February | March 2009 MICA(P) 013/04/2008 KDN NO. PP(S) 1221/10/2009(028088)
Special Feature
&
MICE FACILITIES VENUES
KDN NO. PP(S) 1221/10/2009(028088) MICA(P) 013/04/2008
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Bhutan v Great Barrier Reef v Greece v Hong Kong v Malacca v Phuket v SABAH
Singapore Brings Sexy Back Marriott On Cyberspace Bhutan The Last Shangri-La Take A Vertical Journey In Hong Kong
under
February | MarcH 2009
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www.frequenttraveller.com.sg Australia A$6.00 • China CNY51 • Hong Kong HK$40.00 India INR212 • Korea KRW56 • Malaysia RM9.10 New Zealand NZ$9.10 • Philippines P90 • Singapore S$6.00 Taiwan TWD170 • Thailand Bht130 • Vietnam US$6.00
Travel To Bhutan v Great Barrier Reef v Greece v Hong Kong v Malacca v Phuket v Sabah
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contents February - March 2009
FEATURES
18 What A MICE Idea
By Renée Stahlmann
On the cover Under the sea, down under! Courtesy of Tourism Queensland
In a bid to tap into this growing niche market, hoteliers are going all out to impress business travellers with a range of top-notch MICE facilities.
GUIDELINES 05 Have Mobile, Will Travel
Peter Smith, Vice President of Amadeus Asia Pacific, shares with Frequent Traveller about the impacts of mobile technology on current travel trends. By Renée Stahlmann
07 The Renaissance of Grandeur The rebranding of Grosvenor House as a JW Marriott property has resulted in a rebirth of majestic opulence of the olden days. By Ruth Tan
09 Where Comfort and Convenience Meet
Having a comfortable home away from home experience is easy at Frasers Hospitality, Ascott and Oakwood Residence Hangzhou. By Sophia Chase
13 Marriott on the Web Learn how Marriott has managed to keep well connected with its
Have these efforts been reflected in its tourism dollars?
customers on cyber space. By Sophia Chase
24 Flight to Sustainability
Finnair’s first-ever environmental director, Kati Ihamäki shares with Frequent Traveller her vision for eco-efficient flights.
By Michele Koh
30 Shanghai: Cosmopolitan City As the city gears up to become the next trendy destination, what does the Chinese government have planned to boost tourism in Shanghai?
By Ruth Tan
26 In Vanity, We Search
The beauty tourism industry is on the rise, with the influx of travellers flocking to Asia for their nip/tuck routines. By Amy Van
By Shan Chua
DESTINATION 33 Hong Kong: A Moving Walkway Take a journey on the world’s longest escalator, which presents a passage through the traditional and the trendy, the swanky and the slightly seedy.
CORP HUB 15 Bringing Sexy Back
The Esplanade kicked off Singapore’s glamorous makeover back in 2002, followed by the Singapore Flyer and the hosting of the first ever F1 night race.
By Fauzi Ahmad
36 Great Barrier Reef: What Lies Beneath
Frequent Traveller is published eight times a year by Eastern Publishing Pte Ltd; Web: www.frequenttraveller.com.sg; To subscribe, see page 65
Whether snorkelling or scuba
FREQUENT
www.frequenttraveller.com.sg diving, the reefs at Australia’s sunny Gold Coast provides divers with one of the world’s greatest experiences. By Brian Johnston
40 Greece: Stairway to Santorini
09
The wines will not be the only things intoxicating in this Greek island of Santorini, where the glorious views alone will make your heart skip a beat.
Finding comforts in serviced apartments.
36
Australia’s sunny Gold Coast.
travellers who desire a safe have away from the jostling city life. By Danielle Liu Xiangjun
Travel Talk 59 Confessions of a Foodie
Sweet or sour, wacky or ordinary – this food writer has plenty of culinary cravings to satiate her global appetite. By Amy Van
By Jansen Lim
44 Bhutan: Mystical Shangrila
Having recently opened its doors to tourists, Bhutan unveils its mystical charms to the outside world as the last untouched place in the world. By Sharmila Melissa Yogalingam
LIFESTYLE 60 Authentic Ayurveda
The traditional system of medication, known as Ayurveda, is making a comeback in Sri Lanka’s health travel industry. By Ron Corben
44
SOJOURN 47 Malacca: Tales From a Sleepy Hollow
Be mesmerised by Bhutan’s mystical charms.
As if entangled in the middle of an exciting thriller, Dipali Kumar finds there are a lot of stories behind Malacca’s rich heritage. By Dipali Kumar
50 Phuket: Phuket Adagio Post-tsunami Phuket saw its tourism engine revived quickly. We look beyond the island’s usual sleaze, booze and buzz for moments of quiet warmth. By Lin Weiwen
52
Let Sabah treat you to all its natural beauty.
52 Sabah: Land Below The Wind
The land of natural beauty, Sabah offers tourists and nature beavers the opportunities to reconnect with the environment.
sunny Singapore, Pulau Tinggi offers a quiet hideaway for
04 My Say
To Simon Genin, delegate of Telecoms Sans Frontiers, his overseas trips are usually tangled with matters of life and death. By Renée Stahlmann
66 Linguistically Speaking… Learn how brothers Andrew and Marlon Lodge revolutionised language education with their Earworms Musical Brain Trainer By Renée Stahlmann
68 Perk Me Up 69 Posh Space 70 The Good Stuff 72 Gourmand’s Corner
By Mike Smith
56 Pulau Tinggi: Ecotourism Haven Located three hours away from
REGULARS
64 A Passionate Soul
60
Traditional medication, Ayurveda is making a comeback!
74 Travel Notes 79 Diary of Events 80 New Sight & Experience
FREQUENT
oursay
Managing Director (Operations) Kenneth Tan
The Year Of Living Dangerously
t n e m o In The M
Dickens said it best — “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times” — and we can’t deny that there is much to despair about what’s happening today. The world is in an economic crisis, the worst since the 1930s; terrorism is a global threat; ongoing wars and environmental concerns are mounting left and right… The list grows longer and longer every day that sometimes it’s hard to look at the bright side and declare that for all the problems, there still is really no time like the present — no day like today, as those modern-day bohemians in the play Rent sang.
We here at Frequent Traveller echo that sentiment. Though we see
firsthand how people behave during tough times — batten down the hatches and wait it out — we believe that the present is still the best time to explore — to find out what’s out there and to connect to the world at large. Things are not so bad when viewed from a wider perspective than one’s own backyard.
And really, what better way to understand other people and cultures than
to experience other places? Only then do we realise that the world is largely made up
Senior Editor Marie Monozca MarieMonozca@epl.com.sg Assistant Editor Renee Stahlmann ReneeStahlmann@epl.com.sg Terrie Gutierrez TerrieGutierrez@epl.com.sg Senior Editorial Assistant Sharina Shariff Editorial Assistant Amy Ho amyho@epl.com.sg Senior Art Director/Studio Manager Lawrence Lee Graphic Designers Zarina Johari Tristan De Los Trinos Contributing Graphic Designers Allan Sison, Katherine Ching, Phyllis Ng, Winnie Lee Photographer Eric Chun Managing Director (Sales) Dan Tan Senior Regional Sales Director Connie Tung connietung@epl.com.sg Regional Manager Josephine Teo josephineteo@epl.com.sg Circulation Manager Foo Boon How Circulation Executives Emily Wang May Tan Contributors Amy Van, Brian Johnston, Danielle Liu Xiangjun, Dipali Kumar, Fauzi Ahmad, Jansen Lim, Lin Weiwen, Michele Koh, Mike Smith, Ron Corben, Ruth Tan, Shan Chua, Sharmila Melissa Yogalingam, Sophia Chase, Susan Leong. Published By EASTERN PUBLISHING PTE LTD (Co. Reg. No.: 200413351W) A fully-owned subsidiary of Eastern Holdings Ltd
of individuals heroically trying to get by each day in the best way they know how — with a can-do attitude that laughs in the face of adversity. In our Special Feature, Renée Stahlmann explores the best MICE venues in town (p18); our Corp Hub section takes a look at Shanghai, which has transitioned into China’s major financial centre. For our major travel stories, we’ve come up with a varied list sure to whet your wanderlust: from frenetic Hong Kong (p33), sun-drenched Santorini (p40), the hidden charms of Bhutan (p44), to our cover story on the Great Barrier Reef (p36). Readers who are interested in Asian destinations can check out Malacca (p47), Phuket (p50), Sabah (p52), and Pulau Tinggi (p56). We’re sure that all these exciting stories will make you pack your bags and see the world for what it is — an infinite vista of possibilities, economic crises and wars notwithstanding.
The best of times? We’re living in it.
EASTERN HOLDINGS LTD Executive Board Chairman Stephen Tay Group Executive Director Kenneth Tan Financial Controller Robbin Lim Head Office Eastern Holdings Ltd (Co. Reg. No.: 198105390C) EPL Building 1100 Lower Delta Road #04-01 Singapore 169206 Tel: (65) 6379 2888 Fax: (65) 6379 2803 E-mail: eastern@singnet.com.sg or FrequentTraveller@epl.com.sg Hong Kong Office: 28/F Soundwill Plaza 38 Russell Street Causeway Bay Hong Kong Tel: (852) 2575 8488 Fax: (852) 2836 5829 MICA (P) No. 013/04/2008 • ISSN: 0219-2071 • PP(S):1221/10/2009(028088)
The FREQUENT TRAveller Team
To Subscribe please call our Hotline (65) 6379 2888 Visit our website at www.frequenttraveller.com.sg Printed by DMI Productions Pte Ltd Tel: (65) 6515 9761/3 • Fax: (65) 6515 9772 Colour Separation by Ability Graphics Pte Ltd Tel: (65) 6296 6191 • Fax: (65) 6296 6194 Distributed (Singapore) by Singapore Press Holdings Tel: (65) 6319 6319 • Fax: (65) 6842 2961 All rights reserved. No portion of this publication covered by the copyright hereon may be reproduced in any form or by any means – graphic, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, taping, etc – without the written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed by contributors and advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher and editor.
ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES: Greece: Mr Dimitri Laspas, BML Consulting, 58 Haldias Street GR.167.77 Elliniko, Greece. Tel: (30-1) 964-7682, Fax: (30-1) 963-5988 Japan: Mr Takagi M, Access Planning, Inc Kawamoto #2 Bldg, 2-20-17 Akasaka, Minato-Ku, Tokyo, 107 Japan. Tel: (81-3) 5562-6961, Fax: (81-3) 5562-6971 Korea: Mr K Heinz Kim, Heinz Communications Inc, Room 816, Poongrim VIPtel, 404 Gongdeok-dong, Mapo-ku, Seoul 121-020, Korea. Tel: (82-2) 718-3281/3282, Fax: (82-2) 718-3283 Lao PDR: Mr Sebastien Duffillot, Kinnary Advertising Co Ltd, 10614 Chao Anou Road, PO Box 0952, Vientiane, Lao PDR. Tel/fax: (856-21) 222-152 United Arab Emirates: Mr Sabih Ahmad, BSA Consultants, Office Tower A1 Ghurair Centre PO Box 27632, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Tel: (971-4) 2287-708, Fax: (971-4) 2212-350 United Kingdom: Ms Julie Hammond, Exchange Marketing, The Chislehurst Business Centre, 1 Bromley Lane, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 6LH, UK. Tel: (44-181) 467-8884, Fax: (44-181) 467-5558
guidelines traveltechnology
by renée stahlmann
Today, there is a two-way relationship between technology and travel trends, in that the former drives the latter. Simultaneously, the latter also has an impact on the development of new technologies, says Peter Smith, Vice President, Business Solutions Group of Amadeus Asia Pacific. Coupled with the mobility of many executive travellers, mobile devices have been more readily used as “a channel for communication and lifestyle management.” Understanding this shifting trend, travel industry players have had to incorporate mobile technologies into the way they operate. This is timely, as travel agencies today are seeking ways to deliver added value to their customers “to ensure they remain relevant in an industry where online bookings are becoming increasingly commonplace,” he adds. According to the Market Intelligence Centre, global mobile phone subscribers will reach up to 4.5 billion by 2012, expanding at a compound annual growth rate of 7.9 per cent per annum. Relating the statistics, Smith notes, “Mobile technology is so widely adopted in the business community today that it can be considered essential, even in developing countries.” And on average, the typical business executive finds it useful to be able to carry out different tasks on one single device, such as make phone calls, send emails and update calendar entries.
Upwardly MOBILE In Asia Pacific, several countries are ahead of the curve when it comes to the adoption of mobile technology, such as Japan and Korea. However, Smith observes, mobile penetration is also extremely high in developing countries like India and Indonesia, while at the same time, recognising that the rise in the adoption of mobile technology is not perpendicular to the rise in the use of Internet-based services. This, according to the VP, is due to several factors including cost and the reliability of data services. In addition, while mobile device adoption may be high, not all handsets have the functionality needed to access the more advanced services. But Smith says that newer models are being equipped with advanced features, such as Wi-Fi or Instant Messaging. “This has already occurred in Japan where only 3G-enabled phones are allowed and mobile devices have become essential to exchange multimedia content and be used as a means of payment,” he shares. In July 2008, Amadeus released a report, titled Upwardly Mobile, revealing
ON THE
MOVE
Peter Smith, Vice President of Business Solutions Group at Amadeus Asia Pacific, talks to Frequent Traveller about the impacts of mobile technology on current travel trends.
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the trend that mobile technology is set to transform the entire travel experience for business travellers, improving their access to information and services. The results were based on the responses from 72 travel managers surveyed across the globe and opinions from technology experts worldwide, gathered through more than 30 interviews. According to the report, mobile technology will transform the way that corporations operate, allowing travellers to book and amend flights, make hotel reservations, as well as complete expense forms while travelling. These timesaving features will increase productivity and efficiency, as employees will need to spend less time on travel-related tasks in the office. The study also revealed an interesting opinion in that 100 per cent of respondents see “tracking and communication of travellers for security purposes” as a major benefit of mobile technology. According to Smith, these findings are particularly relevant in Asia Pacific. “Many companies would have found themselves in a situation to test their security procedures during events such as bombings, earthquakes and other disasters, which unfortunately have occurred all too often in this region.” “During such times, agents can now SMS alerts to contact travellers when phone networks may be down, which block phone calls,” he adds. While an SMS may not go through immediately, it will be put on a queue system and be sent as soon as possible. The study also showed that 92 per cent of respondents appreciated the ability to receive GPS directions via a mobile device, and 88 per cent saw benefit in being able to change their travel reservations while on the road. “Business travellers value the convenience and timesaving benefits of these types of mobile services,” he notes.
corporate travel customers on how a new technology, such as mobile applications, could help their company. Secondly, employees need to understand how to use new technologies so that adoption will be high and the company will maximise the benefits, adds the VP. “This requires cooperation between several roles in an organisation, starting with top-level management, who must set a good example by using the new technology themselves.” The company’s IT department plays an important role in ensuring that the new systems are integrated smoothly, and that both the HR and Communications teams work hand-in-hand to educate the employees about the new systems and their functions.
REVOLUTIONISING CORPORATE TRAVEL As VP of Amadeus Asia Pacific, which is the chosen technology partner for providers, sellers and buyers of travel, Smith and his team are always on the lookout for ways to revolutionise the corporate travel with mobile technology. Currently, he reveals, the company is exploring ways to converge multiple services to the one mobile device “to harness the real power that travellers hold in their hands.” Earlier this year, Amadeus launched its SMS solution, allowing agents to send
travel itineraries to customers via text message on their mobile phone. “This is a convenient service for busy travellers and can also have some cost saving benefits, eliminating the need for expensive international calls,” says the VP. In the future, travellers can expect more exciting areas of mobile technology developments, such as mobile payment. This type of payment is already available in some countries, where people can use their mobile to swipe a reader on trains, buses or taxis and the fare will be deducted from their account. And some airlines, such as ANA, have also introduced mobile check in, which enables passengers to swipe their mobile device against a machine to check in for their flight. At the moment, mobile technology is entering a converged age that will spur the largest range of new possibilities and applications for corporate travellers. “We will see these multimedia devices operating on various platforms from functioning as paperless boarding passes and hotel room keys, to traveller security enhancers and payment methods,” says Smith, adding that corporate travel managers should make the most of this revolution by becoming “change agents”, introducing and enhancing their services to incorporate functions that will improve the efficiency of travel processes.
Amadeus Wins Provider of the Year Award
THE IMPORTANCE OF AGENTS The Upwardly Mobile study indicated that 80 per cent of travellers recognise the benefits of the enhanced features to improve corporate travel, but only a handful have integrated them into their travel programmes. To overcome this hurdle, the first step to ensure that corporate customers willingly embrace technology is to educate travel agencies about the need to offer these types of mobile services, explains Smith. The travel agents can then help to educate their
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At the second Aviation Business Awards Middle East 2008 held in November 2008 in Abu Dhabi, Amadeus won the prestigious Aviation Technology Provider of the Year Award. The award highlights the company’s continued service to the travel industry through its ongoing innovation and investment in technology solutions for the travel and tourism sector. “Being recognised as
the Aviation Technology Provider of the Year reflects our commitment to delivering innovative end-to-end solutions to the industry,” says Fernando Cuesta, Executive Director for Amadeus, Middle East and Africa, adding that this award demonstrates the team’s hard work in delivering leadingedge technology, services and extensive travel content to help its customers manage their
businesses more efficiently. Some of achievements that Amadeus received credit for include its recent deal with the Arab Air Carriers Organisation (AACO), wherein Amadeus entered into a 10-year exclusive distribution agreements with 13 leading airlines from AACO. Airlines in the Middle East that are currently using Amadeus e-commerce solutions include Etihad, Royal Air Maroc, Middle East Airlines, Egyptair, Tunisair and Qatar Airways. The annual Aviation Business Awards honours excellence in the travel industry and are voted by an independent panel of judges. The award recognises industry players that stand out in the market place and excel in terms of innovation and industry contribution.
guidelineshospitality by Ruth Tan
The
Renaissance
Grandeur of
The rebranding of Grosvenor House as a JW Marriott property has resulted in a rebirth of majestic opulence that is reminiscent of the good old days. With the rebranding of the 80-year-old Grosvenor House as a JW Marriott hotel, travellers to London now have another option of a luxurious accommodation. Following a four-year, multi-million pound renovation, the iconic hotel promises – besides a five-star level of service expected from an international
hotel brand – a “quintessentially British” experience in a hard-to-beat location right on Park Lane, overlooking Hyde Park. Convenient location aside - Oxford Street, Bond Street, Knightsbridge and West End’s theatres are all within easy walking distance - what sets the hotel apart is the “warmth and personality of the hotel”, according to General Manager, Anthony Stewart-Moore. He adds that they want to “maintain the approachability of the hotel, where the customer is comfortable with the environment and service.” Part of the charm of the hotel, Stewart-Moore reveals, is the particular attachment the staff and locals have for it; a relationship borne out, in part, through long associations.
ILLUSTRIOUS HISTORY Before the American brand came into
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the picture, Grosvenor House is already a well-known icon in the London social scene with a fascinating history to match. The “Grand Dame of Park Lane” stands on a site once occupied by Gloucester House, the London home of King George III’s brother, the Duke of Gloucester. In 1806, the mansion was bought by Robert Grosvenor, first Marquess of Westminster, who renamed it after his family. It was in 1927, when an investor took over, that the building began life as a luxury hotel. From the moment the gate swung open to the public in May 1929, Grosvenor House perfectly captured the spirit of the Jazz Age. The only London hotel ever to have had a skating rink, it immediately attracted the sophisticated and fashionable set from Edward VII and Mrs Simpson to Ella Fitzgerald and Jacqueline Kennedy. After the multimillion-dollar investment, the 494-room Grosvenor House has resumed its place as one of London’s most prestigious addresses. The largest JW Marriott in the UK, it marks an important push for the brand outside United States. Positioned as the group’s flagship property in Europe, no expense has been spared to restore the property back to its former glory with all the modern and comfort accents that today’s travellers demand.
EYE FOR DESIGN The massive renovation work touches every public area, from the lobby to the suites, from the largest meeting rooms to the smallest little details, says the General Manager. From the onset, preserving the hotel’s history and nature has been a priority. One of the most striking architecture is the main forecourt and entrance with its two substantial cantilevered and lit-glass canopies rising over a courtyard surfaced in Chinese granite, which lend a sense of drama and gravitas befitting a world-leading hotel. The freshly cleaned façade and well-proportioned structure reiterate the building’s Lutyeninspired heritage. Rich and soothing colours dominate the classic contemporary feel of the rooms’ interior. Many original features of the period have been retained, and opulent marble bathrooms acknowledge an Art Deco influence. Each room features plush bedding with 300 thread-count sheets created especially for the JW Marriott brand and the latest in-room technology with high-speed Internet access.
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GASTRONOMIC FEAST Dining options abound at The Grosvenor House with five bars and four dining areas, including the brand new French brasserie BORD’EAUX, a casual comforting dining place that suits all moods and seasons. Corrigan’s of Mayfair, a signature restaurant of celebrity chef Richard Corrigan, is another highlight. Nothing epitomises “Britishness” as the afternoon tea, and this delightful ritual is offered in the scenic Park Room overlooking Hyde Park. The “Anna’s Tea” - so named after the Duchess of Bedford, the originator of afternoon tea - offers 17 carefully picked tea blends, light-as-air scones, sandwiches and pastries. For those in the party spirit and looking for some action after dark, the Red Bar serves up custom cocktails under its sumptuous scarlet walls and seating.
GREAT EVENTS The renovation works extend to the hotel’s conference and banqueting facilities, which
are among the most extensive in London - some 60,000 square foot of space. The famed Great Room, originally an ice rink where Queen Elizabeth II learned to skate, is the largest banqueting space housed within a five-star hotel in Europe. It can hold up to 2,000 guests, and features sweeping staircases and fairy-tale chandeliers. From the star studded BAFTAs, the annual Art & Antiques Fair and a number of other glamorous events, the Great Room has become the backdrop to many key events of the social calendar. In addition, the hotel has re-launched 86 Park Lane, a collection of 20 renovated suites and function rooms to suit any occasion. All of the function spaces are elegantly appointed and offer outstanding views of Hyde Park. Complementing the five-star offering, a luxurious new spa will open in 2010 to appease indulgent travellers. With the opening of Grosvenor House, the bar has been raised in the hotel offerings in the city.
guidelines servicedapartments
by Sophia Chase
Where
Comfort
And Convenience
Meet Having a comfortable home away from home experience is easy at some of these serviced apartments around the region. Find out how Frasers Hospitality, Ascott and Oakwood Residence Hangzhou continue to make their guests’ stay as relaxing as possible.
It’s normal for those whose work obligations take them jet setting all over the world to feel displaced, overwhelmed and dazed with the constant jetlag and pressure of having to be in different cities almost every day. And homesickness is often part and parcel of these jet setters, even for the most seasoned ones. This is why the right accommodation choice can make or break your business travel experience. And other than hotels, serviced apartments may just offer you a home-like environment that frequent travellers miss while being away from their family and friends.
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Facade of Ascott Singapore Raffles Place; (Inset) View of one of the bedrooms
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Facade of EAC Complex Below From Left The kitchen overlooking the living room; The bedroom with ensuite bathroom
Three of the biggest names in the ser viced apartments industr y – Frasers, Ascott and Oakwood – all have one common thread: the promise to make your stay away from home as comfortable and cosy as possible. And each brand has developed their own set of unique selling points (USPs) to distinguish themselves from each other. Frequent Traveller checks into these properties to lay out the facts.
THE CUSTOMER IS KING Frasers Hospitality’s leadership is derived from its unique brandcustomer philosophy where the customers are “more than just a guest,” explains Choe Peng Sum, Chief Executive Officer of Frasers Hospitality. In cultivating a strong customer-centric service culture, the company places an emphasis on “intuitive and personalised services to meet the unique needs of its
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corporate clients and residents, while simultaneously aiming to be the employer of choice by treating our own people well and motivate them to provide the very best of service to the guests from the heart,” he adds. The concept of Frasers Hospitality is derived from the lifestyle preferences of today’s discerning executive traveller. To this group of consumers, comfort is of utmost importance. All the properties of Frasers Hospitality have been designed to offer all the conveniences of a personal home in a five-star-type luxury combined with the space of an apartment, explains the CEO. Additionally, residents can also enjoy a full range of facilities, including all-day dining, business centre, swimming pools, fitness club, children’s playground and indoor playroom. And all the products related to the Frasers Hospitality properties are complemented with the
convenience of daily, personalised housekeeping and babysitting services, business and leisure activities, entertainment and resident activities, such as Fraser Kids’ Club and monthly Fraser Friends Programme. “With the fast moving demands of the business industry in mind, Frasers Hospitality aims to provide a home away from home for high-end business travellers and expatriates around the globe,” says Choe. Internationally, the brand has deepened its footprint in the serviced apartments industry. But this growth has not come at the expense of good quality service and expertise in the industry. The CEO maintains that this remains a constant brand promise. “We are also investing more in developing our human capital across the world. In fact, the Frasers brand promise has struck a chord with many of its customers
– “more than 80 per cent of our customers are from Fortune 500 and Forbes’ list of companies,” shares Choe – and it has been ranked as one of the top three developers in Singapore’s residential property market, as well as received prestigious accolades and awards as a proven track record. “Ever y Fraser property combines individual, modern, and functional design, blended with the local characters and the renowned Frasers touch of service efficiency and product quality,” he explains, ensuring that every guest’s stay with any of the Frasers properties is distinctive and memorable.
