AsiaLIFE HCMC 33

T H E B E ST V I S I O N I S

I N S I G H T

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AsiaLIFE volume 33

26 06 News & Events

front

14 Dispatches

38 7 Lessons Learned From Dr. Stephen Covey

16 Q&A with Greg Norman

40 Circle of Stars

18 Street Smart: Xuan Thuy

44 The King of Disco and I

22 Photo Essay: Blue Belles The man known as 'The Shark' talks about golf prospects in Vietnam.

We head down Xuan Thuy in Thao Dien in District 2 and discover a treasure trove of goodies. And in this month's photo essay, we feature the innovative work of our intern whose passion for his favourite subject, women, is bound to take him far.

on the cover

storyboard

AsiaLIFE had the opportunity to catch up with two visiting luminaries in very different fields: Dr Stephen Covey, author of 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and Bollywood disco king Bappi Lahiri. We also present a sneak peek to what promises to be an impressival cultural show, "Xin Chao!"

food

26 Wilful Threads and Wilful Steel

52 Flow

Mekong Delta

53 Quan Cay Sa

30 The Big Money 34 Learning to Earn

48 A Meaty Issue 50 Boomarang

28 Water Woes Subside in

32 Desperatly Seeking Nurses

46 Sterling's Saigon

Richard Sterling regales us with stories that are bound to enthrall. We present a guide on how to choose, and cook, a great steak. Plus, we check out Boomarang, Flow and Quan Cay Sa.

36 Home and Away In this year's Insight issue, we shine the spotlight on important issues facing Vietnam: maternal health, water availability in the Mekong Delta, financial prospects in the new year, the need to better equip nurses with skills that are sorely needed, dreams and aspirations of the youth, and whether the country is ready to sell itself as a second home destination.

style & design

54 Behind the Design: Timber Yacht 'Laura Jane' 56 Kartell 57 Necessary Accessories

AsiaLIFE talks to the designer who dared to dream big when designing his timber yacht. We feature the cool designs of furniture-maker Kartell.

And in our fashion spread, we show you the coolest accessories no wardrobe should be without.

back

T H E B E ST V I S I O N I S

I N S I G H T

Cover Art Direction 365 Days Creative Studio Photography Fred Wissink

62 The List 104 Spotlight 106 Street Guide 114 Pub Quiz

To sign off, we capture a glimpse of HCM City nightlife; preview what's new in film, music and literature; and challenge your brain power with the Pub Quiz.

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note from the editor

Muna Khan

In our annual issue to round up the year and look forward to the new, we present our insight into issues of import, as we see them. And we felt the quote on our cover by Malcolm Forbes was particularily befitting. Amongst a plethora of topics, we chose to write about Vietnam's progress in achieving the United Nation's Millennium Development Goals for 2010, the need to invest in vocational training, the findings of a survey on youth, whether the country is ready to set itself up as a viable second home destination, where it stands on water availability and how we've fared financially. Thankfully most of it is good news and there's plenty to look forward to—as a nation

and as individuals—as 2011 approaches.

We were lucky to spend some time with three internationally renown personalities: Dr Stephen Covey of the hugely popular book 7 Habits of Highly Effective People who was in HCM City to present a lecture; ace golfer, known as the Shark, Greg Norman who was here to inaugurate his golf course and Bollywood disco king Bappi Lahiri who was here to perform at a Diwali event—and he really rocked that party. We learned plenty from all three "stars".

We also shine the spotlight on a new performance, “Xin Chao,” whose rehearsals we were allowed complete access to, and it appears to be a promising show.

Huynh Ho Quang Known at AsiaLIFE as “Eric,” the Raffles International College student is serving as the magazine’s photography intern. In this month’s photo essay he showcases a collection of cyanotypes or blue prints he created using a precise yet extraordinarily simple scientific method. Prior to gracing our pages, the work was exhibited at Ami Art Gallery & Café where it received a fantastic response. Taking photos, he says, allows him to breathe, be creative and live. Next year, he will travel to Sydney, Australia where we will hone his photography skills at university.

It combines martial arts, traditional and modern dance plus circus performances and is staged along the lines of “Cirque du Soleil”— this could prove a real treat for tourists and residents alike who feel there’s little in terms of entertaining cultural performances.

Last but not least, I’d like to welcome Brett Davis who joins us as contributing editor. Brett brings with him several years of experience in journalism and has been writing features for AsiaLIFE so it’s a pleasure to bring him into the family fold.

From all of us here, we wish you happy holidays and look forward to welcoming you in the new year with inspiring ideas, and uplifting stories from Vietnam and the region.

Next time you're across the border, check out the latest issue of AsiaLIFE Cambodia or download it from www.asialifeguide.com.

Stephy Thai Currently studying at the University of Economics and majoring in International Trade, Stephy decided to expand her creative horizons beyond the logistics of the export-import industry and join AsiaLIFE as an editorial intern. Most interested in advertising and public relations, working at the magazine has given the 21-year-old an opportunity to immerse herself in the English language and improve her writing skills.

Her dream for the future is to become a professional copywriter, then a creative director—professions in her opinion that are far more exciting than what she’s studying now.

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asialife Cambodia 1

Find AsiaLIFE articles on

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volume 33

NEWS Mekong Creations Hosts Famous Rug Maker

Mekong Creations recently hosted Heather Ritchie, one of Britain's most experienced rug makers and teachers of rug making on a visit to Vietnam. Heather trained women from rural regions in Vietnam and Cambodia in the art of rag rug making as part of Mekong Creations’ employment creation mission. The women, from Binh Thuan province in Vietnam and Svay Rieng province in Cambodia, picked up the rug making techniques quickly and were enthusiastic to learn, earning Heather’s praise. “I have students who have been hooking years

who will never reach the standards of some of the girls’ first rugs,” she commented. The rugs are on sale now at the Mekong Creations store at 141 Bui Vien Street and in the Phnom Penh store on Street 240. Visit www. mekong-creations.org

Thao Dien Village Extends Space Thao Dien Village, located by the banks of the Saigon River in An Phu, has recently added a new lounge and bar to its signature Italian restaurant Villa Romaine.

In addition, a new Sicilian born chef has been instated in the restaurant’s kitchen. Also, Thao

BBQ at Kita

Kita Coffee has a new BBQ menu served on its rooftop in the evenings from 17:30 to 22:00 everyday. All the barbecue favourites are on offer at prices that range from 145,000 VND to 265,000 VND. Call 38216799 or 38215300 for more information on weekly specials.

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Dien Village has added two rooms to the top floor of its hotel and the award-winning spa now includes an outdoor gym for fitness buffs that wish to workout in the fresh air. Visit www.thaodienvillage. com.

Domino’s Pizza Arrives in HCM City

Domino’s Pizza, a world famous brand with 50 years history, opened its first store in Vietnam at Phu My Hung on November 19. Known as the world’s best pizza delivery company, Domino’s Pizza proudly offers its popular 30-Minute Delivery Commitment and Product Satisfaction Guarantee. Call 3939 3030 to order or visit www.dominos.vn. Check them out on Facebook, too at facebook.com/DominosPizzaVietnam.

Impact Day at Saigon Star International School

On October 22, the Vietnam office of Deloitte Consulting S.E. Asia held their annual Impact Day to create awareness on certain social issues. This year they worked together with the Saigon Star International School to educate the kids about the

importance of healthy food and physical exercise.

Great Deals at Muse Boutique

From December 10 to 24, Muse Boutique, located on the first floor of the Saigon Center at 65 Le Loi in District 1, will offer a 30 to 50 percent discount on selected items. In addition, the boutique will welcome new arrivals from top brands like True Religion, Tbags, Rock&Republic, Cheap Monday and Seven For All Mankind.

December English School at ACG

Registration is now open for the ACG December English School The Kindergarten, Primary and Middle School programmes will focus on listening, speaking, reading and writing skills, balanced with fun classes in Physical Education, Art and Music. The Secondary programme will be an intensive IELTS preparation course. Classes will run from December 20th to 30th. Register and pay before November 20th and save 10 percent. For more information contact ACG on 3747 1234, or email Ms Julie Wilson at Julie.Wilson@acgedu.com

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New Arrivals at Small is Beautiful

Children’s boutique Small is Beautiful has introduced a bevy of new designers and products to its stable. There is a wide selection of chic labels for newborns to children up to 12 including Baby Dior, Rykiel Kids and Antik Batik.

In addition, Small is Beautiful stocks accessories, décor, toys (educational and multi-lingual, too) and dress-ups. 227 Le Thanh Ton. D1.

Student Supports Flood Victims

Earlier this year Pakistan was ravaged by devastating floods that displaced millions of families. Harrison Fraser, an eighth grade student at the International School Ho Chi Minh City, and his family were so disturbed by the images they saw that they decided to raise funds for “Relief of Pakistan.” Harrison created wristbands with the words "Relief for Pakistan" engraved on

them as part of his Community & Service Project. Each band sells for 25,000 VND and entire proceeds from the sales will be sent to Pakistan through the school. The bands are available at L'Usine on 151 Dong Khoi, District 1.

New Chef at Sheraton Nha Trang

New Body Shop Opens

Body Shop opened another outlet in HCM City at 31 Nguyen Trai, District 1. Famous for its pioneering use of natural ingredients and its strong ethical conscience, the company now has more than 2,500 stores across 60 countries. Visit www. thebodyshop.com.

Modern Asian cuisine connoisseur Frederic Meynard has joined Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa as its culinary leader. Hired in September as the new seaside property’s executive chef, the 34-year-old Frenchman has spent the better part of the past decade in Southeast Asia, including two stints in Vietnam. Meynard’s years of experience in French eateries has prompted him to integrate such flavor into the menus at Sheraton Nha Trang.

Leonard Cohen postponed It is with great disappointment that we report on the postponement of the Leonard Cohen concert scheduled for last month in Cambodia due to unforeseen circumstances.

Winners of the lucky draw will be notified of the new dates as and when we receive them.

International Veterinary Hospital 24/7 Emergency: (84) 091 851 1139 Beauty - Grooming Treatment - Dentistr y Laborator y - Surger y 53 Dang Dung Str., Tan Dinh Ward, Dist.1 Tel: (84-8) 6269 3939 Fax:(84-8) 6269 3993 www.newpethospital.com.vn www.petclinic.co.jp/en/index.htm

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Vaccination - Microchip Immigration Consulting Radiology - Ultrasound

Pet boarding ser vice Service in English, Japanese, and French Office Hours: Mon-Sat: 8:00 - 19:00 Sun-Holidays: 8:00 - 12:00

Pizza Hut Delivery

They’ll be safe in our hands Pizza Hut, the largest pizza chain in Vietnam, celebrates the launch of Pizza Hut Delivery (PHD) which offers 30-minute delivery within 1.5 kms of District 1. Now all your favourite pizzas created by the internationally known franchise that prides itself on using the best of ingredients can be enjoyed in your home. For delivery, call 3838 8388

Festivities at Equatorial

Our smallest patients - respecting their needs is our biggest concern The Equatorial Hotel has planned several activities and menus to usher in the holidays like a bazaar and tree lighting ceremony. At its restaurants you can enjoy traditional meals at Orientica (Christmas Eve buffer dinner for 1,360,000 ++ VND per person and New Year’s Eve buffet dinner 1,440,000++ VND per person) or Chit Chat Café (buffet brunch 600,000 ++VND per person or buffet dinner 1, 100,000 ++ VND per person and for New Year’s Eve or day brunch for 600,000++ VND per person and dinner for 1,200,000 ++ VND per person). Ring in the new year at a fun party or start the first day of the new year with a festive brunch. 242 Tran Binh Trong Street. For more information call 38397 777 ext. 8000 or e-mail dine@hcm.equatorial. com.

Buffalo Tours Agency Opens in Style Last month saw the opening of Buffalo Tours Agency (BTA) and the introduction of the country’s first wine casino. BTA is a boutique travel agency that services Vietnamese and expatriate residents. It is also the exclusive Sales Agent for Intrepid, the well-known Australian Tour Operator specializing in off the beaten track, adventure travel. For more information, visit the agency at 81 Mac Thi Buoi, District 1, call 3827 9170, email travelagency@buffalotours. com or visit www.buffalotours.com.vn.

Our three Full-time Pediatric Specialists are on hand for all your childrens medical needs • Primary pediatric emergency responses • Routine childhood development assessment • Post natal examinations • Immunisation advice • Vaccination • Nutritional counselling • New mother support • Pre-school check-ups Family Medical Practice HCMC Diamond Plaza: 34 Le Duan Street, District 1, HCMC For appointments and emergency care 24 hours: (84 8) 3822 7848

www.vietnammedicalpractice.com

Your health. Our care.

• Emergency Medicine • Medical Evacuations • General Practice • Internal Medicine • Pediatrics • Obstetrics & Gynecology • Orthopedic & Trauma Surgery • Cardiology • ENT • Tropical Medicine asialife HCMC 9 • Radiology • Imaging • Ambulance Service • In-house Laboratory • Acupuncture • First Aid Training • Child Birth Education • Saigon International Mother Baby Association • Medical Check-ups

Phnom Penh Events & Openings Download the latest issue of AsiaLIFE Cambodia at www.asialifeguide.com.

A 240 Christmas

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas—or, at least it will during Street 240’s Christmas fair between Dec. 9 to 11.

Entitled Luxury 240, the event serves to showcase the highquality, unique products for which the street in the Cambodian capital is known.

Organised by the women behind Subtyl Boutique, Couleurs d’Asie, Chilli Kids, and Water Lily, the festivities are set to include 30 participating shops and restaurants. Shops will remain open until 10 pm, with activities taking place outside beginning at 5 pm. Each participating business will have lucky draws with a variety of prizes on offer for fortunate shoppers, such as manicures, wine tasting and face painting. Even Santa Claus has promised to fly in from Lapland.

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Blue Pumpkin in the Penh

At last, a Blue Pumpkin craving can now be gratified in Phnom Penh. In December, the longrunning, popular Siem Reap café opens two locations in the capital. Baked goods will be in full force, as well as Blue Pumpkin’s famous ice cream with 40 flavours to choose from. The riverside branch, on the corner of Street 144, features two floors and an exquisite view of the Tonle Sap. The second location will be set on the mezzanine level of Monument Books.

English Teachers Unite

Registrations are currently being accepted for the 7th annual CamTESOL Conference on English Language Teaching for Feb. 26 to 27, 2011. The programme will include over 300 presentations by professionals

in the field from over 30 countries. Optional activities include educational site visits, a regional ELT leadership forum, and conference dinner. Until Jan. 31, early registration rates for the full conference are US$50 for Cambodian, Vietnamese and Laotian participants and US$100 for others, with option to sign up for one day. Fees are raised after that date. Participants can also sponsor rural Cambodian provincial teachers to attend the conference. To register, see www.camtesol.org.

More Great Grapes on 240

Raise a glass to the recently opened Warehouse on Street 240. Broadening the selection of wine available in Phnom Penh, Warehouse features around 400 different wines from around the world, all imported exclusively

and guaranteed as completely genuine. Prices vary from US$5 to US$2,000, depending on the vintage. Bottles can be purchased individually or in bulk.

Sofitel Checks in to Phnom Penh

The Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra opens its doors on Dec. 11. The latest address from French luxury hotel brand Sofitel, which has locations across 40 countries, is the first five-star hotel to launch in the Cambodian capital for the past 10 years.

With 201 rooms laid out over four hectares, the Phokeethra is well positioned to meet the city’s increasing wave of tourists. Eight restaurants and bars, five meeting rooms, and an executive lounge, Club Millésime, count among the Phokeethra’s highlights.

EVENTS Photographic Exhibit at Au Parc

Photographer Melissa Merryweather’s exhibition ‘Display’ will open at Au Parc on December 9 and run through until January 5.The exhibition is arranged in two parts—one that documents the temples in District 5 and the other on the streets of the Chinese quarter and the area around Ben Thanh Market.

20-Hour Basic Yoga Teacher Training

Internationally recognized as a teacher of yoga teachers, Hart Lazer leads workshops and teacher training courses throughout Canada, the United States, Mexico, Costa Rica, and India. He will visit HCM City and classes will be offered on Friday December 10 from 6 am to 9.30 pm and from 8 am to 5.30 pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Pay before December 3 to claim the US $320 Early Bird rate.

After that date, tickets will be $370. Contact Suzanne Vian on 090 835 2265 or suzannevian@ gmail.com.

A Touch of Art

L’Usine is hosting new works

by Jennifer Idrizi until Dec. 25.

The artist is a graduate of the Central Saint Martins School of Art and the Royal College of Art in London and has exhibited her work in the UK, US, Sweden, Albania and Denmark.

L'Usine, 151 Dong Khoi Street, District 1.

Xin Chao! The Show

The Xin Chao! show has been licensed by the Ministry of Culture and will open on December 11th, 2010 at the HCM City Circus Tent, on Pham Ngu Lao in

District 1. There are daily shows from 18:00 to 19:30 on Monday – Friday and from 17:30 to 19:00 on the weekends.

The performance highlights aspects of the rich culture of Vietnam–past and present–with a modernized original score and exciting performances by some of Vietnam's premier dancers, circus acrobats and martial artists. For more information or to enquire about tickets please contact Ms. Truong Thi Van Thao at 0122 3686 733

LoretoFest 2010

LoretoFest 2010 will take place on Saturday December 11 from 2.30 pm till midnight.

RMIT will host the fourth annual open-air fundraising concert, with proceeds going towards the Loreto-Vietnam Australia Program. Vietnam’s top singer Pham Anh Khoa will perform, as will Melbourne-based outfit Wagons and British band Goober Gun. Children are catered for, too, until 6.30 pm with mini golf, face painting, X-Rock climbing, circus performances, supervised football and netball tournaments plus horse riding.

Visit www.loretofest.com for ticketing information and prices.

Baking for Kids

A special children’s baking class featuring “Christmas Tree Ornaments and Christmas Cookies” will be held at Harvest Baking in the Tan Binh District on December 21, from 2 to 4 pm. Children ages 7 and up can make and bring home their creations. The fee is $25 per person but only 12 spaces are available. For more information call Lulu on 0903 921 285 or email harvestbaking@yahoo. com

Holiday treats at Nha Trang Sailing Club

The Sailing Club in Nha Trang has become a popular holiday destination for the winter holidays and this month is no different as it offers special meal deals for Christmas Eve and Day and a grand outdoor party for both Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. A three-course meal prepared by chef Lizette Crabtree is priced at $25 per person.

Christmas Eve party will feature international Latin sensations Warapo and DJ Mostic & DJ Paradox Lost. Santa Clause himself will make a midnight appearance with his famous bag of presents for our annual “give-away” Tickets may be purchased on arrival for 100,000 VND. The New Year’s party, which is the largest outdoor event, features musical acts like the alternative rock band Juram and Head Kandi/Soul Heaven’s Sean Doyle. Tickets can be booked in advance or brought at the door for 100,000 VND but places are limited for 3,000 guests.

For more information call the Sailing Club Nha Trang on 058 352 4628 or visit sailingclubvietnam.com/scnhatrang

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TEDx at RMIT

TED conferences are known worldwide for bringing leaders in Technology Entertainment and Design onto a platform to discuss "ideas worth spreading.� Independently held TED conferences are known as TEDx and just last year, 230 such events were held in 80 countries. Vietnam is going to have its second TEDx event (the first was in May) in HCM City on December 20 at RMIT. This event's theme is on women and will include a live conference between Saigon and Washington DC. This event will feature speakers like Truong My Hoa, the former vice president of Vietnam, Merilyn Liddell, the president of RMIT, Nguyen Phuc Thuy Tien, a legal executive and My Tam, a performer and philanthropist. Seats are limited to a certain number to ensure a truly productive and engaging experience for participants and audience members. For more information email communications@tedxsaigon.com.

Christmas Family Day at the Saigon Zoo

Following the success of last year’s Christmas Family Day, street children charity Poussieres de Vie (Dust of Life) will host the event again at the Saigon Zoo from 10 am on December 12. There will be a climbing wall, live entertainment from Vietnamese rock band 6789, a sideshow by the Ho Chi Minh circus and French food booths plus an impressive capoeira demonstration and fire dance. All proceeds will go towards Poussieres de Vie. For details email aleksandra. nicot@poussieresdevie.org.

dispatches

Travel news from around the region and beyond

Clapton Sound Checks Asia Rock legend Eric Clapton will perform concerts in Thailand, Singapore and Hong Kong as part of his 2011 world tour. The musician ranked fourth by Rolling Stone in the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time, will perform at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on February 14, Bangkok’s Impact Arena on February 16 and the Asia-World Expo in Hong Kong on Feb. 18, in his first tour of Asia since 2007. Tickets cost from S $99 (US $76) to S $399 (US $308) for the Singapore concert, HK $488 (US $63) to HK $1488 (US $192) in Hong Kong, and from 1,000 (US $33) to 6,500 baht (US $217) in Bangkok. For more information, visit www. ericclaptonmusicnews.com

What Ho Sailor!

One of the region’s major yachting festivals, the Royal Langkawi International Regatta 2011 will sail around the Malaysian island from January 11 to 15. Organized by the Royal Langkawi Yacht Club, the regatta involves four days of racing that marks the start of the Asian regatta calendar with crews heading off for the Singapore Straits Regatta later in the month. Entry fee is RM 550 for a yacht and skipper. For more information, visit: www.langkawiregatta.com.

Last-minute Christmas Shopping Head to Kuala Lumpur for some festive season gift inspiration. The Malaysian capital is holding its traditional Year End Sale through December with huge discounts, bargains and promotions. One highlight is A Journey Through Time, Asia’s largest luxury watch and jewellery showcase, which runs from December 2 to December 12. Coinciding with the shopping galas, the city’s annual Street Food Festival (until December 24) has tasters of the country’s best local food. For more information, visit www.tourism.gov.my.

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Do the Timewarp Again!

Brush up on those pelvic thrusts, squeeze into that corset and slip back into those killer stilettos, because the world’s favourite rock musical is coming to Singapore. The city state’s Esplanade Theatre will host Richard O’Brien’s outrageous transsexual musical from January 5 to 16. Tickets cost between S $88 (US $68) to S $138 (US $107). For more information, visit: www.sistic.com.sg.

Ed Force One Lands in Singapore The heavy band that brought us "The Number of the Beast" and other classics, Iron Maiden, will be performing in Singapore on Feb 15—and tickets are available online and seem to be selling fast.

Their "Final Frontier Tour" sees them play at the Singapore Indoor Stadium and in a statement the boys expressed their excitement about playing in the country. Frontman Steve Harris says: "We’ll also be bringing a spectacular live show including the latest incarnation of Eddie who has to be seen to be believed! It’s going to be a really special night.” Tickets are priced at S $98, S $128, S $148 and S $178—and can be booked online for an additional booking fee.

Visit www.sistic.com.sg.

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The Shark visited HCM City recently to launch his newest project—the sprawling Saigon Golf, Country Club and Residences set to be built on the outskirts of District 2. Beth Young scores 10 minutes with the legend. Photos by Fred Wissink.

You’ve already designed a golf course in Danang. Are there any plans for more in Vietnam?

Yeah, actually we’re in negotiations right now for a 36-hole project and ongoing negotiation for future projects. Vietnam has tremendous growth opportunity.

The government has done a very good job of identifying the sustainability of the game here.

You can’t just do what happened in North America. They went crazy in the ‘80s and ‘90s and they’re paying the price for it big time right now.

If you go through a managed process of development, it will be successful. So you look at the development out here, in HCM City—there are what 10 million people?—it’s going to be a huge success because the popularity of golf here is probably equal to anywhere else I’ve seen around the world. The enthusiasm of the Vietnamese is just incredible.

They have to manage the process. Learn by what America did wrong. At the time they didn’t think they were doing anything wrong, but you look back over history and you see that there wasn’t any sustainability. You’ve got to build golf courses for the masses; you’ve got to grow the game at the grassroots level.

Sure there’s the elite level but there’s also kids who want to play public golf courses, kids who want to just go to the driving range. So, you grow from the grassroots—that’s how you really get future generations staying in the game of golf.

That brings me to my next question: Why Vietnam?

Our business is like an economic indicator in a lot of ways. When it’s booming we get inundated with 50 to 60 calls a week offering all these projects. You can’t do them all so you pick and choose. Here in Vietnam, Malaysia, China, Korea, all through Asia you get these phone calls asking “can you come?”. You go do the golf summits, these conferences, you give a speech, they recognize you for the projects you’ve done in the past.

There are probably about four of five of us who’ve really capitalized, but my company, I don’t just churn them out. I select my projects that I like to do and we tie it in with other things, like the Six Senses spa here.

You have a lot on your plate with all your business ventures, too.

Yeah, but because I’m playing less golf, I have more time, even though I’m busier. When I used to play 15 to 25 tournaments a year I’d have to practise the week before, so 30 or 50 weeks a year I was playing golf. Take away 50 percent of that and see how much more time I have.

People think I’m busy, but actually I’ve got more time and I love life more now.

What challenges do you think Vietnam faces in becoming a premium golf destination?

drive had to be just as good.

Or in a putt, if I didn’t make a birdie putt, the next one you had to make or it wouldn’t count.

I used to love that, pushing myself. And my best score I’ve ever done was a par 72. That’s something I’ve always used as a honing skill for my talents.

Congratulations on your engagement to Kirsten Kutner.

Can you tell our readers a little about your fiancée?

She was born in the Philippines to a German father and a Filipina mother, so she’s spent a lot of time here throughout Asia. She lived in Hong Kong, too. She’s a worldly traveller, which makes it a little bit easier, too, [laughs] understanding the nuances of what you need to do. She’s an interior designer and you never know, she might pick up a project or two in Asia somewhere along the lines. She’ll come visit Vietnam.

You’ve won 91 worldwide competitions. Are you going to attempt a 100?

I’ve thought about that but I’m not a numbers guy, to tell you the truth. Getting to that level doesn’t really entice me. I like to have my time on the weekends now.

Can you describe your best game of golf?

When I used to practice around the Medalist Golf Club, my golf club in Florida, I’d really hone my concentration skills. I used to play two golf balls and I’d play 18 holes. I’d play on my own and I’d play my worst form, not my best form, my worst form.

If I had a great drive, the next asialife HCMC 17

Xuan Thuy sits on the precipice of neighbouring expat haven Thao Dien's “Vietnamese” quarter and offers up a range of international eateries, well-regarded salons and home décor stores. Beth Young investigates. Photos by Ho Quang.

Herbal Way to Beauty 114 Xuan Thuy Tel: 6281 8464 www.herbalway2beauty.com Husband and wife team Ai and Linh, opened Herbal Way to Beauty six months ago to sell organic products made at the Khaokho Natural Farm in Thailand’s mountainous northern region. The line, called Khaokho Talaypu includes everything from citronella mosquito repellant sticks (69,000 VND for pack of 20), wild jungle honey (85,000 to 350,000 VND), dried fruit and essential oils to aromatic herbal teas that aid good health (59,000 to 69,000 VND). Upstairs, a small two-bed massage parlour offers various treatments for very reasonable prices. Call first to book.

Decosy 112 Xuan Thuy Tel: 6281 9917 A massive industrial-style warehouse filled with typically French décor, Decosy has everything plus some for the discerning interior decorator.

All the furniture is designed and crafted in Vietnam at the owner Phuong’s factory while the rest—quirky and 18 asialife HCMC

colourful teapots, soup-sized coffee mugs, solid wood cutting boards and candles, to name a few—are sourced locally. My pick: an amazing raised queensized bed with attached ladder and space underneath for a desk and shelving all in white (24.5 million VND).

Decofarm 97 Xuan Thuy Tel: 0909 201 1338/0909 204 338 Decofarm deals in interior design, for plants. The space’s forefront resembles a greenhouse and is filled with greenery of all types, including bonsai (from 100,000 VND), easy-to-care-for hydroponics and cactus. All the equipment needed to sprout a vegetable and herb garden is on hand, as well: seeds sourced from Japan (10,000 VND per packet), soil and pots in all shapes, sizes and varieties.

Quynh Salon 104A Xuan Thuy Tel: 3512 4321 Famed among An Phu residents, Quynh Salon has occupied the same location for eight years. Owner Quynh says the long-established salon caters

to customers for their head to toe needs—all at competitive prices. Expatriates can rest assured their hair is in good hands, too, as purportedly the stylists understand how to deal with foreign locks. Highlights and lowlights are 400,000 to one million VND and a cut and blow-dry is between 50,000 to 80,000 VND. Foot massages go for 90,000 VND. A host of other treatments like waxing, manicure and pedicure services are available, as well. Call first to book.

Nostranapizza 81 Xuan Thuy Tel: 6281 9757 www.nostranapizza.com Nostranapizza claims to prepare the city’s best Italian pie—crispy and fragrant morsels made from handmade dough and topped with only quality ingredients. The sans sauce Capperina—mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, black olives, capers, basil oregano and extra olive oil—is 140,000 VND. The supreme Lombardina, on the other hand, is chocked with tomato mozzarella, gorgonzola, parma ham, shaved parmesan, rocket and extra virgin olive

oil. Nostranapizza only offer delivery and takeaway to An Phu residents, and that too after 5pm, however, Saigonites outside the grid can try to lodge an order. If they’re not too busy they’ll do their best to accommodate.

Saigon Catering 84 Xuan Thuy Tel: 6281 8388 Saigon Catering is an event planner’s best mate. A part of Saigon Gourmet Group (which is also behind Zanzbar, Asia Grill and Lygon Café inside RMIT), it is a full-blown catering service that can cater for small private parties to 2,500head canapé functions. With almost a decade experience in the field, Saigon Catering can be trusted when it comes to organizing any event.

K1 Fitness and Fight Factory 100 Xuan Thuy www.k1-factory.com The fitness buffs behind K1 Fitness and Fight Factory have opened their second training centre. (The first is located at 14 Duong, 38 Nguyen Thi Thap, District 7.) K1 offers martial arts and boxing instruc-

tion along with fat-burning, cardio-intensive circuit training sessions. I’ve trained with these guys before, so be warned, it’s hard but well worth it (think: squats, sit-ups, star jumps and boxing drills). At the time of writing, the gym was under construction but should be ready for new members as of now.

Gastro’ Home 100 Xuan Thuy Tel: 6281 9830 Open since July this year, Gastro’ Home is truly a gourmet deli. The store’s refrigerated counters burst with tasty and fresh pre-made meals including beef lasagne (28,000 VND/100g), lamb shank rosemary confit (150,000 VND/ piece), fish cannelloni with shellfish sauce (25,000 VND/ piece) and exotic starters like stuffed quail with home made foie gras (100 VND/piece).

Sandwiches are made fresh, too, and manager Benoit Chazeau suggests the Le Dangereux— floured bread stuffed with beef tartare, shallots, tomato confit, parmesan, capers, grilled almonds, dried figs and rocket salad (110,000 VND). asialife HCMC 19

Linh’s Furniture 67 Xuan Thuy Tel: 6281 8488 Synonymous with modern luxury and casual elegance, Linh’s Furniture is a Saigon institution. Especially known for its artful collaborations with both established and up-and-coming designers, it seeks to provide its customers with an entire lifestyle and aesthetic rather than just a single dining set, desk or bookshelf. A vast array of decorative accessories, beanbags, lighting, rugs and textiles are available, too. It’s well worth popping into Linh’s Furniture, if even just to lounge on the comfy couch that overlooks the pretty canal that runs adjacent.

Warda B 63 Xuan Thuy Tel: 3519 4416 Warda’s first location at 71/7 Mac Thi Buoi in District 1 is renowned HCM City wide for its atmospheric space, delicious Lebanese fare and fragrant hookah pipes. Warda B carries on the tradition with the same menu featuring chilled and hot mezzes, tajines, koftas and kebabs. For dessert, the hot chocolate and fig pudding (80,000 VND) is a must try. While the design is similarly gorgeous, Warda B has a slightly lighter, coastal feel with its sprawling, colourful outside space complete with draping Middle 20 asialife HCMC

Eastern fabric and stand-up bar.

Inside, the walls are white and emblazoned with the Fatima eye for protection.

Fanny 63 Xuan Thuy Tel: 3519 4205 www.fanny.com.vn Nobody makes ice cream like Fanny and as a serious frozen treat lover I can vouch for the quality. Established in 1994 by Jean-Marc Bruno, a graduate of the esteemed Le Notre Paris culinary school, Fanny dishes out more than 30 ice cream varieties in several locations across Vietnam. All the old favourites like vanilla, strawberry and fruity sorbets can be found as well as an unusual range of Eastern influences—young rice and the gloriously spicy chocolate chilli. This particular Fanny outlet shares a courtyard with Warda B. Thien Nga Sports Club 751 Xuan Thuy Thien Nga Sports Club houses a 25 metre swimming pool and tennis courts. The facilities are clean (though a little bare bones) and access is relatively cheap.

A day pass for the pool costs 80,000 VND for foreign adults and 50,000 VND for kids, while a monthly pass goes for 1 million VND. An hour on the tennis courts between 6 am and 5 pm costs 80,000 VND.

Blue Belles

Photography student Huynh Ho Quang used a scientific process more than a century old to create a series of cyanotypes, or blue prints, to depict a form he’s particularly passionate about—the female body.

To make the copies—under the tutelage of Raffles International College lecturer Paul Swanson—he prepared a chemical solution, which was used to douse absorbent paper.

Once dried, negatives were placed on the paper and left in the sun for five to 10 minutes before being processed in water. The result: somewhat eerie yet beautiful prints on a blue background.

Visit www.hoquang.com.

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The Process asialife HCMC 23

Final Result asialife HCMC 25

26 asialife HCMC

ASIALIFE OFFERS ITS INSIGHT INTO IMPORTANT ISSUES FACING VIETNAM AND ITS PEOPLE IN SEVERAL INDUSTRIES.

WILFUL THREADS AND WILFUL STEEL Vietnam has made many strides towards achieving the U.N. MDGs set out for women. By N.B. Najima. Photo by Fred Wissink. ...................................................................................................

I am the last of three daughters, born to the second of four daughters, by way of the first of three sisters I never met. My father, joking, used to say, “We don’t have a house; we have a kitchen, a bathroom and closet space!” By which he meant our home was full of the scent of warm, peppery things cooking and congenially crammed with racks of soft dresses and lace.

(With the exception of me, who introduced jam sandwiches and combat boots.)

There is a saying in Vietnam—“wilful threads create embroidery; wilful steel produces needles”—that spools through my mind whenever I flip through reports on “development”— that catch-all snapshot meant to describe how we’re faring, as a species.

Species-wide, the Millennium Development Goals (the United Nations’ scorecard of progress toward key indicators of human wellbeing and dignity) stitch a messy diorama; it gets all knotted up when it comes to the issue of women. The third MDG for gender equality and the fifth MDG for reduced maternal mortality remain, in most countries, distant goals.

Not achievements. According to the U.N. only one in three rural women gets proper antenatal care and in many places girls do housework while their brothers go to school. Women, it would seem, are expected to be just soft, pliant, pretty threads decorating other people’s lives.

Fortunately, in Vietnam there is plenty of steel to go around.

Vietnam was the first developing country in Asia—and one of the first in the world— to reach MDG No.1 for poverty reduction.

In 1990 the poverty rate was 60 percent; today it is less than 15 percent. Economic progress has been astounding and between strict quotas and the work of powerful mass organizations like the Vietnam Women’s Union, women’s status, freedom and the fulfilment of their rights have all greatly improved. Maternal mortality has dropped precipitously, from 2.33 per every 1000 women in 1990 to 0.69 / 1000 in 2009. (Millennium Development Goals

Report 2010). This is well below the world average of 4 / 1000 but still much higher than the ratio in many developed countries, which ranges from 0 in Ireland to 0.133 in the U.S. Pull the thread of that victory, however, and the skein grows ever more tangled.

The snapshot of development has not caught all; some places, and some women, are being left behind. Vietnam’s Millennium Development Goals Report 2010 shows that more than half of ethnic minority groups live below the poverty line and 16 percent of ethnic minority girls do not attend primary school.

Women in remote areas often lack access to family planning information and materials, and healthcare for these women is woefully inadequate. As such, maternal mortality rates are nearly twice as high in rural areas as they are in urban areas.

Perhaps most disturbing to a woman with two sisters, Vietnam’s national sex ratio at birth is 112 boys to 100 girls. In some regions, such as the Northeast, it is over 120 boys per 100 girls (UNRC 2010). This means that millions of girls are dying before they even have a voice to raise—either through sex-selective abortions or through female infanticide. I think of the house where I grew up, and of my many aunts and great-aunts, and imagine millions of empty dresses swinging silently in useless closet space.

A nation already beginning to worry about the reverse pyramid effect of a large population of elderly supported by a smaller working population will have few good options if faced by hundreds of thousands of men unable to find brides and form families.

The solution?

More multisectoral coordination, better access to reproductive health services in rural and minority areas, greater attention to underlying health issues like anaemia and to socio-cultural issues like rigid gender norms and inequality.

And perhaps, a little more recognition that no embroidery is possible without both threads and steel. asialife HCMC 27

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WATER WOES SUBSIDE IN MEKONG DELTA A non-profit dedicated to Vietnam works to improve water availability in the Delta. By Beth Young. Photo by Fred Wissink. ...................................................................................................

6,000 People die worldwide everyday due to a lack of clean water.

...........................

180,000 People have access to clean water from an EMW water system.

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5,500 People who have received improved sanitation through EMW.

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135 Village water systems EMW has built in Vietnam.

........................... $20 Provides a household connection to clean, piped water for the poorest of the poor.

The Mekong Delta, though flush with water, has never been thirstier. Heavily polluted thanks to fertilizers and toxic emissions from the countless boats that use the Delta as a thoroughfare, the region’s residents have been left to make do with contaminated, often disease-ridden water. Recognizing the severe public health implications, East Meets West (EMW)—a foundation that manages health and education initiatives in Southeast Asia and particularly Vietnam—launched their Clean Water and Sanitation Programme late last year.

Already successful in Central Vietnam, where EMW has been in place since 2007, the programme takes a three-pronged approach. Clean water systems are installed, as are septic latrines. The third step, and perhaps the most important to enacting sustainable change, is encouraging hand washing.

This is crucial as a lack of sanitation increases the risk of disease, especially water-borne varieties that plague young children and can prove deadly. Le Thanh Binh, who’s in charge of the Mekong Delta project, says while achieving all three is preferable, some communities can only effectively implement one or two. She adds with a laugh, though, “anything is better than nothing!”

The results so far back this up. Now, 180,000 people nationwide have access to clean water, thanks to EMW. And in under 12 months working to improve sanitation in four Mekong Delta provinces—Tien Giang, Dong Thap, Long An and An Giang—progress is being made, too, albeit gradually. When commended on her efforts so far Binh interjects fiercely that only one percent of the area’s residents are currently connected to clean water. In her opinion, there’s still much work to do.

And she’s right. To satisfy the United Nations Millennium Development Goal to “halve the proportion of people without sustainable access to safe drinking water” within the

designated 2015 timeframe will be difficult.

Binh remains optimistic. “It’s not impossible. It will just be really hard.”

