Jetstar Asia December 2016 by HGM

jetstar MAGAZINE

DECEMBER 2016

MAGAZINE

BALI I SINGAPORE I PENANG

SANDBOARDING JAPAN

WHERE TO GO IN 2017

DECEMBER 2016

hot

THE TRAVEL LIST

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to get packing: follow in the steps of the jet-set and let them inspire your travel plans for the year ahead

december

contents DECEMBER 2016

Cover story

40 01

49 Gift must-gets

INSIDER

25 I WHAT’S IN MY SUITCASE?

06 I THE HOT LIST

The creative contents of singer Sam Rui’s luggage

60 I COLOURS OF PENANG 6 Stunning snaps from this cculture-rich Malaysian state

84 I TRAVEL TALES

Events across the network

The iincredible lengths a foodie will go to for a memorable meal

COVER: ARTWORK HE SHE IT THEY I PHOTOGRAPHY YIE SANDISON

26 I TRADITION TALKS 09 I NEWS What’s happening this month

Experience ancient Japanese customs at a tea ceremony

12 I POSTCODE

29 I 24 HOURS

Discover Jakarta’s most creative neighbourhood

Rich history (and a diamondladen temple) in Yangon

40 I WHERE I’M GOING IN 2017

15 IN PROFILE

32 I SHOP IT

Naiise’s founder talks design

Stylish Christmas presents, sorted

The cool kids share their travel must-dos. Start packing now

18 I HOTEL TREND Living luxe in Asia’s unique hotels

49 I BALI BY FARM 34 I JUST DESSERTS A festive dessert recipe with Oreos. Need we say more?

22 I INSTAGRAMABLE Hot Taipei spots from temples to tasty street eats

INSPIRE INS S

The undiscovered delights of Bali farmstays

INFLIGHT 68 I Jetstar news 69 I Quiz 71 I Winners – #StarJourneys

54 I BEST OF BUFFETS 37 I BEAUTY ON THE FLY Lush limited-edition buys

This silly season enjoy the ﬁnest fare in all-you-can-eat style

72 I Where we ﬂy

Welcome I From the CEO

EDITORIAL For all editorial enquiries, please email Jetstarasia@hardiegrant.com.au Publisher Christine Dixon Managing Editor Chloe de Ridder Editor Pearlyn Tham Art Director Dan Morley Senior Designer Sue Morony Chief Sub Editor Sophie Hull Editorial and Advertising Assistant Alana Young

Welcome aboard

DECEMBER 2016

HARDIE GRANT MEDIA Managing Director Fiona Hardie

ADVERTISING +65 6337 6996 [Singapore] +852 2850 4017 [Hong Kong] or email joseph@asianimedia.com Asian Integrated Media Limited Managing Director Peter Jeffery Executive Director Brendan Inns Director of Advertising SEA Joseph Yap Director of Advertising SEA Soh Liang Liang Jetstar Asia magazine is published for Jetstar Asia Airways by Hardie Grant Media Level 7, 45 Jones Street, Ultimo, New South Wales, 2007 Australia +61 02 9857 3700 Website hardiegrant.com.au

For reservations, call the 24-hour Jetstar contact centre below (please only call the number of the country you’re dialling from):

Singapore +65 6499 9702 Australia +61 (3) 9645 5999 / 131 538 China 4001 201 260 Hong Kong +852 3192 7451 Indonesia 001 8036 1691 Japan 0570 550 538 Malaysia 1800 813 090 Myanmar +95 9 42111 6662 Philippines 1800 1611 0280 Thailand 001 800 611 2957 Vietnam (Jetstar Paciﬁc Airlines) +84 839 550 550 All other countries +613 9645 5999

PHOTO LESTER LEDESMA

For hotel bookings and holiday packages call Jetstar Holidays on one of the above reservation numbers and follow the prompts, or visit jetstar.com/hotels

© Hardie Grant Media. All material in JETSTAR ASIA magazine is strictly copyrighted and all rights are reserved. Reproduction without permission of the publisher is strictly forbidden. Every care has been taken in compiling the contents of this magazine, but we assume no responsibility for the effects arising therefrom. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or Jetstar Asia Airways. All information is correct at press time. MCI (P) 061/11/2015 Jetstar Asia magazine is printed by Times Printers Private Limited.

Wishing you a happy holiday

appy Holidays! If you’re looking to book your Jetstar flights for the yearend, Singapore and Hong Kong are the top two Southeast Asian cities to spend Christmas in. Catch the lights in the Hong Kong WinterFest where buildings along the Victoria Harbour are decked in twinkling Christmas lights. For visitors coming down to Singapore, whip out your cameras and enjoy the festive extravaganza of lights and activities along Orchard Road. With Christmas comes the custom of giving, and we are happy to share that our tradition of rewarding Jetstar travellers with the Jetstar ‘Gift of Giving’ travel vouchers is back. Jetstar travellers throughout Asia may just find themselves at the

receiving end of a gift voucher this season. For many of you, December is also a great time to plan for 2017. To get you started, our marketing team has put together a 2017 campaign to help you make the most of the seven long weekends in the year. As this is limited to only 20 customers, be the first to book it. You can read more about it on Jetstar.com. Once again, thank you for choosing to fly with Jetstar and we wish all our travellers a safe holiday filled with joy, love and peace.

Barathan Pasupathi CEO, Jetstar Asia Airways

Welcome I Group CEO note

Season’s greetings from Jetstar

During December, we’ll ﬂy more than two million customers to where they want to be at this special time

love spending time with my family and being outdoors, so naturally December is one of my favourite months of the year. You might be on your way to a family event or a holiday adventure right now. Maybe you’re ﬂying to somewhere exotic like Myanmar, where Jetstar Asia has just added seven extra ﬂights to each week. Perhaps you’re taking advantage of the four new international routes we’ve just launched from Vietnam.

DECEMBER HIGHLIGHTS Here are just some of the things we love in this month’s issue – enjoy!

Or you might be making your way to beautiful Tasmania, where I recently enjoyed an action-packed trip with my family. We have so many exciting destinations across Asia-Pacific and with our 10 per cent price beat guarantee on both flights and holiday packages, you can rest assured you’re getting the best value. This year, during December, we’ll fly more than two million customers to where they want to be at this special time. At Jetstar we consider that a real privilege. We know you have a choice and you’ve chosen us. In return, we’re committed to making your journey hassle free and enjoyable – from the moment you log on to Jetstar.com to book your flights, until the time you pick up your bags at your destination. I hope you enjoy a safe and happy holiday season. And may you have many exciting travel adventures on the horizon.

The hot list p06

Great gift inspo Christmas Ch i t presents t p32

Festive buffets p54

Jayne Hrdlicka Jetstar Group CEO

The king of quirky

Share your Jetstar journey with us

FOLLOW: @jetst

arasia

In proﬁle p15

On December 31, Hong Kong’s waterfront comes alive for the countdown to 2017. Victoria Harbour is the place to be for a festive atmosphere and the incredible 10-minute pyromusical display that will light up the skies. Get in early to nab a prime viewing spot.

PHOTO XXXXXXXX

WHAT’S HOT? 06 I THE LUXE LIFE 18 I TEA CEREMONIES 26

Insider I EVENTS

The hot list Watch a magical ballet, let your hair down with electronic music, and ﬁnish the year with a brilliant ﬁreworks display in Singapore

Djakarta warehouse project December 9–10

The Nutcracker December 7–11

Email ticketing@singaporedancetheatre.com or call +65 6338 0611 for ticket enquires. To add a magical touch to the Christmas season, treat your family to this classic ballet by the Singapore Dance Theatre (SDT). It will feature colourful characters including the Sugar Plum fairy and the mischievous Mouse King. Tickets are available at all authorised SISTIC outlets and at the SDT ofﬁce. singaporedancetheatre.com

djakartawarehouse.com

Did someone say party?

OSIM Sundown Marathon Singapore 2017 March 25, 2017 Asia’s largest night run – also Singapore’s ﬁrst – returns to the F1 Pit Building next year. The OSIM Sundown Marathon Singapore 2017 includes 5km and 10km fun runs and more hard-core legs at just over 21km and 42km each. sundownmarathon.com

Siloso Beach Party

Symphony in the city 2016

December 31 Ring in the new year at Sentosa’s annual beach party in Singapore. Dance the night away and then enjoy a spectacular ﬁreworks display at midnight. The celebration runs from 6pm to 6am and is headlined by Dutch DJ and producer Quintino. sentosa.com.sg/ silosobeachparty

December 10 This free event in Perth’s Langley Park is a treat for music lovers. Enjoy a night of classical and movie favourites performed by the West Australian Symphony Orchestra (WASO) and the WASO Chorus. The night will end with a stunning pyrotechnics display. waso.com.au

NUTCRACKER PHOTO JUSTIN KOH

6 06

Join almost 80,000 revellers from around the world at this epic celebration of electronic music in the Indonesian capital. The line-up includes Belgian DJ Lost Frequencies, longstanding favourite Carl Cox, and electro house superstars Blasterjaxx, Yves V and Brennan Heart.

This ballet is both en pointe and on point

3-WAY MOUNT MODEL #AFAEM-001

$YDLODEOH DW

Insider I NEWS

On the radar Be inspired for your next adventure with everything new and noteworthy across the Jetstar Asia network

MANILA MUNCHIES

on the All smilesZip Mega

If the thought of trufﬂe fries or smoked ribs make you drool, then head to Communeaty Roces Food Hub in Quezon City in Manila. With a range of stalls selling tasty morsels from cuisines including Mexican, Japanese and American, you’ll want to make sure you arrive hungry. 120 Don A. Roces Ave, Manila

Get great discounts on Sentosa Want to enjoy a half-day escapade on Sentosa Island? Save money with Mastercard’s year-long discounts. Our picks? Go on the 30-minute Gogreen Segway Eco Adventure, move on to the MegaZip (and get a complimentary go on the MegaBounce trampoline when purchased as a package with your Mastercard), then enjoy 15% oﬀ your lunch at the Wave House Sentosa when you order from a choice of one soup or salad, one main and one choice of soft drink. sentosa.com.sg/statespecials/mastercardpromotions

Tuck into Michelinstarred ramen

Adventures in Myanmar

Indulge in R&R at a zen Bali spa

Go hiking, mountain biking, stand-up paddle boarding and more, in and around Myanmar, and help the rural communities you come across at the same time. Myanmar Adventure Outfitters doesn’t just offer multiactivity adventures in a beautiful part of the world, it also creates economic opportunities and invests its profits back into those communities it operates in. myanmaradventure outfitters.com

After a long day of shopping or surﬁng in Bali, why not book yourself in for a pampering face or body treatment at Montigo Spa at the recently refurbished Montigo Resort in Seminyak. The peaceful spa provides a holistic wellness experience, with indulgent therapies like hot-stone massages, invigorating body scrubs and even lush couples’ treatments. montigoresorts.com/seminyak

Tokyo’s famous ramen restaurant Tsuta has opened its second branch at Paciﬁc Plaza in Singapore. The only ramen eatery in the world with a Michelin star, it is known for its springy noodles and three soup bases: shoyu soba, made with black trufﬂe oil; shio soba, which comprises a chickenseafood blend, rock salt, red wine and rosemary infusions; and miso soba. Each bowl comes topped with slices of char-siu (barbecued pork).