BIGGER IS BETTER For Oakwood Residence Hangzhou, its spacious accommodations are just one of its attractive USPs. The apartments are considerably larger than those of the neighbouring five
star hotels, allowing Oakwood to “incorporate a concept of ‘zoned’ living, as our guests will be able to identify with these specific zones – kitchen, dining, lounge, work area, bathroom and bedroom,” says Malcolm Hines, General Manager of Oakwood Residence Hangzhou. Oakwood strives to maintain the same philosophy developed 40 years ago, which is a pioneering concept of fully serviced apartments. “Put simply, we find a great location, adapt to the trends of extended-stay living, offer service from the heart and ensure a ser vice tailored to the different segments of our residents, such as the business traveller, the family, the new investor, entrepreneur, the “personas” and the stars,” shares Hines. The spacey apartments are designed in such a way
that appeals to extended-stay travellers, residents of Hangzhou, foreigners and Chinese who look for a superb residential option and need ser vices, security, privacy that ensure a hassle-free living. “Work, play and rest are the three ingredients that we have blended so that one gets a true home and not just a home-like environment,” adds the General Manager. And to ensure that its guests get to do just that, Oakwood Residence Hangzhou has a range of services that include room service, concierge, 24-hour guest service, dry cleaning and laundry service, daily housekeeping service, full business centre and small meeting facilities. Within the apartments, the facilities include large heated indoor swimming pool and modern, state-of-the-art fitness centre.
Oakwood pioneered the serviced apartment concept in California back in the 1960s, and since then, it has earned the trademark of being “The Most Trusted Name in Serviced Apartments Worldwide”, with more than 3,000 distinctive residences in the most desired locations globally, shares Hines. Furthermore, the General Manager stresses that the brand has strived ahead of its competition in Asia, in the last decade alone. “It has revolutionised the current service apartments scene with their in-depth understanding of their clientele base and by giving recognition to the importance of fulfilling individual’s needs in today’s fast-paced world.”
HOME AWAY FROM HOME The Ascott Group’s serviced
apartments were all built on the premise that travellers should be able to enjoy a home-style comfort, privacy and conveniences, in addition to having the facilities found in a good quality hotel. “At our serviced residences, our residents do not just come back to a hotel room, they come home to familiar faces, welcoming surroundings and the assurance that their needs will be taken care of,” assures Tony Soh, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Ascott Hospitality, the hospitality management arm of The Ascott Group. Soh, who also doubles up at Chief Strategy and Planning Officer for The Ascott Group, adds that the group’s strategy has worked, considering the support it has received from travellers who continually patronised their properties.
Top Left + Right The Studio room and One-bedroom apartments at Citadel Bangkok Sukhumvit
From Top Fraser Suites Top Glory, Shanghai; Fraser Place Howff Shijuku, Tokyo; Fraser Residence Monument, London
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“Most of Ascott’s ser viced residences are strategically located in city centres, close to banks, embassies and the offices of multinational companies. Fine restaurants and shopping malls are also nearby, offering business travellers plenty of options when it comes to after-work entertainment or networking sessions,” he says. Beyond a residence to live in, all of Ascott’s properties – whether it is an Ascott, Somerset or Citadines – provide more space, privacy and comfort. The Ascott Group understands about the guests’ need to private space, so they can be assured of minimal human traffic, thus offering more exclusivity. “Our service staff are able to pick up unfamiliar visitors more easily, which enhances security and provides our guests with peace of mind,” adds the CEO. The human touch adds to the “home feel” of the serviced residents. This is important so guests don’t suffer from homesickness. Soh explains, “Relocating often comes with challenges of looking for schools, adapting to local cultures and making new friends, especially for accompanying spouses. We help our residents navigate in their new environment, and settle in quickly by organising regular residents’ programmes such as city tours, language courses, excursions to places to interests, parties, and workshops on local cultures.” And because the guests that patronise the apartments are those on mid to long stays, its staff members interact with the customers on a deeper level, often ending up as friends as they develop a long-term relationship. “It is this special warmth that comes from our style of hospitality service that particularly appeals to business executives,” he adds.
guidelines cyberspace Text by Sophia Chase
Marriott on the Web
Luis Babicek, Director, International e-Commerce of Marriott International, reveals how he has managed to make Marriott’s website stand out in the cluttered cyber crowd.
When it launched Marriott.com in 1996, leading lodging company, Marriott Inter national, began its e-comm e rc e o p e r a t i o n s . Since then, the website has attracted many netizens, leading to its vote as the best online platform in Asia by TravelWeekly readers in 2007. Today, Marriot’s e-commerce operations include all sales efforts via electronic channels, resulting in more than US$8.5 billion of Marriott’s gross rooms revenue. Last year alone, Marriott.com achieved sales of US$5.2 billion, which is 28 per cent more than in 2006. The website is also the largest lodging website in the world by revenue, making it the eighth largest Internet consumer retail site, outselling HP and Dell on their website. With one in ever y five lodging transactions being a Marriott transaction, this achievement easily results in the company’s standing as the market share leader on Global Distribution Systems. Additionally, the group’s agreements with Expedia and Travelocity have remained the most competitive in the travel industr y, enhancing its e-channels advantage. Besides Marriott.com, Marriott International’s web portfolio also includes being the lodging share leader on Priceline. com and the co-founder of
TravelWeb. There is one person that has been responsible for elevating the Marriott website to a whole new level. With the help of a supportive international team, Luis Babicek, Marriott. com’s Director, International e-commerce, has been able to keep Marriott well connected on the World Wide Web. And thanks to the advancement of technologies, coupled with his visions to bring Marriott.com global, Babicek is paving the path for the company to roll out the red carpet for Marriott. com 2.0 in the near future. Here, he shares with us how the Marriott website has managed to be highly regarded in both the hospitality and the IT industries. Frequent Traveller (FT): What was the push factor for the Marriott group in setting up Marriott.com? Luis Babicek (LB): Back in 1996, each brand had its own site, and there was no single website for the whole group. So, we unified that, as well as literally carpet-bombed our web address everywhere – on napkins, pens and paper pads. Finally, things came together on Marriott.com. Add to that, the business vision of Bill Marriott. Early on, the company realised that one day, most reservations would be handled via the web. It
The [Marriott.com] website is also the largest lodging website in the world by revenue, making it the eighth largest Internet consumer retail site, outselling HP and Dell on their website. was clear to Mr. Marriott that there was a lot of value there. I am not sure at the time they realised just how much value there was! FT: What is the secret behind the success of Marriott.com? LB: An unrelenting focus to keep the site relevant to the needs of our global customers. After all, it is the single largest face of Marriott to the world, while keeping it current as the web evolves. And we also ensured that our website is user-friendly, so that it would make it easy for the customers to do business with Marriott, wherever they are. FT: How do you drive traffic to the website? LB: Well, this is our umbrella site for all of our brands, so it
certainly helps that everything comes together on Marriott. com. We also ensure that the site’s web address is front and centre on every customer-facing touch point. It also helps to have the industry’s leading search engine marketing strategies recognised by Ad:Tech 2007, naming Marriott. com as the Best Search Engine Optimisation Strategy. FT: How often do you update the site to stay up to date? LB: Content, such as hotel content, can and does change on a daily basis. The look and feel of the homepage does change, on average, every two years or so. Certain sections and sub sections can change even more often, such as the Marriott Rewards one. With over 30,000 pages of content
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evolve, but there will always be the need for the expertise and advice travel agents bring, especially as travel becomes within the reach of new consumers. Be it as it may, at Marriott we will continue to embrace them. In fact, Marriott.com supports them too, whether it is for making their customers’ reservations or using it to engage with our Hotel Excellence Programme.
in English alone (add to that the seven other languages), it is an incredibly complex site. Every year we take on more than 100 releases, from code changes to content upgrades, to functionality tweaks or simply new ones – all without the customer ever realising it is happening. We often joke it is like redoing the interiors or changing the engines of the plane while in flight, and the passengers never notice it! Our reliability level is industry leading, as recognised by Gomez. FT: Do you have a large team behind Marriott.com? L B : We h a v e a b o u t 1 2 0 e-commerce professionals – strategists, content specialists, globalisation experts, e-marketers, infor mation
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architects – on the business side, plus a similar number on the IT department. They’re based in the Washington DC area, where we are headquartered. We also have teams that support us around the world in Buenos Aires, London, Leeds, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Paris, Sydney, Tokyo, Seoul, Shanghai, Mumbai and Hong Kong. And we are a pretty global bunch too! Myself, hailing from Argentina, and we have at last count, and in Washington alone around 15 nationalities amongst us – from Pakistan to Korea, from Costa Rica to Thailand! FT: Do you foresee Marriott. com replacing the travel agents one day? LB: I don’t think so. Their role in the transactional piece may
FT: What are the unique features of Marriott.com as compared to consumers globally? LB: The competition is very healthy out there, but what we are immensely proud of, particularly, is our search functionality. You see, for most lodging sites, you can search by date, location, brand and rates – and that’s pretty much it. We have taken search to a whole new level. In the age of Google, we let our customers search using any combination of hotel name, partial name, brand, location, region, nearby attraction, amenity or activity. And customers love it! FT: What were some of the challenges you faced initially? LB: Personally speaking, I came to the company six years ago with a very clear mission: to take Marriott.com global. And the company has been extremely supportive of that goal. I suppose, setting up the
mechanisms that allow us to have a multi-lingual presence 24/7 that allow, for instance, our hotel here in Singapore to contribute content in English that somehow and unbeknownst to them, becomes multi-lingual in a very short time frame – or multi-lingual reser vations processes that while localised, deliver the same end result. That did require a bit of planning and marrying quite a few complex back end systems, but the results are out there. FT: How do you see the website five or ten years down the road? LB: I think we’ve only scratched the surface so far when it comes to the possibilities the web and new technologies afford us. Today, the focus is mostly on the pre-trip part. When you look at the functionality of the site, it’s a one–size-fits all site. From a marketing perspective, that one-size-fits-all is not the cleverest idea. If we were selling clothes that way, what kind of clothes would we all be wearing? So, we are working hard to bring some radical changes to Marriott.com. Let’s call it Marriott.com 2.0 and it will be at a computer near you towards the end of this year. We’ll meet you there!
corphub singapore
text by Michele Koh | photography by eric chun
S in g a p o r e is un de r pressure. With an economy in recession, China’s rapid growth eroding her manufacturing industries and Bangkok attracting the bulk of the region’s tourists, the small citystate needs to stay innovative and loud in a bid to keep the tourism dollars strong.
The drive to attract big spenders began in 2002 with the Esplanade arts centre. The S$600-million dollar performance venue has staged shows by the Bolshoi Ballet, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra as well as Broadway musicals like The King and I and Italian operas like Turandot, with an aim to increase Singapore’s presence as a global hotbed for arts and culture. In 2006, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) began
redevelopment works on the main Orchard Road shopping belt, and in 2007 it began enhancement works along the Singapore River. In January 2008, the Singapore Changi Airport opened its third terminal - a state-of-the-art seven storey ecobuilding with natural skylighting, a koi pond, butterfly garden, sandstone wall, waterfalls and about 340 retail and dining outlets, which certainly makes a powerful first impression. There has also been a steady
y x e Back S
Bringing
The Esplanade kicked off Singapore’s glamorous makeover back in 2002, revamping the shopping destination into a hub for arts and culture. Then came the Singapore Flyer, the world’s first F1 night race and the development of the island’s two casinos. Have these efforts had an obvious impact on tourism dollars?
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proliferation of music, art and lifestyle festivals, like WOMAD, the Mosaic Music Festival, the Singapore Biennale and The Sun Festival; world-class food events like the World Gourmet Summit and the Food Safari, luxury watch and jewellery expos, and tradeshows like the Asia Dive Expo and the Singapore Airshow.
NECESSITY, THE MOTHER OF INVENTION Lacking in natural attractions like pristine beaches, lakes and mountains that her neighbours are blessed with, Singapore has been aggressively marketing herself as a luxury lifestyle destination and a location for business meetings and conventions. Clean and green; she has earned herself a reputation as a city of order and industry, with good public policies, safe streets, excellent transport network and courteous locals. But in the last five years she has begun shedding her goody-two-shoes image; becoming sexier and more sophisticated in order to stay ahead of the game. Taking her cue from capitals like Tokyo, Monaco, Sydney, New York and Paris, Singapore is working her way towards becoming a city of glamour and excess. Rostam Umar, Director of Communications at the STB reports that since June 2008, visitor arrivals to Singapore have declined. “This reflects the challenging global environment and outlook for the tourism sector which may continue into 2009. With the current global economic climate, there is now a general air of uncertainty which has impacted consumer sentiments and discretionary spending,” says Umar. The STB is aiming to attract 17 million visitors and boost its tourism
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Singapore A Go-Go Forget the mad rush of trying to keep up with your tour group when travelling in Singapore. You can now enjoy the island in a private car under the care of certified personnel with Go-Around. And if you’re travelling in a big group, they are flexible enough to accommodate your tour requests. “We aim to give our customers sightseeing options accustomed to their time, interests and pace, which allows them to visit more places with less time wasted,” says Hans Tan, Founder and Director of Go-Around. The sightseeing packages include six hours and thirteen hours, and are tailored to the customers’ preferences. There is a selection of voyages to choose from the Captain’s Menu, where the places of interests are specially selected from the Visit Singapore website www.visitsingapore.com. These places include the Singapore Botanical Gardens, National Museum, Mount Faber, The Singapore Zoo, Clarke Quay, Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, Singapore Flyer and Chinatown. Travellers are guaranteed a comfortable tour around the island with GoAround’s dedicated and passionate team of drivers, each of whom has received an intensive three-month training by Tourism Management Institute of Singapore (TMIS) and certified by Workforce Development Association (WDA). As a GoAround Captain Ronald Chew stresses, “Being involved with Go-Around has to do with my passion for sharing the local culture and attractions to overseas visitors.” And indeed, when you take on a Go-Around voyage, you will get a good dose of authentic experiences in and around Singapore, as you learn about these places from the true locals. To book your voyages around Singapore, email a Go-Around Captain at info@go-around.com.sg or visit www.go-around.com.sg.
receipts from S$15.5 billion in 2008 to a whooping S$21 billion by 2015. “The tourism sector accounts for about 3 per cent of Singapore’s GDP but the figure could eventually rise to 10 per cent,” Standard Chartered Bank economist Alvin Liew tells us. Though improvement of infrastructure and the increasing number of events and exhibitions give the industry a needed boost, the cornerstones of Singapore’s makeover are undoubtedly the Formula One and the Integrated Resorts.
WHEELING THEM IN Playboy playmates strutting down a catwalk in skimpy lingerie is not exactly what
most people imagine when they think of Singapore, but in September last year, when the Formula One Grand Prix came to town, flamboyant theme parties with champagne and beautiful models were the order of the week. Singapore won the five-year deal to host the Grand Prix, and the first ever night race in the history of the championship. The annual cost for setting up an F1 race can amount to as much as S$150 million and the Singapore government footed 60 per cent of the bill. Between April and June 2008, more than 15,000 tonnes of Shell bitumen asphalt were used in the construction of the 3,148-mile street-circuit designed by Herman Tilke. The street lighting for the circuit
alone cost S$105 million and took more than 18 months to build. The trade-off was significant as September saw a surge in tourist arrivals. The STB estimated that more than 40 per cent of the 100,000 tickets sold were purchased through overseas channels, meaning more than 40,000 of the people who attended the event were visitors from overseas. Events happening off the track were just as important, as the government was determined to use the race to hoist its overall tourism receipts. Festivals, concerts, and F1-themed parties held three weeks before and after the race contributed to an increase in revenue for hotels, restaurants, nightspots, retailers, airlines, taxi drivers, attraction operators and those in the private sector. Umar said, “Broader economic spin-offs were expected from the event as well. With about 13,000 senior executives hosted by various banks and multinational companies here during the race, there were ample networking opportunities for these companies, which will further boost Singapore’s financial sector and growing private wealth management industry.” Along with direct economic benefits, night racing makes for spectacular footage and the extensive international TV coverage and sponsorships have brought much publicity to Singapore, upping its desirability as a travel destination. Meanwhile at the Singapore Flyer, a different wheel was in motion. 700 executives from 17 corporations sip wine and nibble on salmon canapés with their guests atop a 165-meter high observation wheel as they enjoyed the view of the city by night. Arriving six months before
the F1, the Singapore Flyer - 30 meters taller than the London Eye with a construction cost of S$170 million - is a testament to the city-state’s earnestness when it comes to keeping tourists enthralled. It is currently the tallest observation wheel in the world, though it will be trumped by the 208-metre Great Wheel of China in Beijing, when it opens in 2010.
UPPING THE GLAM FACTOR “Integrated resort” (IR) is a nifty little euphemism that the Singapore government coined for two new mega casinos slated for completion in 2009 and 2010. Following the Las Vegas model, these casino resorts will include entertainment shows, amusement park attractions, world-class hotels, retail and dining outlets, convention facilities and other amenities
in addition to gaming. If all goes as planned, the creation of the IRs will attract a large portion of China’s high rollers who are currently hedging their bets at the blackjack tables in Macau or the roulette wheels in the Philippines. Marina Bay Sands, built by the Las Vegas Sands group, will have banquet ballrooms, an exhibition hall that can host approximately 2,000 people, a conventions centre that can host over 45,000 delegates, theatres, designer shops, celebrity chef restaurants, nightclubs, hotels
with rooftop gardens and an ArtScience museum. While Marina Bay Sands targets the international Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) market, Resorts World at Sentosa caters more to families and will include Asia’s first Universal Studios theme park outside Japan, a marine life park, maritime museum, water park, spa, kids club and six hotels, a shopping, dining and nightlife arcade with live street performances and a musical acrobatic theatre show.
...one thing’s for certain, Singapore is a hostess who does not hold back when it comes to keeping her guests amused.
These two resorts are expected to generate 50,000 to 60,000 jobs throughout the economy by 2015. “It is however, premature to try to ascertain in quantitative terms what the exact impact will be, given the volatility in the economic environment. What we do know is that both IRs remain optimistic that their product offerings will draw visitors from their target market segments,” said S.Iswaran, Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry. While some commend Singapore for her efforts, there are others who feel that she tries too hard. Whatever the future holds for the progressive island state, one thing’s for certain, Singapore is a hostess who does not hold back when it comes to keeping her guests amused.
Special Feature
MICE
By RenĂŠe Stahlmann
what a
MICEIdea
In a bid to tap into this growing niche market, hoteliers are going all out to impress business travellers with a range of MICE facilities.
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PAN PACIFIC SINGAPORE
7 Raffles Boulevard Marina Square, Singapore 039595 Tel: +65 6336 8111 panpacific.com/singapore
There is nothing better than finding an event venue that comes complete with an array of entertainment options right in front of your fingertip. Hoteliers know the importance of convenience to their customers and the people at Pan Pacific Singapore could not have asked for a better location. Situated in the heart of Marina Bay, the property is conveniently linked via a skybridge to Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre and three major shopping malls with over 1,000 retail and dining options. Its strategic location means convenience and comfort are rolled into one, providing the ideal conditions for the needs of all your business meetings, conferences and functions. Styled by Wimberly Allison Tong & Goo (WATG)
from Hawaii, the hotel’s ballrooms’ interiors are evocative of the elegant sweep of waves and water in soothing aqua hues, beautifully offset by elegant wood panelling. The Pacific Ballroom is located adjacent to the hotel lobby, and is accessible via a separate driveway, affording an exclusive venue entrance. The venue is ideal for international conferences and special events, thanks to its pillar-less space. The space is configured such that it is flexible to be divided into three rooms for smaller events, with its discreet partition doors. Creating the perfect ambience will not be difficult either, as the room is lit by an intelligent lighting system, with up to eight themed colour choices. “The requirements of MICE clients differ with each event. The size of the facilities and configuration flexibilities are considerations for MICE planners, which is why we have a variety of spacious pillar-less ballrooms or private meeting rooms” explains Ivan Lee, General Manager, Pan Pacific Singapore. The establishment houses 26 venues that offer over 3,000 square metres of space to organise events, with 778 rooms and suites available for accommodation. Continuous updates of the facilities are required to remain competitive in the industry, admits Lee, sharing that the hotel’s recent refurbishment of all its rooms and suites to the tune of S$10 million has given the property an edge in the hospitality industry. Stateof-the-art flat screen televisions, remote-controlled blinds and an automated minibar became permanent fixtures in its rooms and suites. To cater to its MICE clients, Pan Pacific Singapore has a dedicated an experienced event team that focuses on creating custom-tailored events of the highest standard. With the help of a MeetingOne Butler, who is always on hand to handle on-the-spot requests, the hotel has had the pleasure of being chosen as one of the official accommodation hotels for the International Monetary Fund meeting in 2006 – one of the biggest events in Singapore due to the profile and magnitude of its guests. “In addition, the Programme of Seminars (POS) was also conducted in the hotel and committees were set up to handle details ranging from the rooms, service standards to food and beverages. The objective was to ensure that the delegates enjoy a memorable stay,” says the General Manager. Venues are not only limited to meeting rooms, as the hotel also offers a unique poolside venue, where you can hold your post-conference cocktail gatherings, elegant alfresco dinners or casual lunches. Located on level four, the venue offers a combination of views of the beautifully manicured gardens juxtaposed against the backdrop of modern skyscrapers.
Contemporary comfort mingles with the award-winning Shangri-la service at the Traders Hotel, resulting in the right combination for a successful MICE event. The hotel’s strategic location – being mere minutes away from the famous Orchard Road, Botanic Gardens and 25-minutes away from Changi International Airport, makes it ideal for business travellers who are looking for a mixture of both work and play. Towards the end of 2008, Traders Hotel launched its newly upgraded function rooms. Located on the second floor of the hotel are 10 function rooms, covering a net total space of 888 square metres, designed for small to medium-sized events ranging from meetings and product launches to grand banquets. The biggest in size, the Gallery, covers 298 square metres and can seat up to 300 persons for a banquet of 240 persons theatre-style. For a more flexible option, the Temasek Room is divisible into four separate rooms, ideal for training sessions of meetings of up to 120 persons in a classroom setting. Complementing these rooms are the Bencoolen, Malacca and Penang. Key attributes of the function rooms are natural daylight and the flexibility to open up or divide the function rooms according to capacity requirements. The rooms are located close to the guest lifts and apart from the hotel’s main traffic flow. Interior décor includes custom-made crystal chandeliers, plush carpets in muted colour tones of light and dark green interspersed with dark brown, and fabric wall panels of light green alternating with birch wood wall panels for enhanced aesthetic appeal. Concealed behind two sets of sliding mirrors are 42-inch LCD panels. All function rooms are equipped with the latest multimedia audio-visual facilities, broadband and wireless Internet access and electronically controlled ambience lighting. Function guests enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks at the all-day beverage counter. To ensure its guests’ receive a personalised treatment, the hotel provides an experienced team of event and banquet professionals, who is ready to cater to all kinds of function needs.