Support—from the government, other charities and, indeed the beneficiaries of the projects—is desperately needed to achieve results. Luckily, this concept is somewhat ingrained in EMW’s mission statement. Their primary goal is to empower the residents of such communities to maintain the systems themselves. To achieve this, EMW provide the tools needed, outsourcing to private enterprises with the expertise to build the infrastructure required and educating those who’ll benefit. Women, in particular, Binh says, are instrumental in this process. Van Ly, EMW’s development officer agrees. She says that women’s union representatives stationed in hamlets throughout Vietnam communicate the foundation’s message best. According to her, once they understand that their children’s lives are at stake, they are completely on board.

In addition, community members must pay for their own connections (US $25) plus a yearly water bill ($24). This, Ly says, creates a sense of ownership, as well as paying for maintenance and allowing EMW to walk away knowing that what they’ve helped to build (with access to a World Bank-administered trust fund) will stay in working order.

For some though, even the one-time $25 connection fee is unaffordable. EMW refers to these people as The Poorest of the Poor and a separate fund is put aside specifically for them. This is where donations are best contributed, both Binh and Ly say, as the outlay is next to nothing for an expatriate living in Vietnam, yet can provide a household with connection to clean, piped water—a life source. And this, to the Delta’s most impoverished citizens, is invaluable.

Visit www.eastmeetswest.org to make a donation. asialife HCMC 29

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THE BIG MONEY The economic outlook for 2011 is positive and encouraging for investors.

By Brett Davis. Photo by Fred Wissink. ...................................................................................................

Much of the world is still struggling to shake off the effects of the seismic economic shock of 2008. Economies are in recession or at best flat in many countries but Vietnam has continued to see growth, albeit with the brakes applied somewhat.

It has been a mixed bag of indices this year. GDP growth for the first nine months of 2010 was just over 6.5 percent, but a jump in the Consumer Price Index in October, driven mainly in food and construction material price increases, saw inflation hovering just below the 10 percent mark, year-on-year.

It is a similar story with Foreign Direct Investment. Disbursements rose 7.1 percent to U.S. $9 billion, while FDI pledges were down 42 percent at $12.8 billion, considerably below the government’s target of between $22 and 25 billion.

However, if financial markets are built on confidence, and it was certainly a lack of confidence that saw liquidity and investment grind to a halt following the global financial crisis, the picture painted by a survey of financial decision makers in Vietnam shows encouraging signs.

The Vietnam office of the world’s fifthlargest accounting firm, Grant Thornton, has published its Quarter 4, 2010 Investor Sentiment and Outlook Survey showing the overall view of the country’s economy remains largely positive.

The survey polled 800 decision makers from investment funds, advisory and legal firms, securities traders, institutional and private investors to gauge the pulse of the business and investment community.

Almost two thirds of respondents said the outlook for the Vietnamese economy over the

next 12 months was positive, while a further 30 percent said the outlook was neutral.

Similarly, three in four of those surveyed said Vietnam was extremely attractive or more attractive than other destinations in terms of investment.

Grant Thornton Advisory Services Director Matthew Lourey says while the positive sentiments are slightly down on the Quarter 2 survey, the results probably reflect a more realistic view of where the local investment environment sits in relation to the rest of the world, and take into account changes in domestic economic indicators.

“We had [during the second quarter] a fairly stable currency, inflation was within acceptable margins and there were few economic issues. Now it is not quite as perfect as it was.”

However, Lourey says the favourable sentiment recorded in the survey was still strong and far outweighs the negative. “I can see that as optimism,” he says.

“From an investment perspective, you have to have growth and the domestic growth, particularly in the retail economy, is going ahead in leaps and bounds.”

Education, real estate/property, retail and transport and logistics were seen as among the most positive sectors for investment. On the flip side, the survey group saw the legal system, corruption and government red tape as the major obstacles to investment.

When it comes to booking profits, the IPO is no longer the most favoured option for major investors, having been over taken by trade sales. Lourey says: “The stock market has been fairly lackluster, and while a trade sale will take longer, you will get a better yield.” asialife HCMC 31

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DESPERATELY SEEKING NURSES Nurses in Vietnam require necessary training and hands-on skills to meet the country's growing demand. By Beth Young. Photo by Fred Wissink. ...................................................................................................

There’s a serious shortage of nurses, and that’s not just in Vietnam. It’s a global issue.

Rafi Kot, the general director of Family Medical Practice, has lived in Vietnam for 24 years. He’s worked in close contact with countless local nurses over the course of his stay and says without doubt they are some of the best qualified in the world. While they are savvy and can handle intense pressure, they do have their downfalls Kot adds, albeit through no fault of their own.

According to him they simply don’t receive the necessary training and as a result lack some crucial skills. A grasp of the English language in particular, Kot believes, is holding them back—for several reasons. One, they are unable to understand instructions from foreign doctors, but more importantly they cannot access the wealth of reading material available to them—medical journals, studies, Internet articles detailing nursing practice— as it’s primarily written in English. This, says Kot, is a travesty, and one easily rectified if a compulsory language component is added to all nursing programmes. “Their inability to speak English prevents them from reading, learning.” He adds, “Medicine is a cosmopolitan business,” meaning as an industry that’s continually seeing breakthroughs and advancements, its professionals need to stay abreast of the latest and greatest techniques.

Hands-on skills are sorely lacking, too.

Nursing degrees are available; however, they merely offer theory in a profession that demands practical application. “Good nurses are trained in good hospitals. Clerkships are so, so, so important,” Kot notes. He adds that severe overcrowding in state-run Vietnamese facilities means that doctors and experienced nurses barely have time to look after their patients, let alone instruct their charges. The result: nurses who have little idea how to operate when left to their own devices.

There’s a serious shortage of nurses, and that’s not just in Vietnam. It’s a global issue.

When asked why, then, there is a dearth of vocational training centres to fill this void Kot is at an absolute loss. “A platform for training needs to be created,” he says. For the life of him, he can’t fathom why already-established universities don’t recognize the potential for investment and use their “muscle” to build this foundation. In September of 2012 Kot plans to open a hospital in District 2. He says he is willing to create a programme, but he warns that he will keep the best nurses for himself.

This, he admits, is part of the problem. There needs to be a willingness to share, otherwise Vietnam’s nursing industry is in big trouble.

Kot says there’s no quick fix. Building vocational schools won’t alleviate the problem.

Budget needs to be poured in and incentives need to be given for students to pursue nursing as a career. Most young Vietnamese are pragmatic. They’re looking to earn quick money, to lead a comfortable life. Nursing offers none of this, Kot says. Instead, it’s a hard slog, with much responsibility attached and often little reward. “It’s extremely difficult.” He suggests higher salaries to encourage more takers, but after that, he’s out. “I don’t have any more answers.”

He does mention, however, that the value of nurses needs to be translated into reality; much like their theoretical knowledge must match their ability to apply what they’ve learned. While an image of a female nurse almost always stands alongside a labourer on government propaganda signs—both deemed pillars of society and essential to its continued growth—not enough is being done to ensure the industry’s quality is maintained.

He throws up his hand and asks in reference to the nurse pictured on the posters, “Where is she? Is this an extinct species?” asialife HCMC 33

LEARNING TO EARN A comprehensive youth study reveals the hopes and aspirations of the young. By Beth Young. Photos by Ho Quang. ...................................................................................................

On average, $34 of teens’ monthly income is spent on paying back debt.

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Family dinners are the most “in” activity for teens.

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47% of teens rate spending time with their parents as a preferred pastime.

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96% of teens claim they are not in a serious relationship.

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62% of teens expect to settle down between the ages of 25 to 29.

Earlier in the year AsiaLIFE teamed with market research firm TNS Vietnam to gauge youth perceptions and attitudes in Saigon and Hanoi. Focus groups were held in both cities, with teenagers aged 15 to 19. The goal: to gather qualitative insight indicative of the hopes, dreams and desires of young Vietnamese across the board.

Now, TNS has the figures to back up the findings, thanks to completing Vietnam’s first ever TRU Youth Study—a comprehensive global youth survey conducted in more than 40 countries. TNS surveyed 1,425 young people aged 12 to 19 and 20 to 24 across rural and urban Vietnam, focusing on three key areas: Hanoi and Thai Binh in the North, Danang and Quang Nam in the Centre and HCM City and Tien Giang in the South.

Several topics were broached—relationships, spending trends, activities, familial ties, media consumption, brand perceptions and usage plus some—to develop a clear understanding of what Vietnamese youth consider to be “in” and “out.” And, with a population that reached 86 million last year, of which the Government Statistics Office estimates that 35 percent are under the age of 20, this know-how has never been more important.

TNS consultant David Watts agrees. His job involves gathering youth related information, particularly in the realm of education—an area that both Vietnamese parents and their children rate as highly important to future success and wellbeing. As Watts says teens and young adults are “learning to earn.” By this he means they are treating education as a pathway to a well-paid career that will in turn support their family—immediate and extended.

Family obligation is ingrained, and the TRU results reflect this. While they are working to find a happy medium between embracing modernity and maintaining traditional values, family still comes first. Abnormal from a Western perspective, Vietnamese teens actually enjoy spending time with their parents, with 47 percent of respondents rating it as a

preferred activity. What’s more, family dinners are most “in” for teens. “Partly it’s expected of them,” Watts notes, “however, there’s also that element of wanting to. On the whole, they’re good kids and they want to make their parents proud.” He goes further saying this can be attributed to the importance of keeping face in Vietnamese society. “They want to be seen to be doing the right thing.”

These strong familial ties extend to other facets of their life, too, namely the relationships they choose to pursue and how they spend their money. Interestingly, teens are spending the most on repaying debt (an average $34 per month). No doubt, they are borrowing money to pay for entertainment and the newest consumer items, however, as Watts explains, these debts can include tuition fees. “They are also accumulating debt to achieve, investing in their future.”

The pragmatism is evident. Quality education should lead to a good job and greater future earning power, which will give them the means to live a “successful” (note: comfortable) life and in doing so, provide for their loved ones.

Similarly, marriage is being put off until later. In the past, 25 was deemed over the hill, but now a greater emphasis is placed on studying with a firm eye set on the future.

Still, dating is popular, though more innocent a concept than in the west, for example. They are simply spending time with the opposite sex, often in groups of friends—an extension of their social network. As Watts says, “It’s nothing serious.”

More than anything, Vietnamese youth are working to synergize, to balance modern and traditional values. They’ve accepted that some foreign trends just don’t translate here but also recognize that to be ahead of the game, some need to be embraced. The trick: to hold onto their cultural identity on the way.

As Watts says, it will be a grapple.

For more information on the TNS TRU Youth Study email david.watts@tns-global.com. asialife HCMC 35

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HOME AND AWAY Is Vietnam ready to sell itself as a solid second home? Brett Davis reports.

Photo by Fred Wissink. ...................................................................................................

“The top end of the market tends to be small and quite fickle, but now there are more entry points and that is a big change,” said Marc Townsend, CBRE Managing Director (left).

Dubbed the ‘second home’ market, condo and villa developments have been mushrooming along Vietnam’s coastline.

Only a few years old, the growth in this sector of the property market has been exponential. An estimated 10,000 condos and 11,000 villas were complete or in the pipeline as of the end of September this year. This is an increase of 300 and 500 per cent respectively on the same time last year.

The relatively low cost of purchasing coastal land for development (as opposed to HCM City, for example) and the potential million-plus-dollar sale price for each property has created something of a real estate gold rush.

Given the flurry of projects launched or under construction, is there enough demand to meet the growing supply and to keep prices buoyant enough to provide a return for investors?

Global real estate firm CB Richard Ellis (CBRE) recently presented a research report, Vietnam’s Second Home Market: Surviving the Tsunami, which sought to give some insight into the burgeoning sector and provide advice to new players hoping to enter the market.

CBRE Managing Director Marc Townsend says that in a short time the market has already evolved from offering primarily highend properties to a broader base with more affordable options.

“The top end of the market tends to be small and quite fickle, but now there are more entry points and that is a big change,” he says.

The top end is typified by developments such as the Nam Hai in Hoi An, where the 40 villas started from $1.5 million. Now there are condos available in some developments from as little as $75,000 which,

Townsend points out, make them very attractive to foreign retirees.

“You might think, ‘We have a few good years left and in no other place in Asia can you get something like this for this price.’”

Unlike in Thailand and Malaysia, which have more developed second home markets and other incentives, such as visa concessions to attract retirees, the Vietnamese second home market has so far been driven primarily by local purchasers. According to the CBRE research 85 percent of purchasers are local Vietnamese. Of the remainder, 10 percent are overseas Vietnamese and just five percent are foreigners.

Certainly developers are diversifying their product in order to attract buyers. Moving away from the conventional beachside formula, new developments are moving to headland or mountain locations and developing niche attractions such as marinas, spas or golf courses. Ownership models are also diversifying from privately owned and occupied properties to more timeshare options or properties managed as hotels or resorts where owners can block-book certain periods throughout the year for their own use.

Most of the projects in the second home market have been undertaken by second-tier Vietnamese developers, but regional players are beginning to enter the market, particularly from Thailand. To survive the coming ‘tsunami’ of supply, Townsend says the key to success will be good planning, realistic pricing, a quality product and packaging the project well with a strong marketing campaign.

“The money will flow to the best designed, best managed and most creative projects,” he says.

“There is no doubt that Vietnam’s second home market has infinite possibilities, however developers must learn from their neighbours in Thailand to ensure success.” asialife HCMC 37

Dr. Stephen Covey—renowned author of the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People—was recently in HCM City to present a seminar organized by manpower subsidary Right Management. Beth young speaks to his students to find out what they learned and gets the doctor himself to reveal his bad habits.

ANDY LIM KC

Country Manager Damco I’ve recently been assigned to lead a new office in Cambodia. Dr. Covey talked about culture and in an emerging market the culture is so different, not like a developed city where it’s much easier to influence people or discover people’s individual strengths. So I think this is something I can take back with me. The most important thing about this morning’s session, though, is the freedom to choose. That is very powerful.

“I stay up

too late.”

Dr. Covey

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PHAN THI NGUYEN THAO

Business Unit Director – Hair Care Unilever Habit number one for me: Be proactive and recognize the freedom you have to respond towards a situation—positively or negatively.

I learned this five years ago at a 7 Habits course organized by my company. That was my paradigm shift. I was always a positive person but I didn’t know why. After I went to the workshop, it made me fully aware of that quality and sharpened my belief in myself.

Now I’m aware of that strength and principle.

PHAM NU NHI

Marketing & Communications Executive Manpower Planning: Every single day I have a plan and I try to prioritize. I took this away from a 7 Habits seminar I did a while ago. I wake up early in the morning and I have a plan in hand. I try to follow the plan but sometimes I can’t because something urgent happens at work that I have to take care of.

STEVE MURPHY

Chief Executive Indochina Consultants Administrators Company Ltd I’m in training myself so I liked the way he emphasized the importance, or the effectiveness, of teaching to learn. Like he said, only 10 percent of information is retained from reading, compared to 95 percent when taught. If you really want to get a message across don’t just share it or talk about it, actually start to get the group to impart it and discuss it. I also liked the leadership imperatives— unleashing the talent in others, clarifying purpose, aligning systems and inspiring trust. That’s what leadership is about, that’s what you really need to do.

ROD WARD

Country Manager Roche Diagnostics Vietnam I first read The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People around 20 years ago and was immediately inspired by Dr. Covey’s principles for organizational and individual application. Seeing him live at the seminar in HCM City rekindled and resharpened the habits and reminded me of the importance of “Sharpening the Saw”; the habit that makes all other habits possible. In this age of information technology and globalization it is important to sharpen the saw as life is a journey of seeking continuous learning and continuous improvement.

TRAN THANH THIEN PHUONG

Sales Manager Yahoo Leadership is not about control; it’s about interacting and understanding each other. That’s the key point. Another point is working effectively with employees by understanding what they’re thinking, what they need, their concerns and their unique talents.

DOAN THI NGOC THAO

Associate Director Standard Chartered One thing that I will take away is to go back and teach people what I have learned from my own life experience. For me, it’s always really inspiring to hear about someone’s life experience—you can learn from it. What’s very inspiring about Dr. Covey is that he actually lets us know what he’s experienced in his life; I really appreciate that.

“Sometimes

I don’t listen as well as I should.”

Dr. Covey

The 7 Habits 1. Be Proactive • • •

Take initiative Manage change Take responsibility and have accountability

2. Begin with the End in Mind • • • •

Define vision and values Set measurable team and personal goals Align goals to priorities Focus on desired outcomes

3. Put First Things First • • • •

Execute strategy Focus on important activities Apply effective delegation skills Use planning tools effectively

4. Think Win-Win • • • •

Build high-trust relationships Build effective teams Apply successful negotiation skills Use effective collaboration

5. Seek First to Understand, Then to be Understood • • • •

Apply effective interpersonal communication Overcome communication pitfalls Understand others Communicate viewpoints effectively

6. Synergize • • • • •

Leverage diversity Apply effective problem solving Apply collaborative decision making Value differences Build on different strengths

7. Sharpen the Saw • • •

Achieve life balance Apply continuous improvement Seek continuous learning

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asialife HCMC 41

A marriage between circus performers, martial artists and modern dancers takes a few minutes for the mind to comprehend as each art is so diverse, it is difficult to visualize what the union will be like. But the people behind Xin Chao Art Performance Company have done just that with their first production—and exclusive behind the scenes images from their rehearsal prove how creativity fused with talent can create an exquisite union.

"Xin Chao!" is similar to the genres of "Cirque Du Soliel," "Siam Niramit" and "Voyage De La Vie"—all known globally for visually powerful performances—but it is a celebration of Vietnam’s rich history, told by 42 asialife HCMC

its committed performers keen on preserving that heritage that may be at the risk of dying if not feted.

It is inspired by two events, extensively researched by the show’s producer and director Laura Burke. One is the story of Lac Lam Quan and Au Co, also known as the creation myth, while the other is of the Hai Ba Trung sisters, valiant siblings who created an army to overthrow invaders from Vietnam.

Both tales are an integral part of this country, beloved by all but not known so much to foreigners. The opportunity to narrate these tales using performance art is a good opportunity to widen their reach—and remind people of their valuable les-

sons, namely about parents’ willingness to sacrifice for their children and about how having resilience will never let one down.

Putting this performance together has been a Herculean task and one that each member involved is proud to have overcome. Burke is keen to let everyone know that this isn’t a foreign show; “we’re just lending an international perspective to their story-telling.”

A cast of 50 artists come together on stage to perform the play in three acts: the first is the creation myth, which sees performances in artistic kung fu, dance and circus acts; the second act is Hai Ba Trung sisters performed in Kung Fu,

dance and circus while the final act, which brings audience to modern day Dong Khoi sees a parade of the heroes.

To the audience, this is an incredible performance, but to the people involved, it has been a magical experience—a coming together of giants in talent in martial arts, like Master Thanh, working alongside the very young, each hopeful the art will be preserved, if not revived altogether. For Rosie Pollard, the assistant director and choreographer, the cross training of the performers provided many valuable lessons for everyone and as it comes together, watching everyone perform “gives me goose bumps.” It appears she will not be alone.

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Muna Khan meets the melody king of Bollywood in HCM City and sees for herself just how beloved he is. Photo by Fred Wissink.

It is difficult to articulate what a big deal it is to be meeting Bappi Lahiri, the king of Indian disco, a legend in Bollywood whose hits from the ‘80s can pack a dance floor within seconds even today and inspire even international performers like M.I.A. who did a cover version of his hit single “Jimmy Jimmy” in 2007. And we’ve not even gotten to the Michael Jackson story, “King of Pop met King of Disco,” he says with a laugh. Bappi Da, as he is affectionately known by all (Da being big brother in his native tongue Bengali) has a long list of accolades, too long to fill a page of a feature, so versatile is his repertoire—but suffice to say, it is a very big deal that he is in Vietnam to perform at a Diwali event hosted by the Indian Chamber of Commerce.

We meet at the Caravelle at a quiet lounge where, within moments of his arrival, other guests realize they are in the presence of someone important.

Admittedly, it is hard not to do a double take: Bappi Da dresses like a disco king, adorned with what is now his signature style of several gold necklaces, bracelets, sunglasses and a mullet of sorts. It is, however, not garish, certainly not to the subcontinental eye who has grown up seeing Bappi Da “like this always”. I expected a man who would exhibit at 44 asialife HCMC

least one diva-like trait—with so many accolades, you expect a few—but he showed none. He is wildly funny, in a self-deprecating manner too, engaging as a conversationalist, and astute in his insight on the state of Bollywood today.

Lahiri has 463 films under his belt (composer, singer, in several Indian languages) and a world book record for recording 37 films in one year. His songs are instantly recognizable today, 20 years on whereas popular music today doesn’t exhibit staying power. I ask

that while there is a new wave of emerging talent (and one that could perhaps add value to music in Bollywood), what’s lacking is opportunities. “What good is it to win a show if you can’t a break in as a playback singer in Bollywood? I’ve helped a few singers and my son Bappa (also a composer like his father and a great drummer who performed in HCM City with the band) is trying to promote new talent too—but it’s difficult for youngsters. This is especially true if today’s music is being

“I think music today is like a one-day cricket match... I don’t think that Bollywood scores today will be remembered decades later either." him why he thinks this is so. “I think music today is like a oneday cricket match (he laughs when he says this). I don’t think that Bollywood scores today will be remembered decades later either. I think in the golden era (composers like RD Burman, Kishore Kumar, Kalyanji Anandij, OP Nayyar to name a few) people would listen to songs, today they watch them—such is the exposure of Bollywood on TV.” Lahiri has been judging a popular singing contest on Indian television but he finds

heavily inspired from earlier tunes, like mine. I hear songs from popular movies and think it’s just a few tunes away from XYZ song I sang/composed in the ‘80s. “ Although Lahiri is still referred to as the disco king of India, he has a wide repertoire which includes ghazals (classical poetry) and a recently released album in the US called “World Peace Love and Harmony”. Does this signal a shift in his music? It turns out this project has been in the making for a long time. “I was

in New York City when 9/11 happened and then in Mumbai when 26/11 occurred and I was very shaken by them,” he says.

“I couldn’t understand what was happening in the world. So I began this album to promote peace and love amongst mankind, to remind everyone that we are one, we are together.”

He worked on the album with the Grammy nominated saxophonist Gerald Albright and several other noteworthy musicians and also played the tabla himself. “The album is a great example of fusing traditional Indian music with western tunes. I’m very happy with the result and pleased that the label has submitted it to the Grammys for consideration in their world music category. My sights are now set on winning a Grammy and then an Oscar.”

Does this mean Lahiri will bid adieu to Bollywood or touring?

“No. Only two people in Bollywood don’t tire, me and Amitabh Bachchan (India’s most iconic actor). I do have a busy tour schedule and still get many offers from Bollywood but I am very selective now.

Even then I am very busy and I always have music on my mind. In fact, just before coming for this interview, I was at a store buying Vietnamese music.

Inspiration comes from everywhere and anywhere.”

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As Fresh As It Gets Okay. You know I've eaten and drunk many a strange thing. And I'll continue to do so, for your delectation as well as mine. So I was at the 3T restaurant, on the rooftop above Temple Club, recently, entertaining a friend from the States.

And I want to tell you that I had the freshest shrimp I've ever eaten. Oh, so sweet and succulent were they! Truly, I've never tasted shrimp so divine.

There I was, at the northeast corner table (best in the house), under a starry sky. Miss Constance (that's the mem saab, you know) was at my left hand, and my old boxing nemesisnow-best-buddy Bruce Harmon upon my right. We ordered a slew of meats and fish to cook ourselves at the grill installed in the centre of our table. And that included shrimp. Giant prawns, really. And truly, they were monstrously big. Pink, fat, shimmering in their shells, all skewered with a bamboo stick and piled on a big plate ready for the red hot grill. I anticipated the sizzling sound and the smoky aroma.

And then one of them leaped out of the plate and onto Lady C's lap! And then another! And as I looked, I could see that that the entire pile of shrimp, with wooden stakes driven through their hearts, was undulatingly alive! So, what to do? We threw them on the grill and cooked them. Damn, they were good!

It was one of those, “Only in Saigon” moments. With profuse apologies to the RSPCA and PETA, they were the best shrimp I've ever eaten.

And it made me recall the night in Saigon's Houng Roung Restaurant, when yet another fresh dish was set before me.

It was a living seven-foot long Indian king cobra. The restaurant's snake handler held it up by the tail and, writhing before me reminded me of a cowboy playing with a lariat. But this lariat was snapping his deadly jaws mere inches before my too vulnerable face.

“Bravo!” (or something to that effect) the restaurant patrons shouted, as the “cowboy” displayed his skill in controlling this “lariat of death.” My Vietnamese assistant, Miss Tran, leaned forward and whispered in my ear, “Don’t worry. The handler is very good. He’s only been bitten twice.”

Luckily, two of the handler’s assistants appeared and the three of them grappled with the thrashing serpent, stretching him out lengthwise across my table. Another assistant slit his throat and drained his blood into a goblet. Now the beast lay still, and the handler cut out its still beating heart and set it in a small ivory serving vessel. He

cord it snaked down my throat.

I hardly had to swallow. Raising the goblet I toasted the skilful handler who has only been bitten twice and quaffed a good portion of the warm blood and sweet wine. Miss Tran looked on approvingly. I dabbed my lips with the starched white napkin and it came away with the red imprint of my lips, like a blotter a woman has used after applying her lipstick.

As I performed this ceremony a cook was adroitly de-boning the snake. The bones, delicate as a small fish’s, he broke into pieces, dredged them in rice flour and salt, then deep fried them to a savoury, crispy snack. Then he prepared the flesh as three

Lifting the little ivory saucer to my lips I tilted my head back and the heart slid beating into my mouth. Almost of its own accord it snaked down my throat.

I hardly had to swallow. mixed rice wine into the chalice of blood and set the sanguine mess before me with all due aplomb. “I guess I’m supposed to eat this, eh?” I asked Miss Tran.

“And drink the blood,” she said. “It’s an honour, you know. And it will make you, how shall I say, ‘strong.’” The term “strong” was Miss Tran’s delicate way of saying it would supercharge my libido.

“There seem to be many dishes here that make men strong,” I observed.

“Yes. We have a high birth rate.”

“Do ladies ever eat such things?” I asked, still regarding the thumbnail sized heart beating in its little dish.

“No,” she said. And for the first and only time, I saw her blush.

Lifting the little ivory saucer to my lips I tilted my head back and the heart slid beating into my mouth. Almost of its own ac-

separate dishes that I chose from a list of eight available. I chose curried, braised with wine, and wrapped in tangy leaves then grilled. Miss Tran gamely tasted the flesh of the serpent, but deemed it unladylike to enjoy it. Perhaps she feared it would make her, shall we say, strong.

She contented herself with rice and vegetables and a small fish.

I, on the other hand, consumed all I could of Eve’s betrayer. I continued to sip the vinous blood and dab my lips with the napkin till it was mottled with crimson. What, you may ask, did the serpent, the symbol of evil and deceit, taste like? Was he bitter? No. Tough to chew? Hardly. I wish I could say that he tasted of sin. Or at least had an after taste of bad deeds.

Or simply impure thoughts.

But the truth is, he tasted like chicken. I much preferred the jumping prawns.

Richard Sterling

A MEATY ISSUE

Brett Davis gets the lowdown on how to select and cook the perfect steak. Photos by Fred Wissink.

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There are few gastronomic experiences that can equal tucking in to a juicy, perfectly-prepared steak. It is also the food that prompts the most debate on just what constitutes good quality and the best preparation methods. We spoke to the experts to get the lowdown.

Making the right choice Co-owner of the New York Steakhouse and Winery Antoine Sirot has one rule when it comes to choosing the right steak: fat equals flavour. “A well-marbled piece of meat will be tastier,” he says.

Marbling is the flecks of white fat running through the muscle tissue, and this will determine if it will yield maximum taste.

If the steak has little or no marbling, it will likely be more

tender but without as much flavour.

Sirot says the other important indicator is the colour of the meat. The meat should be a deep red, but not too dark or too light.

Murray Grosvenor from Kim Hai Butchery leans towards the pinker end of the colour spectrum, denoting a younger animal. The colour of the fat is also worth consideration. “That will tell you if the animal has been on good feed and with grain fed cattle the fat should be as white as possible,” he says.

Depending on where your meat is from, it may also come with a grade. For instance, the U.S. Department of Agriculture grades beef in a range from Prime (top grade), Choice and Select (bottom grade). In addi-

tenderloin tion to these grades, beef may also be marketed as ‘Natural.’

This signifies that the cattle were grass or grain fed and not administered growth hormones.

Australian beef is graded with categories such as: Y— yearling beef up to 18 months in age; YG—young prime beef up to 30 months; YP—young prime beef up to 36 months; and PR— prime beef up to 42 months.

However, the price and characteristics of the beef in these grades will vary depending on if it is from Wagyu, grain-fed or grass-fed cattle.

A cut above There are a myriad of different cuts available and each part of the beast has characteristics that will appeal to different tastes.

We will look at three of the topend cuts you are likely to find in a restaurant menu or in the better beef suppliers.

The tenderloin of eye fillet comes from the short loin section of the cow. This area also produces the T-bone and porterhouse. The tenderloin is the most tender cut of beef, however, as it has almost no fat it is not particularly flavourful.

The sirloin is from the midback section, and has a distinctive strap of fat running around the edge. The will impart more flavour but meat remains fairly

sirloin

rib fillet

tender as there is not a great deal of marbling through the muscle.

The rib fillet is the first choice of many steak aficionados. It is less tender than the tenderloin, but the fat streaked through the meat makes it mouth-wateringly tasty. When meat is graded it is done as a whole carcass and it is the rib section that is used to determine the best from the rest.

The great debate There are endless sources of information on how you should cook a steak, and almost as many different theories. Sirot says that high heat and resting the meat before serving are the key factors in well-cooked steak.

“All high-fat meat types, such as Rib-eye or Sirloin should be broiled at 1200 degrees Celsius or higher to ensure the meat is closed by the heat to keep both the moisture and fat inside the meat,” he says.

“The low-fat meat like tenderloin would be better pan fried with butter and oil.

“Ensure you give the meat a good five minutes rest after broiling before cutting in order for the meat texture to recover from the heat stress. If not you will see a lot of the natural moisture contained in the meat leaking onto the plate rather than staying in the muscle.” asialife HCMC 49

Boomarang The developments on the eastern side of Phu My Hung can feel something like a new frontier, with the gleaming office and residential towers patiently awaiting their tenants.

Fortunately, there are some pioneering souls staking their claim to what will inevitably be a premium business and residential hub.

There is something of the pioneering spirit at the Boomarang Bistro, the Australian-themed eatery that recently opened its doors in a prime lake front location on Ton Dat Tien. General Manager Adam Zakharoff explains that all the restaurant’s breads, burger patties and pizza bases are made from scratch on site.

“Even our chips are fresh and hand-cut,” he says.

The menu, not surprisingly, offers a range of solid fare reminiscent of an Australian 50 asialife HCMC

pub bistro. There is plenty of seafood, salads, pizzas, meats from the grill and freshly made desserts.

Starters include chicken or beef skewers (100,000 VND), a platter of Australian cheeses (220,000 VND) and pepper and lime calamari (100,000 VND).

Nha Trang oysters, either natural or Kilpatrick go for 110,000 VND and 125,000 VND respectively for a half dozen.

Two of the standout salads are the Cajun Barramundi salad with mango and grapefruit in a red wine vinaigrette (155,000 VND), and the char grilled octopus salad with tomato, onion and balsamic chili dressing.

Small 10-inch pizzas are 195,000 VND and the large 14-inch pizzas are 225,000 VND. The Boomarang Deluxe features Wagyu beef, pepperoni, beef sausage, bacon, Spanish onion, mushrooms and barbeque

Phu My Hung gets a taste of Australian bistro fare.

By Brett Davis. Photos by Fred Wissink. sauce. Already a popular choice, the pumpkin pizza is also topped with kalamata olives, feta, onions, capsicum, cherry tomato confit and basil.

The more adventurous might try the tropical flavours of the Far North Queensland pizza with tiger prawns, octopus, mussels, clams and finished with mango sour cream.

The real action is on the grill, where among a selection of imported grain-fed beef you can get a 300g eye fillet, a whopping 450g T-bone (each 450,000 VND) or a 350gm lamb rack (365,000 VND).

The Boomarang Bistro is spread over two floors with timber finish all around.

Downstairs is the main bar and dining area with an outdoor deck overlooking the lake.

Unlike many venues in Saigon, smoking is allowed only in the outdoor area. Upstairs is a

second kitchen, walk-in wine cellar and space for functions and meetings.

“We are very family friendly, and have our ‘Little Tackers’ menu for the kids,” says Zakharoff. The welcoming spirit even extends to pets, and doggy bowls are available on request.

“Our goal is just to provide good Aussie fare, good quality and generous serves,” says the Australian native who has spent his entire career in the hospitality business. It’s a formula that is hard to argue with.

Boomarang Bistro The Crescent Residences 2, CR2 3-4 Ton Dat Tien Phu My Hung, District 7 Breakfast 8 am to 11.30 am weekdays, all-day breakfast on weekends. Kitchen closes at 11 pm weekdays and a ‘late menu’ is available on weekends.

Ph: 5413 6592

in cooperation with Kids First Enterprise would like to thank all the sponsors of

As a result of your generosity 180 people in need will recieve a wheelchair.

Flow There are a few things that will surprise you about Flow: its spaciousness (especially when you walk upstairs), its menu (details to follow) and its value for money. Flow is undoubtedly an upscale restaurant: its interiors are swank without being overpowering, its menu is classic, its wine list is impressive, even its music is reminiscent of grooves you’d find in a Parisian eatery. That it all does without a hint of pretension is what sets it apart.

A word on its space first: it is surprisingly large for a restaurant and the space has been used well, both indoors and outdoors. A permanent art 52 asialife HCMC

European cuisine with subtle hints of local flavours in settings that make you want to stay on. By M. Khan.

Photos by Jonny Edbrooke and Fred Wissink. exhibit by Helene Kling adorns the walls and in November they hosted a short film event that drew nearly 400 people. This multi-purpose space concept is new to Vietnam but one that can do very well. And Flow is being selective about what they choose to host.

And now onto the food.

Executive chef Chris van der Kuil, who moved from his native Holland under two months ago (at the time of writing) has whipped up an impressive menu with hints of local flavours. The pan fried sea bass with sweet and sour vegetables (210,000 VND) is an example of that, it reminded me of the cha

ca in Hanoi, which the chef had yet to have but it was clear he’d been influenced by local cuisine he’s been sampling. Other mains include grilled lamb chops and zucchini, just de Agneau, sweet potato and crisp of cumin (285,000 VND) and oven roasted chicken with grilled vegetables, puree of potato and peppercorn sauce (195,000 VND). We sampled the delicious café gourmande, with three small desserts, one of which was a scrumptious and moist chocolate cake (95,000 VND). I’m excited to try the apple crumble, which has in it five spices— another example of regional influence (105,000 VND).

What’s good about his cuisine is that it is not fusion; the palate isn’t shocked by wild marriages of flavours that can, or sometimes do not, work. It’s also comforting that what you read is what you get. The pasta with a sauce of sun dried tomato, spinach leaves, roasted nuts and Parmesan (starter at 165,000 VND) is just that: simple good ole’ fashioned cooking devoid of the pretension found in more posier restaurants.

88 Ho Tung Mau, District 1 Mon-Fri: 7.30 am to midnight (Kitchen open till 10 pm) Sat: 11 am to 2 am Sun: 11.30 to 3.30pm brunch

Quan Cay Sa Opened in the footsteps of popular Hue-style restaurant chain Tram, Quan Cay Sa churns out the same carefully prepared and artfully presented cuisine for very little dong.

Owner Dao Trung Kien took over Tram from his Hue-born aunt and decided to launch Quan Cay Sa (which translates to lemongrass in English) in October this year to maintain the tradition of introducing HCM City residents to the charms of delicate south central coast fare.

To begin, diners can choose to unwrap the cha hue—

Vietnamese pork sausage wrapped in banana leaf (8,000 VND)—that’s positioned cunningly on each table. Similar to the obligatory wet towels found in restaurants nationwide, each cha hue consumed is added to the tab. Freebies they’re not, but tasty no doubt.

Other starters include banh beo tom chay—gelatinous rice flour cakes topped with shrimp and croutons (29,000 VND).

When dipped in fish sauce, it’s satisfying yet light.

Street food favourite banh khoai (39,000 VND) is another must-try. Similar to banh xeo, though much smaller and manageable, the rice flour pan-

Artfully presented Hue-style food at attractive prices. By Beth Young.

Photos by Fred Wissink. cake mixes prawns, flavourful meatballs and vegetables. The unique side sauce, tuong ban is made from soybeans, glutinous rice and chilli to taste.

There are many mains to choose from, too. Hen xuc banh trang—stir-fried baby clams served on a crispy Vietnamese rice cracker with fermented shrimp paste (43,000 VND) is an interesting option. And an outing to Quan Cay Sa would be remiss without a serving of nem nuong banh trang—chargrilled pork wrapped in rice paper with fresh greens and tangy star fruit (48,000 VND).

Extra crunch comes from the

deep-fried rice paper that’s also rolled inside.

Perhaps the best value for money, though, is the bun ca thu tuoi (45,000 VND). A bowl of steaming fragrant fish broth with vermicelli and a massive chunk of mackerel, it has a slight spicy aftertaste.

The secret behind the dish’s full-flavour: added pork.

Though, the décor is simple, Quan Cay Sa is worth a visit, thanks to its extensive menu filled with wholesome cuisine at no-nonsense prices.

366 Vo Van Tan, District 3 Tel: 62903626 Open daily 6 am to 10 pm asialife HCMC 53

Kartell

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The Italian lifestyle and labware line that put plastic decor in vogue. By Beth Young. Photos by Fred Wissink.

Synonymous with classic yet contemporary design, Italian furniture and home décor brand Kartell has opened its newest flagship store in HCM City.

Originally a labware manufacturer on the outskirts of Milan, producing plastic test tubes and the like, Kartell underwent a metamorphosis in the 1960s when founder Giulio Castelli realized that the same high-tech process could be used to make lightweight but sturdy and stylish fixtures.

Saigon branch owner Gabriel Guzman had a similar transformation. Formerly a microbiologist in his native Colombia, he veered away from science to take on more creative pursuits like film and interior design.

After living in California for the last two decades, he moved to Vietnam about a year ago to take advantage of the population’s increasing appreciation for modern design. “The Vietnamese are starting to open up their homes. There’s a thirst for style and design.”

And Kartell’s range of mostly plastic pieces—including Philippe Starck originals—has, in Guzman’s opinion, everything it takes to quench their desire.

“It’s high-end, but still affordable; not excessively expensive,” he says, adding that a complete furniture collection has at least one Kartell creation. A Starck design, in particular, has inestimable value. The eccentric French designer revamped Kartell in the ‘80s, working with transparent plastic to create classics like the Louis Ghost Chair and the Bubble Club Sofa—a lounge made completely from polyethylene. “He’s God at the moment among designers,” Guzman says. His influence is such that when pitching a set of kitsch garden gnome stools as a joke, Kartell’s president Claudio Lutti agreed. The quirky line is now a bestseller.

It’s this willingness to create objects a little left of centre that has given Kartell its edge. Add durability to the mix—most Kartell furniture is fire retardant and light resistant—plus an inability to go out of fashion and there’s no denying the brand has the science behind design all figured out.

