and personality clashes but there also seems to be a genuine love for AirAsia and that’s when people put their differences aside and work for the overall good of the company.

‘Blood, sweat and tears’ have been shed but it has all been worth it.

FRANK TANG TING Station Head, Guangzhou, MAA

WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES OF INTRODUCING AIRASIA TO THE CHINESE MARKET? At first, many of our guests were not used to our business concept as they were accustomed to full service airlines. Thanks to our marketing team who worked extra hard in changing the mindset of the locals, now AirAsia has become the preferred choice. This is mostly because guests understand that they only need to pay for the services that they want, and plan their travels in advance to take advantage of our affordable fares.

HOW HAS AIRASIA OPENED UP AIR TRAVEL TO CHINESE CITIZENS AND WHAT ARE THE POPULAR PLACES THEY GO TO? We see lots of youngsters travelling to Kuala Lumpur or Bangkok from Guangzhou; some of them will then take connecting flights to Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu, Bali, Phuket, Chiangmai, or even Kolkata! Now everyone can fly, everywhere!

KRITTAYA SRISAWATAMPAI Quality Assurance Engineer, Engineering Department, TAA

Keeping in mind the recent floods that affected Thailand, I must say I am totally touched by the strong bond that exists amongst AllStars and how the company went about providing assistance to its staff members. We started by earmarking the locations of staffs’ homes in the affected areas. Next, a rescue team, led by TAA Maintenance Manager, helped staff evacuate in areas affected by severe flooding, and AirAsia helped by finding temporary accommodation. Additionally, not only did we help each other but we also donated tonnes of essential goods, food and drinking water to non-AirAsia flood victims.

JONATHAN GOH TZE YEOW Marketing Executive, MAA

AirAsia has come a long way in the last 10 years, and has seen a lot of changes. I feel proud to be part of this growing family.

I joined AirAsia about two years ago and I treasure every moment working in this company ever since. AirAsia has offered me the opportunity for personal growth and that contributes to a sense of personal achievement and recognition. AirAsia values employees as its greatest asset, and this makes us one big family.

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WHAT IS THE BEST COMPLIMENT YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED FROM AN AIRASIA GUEST? When we first started the Guangzhou - Kuala Lumpur flight, I met a Malaysian family who were flying with another airline.

I learnt that the father works in Singapore, the mother runs a business in Guangzhou, but the family lives in Johor Bahru. They were surprised that AirAsia had started flying to Guangzhou, and have become loyal fans ever since. I believe this is the best compliment ever!

10 MEMORABLE YEARS AirAsia AllStars share memorable moments from their personal photo albums.

1 2

1. Delivery of AirAsia X’s 11th aircraft in November 2010 (image: Azri Safwan Rusli). 2. Fund handover ceremony in aid of victims of the Mt. Merapi eruption, Yogyakarta, Indonesia in December 2010 (image: Jaka Pamudyanto). 3. Celebrating a guest’s birthday on board (image: Sfa Priyo). 4. AllStars pose with Tony in front of the last B737 Airbus before it was decomissioned (image: Wan Suriati Maizura).

5. AirAsia A320 aircraft’s first touch down at Bandung airport (image: Boy Agustiam).

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3

5

4

6

6. AllStars posing with AirAsia aircraft painted with the Oakland Raiders livery (image: Jiwa Ram Ramayah). 7. AllStars at the former AirAsiaGo office in Cyberjaya (image: Indrani Hari Krishan). 8. AirAsia trainee engineers (image: Neoh Wee Ming) 9. The second Skytrax award win button 2010 (image: See Yap Jin). 10. AirAsia X’s maiden voyage (image: Shivaguru Peter). 11. Arrival of AirAsia aircraft from Kota Kinabalu in Taipei (image: Gererd Macorvick). 12. Having fun with the boss at a beach party in 2008 (image: Lee Siew Ching). 13. Fast in the air, fast on the ground (image: Mohd. Fadzli Abas). 14.

Visiting Manchester City with AirAsia Deputy Group CEO Dato’ Kamarudin Meranun (Capt. Omar Bakhi Ahmad Yusof).

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12 FEATURES • Australia 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

UNDER THE RAINBOW SERPENT WORDS: BEVERLY RODRIGUES PHOTOGRAPHY: ADAM LEE

With a history of 40,000 years, Australian aboriginal art is one of the longest continuing art traditions on Earth. Exploring Aboriginal art in the Northern Territory offers a glimpse into some of the world’s oldest and most intriguing civilisations.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Allan Kerinailia at an art centre in the Tiwi Islands.

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CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Paintings from Tjala Arts on display at the Outstation Gallery.

Ochre lends rich earthy shades to Aboriginal art.

The Wandurrk is said to enjoy playing tricks on travellers, often misleading them in the bush.

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“Only good spirits,” the Tiwi ladies intoned as they tapped my head with smoking ironwood leaves to ward off bad spirits. Dazzled by the glistening mudflats and meandering billabongs on my flight to the Tiwi Islands (a 45-minute flight from Darwin), the last thing on my mind was being attacked by bad spirits or eaten by Ampiji, the Rainbow Serpent.

According to Tiwi Dreamtime or ‘creation stories’, the Rainbow Serpent once swallowed a possum hunter who disturbed her watering hole, and so the Tiwi stay clear of their protector’s resting place, and warn foreigners not to stray into the bush. Even though the Tiwi converted to Christianity in the 20th century, their culture remains strong.

Tiwi Dreamtime stories tell of how Murtankala the Creator crawled out of the darkness beneath the earth with her children on her back, forming the Tiwi Islands. With the help of a little spirit, Murtankala’s daughters conceived the first Tiwi people, and her son Purrukuparli went on to become an important figure in Tiwi creation stories.

My guide Trevor Tipungwuti explained that in the time of his ancestors, the Tiwi believed they were the only people on earth, and set about establishing a strict clan system to keep their blood clean. The people were divided into four groups – sun, rock, mullet and pandanus – that dictated marriage lines.

Tiwi people are born into their mother’s clan group, but inherit their father’s Dreamtime stories, which are told through art and ceremony. “I am from the Sun clan, but my dance is buffalo,” Tipungwuti said as he applied ochre to his face, drawing the lines that would transform him as he danced. Ceremonial body art or jilamara has been practiced for thousands of years, its patterns seen on various Tiwi artworks.

An important part of life, Aboriginal art is all about identity, spirituality and country. These permeate every painting and carving, invoking the sacred and honouring the ancient. When I signed up for an aboriginal art tour, I never anticipated meeting people whose traditions were so alive.

if another man named Trevor died, he’d have to cease using his own name. Translated as ‘taboo’, pukumani rituals encompass everything from a deceased person’s name to his or her belongings, which must be burnt or buried. Close relatives aren’t even allowed to handle food till the end of mourning rites, and must depend on others to feed them.

CELEBRATING LIFE At Tiwi’s art centres, I witnessed artists creating paintings filled with concentric circles symbolising the ceremonial dancing ground for the kulama-yam ceremony. During this celebration of life, yam is eaten for good health and the Tiwi express hope for a brighter future through song and dance. “We sing about the past, present, future, family, weather, becoming a good hunter and even a great footballer.” Tipungwuti said, revealing how contemporary culture has entered into the Tiwi life.

While weavers fashioned traditional stringy-bark baskets for purposes both mundane and sacred, carvers whittled birds out of ironwood, shaping totems and birds of Dreamtime stories, like the ancestral bird-man Tokampini, who taught the rituals of the pukumani ceremony.

I’d have loved to learn more about Tiwi art and symbolism, but I realised that some of the artists weren’t too eager to tell me about the meaning of their work.

For them, art is sacred, and there are some things foreigners are not meant to know. In fact, it wasn’t till the 70s that Aboriginal desert artists of the Papunya Tula art movement broke with convention and began depicting scenes from the Dreamtime on canvas.

While this sparked debate over the revelation of sacred designs, it also marked the birth of contemporary Australian Aboriginal art.

It wasn’t till the 70s that Aboriginal desert artists of the Papunya Tula art movement broke with convention and began depicting scenes from the Dreamtime on canvas. While this sparked debate over the revelation of sacred designs, it also marked the birth of contemporary Australian Aboriginal art.

ABOVE: Walpiri artist Patsy Rose at Aboriginal Bush Traders.

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ART OF MOURNING Of all Tiwi artwork, the best known is the impressive tutini: Carved bloodwood poles used during the final pukumani or funeral ceremony that’s unique to Tiwi people. Decorated with geometric jilamara designs in traditional earth pigments, these poles are placed around the burial site to celebrate the deceased person’s life and spiritual journey.

Pukumani is one of the most important aspects of Tiwi culture. The first pukumani ceremony ever held was for Purrukuparli, whose death marked the end of the Tiwi Dreamtime. Pukumani is performed to ensure the spirit of the dead leaves the world of the living, but the word ‘pukumani’ refers to complex mourning rituals that reach far beyond the grave. Tipungwuti told me that

What Aboriginal artists choose to share with outsiders is a privilege, and I was lucky to meet Allan Kerinailia, an artist who paints his dreams and literally speaks to his artworks. He showed me an earth-coloured white pointer shark – his totem. Kerinailia’s lines were finer than any others I’d seen so far. “The lines in my paintings symbolise scars. In the old days, when you lost a loved one, you cut yourself with mussel shells.”

IN THE BEGINNING...

Intent on visiting the places where Aboriginal artists first put ochre to rock, I headed to the Kakadu National Park. The rock art here is considered one of the world’s longest historical records.

ABOVE: Vibrant patterns on a Tiwi artwork.

ABOVE, RIGHT: A rock painting in Ubirr tells of a hunter named Mabuyu who sealed a thief into a cave for stealing his fish.

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Clambering up the scorching rock terraces of Ubirr, a magnificent sandstone outcrop that was once an island in an ancient sea, I was amazed by the dramatic layers and ripples carved by water and time.

Navigating gravel pathways, I explored Ubirr’s immense rock shelters where the Bininj-Mungguy clans camped thousands of years ago. The walls were dark where fires once burned, and ancient grinding holes showed where people used to prepare ochre for painting.

Images of barramundi, waterfowl, goannas and echidnas overlapped and merged along Ubirr’s walls, reflecting its close proximity to abundant food sources: the East Alligator River, Nadab floodplain and woodlands. Believing these images represented the spirit of the animals they hunted, the Aborigines painted them for help in future hunts. The act of painting is often more important than the painting itself, and so images in white and yellow ochre dance over dark red images from an older time.

Dating back 8,000 years, these paintings illustrate the estuarine period when mangrove swamps and new tributaries formed, bringing barramundi, mullets and estuarine crocodiles to these parts. X-ray art – an early foray into anatomical illustrations – had an otherworldly feel. As if to emphasise Ubirr’s expansive timeline,

I glimpsed an image of the extinct Tasmanian tiger prowling not far from a representation of a buffalo hunter, a record of early contact with the ‘white fella’.