Insider I NEWS

BREAKFAST AT AH MENG’S MEET A DURIAN-LOVING ORANGUTAN AT JUNGLE BREAKFAST WITH WILDLIFE AT SINGAPORE ZOO IT’S NOT EVERY DAY (or everywhere) that you can have breakfast with charismatic orangutans. But you can enjoy this immersive experience at the Singapore Zoo. Held at Ah Meng Restaurant, the globally acclaimed, award-winning Jungle Breakfast with Wildlife gives you a view of the attraction’s iconic lush vegetation as well as an unbeatable view of its famous orangutans. While you indulge in a buﬀet spread of both Western and local breakfast dishes, you also have the opportunity to have your photo taken with the animals. There is an ongoing commentary on the plight of these

intelligent apes as the Singapore Zoo, which has successfully bred the largest number of orangutans in captivity in the world, hopes to reinforce the message of wildlife conservation. The zoo is home to 26 orangutans, eight of which are Sumatran while the rest are of the Bornean species. The zoo is also the ﬁrst in the world with free-ranging areas where the animals can swing, climb and play in a treetop habitat.

The new gen One of these orangutans is Ah Meng, formerly known as Ishta. The ﬁrst Ah Meng, Ishta’s grandmother who passed away in 2008,

was Singapore’s ﬁrst non-human tourism ambassador and brought worldwide fame to the zoo. Being a critically endangered Sumatran orangutan, she also helped to create more interest in the plight of her species in the wild. The new Ah Meng was chosen to be the zoo’s latest animal ambassador as she bears a strong resemblance to her famous grandmother. She loves durians and is sociable, aﬀectionate and patient. Ah Meng meets visitors four times weekly at Jungle Breakfast with Wildlife, in addition to selected photography sessions.

Book your wild breakfast Jungle Breakfast with Wildlife is held 9am–10.30am daily. It costs S$35 for adults and S$25 for children aged 6–12 years. Singapore Zoo admission charges of S$33 for adults and S$22 for children aged 3–12 years apply. Animal appearances are between 9.30am and 10am and the last buffet seating is at 10am. Contact +65 6360 8560 or email sales.reservations@ wrs.com.sg to book.

PHOTO OF AH MENG WILDLIFE RESERVES SINGAPORE

10 10

Ah Meng is taking a swing

5 1

Hanging out in hip South Jakarta Escape central Jakarta’s (in)famous traﬃc and head to its south where you can indulge in great food, unique shopping and artsy culture. We give you seven reasons why this is the capital’s coolest neighbourhood

Gandaria City This mall doubles as a public art gallery, featuring impressive and iconic sculptures. The masterpieces by international artists include Great Gigantic Pumpkin by Yayoi Kusama, LOVE by Robert Indiana and Dancers by Fernando Botero. The pieces are only cordoned off with simple velvet ropes, allowing aﬁcionados to get up close and personal with their favourite art. Jl Sultan Iskandar Muda, Kebayoran Lama, +62 2129052888; gandariacity.co.id

Lobby Lounge at Sheraton Grand Savour a special menu at the Lobby Lounge, which features an innovative Paired programme. Here, a selection of premium wines curated by Wine Spectator magazine and craft beers are paired to a speciﬁc tapasstyle plate that features locally inspired ﬂavours. Sheraton Grand Jakarta Gandaria City Hotel, Jl Sultan Iskandar Muda, Kebayoran, +62 21 806 30888; sheratongrandjakartagandariacity.com

Insider I POSTCODE

Get a tasteful edit of promising homegrown designers 5

Martabak Boss If the late-night munchies hit, make your way to this funky food cart. It offers trendy versions of a popular local snack, martabak – a pancake stuffed with various ingredients. The hipster interpretations of the dish here include matcha, red velvet and even durian for the adventurous foodie. Best of all, each martabak is cooked to order so you’ll get to savour it piping hot off the griddle. Jl Panglima Polim Raya IX No. 124, +62 21 27510559; facebook.com/MartabakBoss

ARA Jakarta Fashionistas get a tasteful edit of some of the most promising homegrown designers and fashion labels at ARA Jakarta, a beautiful, light-ﬁlled space. Labels in store include Peggy Hartanto (think sculptural cocktail dresses) and Toton – (feminine designs featuring Indonesian fabrics) and modern monochromatic pieces by Fbudi to cater to every style sensibility. Colony 6 Kemang Unit 5-6, Jalan Kemang Raya No. 6, +62 21 29529958; arajakarta.com

3 WORDS KAREN TEE ILLUSTRATION KAT CHADWICK

Letter D. One of Jakarta’s buzziest restaurants, Letter D is the brainchild of Chef Degan, a former judge on Masterchef Indonesia. To reﬂect the chef’s penchant for globetrotting, the menu features a blend of Indonesian and Thai cuisine, with a European touch. Be sure to order the salmon lodeh, where slow-roasted salmon is paired with a frothy Indonesian coconut broth to create the ultimate comfort-food dish. Reservations are recommended. Jl KH Ahmad Dahlan No. 16, +62 2172789111

One Fifteenth Coffee Put this industrial-chic and Instagram-friendly café on your map when exploring South Jakarta. One of the ﬁrst coffee shops to offer specialty coffee in the city, One Fifteenth Coffee boasts some of the best beans you can sample, both from Indonesia and abroad. There’s also a scrumptious menu of brunch food, sweet treats and local cuisine to complement your brew. Jl Gandaria 1/63, +62 21 7225678; 1-15coffee.com

DIA.LO.GUE Visit this this multiconcept space for unique, design-centric shopping. It houses a retail store that features a wide variety of decorative and home decor items, stationery and jewellery, plus a gallery space that hosts a rotating roster of exhibitions by Indonesian artists and designers. A recent exhibition featured a retrospective of Indonesia graphic design. A laid-back bistro rounds off the facilities. Jl Kemang Selatan No.99A, RT.1/RW.2, Bangka; facebook.com/dialogueartspace

13 025

Insider I IN PROFILE

HAPPINESS

BY DESIGN

Give your loved ones something quirky this Christmas from Singapore design store Naiise

Chilli crab, er, cushion anyone?

INTERVIEW SASHA GONZALES GONZAALES

I ka : Naiise Hini Left to right rse, S$449;9 Ho g in ck Dragon Ro ob Sleeping Grizzly Naiise Do g, S$269 Cub Bean Ba

t started as a website, then as a pop-up store in January 2014. Today, Naiise (pronounced “nice”) can be found in six locations across Singapore, including an 8,500-sq ft ﬂagship store at The Cathay. Founder Dennis Tay’s love for design was shaped during his previous role as the owner of a creative agency, and he is proud to now share his passion with others. Naiise is famous for its quirky and eye-catching products – think biscuit-shaped lamps and rocking horses – that range from home accessories and fashion to food. About 60% to 70% of the products are designed or created in Singapore, making Naiise both an early champion of local design and a popular destination for tongue-in-cheek souvenirs.

Insider I IN PROFILE being able to come in and look at and touch the designs. The business just grew from there. Between March and October 2015, we opened ﬁve brick-and-mortar stores. We also have an online store (naiise.com) to give customers greater ﬂexibility when it comes to buying and collecting their products.

Pick up a cool T-shirt (or three) at Naiise and (inset) Nom Nom Plush Curry Puff Cushion, priced from S$29.90

Any tips for buying the perfect Christmas gift? Get something that’s fun but also functional – then at least you’ll know they’ll use it. Here are some ideas: The Outlier’s Spicy Pork Cubes Canned Food Stool/Low Table (S$169), makes a bright statement for the home and Bigmouth Inc’s Birds Pool Party Beverage Floats (S$35.90) are great for pool parties. Both are available at Naiise. Surprise them!

Our local brands take us back to our childhood How did Naiise start? Back when I was running a creative agency, I met many talented local designers who wanted to create and market their own products but were afraid shoppers wouldn’t be interested. I started Naiise for two reasons – one, I wanted to give these artisans a platform to showcase and sell their designs and give them exposure on an international level. And two, I felt we could all do with more well-designed products in our lives.

Q 16

Why is good design so important to you? It adds colour to our lives. It also solves problems, inspires innovation and makes life simpler.

Naiise is known for products that evoke happiness. Should good design make you happy? Yes! Design doesn’t exist

simply to fulﬁl a function or solve a problem. It has many intangible values, too, which we tend to overlook. Inspiring happiness in our customers is very important to us and guides us in everything we do. Tell us about the Singapore-themed products at Naiise. The demand for Singapore-designed and -made goods is on the rise as more people become aware of our local talent. Many of our local brands reference our culture and take us back to our childhood, like our ‘White Rabbit’ cushions, for example, which resemble the candy many Singaporeans grew up with; USB lamps shaped like iced-gem biscuits; and cups that look like they came from an old-

fashioned Singapore kopitiam (coffee shop). What makes Naiise different from other gift stores in Singapore? We look at our products as more than just gifts. They’re inspiring, they fulfil some purpose in your life, they’re functional and they put a smile on your face. We also truly care about nurturing our designers and building our creative community, not just in Singapore but regionally.

How did you grow Naiise to six outlets as of this June? We won many fans with our pop-up stores and found they appreciated a personal shopping experience. They liked

Tell us about Naiise’s events, like your most recent in September – ‘I Eat Design’. Our events are about creating positive experiences for people, collaborating with like-minded creative businesses and bringing communities together to increase awareness of the design scene. ‘I Eat Design’ was a celebration of Singaporeans’ love of food. Visitors got to design their own edible creations like granola parfaits, attend foodrelated workshops and, of course, eat.

The new luxe Say hello to the new breed of luxe hotels for the cool Instagram generation. From the #arty rooms and industrial-chic décor to sleek gadgets aplenty, you’ll want to like them more than once

Step right in to the coolest luxe life

hether you’re a frequent business traveller, a holiday escape artist or a once-a-year sunseeker, your choice of hotel can really make or break your trip. And while once upon a time, reliable (but cookie-cutter) chain hotels were reassuring, we’re all looking for something a little more experience-driven in an era that’s fuelled by social media. Here’s our pick of seven cool boutique hotels that oﬀer something besides a good night’s sleep – from a chocolate deli to Philippe Starck bathrooms.

Insider I TRAVEL TREND

From left (opposite page): Mira Moon’s entrance; sunset views from Luna2 Studiotel; ﬁne dining at Macalister Mansion

BEST FOR QUIRKY CHARM: Mira

BEST FOR FASHIONISTAS:

Fly me to the moon… the Mira Moon that is. Mixing Chinese tradition with cutting-edge cool, this hotel has personality to spare. With a creative design based on the ancient myth of the MidAutumn moon goddess, unique touches abound – including bespoke peony wall mosaics in the bathrooms and ﬂying rabbit lamps in the lobby – while rooms come kitted out with Handy smartphones, iPad minis and Apple AirPlay connectivity. The theme continues to the hotel’s Supergiant restaurant, which serves SpanishChinese fusion cuisine, while the leafy lantern-lit Secret Garden terrace is the perfect hideaway in which to enjoy a cocktail. Priced from HK$1,700 (S$302) per night, plus 10% service charge.

Pack your Chanel 2.55 and a string of pearls for a high-fashion sleepover. No less an icon than Karl Lagerfeld himself designed the Lion’s Seal emblem that features prominently throughout this 132-room, 16-suite neo-classical property located right in the heart of Singapore’s CBD. Beautifully restored under the watchful eye of renowned interior designer Isabelle Miaja, the “French heritage meets modern Singapore” space is comfortable, chic and sleek, with a raft of high-tech Apple gadgets in every room, including mini iPads to control entertainment and order room service. There’s even a signature SO Soﬁtel scent in the luxurious, complimentary toiletries pack. Très chic.

WORDS RACHEL READ AND KATE FARR

Moon, Hong Kong

SO Soﬁtel Singapore

SO Soﬁtel Bangkok’s Park Lobby has some serious style cred

Priced from S$260++ per night.

BEST FOR CITY SLICKERS: SO

Soﬁtel Bangkok

Another high-concept hotel with serious style cred, SO Sofitel Bangkok is themed around the elements of water, earth, wood, metal and fire, with each carrying its own distinct look and feel. The theme extends all the way up to the rooftop, with the poolside Water Club and fire-themed Red Oven restaurant offering guests plenty of space to kick back and soak in the atmosphere. Luxe-loving gourmands, take note: the hotel has an on-site craft chocolate deli, Chocolab, while rooftop bar HI-SO’s

private cabanas oﬀer a sophisticated space for cocktails with a spectacular view. Priced from THB5737 (S$229) per night.