75 Pasteur, District 1 Tel: 3827 0984 saigon@kartellflag.com www.kartell.it

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Derek Taylor ’s dream to build a classic timber yacht is slowly coming to fruition. By Brett Davis.

Photos by Richard Harper.

56 asialife HCMC

S

ome people are drawn to sailing; it has some of the most passionate enthusiasts of any endeavour, while for others the attraction remains a mystery. Few however, could deny the beauty of a classic timber yacht under full sail gliding across the waves.

The construction of timber yachts is increasingly rare due to the thinning ranks of traditional timber shipwrights and the enormous cost of undertaking such a project. This has not deterred 57-year-old Glasgow born Derek Taylor, who is currently building his ‘dream’ — a 68-foot schooner based on a traditional Baltic trading vessel.

An engineer in the oil and gas industry, Taylor has been in Vietnam since 2002. During a series of discussions with an acquaintance in the furniture business, he came to appreciate the skill of the local woodworking tradesmen. From this realization came the idea that a long-held dream might become a reality.

With a design by renowned Canadian naval architect Ted Brewer, construction began in late 2007 on the ‘Laura Jane,’ named after Taylor’s daughter.

When complete (in about 12

to 18 months) the vessel will weigh almost 70 tons, have two masts approaching 85 feet tall, and be capable of spreading almost 4000sq feet of sail that will push the ‘Laura Jane’ along at 10 or 11 knots.

A crew of seven local Vietnamese fishing boat builders is working on the project. While they bring many years of boat building experience and affinity for working with timber, they have also had to adapt to new technologies and techniques.

One such method is the way the frames, what look like the giant ribs of the vessel, are shaped.

The timber is steamed in a purpose made box and slowly bent into shape before being left to dry and chemically treated to remove the natural oils.

Taylor has tremendous admiration for the local craftsmen, who even go so far as to make many of their own tools. “These guys have really transformed their skills and are really thrilled to be a part of it,” he says.

The craftsmanship and dedication to quality is apparent everywhere in the vessel from the hand-carved Vietnamese rosewood knees (which help

support the masts) to the overlapping Malaysian red meranti hull planking and the African mahogany deckhouse.

On completion the ‘Laura Jane’ will be launched into the corporate and charter market.

The yacht will be an ideal teambuilding activity venue, says Taylor. “There will be a couple of winches to raise sails, but otherwise it will be mostly by hand and the crew will have to work as a team to sail her.”

There is still the fit-out of the vessel to be undertaken and sponsorship is being sought for everything from engines, generators, navigational equipment, electronics and galley appliances.

Taylor and his wife have cashed in a pension and poured much of their spare income into the project. Still, he estimates the final cost will be about one third to a quarter of what it would have been in his native Scotland. He is hoping the launching of the ‘Laura Jane,’ which is almost certainly the largest new timber yacht under construction in the world, will prompt orders for more timber vessels from others with a passion for classic sailing craft. asialife HCMC 57

Trinh (left) Bag: Charles & Keith Scarf: Mexx Bangles: Accessorize, Diva Rings: Accessorize Stephy (right) Bracelets: Accessorize Ring: Accessorize Opposite page Stephy (left and right) Red bracelet: BCBG Rings: Accessorize Shoes: Heatwave Bangles: Accessorize, Diva

58 asialife HCMC

asialife HCMC 59

Trinh Top to bottom: Mexx, Mexx, BCBG, Charles & Keith, Mexx, Charles & Keith, Mexx Ring: BCBG

60 asialife HCMC

CHARLES & KEITH 18-20 Nguyen Trai, D1, HCM City ACCESSORIZE 47C Nguyen Trai, D1, HCM City DIVA 279 Hai Ba Trung, D3, HCM City MEXX Parkson Center, 35-45 Le Thanh Ton, D1, HCM City

Johnny

BCBG MAX AZRIA Vincom Center, 70-72 Le Thanh Ton, D1, HCM City

Top to bottom: Mexx, Mexx, Massimo Ferrari,

Styling by H2 Nguyen & Anthony.

Mexx

Photos by Fred Wissink.

asialife HCMC 61

Jetstar Pacific www.jetstar.com Budget branch of Australian Qantas flies into Can Tho, Danang, Hanoi, Hai Phong, HCM City, Hue, Nha Trang and Vinh and operates cheap flights from HCM City to Siem Reap and Bangkok.

Check out Friday Fare Frenzy online promotion from 2 to 5 pm every Friday.

listings

hotel & travel

Malaysia Airlines www.malaysiaairlines.com Offers daily flights from Hanoi and HCM City to Kuala Lumpur for about $200 round trip, with four economy class fare levels: low, basic, smart and flex.

AIRLINES Air Asia 254 De Tham, D1 Tel: 3838 9810 www.airasia.com Asia’s largest low-cost airline operates one daily flight between HCM City-Hanoi, as well as international flights to Bangkok, Phuket, Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur.

Air France 130 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3829 0981 ext. 82 Fax: 3822 0537 www.airfrance.com.vn An airline with a vast and effective global network. Now flies direct to Paris.

Cathay Pacific 72-74 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D3 Tel: 3822 3203 www.cathaypacific.com Hong Kong-based airline makes three flights daily to HCM City and two flights daily to Hong Kong’s international airport.

Fares start at about $300.

escape

Philippine Airways 229 Dong Khoi, D3 Tel: 3822 2241 www.philippineairlines.com Operates daily service from HCM City to Manila, offering fare options through the PAL Econo Light Class.

Royal Brunei Level 4, 129A Nguyen Hue, D1 Tel: 3914 6868 www.bruneiair.com Royal Brunei provides scheduled service across Asia, the Middle East, United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand.

Thai Airways 65 Nguyen Du, Tel: 3829 2810 29 Le Duan, D1 www.thaiair.com Bangkok-based airline connects twice daily between the Thai capital and HCM City and Hanoi. Multiple daily flights are also operated from both to Phnom Penh and Phuket.

Vietnam Airlines Hanoi: 94 Tran Quoc Toan Tel: 942 0848 HCM City: 116 Nguyen Hue, D1 Tel: 3832 0320 www.vietnamair.com.vn The domestic route map is extensive, with several flights daily between major and less touristed cities throughout Vietnam. Flies internationally throughout Asia and to Paris, Frankfurt, Moscow, Sydney, Melboure, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

CON DAO ATC Hotel 16B Ton Duc Thang Tel: 06 4830 666 Rustic little 4-room, family-run guesthouse in converted French administration building. Rooms are simple, with exposed rafters inside and balconies outside. Bungalow accommodation is also available.

Con Dao Resort 8 Nguyen Duc Thuan Tel: 06 4830 949 www.condaoresort.com Modern hotel with 45 rooms and seven villas set on 2km of private beach. Onpremise facilities include restaurant, bar,

beach-view swimming pool, tennis court and volleyball. Organizes outdoor activities and tours.

Saigon Con Dao Resort 18-24 Ton Duc Thang Tel: 06 4830 155 www.saigoncondaoresort.com Opened in summer 2009, Saigon Tourist’s 82-room hotel has a restaurant, swimming pool, tennis court and health club with sauna. Another 30 villas are available in the adjacent sister hotel, a renovated colonial-era administration building. Tours organized by hotel.

DALAT Ana Mandara Villas Resort & Spa Le Lai, Ward 5, Dalat Tel: 063 3555 888 www.anamandara-resort.com Luxury 35-acre resort encompasses 17 restored early 20th-century villas and 65 rooms set in the rural highlands. La Cochinchine Spa offers wide range of treatments. Le Petite Dalat Restaurant serves Vietnamese and fusion cuisine.

Heated swimming pool, art gallery and cooking classes in organic garden.

Blue Moon Resort & Spa 4 Phan Boi Chau Tel: 06 3578 888 www.bluemoonhotel.com.vn An attractive 65-room, country-style resort with extensive gardens for strolling or al fresco dining, as well as restaurant serving local Dalat dishes. On-premise bike rental, fitness centre, sauna and indoor heated pool.

Mercure Dalat 7 Tran Phu, Dalat Tel: 063 3825 777 www.mercure.com Built in 1932 as the Hotel Du Parc, this

take flight with travel promotions around the region

InterContinental Asiana Saigon

Indulge in a deep cleanse, peel and luxurious orange and milk skin treatment designed to recover freshness at the InterContinental’s signature spa located on the hotel’s third floor. The pampering, which costs 1,799,000 VND ++ per person for 150 minutes, finishes with a brightness-restoring facial. The offer is available until the end of December. Call 3520 9999 or visit www.intercontinental. com/saigon.

Novotel Nha Trang

The Novotel Nha Trang’s Vous Spa is offering a four-hour spa package through Dec. 31 for 1,950,000 VND. The deal includes floral foot rituals, body scrub or wrap, mas-sage, serenity bath and a facial treatment plus sparkling wine and fresh fruit. Call 8625 6900 or email rsvn@ novotel-nhatrang.com.

Victoria Sapa Resort & Spa

Until Dec. 31, Victoria Sapa Resort and Spa will offer a two-night stay in a Superior room for US $260 ++ per person.

The package includes breakfast for two and round trip tickets aboard the Victoria Express Train in a superior cabin (4-berth, sharing with others). Valid for departures

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VASCO Vietnam Airlines office, 116 Nguyen Hue, D1 Tel: 3842 2790 www.vasco.com.vn Though it’s primary business is cargo shipment, Vietnam Air Service Company (VASCO) flies daily from HCM City to Con Dao and makes connections to lesser-known cities like Ca Mau, Tuy Hoa and Chu Lai. Buy tickets at the Vietnam Airlines office.

only on Sunday to Tuesday. Email resa. sapa@victoriahotels.asia.

Victoria Resort & Spa Deals

Enjoy three nights at the Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa for the price of two from Dec. 1 to 22. Email resa.angkor@ victoriahotels.asia. Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa From Dec. 1 to 15, customers who book into the Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa online will receive a complimentary upgrade and a 60-minute body massage for two. All bookings will enjoy free mini-bar access (one refill per day) and four pieces of laundry per day (excluding dry cleaning). Email resa. hoian@victoriahotels.asia.

Moevenpick Hotel Hanoi

Be one of the first couples to get married in the brand new Moevenpick Hotel Hanoi and enjoy a free honeymoon which includes flights, airport transfers and twonight stay at the hotel. This special offer only applies to weddings confirmed for Feb. 2011. Email hotel.saigon.banquetsales@moevenpick.com.

Ana Mandara Dalat

Ana Mandara Dalat will offer a night’s accommodation in a Villa Studio with an

extra bed for US $204 (minimum twonight stay). The deal includes breakfast at Le Petit Dalat restaurant, round trip airport transfers, access to gym and heated swimming pool, complimentary GM cocktail on Dec. 24 and 31, a family photo with Santa, a special gift at turndown and $40 credit to be used at the spa or on an excursion. Applicable for family with two children under 12 years old. A surcharge of $45++/ family will be applied for gala dinner on Dec. 24 or 31.

Valid from Dec. 20 till Jan. 31.Call 3555 888, email reservation-dalat@anamandara-resort.com

Sheraton Nha Trang

The Sheraton Nha Trang’s Festive Getaway Package costs 3,245,000 VND per room per night and includes accommodation in a Deluxe Ocean View Room, daily buffet breakfast for two at Feast, one-way airport transfer, complimentary gift basket on arrival and one buffet dinner per person. Valid for minimum three-night stay between Dec. 23 to Jan. 5. Available only to Vietnamese nationals, overseas Vietnamese and expatriates working in Vietnam. Call 58388 0000 or email reservations.nhatrang@sheraton. com.

144-room resort pairs French colonial architecture with modern amenities. Cafe De Le Poste serves French home-style, international and Vietnamese cuisine.

Facilities include tennis court and sauna Sofitel Dalat Palace 12 Tran Phu, Dalat Tel: 063 3825 444 www.accorhotels-asia.com Stately lakeside hotel was built in 1920s and retains the period’s aesthetic. It encompasses 38 rooms, five suites, a gourmet restaurant, brasserie, piano bar and Larry’s Bar. Golf can be arranged, and there’s tennis, boules, snooker and billiards on premise.

activities Phat Tire Ventures 73 Truong Cong Dinh Tel: 63 3829 422 www.phattireventures.com Runs guided trips for hiking/trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing, kayaking and canyoning in the highlands surrounding Dalat. Also operates mixed trip adventure packages and ropes course set among pine forest with 100+ metre Flying Fox zip line.

Dalat Easy Rider Tours 70 Phan Dinh Phung dalateasyriders@yahoo.com www.dalat-easyrider.com Ride pillion with English-, French- or German-speaking tour guides on motorbike adventures that start in Dalat and snake through mountains, jungles and deltas, lasting anywhere from three to 21 days. Trips terminate in Nha Trang, Hoi An, Hanoi, Mui Ne or HCM City. All hotels and entrance fees included.

HANOI Intercontinental Westlake Hanoi 1A Nghi Tam, Tay Ho Tel: 04 6270 8888 www.intercontinental.com Located on the waterfront with contemporary Vietnamese design, restaurants, business services, fitness centre including exercise classes and pool.

Hanoi Hilton Opera 1 Le Thanh Tong, Hoan Kiem Tel: 04 3933 0500 www.hilton.com Housed in a colonial-style building that complements the adjacent Opera House, this luxury hotel features modern amenities, business services, outdoor pool and fitness centre. Vietnamese specialties are served at Ba Mien, and Chez Manon does Japanese and pan-Asian.

Melia Hanoi Hotel 44B Ly Thuong Kiet Tel: 04 3934 3343 www.meliahanoi.com Located in the city centre with 306 comfortable guestrooms elegantly decorated, complete with a host of modern amenities. Dining includes Asian cuisine at El Patio and El Oriental, snacks at Cava Lounge and tapas at Latino Bar. Mercure Hanoi La Gare 94 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Hoan Kiem Tel: 04 3944 7766 www.accorhotels.com Situated in the Old Quarter with 102 bright, spacious and modern rooms, Brasserie Le Pavillion restaurant serves Vietnamese and international cuisine.

Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi 83A Ly Thuong Kiet Tel: 3822 2800 www.moevenpick-hotels.com Conveniently located in the heart of Hanoi’s business district, a 40-minute drive from Noi Bai International Airport and only 5 minutes from the city centre, Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi is the latest five-star hotel in town, tailored to meet the needs of discerning guests and especially corporate travellers.

Nikko Hotel 84 Tran Nhan Tong Tel: 04 3822 3535

www.hotelnikkohanoi.com.vn Luxury hotel offering spacious rooms, elegant furnishings, international fine dining from Europe, China and Japan.

Sheraton Hotel Hanoi K5 Nghi Tam, 11 Xuan Dieu, Tay Ho Tel: 04 3719 9000 www.starwoodhotels.com “Resort within a city” boasts 299 spacious guest rooms with panoramic views, fitness centre, international restaurant and Hemisphere Vietnamese restaurant.

Sofitel Metropole 15 Ngo Quyen, Hoan Kiem Tel: 04 3826 6919 www.sofitel.com Located downtown. Colonial-style hotel with well-regarded restaurants/bars serving French & Vietnamese cuisine, plus Italian steak house.

HO CHI MINH CITY Caravelle Hotel 19 Lam Son Square, D1 Tel: 3823 4999 www.caravellehotel.com One of the city’s most prestigious venues. Features a casino, Reflections Restaurant and al fresco 9th-floor Saigon Saigon Bar. Duxton Hotel 63 Nguyen Hue D1 Tel: 3822 2999 www.duxtonhotels.com Located in downtown Saigon. Facilities include spa, beauty salon, Zanadu Health Club, gym, outdoor swimming and main restaurant, The Grill.

Equatorial 242 Tran Binh Trong D5 Tel: 3839 7777 www.equatorial.com/hcm On the intersect of 4 districts, with 333 rooms, Orientica Seafood restaurant and bar, Chit Chat cafe, pool (swim-up bar), gym.

InterContinental Asiana Saigon Corner of Hai Ba Trung & Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3520 9999 saigon@interconti.com www.intercontinental.com/saigon 305 rooms/suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, five restaurants/bars, meeting/ banquet facilities, spa/health club and lounge with panoramic view.

Legend Hotel 2A-4A Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 3823 3333 www.legendsaigon.com Located by the river with fitness centre, outdoor pool, kids play centre, Crystal Jade Chinese restaurant and jazz bar.

Möevenpick Hotel Saigon 253 Nguyen Van Troi, Phu Nhuan Tel: 3844 9222 www.moevenpick-saigon.com Has 278 well-appointed rooms/suites, five restaurants/bars, meeting/banquet facilities and a shopping arcade as well as a popular e-gaming centre.

New World Hotel 76 Le Lai, D1 Tel: 3822 8888 www.newworldsaigon.com Located in the city centre, with gym, outdoor pool, tennis court, event space and Dynasty Chinese restaurant.

Park Hyatt 2 Lam Son Square, D1 Tel: 3824 1234 www.saigon.park.hyatt.com Luxury colonial-style hotel includes 21 suites, lobby lounge with live music, Xuan Spa, pool, gym, international dining at Square One. Renaissance Riverside 8-15 Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 3822 0033 www.renaissancehotels.com 349 rooms/suites with panoramic views over Saigon River. Conference/banquet facilities, rooftop pool, gym, two restaurants.

Sheraton 88 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3827 2828 www.sheraton.com/saigon Luxury downtown hotel with Level 23 bar, Mojo cafe, Li Bai Chinese restaurant, fine dining at The Signature on the 23rd floor.

Sofitel Saigon Plaza 17 Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3824 1555 www.sofitel.com/2077 One of the city’s top hotels with in-room Wi-Fi, two restaurants with international cuisine, two bars, six conference rooms, outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre.

Villa Hotel at Thao Dien 195 Nguyen Van Huong, D2 Tel: 3744 2222 www.thaodienvillage.com Colonial-style boutique hotel and spa with fine dining on the banks of the Saigon River in expat enclave.

Windsor Plaza 18 An Duong Vuong, D5 Tel: 3833 6688 services@windsorplazahotel.com www.windsorplazahotel.com Located in a main shopping hub. Four restaurants, modern discotheque, conference centre, casino, health club, shopping centre, supermarket, Chinese restaurant.

activities Saigon Scooter Centre 25/7 Cuu Long, Tan Binh District Tel: 4848 7816 www.saigonscootercentre.com One-stop rental service with a wide selection of scooters/motorbikes available for around town travel or long trips Vietnam Vespa Adventures 169 De Tham, D1, Pham Ngu Lao Tel: 3920 3897 www.vietnamvespaadventures.com

HOI AN & DANANG

tion, the Palm Garden Resort offers an exceptional green environment with over 400 species of palm trees and plants along the famous Cua Dai Beach in the UNESCO-recognized world heritage site of Hoi An Ancient City.

Foreign-operated company operates chartered coach or private tours to Cham Islands aboard a Corsair Sprint 750 Trimaran. One-day cruises or twoday excursions with beach camping by campfire are available.

Cua Dai Hotel 544 Cua Dai Tel: 0510 3862 231 www.cuadaihotel-hoian.com Open and airy rooms are tastefully decorated and overlook the garden and pool.

Located roughly between Old Town and Cua Dai Beach. Bicycle rental arranged.

Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa Cua Dai Beach Tel: 0510 3927 040 www.victoriahotels-asia.com Set on its own stretch of beach with 105 rooms spread through a traditional fishing village design of small “streets” and ponds.

HUE

Headquaters located in Cafe Zoom.

Offers 3-day trips to Mui Ne, 8-days to Nha Trang or half-day tours of HCMC on classic Vespas.

Le Domaine de Tam Hai Resort Tel: 0510 3545105 www.domainedetamhai.com Occupying an island close to Hoi An, the resort features 12 villas, a private beach, and two restaurants serving French and Vietnamese cuisine.

Life Resort Hoi An 1 Pham Hong Thai, Hoi An Tel: 0510 3914 555 www.life-resorts.com Within walking distance of Hoi An. Rooms are chic and minimalist, offering all the mod cons. Two restaurants, two bars and an outdoor pool.

Nam Hai Tel: 0510 3940 000 www.ghmhotel.com Luxury resort accommodation from single villas to sumptuous five-room dwellings with private pools. Facilities include 8 private spa villas; 3 beachfront swimming pools; library; and tennis, basketball and badminton courts.

Palm Garden Resort Hoi An Lac Long Quan Street, Cua Dai Beach, Hoi An Tel: 0510 3 927 927 www.palmgardenresort.com.vn Set on 5 hectares of landscaped tropical garden in an enviable beach loca-

activities Hoi An Motorbike Adventures Tel: 0918 230 653 www.motorbiketours-hoian.com Two-wheeled tours of the Central Highlands, Ho Chi Minh Trail, Monkey Mountain and more on a fleet of Minsk dirt bikes and fully and semi-automatic motorbikes. Customers can drive or be driven on half- to five-day trips.

Mango Cruise info@mangorooms.com Chef Duc from the celebrated Mango Rooms restaurant and his wife Ly offer a cruise down the Thu Bon River, complete with a meal from a menu created by Duc himself.

Phat Tire Ventures 619 Hai Ba Trung Tel: 0510 391 1700 www.phattireventures.com Offers rappelling and rock climbing at Marble Mountains, as well as walking and mountain biking excursions, from two-hour countryside trips to two-day cycling trips to Hue. Also does cultural and historical tours and car trips to My Son Holy Land.

Vietnam Sailing 88 Nguyen Thai Hoc Tel: 0918 255 521 www.vietnamsailing.com

Celadon Palace Hue 105A Hung Vuong Tel: 054 3936 666 www.celadonpalacehue.com Grand building inspired by Indochine Nobel House with panoramic views, international restaurant, lounge/bars, pool, ballroom and wedding planning.

Imperial Hue 57 Dang Dung Tel: 054 3522 478 www.imperial-hotel.com.vn Opulent high-rise hotel with panoramic views of the city and Ngu Binh Mountain.

Facilities include swimming pool, gym, Royal spa, Prince Club casino and business centre.

La Residence 5 Le Loi Tel: 054 3837 475 www.la-residence-hue.com Former governor’s residence on the banks of the Perfume River is now home to a boutique resort where art deco meets Indochine. La Parfum restaurant serves local and international dishes.

Facilitiesa include spa, saltwater pool, tennis court and fleet of bicycles.

Mercure Hue Gerbera 38 Le Loi Tel: 054 3946 688 www.mercure.com Overlooking the Perfume River, this centrally located hotel has 110 contemporary rooms. Local Hue cuisine and international fare served at Le Bordeaux, and drinks served up top at Sky Bar or in the ground-floor Lobby Bar. Pilgrimage Village Resort & Spa 130 Minh Mang Tel: 054 3885 461

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www.pilgrimagevillage.com Boutique resort with hut, bungalow and villa accommodation draws on natural environment and local culture. Features Vedana spa, two restaurants serving Vietnamese & Western food and imported wines and three bar/lounges.

NHA TRANG Evason Hideaway at Ana Mandara Ninh Van Bay, Ninh Hoa, Khanh Hoa Tel: 058 3728 222 www.sixsenses.com/hideawayanamandara An island hideaway accessible only by boat, 58 private pool villas, international and local restaurants, wedding services, water sports and scuba diving.

Evason Ana Mandara Nha Trang Beachside, Tran Phu, Nha Trang Tel: 058 3522 222 www.sixsenses.com/evasonanamandara Beachside resort set in 26,000 square metres of tropical garden, with 74 guest villas, three restaurants, Six Senses Spa. Novotel Nha Trang 50 Tran Phu Tel: 058 625 6900 www.novotel-nhatrang.com Each of the 154 rooms has a terrace with seaviews in this modern hotel located in the city centre. The Square serves international cuisine in a dining room overlooking the bay.

Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa 26 - 28 Tran Phu, Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa Tel: 58 388 0000 www.sheraton.com/nhatrang Luxury hotel with 284 ocean view rooms, six restaurants and bars, club lounge, infinity edge swimming pool, spa, yoga studio, cooking school, Sheraton Adventure Club and (connected at) Link@ Sheraton.

PHAN THIET

Princess D’Annam Resort and Spa Khu Hon Lan, Tan Thanh, Ham Thuan Nam, Binh Thuan Tel: 062 3682 222 www.princessannam.com Located on Ke Ga Bay with 57 exclusive villas, eight swimming pools, two restaurants and 1,800 square metres spa complex.

The Sailing Club 24 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Mui Ne, Phan Thiet Tel: 062 3847 440 www.sailingclubvietnam.com Open bar overlooking the sea, spacious rooms, restaurant, swimming pool and day spa.

Victoria Phan Thiet Resort and Spa Mui Ne Beach Tel: 84 62 3813 000 www.victoriahotels-asia.com Located on a private beach, 60 cosy bungalows, natural spa experiences among other great activities on offer at the resort.

activities C2Sky Kitesurfing Sunny Beach, 64-66 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Tel: 0916655241 www.c2skykitecenter.com Operates two schools roughly 500m apart, staffed by IKO-certified instructors.

Offers a half dozen course types, as well as instructor training. Equipment rental and repair.

Tel: 062 3847 008 www.windsurf-vietnam.com IKO-licensed kitesurfing centre offers highly structured kitesurfing classes taught by experienced watersportsmen.

Also offer windsurfing lessons and retails in watersports equipment (bodyboards, kayaks, surfboards, windsurfs).

Mui Ne Beach.net www.muinebeach.net Informative website run by local writer Adam Bray covering news, events, community/environmental issues and more in Mui Ne and Phan Thiet. Also issues safety advisories regarding crime and tour bus accidents.

Mui Ne Cooking School Sunshine Beach Resort, 84 Tuyen Quang Tel: 062 383 0755 Al fresco classes begin with a trip to Rang Market and focus on the provincial cuisine of Binh Thuan, like banh xeo (crepes with beef or seafood) and goi hai san (seafood salad).

Surfpoint 217 Nguyen Dinh Chieu www.surfpoint-vietnam.com Offers private and group kiteboarding courses and equipment rental (from $40-50/hr). Also runs group and private surfing lessons, as well as kayaking trips to Song Quao Lake.

WindChimes School Saigon Mui Ne Resort, 56 Nguyen Dinh Chieu www.kiteboarding-vietnam.com Surf school situated on 235m of beach offers kiteboarding, windsurfing and surfing classes in multiple languages taught

by IKO-certified instructors. Equipment rented and trips organised. Satellite school at Bamboo Village Resort.

PHU QUOC

Freedomland Ong Long Beach Tel: 077 3994 891 freedomlandphuquoc.com Secluded lodging in six different bungalow types built from natural materials sourced from the island. Private or shared bathrooms, no air-conditioning or hot water. Boat trips and scooter tours.

La Veranda Ward 1, Duong Dong Beach Tel: 077 3982 888 www.laverandaresort.com Set amid tropical gardens along a beach.

Features a highly-rated spa, beach grill, Vietnamese, Asian and European cuisine.

Mango Bay Ong Lang Beach, Phu Quoc Tel: 0903 382 207 www.mangobayphuquoc.com Low-cost seaside resort with ecological outlook promotes nature activities, forest walks, snorkelling, open-air seafood restaurant. No TV or telephone.

SAPA Chau Long Hotel 24 Dong Loi Tel: 020 3871 245 www.chaulonghotel.com Mid-range hotel with wraparound construction offering panoramic views.

Rooms in the newer wing are more attractive, with dark wood furnishings and polished hardwood floors.

Forester Spa & Mini Golf 65 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Tel: 062 3743 447 www.forestrestaurant.com Terraced nine-hole miniature golf course with distinctly Vietnamese terrain: rice paddies, palm trees, stilt homes and a fish pond.

Topas Eco Lodge 24 Muong Hoa Tel: 020 3871 331 www.topasecolodge.com Overlooking the Hoang Lien Mountains, Topas is comprised of 25 white granite and golden hardwood lodges powered by solar energy. Premises include restaurant in traditional Tay stilt house, and Topas offers a range of outdoor activities, including mountain biking and trekking.

Jibes Beach Club 84-90 Nguyen Dinh Chieu

Victoria Sapa Resort Sapa District, Lao Cai Province

Tel: 020 0871 522 www.victoriahotels-asia.com Mountain chalet perched over the village wth cosy but modern guestrooms overlooking the lawn and garden. Ta Van restaurant overlooks Mount Fansipan and Ta Fin bar has a stone hearth fireplace.

Connection from Hanoi by private train.

SCUBA DIVING Note: AsiaLIFE only lists dive centres recognized by international dive training programs, such as the Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI) and Scuba Schools International (SSI).

We strongly advise against diving with unaccredited dive centres in Vietnam.

Rainbow Divers 55 Nguyen Dang Giai, An Phu, D2 Tel: 3744 6825 www.divevietnam.com Diving tours and career/instructor development offered by Vietnam’s first PADI centre. established in the mid-90s. All courses can be started at the state-ofthe-art dive centre in An Phu, from beginner pool work and theory to divemaster and instructor certification. Operates dive centres in Nha Trang, Whale Island, Hoi An and Phu Quoc.

Octopus Diving 62 Tran Phu, Nha Trang 058 826 528 www.divenhatrang.com PADI/SSI dive centre based in Nha Trang and affiliated with the Sailing Club Co., with additional centres in Mui Ne and Hoi An. Offers a range of services, including children’s Bubblemaker classes, courses in specialised techniques and divemaster certification.

VUNG TAU Ho Tram Beach Resort & Spa Ho Tram Village, Xuyen Moc

Tel: 06 4378 1525 www.hotramresort.com Located about 45km from Vung Tau in the Phuoc Buu Reserve Forest, Ho Tram Beach Resort & Spa boasts uniquely designed bungalows and villas.

River Ray Resort 159-163 Thuy Van Tel: 06 4362 8888 www.imperialhotelvietnam.com Victorian-style hotel with 152 rooms, outdoor pool, shopping mall and fully serviced gym.

TRAVEL AGENTS

Buffalo Tours Suite 601, Satra House, 58 Dong Khoi D1 Tel: 3827 9170 www.buffalotours.com Tailor-made itineraries, community-based tourism, cultural tours, adventure trips, golfing and premium trips offered by locally run and well-respected travel agent.

Exotissimo HCMC: 20 Hai Ba Trung St, D1 Tel: 3827 2911 infosgn@exotissimo.com SD5-2 Grand View, Nguyen Duc Canh, Phu My Hung, D7 Tel: 5412 2761/62 pmh@exotissimo.com HANOI: 26 Tran Nhat Duat St, Hoan Kiem Tel: 04 3828 2150 infohanoi@exotissimo.com www.exotissimo.com French-owned agency specializing in flight bookings, package holidays and a range of well-run cultural and historical tours of Vietnam and Southeast Asia. iViVu www.ivivu.com Offering the traditional services of a travel agent – airline tickets, tours, packages and hotels - as well as tips and up-todate travel news on Vietnam.

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Bernie's Bar & Grill 19 Thai Van Lung, D1 Tel: 3822 2684 Serves a solid menu of certified Angus and imported Aussie steaks, fresh pasta, thin crust pizza, sandwiches and mains in an old school steak house setting. Drink menu includes smoothies, cocktails, premium wines and spirits and Saigon's largest martini. 

listings

food & drink

Buddha Bar 7 Thao Dien, D2 Tel: 3744 2080 An Phu institution serves up tasty meals and good drinks in a friendly, chilled environment. Plenty of room to relax inside or out, plus a pool table on premise. 

BAR RESTAURANTS Ala Mezon 10 Chu Manh Trinh, D1 Tel: 6291 0447 www.alamezon.vn Colourful four-storey venue serves fusion French-Japanese cuisine, as well as cocktails and wine by the glass. Space spans a restaurant, lounge and main bar and spacious, airy rooftop. Open 5 pm to late.

Bread & Butter 40/26 Bui Vien, D1 Tel: 3836 8452 Lunch menu of American classics (California burritos, po boy sandwiches), Brit pub dinner (bangers & mash, fish & chips) and Sunday evening roast. Serves Huda Beer from Hue. Closed 2:30 pm to 5 pm and Mondays.

feast

Cafe Latin 17 Dong Du, D1 In its third location, this expat favourite continues to deliver good food, an extensive drink list and a comfortable atmosphere. Two levels to watch sport on or simply unwind. Said to serve the best chicken parmigiana in Vietnam.

Corso Steakhouse & Bar Norfolk Hotel, 117 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Located in the chic Norfolk Hotel Corso Steakhouse & Bar is well known for its steak imported from the US and Australia. Good destination for both lunch and dinner.

K Cafe 28 Do Quang Dau, D1 Tel: 3913 4673 www.kcafevietnam.com This down-to-earth bistro-bar is a haven

Located at Norfolk Mansion, Shang Palace at Norfolk Mansion welcomes a special menu Jiu (alcohol) in Chinese cuisine, recommended by great Hong Kong chefs, and available all of December. The menu hightlights the use of alcohol in Chinese cuisine and features dishes like Drunken Pigeon, Stewed Ox-Tail with Chile Cabernet Sauvignon, Steamed Live Crab with Glutinous Rice Wine, Baked Eel with “Gui Hua Chen Jiu”, Baked Live Scallop with Japanese Sake and Mustard and much more. Call 3823 2221 or email reservation@shangpalace.com.vn

The Library

Enjoy a complimentary glass of Champagne with Royal English Afternoon tea at The Library, located on the ground floor of the InterContinental Asiana Saigon. The offer is available 3 pm to 7 pm from December 16 to 31 and costs 500,000 VND ++ for two people. Call 3520 9999 or visit www.intercontinental.com/saigon.

The Square at Novotel Nha Trang will offer a buffet dinner on Christmas Eve (US $50 ++ per person). International Christmas favourites like foie gras terrine, whole ham Ser-rano bodega, Alaskan king crab, turkey, roasted lamb leg and barbecue seafood will be available as well as festive

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La Habana 6 Cao Ba Quat, D1 Tel: 3829 5180 www.lahabana-saigon.com This charming little place has seating indoors and outdoors, upstairs and downstairs to fit your dining pleasure.

Relaxed environment with frequent live music. Offers Spanish and Cuban fare including paella and a tapas fiesta comprising three plates. Open late daily.

Le Pub 175/ 22 Pham Ngu Lao, D1 www.lepub.org One of Pham Ngu Lao’s favourite watering holes, Le Pub also has a good menu of well-executed pub grub and international favourites. Hearty breakfast is available all day and specials are offered daily.

A large Celtic-style pub popular with media types that has an interior done in brickwork and wood, and an upstairs dining area. Draught beer is happy hour between 3 pm and 7 pm. Great pizzas. Pasha Bar & Restaurant 25 Dong Du, D1 Tel: 08 629 136 77 www.pasha.com.vn Turkish–Mediterranean restaurant located in heart of HCMC serves halal and high quality food with ingredients imported from Turkey, Spain, Singapore, Egypt, New Zealand, Japan and France.

Long happy hour half price by glass.

Various shisha flavours.

Peaches: The Curry Pub Sky Garden 2, S57-1, Phu My Hung, D7 Tel: 5410 0999 Serves up dishes from Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, China, Japan, Singapore and Indonesia with a focus on healthy preparation and fresh produce.

Mogambos 50 Pasteur, D1 Tel: 3825 1311 This restaurant has been around since the mid-1990s, which offers an insight into its enduring quality. Specializes in American grain-fed steaks, hamburgers and salads served in a pleasant atmosphere. 

Phatty’s 46-48 Ton That Thiep, D1 Tel: 3821 0705 www.phattysbar.com Jaspa’s Steve Hardy and Ben Winspear’s sports bar has five widescreen TVs, a large drop-down screen and lots of pub grub and beer for fans looking to take in a game or two.

O’Brien’s 74/A2 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3829 3198

Qing 110 Pasteur, D1

broaden your palate with promotions around town

“JIU” it up in Chinese cuisine

The Square

for French-speaking emigrés looking for an alternative in the backpackers’ area.

Prop up the bar with a beer or Ricard, or tuck into the tasty Gallic fare. Good atmosphere for conversation. 

sweets. Includes gifts from Santa Claus, live music and lucky draws. Book before December 19 to receive an early bird discount. Call 8625 6900 or email rsvn@ novotel-nhatrang.com.

Café Saigon

The Moevenpick Hotel’s Café Saigon will offer a seafood buffet from 7 pm on New Year’s Eve including a welcome cocktail, free flow wine, soft drink and draft beer for 1,280,000 VND ++ per adult. Call 3844 9222 ext. 234 or email ho-tel.saigon.fb@ moevenpick.com. Cay Da Café The Moevenpick Hotel’s Cay Da Café will sell selected fresh bakery and pastry items for 50 percent off after 5 pm. Cal 3844 9222 ext. 118 or email ho-tel.saigon.fb@ moevenpick.com.

IKI

Visit IKI, the Moevenpick Hotel’s Japanese restaurant, and enjoy a mushroom and meat hot pot for four, including free flow Saigon beer and soft drinks for 499,000 VND ++ per person. Call 3844 9222 ext.

127 or visit hotel.saigon.fb@moevenpick. com.

Christmas at Café Central An Dong This month, Café Central An Dong offers unique tastes of the holidays from around the world. Traditional holiday specialties like classic oven-roasted turkey served

with giblet gravy and chestnut stuffing or mouth-watering roast prime rib with red wine sauce or Christmas pudding, holiday Yule log and an array of homemade Christmas cookies are available. You can also enjoy their regular buffet dinner, for 330.000VND++ on week-days and 360.000VND++ on weekends and holidays from 6 to 10 pm. Children 10 years and under are half price. Call 3833 6688 ext 2221 or email cafecen-tral@windsorplazahotel.com

Chinese Traditions at Ngan Dinh

During December, Ngan Dinh at Windsor Plaza Hotel is serving up oriental flavours like stewed chicken prepared with special Phar Dew rice wine, double-boiled crocodile and sea coconut soup, fresh poached shrimp. Dishes start from 78.000VND++.

Eight course dinners are also available on Christmas Eve, Day and New Years Eve for 4.380.000VND++ per table. Call 3830 8888 or email ngandinh@windsorplazahotel.com

Holidaying at TOTT

TOTT Bar & Restaurant is serving set menus for Christmas Eve, Day and New Years Eve. featuring traditional holiday fare like roasted turkey or rack of lamb for 620.000VND++ per person. Call 3833 6688 ext 2626 or email tott@windsorplazahotel.com

www.qing.com.vn Sophisticated downtown bar just off Le Loi specializes in Asian tapas, Asian/ South American fusion dishes and a few delectable deserts. Variety of good wines by the glass or bottle.

Sheridan’s Irish House 17/13 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3823 0793 www.sheridansbarvn.com Cosy Irish pub with authentic Irish decor, a pleasant atmosphere and regular live music. Wide range of classic pub grub, East Asian dishes and a fantastic breakfast fry-up available from 8 am.

Storm P Bar & Restaurant 5B Nguyen Sieu, D1 Tel: 3827 4738 www.stormp.vn This friendly hangout is a favourite with both the Scandinavian community and English-speaking expats. Offers Danish cuisine to go with the drinks.  The Tavern R2/24 Hung Gia 3, Bui Bang Doan, D7 Tel: 5410 3900 Boasts good international food, a pool table, dartboards and sports coverage on large screens. Outdoor seating on mutiple levels. Second floor sports lounge hosts DJs at the weekends.  Vasco’s Bar 74/7D Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3824 2888 Chic bar decked in deep reds that gets packed to capacity on weekends.

Open Monday to Saturday with live music on Fridays. Food menu by chef with over 10 years experience at La Camargue. Also does excellent pizza.