Ubirr even boasts paintings by Mimi spirits, the first Creation Ancestors to paint on rock and teach Aboriginal medicine men to paint. Estimated to be about 5,000 years old, these images of small human figures are painted in red ochre and animal blood. Being tall and thin, Mimi spirits were known to place paintings in difficult places, and it is said that some Mimi spirits even transformed into rock paintings, creating ‘dreaming places’. Some Mimi paintings are considered dangerous.

The most sacred of all Ubirr’s sites is the Rainbow Serpent gallery. It is believed that during the Dreamtime, the Rainbow Serpent slithered through the land, splitting rocks, forming waterholes and hills and creating habitats throughout the Kakadu landscape.

Passing through Ubirr, she painted her image on a rock as a reminder of her presence.

Although art and Dreamtime stories vary from one Aboriginal group to another, all Aborigines revere the Rainbow Serpent. Protector, avenger and punisher, she is the spiritual totem of the Creator, the peacemaker who connects all Aboriginal people.

TIP! When buying authentic Aboriginal art, always ask for a certificate of authenticity, which provides information on the artwork and artist.

ART GALLERIES IN DARWIN MANINGRIDA ARTS & CULTURE DARWIN GALLERY

Artwork includes ochre paintings on stringybark, pandanus mats and fibre sculptures of mimi and yawkyawk (mermaid).

Maningrida’s most famous artist is John Wawurndjul who popularised rarrk, a style of fine cross-hatching.

ABOVE: An art centre in the Tiwi Islands.

www.maningrida.com

READBACK BOOKS & ABORIGINAL ART

RIGHT: A stunning view from the top of Ubirr.

32, Smith Street Mall, Darwin.

Readback sells artwork from hundreds of emerging Aboriginal artists. Prices are more affordable here, around AUD130 for a 4’ x 2’ acrylic on canvas!

MBANTUA FINE ART GALLERY & CULTURAL MUSEUM

Mbantua represents 250 well-established and emerging desert artists from Utopia, roughly a quarter of the entire population! Utopian artists paint women’s ceremonies and desert plants like anaty, bush plum and kurrajong seeds.

SPIRITUAL EXPERIENCE To learn about the Aboriginal sense of country and how it manifests in art, I met up with Walpiri artist Patsy Rose and, Larrakia tribe traditional owner Robert Mills, who runs an Aboriginal cultural walking tour in Darwin.

Expressing his belonging to the land, Mills explained that being a ‘traditional owner’ meant acting as spiritual custodian of his mother’s country.

“Aboriginal people don’t own the land; it owns us.”

There are no fences, just spiritual boundaries – rivers, trees and hills.

This sense of belonging is seen in art, where Aboriginal artists paint totems and elements from their own country. In the old days, an elder would sing the song of an animal and teach the young to draw their totems. For Rose, who comes from the Tanami Desert and has a rock wallaby as her totem, this knowledge of country and Dreamtime 96

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is vital. “We don’t want to do other people’s dreaming.” Painting another’s totem was once punishable by death.

According to Mills, painting with natural pigments heightens the spiritual experience.

“Mulggi, the Creator made clay and earth. So, with charcoal and ochre, you’ve got spirituality, earth, identity and love, all in one painting.” These four colours connect Rose with her ancestral past. “It takes me out on a journey and tells of how it was in the Dreamtime. If you get the feeling in the painting, you feel that you are there.”

Just when I thought I was beginning to grasp the meaning of Dreamtime, Mills took things to another level. “Dreaming is a white man word; I call it mapulbak.

It is the beginning, during and after creation. You’re visiting me here? This is part of the mapulbak.”

GETTING THERE AirAsia flies to Darwin, Australia from Bali, Indonesia. Visit www.airasia.com for more information.

Travel 3Sixty’s trip to Darwin was made possible courtesy of Tourism Northern Territory. http://en.travelnt.com/

www.mbantua.com.au

OUTSTATION

Outstation represents 15 remote art centres in the Tiwi Islands, Arnhem Land, Kimberley, Central Australia, Western Desert and South Australia. www.outstation.com.au

NOMAD ART

Nomad art specialises in crosscultural collaborations between remote indigenous artists and master practitioners, and focuses on limited edition handmade print and textiles. www.nomadart.com.au

ABORIGINAL BUSH TRADERS Aboriginal Bush Traders is a non-profit initiative that helps indigenous artists from Australia’s Top End to develop and promote their works. www.aboriginalbushtraders.com

12 FEATURES • Vietnam 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

DUDE, WHERE’S DA NANG?

The jump off point to many natural, historical and cultural attractions in Central Vietnam, Da Nang has been a well-kept secret amongst visitors – until now.

WORDS: JOEY GAN PHOTOGRAPHY: CHUA SIEW CHING

When the offer to visit Da Nang first came about, my initial reaction was joy swiftly followed by bewilderment. I knew almost nothing about this place except that it had once been the host city of a beauty pageant. I asked my friends about it and they gladly yapped away about Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City instead. Da Nang? They had never heard of it and tried steering the conversation back to the other two cities.

From their experiences in Vietnam, I began to draw a picture of a gazillion motorbikes on the streets – a melee of honking bikes, chaotic traffic and pedestrians dashing across streets for dear life. This bedlam was ingrained in my mind and I braced for the impending chaos in Da Nang as well.

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BELOW: A group of fishermen taking a break on Da Nang Beach after a long day out at sea. Their fishing boat - made out of bamboo - is an iconic symbol of Da Nang.

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CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: The old limestone gate to Huyen Khong Cave in Marble Mountains.

Selling fresh flowers by the street in Hoi An. With its picturesque scenery, Hoi An is often used as a backdrop for wedding photography. Here, a couple poses for a photo while eating a local Vietnamese delight.

DISCOVERING DA NANG When I arrived in Da Nang city, there were hardly any vehicles whizzing by, let alone a gazillion motorbikes.

There were a few around with the occasional honking, but on the whole, the riders were well-behaved and cruised at moderate speeds. This was nothing like I had imagined Da Nang to be.

The largest city in Central Vietnam, Da Nang is well connected by air, sea and road. During the Vietnam War, Da Nang served as an airbase for both Vietnamese and US air forces. Scars from the past still remain but that hasn’t stopped Da Nang from becoming a commercial and education hub in Central Vietnam. It is also fast becoming a holiday destination.

Additionally, due to its strategic location, Da Nang connects visitors to the country’s three UNESCO Heritage Sites: My Son Sanctuary, Hoi An Ancient Town, and the Complex of Hue Monuments. Within Da Nang,

the Marble Mountains, China Beach and Non Nuoc stone-carving village are popular attractions that link Da Nang’s past to its present.

MARBLE MARVEL My first stop in Da Nang was Marble Mountains, located in Ngu Hanh Son ward, south of Da Nang city. This cluster of marble and limestone hills has five peaks, each named after one of the five elements of the universe according to Oriental philosophy: Thuy Son (Water Peak), Moc Son (Metal Peak), Tho Son (Earth Peak), Moc Son (Wood Peak), and Hoa Son (Fire Peak).

I decided on Thuy Son, it being the main attraction near Non Nuoc village. The only way to the peak is via 156 stone steps, located in different parts of the hill that lead to a few pagodas, a cave temple and watchtowers.

The cave temple, Huyen Khong Cave, stood out as the most interesting attraction. My guide, who incidentally was also named Huyen, explained the caves chequered past that extends all the way to the Vietnam War. According to Huyen, the cave was used as a hospital to treat wounded soldiers. I looked down from the cave entrance and imagined all the injured bodies lying on the damp floor. I surveyed the chilly surrounding with a heavy heart, my eyes fixed on the damp wall surface, the only remaining witness of the painful past.

The cave is now a Buddhist temple. After paying my respects, I moved on to Vong Hai Dai Watchtower at the top of Thuy Son to take in the serene landscape, with the South China Sea in the distance. I rounded up my visit in Thuy Son with a stroll to Non Nouc village, a settlement at the foothill that thrives on stone carving, a profession that’s been practiced for the past 300 years. Here, sculptures as tall as a seven-foot Guan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) statue, or as small as a marble chess set are on sale. *Admission to Thuy Son is USD1 or VND20,000.

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information.

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: The grand entrance to the Imperial City of Hue. Tranquil Da Nang Beach.

A Vietnamese lady wearing a traditional beachcomber straw hat and a beautiful smile.

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BEACH BEAUTIFUL The other big attraction in Da Nang is the beach, and Non Nuoc Beach is a great place to start your seaside vacation. Gentle waves coupled with all-year round sunny weather had the most soothing effect on my mind and body. Non Nuoc Beach is very popular and a few beach and spa resorts are currently under construction here.

During the Vietnam War, US soldiers who used to come here for their R&R named the place China Beach.

Now, the 30-km stretch has been separated into a few sections and each is named after a nearby village.

On the shore here, you’re bound to spot round bamboo boats. Called thuyen thung (pronounced ‘twin tung’), this boat is said to have been invented in 1925 by villagers in an attempt to evade exorbitant land taxes.

Now, this humble boat has become an iconic symbol of Da Nang and is still used to catch squids after dark and, to shuttle fishermen to and from larger fishing vessels anchored in deeper waters.

THE CHAMPA RUINS Da Nang is also the main jump-off point to Central Vietnam’s major historical and cultural attractions. My first destination was My Son (pronounced ‘mei sheng’, which means beautiful mountain) Sanctuary. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area is near Duy Phú village and consists of a wooded area housing clusters of Hindu temple ruins built by the Champa between the 4th and 14th century AD.

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: A partially-ruined Hindu temple in My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Souvenirs for the folks back home: handmade silk scarves.

A must do while in Hoi An – eating mouthwatering local delights prepared and cooked right on the street.

My Son is a monumental relic of the Champa, just like what Angkor Wat is to the Khmers. At the height of Champa’s reign, there was a total of 70 towers here, built by kings to perform rituals at their coronation. After the carpet-bombing during the Vietnam War, only 20 towers survived. Archeologists have discovered that the Champa didn’t use mortar at all to glue bricks together.

In fact, their building secrets remain a mystery till today.

At present, the abandoned religious relics stand solemnly against the encroaching undergrowth, while crumbling towers and stupa slowly lose their battle with the forest. I stood transfixed, remembering a long-lost empire being wiped out by a greater force: Nature.

Admission to the ruins is USD3 or VND60,000.

ANCIENT TOWN OF HOI AN Hoi An (pronounced ‘ho yarn’), is a quiet place with an idyllic air, befitting its status as an ancient town. Here, I travelled back in time. One of the most striking features of Hoi An is the over 300-year-old buildings, all of which still maintain their original architecture.