BEST FOR FUNLOVING SPACE CADETS: Luna2 Studiotel Bali

Ever wish your hotel room came with a large sprinkling of fun? Step right this way into this witty, cool and downright cosmic space in fashionable Seminyak. Each of the hotel’s 14 open-plan studios appears to be beamed in from the future, with Pop Art aplenty, vibrant accent colours and Philippe Starck bathtubs adding to the Jetsons vibe.

Insider I TRAVEL TREND Art – is every bit as Instagramable, while regular DJ gigs, a rooftop bar and art exhibition space all add to the hip and buzzing vibe. Hop onto one of the hotel’s purple bicycles to explore Jakarta further… the city is your canvas.

You’ll feel as if you’ve walked into the pages of a magazine

Stay here SO Soﬁtel Singapore 35 Robinson Rd, Singapore, +65 6701 6800; soﬁtel.com

SO Soﬁtel Bangkok 2 North Sathorn Rd, Bangrak, Bangkok, Thailand ,+66 2624 0000; soﬁtel.com The Silver Room at TUVE

Away from your studio, the retro-inspired Pop! lounge bar is the perfect spot to sink a tipple before a movie at the Lunaplex. Priced from US$350 (S$483) per night.

BEST FOR MINIMALIST CHIC:

All rooms come stocked with Fresh toiletries and feature a customdesigned ‘Wunderbox’, which opens to reveal a desk, chair and mini-bar. Clutter is so last season. Priced from HK$900 (S$160) per night, plus 10% service charge.

TUVE, Hong Kong In a city ﬁlled with glitzy big-name chains, 66-room boutique hotel TUVE stands out from the crowd with a refreshingly sleek and simple style. Located in the quiet neighbourhood of Tin Hau, a short walk from bustling shopping haven Causeway Bay, TUVE’s pared-back aesthetic is straight out of a design magazine, with raw materials like marble, oxidised metal and gold-speckled concrete taking centrestage among its mostly monochromatic interiors.

BEST FOR STREET ART LOVERS: Artotel Thamrin, Jakarta

Fancy discovering the next Banksy… in your hotel room? In a unique collaboration with eight emerging Indonesian artists, Artotel brings striking street style into your luxury studio suite. The many funky design details in every corner look like they’ve sprung straight from a Pinterest mood board. The hotel’s restaurant ROCA – aka the Restaurant Of Contemporary

Luna2 Studiotel Jl Sarinande No 20/22, Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia, +62 361 730 402; luna2.com

TUVE 16 Tsing Fung St, Tin Hau, Hong Kong, +852 3995 8899; tuve.hk

Mira Moon 388 Jaffe Rd, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, +852 2643 8888; miramoonhotel.com

Artotel Thamrin – Jakarta Jl Sunda No 3, Thamrin, Jakarta, Indonesia, +62 21 3192 5888; artotelindonesia.com

Priced from IDR845,000 (S$89.50) per night.

BEST FOR DOWNTON ABBEY DREAMERS: Macalister Mansion, Penang

Hotels don’t come much more exclusive than the Macalister Mansion, which boasts a grand total of only eight rooms and delivers colonial sophistication with a contemporary touch. Set in a beautifully restored 1900s manor, each unique room comes adorned with specially commissioned art. It’s hard to choose a favourite but Room 4, with its spiral staircase and cosy turret, is the perfect place to live out fairytale fantasies. Meanwhile, Dining Room serves innovative ﬁne dining in a chic yet whimsical interior, while the outdoor pool’s swimup bar is just the touch of modern luxury every lord or lady needs. Priced from RM900 (S$299) per night.

Macalister Mansion 228 Macalister Rd, George Town, Penang, Malaysia, +604 2283 888; macalistermansion.com

Artotel brings street style and design details into your suite

“Top 10 Indoor Gardens of the World”

“World’s Largest Glass Greenhouse - Flower Dome”

- FoxNews.com

- Guinness World Records 2015

Christmas @ Gardens by the Bay

Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay - Featuring over 1 million plants from 5,000 species Showcasing the best of horticulture, sustainability and architectural design, Gardens by the Bay has blossomed into a must-see destination that’s among the world’s top 20 most checked-in places on Facebook. Journey across Flower Dome to discover 9 different gardens from Africa, America, Asia, Australia and Europe. Marvel at the 35-metre tall waterfall in Cloud Forest and be amazed as you stroll along the mist-filled Cloud Walk and Tree Top Walk. Come, be inspired by nature where wonder blooms.

Merry Medley floral display Flower Dome • 11 Nov - 5 Jan Be enchanted by twinkling Christmas trees and fabulous festive flowers like Christmas roses, amaryllis and poinsettias. Experience the wonder of childhood as lovely ballerinas, toy soldiers and an angelic choir present a merry medley!

@gardensbythebay gardensbythebay.com.sg 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953

MIRAMAR ENTERTAINMENT PARK This entertainment park isn’t just one of Taipei’s largest malls: it’s also home to an IMAX theatre and a totally Instagramable, 70m-tall Ferris wheel. @fong_shin

TAIPEI’S TOP 10 INSTAGRAM SHOTS

@dimsumdl

NATIONAL CHIANG KAI-SHEK MEMORIAL HALL This monument was built in honour of the former president of China. Visit the surrounding park where you can snap pictures of the intriguing architecture. @f_l_e_u_r_p

@karen.is.me

YUMMY MARKET SNACKS Visit Shilin Night Market for its numerous stalls that sell all kinds of photo-worthy local treats, from skewered meats and oyster omelette to rice noodles and savoury dumplings. Yum.

The Taiwanese capital is an enticing mixture of old and new. When you’ve ﬁnished checking out the temples, memorials and monuments, head to the markets for tasty #streeteats, take a hike or ride a Ferris wheel

TAMSUI OLD STREET Located in the seaside town of Tamsui, about a 40-minute train ride from Taipei, this pedestrian street is well worth exploring for its handicraft shops, food stalls and trendy cafés.

ELEPHANT MOUNTAIN HIKING TRAIL

FUNKY STREET ART Taipei’s hip Ximending district is a mecca for grafﬁti artists. The best spot for a street snap is on Wuchang Street by the murals on the outer wall of the in89 Digital Cinemax theatre.

@goldmarlboro

Escape the city and try this hike, also called the Xiang Shan Trail. The view from the top – of Taipei 101 and downtown – is worth every steep step.

@ariannacarisella

Insider I INSTAGRAMABLE

TAIPEI 101

@superhero1227

Designed to resemble a stalk of bamboo, Taipei 101 was the world’s tallest building from 2004 to 2010. It boasts 101 ﬂoors, an observation deck on the 89th ﬂoor, restaurants and a mall. 23

WORDS SASHA GONZALES

@nellotntravel

@hsieheva758

LONGSHAN TEMPLE Built in 1738 by immigrants from Fujian in China, this icon has been renovated several times. Inside, you’ll ﬁnd statues of deities, exquisite bronze pillars and eye-catching dragon embellishments.

@hana_hana_boy

TAG US Don’t forget to tag us @jetstarasia #jetstarasia when you’re sharing your travel snaps.

NATIONAL SUN YAT-SEN MEMORIAL HALL

PRESIDENTIAL OFFICE BUILDING

This memorial commemorates Chinese leader Dr Sun Yat-sen. You’ll see exhibits showcasing his accomplishments, and don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony.

This Baroque-style building was built in 1919, during the Japanese occupation. Today it’s open to visitors who want to learn about Taiwan’s colonial past and cultural development.

Artas 3K Robotic Hair Restoration Do you feel you look years older because of your hair loss? Are people always asking why you are losing so much hair? Do you feel helpless about your hair loss despite all that you have done? Do you wish you could have a full head of hair?

CALL OR EMAIL US FOR MORE INFORMATION TODAY!

Speak to us today about ARTAS 3K Robotic hair transplant. Start looking \RXQJHU PRUH FRQĆ&#x201C;GHQW and rejuvenated with a thicker hairline ABOUT DR HAROLD MA â&#x20AC;˘ Established Singapore hair

If this sounds familiar, it is time to consider hair restoration surgery, one of the most effective means to restore your hairline. Many men and women suffer from hair loss and the most common causes of hair loss are genetic, hormonal, nutritional, stress and aging. Left untreated, hair loss could be permanent, leaving you looking aged and sickly. We have the full range of solutions to meet your VSHFLĆ&#x201C;F QHHGV

What is Robotic Hair Transplant?

Our safe and effective hair transplant procedure involves moving hair from healthy scalp to thinning areas, allowing hair to grow in a natural way. At Freia, we use the upgraded ARTAS 3K Robotic Hair Transplant System, increasing graft quality and yield once again. We have an experienced and dedicated

WHDP RI TXDOLĆ&#x201C;HG KDLU WUDQVSODQW doctors and nurses to ensure you have the best possible results, every time.

Other Services: â&#x20AC;˘ Revage Laser Hair Growth System

â&#x20AC;˘ iGrow Home Hair Growth System

â&#x20AC;˘ Laser permanent hair removal â&#x20AC;˘ Zeltiq Coolsculpting body contouring and Zeltiq Coolmini face contouring (to treat double chin and â&#x20AC;&#x153;braâ&#x20AC;? fat) â&#x20AC;˘ Scalp micro pigmentation â&#x20AC;˘ Medlite Depigmentation Laser â&#x20AC;˘ Ulthera Skin Tightening Treatment â&#x20AC;˘ Botox and Fillers â&#x20AC;˘ Dual-yellow laser for total skin rejuvenation â&#x20AC;˘ Clinical rejuvenating facials - Signature Hydrating, Signature Oxygen, Redcarpet, No-tox facials etc

transplant doctor

â&#x20AC;˘ Passionate about restoring a natural hairline

â&#x20AC;˘ Performing hair transplant for many years

â&#x20AC;˘ Sees regional and global patients

â&#x20AC;˘ Performs all 3 techniques of hair transplant: traditional FUT, FUE and since 2013, the ARTAS Robotic hair transplant â&#x20AC;˘ Member of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgeons and Asian Association of Hair Restoration Surgeons

435 Orchard Road #19-03, :LVPD $WULD 2IĆ&#x201C;FH 7RZHU S238877 Singapore Tel +65-6735-8180 Hotline +65-8223-0609 info@freia.com.sg, www.freia.sg, www.facebook.com/freia.sg

As featured on National TV, Radio and The London Times

Think Hair, Think Dr. Harold - Established 2006

Insider I WHAT’S IN MY SUITCASE?

When I wake up at 4am for a ﬂight, I need the face paint

PHOTO WONG WEILIANG STYLING GRACIA PHANG PORTRAIT PHOTO SHAWNA CHIA / LANEWAY FESTIVAL SINGAPORE

Sketchbooks are such beautiful little things

Have music, will travel Call it an occupational hazard. Singer-songwriter Sam Rui, who’s performing at Laneway Festival Singapore in January, just can’t leave home without her headphones

Sam Rui Singer-songwriter Twitter/Instagram: @sammirui Spotify: @samrui

WHEN WE GO ON FAMILY TRIPS, my brothers and I usually share a suitcase and even our clothing – so we can have twice the wardrobe with the same amount of luggage space. Some people take photos on holiday; I draw to remember the places I’ve been. It’s also why I collect sketchbooks. My favourite is this leatherbound one I got at a street market in China.