ZanZBar 41 Dong Du, D1 Funky, modern interiors and varied

international breakfast, lunch and dinner cuisine. Imported beers, cocktails, gourmet espresso coffee, and happy hours make ZanZBar a great after-work spot. Open late.

CAFES Annam Cafe 16-18 Hai Ba Trung Cosy corner cafe with free Wi-Fi overlooking Hai Ba Trung. Serves a slate of gourmet sandwiches, coffee and wine.

Bobby Brewer’s 45 Bui Vien, D1 Tel: 3920 4090 70 Nguyen Cong Tru, D1 Tel: 3821 8100 86 Pham Ngoc Thach, D3 Tel: 6299 1990 www.bobbybrewers.com This is an attractive fast-food style coffee shop with friendly staff and good lattes. All the coffee is roasted on the premises and there are comfortable couches and travellers aplenty making it a chilled place to hang out.  Bull’s Cafe 113C Bui Vien Street, D1 Tel: 3836 1925 www.bullcafe.com.vn MotoGP-themed lounge serving up coffee, smoothies and cafe house special, fruit cocktail.

Cafe Terrace Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 This funky café is frequented by trendy types attracted by the leather lounges, outdoor terrace and 52 non-alcoholic fruit concotions.

Cay Da Cafe Ground floor, Moevenpick Hotel Saigon 253 Nguyen Van Troi, Phu Nhuan Tel: 3844 9222 ext. 118

www.moevenpick-saigon.com Stocks the Moevenpick’s chef’s most delicious cakes, pastries, ice cream and sandwiches.

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf 12-14 Thai Van Lung, D1 94 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D3 Nowzone, 235 Nguyen Van Cu, D5 Metropolitan Bldng, 235 Dong Khoi, D1 International café chain with a wide variety of coffees and teas, as well as light snacks and food. Also sells freshroasted coffee beans and tins of whole leaf tea.  Illy Café 111A Pasteur, D1 Tel: 2220 2388 Fax: 2220 2389 Grand View Shop SA1-1, SB2-1 Nguyen Duc Canh, D7 Tel: 5412 3292 Fax: 5412 3293 An Italian-style coffee bar that serves Illy—a world-renowned espresso blend.

Makes classic coffees like the cappuccino as well as innovative alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails. Also serve light Italian cuisine and desserts.

Jubarcalypse 35 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3827 7930 Jubarcalypse has an interesting underground design. Playing jazz music, it’s the perfect place to re-energize with a refreshing selection of juices and snacks.

Loaves and Fishes 5 Street 11, Thao Dien, D2 Tel: 3547 0577 Coffee house on a side street near Riverside Apartments serves up drinks and serves the full line of Western-style baked goods from Harvest Baking.

Mojo 88 Dong Khoi, D1

www.sheratonsaigon.com A top-end cafe with an attractive interior, outdoor terrace at street level and comfortable lounges upstairs. Good business coffee or lunch venue.

Nirvana 14Bis Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D1 Tel: 3910 0745 Pleasant retro-styled cafe with outdoor water features and welcome modern touches like free Wi-Fi. Live music at night.

Paris Deli 35 Dong Khoi, D1 Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 Tel: 3821 6127 Grand View Building, Nguyen Duc Canh, Phu My Hung, D7 Tel: 412 2179 Petite boulangerie/cafe decked out with French-style furnishings. Offering tasty French and international dishes with a range of lunchtime specials at reasonable prices.

That’s Café Rivergarden, 170 Nguyen Van Huong, D2 The Crescent, 103 Ton Dat Tien, Phu My Hung, D7 Hailing from the U.S., That’s Café is a new Khai Silk initiative. Claiming to provide the best coffee in town in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere, it’s a great place to hold a business meeting or catch up with friends.

Une Journee A Paris 234 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3827 7723 15B Ngo Quang Huy, An Phu, D2 Tel: 0128 608 9551 A Parisian-style café that serve French cuisine, coffee and pastries like fondant chocolat, baba au rhum and tropezienne. Free Wi-Fi. Open Monday to Saturday from 7 am to 7 pm.

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imbibe

street gourmet

Bo Kho

California Competes

By Beth Young In 1976 the Californian wine industry took on their French counterparts and won. The blind tasting, known as the Judgment of Paris, saw 11 renowned wine experts (mostly French, of course) sample Californian Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay against expensive Bordeaux and Burgundy. The American vino came out on top and the French were suitably enraged.

Calls were made for a re-test with the accusation that the Californian wine wouldn’t age well. How wrong they were. In 2006, three decades after the first blind testing, the American “upstarts” as Michael Kloster, sales and marketing manager at Vine Group refers to them, prevailed.

According to Kloster, it’s no surprise. A California native himself, he says the region’s produce is top-notch. As the area has a longer, hotter growing season than France, the wine is more alcoholic thanks to the extra sugar that’s produced and while best known for Cabernet and Chardonnay, a host of other varietal drops are made, too. What’s more, Californian wines are completely well-balanced.

After all, Californian winemakers have had their fair share of practice with a history spanning to the 1700s when

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Spanish missionaries first introduced vino to the region.

Prohibition in the 20s and 30s stunted the industry, though, leading to a decline in quality and an increased demand for holy wine, which was still legal.

Luckily, quality winemaking has returned and the Ironstone Obsession Symphony— a sweet white with a fruity aroma and a distinct tangy bite stocked at Vine Group for 318,000 VND—is testament to this. While it’s not a wine Kloster would ordinarily choose, he admits to being a big fan. “I like it,” he says.

And with Christmas approaching, he points out that it pairs perfectly with festive treats like pumpkin pie, apple strudel and mince tarts.

The Twenty Rows Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon—863,000 VND at Vine Group—is a great red option.

Dense with heady blackberry, currant, vanilla bean and coffee and dark chocolate notes, it’s smooth and easy on the palate. Interestingly, the grapes for this blended wine are sourced from all over California’s central coast.

As Kloster says, Californian wine has come full circle and it’s well worth sampling a drop of the wine that put France in its place.

If you’ve tired of regular breakfast fare like pho (noodle soup) or banh mi (sandwich), you need to try bo kho (beef stew), one of the tastiest Vietnamese traditional dishes enjoyed by all.

Unlike the other notable dishes, bo kho is prepared in a more meticulous manner. The beef tendon, oxtails and lean chuck are slowly simmered over a low heat for several hours until moist and tender

X Cafe 53 Pasteur, D1 Tel: 3914 2142 212 A2 Nguyen Trai, D1 Tel: 3925 9307 Bright, spacious foreign-run cafe decorated in the style of an Alpine chalet.

Popular with local makers and shakers, has a great open-plan upstairs area and two outdoor terraces. Regular live music and homemade ice cream. Nguyen Trai location includes children’s playground.

Catering available.

Zenta 41 Mac Dinh Chi, D3 A large, extravagant, kitsch cafe with several rooms resembling airport departure lounges. Customers, though, tend to gravitate to the more attractive outdoor terrace with its pond and waterfall-style water features.

CHINESE Dragon Court 11-13 Lam Son Square, D1 Tel: 3827 2566 Open until 2am, this vast, no-frills eatery gets packed with hungry locals who savour generous portions of tasty dim sum. All the Chinese staples are here.

Expect a good feed for under 100,000 VND per person.

Dynasty Restaurant New World Hotel, 76 Le Lai, D1 Tel: 3822 8888 Fine Chinese dining in an opulent restaurant reminiscent of the Middle Kingdom’s imperial days. Delicacies clock in at 500,000 VND, but most dishes fall between 80,000 to 180,000 VND. Huy Long Vien 99 Nguyen Du, D1 Tel: 3823 7799 www.huylongvien.com A magnificent Chinese restaurant with a leafy slate-tiled courtyard, Chinese

and the muscle fiber has melted into the soup. Bo kho is appetizing in its red colour and rich in flavours of lemongrass, ginger, star anise, cinnamon, Vietnamese Madras curry powder and Chinese 5-spice powder (ngu vi huong). Bo kho is served hot with rice or bread and basil along with a dipping sauce of salt, pepper and lime and often goes for 30,000 VND. Stephy Thai

lanterns and a labyrinth of water works.

Lunchtime dim sum is 120,000 VND, while the a la carte menu runs higher with Chinese specialties such as Peking duck for 400,000 VND. Kabin Renaissance Riverside Hotel, 8-15 Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 3822 0033 Elegant dining space with beautiful decor and great views over the river offers extensive lunch and dinner menus featuring authentic gourmet Cantonese and Szechuan dishes and an assortment of dim sum at lunchtime.

Li Bai Sheraton Hotel, 88 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3827 2828 Imperial-styled restaurant named after a famous Chinese poet. Excellent lunch time dim sum buffet for USD $17.00.

Nightly à la carte menu with dishes going from 100,000 VND. Lotus Court 1st floor, Moevenpick Hotel Saigon 253 Nguyen Van Troi, Phu Nhuan Tel: 3844 9222 ext. 168 www.moevenpick-saigon.com Dim Sum and exciting Cantonese cuisine in a unique and elegant setting.

Ming Dynasty 23 Nguyen Khac Vien, Phu My Hung Tel: 5411 5555 Decorated in Ming Dynasty-style; offers 100 dim sum varieties and 300 dishes prepared by a chef from Hong Kong.

The restaurant’s Imperial Buffet costs USD $39 per person and includes free flow of wine.

Ngan Dinh Chinese Restaurant Windsor Plaza Hotel, 18 An Duong Vuong, D5 Tel: 3833 6688 Beautiful wood paneling, colourful

hanging lanterns and a sparkling mineral gallery make for a relaxing dining experience at the Windsor. Feast on roasted Pi Pa duck, giant grouper and steamed king prawns. Be sure to check out monthly specials.

Ocean Palace 2 Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3911 8822 Both traditional and trendy Chinese dishes are prepared by chef from Hong Kong and served in an opulent 280-seat dining room in this restaurant opposite the zoo. Intimate private rooms and larger party rooms available for booking.

Shang Palace Restaurant Norfolk Mansion, 17-19-21 Ly Tu Trong, D1 Tel: 3823 2221 www.shangpalace.com.vn An upscale Chinese restaurant with a spacious and welcoming atmosphere.

The menu boasts a wide range of Hong Kong Cantonese cuisine, including both dim sum, a la carte and set menus, regularly changed by the creative chefs.

Thao Li Restaurant Grand View C, Nguyen Duc Canh, Phu My Hung Tel: 5412 5999 Daily Dim Sum Buffet costs USD $9.90 per person, starting from 11 am. The daily A La Carte Dinner Buffet costs $14.90 per person; includes more than 55 dishes.

Truyen Ky 261B Dao Duy Tu, D10 Small homestyle Chinese restaurant specializing in the salty Hakka cuisine of southeastern China, including tofu and chilis stuffed with fish paste.

Yu Chu InterContinental Asiana Saigon, corner of Hai Ba Trung and Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3520 9099 dine@icasianasaigon.com Specializing in authentic Cantonese and Peking cuisine. Award-winning chef prepares dishes including handmade noodles, dim sum and wok-fried items.

Wide selection of live seafood. Five interactive kitchens.

DESSERT PARLOURS Bo Gia (The Godfather) 29 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 20 Ho Huan Nghiep, D1 299 Nguyen Van Troi, Tan Binh Does brisk lunchtime trade with its selection of more than 25 ice cream favours and Vietnamese noodle and rice dishes.

Ciao Cafe 40 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 With a number of branches downtown (21 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai and 26 Tran Cao Van, among others), this popular cafe offers a mixture of food, drinks and books. Boasts about 20 ice cream

specials and serves crepes, sodas and shakes.

Fanny Ice Cream 29-31 Ton That Thiep, D1 Tel: 3821 1633 Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 www.fanny.com.vn Tranquil open-terraced heaven for icecream lovers. Menu contains fresh fruit, ice cream, sherbets and sorbets (coconut, caramel and Bailey’s ice-cream and mango sorbet are standouts). All you can eat first Friday of the month.  Ministry of Food 30 Le Loi, D1 Tel: 3827 7898 Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Two-floor dessert house specializing in Italian and Japanese treats serving a wide array of ice cream flavours using milk from Japan’s dairy capital. Also serves sandwiches and bento boxes.

New Zealand Natural 3rd Floor, Parkson Department Store 39-45 Le Thanh Ton, D1 4th Floor, Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan 1st Floor, Saigon Superbowl, 843 Truong Son, Tan Binh www.newzealandnatural.com Serves flavours ranging from chocolate ecstasy, fruits of the forest and boysenberry dream by the scoop.

lounge areas, this unique eatery is the brainchild of Vietnamese fashion guru Hoang Khai of Khai Silk fame. Offers up dishes such as lobster consomme, panfried duck liver, salmon medallions with Moet and escalope de foie gras.

loft space with dark wood and linendraped tables. Expect simple, classic dishes prepared to perfection. Rotating seasonal menu.

Cote D'Azur 12T3 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Da Kao. D1 Tel: 3911 5473 www.cotedazur.vn Authentic French cuisine in delightful surroundings, the brasserie's menu offers delectable dishes. Cote d'Azur's ambience gives it a homely feel and it also offers catering services.

La Brasserie 61 Hung Gia 2, Phu My Hung, D7 Tel: 5410 4317 www.labrasserie-hcmc.com Contemporary French restaurant and wine bar with outdoor seating and wine cellar stocked with more than 650 wines.

Features classic French fare like sliced raw beef Carpaccio with Parmesan cheese and grilled beef fillet served with French fries and vegetable gratin.

La Bordeaux F7-F8, D2 Road, P25, Binh Thanh Tel: 3899 9831 www.restaurant-lebordeaux.com.vn French fine dining in an elegant, intimate

La Camargue 191 Hai Ba Trung, D3 Tel: 3520 4888 Boasts a reputation for excellence in fine dining for more than 10 years. Modern French and Italian cuisine is served in

Come and Enjoy the Festive Season

Yogen Fruz 118 Pasteur, D1 106 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Panorama Apartments, Ton Dat Tien, Phu My Hung, D7 www.yogenfruz.com Frozen yoghurt parlour is decked in mod-meets-IKEA decor and serves no-fat, and low-fat fro-yo blended with fresh fruits, as well as soft serve and smoothies.

FRENCH Annamite French Restaurant 21 Tu Xuong, Ward 7 D3 Tel: 6277 8332 annamite-restaurant.com The new VN restaurant area of D3 opens a classic French dinning option, led by ex Caprice chef. Snug atmosphere with a classic touch . French favourites such as escargot in garlic butter, Pan fried goose froie gras, duck in port wine, poached river sole with saffron sauce and classic flambé crepes.

Au Manoir de Khai 251 Dien Bien Phu, Q3 Tel: 3930 3394 This top-end contemporary French restaurant is set in a picturesque colonial villa with a lush courtyard and a lavish interior. Full of private rooms and opulent

Christmas Menu US$49 (adults), US$29 (kids) New Year's Eve Menu US$51 Book before Dec. 15 and get 5% off on tables of 1 to 5 and 10% off on tables of 6 or more To find us, walk through the arch at 74 Hai Ba Trung and discover our beautiful secluded courtyard.

Telephone 3823 0509 Open 7 Days

12 T3 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai St. Dist.1, Ho Chi Minh City T/F: 08 39 11 54 73 E: brasserie@cotedazur.vn www.cotedazur.vn

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a colonial-style alfresco dining space.

An extensive wine list allows diners to choose the perfect pairing.

recipes

La Fourchette 9 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 Tel: 3829 8143 Rustic downtown restaurant, with a good longstanding reputation for serving good traditional French fare at reasonable prices. Open 12 am to 2 pm and from 7 pm to 10 pm.

La Nicoise 42 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 Tel: 3822 8613 Small French-style bistro, with pretty mosaic tiled bar and tables. Offers a good range of teas, coffees and espresso-based drinks. Lunch menu changes daily, but always encompasses traditional French food. Open until 10 pm.

Le Jardin 31 Thai Van Lung, D1 Tel: 3825 8465 This delightful restaurant in a picturesque garden setting is open for lunch and dinner and serves excellent French food at reasonable prices. Main courses cost about 60,000 VND and a carafe of house wine costs 50,000 VND. L’en Tête 139 Nguyen Thai Binh, D1 Tel: 3821 4049, 0903 188 091 This stylish bistro and gallery serves up a large selection of French fare representing an excellent selection of classic French fish and meat dishes, as well as international cuisine. Live music on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays starting at 8 pm.

Thai Mango Salad serves 2 | prep time: 10 minutes

This is a refreshing salad that goes great with a Southeast Asian themed dinner party at home.

1 green mango, julienned 1 yellow mango, julienned 1⁄2 cup red onions, sliced thinly 1⁄4 cup mint leaves, chopped 1⁄2 cup peanuts, roughly pounded Dressing 21⁄2 tbs lime juice, 2 tbs fish sauce, 2 cloves minced garlic, 4 sliced bird’s eye chilli (cili padi), 1 tbs pounded dried shrimp, 21⁄2 tbs light brown sugar ONE Mix dressing together in a wooden bowl.

TWO Toss mangoes and onions in dressing.

THREE Sprinkle mint leaves and peanuts on top.

TIPS Toast the nuts first for added aroma.

You can easily make the dressing a day in advance. Toss in mangoes, onions + mint leaves just before serving to preserve the vibrancy of colours and taste.

For more information contact Elizabeth Png-Reade at Email: elizabeth.png-reade@electrolux.com

Recipes provided by

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Olivier Restaurant Level 2, Sofitel Saigon Plaza, 17 Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3824 1555 Imaginative French cuisine cooked up in a blend of classic and contemporary. Executive Chef Martin Becquart prepares a solid but creative selection of French favourites with an extensive range of fish and meat dishes.

Sesame 153 Xo Viet Nghe Tinh, Binh Thanh Tel: 0989 765 472 A self-styled hospitality school for disadvantaged children, Sesame gives practical experience to its students through its operational restaurant. Serving a mixture of French and Vietnamese cuisine.

Ty Coz 178/4 Pasteur, D1 Tel: 3822 2457 Homely and attractive venue specializes in classic French cuisine. Does excellent three-course business set meals for and sells carefully selected seafood.

INDIAN Ashoka 17/10 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3823 1372 33 Tong Huu Dinh, D2 Tel: 744 4144 S9-1 lo R13 - KP Hung Vuong 2, D7 Tel: 5410 1989 Ashoka is one of the city’s most popular and enduring Indian restaurants with a reputation for good food and service at a reasonable price.

Ganesh 15 - B4 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3822 3017 Casual dining with takeaway available, Ganesh serves up both North and South Indian culinary traditions. Very reasonably priced, with vegetarian curries from 40,000 VND and chicken dishes from 64,000 VND.  Mumtaz 226 Bui Vien, D1 Tel: 3837 1767 Reasonably priced north and south Indian fare in a clean, light and spacious setting. Vegetarian curries go for around 30,000 VND while meat dishes cost

between 45,000 VND and 55,000 VND each. Excellent kebabs.  Saigon Indian 73 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Tel: 3824 5671 Popular venue with an enormous menu.

Serves both southern and northern Indian dishes like tandoori, biryani, dosa and idly snacks, plus a wide range of vegetarian dishes. Offers a set lunch menu. Cater service is available.  Tandoor 74/6 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3930 4839 www.tandoorvietnam.com Part of a chain of restaurants covering Hanoi and Saigon, Tandoor features a large selection of standard northern Indian dishes, including a good vegetarian selection. Excellent cheap set lunches and reasonable prices all around. Will organize catering for events. 

INTERNATIONAL Al Fresco’s 21 Mac Dinh Chi D1 Tel: 3823 8427 27 Dong Du, D1 Tel: 3822 7317 D1-23 My Toan 3, D7 Tel: 5410 1093 400 Nguyen Trai, D5 Tel: 3838 3840 www.alfrescosgroup.com Theme restaurant boasting a range of Tex-Mex, Italian and Australian-style BBQ dishes. Huge portions and tasty Australian ribs coupled with a good atmosphere and helpful staff. Good lunch menu.  Amigo Grill 55 Nguyen Hue, D1 Tel: 3829 0437 Outstanding steaks made with Australian, U.S. and Argentine beef, served in a cosy, family-friendly environment with large tables and banquette seating.

Dishes like leg of lamb and seafood are also on the menu. Open 11 am to 11 pm.

Au Lac Do Brazil 238 Pasteur, D3 Tel: 3820 7157 36/19-21 Pham Van Nghi-Bac, D7 Tel: 5410 5566 www.aulacdobrazil.com A Brazilian barbecue restaurant that takes meat seriously. The mixed grills and rodizio are fantastic and served in generous portions. No meat-eater should miss the churrasco: 12 cuts of meat carved at your table, plus unlimited salad.

Au Parc 23 Han Thuyen, D1 Tel: 3829 2772 Lavishly decorated brasserie borrowing from Moroccan and French styles and popular during lunchtime with expats.

Specializes in Middle Eastern and North African food. The salad menu is a favourite, and a great range of lush smoothies and juices are on offer.  Black Cat 13 Phan Van Dat, D1 Tel: 3829 2055 628 An Binh, An Phu, D2 Tel: 3898 9837 Tiny but popular District 1 restaurant serving up an excellent selection of Western and Vietnamese fare and an extensive range of sandwiches and burgers. The District 2 location also features a slate of sushi and Mexican food, and the District 7 outpost has a full barbecue menu.  BoatHouse 40 Lily Road, APSC Compound, 36 Thao Dien, D2 Tel: 3744 6790 Riverside restaurant with umbrellashaded tables spread across outdoor deck and small indoor dining room.

Serves remarkably fresh and inspired dishes made with choice local and imported ingredients—favourites include the sirloin burger and pan-fried fish and chips.

BoatHouse Cafe 37 Thao Dien, D2 Tel: 6281 9182

BoatHouse’s sister eatery for takeaway and delivery service. Offers coffee, breakfast sandwiches, juices, smoothies, pre-packaged salads, sandwiches, burgers and fish and chips. 

Serves upmarket takes on regional specialties made with fresh local and imported products. Well-designed, minimalist dining space and bar on the river are a serious draw.

Byblos Restaurant & Shisha Lounge 11 Ngo Duc Khe, D1 Tel: 3825 7781 www.byblos.com.vn Downtown restaurant serves a menu of Lebanese starters, salads and mains served in a casual dining room. Catering available. Events and weekly belly dance show hosted. 

Domino’s Pizza Vietnam 117 Nguyen Duc Canh, My Duc, D7 Tel: 3939 3030 www.dominos.vn www.facebook.com/DominosPizzaVietnam Domino’s delivers hot and fresh pizzas to your home within 30 Minutes. Open 11 am to 11 pm, Sunday to Thursday and 11 am to midnight, Friday to Saturday.

Cafe Saigon Ground floor, Moevenpick Hotel Saigon 253 Nguyen Van Troi, Phu Nhuan Tel: 3844 9222 ext. 234 www.moevenpick-saigon.com An international buffet with unique food concepts that is perfect for gathering family and friends.

Casablanca 58/9 Thanh Thai, D10 Tel: 3862 8859 Moroccan cuisine from merguez to pastilla served in an intimate, attractive dining room. Owner/chef trained at Morocco's finest hotels and caters to guests' every need. Reservations required.

Cepage Lancaster Building 22 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3823 8321, 3823 8733 www.cepage.biz One of the city’s premier venues, Cepage delivers an up-market bar, wine lounge and restaurant in one sleek package. Sells several wines by the glass with several hundred bottles to choose from. Mixes some of the city’s best cocktails.

Cham Charm 3 Phan Van Chuong, Phu My Hung Tel: 5410 9999 The highlight of this upscale, beautifully decorated Asian restaurant is a special seafood buffet that includes Portuguese oysters, Alaskan crab, lobsters, sushi, sashimi, Japanese-style seafood, Langoustine prawns, American Angus beef and much more. Errazuriz wines are also included in the buffet. Part of the Khai Silk chain.

The Deck 38 Nguyen U Di, D2 Tel: 3744 6632

pho and roti chennai and seafood favourites such as shrimp, squid and mussels.

Hard Rock Cafe InterContinental Asiana Saigon, corner of Hai Ba Trung and Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3520 9099 www.hardrockcafe.vn Popular theme restaurant/live music venue serves large portions of pub fare including salads, fajitas and burgers.

Rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia adorns the walls in classic Hard Rock-style and the

rock shop sells themed shot glasses, T-shirts and jewellery.  Hideaway Cafe 41/1 Pham Ngoc Thach, D3 Tel: 3822 4222 www.hideawaycafe-saigon.com Stylishly decorated and relaxing restaurant and cafe serving an eclectic range of tasty European-style food. Dine al fresco in the charming courtyard.  Jaspa’s 33 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3822 9926

The Elbow Room 52 Pasteur, D1 Tel: 3821 4327 elbowroom52@yahoo.com American-style bistro offering a wide range of appetisers, soups, salads, sandwiches, mains and desserts, plus an extensive wine menu. Open daily 7.30 am to 11 pm. Breakfast served all day.

Gartenstadt 34 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3822 3623 Opened in 1992, it’s the first venue in town to offer German food with specialities such as pork knuckle and authentic German sausages prepared fresh each day. Also offers imported German draught beer.

Gia Dining Room 5A Nguyen Sieu, D1 Tel: 3827 9399 www.giadiningroom.com Serves a mid-range slate of mainly grilled Western mains, single-entree Asian dishes and wide range of soups, salads, appetisers. Three intimate dining spaces pair modern design with Indochina-era sophistication. Extensive list of Old and New World wines.

Good Eats NTFQ2, 34 Nguyen Dang Giai Thao Dien, D2 Tel: 3744 6672 Easteran and Western dishes are low in saturated fat and made from all-natural ingredients. Organic vegetables, herbs and spices accompany meals. Even the French fries are healthy.  Halal@Saigon 31 Dong Du, D1 Tel: 3824 5823 www.halalsaigon.com Serving up a range of Vietnamese and Malaysian dishes prepared according to halal guidelines including ban xeo,

Doner Kebab, Shish Kebab, Homemade Kofte, Homemade Turkish Pide & Pizza’s Set Lunch from $7.50 Our ingredients are imported.

call 08 629 136 77 25 Dong Du, D1, HCMC WWW.PASHA.COM.VN

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www.alfrescosgroup.com Unpretentious brasserie-style restaurant specializes in Australian-influenced international fusion cuisine. Full range of drinks including Australian and French wines and good cocktails. Hosts monthly Spam Cham networking event.  Juice 49 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Tel: 3829 6900 Bright and stylish deli-style restaurant serving salads, sandwiches, quiches and meat pies with French fries and potato salad. Also has daily lunch and dinner menu. Excellent smoothies and juices, as well as novelty drinks like wheatgrass shooter and Cannonball cocktail. 

47 Phan Chu Trinh St. Ben Thanh Ward D1 HCM City w w w. b a b y s p o o n v n . c o m

Juice Bar 86 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 Tel: 3914 0631 or 3915 3603 www.juicebar.vn Serves healthy smoothies made with yoghurt, fresh fruit and vegetable juices and wholesome sandwiches. Also sells vitamins and supplements.

Kita Coffee House 39 Nguyen Hue, D1, Tel: 3821 5300 Four-level restaurant serving a wide menu of mains, pastas, salads, sandwiches, soups and appetizers for lunch and dinner, as well as a variety of coffee and fresh fruit juices. Includes a bright ground floor cafe, sophisticated Old World second floor bar and rooftop dining. Also in Vincom Center.  Market 39 InterContinental Asiana Saigon Ground Floor, Corner Hai Ba Trung and Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3520 9099 dine@icasianasaigon.com Seven interactive live kitchens offering French, Vietnamese and Southeast Asian cuisines, including a bakery, French patisseries, pancakes, tossed salads, grilled steak, seafood, wok-fried items, noodles and pasta dishes.

Mekong Merchant 23 Thao Dien, D2 Tel: 3744 4713 Set in a courtyard, this rustic Australianstyle brasserie has brought modern international cuisine to suburban An Phu. Popular for weekend brunches.

Weekly specials and seafood flown in from Phu Quoc.  New York Dessert Cafe (nydc) Restaurant and Cafe NOWZONE 235 Nguyen Van Cu, D1 Metropolitan 235 Dong Khoi, D1 Parkson Flemington 184 Le Dai Hanh, D11 Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 The Crescent. Phu My Hung, 107 Ton Dat Tien, D7 New York themed menu offering a wide

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selection of Western dishes and desserts, including a variety of cheesecakes.

New York Steakhouse & Winery 25-27 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D1 Tel: 3823 7373 New-york@steakhouse.com.vn www.steakhouse.com.vn Chic dining venue designed in a classic New York City Art Deco. Open every day until late. Specializes in certified U.S. Black Angus steak, and features a fully stocked wine cellar. Guests are invited to bring their own wine on BYOB Mondays.

Orientica Hotel Equatorial, 242 Tran Binh Trong, D5 Tel: 3839 7777 www.equatorial.com/hcm Top-end seafood and grill restaurant boasting modern decor. Good service and excellent food presentation make this a pleasant alternative to the downtown scene.

Pacharan Tapas and Bodega 97 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3825 6024 This tapas restaurant and bar serves up superb Spanish fare crafted from authentic imported ingredients. The exclusively Spanish wine list is extensive and Sangria is half price during happy hour from 5 pm to 7 pm and all day Wednesday.

Pinocchio Restaurant Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3993 9199 Email: info@pinocchio.vn A quiet place in the Vincom Center to indulge in pizza, pasta, salad and international and Vietnamese mains for a reasonable price.

The Refinery 74/7C Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3823 0509 Authentic bistro with cane furniture outside, informal indoor restaurant section and a bar area. Cuisine is light, modern European. The menu spans a price range to suit most budgets.

Reflections Caravelle Hotel, 19 Lam Son Square, D1 Tel: 3823 4999 Contemporary fine dining that combines Asian flavors with classic Mediterranean cuisine in an ambiance of understated elegance and European style. Special culinary events include guest chefs from Michelin-star establishments around the world. Private rooms are available.

Riverside Cafe Renaissance Riverside, 8-15 Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 3822 0033 International venue opening onto the

street gourmet

Sua Dau Nanh It is unfair to talk about the diversity of Vietnamese cuisine without mentioning the variety of drinks available. One of the Vietnamese most popular drinks is soy milk (Sua Dau Nanh).

It is not only a healthy drink rich in protein and fibre, it also prevents many illnesses like heart disease, osteoporosis, cancer and strengthens the immune system. It is also a good source of vitamins needed to maintain

bustling river sidewalk, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and particularly noted for its sumptuous buffet selection which combines Asian, Western and Vietnamese cuisine.

Sandals 93 Hai Ba Trung, D1 www.sailingclubvietnam.com Casual dining in evocative 3-floor space with blonde wood accents and cosy seating throughout. Kitchen turns out elegant and inspired fare at surprising value for money: meal-sized salads; filling burgers, wraps and sandwiches.

Signature Restaurant Level 23, Sheraton Hotel, 88 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3827 2828 Fine dining with panoramic views over central HCM City. Food is stunningly presented, top-end European cuisine with Asian influences cooked by German chef Andreas Schimanski. A la carte or five-course set menu available.

Skewers 9A Thai Van Lung, D1 Tel: 3822 4798 www.skewers-restaurant.com Rustic Mediterranean restaurant where subtle colours and exposed brickwork combine with jazzy tunes. Serves tabouleh, falafel, couscous and kebab.

Highly rated for its grilled meats, bread and dip combos, soups and pastas.  Square One Park Hyatt Saigon, 2 Lam Son Square, D1 Tel: 3520 2359 Specializing in high-end Western and Vietnamese cuisine, Square One serves charcoal-grilled meats and seafood, as well as steamed and wok-cooked Vietnamese fare.

Texas BarBQ 15/1 Le Thanh Ton, D1 The flavour and feel of the Wild Wild

healthy skin for women.

Sua Dau Nanh can be served either hot or cold, sweetened or not and sometimes with the essence of pandan leaves which add a distinct aroma to homemade soy milk (this is not found in commercial packages). You can find soy milk at every pavement in Saigon and enjoy drinking it straight from the plastic bag it is served in for 3,000 VND. Stephy Thai

West is evoked by both the food and décor at this perennially popular eatery.

Quarter rack ribs are a mainstay.  VillaFB 79 Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 Tel: 3823 3822 www.villafb.com Refurbished villa with a spacious design-led indoor dining room and an elegant enclosed courtyard. Serves bun noodle dishes for breakfast and lunch before switching to a menu of Eastern and Western fine dining for dinner.

Best in Italian Cuisine.

Extensive Wine Collection.

Warda 71/7 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Tel: 3823 3822 Chic, middle-eastern themed eatery swathed in oranges and reds serving Lebanese cuisine prepared by Damascan chef, Nouman. Mezze and tapas are the main draw, but you can also puff on hookas post-meal.

Xu Saigon 71-75 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3824 8468 www.xusaigon.com Inspired restaurant with an F&B director with a passion for mixing Vietnamese cooking with flavours and styles from around the world. Sleek but sparsely designed, the restaurant serves nouveau takes on Vietnamese cuisine.

ITALIAN Baby Spoon Cafe & Restaurant Head Office: 47 Phan Chu Trinh, D1 Tel: 3822 3356 Fax: 3822 3357 SB 2-1 Parkview, Phu My Hung, D7 Tel: 5412 0145 Level 3, Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan, D1 While Baby Spoon is primarily Italian, a vast selection of international cuisine is served in this Japanese-inspired restaurant.

79 Hai Ba Trung D1 Te l : 0 8 - 3 8 2 3 8 9 9 8 w w w. p o m o d o r o - v i e t n a m . c o m

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Explore a better life and enjoy a better place

Basilico InterContinental Asiana Saigon, Ground Floor, Corner Nguyen Du and Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3520 9099 dine@icasianasaigon.com Contemporary and casual trattoria-style restaurant specializing in authentic Italian dishes and homemade desserts.

Wood-fired pizza oven and a wide selection of Italian wines.

Centro Caffe & Ristorante 11-13 Lam Son Square, D1 31 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 6 Thai Van Lung, D1 This is home of Illy coffee in Vietnam.

Offers modern and traditional Italian cuisine in three central locations with lunchtime set menus and regular wine tasting evenings. Good spot for business coffee meetings.

Da Vinci’s Pizza 001B Hoang Dieu, H1, D4 Tel: 3943 4982 Wide variety of brick oven pizza, calzones, spaghetti, subs and sandwiches.

Pizzas come in medium and large sizes and pay homage to Italy with names like Verrochio, Pompeii and Assisi.  Good Morning Vietnam 197 De Tham, D1 Tel: 3837 1894 Popular authentic Italian restaurant with additional outlets around the country.

Specializes in thin-crust pizza, pasta and a range of Italian dishes. Good selection of Italian wines.  La Hostaria 17B Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3823 1080 Rustic eatery specializing in top-end traditional cuisine from various regions in Italy. Main courses from 130,000 VND with daily specials on offer. Serves excellent pizza. 

19 Thai Van Lung, District 1. Tel: 3822 1720

Opera Ground floor Park Hyatt Hotel, 2 Lam Son Square, D1 Tel: 3824 1234 Slick, contemporary eatery with exposed brick and glass. The space revolves around an island kitchen from which chefs produce gourmet Italian fare. Internationally trained chefs work with the freshest and finest ingredients around to produce some superb dishes.

Pendalasco 87 Nguyen Hue, D1, Tel: 3821 8181 One of the city’s oldest Western restaurants, Pendalaso serves a wide range if Italian favourites, as well as remarkably authentic crispy, thin-crust pizza. 

where are you going tonight?

Pepperoni’s 111 Bui Vien, D1 Tel: 3920 4989 Attractive pizza and pasta restaurant from the same chain as Al Fresco’s.

Good cheap buffet lunches on weekdays and all-round large and tasty portions.  Pomodoro 79 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3823 8998 A family-oriented Italian restaurant serving traditional fare are surprisingly reasonable prices. Offers daily lunchtime specials and has an extensive wine list.

Sarpino’s 125 Ho Tung Mau, D1 Tel: 3821 7788 Tasty American-style pan pizza in a pleasant and fresh Italian-themed environment. Four sizes available, from personal to extra large, with a large range of toppings. Also serves pasta, soups, wings and salads. 

41 Dong Du, D1, Tel 3822 7375

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Scoozi 6 Thai Van Lung, D1 Tel: 3823 5795 Italian pizza restaurant affiliated with Centro Caffe serving tasty gourmet pizzas prepared in a wood-fired oven.

The delicious creations restore one’s faith in HCM City’s ability to turn out a quality pie. 

Villa Romaine Thao Dien Village 195 Nguyen Van Huong D2 Tel: 3744 6857 Set on the banks of the Saigon River, Villa Romaine offers traditional Italian pizzas and pastas in an alfresco setting with an excellent wine list. Open till midnight Sunday to Thursday and till 1 am Friday and Saturday.

JAPANESE Dragon Hot Pot 122-124 Ho Tung Mau, D1 Tel: 3915 1001 info@dragonhotpot.vn Japanese hot pot restaurant serving motsu nabe, Japanese barbeque and lots of sake and shoju.

Iki Ground floor, Moevenpick Hotel Saigon 253 Nguyen Van Troi, Phu Nhuan Tel: 3844 9222 ext. 127 www.moevenpick-saigon.com A Japanese restaurant that turns the notion of the common hotel sushi eatery on its head thanks to an affordable menu and a fun atmosphere.

K Cafe 74 A4 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3824 5355 Small, cosy and cheery, this café is noteworthy for its cracking hand rolls.

Salmon skin rolls are also a treat. The assorted sushi and sashimi, tasty and beautifully presented, costs around USD $8. Leave some room for homemade yoghurt.

Kuru Kuru Sushi 129 Nguyen Du, D1 Tel: 3824 3566 Sushi restaurant with colour-coded menu and items served from a rotating conveyor belt. Helpful place mats in both English and Vietnamese break down prices and explain how to choose your food. Very affordable prices.

Nishimura Mövenpick Hotel Saigon, 253 Nguyen Van Troi, Phu Nhuan Tel: 3844 9222 Exquisitely prepared sushi and sashimi from a globetrotting chef with three decades’ experience. A wide range of cooked dishes and monthly meal promotions are also available. Set lunches cost about USD $15.

Okinawa Yamaneko 13/1 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3823 8433 www.yamaneko-vn.com Part restaurant, part Japanese pub serving up a variety of Okinawa favourites like sashimi with sea grapes, namakari and goya champuru plus sushi and soba.

Sakae Sushi Nowzone @ Royal Centre, Level 4 235 Nguyen Van Cu, D1 Tel: 3504 0054 Healthy, affordable and quick service kaiten (conveyor belt) sushi makes for a fun dining experience. Extensive menu also includes beef, chicken and vegetarian options.

The Sushi Bar 2 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3823 8042 3A Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 3911 8618 This brightly lit Japanese-style restaurant serves over 40 varieties of sushi at reasonable prices. Sit at the sushi bar or in private rooms upstairs. Open until 11.30 pm, delivery available on request.

Popular with expats and locals alike.  Tama-Gawa Thao Dien Village 195 Nguyen Van Huong D2 Tel: 08 37446857 Anh Phu’s only Japanese restaurant, Tama-Gawa serves fresh sushi and other delicacies. Set lunches begin at 120,000 VND.

Zen 20 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3825 0782 Located amid the sea of Japanese restaurants on Le Thanh Ton Street, Zen offers a wide range of Japanese dishes.