Previously occupied by the Japanese and the Chinese, the town embodies a strong oriental charm.

The Japanese Covered Bridge, a landmark in Hoi An, connects two sides of the town, and is fully covered with artistically-carved Japanese motifs. Chinese ornamental carvings, on the other hand, feature bold motives such as the dragon and phoenix. These can be seen in the communal houses in Hoi An such as at Cam Pho, Minh Huong and Quan Cong Temple.

Hoi An is also renowned for its silk lanterns and when dusk falls, hundreds of balloon-shaped lanterns are strung up in front of homes and shops. Lanterns here are entirely handmade and the craft is one of the oldest surviving traditions. Besides lanterns, Hoi An also produces silk embroidery.

Late in the evening, Hoi An fills up with food vendors along the river. Family and friends gather at stalls, enjoying simple meals of rice noodles and grilled dishes under the stars. I joined a small family who was more than happy to explain Vietnamese food to me. I didn’t need much convincing as the mi guang here was absolutely delicious.

Hoi Ann received the UNESCO World Heritage Status in 1999. Admission is USD4.5 or VND90,000.

LIVING HISTORY History buffs will be totally bowled over when visiting Hue in the north of Central Vietnam. The main attraction here is the Complex of Hue Monuments, also called the Imperial City of Hue built by the Nguyen Dynasty. This historical site received the UNESCO World Heritage site status in 1993.

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DA NANG DELIGHTS

You may be tempted to regard Da Nang as just another Vietnamese destination, but this city has many unusual features that are unique, namely its food.

In Da Nang, the popular local noodle dish is mi guang, while pho is famous in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. This dish is served dry with a special sauce, lemon, vegetables, chicken, beef or shrimps.

The Vietnamese black coffee here actually tastes salty here because the beans are roasted with a dash of fish sauce!

Bánh tráng thit heo is a fresh spring roll made with rice paper and filled with pork or beef. The rolls are dipped into a fish sauce before being eaten.

Bánh bèo are steamed rice cakes topped with shredded dried prawns and served with fish sauce. The rice cake itself is plain but benefits greatly from the fish sauce.

HOI AN ATTRACTIONS

ABOVE: Making Hoi An silk lanterns by hand, a traditional craft popular in the city.

Built in the 19th century, the area is made up of a main entrance called Ngo Mon Gate, The Palace of Harmony and The Forbidden City (private quarters of the emperor), similar to that in Beijing. Through the main gate, I entered the administrative areas (Palace of Supreme Harmony or The Throne Palace) where coronations and other important meetings were held in the past. Here, most of the original contents including furniture, four red lacquer columns and the throne have been carefully preserved.

In the private quarters or The Forbidden City, there was some structural damage dating back to the Vietnam War. Nevertheless, the magnificence of the palace reminded me of period dramas set during the Qing Dynasty. The opulence and attention to detail were astounding. Given the size of the building, it took me some time to fully appreciate its grandeur.

I began my trip not knowing a thing about Da Nang, and by the end, I was raring to explore every inch of this lesserknown Vietnamese city. Sometimes, the best experiences are had when you travel off-the-beaten-path.

Admission to Complex of Hue Monuments is USD3or VND60,000.

GETTING THERE AirAsia flies from Kuala Lumpur to Da Nang 4 times a week starting Dec 16, 2011.

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This scenic town is not only an idyllic escapade, it also offers a variety of fun activities for visitors.

• Learn to prepare Vietnamese cuisine at Dao Tien Restaurant and Cooking Class. 21, Phan Boi Chau St. www.daotienhoian.net • Make your own silk embroidery at Papillon Noir. 30, Tran Hung Dao, +84 0510 3917 941.

• Make your own lanterns at Long Vy Lanterns. 6, Phan Chuy Trinh St. www.hoianlantern.com.vn • Join Pascal, a French expat and Thu, a native of Hoi An, on a bicycle ride in the countryside. www.vietnam-bicycle.com • Join Etienne Bossot, a French photographer and Rudi Karpati from Melbourne for a photo tour and workshop. www.hoianphototour.com

TRAVEL TO DA NANG NOW! AirAsiaGo offers various tour packages to Da Nang.

Overnight packages range from 3 nights to 7 nights.

Tours are conducted in English and guests can benefit from discounts of up to 50% when making group bookings. Log on to www.airasiago.com for details.

• 3N Heritage Hoi An & My Son • 4D Charms of Hoi An & My Son • 4D Hue and Hoi An Introduction • 5D Twin Gem Cities of Hue & Hoi An • 6N Central Vietnam with Phong Nga Caves* • 7N Best of Central Vietnam* * Multiple UNESCO site visit

12 FEATURES • Philippines 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

Follow Star The

The people of Pampanga in the Philippines have long been inventing dramatic folk traditions that express their festive spirit and fun-loving nature.

Today, the star-shaped parol (lantern) of Pampanga is a shining symbol of Christmas and a celebrated local icon.

WORDS: BEVERLY RODRIGUES PHOTOGRAPHY: ADAM LEE

On a bright Sunday morning, I climb up the belfry of Angeles City’s Holy Rosary Parish, and find Brother Benjamin Espiritu II and his merry band of bell ringers getting ready to sound the heavy brass bells of the church.

Advent, the season of spiritual preparation before Christmas, is around the corner, and already the Yuletide spirit fills the air.

Between deafening clangs, the young seminarian speaks of the beautiful parol, a lantern that glows as a joyous symbol of Christmas. “The parol takes the form of the Star of Bethlehem that guided the shepherds and the Magi to Christ over 2,000 years ago.

When I see it, I ask myself: Am I like that star, a light that shines for Christ?”

STORY OF THE PAROL While Angeles City is known for its serene, white lanterns, San Fernando, the capital of Pampanga, offers up a fabulous array of psychedelic parols, as well as giant ones that have to be seen to be believed.

On a quest to unearth the story of this uniquely Filipino icon, I head to the Holy Angel University for a chat with Robert Tantingco, Director of the JDN Centre for Kapampangan Studies.

According to Tantingco, the parol originated in Bacolor, and grew out of the La Naval Fiesta. An abbreviation of Nuestra Señora del Rosario de La Naval, meaning Our Lady of the Rosary of the Naval Battle, La Naval commemorates the victory of the Spaniards over a vastly superior Dutch armada in the 17th century.

“During the naval battle in the South China Sea, the Spanish ships carried the image of the Virgin Mary, and that’s how they won.”

The astonishing triumph was attributed to divine intervention, declared miraculous, and celebrated with pomp in Manila, Bacolor (the former capital of Pampanga) and Angeles city.

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FROM TOP: Brother Benjamin Espiritu II rings an old bell of the Holy Rosary Parish alongside a young bell ringer.

Holy Rosary Parish in Angeles City.

Roland Quiambao turns the wheel of a rotor to demonstrate the way a parol lights up.

In Bacolor, La Naval processions were grand affairs. “The neighbourhoods where the procession passed were festooned with multi-coloured lanterns, which were kept till Christmas.” Soon, the tradition evolved, and streets were illuminated using hand-carried lanterns mounted on bamboo poles.

In the early 1900s, when Pampanga’s capital shifted from Bacolor to San Fernando, many families migrated, bringing along their religious practices. During the sugar boom, the railroad that passed through, linking Manila to the north, brought new wealth. “The families living in San Fernando became prosperous, and some put their money in lanterns, which grew bigger and more elaborate. Today, some are as large as houses!”

UNIQUELY KAPAMPANGAN Eager to check out the extraordinary parols of San Fernando, the ‘Christmas Capital’ of the Philippines, I head to the barangay of Del Pilar, where lantern makers design parols of capiz shells, fibreglass, plastic vinyl and handmade paper, alongside giant ones. Here, I meet maverick lantern maker Roland Quiambao, who learnt the craft in the 60s when he was just a young boy, never imagining that 20 years on, he’d become one of San Fernando’s most famous parol artists.

According to Quiambao, one of the best times to witness the exquisiteness of the parol is during the lubenas, a nine-day limbun (procession) leading up to Christmas. A corruption of ‘novena’, meaning nine-day devotion, the tradition of lubenas was created by the Kapampangan people to add to their Advent sacrifice. Not satisfied with waking early to attend nine consecutive dawn masses called Simbang Gabi, the deeply religious Kapampangan people instituted this nightly procession around their barangay as double penitence.

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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Welding metal to create the frame of the parol.

For a shimmery touch, Ernesto David Quiwa lines the frame of the parol with gold foil.

Pouring coloured resin into slots of the parol.

The procession involves 12 parols representing the Disciples of Christ, and a cross lantern in the front signifying Jesus Christ. At the back, is the image of the patron saint of the barangay, and behind that, a large star, which some believe inspired the giant lanterns. The procession is accompanied by a brass band playing Dios te Salve Maria, the Hail Mary prayer, with a different tune each night.

The dramatic lubenas culminates in the maitinis on Christmas Eve when processions from each barangay converge in the city for midnight mass. Reminiscing the old days, Quiambao chuckles, “Back then, we had to wait on the bridge for the barangay of San Pedro to enter first, because it is St. Peter who holds the key to heaven!”

EVOLUTION OF LIGHT The humble split bamboo and Japanese paper lanterns of the 1800s that kept flames ablaze in strong winds, have now transformed into glitzy parols lit by incandescent bulbs, and giant parols that look like sparkling kaleidoscopes.

Quiambao attributes this dramatic development to pride and a penchant for competitiveness. “The Kapampangan folks are what we call ‘mayabang’ or boastful. We want to outdo each other and create something people will talk about!! It is colourful because we are joyful. In the Lenten season, we laugh.

Even on the Day of the Dead, we make jokes.”

Despite the gaiety, an authentic Pampanga parol is serious business. According to Quiambao, the Pampanga parol has four parts: The centre called tambol, meaning brass drum; the siko-siko, with points like a star; the surrounding palimbun from the word limbun for procession; and the outer layer called puntetas.

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FROM TOP: Ernesto David Quiwa with a giant parol.

Parol production is a tedious process that involves many specialists.

Even the giant parol with its dancing lights must follow this design, and creating one that stands 18 feet high and weighs two tonnes is no easy task! Simply described, it involves bending and welding metal to create a framework of curves, placing and wiring over 4,000 bulbs and plotting the pattern of the light dance on a rotor of galvanised steel.

Basically, when the rotor turns, bulbs light up in different sections as the copper connection touches metal parts in the lantern.

The Ligligan Parol or Giant Lantern Competition usually involves about eight rotors, all manned by trained ‘dancers’ who follow the instructions of a conductor.