It’s tiny and not the most functional – but it’s so beautiful. Besides pens and pencils, I always bring gold acrylic paint as it gives an ordinary pencil sketch a polished, dreamy look – my signature style. My leather jacket and Dr. Martens are also musts in my luggage, because the jacket makes any outﬁt look more presentable when I have to meet people or play gigs, while the waterproof

Dr. Martens are great for walking in. They also give basic outﬁts a slight edge without making you look as if you’re trying too hard. I always pack my handphone and headphones so I can plug into Spotify Premium. I lose my mind when I’m travelling and don’t have music to listen to. For more information, visit singapore. lanewayfestival.com

Top to bottom: the tea ceremony at Osaka’s Tea Ceremony Waraku; a traditional dance is performed after the ceremony at Waraku

Take some time out for tea and gain a sense of clarity and relaxation

Mind your manners 26

PEACE IN A CUP A MORE CONTEMPLATIVE WAY FOR TRAVELLERS TO APPRECIATE JAPAN IS TO TAKE PART IN THE COUNTRY’S TRADITIONAL TEA CEREMONY – OR CHADO AS IT IS COMMONLY KNOWN

olidaying in Japan can be frantic because of the seemingly endless options of good food and shopping. If this pace of indulgence is tiring, slowing down a notch with a traditional Japanese tea ceremony could be just your cup of tea.

Thoughtful tea The traditional Japanese tea ceremony (also known as chado, sado or chanoyu) is essentially

a meticulous ritual of preparing and serving powdered green tea (matcha) whisked with hot water that has been warmed by a charcoal

hearth to guests. It is generally served with a small sweet, such as red bean mochi rice cake. This ceremony was perfected in the 16th century by a tea master called Sen no Rikyū. He developed the ceremonial procedure and rules, the tea utensils and teahouse architecture based on the Zen Buddhist principle of wabi sabi, which is essentially an appreciation of life’s transient beauty. “The Japanese tea ceremony is the epitome

According to Ayako Fukui, owner of Tea Ceremony Waraku in Osaka, wellbehaved tea ceremony guests: ● Wear white socks in the tea room. This is because white represents purity, which is the ideal state of mind one should be in when taking part in the Japanese tea ceremony. ● Ask the host about the tea utensils, such as where they are from and who made them. Better still, make known your appreciation of the beautiful aesthetics of the tea utensils or tea room. ● Apologise for drinking the tea or eating a snack by announcing to everyone in the room “o-saki ni”, which means “excuse me for going before you”. There are many other rules, Fukui adds, but visitors are not expected to adhere to all of them. “We’re happy as long as guests are relaxed and enjoy the tea ceremony,” she says.

Insider I TRADITION TALKS At Kimono Teahouse, you’ll also learn how to tie and wear a kimono and how to make your own matcha

Where to sip Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo 2-2-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, +81-3-3344-0111; keioplaza. com/offers/tea.html

Kimono Teahouse 3-18 Rokumantaichō, Tennōji-ku, Osaka, +81 90 7686 7280; kimonoteahouse.com

Nadeshiko

WORDS MELANIE LEE PHOTOS ISTOCK; MELANIE LEE

The tea ce ceremony is th the epitome of h hospitality off h hospitality it lit b because it embraces the idea that every ﬂeeting moment is precious because it might never happen again,” says Tomomi Matsumoto Law, co-founder and manager of Kimono Teahouse in Osaka. This is, perhaps, why a more formal version of the chado ceremony can last as long as four hours. The whole ceremony itself is carefully considered. A traditional service is usually in a specially designated room, lined with tatami mats and sparsely decorated with, for example, a piece of calligraphy and a minimalistic plant or ﬂoral arrangement. The

te master and guests are tea expected to move slowly and gracefully. Such strict decorum might seem stressful and intimidating. For example, folding the fukusa, a silk handkerchief used by the tea master to wipe (and symbolically purify) the tea scoop and tea caddy, requires about eight steps that must be followed with some degree of precision. And it’s not just the tea master who needs to remember the rules. Guests, upon receiving the chawan (tea bowl), need to turn the chawan clockwise three times before they drink, and after ﬁnishing, they have to turn the bowl

2-7-24-2F Asakusa Taito-ku Tokyo, +81 3 3842 8756; hanayashiki.net/shops/ nadeshiko/e

Tea Ceremony Waraku Hanatenhigashi, Tsurumi-ku, Osaka, +81 90 6058 1608; teaceremony-waraku.com

All smiles at the ceremony at Kimono Teahouse

anti-clockwise three times before returning it to the host. However, such exacting steps of chado have been known to bring about a sense of relaxation and clarity for tea masters and guests.

Personalising chado For anyone who’s new to chado, there are teahouses that help to make this ritual more accessible. At Kimono Teahouse, Law teaches guests how to wear kimonos and how to make their own matcha. Meanwhile Ayako Fukui, owner of Tea Ceremony Waraku in Osaka, hosts tea ceremonies at her family house in a traditional tea room. Her mother, a Japanese dance master, performs a traditional dance for guests after the ceremony. “Many of our customers say going for a Japanese tea ceremony is such a personal and informative way to experience our culture,” she says.

Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Largest free-flight walk-in aviary

Come a nd discover this

exciting world of feathered friends and enthralling sights for yourself!

9.30am - 5.30pm Bird Photography

10.00am - 5.00pm Ostrich Feeding

11.30am Hornbill Feeding

2.30pm Eagle Feeding

10.00am - 5.00pm Lory Feeding

10.30am Free Flying Birds Feeding

12.30pm & 3.30pm Bird Show

4.00pm Milky Stork Feeding

* All activities are subject to change due to uncertain weather conditions.

www.facebook.com/klbirdpark

* Ostrich feeding: while vegetable stocks last.

www.klbirdpark.com

For enquiries: KL Bird Park

For reservations & enquiries:

920, Jalan Cenderawasih, Taman Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur. Tel: +603-2272 1010 Fax: +603-2273 5428 Email: info@klbirdpark.com Opening Hours: 9.00am to 6.00pm daily

Hornbill Restaurant @ KL Bird Park Tel: +603â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2693 8086 Email: hornbillrestaurant@klbirdpark.com Opening Hours: 9.00am to 8.00pm daily

Insider I 24 HOURS

24 HOURS IN

YANGON

WORDS YUEN YI YING PHOTOS ALAMY; CHAN BROTHERS TRAVEL; OATAI23/PIXABAY; PAMMAL/PIXABAY; SHARONANG/PIXABAY; TEDD/PIXABAY

In Myanmar’s history-rich former capital, you’ll see grand colonial-style buildings and an all-gold pagoda – and perhaps even tuck into some fried insects

The Accountant-General’s Ofﬁce is a popular spot for history buffs

Port Authority buildings. Many of these are covered on the two-and-a-half-hour walking tours organised by the nonproﬁt Yangon Heritage Trust, which run in the morning and afternoon three times a week. The tours cost US$30 (S$41) per head and all of the proceeds go toward conservation efforts for the city’s heritage sites. Contact: +95 1 240 544;

Sample the tastes and colours of Myanmar

yangonheritagetrust.org

9AM SOAK UP SOME HISTORY Once a glittering gem in the British Empire, the city has retained many of its grand colonial structures (and possibly has the most you’ll ﬁnd in a Southeast Asian city). Unfortunately, a century of neglect has dimmed some of the shine, but if you walk through the Downtown region, you’ll spot the stately High Court, Secretariat and

Pick up souvenirs and snacks at the bustling Bogyoke Market

11.30AM SHOP, STROLL AND SNACK Bogyoke Aung San Market (formerly Scott Market) might be a bit touristy, but you’ll get a sampling of just about everything Myanmar has to offer in this 90-year-old complex. You’ll ﬁnd stores selling local handicrafts, clothes, medicine and even precious stones. There’s a good selection of food, too. Musttries include local signature delights like mohinga, (a sweet and sour noodle dish), ﬂavoursome curries and zesty Burmese salads. Address: Bogyoke Aung San Rd

Insider I 24 HOURS

6PM DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT

The glittering barge

Since you’re within walking distance of Kandawgyi Lake, be sure to visit Karaweik Palace. Although it operates mainly as a ﬂoating restaurant, the barge is so iconic that it’s been featured on local currency and incorporated into the logos of indigenous companies. The buffet is worth trying for the accompanying cultural show featuring puppetry and traditional dancing. Address: Kandawgyi Compound, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, +951 290 546, +951 290 547; karaweikpalace.com Enjoy yummy fare as you watch black and white local ﬂicks at Rangoon Tea House

You’ll need sunglasses to glance at this eye-catching gleaming structure

1PM GRAB LUNCH AT A CHIC EATERY You’ll spot several roadside tea stalls during your trip, but get a taste of the city’s burgeoning hipster culture at Rangoon Tea House, which has been receiving good reviews in local and overseas publications. You might even see a celeb or two – actors Bill Nighy and Catherine Deneuve are rumoured to have dropped by. Focusing on Burmese foods and drinks with an international twist, the eatery’s bestsellers include samosas and chicken biryani. Address: 77–79 Pansodan St, +959 979 078 681; facebook. com/RangoonTeaHouse

Travel Info Jetstar ﬂies twice daily from Singapore to Yangon. To book visit JETSTAR.COM

The pagoda is decked out in genuine gold leaf

9PM AFTER HOURS Still peckish? Where there’s nightlife, there’s good food. In Yangon, the 19th Street in Chinatown is where you’ll ﬁnd street stalls selling delicious grilled meats and seafood as well as more adventurous snacks like fried insects. For the latter, Shwe Mingalar is a popular pick with its colourful racks of fresh produce. Besides barbecued food, the stall also serves up some tasty Chinese dishes and a lively atmosphere. Address: Shwe Mingalar, No. 105, 19th St

3PM BE DAZZLED Just a short cab ride away, Shwedagon Pagoda looks magniﬁcent atop Singuttara Hill, decked out in genuine gold leaf and laden with thousands of diamonds. It has a 2,500-year history and is believed to house several holy relics, including Buddha’s hair. It’s also a great spot for people-watching, but if you visit, remember to dress modestly, keeping shoulders and above the knees covered. Address: Singuttara Hill, Dagon; shwedagonpagoda.com

Cap off your trip with memorable street snacks

Insider I ADVERTORIAL

DATE SMARTER James and Suri are stronger every day s a managing director with a highly demanding job, James Leonard wanted a solution to ﬁnd his soul mate in a safe way. Little did he expect the result to come quite so soon.

Why did you join IJL? I lead a stressful life, with a job that requires tons of my time and energy – and this has a corresponding impact on my personal life. After being divorced for more than eight years, I tried the usual ways to meet a potential partner – through recommendations from family, friends and even business acquaintances. While all had good intentions, I didn’t want to feel obligated or compelled to date someone who wasn’t meeting my criteria. I also spoke to friends

DATING STATS NAME: James Leonard AGE: 60 PROFESSION: Managing Director HOBBIES: Marathon running, gardening, soccer and ice hockey NAME: Suri Samuri AGE: 44 PROFESSION: Educator HOBBIES: Musicals, plays, theatres and general ﬁtness about online dating and heard all the bad stories that came with that: photos were quite dated, physical descriptions that were misleading, and the list goes on. That’s why the concept of IJL appealed to me. It was the professional approach and ability to deliver high-quality results with no hassle. Their matchmakers delved deep into my requirements and worked to send me out

Re-entering the dating scene can be daunting – but James Leonard took matters into his own hands. He worked with the experts at It’s Just Lunch (IJL) in Singapore to help him save time and ﬁnd his soul mate

with women who were my intellectual equal.

What was your impression of the process? It was interesting – instead of ticking the usual boxes and answering some multiplechoice questions, the interview conducted in their office was very personal and comfortable. I realised they were trying to get past the walls we all have, especially after a failed relationship. My interviewer was sophisticated in her line of questioning and I was made to really prioritise what was important to me. Our conversations went beyond the superficial and I had to really reflect about ‘what made me dateable?’

How did IJL help you ﬁnd your partner? Suri and I just clicked.