The yakitori station grills up fantastic steak and quail’s eggs, and the chilled udon noodles are also a standout.

KOREAN 25 Si 8A/6D Thai Van Lung, D1 Tel: 3824 6921 Traditional Yasik-style drinking restaurant. Winter and summer scene murals fill the walls of this dual level eatery. Large menu with favs like budae jjigae, a mix of chilli paste, Spam, hot dog and tofu, as well as super spicy duruchigi.

Thai Express 8A Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 6299 1338 www.thaiexpress.com.vn Modern restaurant with a massive menu of Thai specialties served in moderate proportions. The menu inludes chef’s recommendations and background on Thai cuisine. Warning: some dishes will test your tongue’s threshold.

VEGETARIAN An Lac Chay 175/4 Pham Ngu Lao, D1 Tel: 3837 0760 Apropos of the backpacker district, this little restaurant offers no frills and a vast menu. Though meat dishes are available, it specializes in vegetarian Vietnamese and quirky “backpacker favourites.” 

Hana 8 Cao Ba Quat, D1 Tel: 3829 5588 Japanese-Korean fusion in the heart of District 1. Contemporary decor with a private, yet open feel. Broad menu including cooked and raw fish and traditional hot pot with fish eggs, rice and vegetables.

Hoa Dang 38 Huynh Khuong Ninh, D1 Swish vegetarian restaurant on a quiet street that serves up nutritious dishes, including meatless versions of bun bo, pho and steamboat. Cosy bar serving non-alcoholic drinks, fruits and other sweets.

Kim Bab Chun Gook R4 42 Hung Phuoc 2, Phu My Hung Tel: 6296 9057 Korean boonshik/snack food eatery serving up a wide variety of light but substantial foods including dumplings, rameyon and fish cakes.

Saigon Vegan 378/3 Vo Van Tan, D3 Tel: 3834 4473 Rustic vegan restaurant with extensive menu of healthy food at moderate prices. Lots of tofu dishes and soya chicken/beef, soups, banh bao and more. Also has a kids menu.

Kumdo 6A Pham Ngoc Thach, D3 Tel: 3824 3253 Korean beef barbecue served in small, welcoming dining rooms with barbecues built into tables. Large selection of raw meat specialties.

Tib Chay 11 Tran Nhat Duat, D1 Tel: 3843 6460 Intimate spot with a big menu of Vietnamese vegetarian appetisers, salads, soups, rice/noodle mains and desserts

SOUTHEAST ASIAN Chaba Thai Thao Dien Village 195 Nguyen Van Huong D2 Tel: 3744 6857 Cosy restaurant nestled in the middle of Thao Dien Village offering authentic Thai food. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Lac Thai 71/2 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Tel: 3823 7506 An elegant restaurant tucked in an alleyway and decorated with art-deco furniture. Authentic Thai cuisine prepared by two Thai chefs. Food is tasty but less spicy than you’d find in Thailand.  Little Manila S2-1 Hung Vuong 2, Phu My Hung, D7 Tel: 5410 0812 Small, no -frills eatery with outdoor and indoor seating located on a quiet street.

Serves a range of dishes from the Philippines (pictured on menu for those unfamiliar) and draught San Miguel.

Thai Village Sharksfin Restaurant 38 Ly Tu Trong, D1 Tel: 3825 6706 Restaurant serving authentic Thai-Theochew cuisine including their specialty: whole braised shark’s fin in clay pot.

The Red Dot 21 Tu Xuong, D3 Tel: 3932 5123 Aptly titled, this Singaporean restaurant serves decent chicken rice, char kway teow, chili crab, and a handful of Malaysian specialties.  Sawasdee Saigon 102 - 104 Le Lai, D1 Tel: 3925 7777 Authentic Thai cuisine in a warm, friendly atmosphere.  Satay House 35 Mac Dinh Chi, D1 Tel: 3822 1727 Bright and rustic, this Malaysian-run place specializes in Halal food. Chicken and asam fish curries are must-tries. Its famous satays are equally delicious. 

Viet Chay 339 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 Tel: 3526 5862 Upscale vegetarian restaurant specializes in fake meat dishes. The attractive dining room is suffused with natural light. Located within the walls of Vinh Nghiem Pagoda.

VIETNAMESE Cha Ca La Vong 3 Ho Xuan Huong, D3 Tel: 3930 5674 36 Ton That Thiep, D1 Tel: 3915 3343 Two HCM City ouposts of the legendary Hanoi original serve only one dish: the eponymous and delicious cha ca la vong, fish pan-fried at the table with turmeric and dill and served with cold noodles and peanuts.

Com Nieu 19 Tu Xuong, D3 Tel: 3932 6288 The house specialty, com nieu (smashed rice), comes with a shattered-crockery and flying-rice show at this well-known restaurant, prominently featured in Anthony Bourdain’s A Cook’s Tour.

An extensive and tasty selection of southern Vietnamese cuisine rounds out the menu.

Hoa Tuc 74 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3825 1676 This comfortable high-end restaurant serves traditional Vietnamese fare with a contemporary, classy twist. Expect to find your local favourites as you’ve never experienced them before. Beautifully plated, this is Vietnamese cuisine at its best.

Hoi An 11 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3823 7694 Fine dining Vietnamese-style courtesy of two sumptuously decorated colonial villas, a bamboo-clad walled courtyard and a menu spanning the three main regions of Vietnam. Specialities include abalone soup and a raw fish salad. Four VIP rooms.

Lang Nuong Nam Bo 285/C145 Cach Mang Thang Tam, D10

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Tel: 3862 2569 Warehouse-sized quan well-regarded among locals serves everything from beef, chicken and fish to porcupine, weasel and field mouse. Great destination for intrepid gastronomes. Has standard hot pot, rice and noodle dishes too.

Mandarine Restaurant 11A Ngo Van Nam, D1 Tel: 3822 9783 Fine dining Vietnamese-style courtesy of two sumptuously decorated colonial villas, an antique wooden stair and a menu spanning all regions of Vietnam.

Traditional music performances are available for dinner.

Marina 172 Nguyen Dinh Chieu tel: 3930 2379 www.ngocsuong.com.vn Swish seafood restaurant with al fresco and indoor seating and a vast menu of

up-market Vietnamese dishes. Features 10 set menus at varying price scales.

Nam Phan 34 Vo Van Tan, Q3 Tel: 3933 3636 Well known at its previous corner location on Le Thanh Ton, Nam Phan continues to serve modern Asian cuisine including asparagus and crab meat soup, stewed bellyfish in pineapple and grilled duck breast in orange sauce. Set in a restored colonial villa, the interior is alive with reproductions of Cham-era bas-reliefs and is inspired by Euro-Zen. Nghi Xuan 5/9 Nguyen Sieu, D1 Tel: 3823 0699 Located down an alley just past Hai Ba Trung, featuring an attractive open first-floor and upstairs dining rooms with dark wood furniture and carved woodwork. Serving Hue staples, crab and prawn spreads and an impressive array of wines and cocktails.

Ngon Vietnamese Thao Dien Village 195 Nguyen Van Huong D2 Tel: 3744 6857 Located at the picturesque Thao Dien Village, Ngon offers authentic Vietnamese cuisine including alfresco cooking and dinning with traditional music on Thursday nights and traditional water puppet show on Saturday nights.

Papaya 68 Pham Viet Chanh, Binh Thanh Tel: 6258 1508 www.chi-nghia.com Hanoian classics mingle with new interpretations created by Chi Nghia, whose experience and dedication to clean, fresh ingredients set Papaya's menu apart. 10 am to 11 pm, 7 days.

Ngon Restaurant 160 Pasteur, D1 The long lunchtime queues tell the story: good food at low prices. More a food court than a restaurant, this has become a major favourite for its airy decor combined with cheap and tasty noodle, rice and other standard dishes.

Quan Nuong 3T Barbecue 29-31 Ton That Thiep, D1 A favourite with both locals and expats, this rooftop restaurant above the Temple Club offers an extensive menu of meat, seafood and vegetarian dishes. Try the beef wrapped around tasty melting cheese or deliciously fresh skewered prawns.

Son Ha Garden 147A Hai Ba Trung, D1 281B Ha Ba Trung, D3 Tel: 3506 1126 Spacious and airy restaurant sculpted from bamboo with an open kitchen.

Serves a range of affordable local favourites family style, as well as Vietnamese desserts including homemade yoghurt.

Temple Club 29 – 31 Ton That Thiep, D1 Tel: 3829 9244 This high-end restaurant attached to an elegant lounge bar is a must-try for its art deco atmosphere as much as for its food. Mains go from around VND80,000 to VND150,000.

We have moved, you can now find us at:

Level 4 Ong & Ong Building 159 Phan Xich Long Street Phu Nhuan District.

Tib 187 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3829 7242 100 Nguyen Luong Bang, Phu My Hung, D7 Tel: 5413 6868 www.tibrestaurant.com.vn Popular up-market dining spot serving Hue cuisine in an attactive dining room that draws on traditional architecture.

Call for reservations.

Tib Express 162 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D3 Tel: 3822 5038 Serves a large selection of Tib’s Hue-

food menu in a more casual dining rooom and at significantly lower prices.

Specializes in bun bo Hue.  Wrap & Roll 62 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3823 4030 SA1–1, My Khanh 1, Nguyen Van Linh, D7 Attractive downtown venue that brings street-style food into air-conditioned and uncluttered comfort. Choose prewrapped appetisers such as the cha gio (spring rolls) or roll-it-yourself mains with ingredients like pickled shrimps, beef on sugar cane, fish, grilled eel and pork. 

nightlife BARS & LOUNGES See bar restaurant listings for more popular watering holes.

Acoustic Bar 6E1 Ngo Thoi Nhiem, D3 Tel: 3930 2239 A Volkswagen Bug tries to scale the wall outside this well-priced music venue popular with college-age Vietnamese and the occasional expat.

Amber Room 59 Dong Du, D1 Tel: 6291 3686 info@theamberoom.com A true London meets New York lounge, with chilled out tunes during the day and more funky vibes at night. A pleasant meeting place for drinks and a bite to eat.

Boston Sports Bar 28/4 Bui Vien, D1 Tel: 6656 6338/6656 6328 Sports bar featuring North American food. Satellite TV, free pool and darts.

Catering services and private room available for parties. Takeout and free delivery. Open 24 hours.  Ciao Lounge 2nd Floor, 74-76 Nguyen Hue, D1 Trendy and attractive lounge bar with a mixture of retro and modern decor and a pleasant atmosphere to boot. A great escape from central Saigon but quite touristy.

Cranberry Café & Pub 45 Ton That Thiep, D1 Tel: 3914 0991 Upmarket,quiet lounge great for private parties. Brickwork and cranberry-red chairs speak to the bar’s name, with a cocktail range and Tigers in blissfully frosted mugs.

Level 23 23rd Floor, Sheraton Hotel 88 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3827 2828 One of the best views of the city from

LOUISIANE BREWHOUSE Beachside Nha Trang Asian & Western Cuisine Swimming Pool & Private Beach www.louisianebrewhouse.com.vn

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this upmarket terrace bar and lounge.

Excellent cocktails don’t come cheap but the atmosphere is great with live music throughout the week and a live DJ every Monday.

The Library InterContinental Asiana Saigon, corner of Hai Ba Trung and Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3520 9099 dine@icasianasaigon.com Unwind with a glass of wine or a cup of tea. The Library provides a welcoming atmosphere for those in search of calm, comfort and personalized service.

M52 Bar 52 Ton That Thiep, D1 Tel: 3821 6726 Sparsely-appointed venue with reasonably priced drinks noted for packing a punch. Owners Annie and Ms. Van are never too busy to check on their patrons, and the busy bartenders are quick with a smile.

Number Five Bar 44 Pasteur, D1 Tel: 3825 6300 Number Five Bar is older than it looks, having formerly been located at 5 Ly Tu Trong. The bar attracts a regular clientele of established expats.

Park Lounge Park Hyatt Hotel 2 Lam Son Square, D1 Tel: 3824 1234 Elegant lounge bar, with classic songs played every night by international musicians. The salubrious surroundings are matched by the range of the drinks, with vintage wines from USD $6 to $10 per glass. Tiger is $4.50 a bottle.

Purple Jade InterContinental Asiana Saigon, corner of Hai Ba Trung and Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3520 9099 Chic lounge blends the stylistic influences of contemporary design and opium dens. Hosts live music and serves special drinks, including Shaoxing and Maotai rice wines and an exclusive selection of luxury spirits.

Q Bar Opera House, 7 Lam Son Square, D1 With low ceilings, intimate cubbyholes, colonial arches, gold paint, ultraviolet lighting and clubhouse beats, this is a bar that has a reputation for being a place to be seen. Great outdoor terrace and late-night indoor opening.

QD Bar & Lounge 138 Ton That Dam, D1, Tel: 3821 5338 Sophisticated lounge with New and Old World wines served by the bottle or glass, modern decor and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Ton That Thiep.

Saigon Saigon Bar 9th floor, Caravelle Hotel, 19 Lam Son Square, D1 Tel: 3823 4999 Popular bar usually packed out with tourists and business travellers searching for some delicious cocktails and a great view of the city skyline. Cuban band Warapo plays every night except Monday from 8.30 pm until late.

Samsara Club 131 Dong Khoi, D1 A laid-back cosmopolitan drinking and dance venue with comfy lounge chairs around low-lying tables and an island bar bedecked in extravagant whitefeather decorations. Pink neon gives the joint a contemporary edge.

T&R Tavern 57 Do Quang Dau, D1 Classic expat dive bar with pool table, darts and comfortable yet simple decor.

Daily happy hour and sportsfans can catch games on the big screen.

Vibe Billiards & Lounge 102 Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 Tel: 3925 2599

Sleek bi-level lounge with Scandinavian design, Bansky-esque murals and top-notch billiards and snooker tables, paid for by the hour. Hosts league play, half-price Mondays, ladies’ nights and DJ events.

Voodoo Lounge 92 Ho Tung Mau, D1 Voodoo paintings adorn the white walls at this small, attractive bar south of Sunwah Tower. A daily happy hour, plenty of stool space and a pair of dartboards make it a good place to grab a drink.

Yoko 22A Nguyen Thi Dieu, D3 Tel: 3825 1901 Compact and popular joint with nightly live music boasts a refreshingly eclectic range of Western styles, with most songs sung in English.

BREWHOUSES Alderbrau 98 Nguyen Du, D1 Small brewhouse decorated with antique brewing miscellanea, with an enclosed garden for outdoor swilling the small range of house brews and bottled imports. The kitchen dishes up sausages, German fare, and Vietnamese dishes.

Gammer Czech Beer 107 Pasteur, D1 Tel: 3824 8619 www.biatuoitiepvn.com Attractive, multi-story Czech beer hall furnished with heavy wood and outfitted with a few flat screen TVs tuned in to sports. Dark and blonde beers are available, as well as a full menu of Vietnamese food from mussels to rabbit.

Hoa Vien 28bis Mac Dinh Chi, D1 Tel: 3829 0585 www.hoavien.vn Expansive beer hall serves up pilsner beer crafted from malt, hops and yeast from the Czech Republic. There’s also a large food menu and imported Pilsner Urquell.

Lion Brewery 11C Lam Son Square, D1 Tel: 3823 8514 Microbrewery featuring traditional German brew technology and German fare like pork knuckle and wurst. Good spot to meet friends and enjoy a hearty meal and a whole lot of beer.

NIGHTCLUBS Fuse Bar 3A Ton Duc Thang, D1 A popular bar that plays primarily hiphop music. Every Tuesday Fuse hosts a ladies night where women drink for free and two bottles of wine can be purchased for 2 million VND. Lush 2 Ly Tu Trong, D1 Tel: 3824 2496 A large and lavishly decorated bar and club popular on weekends. Good DJs playing the latest in beat-based music and the city’s beautiful people add to the sights and sounds. It’s on-par with Western clubs in both ambience and drinks prices.

Velvet Bar 26 Ho Huan Nghiep, D1 Hip-hop and Viet trance club with both bottle service and bottle beer that isn’t prohibitively expensive. Circular center bar is ringed with tables, and VIP areas and sofa seating line the walls.

at home

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BAKERIES Crumbs 54 Truong Dinh, D1 Tel: 3825 7199 www.crumbs.com.vn info@crumbs.com.vn Eat-in bakery offering a wide range of muffins, whole-grain breads and pastries. Many of the breads are dairy-free, baked fresh daily with unbleached white flower, no added sugar.

Harvest Baking 30 Lam Son, Tan Binh Tel: 3547 0577 harvestbaking@yahoo.com This authentic bakery offers a range of specialty baked goods for delivery.

Offering bagels, scones, breads, desserts,cakes, tarts and more.

Chocolate fudge cake and cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing highly recommended.

La DorĂŠe 216 Ly Tu Trong, D1 Tel: 3822 1718 65 Pasteur, D1 Reminiscent of a luxurious Parisian bakery, La DorĂŠe prepares and serves a variety of colourful breads baked with green, beige and brown buckwheat seeds plus baguettes, fougasse, le dieppois sandwiches and le montagnard. Must-try desserts include tiramisu, chocolate mousse and MontĂŠ Carlo.

Pat A Chou 65 Hai Ba Trung, D1 188 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D3 25 Thao Dien, D2 The home of the long and crusty baguette. Supplies many restaurants but also sells wholesale. The miniature patisseries such as crème brulÊe and cheesecake are worth a taste. Opens at 6.30 am.

Schneider’s Finest 27 Han Thuyen, D1 Tel: 3829 1998 www.schneiders-finest.com Traditional German bakery bakes 45 different kinds of breads, rolls and baguettes and a wide range of danishes, pastries and cakes. Catering available.

like pain au chocolat to superior quality baguettes and loafs.

Voelker 17 A7 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 7303 8799 39 Thao Dien, An Phu, D2 Tel: 6296 0066 Small bakery turns out sweet and salted pies and mousses in addition to baguettes and a range of Western sweets.

CATERING Au Parc Catering Services 23 Han Thuyen, D1 Tel: 3829 2772 Catering services available every day of the year for birthday cakes, dinner parties, wine tastings and corporate events.

For a custom-made quotation e-mail auparc@hcm.vnn.vn or call Quynh on 0908 196261.

Saigon Catering 84 Xuan Thuy, D2 Tel: 6281 8388 Provide services of catering, banquets, event planning, BBQ’s, daily deliveries and cocktail parties. For a custommade quotation e-mail SaigonGG@ gmail.com or call Huong on 0913 981128.

The Caterers 46D Vuon Lai, Tan Phu Tel: 3816 2901 sales@thecaterersvietnam.com.vn www.thecaterersvietnam.com.vn Catering company offering extensive services from location sourcing, dĂŠcor designing and food catering. All functions can be catered for, from low-key barbeques at home to full-blown weddings and parties.

Xu Catering 71-75 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3824 8468 www.xusaigon.com From the brains behind Xu Restaurant and Lounge comes this new catering service, promising the highest standards in service. Everything from the menu to the comprehensive bar service and the staff is tailor-made to your specifications.

Sesame Bakery 153 Xo Viet Nghe Tinh, Binh Thanh Tel: 3518 0897 Located in the premise of the Hospitality School of HCMC, Sesame Bakery provides practical experience to its students. Wide variety of French pastries, loaves, baguettes, cookies at very competitive prices. Special order & delivery available.

COOKERY CLASSES

Tous Les Jours 180 Hai Ba Trung, D3 Part of the Korean bakery chain, Tous Le Jours stocks a superb range of freshly baked good from sugary treats

Saigon Cooking Class by Hoa Tuc The Courtyard, 74/7 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3825 8485 i.briosca@saigoncookingclass.com contact@saigoncookingclass.com

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Caravelle Hotel Cooking Classes Caravelle Hotel, 19 Lam Son Square, D1 Tel: 3823 4999 Full-day Vietnamese cooking classes for groups of up to 20 people. The classes include a visit to the market with the sous chef. Costs USD $45++ each for a minimum 10 people.

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VINCOM CENTER . BASEMENT 3

80 asialife HCMC

DONG KHOI . LE THANH TON

INFO@PINOCCHIO.VN

FROM 9AM TO 10PM

FOR INFORMATIONS AND ORDER: 08 399 391 99

Cooking classes available from Tuesday to Sunday 10 am-1 pm/2 pm-5 pm.

Students make an entire meal that includes traditional dishes like pho and cha gio, as well as more creative fare.

Conducted by Vietnamese chef in English, Japanese or French on request.

Cost is $45. Market visit with the chef on request.

Vietnam Cookery Centre 362/8 Ung Van Khiem, Binh Thanh Tel: 3512 1491 Well-known Vietnamese cooking classes with half-day and more in-depth eight-day courses. Students work in a comfortable kitchen area with their own stove and workspace. Eight-day course costs USD $160.

GROCERIES Annam Gourmet Market 16-18 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3822 9332 41A Thao Dien, D2 Tel: 3744 2630 SB2-1 My Khanh 4, Nguyen Duc Canh, D7 Tel: 5412 3263 / 64 www.annam-gourmet.com Boutique grocer with wide selection of foreign foods; Annam-brand coffee, tea and spices; and household products.

Wine and premium beer, full deli counter, produce, dairy-frozen and baked goods on second floor. Cosy café serves coffee, drinks and sandwiches.

Au Parc 23 Han Thuyen, D1 Tel: 3829 2772 A fine deli counter displaying a wide selection of cheeses, roasted vegetables, dips and some tempting sweets. The shelves along the side wall also showcase a solid selection of dried goods and some imported condiments.

Bellany Gelato & Sorbet Tel: 0122 774 3132 New Italian gelato and sorbet brand made entirely from local fresh fruit and adapted to contain minimal fat and sugar. Delivers to Thao Dien, An Phu residents from 4 pm to 9 pm in just 30 minutes. 125 ml, 450 ml and 2.8 litre packages are available and there are 15 flavours to choose from.

Classic Fine Foods 17 Street 12, D2, Tel: 3740 7105 www.classicfinefoods.com Luxury food primarily imports for wholesale, but also takes orders for its range of dry goods, cheese, meat, poultry and seafood from private clients.

Gastro Home Delicatessen 100 Xuan Thuy, Thao Dien Ward, D2 Tel: 6281 9830 Deli filled with fresh French-inspired delights ranging from salads to fish and vegetarian, meat and poultry dishes.

Open 7 days from 9.30 am to 9 pm.

Grand-Place Chocolate 1A Me Linh Square, Room C4, D1 Tel: 3823 4068 www.grandplacechocolate.com delivery@grandplacechocolate.com Belgian chocolate manufacturer offering high quality chocolate for professionals and chocolate lovers. Chocolate available in 1kg blocks or 2.5kg buttons.

Free delivery.

Kim Hai Butchery 41 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D1 Tel: 3821 6057 or 3914 4376 Excellent chilled imported beef, lamb, veal and other meats sold at reasonable prices.

Le Cochon D’Or 32 Dong Du, D1 Tel: 3829 3856 French-style charcuterie selling quality cold cuts, smoked sausage and a range of cheeses at very reasonable prices.

by Tan Khoa Wines with a good range of spirits, whiskies, wines and more all at decent prices. English-speaking staff can help with selections.

Connoisseur 7 Lam Son Square, D1 Tel: 224 6324 A decent range of wines from both old and new world vineyards lines the walls in this intimate store. Monthly offers on new arrivals are often a good deal. The staff are helpful, but little English.

Red Apron 22 Chu Manh Trinh, D1 Tel: 3823 0021 Large wine and spirits wholesaler, with 90,000 bottles stored in its five locations around the country. Sells wine from all around the world, particularly France, Chile, Italy and Australia. Exclusive distributor of such fine brands as Taittinger Champagne.

Tapas Wine 2/3A Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 Tel: 2201 0909 www.tapaswines.com Home delivery service that specializes in Spanish wines. Check out the website for a full catalog of their wines, as well as reviews by brand.

The Warehouse 178 Pasteur, D1 Tel: 3825 8826 924 Tran Hung Dao, D5 Tel: 6261 1525 www.warehouse-asia.com One of the city’s premier wine distributors, The Warehouse is an aptly named, stylish wine store that stocks a full range of both New and Old World wines, sparkling wines, Champagne, spirits, imported beers and accessories. Provides advice and delivery service.

Metro An Phu, D2 Tel: 3740 6677 www.metro.com.vn Warehouse wholesaler located just off the Hanoi Highway in D2 between the Saigon Bridge and the tollbooths. Sells bulk food, fresh fruit and vegetables and meat, as well as paper products, cleaning supplies, housewares--basically everything.

Organik 11A Thao Dien, D2 Tel: 090 273 3841 arlene@organikvn.com www.organikvn.com Online grocer based out of Dalat selling a range of organic vegetables and groceries, as well as imported all-natural products such as cereal, soymilk and tea. Operates a retail shop in An Phu. Phuong Ha 58 Ham Nghi, D1 Tel: 3914 1318 A mini-supermarket that sells an extensive assortment of imported packaged food, cheese, meat, fresh fruit, vegetables and fine wines.

Veggy’s 29A Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3823 8526 Sky Garden Pham Van Nghi, Bac Khu Pho, D7 Riverside Apartments 53 Vo Truong Toan, Thao Dien, D2 Popular expat market with a huge walk-in fridge area stocked with fresh fruit and vegetables, dairy products and a range of meats. Imported canned and dried foods, wines, beers, soft drinks, spirits and snacks also available.

LIQUOR & WINE Bacchus Corner 158D Pasteur, D1 Reliable wine and liquor store owned

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culture CLASSES AngelsBrush by Vin Tel: 0983377710 Shyevin@mac.com Oil painting course gives learners the opportunity to work from the different objects; explore different mediums, materials and techniques; and interpret line, tone and colour. Instructor works with students on individual basis.

Creative Writing Classes Tel: 090 448 2957 kate_orson@hotmail.com Writer Kate Orson teaches creative writing courses for fiction, non-fiction and travel writing. Beginners and experienced writers are welcome.

Helen Kling Oil Painting 189/C1 Nguyen Van Huong, Thao Dien, D2 Tel: 0903 955 780 hk.painter@gmail.com/helenkling@ yahoo.com www.helenkling.com Helene is a French painter who teaches beginners (children and adults) various techniques and the art of working with different mediums. She is also a fantastic tool for advanced artists who are looking to increase their creativity. Both day and night courses are available. Helene has a permanent exhibition at FLOW, located 88 Ho Tung Mau, D1.

Printmaking alphagallery@bluemail.ch Classes are held at Alpha Gallery taught by the gallery owner Bernadette Gruber, who offers the chance to learn monotype, intaglio and etching techniques.

CINEMAS

Cinebox 212 Ly Chinh Thang, D3 Tel: 3935 0610 240 3 Thang 2, D10 Tel: 3862 2425 Cinebox cinemas show both original language films with Vietnamese subtitles and the dubbed versions.

Galaxy Cinema 116 Nguyen Du, D1 Tel: 3822 8533 230 Nguyen Trai, D1 Tel: 3920 6688 www.galaxycine.vn Large, modern cinema that shows the latest foreign releases in English (with Vietnamese subtitles).

IDECAF 31 Thai Van Lung, D1 Tel: 3829 5451 French cultural centre and cinema theatre. Showcases French movies with English and Vietnamese subtitles. Also hosts movies and documentaries from a number of overseas film festivals.

Lotte Cinema Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3822 7897 LotteMart, 469 Nguyen Huu Tho, D7 Tel: 3775 2520 www.lottecinemavn.com Modern cinema with four-way sound system. D7 location houses luxury theatre Charlotte with 32 seats and eight sofas. me phim HCM City-based film initiative that provides support to local filmmakers and

82 asialife HCMC

hosts regular film screenings/discussions. Email dduukk@gmail.com for information or join the Facebook group.

Megastar Hung Vuong Plaza, 126 Hung Vuong, D5 Tel: 08 2222 0388 CT Plaza, 60A Truong Son, Tan Binh Tel: 6297 1981 www.megastarmedia.net State-of-the-art cinema complex screening the lastest blockbusters with plush, reclining seats. All movies shown in original language with Vietnamese subtitles.

GALLERIES a little blah blah OUT-2 STUDIO, L6 FAFILM Annex 6 Thai Van Lung, D1 albbsaigon-2010.blogspot.com Operates as an engine for contemporary art by organizing projects, exhibitions, screenings and talks. Runs one major art project each year and a reading room with more than 1,000 texts on art, design and creative culture. Free for everyone and open Tue to Sat 10 am to 6 pm.

Blue Space Contemporary Arts Center 97A Pho Duc Chinh, D1 Tel: 3821 3695 bluespaceart@hcm.jpt.vn www.bluespacegallery.com Busy, working gallery with easels propped up outside situated in the grounds of the beautiful Fine Arts Museum. Holds regular exhibitions by local artists.

Duc Minh Gallery 31C Le Quy Don, D3 Tel: 3933 0498 Housed in an opulent colonial mansion, private museum and art gallery showcases the private art collection of Vietnamese business tycoon Bui Quoc Chi. Containing more than 1,000 pieces that range from traditional to contemporary.

Galerie Quynh 65 De Tham, D1 Tel: 3836 8019 www.galeriequynh.com The cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only international standard gallery, housed in a modern, two-floor space. Organizes regular exhibitions featuring established, emerging local/ international contemporary artists, publishes original catalogs in both English and Vietnamese.

Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum 97A Pho Duc Chinh, D1 Tel: 3829 4441 btmthcm@hotmail.com Institution housing contemporary/traditional works by Vietnamese and foreign artists. Pieces date from as early as the 7th century. Includes Vietnamese antiques, art crafted by the Cham and Funan peoples.

San Art Independent Artist Space 3 Me Linh, Binh Thanh Tel: 3840 0898 hoa@san-art.org www.san-art.org Artist-run, non-profit exhibition space featuring contemporary work by young Vietnamese artists. San Art hosts guest lecturers and curators. A reading room of art books and magazines is open to the public.

TuDo Gallery 53 Ho Tung Mau, D1 Tel: 3821 0966 www.tudogallery.com Hosting permanent exhibitions of works by the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artists, Tu Do deals in oils, silk paintings and lacquerware. More than 1,000 pieces on show.

adults. Free morning yoga.

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sports & leisure Sport Street Huyen Tran Cong Chua, D1 between Nguyen Du and Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Services include mending and restringing broken tennis rackets. Products range from badminton birdies and rackets to basketball hoops, free weights, roller blades, scooters, soccer jerseys and all manner of balls.

Trophies & Custom Signage Street Le Lai, D1 between Truong Dinh and Nguyen Thai Hoc Offers custom engraving on trophies and plaques made of plastic, wood, metal and glass.

CRICKET Saigon Cricket Assocation Social cricket league plays 25 overs a side matches Sunday mornings at RMIT’s District 7 pitch. Season runs November through May, with friendly games throughout the pre-season. Practice on Saturdays and Sunday afternoons.

Australian Cricket Club Terry Gordon terrygordoninasia@yahoo.com.au saigonaustraliancricketclub@yahoo.com www.saigoncricket.com English Cricket Club Richard Carrington Richard.carrington@pivotalvietnam.com info@eccsaigon.com www.eccsaigon.com Indian Cricket Club Manish Sogani, manish@ambrij.com United Cricket Club Mr. Asif Ali, asif@promo-tex.net keshav.dayalani@rmit.edu.vn

DANCING DanCenter 46/2 Nguyen Cuu Van, Binh Thanh Tel: 3840 6974 www.dancentervn.com Modern, centrally located studio with foreign trained dance instructors. Classes for kids age 5+ in jazz, ballet, hip hop and tap dance. Classes for adults in yoga, jazz, hip hop, salsa, belly, tap and capoeira.

Salsa Dancing at La Habana 6 Cao Ba Quat, D1 www.salsaigon.com salsaigon@gmail.com Six-week salsa package at 350,000 VND for single persons and 550,000 for a couple, run by Urko. Lessons every Tuesday (beginners L.A. style at 7.30 pm; intermediate L.A style at 8.30 pm).

Registration required.

FITNESS & YOGA AIS Sports Centre 36 Thao Dien, An Phu, D2 Tel: 3744 6960, ext 126 sportscentre@aisvietnam.com www.aissportscentre.com Features six-lane, 25-metre pool, basketball and netball courts, astroturf hockey/ football area and outdoor gym equipment.

Available for party hire, with BBQ included on request. Membership packages available. Kids swim club and adult masters programmes. Rainbow Divers offers scuba diving courses for children and

California WOW Xperience Parkson Plaza, 126 Hung Vuong, D5 28/30-32 Le Loi, D1 Tel: 6291 5999 The world’s biggest fitness centre chain is one of Saigon’s most modern places to get your sweat on. Located in Hung Vuong Plaza, CWX offers a huge work-out area and all kinds of classes including spinning, KickFit, yoga and more.

Caravelle Club Spa 19 Lam Son Square, D1 Tel: 3823 4999 Modern and stylish gym with lots of cardiovascular machines and free weights.

The swimming pool is a great place for a dip, and the massage parlour, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi are there for winding down.

Christophe Guillemin Tel: 0909 365525 azia_shop@yahoo.fr www.azia-shop.com French fitness instructor offers his training assistance both at home or in your gym to help with everything from weight loss to muscle building. Also does cardio training sessions at An Phu swimming pool on Saturday at 11 am.

Curves 15 Trinh Van Can, D1 Tel: 3821 0319 www.curvesvietnam.com Curves is a women’s only fitness franchise with over 10,000 locations and four million members. The centre offers a famous 30-minute total body workout that they say will burn up to 500 calories. Features training on ‘double positive’ resistance equipment.

Daphne Chua Tel: 012 6662 6467 yogadaphne@gmail.com www.daphnechua.com Classes taught by a Yoga Alliance certified teacher from Singapore that focus on breathing and body awareness, combined with fluid movements to perfectly balance body and mind. Hatha, Restorative and Vinyasa classes are offered in group and private sessions.

Diamond Plaza 34 Le Duan, D1 The city’s largest department store has a well-equipped gym with steam room, jacuzzi, massage parlour and swimming pool. The gym costs from USD $90 per month.

Diamond Way Buddhism Meditation Group Tel: 093 804 3753 Email: SaigonGompa@gmail.com www.diamondway-teachings.org Meditation group using methods of Tibetan Buddhism. Diamond Way or Vajrayana Buddhism guides practitioners to experience the nature of their own mind to reach Enlightenment.

Equinox Fitness & Leisure Centre Equatorial Hotel, 242 Tran Binh Trong, D5 Tel: 3839 7777 Decent-sized 3rd-floor gym with modern cardio and weights machines, sauna, steambath, jacuzzi, and large 4th floor pool great for swimming laps.

Hollywood Fitness World H3 Building, 384 Hoang Dieu, D4 Tel: 3826 4639 One of the latest & best workout environments in the city, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Personal training is offered.

Erick Tony Varin, Fitness and Swimming Instructor Tel: 0939 026 540 Erickforcearca@hotmail.com French instructor offers individual adapted programmes at home or at your gym, including weight loss, muscle gain, athletic training and post-traumatic treatment.

Swimming and aqua aerobics classes for groups or individuals are also offered.

K1 Fitness and Fight Factory 346 Ben Van Don, D4 Tel: 0918 337 111 www.teamminetti.com Fitness centre teaching English and Thai boxing, karate, Vietnamese martial arts, judo, fencing, grappling, and mixed martial arts with classes for both adults and children. All training conducted by a professional foreign instructor.

Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Apothiquaire Fitness Centre 64A Truong Dinh, D3 Tel: 3932 5181 www.lapothiquaire.com Internationally-certified teachers offer daily classes in Sivananda, Iyengar, Power, Yoga, Abdo-Pilates, Taebo and AquaAerobics. Peaceful swimming pool, sauna and steam room.

La Cochinchine Rex Hotel, 146 Pastuer, D1 Tel: 3825 1812 (ext 7477) New and affordable fitness centre located in the heart of the city. This gym has a wide range of weight machines, as well as many cardio machines, including treadmills, cross-trainers and bikes. A good variety of classes are available, including yoga and aerobic dance.

Michelle Lloyd Yoga Tel: 0909 64 8193 michelleglloyd@gmail.com www.michellelloyd.com E-RYT200 certified yoga instructor offering Vinyasa yoga classes at various locations around the city. Private and corporate yoga programs available. Contact Michelle for more information on her current schedule and special events.

Nutrifort 2B1 Chu Manh Trinh, D1 Tel: 3825 8560

84 asialife HCMC

news@nutrifort.com/www.nutrifort.com Comprehensive health and fitness centre offering customized exercise, nutritional counseling to members. Specializing in weight loss programs, core/body alignment training with Pilates equipment.

Healthy snacks available.

NTFQ2 Spa 34 Nguyen Dang Giai, D2 Tel: 3744 6672 Therapeutic massage with a focus on sports massage to increase circulation, remove lactic acid build-up, restore flexibility and relieve back pain.

Park Hyatt Fitness Centre 2 Lam Son Square, D1 Tel: 3824 1234 Luxury health centre with the full range of facilities including swimming pool, steam room, jacuzzi and fitness centre. Threemonth peak membership costs USD $810++ and off-peak is $450++.

Patricia Romero, ERYT200 Phu My Hung, An Phu Tel: 090 387 2832 saigonease@yahoo.com Alignment-based yoga classes that infuse elements from the Ashtanga and Iyengar traditions. Group and private classes. Also specialising in therapeutics and restorative yoga. Patricia has been teaching yoga in Saigon since 2002.

Renaissance Hotel Health Club 8-15 Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 3822 0033 Stylish health club with gym, swimming pool, steam room, massage parlour, pool-side bar and an outstanding view of the city. Costs USD $140 a month, or $10 a day.

Saigon Fitness Club New World Hotel, 76 Le Lai, D1 Tel: 3822 8888 The modern Nautilus-equipped gym is

staffed by highly-qualified instructors to cater for your fitness needs. Features a swimming pool, floodlit tennis court, golf driving range, jogging track, sauna, and massage rooms.

info@yogaliving.com.vn www.yogaliving.com.vn Yoga studio offering hatha, vinyasa, power and ashtanga yoga. Schedule can be selfmade by members.

Sheraton Fitness Level 5, Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers, 88 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3827 2828 sheraton.saigon@sheraton.com www.sheraton.com/saigon Sheraton Fitness features a team of trained professionals and new Technogym equipment. Members have full use of leisure facilities and receive discounts at hotel bars and restaurants and Aqua Day Spa.

FOOTBALL & RUGBY

Star Fitness Gym Manor Apartments, 91 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh Thanh Tel: 3514 0255 This 1,600sqm gym is apparently the biggest in Vietnam. Has a good range of machines for any type of workout.

Membership involves one time entry fee plus monthly subscriptions and gives free access to regular fitness classes.

Sofitel Saigon Plaza Fitness Centre 17 Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3824 1555 Small but well-equipped gym with helpful staff and quality equipment. Membership costs USD $700++ for six months and $1,300++ for a year. Also runs a number of fitness classes including yoga.

Yoga & Meditation Centre 335 Dien Bien Phu, D3 Tel: 3929 1706 www.ymc.org Professional team of Western and local teachers show you how to practice a combination of yoga and meditation with a range of classes such as Hatha, Yin, Vikram, Ashtanga yoga and Pilates.

Yoga Living 95 Pasteur, D1 Tel: 098 880 4598

Australian Rules Football Tel: 093 768 3230 www.vietnamswans.com vietnamswans@gmail.com The Vietnam Swans play regular international footy matches around Asia.