Quiambao, who usually designs the interplay of lights and conducts his crew, explains that the competition also involves making the lights dance to music set by the judges. “We have to consider musicality when presenting the giant parol. If they give you Cha-cha or the swing, would you know what to do? You have to be a real artist.”

BEACON OF HOPE Despite upping the ante with his revolutionary parols featuring messages and images, and winning the Ligiligan Parol four times, Quiambao feels there’s more to the parol than the competition. “It’s all about heart and honour. We do not earn a single centavo!” In fact, on average, the cost of creating a giant parol ranges between 500,000 to 700,000 pesos. So, why does he do it? For Quiambao, the true spirit of the parol transcends competition.

When Pinatubo erupted in 1991, San Fernando was devastated by deadly lahar flow, and the people were scattered.

Quiambao led San Fernando’s lantern makers on a mission to light the whole town with lanterns. “The lantern became the focal point for hope. It guided the San Fernandinos home, just like the Star of Bethlehem guided the three kings to the Holy Child. It is a symbol of our resilience.”

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YULETIDE DIARY GIANT PAROL COMPETITION VISIT: Robinsons Starmills, San Fernando WHEN: Dec 17

GIANT PAROL DISPLAY VISIT: Robinsons Starmills, San Fernando WHEN: Dec 25 till Jan 3, 2012

LUBENAS

(Lantern procession around the barangay) VISIT: Angeles City, San Fernando, Mabalacat WHEN: Dec 16 till 23 (evening)

SIMBANG GABI (Dawn mass) VISIT: Angeles City, San Fernando, Mabalacat WHEN: Dec 16 till Dec 24 (dawn, around 4am)

MAITINIS VISIT: Angeles City & San Fernando WHEN: December 24 (evening)

PASTORELLA (Christmas hymns in honour of the shepherds, sung mostly in Latin with orchestral accompaniment) VISIT: Our Lady of Divine Grace, Mabalacat WHEN: Dec 16 till Dec 24 (during Simbang Gabi)

ADVENT TREATS

ABOVE: A beautiful parol all lit up.

LEGACY OF THE LANTERN In the barangay of Santa Lucia, I meet Ernesto David Quiwa, a fourth generation lantern maker, and great-grandson of the parol pioneer, Francisco Estanislao. In the early 90s, Quiwa joined the ranks of his famous predecessors when three consecutive wins ushered him into the parol hall of fame.

Today, Quiwa and his sons are all involved in the business. They even design for other barangays in San Fernando, essentially competing against each other and at times, even themselves!

Quiwa tells me that the competition has come a long way. In the early days before electricity came to San Fernando, bulbs were lit by car batteries, and the competition was about endurance rather than art. The winner would be the one whose bulbs didn’t blow 116

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out. Of course, there’d be a few sore losers who’d refuse to admit defeat, and that’s where fire trucks came in. “If you don’t leave, they’ll spray your parol, so you have to leave!”

Quiwa laughs.

Today, the competition thrives on artistry, musical mastery and technological innovation, and continues to amaze audiences with magnificent illuminations in hundreds of brilliant permutations.

This year, Quiwa’s family is designing for four barangays including Santa Lucia.

Gesturing to his four-year-old grandson who is busy inspecting the assembly line, Quiwa says “This tradition is passed from one generation to the next. It’s in our blood.”

GETTING THERE AirAsia flies daily from Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia to Clark, the Philippines. Book your flight at www.airasia.com

Throughout the country, you’ll find hawkers selling puto bumbong and bibingka outside churches after the dawn mass. Puto bumbong is a purple-coloured rice cake that’s steamed in bamboo, and topped with butter, grated coconut and muscovado sugar, while bibingka is a sweet, fluffy rice cake filled with slivers of salted duck egg and traditionally served in a banana leaf with butter, grated coconut and cheese.

Check out Cafe Via Mare www.viamare.com.ph where these delicacies are served all year round.

12 PILOT’S PERSPECTIVE 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

TALL TALES & EMBELLISHED ANECDOTES

IMAGE: INMAGINE

Not all that you hear is gospel truth. Capt. Lim Khoy Hing shares a few exaggerated tales about flying and explains what really took place.

I often get e-mails from passengers with amusing anecdotes to share. Sometimes, as with anyone recounting inflight stories or, fishing tales for that matter, one may have to take them with a large pinch of salt.

CLUNK-CLUNKCLUNK! One guest wrote to me about her mother’s ‘scary’ experience on a recent flight. Apparently, the 118

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plane faltered and she heard the engines go “Clunk-Clunk-Clunk”, which resulted in the plane diving “hundreds of metres” and with “people screaming, crying and praying!”

This does sound like a scary scenario but before you get unduly alarmed, I’d like to explain what really happened on this flight to put your mind at ease.

In the above situation, the plane had encountered very bad turbulence, as it was flying in the

vicinity of a typhoon. Naturally, it was neither a comfortable nor pleasant experience.

Nevertheless, turbulence is not to be feared, as long as one’s seat belt is securely fastened. When buckled up properly, flying during turbulence is not a safety issue but rather one of discomfort.

In turbulence, the plane is normally flying on autopilot. It pays to remember that during the cruise, you are moving at about 800 feet per second or

IMAGE: INMAGINE

around 540 miles per hour. To give you a better idea, that’s whizzing along three football fields of about 300 feet each (900 feet in total) in length, in one second. In other words, in every second, the jet moves across three Wembley Stadiums!

Let me explain. The air over the first three football fields is going down, the air over the next three football fields is going up.

This is followed by the air going down for the third length. On a jet, you go up for just about one-third of a second. Then you are over the second field with the downward-moving air for about one-third of a second. Then you are over the third field and move up for one-third of a second.

So, there really isn’t much time to go up or down and the plane stays generally at its assigned altitude unless the autopilot is tripped off by very severe turbulence. This however, can be manually controlled and the captain can easily regain control.

So, the drop you feel is actually really minimal because you go from a ‘downward-moving’ air to ‘upward-moving’ air so quickly that neither ‘down going’ nor ‘up moving’ air has time to do much. You simply feel it as a jolt because you are hitting the bump incredibly fast.

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Thus, the terror passengers experience is normally created by their imagination. They imagine falling hundreds of metres but in reality, the altimeter in the cockpit shows otherwise. Anyhow, there is no way a passenger would know how much the aircraft has dropped or ‘dived’ unless the plane is equipped with Air Show or video screens – none of which are available on Airbus A320.

The ‘clunking’ sound doesn’t indicate that the engine is faltering but rather that the pilot is reducing the speed of the plane, just like how you would slow down on approaching a bump on the road.

With this, hopefully the dramatic story of the clunking engines and diving plane has been rationally explained.

THE PLANE’S ENGINE DIED. S-T-O-P-P-E D! Here is another amusing story from an air traveller who blogged about her scary experience on board an Airbus A320 flight.

On an unfortunate day when the aircraft was being pushed out of the aerobridge prior to starting the engines, a malfunction on its auxiliary power unit (APU) or ‘electrical generator’ in layman’s term, caused a blackout in the cabin, leaving only essential lightings on.

The passenger thought that the engines had shut down. She promptly kicked up a big fuss and broadcasted this on her blog much later. Here’s an excerpt from her blog.

“Out of the sudden, the plane’s engine DIED. S-T-O-PP-E D. All the lights went off; no sound was heard from the engine or any equipment in the plane whatsoever. It was total silence from the plane and all we heard were whispers of confusion from our part.

Fearing for our safety as images of the engine dying again flashed in our minds, we informed the crew on board we are getting off! After all, the plane was not 100% fit to fly and it should be checked under any circumstances. What if the engine dies again while taking off? What if during midair or, during landing?”

In the first place, the passenger had mistakenly thought the engines had failed

when in fact, it was only the APU that had malfunctioned.

The engines had not even been started yet! It was merely a consequential electrical malfunction.

This is a case of ‘a little knowledge is a dangerous thing’, especially of the writer’s ignorance and in deducing that the engines were not safe to continue with the flight and, distorting the picture to all at large on her blog.

It is fine for someone to air their grievances online, but I believe it is entirely not proper to blow things out of proportion.

Such scare-mongering doesn’t serve any purpose except to create more fear amongst passengers who are already worried about other flight hazards.

PARROT ON PLANE At this juncture, I’d like to share an old joke about flying found on the Internet that might raise a chuckle or two. It goes something like this:

On reaching his plane seat a man is surprised to see a parrot strapped in next to him. He asks the stewardess for a coffee and immediately the parrot squawks “And get me a whisky, you cow!” The stewardess, flustered, brings back a whisky for the parrot but forgets the coffee.

When this oversight is pointed out to her, the parrot drains its glass and barks again, “And get me another whisky, you idiot”. Quite upset, the girl comes back shaking with another whisky, but still no coffee.

Unaccustomed to such inefficiency, the man decides to try the parrot’s approach: “I’ve asked you twice for a coffee. Go and get it now or I’ll kick you!”

The next thing they knew, both the man and the parrot were wrenched up and thrown out of the emergency exit by two burly stewards.

Plunging downwards the parrot turns to the man and says, “For someone who can’t fly, you complain too much!”

Captain Lim Khoy Hing is a former AirAsia Airbus A320 and AirAsia X A330/A340 pilot who also used to fly the Boeing 777. He has logged a total of more than 25,500 total flying hours and is now a Flight Simulator Instructor with Air Asia X. In his spare time, he shares his opinion on aviation issues with others. For more air travel and aviation stories, check out his website, ‘Just About Flying’ at www.askcaptainlim.com.

12 TRAVEL LOG 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

CHASING CHENGDU

Sonja Gan and her family head to Chengdu in southwestern China to marvel at pandas as well as other traditional arts and crafts that are slowly becoming extinct.

CLOCKWISE FROM RIGHT: A visit to the well-maintained Chengdu Panda Base to get acquainted with the city’s most famous residents.

Candy blowing is an ancient art.

Leshan is renowned for having the largest Buddha carving in the world.

The initial purpose for my family and I flying to Chengdu on an AirAsia flight was to use this ancient city as a gateway to visit Mt. Emei and Juizhaiguo – two UNESCO World Heritage listed areas, renowned in China and throughout the world for their magnificent natural splendour. However, Chengdu proved to be an interesting destination in its own right when we finally arrived there. With a population of about 10 million, Chengdu is one of China’s megacities and the capital of the country’s southwestern province of Sichuan.

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With dramatic mountains, stunning waterfalls and turquoise lakes located towards the Tibetan plateau, the province is famed for its remarkable Buddhist relics, including the world’s largest Buddha, a 71-metre behemoth carved into a cliff in Leshan.

One of the most enjoyable days of our trip began with a visit to the Chengdu Panda Base, which is less than an hour’s drive from the city centre. Set in a lush landscaped park, the place houses a number of these adorable black and white animals of various ages.