Singapore: (+65) 6536 0100 www.itsjustlunchsingapore.com

We’re now celebrating six years of being together and every day we’re going strong! I felt the instant spark and chemistry with Suri because she was genuine, grounded and unpretentious. Just like me, she’s been married before, but what was most important was the fact that IJL made me realise common values and aspirations can really draw two individuals together.

Why would you recommend IJL? Based on my instant success, I wholeheartedly recommend IJL, with one caution. Be sure you’re serious about ﬁnding the right person, because they may ﬁnd that person faster than you think!

SPECIAL OFFER Quote xmas16 and you’ll receive $200 off our platinum membership and one complimentary date when you enrol in December 2016

Making the list FROM YUMMY EATS TO TOY COLLECTIBLES, THESE CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS WILL MAKE YOU THE MOST POPULAR PERSON AT ANY YEAR-END PARTY

1 2 32

Kids will love a cuddle with this little guy

Insider I SHOP IT

6 8

WORDS PEARLYN THAM BROOCH IMAGE HUG A PORCUPINE

Need to do some last-minute shopping? Don’t forget there are great buys on board Jetstar ﬂights

7 33

This has coconut cream and lime zest… yum!

1. PAN PACIFIC SINGAPORE Manjari dark chocolate mousse log cake, red glossy milk chocolate and raspberry log cake, and fresh calamansi log cake, S$68 each, order at pacificmarketplace.sg and collect your cakes from Nov 18 to Dec 25 at Pacific Marketplace, 7 Raffles Blvd. 2. INNISFREE limited edition DIY Music Box Kit, S$10 each, from Innisfree at #01-63/64, Plaza Singapura. 3. JETSTAR Airplane Plush Toy, S$20, available on all Jetstar Asia flights. 4. CRABTREE & EVELYN All Butter Gingerbread Men, S$28, from Crabtree & Evelyn at #B1-26 Paragon. 5. BELLROY TRAVEL WALLET S$169, from Robinsons The Heeren at 260 Orchard Rd. 6. EIGHT & BOB Original Candle, S$110, from Escentials at #03-02/05, Paragon. 7. LACOSTE men’s polo shirt, S$199, from Lacoste at #03-07 to 11, Wisma Atria. 8. HUG A PORCUPINE Arctic Owl Brooch, S$29, from The Little Dröm Store at School of the Arts, #02-01 , 1 Zubir Said Dr. 9. JETSTAR Check-In Counter Toy Box, S$40, available on all Jetstar Asia flights. 10. LADURÉE Christmas macarons, S$42 for box of six, from Ladurée at #02-09 Ngee Ann City. 11. AVEDA Feeling Balanced Chakra Balancing Body Mists set of seven, 8ml each, S$112, from Aveda at #B2-33, Capitol Piazza.

Precision makes perfect

Just desserts

Phuket celebrity chef Tammasak Chootong presents his favourite sweet festive recipe for you to try at home

WORDS AND PHOTOS SIMON N OSTHEIMER

Insider I MASTERCLASS Dine al fresco at Tammasak Chootong’s relaxed Phuket restaurant Suay

Whip the egg whites and lime juice. Heat up the sugar and water on high heat to reduce the liquid to produce a thick sugar syrup. Continue whipping the egg whites and pour the sugar syrup slowly into the stiffened egg white mix. Set the mix aside.

hef Tammasak ‘Noi’ Chootong is known equally for the best-selling dishes he creates at his Phuket restaurant Suay and for his role on a hit TV show. When he’s not in the kitchen, he can be found on the set of Iron Chef Thailand, a show that features resident

Chef Noi’s delicious international cuisine

What’s a main without a sweet finish? chefs battling it out with challengers in the kitchen. When he’s at Suay, Chef Noi draws on his Thai heritage and German upbringing to serve contemporary Thai cuisine with international influences. Key favourites on the menu include the fresh tuna tartare (pictured left), served with miso lime and Isaan-style spices (THB259/S$10). The braised beef cheek is also a top seller at THB650 (S$26). It’s served with massaman curry, coconut gnocchi and edamame bean salsa. But what’s a main without a sweet finish? Here Chef Noi shares his favourite family sized Christmas dessert for you to make at home this festive season.

Baked Alaska with Baileys Irish ice-cream and ginger-vanilla syrup (serves 10)

3. GINGER– VANILLA SYRUP

1. BAILEYS IRISH ICECREAM SANDWICH

Peel and thinly slice ginger, and blanch in boiling water for 1 minute. Place ginger into a small pan with cold water and heat with sugar, glucose and vanilla bean (cut in half to scrape the beans out), and reduce until it’s a thick syrup.

60ml Baileys Irish Cream 500g vanilla ice-cream 10 Oreo cookies Combine the Baileys Irish Cream with vanilla ice-cream and mix well. Pull the Oreos apart to create a top and a bottom. Place all the cookie bottoms into individual round moulds (each the same size as the Oreo), add vanilla ice-cream into the moulds. Close with the top Oreos and leave in the freezer to set.

2. ITALIAN MERINGUE 3 egg whites 1 tsp lime juice 180g sugar 100ml water

150g fresh peeled ginger 300ml water 250g sugar 1 tbs liquid glucose ½ vanilla bean

4. TO FINISH Take the ice-cream sandwich from the freezer, cover it completely with the Italian meringue, and then ﬂame it with a kitchen torch to brown the meringue slightly. Lastly, serve with fresh berries, the mixed ginger-vanilla syrup, and a little of your favourite chocolate sauce.

SUAY, PHUKET 50/2 Takuapa Rd, Old Town, Phuket, +66 87 888 6990; suayrestaurant.com Iron Chef Thailand is broadcast weekly on Thai Channel 7; facebook.com/ironchefthailand

Insider I BEAUTY ON THE FLY

Christmas stocking (up) Add these limited-edition products to your gift list and your friends and family will wish they’d been nicer to you this year

A classic, racy red

337

Elegance with a retro touch

2 WORDS PEARLYN THAM

WE LOVE

1. RMK Christmas Kit 2016, S$123 Spain-based illustrator Idoia Montero designed this cute makeup bag that comes with makeup essentials including a travel-size nail polish, a lip gloss and an eyeshadow-blusher palette. Available at Isetan Scotts, Level 1. 2. MARC JACOBS Daisy Shine Edition, S$128 A festive interpretation of the favourite Daisy scent – the limited-edition bottles come in three metallic hues. Available at Tangs at Tang Plaza. 3. PHILOSOPHY Shimming Snowlace 3 in 1 shampoo, shower gel & bubble bath, S$38 A hard-working, multi-tasking product that comes in a pretty, gift-ready bottle. Available at Sephora.sg. 4. NARS Glass Metropolis Mini Audacious Lipstick Coffret, S$180 for set of eight. Why settle for one shade of the iconic Audacious lipstick when you can have a whole set? Available at Tangs at Tang Plaza. 5. BURBERRY Festive 2016 Gold Glow No. 01 Gold Shimmer, S$94 Ultra-ﬁne powders in this product make it easy to use on the face and the décolletage. Available at Sephora.sg 6. REN Luxury Moroccan Rose Collection, S$120 Bath time just got more posh with this trio of a body oil, a body wash and a sugar polish, each subtly scented with natural rose oil. Available at Escentials, #03-02/05 Paragon.

Take a journey east Be transported back to a faraway place with this beautiful cookbook & discover the most celebrated dishes of Southeast Asia.

Available from www.kinokuniya.com.sg

Lanterns outside the Goddess of Mercy Temple, which was built in the 1880s. Penang photo essay, p60.

PHOTO CHRISTOPHER WISE

TRAVEL HOT SPOTS 40 I BALI FARM STAYS 49 I PENANG 60

WHERE I’M IN

going

2017

Planning your next wanderlust escapade but can’t think of where to zip oﬀ to? Get some #travelinspo for the year ahead from the cool crew WORDS EVON CHNG

COVER STORY I 2017 TRAVEL

ith the new year fast approaching, we start to dream about where to travel in the year ahead. Perhaps you’re thinking of a beach escape, or a shopping holiday? Maybe you want to get oﬀ the beaten track and have a real adventure. If you can’t decide, let the jet-set and the tastemakers inspire you: here they reveal where they’ll be going in 2017.

JOSIAH CHUA, 27, freelance stylist and designer Where are you planning to visit in 2017? Bali for its interesting cafés and wide assortment of food choices. I’m also the adventurous type and have been wanting to try the beach activities there.

What’s the coolest destination you travelled to in 2016? It happened to be the hanami (cherry blossom) season when I was in Osaka for work so the entire city was picture perfect. I am also a huge Harry Potter fan and, needless to say, I enjoyed myself at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studio Osaka.

What are some hip buys you got during your travels this year? An exquisite kimono from a vintage thrift store in Osaka. It is handembroidered with gold threads and the price was aﬀordable.

If you had all the time and money in the world, what kind of a dream vacation would you have? I love theme parks and since you can’t possibly ﬁnish all the rides and explore the entire place in a single day, unlimited visits to any city with the coolest and wackiest theme parks would make the perfect vacation.

YVETTE KING, 30, host of E! News Asia What’s on your mustgo-to list for 2017 ?

Excited to be in the oﬃce of E! News in LA – Yvette

Even though I lived in Australia most of my life, I’ve never been to New Zealand and would love to go there for the wineries and to try snowboarding. Boracay in the Philippines is next on the list as I get major travel envy when my friends post travel updates from the island paradise.

What’s the coolest place you travelled to in 2016? My job takes me to places and I have visited the Los Angeles set of E! News, hiked up to the Hollywood sign and hung out at Venice Beach. I also visited Seoul during summer and came back with more than a hundred face masks and funky beauty products.

One of my many straw baskets from a recent trip - Melody

to Cuba, Havana, before it gets too commercial, and exploring more of Italy, speciﬁcally the Amalﬁ Coast, Rome and Florence.

What have you bought during your travels this year? I’ve been collecting a lot of baskets this year from all over the world. I use them as handbags to remind me of a journey from a particular travel experience.

What’s your dream vacation? I’d start by spending a month in Bali, which surprisingly, I’ve never been to, followed by Vietnam, Sri Lanka and Cambodia.

CHARMAINE SEAH-ONG, 33, co-founder of Elementary Co.

What’s your dream vacation?

What’s on your travel must-go-to list for 2017?

Iceland is mind-blowing, Pig Beach in the Bahamas is on my wish list and I can’t wait to get back to Hong Kong.

I’m a huge Game of Thrones fan so it would have to be Dubrovnik, the medieval town where most scenes in the series were ﬁlmed. The Croatian city is also right beside the Adriatic Sea so that’s a major plus point for me.

MELODY TAN, @meowiie, 23, social media content creator What’s on your travel must-go-to list for 2017? I’m really keen on going

What’s the coolest city you travelled to in 2016? I went on an all-girls trip to Bali with my girlfriends and explored neighbouring islands like Nusa Lembongan and

COVER STORY I 2017 TRAVEL I last visited Osaka when I was two and have no recollection of the place so I hope to go back there to bring back some memories.

Taking in the beautiful sights of the Indian Ocean – Charmaine

What’s the best city you travelled to in 2016?

I went to Tasmania for a work trip and ended up falling in love with the place – Lee Nusa Penida. There, I got to swim with manta rays and hiked [the equivalent of] 50 storeys down to the side of a cliﬀ to a waterfall overlooking the Indian Ocean. The view was awesome.

Any cool buys from your travels this year? Vintage designer shopping is incredible in Tokyo and I managed to snag myself a silk Prada mini skirt that I really love for only S$200. I also got an outrageous Comme des Garçons tulle mini skirt with a long train for only S$100.

something I would want to do as well.

What’s the coolest city you travelled to in 2016? Tokyo, Japan, because I love the culture and shopping. Another destination that caught me by surprise was Tasmania, Australia. Its clean air, fresh seafood, friendly locals and out-of-this-world landscape make me want to go explore the rest of Australia.