TRADERS HOTEL SINGAPORE 1A Cuscaden Road Singapore 249716 Tel: +65 6738 2222 www.shangri-la.com/en/ property/singapore/traders
Special Feature
MICE
HILTON PHUKET ARCADIA RESORT AND SPA 333 Patak Road, Karon Beach Muang, Phuket, Thailand 83100 Tel: +66 76 396 433 http://www.hiltonworldresorts. com/Resorts/Phuket/index. html#Phuket
“Size is one of the decision factors for MICE clients,” says Shafar Jamaludin, Director of Sales and Marketing (DOSM), Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort and Spa. “The size has to match with the group’s capacity as well as make the group comfortable during their stay. However, flexibility on the usage of a venue also plays an important role in decision making,” he adds. Jamaludin explains,” Guests usually do not want to be constrained by a venue. They want the venue to work for them and allow them to be creative in their event planning.” The property has the highest capacity for events and meeting space on the island, including a Grand Ballroom, which can accommodate up to 1,200 people, five versatile meeting spaces and seven flexible breakout rooms. Dinner can also be arranged in a spectacular, air-conditioned marquee suitable for 350-400 people. Besides the size and the location, the success of a MICE event also depends on whether or not it meets the customer’s expectations. “From the first phone call, we are always listening, testing ideas and questioning aspects of their proposal so we understand exactly what they expect from the hotel,” says the DOSM. The hotel’s Sales and Events Services team works closely with the clients to ensure that both the proposal and the executive deliver uncompromised results. “The people working on our events and conventions are critical to our success,” adds Jamaludin, saying, “Our team at Hilton Phuket is focused on delivering the highest quality events in the region and is passionate about this industry. They know when to listen and when our clients are looking for ideas.” The team 20 | Frequent traveller
members’ intuition is highly regarded, as it tries to meet its goal of ensuring that “all aspects of an event are arranged before the meeting planner has to ask for it.” A unique feature of the hotel’s MICE offering is the online Guest List Manager (GLM), which allows event organisers to access their event information online. Additionally, the hotel provides a complimentary set up of a dedicated personal website for an event or group. “This provides the meeting group with an area for their own personal information and bookings,” explains the DOSM. “With this service, guests can book online 24/7.” Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort and Spa’s location on 75 acres of wide spread tropical garden in the heart of Karon beach adds to the resort’s appeal for its MICE guests. It also has the largest capacity of events and meeting space on Phuket Island, setting it apart from anything in the area. The business and pleasure attributes of the property are popular among its MICE clients. Due to its location, the property offers “enough space for team building and social activities to make the clients more relaxed during their business meeting,” adds Jamaludin. “Each and every client is treated individually and is given personal attention from the point of request for proposal, to the actual execution of the event and post event as well. Our team creates a professional relationship with clients that extends beyond the event, and has resulted in many past clients returning back to the hotel due to the relationship they have with our team members,” assures the DOSM
MARCO POLO XIAMEN
8 Jianye Road, Hubin Bei Xiamen 361012, Fujian, China Tel: +86 592 509 1888 xiamen.marcopolohotels.com
Tucked in China’s scenic city, Marco Polo Xiamen provides the ideal venue for business meetings of various sizes. Aptly so, its General Manager, Danny Lam, describes the property as “a business hotel with exclusive lake front location and excellent facilities designed for the MICE market.” And the description is valid for the hotel’s pillar-less Ballroom, measuring 425 square metres, is able to accommodate 300 guests for dinner and 500 guests for banquet. The nine Silk Rooms of varying dimensions can accommodate from 18 to 200 guests, with five of the Silk Rooms providing a generous view of the tranquil lake. All the meeting rooms come equipped with the latest audio-visual equipment, high-speed broadband Internet connection, LCD project, built-in motorised screen, video camera, VCD and DVD player, video conferencing system, individual control room and a folding stage. Complimentary conveniences include microphones, an electronic whiteboard, a flipchart, writing pads and pencils and water bottles for delegates. The hotel also has a team of experienced banquet associates, assures Lam. “Our in-house event planners will ensure that our customers’ events are executed properly, as they are involved right from the very beginning of the planning stages,” he adds.
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Frequent traveller
Special Feature
MICE
XIANGLU GRAND HOTEL 18 Changhao Road, Huli Xiamen 361006, China Tel: +86 592 263 8888 www.xianglugrand.com
Strategically located in Huli, the five-star accommodation is a brief eight-minute drive away from the Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport, presenting the perfect venue for business meetings and conferences. With its wide range of facilities, the Xianglu Grand Hotel is poised to become the city’s preferred choice of international gala events, company annual dinners, intimate wedding settings and any scale of meetings or conferences. Boasting a total conference, exhibition and banquet area of 8,900 square metres, the hotel has two ballrooms, each accommodating up to 950 guests. This is complemented by twenty-six additional function rooms catering to any number of event requirements with a comprehensive range of modern audio visual equipment, lighting support, and simultaneous translation facilities, all served by its internationally experienced management team. “Besides specialist knowledge and expertise, our people also have a wide experience in varied kinds of meetings and are able to handle events of various scales,” says Milton Kang, Assistant Director of Sales – MICE. Xianglu Grand Hotel’s friendly service and attractive MICE features have attracted numerous companies such as Dell (China), Coca Cola, Microsoft, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz and ING, which all have held their events at the property.
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Form, function and innovation come together at the five-star One World Hotel, a member of WORLDHOTELS in the deluxe collection category. Situated in the heart of Petaling Jaya, the hotel boasts world-class meetings and conventions facilities. Only 45 minutes from Kuala Lumpur International Airport and a 20-minute drive away from KL Sentral, the hotel’s central location will be one of the pull factors for events planners. One World Hotel’s meeting facilities span an area of more than 4,000 square metres spread over three levels, including a pillar-less Imperial Ballroom covering 3,100 square metres that is partitionable into three separate ballrooms and is able to cater up to 2,000 people for banquets and 3,500 people theatre-style. An extensive foyer for pre-function facility complements the Imperial Ballroom, which also has its dedicated entrance from the lobby level of the hotel, enhancing its exclusivity factor. Luxuriously decorated with spectacular chandeliers , the ballroom features state-of-the-art audio-visual systems, high-speed Internet access, satellite teleconferencing, simultaneous translation services and vehicle accessibility for grand launches. Fifteen other versatile function rooms are available for groups of 20 to 1,000 people, catering for smaller meetings, private dinners and weddings. A team of dedicated Convention Ser vices professionals are on hand to attend to the guests’ full meeting needs, from planning to the final performance. This is in line with the hotel’s promise of making their guests’ stay as personal as possible, as summed up by the hotel’s General Manager, Ho Hoy Sum, upon receiving the five-star hotel certificate in July 2008, “We are committed to providing personalised service that exceeds expectations of our guests.” The property is also adjoined to the award-winning 1 Utama Shopping Centre, one of Malaysia’s successful shopping centres, which is guaranteed to appeal to the fun senses of its corporate MICE customers.
ONE WORLD HOTEL
First Avenue, Bandar Utama City Centre 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia Tel: +603 7681 1111 www.oneworldhotel.com. my
MICE Venues On November 13, 2008, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) announced the establishment of the Meetings and Exhibitions Hong Kong (MEHK) office. Tasked with providing a one-stop professional support to MICE organisers, the MEHK office is only the first in a series of measures by HKTB to ensure that Hong Kong stays ahead of the competition in the global MICE sector. James Tien, HKTB Chairman, says, “We believe this is the time we must ramp up our effort to maintain our market share and keep our business strong, as we face an economic challenge of a lifetime. Tien adds that the HKTB will work in a concerted effort with the government and trade partners to launch “targeted promotions in highpotential markets, cultivate new business contacts and
build awareness of Hong Kong’s MICE brand”. The fact that Hong Kong is relatively visitor-friendly – “visitors from over 170 countries enjoy visa-free entry to Hong Kong – coupled with its sound legal system and a level-playing field for business will “maximise its potential as a location of choice for MICE events,” says Yvonne Choi, Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development (Commerce, Industry and Tourism). On the other hand, for a MICE venue with a difference, Greenland may just be the ideal spot to hold your next business conference or team building exercise. After all, who could resist the possibility of taking a trip out into the unique natural surroundings, and watch giant icebergs serenely float pass in the middle of your boardroom meeting?
“I do not believe people go to Greenland just for a meeting,” says Nini Biilmann, MICE Coordinator. “They go to be inspired. They experience a new country as well as a new culture, with 90 per cent of the people they come across being true Greenlanders.” Greenland has two fourstar hotels – Hotel Arctic and Hotel Hans Egede - with a good digital infrastructure, making it well equipped to host both large and small groups. For meetings with a view, opt for Hotel Arctic, which boasts over 900 icebergs as neighbours. Or if you’d prefer a meeting in the capital, Nuuk, Hotel Hans Egede can cater for around 120 delegates. Despite its Arctic location, Greenland is accessible, in terms of economics and time, with flights from London via Copenhagen taking around four and a half hours.
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Frequent traveller
guidelinesecotrip Text by RUTH Tan
Flight to
Sustainability Finnair’s first-ever environmental director,
Kati Ihamäki shares with Frequent Traveller her vision for eco-efficient flights.
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With so much talk on the environment, climate change and sustainability these days, “going green” is fast shaping up to be the top priority for governments and businesses globally. It is truly difficult to find international companies that do not have some form of environmentally-friendly practices or sustainability goals in their corporate agenda. However, one cannot help but wonder if this is just a clever PR move to keep on the right side of legislation and public sentiment or signal far-reaching paradigm shift. In recent times, the growing awareness of the environmental impact of air travel on climate change has put the aviation industr y in the crosshairs of many environmental groups. Airlines have generally pushed back with highly visible environmental initiatives and programs. Finnair ups the “green” stakes by appointing its first-ever environmental director, Kati Ihamäki in January 2008. A long time Finnair employee, Ihamäki, who holds a master degree in environmental management, took on her new post in February of the same year. She admits that “it’s kind of like a dream come true” to be able to still work with the company as well as put her knowledge to good use. “I’m really happy that Finnair is taking this so seriously that we have this position open,” she adds. In her role as Vice President Sustainable Development, Ihamäki acts as the spokesperson for environmental affairs and is tasked with ensuring that Finnair’s goals of becoming the leading airline in environmental activities are achieved. She is also responsible for the coordination of environmental strategy and emissions trade projects as well as for integrating environmental issues into the group’s competitive strategy. As she sees it, a lot of good work has already been done at the airline on the environmental front, but there’s more to be done to boost its sustainability development and social responsibility. For instance, Ihamäki wants to develop Finnair’s environmental report, which they have since 1997, to be more proactive. She has been talking to all the stakeholders to find out “what they would need to see and want to see on the environmental report.”
Another area of focus is to develop a sustainability policy for the whole company so that everyone knows what the group is aiming for, she explains.
TOP CHOICE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT CONSCIOUS Finnair’s vision is to be the airline of choice for environmentally conscious travellers in intercontinental traffic in the Northern Hemisphere by the year 2017. Perhaps the most significant investment toward its of eco-efficiency goal is the extensive fleet upgrade programme - to the tune of one billion euros. Already one of the youngest fleet in Europe, Finnair is systematically renewing its long-haul planes to consist entirely of new Airbus A340 and A330 aircrafts by the end of March 2010. This will bring the current emissions level down 10 to 20 per cent. Other environmental initiatives include changing the aircraft paint to reduce volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, reducing noise pollution and various recycling efforts. Finnair Catering has an environmental system certified according to the ISO14001 standard Ihamäki believes it to be the only one in the world. “Our Catering sorts and recycles nearly all materials. Energy waste are gathered, plastic bottles are collected in bales, and cans are flattened right away on board most flights,” she elaborates. Another equally important environmental consideration is the choice of route. Flying the most optimal way possible obviously minimises fuel consumption. Every kilogram of fuel saved results in 3.2 kilograms less in carbon dioxide emissions. Helsinki’s excellent geographic connections to Asia and elsewhere, puts it in the enviable position of being constantly in the right direction along the shortest and most eco-efficient route between Europe and Asia. Of course, besides making improvements for the “greater good”, addressing environmental problems is sound business as well. Fuel efficiency reflects positively on the airline’s bottom-line. And green marketing can be a point of differentiation - a company operating in a socially responsible manner helps strengthen the corporate image and becomes part of its competitive edge.
TOWARD ZERO EMISSION Although much has been done to address the environmental impact of air travel, the concerns of green groups are not without basis. Air transport is estimated to be the fastest growing source of greenhouse gases. Global air traffic has also quadrupled since 1970, from 350 billion passenger miles a year to 1500 billion passenger miles a year. This has led some to question whether long-haul travel is just too costly for the planet. Ihamäki feels that this is hardly the solution. “People want to travel and I think the travel industry is also creating so much GDP it cannot be stopped.” “Also the industries are getting global, people need to travel to the different factories, different offices around the world. Goods need to travel around the world, especially the high tech goods. People don’t want to wait six weeks for their mobile phone; they want to have it in six hours.” Moreover, Ihamäki points out that aviation accounts for two per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, whereas other forms of transport account for as much as 10 per cent. Clearly, the climate change issue has to be addressed from a wider perspective. Advances in aircraft and engine technologies have already led to dramatic reductions in emissions. Airbus A340 aircraft consumes 10 per cent less fuel while the saving for A330 is 20 per cent. In the meantime, developments in biofuels are accelerating with government bodies and major stakeholders putting massive amount of money and energy to its investigations. Finnair supports International Air Transport Association’s target of zero emission air travel by 2050. Ihamäki is confident that the industry can really get there with the aircraft and engine manufacturers and airlines all working the same target. “I think aviation will be the most environmental mode of transport, when we get rid of the oil and when we have zero emission. Because we don’t have to build roads, you don’t have to create roads - you just use the air. So whenever we get the problems with emission solved, we would be the most environmentally friendly travelling mode, and also the fastest.”
guidelinesbeautytravel
In Vanity, We Search
by AMY VAN
Despite the gloom, the beauty industry is thriving. And people are willingly part with their money to indulge in their vanity needs during their holidays. Singapore, Bangkok and Korea show you how they are catering to this niche segment of the tourism sector.
From Singapore’s sophisticated treatments and Bangkok’s excellent hospitals to Korea’s advance healthcare services and cutting-edge technology, cosmetic surgery is a booming industr y in Asia. Even with the sluggish economy situation, the overall cost for surgical procedures and treatments in Asia is much lower compared to charges in Western countries – even if it means having to purchase a plane ticket, book a hotel and fork out additional medical expenses. Patients can also enjoy an exotic holiday overseas while recovering from their surgery.
SINGAPORE Plastic surgeons and aesthetic doctors in Singapore say that up to one third of their clients are overseas visitors, with a large number coming from Indonesia, China, Malaysia and Vietnam. While some clients even come from as far as Russia, Europe and the United States. Singapore cosmetic surgeon Dr JJ Chua, who has a clinic at Mt Elizabeth Centre, adds that many of his overseas clients actually prefer to do their aesthetic procedures overseas, “as they do not want anyone in their native country to know of their treatment, and will make sure they are completely healed before returning home”. Factors that make Singapore an attractive choice include a good health system, modern equipment and facilities, competitive pricing, honest and easy communication and the fact that most of the doctors have international training and experience. Reputational so plays a big part when it comes to choosing the actual medical practitioner. Although they may not know the doctor personally, patients
are usually familiar with his or her work. “Most of our clients come to us by word-of-mouth, and so it’s our results which speak for themselves,” says Dr Low Chai Ling, Medical Director of The Sloane Clinic in Singapore (www.sloaneclinic. com), which specialises in aesthetic procedures. To make the procedures for overseas clients as stress and fuss-free as possible, doctors and specially trained staff answer all queries or concerns via phone or email prior to the treatment. Following the procedures, the same attentive service, including 24-hour help lines and on-line prescription ordering, complete with security codes, are offered by many clinics. However, all doctors still insist on a faceto-face consultation prior to undergoing the treatment. During this consultation, any of the patient’s fears can be addressed and treatments modified or changed to suit new preferences. Special packages catering to client’s individual needs are also customised on a personal basis. Dr Chua says most of his visiting patients opt for treatments that require “only a two-day stopover”. Some patients want a total makeover, while others take the opportunity to freshen up their looks, while in town. Dr Low’s patients who visit Singapore for shopping trips or social events often choose treatments which give them immediate results without the need for follow up procedures. “They tend to steer towards our specialised Light Lift lasers to perk and rejuvenate their skins without any redness or downtime in preparation for the event they are attending”, she says. Other popular procedures which show immediate results with little downtime include Thermage of the face and
body – a patented FDA approved non-invasive radio frequency treatment, used for facial skin tightening and body contouring that shows dramatic results. Hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvederm® or Restylane® are also popular for defining cheeks, adding height to the nasal bridge and reducing under eye hollowness and can be effective with just one treatment. Botox is also popular not only for treating lines and wrinkles but facial slimming and contouring. Doctors expect that the numbers of medical tourists seeking aesthetic procedures will increase, as travelling becomes more convenient, procedures more technologically advanced with less downtime required, and information more easily available through the web. Although the cur rent financial crisis has lead to a decrease in price-conscious patients seeking cheaper treatments, Dr Low says that it has also had the benefit of shifting the focus onto the quality, efficacy and safety of the treatments, rather than the price. “At the end of the day, our aim is not to provide the cheapest treatment or to serve high volumes, but to serve a niche group of clients and do it exceptionally well,” she says.
Thailand Bangkok is one of the region’s most popular destinations for surgery travellers. On almost every corner in this intoxicating city is a medical centre that offers cosmetic surgery. Tourists prefer to fly to Bangkok for surgical procedures as they are much cheaper in Thailand than having them done in their own countries. Furthermore, they get to recuperate during the “holiday” at one of the many beach resorts. Plastic surgery procedures are performed in
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international standard medical facilities or hospitals, and patients are well looked after by welltrained, English-speaking staff. Popular surgical procedures include breast augmentation, breast reduction, tummy tuck and gender reassignment. Realising the profitability of this industry, the government of Thailand has been actively promoting plastic surgery tours in recent years. According to a Times magazine report: “The Tourism Authority of Thailand helps promote institutions like the Bumrungrad Hospital to foreigners, who consist of onethird of its patients. In the mid 1970s, Thailand had only 10 plastic surgeons, so locals tended to go to Japan or Singapore for cosmetic help. Today, Thailand has taken over the role as a top surgical hub in Asia.” This however wasn’t the case about 15 years ago. Yanhee International Hospital (http:// www.yanhee.net) was one of the first hospitals that pioneered and advocated cosmetic surgery tours for the domestic and international market in Thailand. Founded in 1984, the hospital began their cosmetic surgery advertising campaign about 10 years later. At that time, there was a strong trend in Thailand that went against all forms of cosmetic surgery. But Yahee had a very ‘grass-root’ approach by
placing posters at the back of tuk-tuks, buses and taxis, as well as other types of media. By doing so, plastic surgery eventually became a talk of the town. Today, alongside the surgical procedures, the hospital offers packages that include airfare, airport transfer, and accommodation at a five-star hotel among other services. To communicate with foreign patients, Yanhee also has a host of interpreters available, from French, Japanese and Korean to Arabic and German. Dr Piangjai Wisuthseriwong of Clinic Soi 1 says: “Many of our patients get their surgery done in Bangkok and fly to a resort for recuperation or just spend time exploring and shopping in Bangkok.” The clinic’s main plastic surgeon, Dr Witoon Wisuthseriwong, is a prominent national board certified plastic surgeons in Thailand. He usually offers patients consultation via email before they fly in and follow up with patients after they leave. “After patients send in their photos, Dr Witoon will assess them, then we will send information about the surgery and a personalised quote,” explains Dr Pianjai, adding that the most popular procedures offered are breast augmentation, breast lift, liposuction and facelift. In terms of the profile of their patients, the doctor says that
Vain Spots Hong Kong has been known for its reputable medical services for years, but recent times have seen foreign patients opting for lower treatment costs in places like Thailand, Malaysia and Korea. Its hospital fees are much higher compared to other destinations, but patients are assured of a pool of international medical experts, cutting-edge technology and international-standard, sophisticated equipment. Medical professionals in Hong Kong are
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mostly fluent in English and Mandarin. Medical tourism in Hong Kong has been supported by the Hong Kong government, which has also been attempting to market its Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in the region. MALAYSIA Also known for its medical tourism, Malaysia sees foreign visitors flocking to the country to seek
most of them are foreigners from all over the world, with a large percentage from Australia.
KOREA Well-known for its medical tourism, South Korea boasts world-class plastic surgery services, top-notched expertise and stateof-the-art technology. The high quality surgery is affordable too compared to Western countries. It is also common to find accommodation, foreign language translators, and other amenities at some of the major medical facilities. In the past decade or so, the country’s burgeoning cosmetic surgery industry thrived, thanks to its pop culture, which revolves around good looking TV drama actors and actresses with perfect facial features. Tourists from Southeast Asia, China and Japan are flying to Korea for plastic surgery, so that they too can look as flawless as their TV idols. For instance, Korean surgeons are renowned for their surgical skills and many specialise in creating “double eyelids” (inserting a crease in the upper eyelid) to make small Asian eyes look larger and more attractive. Meanwhile, to further accelerate the success of this industry, the Council for Korea Medicine Overseas Promotion (www.koreahealthtour.co.kr), a government-private joint initiative
aesthetic treatments. Although not as popular as Thailand, visitors often look to Malaysia to fulfill their medical needs due to its low cost of procedures and the high quality care offered during the recuperation period. Thanks to the low exchange rate, accommodation packages are also fairly affordable. The Malaysian government is promoting the country as a medical tourism hub, particularly in places like Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Cosmetic surgery treatments are available at world-class facilities, and popular treatments include
was created in 2007 by the Korea Tourism Organization, Korea Health Industry Development Institute and Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare to promote Korea’s medical excellence foreign patients. Some 30 major hospitals are already members of this official organisation for Korea Medical Tourism. A council official says that South Korea’s affordable health care system has seen the number of foreign patients rise from 10,000 to 13,000 in a couple of years. The council’s website also states that “the overall price for healthcare services in Korea is 20 to 30 percent of the cost in the US, and the cost is less expensive than international hospital in China and similar to the price of private hospital in Singapore.” Hence, the influx of overseas patients. Besides introducing some of the country’s best medical centres, the user-friendly and highly informative English website is also offering attractive tour packages. For the benefit and convenience of overseas visitors, the website provides a backgrounder on Korea and where it shines in medical technology. They can use the search engine to find different hospitals of their choice. There is also a section on tourist attractions and shopping areas located near hospitals – so that patients can enjoy their so-called vacations.
face-lifts, rhinoplasty and ear and eye surgeries. Not only are many private clinics and medical centres well equipped, its specialists and medical staff are also highly trained, and are mostly English-speaking, thus easing the communication process with foreigners. Visitors should also not worry about the credibility of these private facilities, as they must be licensed by the Malaysian Ministry of Health, with those promoting services to foreigners required to acquire international certification standards.
An Urban Oasis in Xiamen
Special Advertising Section
Located in the centre of Xiamen’s business and commercial centre, Crowne Plaza Paragon Xiamen is not only a business hotel, as it is also an ideal accommodation choice for leisure travellers. With its 327 luxurious appointed guest rooms and suites, including two Crowne Plaza Club floors, the hotel will provide its guests with the extra refinement of a convenient and reliable accommodation. Dining options abound at the Crowne Plaza Paragon Xiamen, thanks to the various restaurants available offering diners with culinary delights from around the world. The stylish interiors of the Parkview CafÊ complement the excellent cuisine that introduces new global flavours. For delicious Cantonese food, head to Yuechao Chinese restaurant, where your dining experience will be enhanced by the elegant traditional Chinese decorations. Asian Delights features an open kitchen concept; giving diners a peek at the excitement inside the hot kitchen as the Chefs let their creative juices flow to
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prepare their guests with a variety of food choices. The property boasts 8,000 square metres of beautifully landscaped gardens, with natural lawns and a private jogging track, making this an oasis in the midst of the city centre. A variety of leisure options are available, such as a spa, swimming pool and gymnasium. At the end of a hectic day, guests can also unwind at one of the two bars available. Being in such a strategic location definitely has its advantages. The hotel is located within a short walking distance to a variety of shopping malls and entertainment outlets. There is no better accommodation choice when in Xiamen that will cater to both your business and leisure needs. With breathtaking sightseeing spots and diverse entertainment options, the Crowne Plaza Paragon Xiamen is definitely The Place To Meet.
corphub shanghai
text by SHAN CHUA | photography by eric chun
Antique Hastings Globe by Insight Guides
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With a history spanning more than 700 years, Shanghai was once the financial centre of the Far East. Since then, reforms have been in place and great changes have taken place in the city. The municipal government looks upon building Shanghai into a modern metropolis, a world of financial, economic, trading and shipping centre all by the year 2010. Shanghai has its roots as far back as the period of the Song Dynasty, during which time it was a new rising trade port known as Hu Du. Today, however, the scene from the city depicts a different tale, as bustling metropolitan life surfaces to life, renewing Shanghai’s cultural attractions, which have been apparent since the 19th century, in which its arts and culture incorporated elements of both Chinese and Western influences. And these influences are still reflected in the city’s culture. The sleepy town of yesterday awakes to the bustling scene of today, transforming Shanghai into China’s major financial centre and an emerging economic powerhouse. When Shanghai was first converted into a city, it was home to only 100,000 inhabitants. Now, the number has grown to 18.15 million, out of which 4.67 million are immigrants. Why is everyone heading to Shanghai?
VIBRANT CITY Shanghai is basically divided into two by the Huangpu River, with the older town known as Puxi on the west bank and the newer development on the east side as Pudong. There is certainly a good mix of the new and the old, from the surroundings, to the streets, a fascinating mix of the East and West. Ever renowned is The Bund, also known as Waitan, a not-to-bemissed tourist spot signifying the colonial riverside of old
and new Shanghai. Preserving and witnessing the history of Shanghai as you stroll through the terrains of The Bund, you will, at the same time, be struck by the changes that have reformed Shanghai into the modern city of today. Xin Tian Di is a definite not to be missed by-product of cultural transformations. Bars and cafés line the walkways in an interesting setting of modern architecture, which are juxtaposed against the backdrop of the unique Chinese design. The city’s transformations into a modern metropolis have also been reflected in the growth of the retail, hospitality and tourism industry, which have grown rapidly, at an overwhelming speed. According to the Shanghai Statistics Bureau, in May 2008, sales records amounted to 32.98 billion yuan (US$4.33 billion), a stark increase of 16.4 per cent from the previous year. This growth, beating the 14.1 per cent increase in April 2008, was said to be the highest monthly record in history. Holidays and climbing consumer prices have always had this effect on Shanghai’s retail business. If these figures are not impressive enough, national retail sales have risen by 15.9 per cent from merely a year earlier to 715.8 billion yuan. Based on these figures, it is little surprise that Shanghai has garnered the status of a growing giant that is now home to an overwhelming community of expatriates and has played host to a series of world events.
THE PERCEPTION OF OTHERS A recent survey has shown that outsiders have a high level of confidence in this growing giant, placing Shanghai on top as the most attractive global city over the next three years. “Investors value the growth of a market most, so it did not come as a
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surprise for investors to give a high ranking to Shanghai and Beijing,” said Bai Xuejie, a researcher at Tianjin-based Nankai University, adding, “China is now one of the engines of the world economy, and Beijing and Shanghai are definitely big cities that have seen rapid growth.” Shanghai and Beijing, as two municipalities at the provincial level, were ranked the first and second concerning per capita GDP last year among all provinces. Tourists coming into the country have also spotted a significant increase. May 2008 saw an increase of 1.6 per cent over the same period in the previous year. And not to mention, tourists that flock into China come from all over the world – Japan, Philippines, Singapore, Italy, Russia, USA, New Zealand, Germany and France.
FIGURATIVELY SPEAKING Thanks to its focus on fostering its comprehensive competitiveness, Shanghai has kept its economy on a track of constant, fast and healthy growth. Since 1992, the city has maintained a doubledigit GDP growth rate for 15 consecutive years. In 2006, its GDP reached 1.03 trillion yuan, exceeding the 1 trillion yuan mark for the first time. It represents a 12 per cent growth over the previous year in terms of comparable prices and the figure is 96.2 per cent higher than that in 2000, representing an annual average growth of 11.9 per cent. The city’s financial income has witnessed constant growth. It stood at about 19 billion yuan in the late 1970s when China adopted the opening and reform policy, but surged above 170 billion yuan in 2000. The figure totalled 479.9 billion yuan in 2006, up 17.2 per cent over the previous year, and
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1.7 times more than that in 2000, translating to an average annual growth of 18.3 per cent. Shanghai’s local financial revenue rose to slightly over 160 billion yuan in 2006, showing an 11.6 per cent increase than the previous year.
SHANGHAI HOTELS When the Forbes Traveller 400 experts picked out the World’s 50 Best New Hotels, three of them went to Shanghai. And with new hotel property developments in progress in the city - including the new home of Alfred Dunhill Shanghai Shanghai looks set to becoming the next trendy destination in the world. Opening in September, the Alfred Dunhill Shanghai Home is located in the heart of the city at Huai Hai Road 796 in the Luwan District. Housed in a magnificent, perfectly restored 1920’s neo-classical style villa in the former French concession, the Shanghai Home presents a superior and inimitable experience, surrounded by a beautiful English garden. This former residence will host, in addition to unique and exclusive retail, a leading contemporary art gallery, a fine dining restaurant and bar, a traditional English barber and a personal concierge service. In the past, Shanghai has played host to APEC meetings, a Fortune Forum and other international conferences. And in 2010, the city will bring the world at home as it hosts the World Expo. The city has constantly optimised and upgraded its industrial structure and sped up the development of its advanced manufacturing sector and modern ser vice industry to keep up with the steady demands from the international investors, which expects more from this eclectic city. Shanghai’s high-technology industries have been expanding
rapidly. In 2006, the output value of the high-technology industries totalled 446.1 billion yuan, up 16.3 per cent over 2005, while the electronics and telecommunications equipment manufacturers totalled 153.5 billion yuan, translating to an increase of 22.5 per cent. Within the next five years, investors can safely continued to place Shanghai at the top of their priority as the city aims to improve its GDP standing, pulling in more social welfare benefits for the local residents. And leading to the year 2010, the government has planned to maintain or
increase its spending on research and development. Yet, as this growing giant grows, there are still traditional elements being trapped in the midst of its ambitions. And this is where the city’s beauty lies. Modern and contemporary architecture set beneath traditional Chinese design evokes a tinge of nostalgia. This is true Shanghai, in all its beauty and bustle. The next time you talk about China, you remember Shanghai, the best perspective a first time traveller can ever get of China, whether it is for work or leisure. A visit there will never be the same again.
Shanghai Boom
In a bid to be internationally renowned as the “Oriental Pearl of the East”, Shanghai has attempted to mix elements of the modern city with traditional Chinese culture, observes Guy Hutchinson, General Manager, Hilton Shanghai. And it seems that the city has been doing well to live up to expectations. In a midst of a worldwide recession, Hutchinson claims that the Shanghai tourism industry is well and stable, having received 325 million international tourists and 337 million Chinese tourists in the first half of 2008. “This figure is expected to remain largely positive [throughout this year],” says the GM, adding that the 2010 EXPO is likely to have a “huge positive impact on the growing tourism industry in Shanghai.” To maintain the growth of the tourism industry, Hutchinson feels that there are three major tasks in the pipeline for the government and the tourism bureaus to collaborate their efforts. Firstly, more accessible information exchange methods need to be ensured and improved for the international and domestic tourists; secondly, more travel promotions and packages will be launched to various target markets; and lastly, new markets are being developed specifically for the 2010 EXPO. In the near future, the GM predicts a small fall on the number of visiting international tourists to Shanghai. However, the figure is expected to remain stable and solid, he adds, saying “Shanghai will try to develop new markets, with a new focus on domestic travel to Shanghai.”
destination hongkong Text by Fauzi Ahmad | Photography by Fauzi Ahmad and Hong Kong Tourism Bourd
M O V I N G Snaking like a dragon’s tail from t he Cent ral dist r ict of Hong Kong to the heights of the Mid-Levels neighbourhood, a ride on the 800 metre long escalator offers the visitor a dream-like, cinematic peek into the city’s life and its constantly renewing urban landscape. The covered people-mover, the world’s longest outdoor escalator system with elevated stairs, ramps and pedestrian walkways, was completed in 1994 with the intention of easing traffic in Hong Kong’s hilly terrain by efficiently transporting residents from their high-rise abodes, backed against the mountains, to the offices and shops in low-lying Central. More than 50,000 people ride on the Mid-Levels Escalator every day. From 6 am, executives in sharp suits commute on the down-riding escalator, along with Filipina maids taking their charges to school. At 10.30 am, the moving walkway changes course and remains on an upward direction until midnight to take weary workers and party-goers on the 185-
a Take ladd a vert and er, sne ical tou the akin r on tren g gli Hon dy, t mps g Ko he s es t ng’s wan hrou gre ky a gh t at e nd t he t lect he s radi ric ligh tion tly s al eedy . metre vertical climb back to their homes. But if you don’t live in Hong Kong, begin your tour of what is perhaps the city’s most lively and fascinating scenes along the escalator at Des Voeux Road in Central (do it when it is up-riding unless you want a good workout).
GLIMPSES OF THE ECCENTRICS Your voyeuristic tendencies will prevail and soon you’ll be peering into the shops, offices and apartments along the escalator’s route as the great electric ladder courses its way uphill. There’s the little Chinese girl practising on the piano in the second-floor music school; over there, a lady gweilo (caucasian) is getting her nails buffed and lacquered for the evening’s engagement; in that third-floor yum cha (dim sum) restaurant, you can’t help but snigger at the sight of perplexed-looking tourists struggling to pick up the steamed delights with their chopsticks. The escalator breaks off at ever y cross street, allowing the rider to hop on
or off and explore the area. Get off at Wellington Street and savour the piping hot wonton mee (dumplings and noodles) or ngau lam (beef brisket served with noodles) at Mak’s Noodle (77 Wellington Street). Or if you’re not hungry, visit the many traditional Chinese medicine shops and learn about exotic herbal remedies for your ailments Walk further down and soon you’ll be confronted with a riot of colours, as this is where the city’s revellers get their party favours. The locals call it “Dressing Up Street” - and aptly so. Browse and bargain your way through the colourful selection of Marge Simpson-size wigs, sequined masks, multi-hued feather boas and all sorts of garish party paraphernalia at the concessions lining the steps off Wellington Street. Tucked behind one of these stalls is The Chippy (51 Wellington Street), a holein-the-wall joint replete with a chalkboard menu of hearty English fare. If you have a craving for meat pies, cheese and onion pasties, battered fish, or saveloys –
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all served with mushy peas, mash and chips, yes, those fat, hand-cut ones – you can get yourselves sorted here. Find your way back to the escalator on Gage Street past the cacophony of the open-air market where curious, camera-totting tourists observe elderly residents and Filipina maids shop for the day’s cooking needs.
THE ART OF ENJOYMENT Cultural aficionados know to head to Hollywood Road for Chinese antiques and modern collectibles. Thanks to China’s art boom, Hong Kong’s gallery scene has enjoyed a renaissance with the concentration of exhibition spaces dotted along and around the escalator on Hollywood Road. Look out for Gallery on Old Bailey (17 Old Bailey Street). The corner space puts on attention grabbing, edgy, sometimes provocative, contemporary Chinese paintings and sculptures. Or head further down Hollywood Road to Cat Street – once famous as a
haven for the city’s criminals. It is here where religion co-mingles with art. The heady smell of Chinese incense from the photogenic 150-year-old Man Mo Temple gently wafts onto the sidewalk and the Cat Street Galler y (222 Hollywood Road) across the street. Showcasing works by European, Australian and American artists, the gallery’s recent shows include the sexy and semi-pornographic “Fetish” photo exhibition by American film director David Lynch and French shoe designer Christian Louboutin. The epicentre of the Mid-Levels bar and dining scene is undisputably Staunton Street. Just off the escalator is the area’s namesake bar: Staunton’s Wine Bar + Café (10-12 Staunton Street). It’s a favourite watering hole for the area’s residents and legions of office workers who stop by for 5 - 9 pm happy hour drinks before heading off to dinner or home. There is nothing pretentious about Staunton’s. The relaxed crowd spills from
East Meets West at Conrad Hong Kong After completing a US$20 million renovation, Conrad Hong Kong is a masterpiece of modern hotel design. Evoking a fusion of traditional Chinese culture with contemporary flair, the hotel’s aesthetic appearance was the product of international hotel designer, Glenn Texeira’s vision. A warm and residential ambience, enhanced by Chinese motifs in gold leaf paintings and lush silks, the design imbues a luxurious vibe, making it an ideal accommodation choice for business and leisure travellers. Situated on the 40th to 61st floors, Conrad Hong Kong has a unique elliptical design, which means each of the 467 rooms and 46 suites commands a view. The hotel’s five Executive Floors and Executive Floor Lounge offer panoramic views – from the famous Hong Kong Harbour to Victoria Peak and across the stunning city skyline. Apart from F&B options, which include the famed Nicholini’s Italian restaurant – which has been named Hong Kong Tatler’s Restaurant of the Year for 13 consecutive years – the hotel also provides an array of business services, such as a business centre, mobile phone and laptop rental, private computer workstations and comprehensive secretarial services. Additionally, Conrad Hong Kong also offers a dedicated meeting floor, featuring 14 different meeting rooms, many with natural light, and one of the largest column-free ballrooms in Hong Kong.
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the bar onto the pavement and patrons are more than happy to sit with their large, overflowing pints of lager or chilled Australian Chardonnay on the steps next to the bar’s large, open windows facing the escalator as they eyeball the parade of escalator-riders.
DINING DELIGHTS People-watching along the escalator has become a refined art for regulars and residents. Perched on your stool by the window at El Taco Loco (Lower Staunton Street), a cheery Baja-style eatery, watch passing commuters as you enjoy your burrito and margarita before the escalator deposits them on Staunton Street. Further up is Peak Café Bar (913 Shelley Street), popular for Sunday brunches, a simple lunch or an evening catch-up drink. Diners are spoilt for choice with the variety of cuisines on Staunton and Elgin Streets and adjacent Peel Street. Nepali
The Chippy (51 Wellington Street), a hole-in-the-wall joint replete with a chalkboard menu of hearty English fare.
Books to Read curries (Nepal Restaurant, 14 Staunton Street), or Italian fare (Cecconi’s Cantina, 43 Elgin Street), modern Spanish tapas (Boca, 65 Peel Street), or fiery Thai (Chedi, 8 Elgin Street). But if you are willing to pay top dollar during this economic downturn, head to Duke’s Burger (5 Staunton Street) for its decadent US braised short ribs burger with truffles and foie gras (US$35) or the less-rich braised Wagyu oxtail and Iberian chorizo burger, topped with Manchego and mushrooms (US$28). A little-known but long-time feature of Peel Street is the makeshift shack of “Umbrella Man” Ho Hung Hee. The affable 82-year-old Ho has been making and mending umbrellas on the same steep block since 1948, receiving free water and electricity supply from nearby businesses. Ho is one of Hong Kong’s last remaining streetside craftsmen among its rapidly-gentrifying enclave of trendy restaurants, chic bars and art
Makeshift shack of “Umbrella Man” Ho Hung Hee.
galleries. You may miss it but look out for Ho’s laminated Guinness World Record certificate awarded in 1994 for the world’s most expensive umbrella he made using American ox-hide and a century-old German umbrella frame he found at a construction site in 1982. Beyond the bustle of Caine Road, the escalator takes you to a quieter, gentler neighbourhood with towering apartments, small parks and the pale green Indian-inspired 1840s Jamia Mosque (30 Shelley Street). There is less foot traffic in this section of the escalator route and everyone seems to speak in hushed tones. It feels like you’ve passed the buzz of Staunton and Elgin, and calmness has been restored. You complete your escalator ride on Conduit Road. There are breakfast nooks and stylish bistros. But you suspect these are catered for the high-altitude residents who want to escape the party and are contented to read the newspapers and rest their sore feet and weary souls.
Asia’s World City, Pearl of the Orient, Gateway to China - Hong Kong has been given many titles over the years. Attracted by the ambience of ‘east meets west’, this former British colony for 155 years continues to draw visitors – an amazing twenty-eight million in 2007. Valery Garrett’s Discover Hong Kong: The City’s History and Culture Redefined unveils the country’s hidden treasures, from the shopping, bars and restaurants, to the history, culture, and especially the open spaces of the New Territories. Here, ancient temples, walled villages and bustling market towns carry on a lifestyle uninterrupted for centuries. This is some of the best walking territory anywhere, with unrivalled views, and all within easy reach of the urban areas. The sixty entries in the book cover a multitude of attractions, listed under five headings: Architectural Interest (want to know the story behind the world’s most expensive and innovative building?), Historical Interest (how about a 2000-year-old military garrison and then a no-go area frequented by drug addicts and illegal doctors, now a beautiful city park modelled on those in Suzhou), Get Close to Nature (visit a refuge for tens of thousands of migrating birds on their way from Australia to Siberia), Cultural Interest (a 500 year old fishing village sometimes called the Venice of the East) and Lifestyle (take a ride on the world’s longest covered escalator, an easy ride through history to some great restaurants). Marshall Cavendish | S$25 | 173 pages
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destinationgreatbarrierreef Text by Brian Johnston | photography by Brian Johnston And Tourism Queensland
What Lies
Whether snorkelling or scuba diving, the reefs at Australia’s Great Barrier Reef
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BENEATH
provides divers with one of the world’s most memorable underwater experiences.
One moment the sun is glaring overhead, birds wheel in a familiar sky, and you’re a clumsy creature with a heavy tank strapped to your back, staggering across the deck. Then you tip yourself over the edge of the boat and suddenly you’re almost weightless, surrounded by deep blue. Fish in bewildering colours float around you: violent pink, neon green, Nemo orange. Grey carbuncled shells of giant clams open up to reveal a flesh of startling beauty, soft mauves dotted with electric blue and the palest of yellow. Coral carpets the seabed. While the fish are vivid and flamboyant,
From Top This Page, Clockwise A diving pontoon on the Barrier Reef east of Cairns; Enjoying the watersports at Lizard Island; A clown fish among the coral of the Barrier Reef;
Dangerous to the corals are Navigation”, say soft pastel shades: the charts. Main Picture ivory and primScuba diving among the specatcular Still, the reef marine life of the Barrier Reef. rose, lavender can be safely and peach. explored from dozens of This first heady plunge into places along the Queensland the Barrier Reef is enough alone coast, where it lies within a to call it great, but its greatness couple of hours’ boat trip from also extends some two thousand the shore. The main gateways kilometres from the tip of Papua are Bundaberg and Gladstone New Guinea right down the in the south, and Townsville, coast of Queensland almost Cairns and Port Douglas in as far as Brisbane. It’s actually the north. An international a congregation of some three airport at Cairns leaves it with thousand reefs and nearly a the lion’s share of visitors and thousand islands – the world’s numerous other onshore biggest marine park, and such a attractions. Port Douglas is complex region that areas have much more exclusive: it has still to be accurately mapped. only one main street, but it’s “Unexamined but Considered
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lined with a bevy of boutiques and seriously groovy restaurants where you’re likely to be rubbing shoulders with Bill Clinton or Sean Penn. Here, the reef is just an hour away, serviced by elegant chartered catamarans and yachts.
UNDERWATER ADVENTURE Wherever you base yourself, the main part of the Barrier Reef lies some sixty kilometres offshore, which takes ninety minutes by catamaran and longer by boat. Dozens of cruise companies offer services to the reef, the cost generally including meals and lectures from marine experts, as well as snorkelling and scuba equipment. Larger tour companies also offer small glass-bottom boats that provide a magnificent glimpse of under water life without so much as getting your feet wet. Still, any but the most timid of swimmers can master the basic skills of snorkelling, an experience not to be missed on any account, especially if your ‘snorkel safari’ is accompanied by a marine biologist, who will give you fascinating insights into reef life. If you’re a nonswimmer, take a tour that brings you to a coral cay rather than the open sea. Cays include Green Island and Michaelmas Cay off Cairns or the Low Isles off Port Douglas, where the water is generally very shallow and slopes in off the beach. There are few experiences in the world as wonderful as floating on a scintillating blue sea gazing down at orangeand white striped clownfish sailing sedately over a bed of purple sea urchins. Moorish idols pirouette between banks of anemones, waving long, streamer-like dorsal fins as they pass by. Coral trout show off in pink, dappled with white spots like a fashionable sofa and
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blending in perfectly against the corals. Coral needs plenty of sunlight and grows surprisingly near the surface – indeed, parts of the reef are exposed at low tide – so you may well be satisfied just with snorkelling. But scuba diving is another whole experience, well worth the effort. Some of the best-known dive sites such as Briggs Reef off Cairns can get positively crowded, visited by hundreds of divers each day. If you’re a serious diver, take a week-long cruise on a dive boat to some of the more inaccessible sites such as the renowned Cod Hole, where massive potato cod bigger than you loiter majestically in the shadows. You don’t have to be a certified diver, however, to experience some of the reef’s wonders. Most cruise boats offer introductory dives that allow you to descend to shallow depths with a qualified instructor. You can also do full diving courses within a week or so. Once underwater there’s no end to the spectacle. There are some four hundred varieties of coral, thousands of fish species, innumerable sponges, anemones and starfish, giant clams and sea urchins, and the occasional larger creature such as a turtle, dugong or dolphin. Reef sharks are also a common sight. Easily the size of a human, they’re actually relatively harmless, and seeing these sleek and sinister creatures up close is one of the reef’s greatest thrills – you’ll be mesmerised by their grace and power. The sharks turn slowly in the water, propelling themselves with indolent flicks of their tails, perfectly balanced, until they vanish among the banks of coral as silently as they’ve come.
LIFE ON THE GROUND Nature above water can also be
From Top This Page Accommodation at Bedarra Island; A young bird hatchling on Lady Elliot Island; The Pavilion at Lizard Island.
From Top This Page Kids explore the surrounds of Heron Island. A turtle surfaces in the clear waters of the Barrier Reef; A couple snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef.
The Barrier’s Best Dive Spots You can dive year-round on the Great Barrier Reef, but the best conditions are generally between late August and early December. However, the whale season from June to August brings the marvellous experience of swimming with whales. Among the top diving regions is the North Coral Sea, which starts some 350 kilometres north of Cairns and is renowned for whale sharks, barracuda, turtles, manta rays, cuttlefish and moray eels. The top reef here is Osprey Reef, with abundant big fish and excellent visibility. The Outer Barrier Reef allows wall dives at spots where the reef plunges into the deep ocean. Expect turtles, groupers, dolphins, staghorn coral and plenty of fish, especially at renowned Flynn Reef and Milln Reef. The long, thin and shallow Ribbon Reefs that lie on the outer edges of the Barrier Reef off the north Queensland coast are suitable for novice divers. The best of these are probably the Temple of Doom (sharks and rays), Steve’s Bommie (sharks, whales and huge schools of fish) and Cod Hole (giant potato cod and much more).
intriguing. Most of the islands that dot the Barrier Reef are covered in rainforest, and many are now designated national parks. Birds are abundant; Michaelmas Cay off Cairns, although treeless, supports the largest colony of birds on the Barrier Reef, swooping and shrieking indignantly over their small hump of sand in the middle of the ocean. Elsewhere you’ll find colour ful butter flies and basking monitor lizards. Heron Island is particularly known for its migrating green turtles, which turn up here between November and March and lay their eggs in the sand just a stone’s throw from beachside accommodation. Humpback whales also breeze along the coast on their migration routes between July and October, when they give birth to their calves. Twenty-six of the islands of the Barrier Reef offer accommodation, providing a good alternative to staying on shore. For a start, you’re closer to the reef itself (though it’s still a boat journey away), and many of the islands are themselves surrounded by fringing reef, meaning you can wade right in off the beach and enjoy the spectacle. The larger islands offer a full range of facilities for those wanting to be entertained on land as well as under the water. Brampton Island has a large resort where dancing and floorshows take place almost nightly; you also share the island with resident parrots and kangaroos. Hamilton Island has a wide variety of accommodation, sports, restaurants and shops, yet still retains some of the most beautiful landscapes of any reef island. Dunk and Lindeman are larger, family-oriented islands, and count some fantastic birds
and butterflies among their native inhabitants. For more exclusivity, head to tiny Bedarra Island, which accommodates just thirty people in villas discreetly hidden among the tropical foliage. Swank Hayman Island also draws the glitterati to its first-class resort, complete with manicured grounds, secluded beaches and waterfalls. Walking trails meander across the island and the views of the Whitsundays from the central hills are superb. Also ver y secluded is Lizard Island, which is a national park with superb fringing reefs that make for dazzling snorkelling, and is also known for its big-game marlin fishing. Orpheus Island is also exceptional, counting 340 of the 350 varieties of coral around its coastline, as well as sandy beaches and a sophisticated resort. Fancy resorts can be found anywhere; so can beaches and butter flies. Wherever you end up, it will always be the Barrier Reef that draws you back again. Taking the plunge among this marine abundance is like being Alice in a new wonderland, surrounded by an endless kaleidoscope of spotted, striped and banded fish, creating optical illusions, teasing, drawing you in with a thesaurus of colours. It’s a moment of pure magic when you shoot out a hand as if to grasp these glittering jewelled fish – and see them flash away, perfectly synchronised, always shimmering just out of reach. When you clamber back up onto the boat deck from your reef of choice, heavy and clumsy, you’ll feel a sense of loss, as if you’ve been awoken from a beautiful dream. Don’t worry: there are another 2999 reefs to explore, and every one of them is truly dazzling.
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destinationďƒ’greece Text and photography by Jansen Lim
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Stairway to
Santorini The wines will not be the only things intoxicating in this Greek island of Santorini, where the glorious views alone will make your heart skip a beat. Jansen Lim explores the island in all its abundant magnificence.
Main Picture: Boutique hotels and cafés with a spectacular view Inset: A cascade of colourful villas
With dawn scarcely an hour away, the port of Athinios in Santorini was already teeming with life. Slumberous tourists and Greek families were ejected from the bellies of large ferries while others eagerly waited in line to board. Cargoes comprising livestock and agricultural produce were unloaded onto the wharf as cab drivers leaning against their beatup vehicles bellowed for the attention of passengers. Given the melee of activities, visitors who had just arrived could be seen scrambling to tear themselves away from the scene, wanting this thicket of tumult to be broken asunder as quickly as possible.
UP ON THE SUMMIT But once they embarked on that upward journey to their respective hotels - many of which are perched atop Santorini’s crescent of cliffs overlooking the sparkling blue waters of the caldera that was formed Temple façade 41 |
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Clockwise From Top Right: Bougainvillea blooming aplenty; Charming courtyard; Café on a cliff; Church tower; Greek boy smiling; Age-old chapel; Doorway to the caldera; Donkeys hiking up the trail
around 1500 BC when an ancient volcano erupted and destroyed the centre of the island – they would be lulled into a calming daze by virtue of the glorious views down and far beyond. For the uninitiated, you can leave the hassle of transporting your heavy luggage to the porters with their entourage of donkeys and mules serving as elevators and trucks on this extremely hilly Cyclade. Just be sure to pat these animals and give a tip to their caretakers after all the hard work. Many tourists may also be aware that the island’s shopping and dining attractions tend to converge at Fira, its principal town as well as one of the best spots to take in the panoramic spectacle. Shop windows here beckon with traditional local delights – wedges of cakes, handmade kitchenware, casks of local wine and ouzo, gold jewelleries – and the cafés are filled with groups of tourists chatting in their native languages.
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Fira’s labyrinth of back alleys and the mysterious midblock detours seem to offer, in equal doses, the promise of discovery and the slightly trepidatious possibility of getting lost. To add to the complication, some shops are so cloistered that they’re accessible only by side lanes. But somehow, you wouldn’t really have to fear losing your way as you can always depend on the locals for assistance.
BOUNTIFUL DAY TRIPS No trip to Santorini would be complete without visiting Akrotiri, the Minoan settlement in the southern part of the island. Even if your interests do not gravitate towards things historical, you will be enthralled by this archaeological wonder. Preserved miraculously under layers of lava for centuries, it is now entirely covered with a tin-roofed shed so as to protect its antiquated houses and artefacts from rain and strong winds. A
large part of it, though, has remained closed for extensive preservation since the turn of the new millennium. When you’re done nourishing the mind with excavated totems, it may be time to rejuvenate your skin by dipping into the sulphur waters at Palia Kameni – one of the volcanic islets in the middle of the caldera – known by many as the Hot Springs. It is believed that the water here, with a temperature of thirty-three degrees Celsius, has some natural healing powers, which may be able to salve body aches and tensions. For those who savour the vinic aroma, a tour of the local wineries and vineyards would be a welcome addition to your itinerary. It is also the perfect excuse to sample some distinguished, award-winning Greek wines. Judging from Santorini’s landscape of craggy rocks and volcanic soil, any layman wouldn’t have guessed that it is the largest wine-producing area
in the whole of Greece. However, studies have shown that conditions such as limited rainfall and a terrain rich in lava and pumice have given birth to more than thirty-six different kinds of grapes grown and harvested on the island, leading to wine production of the finest quality. Santorini is famous not just for wines but also its beaches. Don’t miss the chance to swim, loll, or do some people gazing at Kamari, the popular black-sand beach located on the eastern part of the island. Dotting this five-kilometre beachfront is a number of respectable taverns and cafés serving grilled octopus and spanakopita among other popular local cuisines. There’s also a scuba diving centre for those who prefer exploring its deep blue waters.
A MELTING POT About fifteen kilometres north of Kamari lies the village of Oia where Santorini’s past and future intersect, a time-worn district
that has become the cultural cornerstone of the island. Home to more than seventy churches and countless bright white villas, this ancient town remains the defining showcase of Greek art and handicrafts. Galleries lace its narrow cobblestone lanes and passageways that splinter off in all directions, leading through descending steps into chapel terraces with flaming purple bougainvilleas. Punctuating the succession of art galleries and handicraft boutiques are the taverns and bars, which usually get very crowded but thin out to an insomniac few just before midnight. Compared to Mykonos - its other famous, party-minded Aegean cousin - Santorini is surely not the place to be if your only pursuit is to dance the night away till your hair gets plastered to your skull. But it’s a sure-fire destination for culturati and landscape admirers. In Oia, for example, you can witness the architectural gravitas of the oldest church
on the island, Panagia Episkopi, which was built during the 11th century. What’s more, as you hike up and down the berm past the many private mansions, you’ll be able to enjoy the sight of their charming terraces, sometimes adorned with terra-cotta pots of geraniums, on other occasions straw sunshades and colourful canvas umbrellas, all begging to be painted or photographed. From afar, Oia with its serpentine stretches of whitewashed houses and bluedomed churches appears to have acquired a lime-lit, incandescent aura, as if it belongs to another period in time altogether. And as the rosy glow of sunset suffuses the island, you can’t help but believe that there’s really magic in the air.
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destinationbhutan
Text by Sharmila Melissa Yogalingam | Photography by CK (www.x-trekkers.com)
The
Last Shangri-La Having recently opened its doors to tourists, Bhutan unveils its mystical charms to the outside world as the last untouched place on earth. Known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, Bhutan is the last frontier of unspoilt beauty on Earth. It is indeed the last Shangri-La – absolutely breathtaking, vividly refreshing, and mesmerising in its uniqueness. This devout Buddhist countr y has been proclaimed the “Happiest Country on Earth” due to the very nature of its people with their warm and smiling faces, filled with genuine feeling. Travelling to Bhutan is expensive. In fact, it is extremely expensive! A tourist would have to fork out about US$200 a
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day (US$250 from next summer onwards), in an all-inclusive fee to the government, making Bhutan one of the world’s most expensive countries to visit. However, for that price, the government will give you a car, a driver and a tour guide, as well as all standard accommodation and food. Hence, Bhutan is not a destination for cost wary travellers, but rather for the more discerning adventurers who want to envelope themselves in the charm of this old medieval world of the last Shangri-La. To get you started on your first ever visit to mystical Bhutan, here is a list of places worth spending your time at to uncover the country’s hidden gems and devour its beauty and heady charms.
PARO Once you’ve taken care of all the rigamaroll required to actually get into
this scenic country (see sidebar on Bhutan Essentials), you will realise that it is all worth the tedious effort the minute you are on the plane descending into Paro’s picturesque airport, which is set admist imposing mountains and valleys. As you breathe in the fresh air and take in the splendid natural environment, as well as the gracious and happy people around, you will realise that you have, indeed, stepped into paradise. In all likelihood, Paro will be your first stop in Bhutan, since this is where the international airport is located. Your first call of exploration should be the Paro Dzong (dzong means fortress in Bhutanese). This is an impressive, massive fortress that immediately reminds you that Buddhism is all around in this unique countr y. With its bright roof, and whitewashed walls, this mesmerising sight is located on a hill overlooking a
river. With such a heavenly sight, you can just imagine the monks of a hundred years ago meditating on the banks of the river. This dzong is so awe-inspiring, that in 1993, even Hollywood was enticed, as some of the scenes from Little Buddha were filmed here. Inside this fortress, you can find elaborately decorated prayer areas, and prayer wheels as well as statues and religious artefacts. Take your time, as the area is huge and there are lots of different places and storeys to roam around and make your way through. Dumtse Lhakhang is a chorten (stupa) worth visiting as well. It has three floors representing hell, earth and heaven, with wonderful murals inside. You have to make special arrangements, but once your tour operator knows of your intention to visit, the monks are more than pleased to show you around and they’ll let you explore the intriguing murals and paintings. Lastly, as you leave Paro for Thimpu, don’t forget to get a shot of the Tiger’s Nest, Taktshang Goemba, which is a monastery that literally hangs off a cliff in the Paro Valley. If you trek up towards this monastery, you will be flanked by pilgrims making their way there, too. Be very, very careful when you get to the last few metres of the trek, which encompasses a flight of very steep stairs going down, without any handrails, and another flight of very steep steps going up, leading to the monastery itself. At this stage, you have to bear in mind you will be about 3000 metres above sea level, where the air is thinner and you might get disoriented easily. If you have a phobia of heights, this is what I found useful: seat yourself on the first step itself and in that position, shimmy yourself down the whole flight of stairs. You might not look the most dignified, and you might feel the ponies are laughing at you, but at least you’ll be safe. If it’s all too scary for you though, you can finish your trek at the start of these menacing stairs and take a few snap shots from here, which is well worth the long walk as well. After all that is the exact spot that Prince Charles stopped and painted a water painting of Tiger’s Nest. I’m guessing he, too, was too scared to go down the steep stairs!
THIMPHU Located 53 kilometres from Paro is Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. You can easily get here by car, taxi or bus. One of the top sights in the capital is Changangkha Lhakhang, which is the oldest temple in Thimpu. It’s an astonishing sight that will leave you wondering if you’ve stepped into another magical time and place. There will be monks walking around in their red and yellow robes, and the prayer wheels and statues are as ancient as the sea. There is also a spacious courtyard between the prayer areas. Poking around, you’ll realise that this ancient monastery is a place where time has stood still and things have remained the same for many years. Next, you might want to head to Kuendeyling Bazaam for some shopping. Bhutan is known for its handicrafts and fabrics, but most famously this country is appreciated for its wooden cups and bowls from the Eastern Bhutanese village of Trashi Yangtse. You will find loads of travellers buying as many of these wooden cups, bowls and artifacts as they can carry in their suitcases, so choose wisely and bargaining is almost, always expected.
Where to Stay Paro - Top-end hotels include Uma Paro http:// www.uma.como.bz/paro and Amankora http:// www.amanresorts.com/ amankora/home.aspx. Mid-range hotels are also available for the budgetconscious, like Zhiwa Ling http://www.zhiwaling. com, Gangtey Palace Hotel http://www. gangteypalace.net, Kichu Resort email: intkichu@ druknet.bt and Olathang Hotel email: ohotel@ druknet.bt. Thimpu – Five star accommodations include the Amankora Hotel http:// www.amanresorts.com/ amankora/home.aspx and Taj Tashi http://www. tajhotels.com, while mid range hotels are Motithang Hotel http://www. motithanghotel.com, Dewachen Hotel http://
www.dewachenhotel. com, Hotel Kisa http://hotelkisa. com/ and Jambayang Resort http://www. jambayangresort. com.bt. Jakar – Mid range hotels include Jakar Village Lodge http:// www.emandala. com/mol/jv1/index. html, Amankora Bumthang http:// www.amanresorts. com/amankora/home. aspx, Swiss Guest House tel: +975 3 631145, Karma Tobden Mountain Lodge tel: +975 3 631255, Leki Guest House tel: +975 3 631231, and Mountain Lodge tel: +975 3 631255. Others include Wangdicholing Resort tel: +975 3 631452, and Udee Guest House tel: +975 3 631139.
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JAKAR - BUMTHANG From Thimpu, heading towards Central Bhutan, your next stop will be Jakar in the Bumthang province. One of the most impressive sights in Jakar is the Jakar Dzong and it will take your breath away! It is a monastery that is perched on a thick lush forest covered hill, and its top looks as if it reaches the sky. With the Himalayan cloud-caressing mountains rising above behind this dzong, providing the perfect backdrop to this dramatic and magnificent feature, you will at this point understand why Bhutan is the last Shangri-La. Inside the dzong, aside from the impressive altars and prayer wheels, there is also a hidden passageway that leads down to the water, for the monks to fetch their daily water supply. Ask a monk to show you the way. The dzong is majestic and stunning, and as you explore the
praying and teaching areas as well as the many mini temples inside the dzong that showcase the best in Bhutanese design and architecture, you’ll be reminded of how spellbinding and mysterious this little country is. Don’t leave Central Bhutan without purchasing some of their cheese, mostly made from yak’s milk. The taste isn’t very different from what we eat in the modern world, but is said to be healthier and tastier by some. Head to the Swiss Farm to pick up a load of the local cheese and beer. Bhutan is certainly a country steeped in culture and mysticism. Every dzong and every chorte you visit reminds you of the intrigue and ancient mystery this country holds so dear to its heart. But the smiling faces of its warm people tell you that it’s a country willing to share their blissful and bewitching riches with the rest of us, even if it’s for a short period of time.
ntials e s s e n a t u h b Last minute vacationers can forget about travelling to this part of the world. Being a land locked country that is virtually isolated from the rest of the world, travelling to Bhutan requires a lot of pre-travel preparations – from visa requirements to flight schedules and money issues. Hence, it is well advisable to plan your Bhutan trip way in advance to avoid any unnecessary disappointment.
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Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Bhutan is during autumn (September – late November) and spring (March – May). Autumn is generally viewed as the better option, given that the high peaks of mountains are unobstructed during that time. However, spring travel allows you to see the most
beautiful of flowers and nature sprouting out. It is best to avoid winter (December – February) as the snow and cold weather will not make travelling easy, and the summer months (June – August) bring about the monsoons, which can mean that downpours and floods will occur with alarming frequency. Money Issues Bhutan does not have ATM machines, and only very few places will accept credit cards. It is advisable to bring either Bhutanese currency, or US dollars for spending, since most shops accept the green back. You can also use well-known travellers’ cheques (such as American Express/ Visa, Citibank, Thomas Cook or Barclays). Passport Before entering Bhutan, make sure that your passport should at least have a six months validity. Be careful to not lose your passport whilst you are there, since there would be nowhere in Bhutan for you to apply for a replacement. Visa Everyone needs a visa to enter Bhutan. Visas are issued only when you land in Paro (the only airport in Bhutan). However, Druk Air, the only airline serving the country, will not let you board until they receive your clearance from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Thimpu. Therefore, before you even leave your country, you need to apply for a visa through a Bhutanese tour operator, or a local operator who has connections to a Bhutanese one, even if
you’re travelling on your own. Your visa information and approval will then be forwarded to your tour operator and also to Druk Air, enabling the airline to allow you to board. Your arrival details will be stamped into your passport when you arrive at the airport. However, you will have to travel five kilometres away from the airport in Paro, to a government office, where you will then receive your actual visa after you present your passport, two photos, and a payment of US $20. Tour Companies Given the logistics of travelling to Bhutan, most travellers prefer to just join a tour company. Such companies specialising in travel to Bhutan include: • Alpine Bhutan Travel http://www.alpinebhutan.com/ • Bhutan Visit http:// www.bhutanvisit.com • X-trekkers http:// www.x-trekkers.com • Oriole Travels & Tours oriole@samart.co.th • Peregrine Adventures http://www.peregrine. net.au Getting There The only Bhutan serving airline is Druk Air www.drukair.com.bt, which flies from Delhi or Bangkok to Paro. Because Bhutan is a mountainous area, and its airport lies deep in a valley, flights may be cancelled if the air is too misty, obstructing the views for planes to taking off.
sojournďƒ’malacca
Text And Photography By Dipali Kumar
Tales From A
Sleepy Hollow
On a recent sojourn to Malacca, this avid traveller bared the sleepy town down to its deepest surface, uncovering it all to reveal the town’s mysteriously exotic past.
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I was visiting Malacca for some serious R & R as friends had told me it was a pleasant enough place, so that was a good reason to mark it off the “been there, done that” list. Not too much to do, everyone said. And quite frankly, that was a relief. But just after a few hours of reaching Malacca, I found myself being dragged into a fascinating piece of history. With such complex upheavals, at times I felt that I was reading a thriller. Intertwined with that dizzying histor y was a heritage so rich and varied that I found myself on a treasure hunt as one shimmering piece followed another. Until we came to the Malacca of today, fondly called Sleepy Hollow by its residents.
LEGENDS FROM THE LOCALS It all starts with an old Malaysian seller whom I meet at the local wet market. While I am eyeing the tender baby kailan and the shining silvery mackerel, she enquires, “Hindu?” I nod. “Malacca…Hindu…long …back you know?” she says. I found it interesting that there was once a Hindu ruler in a strictly Muslim country. I want to know more and happen to stop by the founding of a Malacca painting on my hotel wall. From what I can make out, a mouse deer kicked a hound belonging to the Hindu ruler, who turned out to be impressed by the bravery and courage of the mouse deer. Since he was at that point without a country, he decided to settle at that very spot. As he was standing under a Malacca tree, the new settlement got called Malacca. I am standing at my window peering through the branches of another Malacca tree, trying to see the now
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sluggish narrow river. River view, I have been told but I can’t see much nor is there much left to see. But in the 14 th centur y, the northeast monsoons brought in ships from Siam, Java and Holland while the southwest winds carried Arabs and Indians to the bustling port. A profusion of brocade, silk, porcelain, precious stones, spices, peppers and gold had lain on this now desolate harbour.
ORIENTAL INFLUENCE I stroll down to Jonker Street, a tourist haven full of shops and places to eat. All I am looking for is a cheap Malacca T-shirt but my eyes fall on a mother of pearl-inlayed bed in an antique shop. The bed represents another part of Malacca’s history – a time when the Chinese accepted Parmeswara’s - the founder king - independent rule and offered one of their princesses as a gift to the then Sultan of Malacca. By the time, the princess Hang Li Po arrived to her new home, the ships from India had brought a new religion –Islam, a religion embraced by the Sultan and the people until today. But it is the bed that attracts me, even though I can afford neither it nor the cost of transporting it home. “An important part of Peranakan history,” says the wisened antique shop owner, patting its solid sides as he guides me to a Baba and Nonya restaurant. If I find Peranakan Baba and Nonya to be great mysteries, the steaming bowl of laksa provides many more. Is that coconut milk and belacan paste? Is that aroma from galangal, lemon grass or
both? Raising my head from this tantalising mist, I spy a small insert in the menu that sets the record straight for me. When princess Hang Li Po moved to Malacca, a retinue of royalty and servants followed to serve her. These people married girls from the local Malay community and were called Peranakan Baba and Nonya or the Straits Chinese. While assimilating into the Malay community, I find as I
tour the Baba Nonya Heritage Museum, they have also created a legacy that is unique. The sea races to meet me as I reach the Medan Portugis in the evening. I’m told this is the best place for spicy seafood, cooked the Portuguese way, and accompanied with cold beer. This square was once a part of the thriving Portuguese community that supported a bustling spice trade to Europe. Today, just the smell of hot spices float out to
the sea as the waves lap keep time to the Portuguese music playing near by.
REMNANTS OF COLONIALISM But of course, there is much more to the Portuguese, I discover the next morning as I see what remains of A Famosa, a fortress built on St. Paul’s Hill. Brave and ambitious Alfonso De Albuquerque sailed out of Lisbon not only to invade Malacca but also to create the mightiest fortress of the Orient. What would those hundreds of slaves and captives thought as they were ordered to demolish mosques and tombs. Would they have considered their work a masterpiece as it withstood attack after attack for 150 years? For the people of Malacca, Sleepy Hollow is undoubtedly
hard earned for when Spain conquered Portugal and Lisbon was closed as a trading post for the Dutch and the British. This brought the Dutch to Malacca, which they took over after a seven-month siege with constant blockading and bombarding. I find myself in a neat little square with a clock tower and a church, a water fountain gurgles as tourist after tourist pose before this uniquely Dutch scene. A large Dutch building housing the Malacca Museum beckons. Its incredibly thick walls and massive hardwood doors enclose the story I have worked so hard to uncover. But there is one last chapter for me to discover here. A chapter that shocks me for its very basis is the complete destruction of Malacca. But thankfully, this is a story that never comes to pass. Although the British, who take over from the Dutch, slowly disassemble A Famosa, the city is never abandoned. I feel a thrill when I hear that with UNESCO declaring Malacca a world heritage site this year, promising half of the 1.3 kilometre wall of the fortress will be restored. From the Chinese, Indians, Persians, Arabs, Potuguese, Thais, Burmese, Chams, Khmers, Dutch, Sudanese, British and finally the Japanese, the small town of Malacca has seen conspiracies and intrigues for decades but now it seems to have put all that aside.
BACK TO THE PRESENT As I sip an ice-cold beer at the bustling Geographer’s Café, I think of the thousands of young men snatched away by war or fever. The poignant messages on their gravestones are the only reminders of lives snuffed out by the lure of power and money. Around
me, the busy crowd of tourists throw magnificent stories around as somebody strums a guitar. What a boring place the world would be without travellers who unravelled the secrets of a bygone age. There is a buzz around Jonker Street in the afternoon as tourist tumble in and out of shops. A colourful sarong sticks out of someone’s bag, a child deposits his collection of fridge magnets on the pavement, a couple comes out of an antique shop waving their shipment papers excitedly and slow summery secretive smiles are found on ever y passer-by’s face. But something is in the air as motorcycles laden with huge pots and boxes appear only to disappear in the back lanes. In the evening, all of Jonker Street is transformed. Here are the fairy lights. Stalls line the streets. Shoulders pressed to shoulders, the crowd moves from one attraction to another. A magic show draws gasps while a line of enthusiastic singers wait for their turn at the music competition. I move from stall to stall savouring different textures and flavours. The crunch of bean sprouts, the aroma of steamed fish as I tear open the now wrinkled and dry banana leaf, the delectable peanut dip that shimmers every time I dip my juicy satay stick in it. I haggle, bite into a roti parata and tap my feet to some particularly frisky Malay music and I wonder where my relaxed holiday has gone. Yes, I could have just explored a nasi lemak for breakfast and ended my meal with a cendol or ais kacang, sat and watched the river flow on but I’d done that and travelled back in time. Now I can truly say that I had been there and done that in Malacca!
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sojournďƒ phuket
Text and photography by Lin Weiwen
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1. Handbags and more Unlike other stall owners at Patong, this lady is quiet and non-persuasive.
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2. Swingin’ with daddy At dusk, locals gather and unwind at Patong beach’s playground.
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3. Growing up Phuket’s minority Muslims — such as 4-year-old Waree and his grandparents — live in small villages near Nai Yang. 4. Glowing moments Two locals savour the sun’s descent.
Phuket Adagio Post-tsunami Phuket saw its tourism engine revived
quickly. Its tourism hotspot, Patong, is now more raucous than ever. We look beyond the island’s usual sleaze, booze and buzz for moments of quiet warmth.
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sojourn sabah
Text and Photography By Mike Smith
Land the
Below the Wind Whether you are a culinary adventurer, an adrenaline junkie or a beach lover, the state of Sabah offers plenty of options to its visitors.
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The Malaysian state of Sabah, situated on the world’s third largest island, Borneo, is a land of natural beauty covering 74,500 square kilometres. Poetically, the state has been referred to as the ‘Land Below the Wind’ due to its location south of the typhoon region around the Philippines. When I think of Sabah, typical imageries that crop up include rain forests, Mount Kinabalu, orangutans and scuba diving. Logging also comes to mind, but Sabah is going to great lengths to try and preserve its natural assets while developing a sustainable ecotourism and livelier cities. Like most international travellers, I began my journey into Sabah through its capital city, Kota Kinabalu (KK). With five-star hotels, such as Hyatt, luxury beach resorts and simple budget hostels available, the city looks well geared up for tourists. I took half a day to familiarise myself with the city. A venture into Sabah Museum was a highlight for me, as I admired its collections of traditional costumes and musical instruments. Other must-see sights include the Heritage Village (filled with longhouses typical of past headhunters and traditional bamboo dwellings), the KK City Mosque at Likas Bay (one of the most beautiful in Malaysia, containing a prayer hall that can accommodate 10,000 worshippers), the Atkinson clock tower and the Tun Mustapha building (featuring an upscale dining establishment at @tmosphere restaurant).
FOOD LOOSE With such a vibrant community, it is worth your while to explore the rest of the city on foot. When I arrived at the fish market at six in the morning, it was already
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costumes and musical instruments. Other must-see sights include the Heritage Village (filled with longhouses typical of past headhunters and traditional bamboo dwellings), the KK City Mosque at Likas Bay (one of the most beautiful in Malaysia, containing a prayer hall that can accommodate 10,000 worshippers), the Atkinson clock tower and the Tun Mustapha building (featuring an upscale dining establishment at @tmosphere restaurant).
FOOD LOOSE With such a vibrant community, it is worth your while to explore the rest of the city on foot. When I arrived at the fish market at six in the morning, it was already bursting with life - such a fantastic and vibrant experience. The friendly stallholders even posed for me – willingly! - as I wandered around. The fishing boats had already unloaded their catch and there was a great selection to choose from; red snappers, yellow tail, barracuda, sea bass, stingrays, puffer fish, octopus, squid, prawns, crabs and many more sea creatures that I couldn’t identify. While there, I was also privy to an amazing spectacle, as an eagle swooped down to take a discarded fish. Nearby is a wonder ful outdoor eating area with hawkers serving a huge array of fish and traditional Malay food – spicy noodles, satay and nasi padang at bargain prices. My dinner was a delicious 900 grams red snapper and a tasty BBQ baby squid. KK has sensibly modernised its waterfront area to cater for locals and tourists alike, making it a great spot to watch the sunset. This area is surrounded by a choice of local and international bars and seafood
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restaurants, catering to the varied tastes of their patrons. Culture vultures would enjoy the various cultural spectacles available in the area, while pub goers would like the music blaring from the speakers as live bands play in some of the pubs from around 9pm.
AMAZING APEX The Kinabalu Park is Malaysia’s first World Heritage Site.
standing at over 4000 metres, it is the highest mountain between the Himalayas and the snow mountains of Papua Barat. Most people spend two days on Mount Kinabalu. Even then, statistics have it that only 20 per cent go to the peak. I took the well-worn summit trail from Timpohon gate and rested, after climbing for approximately five hours, at Laban Rata Hostel to acclimatise (with book in hand).
sabah essentials ✑ Malaysian Airlines flies regularly from Singapore to Sabah. ✑ Book your accommodation well in advance, particularly if you intend to
climb Mount Kinabalu.
From Top Clockwise: Swimming green turtle and monitor lizards at Pulau Tiga, or better known as Survivor Island; One of the 1,200 species of orchids.
Designated by UNESCO as one of the world’s most important biological sites, it is home to 1,200 species of orchids, 330 species of birds, numerous pitcher plants, the giant rafflesia and of course, Mount Kinabalu. Mount Kinabalu is perhaps the most accessible mountain in Southeast Asia, being a mere two-hour drive from KK. And
I started my ascent to the peak at 3 am. But be warned that getting to the top is not at easy task! It’s dark, steep, and windy, not to forget the struggle you’re faced with trying to breathe at high altitude. And unfortunately, I didn’t have much fun at the top, as I was very cold and tired in the thin air. I stayed just long enough to take a few photos and to admire the view
at sunrise before descending. I must say that it was well worth it. The changing vegetation and outstanding scenery would be remembered much longer than my aching legs.
SURVIVOR ISLAND For a complete change of pace and relaxation, while still keeping in close vicinity to nature, I went to Pulau Tiga, or otherwise better known as Survivor Island (after the TV show where participants in Survivor Borneo had to outwit, outplay and outlast their competitors to win a US$1 million prize). It’s a two-hour bus ride from KK, followed by a 30-minute exhilarating powerboat trip to get there. Arriving at the pier, I could see thousands of small fish in the crystal clear water and pacific reef egrets feeding on them. Excited divers had seen green turtles. We passed the Survivor Borneo totems to get to the reception and accommodation, which was in simple air-conditioned wooden chalets. A group of us explored a jungle trail and arrived at the unique small volcanic mud spa. After a half hour float and roll in the mud, we headed back to the beach to rinse off by either jumping off the pier or slowly wading into the sea. Around dusk, at least 50 large monitor lizards and 20 macaque monkeys were scavenging for food behind the kitchens. I watched, enthralled before retiring to a hammock by the pier, waiting for sunset, while enjoying a drink of fresh coconut juice. After an early night, I woke at dawn to the loud screech of hornbills and strolled on the beach - with long shadows accompanying me - before a rather slow check out and journey back to KK.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The Esplanade; The museum of the longhouses; The dock where fishmongers haggle over prices for the best catch of the day; The City Mosque at Likas Bay; View of the Atkinson Clock Tower; An old lady smiling for the camera in the market. Main picture: The writer on Mount Kinabalu Inset Pg53: Eagle flying off with a fish in its claws.
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sojournpulau tinggi
Ecotourism Haven Text and photography by Danielle Liu Xiangjun
A Tiny
Nearby two of Southeast Asia’s city playgrounds – Singapore and Malaysia – lies the tranquil island of Pulau Tinggi, filled with promises to satiate your thirst for nature and adventure.
It is a wonder that Singaporeans and Malaysians alike have yet to uncover the simple yet pleasant Pulau Tinggi. Located approximately three hours away from sunny Singapore, it offers a quiet hideaway for Singaporeans who desire a safe haven away from the bustling city life. If budget off-the-beaten-path discoveries mixed with a smattering of water sports sounds like your ideal holiday, then this island provides the perfect solution. G e o g r a p h i c a l l y, P u l a u Ti n g g i neighbours the islands of Pulau Besar and Pulau Sibu. This group of Johore islands are only accessible via ferry from the Tanjong Leman jetty. In fact, given their proximity to Singapore and Johor city centres, this group of islands make a great destination for a weekend trip. On first glance, Pulau Tinggi’s little protruding jetty gives the impression of setting afoot a private island. Don’t write
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off its small beachfront and run-of-themill chalets just yet. If truth be told, its appearance hides a whole host of ecotourism treasures yet to be unmasked.
WATER ADVENTURES During the day, activities such as kayaking, swimming, island hopping and board games are available. Nonetheless, the one highlight would definitely be the snorkelling trip. A boat takes you out to tiny offshore islands or sandbanks situated in clear waters. Anchoring a few metres away from the sandbank prevents the destruction of corals and marine wildlife beneath. The seawater is cool and the marine life, aplenty. Colourful tropical fishes, swaying corals and eerie sea urchins come into view as you, armed with your snorkelling equipment, take the plunge. It was my maiden snorkelling trip. I
felt as though I was swimming in a huge aquarium. An absolutely thrilling experience. Picking up a black, elongated sea cucumber of the inedible sort, a friend said, with a grin, “Feel it, it’s soft.” I gingerly held out my hand to receive the sea creature. It was surprisingly soft with a bumpy texture that was somewhat smooth to the touch. As a defence mechanism, these sea cucumbers eject out harmless sticky white goo to distract predators. Other finds include seashells of a variety of sizes as well as scurrying hermit crabs.
TERRA FIRMA On land, request for the waterfall trek, accompanied by a guide. A short, yet slippery walk into the forest, followed by a steep descent brings you to a waterfall complete with a small pool. Little prawns dwelling in the pool nibble at your toes,
eating away the dead skin on your feet – a natural foot spa in natural conditions. Stroll barefoot through a thermal hot spring, inconspicuously hidden in a shallow stream adjacent to the sea and the island’s chalets. It is alleged that the hot spring finds it origins in Pulau Tinggi’s small dormant volcano. Pulau Tinggi also has a turtle hatchery where travellers may witness the hatching process during appropriate seasons. At the moment, however, the hatchery is defunct. Additionally, tucked away on the island’s hills are durian trees. A trail from the largely abandoned village near the jetty, led us up to two huts where the locals harvested durians and mangoes for their starving guests, for a small sum. Getting intimate with local durians was certainly a pleasure for any durian lover like myself. One bite of creamy durian flesh and I was completely hooked.
Facts:
The eastern coast of Johor, facing the South China Sea, contain the islands of Pulau Rawa, Pulau Besar, Pulau Tinggi, Pulau Sibu, Pulau Babi Hujung, Pulau Babi Tengah, Pulau Aur and Pulau Pemanggil. Several of these islands are popular for diving and snorkelling. The best time to visit would be from April to June.
CHARMED BY NIGHT No one would have guessed that numerous holes across the expanse of grass not far from the shore were home to land crabs. Brown land crabs emerge at night. Noticeably, males are bigger with huge pinchers. Besides this species, ghost crabs also populate the beachfront. A stroll on the beach, guided by a flashlight, will bring one across their paths. They are tiny, translucent and apt at scrambling and tunnelling through sand when startled.
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To feel more like a castaway, try out the fireflies trek. Bashing through waist-high thickets, slipping on rocks and manoeuvring uneven trail in night conditions are part of the experience. The trail ends at a rocky outcrop sandwiched between the sea and the forest edge. Fireflies inhabit the shrubs and trees there. My guide explained that there are a few species of fireflies, and encouraged us to spot the various blinking colours of blue, green, orange and yellow. With soft background lighting coming from a faraway lighthouse, I admired the symphony of colours displayed by the fireflies in their mating rituals. Certainly, this magical moment has not lost its effect on me. I returned to my normal city life a few days after, with a greater sensitivity towards the beauty of nature. Finally, ecology is at the heart of ecotourism and life on Pulau Tinggi,
To feel more like a castaway, try out the fireflies trek. Bashing through waisthigh thickets, slipping on rocks and manoeuvring uneven trail in night conditions are part of the experience.
Clockwise from top right: Stream with hotspring; A basket of durians, the king of tropical fruits; A view from Pulau Tinggi; Another beach view of Pulau Tinggi. Main page from left: New land crab; Jetty at Pulau Tinggi;
so it is hardly surprising to find that the only resort there offers a back-to-basics experience with minimal facilities. The underlying message of nature’s splendour on Pulau Tinggi and its neighbouring islands is one of conser vatism and environmentalism. Only with protection of the environment and its wildlife can the discerning traveller appreciate ecotourism, coupled with enjoyment of the natural world at its best.
traveltalk
8 Have something to say? Send your vignettes or experiences to terriegutierrez@epl.com.sg
by Amy Van
Sweet or sour, wacky or ordinary – this food writer has plenty of culinary cravings to satiate her global appetite.
y Zh an Tao
CONFESSIONS
Foodie
Illu s
tra tion b
OF A
When I was travelling in Guangzhou, my taxi drove past a row of old shops where I had a glimpse of what looked like a typical eatery. At the entrance was a glass counter displaying several skinned puppies. Probably noticing my disconcerted expression in the rear-view mirror, my friendly driver told me that most locals enjoy eating dogs – except their own pets. In fact, canine cuisine is popular in many parts of China because of its perceived health benefits. Even though dog meat was banned for a short period during the 2008 Summer Olympics, restaurants continue to feature it in their menus. I haven’t been served dog meat and am grateful for that because I like dogs. And thankfully I’ve not been asked to eat snakes or frogs and will avoid them as much as possible because I have a deep fear of reptiles. Likewise, I would eschew odd-looking creatures like iguana, which has been a delicacy and staple in Latin America for thousands of years. Don’t get me wrong. For the sake of a job, I would give it a go if someone were to serve me the aforementioned items. But I won’t go out of the way
to purchase a jar of snake wine or slurp up frog’s leg porridge for supper. As a food writer, people often ask me what the strangest food I’ve ever eaten is (apart from “what’s your favourite cuisine?”). It’s a little difficult to answer because what’s strange to me may not be strange to some cultures. It could even be incredibly ordinary to them. For instance, I was born in Sarawak – a land where natives eat all manner of food sourced from the jungle. Plump sago grubs are included in their diet and it’s common to buy them in wet markets. Foreigners may find them off-putting, but these fat creamy worms are traditionally eaten, raw or otherwise, by natives for their nutrients. I decided to ask a fellow food writer about the most offbeat item he’s ever tucked into. He said: “A ‘pie floater’ in Adelaide. It’s an upsidedown meat pie in a pool of pea soup, dressed with ketchup and vinegar. I quite enjoyed it.” To people in Adelaide, it’s probably familiar, comfort food. My friend told me that the pie floater is indeed famous in Adelaide. “I wanted to try it because I was told it was a really Adelaideian snack. You have to really, really like mushed-up peas in order to appreciate it though. It
certainly makes good post-pub crawl grub,” he continued. During my travels, some of the food that I found most exotic was whale meat, reindeer, and geitost (a strong, sweet and sharp goat’s cheese with hints of caramel). They however are not strange to the Nordic folks. Whale and reindeer are gourmet fare, and geitost are commonly eaten with flatbread, sandwiches or stirred into game sauces. I did enjoy reindeer meat and geitost was surprisingly pleasant. But when I was served a plate of whale sashimi on board a Norwegian liner, I couldn’t stomach it and had to dash to my cabin. I think it wasn’t the sight of the burgundy coloured meat, but more of a case of seasickness that made my stomach turn. Over in Japan, travellers may consider scarlet slices of horse sashimi repulsive – but not to the locals. In fact, horsemeat is savoured by many cultures in Europe and Asia. It is popular in a host of countries including France, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Tonga and even Kazakhstan where horsemeat forms a large part of the nomadic tribe’s diet.
I’ve had my share of horsemeat, exquisitely prepared by a talented French chef at a renowned luxury hotel in Singapore. It was succulent and flavoursome, and a truly memorable dish. But it wasn’t as unusual as the cockscomb that he braised. The slab of comb was pretty tasty, and had a fleshy and chewy texture. That however was a part of a fowl I would never have thought of eating. I also can’t say it’s a dish that I would hanker for. But I was thankful that it wasn’t a candied cockscomb – yes some people have made it into a wacky dessert! I’ve learnt that among all cultures, the French and the Chinese are probably the only people on earth who would eat just about anything. Back in Guangzhou, there’s a saying that goes: the Cantonese “eat everything with legs except a table, and everything with wings except an aeroplane.” To them, nothing is considered too outlandish to be consumed. But if you happen to be visiting, and like me, would like to avoid dog meat – just steer clear of anything that says “fragrant meat” or “xiangrou”. Bon appetit!
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lifetyle traditionalsparetreat Text by Ron Corben | Photos by Marie Ange Sylvain
Ayurveda
tourists have been flocking Besides enjoying the country’s beautiful coastline, into these Ayurveda resorts in Sri Lanka to simply get out of the fast-paced stresses of daily life and get in touch with their “inner” world.
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In the early light of morning, with the sound of the sea, the yoga class begins another day at an Ayurveda resort in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka. The slow movements create quiet and harmony as the sea breeze carries the sound of crashing waves of the Indian Ocean just 200 meters away. For this group, the yoga class is just one step – as they see it – in a personal aim to recovery from the stresses of life in more distance places. The visitors here are less like tourists, and more like clients at the Barberyn Beach Ayurveda Resort at Weligama (tel: + 94 41 22 52994) in Sri Lanka’s southeast. Together with its sister property, Barberyn Reef Ayurveda Resort in Beruwala (tel: +94 34 22 76036) - some 40 kilometres due north – these resorts are two of the many Ayurveda health resorts that have evolved in Sri Lanka and South Asia over recent years. Health vacations are popular as people in the West and middle class Asia seek respite and renewal from the stresses of day-to-day life. The pursuit has led to a revival in “Ayur veda”, the traditional system of
medication developed over 3,000 years. The name is based on the Sanskrit words of “Ayuh” – meaning life and “veda” that is science or knowledge. Julia Sem, a vocational therapist, from Munich, Germany says she came to the resort to reinvigorate her life. “It’s important to me because I want to eat better than I do in Germany, and to relax, have a holiday, while learning about a new country and culture,” she explains.
TRANQUIL TERRITORY The four-star Barberyn Beach Ayurveda Resort lies amid 15 acres of specially landscaped gardens overlooking the Indian Ocean. The Mediterranean style architecture has 60 spacious rooms each with a balcony looking to the waters. A sense of tranquillity is apparent from the moment you arrive. For many the stay will be at least two weeks, as the process of de-stressing is not something that can be rushed. There are other elements that also set the resorts apart from a regular beach holiday hotel – an absence of mini-bars and televisions in the rooms. But resort
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manager, Millie Hikkadwa, says there are few complaints from clients looking to leave the fast pace of life at home behind. The goal of the treatment, she claims, is to “promote self awareness” and inner calm, setting the outside world apart. “It’s not to bring the outside world here – we want you to go ‘inside’ your world – we want you to go to that world,” she says.
THE PURSUIT OF RELAXATION But Ayurveda is much more than yoga and the pursuit of inner calm. First there is a consultation from the resident Ayurveda physician. Dr Pushpa Kantha Abhayawardana is the senior physician at the resort. “Ayurveda is the best thing for healing and it is for treating both the physical (ailments), even the emotions. In today’s world, we are using a lot of chemical (or drugs). But in our method, we are using herbs and they’re not giving [our clients any] side effects,” she says.
A sense of tranquillity is apparent from the moment you arrive. For many the stay will be at least two weeks, as the process of destressing is not something that can be rushed. After the diagnosis a range of herbal and other medications are recommended, including special diets, as well as massage and similar treatments. My diagnosis pointed to some stress and was advised to undertake a range of therapies. The first came in the form of an oil massage or correctly known as Srieha Karma treatment. Following this, I was laid out on a sundeck style bed where special herbal compresses were prepared and placed on my neck and shoulders. I then received a facemask of aloe vera and bee honey, followed by oil pads or pichu placed on the legs and arms for relief of stiffness or pain. To finish off, I had a hot herbal bath aimed at stimulating the sweat glands. If nothing else, I felt relaxed. Stefan Chrobot, from Germany, says such treatments are necessary for people in high-pressure jobs, in order for them to better cope with their work. “If you are in a job where you are under permanent high responsibility and high mental pressure,
then I think you would opt for such a possibility to have a retreat and strengthen your body, your soul, and to regain your mental strength – and this is very attractive,” Chrobot said.
WEATHERING THE STORM The Barberyn Reef Ayurveda Resort at Beruwala is near the site of the first resort launched by the Rodrigo family 40 years ago in 1968. The early resort, set up in the early days of Sri Lanka’s modern tourism history, was marketed as a traditional style holiday destination. Music and dancing were the order of the day. Then in the mid1980s, the father of the resorts’ coordinator, Manick Rodrigo, decided a new path for the resort. It became the first Ayurveda Resort in Sri Lanka but had to weather tough days – even skepticism - before eventually seeing its popularity climb. As it did, other similar resorts opened. Rodrigo says the big break came with an opening in the European market, especially Germany. “We are slowly developing markets, in Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands - some from Greece, so it is expanding – many are now coming from Japan,” he said. The Berberyn Reef Resort was one of many coastline resorts to face the trial and recovery from devastation of the 2004 tsunami. Now its broad open restaurant area overlooking the beachfront has an easy restful feel to it. A short walk and you can stroll along the beach. It is at the Berberyn Reef Resort that Dr Richard Pero oversees the main herbal garden and preparation centre for the resorts. Here, the herbs are gathered with care and attention, to be prepared for the clients either as a herbal drink or in the form of a tea. Dr Pero says most treatment is for stress reduction, arthritis, or for weight reduction. Special medicines are prepared and collected by clients at the resort in the afternoon. He vouches for the treatment that has been proven over generations. Nurse Tilakawathie Igalahewage is a senior therapist at the resort. She had travelled to Japan, Thailand and Germany during the course of her training. She blames western work habits for the health problems she sees. “They are like machines – the Western people – but I think they haven’t time like this for treatment,” she said. Perhaps more in the West should try to make the time just to slow down a little and enjoy the beauty of Sri Lanka’s beautiful coastline.
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lifestyle conversation by Renée Stahlmann
“What I can say is, not everyone can do this job. You have to be strong and be able to cope in whatever situation you find yourself being thrown into,” says Simon Genin of his role as delegate of the Telécoms Sans Frontiers (TSF), a French non-profit organisation (NGO) that focuses on providing telecommunications relief to victims of disasters. With a Master of Telecommunications under his belt, Genin applied for a job with TSF four years ago. “I was amazed to find that I could put my skills to make humanitarian contributions,” he says, “So, when they offered me the job in May 2004, I didn’t think twice and took the opportunity.” Since then, the 27-year-old has spent one year in Nicaragua, and been assigned with the posttsunami project in Sri Lanka. And in January 2005, Genin took up the delegate post for the Asia-Pacific region and is now based in Bangkok. “I’m used to be deployed quite often, around four to five times, to emergency situations. And our team size depends on the magnitude of the disaster. It could be a two-people team, if we only need to handle one communications centre. But we would need up to 15 to 20 people for bigger projects like
the tsunami in Indonesia where we handled communication centres in three to four cities, which involved bigger logistic means and equipment needs.
THE SHIFTING FOCUS TSF was founded by two passionate individuals way back in 1998 in the Balkans, Kosovo. The 27-year-old explains, “These founders would do some fundraising during their holidays by purchasing fruit, renting trucks for going all over Italy and the Balkans to make some small distribution in the camps there. During these relief efforts, they realised that besides the need for food, shelter and health, there was also the need for communications. Hence, came this brilliant idea to form TSF.” Initially, TSF was started as a way to satisfy the needs of refugees. But now, its purpose has extended to provide telecommunications relief to those struck by natural disasters, such as earthquakes and cyclones, which may have had damaging impacts on the communication infrastructures. Besides providing communication support to refugees, the realisation dawned that there was also a dire need to provide communication means to relief workers, “because they could
see NGOs queuing up to use the services, but not to say they were okay, rather to inform their team members to send them some more rice, to enquire about their trucks, etc.” The first service to relief workers was provided right after the war in Afghanistan in 2001. And this would be the centre where the wireless networks were set up so these workers could have access to their emails and work. Once TSF deploys its members to an emergency situation, the duration of stay depends on the seriousness of the situation. “It could be two weeks, or one month, or even longer,” he says. First, we’ll have to assess the communications situation. If it’s serious, then we’ll stay until the local infrastructure has been repaired.” “The longest I’d had to stay in one place was in Iraq, where I was based for six months,” shares Genin. “Usually, we only handle humanitarian phoning operations, which is the service to affected people. But in Iraq, it was extended to the whole country, so we sent teams to most of the big cities there, which was the reason
A
Passionate Soul
To most people, their travel adventures usually bring happy memories of their trips. But to Simon Genin, delegate of the Telécoms Sans Frontiers, his trips overseas are usually tangled with matters of life and death. 64 |
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behind our prolonged stay.”
FUNDS, FUNDS, FUNDS As with other NGOs, the work of TSF requires substantial funds from generous corporations in order for it to stay afloat. And in the case of TSF, AT&T has been its constant support for the last five years, pumping in around US$250,000. “AT&T is funding TSF on a yearly basis, so this ensures that we always have an emergency fund,” explains Genin. With an emergency fund, TSF is able to respond to emergency alerts on an immediate basis, as the money will be able to last them for three to four days, while they wait for the proposal for more funding to be approved. “The work that TSF does can get expensive,” shares Genin. “To send an email, they charge around US$5 per megabyte. And to talk on the phone can cost about US$1 per minute. So, the bills can get ver y expensive, and this is why we rely on companies like AT&T for the funding.”
PASSION FOR COMPASSION While the 27-year-old delegate admits that he does toy around with the idea of a normal day job – “I wish I could be a mailman, or a taxi driver”, he quips – he has had no regrets about joining TSF. “It’s a crazy journey, but I still like it. It’s difficult to make plans when you don’t know where you’ll be the day after and I don’t like to plan my life. So far I’ve been enjoying my work,” he says, adding with a smile, “My contribution to disaster reliefs is like a brick, for example, and all the other relief workers are building a house together. Although a brick is a small thing, it’s an important part of the building. So, this thought alone makes it all worthwhile.”
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lifestyle conversation by Renée Stahlmann
Linguistically
Speaking...
Learn how brothers Andrew and Marlon Lodge revolutionised language education with their Earworms Musical Brain Trainer©.
“At a high level of language, it is often not possible to explain or directly translate expressions as these either have to be learnt by repeated use, or simply ‘repeated’,” says Marlon Lodge, course author, language coach and Earworms co-founder. “Repetition of ‘There’s no way around it’, ‘There’s a need for immediate action’ or ‘Irrevocable letter of credit’ is boring. But when embedded into some cool Jazz or Hip Hop tracks, it becomes entertaining.” And so, based on this premise, the idea to create Earworms Musical Brain Trainer© (MBT) was born. Together with his entrepreneur brother, Andrew Lodge, Marlon created this revolutionary language teaching method over several years, with
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the hope of easing the learning process for language students. “I personally would classify myself as a bad language learner, which gave me an extra empathy for my students. I wanted to make learning as easy to grasp and remember as possible,” explains Marlon. In fact, the idea behind Earworms MBT is as old as it is simple, because it uses melody as a memory hook. “For example such lyrics as ‘Voulez-vous coucher avec moi?’ and ‘Frère Jacques’ are locked in your memory forever, even if you don’t speak the language,” he adds. Indeed, music plays a vital role in language education, as has been demonstrated by various studies that show the ease with which kids can pick up foreign songs.
LANGUAGE MADE EASY According to Marlon, most teachers want to impress upon students “how much they know, how little you know and how difficult language learning is.” The language coach emphasises on the importance of sifting through the written learning materials available and getting it “from the page into the brain.” Language teachers tend to pressure their students to learn their vocabulary by a certain period of time, and test them on it. “In my view, this is not teaching,” says Marlon, “For me, I would say ‘listen to track three of the Earworms CD, I want to see if our memory technique works.’ Because for us, we want to test the method, and not the students.”
Relating his experience of teaching a group of young people for an International Business Correspondence exam, Marlon says, “I gave each student a CD packed with 300 difficult terms needed for the exam. It was strange to see them during the test, tapping their feet to the beat of the imaginary music in their heads while recalling the words from the CD. They all got between 90 and 99 per cent correct, except for one young lady who only managed 39 per cent. And guess what! She hadn’t even listened to the CD!”
BACKED BY RESEARCH A study done by Bulgarian physician, Prof. G. Lozanov in the late 1960s, unravelled the memorisation effect of music. The research demonstrated that background music used in a classroom accelerated the students’ learning abilities, due to its scientific role on improving information absorption and the activation of learning process. The concepts behind the Earworms CDs were drawn from such theories
developed by Lozanov and other research accounts. An explanation taken out of Ear worms’ booklet says, “Music primes the neural networks and puts the learner into the optimum state of consciousness for learning,” known as the Alpha state – relaxed, but receptive. Additionally, “music engages and stimulates both the right and left hemispheres of the brain, allowing the ‘whole brain learning’ processes.” Traditional teaching methods mostly focus on the left hemisphere of the brain, which is more concerned with logic and mathematical thinking. Learning through Ear worms CDs, on the other hand, allows the right hemisphere to be tapped, thus unleashing
more learning potential. All the Earworms CDs take advantage of a listener’s alpha state. “Simply put, you are breaking the target language down into easily understandable, easily digestible chunks and then repeating them to a beat (music)”, explains Marlon. This is how it works: the sound patterns of melodies, with rhythmic repetitions from a mesmeric male voice who speaks the English and a native speaker for the target language “worm” their way into the memory, permanently burning into the aural cortex – an area of the brain from which words can instantly be recalled. The company’s team of experts in education and music are the key to its success. The Lodge brother teamed up with young composer/musician, James Berr y, who, blind from birth, was a musical child prodigy. Berry’s relaxing music complements the rhythmically spoken words and phrases, which after a few listens really do “worm” their way into your mind. Since its release, Earworms MBT has been topping charts in the UK, US and Australia, and receiving accolades along the way, often outselling popular titles such as The Da Vinci Code. In 2007, Ear worms Rapid Spanish audio book was ranked as iTunes’ number five Best Seller for all non-fiction titles. The Berlitz Earworms MBT also boasts an average Amazon.com rating of 4 stars or higher for every title available. The a u d i o p a cks are available in 16 languages, consisting of two volumes each, including Arabic, Chinese Mandarin, French, German, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.
LEARNING ON THE GO
verses long by word of mouth, as they have no writing.” The same goes for young Moslem students who learn the Koran word perfectly through “rhythmic repetition.” The reason being is that the auditory cortex, which is responsible for storing and processing audio waves is located right next to the memory centre of the brain. So, in his opinion, the biological purpose of music is as a natural memory aid, adding that this method has been recognised by the advertising fraternity for years, as shown through their jingles to promote products and persuade product recall. Another plus of the Earworms audio packs is that it is compatible with iPod and MP3 devices, perfect for frequent travellers, tourists, backpackers, or those who are continually on the move. Earworms fits well into the routines of professionals and students in the fast pace of modern life, says Andrew. “You not only save time, but the music actually makes the learning experience a pleasant one. This means you are motivated to continue, unlike with most other language courses, which tend to be dry and offputting,” adds the entrepreneur.
To WiN! 10 Sets of
Earworms Berlitz CDs
to Give Away!
Marlon believes that it is in fact as simple as listening to the Earworms CDs to learn Answer the following question for your chance to win a language almost instantly. a set of 5 Earworms Berlitz CD, containing of Stressing on the capability Rapid Spanish Vol. 1, Rapid Italian Vol. 1, Rapid French Vol. 1, of music to accelerate the Rapid Chinese Vol. 1 and Rapid Japanese Vol. 1 learning process, he shares, “The Australian aborigines Q. Name two languages available in the Earworms Berlitz range. have extremely long songs, which Email your answer to are descriptions of routes to their ftcontest@epl.com.sg by March 13, 2009, with your name, address and contact details. ancestral hunting grounds. They learn these songs, which are hundreds of
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LIFESTYLE
posh space good stuff perk me up
Oriental De-Stress Hyatt Regency Hangzhou is home to the tranquil spa facilities known as The Health Club & Spa. Located in a place known as Water City, The Health Club & Spa at Hyatt Regency Hangzhou sits beside West Lake, the famed body of water where the soul and beauty of Hangzhou resides. So, it is only apt that the premises offer indigenous elements that are waiting to be embraced by pampering-loving individuals as they relax in the serene surroundings of the property. The Health Club & Spa offers various treatments to rejuvenate its clients. These treatments have been created with one thing in mind: to
promote their complete well being, through a range of holistic spa and Eastern wellness experience. One of its distinctive therapies is known as the Eastern Wellness treatments. Combining Eastern massage techniques and Gua Sha scrape therapy with its signature spirit oil (a blend of safflower, rosemary, peppermint and frankincense), this treatment aims to stimulate and improve all systems of the body. Its popular Gua Sha and head massage is one of the treatments available from the Eastern Wellness therapy range. It relieves tensions from everyday stress, migraines and muscle aches. The treatment for the upper body combines Gua Sha therapy with a special circulation massage to relieve tension, increase lymphatic drainage and encourage the elimination of toxins. Reservations for The Health Club & Spa can be made at +86 571 8779 1234 or via email at healthclub.hangz@ hyatt.com.
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Luxury by the Riverfront Furama RiverFront Hotel in Singapore has launched its new luxury spa in November 2008. The brainchild of Architectural Design Award winner, Formwerkz Design (Formwerkz), guests at Spa Furama can expect a harmonious blend of design, service and quality to satisfy their pampering journey into relaxation bliss. Jointly managed by Furama Hotels International (FHI) and award-winning operator, Aramsa – The Garden Spa, the luxurious spa hopes to rejuvenate one’s body, mind and spirit. Its design, inspired by the concept of a circle, representing the smooth interaction and perfect balance between human and nature, was carefully designed to allow guests to indulge and heal amidst the soothing flow of treatment spheres.
Set beside the swimming pool on level five of Furama RiverFront, Spa Furama consists of a signature suite, indoor treatment rooms, outdoor cabana treatment rooms, and a manicure/ pedicure room. Its signature suite combines modern luxury with nature, featuring a Jacuzzi bath alongside an open-air integral lily pond. A must-try signature treatment at Spa Furama is the wholesome, five-step 150-minute pampering that begins with a foot soak, followed by relaxing percussions performed on the sole of the feet. Up next, enjoy an indulgent Red Wine & Rice Exfoliation treatment, comprising a unique concoction of red wine and fine rice powder to break down and remove dead skin, revealing the
soft and supple skin beneath. Then, a Balinese Boreh Wrap follows – using a warming blend of fresh galangal, ginger, white turmeric and clove, along with a Relaxing Scalp Massage. Ending the treatment on a high is the Furama Touch, a modern massage that fuses eastern meridian and western lymphatic drainage techniques, promoting a sense of wellbeing and relaxation. Customisation is key at Spa Furama, which allows its guests to tailor the Furama Touch massage to their preference. Other therapies on offer include Swedish Recharge, Aroma Rich, Lymphatic Wellness and Thermal Earth. To further enhance the benefits of the massage, all guests are served with a glass of lemongrass drink before and after their therapies.
Fesdu Island, North Ari Atoll, Republic of Maldives www.whotels.com/maldives
LIFESTYLE
posh space good stuff
W Retreat & Spa
Text By Susan leong | Photography By W Retreat & Spa - Maldives & Susan Leong
First impressions count, and for W Retreat & Spa – Maldives, the introduction is via the chic little W Lounge at Malé. The outdoor seating offers a splendid view of the red and blue seaplanes, each one holding out the certain promise of an unparalleled experience in paradise. Within the air-conditioned comfort of the indoor, guests can snack on light gourmet bites and imbibe tempting libations. W Maldives is a scenic, 25-minute seaplane ride from the airport island of Malé. A tropical fantasy, the retreat is located in a lagoon of magical colours. From the sky, the overthe-water villas extend from Fesdu Island like the tail of a giant manta ray. The sands entice with their powdery whiteness, the gardens are bursting with tropical foliage, and the dive sites teem with marine life. Conceptualised as an exclusive playground for the sophisticated, the Retreat is a wondrous harmony of nature’s perfection and man’s interpretation.
MODERN TRADITIONS The shapes, proportions, textures, colours, sounds, smells and even the Whatever/ Whenever service promise blend seamlessly to engage all the senses. Rustic Maldivian flirts with contemporary chic, and natural gems are enhanced by elegant accoutrements. Take a look at the jetty lounge, reception area and restaurants with their open-sided structures and palm leaf-covered roofs; they are built according to the architecture of a traditional harugue, but their interiors are luxury personified, with stylised
seating, plush cushions of rich jewelled hues, and smart décor. The massive white canopies of the Away Spa and al fresco lounge Sip are reminiscent of the sails of a Maldivian dhow vessel, their graceful sweeping lines drawing constant attention to the splendour of the sky, sand and sea dominated by vibrant colours, and the blanket of stars that glitter by the millions in the night. Sunsets are extraordinary at W Maldives, and always more so when you are on vacation. It is an open secret that Sip offers the best seats in the house. Watch the fiery performance as the sky blazes intense red and russet, with streaks of scorching crimson traversing its huge expanse. All too soon, the sun will disappear and deepening shades of blue will herald the
arrival of dusk, and signal the time for pre-dinner cocktails.
EXQUISITE RETREAT It is almost de rigueur for every W hotel to be equipped with the latest in cutting-edge technology such as the large, flat screen plasma TV and iPod cradle, and showcase myriad artistic expressions throughout the property. Guests can look forward to a large selection of first-run movies and video programmes as well as Wi-Fi Internet access and highspeed laptop connectivity, all with compliments. Every W Maldives villa is an aesthetic blend of island simplicity and city panache, with generous spaces, clean lines and upscale facilities. Relax to the haunting rhythms of the specially arranged W
music played over the Bose sound system, and lean back on the soft pillows atop your signature W bed – with a glass of chilled wine from the selection in your in-villa wine fridge. Ceiling-to-floor glass doors invite the continuous flow from the outside in, so your senses are always in tune with the turquoise waters and azure sky. You can spy on the marine life through your glass-panelled floor, before deciding if you want to float lazily in the lagoon; with direct access from your sundeck, you can get in and out of the crystal clear waters whenever you wish. Or maybe you prefer to chill out in your private oversized infinity plunge pool, and listen to the sounds of the ocean. The jacuzzi feature can provide an invigorating massage if you are too at ease to walk to the Away Spa, or even to buzz for a buggy to pick you up.
UNDERGROUND FUN W Maldives boasts the only nightclub in the republic with a resident DJ on the island. Just like its on-land facilities, the concepts are striking and designs über trendy. Called 15 Below (and it does not refer to the temperature!), the subterranean club lounge is decadently delicious with backlit vodka bottles lining the walls, deep alcoves featuring alluring divans and luxurious cushions, and a bar that stocks over 70 varieties of vodka. Talk to the bartenders if your desire extends beyond ‘mere’ vodka. In the true spirit of the Whatever/Whenever service philosophy, they can whip up wicked concoctions and sinful cocktails. The club vibe is upbeat, and the colours, lights, textures, music and soul serve as sensory cues for a great night out!
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LIFESTYLE
posh space good stuff
A Juicy Scent
*In Singapore, the Juicy Couture Fragrance for men and women is available at Singapore Changi Airport – Perfume & Cosmetics by Nuance Watson.
First they took the world by storm with their comfy velour tracksuits. Then came their fashion line that features fabulous designs for the modern trendsetter. Now, they are making a scent-sational entrance into the world of the perfume industry with the introduction of their own Juicy Couture Fragrance range for men and women. This fragrance is a labour of love for Gela Nash-Taylor and Pamela Skaist-Levy, the two founders of the Juicy Couture brand. And just like its makers, the fragrance features a classic, romantic, flirtatious scent with fruity top notes of watermelon,
mandarin and pink passion fruit mingled with marigold and green apple, enhanced by a splash of water hyacinth and crushed leaves. The Juicy Couture fragrance also caters to the rugged metrosexual among us, with the Dirty English range. Having been created with a “bad boy” in mind and inspired by an actual 1976 music review from a Sex Pistols show at the El Paradise in Soho, London, the fragrance is dubbed as “manarchy” in a bottle. Blending sparkling citrus nuances with daring fresh spices, Dirty English reveals a sexy mix of dark woods with a subtle accent of sweetness and a dark and mysterious dry of dark amber, black leather and sensual woods.
Inspired by the retro looks of the ‘60s and ‘70s, these sunglasses are guaranteed to make you look très chic. The asymmetric octagonal structure of the metal front piece and geometrical patterned acetate temples evokes a vintage and glamorous flair to the SC1424 model. The metal crest, the signature of the French fashion house, adds a touch of discreet elegance. Available in beige, rose gold and camel brown gradient colour lens. The elegant soft lines of the acetate front piece overlay and contrast with the metal frame enhance the designs of the SC1679s model, reinterpreting the past
in a modern key. Available in the following colour lens combinations: tobacco/rose gold/gradient brown and ivory/ rose gold/gradient dark brown. The last model of the collection, the SC1688 features a perfect match of a luxuriously thick, wide front piece, sharp receding lines of the upper part and geometric, stylised line of the temples, providing a unique and gutsy look. Available in the following colour lens combinations: dark brown top on a brown-streaked base/gradient roviex and dark green top on green streaked base/ gradient roviex.
Shades of Glory Jet setting fashionistas should always have one thing in their handbag, and that is the trendy oversized sunglasses. With the Celine 2009 sunglasses collection, their prayers are answered, as the items feature all the season’s must-have features, from the large acetate frames to the ergonomic and geometric designs. Original in look and uncompromising in style, the CELINE 2009 sunglasses collection is easily synonymous with class and sophistication, blending elements from the vintage designs with the brand’s intrinsic glamour. The thickness of the acetate renders sturdiness and durability to the collection.
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* The CELINE 2009 limited edition sunglasses are exclusively available at selected Capitol Optical stores in Singapore.
LIFESTYLE
posh space good stuff
Function and Form Multi functional accessories seem to be the order of the day for the modern consumer. We no longer need different tools for different things. In fact, we love the whole multi purpose concept. It is especially useful for travellers, as we don’t have to stuff our suitcases with too many things, leaving more space for the products of our shopping jaunts. So, what could be better than being able to travel light, while looking trendy at the same time? Both Hogan and Tod’s have taken the modern-day multi-purpose preference into account and incorporated multi functional elements into their spring/summer 2009 collection for both men and women.
For this season, Hogan has lined up a range of products that are well adept to urban and climate changes. Thanks to the functional materials used – nappa, suede, canvas, nylon and snakeskin – the Wrap shoe series for women not only protect your feet with their lightweight and deconstructed sole, the leather, mesh or combined to technical fabric, makes your feet pretty and chic. The men can look extra hip with the Glove, Berlin and Amsterdam shoe collection. The lace and moccasin variations of Glove feature a flexible sole, making it extra comfortable. While the brushed leather of Berlin comes in metallic colours, resulting in an understated style, and the Amsterdam is a revamp of the quintessential style with patent leather inserts and
addition of metallic accents. Just as important as wearing the right pair of shoes during your travels is carrying the right bag. A small bag might not leave enough room for your shopping goodies, while a bag that is too big might just carry too much unnecessary weight and hassle. An ideal travel bag would be something like the Provence tote from Tod’s. This is the ideal bag that is perfect for every occasion. It is spacious, chic and versatile, with saddlery detail and hand stitching, reflecting the brand’s artisanal soul and the renowned craftsmanship inherent to Tod’s. The collection evolves with a series that is structured in shape and softened with curved corners and elongated zips. Tactile in jewel leathers, this range includes a miniature
shoulder bag in precious white crocodile, fuchsia python bauletto, turquoise calfskin shopper and green python weekender. For the men, Tod’s offers the Yacht bag, a timeless interpretation of the classic Tod’s shopper. Perfect for both business and leisure, the bag contains a detachable waterproof, transparent holder with leather detail – ideal for beach, boat or flight. A tiny light illuminates the interior, making the bag fun and functional.
*In Singapore, Hogan products are available in Hogan Boutique (#01-07 Paragon, 290 Orchard Road). Tod’s products are available at Tod’s Boutiques at Paragon (#01-07, 290 Orchard Road) and Ngee Ann City (Level 1, Takashimaya Department Store, 391 Orchard Road).
It’s About Time Whoever says a watch should only tell the time? If trendy women had their way, their timepiece should also speak volumes about their sense of inimitable style and elegance. The Tudor Classic collection has managed to do just that in the form of the Tudor Lady Chrono, where function and audacity is married with sensuous feminine charm. The Tudor new chronographs for women feature a 41mm case set with 101 diamonds, set on either a leather or rubber strap that comes in a range of exquisite colours. Its waterproof case – able to withstand depths of up to 150 metres – protects the remarkably precise self-winding mechanical movement.
* In Hong Kong, the Tudor Lady Chrono is available at various Tudor official dealers and watch shops.
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TRAVELNOTES
gourmand’s corner flight plans bulletins diary of events By Lin Weiwen 1 Fullerton Road, #01-09 One Fullerton, Singapore Tel: +65 6227 2332
Palm Beach Seafood Restaurant In Singapore’s competitive restaurant scene, where signboards can find their lifespan to be wickedly curt, Palm Beach Seafood Restaurant can truly count itself as a veteran still going strong. Since opening its first restaurant 52 years ago at East Coast Park, the stalwart player has been a household name in Singapore for treats from the sea. But longevity is no excuse to eschew change: Palm Beach has opted for a more stylish look in its two restaurants at Millenia Walk mall and One Fullerton. The former opened in 2007, while the latter, which opened in 2004, has, after a recent refurbishment, moved to another unit in the same edifice. The renewed restaurant now
exudes a cosier touch, thanks to plush furnishings and walls aptly covered with palm leaves. In September 2008, the menus underwent some tinkering: new dishes can now be found — alongside old favourites like Chilli Crab and Drunken Prawns. In what appears like a little homage to the Japanese sushi bar, a seafood bar serving a variety of cooked and raw seafood stands in the corner of the restaurant. One of the new dishes we had was the Seafood Platter ($22 per person/minimum of four persons) that comprised tasty offerings of Canadian oysters, bamboo clams, prawns, salmon sashimi and Alaskan crab legs, which were taken from the
9 Raffles Boulevard, #01-109 113 Millenia Walk, Singapore Tel: +65 6336 8118
bar. The items were fresh, and I particularly relished the large, succulent oysters. I found the newcomer of Assam Fish ($32), a grilled tilapia spiced with garlic, tamarind, chilli and ginger, to be pretty ordinary. But the next item, the Laksa Crust Prawns ($16 per piece) was impressive. Laksa (a coconutbased curry noodle dish) isn’t a dish I particularly enjoy. But those prawns, which were coated in breadcrumbs, butter, ginger, turmeric and laksa paste and then baked, weren’t too spicy and the scrumptious crust and tender flesh had me swooning. The Steamed Dried Scallops with Cabbage ($18 for six pieces) was a light, savoury item
Coco Lobo
whose taste was augmented when I dipped it into a little soya sauce. We also tucked into the piquant Double Baked Crab a la Singapura ($38 per kg); a signature dish of the restaurant. The crustacean was drenched in a butter and cheesebased sauce, which wasn’t too overpowering or heavy. The traditional local dessert of Bubur Cha-Cha — typically
Brazil Churrasco
Meat Platter
16 Sixth Avenue, Singapore 276476 Tel: +65 6463 1923 5 Lock Road, Gillman Village, Singapore 108933 Tel: +65 6479 9573
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Since opening its doors 14 years ago at Sixth Avenue, this popular Brazilian style eatery has added one more establishment to its property list in Singapore with the opening of the Gillman Village outlet. The second restaurant will serve as their franchise model as the restaurant plans to expand its brand name in the Asia Pacific region, from the Middle East to Australia. As such, unlike its predecessor, the Gillman Village establishment is open for lunch and does not use pork or lard. The restaurants are famous for its passadors – Brazilian waiters skilled in the art of carving meats. And at the Gillman Village outlet, meat lovers would cry for joy at the
abundance of meats on offer in their lunch and dinner menus. For lunch, diners can choose from unlimited servings of seven different offerings (S$28++) and of 14 different kinds for dinner (S$42++). Although prime cuts of beef, lamb, chicken and fish – all marinated in secret recipes and perfectly grilled – are the obvious main attractions, the restaurant also offers a good selection of side dishes, ranging from homemade sausages, tiny chicken hearts and grilled caramelised juicy pineapple. The health-conscious can make a beeline for the restaurant’s salad bar. This twotiered bar offers an extensive range of 25 salads and sides. Help yourself to the fresh selection
consisting of steamed yam and sweet potato served in coconut milk — gets a makeover here: it’s served frozen with a scoop of coconut ice cream. It wasn’t a very convincing rendition but I wasn’t griping. After all, Palm Beach built its name on tasty seafood and not sweet bites. If you are a fan of seafood, Palm Beach’s diverse offerings are certainly worth checking out.
of hot and cold items, such as Brazilian-style beef stew, deep fried mushrooms and potato salad. You can also relish a selection of gourmet sandwiches, which is only available for lunch at the Gillman Village outlet, featuring fine cuts of churrasco meat and accompanied by a mixed and potato salad. If alfresco dining is more your style, then enjoy the sunset while indulging in the new restaurant’s new finger food items. Opt for churrasco chicken thighs, grilled cheddar cheese and deep-fried shiitake mushrooms. And polish this off with caipirinha – the Brazilian national drink, and let the refreshing blend of lime, sugar and cachaca (distilled sugarcane liquor) intoxicate and relax you.
Post Bar Whether you are looking for a place to chill out at the end of your busy schedule, or seeking for a perfect venue to entertain your clients, head to the chic Post Bar at Singapore’s famous Fullerton Hotel. What’s more, Post Bar’s innovative bartenders have also given the national signature cocktail, Singapore Sling, a twist with the introduction of eight refreshing sling cocktails in its Fullerton Sling collection. Inspired by luscious fruit and fragrant ingredients, the original century-old Singapore Sling has been given a new lease of life here. The ladies would love the divinely refreshing
Lychee Sling, which features a concoction of gin, lychee liqueur and pineapple juice. Or, if you want to experience Asian flavours in a glass, go for the Coco Sling, a summery blend of coconut rum, gin, Fraise de Boise (strawberry liqueur) and pineapple juice. For a nuttier flavour, try the slings, which have been inspired by aromatic nuts. The Hazel Sling is a lively cocktail of fragrant Frangelico (hazelnut liqueur), vodka, cherry brandy and pineapple juice, and the Almond Sling is a delectable fusion of gin, Amaretto (almond liqueur), cranberry juice, completed with a dash of honey. Those who prefer a fullbodied drink, the Vanilla Sling may tempt your palate. This buttery confection features a decadent mix of vanilla flavoured vodka, butterscotch schnapps and cranberry juice.
The crowd pleaser will, no doubt, be the Peach Sling, with its blend of peach schnapps, cherry brandy, DOM Benedictine and triple sec. The crème de la crème is the flamboyant Gold Sling, which showcases an exciting mix of gin and Goldschlager, complete with real gold dust in the cinnamon schnapps. The traditionalists are not forgotten, either, as the good ol’ Singapore Sling, with all the familiar flavours from the age-old recipe, is also available here. Alternatively, for an even better epicurean experience, munch on Post Bar’s Singapore Chilli Crab Cakes, and wash them down with any one of your favourite slings from the Fullerton Sling collection. Fullerton Hotel 1 Fullerton Square, Singapore 049178
Fullerton Sling Collection
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gourmand’s corner flight plans bulletins diary of events
High Tea Set
Santa Lucia After a busy day, pamper yourself with delightful food and beverages at Hotel Panorama. Begin with the High Tea, which takes place daily from 3 pm – 5.30 pm at Santa Lucia Restaurant & Lounge. Located at the top of Hotel Panorama, diners can enjoy the stunning views of Victoria Harbour while indulging in their favourite High Tea fare. For HK$128 per person, you will get the Deluxe Tea Set consisting of a three-tier High Tea set featuring cold canapés, hot favourites and homemade sweet delights, as well as freshly brewed coffee and a wide selection of teas. And if this has not been relaxing enough for you, stay on at Santa Lucia Restaurant for the Happy Hour, from 5:30 pm – 10 pm. For the Happy Hour, the
restaurant’s Chef prepares three cold and two hot snacks daily, ranging in offerings from Cucumber Salmon Mousse, Duck Spring Roll, Crabmeat with Tomato & Mango Salsa, Wagyu Beef Stew with Vegetables, and Kurobuta Pork Burger, to name a few. But, prepare to be surprised, as the menu will change on a daily basis. These snacks will be the perfect accompaniment to your Happy Hour session with your colleagues or friends. The establishment boasts an extensive drink list, including superbly unique cocktails such as Lucia Perfume and Ginger Lucia. All the ingredients in the snacks have been specially prepared so that they complement one another for an enjoyably unique experience.
Hotel Panorama By Rhombus 8A Hart Avenue, Tsimshatsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong Tel: +852 3550 0262 www.hotelpanorama.com.hk
Singapore Chilli Crab Cakes
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new routes & frequencies new rooms
New hotels are opening their doors to guests. Here are some that are ready – or almost ready - to provide second homes to them.
Gran Meliá Shanghai Leading European hotel chain, Sol Meliá, has expanded its regional presence in Asia with the opening of the five-star Gran Meliá Shanghai (www. granmeliashanghai.com). Owned by Shanghai Suncuba Co. Ltd – a joint venture between the Chinese group Suntime and the Cuban group Cubabacan, this 686-room hotel is centrally located on Lujiazui Financial & Trade Zone within the city’s central business district. The new Gran Meliá’s strategic location will be a point of attraction for both business and
leisure travellers. Blessed with impressive views of the Huangpu River and overlooking the Puxi area, it is within easy access to the Super Brand Mall and Jin Mao Tower, as well as the city’s many cultural, entertainment, tourist and shopping attractions. The five-star Gran Meliá will offer 375 Standard Rooms, 108 Deluxe Rooms, 131 Junior Suites, 23 Senior Super Suites, 43 Presidential Suites, 2 Imperial Suites and 4 Handicapped Rooms. To appease its business guests, each room will be fully equipped with separate working desk,
Hotel Equatorial
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IDD and fax lines with printer, computer connection points and voice mail access, iPod connection, high speed Internet access with Wi-Fi accessibility. Enhancing the comfort level of its guests, other in-room features include a complimentary tea and coffee making facility, safe deposit box, individually controlled air conditioning units, remote controlled colour television with satellite programmes, mini bar and refrigerator. Additionally, Gran Meliá’s signature VIP floor, dubbed as The Red Level, is an exclusive retreat for discerning travellers. This floor will have 131 Junior Suites, 23 Senior Super Suites, 43 Presidential Suites and 2 Imperial Suites. In addition to the standard amenities, Red Level guests will enjoy aromatherapy products, complimentar y cocktails, a separate check-in area and private access to The Red Level Lounge. With the opening of Gran Meliá, meeting planners will have one more venue option to choose from. Its meeting and convention facilities will include the pillar-less Grand Ballroom that has a seating capacity of up to 800 persons, which can be divided into four sections. After completing its renovation exercise, Hotel Equatorial in Ho Chi Minh City is ready to receive guests in the new Executive Club Rooms. Adorned with a modern and functional design, yet imbuing a hip and trendy look, all the Executive Club Rooms were conceptualised with attention to detail for the utmost comfort of a demanding business and leisure traveller. Luxurious, individually
Sherwood Taipei Strategically located in the heart of Taipei’s city centre, the European-styled Sherwood Taipei has completed its renovation exercise at the end of last year, with the unveiling of fully renovated guest rooms, as well as Yi Yuan Chinese restaurant and Harry’s Bar. All 343 new guest rooms feature high-tech facilities, including 37-inch Panasonic Full HD LCD television and 24-hour satellite TV broadcasting and Pay-TV channels. To add to the guests’ comfort, personal bills can be checked on the TV screens. In the bathrooms, guests can luxuriate in amenities from the Yves Rocher shower range, as well as drape themselves in a Sherwood robe. Those staying at the Executive floors and above can expect bathroom amenities from the Bvlgari shower range. Enhancing the guests’ comfort during their stay, the hotel is also offering them with an unlimited usage of the spa, gymnasium and indoor
swimming pool, free domestic and international newspapers, private elevator for in-house guests and total blackout curtains to ensure guests get their peaceful sleep. There is also a 24-hour security to patrol the hotel grounds, so guests’ safety will never be compromised. Business traveller will enjoy working on the elegant wind marble-topped working desk, furnished with reading light, full set of stationery and an ergonomic working chair. High-speed broadband Internet service is also available, as well as a voice mail phone answering service and dedicated fax and computer outlets.
pocketed coil spring beds are complemented by a wide range of high-quality pillows, which can be selected from a Pillow Menu, setting the perfect base for the most relaxing sleep. Other features include an iPod docking station, 32-inch LCD television, high-definition DVD player and wireless Internet service. The bathroom lets in natural light, thanks to the full-length glass wall, giving the area an
airy and fresh atmosphere, and an overall feeling of spaciousness to the already above average-sized rooms. As part of the renovation exercise, the Executive Club Lounge also received a makeover, with a full bar set up with daily breakfast. This fully equipped lounge will pamper guests with an array of coffee, tea, cocktails and global culinary delights served within an elegant gallery setting.
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gourmand’s corner flight plans bulletin board diary of events
Golf for a Good Cause
Park Hotel Acquires Hilton Otaru Park Hotel has expanded its presence in Asia-Pacific with the acquisition of Hilton Otaru in Japan’s Hokkaido prefecture. The 296-room property will now be rebranded as Grand Park Otaru. Located just 35 kilometres away from Sapporo, the five-star hotel is strategically situated in the picturesque sea-trading port of Otaru, one of Japan’s top tourist destinations, renowned for its quaint old streets, Victorian-style buildings and canals, and glassblowing cottage industries.
Grand Park Otaru’s rooms and suites either have an ocean view, facing Ishikari Bay, or a mountain view, overlooking the town area of Otaru and Mount Tengu. Besides four F&B outlets, conference rooms and a wedding chapel, the hotel also houses Wing Bay Otaru, one of Hokkaido’s largest shopping malls, offering a wide range of dining, retail and entertainment options. It is also in close proximity to golf courses and ski resorts. “Hilton Otaru is our first
Novotel’s Charity Luncheon In commemoration of Solidarity Day, and the spirit of the festive season, Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay hosted a buffet lunch for the elderly of Moral SAC – Senior Activity Centre on December 11, 2008. This is an ACCOR charity event that
is celebrated worldwide on the same day. More than S$1,200 cash donations were collected for the event, which was attended by Heinz Javier Colby, General Manager of Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay and Regional Manager of ACCOR
Japan acquisition and we have plans to further expand into various areas in Japan, including Tokyo, Osaka and Okinawa,” says Park Hotel Group Director, Allen Law. “After establishing ourselves in Singapore and China, our first acquisition in Japan is yet another step towards expanding our network of strategically-located hotels in key cities throughout Asia Pacific. Besides properties in China and Singapore, Park Hotel Group also owns and manages Park Hotel Hong Kong.
Singapore, 80 elder citizens from the Moral SAC and around 9 members of the media. The event was filled with fun and merriment for the senior citizens, who each received red packets and gifts from the hotel. In addition to a delicious buffet spread, the elderly residents were also treated to a singing performance by Ken Teng from Grand Mercure Roxy Hotel and a karaoke performance by two senior citizens. The Moral SAC – Senior Activity Centre is a joint project between MCDS, HDB, Kim Seng grassroots group and Thye Hua Kwan Moral Society. It aims to improve the living conditions of elderly residents in HDB rental flats by providing financial relief and social support to those who are old, sick and disabled.
HotelTravel.com co-sponsored the 10 th annual Childwatch Charity Golf Tournament organised by BBAP (British Business Association Phuket) at Blue Canyon Country Club in Phuket. As a co-sponsor, HotelTravel.com donated over 555,000 Baht (US$15,600) in direct sponsorship, contributions, charity auction prizes
and items purchased in the charity auction. Additionally, the company also sponsored a 500,000 Baht hole-in-one competition. Childwatch Phuket cares for more than 70 underprivileged school children who have been abused and maintains a day care for children whose parents are incarcerated.
Lonely Planet Goes Mobile Lonely Planet and Singapore’s telecommunications provider, M1, announced the debut on Lonely Planet’s mobile Internet site (m-site) in Singapore. This service, exclusive to M1 customers, provides the Lonely Planet community with real-time access to Lonely Planet’s trusted and best-selling travel content. “What excites us about the mobile platform is that it enables us to make our services available any time, anywhere – because your mobile phone is carried around with you all day, everyday and increasingly understands where you are,” says Chris Boden, Lonely Planet’s Director of Global Business Development. The site enables users to browse through the Lonely
Planet’s detailed destination content, view travel photos from the extensive Lonely Planet Images library and look through tips from other travellers. At the core of the Lonely Planet m-site is the feature dubbed “What’s Around Me?”, enabling users to select their current or planned location and instantly get Lonely Planet recommendations for the nearest restaurants, nightlife spots, hotels, shops and sights on their mobile phone. Additionally, the content of the mobile site is not restricted by national boundaries. Destination information is available for every major travel region, including Africa, Asia, Australia, the Caribbean, Central America, Europe and South America.
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traveldeals ∗ Terms and conditions apply.
Futian, China: Meeting in Style When you book an event with Sheraton Shenzhen Futian, you’re not just getting a commitment, you’re also gaining access to a variety of personalised services and flexible space options, specifically designed to make your event a success. For RMB2000 (min. 20 persons), you can take up the Conference Plan package, which will entitle you to a one-night accommodation in a superior room, one buffet breakfast, eight-hour meeting room rental, meeting room set-up, morning and afternoon coffee/tea break and one complimentary lunch. The package is valid until April 30. Sheraton Shenzhen Futian is located at Great China International Exchange Square, Fuhua Road, Futian, Shenzhen, 518048 China. For reservations, tel: +86 755 8383 8888 or visit www.sheraton.com/shenzhen.
Shanghai, China: City Retreat Embodying the meaning of ‘urban comfort’, the New World Mayfair Hotel Shanghai is located well away from the bustle of city life, while still being in easy reach to Shanghai’s most popular destinations. Experience the hotel’s convenience with its attractive hotel package. Priced at RMB1718, the package includes two one-night stay certificates at Deluxe Room with free Internet access, four breakfast or lunch buffets at the Mayfair Café, two complimentary high tea coupons at Lobby Lounge, two complimentary drink coupons at JB Bar, ten one-hour free parking coupons and two 50 per cent discount coupons for suite at the hotel’s tariff rate. The package is valid until May 30, 2010. The New World Mayfair Hotel Shanghai is located at 1555 Ding Xi Road, Shanghai, China 200050. For reservations or enquiries, tel: +86 21 6210 6600 or email reservations@newworldmayfair.com.
Singapore: Fair Trade The next time you’re in the Garden City, host your business events at Traders Hotel and experience its newly upgraded function rooms. Located near Singapore’s famed Orchard Road, the hotel promises to offer event organisers a good time with its state-of-the-art meeting facilities. To celebrate the upgrade, the hotel is offering a meeting package starting from S$85 per person (min. 10 persons). The package includes full-day use of a function room, welcome coffee and tea, morning and afternoon coffee breaks, a choice of buffet or Chinese set lunch and meeting stationery. The price is subject to 10 per cent service charge. Valid until March 31. Traders Hotel is located at 1A Cuscaden Road, Singapore 249716. For meeting enquiries and bookings, tel: +65 6831 4316 or email catering.ths@shangri-la.com.
Malaysia: Meet at One World Understanding the needs of today’s meeting planners, One World Hotel, located in the heart of Petaling Jaya, has unveiled all the facilities deemed fit for a world class MICE venue Full day and half day meeting packages are available at RM155 and RM145 per person, respectively, inclusive of welcome tea/coffee, two coffee breakfasts and one lunch. Package perks include complimentary welcome refreshment counter, meeting signage with built-in 26-inch LCD TV at the entrance, full-day use of one portable or built-in LCD projector with screen and built-in PA system with microphone and rostrum. Meeting packages without lunch are also available at different rates. Valid until December 31, 2009. One World Hotel is located at First Avenue, Bandar Utama City Centre, 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia. For enquiries, tel: +603 7681 1111 or 7712 2289, or email sales@oneworldhotel.com.my.
Hong Kong: Business Brilliance In town for a short one-day stopover, check in at the Harbour Plaza Hong Kong before catching your next flight and benefit from the great business packages available. The Business Brilliance package starts from HK$1,400. Opt to upgrade to the top executive floors to enjoy the expanse view of the Victoria Harbour with additional privileges including full access to the 19/F Harbour Club Lounge. At HK$1,800, the Executive Floor package may be ideal for the discerning business traveller. These packages include Air Mileage redemption, welcome fruit platter and 20 per cent discount on selected Business Centre services, among others. Harbour Plaza Hong Kong is located at 20 Tak Fung Street, Whampoa Garden, Hunghom, Kowloon, Hong Kong. For enquiries and reservations, tel: +852 2996 8063 or email corp.hphk@harbour-plaza.com
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∗ Terms and conditions apply.
Shanghai, China: Winter Wonderland Experience Asian warmth, grace and care and enjoy a relaxing home away stay in the heart of Nanjing Xi Lu at the Shanghai JC Mandarin Hotel with its Winter Special packages. Rates start at RMB888 for a single occupancy at a Deluxe Room. The package includes complimentary buffet breakfast, 50 per cent discount for laundry service, complimentary local calls, late checkout and Meritus Club Privileges (including breakfast, high-tea, cocktails, all-day refreshments and free wireless Internet access at Club Lounge). Valid until February 28. Shanghai JC Mandarin is located at 1225 Nanjing Xi Lu, Shanghai, 200040 China. For reservations, tel: +86 21 6279 1888 or visit www.jcmandarin.com.
Ho Chi Minh City: Relax in the Orient Celebrate Caravelle Hotel’s Golden Anniversary with an indulgent spa package. Dubbed Caravelle Relaxation Spa package, guests are guaranteed an enjoyable and rejuvenating stay in this mystical Cambodian city. For US$438 (single) or US$498 (double), the package includes a two-night stay in the Deluxe Room, a buffet breakfast and a spa treatment of a 60-minute body massage and a 30-minute manicure/pedicure, facial or Qi shaving. You can choose to upgrade to the hotel’s signature deluxe rooms for an additional US$59 (single) or US$89 (double). Valid until March 31. Caravelle Hotel is located at 19 Lam Son Square, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. For reservations, tel: +84 8 3823 4999 or email rsvn@caravellehotel.vnn.vn.
Worldwide: Reconnect at Ritz-Carlton The next time you stay at Ritz-Carlton, take up its Reconnect package. Offered by Ritz-Carlton resorts around the world, the package earns guests a property credit for every day of their stay. Depending on the chosen resort, guests will receive a daily credit ranging from US$50 to US$200, which can be applied to spa treatments, tennis lessons, the Ritz Kids® programme or other customised vacation experience. The package is valid until April 30. Rates are based on a per room per night, single or double occupancy, exclusive of taxes, gratuities and other fees. For information or enquiries, contact your travel professional, telephone The Ritz-Carlton US toll-free number at 800-241-33333 or visit www.ritzcarlton.com/reconnect.
Phuket, Thailand: Early Bird Deals Perched some 850 metres on the hillside overlooking Patong Bay, Baan Yin Dee Boutique Resort offers breathtaking views for guests wishing to relax in the ambience of natural Thai heritage. Take advantage of the resort’s early bird promotion to enjoy your holidays in paradise. Book your rooms at least three months in advance and pay only 1,500 Baht per room per night in a deluxe room (usual price is 11,000 Baht). This package includes breakfast for two and is valid for stays from April 16 to October 31, 2009. The special rate is only available for bookings made on the hotel’s website, www.baanyindee.com. A full payment is required at the time of booking, with no cancellations or amendments allowed. Baan Yin Dee is located at 7/5, Muean Ngen Road, Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand. For reservations, visit www.baanyindee.com.
Shanghai: Opening Specials Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has launched its promotional rates to celebrate the opening of the property located on its own private island. Rates start from US$560 for the Beachfront Deluxe Room, with a minimum of seven nights stay required. The package includes daily breakfast and a complimentary dinner. Additional perks are available, such as Sunset Fishing Trip and the opportunity to have your freshly caught fish prepared as a tantalising meal by the resort’s creative F&B team (a small fee applies). Valid until August 31. Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is located at Furanafushi Island, North Malé Atoll, Malé 20-15 Maldives. For reservations, visit www.sheraton.com/maldivesfullmoon.
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gourmand’s corner flight plans bulletin board diary of events
Check out the latest flight routes and services of the various airlines of the world.
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has launched its maiden flight to Moscow
Servicing Moscow The national airline of the United Arab Emirates, Etihad Airways, has launched its maiden Moscow flight from its home base at Abu Dhabi airport. The five flights a week service to the Russian capital was followed by a new service to the Kazakhstan commercial capital Almaty, bringing the total number of destinations served by the carrier to 50. Commenting on the new service, James Hogan, Chief Executive of Etihad Airways says, “Russia is an increasingly important destination from the UAE, as the countries increase
their trading relationships,” adding that since the launch, the airline has seen strong interests from both UAE travellers and global customers transitting through the Abu Dhabi hub. M o s c o w i s E t i h a d ’s eleventh destination in its flight network in the Europe region, which already includes services to Brussels, Dublin, Frankfurt, Geneva, London, Manchester, Milan, Minsk, Munich and Paris. The flight is operated by a two-class Airbus A320 configured to carry 140 passengers with 20 seats in business class and 120 in economy class.
SriLankan Airline Returns to Rome Effective December 3, 2008, SriLankan Airline has begun its thrice-weekly service to the fabled city of Rome. The flight, which is operated on Airbus A340 widebodied aircraft, operates on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and take the route ColomboRome-Paris-Rome-Colombo. SriLankan also has convenient connections from Colombo throughout the Far East, including Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Beijing. It is one of the largest carriers into India, where it serves 11 cities.
Jet Airways and United Airlines Forge Partnership India’s premier international airline, Jet Airways, has forged a frequent flyer partnership with United Airlines, one of the largest international carriers based in the United States. With this partnership, Jet Airways’ JetPriviledge
Korean Air Launches Milan Flights Since December 10, 2008, Korean Air, South Korea’s flagship carrier, introduced twice weekly services to Milan, the second largest
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city and the fashion capital of Italy. The two outbound flights depart Seoul/Incheon on Wednesdays and Sundays. Korean Air uses 300-
On board entertainment options on the Rome flights includes 18-channel seatback television at every seat, with 22 audio channels and 16 video games. Business class passengers have a choice of movies on video as well. With the addition of Rome, SriLankan has a
network of 45 destinations in 25 countries across Europe, the Middle East, the Indian Subcontinent and the Far East. Rome was among several destinations to which SriLankan suspended services in 2001, when the global airline industry faced a crisis following September 11.
members may earn and redeem JPMiles on the entire global network of United Airlines. The US carrier is Jet Airways’ 18th frequent flyer partner airline. The other partners include Cathay Pacific, Qantas, Air France, American Airlines, KLM, Virgin Atlantic, Lufthansa, Etihad Airways, and Gulf Air. Commenting on the partnership, Wolfgang ProckSchauer, CEO, Jet Airways, says, “Jet Airways is proud to enter into a frequent flyer partnership with United Airlines, one of the most respected names in global aviation.
Besides boosting connectivity across the busy India-USA sector, this partnership will also enable the passengers of both carrier to tap into their respective international networks, while earning and redeeming frequent flyer miles.” Recently, Jet Airways’ JetPrivilege, India’s largest frequent flyer programme, emerged victorious in seven categories, including the prestigious ‘Programme of the Year” at the 20th annual presentation of the Freddie Awards 2007. This was the fourth consecutive year Jet Airways was honoured at the awasds.
seat Boeing 777-200 aircraft to serve this route. The new service is an extension of Korean Air’s route between Incheon and Rome, where the carrier offers three
flights a week. Milan is the airline’s 14 th destination in Europe, making it the largest non-European airline from Asia operating to Europe in terms of number routes.
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(Until Feb 08) Hong Kong: Groove to the Rhythm Move to the music at the annual Hong Kong Salsa Festival 2009. Since its inception seven years ago, the festival has grown from a one-day event to a one-week affair, showcasing the country’s passion for this art of dance. Enjoy the various entertainments on offer, from live bands, street parties and workshops and satisfy your thirst for this seductive dance. Visit www.hksalsafestival.com for information and ticketing details.
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(Until Feb 20) Singapore: Fantasy in a Drawing Monochroma, a collective of four young upcoming artists, presents a series of drawings based on the oxymoronic theme “dreams and nightmares”. Executed in the artists’ common style of Imaginative Fantasy, the works portray imaginative mental landscapes that illustrate flights of the imagination. Catch Volatile Candy: by Monochroma at The Substation Gallery from 11 am to 8 pm daily (closed on public holidays). Free admission.
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Perth: A Classic Romantic If you happen to be in Perth before Valentine’s Day, come down to the Valentine’s Day concert at Joondalup Resort, Country Club Boulevard. This free, ticketed event will feature 2006 Australian Idol Damien Leith, as he croons the cream of the 60s and 70s classics from his album, Catch the Wind – Songs of a Generation. Children below six years old do not require a ticket. The concert takes place from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. www.joondalup.wa.gov.au
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(Until Mar 8) Singapore: Ladies Tee Off Top female golfers Yani Tseng, Suzann Pettersen, Cristie Kerr and Natalie Gulbis are all set to become the Champion of Champions at the HSBC Women’s Champions at the Tanah Merah Country Club. Staged in Singapore for the second year, the richest ladies golf tournament will also see reigning Champion Lorena Ochoa defending her title. Boasting a prize money of US$2 million, the HSBC Women’s Champions will be played over 72 holes of individual stroke play with a field of 78 golfers.
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Singapore: Love Like Royalty Celebrate the most romantic day of the year at Royal Plaza on Scotts and take advantage of its Valentine’s Day room package. Or spoil your beloved to a Valentine’s Day dinner at the hotel’s chic Heat Ultralounge, where both of you can indulge in succulent Wagyu beef, marine lobsters and a medley of dessert in a platter. For more information, tel: +65 6737 7966 or email royal@royalplaza.com.sg.
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Singapore: Keeping Fit Take part in Singapore’s first mass participation cycling event on fully closed public roads for OCBC Cycle Singapore. Catering to both beginner and professional cyclists, the event is designed to promote an active lifestyle among people of all ages and fitness levels. Don’t pass the opportunity to cycle past some of the island’s most outstanding landmarks, like the F1 Pit Building and the Esplanade. For more enquiries and registration, visit www.ocbc. cyclesingapore.com.sg/
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Melbourne: A Long Lunch Join hundreds of others to savour Melbourne’s history of alfresco fun at the World’s Longest Lunch. The 400-metre table stretches along the banks of the Yarra River in the city, where over 1000 guests will add to the spectacle of a riverside banquet from noon to 3 pm. For location and booking details, visit www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au.
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(Until Mar 14) Singapore: Whimsical Reality Written and directed by Singapore’s power couple, Mark Richmond and Beatrice Chia, respectively, Sleepless Town is a brand new original musical that plays with your imagination with the colourful and whimsical world of superheroes. The play revolves around Nora Mowwend, who has been summoned to save Sleepless Town; a world where criminals rule and children are depleting rapidly. For a mere 20 minutes, the lines between fantasy and reality blur and two worlds merge into one. Category A tickets are priced at S$68 (night show) and S$50 (matinee show). For more ticketing details and enquiries, contact SISTIC at +65 6348 5555 or visit www.sistic.com.sg.
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(Until Mar 8) Jakarta: Jazz ‘Em Up The Java Jazz Festival is an annual event that caters to both jazz enthusiasts and music lovers in general. Taking place at the Balai Sidang Jakarta Convention Centre, the event will begin at noon and end after midnight. Legendary local and international acts have graced the stage at this popular festival. Among some of the international artists expected to perform this year include Brian McKnight, George Benson, Jason Mraz, Peabo Bryson and David Foster.
(Until Jun 14) Singapore: Couture Vulture The chic and the trendy will not want to miss out on the Christian Lacroix Costumier Exhibition. Taking place at the National Museum of Singapore, the exhibition will showcase some 150 whimsical theatre costumes and drawings designed by this high-end, A-list French fashion designer. These masterpieces were created for more than 25 productions of ballet, theatre and opera, displaying a visual spectacle that is every bit as fascinating as Lacroix himself.
(Until Mar 22) Melbourne: Wine Tour Head to the Southgate Promenade between noon and 5 pm and pick up a glass of wine and wander among more than 60 of Victoria’s boutique wineries, tasting and stocking your cellar with their latest offerings as you go. For more information, visit www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au.
Tourism Victoria
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(Until Feb 28) Bangkok: Rendezvous for Valentine’s Stay at the Swissôtel Nai Lert Park in Bangkok this Valentine’s Day and take up its Romance package. Priced at only 39,000 Baht per couple, the package includes a two-night’s stay in a luxurious Executive Suite, champagne room service breakfast for one morning and full buffet breakfast the other, fullcourse Italian candlelit set dinner and a his and hers deep massage. For reservations, email reservations@nailertpark. swissotel.com.
Tourism Victoria
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newsight+experience Text & Photography by Emilia Johari
Cranes On a Tram
Efficient, cheap and very while you get to immerse local, it is no wonder that trams are one of this fascinating island. in the local culture. In one tram I spotted the best modes of transportations for zipping a row of cranes nestled on the window ledge. I around Hong Kong. A one-hour tram journey will have no idea how long they have been there. Buttake you through the various suburbs of the islan what a creative way to pass time as you commutd, e on
Are you a camera bug? Do you have a vignette that you’d want to share? Send in your photo that speaks “wow”, “amazing” and it might just be the New Sight + Experience for our April/May 09 issue. Send the hi-res image (300dpi, A4 size, TIFF/JPEG) to zarinajohari@epl.com.sg by March 13, 2009.
Special Advertising Section
Lavish
Convenience
In The Centre Of
Beijing
Catering to the business needs of corporate travellers, the Crowne Plaza Park View Wuzhou Beijing is a luxury hotel situated next to the Beijing International Convention Centre in the northern part of the city, and is within walking distance to the National Stadium - Bird’s Nest. Being a mere 25-minute drive away from the Beijing Capital International Airport and ten-minute drive away from Shangdi Hi-tech Zone and the Silicon Valley of Beijing, the hotel is convenient and offers urban comfort that is highly sought after by the modern executive. If you’re planning on hosting a meeting, the hotel’s elegant Crowne Ballroom, the largest pillar-free hotel ballroom with natural light in Beijing, will take care of your various needs. Ideally suited to accommodate any business and social occasions, from a boardroom meeting for eight to a conference of 1,300 guests. Consistent with the Crowne Plaza brand, the hotel offers a comprehensive meetings package to ensure a seamless planning process and exceptional meeting experience consisting of three key components: a 2-hour Response Guarantee, Crowne Meetings Director and a Daily Meeting Debrief. The Crowne Meetings Director, the dedicated meeting specialist, is your one point of contact that will assist you in the planning and management of your event, right down to the finest details.
Featuring 477 well-appointed guest rooms, including 39 suites, the hotel boasts luxurious furnishings and amenities befitting of an international standard hotel. Business-friendly facilities include dataport capabilities, high-speed Internet access, voicemail, cable news and English language newspapers. The discerning corporate guests can take advantage of its 75-room Crowne Plaza® Club, located on the 15th to 17th floors. Offering tailor-made services to suit all your exclusive needs, the Club’s other privileges include laundry credit, soft drinks in the minibar, breakfast buffet, cocktail hour, one-hour complimentary use of the Club Lounge Meeting Room, complimentary broadband Internet access and refreshments throughout the day. Dining at the Crowne Plaza Park View Wuzhou Beijing is a delightful experience, with a selection of four restaurants offering local and international cuisines. And among the hotel’s propositions, the guests’ comfort and relaxation needs take centre stage. Facilities like the indoor heated swimming pool, fitness centre, sauna, steam bath, massage treatments and indoor tennis courts are available for the comfort of their guests.
Crowne Plaza Park View Wuzhou Beijing 8 North Si Huan Zhong Road, Chaoyang District 100101 Beijing, People’s Republic of China Tel: +86 10 8498 2288 • Fax: +86 10 8499 2933 Email: rwvn.cppvbj@ihg.com • Website: www.crowneplaza.com/beijingwuzhou
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