We were fortunate to see some tiny newborn panda cubs in their special cribs, while older cubs and their parents frolicked about outdoors for the cameras. The park also offers an informative film about its panda research and breeding programme and, China’s valiant efforts to save this iconic species from extinction. A visit to a small museum with an attached tourist shop and a lake teeming with swans and fish completed our experience here.

After stocking up on panda souvenirs, we headed for Jinli Street where Chengdu’s laid-back tea drinking culture and fiery cuisine offered an interesting insight into the eating and relaxing habits of the locals. Having sipped fragrant tea, we browsed old traditional arts and crafts stalls arranged neatly around replicas of period buildings. My children were intrigued by a craftsman

BELOW & BOTTOM: Chengdu is the gateway to UNESCO World Heritage Listed destinations in Sichuan province. These include the Juizhaiguo (Nine Village Valley) and Huanglong scenic areas renowned for their stunning coloured lakes, cascading waterfalls and mountain panoramas.

blowing and shaping hot sugar syrup into candy animals from the Chinese zodiac. This is one of the old crafts that is slowly dying out, so we felt quite privileged to have witnessed an ancient art form.

In the evening, we enjoyed our visit to the Sichuan Opera. This nightly variety show features the startling speedy face-mask changing performance – a show that had all of us straining our eyes to see how the performers changed the masks in a blink of an eye. We also enjoyed the traditional music, comedy sketches, stick puppets and a hand shadow show. The latter display of dexterity had us all spellbound. A female performer used only her hands and body, a screen and spotlight to create realistic shadows of various animals in motion.

What an awesome day, declared the children and there was still time the next day to shop for Chinese branded sportswear (Li Ning, 361, Anta) before AirAsia’s afternoon flight back to Kuala Lumpur.

Got an interesting travel tale to share? Then email it to us at travel3sixty@airasia.com along with your images and personal details. Published submissions will receive a RM250 e-gift voucher from us. Travel 3Sixty° reserves the right to edit the article for length and clarity or change the value of the prize. To find out how else AirAsia can enhance your travels, visit www.haveyouflownairasia.com.

12 OFF THE RACK 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

HOLIDAY CHIC

Celebrate the holidays in style and turn heads with our trendy picks for the season.

TASTE OF OPULENCE Karen Millen celebrates opulence this season with rich colours and luxe fabrics. Turn heads in a ruffled crimson dress, or make a statement in a plush aubergine velvet trouser suit. Complete the look with sexy satin sandals and glossy patent bags. www.karenmillen.com

WORDS: CHITRA S

CLASSIC LINES

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Minimalist with just the rightt amount of swagger, the RAOUL OUL Fall/Winter Men’s collection is all about clean lines and refined tailoring. Cognac, maroon and navy shades are e juxtaposed with bright colour ur blocks on fabrics specially selected for luxury and comfort. www.raoul.com TRAVEL 3SIXTY˚

BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY The Heritage collection by PULLB&BEAR featuring classic and functional wardrobe basics pays tribute to the bohemian spirit of the urban man. The collection includes casual tees, chambray and check shirts, cable stitch jerseys and comfortable cotton jackets that celebrate the masculine yet sensitive male. wwwpullandbear.com

AIRBORNE MOMENTS TIME TO SET TRENDS Rock the hottest looks this season with the latest by Spanish fashion brand Bershka.

Unleash your inner fashionista with the Bershka and BSK lines for women and girls. For guys on the go, the brand’s Man collection reflects the latest looks from casual to sporty wear. www.bershka.com

The skull and crossbones design was inspired by military paratroopers in the Second World War who used it as a talisman during missions. Edgy and inspired by courage, the BR 01 AIRBORNE II by Bell & Ross is a limited edition watch which pays tribute to those paratroopers. www.bellross.com

YO GABBA GABBA! The Vans x Yo Gabba Gabba! footwear collection features characters from the popular TV series including Brobee, Foofa, Muno, Plex and Toodee. The funky eye-catching new designs are sure to be a hit with the kids. Available in toddler and kids’ sizes. www.vans.com

12 VANITY FARE 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

MANE MAN

CHRISTMAS BOUNTY

Lab Series Root Power Restorative Shampoo and Hair Tonic contain ROOTPLEX5, a blend of ingredients to help repair and strengthen men’s hair. It promotes healthy-looking hair, enhances shine and lustre and, reduces hair loss due to breakage. www.labseries.com

The holidays are a great excuse to splurge on friends, family and yourself with these beauty, make-up and fragrance finds.

POWER OF NATURE The new Pomegranate, Argan and Grapeseed Body Care collection by Crabtree & Evelyn is an indulgent treat that helps protect, restore and soften skin. The range includes the Replenishing Body Bar, Skin Cleansing Bath & Shower Gel, Skin Smoothing Body Scrub, Skin Quenching Body Lotion and Skin Indulging Body Cream. www.crabtree-evelyn.com

GIFT-A-SCENT For Him Sean John I Am King Deluxe Holiday Set comes with a 100ml EDT and an exclusive gunmetal grey signature watch, to make his Christmas all the more special.

LUCKY LIPS

WORDS: CHITRA S

Get lips in shape for that kiss under the mistletoe with Maybelline New York Baby Lips SPF 20 Lip Balm, an advanced formula which relieves dryness, protects, and keeps lips baby soft.

Available in energising orange, smoothing cherry, menthol and anti-oxidant berry. www.maybelline.com

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www.seanjohn-iamking.com

For Her A timeless citrusy scent with subtle notes of cedar and cypress, the Eau d’Hadrien

by Annick Goutal comes in a Limited Edition collector’s bottle with beautifullyengraved medallions designed by jeweller Arthus Bertrand. www.annickgoutal.com

TEMPTING TREATS The Limited Edition Almond Coconut and Fresh Fig Trios with six-ounce jars of Honey Bath, Scrub and Soufflé Body Crème from Laura Mercier will keep skin looking and smelling delicious. Ingredients include milk, coconut, almond and Celeste figs. www.lauramercier.com

HANDY HELPERS Keep hands supple and looking youthful with a hand-care range tailored to your needs by The Body Shop. Made with Community Fair Trade ingredients of wild rose for mature skin, hemp for very dry skin and almond for all skin types, this range includes soap-free hand wash and creams packed with natural goodness for beautiful hands. www.thebodyshop.com

FEED YOUR SKIN Wake skin up and erase signs of fatigue with the Skin.Ergetic Serum from Biotherm, with sulforaphane-rich broccoli extract, soy protein and botanical cells from apples to keep your face looking fresh and radiant. www.biotherm.com

12 JETSETTER 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

HENRY GOLDING

Travel show host, model and all-round nice guy, Henry Golding travelled to New Zealand with AirAsia X recently and experienced fantastic adventures including glacier hiking and jumping out of a plane at the height of 15,500 feet. Golding shares with us some of the highlights from that trip and divulges juicy bits including who he would like to be trapped with on a deserted island.

THE GREAT NZ X-CAPE! Don’t just watch ‘Now Everyone Can Fly to New Zealand ’! Take part in the adventure yourself! We are inviting individuals and teams of up to four people to journey through some of New Zealand’s stunning attractions and experience amazing activities in the South Island, in a virtual environment.

Each experience and activity will bring you one step closer to our grand prize: Return flights to New Zealand with AirAsia X, 5 days/5 nights accommodation and car hire courtesy of Tourism New Zealand. Weekly prizes are also up for grabs. Join the contest today at www. thegreatnzxcape.com

COMPILED BY: CHITRA S

TELL US MORE ABOUT THE TRAVELOGUE YOU WORKED ON WITH AIRASIA.

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With the Christchurch route in place, what better way of showing Malaysians what New Zealand has to offer than exploring this amazing country. The production team and I were in South Island for just over two and a half weeks, experiencing glacier hiking, bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating and horse riding.

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DESCRIBE A TYPICAL

DAY AT WORK DURING THE FILMING OF NOW EVERYONE CAN FLY TO NEW ZEALAND TRAVELOGUE. Every day, I woke up at around 7am, had breakfast and then a chat with my director about our shoot for that day. After that, we’d head out to the location and film between two to three hours before driving off to the next location and so forth. If we had to travel to a different part of the island, we’d pack our bags, jump in the van and hit the road. Each day was

Henry shows us anyone can Haka!

jam-packed, and by evening, we’d be so tired, we’d all pass out right after dinner.

WHAT WAS THE CRAZIEST THING YOU WERE REQUIRED TO DO ON THE SHOW? Of all the amazing activities I had to do, jumping out of an airplane at 15,500 feet was the craziest. Realisation dawns only when you sit at the edge of the door, looking out at the curvature of the earth with the snow-covered mountains and lakes in the distance.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE EPISODE OF THE TRAVELOGUE AND WHY? I think the time spent in Wanaka was my favourite.

The people we met there were just amazing! We went fishing, took a jet boat up the river, ate amazing food and met friendly and fascinating locals.

THE ONE THING EVERY TRAVELLER TO NEW ZEALAND SHOULD TRY IS...

AND WHY? Taking your time on a self-drive around the island (South Island) is my biggest tip for any

traveller wanting to go to New Zealand. One minute you’ll be in the midst of mountains surrounded by snow-dusted peaks and the next, bythe coast, fringed by lush green landscapes.

SOUTH ISLAND IS KNOWN FOR ITS STUNNING LANDSCAPES. WHAT IS YOUR PICK FOR THE ISLAND’S MOST BREATHTAKING SPOT ?

Lake Tekapo took my breath away when I set my eyes on it. Nestled in the middle of Mackenzie Country, which looks like a desert, the lake is like a jewel in the glacial area.

WHAT MAKES YOUR JOB A DREAM JOB? I am able to travel the world to meet people and share their stories and cultures. This has made my life that much richer.

WITH SUCH A BUSY SCHEDULE, WHAT DO YOU DO TO CHILL-OUT? I’m a firm believer in staying home and watching DVDs whenever possible. This wonderful diversion from travelling is absolute bliss.

Up Up and Away!

Scenic sea safari in Kaikoura

IF YOU WERE ON A DESERTED ISLAND AND COULD CHOOSE ONLY ONE WOMAN TO ACCOMPANY YOU, WHO WOULD SHE BE? It would have to be a special young lady who lives in Tokyo.

She’s brave, bold, hilarious, and an amazing companion – someone who makes me forget about everything in the world!

A WOMAN’S SEXIEST FEATURE IS HER...

Charisma and loyalty.

WHAT’S UNDER THAT SHIRT? I have a couple of traditional Iban tattoos, as my mother is Iban and I was born in Sarawak.

The tattoos represent home to me and I get to take my ‘home’ wherever I go.

DO YOU HAVE ANY UNUSUAL ROUTINES BEFORE A SHOOT? I rub my hands a lot when I am excited. I also get caught on camera doing it all the time.

WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE TO ASPIRING MODELS OR TV SHOW HOSTS? Keep working hard and stay hungry for it. There are millions of others who could easily do your job. So, keep yours by staying on top of the game and never give up if it’s something you love to do.

Henry Golding’s trip to New Zealand was made possible

by AirAsia X, Tourism New Zealand and, Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism. For more, catch Golding on Now Everyone Can Fly to New Zealand, which airs on 8TV (Malaysia) on Sundays at 10.30pm.

GETTING THERE AirAsia X flies from Kuala Lumpur to Christchurch 4 times a week.

12 KIDS SPACE 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

STRICTLY KIDS!

Children are our most special guests. So, here’s a page dedicated to kids of all ages.

HELLO SKYRIDERS! Say farewell to Junior Jet Club and a great, big HELLO to the all-new AirAsia SkyRiders Club!

Beginning January 2012, expect exciting activities with the launch of the new SkyRiders Club. With new mascots and added benefits for club members, the SkyRiders Club is a fun and exciting place to be!

WHAT’S MY NAME CONTEST? Stand a chance to win cool prizes by participating in a contest to name our new SkyRiders Club bear mascots.

E-mail your most creative entry to skyriders@airasia.com.

Winners will get an exclusive invitation to our SkyRiders Club launch, two passes to KidZania Jakarta or KidZania Kuala Lumpur and, SkyRiders exclusive merchandise.

Remember to include your name, contact number and e-mail address together with your nicknames for our male and female bear mascots.

CLOSING DATE: December 20, 2011 TERMS AND CONDITIONS: The winners will be notified via telephone or e-mail. • Prizes are not exchangeable for cash. We reserve the right to modify the winning entry and replace prizes with items similar in value. • All decisions are final and any correspondence will not be entertained.

KIDDIE COMFORTS

LITTLE EINSTEINS The Macao Science Center, with galleries dedicated for children, is just the thing for budding scientists. Children can explore scientific themes with hands-on tasks in the Children Science Gallery, while the Fun Science Gallery encourages learning through interactive exhibits. Kids can also ride the Science Express train in the Science Express Gallery, which takes them on a journey of discovery. The center is also home to a Planetarium with a tilted semidome screen supported by high resolution 3D digital projectors. The year-end holidays are the best time to catch the screening of Kaluoka’hina, the Enchanted Reef, an animated show that follows the adventures of Jake and Shorty who are on a quest to save the tropical coral reef. www.msc.org.mo 134

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Check into Holiday Inn for a value-for-money and family-friendly hotel stay. Most Holiday Inn properties have Kids’ Suites, which are divided into sections for adults and children.

The kids’ section comes with a bunk bed and play corner that includes a flat screen TV, a DVD player and a game console. Or opt to stay in a Family Suite which has the same features but is larger and also includes a bathtub, vanity counter and separate toilet just for kids. Holiday Inn also offers a Teen Zone for youngsters to unwind and a Kids’ Club for younger children. The hotel chain is offering up to 30% discounts on rooms and, up to 25% off on F&B, plus guaranteed late check-outs. For details on the ‘Stay Clever’ promotion, visit www.holidayinn.com/stayclever

ALL ABOUT ASIA Log on to Asia Kids Society, a website packed with fun activities and information for children on all things Asia. Children will love reading simplified versions of Asian epics like the Journey to the West and Mahabharata, and learning about the interesting cultural traditions of their peers across the Asia Pacific region. Whether celebrating Songkran in Thailand, going on a Christmas beach outing in Australia, or exploring exotic countries like India, Iran and Mongolia, the website is a treasure trove of information. Kids can also use the online resources to learn Asian languages. http://kids.asiasociety.org

12 PLANE FUN 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

ANAGRAMS Unravel these anagrams to find the landmarks. Use the city as a clue!

1. Speechless Amy (Paris) 2. Eating lord begged (San Francisco) 3. Reuse a hoop (Sydney) 4. For I feel wet! (Paris)

SUDOKU

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: • Each of the nine vertical columns • Each of the nine horizontal rows • Each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes Remember no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

QUICK QUIZ 1.

What is the capital of Scotland?

2.

‘Beam me up, Scotty’ is a phrase made popular by which show?

3.

How many pairs of ribs are normally present in the human body?

4.

What is the young of a giraffe called?

5.

Which alcoholic spirit is used as the base of a daiquiri?

6.

Basalt, pumice and shale are all types of what naturally occurring substance?

7.

What is meteorology the study of?

8.

The Great Sphinx of Giza is a mythical figure with the body of a lion and the head of which creature?

9.

What is situated at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave in Washington, DC?

10. In which galaxy is our sun located?

PLAY ON WORDS 1

2

3

4

BRAIN TEASER If ‘7D of the W’ is 7 days of the week can you work these out?

1. 5F on a H 2. 8L on a S 3. 47S on a H 4. 30D in A & J

RIDDLE TIME 1. What gets wetter and wetter the more it dries?

2. Pronounced as one letter but written with three. Read me backwards or forwards and you will see.

• QUICK QUIZ 1 Edinburgh, 2 Star Trek, 3 12, 4 Calf, 5 Rum, 6 Rock, 7 Weather, 8 Human, 9 The White House, 10 Milky Way • ANAGRAMS 1 Champs Elysees, Paris 2 Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco 3 Opera House, Sydney 4 Eiffel Tower, Paris • RIDDLE TIME 1 A towel, 2 An eye • PLAY ON WORDS 1 Green thumb, 2 Pigs might fly, 3 Saved by the bell, 4 Big cheese • BRAIN TEASER 1 5 fingers on a hand, 2 8 legs on a spider, 3 47 strings on a harp, 4 30 days in April & June

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PUZZLES ARE COURTESY OF LOVATTS CROSSWORDS & PUZZLES

12 PERFECT PICTURE 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

PIX OF THE MONTH

Just snapped a cool picture?

Send it to travel3sixty@ airasia.com with Snapshot in the subject line.

SECOND PRIZE WINS A 3D/2N stay in a Superior Room at Novotel Kuala Lumpur City Centre for 2 inclusive of breakfast worth RM770++!

WINNER

Fire juggler at the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan (Thailand) Pol Comaposada Vilar, Barcelona, Spain

BEST PICTURE WINS A 3D/2N stay in a LifeStyle room at Renaissance Kuala Lumpur, inclusive of breakfast at Lounge or Buffet Breakfast at Temptations worth RM2,800 nett!

Superbly located in the heart of the city, Novotel Kuala Lumpur City Centre is only a short stroll away from Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Petronas Twin Towers, Suria KLCC and Pavilion Kuala Lumpur – all offering world-class business, shopping and dining avenues. It is indeed an unbeatable location for the discerning business traveller, as well as the adventurous leisure guest.

Visit www.airasiago.com for attractive room deals at this hotel.

Indulge your senses and enjoy the luxury of the LifeStyle or Club Deluxe room at Renaissance Kuala Lumpur. Take in the breathtaking views or, simply settle into a zone of comfort with high speed Internet access, modern conveniences and luxury touches. Wake up to a sumptuous breakfast spread each morning – a great way to start your day.

Visit www.airasiago.com for attractive room deals at this hotel.

RUNNER-UP

The Duck Knights (Bodiam Castle, East Sussex, England) Victor Liaw, Singapore

TERMS & CONDITIONS: Readers may submit images that are 300dpi and 1MB in size (minimum half A4 paper size) • Each entry must include name, address, phone number and caption • Readers must own the rights to the picture submitted • Judges’ decision is final • Entries are automatically disqualified if they do not meet our criteria. • Winner will be notified via e-mail when the prize is ready to be sent out. • Prizes cannot be exchanged for cash.

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12 GET COMFY 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

JOY OF FLYING

Whether on a short or long-haul journey, flying can be a pleasant experience if you are well-prepared. Here are some steps to ensure you have a safe, smooth and comfortable flight.

H2O TO THE RESCUE

SHOULDER LIFTS

KNEE LIFTS

FOOT PUMPS

Gently lift your right shoulder and lower the left one simultaneously. Repeat the movement five times by alternating both shoulders.

Lift knee up toward your chest and hold the position for 10 seconds. Gently lower knee and repeat with the other leg. Repeat the exercise as desired.

Keeping both heels on the floor, point feet upwards as high as you can. Return feet to earlier position.

Then, lift heels while keeping the balls of your feet on the floor.

Repeat the exercise as desired.

Keep yourself hydrated during your flight. Airplane cabins are extremely dry and dehydration can occur easily. Drink lots of water and continue drinking water once you reach your destination. Try to minimise consumption of alcohol or caffeine onboard; both are diuretics, which can further dehydrate.

BEAT THE LAG

COMPILED BY: CHITRA S ILLUSTRATIONS: TIM LAI

To counter the effects of jetlag, get as much sleep as possible when flying west to east. When flying in the reverse direction, try and stay awake as much as you can.

The AirAsia Comfort Kit comes complete with eye shade, neck pillow and blanket to help you sleep. If you need to stay awake, the neck pillow allows you to get comfy while reading a book or listening to music.

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DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS

TO PREVENT DVT

DVT can occur when a blood clot forms in the large veins of the legs or arms, partially or completely blocking blood circulation. Sitting still and moving very little during long flights may lead to the occurrence of DVT. If you are flying long-distance, ensure you perform in-flight exercises such as those listed here as a precaution against developing DVT. When possible and permissible, stretch your legs and walk along the aisle. Be aware of early symptoms such as pain or swelling in the legs, which can happen even after you disembark. Seek medical treatment immediately if this occurs.

Anti-DVT socks are on sale on board all AirAsia and AirAsia X flights. Also called compression socks, they help blood circulation. The socks come in Small (USA 3-6/Europe 35-39), Medium (USA 6-9/Europe 39-43) and Large (USA 9-12/Europe 43-47).

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POPPING EARS Changes in air pressure or altitude cause our ears to ‘pop’ and sometimes ache during take-offs and landings.

For a comfortable flying experience, suck on sweets or mimic the act of chewing and swallowing if you do not have any with you. This will relieve the discomfort and help stabilise the pressure in the ear canals. Pacifiers will work just as well for toddlers and, if you have a cold, use a nasal decongestant to clear your nasal passage and alleviate the ache.