What are some hip buys you’ve got from your travels this year? I don’t usually buy soft toys but a lavenderscented teddy bear from Tasmania helps me sleep better at night.

It was in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, that I was lowered 60m into the Goa Jomblang Cave by a group of villagers. The experience was both thrilling and exciting.

Any cool buys from your travels this year? My partner surprised me with a beautiful Ganesha (Hindu elephant deity) stone statue from one of the street vendors during a visit to the Borobudur Temple. It means a lot of me as I’ve been searching for [a statue like it] for quite a while.

What’s your dream holiday? I am up for all kinds of outdoor travel adventures so somewhere that lets me explore hidden caves and historical sites and try out white-water rafting at the same time will be perfect.

LEE TENG, 32, TV host What’s on your travel hit list for 2017? My sister is based in Perth, Australia, and she’s been bugging me and the rest of the family for a visit. Driving to Sydney and Melbourne while I’m in Australia is

JESSICA SINCLAIR, 33, co-founder of The Yoga Mandala What’s on your travel must-visit list for 2017?

Striking a yoga pose in the Goa Jomblang Cave – Jessica

AARIKA LEE, 33, content creator and marketing director at Elementary Co. and musician What’s the coolest destination you visited in 2016?

We managed to get everyone into the water - Aarika

I went to Bali with my girlfriends and instead of the usual spots, we ventured out to the neighbouring islands and did fun things like snorkelling and hiking together.

What are some great buys you got from your travels this year? 44

The Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden in Chiang Mai - Charles

The porcelain cake stand I got from Hong Kong for my mom was really unique. It was an old blue and white china cake stand split down the middle – attached to another perfect half of an ornate cake stand.

What’s your dream vacation? It would be a road trip with my family in a caravan through New Zealand or California so my kids could experience camping and nature.

CHARLES LOH, 27, botanical artist at @mossingarden What’s on your mustgo-to list for 2017 ? Japan is known for

creative ikebana (plant arrangement) and architectural facades so I’m thinking of visiting the major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka to get inspiration for my terrarium business.

What are your travel highlights from 2016? I’m not a beach person but I do like Koh Chang island in Thailand for its authentic vibe. It’s such an underrated place that you don’t see a lot of tourists there so I get to isolate myself away from the city life.

Any hip buys from your travels this year? I’m obsessed with plants but since you can’t exactly bring a plant back from another country without having to go through a lot of paperwork, I make up for it by sourcing for unique glass bottles.

SHERRY ANG, 30, founder of Sushi Burrito What’s on your travel hit list for 2017? I'd like to escape from the city and experience farm life in New Zealand and take in the country’s lush greenery and inﬁnite landscape.

What’s the best spot you travelled to in 2016? Turkey was exceptionally breathtaking. I never knew a landscape as beautiful and natural as that of

COVER STORY I 2017 TRAVEL

Whether it ’s winter or summer, the temperature in the Cappadocia cave houses is a constant 15°C at all times

A passing train in Sri Lanka - Gabriel

- Sherry

Pamukkale existed. And the Cappadocia cave houses wowed me with their structure.

Any exciting purchases? I picked up some rustic-looking furniture handmade by a local designer in Bali for my child’s nursery and I like that you can’t ﬁnd it anywhere else.

What’s your dream holiday? I would love to go on a six-month holiday in a foreign country to experience the life of a local either by working or learning to cook the city’s cuisine.

particularly fascinated by the pair of [carved] lion’s paws at the bottom of the giant rock.

What’s on your travel must-go-to list for 2017? Deﬁnitely Oman, for its accessible desert, secluded beaches and intricate architecture. I’m also quite a foodie so its ﬂavourful cuisine is something I’ve been wanting to try.

Did you pick up any hip buys on your travels? I purchased a pair of elephant-print sarong pants from my Sri Lanka trip, which unfortunately tore – and between my legs! – when I was capturing a shot of a passing train. I was lucky no one was around to see what happened.

DR GABRIEL WONG, 31, medical director of SL Clinic What’s the coolest city you travelled to in 2016? I was in Sri Lanka for a holiday and the 200m-high Sigiriya (Lion Rock) looked pretty impressive for something that was constructed in the 5th century. I was

HONEY LEE, 35, managing director of Heat Branding What’s on your travel must-go-to list for 2017? Ho Chi Minh City, Taipei and Osaka for the

authentic cuisine, local shopping and exotic adventures.

What’s the coolest city you travelled to in 2016?

Loving chilling out poolside - Honey

I’m usually a selfprofessed city girl but my best trip this year was to a beach in Langkawi with my boyfriend. The beach was quiet and intimate – exactly the type of romantic destination that we were looking for – and [our itinerary] even came with a customised barbecue dinner.

What are some hip buys you got during your travels this year? I picked up a couple of designer goods for less than S$200 at the Lane Crawford and On Pedder outlet stores in Hong Kong. They are often located out of the city centres but they are my go-to places to score luxury pieces at a steal.

What’s your dream vacation? A month exploring New Zealand’s beaches, waterfalls, seafood and wineries would be a dream. The country is

Our romantic dinner was made better with a view like this - Honey also very scenic and I would take my boyfriend to capture all of the beautiful moments in pictures.

COVER STORY I 2017 TRAVEL

Feeding the sheep in the morning and having the time of my life away from the city - Hirzi

The torii (bird abode) is a traditional Japanese gate that is most commonly found at the entrance or within a shrine 46

- Melissa

Trees for days - Hirzi

MELISSA YEO, 39, freelance makeup artist

for a month in New Zealand to experience a simple lifestyle.

What’s on your mustvisit for 2017? I’m intrigued by historical architecture and charming buildings so Italy and Prague would be next on my travel list. I wouldn’t mind settling for Macau if time does not allow me to go too far as its unique mix of Portuguese and Asian culture can be quite fascinating.

What’s the best city or destination you travelled to in 2016?

HIRZI ZULKIFLIE @HirziZulkiﬂie, 27, actor and YouTube personality What’s on your travel must-go-to list for 2017? I hope to tour Scandinavia to see the Northern Lights and visit that side of the planet before climate change takes a toll.

I went on a spontaneous trip to Tokyo alone and was instantly drawn to the hip youth culture – street art, manga, fashion and cosplay. What came as a surprise was how I actually learnt to appreciate the old-world charm of Japan as I’ve always considered myself a fairly modern person.

What’s the coolest destination you travelled to in 2016?

Did you get any hip buys on your travels this year?

Knowing how exotic and picturesque Southeast Asia can be, I would like to go on a onemonth tour around the region. Vietnam, the Philippines...

I picked up this one-ofa-kind evening dress by a local designer at a ﬂea market in London and I thought it was a good buy for something that is not mass manufactured.

What kind of dream vacation would you take if time and money were no object? wer Iw would backpack alone

Queensland, Australia, is magical. I went on a farm stay and also stayed at a villa up in the rainforest – the view was spectacular.

If you had all the time and money in the world, what kind of a dream vacation would you have?

Any hip buys from your travels this year? I’m more about experiences – an immersive theatre installation in New York is something I’ll never forget.

The Return of an Authentic Eucalyptus Brand QUALITY TRUSTED SINCE 1896

BALI I FARM STAYS

Get back to nature and go raw

the other

side to

BALI

The island may be known for its beautiful beach resorts, but it’s also home to an array of farm stays on volcano slopes – and even in the middle of a coﬀee plantation WORDS ANITA SUREWICZ

The stunning surrounds of Munduk Moding Plantation

hile Bali is synonymous with images of sundrenched beaches and coastal resorts, the ‘Island of the Gods’ has a whole other – largely undiscovered – side. Anyone who’s eager to get oﬀ the beaten path and experience a more authentic Bali can check into one of the island’s farm stays. From camping to luxury villa stays, these retreats cater to a range of interests.

A cultural immersion Imagine staying in the midst of a volcano, albeit a dormant one. This is the kind of experience you’ll get if you check into the Sarinbuana Eco Lodge, which is set on the slopes of Mt Batukaru in central Bali. Besides giving you bragging rights, your stay will let you venture out on trekking expeditions. As this is one of the most fertile parts of the island, the lodge is blessed with many natural attractions including lush rainforests and a tropical food forest of coffee, cacao and cloves. “We offer numerous guided walks and treks through the tropical rainforest, farmlands, bamboo groves, rice paddies and local villages or to the nearby Batukaru Temple,” says Sarinbuana’s co-founder Linda vant Hoff. You can also get a taste of Balinese culture by joining one of the retreat’s 11 workshops with activities such as

The property is situated amid mountain-fed streams and rice paddies woodcarving, cooking and calligraphy, as well as massage lessons. Nature lovers will be pleased to know Sarinbuana also oﬀers tours of its one-hectare property where they can learn about the culinary and medicinal properties of more than 100 plants. The retreat’s kitchen makes the most of its location by preparing dishes – including vegetarian, raw and gluten-free options – with produce grown on the property.

Swim in pure spring water At Bali Eco Stay, you can drink straight from the tap in your bungalow. Why? Pure volcanic spring water is channelled

from the nearby waterfall to your bathroom and also to the retreat’s natural rock swimming pool. If you are thinking that this is a truly VIP experience, you’re right. After all, Bali Eco Stay houses just eight Balinese-style bungalows – each with its own distinct design. The property is also situated on the southern slopes of Mt Batukaru, amid mountain-fed streams and rice paddies. “When not putting their feet up, guests are welcome to enjoy one of the retreat’s numerous activities including a complimentary tour of our ﬁsh ponds, rice paddies, permaculture gardens and hydro generator,” says the

BALI I FARM STAYS

Go on, chase some waterfalls retreat’s co-founder John Blundstone. “Agro-based workshops include coconut oil making, rice planting, basket weaving, Balinese oﬀering making, bamboo craft and cooking local dishes with our own produce.” Visitors keen on more high-impact activities can opt for an eight-hour hike and an overnight trip to the summit of Mt Batukaru.

For coﬀee lovers Clockwise from above: the view from the verandah at Bali Eco Stay; waterfall at Bali Eco Stay; a tour of the gardens at Munduk Moding Plantation

Munduk Moding Plantation was set up to help preserve the verdant environment of North Bali while providing a base from which guests can experience this scenic part of the island. Located in the quaint village of Gobleg, which is 1,100m above sea level, overlooking the ocean and the coast of Java, Munduk Moding is also one of the only resorts on the island set on a working coffee plantation. “The property produces its own specialty coffee, and our guests can learn all about coffee growing, processing and roasting. We can also tailor our tours if guests are interested in a particular aspect of coffee production,” says Irene Roozen, the plantation’s co-founder. She adds that Munduk Moding also produces its own kopi luwak (from coffee beans that have passed through

BALI I FARM STAYS

A farming lesson at Bagus Agro Pelaga

STAY HERE

Top to bottom: one of the rooms at Bagus Agro Pelaga; a raw food wrap from Sarinbuana Eco Lodge

the digestive tract of a civet). Guests can enjoy Munduk Moding’s organic robusta and arabica coffee and kopi luwak at its MiMPi restaurant. With only 13 luxury villas and suites nestled within the lush vegetation of the five-hectare farm, guests are guaranteed both privacy and a taste of Bali’s rural life. Some of the natureoriented and cultural activities on offer include bird watching, horseback riding, Balinese kite-making and daily tours of the vegetable and fruit garden.

... guests are guaranteed both privacy and a taste of Bali’s rural life Get in touch with nature Set against Bali’s three most famous mountains – Mt Agung, Mt Batur and Mt Abang – Bagus Agro Pelaga is an eco-retreat inspired by Tri Hita Karana, the Balinese philosophy that highlights the importance of maintaining harmony among people, nature and the divine. The 18-hectare property houses 50 rooms and villas, and two restaurants. Anyone who wants to really embrace their surroundings can opt for the retreat’s camping package, which includes a tent, a pillow and breakfast. “Some of our more popular activities include jamu (traditional Balinese health tonic) making, the making of the daily Balinese oﬀering known as canang sari, as well as demonstrations on coconut oil processing and palm sugar making,” says Luh Putu Sri Kasih, Bagus Agro Pelaga’s product manager. “We also oﬀer tours of our organic garden where guests learn about the farming process from seeding to harvest.”