Training sessions are held weekly in HCM City (2.30 pm Saturday, RMIT D7) and Hanoi (midday, Saturday, UN International School, Ciputra). All skill levels and codes welcome.

Les Gaulois de Saigon www.gauloisdesaigon.com info@gauloisdesaigon.com A new team of French footballers, the side invites players and their families to come and join in their friendly training sessions, where everyone can get together and enjoy the sport while making new friends.

Contact Sebastien on 0919 691785 or Romain on 0908 060139.

RMIT Vietnam sports.recreation@rmit.edu.vn A new player on the SIFL scene with a team made up of students from the University. They have their own football ground on-site consisting of two brand new pitches. Contact Landon Carnie.

Saigon Raiders jon.hoff@saigonraiders.com Sociable football side who are always on the lookout for new talent for their weekly matches and training sessions. The team participates in the Saigon International Football League and also has regular fixtures against local teams in the outlying provinces and also participates in international tournaments.

Saigon Rugby Club Tel: 0903 735 799 www.saigonrfc.org saigonrugbyfootballclub@yahoo.com Social, mixed touch rugby played every Saturday afternoon for adults at RMIT from 4 pm until 6 pm. Regularly welcomes visiting teams and tours the region for men’s contact and women’s touch rugby tournaments. Beginners welcome.

attractions such as boating, tennis and a restaurant area.

Saigon Saints chris@saigonsaints.com www.saigonsaints.com Expat football club of all ages, which has been running since 1995 and plays in the SIFL. Regularly venture on international tours especially to Bangkok and Manila and play in other local and international tournaments. The players train weekly, and new players are encouraged to join.

Phun Runner info@phun-run.com Social running group that meets Saturdays at 7 am for a scenic run around Saigon before breakfast. Great way to explore the city, meet fellow runners and get fit for future events. Check website for rendezvous points.

GOLF Dalat Palace Golf Club Phu Dong Thien Vuong, Dalat Tel: 063 3821 101 dpgc@vietnamgolfresorts.com The most beautiful course in Vietnam, combining the crisp mountain air with an environment of stately pine trees.

Overlooking Xuan Huong lake, the 7,009yard course is an enjoyable challenge for golfers of all levels.

Dong Nai Golf Resort Trang Bom Town, Trang Bom Tel: 061 3866 288 / 3677 590 www.dongnaigolf.com.vn Large golf resort with 27 holes, plus a villa complex, bar, sauna. jacuzzi and billiards. The resort sits on 160 hectares of land in Dong Nai Province, about 50 kilometres from the city. Membership starts at USD $2,000 a year.

Ocean Dunes Golf Club 1 Ton Duc Thang, Phan Thiet Tel: 062 3821 995 odgc@vietnamgolfresorts.com Designed by Nick Faldo, the 6,746-yard par-72 course winds through seaside dunes, with the variable coastal breezes changing its character each day. An enjoyable and eminently playable course and has become a favourite venue for expatriate tournaments.

Saigon South Golf Nguyen Van Linh, Tan Phu, D7 Tel: 5411 2001 sgs.golf@yahoo.com.vn Nine-hole mini golf course and driving range set amongst attractive gardens just behind FV Hospital. Membership starts from USD $700 for 6 months.

Visitors’ greens fees for a round of golf are around USD $16 before 5 pm and $19 after. Club, shoe and umbrella hire is also available.

SaigonSports Academy League Tel: 093 215 3502 greg@saigonsportsacademy.com www.saigonsportsacademy.com 12-week, 5 a side community football league with Adult, U18, U14, U10 and U7 divisions. Matches held at Thao Dan Stadium in District 1. Corporate, local and expat teams compete in adult division with cash prize for champions.

Song Be Golf Resort 77 Binh Duong Blvd, Thuan An Tel: 0650 3756 660 info@songbegolf.com www.songbegolf.com Located 22 kilometres from the city centre, the premier golf course in the area features an 18-hole, 6,384-metre course.

Also has tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a gymnasium.

Vietnam Golf and Country Club Long Thanh My Village, D9 www.vietnamgolfcc.com This facility consists of two courses of 18 holes each, one of which is designed in a more traditional Asian style, and the other in international style. Has other

LEISURE Hash House Harriers www.saigonh3.com Running club that meets every Sunday at 2 pm at the Caravelle Hotel to go on a run in different locations out of town with their traditional balance of exercise and beer.

Saigon International Dart League www.thesidl.com A highly popular group in town, the darts club runs a competitive year-long league for 16 pub-based teams. There are some excellent players in this sociable and international group. See website for details of how to join and latest 180 scores.

Saigon International Softball League sisl@saigonsoftball.info www.saigonsoftball.info The league plays slo-pitch softball every Sunday (usually at the Taiwanese School in Phu My Hung) and always welcomes newcomers.

Saigon Pony Club Lane 42, Le Van Thinh, D2 Tel: 0913 733 360 A standout facility offering pony rides, riding lessons, horse clinics and pony rentals. Also hosts events and birthdays.

Senior Expat ChitChat Weekly “Coffee Talk” meetings among seniors at the Palace Hotel Café (56 – 66 Nguyen Hue, D1) each Tuesday from 10 to 11.30 am. The informal group is for local expatriates and English-speaking foreign travellers who meet to share experiences and make new friends. Call club organizer Sheldon Pruss at 0932 031 837.

Squash The Landmark, 5B Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 3822 2098 ext 176 www.thelandmarkvietnam.com One of three squash courts in town.

Membership is open to non-Landmark residents and drop-in players. Lessons and racquets are available for additional fees. Balls are provided. Book in advance or phone for further information.

Ultimate Frisbee RMIT, 702 Nguyen Van Linh, D7 www.saigon-ultimate.com Join in this exciting popular sport every Sunday afternoon from 3pm to 5pm in Saigon South. Pan-Asian competitions also organised for the more experienced.

Contact David Jensen at 0909458890 Vietnam Hobby Brewers hobbybrewer.vietnam@gmail.com www.hobbybrewer-vietnam.de.tl Small group of beer enthusiasts gather bi-monthly at microbrewery to talk beer, share brewing tips and sample homemade suds. The group is keen on taking on new members with an interest in learning how to brew.

X-Rock Climbing Phan Dinh Phung Sport Centre 75 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D3 Tel: 6278 5794 503A Nguyen Duy Trinh, D2 Tel: 2210 9192 www.xrockclimbing.com Offering safe and professional climbing for anyone aged 4 and up. Featuring mountain climbing routes rated from beginner to advanced, climbing and belay-safety courses and training, birthday parties, corporate team building.

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listings

health & beauty ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE American Chiropractic Clinic 8 Truong Dinh, D3 Tel: 3930 6667 www.vietnamchiropractic.com A chiropractic, physiotherapy, foot care clinic staffed by American-trained chiropractors speaking French, English, Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean. Treats back pain, neck pain, knee pain, also specializing in sports injuries, manufacture of medical grade foot orthotics.

Ciro Gargiulo CARE1 Executive Health Care Center The Manor, 91 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh Thanh Tel: 3514 0757 care1_reception@vietnammedicalpractice.com www.care1.com.vn A holistic approach is used by this acupuncturist and traditional medicine practitioner to rebalance the body’s energy fields. A wide range of ailments are treated including back pain, allergies and insomnia.

Institute of Traditional Medicine 273-275 Nguyen Van Troi, Phu Nhuan Dr. Le Hung is the man to see at this well-established traditional hospital & training centre. He speaks good English and provides excellent treatments in a clean environment. The Institute also provides acupuncture lessons at USD $30 per day.

Osteopathic Medicine/Physiotherapy – David Truong Tan Tel: 0903 09 81 24 www.osteopathy-vietnam.com French-trained osteopath and physiotherapist specializing in the treatment of back pain and muscular, ligament and joint problems using a holistic approach and gentle manipulative techniques.

Consultations available at International SOS in District 3 and Nutrifort in Districts 1 and 2.

Theta Healing – Jodie Eastwood Tel: 091 859 1933 www.thetahealing.com A unique energy healing technique for mind, body and spirit. Jodie is a UK qualified practitioner based in HCM City.

Traditional Medicine Hospital 197 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 Friendly staff speak little to no English at this well-known ad spotlessly clean hospital offering treatments that combine traditional Chinese medicine with modern knowledge and expertise.

COSMETIC TREATMENT Cao Thang Lasik & Aesthetic Clinic 135-135B Tran Binh Trong, D5 Tel: 3923 4419 A modern clinic offering a comprehensive range of optical services. Specializes in LASIK correctional procedures, costing from USD $700 to $1,100 for both eyes. English spoken. Open seven days a week.

FV Hospital Cosmetic Surgery 45 Vo Thi Sau, D1 Tel: 6290 6167 6 Nguyen Luong Bang, D7 Tel: 5411 3366 www.fvhospital.com International-standard cosmetic procedures from simple dermabrasion and

86 asialife HCMC

chemical peels to collagen injections, nose and eye shaping, liposuction, and breast enhancement. Procedures carried out by French and Vietnamese doctors using the latest equipment.

questions for the coiffeur

Parkway Shenton International Clinic Suite 213-214, 37 Ton Duc Thang, D1 Owned by the Singapore-based healthcare giant Parkway Holdings, this aesthetics clinic offers a range of both surgical and non-surgical treatments including dental reconstruction.

DENTAL European Dental Clinic 127 Dien Bien Phu, Dakao, D1 Tel: 3823 8680 Expat English and French-speaking dentist. Performs full range of dental treatment including whitening, aesthetic fillings, porcelain crowns, full ceramics, veneer and orthodontic treatment. 24hour emergency line: 0909 551 916 or 0918 749 204.

Koseikai Dental Clinic 3rd floor, 21 Nguyen Trung Ngan, D1 Tel: 3910 6255 info@koseikai.com.vn www.koseikaidentist.com A member of Dental Clinic Vietnam, provide full range of dental services with the latest in technology, delivery of laboratory work and new technologies now available.

Starlight Dental Clinic Dr. Philippe Guettier & Associates 2Bis Cong Truong Quoc Te, D1 Tel: 3822 6222 doe.linh@gmail.com With 10 years’ experience providing dental treatment to expat and Vietnamese patients, this well-known dental surgery is staffed by both foreign & local practitioners. Au fait with the latest treatments and techniques, the surgery prides themselves on their high standard of equipment & sterilization.

Westcoast International Dental Clinic 27 Nguyen Trung Truc, D1 Tel: 3825 6999 71-79 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3825 6777 info@westcoastinternational.com www.westcoastinternational.com Canadian-run dental clinic staffed by French, Japanese, English and Vietnamese speaking dental professionals.

See Medical listings for hospitals with dental services.

HAIR & SALON Anthony George for London Hair & Beauty FIDECO Riverview Building 14 Thao Dien, D2 Tel: 3744 6475 www.aglondonsalon.com.vn Top British stylist George brings his unique flair to hair in District 2. The modern, stylish and professional salon is host to a staff of professionally trained beauty therapists. Uses Dermalogica, Schwarzkopf and L’Oreal products.

Shampoo, cut and blow-dry starts at USD $26; mini facials from $12.

Jasmine 45 Ton That Thiep, D1 Tel: 3827 2737 jasminespa@hcm.vnn.vn Friendly and efficient staff offers haircuts and a wide range of services including waxing, manicures, pedicures and other beauty treatments. Skin renewal facial, salt or rice body scrub & deep tissue massage costs USD $98 Le Brian Salon 201 Calmette, D1 195 Nguyen Van Hoang, D2 Vietnamese-American hairstylist with dual locations, offering a full range of hair services, as well as professional makeup application.

Lloyd Morgan International Hair Studio 234 Nguyen Van Huong, Thao Dien,

Hair raising tales

By Lloyd Morgan When I first came to Vietnam, I was on my way to San Miguel de Allende in Mexico but I ended up staying. I met my wife and we now have a son and I look forward to being involved in this wonderful country full of its ups and downs for us foreigners.

However, if we are sincere, we have to admit that it’s not that bad as we lead good lives here. Anyways, when I got here, I was struck by the cost of a cut and colour, having always charged $100 for a cut and $250 to $300 for highlights. I went from salon to salon, in a stunned state, hoping to find a stylist who charged what I believed was a reasonable rate like in other countries I had worked in. Sadly I never found that stylist so I decided to adopt the adage “When in Rome, do as the Romans do” and began to charge clients just a little over $100 for cuts and colours. My friends all around the world could not believe this, but it was what it was.

My introduction to foreigners was at a talk on hair at an I.L.V event. I love to do seminars and was enjoying the banter on hair care, humidity styling ideas and so forth when one lady asked where I had come from. I told her I was the salon manager at the Chiva-Som Spa in Thailand, which is recognized as the leading spa resort in the world. Whilst there, I styled the hair of the Queen of Sweden, Lord Lindley of England, Dame Shirley Bassey, Adrian Smith the guitarist of Iron

Maiden and a host of other celebs. She asked how much I charged for a cut there. I replied $150. The whole room seemed to shudder upon the mention of this amount.

When I arrived to do this hair talk, I was seated at a table with several women who were discussing an expensive restaurant—about $70, $80 with wine—and raving about the food there.

When a lady asked me how much I was charging, and I replied $29 for a cut and $50 to $75 for highlights, she blurted how expensive that was and how her stylist charged her $10 for a cut. I immediately thought that the lady must not have a mirror in her house or was partially blind because her hair looked like it had been cut with a lawn mower.

I asked who dined at expensive restaurants and lots of hands went up. I then asked how long that lasted to which they seem confused. I explained how I could make them look great for six weeks but that one meal lasted one night; that while my charges were only a little higher, the time my services lasted made it a better deal.

At the end of my talk lots of women said that they never looked at it that way. I had made my point.

Lloyd Morgan runs the Lloyd Morgan International Hair Studio at 234 Nguyen Van Huong, Thao Dien, D2. Contact him at 0908 422 007 or lloydskate@hotmail.com.

D2 Tel: 090 8422 007 International stylist Lloyd Morgan is one of the best in town. He’s been in the business for over 30 years and brings his expertise to this established, top-notch salon.

Qi Spa 151 Nguyen Van Troi, Phu Nhuan Tel: 3844 1719 Caravelle Hotel Tel: 3824 7150 Mövenpick Hotel Saigon, Tel: 3997 5437 High-end salon and spa offers the standard range of services in a calming atmosphere with good service.

Waxing, nail services, hair dressing as well as luxurious facial and massage treatments on offer.

Souche 2nd Floor, Saigon Trade Centre 37 Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 3910 0372 A top-end beauty salon using the Dermatologica line of skincare products. Specialises in personalized facial care treatments from USD $30 and medicated acne treatments from $40.

Waxing and other aesthetic services are also available in a pleasant atmosphere with excellent service.

Sunji Matsuo Hair Studio Saigon Paragon, 3 Nguyen Luong Bang, D7 Tel: 5416 0378 Celebrity hairstylist Sunji Matsuo’s Singapore-based hair salon has a variety of hair services including scalp treatments, rebonding and hair extensions.

The Salon 21-23 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 Tel: 3822 9660 65 Le Loi, D1 Tel: 3821 6394 Reliable haircuts from well-trained stylists at this local salon with multiple locations. A haircut starts at USD $28 for women and $22 for men.

Venus 41 Nguyen Trung Ngan, D1 Tel: 3829 6298 French Vietnamese stylist Sandrine Nguyen trained with worldwide academics Toni & Guy and Vidal Sassoon.

With more than eight years experience, she offers haircuts for men from USD $10 and $20 for women. Special services are colouring and highlights.

MEDICAL Australian Clinic & Pathology Diagnostics (ACPD) 273-275 Ly Thai To, D10 Tel: 3834 9941 www.australianclinic.com.vn Services include general outpatient healthcare, corporate / visa healthchecks, X-ray, full laboratory and in-house pharmacy including specialist medical services covering cardiology, paediatrics, obstetrics, gynecology, orthopedic and dermatology.

CARE1 Executive Health Care Center The Manor, 91 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh Thanh Tel: 3514 0757 care1_reception@vietnammedicalpractice.com www.care1.com.vn Sister clinic of Family Medical Practice, CARE1 is an executive health care centre offering comprehensive preventative-care checkups in a modern and professional setting. State-of-the-art technology provides fast and accurate diagnoses.

Centre Medical International (CMI) 1 Han Thuyen, D1 Tel: 3827 2366 www.cmi-vietnam.com Located downtown next to the cathedral, the centre provides a high standard of medical care from qualified French and Vietnamese physicians. Its range of services include general and tropical medicine, cardiology, gynaecol-

ogy, osteopathy, pediatrics, psychiatry, speech therapy and traditional Eastern medicine.

Columbia Asia Saigon Clinic 8 Alexandre de Rhodes, D1 Tel: 3823 8888 Respected multi-specialty clinic with foreign and local physicians. Doctors on call 24 hours a day. Standard checkups cost between 400,000 VND and 800,000 VND. Family Medical Practice HCMC Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3822 7848 www.vietnammedicalpractice.com Leading international primary healthcare provider, with a 24-hour state-of-theart medical centre and highly-qualified multilingual foreign doctors. Extensive experience in worldwide medical evacuations with car and air ambulance on standby. Also in Hanoi and Danang.

FV Hospital 6 Nguyen Luong Bang, D7 Tel: 5411 3333 www.fvhospital.com A foreign-owned international-standard hospital with a mixture of French and Vietnamese physicians. Offers quality services, comprehensive patient care and is particularly well regarded for its maternity care. Full array of dental services from examination, cleaning and whitening to fillings, cosmetic procedures and implants. 24-hour emergency line: 3411 3500.

International SOS 167A Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 Tel: 3829 8424 www.internationalsos.com Globally-renowned provider of medical assistance and international healthcare.

Specializes in offering medical transport and evacuation both within and outside of Vietnam for urgent medical cases.

Foreign and Vietnamese dentists. Has multilingual staff.

Victoria Healthcare International Clinic 135A Nguyen Van Troi, Phu Nhuan Tel: 3997 4545 79 Dien Bien Phu, D1 Tel: 39104545 Well-regarded clinic offering general examinations and specializing in pediatrics, digestive diseases, cardiology and women's health. Offers a membership program and cooperates with most insurance companies in Vietnam and abroad. Open with doctors on call 24/7.

New Pet Hospital 53 Dang Dung St, D1 Tel: 6269 3939 This veterinary hospital is equipped with the state-of-the-art equipment including digital X-ray machine, color-ultrasound machine, inhalation anesthetic system and blood analyzer. It also provides boarding and grooming services.

NAILS Nail P.KH 51 Nguyen Huu Cau, D1 A well-known local place with a number of manicure stations and an extensive range of services. A mani-pedi with polish starts at 40,000 VND. OPI 253 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 International brand of nail care offering a variety of treatments from standard manicures at 50,000 VND to the whole host nail services such as acrylics, powder gell, cuticle treatments and French polishing.

Quang Qui’s Nails 146 Le Thanh Ton, D1 242 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Locally popular spots with low prices and good service, offering anything you could possibly want for your nails.

SKINCARE

SSIS: An Education That Opens Doors To The Future.

Avon 186A Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 Tel: 3930 4018 www.vn.avon.com HCMC branch of the world’s largest direct seller of cosmetics occupies the ground floor of District 3 villa, selling brand names like Anew, Skin-So-Soft and Avon Natural.

The Body Shop 87 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Tel: 3823 3683 31 Nguyen Trai, D1 www.thebodyshop.com Internatioanl cosmetics retailer with strong commitment to environment sources natural ingredients from small communities for its line of more than 600 products.

Dermalogica Saigon Trade Center, 37 Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 3910 0372 www.dermalogica.com U.S. brand of cleansers popular among skin care professionals. The line of toners, exfoliants, moisturizers and masques are engineered by skin therapists to be free of common irritants, and the company is categorically opposed to animal testing.

SAIGON SOUTH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Nguyen Van Linh Parkway, Tan Phong Ward, District 7, HCMC, Vietnam Telephone: (84-8) 5413-0901 - Fax: (84-8) 5413-0902 Email: info@ssis.edu.vn - www.ssis.edu.vn

The Face Shop 294 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3820 2325 598B Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D3 Tel: 3832 2095 94 Nguyen Trai, D5 Tel: 3923 9868 Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 www.thefaceshop.com Local retailer for the South Koreabased international brand of natural body, bath and skincare products. The company pairs variety with value, offering hundreds of products for different skin types. Also has kiosks at Co.op Mart in Phu My Hung, Diamond Plaza and Zen Plaza.

L’Apothiquaire 100 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Parkson Saigon Tourist Plaza Parkson Hung Vuong Plaza The Crescent, 103 Ton Dat Tien, D7 64A Truong Dinh, D3 07 Han Thuyen, D1 Tel: 3932 5181/3932 5082 www.lapothiquaire.com info@lapothiquaire.com French-made natural products for all types of skin. Also offers exclusive natural Italian skin, body and hair care from Erbario Toscano. Available at all L’Apothiquaire outlets.

SPAS Aqua Day Spa Sheraton Saigon, 88 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3827 2828 Recently revamped luxury eight-room spa with a holistic approach to treatment, using natural Harnn products plus hot stone therapy and seaweed treatments.

Belissima Spa 3rd Floor Saigon Center, 65 Le Loi, D1 Tel: 3272 8682 Well known in Hanoi and now available in HCMC, Belissima offers range of facial treatments, body therapies, and hand and foot treatments as well as special packages such as Coffee and Chocolate Body Toning Treatment.

Henni Biscoe NTFQ2 34 Nguyen Dang Giai, D2 Tel: 0126 874 9596 henni.biscoe@gmail.com Physical therapist from the UK offers personal training and therapeutic massage, including deep tissue/sports and pregnancy massage.

Jasmine Spa 45 Ton That Thiep, D1 Tel: 3827 2737 jasminespa@hcm.vnn.vn Friendly and efficient staff offer haircuts and a wide range of services including waxing, manicures, pedicures and other beauty treatments. Skin renewal facials, salt or rice body scrub & deep tissue massages from USD $79.

La Maison de L’Apothiquaire 64A Truong Dinh, D3 Tel: 3932 5181/3932 5082 info@lapothiquaire.com www.lapothiquaire.com Traditional French day spa in colonial villa with professional therapists and state-of-the-art treatments. Complimentary use of swimming pool, sauna and steam bath. Has fitness centre and organic garden restaurant and offers gentlemen’s care. Winner of Guide Award 2005-2009. Also offers exclusive natural Italian skin, body and hair care from ErbarioToscano.

L’Occitane en Provence New World Hotel, 76 Le Lai, D1 French cosmetics company with a 30-year history offering a range of bath and massage oils, essential oils, body and hand care products are especially well known. Also has outlets in all the major downtown shopping malls.

NTFQ2 Spa 34 Nguyen Dang Giai, D2 Tel: 3744 6672 Therapeutic massage with a focus on sports massage to increase circulation, remove lactic acid build-up, restore flexibility and relieve back pain. Also offering Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage to reduce tension and reiki treatments.

Marianna Medical Laser Skincare 149A Truong Dinh, D3 Tel:3526 4635 www.en.marianna.com.vn Professional Laser Clinic in Ho Chi Minh City, Marianna owns the excellent experts in Aesthetic Medicine and the modern technologies such as Laser, Botox, Filler and all solutions can help you more beautiful and younger day by day.

Renaissance Riverside Spa 8-15 Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 3822 0033 No-frills Vietnamese, shiatsu and aromatherapy massages from USD $22 plus a room dedicated to foot massages from $18 at the atrium level. Also has sizable steam and sauna rooms at the club

Sian Skincare Laser Clinic 71–77 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel:3827 6999 info@sianclinic.com www.sianclinic.com Skincare laser clinic offering the latest in non-surgical esthetic treatments including Botox, laser, acne treatments, hair loss regrowth, hair removal, skin rejuvenation and anti-aging treatments.

Led by Dr. Tran Ngoc Si, a leading esthetic dermatologist from the hospital of Dermatology of HCMC.

Spa Authentic at Thao Dien 195 Nguyen Van Huong, D2 Tel: 3744 6453 Located on the banks of the Saigon River, offering day spa and fitness facilities with a riverside pool.

Yves Rocher 16-18 Hai Ba Trung Tel: 3824 8782 www.yves-rocher.com Small centrally located boutique retailing in French brand of botanical

88 asialife HCMC

fragrances, face and body care, cosmetics and anti-aging solutions.

Xuan Spa Park Hyatt, 2 Lam Son Square, D1 Tel: 3824 1234 Beautiful spa with highly rated Swedish massage and water therapy including the unique 60 minutes Vichy shower to soften and smooth skin or the Indian Shirodhara with special oil for 45 minutes. Spa packages aimed at rejuvenation, calming, and hydrating are also available.

listings

family ACTIVITIES Alpha Gallery 10 Chu Manh Trinh, D1 Printmaking classes for both adults and children run by Swiss artist Bernadette Gruber. Six-week courses start with the basics and swiftly move students towards producing proofs and final prints from copper plates they have created.

Freedom of expression is encouraged and other mediums are also explored.

Conservatory of Music 112 Nguyen Du, D1 The established training centre for professional musicians offers private piano and violin lessons to foreigners in the evenings.

Rubba Duckies Swim School rubbaduckiesswim@hotmail.com Parent and infant water familiarisation classes in a group environment from six to 48 months. Classes take place at Somerset Apts., D1; Riverside, D2; APSC, D2 or AI D2 and D3. Email for schedule.

Saigon Movement An Phu Tel: 098 702 7722 saigonmovement@gmail.com Sports and creative movement classes for kids 2 to 11. Classes improve children’s

total body awareness through a variety of games and sports-based activities. Phu My Hung schedule starts in September.

Saigon Pony Club Lane 42, Le Van Thinh, D2 Tel: 0913 733 360 Close to X-rock climbing centre, kids from three and upwards can ride one of the stable’s 16 ponies. Lessons with foriegn teachers last 45 minutes and cost 350,000 VND for kids from age six.

Live healthy!

December is healthy living month at International SOS

The Performing Arts Academy 19A Ngo Quang Huy, D2 Tel: 090 339 0675 info@paa.com.vn www.paa.com.vn Enrolling aspiring learners 6 and up for instruction in guitar, singing, piano, flute, clarinet, saxophone and drums. ABRSM qualified. Group dance and drama session also available. Offering Tiny Tots music enrichment & dance program for ages 3-5.

Tae Kwondo BP Compound, 720 Thao Dien, D2 and Riverside Villa Compound, Vo Truong Toan, D2 phucteacherkd@yahoo.com Private and group classes are run after school three times a week by the friendly Mr. Phuc. Anyone over the age of five is welcome to join in the course, which costs USD $50 for 12 classes/month with a $25 fee for non-members. Contact Mr. Phuc directly on 0903 918 149.

BABY EQUIPMENT Babyland Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 Quality products including car seats, buggies, prams and travel cots and a good selection of baby toys. Carries Avent bottles and sterilizer sets, and a small range of educational books. Prices are higher than the other places, but so is the quality.

Looking ahead to the New Year

…planning your resolutions?

• Thinking of getting fitter?

• Thinking of giving up smoking?

• Need your medications reviewed?

• Want to have your health checked, without a load of tests?

Friendly helpful medical advice tailored to you and your family.

Come and see us, we can help.

To make an appointment, call our clinics: HCMC: 08 3829 8424

Vung Tau: 064 385 8776

Hanoi: 04 3934 0666

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RESORT & SPA

ask auntie emily

Toys Will Be Toys?

By Emily Huckson Dear Auntie Em: I don’t know how to inspire my-threeyear-old daughter to play with educational toys over the ones she prefers—i.e. pretend games—which don’t serve any valuable educational purpose.

- Mum who wants more brain power.

… a breeze of serenity Lying on an 8 hectares land, Ho Tram Beach Resort & Spa showcase authentic Vietnamese architecture with a backdrop of blue seas , clear skies and rich garden landscapes.

The resort is an ideal venue for both couples and families wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Ho Tram, Phuoc Thuan, Xuyen Moc, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Viet Nam Tel: (84)-(0)64-3781 525 - Fax: (84)-(0)64-3781 433 Email: info@hotramresort.com - Website: www.hotramresort.com

Ho Chi Minh Office 656 Cach Mang Thang Tam st, Ward 11, Dist 3, HCMC Tel: (08) 3844 0951 - Fax: (08) 3993 4481

Dear MWWMBP: Let the truth be known: between the ages of two and four, pretend play is WAY more important than those learning toys. I am not saying that those educational toys are not a good thing— they definitely are—but a child interacting with a person is far better! Using imagination builds a million different things: social interaction skills, language, problem solving skills, human contact, inquiry, reflection and more.

A friend of mine, a parent of a four-year-old, goes camping every Friday after school. This is a ritual that she and her child do together at the end of the week. Their ‘camping’ is in their living room, with blankets over the sofa and pots from the kitchen. She tells me that the activity is a great way to interact, solve problems, add new vocabulary, build and create new things, learn basic survival techniques and continuously build new skills.

Her child is now adding so much more to the ‘camping’ experience by bringing on new adventures and scenarios.

I applaud my friend because she is spending true quality time with her child and building so much more in this type of play.

When we think about brain

power, we tend to think about intelligence and knowledge.

But what really sets a child up for learning, life skills— even being happy—is a set of abilities that psychologists call executive function. It is one of the most important parts of your child’s early brain development, and chances are, you’re probably already doing loads to help it along. Executive function breaks down into four general skills: • Attention: Focusing it, sustaining it and shifting it when you need to.

• Impulse Control: The ability to not always do or say the first thing that comes to mind.

• Working Memory: The ability to hold and use multiple thoughts in your mind.

• Planning: Being able to plan and carry out a sequence of actions to achieve a goal or solve a problem, and adjusting those plans if the situation changes.

The pretend camping game gives her child a chance to exercise most of these skills—plus it is a fun exercise for both! Most early learning educators would agree that executive function skills are more important for school readiness than a child’s IQ or level of reading and math ability as they enter school.

Added bonus: they actually have time to talk about other things, like how the week went at school, who their friends are, and any problems they had to overcome during the week.

Email your questions about childhood development to auntie-em@asialifehcmc. com

20 ~ 31 th

st at ACG International School

Kindergarten Crèche / Primary / Middle IELTS Preparation Programme

Enrolments are open now (08) 3747 1234 Please contact Reception for more information or email : Julie.Wilson@acgedu.com

www.acgedu.com

East - West Highway (Road 25B), An Phu Ward, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Tel: (+84 8) 3747 1234. Fax: (+84 8) 3747 1235. Email: acgvn@acgedu.com

Maman Bebe Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3825 8724 www.mamanbebe.com.vn Stocks an assortment of modern strollers and car seats. Also sells various utensils and practical baby products. Small selection of clothing for ages newborn to 14 years.

Me & Be 230 Vo Thi Sau, D3 40 Ton That Tung, D1 141D Phan Dang Luu, Phu Nhuan 246 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D3 101-103 Khanh Hoi, D4 287A Nguyen Van Troi, Phu Nhuan The closest thing to Mothercare the city has to offer. Stocks a substantial range of apparel for babies including bottles and sterilizers, cots (including travel cots), clothing, toys, safety equipment and more, all at reasonable prices.

Me Oi 1B Ton That Tung, D1 A small shop adjacent to the maternity hospital bursting at the seams with everything you need for your baby. Clothing, footwear, bottles, nappies, nappy bags and toys all at reasonable prices.

EDUCATION ABC International School 2,1E Street, KDC Trung Son, Binh Hung, Binh Chanh Tel: 5431 1833 abcintschoolss@vnn.vn www.theabcis.com UK standards-based curriculum awards diploma with IGCSE’s & A Levels certified

by Cambridge Universit examinations board. From playgroup to pre-university matriculation. Served by 80+ British teachers. Good facilities and extra-curricular activities.

ACG International School East West Highway, An Phu, D2 Tel: 3747 1234 www.acgedu.com Part of the Academic Colleges Group’s international network of schools, ACG offers comprehensive education from kindergarten to senior high school and a range of extracurricular activities. International curricula (IB PYP and Cambridge International Examinations).

The Australian International School Saigon Cherry Blossom 1 & Lotus 1, APSC Compound, 36 Thao Dien, D2 Tel: 3744 6960 Middle & Senior Campus 21 Pham Ngoc Thach, D3 Tel: 3822 4992

enrolment@aisvietnam.com www.aisvietnam.com An international curricula and PYP/MYP candidate school. Senior students follow IGCSE and Cambridge A levels. Only school in Vietnam authorized to deliver University of New South Wales Foundation Studies grade 12 curriculum. Wellresourced classrooms, highly trained and experienced expatriate teachers, outfitted for academic, sport, creative activities.

British International School Primary Campus 43 - 45 Tu Xuong, D3 225 Nguyen Van Huong, D2 Secondary Campus 246 Nguyen Van Huong, D2 Tel: 3744 2335 www.bisvietnam.com With campuses all over the city and expansion underway, BIS offers a mixture of both English and International curriculabased education alongside excellent facilities and extra-curricular activities.

Senior students follow the IGCSE and IB programmes.

International School HCMC 28 Vo Truong Toan, D2 Tel: 3898 9100 www.ishcmc.com One of 136 schools around the world to be accredited as an IB World School.

Offers all three of the IB programmes from primary through to grade 12. The school is fully accredited by CIS and NEASC and has a strong focus on community spirit and fosters an awareness of other languages and cultures.

International School Saigon Pearl 92 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh Thanh District Tel: 2220 1788/89 www.issp.edu.vn Opening in August, 2011, the single purpose-built campus will cater for nursery through grade five. In the second year, sixth grade will be added. ISSP’s longterm strategic plan includes complete middle and high schools. In the spring of 2011 ISSP will host the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (the largest American accreditation agency in Asia).

Accreditation will allow children to easily transfer to schools abroad.

The Little Genius International Kindergarten 102 My Kim, Phu My Hung, D7 Tel: 5421 1052 Kindergarten with U.S.-accredited curriculum, modern facilities and attractive school grounds.

Montessori International School International Program

42/1 Ngo Quang Huy, D2 Tel: 3744 2639 Bilingual Program 28 Street 19, KP 5, An Phu, D2 Tel: 6281 7675 www.montessori.edu.vn Montessori utilizes an internationally recognized educational method which focuses on fostering the child’s natural desire to learn. The aim is to create an encouraging environment conducive to learning by developing a sense of self and individuality. A wide array of curriculum/ extra-curricular activities are on offer including Bilingual programs.

Renaissance International School 74 Nguyen Thi Thap, D7 Tel: 3773 3171 www.rissaigon.edu.vn IB World school, one of Vietnam’s international schools operating within the framework of the British system. RISS provide a high quality English medium education in a stimulating, challenging and supportive environment. The purpose built, modern campus has excellent facilities.

RMIT 702 Nguyen Van Linh, D7 Tel: 3776 1369 Australian university located in District 7, offers a highly regarded MBA and undergraduate courses in various fields.

Saigon South International School Nguyen Van Linh Parkway, D7 Tel: 5413 0901 www.ssis.edu.vn An International school environment offering an American/international program in a large, spacious campus, to children from age 3 to grade 12. Great facilities, extracurricular activities and internationally trained teachers giving unique opportunities to learn.

Saigon Star International School Residential Area No. 5, Thanh My Loi Ward, D2 Tel: 3742 STAR Fax: 3742 3222 enroll@saigonstarschool.edu.vn www.saigonstarschool.edu.vn Offers a British primary curriculum approved by Cambridge University and integrated Montessori programme for nursery and kindergarten. Qualified, experienced teachers and small class sizes cater to individual needs and abilities.

SmartKids 1172 Thao Dien Compound, D2 Tel: 3744 6076 26 Street 10, D2 Tel: 3898 9816 www.smartkidsinfo.com An international childcare centre that

MONTESSORI

www.montessori.edu.vn info@montessori.edu.vn

International & Bilingual

Thao Dien Campus: 42/1 Ngo Quang Huy, Dist.2, HCMC An Phu Campus: Ground floor, Block B, An Khang/Intresco Apartment (Behind Metro supermarket Dist.2, HCMC)

Early Childhood Program (English and Vietnamese/ French/or Mandarin)

provides kindergarten and pre-school education for children aged between 18 months and 6 years. A fun and friendly environment, the school focuses on learning through play.

ENTERTAINMENT Diamond Plaza 34 Le Duan, D1 The top floor arcade and bowling alley is bound to keep your little ones entertained for hours with an impressive array of video games. Some child-friendly dining options too, with Pizza Hut on hand, a KFC and a New Zealand Natural ice cream concession.

Gymboree Play & Music Somerset Chancellor Court 21-23 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 Tel: 3827 7008 www.gymboreeclasses.com.vn The Gymboree Play & Music offers children from newborn to 5 years old the opportunity to explore, learn and play in an innovative parent-child programmes.

Parkson Plaza 39-45 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Arcade game after arcade game line the top floor here with a bowling alley and a decent food court thrown in on the floor below. A good place to take the kids after trawling through Parkson’s numerous concession stands.

PARTIES A2 196 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D3 Well-known toy shop that also does a substantial line in fancy dress costumes and partywear. Also has a concession at An Phu Supermarket.

Beatrice’s Party Shop 235 Le Thanh Ton, D1 A lovely little shop selling everything you need to throw your little ones a good party. A catalogue of entertainers showcases a number of party favourites such as magicians, circuses and more.

Nguyen Ngoc Diem Phuong 131C Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 A curious shop stocking a range of handmade fancy dress costumes such as masks, superman outfits and much more.

The stock changes seasonally, so this is a good place to stock up on Halloween, Christmas and other holiday-specific party costumes.

Tel: 37442639 - 0903 858659

Infant & Toddler program: for children aged 6 to 17 months Kindergarten program: for children aged 1.5 to 6 years Half day and full day

Outstanding indoor & outdoor facilities.

After school activities for children 3-10 yrs: Music, PE, Art & language classes (English, French, Mandarin Chinese).

92 asialife HCMC

Montessori International School of Vietnam

listings

living

In Vietnam for 15 years, Citibank has a presence in both HCMC and Hanoi.

Eurocham 257 Hoang Van Thu, Tan Binh Tel: 3845 5528 www.eurochamvn.org German Business Group 21-23 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 www.gba-vietnam.org Singapore Business Group Unit 1B2, 21-23 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 Tel: 3823 3046 www.sbghcmc.org

BUSINESS GROUPS AmCham New World Hotel, 76 Le Lai, D1 Business Centre, Room 323 Tel: 3824 3562 www.amchamvietnam.com AusCham TV Building, Suite 1A, 31A Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D1 Tel: 3911 0272 / 73 / 74 www.auschamvn.org British Business Group of Vietnam 25 Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3829 8430 execmgr@bbgv.org www.bbgv.org CanCham New World Hotel, 76 Le Lai, D1 Business Centre, Room 305 Tel: 3824 3754 www.canchamvietnam.org Citi Bank 115 Nguyen Hue St, D1 Tel: 3824 2118 Citibank Vietnam offers a wide range of banking services to both consumer and corpo-rate. Services include Corporate and Investment Banking, Global Transaction Services, and Consumer Banking.

Swiss Business Association 42 Giang Van Minh, Anh Phu, D2 Tel: 3744 6996 Fax: 3744 6990 Email: sba@hcm.vnn.vn www.swissvietnam.com Hong Kong Business Association New World Hotel, 76 Le Lai, D1 Business Centre, Room 322 Tel: 3824 3757 / 3822 8888 www.hkbav.com NordCham Bitexco Building, 19-25 Nguyen Hue, D1 Tel: 3821 5423 www.nordcham.com

Pham The 11 Le Cong Kieu, D1 An authorized service centre for Nikon camera that also specializes in repairing all camera makes. Measurement equipment and spare parts also available.

Shop 46 46 Nguyen Hue, D1 Small shop run by photographer and collector. The ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more collectible pieces are pricey, but entry-level manual focus SLRs from the 70s and 80s are affordable.

COMPUTERS Computer Street Luong Huu Khanh, D1 between Nguyen Thi Minh Khai and Nguyen Trai This stretch of District 1 is literally wall to wall with small shops selling computers, printers, monitors and everything computer related, more so toward the NTMK end of the drag. iCenter 142A Vo Thi Sau, D3 Tel: 3820 3918 Professional, polished Apple retailer and repair centre with an attractive showroom featuring some of the latest in accessories and audio. English-speakers on staff.

Honours Apple service plans.

Hung Hai 75 Huynh Thuc Khang, D1 A good place to purchase hard-to-find gear and some rare equipment, mainly auto focus lenses.

Future World 240 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D3 Authorized reseller of Apple computers and products, as well as some off-brand items like headphones. Excellent service and English-speaking staff. Accepts credit cards.

Le Duc 5B Huynh Tinh Cua, D3 A shop for all your professional accessory needs. From lighting equipment to tripods and reflectors, the shop offers the best equipment and service in HCM City.

Phong Vu Computer 264C Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 Tel: 3933 0762 www.vitinhphongvu.com The biggest and busiest of the PC stores in town. Known for good, efficient service,

CAMERAS

in-house maintenance and after-sales repair on the second floor.

SYS Vi Tinh Saigon 96C Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D1 www.vtsaigon.com A superb place with an excellent reputation for after-sales service with competent English speaking staff and a wide range of products and services. Freeware and shareware also available on the store website.

CONSULTING Concetti 33 Dinh Tien Hoang, D1 Tel: 3911 1480 www.concetti-vn.com Consulting and research company for technology transfer and investment.

Embers-Asia Ltd. Level 9, Nam Giao Building, 80-8 Phan Xich Long, Phu Nhuan Tel: 3995 9163 www.embers-asia.com With a focus on experiential learning, Embers-Asia has been creating and delivering high-performance training and development solutions for corporations, embassies, international schools and NGOs throughout Southeast Asia since 2002.

Ernst & Young Saigon Riverside Office Center, 2A-4A Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 3824 5252 www.ey.com Professional service firm specializing in advisory, assurance, tax, transactions and strategic growth markets.

Flamingo Corporate Services Tel: 2217 1662 Email: info@flamingovn.com www.flamingovn.com Specializes in business immigration, providing services like visas, work and resident permits, police clearance, APEC cards, authentication and legalization of

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work experience certificates and degrees in Vietnam and abroad.

finance

Grant Thornton Saigon Trade Centre, 37 Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 3910 9100 www.gt.com.vn International business advisors specializing in auditing, management consulting, corporate finance, risk management and information technology.

IF Consulting IBC Building, 3rd Floor 1A Me Linh Square, D1 4th Floor, 5 Ba Trieu Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi Tel: 3827 7362 Fax: 3827 7361 Email: pascal@insuranceinvietnam.com Private insurance and finance.

Indochine Councel Han Nam Building, 65 Nguyen Du, D1 Tel: 3823 9640 www.indochinecounsel.com Business law firm specializing in legal services to corporate clients in relation to their business and investment in Vietnam.

Inspired Image 42/2A Ho Hao Hon, D1 Tel: 091 635 2573 www.inspiredimage.co.uk Image consultant and personal stylist.

Previous clients include business leaders, TV presenters and busy professionals.

All In The Margins

By Paul McLardie It has happened to us all.

You are at a party or in a bar where the music is quite loud and you are shouting at the person standing next to you when all of a sudden, the music stops and you are still shouting. A mathematician from the U.S. has designed a formula to explain why this happens.

The reasoning is very similar to an investment portfolio where one stock, fund, bond or unit trust stands out against the rest because its value has shot up or down and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s making a loss. For people who are part time investors, people who only play on the markets, there are some things you can do to make sure you do not lose a lot of money.

I was once told that it is easier to buy into a market than it is to sell out and this is true for the personal investor.

This is normally the case because you have got attached to the individual stock. This may be through home bias or just old fashioned being blinkered and hoping the fortunes of a stock will turn around. You need to be more subjective of your purchases.

Get too involved and it will only lead to making a loss or having a widely fluctuating portfolio mix.

One way to get around this is to place margins on each stock that you purchase.

Calculate how much you are

prepared to lose if the stock goes down in price. If the stock hits this level, which is called a stop loss, sell up and have the money sitting in cash. This will allow you to either purchase a brand new stock, or wait until the original stock corrects upwards to be within your margin.

On the up side, it may be important for you to have an upper limit to any gains there may be in the price of a stock. Limiting the higher threshold of a stock allows you to control the fluctuations or volatility of your portfolio.

The larger the space between the margins, the more you are prepared to stand movements in price.

Having upper and lower limits will not work for everyone and it can be difficult for people to set the limits. What normally happens is that the upper level is set too high meaning the full portfolio is at risk of sweeping changes in price and the stop loss is set to a point that the stock can not make any loss before being sold. You need to have some kind of allowance for drops. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only natural, you just need to work out how much you feel comfortable with.

Paul McLardie is a partner at Total Wealth Management. Contact him at Paul. mclardie@t-wm.com

International Management Initiative for Vietnam (IMIV) info@imiv.org www.imiv.org The International Management Initiative for Vietnam (IMIV), a non-profit initiative within VinaCapital Foundation that promotes excellence in business leadership and management by bringing to Vietnam proven international executive education and professional development programmes.

Phuong Nguyen Consulting TPC Business Center, 92-96 Nguyen Hue, D1 Tel: 3829 2391 www.pnp-consulting.com Specializing in business facilitation, conferences, education counselling, market-entry research and IT/business consulting.

Prism Information Technology Services Level 4, YOCO Building, 41 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 Tel: 3829 6416 info@prism.com.vn A foreign-owned information and communications technology company that offers value-added IT solutions. Enables local businesses to attain and maintain international IT standards to be more competitive in the marketplace.

Rouse & Co. International Abacus Tower, 58 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D1 Tel: 3823 6770 www.iprights.com Global intellectual property firm providing a full range of IP services including patent and trade mark agency services.

Star Management Limited 92-96 Nguyen Hue, D1 Tel: 3897 2765 www.starlimited.com Business advisory services for companies investing in Vietnam, business project advancement and a range of business development services.

TMF Vietnam Company Limited Unit 501, 5th Floor, Saigon Trade Center 37 Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 3910 2262 ext. 113 Fax: 3910 0590 www.tmf-group.com With headquarters in Amsterdam and Rotterdam, TMF Vietnam specializes in accounting outsourcing and consulting.

Total Wealth Management

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66/11 Pham Ngoc Thac, D3 Tel: 3820 0623 www.t-wm.com Specialists in selecting and arranging tax-efficient savings and pension plans for expatriates. Offers councel on private banking services, wealth protection in offshore jurisdictions, currency risks and hedging strategies.

Towers Watson Vietnam (formerly Watson Wyatt and SMART HR) Sun Wah Tower, 115 Nguyen Hue, Suite 808, D1 Tel: 3821 9488 Global HR consulting firm specializing in executive compensation, talent management, employee rewards and surveys, HR effectiveness and technology, data services and total rewards surveys.

DECOR Antique Street Le Cong Kieu Street, D1 between Nguyen Thai Binh and Pho Duc Chinh A variety of antiques and faux antiques from Thailand, China and Vietnam including silverware, compasses, lighters, brass knockers, urns, vases, abacuses, religious and pagan statues, candlestick holders, furniture and watches.

Anupa Boutique 84 Pho Duc Chinh, D1 Tel: 3915 1473 Retails in unique and affordable range of console and coffee tables, trays, mirrors and lamps in a range of different textures such as leather resin, bamboo and walnut.

Asian Fish 34 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Boutique-style arts and crafts store selling locally made gifts and souvenirs, all designed by the Japanese owner. Products include clothing, bags, crockery, sandals, chopsticks and jewellery.

Aquarium Street Nguyen Thong Street, D3 between Vo Thi Sau and Ly Chinh Thang Dedicated street has everything one needs to display fish: tanks, decor, feed, filters and the fish themselves.

Budget Housewares Street Corner of Pasteur and Nguyen Dinh Chieu Stock up on shower heads, kitchen supplies (juicer, spatula, grater, etc.), coat racks, clothes hangers, pots, pans, champagne flutes, bowls, coolers, trash bins, ironing boards, magazine racks and the like.

Chau Loan 213 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3825 7991 Gallery based in a colonial shophouse stocking mainly Vietnamese-themed oil paintings and images of Buddha. Also deals in better-known reproductions.

Decosy 112 Xuan Thuy, D2 Tel: 6281 9917 Producer of a large selection of European styled furniture and interior fittings, specializing in wrought iron and patine (distressed) wood finishes. Also stocks a wide-range of decorative accessories, crockery and fixtures. Custom design services available upon request.

Dogma 175 De Tham, D1 Tel: 3836 0488 www.dogmavietnam.com Located upstairs from Saigon Kitsch, this art gallery deals in Vietnamese propaganda posters, apparel, accessories and random paraphernalia. Large prints are sold at USD $60 each and small prints cost $25.

Minh Boutique 15 Nguyen Thiep, D1 Lacquerware pieces, tea boxes, teapot warmers, ice buckets and sake drinking sets all handmade in Vietnam. Also sells a range of silverware, egg holders and ice tongs.

OUT-2 STUDIO L6 Fafilm annex 6 Thai Van Lung, D1 Tel: 3825 6056 STUDIO@OUT-2.com www.out-2.com Studio space for independent designers to showcas their wares, sell their work and meet with clients. Open Monday t Saturday 10 am to 6 pm.

Sapa 125 Ho Tung Mau, D1 Offers a better selection of hill tribe handicrafts than most of its rivals.

Concentrates mainly on the hand-woven clothing of the indigenous tribespeople of the region. There is also a line in ladies’ shoes and the standard range of silk wraps and bags.

Vietnam-Quilts 64 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 Tel: 3914 2119 www.mekong-quilts.org NGO enterprise specializes in quilts and sells a range of appealing handmade products created by underprivileged women in Binh Thuan Province.

ELECTRONICS Hi End Audio 84 Ho Tung Mau, D1 A standout that stocks the very latest and greatest in home entertainment.

Retails in everything from giant plasmascreen TVs to audio equipment. Most top brands are available. iDEAS Shopping Centre 133-141AB Cach Mang Thang Tam, D3 The largest of the electonics stores along the street, the three-storey iDEAS sells every type of electronic and home appliance imaginable. Offers proper warranties. Staff speaks some English.

Nguyen Kim Shopping Centre 63-65 Tran Hung Dao, D1 Tel: 3821 1211 www.nguyenkim.com Stocks DVD/CD players, cameras, TVs, hi-fis and more from Sony, Sanyo, Panasonic, Philips and other major manufacturers. Also a good place to pick up electronic kitchen supplies like coffee makers and rice cookers, as well as large and small appliances, from hot water heaters to regrigerators.

expert from the best factories in Vietnam. Upholstery, accessories, antiques and more.

Catherine Denoual 15C Thi Sach, D1 Tel: 3823 9394 Beautiful showroom with clean lines and a sumptuous array of bedroom products including bedside lamps, linens, pillowcases and duvet covers.

Decosy 112 Xuan Thuy, D2 Tel: 6281 9917 Producer of a large selection of European styled furniture and interior fittings, specializing in wrought iron and patine (distressed) wood finishes. Also stocks a wide-range of decorative accessories, crockery and fixtures. Custom design services available upon request.

El Gallery 23 Ly Tu Trong, D1 Tel: 3824 8306 Traditional decor with a modern twist.

Offers a variety of mid- to high-range furniture, rugs, lighting, art and accessories from around the world, plus interior design services. Also imports furniture to Vietnam for export to Europe and the United States.

Esthetic 11 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh Thanh Tel: 3514 7371/7372 Fax: 3514 7370 esthetic@vnn.vn www.estheticfurnishing.com.vn Design and manufacture as order with a mixture of antique and modern furniture.

Friendly staff speak excellent English.

Furniture Outlet 3A Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 2243 7955/3911 0104 Wide selection of well-crafted and carefully constructed pine wood pieces at good prices, aimed at customers craving a taste of Europe.

Furniture Street Ngo Gia Tu, D10 between Ly Thai To and Nguyen Chi Thanh Very affordable furniture can be found on this stretch: couches, mattresses, desks, chairs, etc. It often takes some looking to find a gem. A connected sidestreet, Ba Hat, features woodworkers’ shops.

Phong Vu 125 Cach Mang Thang Tam, D1 Tel: 6290 8777 www.vitinphongvu.com Two-storey electronics store retails in international products conveniently grouped by brand. Carries computers, home audio, printers, hard drives and more, as well as a variety of mobile phones, handheld electronic devices and accessories.

Gaya 1 Nguyen Van Trang, D1 Tel: 3925 1495 www.gayavietnam.com Four-floor store featuring the work of foreign designers: home accessories and outdoor furniture by Lawson Johnston, linens by Corinne Leveilley-Dadda, furniture and lighting by Quasar Khanh, laquerware decor by Michele De Albert and furniture and decor by vivekkevin.

Savico 117 Ho Tung Mau, D1 Tel: 3821 7993 One-stop electronics and home appliance superstore. All products have a one to three-year warranty.

Linh’s White 37 Thao Dien, D2 Tel: 6281 9863 Furniture shop that focuses on solid wood furniture and decorative items ranging from pillows and lamps to bedding. Also offers kids’ furniture and custom pieces.

Tech Street Huyen Thuc Khang Street between Ton That Dam and Nguyen Hue, D1 Sells compact discs, DVDs, electronic money counters, video games and systems, Discmans, mp3 players and portable DVD players.

FURNITURE Appeal 41 Ton That Thiep, D1 Tel: 3821 5258 A small, upscale shop that offers modern accents for the sleek dining room.

The colours of the over-sized vases and fruit bowls are either glistening red or lacquered black.

AustinHome 20 Thao Dien, D2 Tel: 3519 0023 Outstanding quality and style for your home. The shop says its products are hand-picked by an American furniture

Rare Decor 41 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Tel: 3822 2284 137/1 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh Thanh Tel: 3840 6304/5 Leading home furnishings company in Vietnam, supplying high quality, unique products. Also offer custom made furniture, accessories and lighting for commercial projects and home use.

Remix Deco 222 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D3 Tel: 3930 4190 www.remixdeco.com Boutique furniture store in sprawling white with modern furniture including sofas, tables and seating from around the world. Featured designers include Le Corbusier, Ray & Charles Eames, Philippe Starck and Ludwig Mies Van der Rhode.

The Furniture Warehouse 3B Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 6657 0788 namtran121@yahoo.com, ttpnam@ webtnl.com Offers a range of reasonably priced Italian, European and French colonial sofas, indoor/outdoor wooden furniture, lighting and interior décor, as well as custom designs based on clients’ specifications. All at international quality export.

The Lost Art 31 Nguyen Cong Tru, D1 Tel: 3829 0134 Extensive product range as well as comprehensive interior design service, from initial conceptualization to design, manufacture and installation of unique products.

Thien An Furniture 90A Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D1 Tel: 3910 5650 A range of beautiful furniture with a distinct traditional flavor from colourful silk lampshades, wooden carved beds, screens, chests and more.

Tran Duc Homes 33 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D1 Tel: 7300 0777 Level 5, Wonderbuy Center, 27b Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D1 Tel: 6291 8485 B2-25, Vincom Center, 70-72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3993 9700 Wood solutions partner for high-end residential and resort projects. Experienced in manufacturing and installing wooden modular housing, interior fittings and contemporary indoor and outdoor furniture.

LEGAL Allens Arthur Robinson Saigon Tower, 29 Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3822 1717 www.vietnamlaws.com Australian law firm for law translation services and legal advice on foreign investment and business in Vietnam.

Baker & McKenzie Saigon Tower, 29 Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3829 5585 www.bakernet.com International law firm providing on-theground liaison and support services to clients interested in investigating, negotiating and implementing projects in Vietnam.

Frasers International Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 Tel: 3824 2733 www.frasersvn.com Full service commercial law firm providing international and Vietnamese legal advice to both foreign and local clients specializing in transactions in Vietnam.

IT SERVICES

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Indochine Counsel Han Nam Building, 65 Nguyen Du, D1 Tel: 3823 9640 www.indochinecounsel.com Business law practitioners specializing in mergers & acquistions, inward investment, and securities & capital markets.

Limcharoen, Hughes and Glanville Havana Tower, 132 Ham Nghi, D1 Tel: 6291 7000 www.limcharoen.com Full service international law firm with head office in Thailand. Main focus on real estate in Asia.

Lucy Wayne & Associates 17 Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3824 4395 www.lwavietnam.com Law firm providing legal services across the board from entertainment and environmental law to health care and real estate.

Phillips Fox Saigon Tower, 29 Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3822 1717 Full service law firm providing legal services in healthcare, education, crime, banking and hospitality among others.

Pricewaterhousecoopers Legal Saigon Tower, 29 Le Duan, D1 Tel: 3823 0796 www.pwc.com/vn Part of a network of international legal and financial advisors, PWC gives both specialist and general legal advice with a focus on mutli-territory projects.

Rödl & Partner Somerset Chancellor Court 21-23 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 Tel: 3824 4225 www.roedl.com European legal firm assisting foreign investors with structuring/establishing companies, investment projects, and mergers & acquistions.

LIGHTING Caodong Design Boutique 37bis Mac Dinh Chi, D1 207L Vo Thi Sau, D3 Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 Spanking new store with a range of beautiful items ranging from interesting lighting with decorative table lamps with handpainted paper shades and some lovely leather boxes and gift ideas.

Light House 92 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, D1 Tel: 3914 2662 Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Small retail shop is packed with ceiling and wall light fixtures, and a good selection of desk and ceiling lamps. Most of the stock is decidedlly modern and sleak.

Luxury Light 1483 My Toan 1, Nguyen Van Linh, Phu My Hung, D7 For those who really want to bring a touch

of luxury to their homes, this place deals with Italian imported lighting from the ultra - modern to the traditional Murano style chandeliers. Extremely expensive reflecting the quality of the design and workmanship.

Mosaique 98 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 One of the best and most diverse selections of lamps in town with everything from the ordinary decorative lotus silk lamp to more inventive and original designs in lacquer and silk.

Treasure Light 18A Bis Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 Tel: 3822 4315 www.treasure-light.com High-end lighting shop specialising in fine lacquered lamps. Designs are sophisticated and minimilast. Wide selection of table lamps, wall lamps, floor lamps and ceiling lamps.

MOTORBIKES Automotive Street Ly Thai To Street, D10 starting at Dien Bien Phu and running southeast Services include mending motorbike seats and sound system installation. Products range from zebra print motorbike seat covers to car and motorbike tyres, hubcaps, rims, subwoofers and sound systems by Xplode.

Bike City 480D Nguyen Thi Thap, D7 Luxury motorcycle shop carries a range of accessories, including apparel. Sells Vemar helmets, a brand that passes rigorous European Union standards.

Protec Helmets 18bis/3A Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D1 248C Phan Dinh Phung, Phu Nhuan 417B Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D3 American nonprofit manufacturer makes helmets with densely compressed polystyrene shell with ABS, PVC or fiberglass exterior, available with polycarbonate shatter-proof shield. Lots of options for kids.

Zeus Helmets Founded in Taiwan to manufacture cool, comfortable helmets that meet worldwide safety standards. Basic models feature thermo-injected shells constructed from lightweight ABS composite with interiors lined with moisture-absorbant brushed nylon. Shops selling authentic Zeus helmets are located on Pham Hong Thai near Ben Thanh Market.

REAL ESTATE Ava Residence 40/10 Nguyen Van Huong, Thao Dien, D2 Tel: 6281 8440 www.avaresidence.com Modern serviced apartments located 5 minutes from the British International School and Australian International School. Affords a great view over the Saigon River. Many facilities available including a swimming pool, Jacuzzi and gym.

Thao Dien Village 195 Nguyen Van Huong, D2 Tel. 3744 2222 A riverside complex of international-standard hospitality and F&B outlets with a boutique hotel, four restaurants featuring Italian, Thai, Japanese and Vietnamese cuisine, an event house, meeting rooms and a day spa with well-equipped health-club.

The Nest Tel: 090 319 8901 (Laurence) Tel: 090 793 3000 (Thuong)

laurence@thenest-vietnam.com thuong@thenest-vietnam.com www.thenest-vietnam.com Real estate agent maintains a wellorganized and frequently updated website listing apartments, villas, townhouses condos and offices. Renters/buyers can receive regular updates via email.

Platinum1 Star Building, 33 Mac Dinh Chi, D1 Tel: 3911 8193 www.platinum1corp.com Your one-stop agency for housing and

CB Richard Ellis Me Linh Point Tower, 2 Ngo Duc Ke, D1 Tel: 3824 6125 www.cbre.com International property consultants and developers with both commercial and private properties for sale, lease and rent.

Chamber Property Consultants Tel: 0168 349 9991 www.chamberproperty.com Chamber Property Consultancy has more than 100 houses and flats available for rent in HCMC. Contact them today for more information.

Diamond Plaza 34 Le Duan Street Tel: 3822 1922 lntdung@diamondplaza.com.vn Located in the heart of District 1, connected to Diamond PLaza. Services 1- to 4-bedroom apartments with gym, swimming pool and panoramic views of the city.

EasySaigon.com www.easysaigon.com Real estate website helps expats find apartments in HCMC. InterContinental Asiana Saigon Residences Corner of Hai Ba Trung & Nguyen Du, D1 Tel: 3520 8888 saigon@interconti.com www.intercontinental.com/saigonres Contemporary residential space in the heart of the major business and cultural area in District 1. There are 260 one, two or three-bedroom units plus health club and outdoor swimming pool.

Namhouse Corporation 24 Xuan Thuy, Thao Dien, D2 Tel: 0989 007 700, 0989 115 511 www.namhouse.com.vn Provides rental properties, construction services and interior decorating. Supports professional services and after-sales.

Established since 2001 Design, Interior/External Decorations of High Quality Wood Products Manufacturing for Export, Construction Projects, Retails,...

Copy-Antique Productions, Modern Designs and Made to order More than 10 years experience Devoted premium services/after sales services, every time, every where

11 Nguyen Huu Canh, Ward 19, Binh Thanh Dist, HCMC Tel: (84 8) 3514 7371 / 7372 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Fax: (84 8) 3514 7370 Hot line: Ms. Nhat Thu Director - 0903 849 232 Email: esthetic@vnn.vn Website: www.estheticfurnishing.com

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people matter

office space in the city with pre-viewing selection before the visit and full support throughout your lease.

Riverside Apartments 53 Vo Truong Toan, D2 Tel: 3744 4111 www.riverside-apartments.com One of the first luxury serviced apartments in town located next to the Saigon River set in lush tropical gardens.

Saigon Properties Ground floor, 15-1A Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3823 7502 or 0903 946 517 www.saigonproperties.com Real estate company with 15 years of experience. Provides various services including leasing and sales, property management, interior design and specializes in investment properties.

Saigon Village 523 To Hien Thanh, D10 Tel: 3865 7249 www.saigonvillage.vnn.vn Fully furnished villas and apartments in a tranquil, leafy complex cordonned off from the pressures of HCMC.

Efficient Communication

By Gary Woollacott When I began my career there were basically two methods of business communication: letter and telephone.

Occasionally letters would arrive in facsimile form (fax as we call it) or by telex and that was about it. Now we have an array of communication choices: phone and letters still, but also email, text, instant messages and Skype, to name a few. What is the most effective method to use when we want to reach someone?

Before you type that email, take a moment to consider whether there might be a more time-efficient method in achieving the same result.

Do you need a record of the communication? If not, then perhaps a phone call or an SMS will do. A phone call might take 30 seconds, whereas an email could take 10 minutes or more to compose. Most managers have seen their staff sending emails to each other: Is that a good use of company resources?

And in English from one nonnative speaker to another; probably a waste of time.

Some people hide behind email—looking busy but not doing much or tackling difficult issues.

And unless you love to text your contacts non-stop, then you might revisit that habit—after a couple of text

98 asialife HCMC

exchanges it's probable that if you had called each other you could have dealt with the matter in a fraction of the time. Text is a wonderful thing, of course, especially if the two parties are in different countries but when you are in the same town it is likely not the most efficient method.

Choose the most appropriate method of communication, taking into account whether you require a record of it, and the other person’s nature. By taking a few seconds to plan—instead of automatically bashing out yet another email—you will find that you save a great deal of time in your day and become a much more effective communicator. The numerous communication methods have paradoxically made it harder these days to communicate effectively; it's important to build a reputation as an efficient operator in a crowded market.

As usual, let me know if you have a particular topic you would like to see covered here.

Gary Woollacott is the Chief Representative for Opus executive search in Vietnam and Thailand. He can be reached at +84 8 3827 8209 or gary@ opusasia.net. Opus is an associate of Horton International.

Savills Viet Nam Level 18, Fideco Tower, 81-85 Ham Nghi, D1 Tel: 823 9205 www.savills.com.vn Savills Viet Nam is a property service provider that has been established in Vietnam since 1995 offering research, advisory services, residential sales, commercial leasing, asset management, retail advisory, valuation, investment advisory and more.

Sherwood Residence 127 Pasteur St., D3 Tel: 3823 2288 Fax: 3823 9880 Hotline: 0917470058 leasing@sherwoodresidence.com www.sherwoodresidencecom Sherwood Residence is a luxury serviced apartment property and the first property certified by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism. Modern living spaces meet prime location, comfort and class with 5-star facilities and service.

Snap Tel: 0989 816 676 www.snap.com.vn Online Real Estate service providing information on rental properties exclusively in District 2. Full listings online.

RECRUITMENT First Alliances #609, Saigon Trade Center 37 Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 3910 2080 Fax: 3910 2079 www.firstalliances.net cv@firstalliances.net As Vietnam’s most established recruitment consultancy, First Alliances operates across all major industry sectors and at all levels of seniority. Also providing HR outsourcing solutions for staffing and payroll,overseas employment and education services.

HR2B / Talent Recruitment JSC Thien Son Building, 5 Nguyen Gia Thieu, D3 Tel: 3930 8800 www.hr2b.com HR consulting advises businesses on how to improve employee productivity.

The search team specializes in matching senior level Vietnamese professionals and managers to top level opportunities in both major cities.

Navigos Group 130 Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 Tel: 3825 5000 www.navigosgroup.com Recruitment agency offering a complete portfolio of HR services including executive search, HR advisory, training, online recruitment, and print recruitment advertising.

Opus Vietnam 2A Rolanno Offices, 128 Nguyen Phi

Khanh, D1 Tel: 3827 8209 www.opusasia.net Established in HCMC in 2005, Opus services local and multinational companies seeking to recruit high quality personnel.

An Associate of Horton International, one of the world’s leading search groups with over 30 offices worldwide. For more info contact info@opusasia.net.

TMF Vietnam Saigon Trade Center, Unit 2811, 37 Ton Duc Thang, D1 Tel: 3910 9229 / 9222 hang.bui@tmf-group.com www.tmf-group.com With more than 3,300 professionals working out of 86 offices in 65 countries, TMF provides independent accounting and corporate secretarial services to companies worldwide.

Vietnamworks.com 130 Suong Nguyet Anh, D1 Tel: 5404 1373 www.vietnamworks.com Excellent section on advice for jobseekers focusing on topics such as resume writing, cover letters, interview technique and more.

RELOCATION AGENTS Allied Pickfords Satra Building, Room 202, 58 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 0122 5141 848 aurelien.jouve@alliedpickfords.com.vn http://vn.alliedpickfords.com Moving and relocating services company specializing in business and office moves.

Overseas and specialist movers also available.

Asian Tigers Transpo International Room 201 and 202, 216 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, D3 Tel: 3930 9484 Tel: 3945 0891 matt.king@asiantigers-vietnam.com www.asiantigersgroup.com International moving agency, homesearch, orientation, settling in programs and work permit assistance.

Crown Worldwide Movers 48A Huynh Man Dat, Binh Thanh Tel: 3823 4127 www.crownrelo.com International moving company serving diplomats and private customers, employees and expats, providing domestic and iternational transportation of household, office and industrial goods.

Santa Fe Relocation Services Thien Son Building, 5 Nguyen Gia Thieu, D3 Tel: 3933 0065 www.santaferelo.com Provides a range of services including home/school search, language/cultural training, tenancy management and immigration/visa support.

STATIONERY Custom Signage Street Le Lai, D1 between Truong Dinh and Nguyen Thai Hoc Offers custom-designed signs and custom engraving on trophies and plaques made of plastic, wood, metal and glass.

Fahasa 40 Nguyen Hue, D1 Tel: 3822 5796 Bookstore chain carries an expansive stock of office and home stationary; a one-stop shop for basic needs.

Pi-Channel 45B Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3822 0253 www.pi-channel.com Boutique shop carries up-market collections of pens and notepads, as well as desktop organisers, clocks, calendars and frames. Corporate services offered.

Stationary and Printing Street Ly Thai To Street, D3 starting at Dien Bien Phu and running southeast More than 25 stores providing photocopying services, from business cards to flyers and colour prints to invitations.

listings

fashion ACCESSORIES Accessorize 48 Dong Du, D1, Tel: 3822 1081 Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 www.monsoon.co.uk/icat/accessorize Fashion-forward accessories including necklaces, handbags, wallets, flip-flops, sunglasses, hair accessories, belts and more.

Alfred Dunhill Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan, D1 A timeless style in male luxury providing formal and casual mens accesories tailored for the discerning man. Also stocking handcrafted leather goods.

Anupa Boutique 17/27 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3825 7307 anupaboutiquevietnam@anupa.net The ever-changing boutique retails in the elegant design of anupa accessories made from high-quality leather. Collections available range from men, women, executive, travel, spa, yoga, board games, boxes and semi-precious stone jewellery. Collection changes on weekly basis. Also carries childrens wear, toys, furniture and homewares.

Bally Rex Hotel, 141 Nguyen Hue, D1 Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan, D1 www.experience.bally.com Flagship store in the Rex Hotel providing luxury Italian-made accessories for men.

Among these are shoes, belts, wallets and a collection of male jewellery.

Banana 128 Ly Tu Trong, D1 Women’s accessories and more, from bags, clutches and belts to clothes and jewellery, all at reasonable prices.

Cartier Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan This well-known designer brand displays a wide range of accessories for men. Famous for its watches, Cartier also stocks pens, key rings, belts and sunglasses.

Cincinati 177P Dong Khoi, D1 www.cincinati.vn

info@cincinati.vn Vietnamese brand of genuine leather bags, shoes, accessories and personal goods for men and women such as notebooks for a classic vagabond look. Quality leather from crocodile, horse, snake and fish made with excellent local craftsmanship.

Cleo-Pearls 30 Nguyen Dang Giai, An Phu, D2 Tel: 091 3587 690 Jewellery designer Birgit Maier operates Cleo-Pearls from her home, specializing in necklaces, bracelets, earrings, key holders and bag accessories. All pieces created with gemstones, fresh water pearls and beads.

Coconut 100 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Bags of all shapes and sizes rule the roost in this small shop. Made of silk and embroidered to the brim, these unique bags start at about USD $30, and many are suitable for both day and night.

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Creation 105 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3829 5429 A two-storey shop selling scarves, intricate handbags (from USD $30), tailor-made silk dresses and tops. Has a wide range of materials on the second floor. Prices start from $65 for an ao dai with simple embroidery.

Deanh Jewellery Eden Mall, 106 Nguyen Hue, D1 Tel: 3827 6039 Gorgeous selection of gold accessories imported from Turkey and Italy. Also has a selection of simple ring designs to set your precious stones in.

Gallery vivekkevin FAFILM Building, 6 Thai Van Lung, D1 Tel: 6291 3709 info@vivekkevin.com www.galeryvivekkevin.com Handcrafted pendants, necklaces, rings and bracelets. The gallery’s focus is on design, craftsmanship and finish, as well as educating clients on the intricacies of each piece.

Gucci 88 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3827 6688 Located on the main shopping street in HCMC, this flagship store brings Florentine fashion to an array of luxury leather goods such as briefcases, luggage and a selection of men’s shoes for office or more casual occasions.

Ipa-Nima 85 Pasteur, D1 Tel: 3824 3652 New World Hotel, 76 Le Lai Well-known Hanoi-based fashion brand.

Founder Christina Yu is a former lawyer turned designer who produces eclectic and eye-catching handbags. Also stocks costume jewellery and shoes.

J. Silver 803 Nguyen Van Linh Parkway, D7

Mekong Creations specialises in unique locally produced household and gift items, including papier mache, silk, bamboo, and water hyacinth products. Mekong Creations also produces items for luxury French brand Terre d’Oc and has permission to sell these designs locally.

Mekong Creations is a project of parent NGO Mekong Plus, that supports community development programmes in remote villiages in Vietnam and Cambodia. The key objective is to generate employment for women. All profits from products sold are returned to the villages. Mekong Creations focus is to provide rewarding employment, increase family incomes and improve conditions for children in these remote communities.

Our producers are trained in production techniques for their field and supported in design and marketing by Mekong Plus. All products are made in the villages allowing more time to be spent with families.

112 Xuan Thuy Ward Thao Dien District 2 Ho Chi Minh City Tel/Fax. (+84) 8 62.819.917 shop-hcm@decosy.biz

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Tel: 5411 1188 Make a statement without being ostentatious with handcrafted silver jewellery from the boutique store. Expect big, interesting pieces that are simple yet glamorous.

Laura V Signature 11 Dong Du, D1 Tel: 7304 4126 www.laurav.net Vintage designs aplenty with everything from jewellery and hair accessories to funky styled sunglasses, umbrellas and colourful maxi dresses.

Lovely Lien Jewellery 20 Le Loi, D1 A small and unassuming jewellery store with beautiful and reasonably-priced necklaces, bracelets and earrings. You can also bring your own precious stones or ask the designers to make something unique for you.

Louis Vuitton Opera View, corner of Dong Khoi and Le Loi Tel: 3827 6318 Designer brand name housing traditional craftsmanship of luxury leather goods for men and women. An array of bags, wallets, cuff links and watches are available.

Mai O Mai 4C Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3829 4007 A superb little place with beautiful jewellery and accessories to suit all budgets.

Silver necklaces, bracelets, rings and more in both classic and imaginative designs, as well as gorgeous handembroidered bags.

Mont Blanc Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan Notable for fine writing instruments, Mont Blanc also houses cuff links and other male accessories Scorpion Vincom Center B1, 70 - 72 Le Thanh

Ton, D1 Tel: 3993 9889 www.scorpionbag.com Selling high-end leather products for both men and women, including shoes, handbags, belts and other accessories.

Features a variety of leather in bright colors and styles.

Tic Tac Watch Shop 72 Dong Khoi Tel: 0838 293519 www.tictacwatch.com Elegant show room displaying some of the world’s most recognized Swiss brands such as Rolex, Tag Huer, Baume & Marcer, Omega and Hirsch. On-site watch repair service and complementary watch evaluation available. Also carries a small collection of vintage Rolexes.

Tombo 145 Dong Khoi, D1 Of all the embroidered and sequined bags, shoes and tidbits (or “Zakka” shops) that can be found in Dong Khoi, this shop’s has products that are prettier than most. Shoes can be custom-made and the sales staff is friendly.

Tumi Rex Hotel, 151 Nguyen Hue www.intl.tumi.com Tumi houses an opulent selection of Italian-made luggage geared towards men. Briefcases, messenger bags and backpacks are among those on display.

Umbrella 35 Ly Tu Trong, D1 and 4 Le Loi, D1 Tel: 6276 2730 www.umbrella-fashion.com Sophisticated boutique showcasing a diverse range of imported women’s accessories. Also houses women’s garments from office wear to cocktail and party creations.

Luggage Street Le Lai Street, D1 between Ben Thanh Market and Truong Dinh.

Duffle bags, backpacks, messenger bags and carry-on suitcases are all available on this stretch of District 1.

ACTIVE WEAR China Beach Surf Club Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan, D1 Stocks famous surf and surf-inspired brands like Reef, Rip Curl and men’s wear from Volcom. It has everything you’d need for a visit to the beach and more. There are string bikinis, tees, board shorts, caps and thongs, just to name a few.

2bling 246 Huynh Van Banh, Phu Nhuan Specializes in urban streetwear, with a range of t-shirts, sneakers, baseball caps, hoodies and more. Tees are both imported from around Asia and designed in-house.

BAM Skate Shop 174 Bui Vien, D1 Tel: 0903 641 826 In addition to a range of decks, wheels and trucks, this small shop is stocked with bookbags, skate sneakers, track jackets and t-shirts emblazoned with your skateboard company of choice.

Pinko Rex Hotel, 146-148-150 Pasteur, D1 Tel: 3827 2240 Spacious and simple store displaying women’s sportswear imported from Hong Kong and China. Body lotion and perfume imported from America.

“ello 263 Huynh Van Banh, Phu Nhuan This tiny little shop on Phu Nhuan’s hipster fashion strip is stocked with some of the coolest trend items in HCMC. Carries a frequently refreshed selection of Tshirts, skinny pants and women’s tops.

Roxy and Quiksilver Parkson Plaza, 39-45 Le Thanh Ton, D1 The original active living and extreme sports brands, Roxy and Quiksilver products combine form and function.

Choose from outdoor gear to cool indoor clothes.

FCUK 127 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan, D1 Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3914 7740 www.frenchconnection.com Trendy UK brand with a selection of fashion-forward dresses for women and smart workwear and funky casual wear for men, all at middle-market prices.

TBS Sports Centre 102 Nguyen Van Troi, Phu Nhuan This store stocks a range of good sports clothes and equipment from big name brands such as Puma, Adidas, Ecco, Nike and Converse.

Volcom Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan, D1 Chic and funky ladies’ apparel brand from America. Lots of tank tops, minis and shorts for day tripping with girlfriends or lazing on the beach.

READY TO WEAR unisex

Levi’s Flagship Store 19–21 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3500 1501 The 320-square-metre retail space spread over three levels offers the city’s largest and most exclusive collection of Levi’s bottoms, tops and accessories.

L’Usine 151/1 Dong Khoi, D1 Lifestyle store and cafe housed in a period building restored to evoke the aesthetic of an early 20th-century garment factory. Carries an exclusive, fre-

quently refreshed line of imported men’s and women’s fashion, including T-shirts and footwear, and a range of unique accessories. Entrance via the street-level Art Arcade.

Replay Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 116 Nguyen Trai, D1 187 Hai Ba Trung, D3 Tel: 3925 0252 Wide variety of shoes, clothing, denim for teens and university-age men and women. Carries boots, sandals, pumps and sneakers at mid-range prices.

Runway Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3993 9988 runway.sg@global-fashion.vn Massive and minimalist design-led interior lets ultra high-end designer garments stand out. Carries men's, women's and children’s clothing, swimwear, shoes, accessories along with home décor. Brands include Chloe, Marc Jacobs, Balenciaga, Sergio Rossi and Eres.

See By Harajuku 130 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D3 Tel: 090 986 8622 Small, friendly store stocking both men’s and women’s streetwear, channelling Japanese and Korean fashion trends.

Bright and funky T-shirts and maxi dresses, as well as accessories and footwear. New stock every month.

Versace 26 Dong Khoi Designer brand in men’s formal wear.

Houses suit jackets and trousers, shirts as well as an array of men’s accessories.

Also stocks womens clothing and shoes.

VOV Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 403 Huynh Van Banh, Phu Nhuan www.vovietchung.com Retail base for Vo Viet Chung, one of Vietnam’s best-known designers. VOV is known for blending traditional form with contemporary cuts, colours and textures.

men Lucas 69A Ly Tu Trong, D1 Tel: 3827 9670 Fashion store housing contemporary designs in casual, office and evening wear imported from Hong Kong.

Massimo Ferrari 42-A1 Tran Quoc Thao, D3 Tel: 3930 6212 Bespoke menswear shop also boasts its own brand of contemporary preppy attire tailored for the tropics. Carries a line of European-quality shoes, bags and accessories designed in-house, as well as exclusive Orobianco unisex bags, designer fragrances and eyewear.

Mattre 19 Nguyen Trai, D1 Tel: 3925 3412 This local men’s clothes shop has some funky tops and jeans for more fashionforward males. Apparel in sizes that fit the typical Western man’s frame are often available. Another store is located on Hai Ba Trung and Ly Tu Trong Milano Sheraton Hotel, 88 Dong Khoi www.milanogoods.com A conjoining shop with D&G offering a selection of men’s shoes and accessories with a sideline in women’s clothing.

D&G provides a collection of menswear, from casual jeans and T-shirts to uniquely designed suit jackets.

Mizada 150 Ly Tu Trong, D1 Tel: 3822 2508 mizada07@yahoo.com An A-to-Z collection of men’s clothing with an influx of new fashion arriving on the racks regularly. Carries smart, casual

shirts, trousers, jeans and jackets, as well as bags and scarves.

New Urban Male 226 Ly Tu Trong, D1 Tel: 3824 4416 www.newurbanmale.com Caters to a wide range of consumer tastes from beach duds to streetwear.

The goods include international men’s brands such as Havaianas, C-IN2, Jabs Waterboys, Rebel Jeans and aussieBum. Also carries men’s grooming products.

Timberland Parkson Plaza, 39-45 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Sells everything the brand is known for, from heavy-duty boots to tops and trousers that are both smart and casual.

The emphasis is on muted tones and unobtrusive logos for men who don’t like to show off.

women Axara Vincom Center B1, 70 - 72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 21 Nguyen Trai, D1 Tel: 3993 9399 www.axara.com Carries women’s clothing suitable for work, weekends or evening. Luxurious fabrics and simple cuts and styles all at reasonable prices. Also carries handbags and accessories.

Balenciaga Rex Hotel, 155 Nguyen Hue Tel: 6291 3572 Sporting modern shapes and elegant items crafted from natural, raw and artificial materials.

Bebe Saigon Center, 65 Le Loi, D1 Tel: 3914 4011 www.bebe.com An international brand that specializes in contemporary, modern tees and sexy, elegant dresse, tops and party attire.

Bon Mua Boutique Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 3993 9888 www.itamoda.com.vn Luxury women’s clothing store with racks organized by designer. Carries small collection of unique pieces from designers such as Jean Paul Gaultier, Alberta Ferretti, Blumarine, Valentino, Philosophy and Brunello Cucinelli.

Caro Zen Plaza, 54-56 Nguyen Trai, D1 Local designs and tailoring of elegant tops and dresses with a distinctly Eastern influence. Provides a range of attire for both the office and a night out. The friendly staff is eager to help find an outfit for any occassion.

Chloe Rex Hotel, 155 Nguyen Hue, D1 Tel: 6291 3582 Parisian-influenced fashion house specializes in simple, traditional designs with a feminine and fashionable twist.

Jeans, satin dresses and a wide array of accessories are on display.

Contraband Parkson Plaza, 39-45 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Ready-to-wear brand for hip, modern women. Range includes office wear to evening wear. The collection is updated each month with new international trends.

Dieu Thanh Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 140 Pasteur, D1 Tel: 3824 5851 www.dieuthanh.com Experienced tailor shop also carries its own line of clothing. Once specialized in swimwear and cotton clothing but has expanded to sell business suits, evening dresses, luxury fabrics and accessories.

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ER-Couture Boutique 43 Thao Dien, D2 Tel: 3744 2411 www.er-couture.com erolskov@er-couture.com Exclusive Scandinavian brand offering designer garments. Versatile fashion for women in European sizes 34-44. Each style is released in limited quantities and can be tailored to individual taste.

Esprit 58 Dong Khoi, D1 Outpost for the international brand of colourful, preppy men’s and women’s casual wear.

Etam 188 Hai Ba Trung, D1 Famous all over the world for their French style. There’s a large range of shirts, T-shirts, dresses and more. Also available in Zen Plaza and Diamond Plaza.

It's time to party!

By Adrian Nguyen It’s the most festive time of the year again. Tons of parties and openings are coming up, then Christmas, then New Year’s and then we’ll be another year older… But let’s not stress over that and fab up while we’re still young(er) with my tips for the joyful season.

Jewel colours It’s that time of the year when you can lavish up on delicious jewel colours, which will make you party-ready in a blink of an eye. It’s the perfect way to add that lusciousness into your holiday outfit and it works for women of all ages, but is best on brunettes.

Floor-skimming silhouette It doesn’t seem like we have enough reasons to dress up throughout the year, so this is the time to go all glam on it. Go for floor-skimming silhouettes this season whenever you can. Feel like Sarah Jessica Parker and find that perfect dress by browsing through her collection for Halston Heritage.

Roberto Cavalli No one does glam like Roberto Cavalli—and glam is what you need for this holiday season. Celebrating his 40th year in fashion, Cavalli’s fabulous collection is one that no fashionista can turn away from. If you have been waiting to invest in a fashion piece, now is the time. Dresses and bags are pricey, but worth every penny. Every A-lister is wearing it, so why aren’t you?

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Statement jewellery It’s all about big and fab and festive; the more dramatic the look, the better. Oversized and in-your-face rings are irresistible and statement necklaces are a must—you might need more than just one! Wear with your long evening dress for a black tie event or simply with a tank top and skinny jeans if you’re headed to a dance party at Q Bar. Clutch it Do not leave home without a clutch. Get an opulent one if you want to impress or a more versatile one if you want to use regularly. Bottega Veneta's Knot Clutch is amazing and goes with everything, plus they have many different materials and colours to choose from. And of course, how can you resist CFDA’s Accessory Designer of the Year Alexander Wang? I know I can’t—I have five pieces in my wardrobe to prove it.

Metallic/brocade If you’re a fan of anything shiny, this is your chance to rock it. Gold, silver, copper— go for it. Even I have to put a major amount of metallic and brocade into my own collection this month. Be theatrical and glamorous, but still playful; mix it with dark-colour jeans.

Come back next month for a New Year, New You column.

Adrian Nguyen is a designer and the owner of the Valenciani brand. Email your fashion questions to adrian.ngn@ gmail.com

Gaya 1 Nguyen Van Trang, D1 Tel: 3925 1495 Carries a range of couture and pret-aporter garments and silk and organza dresses in vibrant colours created by Cambodia-based designer Romyda Keth.

Geisha Boutique 43 Ton That Thiep, D1 Tel: 3821 8272 enquiry@geishaclothing.com Facebook: Geisha Boutique Australian fashion label offering a contemporary range of casual and evening wear with an Asian influence.

Printed tees, singlets, shorts, skirts, jeans, summer scarves, dresses, silk camisoles and satin maxi dresses.

Tracey Kociuruba Fashion Gallery 2nd floor, 43 Ton That Thiep, D1 Australian designer Tracey Kociuruba creates intricately embellished statement pieces in her Easten-European inspired shop slash studio.

Kiwi 74/1 Hai Ba Trung Tel: 3822 1191 Small and intimate shop with a modern collection of fashion items geared towards the young and active urban female. The showroom has a wide collection, from casual clothing to office wear.

Kookai Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi French brand stocking classic, feminine, styles with a twist. Gypsy day dresses and classic little black dresses at mid- to high-range prices are perfect for twenty- and thirty-something women.

La Senza 47B–47C Nguyen Trai, D1 Tel: 3925 1700 65 Le Loi, Saigon Centre, D1 Tel: 3914 4328 www.lasenza.com Boutique carrying a wide range of bras, panties, pyjamas, accessories and lounge wear.

Labella 85-87 Pasteur, D1 This three-storey shop will take care of all your wardrobe needs: affordable clothes, shoes, bags and lingerie, all well made and fashionable.

Le Samedi 21 Nguyen Trai, D1 Tel: 3925 5013 Boutique retailing in clothes imported mainly from Italy and France, from cocktail dresses to chiffon skirts.

Lulu Lacy www.lululacy.com Boutique label featuring retro designs in high-quality fabrics. Website frequently refreshed with latest offerings, including maxi-dresses, tailored blouses and shorts. Shop online or request a party at your house.

Mango 96 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 Tel: 3824 6624 Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 A favourite with fashion-conscious women, this mid-range store stocks clothes from simple tees and jeans to evening wear.

Marc Jacobs Rex Hotel, 155 Nguyen Hue , D1 Tel: 6291 3580 This spacious shop with high-ceilings carries up-market clothes, shoes and accessories from the internationally recognized designer brand.

Minh Hanh 24 Dong Khoi, D1 and 114B Nguyen Hue Tel: 3824 5774 www.mhminhhanh.com Hand- and machine-embroidered fashion made from natural fabrics and materials wed traditional Vietnamese elements with modern trends. Local celebrities frequent this shop.

Muse Boutique Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 Boutique store carries well-known international brands like Miss Sixty, BCBG, Rock Republic, True Religion, Tbags and Killah.

Nino Max 189B Hai Ba Trung, D1 A local popular brand of active-casualwear t-shirts, jeans and khakis. Local pricing. You can also find their other outlets in Zen Plaza and Diamond Plaza.

Peacock 35 Ton That Thiep Tel: 3829 7045 Moulin Rouge-themed boutique housing an interesting selection of women’s clothes designed and produced in Vietnam, including dresses, shirts and t-shirts, as well as jewellery.

Rana Abodeely Villa Anupa, 17/27 Le Thanh Ton, District 1, Tel:3825 7307 Luxury resort wear in soft, feminine styles.

Made with 100% Vietnamese silk with signature glass bead detailing. Comfort, ease and elegance are the main forms of the collection.

Shae 101-103 Nguyen Trai, D1 www.shaeny.com New York brand housing streetwear such as cardigans, dresses, shorts and accessories.

Signature Boutique 154 Dong Khoi, D1 Houses some of the world’s most recognized luxury fashion brands: Roberto Cavalli, Versace, D&G and Missoni.

Song Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 76D Le Thanh Ton Offers women’s fashion designs by Valerie Gregori McKenzie, including evening dress, tops and hats.

Tracey Kociuruba Fashion Gallery 43 Ton That Thiep in District 1, 2nd fl.

Tel: 3915 3242 www.traceykociuruba,com Eastern European-inspired fashion boutique with eclectic yet elegant designs with intricate hand-spun details—50sstyle jumpsuits with bustier necklines, silk kaftans and high-waisted shorts and skirts.

Valenciani Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 Tel: 3821 2788 66-68 Nguyen Trai, D1 Tel: 7302 4688 valenciani.sg@gmail.com www.valenciani.com Homegrown luxury boutique carries silk dresses, velvet corsets, chiffon shawls and a range of accessories, all designed in-house.

CHILDREN Be Happier 181 Nguyen Van Troi, Phu Nhuan Dist A small outlet providing children’s clothes from 1 to 6 years old, using only cotton.

Mid to high-range prices for quality apparel.

Children Planet 90 Vo Thi Sau, D1 Mid to high-range prices for quality apparel, imported material from Singapore.

Offering from the age of 5 to 14 years old boys and girls.

Dabs Kids Fashion 222 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D3 A good selection of both casual and formal clothing for kids aged five to ten.

Party dresses, simple T-shirts, trousers and more are all good quality and very reasonably priced. Backpacks and other accessories are also on sale.

DLS Paris 17/5 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan, D1 Parkson Plaza, 39-45 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 A superb range of unique and beautiful clothing for young children (from newborns to pre-school age) at high to midrange prices. The quality compensates for the price. Bedding, baby equipment and furniture and organic and natural supplies also kept in stock.

La Maison 226 Nguyen Van Huong, D2 On the second floor of this upscale furniture store is a lovely range of pretty dresses and other cotton apparel for kids, from babies to pre-school age.

Prices are reasonable.

Little Anh – Em 41 Thao Dien, D2 A French brand made in Vietnam offering a wide selection of colourful, simply packaged and thoughtfully collated “sets” of garments for girls and boys from newborn to 10 years old. Lifestyle pieces also available include sleeping bags, bedroom accessories and bags.

Ninh Khuong 44 Le Loi, D1 Tel: 3824 7456 83 Dong Khoi, D1 Tel: 3827 9079 220 De Tham, D1 Tel: 3920 3224 222 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, D3 Tel: 3930 9183 www.ninhkhuong.vn Well-known hand-embroidered children’s clothing brand using 100% cotton. Newborn to 10 years old (girl) and fourteen years old (boy). Also stocking home linens. Prices are reasonable.

REVE Villa Anupa, 17/27 Le Thanh Ton, District 1, Tel: 3825 7307 High-end cashmere, lace, and cotton

clothes designed by a French mother/ daughter team. All pieces are handmade and tailored for infants to kids 2 years of age.

Small is Beautiful 227 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Tel: 38 23 87 54 contact@smallisb.com www.smallisb.com This newly opened boutique aims to be the chic shop for kids in the city. There is a selection of brand name clothing, accessories and creative toys. Clothing comes from international designers such as Baby Dior, Sonia Rykiel and DKNY. Tuti Bella Vincom Center, 70 - 72 Le Thanh Ton, District 1 75 Mac Thi Buoi, D1 49A Nguyen Trai, D1 Tel: 3993 9088 www.tutibella.net Self-described as a “chic and trendy children boutique.” Carries high-end causal clothes, formal wear, shoes and accessories for ages 1 to 12 years.

skin laterals to garnishings of Swarovski crystals and colourful beads.

Star Polo 97B Nguyen Trai, D1 Mix of imported shoes and locally made footwear crafted from Australian leather for men and women as well as imported ones. Sizes from 38 to 42 for men, and from 34 to 40 for women.

TAILORS Dieu Thanh 140 Pasteur, D1 Tel: 3824 5851 www.dieuthanh.com Experienced tailor shop specializes in swimwear and cotton clothing, as well as business suits, evening dresses, luxury fabrics and accessories.

Massimo Ferrari 42-A1 Tran Quoc Thao, D3 Tel: 3930 6212

Traditional Italian sartorial techniques are employed to offer a full wardrobing service and custom tailoring for men.

Stocked with imported fabrics primarily from Italy. In-office and workplace fittings available.

Thuy Nga Design 7 Lam Son Square, D1 Conveniently located at the Opera House, this local boutique is a one-stop shop for both men and women. The range includes clothes, men’s and women’s accessories and costume jewellery.

Uyen 13 Nguyen Thiep, D1 An excellent option with English-speaking staff and a good selection of fabrics (although the price takes a dip if you bring your own) and some off-the-rack staples to copy. Reasonable prices.

SHOES

Charles & Keith 10 Mac Thi Buoi, 18-20 Nguyen Trai Tel: 3925 1132 Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 www.charleskeith.com Singapore brand housing youthful and trendy shoes of a contemporary, high fashion design.

Converse 186 Hai Ba Trung, D1 148 Nguyen Trai, D1 122 Ba Thang Hai, D10 Tel: 3827 5584 www.converse.com.vn Sells iconic Chuck Taylor, Jack Purcell and All-Star sneakers and Converse brand clothing and accessories. Also at department stores around HCMC. Dr. Marten’s 173 Hai Ba Trung, D3 Tel: 3822 4710 Air Wair sandals and shoes here feature the classic yellow stitching and chunky rubber soles. Also stocked with clothes and accessories by Replay and Kappa tracksuit tops.

Nine West Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, D1 Vincom Center, 70/72 Le Thanh Ton, D1 Stocks an extensive range of designer footwear for women. Handpicked by a global community of independent trendsetters and stylists.

Sergio Rossi 146AB Pasteur, D1 Rex Hotel, 141 Nguyen Hue, D1 World-renowned Italian brand stocks a diverse European-style collection of upmarket shoes and bags made of quality materials, from crocodile and python

LINH‘S WHITE PLEASANT LIVING MINIMALISM 37 THAO DIEN (OPPOSITE AN PHU SUPERMARKET) 67 XUAN THUY - DISTRICT 2 PHONE: (84) - 62819863 - 62818488 E : linhnguyen@hbdecor.com.vn

- www.linhfurniture.com

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Arts for Mobility

Beaujoulais Neuvoux Night

104 asialife HCMC

Guava Halloween Party @ Nha-Trang

Diesel Launch @ Zen Diesel party @ Fuse

asialife HCMC 105

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boxoffice

Faster An action film to the core, Faster features Dwayne Johnson (or, as he’s popularly known, The Rock) playing Driver, a man who has been falsely imprisoned and is filled with avenging his brother’s murder. The moment he is released from prison, he heads straight to a parking lot to retrieve his car, which has a gun in it—and off he goes with a deadly hit list in hand. Except that there are two men on his tail: Billy Bob Thornton, an old cop just a few days shy of retirement, and Oliver-Jackson Hudson, a hitman who is hired by mystery man to hunt down Driver. What could look like a wild goose chase, with the hunter being hunted, turns out to be a gripping tale of mystery too as we learn more about Driver’s brother’s murder. Faster features solid performances and maybe even a change of direction for Johnson. Maggie Grace (of Lost fame) also stars as the ubiquitous love interest.

The Chronicles of Narnia III In the newest adaption of the Narnia series, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, director Michael Apted presents all the magic and wonder that audiences have come to expect from the beloved stories by C.S. Lewis. In the third movie, we pick up where we left off in Prince Caspian: Susan and Peter live in the U.S. with their parents while Edmund and Lucy live with their cousin Eustace in London. Along with their friend King Caspian, they are swallowed into a painting and aboard the ship, the breath taking Dawn Treader. They then embark on a fantastic journey, in true Narnia style, and encounter all sorts of obstacles that they must (and you know that they do) overcome. The appeal of the Narnia stories is that they cross all age barriers and can be enjoyed by adults and children alike, though it is perhaps best to start the very young on the books.

Tron

The Next Three Days

Sam Flynn (Garrett Heduland) is traumatized by his father Kevin’s (played by the ever excellent Jeff Bridges) mysterious disappearance. Kevin is known as a leading video games developer and one day Sam discovers a strange signal on a computer in the family’s arcade which he believes is being sent by his father.

Thus begins an adventure that sees Sam thrown into a world of fierce programmes that have formed Kevin’s world for the last 20 years—in which he has been trapped. In a bid to save his father, Sam enters that virtual world, thus beginning a life-or-death journey in cyber universe complete with the deadliest high tech warriors and their weapons and one villain who is committed to ensuring Kevin does not escape. Tron is a high action, nail-biting, visually stunning movie that will keep you enthralled till the very end with a great performance from Bridges whose portfolio as an actor is proving to be truly versatile.

John Brennan’s (Russell Crowe) world is shattered when his wife Lara (Elizabeth Banks) is accused of murdering her boss and thrown into a prison. John is committed to proving her innocence and begins a case of lengthy appeals that take a toll on Lara, who’s barely able to hang on. Three years later, with no release in sight, John decides to take matters into his own hands and break Lara out.

Over the next three days, he creates an elaborate plan with the aid of Damon Pennington (Liam Neeson), a former convict who’s made successful escapes from prison and written about them too. Crowe puts in a solid performance of a man driven to the edge in his quest to rescue the woman he loves. While Leeson’s is a cameo appearance it is important and powerful. The movie is written by Oscar winning Paul Haggis (Crash, Million Dollar Baby) so you can expect to be hooked in from the get go.

Opening Dates CINEMAS G: Galaxy www.galaxycine.vn

M: Megastar www.megastarmedia.net

T: Thang Long www.giaitrithanglong.com/cinema

108 asialife HCMC

Faster: (December 3) The Chronicles of Narnia: (December 10) 3D Tron: (December 3) Faster: (December 3) The Next Three days: (December 3) Street Dance (3D): (December 17)

The information on this page was correct at the time of printing. Check cinema websites for screenings.

bookshelf

Palo Alto

James Franco Scribner It’s almost easy to dislike James Franco, actor, filmmaker, writer in various genres and now PhD aspirant at Yale as a young man who has it all and remains so darn grounded. But, dislike him you can’t for that very reason. In his first collection of short stories, Palo Alto, Franco astutely portrays the inner angst of the teenage mind told by a group of teens, all interconnected, all in the first person. He pays a great deal of attention, painstakingly so, to details, the minutia can sometimes overwhelm but it seems deliberate, as a way for Franco to reassert their struggles with identity.

He grasps their inner angst well, be it a group of students debating slavery in 1800 or the rage that leads a boy to kill another in a bitter locker room brawl or the man who brutally rapes his girlfriend with vegetables. Be warned, it is a violent read but one that shouldn’t disappoint.

Player One Douglas Coupland William Heinemann Fans of Douglas Coupland who read Hey Nostradamus (2004) might feel a sense ojf déjà vu with Player One in that characters find themselves in the middle of a massacre. But that is where the similarity ends. In his latest offering, Coupland writes about four people caught in the middle of a maelstrom, at an airport bar, where there is no order, anywhere in the world. Then there is the news that a sniper has descended into the airport bar and is shooting people—all this is told by a fifth narrator, Player One, whose identity remains cloaked until the end. It is against this backdrop, seemingly horrific, that the characters come together, free to share their inner most secrets and fears, however awful, however bleak. Above all it is told by a master story-teller like Coupland: dark humor, a commentary on the modernity that traps us in our existence and the hope that loneliness can be outdone.

Life

The Masque of Africa: Glimpses of African Belief

Keith Richards Little, Brown and Co.

V.S. Naipaul Alfred Knopf

Even if you don’t like the Rolling Stones (but how can you not?) there’s no denying that Keith Richards is the soul of the band and, as Michiko Kakutani said, “the very avatar of rebellion: the desperado, the buccaneer, the poète maudit, the soul survivor and main offender, the torn and frayed outlaw, and the coolest dude on the planet, named both No. 1 on the rock stars most-likely-to-die list and the one life form (besides the cockroach) capable of surviving nuclear war.” This sentence alone should prompt you to want to read the autobiography that has enthralled readers since its release last month. It is entertaining, engaging and candid: it is not just a memoir of Richards but of rock and roll back then—its coming of age and its climb to superpower. Oh, and Richards also dishes on his relationship with Mick Jagger, which should leave you clambering for this memoir.

For as long as one can remember, Nobel Laureate V.S. Naipaul has written about the displaced, like himself, an east Indian whose family found itself in Trinidad. His writing, which spans 50 years, has taken him to far flung places when no one was going. And he has often said things that no one would dare to say, for which he has been adored or vilified. In Masque of Africa, some of his earlier work is reprised as he writes about his travels and observations on Uganda, Ghana, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Gabon and South Africa.

His firm opinions will shock, for example when he says that as Africa approaches modernity, it “remained a land of bush…with no future.” But now, at 78, he returns to these places to learn about African beliefs: from sorcery in Uganda to witchcraft in Nigeria, no subject is spared—and one wonders how Naipaul will be.

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soundfix album review

CeeLo Green The Lady Killer This is the third album from CeeLo Green and the first single released off it—"F* you"—should be enough to understand that this isn't an easy listening mellow R&B album. He is certainly not the lady killer in the way one comes to expect but then CeeLo likes to mix things up: there's classic soul but one will also find jazz, Motown ("It's OK") and Philadelphia international.

The first single is, undoubtedly, profane but it's also catchy and infectious. But that's not the only track on the album that stands out. With a bevy of well known producers on hand— Salaam Remi and Brit synthesizers Fraser T. Smith and Paul Epworth; Bruno Mars' crew the Smeezingtons—coupled with the singer's voice, there is a lot of old school soul in here to make you want to keep listening. When he slows down, as he does with the seductive "Bodies" or "No one's gonna love you," it doesn't throw you off. There's an 80s inspired homage in "Bright Lights Bigger City" with the tune of "Billie Jean" echoing in the background.

The collaboration with Earth Wind and Fire's Philip Bailey on "Fool for you" comes close to being most old-school track though "Old fashioned" should get it just for its title. Plenty in here to make you want to groove to soul, in a way that only Cee-Lo knows how.

110 asialife HCMC

Orchestral Broken Dreams Club Manoeuvres in the Dark It's clear that Girls have grown Girls

up a lot since their debut album, Album, last year—despite what they said prior to the release of Broken Dreams Club last month, an album they said was a tribute to the fans who have supported them. The scabbiness of their sound and look in their debut is all gone, replaced with a band that, well, sounds like a band.

Bassist and producer Chet White has created an ode to modern day American rock and roll. It is, however, sad music albeit very good sad music. Frontman Christopher Owens' songwriting skills too get better on this album; there's a lonesomeness about his writing that tears at you in, for example, "Substance."

Coupled with the guitar solo and Owens' deep voice, it is a stunning track. In another heartbreaking song, "Thee Oh So Protective One," he sings: "He'll never know about the times that you cried in your bedroom/ About the times that you cried in your classroom/ About your mother or your father or the way you got your broken heart." In "Carolina" you get a hint of what Girls is thinking in terms of its future—it is a hybrid of sorts, still rock, but its guitar builds up on its tempo past the six minute mark, as if unleashing itself. It is the coming together of the love song, great chords and his voice that make Girls a band to keep on your radar.

Bruce Springsteen

History of Modern

The Promise: The Darkness on the Edge of Town Story

No, you are not mistaken. OMD *is* the same band you heard in John Hughes, Pretty in Pink. They are still alive and they are making a comeback with this album. In today's world where the unlikeliest of people become pop stars and legends need to do the most unsavoury things to compete with tween acts, OMD's comeback is no surprise. Neither, sadly is the album. It's not a bad album from anywhere—it's reliable, safe, even good but I suspect it's all that and more for the nostalgics amongst us. Nostalgic for synth-disco that is. There's definitely tracks in History of Modern that will make it to your Ipod, maybe even your tween's; one is "The Future, the Past, and Forever After" which is fun, catchy and why you're listening to OMD in the first place—it's lush, romantic 80s electronica that you're craving. But OMD won't be able to appeal to a young generation with this album, much like Tears for Fears or Erasure's comeback albums were heard only amongst fans and failed to elicit any response from the youth.

This isn't to suggest that old bands can't reunite and relaunch, but there's a time and place and market for everything and OMD's cheesy romantic ballads better suited for proms might not be young people's "thang" right now.

On the surface, this is an impressive compilation unlike others where a few never-before-heard (or seen as happens with DVD releases) are thrown together and re-released. But the Boss did it right with this album that contains unreleased songs written when he was producing Darkness on the Edge of Town, his seminal work between 1977 to 1978. There are 22 tracks we've not had the pleasure of hearing and pleasure it is, even if you're not a die hard Springsteen fan. And is the music that didn't make the cut to Darkness any good? Absolutely.

To the point where you have to wonder why it didn't appear in subsequent albums—Springsteen was embroiled in a legal battle during that period, which is said to have impacted him a great deal but you'd think the music would figure later but that was not to be.

At least we have it now. It is classic Springsteen in "Racing in the Street," a ballad in which he sings about a girlfriend [who]:"Stares off alone into the night/ With the eyes of one who hates for just being born." It is grim but it is still hopeful, about soldiering on despite the circumstances. Other noteworthy songs include "Candy's Room," "Something in the Night" and "Badlands." This is classic rock at its best.

xoneFM top ten

endorsed

Official xoneFM Vietnam Top 10 this last

week week

title

artist

1 2 3 4

2 10 1 7

Pho Nho em Doi thay De mat nhau

5 6 7

3 NEW NEW

Ngan dieu uoc cho em Quynh Dieu muon noi

8 9 10

9 12 NEW

Binh yen nhe Ngay khong em Phu xe

Ha Okio Minh Vuong Noo Phuoc Thinh Thuy Trang feat Duy Khoa Tuan Hung Ho Quynh Huong Ha Chuong feat Tuan Messi Nguyen Duc Tung Thuy Chi Rap Soul

title

artist Far East Movement Featuring Cataracs & Dev Rihana Bruno Mars P!nk Nelly Ke$ha Rihanna Featuring Drake Glee Cast Katy Perry Trey Songz Featuring Nicki Minaj

US Top 10 this last

week week 1

2

Like a G6

2 3 4 5 6 7

4 3 7 6 5 1

Only Girl (In The World) Just the Way You Are Raise Your Glass Just A Dream We R Who We R What's My Name?

NEW 10 8

Teenage Dream Firework Bottoms Up

8 9 10

UK Top 10 this last

week week

title

artist Jls Take That Ellie Goulding Rihanna Katy Perry Far East Movement/ Cataracs/Dev Black Eyed Peas Alexis Jordan Mcfly Ft Taio Cruz Westlife

1 2 3 4 5 6

NEW 2 39 1 3 51

Love You More The Flood Your Song Only Girl (In The World) Firework Like A G6

7 8 9 10

11 5 4 NEW

The Time (Dirty Bit) Happiness Shine A Light Safe

All that Jazz

By Muna Khan If you’re looking for an entertaining TV series because you suspect you’ve seen everything, including shows that should have been put to bed a season ago (Grey’s Anatomy, Desperate Housewives, I’m talking about you) prepare to be enthralled by Boardwalk Empire. A period drama set in Atlantic City in the 1920s Prohibition era, the show is created and written by Terence Winter, lead writer of Sopranos and produced by Martin Scorsese who also directs the first episode. It is typical Scorsese in its attention to detail but done in a manner that doesn’t overwhelm; the pilot is cinematically excellent with the rich sets and costumes playing the role of supporting actors very well.

It is easy—but ultimately silly—to read Terence Winter’s name and assume that the show is another Sopranos.

While it may have some gangster elements to it, Boardwalk Empire is more about political manipulations than outright blood and gore.

Its lead character Enoch Thompson (affectionally known as Nucky) played by Steve Buscemi is nowhere near the role he played in the Sopranos as Tony’s cousin. Here he plays Nucky, the city’s treasurer who is part political boss, part gangster, part crusader for the suffragettes, part bootleggers’ best friend or worst enemy.

Nucky’s protégé is played by Michael Pitt cast as Jimmy, a Princeton student who went off to fight in World War I, was injured and upon his return home is keen to make up for lost time—and become a full fledge gangster. Nucky’s world at the Ritz Carlton where he lives is

inhabited by a host of great characters: his German valet, his foul-mouthed but deeply intuitive show girl love interest, several gangsters as an entourage, his brother who happens to be sheriff, an IRS agent out to get him, anyhow somehow, and a poignant, oft-frustrating relationship with Margaret (Kelly Macdonald), an Irish immigrant who Nucky rescues from her abusive husband.

The show also features a mix of fictional and real gangsters including a strong performance

by Stephen Graham playing Al Capone.

The story begins when the impatient Jimmy kidnaps a shipment of liquor meant for someone else—an important group of people who supply Nucky crucial votes—and sets into motion a chain of events and subplots that will engage you from the get-go. For the impatient amongst us, now used to TV shows where if you blink, you miss an entire plotline, Boardwalk Empire may seem frustrating for its slow pace and missing links—hints on relationships between certain characters that would be given away in the next episode but are built upon, or seemingly forgotten, may prove frustrating but don’t give up after just two episodes. The series builds on several subplots but they never confuse, as much as they hook you in. Perhaps it is best explained by a line Jimmy delivers to the young Al Capone when talking shop, about “how you don't seize territory all at once: You get people to concede a little piece, and then you slowly take over more and more.”

Boardwalk Empire does the same, and well.

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radar Style For Style

thestylerookie.com For the old guard writer/editor/magazine reader, it is hard to fathom how a tiny 14-year-old girl from Chicago who blogs as the style rookie can be seated next to legendary Vogue editor Anna Wintour at fashion week in New York.

This prompted the seemingly unending debate on blogs vs magazines, which is better and has more influence etc? Suffice to say, each medium has its purpose and benefits and perhaps never the twain shall meet but the influence of bloggers can no longer be undermined and Tavi Gevinson is no exception.

Quirky, obsessed with fashion but in a very cool manner rather than a Twi-hard way, Tavi is a good writer, with insight far beyond her 14 years (she began the blog at 11). Naturally, the blog is recommended for those with an interest in fashion but having said that, it may surprise skeptics who pooh on fashion for being frivolous or pretentious, which Tavi is not.

Stumbling In stumbleupon.com Trawling on the Internet has been made easier thanks to Stumbled Upon. It has a simple premise: create an account by clicking on topics that appeal to you and let the site sift through realms of text to give you the best reading material available. The more you click on like, dislike, the easier it becomes for the site to find suitable material for you. Topics vary from health and personal relationships to pets and literature. It is, in a word, addictive—but I put it down to being a far more productive and rewarding way to spend time on the Internet than incessantly checking Facebook. In just an hour, I wept while watching the famed Christian the Lion YouTube video, read an incredible Douglas Adams piece, laughed at various guffaws made by U.S. politicians and promised to join a gym after reading about early onset osteoporosis.

Noted

lettersofnote.com An irate John Lennon dashes off a letter to his launder demanding to know why his white shirt has turned yellow. The beloved Charles Schulz answers a devoted fan’s query by explaining how his Peanuts column was never written for children. The inimitable Mark Twain, notorious for his dislike of proofreaders, vents to an editor about typos in his essay. Dorothy Parker is appalled by her students at Caltech—and doesn’t mince words in saying as much. This is just a sampling of the reading material you’ll find in Letters of Note, a treasure trove of a site that is bound to get you hooked in from the get go. Each letter is scanned and then typed out for easier reading—some letters date to the 1800s written

by Abe Lincoln for example and are barely legible. It’s an excellent site for young adults who are unlikely to be familiar with the letter writing days of yore.

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AsiaLIFE's guide to Christmas gift ideas.

The Bodyshop

DLS Vietnam

KALOO Baby Perfume A line of four sweet scented waters, for the very young designed in teddy bear styles that make for a good collectionAvailable in Kaloo Blue, Kaloo Lilirose, Kaloo Liliblue, Kaloo Dragée. All fragrances are clinically tested and alcohol free.

Between 899,000 VND and 1,399,000 VND

Cranberry Joy collection: Cranberry Joy bath & shower gel, body butter, body scrub & soap.

719,000 VND

Dreams Unlimited Gift Box: Eau de parfum, shower gel and body lotion.

710,000 VND

Accessorize L’apothiquaire

Lavender, Erbario Toscano Contains candle, shampoo, shower bath, body milk, soap.

960,000 VND

Rose La Compagnie de Provence Contains liquid soap, shampoo, body milk, soap.

370,000 VND

The Palm Garden Resort Hoi An Christmas Package includes daily buffet breakfast, Christmas Gala Dinner with a visit from Santa, exclusive live entertainment, free airport transfers, Wi-Fi access and use of sauna, pool, gym and private beach. Call 0510 3 927 927 or visit www.palmgardenresort. com.vn.

US $215 ++ per person

Accessory Gift Box Catherine Bling Gem Notebook & Pen Set, Alishia's Christmas Stamp Set – Ink Pad, 2 Glitter Bow Salon Clips, 2 Beaded Heart Ponies, 2 Large Rainbow Mesh Butterfly Clic Clacs, Transparent Flower Necklace & Bracelet Set, 7 Day Ring & Earring Set, Pencil, Purse, Button bracelet, Pen, Stickers 1,701,000 VND

Intercontinental Market 39 Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet from 6 pm to 10 pm on December 24.

1,500,000 VND ++ per adult; 500,000 VND for children ages 6 to 12 Christmas Day Lunch Buffet from 12 pm to 2.30 pm. Santa will also pay a visit to hand out gifts to the kids.

1,300,000 VND ++ per adult; 500,000 VND ++ per child Basilico Authentic Italian Christmas Eve dinner on December 24 from 6 pm to 10 pm.

800,000 VND ++ per person Call 3520 8888 or visit www.intercontinental.com/saigon.

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pub quiz

christmas stuffing 6) What fruity sauce is traditionally served with turkey?

7) What sort of pudding is demanded in the song "We Wish You A Merry Christmas"?

8) Which Victorian cook wrote a definitive guide to Christmas?

9) What is traditionally stirred on ‘Stir-up Sunday’?

10) The turkey is a native of which continent?

christmas songs 11) According to the 1949 hit single, "All I Want For Christmas" is what?

12) According to the song, "Frosty The Snowman" what kind of soul does Frosty have?

13) Which Christmas song starts "Sleigh bells ring, are you listening"?

14) "Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy" is a Christmas song featuring which odd couple?

15) It would of been a laugh if Daddy had seen Mummy doing what last night?

christmas films 16) In The Muppet Christmas Carol, who plays Ebenezer Scrooge?

17) In which film do Kevin’s parents go to France for the 114 asialife HCMC

world of christmas 21) Where is Sinterklaas, helped by colourful helpers known as ‘Black Petes’?

22) In many parts of Central Europe fish is eaten for Christmas dinner. Which fish?

23) Which ASEAN country has earned the distinction of celebrating the world's longest Christmas season?

24) Who found himself in hot water after he alleged that he spent Christmas in 1968 on a boat in Cambodia?

25) The Euphorbia pulcherrima, native to Mexico and Central America, has become associated with Christmas, especially in North America.

How is it more commonly known?

christmas movies 26)

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Pub Quiz Answers

1) What was the name of the former dictator of Romania, who was executed on Christmas Day, 1989?

2) What is the capital of Nicaragua, which was devastated by an earthquake on Christmas Day, 1972?

3) Unable to maintain control over a disintegrating Soviet Union, who announced his resignation as president on Christmas Day, 1991?

4) For which 1951 film did actor Humphrey Bogart, who was born in New York on Christmas Day, 1899, win the Academy Award for best actor playing a gin-drinking boatman?

5) From the Welsh for “session,” what name is given to the competitive festival of music and poetry, the first of which was held on Christmas Day, 1176 in Cardigan Castle?

Christmas holidays?

18) Who produced and co-wrote The Nightmare Before Christmas?

19) How the Grinch Stole Christmas, who played the Grinch?

20) Who played Kris Kringle in the 1994 version of Miracle on 34th Street?

1) Nikolae Ceausescu 2)Managua 3) Mikhail Gorbachev 4) The African Queen 5) The Eisteddfod 6) Cranberry Jelly 7) Figgy Pudding 8) Mrs Beeton 9) Christmas Pudding 10) North America 11) My Two Front Teeth 12) A Jolly Happy Soul 13) Winter Wonderland 14) Bing Crosby and David Bowie 15) Kissing Santa Claus 16) Michael Caine 17) Home Alone 18) Tim Burton 19) Jim Carrey 20) Richard Attenborough 21) The Netherlands 22) Carp 23) The Philippines 24) John Kerry 25) Poinsettia 26) Die Hard 27) When Harry Met Sally 28) Trading Places 29) Love Actually 30) Little Women

on christmas day...