12 ROUTE MAP • AirAsia Malaysia 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

UNITED KINGDOM London

Paris

FRANCE

World’s Best Low-Cost Airline 2009, 2010 & 2011 Tehran

IRAN

AIRASIA MALAYSIA DOMESTIC ROUTES

Langkawi

Alor Setar

Penang

Kota Kinabalu

Kota Bharu

Sandakan

Kuala Terengganu

Labuan

MALAYSIA

Miri Bintulu

Kuala Lumpur Sibu Johor Bahru

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Kuching

Tawau

Beijing Tianjin Seoul

SOUTH KOREA Tokyo Osaka

Shanghai Hangzhou

CHINA

Chengdu New Delhi

Guilin

INDIA

Kolkata

MYANMAR

Hanoi

LAOS

Chiang Mai

Mumbai

Taipei

TAIWAN

Guangzhou Shenzhen Hong Kong Macau Haikou

Vientiane Yangon

Bangalore

THAILAND Bangkok

Chennai

Da Nang Clark

Siem Reap

CAMBODIA

Phnom Penh

Tiruchirappalli Kochi

SRI LANKA

VIETNAM

Krabi Hat Yai Langkawi Penang

Phuket

Colombo Bandar Aceh

Kota Kinabalu

Kuala Lumpur

Medan

MALAYSIA

Johor Bharu Pekanbaru

PACIFIC OCEAN

PHILIPPINES

Ho Chi Minh

SINGAPORE

Miri

BRUNEI

Kuching

Padang

Balikpapan Palembang

INDONESIA Jakarta

Makassar

Bandung

Solo Surabaya Yogyakarta Bali

INDIAN OCEAN

AUSTRALIA Gold Coast

Perth

Melbourne

Kuala Lumpur International Airport Kota Kinabalu International Airport Penang International Airport Kuching International Airport

SOUTHERN OCEAN

NEW ZEALAND Christchurch

TRAVEL 3SIXTYËš

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12 ROUTE MAP • AirAsia Thailand 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

New Delhi

CHINA

BANGLADESH INDIA

Guangzhou Kolkata

Macau

MYANMAR

Shenzhen Hong Kong

Hanoi

LAOS

Ching Rai Chiang Mai Yangon

Udon Thani

THAILAND

Ubon Ratchathani

Bangkok

VIETNAM

CAMBODIA

Phnom Pehnh Ho Chi Minh Surat Thani Krabi Phuket

Nakhon Si Thammarat Hat Yai

Colombo

Narathiwat Penang Medan

Kuala Lumpur

MALAYSIA SINGAPORE

INDIAN OCEAN INDONESIA Jakarta Surabaya Bali

Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok Phuket Int. Airport Chiang Mai Int. Airport International Route Domestic Route

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12 Route Map • AirAsia Indonesia 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

PACIFIC OCEAN

THAILAND Bangkok

CAMBODIA

VIETNAM Ho Chi Minh

Phuket

Bandar Aceh

Kota Kinabalu Penang Kuala Lumpur

Medan

Pakanbaru

MALAYSIA

SINGAPORE

Padang

Balikpapan Palembang

INDONESIA Jakarta Bandung Solo Yogyakarta

Makassar

Surabaya Bali

Darwin

INDIAN OCEAN

AUSTRALIA

Perth

Soekarno Hatta Int. Airport, Jakarta Ngurah Rai Int. Airport, Bali Husein Sastranegara Int. Airport, Bandung Juanda Int. Airport, Surabaya Polonia Int. Airport, Medan International Route Domestic Route

Sales Offices & Stations www.airasia.com/travel360

CAMBODIA PHNOM PENH Phnom Penh Airport Office, 17 Mezzanine Floor of Arrival Domestic Terminal, Phnom Penh Airport, Phnom Penh 179, Street Sisowath, Sangkat Phsar Kandal 1, Khan Daun Penh, 12204 Phnom Penh, Kingdom of Cambodia.

CHINA MACAU Office 20, Mezzanine Level Passenger Terminal, Macau International Airport Taipa, Macau Guang Dong Century Holiday International Travel Service (Shenzhen) Co.Ltd., XY-10 Junting Hotel, 3085 Eastern Road, Luo Hu, Shenzhen Century Holiday International Travel Service (Guang Zhou) Co Ltd., First Floor, No 8 Zhong Shan 3 Road, Guang Zhou Zhuhai Sun Star International Travel Agency Co Ltd., 1151, South of Yingbin Road, Zhuhai

INDONESIA BANDA Aceh

Lindeteves Trade Center Building, Jl. Hayam Wuruk No.127, Lantai GF2 Blok RA 49, Jakarta Pusat Makassar

No. 26 Jalan Meriam, 84000 Muar, Johor

Departure Terminal, Sultan Hasanuddin, International Airport, Makassar, South Sulawesi

No 7, Jalan Bestari 1/5, Taman Nusa Bestari, 79100, Bandar Nusajaya, Johor.

Mall Panakukang, Carrefour Panakukang, 3rd Floor, Jl. Adyaksa Baru No.1, Makassar, South Sulawesi

No 75, Jalan Sutera, Taman Sentosa, 80150, Johor Bharu, Johor

Manado

No 20, Jalan Raya, 81000, Kulaijaya, Johor.

Sam Ratulangi International Airport Jalan A.A. Maramis, Manado 95374

No 97, Jalan Rahmat, 83000, Batu Pahat, Johor

MEDAN

GK 01, Ground Floor, Kluang Mall, Jalan Rambutan, Bandar Kluang, 86000 Kluang, Johor.

Bandara PoloniaTerminal Keberangkatan Internasional, Medan 20157 Sumatra Garuda Plaza Hotel, Jl. Sisingamangaraja, No.18 Medan-20213 PADANG Hotel Hangtuah, Jl. Pemuda no. 1 Padang, Sumatra Barat, 25117 Palembang Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport Palembang, South Sumatra Pekanbaru Sultan Syarif Kasim II International Airport, Jalan Perhubungan Udara Simpang Tiga, Pekanbaru, Sumatra

Bandara Sultan Iskandar Muda, Blang Bintang, Aceh

Solo

DENPASAR, BALI

Adi Soemarmo International Airport, Solo, Central Java

Bandara I Gusti Ngurah Rai, Terminal Keberangkatan International Bali 80361 Jl. Legian Kaja no. 455 Kuta, Bali BANDUNG

Langkawi International Airport 07100 Padang Mat Sirat, Langkawi No. 68-B Ground Floor, Jalan Ibrahim, 08000 Sungai Petani, Kedah Darul Aman KUALA LUMPUR Lot 4, Level 2, Stesen Sentral Kuala Lumpur, 50470 Lot G027B, Ground Floor, Podium Block, Plaza Berjaya,12 Jalan Imbi,55100 Kuala Lumpur

No 71 Jalan Metro Perdana Barat 1 Taman Usahawan Kepong 52100 Kuala Lumpur

YOGYAKARTA

Komp Rukan Dharmawangsa, Jl. Dharmawangsa VI No.43, Jakarta Selatan

Lot 20, Lapangan Terbang Sultan Abdul Halim, 06200 Kepala Batas, Alor Star

Lobby International Terminal Juanda International Airport Jalan Raya Juanda Surabaya Jawa Timur

Lobby Grand Serela Hotel Jl. L.L. R.E Martadinata (Riau) No 56 Telp. (022) 426 1636

Jl. Boulevard Raya, Blok LA 4, No. 10 Kelapa Gading, Jakarta Utara

KEDAH

No. 63, Ground Floor, Medan Bunus Off Jalan Masjid India, 50100 Kuala Lumpur.

Grand Circle Tunjungan Plaza 3 Lantai 1, (Lobby Condominium Regency), Jln. Basuki Rahmat 8-12, Surabaya

Terminal 3 & Terminal 2D Departure Hall Airlines Offices Soekarno-Hatta International Airport Cengkareng,

No 21,Jalan Dedap 21, Taman Johor Jaya, 81100, Johor Bharu

SURABAYA

Ruangan Nombor 34 Bandara Husein Sastranegara Jalan Pajajaran No 156 Bandung Jawa Barat

JAKARTA

GL 13 Sultan Ismail Airport 81250 Johor Bahru

Adisutjipto International Airport Jln. Solo km.9, Yogyakarta, 55282

No. 4 Jalan 3/116B, Kuchai Lama Entrepreneur Park, Off Jalan Kuchai Lama, 582000 Kuala Lumpur.

No. 1, Jalan PJS 3/48, Taman Sri Manja, 46000 Petaling Jaya.

KELANTAN

Melia Purosani Hotel, Jl Suryotomo No.31, Yogyakarta

Lapangan Terbang Sultan Ismail Petra, 16100 Pengkalan Chepa Kota Bharu

MALAYSIA

3183G, Jalan Sultan Ibrahim (Opp. KB Mall), 15050 Kota Bharu.

JOHOR

TERENGGANU

Tune Hotels.com Danga Bay, Lot PTB 22819, Jalan Skudai, Mukim Bandar, 80200 Johor Bahru

Level 1, Terminal Building, Sultan Mahmud Airport, 21300 Kuala Terengganu

Labuan Level 1, Labuan Airport Terminal 87008 Wilayah Persekutuan Melaka No 32, Jalan Melaka Raya 23, Taman Melaka Raya, 75000 Melaka PENANG Penang International Airport 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang Ground Floor, Kim Mansion 332, Chulia Street, 10200 Penang No 723 L-G, Jln Sungai Dua 11700 Pulau Pinang SABAH Lot 1 & 2, 1st Floor, Terminal Building, Sandakan Airport, 90719 Sandakan FL4, 1st Floor, Tawau Airport Building, Jalan Apas-Balung, 91100 Tawau TB228, Lot 5, Ground Floor, Istana Monaco, Jalan Bunga, Fajar Complex 91000 Tawau Lot G24, Ground Floor, Wisma Sabah, Jln. Tun Razak, 88000, Kota Kinabalu TGround Floor, Terminal 2 Kota Kinabalu Int. Airport, Old Airport Road,Tanjung Aru 88100, Kota Kinabalu SARAWAK Lot GL.14, Public Concourse Terminal Building, Bintulu Airport 97000 Bintulu Ground Floor, Miri Airport, 98000 Miri Lot 946, Jalan Parry, 98000 Miri Ho Ho Lim, Ground Floor, 291 Sublot 4, Jalan Abell, 93100 Kuching Departure Level, Kuching International Airport, 93756 Kuching Wisma Ho Ho Lim, Ground Floor No. 291, Sub Lot 4, Jalan Abell 93100 Kuching 1st Floor, Main Terminal Building, Sibu Airport, 96000 Sibu Ground Floor, No. 36 Jalan Keranji, 96000 Sibu Grd Flr, Lot 4034, Jln Tun Ahmad Zaidi, Parkcity Commercial Sq, Phase 5, 97000 Bintulu Ground Floor, 192H Al-Idrus Commercial Centre, Jalan Satok, 93400 Kuching

SL11 Ground Floor, Lot 2541 Lee Ling Heights Phase 2, Mile 6.5 Jalan Penrissen, P.O. Box 2044, 93250 Kuching Lot 6813, Ground Floor Synergy Square, (Matang Jaya Commercial Centre), Jalan Matang Jaya, 93050 Kuching SELANGOR Ground Floor, Terminal 3, Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport 47200 Subang, Selangor Jalan KLIA S3, Southern Support Zone, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, 64000 Sepang, Selangor Lot-35 Mydin Mall USJ 1 B-G-3A, IOI Boulevard, Jalan Kenari 5, Bandar Puchong Jaya 47170 Puchong Selangor Lot S141, 2nd Floor, Plaza Metro Kajang, Section 7, Jalan Tun Abdul Aziz, 43000 Kajang No 1 (667-C), Wisma Y S Tan Lorong Kepayang, 41300 Klang

111 North Bridge Road #0136/37, Peninsula Plaza 179098,

SRI LANKA Colombo Setmil Aviation (Pvt) Ltd., Ground Floor, Setmil Maritime Centre, 256, Srimath Ramanathan Mawatha, Colombo 15, Sri Lanka

UBON RATCHATHANI

Suvarnabhumi International Airport Room A1-062 Ground Floor, Concourse A, Bangna-Trad Road, Racha Teva, Bang Pli, Samutprakarn 10540

Ubon Ratchathani Airport 297 Ubon Ratchathani Airport, Thepyotee Road, Amphur Nai Muang, Ubon Ratchathani 34000

127 Tanao Road, Phra Nakorn, Bangkok 10200 CHIANG MAI SALES OFFICE Chiangmai International Airport 60, 1st Floor, Tambol Sutep, Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai 50200 416 Thaphae Road, Chiang Mai

Chiang Rai International Airport 2305/2 404 Moo 10, Tambol Bandu, Amphur Muang, Chiang Rai 57100

PHILIPPINES Diosdado Macapagal International Airport Clark Civil Aviation Complex Clark Freeport Zone, Philippines 2023

SURAT THANI

BANGKOK

MYANMAR

Office Unit# 01-L, Parkroyal Yangon, Myanmar

Unit 9, Laflora Patong Area, No. 39, 39/1, Thaveewong Rd., Patong, Kratoo, Phuket

THAILAND

CHIANG RAI

Yangon International Airport

Phuket International Airport 312, 3rd Floor, Tumbol Maikao, Amphur Thalang, Phuket 83110

Surat Thani International Airport 73 Moo 3 Tambol Huatuey, Amphur Punpin, Suratthani

No 1, Jln PJS 3/48, Taman Sri Manja, 46000 Petaling Jaya

YANGON

PHUKET

HAT YAI Hat Yai International Airport 125 Hadyai International Airport, Moo 3 Klongla, Klonghoikong, Songkhla 90115 KRABI

UDON THANI Udon Thani International Airport 224 Moo 1, Tambol Makkhang, Amphur Muang, Udon Thani 41000

VIETNAM HANOI Noibai International Airport Lobby A, 3rd Floor, Hanoi No.30 Le Thai To Str., Hoan Kiem Dist., Hanoi City 223, De Tham Pham Ngu Lao Ward District 1, Ho Chi Minh City No. 9, Hang Manh Str., Hoan Kiem Dist., Hanoi 16, Nguyen Van Linh, Hai Chau District, Da Nang

133 Moo 5 Petchkasem Road, Tambol Nuakrong, Amphur Nuakrong, Krabi 81130 NARATHIWAT

SINGAPORE Row No:11, Departure level 2 Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 1, Singapore

Narathiwat Airport 330 Moo 5 , Tambol Kok-Kian, Amphur Muang, Narathiwat 96000

Call Centre Numbers Australia 1300 760 330 China +86 20 2281 7666 France +33(0)1 7048 0722 India 1860 500 8000 Indonesia +62 21 2927 0999 Japan 0120 963 516 Hong Kong +852 3112 3222 Macau 0800912 Malaysia 600 85 9999 (Premium Customer Service line, chargeable at RM1.95 per minute.)

Myanmar New Zealand Paris Singapore South Korea Taiwan Thailand Vietnam The UK

+95 1 25 1885/1886 0800 45 25 66 +33170480722 +65 6307 7688 00798 1420 69940 008 0185 3031 +66 2 515 9999 +84 8 3838 9811/ 9812 0845 605 3333

12 TOUCHDOWN 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

PENANG, MALAYSIA Unique heritage buildings, tropical gardens, sun-kissed beaches, fabulous food – Penang has it all!

It’s hard to imagine that the island many refer to as paradise was once a swamp and that its founder, Captain Francis Light, had to induce men to clear the land by firing gold coins into the jungle. Today, there is so much to do and see on the island. Visitors can also hop over to the mainland at Seberang Prai, which is a short car ride (via the iconic Penang Bridge) or ferry trip across the channel.

Eat Mention Penang to Malaysians and you will have them salivating. Such is the draw of the island’s cuisine. Local foodies will tell you that the hawker fare here is unrivalled.

Fried koay teow (stir-fried flat rice noodles), pasembur (crunchy vegetable salad with peanut sauce dressing), or chien (oyster omelette), nasi kandar (steamed rice with Indian curries and dishes) and asam laksa (noodles in a tangy fish broth) are just several of the mouth-watering dishes available at almost every street corner. For dessert, look out for stalls selling Nyonya kuih (traditional cakes). Check out Ho Ping Cafe, Jalan Penang for yummy fried koay teow, Nasi Kandar Merlin for nasi kandar and Kompleks Pasar Awam Balik Pulau for a hearty bowl of asam laksa. Alternatively, head to food courts such as New World Park, Gurney Drive Hawker Centre or the Pulau Tikus Night Market for a sampling of tasty Penang fare.

Must Do EXPLORE THE CITY ON FOOT. Book a walking tour with a heritage guide for insight on the history of the people, streets, trades and buildings in the UNESCO zone. Check out Khoo Kongsi, a Chinese clan-house with elaborate murals and carvings built over a century ago. Visit the Cheong Fatt Sze or Blue Mansion, a heritage building designed according to feng shui. Stroll along ‘Harmony Street’, which houses the St George’s Church, Goddess of Mercy Chinese temple, Mahamariamman Hindu temple and Kapitan Keling Mosque.

WORDS: CHITRA S IMAGES: PENANG GLOBAL TOURISM

BE ONE WITH MOTHER NATURE. Go hiking at the Penang National Park in Teluk Bahang or opt for a boat ride to nearby Kerachut Beach, a turtle nesting site and conservation centre. Other parks worth visiting are the Penang Botanic Gardens and the Tropical Spice Garden.

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TAKE HOME A SOUVENIR. Bargain for souvenirs and knick-knacks at flea markets around the island, shop for antique furniture or pick up artwork created by the island’s contemporary artists.

Sleep

GETTING THERE AirAsia flies to Penang daily from Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Bangkok, Jakarta, Medan, Hong Kong, Singapore and weekly from Surabaya.

TRAVEL 3SIXTY˚

• Tune Hotel Downtown Penang, 100, Jalan Burma www.tunehotels.com • Paradise Sandy Beach Resort Penang, 527, Jalan Tanjung Bungah • Hard Rock Hotel Penang, Batu Feringghi Beach • Hotel Equatorial Penang, 1, Jalan Bukit Jambul, Bayan Lepas • Penaga Hotel, 38C, Jalan Hutton • Golden Sands Resort, Batu Feringgi Beach FOR ATTRACTIVE ROOM RATES AT THESE HOTELS, VISIT www.airasiago.com

12 MY AIRASIA 2011 www.airasia.com/travel360

INSIDE GUIDE

AirAsia AllStars from the Philippines cue you in on what’s hot in their beautiful country.

SARAH ADAN Strategy, Airport and Planning Analyst from Manila.

EAT: Adobo. It has vinegar, soy sauce and bay leaves. It’s usually cooked using chicken or pork, but there’s really good lamb adobo in Abe’s, in Serendra.

VISIT: Intramuros. It offers a slice of colonial Philippines in the capital of Manila.

DON’T MISS: Cinemalaya Film Festival allows you to watch independent films and get to know promising filmmakers.

PARTY AT: Boracay, because you get to party by the beach!

ANGELO GAYLORD P. BERNAL Guest Services Agent from Manila.

EAT: Bacolod’s famous Chicken Inasal (speciallymarinated grilled chicken), Bicol’s Bicol Express (pork in coconut sauce with hot red chillies) and Pampanga’s Sisig (a sour meat dish, usually pork marinated with vinegar or lemon juice).

VISIT: Boracay! You can ride a banana boat, go snorkelling, scuba diving and island hoping, and attempt the zip-line!

DON’T MISS: Mascara Festival in Bacolod. Mass means ‘many, or multitude’ and kara is Spanish for ‘face’. Mascara is a multitude of smiling faces. For Bacolodnons, Mascara is a celebration of gratitude for the abundant blessings in their lives.

DARIELLE F. BULOS Customer Care Officer from Baguio City.

EAT: Sinigang na manok/hipon (Chicken/ shrimp sour soup). The sour broth extracted from tamarind makes you cringe, and that’s how you tell how good the sinigang is. Each city has its own style of concocting this dish. The sour intensity varies, but the bottom line is ... it is always sour!

DON’T MISS: Panagbenga, the Baguio Flower Festival held in Baguio for the whole of February. Another interesting event is the Sinulog Festival, celebrated in Cebu on the third Sunday of January. It is a retelling of history from the perspective of Cebu’s people.

COLEEN VIEL FLORES PEÑA Inflight Catering Meal Planner from Baguio City.

PARTY AT: Ortigas Avenue and Makati City have a lot of party spots. In Ortigas, there’s Tiendesitas, where you can dine while listening to different bands, and Metrowalk, where you can enjoy great cocktails. For clubbers, check out Makati City. You can find Absinth at Greenbelt 3 and Prive luxury club at The Fort Strip in Bonifacio Global City.

EAT: Kare-kare. It is made up of beef cubes, ox-tail, tripe and vegetables, cooked in peanut sauce and finely ground uncooked rice. It is best eaten with steamed rice and bagoong (fish paste). You can find these dishes in Barrio Fiesta (SM Clark) and KKK (SM Mall of Asia).

VISIT: Palawan, home to the Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park and Tubbataha Reef Marine Park. While there, go island hopping in Honda Bay. 152

TRAVEL 3SIXTY˚

ETHEL BYRON GALANG Innovation, Commercial & Technology (ICT) Executive from San Fernando, Pampanga.

PARTY AT: Eastwood Libis in Quezon City Metro Manila.

EAT: Pork Sisig. This is made with finely-chopped pork, onions and chilli, and served on a sizzling plate. It’s best to mix it with soy sauce and lime. The best sisig in the Philippines can be found in Pampanga!

DON’T MISS: The Giant Lantern Festival of San Fernando that takes place in December.