Sarinbuana Eco Lodge Priced from US$90 (S$122). A tour of the Eco Lodge gardens is included in the room price. All other activities and tours are at an additional cost. Jl Arjuna, Br. Biyahan, Desa Wanagiri, Tabanan, +62 828 9700 6079; baliecolodge.com Bali Eco Stay Priced from US$120 (S$166). Tours and activities are an additional cost. Kanciana Village, Desa Gunung Salak, Selemadeg Timur, Mt Batukaru, Tabanan, +62 573 8467 596; baliecostay.com Munduk Moding Plantation Priced from US$123 (S$171). The “MMP Experience,” which offers a range of activities, is included in the room price. Jl Raya Asah Gobleg, Banjar Dinas Asah, Desa Gobleg, Kecamatan Banjar, Buleleng, Singaraja, +62 81 138 5059; mundukmoding plantation.com Bagus Agro Pelaga Priced from IDR 210,000 (S$22) for camping and US$110 (S$152) for rooms. Activities and tours are at an additional cost. Jl Raya Puncak Mangu, Desa Pelaga, Petang Badung, +62 361 751 223; bagusagropelaga.com

Think you can try one of everything?

EAT, DRINK be and VERY MERRY ’Tis the season to ditch your portion-control plans. We round up the most decadent all-you-can-eat buﬀets across the region where you can truly indulge WORDS EVELINE GAN

FESTIVE FOOD I BUFFETS

You can be selfish with your shellfish at this abundant buffet

FOIE GRAS, 1FLOW TRUFFLES AND FREECHAMPAGNE Manila: Spiral at Sofitel Manila After its multi-million-dollar refurbishment in 2012, Spiral at Sofitel Manila takes feasting to a whole new level with its luxurious international spread which has strong French and Asian influences. Hailed as one of the most dynamic and interactive dining experiences in Asia, the awardwinning restaurant features 21

dining ‘ateliers’. Each of these food stations is an artistic delight for the senses as the country’s most masterful chefs meticulously prepare food before your very eyes. Be sure to drop by its artisanal cheese section and oyster bar. There’s also a French stove station that serves decadent gourmet treats including foie gras and truﬄeinfused dishes and roast meats that will impress even the most ﬁnicky and discerning palate. This festive season, diners get

to indulge in a smorgasbord of traditional treats including turkey with stuﬃng, ham, a host of seafood, herb-crust lamb and Beef Wellington, and also sip on free-ﬂowing champagne while being serenaded by the renowned string quartet The Manila String Machines. Oh, and Santa pays a visit, too. PRICE: Christmas Eve Dinner PHP5,300 (S$152) per person; Christmas Day Brunch PHP4,750 (S$136) per person.

HOOKED ON 2GET SUCCULENT SEAFOOD HONG KONG: Yamm at The Mira Hong Kong

You’ll be spoilt for choice at Yamm’s impressive buffet spread, which has garnered a number of accolades from local food critics. Its menu has a wide array of Western and Asian flavours, such as sushi and sashimi, foie gras and artisanal bread and cheeses, to name a few. But it is the signature selection of fresh-off-the-hook crustaceans that will set your heart racing. Tuck into an amazing range of succulent seafood including Boston lobsters, plump oysters, scallops, crabs and prawns. There are also live stations serving specialities like steamed grouper and stir-fried Kagoshima pork with black truffle pâté. PRICE: Festive buffet from HK$468 (about S$84) per person.

Left to right: Fill up on dumplings at Atrium; you’ll be in seafood heaven at Yamm

SUMPTUOUS 3OFASMORGASBORD FESTIVE TREATS

PERANAKAN DINING 4VIEWS WITH 360-DEGREE OF PENANG

PERTH: Atrium at Crown Perth

PENANG: Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant at Bayview Georgetown Hotel

This December alone, Atrium at Crown Perth will serve up more than 1,600kg of prawns and almost 48,000 oysters, as well as 2,000kg of roast turkey, 1,200kg of ham and about 8,000 plum puddings at its festive buﬀet spreads. Phew. But that’s not all. The restaurant, which won the Catering Institute of Australia’s 2015 Gold Plate Award for Best Buﬀet Dining, will also pamper diners with an impressive dessert station decked out with traditional sweet treats like Christmas pudding, Yule log cake, a chocolate fountain and a display of gingerbread houses.

For added theatrics, Atrium’s masters of ﬂavour will cook up a storm at various live cooking stations, serving up freshly made delicious pasta or spit-roasted meats. Vegetarian and glutenfree options are also available. On Christmas Day, diners can enjoy roving entertainment while children aged 12 or under can receive a gift from Santa himself. PRICE: Christmas Day lunch or dinner buﬀet AUD$195 (S$206) per adult, AUD$95 (S$100) per teen aged 13–17, AUD$45 (S$48) per child aged 4–12. Includes drinks.

Perched on the 17th floor of the Bayview Georgetown Hotel in Penang, Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant’s buffet dinner features an exquisite selection of Peranakan and local Malaysian delicacies, ranging from savoury creamy curries, otak-otak (spicy fish paste) and mee goreng (fried noodles) to desserts such as nonya kueh (traditional bite-sized snacks) and black glutinous rice porridge with coconut milk. As its name suggests, the restaurant revolves 360 degrees every hour from 7pm to 10pm, allowing you to take in the amazing

FESTIVE FOOD I BUFFETS

Think Buffet Town has a great selection? Its festive menu adds to it with Christmas favourites

Eat here Spiral at Soﬁtel

Its signature selection of freshoﬀ-the-hook crustaceans will set your heart racing vista of the George Town UNESCO World Heritage City and its port while savouring your meal. Then chill out with drinks and music at the restaurant’s open-air rooftop Sky Bar. PRICE: Dinner during the festive season is priced at RM110++ (S$36) per person.

THE BUFFET 5WITH… OF ALL BUFFETS 300

items spread across 29 categories; think unlimited servings of seafood, local favourites like chilli crab, braised pork belly, sashimi and

Soﬁtel Philippine Plaza Manila, CCP Complex, Roxas Blvd, Pasay City, Manila, Philippines, +632 832 6988; spiralmanila.com

Yamm at The Mira Hong Kong Ground Floor Lobby, The Mira Hong Kong, 118 Nathan Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, +852 2315 5111 / 2315 5885; themirahotel. com/dining/yamm

Atrium at Crown Crown Perth, Great Eastern Highway, Burswood, Western Australia, Australia +61 8 9362 7551; crownperth.com.au

Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant at Bayview Georgetown Hotel Bayview Hotel Penang, 25-A Farquhar St, Penang, Malaysia, +604 261 3540; 360rooftop.com.my

FOOD ITEMS

Buffet Town at Rafﬂes City

SINGAPORE: Buﬀet Town at Raﬄes City

#B1-44E 252 Rafﬂes City, North Bridge Rd, Singapore; +65 6837 3793; visit buffettown.com.sg

The name of this restaurant says it all. It’s a buﬀet town of 300

sushi, and even a Coca Cola Freestyle drink dispenser which gives you 81 drink combinations at your ﬁngertips. Because cherry vanilla Coke goes with everything. There are also action stations which feature freshly cooked and madeto-order dishes such as satay meat skewers, baked mussels, chicken rice and laksa (noodles in a spicy coconut broth). In addition to its regular scrumptious spread, the year-end buﬀet will also feature traditional festive eats like roast turkey, roast wagyu beef, Irish lamb stew, Christmas stollen and log cakes. A mini indoor play area will keep the kids occupied while you gorge yourselves. PRICE: Festive weekend lunch S$41.80++ per adult and S$19.80++ per child; festive weekend dinner S$52.80++ per adult and S$22.80++ per child on Dec 24, 25 and 31 and Jan 1.

FESTIVE FOOD I BUFFETS

Live it up with oysters for brunch Eat here Riverside Terrace at Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort Ground ﬂoor, North Building, Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, 257/1-3 Charoennakorn Rd, Thonburi, Bangkok, Thailand, +662 476 0022; bangkok-riverside.anantara. com/dining.aspx. To get there, hop on the resort’s complimentary shuttle boat from the Saphan Taksin BTS.

Start the new year on a high with a big brunch at Trader Vic’s, Bangkok

A RIVERSIDE FEAST BY THE CHAO PHRAYA RIVER

BANGKOK: Riverside Terrace at Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort Overlooking the famed Chao Phraya River and surrounded by lush greenery, Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort’s Riverside Terrace is one of the best spots in Bangkok to enjoy an international buffet feast. Take in the unparalleled views of the river while enjoying a wide array of Eastmeets-West flavours. The buffet features open kitchens, sushi and Thai barbecue sections, as well as vibrant live entertainment like traditional Thai dance performances. This New Year’s Eve, enjoy special entertainment which includes a performance by the Grand Opera of Thailand and a

countdown complete with spectacular fireworks. Then kick off the new year with an international brunch buffet (noon– 5pm) at the resort’s Polynesian-inspired restaurant Trader Vic’s, which will serve up a special Oyster Shooter Bar and Bloody Mary Bar to celebrate the first day of the year. PRICE: Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinner buffets are priced from THB3,000 (S$119) per person; New Year’s Eve dinner THB10,990 (S$433) per person (includes drinks); New Year’s Day brunch buffet at Trader Vic’s is priced at THB3,500 (S$139) per person. Includes drinks.

Brasserie at Regent Taipei 1F Regent Taipei, No 3, Lane 39, Section 2, Zhongshan N Rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan, +886 277 017 711; regenthotels. com/regent-taipei overlooks a lush garden, is all about drama and theatrics. Here, its theatre-inspired open kitchens serve some of the most reﬁned cuisines from around the globe, including Japanese, Thai, Sichuan, Cantonese, American and Italian. Expect a full salad bar,

A TASTE OF 7INSPIRED MICHELIN-

GOURMET DISHES TAIPEI: Brasserie at Regent Taipei Buﬀet dining at Regent Taipei’s Brasserie, which

At Brasserie, pile up your plate and head for the garden-view tables

made-to-order pasta and noodles, a succulent seafood selection and a grand sushi bar, as well as customisable desserts, allowing diners to request their favourite dessert toppings. Particularly noteworthy is its Gourmet Corner, featuring the restaurant’s reinterpretation of classic dishes by internationally renowned Michelinstarred guest chefs who have hosted events at the hotel. These dishes include King Prawn with Oxtail Barley inspired by Marc Haeberlin and Abalone with Truﬄed Butter Sauce and Bamboo á la Barigoule by the Ukai-Tei team of chefs. PRICE: Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve lunch NT$1,390 (S$61) per person, dinner NT$1,880 (S$83). Christmas Day and New Year’s Day lunch or dinner NT$1,580 (S$70) per person.

Get your ticket to the hottest attraction in Perth Witness the magic of a gold pour Guided tours daily from 9.30am till 3.30pm

Mention this ad and receive a FREE gift on entry.

perthmint.com.au/pour

Flower offerings are laid out at stalls near the Sri Mahamariamman Temple in George Town â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the oldest Hindu temple in Penang. Opposite page: Diners enjoy an evening meal at Tek Sen Restaurant, known for its delicious heritage Chinese food.

PENANG I MALAYSIA

Colours of Penang Step into this vibrant state and discover a foodieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paradise, a rich culture and diverse sights photos christopher wise

PENANG I MALAYSIA

Left Mamak mee goreng at Sin Hup Aun Cafe. The ubiquitous mee goreng, a noodle dish, is a popular, hearty and satisfying meal. Middle The glow of paper lanterns can be seen at this Buddhist shrine. Right Mohamed Rawther, the owner of Ramzan Nasi Kandar restaurant.

Oodles of noodles. .. time to chow down it â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on mee goreng

PENANG I MALAYSIA

Brightly coloured joss sticks for sale. Opposite page: A vendor prepares Mamak mee goreng at Sin Hup Aun Cafe.

Merry Christmas Have a jolly Christmas when you beat the crowds by shopping onboard! Simply pick up a copy of JETSHOP from the seat pocket in front of you now!

KENNETH COLE “A U T O M AT I C ” G E N T S ’ WAT C H Powered by the movement of your wrist and perfect with a skeleton dial.

SGD 259

page48

Enjoy

15% OFF!

CAROLINA HERRERA GOOD GIRL EDP A weapon of seduction for the woman who wears it.

SGD 120

Enjoy

15% OFF!

DISNEY TSUM TSUM COLOURED AND SCENTED PENCILS SET

Inspire your little ones to become the next big artist or novelist!

SGD 30

page71

page16

Singapore’s annual beach dance party, ZoukOut, will seeI revellers ﬂock to Explore INTERVIEW Sentosa Island on December 9 and 10. ZoukOut, one of Asia’s biggest outdoor dance music festivals, boasts a line-up of international and regional artists alongside awe-inspiring pyrotechnics and funky food stalls. zoukout.com

PHOTO @ZOUKOUTOFFICIAL

JETSTAR NEWS 68 I STAR JOURNEYS 71 I MAPS 72

Inﬂight I JETSTAR NEWS

Thanks for a great 2016 – here are some memorable moments! FEBRUARY Jetstar’s Good Luck Troupe brought Lunar New Year good luck blessings to four lucky families

MARCH Wendy Lim, Jetstar’s Airport Manager, and her CAG colleagues win Changi Airport Group’s ‘Outstanding Service Team of the Year’ award 68

$2017 LONG WEEKENDS When it comes to booking a long weekend holiday, have you ever waited and procrastinated, knowing that flight fares and hotel rates will go up? We’ve all had that experience, so this December, we’re offering the ultimate solution to your long weekend travels. Follow us on social media to find out how we can solve this holiday woe for you (for Singapore departures only).

Who doesn’t need a long weekend away?

APRIL We told you we would be introducing Singlish announcements on our flights, and fooled many with this April Fool’s joke! Mingalabar Saw Jet Star – we welcomed the first baby born on a Jetstar Asia flight

JULY Jetstar Asia was ranked the best Singapore-based low cost carrier in Asia at the World Airline Awards 2016 In conjunction with Singapore’s inaugural National Reading Day, we introduced the Jetstar Big Book Swap, and launched the world’s highest book club

AUGUST Fool no more, Singlish announcements were heard for the very ﬁrst time on 9 August, as part of Singapore National Day celebrations Best results ever achieved by Jetstar Asia and Jetstar Group

VISIT US AND SAY HELLO ON SOCIAL MEDIA!

OCTOBER

facebook.com/JetstarAsiaAirways

3K881 to Sanya takes off, making us the only Singapore-based airline to ﬂy to both Haikou and Sanya on Hainan Island, China.

@jetstarasia @Jetstar_Asia

Inﬂight I QUIZ

QUIZ TIME Get set to test your travel knowledge with this month’s quiz 1. Which river ﬂows through Bangkok? 2. Beginning with ‘S’, what is regarded as Fiji’s national dress?

3. The world’s largest ﬁsh market is located in which Japanese city? 4. Kopi luwak, or ‘civet coffee’, is produced primarily in which country?

13. Located in the Northern Territory, what is the largest national park in Australia? 14. In which year in the 1950s was Vietnam divided into North and South zones along the 17th parallel?

5. Which Asian city’s public transport system includes a metro station named Roosevelt? A) Manila B) Kuala Lumpur C) Denpasar

15. In which Chinese province is the seaport of Shantou?

6. The annual World Solar Challenge is a race that starts in which northern Australian capital city?

17. Kowloon Tong is a 1997 novel written by acclaimed US author Paul who?

7. On which of Japan’s four main islands is the city of Fukuoka located?

12. Which of the ﬁve ﬁlms in the Mission: Impossible franchise was directed by Hong Kong-based director John Woo?

16. How many storeys tall are the towers of Marina Bay Sands?

18. In 2007, which country set a Guinness World Record for the longest ever satay – a whopping 140m?

8. Open 24 hours, seven days a week, Taipei’s Eslite Dunnan was once named by CNN among the world’s coolest… what?

19. Myanmar’s national ﬂag is comprised of how many colours?

9. Which of Australia’s major highways connects Darwin with Alice Springs?

21. Which Australian actor born in Perth starred in The Dark Knight, The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus and A Knight’s Tale?

10. In which Asian capital city is it possible to visit the Notre Dame Cathedral? 11. The Hang Seng Index is a stock market index based in which city?

20. What is the capital of Fiji?

22. Which Australian state is home to the country’s largest rock formation?

QUIZ ANSWERS 1_ Chao Phraya River 2_ Sulu 3_ Tokyo – Tsukiji Market 4_ Indonesia 5_ A) Manila 6_ Darwin 7_ Kyushu 8_ Bookstores 9_ Stuart Highway 10_ Ho Chi Minh City 11_ Hong Kong 12 Mission: Impossible II 13_ Kakadu National Park 14_ 1954 15_ Guangdong 16_ 57 17_ Theroux 18_ Singapore 19_ Four 20_ Suva 21_ Heath Ledger 22_ WA - Mt Augustus

Inﬂight I BUSINESS TRAVEL

No pressure Flying for business isn’t as glam as some people think it is. Here are ﬁve pet peeves of corporate travellers and how Jetstar’s new FlexiBiz package has the solutions

Last-minute ﬂight change? No problem

egotiating that business deal is tough enough. Yet some of us face even more issues when we are planning our business trips. For instance, clients may postpone meeting dates at the last minute. Or your meeting may end much earlier than you thought and you’d rather be home than waste precious hours at the airport waiting for your return ﬂight. This is why Jetstar’s new FlexiBiz business package addresses these common peeves faced by frequent corporate travellers. Businesses

that sign up for a FlexiBiz bundle in the Business Hub at jetstar. com/sg/en/business can enjoy a whole lot of features – from just S$32 – that will make their employees’ trips smoother and more eﬃcient so that they can focus on what’s most important: that multimillion-dollar pitch.

Pet peeve #1: Your overseas client pushes up your meeting slot or a presentation ends earlier than you planned. FlexiBiz ﬁx-it: You can catch an earlier or later ﬂight on the same day for free (subject to seat availability).

Pet peeve #2:

Pet peeve #4: Your

Your child has fallen ill and you can’t make your business trip. FlexiBiz ﬁx-it: With FlexiBiz, there aren’t fees for date, time and name changes. Fare diﬀerences may apply.

boss needs you to hand-carry 10 sets of 100-page manuals to his counterpart overseas. FlexiBiz ﬁx-it: You can take a second small under-seat item (read: a handbag or a small backpack) – which means you don’t have to check in that excess baggage and wait at the conveyor belt when you land.

Pet peeve #3: That business prospect you’ve been pursuing on the phone for weeks has a budget cut and decides not to meet you after all. FlexiBiz fix-it: You can cancel your flight for free and also get Jetstar credit vouchers that can be used on another flight over the next six months (because you will have better luck next time).

Pet peeve #5: You hate being seated at the back and being the last to disembark, because time is money. FlexiBiz ﬁx-it: You can select an upfront seat for free.

Inﬂight I STAR JOURNEYS WINNERS

#StarJourneys Taken some great snaps during your recent Jetstar holiday? Post them on social media, tag (Instagram) us at #StarJourneys, @jetstarasia (Instagram), or @Jetstar_Asia (Twitter) or @Jetstar Asia (Facebook), include a simple caption – and if we feature your picture you will win a S$100 Jetstar voucher!

Alexander Paule, @alexpaule “Channelling the inner kid in me! About to ride this awesome cable car up to the mountain.” Ocean Park, Hong Kong

Chen Xinyi, @chenxxinyi “Life is better out in the rolling hills.” Yilan, Taiwan

Ang Chuan Hui, @myworldthruthelens “Enjoying the view of Kowloon.” Lion Rock, Hong Kong

about #StarJourneys SHARE YOUR GREAT TRAVEL SNAPS WITH US AND STAND TO WIN S$100 JETSTAR VOUCHERS. VOUCHERS! Simply tag @jetstarasia (Instagram), @Jetstar_Asia (Twitter) or @Jetstar Asia (Facebook) and include #StarJourneys in your photo caption. If your picture is featured in the magazine, you’ll win a S$100 Jetstar voucher that can be redeemed on Jetstar Asia, Jetstar Paciﬁc and Jetstar Airways ﬂights. We reserve the right to repost these photos on Jetstar Asia’s social media accounts.

Patty Quiazon, @pattyquiazon “The best things in life are the people we love and the memories we’ve made along the way.” Dotonbori, Osaka, Japan

Route maps I WHERE WE FLY

INTERNATIONAL Operated by Jetstar Airways Operated by Jetstar Asia Operated by Jetstar PaciďŹ c Operated by Jetstar Japan

Tokyo (Narita) Nagoya (Chubu)

Osaka (Kansai)

Shanghai (Pudong) Guiyang Shantou Guangzhou Hanoi

Phuket Penang Medan 72 Pekanbaru

Flights are operated by Jetstar Japan and commence 23 January 2017, subject to regulatory approval

Taipei

Hong Kong Haikou Sanya

Yangon Da Nang Siem Reap Bangkok Phnom Penh

Flights are operated by Jetstar PaciďŹ c and commence 2 December, subject to regulatory approval

Hawaii (Honolulu)

Manila

Ho Chi Minh City Kuala Lumpur

Singapore

Palembang Jakarta Surabaya Bali (Denpasar) Darwin Fiji (Nadi)

Cairns Townsville

Cook Islands (Rarotonga)

Brisbane Gold Coast Perth Adelaide

Sydney Auckland Melbourne (Tullamarine) Wellington Christchurch Queenstown

DOMESTIC VIETNAM

DOMESTIC JAPAN

Hanoi

Sapporo

Hai Phong Thanh Hoa Vinh Dong Hoi Hue Da Nang Chu Lai Pleiku Quy Nhon

Tokyo (Narita) Nagoya (Chubu)

Matsuyama Osaka (Kansai) Fukuoka Takamatsu Oita Kumamoto

Tuy Hoa Buon Ma Thuot

Phu Quoc

Kagoshima

Nha Trang Da Lat

Ho Chi Minh City Okinawa Operated by Jetstar Japan

Operated by Jetstar PaciďŹ c

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND Auckland New Plymouth Nelson

Darwin

Cairns Townsville Hamilton Island Whitsunday Coast Mackay

Queenstown

Napier Palmerston North Wellington Christchurch Dunedin

Operated by Jetstar Airways Operated by Eastern Australia Airlines for Jetstar Airways

Sunshine Coast

Ayers Rock (Uluru)

Brisbane Gold Coast Ballina Byron

Perth

Newcastle

Sydney Adelaide

Melbourne (Tullamarine)

Auckland

Melbourne (Avalon) Wellington Christchurch

Launceston Operated by Jetstar Airways

Hobart Queenstown

Inﬂight I WHEN WE FLY

Jetstar Asia, together with Jetstar, operates more than 600 ﬂights per week throughout Asia. Schedule is valid to December 31, 2016.

SINGAPORE – HONG KONG / HONG KONG – SINGAPORE 3 hours 55 minutes (GMT+8)

JETSTAR ASIA SINGAPORE – BANGKOK / BANGKOK – SINGAPORE

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN