Jetstar Asia September/October 2018

jetstar MAGAZINE

SEPT–OCT 2018

MAGAZINE

OKINAWA I BANGKOK I MEDAN SEPT–OCT 2018

WHEELY GOOD TOURS

8 FUN WAYS TO EXPLORE

5 MUST-ASK QUESTIONS WHEN VIEWING ANY HOME Looking to move apartments? If there’s one thing you need to know about viewing a house, it’s that agents don’t always tell you everything you need to know. We don’t mean they’re dishonest — it’s just that there are a million pieces of information to remember. Even you, the buyer, might forget the right questions to ask!

But not to worry, here’s a checklist to make sure you leave no stone unturned when looking for a home of your dreams.

View the house you're interested in during evening rush hour, at night, and on a weekend — just to be sure.

1. How long has the current owner been living here?

The answer you're looking for is "a long time" — something to the tune RI ƓYH \HDUV RU PRUH 5HPHPEHU Singapore has a Seller’s Stamp Duty 66' ZKLFK LPSRVHV D WD[ LI \RX VHOO ZLWKLQ WKUHH \HDUV DQG SUHYLRXVO\ LW ZDV IRXU \HDUV 6R LI WKH RZQHU wants to sell within this period — and pay the SSD — there must a good UHDVRQ IRU LW 7KRVH UHDVRQV FRXOG MXVW EH SHUVRQDO VXFK DV PRYLQJ WR DQRWKHU FRXQWU\ %XW RFFDVLRQDOO\ LW FRXOG EH GXH WR SUREOHPV ZLWK WKH KRXVH RU ORFDWLRQ VXFK DV D VWUXFWXUDO LVVXH WKDW LV DOPRVW LPSRVVLEOH WR UHFWLI\

2. When was the unit last renovated?

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3. What’s the minimum price the seller will accept?

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4. How long has the property been up for sale? ,I WKHUHĹ?V QR VOXPS LQ WKH SURSHUW\ PDUNHW LWĹ?V XQFRPPRQ IRU properties to remain unsold for PRUH WKDQ D IHZ PRQWKV ,I WKH XQLW LV ZHOO SULFHG WKHQ \RX QHHG WR EH H[WUD FDUHIXO ZKHQ FKHFNLQJ WKH SURSHUW\ 2WKHU EX\HUV PD\ KDYH VSRWWHG VRPHWKLQJ \RX GLGQ W VXFK DV D SRRU IDFLQJ H J WKH unit is right in the way of the DIWHUQRRQ VXQ QRLVH SROOXWLRQ IURP QHDUE\ KHDY\ YHKLFOH URXWHV LQ WKH PRUQLQJ RU D QHLJKERXU LQ WKH RSSRVLWH EORFN ZLWK VWDGLXP OLJKWV LQ WKH OLYLQJ URRP (LWKHU ZD\ YLHZ WKH KRXVH \RX UH LQWHUHVWHG LQ GXULQJ HYHQLQJ UXVK KRXU DW QLJKW DQG RQ D ZHHNHQG Ĺ‹ MXVW WR EH VXUH

5. What are the nearby amenities? <RX GRQ W KDYH WR OLPLW WKH VFRSH WR WKH XVXDO VXVSHFWV OLNH 057 VWDWLRQV EXV VWRSV RU VFKRROV 2WKHU DPHQLWLHV VXFK DV $70V EDQNV FOLQLFV DQG VXSHUPDUNHWV FDQ PDNH \RXU VWD\ D ZKROH ORW PRUH FRQYHQLHQW %H DV WKRURXJK DV \RX OLNH <RXU DJHQW VKRXOG EH VXIĆ&#x201C;FLHQWO\ NQRZOHGJHDEOH DERXW WKH QHLJKERXUKRRG ,I QRW FKHFN RXW OLVWLQJV RQ FR ZKHUH \RX FDQ HDVLO\ GLVFRYHU VXFK DPHQLWLHV VRUWHG E\ GLVWDQFH IURP WKH XQLW \RX UH NHHQ RQ

5HJDUGOHVV PDNH VXUH WR DVN WKHVH TXHVWLRQV EHIRUH \RX GHFLGH WR EX\ RU UHQW 'RQ W IRUJHW WR YLVLW www.99.co for the most FRPSUHKHQVLYH KRPH OLVWLQJV or download the 99.co app to VXUI SURSHUWLHV RQ WKH JR

Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Ubud

Find Serenity in Ubud, Bali

Bali has both natural beauty and cultural wealth in spades, so it’s no wonder the place has been dubbed Indonesia’s “Island of the Gods.” Outside the artistic haven of Ubud in the south-central highlands, stretches of palm-fringed rice terraces line the ravines that lead down to stony, bubbling rivers. Ubud is a peaceful and quiet place, a perfect place to experience spiritual awakening and enlightenment. Bring your loved ones DORQJ IRU D UDPEOH EHVLGH WKH SDGG\ ȴHOGV DQG LPPHUVH yourself in the sights and sounds of rural life. www.indonesia.travel indonesia.travel @indtravel indonesia.travel

contents SEPT–OCT 2018

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38

58 03

46

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30 䱲程僤됮

INSIDER 10 I THE HOT LIST

20 I TAILOR MADE

38 I WHEELY GOOD TOURS

66 I 騈满〵⻌➃㋒ㄳ㉰

Fun events, from classic opera to hip hop at sea

The craftspeople whipping up clothes in Hong Kong

Ramp up city exploration in a Super Mario Bros kart or VW van

68 I 鼢鷜㸌꫽涸-07*/"

12 I ON THE RADAR

24 I BEAUTY

Delicacies at a Tokyo fishmarket

An electric scooter-sharing scheme and more

Skincare on the go

COVER ARTWORK PUSHART

46 I PHOTO ESSAY

25 I SHOP IT

54 I CHECK-IN TO THE FUTURE

14 I WHAT’S IN MY SUITCASE?

Cute key chains

Futuristic hotels

Where a travel blogger (literally) draws her inspiration from

26 I 24 HOURS: MEDAN

58 I PASSWORD PROTECTED

16 I POSTCODE

30 I INSTAGRAMABLE

The remarkable renaissance of Charoen Krung, Bangkok

Scenic spots in Sanya

18 I IN PROFILE The culinary exploration of chef Stanley Wong

Rediscover this multicultural city

33 I CAN YOU BE VEGAN IN JAPAN? Where to find plant-based food that actually tastes good

The speakeasy bars taking over Penang

62 I FIVE OF THE BEST Hanoi and Halong Bay highlights

88 I TRAVEL TALES The check-in check list, from hygiene to superstition

INFLIGHT 72 I Jetstar news 74 I #StarJourneys winners

76 I Where we fly 81 I Where am I? 82 I Destinations

Welcome I From the CEO

JETSTAR ASIA MAGAZINE is published for Jetstar Asia Airways by Hardie Grant Media Level 7, 45 Jones St, Ultimo, NSW, 2007 Australia +61 02 9857 3700 hardiegrant.com.au

Welcome aboard SEPT–OCT 2018

HARDIE GRANT MEDIA For all editorial enquiries, please email Jetstarasia@hardiegrant.com.au Managing Director Nick Hardie Grant Publisher Tiffany Sayers Managing Editor Sophie Hull Commissioning Editor Pearlyn Tham Art Director Dan Morley Senior Designer Sue Morony Publishing Executive Alana Young

ADVERTISING Managed by Phar Partnerships Pte Ltd. One George St, 10-01, Singapore 049145 Singapore and Malaysia Senthuran Mohan sen.mohan@pharpartnerships.com +60 16 972 7995; +603 2242 1230 Indonesia Vikhram Radhakrishnan vikhram.r@pharpartnerships.com +62 8131 5814 690; +65 932 058 30

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) 092/12/2017 Jetstar Asia magazine is printed by Times Printers Private Limited.

The season ahead

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eptember and October are arguably the wettest months in most cities in Southeast Asia.

Travellers looking for relief from the dry season have many destinations to choose from. If you are looking for cooler temperatures, the summer season draws to an end in Taiwan, Hong Kong and China. If you are looking for sunnier spots, cities like Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia would be more favourable.

This is good news for athletes and supporters of the Asian Games, the largest multi-sport event after the Olympic Games, as the event is being held in Jakarta and Palembang from mid-August through to early September. To support the event, Jetstar has mounted eight additional services from Singapore to Jakarta during this season and continues to operate three services a week from Singapore to Palembang in Sumatra.

In September Singapore is also home to the Singapore Grand Prix, where the world’s best Formula 1

drivers, international entertainers and glitterati deliver high-octane performances alongside the street circuit championship in Asia.

If you prefer to soak up culture and tradition, the Chinese MidAutumn Festival is celebrated throughout Southeast Asia. In Vietnam the festival is known as Tet Trung Thu and is a combination of Halloween and Thanksgiving, where children dress up, carry lanterns in the streets and partake of the wonderful moon cake.

In October, visit Singapore to witness the famous Hindu firewalking ceremony at the Sri Mariamman Temple in Chinatown.

Read more about where to go and what to see in this issue or talk to our crew to find out more about these events. Thank you for flying with Jetstar and have a wonderful flight!

Barathan Pasupathi CEO, Jetstar Asia Airways

05

Welcome I Group CEO note

SEPT–OCT HIGHLIGHTS

A matter of pride

Here are just some of the things we love in this issue – enjoy!

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We wish Georgia and her family all the very best ne of the things I love most about working at Jetstar is the willingness of our team members to go above and beyond. And recently I heard of our crew doing exactly that.

The life of nine-year-old Georgia changed suddenly last year, after she was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. The illness affected the bones of her upper right leg, and she had to leave school to undergo treatments and surgery.

Recently, however, Georgia received the amazing news that she is on the road to recovery.

When our team discovered that Georgia and her family were taking a well-deserved

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trip to the Gold Coast, everyone was keen to find ways to make the family holiday more memorable.

Our crew heard that Georgia loves mermaids and has always wanted to swim with dolphins, so they reached out to Sea World to make her dreams come true. When Georgia boarded the flight, our crew surprised her with the gift, as well as an upgrade to make the flight extra special.

To top it all off, Georgia’s cousin Matt, who is a First Officer with Jetstar, operated Georgia’s return flight. A true family affair.

We wish Georgia and her family all the very best, and look forward to having them on board again soon.

Thanks for choosing Jetstar, I hope you enjoy your travels.

Need a new wardrobe? p20

Creative travel inspo What a blogger packs p14

Gareth Evans Jetstar Group CEO

Super steak in Sydney p18

Georgia flying high

騈满〵⻌➃㋒ㄳ㉰ p66

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REMEMBERING ANCESTORS One of the most important religious festivals in Cambodia, Pchum Ben is a 15-day period that marks a time when the spirits of the ancestors of Cambodian Buddhists return to Earth. Their living relatives visit pagodas to dedicate food and offerings in return for blessings from the dead.

The festival ends with a three-day national holiday, which takes place from 8–10 October this year.

PHOTO THOMAS CRISTOFOLETTI

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HK TAILORS 20 I VEGAN FOOD IN JAPAN 33 I HANOI HIGHLIGHTS 62

The hot list

Get an insight into Singapore’s Straits Chinese community at a photography exhibition, catch Mariah Carey live in concert and savour mooncakes at the Mid-Autumn Festival

Cruise to the beat 4–7 Nov

It’s The Ship is a four-day music festival at sea. Journeying from Singapore to Phuket and back, the cruise features a great line-up of musical artists, in previous years having included Lil Jon, Yellow Claw and Higher Brothers. You can also experience themed and secret parties, fitness activities and more. itstheship.com

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Balinese culture celebration 10–15 Oct

Bali’s annual Nusa Dua Fiesta brings art exhibitions, cultural performances and sporting events to the luxury beach resort of Nusa Dua, on the island’s southeast coast. Check out the traditional handicrafts on display, watch colourful floats go by in the street parade, participate in a cooking competition and watch a live band or fashion show. There will also be plenty of Balinese dance and music performances.

Mid-Autumn magic

Outdoor flick fest

The diva returns

13–23 Sept

3 Nov

24 September

Enjoy eight nights of movies at the Darwin International Film Festival. Held at the outdoor Deckchair Cinema, complete with views of the waterfront and sunset, it’s the perfect setting to appreciate the best of the Northern Territory’s film industry. The festival also includes workshops, talks and pop-up screenings. diff.net.au

Multi-award-winning American pop-superstar Mariah Carey performs all her greatest hits, which could include favourites “We Belong Together”, “Hero”, “Vision of Love”, “Fantasy” and “Dreamlover”, at this special one-night concert. At The Star Theatre, the performance will be Carey’s first in Singapore in four years. Tickets cost from S$88. thestar.sg

Get those colourful lanterns ready to celebrate the MidAutumn Festival in Penang.

It takes place on the night of the full moon. It’s the perfect occasion to munch on mooncakes: traditional baked cakes filled with lotus paste, seeds and red bean paste.

Yummy new flavours are always being created, too.

WORDS SASHA GONZALES

facebook.com/fiestanusadua

Insider I EVENTS

Celebrate the classics 12 Sept–18 Oct

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Don’t miss Bangkok’s International Festival of Dance & Music, which boasts a star-studded programme of classical concerts, operas, classical ballet performances, contemporary and folk dances, and jazz performances. Among this year’s performers is Naples’ San Carlo Opera Company, which has existed since 1737. bangkokfestivals.com

The number of years Cambodia has been an independent country.

Celebrate Cambodia Independence Day on 9 Nov in Phnom Penh – there will be parades, cultural activities and fireworks.

Pi t Picture perfect Until 3 Feb, 2019

The Peranakans (Straits Chinese) were among the first in Singapore to embrace photography when it arrived on our shores, in the 1840s.

Get a rare glimpse into the culture from these early years and discover how the Peranakan community chose to express and represent themselves – both inside and outside the photo studio – at The Peranakan Museum in Singapore. peranakanmuseum.org.sg

Enter the Marvel Studios world Until 30 Sept So you’ve watched almost every Marvel movie out there. Now, be a part of the popular Marvel universe at the ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands Singapore where the Marvel Studios: Ten Years of Heroes exhibition will take you into 10 themed gallery spaces. Visit Tony Stark’s workshop, experience the futuristic utopia of Wakanda, ‘activate’ the infinity stones and more. Tickets from S$12. marvelexhibition.sg

Help defend the galaxy

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Insider I NEWS

On the radar Eat vegan in Bali, indulge in spa treatments in Phnom Penh and experience Bangkok and Hong Kong in new ways

A GREENER WAY TO EXPLORE SINGAPORE

City experiences Don’t just book a room – book a fun experience, too. The Murray, Hong Kong (pictured), offers the Suite Sensation package, from HK$17,500 (S$2,998) per room, with accommodation, a facial and a wellness consultation. And The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok offers the Discover Bangkok Creative District package, from THB19,975 (S$835), with accommodation, a guided walking tour and afternoon tea.

segwaytours.com.sg

Zip around on this!

Vegans rejoice Healthy eating in Bali just got easier with a new crop of plantbased dining options. Dumbo, in Ubud, specialises in thin-crust wood-fired pizza, with unusual toppings like kale cashew pesto, beetroot molasses and spicy tomato sambal. Botanik Cafe in Badung serves savoury bowls, wraps and kombucha.

And the raw-vegan Living Food Lab in Canggu Square offers yummy salads, burgers, sushi and snacks.

Local beauty treats

Blocks of inspiration

Sense, at the new Rosewood Phnom Penh hotel, offers spa treatments inspired by Cambodian ingredients. The Flower of Salt Scrub, US$65 (S$87) uses a delicate, handharvested salt from Kampot; while the signature massage, US$90 (S$120) features spices including turmeric, lemongrass and Cassumunar ginger. rosewoodhotels.com/en/ phnom-penh

Until the end of this year, see eight of Singapore’s national monuments made out of Lego.

More than 110,000 toy bricks were used to build models of these landmarks including Sultan Mosque. The Building History: Monuments in Bricks and Blocks exhibition will travel to libraries around the island, with a pit stop at the Tampines Regional Library in September and the Ang Mo Kio Public Library in October.

WORDS SASHA GONZALES

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Forget bike sharing.

Explore Singapore the fun way, and at your own pace, on a Ninebot

by Segway KickScooter (ES2). This dockless electric scooter is easy to use and will get you around quickly.

Coming soon is an app that gives you information about Singapore as you ride around the island.

Even star Jackie Chan seems to like them.

Remember trip details with a notebook

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Drawing inspiration

Ng Sock Peng Travel blogger mylovelybluesky.com, @sockpeng

I TRAVEL ALMOST EVERY MONTH. My yellow luggage matches my personality and I can spot it easily on the conveyor belt where every other bag seems to be black or grey.

When it comes to packing, I like to take along a tote bag as some countries do not provide plastic bags when you shop. When walking about overseas,

it’s important to use a handbag with many pockets (even better if they are hidden) to deter pickpockets. It also makes it more convenient for you to organise your belongings.

Since 2014, I have been recording my travel experiences by illustrating them in a refillable notebook with a waterproof Sakura Micron Pen. Sketching

what I see lets me remember the tiniest details – very useful for a media interview or if I have to blog about my trip later. My illustrations are also like a little present for myself as I will attach train tickets, brochures and name cards. At the end of this year, I’ll be launching a travel book which will showcase my sketches.

WORDS PEARLYN THAM PHOTO ROGER CHUA STYLING JONATHAN CHIA

Travel blogger Ng Sock Peng doesn’t only snap photos as mementoes; she illustrates what she sees, does and eats

Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida, Bali

Nusa Penida: Blue Paradise Island 1XVD 3HQLGD LQ %DOL LV SRSXODU IRU LWV LFRQLF FOLÎ?V 2QH RI which is the fascinating Kelingking Beach that takes the VKDSH RI GLQRVDXU V KHDG 7KH LVODQG FDQ EH UHDFKHG YLD 3DGDQJ %DL 3LHU RU RQO\ PLQXWHV IURP WKH SXEOLF KDUERU RQ 6DQXU %HDFK 1XVD 3HQLGD LV WKH SHUIHFW GHVWLQDWLRQ LI \RX UH ORRNLQJ IRU D GLÎ?HUHQW VLGH RI %DOL WKDW LV HTXDOO\ HQFKDQWLQJ Î&#x2013;WV DSSHDOLQJ FXOWXUH EOHQGV UHPDUNDEO\ ZHOO ZLWK LWV JRUJHRXV QDWXUH DERYH DQG XQGHU WKH ZDWHU www.indonesia.travel indonesia.travel @indtravel indonesia.travel

Bangkok’s hippest street Once-dilapidated warehouses and shophouses are undergoing a remarkable renaissance in the historic area of Charoen Krung

What to do when you’ve inherited a 100-year-old complex of crumbling mansions on the wrong side of the river? For Rujiraporn Wanglee, founder of interior design firm PIA, the answer was to turn it into a hub for local designers, filling the space with upmarket boutiques, eateries, a co-working space and incredible wall art. 248 Chiang Mai Rd, facebook.com/lhong1919

WORDS SIMON N. OSTHEIMER ILLUSTRATION CLAIR ROSSITER

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Insider I POSTCODE

Helmed by chefs Napol Jantraget, Saki Hoshino and New Suthichoti, this restaurant makes 80% of its ingredients including jams and ice creams or sources them from the local market. The produce-focused approach results in flavour-packed, Thai-accented dishes like grilled prawns, coconut chicken, and dragon fruit sorbet. 1052-1054 Charoen Krung Rd, facebook.com/8020bkk

When Speedy Grandma opened back in 2012, it was the first contemporary space to open in this forgotten-about riverside area. Fast forward six years, and it’s still setting the pace with avant garde art exhibitions and works that challenge the status quo. And that name?

Legend has it a ghostly grannie cruises the lanes on her silent scooter. Soi 28, Charoen Krung Rd, facebook.com/speedygrandma

Architect Duangrit Bunnag had a dream: to convert a series of riverside World War II-era warehouses into a creative collective.

Following the inventive template set by his Jam Factory complex, he has brought together an art gallery, fashion store, art house cinema, bakery, café, flower shop and theatre. Soi 30, Charoen Krung Rd, facebook.com/thewarehouse30

FooJohn is the former headquarters of a family of Thai-Chinese traders. On the ground floor you’ll find FoudieJoie, a French bistro with a Hong Kong flavour. Up one flight of stairs is an unnamed speakeasy bar and finally, on the rooftop, the SpareParts Smokehouse, with slow-cooked ribs and draught beers. 831 Charoen Krung Rd, facebook.com/foojohnbkk

This yakitori joint is the result of a true passion for Japan. Owner and chef Chet Adkins serves up a range of moreish skewers, from tiger prawns with durian butter to pork belly with negi (a long onion). They are happy to make sake recommendations if you don’t know your Bijofu Junmai from your Yuki No Bosha. Soi 28, Charoen Krung Rd, facebook.com/juabangkok

The imposing TCDC (or the Thailand Creative and Design Centre) occupies one wing of the historic Grand Postal Building. It consists of a vast library of design books, an area where budding designers can create furniture and fabrics, and a roof terrace with views of the city. While some areas are members-only, the exhibition space is always open to the public.

1160 Charoen Krung Rd, web.tcdc.or.th

17 025

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EDIBLE EXPLORATION WHIPPING UP FOODIE DELIGHTS IN BOTH SYDNEY AND HONG KONG, CHEF STANLEY WONG KNOWS HOW TO CHARM AND SURPRISE HIS DINERS ith a cooking style shaped by his travels, it’s hard to pin down exactly the type of food you might expect from chef Stanley Wong. What’s certain is that there are surprises in store. One dish served at Culinart, his Hong Kong catering company, is a delicate pumpkin gnocchi with a nod towards

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molecular cuisine. As you bite into the doughy pillows, liquid gorgonzola spheres pop open and ooze creamy cheese. At Sydney’s Eastside Kitchen & Bar, you’ll find New York-inspired steaks sitting alongside more unusual dishes, likes the whiskeybrined Berkshire pork loin with macadamia and coffee relish, and polenta.

This culinary dexterity has been shaped by Wong’s past experience at prestigious restaurants including the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Hong Kong and Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Spice Market in New York City.

Insider I IN PROFILE

We grill on our signature Japanese binchōtan and it’s the best steak you can get

When did you start cooking?

Right after I finished high school. My mum made daily dinners and my father made Chineseinspired dishes and that got me interested. I like the creative outlet of being a chef, from the concept in your head right through to customer reaction.

INTERVIEW SOPHIE HULL

What inspires you?

Eating out and travelling.

For the best sushi in Hong Kong I go to a friend’s small restaurant, Sushi Mizakaya. For Thai, I go to a hole-in-the-wall in Wan Chai. In Sydney, I like Efendy, The Apollo, Nomad and Ester.

How has dining changed in the last five years?

Some [fine dining places are] surviving but the direction is more towards casual. We have fine dining on the plate but in a restaurant setting where you don’t have to behave in a certain way and the dress codes are more relaxed.

You juggle a lot of projects. What does your

19

average week look like?

In Hong Kong, I sometimes have three to four events a day.

We do a lot of dinners and cocktail parties.

Sometimes it gets a little hairy. In Hong Kong, it’s more about managing logistics for multiple events. Here in Sydney I’m more hands on.

Have you had any unusual events?

Our offsite catering minimum is for 20 people.

But we had someone hire us in the presidential suite at the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

There was the food team, photographers and a big band – and it was just for two people. It was only their second date.

Tell us about Eastside Kitchen & Bar. We are on the east side of Kensington Street, hence the name. I used to work at Spice Market in New York so we wanted to evoke a little of that Meatpacking District feel. We have two big graffiti works created

by Caratoes. The food matches that as well. It’s hard to call it just New York though, because we are using local produce.

What’s your favourite dish there?

The grilled strip loin is fantastic, from Rangers Valley farm in NSW. We grill on our signature Japanese binchōtan and it’s the best steak you can get. I also like our nannygai red fish from local waters, which comes with a compressed watermelon, seaweed and cucumber salad.

What’s next for you?

Who knows. There are no concrete plans. I’d like to explore Australia a bit more. It’s interesting and challenging.

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MADE ON DEMAND EVERY HOTEL CONCIERGE IN HONG KONG HAS THEIR OWN TAILOR RECOMMENDATION; WE TRACK DOWN SOME OF THE CITYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BEST OPTIONS FOR BESPOKE GARMENTS words lucy siebert

TRAVEL TREND I HONG KONG TAILORS

Ascot Chang

Above: Cuffs makes the choice easy for customers Left: You’ll find quality fabrics at Maxwell’s Clothiers

Looking for a highly refined tailoring experience set in a shiny, air-conditioned luxury mall? Head directly to Ascot Chang, one of Hong Kong’s most exclusive tailors that counts the likes of George Bush Sr and Leonardo DiCaprio among its customers.

The original Mr Ascot Chang learnt his craft in Shanghai in the 1940s – where tailors are highly regarded for their sharp stitch work. Ascot Chang combines these traditional skills with high-quality fabrics, such as Thomas Mason from the UK and Loro Piana from Italy.

Expect to pay between HK$1,795 and HK$3,865 (S$312–671) for a shirt, which can be ready in about five days. Suits cost about HK$13,500 to HK$45,000 (S$2,343–

7,908) and take about four weeks. Ascot Chang only caters to men.

Cuffs Cuffs, tucked above bustling Wellington Street, is not your ordinary tailor.

As you emerge from the lift, you enter a studiolike space that feels like a cross between a New York loft and a trendy boutique. Cuffs was started by entrepreneur Ian Fong, who wanted to bring tailoring to a new generation.

“I saw value in tailoring a shirt but the experience was very old fashioned. I thought there’d be a lot of people like me and I saw that the market was ripe for disruption,” he says.

To combat decision fatigue, Fong designed a clean and simple ‘suit’ or ‘shirt’ bar concept that helps to guide customers’

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Where to find Ascot Chang Shop 2031, IFC Mall, 8 Finance St, Central, ascotchang.com choices. At the Shirt Bar, select from a curated collection of fabrics, with hundreds more available in sample books. Further helping customers’ choices is a display of popular shirt styles so you can see different cuts and use those as inspiration for your own bespoke designs. The Suit Bar takes a similar approach.

Cuffs has recently expanded into a limited offering for women. It takes about two weeks for a shirt, from HK$480

(S$83), and four weeks for a suit, from HK$4,600 (S$798). Garments can be shipped to your hometown.

Linva Tailor Fancy taking home a colourful piece of traditional Hong Kong? Head to Linva Tailor, which has been specialising in ladies’ cheongsam since 1965.

Famed for creating some looks for the 2000 film In the Mood for Love, stepping into the store is

like stepping back in time.

The hordes of tourists and city workers may be thronging next to Hong Kong’s famous escalators but inside it’s quiet and calm as Leung Ching Wah and his team go about their work. Choose from a huge range of silks and then be prepared for at least two fittings over a week or so. Expect to pay between HK$4,000 and HK$8,000 (S$694–1,388) and if your cheongsam isn’t complete in time for your flight home (it can

Cuffs 2/F, Yuen Yick Building, 27-29 Wellington St, Central, cuffs.hk Linva Tailor 38 Cochrane St, Central, facebook.com/linvatailor Maxwell’s Clothiers Maxwell Centre, 13th Floor, 39-41 Hankow Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, maxwellsclothiers.com Sam’s Tailor Burlington Arcade, 94 Nathan Rd, samstailor.com

TRAVEL TREND I HONG KONG TAILORS

take up to a month for the perfect piece), it will be shipped to you.

Maxwell’s Clothiers Like your tailored garments with a side of rugby-playing hunks?

Then Maxwell’s Clothiers is the place to go.

Maxwell’s ties to the world of sport are evident in its neat and sophisticated space in Tsim Sha Tsui.

As the official formal wear designer for Rugby Canada and the Hong Kong Rugby Union team, sports stars’ photos are displayed in the showroom. While proud of its sporting links, these are not necessarily the

Left to right: Get measured up at the rugby players’ favourite, Maxwell’s Clothiers

tailor’s most memorable customers.

“We especially enjoy working with wedding groups as it gives us pleasure knowing that we are part of the special day in someone’s life. We have also tailored matching shirts for a customer and his dog, as well as clothing for magicians with secret pockets,” says Maxwell’s Clothiers’ Andy Mahtani.

Shirts cost from HK$350 up to HK$1,200 (S$61–208) and suits from HK$3,800 (S$659).

Sam’s Tailor This tailor shop, arguably Hong Kong’s most famous, is hard to miss

It caters to tens of thousands of customers, including Prince Charles and Madonna – large signage points to the doorway, right off busy Nathan Road.

Established by Sam Melwani in 1957, the family business is now run by his sons, one of whom, Manu Melwani, is quick to measure me up. He perfected his craft in 1975 when he travelled to London to study as an apprentice tailor on Savile Row – an experience that he credits with teaching him about

customer service. Sam’s has 57 tailors working in nine workshops in Hong Kong, catering to tens of thousands of customers, including HRH Prince Charles, David Bowie and Madonna.

Manu’s top tip for anyone visiting a tailor?

“Know what you want.

Bring photos and make sure you choose the fabrics that you really want.

Don’t let the tailor tell you what they want.”

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Insider I BEAUTY

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Packable beauties BEING AWAY FROM HOME IS NO REASON TO FORGET YOUR DAILY ROUTINE 1. MAKE UP STORE Volcanic Exfoliator, S$45, from Make Up Store #04-10 313@Somerset. 2. LANEIGE White Dew Sherbet Cream, S$70, from Laneige #B3-53 Ion Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn. 3. LANEIGE Water Bank Quick Hydro pen, S$14, from Laneige. 4. FOR BELOVED ONE Flawless Brightening Ethyl Ascorbic Acid Essence, S$78, from Sephora.sg. 5. DR. JART+ Every Sun Day Tone-Up Sunscreen SPF50+ PA+++, S$49, from Sephora. 6. HERA Sun Mate Protector, S$58, from Takashimaya Department Store, 391 Orchard Rd. 7. BIODERMA Sebium gel mousssant, S$34, from Watsons.com.sg. 8. MAMONDE Pore Clean Clay Mask, S$28, from Mamonde #B1-34 Takashimaya Shopping Centre. 9. 3INA The Micellar Water, S$21, from 3ina #B2-67 Ion Orchard.

STYLING KARIN TAN PHOTOGRAPHY JASPER YU WORDS PEARLYN THAM

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Insider I SHOP IT

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A charmed life PERK UP A BAG OR A BUNCH OF KEYS WITH THESE CUTE, COLOURFUL ACCESSORIES

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1. ANYA HINDMARCH Marshmallow clutch, S$790, from Anya Hindmarch Takashimaya Department Store, 391 Orchard Rd. 2. ANYA HINDMARCH Chubby Rainbow bag charm, S$230. 3. SWAROVSKI Mickey Mouse keychain, S$179, from Swarovski # B1-17/18 Ion Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn. 4. COACH Leather shark bag charm, S$145, from Coach Takashimaya DS. 5. BIMBA Y LOLA acetate key chain, price unavailable, from Bimba Y Lola Mandarin Gallery, #01-04 333A Orchard Rd. 6. CHARLES & KEITH envelope cardholder, S$22.90, from charleskeith.com. 7. ANYA HINDMARCH cherry tassel, S$790. 8. KIKKI.K coffee keychain, S$16.90, from Kikki.K #B2-53 Ion Orchard.

24 HOURS IN

Medan The multicultural capital of North Sumatra is much, much more than just the gateway to scenic Lake Toba and Bukit Lawang

8.30AM Hit the

10.30AM Heritage House Take a walk back in time at Tjong A Fie Mansion.

This restored two-storey, 35-room landmark was built by a wealthy Hakka Chinese merchant and community leader in 1895.

Though the walls are a little dusty, this is a wonderfully atmospheric stop.

Where: Jl. Jendral Ahmad Yani No. 105, tjongafiemansion.org

Tuck into sliced duck vermicelli at Bihun Bebek Asie

WORDS DENYSE YEO PHOTOS ANAKJAJAN.COM, ERNEST ZACHAREVIC

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breakfast trail Work up an appetite on this 1km stroll through the historic Kesawan neighbourhood.

First, tuck into sliced duck vermicelli at Bihun Bebek Asie, then some must-try Hokkien seafood noodles at Bakmi Hock Seng – just a stone’s throw away.

Five minutes away is Soto Kesawan, known for its traditional Indonesian coconut milk and turmeric soto soup with prawn, beef or chicken. Still hungry? Medan’s famous beef curry vermicelli is a short walk away at Tabona Restaurant.

Where: Bihun Bebek Asie, Jl. Kumango No. 15; Bakmi Hock Seng, Jl. Gwangju No. 17; Soto Kesawan, Jl. Ahmad Yani No. 116; Tabona Restaurant, Jl. Mangkubumi No.17

Insider I DAY TRIPPER

12PM Revealing street art Can’t get to the orangutan viewing centre in Bukit Lawang? Admire the street murals of these endangered creatures instead. Created to raise awareness of the environmental perils caused by the palm oil industry, the artworks are part of Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic’s Splash and Burn project. The largest and most iconic is by Portuguese street artist Vhils in Jl. Gatot Subroto.

Where: Jl. Perdana No. 99 and Jl. Gatot Subroto No. 134/146

Top to bottom: Art by Ernest Zacharevic; the curious avocado coffee float at Macehat

1PM Time for coffee

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Sumatra is synonymous with coffee. After all, this is where most of the world’s coffee chains source their beans. Medan is a city of cafés, many of which create connoisseur-worthy coffees.

Macehat, just around the corner from major road Jl. Gatot Subroto, not only roasts its own beans in small batches but also offers deliciously unusual avocado coffee floats.

Where: Jl. Karo No. 20, macehatcoffee.com

Stock up on the king of fruits

2PM Sumatran storytelling With its distinctive traditional architecture, the Museum of North Sumatra tells the tale of North Sumatra’s rich history and culture, from Aceh’s Muslims to Lake Toba’s Batak Christians and Padang’s matrilineal Minangkabau. Also on show are ancient Arabic tombstones, Hindu relics and Buddhist sculptures.

Where: Jl. Haji M. Joni No. 51

5PM Magnificent mosque Some 1.5km north of the museum, the octagonal Great Mosque of Medan, or Masjid Raya Al-Mashun, is a beautiful place of worship.

Commissioned by Sultan Ma’mun Al Rashid Perkasa Alam and designed by a

Dutch architect in 1906, this impressive Spanish-style building has Moroccaninspired windows, Italian marble, French light fixtures and stained glass from China.

Where: Jl. Sisingamangaraja No. 178

8PM Linger for durian After dinner at Merdeka Walk (Jl. Balaikota, Kesawan), visit Ucok Durian Tanjung.

Popular with locals and visitors – Indonesian President Jokowi has been spotted here with his family – the store is littered with the pungent, thorny fruit almost from floor to ceiling. Besides eating the fruit itself, you can also buy durian desserts like pancakes, pudding and ice cream.

Where: Jl. Pelajar No. 46, Teladan Tim., ucokdurian.id Travel Info Singapore Medan up to two flights daily. jetstar.com

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HIT THE BEACH

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Sanya has the three essential elements of any perfect beach Instagram shot: clear blue water, pristine white sand and tropical trees.

Time to make your friends jealous.

SANYA’S TOP INSTAGRAM SHOTS This coastal city on China’s Hainan Island is known for its gorgeous beaches, lush forests and parks, religious landmarks and unique architecture

@artamonio

STANDING TALL The 108m-tall Guanyin of Nanshan statue is a sight to behold. Located near Nanshan Temple, it’s of great spiritual significance to Buddhist pilgrims. This landmark is best snapped from afar. @fanny.suryadi

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GREEN SCENE Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park is home to thousands of plant and animal species. As you explore the park you’ll come across pavilions like this, perfect for taking in the tranquil vibe.

HELLO, MY DEER This striking artwork can be found in Lu Hui Tou Park. The name Lu Hui Tou, or “a deer looking back”, is inspired by one of the hills in the park.

FLAG IT

ALL SMILES This street vendor sells mangoes the traditional way. This way of doing business is fast disappearing in rapidly developing Sanya, so get a shot of it while you can.

@katrihan

Don’t miss Nanshan Temple, with its colourful flags that look like streamers shooting out from the roof. The ornate building features Tang Dynasty-style architectural elements.

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Insider I INSTAGRAMABLE

A REWARDING HIKE

@cecillionaire

Take a hike through Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park. Get your camera ready for an awesome photo of the bay and surrounding valleys as you make your way to the top.

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WORDS SASHA GONZALES

@june_girl_

@pashka.velsky

CHASING WATERFALLS Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone is one of the best places to go trekking. Don’t miss its many springs and waterfalls, which make for a cool respite from the tropical heat.

@susanto.xu

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

GOOD MORNING, SANYA Sunrise in Sanya is breathtakingly beautiful, turning the morning sky yellow and orange and casting light over the town below. If you’re an early riser, don’t miss this photogenic sight.

LEGO-LIKE TREES The award-winning luxury Beauty Crown Hotel has buildings that look like massive Lego trees. From a distance the complex looks like something out of a sci-fi movie.

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Disclaimer: The Peak Construction Permit No. 148 MLMUPC/GLMUP. Whilst every care has been taken in preparing these particulars, the appointed agents and respective vendors/landlords give no warranty, express or implied, as to the completeness or accuracy of the information contained herein. These particulars are subject to errors, omissions, change of price/rental of other conditions, withdrawal without notice, and any special listing conditions imposed by our principals. The vendors/landlords and agents will not be negligence, or for any direct or indirect consequential losses or damages arising from the use of this information. You should satisfy yourself about the completeness or accuracy of any information of materials. The information herein does not form part of an offer or contract. Prices and details correct at time of going to press. Computer generated images are indicate only. *As per S&P Agreement and other terms & conditions apply. The featured properties are overseas investment. As overseas investments carry additional financial, regulatory and legal risks, investors are advised to do the necessary checks and research on the investments beforehand.

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VEGAN FOOD I JAPAN

Can you go vegan in Japan?

It isn’t as difficult as you might think. Here are some restaurants and cafés specialising in delicious plant-based fare

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apan may be known as the land of sushi and sashimi but it is a misconception that those who prefer to stick to a plant-based diet will go hungry when they visit. While it is true that seafood is popular in Japanese culture, fresh local produce such as fruit, rice and vegetables also forms a significant part of traditional diets. This

WORDS KAREN TEE

J

makes it easy for those who do not eat animal or dairy products to enjoy a foodie experience in the country too. For instance, convenience stores are filled with delicious vegan-friendly local snacks such as onigiri rice balls with seaweed or salted plums or inari (soy marinated tofu pockets) sushi. Most restaurants have a good selection of vegetable and tofu dishes for meatless meals. There

are also an increasing number of eateries focusing on vegan fare opening around the country. Here are a few picks to check out.

Seasonal Japanese rice sets Cosy café Brown Rice, a part of organic beauty brand Neal’s Yard Remedies, offers a calm respite in the heart of bustling Shibuya in Tokyo. Its wholesome

meals are based on the traditional Japanese diet of fermented food such as miso and pickles as well as tofu, brown rice and vegetables, sourced from local suppliers where possible.

Brown Rice’s seasonal set meal, 2,200 yen (S$27), includes one main dish accompanied by three small side dishes of simmered greens or seaweed. To sample a variety of local veggies,

VEGAN FOOD I JAPAN

Left: LaLa Zorba’s take on pad Thai Previous page: Stock up on veggies with Brown Rice’s delicious bamboo basket

brownies and tarts to satisfy those with a sweet tooth.

Ethnic vegan food

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order the bamboo basket steamed vegetable set where more than 10 types of colourful vegetables are steamed in a basket and served with dipping sauces.

Ain Soph restaurant is famous for its fluffy soy cream pancakes and seasonal desserts

When you need a break from traditional Japanese flavours, visit cute eatery LaLa Zorba in Okinawa, which specialises in Thai, Indian and Nepali-inspired dishes.

Owner and chef Masumi Kinoshita whips up tasty homestyle ethnic dishes such as Tibetan dumplings, Indian curries and pad Thai using seasonal ingredients.

The Buddha Plate is a favourite, 2,500 yen (S$31), which includes two mini bowls of curry, mock soybean meat and a fresh organic salad.

Vegan fine dining For reliably satisfying vegan fare in Tokyo, keep a lookout for the four Ain Soph restaurants, located around the city.

The original outlet in Ginza offers beautifully plated Japanese French fusion meals featuring rainbow-hued vegetables prepared in multiple ways for a gourmet dining experience. Try the handrolled sushi set, 2,980 yen (S$36), featuring 12 types of vegan sushi toppings with 10 condiments. This

restaurant is also famous for its fluffy soy cream pancakes and seasonal desserts. On the ground floor, there is a sweet shop selling vegan versions of Japanese confectionery and biscuits.

The raw deal Besides Japanese-style salads, it can be hard to track down raw vegan food in the country. Meet Raw8 Cafe in Osaka, where you can satisfy your cravings for fresh, nutritious and

raw dishes beyond a hastily tossed salad.

Dishes here are prepared according to raw food principles, where ingredients are not cooked beyond 48°C to ensure that plant enzymes are not changed by heat. Specialities include raw samosas and tacos as well as okonomiyaki (Japanese pancakes). There’s also a variety of fresh juices and smoothies and raw desserts such as cookies,

Where to find Brown Rice 5-1-8 Jingumae, Shibuyaku, Tokyo, nealsyard.c.jp/ brownrice/welcome Ain Soph Ginza 4-12-1 Ginza Chuo-ku, Tokyo, ain-soph.jp/ginza/#about Raw8 Cafe 1-15-33, Nakatsu, Kita-ku, Osaka, rawfoodcafe.jp LaLa Zorba 2-2-32-2F Matsuo Naha-shi, Okinawa, lalazorba.com

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WHEELY G D TOURS WE REVEAL SOME OF THE MOST UNUSUAL WAYS TO GO SIGHTSEEING IN YOUR FAVOURITE CITY words claire turrell

CITY TOURS I COVER STORY

f you think that city tours involve hours of trudging aimlessly behind people holding flags or umbrellas, think again. You can now tour some of the world’s most exciting metropolises by scooter, Super Mario go-kart or VW Kombi.

I

Drive a Super Mario Bros kart around Japan Gamers get excited. You can now drive your own Super Mario Bros kart through the streets of Okinawa and Osaka. Yes, you did read that correctly. The team behind Maricar in Tokyo has just launched tours in these cities. And if that’s not enough, they’ll provide costumes of your favourite Super Mario Bros characters too. All you need to do is follow your tour guide down the city streets in your roadworthy go-kart.

A 60-minute city tour of Okinawa, which takes you past the main shopping drag on Kokusai Street, costs around JPY6,000 (S$74). A two-hour tour of Osaka, which takes in Osaka Castle or Nakanoshima Park, the shopping zones of Namba and Umeda and Nodahanshin station, costs around JPY9,000 (S$111). You’ll need an international driving licence.

Get driven around Bali in a VW Kombi Does sipping cocktails by the beach and cruising Bali in a VW Kombi sound like your scene? Meet Urban Adventures’ VW Kombi Cocktail Safari tour. You start your trip on the dramatic Batubelig beach in northern Seminyak, then head to a 17thcentury fertility temple perched on a rock in the ocean. From here they’ll drive you past the rice paddy fields to watch the sunset over Jimbaran Bay, before you stop for a nightcap at the iconic bar Ku De Ta in Seminyak. If you would like to tour Bali’s famed boutiques and squeeze in a little shopping too, the team has joined with Alila Seminyak to offer bespoke shopping trips to its guests. Costs from S$79.

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Enjoy a tuk tuk tour of Bangkok Want to enjoy the tastiest dishes in town? Then join the Bangkok Food Tours’ Best Eats Midnight Tour

by Tuk Tuk in Bangkok.

You will be taken on a tuk tuk ride around ‘the Big Mango’ city and sample its best pad Thai, go behind the scenes to see chefs make spicy guay tiew kua gai and finish the night at a secret bar.

When you’re not trying foodie delicacies you will be able to find out

more about the culture, visiting places such as Wat Pho and the bustling flower market. Costs TB1,990 (S$83).

Ride a sidecar in Singapore Join Sideways for a city tour with a difference.

Book one of its Selfie Spins and they will take you on a 60-minute tour of Singapore in a vintage Vespa sidecar. One of its bestsellers is the Glam & The Civic District tour, which takes you on a

They’ll drive you past the rice paddy fields to watch the sunset over Jimbaran Bay, before you stop for a nightcap

fun ride over the elegant Anderson Bridge, past the Corinthian columns of the former Old Supreme Court (now the National Gallery) and into the hipster shopping area Kampong Glam. Other trips available include China Town and Joo Chiat, districts that are filled with colourful shophouses. Your sidecar driver will point out interesting sites en route and stop for you to take selfies. Tours are S$120 for one hour.

CITY TOURS I COVER STORY

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Above: Sip cocktails and chill in a Kombi with Urban Adventures Right: Pose on a vintage Vespa with Sideways Tours Previous page: Super Mario Bros fans race the streets of Tokyo

Padar Island, East Nusa Tenggara

Padar Island: The Eastern Treasure Relax and enjoy the stunning view of Padar Island, East Nusa Tenggara that will give you an unforgettable experience. The landscape of this third biggest island in Komodo National Park is dominated by majestic hills.

Padar Island is a haven for photographers thanks to its many spots for both sunset and sunrise. The combination RI PDJQLČ´FHQW ODQGVFDSH DQG LWV SUHKLVWRULF GZHOOHUV WKDW can only be found in Indonesia, are the main attractions to this world-class destination. www.indonesia.travel indonesia.travel @indtravel indonesia.travel

CITY TOURS I COVER STORY Strap yourself into a Vespa’s sidecar for a fun jaunt in Singapore

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It takes you on a fun ride over the elegant Anderson Bridge... and into a hipster shopping area

Pedal around Penang

Take a Segway around Chiang Mai

Saddle up and enjoy the All-in-One UNESCO George Town Bicycle tour with Metro Bike. In three and a half hours you will discover the shophouses, hawker stalls and ancient clan houses of Penang.

You’ll ride at a leisurely pace from the famed clan jetties, through Little India and on to the former colonial quarter. You’ll also sample some of the best dishes that this foodie capital has to offer, like assam laksa, char kuay teow and chendol. Costs from RM180 (S$61).

For a temple-hopping tour like no other, glide around the city of Chiang Mai with Segway Gibbon (pictured).

After a quick lesson on how to manage your set of eco-friendly wheels you’ll follow your guide through the backstreets to the bronze Three Kings Monument and on to the city’s first temple Wat Chiang Man, the ancient city wall Tha Phae Gate and the tiled temple of Wat Phan Tao. Your guide will share the city’s history along the way. Costs from TB2,199 (S$91).

CITY TOURS I COVER STORY

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ONE STEP AHEAD If you fancy a selfpowered tour, here are two creative trips where all you need are your own two legs.

Wander around Hong Kong by foot to get a true appreciation of the street-art scene. Cultural group Accidental Art takes visitors for a onehour tour around the amazing art in the SoHo area. Shepard Fairey and Hopare are just two of the street artists who have turned their aerosol cans on the city. Costs HK$165 (S$28).

Not speedy enough for you? Fit in a workout and a tour in one session with an 8km jog with Running Tours Melbourne. During the two-hour Laneways Discovery Tour you will have a chance to spot the street art in Hosier Lane, see interesting architecture and learn about the city’s colonial history. You will wrap up your tour Melburnian style with a flat white at a coffee shop. If you’re not Usain Bolt, don’t worry – they explore the city at a leisurely pace. Priced around AU$69 (S$69).

Get up close with Hong Kong’s streetart scene with an Accidental Art tour

Tours to try Segway Gibbon Chiang Mai segwaygibbon.com Urban Adventures Bali urbanadventures.com Maricar Japan maricar.osaka or maricar.okinawa Bangkok Food Tours bangkokfoodtours.com Sideways Singapore sideways.sg Metro Bike Penang metrobike.com.my Accidental Art accidentalart.co Running Tours Melbourne runningtours.com.au

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Tsukiji is two markets in one: the main market for super-fresh seafood, and the outer market for dried fish, kitchenware and hearty meals like this delicious bowl of anago (saltwater eel).

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TSUKIJI FISH MARKET I TOKYO

A good catch Get in before it’s gone: the world’s biggest fish market is moving to a new location in October PHOTOGRAPHER MARK PARREN TAYLOR

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Left The pros wake up very, very early for a fish auction. This tuna is on its way from the auction to its new owner’s shop.

Middle Once the fish is portioned up, you get your pick of cuts.

Right In the busy market it’s hard to keep track of everything, but don’t forget to look up.

TSUKIJI FISH MARKET I TOKYO

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This page Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see seafood craftsmen at work. This sword-like knife is used for larger ďŹ sh like tuna.

Opposite Follow the crowds for a tasty meal on the outskirts of the market.

While the main market is set to move, these stalls and restaurants will stay.

TSUKIJI FISH MARKET I TOKYO

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TSUKIJI FISH MARKET I TOKYO

A fresh perspective Mark Parren Taylor, who shot these images of Tsukiji Fish Market, tells us what to see and eat there before its inner market moves to the new Toyosu site in October

Get here by 4.45am at the latest if you want to witness the tuna auction.

The market is an ideal way to capitalise on your jetlag. Get up early or go straight from a drinking den in Ginza. The latest you can register for the day’s two organised visits is 5am. Be warned: these groups are allowed only 15 minutes.

What you’ll see… Tuna carcases laid out for prospective buyers to examine. They are allowed to extract a small plug of meat from the tail end to test its quality (usually by pressing the meat between their fingers and peering at the cross-section with their torches). There are

About the photographer

There’s a lot of frenetic activity... it’s mesmerising several auctions taking place at the same time and they are fast and furious. The buyers even wear their names on their hats to save valuable moments.

Have a late breakfast or early lunch at the Outer Market. This is a corner of the vast complex where you can find a tempting and affordable late

Londoner Mark Parren Taylor once worked as an illustrator and also a book designer but gave up the nine-to-five routine and started doing what he loved as a teenager: taking photos. “Someone told me everyone has three careers in their lives.

They were so convincing that I thought if it’s a rule, I’d better follow it.”

breakfast or early lunch.

The eight or so lanes are teeming with stalls, cafés and restaurants, streetside grills and counters selling all manner of fresh seafood; raw, steamed or barbecued, braised and dried fish, seafood and other sea products such r as seaweed. I start off my kparrentaylo Follow: @mar day with a coffee at the little Yonemoto Coffee Shop on the Harumi-dori avenue frontage of the Travel Info Outer Market, and end it with the same dish at Singapore Tokyo every visit: an unctuous, via Okinawa, Osaka or sweet piece of grilled Hong Kong. anago (saltwater eel) jetstar.com on rice.

INTERVIEW PEARLYN THAM

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I make it a habit to visit wet markets all over the globe, from the streets of Hong Kong to the beaches of Brazil to the little ports in Cornwall or Scotland. But there is no fish market anywhere that matches the daunting scale and energy of Tsukiji. The sheer volume of fish and seafood here is astonishing. There’s a lot of frenetic activity as porters zip about on carts, fishmongers carry freshly dressed crustaceans... it’s mesmerising.

Check-in to the future

The future is now for these hotels which employ cutting-edge technology to woo guests words SUZANNE SNG

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Above: Beware of velociraptors at Henn na Hotel, a hotel chain run by robots

ree ultra-fast broadband, complimentary use of smartphones, and wafer-thin TVs with Netflix are pretty common tech offerings by hotels these days. But a number of futuristic hotels in Asia are harnessing technology to take things one step further. Dinosaur robots crack jokes while they check you in. A sleep pod is tricked out to look like a space capsule straight out of 2001: A Space Odyssey. And an immersive virtual reality room lets you sleep with the fishes – without getting wet.

F

For the gadget fan The startling sight of two clawed velociraptors manning the front desk –

not quite ferocious with their comically short arms and jaunty hats – may greet guests at Henn na Hotel. The rapidly growing Japanese chain, which has eight properties so far, is said to be the first hotel in the world entirely run by robots and truly lives up to its name, which means ‘weird hotel’ in Japanese. At some of its properties, incredibly lifelike female mannequins with perfect skin and unblinking eyes are the only ‘human’ staff you will meet during your stay. A robot on wheels delivers your room service, a robotic arm stows your left luggage and a voice-activated bedside doll gives you weather forecasts and even sings a Japanese lullaby to put you to sleep.

Prices vary across locations, but one night

TRAVEL I FUTURISTIC HOTELS

What are you looking at?

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of robot-assisted stay in Tokyo’s glitzy Ginza costs 16,000 yen (S$198) for a double room. The hotel group has boldly proclaimed that it wants to open 100 such hotels within five years.

For the mobile citizen If time is money to you, a 60-second check-in could save you oodles. At citizenM Taipei North Gate you don’t have to wait in line to be served in the lobby. In fact, there isn’t a lobby. Instead, you step into a snazzy bachelor pad-like living room with Pop Art-inspired throw cushions, designer knick-knacks and coffee table tomes. Unobtrusively placed self-service kiosks spit out a keycard when you check

in. The check-out process is equally painless and, more importantly, paperless, with everything emailed to you. The tech features extend to what the hotel calls a ‘mood pad’ in each room. The touchscreen tablet lets you play with the colours of the lights, blast the air-conditioning at maximum and even be woken up in the morning by the sounds of elephants thrashing through the room. Rates start from NT3,000 (S$134).

Calling all space cadets Yotel Singapore calls its rooms ‘cabins’ and the compact, almost all-white spaces do evoke the sleek feel of a space capsule, especially with space-saving features such

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Where to find as a motorised reclining bed and hidden pull-out tables. Like other Yotel properties in cities such as New York and Boston, strips of lighting in its signature purple add a retromodern touch to the rooms. The space theme extends to its lobby, called Mission Control, with a bank of selfservice check-in booths. Two robots, named Yoshi and Yolanda, work tirelessly 24/7 to deliver room service, so don’t be alarmed if you see what appears to be a tall pedal bin trundling along the corridor. Rooms from S$169 a night.

Sleep with the fishes At Hotel Gracery Naha in Okinawa, you can go 20,000 leagues under the sea, just like in the classic sci-fi novel

by Jules Verne. Its one-of-a-kind Churaumi room (27,000 yen or S$334 a night) lets you explore the seabed without leaving your comfy bed.

While you listen to the sounds of the

Don’t be alarmed if you see what appears to be a tall pedal bin trundling along the corridor ocean, leading-edge video technology works its magic to project underwater scenes onto the walls. Choose from three different immersive projections, one of which is actual footage shot in the Okinawa sea. The other two are computer generated but they are stunningly realistic, with corals, turtles and fish. In addition, in a typically quirky Japanese manner, food items like doughnuts and watermelon will randomly pop up and you can touch them to ‘feed’ the sea creatures.

Henn na Hotel Various locations in Japan, including Henn na Hotel Tokyo Ginza, 104-0045 Tokyo, Chuo-ku Tsukiji 2-2-1, hennnahoteltokyoginza. book.direct/en-gb citizenM Taipei No. 3 Section 1 Zhonghua Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei, citizenm.com/destinations/ taipei/taipei-hotel Yotel Singapore 366 Orchard Rd, Singapore, yotel.com/en/hotels/yotelsingapore Hotel Gracery Naha 1-3-6, Matsuo, Naha, Okinawa, naha.gracery.com Riccarton Capsule Hotel No. G-1, Wisma Q Titiwangsa, Persiaran Titiwangsa 1, Jalan Pahang, Kuala Lumpur, riccarton.com.my

TRAVEL I FUTURISTIC HOTELS

When backpackers meet sci-fi Backpacker bunk beds have been given a futuristic makeover at Riccarton Capsule Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. Its pristine white sleep pods, bathed in an otherworldly blue light, seem straight out of a sci-fi movie. Slide open the ultra-sleek doors of the capsules, which come in singles and doubles (from MYR100 or S$34 a night for a single) and you see a control panel not unlike that of a spacecraft. This multitude of buttons operates everything in your pod, including a flat-screen TV, individually controlled airconditioning, multiple USB ports and even a panic button to summon help.

57 Left: The quirky room service attendants at Yotel Singapore Above: Forget the aquarium; stay in the Churaumi room at Hotel Gracery Naha instead

PHOTOS TOP LEFT: RICHARD POWERS/CITIZENM

Right: Imagine you are sleeping on board a spacecraft at Kuala Lumpur’s Riccarton Capsule Hotel

This page: Taste cocktails inspired by traditional dishes at Out of Nowhere Right: The picture-perfect Golden Shower; a classy whiskey cocktail from Magazine 63; don’t be fooled by the furniture store-vibe of Golden Shower’s entrance

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R A ISIN G THE BAR COOL CONCEPTS AND CREATIVE COCKTAILS MAKE THESE FIVE PENANG SPEAKEASIES WORTH SEEKING OUT words jennifer choo

PENANG I SPEAKEASIES

59 enang is renowned for its street food and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but this proudly distinctive island also has a vibrant nightlife. The scene has always been quite diverse, from beach bars along Batu Ferringhi to backpacker pubs in George Town, techno dance clubs in warehouses and up-market wine bars in repurposed old buildings. So it’s no surprise that the speakeasy trend has been enthusiastically adopted in Penang. Speakeasies were illicit bars that sprang up between 1920 and 1933 in the USA when alcohol prohibition was imposed. And though alcohol isn’t illegal here, today’s speakeasies play with the illicit history of these bars, some with hidden doors and passwords for entry. Others nod to the glamorous style of the 20s and 30s.

As early as in 2014, speakeasies were been dominating the bar scene in Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, but the trend only caught on in Penang in 2017 when Magazine 63 opened in May. The eclectic and imaginative interpretations that have emerged more than make up for this slow adoption. Many speakeasies have put a unique Penang spin on their bars, with themes that embrace their context or cocktails that draw on local flavours.

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The decor has a vintage oriental vibe with exposed brick walls and paper lanterns

The speakeasy that started it all Situated along a quiet street, from the outside Magazine 63 looks like a regular shop-front about to close for the night. Don’t be fooled by the half-closed steel door and ratty banner advertising a furniture centre hanging outside.

Push through the cheap plywood door and you’ll be greeted by a tableau worthy of an arty Wong Kar-wai movie. The decor has a vintage oriental vibe with exposed brick walls that provide the ideal canvas for wax paper umbrellas, fans and lanterns. While the entrance looks like a typical old storefront with zinc awnings and a Chinese shop sign, the theme indoors is reinforced by the Chinese wine urns and cups used to

serve drinks. A moodily lit and intimate space, Magazine 63 serves a small selection of beer, gin, whisky and liqueurs – with a few off-menu cocktails that change from week to week.

Heritage haven The five-foot way, a covered walkway, is a typical feature of colonial Straits Chinese shophouses.

Penang, being a Straits Settlement, still has many of these around George Town, and behind a fivefoot way in Presgrave Road is 12 Senses. To get in, reach into the door and pull the correct lever of the wooden Wing Chun dummy (commonly used in kungfu training). Inside, the owners have carefully preserved the original Peranakan features like the carved timber screens and

PENANG I SPEAKEASIES

Left: Hidden bar Magazine 63 is worth hunting down

Where to find Magazine 63 63 Jalan Magazine, facebook. com/magazineM63 12 Senses 12 Lebuh Presgrave, facebook com/12SensesPenang Golden Shower by Chin Chin 86 Lebuh Bishop, facebook. com/goldenshowerbychinchin Out of Nowhere 75 Jalan Kuala Kangsar, facebook.com/ outofnowhereeee Backdoor Bodega 37B Jalan Gurdwara, facebook.com/ backdoorbodega

you’re treated to a pink paradise comprising a bar, lounge and open kitchen beyond. Despite its unusual name, Golden Shower’s pedigree is impeccable: its owners also run Chin Chin, the hottest izakaya in town. It’s a smooth operation, from the pinchos-style small plates that highlight local produce to the cocktail menu, which was created in collaboration with award-winning mixologist Callan Green from Wholly Spirits.

Reach into the fridge for cocktails By day, Out of Nowhere operates as a hipster coffee shop called Holdup. By night, pry open the orange fridge door in the back and you’ll find a cocktail bar with a locally inspired menu. The bar has a cool urban vibe, with unfinished concrete and steel aplenty. The cocktails were inspired by childhood memories of having meals of thick local coffee and gooleng peng (rose syrup and evaporated milk) at the neighbourhood kopitiam (coffee shop). Sample a drink called Roti Satu, which literally means ‘one bread please’ in Malay, that blends smoked woodchip rum, bread infusion, coconut espresso and jackfruit foam.

This was inspired by the famous roti bakar shop down the road, which has been serving charcoalfired toasted bread with coconut jam for more than 50 years.

Pick the right pin, unlock a drink wooden staircase. Decorative flourishes like lanterns and oil paintings keep to the style and the cocktails range from classics (such as the Dry Martini and Old Fashioned) to weekly specials.

PHOTOS KOAY

Insta-fabulous Golden Shower by Chin Chin is well known among locals as the Instagrammers’ favourite speakeasy. Looking at its ridiculously photogenic pink and brass interior, it’s not hard to see why. The signboard-less shopfront could pass as the window display of a posh bathroom fittings store – complete with chandelier and golden toilet – but look for the unmarked door in the rear that leads into a dark, graffiticovered alley. On reaching the speakeasy itself,

Resolutely anti-establishment, Backdoor Bodega stays true to the spirit of the original speakeasies as an unlicensed bar that serves drinks only if you purchase the right lapel pin.

Located within the popular Hin Bus Depot arts hub, the tiny space can only seat seven at the bar and is touted as the well-stocked pantry of an apparel and souvenir shop (where you buy the pin).

The entrance is nestled between two back doors, so you need to find the right one and give it a knock. The owners make all the cocktails themselves and, true to the founding speakeasy spirit, most of them have home-infused liqueurs stored in unmarked glass bottles. It’s worth all the effort though, as the drinks here are reputed to be some of the best in Penang.

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5

OF THE BEST

Things to try in Hanoi and Halong Bay Stay in a historic hotel with a bomb shelter, support local farmers in a musical-on-water and visit a spa on a cruise ship Left to right: Street markets in Hanoi; bahn cuon noodles at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi; sail in style with Paradise Cruises

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1. STAY IN CHARLIE CHAPLIN’S SUITE The legendary comic actor celebrated his honeymoon with this third wife at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. Today, suite 328 has been officially christened the Charlie Chaplin Suite. Established in 1901, the hotel also has the Graham Greene and Somerset Maugham suites for literature fans, and has had celebrity guests like Angelina Jolie, Donald Trump and Michelle Yeoh. Its bistro Le Beaulieu was one of the first French restaurants in Hanoi. A sumptuous buffet breakfast is served here – sup on hot fragrant beef pho or start the day with a decadent crème brûlée.

On a sombre note, the tree-lined sidewalk that frames the venue is where locals used manholes as impromptu bomb shelters during the Vietnam War. To learn more about the area’s history, join the daily walking tours with the Path of History, which takes you underground to the Metropole’s bomb shelter. sofitel.accorhotels.com

2. TRY EGG COFFEE There’s more than one way to get caffeinated in Hanoi. Enjoy a hot ca phe trung, also known as egg coffee. Don’t worry,

Insider I 5 OF THE BEST

The Hotel Metropole’s bistro Le Beaulieu was one of the first French restaurants in Hanoi

you won’t find an entire egg in your cup, though. This northern Vietnamese beverage is made with egg yolks and condensed milk, which results in a meringue-like foam over a strong coffee. Enjoy it cold or hot at most cafés in Hanoi; the more famous ones are Café Dinh (13 Pho Dinh Tien Hoang) and Giang Café (39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street).

Nguyen Giang, a bartender at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, founded the latter in 1946. He is said to have created egg coffee, due to milk being scarce back then. The hotel’s Le Club Bar still serves it.

WORDS PEARLYN THAM

3. FIND HANOI TRAIN STREET Imagine having a train whiz past your home twice a day, every day, like the residents on Hanoi Train Street. Located between Le Duan and Kham Tien Street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the narrow street, flanked by houses, is made up of a railway track on which a train passes to get from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Residents go about their business on the track but have become adept at pre-empting the arrival of the train. If you are a tourist hungry for that perfect

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Instagram shot, be sure to watch the locals for cues and stand close to the walls to avoid accidents.

4. WATCH A MUSICAL ON WATER If you could choose a completely different career path, what would it be? The Quintessence of Tonkin trained local farmers from the Sai Son Commune in the Quoc Oai area for two years in order to give the local community sustainable work. Besides being the cast, the residents are employed as costume and puppet makers, carpenters, technicians and service staff. The performance takes place at night and outdoors,

with a mountain as a natural backdrop.

The 250-strong cast uses water puppets, light effects, music, and dance and fight choreography to tell the story of how the Thay Pagoda was founded by the Buddhist monk Tu Dao Hanh. The performance takes place on an elaborate stage submerged under 10cm of water to resemble a giant lake. It’s located 20km west of central Hanoi. thequintessenceoftonkin.com

5. ENJOY A SPA TREATMENT ON HALONG BAY Go to massage heaven on Paradise Elegance, a ‘floating hotel’, which departs from Tuan

Chau Marina and cruises along the scenic Halong Bay over one or two nights. The in-house Le Parfum Spa uses premium Sothys Paris products in its facials and body treatments.

Your body will appreciate the TLC after you have taken part in some of the off-shore activities that Paradise Elegance offers: kayaking near the Tung Sau Pearl Farm, visiting the Sung Sot cave and doing tai chi at sunrise.

At meal times, you’ll appreciate the use of the freshest local produce in the upmarket meal service. Prices start from US$500 (S$681) for one night in a Deluxe Balcony cabin, not including drinks and spa treatments. paradisecruise.com

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Ruins Coffee Roasters

WORDS JAMIE HUANG PHOTOS CHO FANG YU

刿䌢鄄獦⡲չ㼭䏑㟠պ 鵯ꅽ 僽濼ぜㄳ㉰䏅$BG¨ +VOLJFT 姅⚌䖔ꅾ倝꬗⚆涸倝䏅㖧կ 梡㖧僽➢⵸$BG¨ +VOLJFT傞 ➿涸➩䎽♸捷鞝䊨㖷㢪錜 僽〵弩䌢錛涸꜈淼㾋⸈渷䒊 瘰䏅ⰻⴭッ梡䊨⚌굥嚁⚥ 嚁䒭涸呔㽷雮㗂㖈✳嚁涸곥 㹐⛲腊湬䱹溏錛嚁♴ゅ〵㥵 ⡦撞ㄳ㉰կ ⡙倴騄猌〵⻌䋑 ⚥䗱玕鵴涸加叹㖑⼓䏅꬗ 䖔倰稒龇屎㜉㗂䭆䎛ꢢ涸 錠ꅿ㖈䨪㢪⼓ㅷ㽂ㄳ㉰腊 㢿滗劅鵴㿋㗂㖈㹔ⰻⴭ腊 ➢姼饰䕹衅涸鎊靍ꢂ䠭「鲽 匠孞孧♸䎃鲽崞⸂կ 㖑㖧〵⻌䋑加叹騟♲媯 〿 GBDFCPPL DPN 3VJOT $P FF3PBTUFST

騟僒蛎ㄳ㉰ ⡲⚹礵ㅷ鵶ꝉㄳ㉰涸劥㖑➿ 邍僽梡➚㖈〵⻌剒㺂僒䪪 ⵌ涸ㄳ㉰䏅կ ꤑ✫⣘䎾杝㹻 絑Ⱙꂁ倰鞝Ⰼ〵꡶䋑⛲䲿 ⣘勻荈Ⰼ椕㢴⚡㕂㹻㖑⼓⚳ 㢴鴪侨⼧猫涸䎥㔩紩ㄳ㉰ 鞝⚂⟟呔䎂㹊❵字♶㹁劍

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䲀ⴀ倝〡㄂涸傍귬㤛귬刿帿 「㣐⠍剒昶կ 鵛䎃騟僒蛎ㄳ ㉰⛲荝⸂倴䲿⣘ぐ猫俒⻊ ⡤낉〵⻌䋑涸㣐㸝啿卌Ⱆ 㔩䏅⚳⻌䫏爢⚳騟僒蛎字 勉銯꡶䋑瘝暵蒀䏅Ꝃ鿪⧩ 䖤♧霄կ 㖑㖧Ⰼ〵⻌涻剣䏅Ꝃ MPVJTBDP FF DP

䊩곜 䗞⛙ㄳ㉰ ♳㕃 㼭䏑㟠ㄳ㉰ ♴䱗〸 'JLB 'JLB $BGFծ ♴䱗䊩 䗞⛙ㄳ㉰涸絑 Ⱙ欫挿䲿䬘碛蔼

鼢鷜㸌꫽涸-07*/"

⡙✵䊼⾦䀙⻌鿈涸縄㪭紵 -PWJOB 䰘獦䭆剣䔲 㖑剒繠涸懶䋒⚂鵮腊雮⡹鵛騄猌䱹鍘嵳韁兽傞 鵴猌㋡㒟䠭「䊼⾦䀙剒㸌꫽涸♧꬗կ

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➃涸嵳忢ծ嵠恟 涸㢧꣉ծ倝됮涸瑟 孞䊼⾦䀙䚪 僽剣满偽瑗涸눂⸂雮假➃ ⟌崨鵶䘍鵥կ 蕯⡹䊺絑ⵌ霄 䊼⾦䀙㢴妃䟝銳兽傞鵴猌 䎽㝜 ,VUBծ宐僈悂4FN JOZBL 瘝康㹐翸꧋涸掚挿 䠭「䊼⾦䀙幅励涸〥♧꬗ 齡⛎⡹♧㹁銳⿡♧馫縄㪭紵 -PWJOB կ ⡙✵䊼⾦䀙⻌鿈涸 -PWJOBぜ㶶䰘霹歋-PWF ㄤ*OB䊼⾦露䠑⽰嫢❵

鶴

絆䧭䠑䙼僽㼆牏㕂涸掚 昶կ ♸䊼⾦䀙Ⱖ㸐涸涯蒀 尪忢♶ず歋✵嵳鴝涸抠㿋 䀵Ɤ劍「嵳宐Ȿⵘ㔔罜䕎 䧭杝暵涸랱蒀尪忢կ 㸐騄猌 #VMFMFOH䋒蜟⠡䶑佟⼓涸 껷鿪倝⸈䬘䟦4JOHBSBKB 㣐紨 Ⱆꅽկ ➢%FOQBTBS㕂 ꣢劼㖞ⴀ〄㣐紨꨽銳 㼭傞 涸鲨玐կ -PWJOB䭆剣䊼⾦䀙剒㸌꫽ 涸嵳忢⛓♧կ 嫦䎃 ծ 剢僽鵯 ꅽ涸假康傢㷍㽍Ⱖ⟄錜餿嵳 韁ㄤ嵥悶⚙고崞⸓剒「妅鵓կ

幡兑鷅鷶嵳韁 Ⰼ椕➑剣Ⳝ⚡嵳㚖腊錜餿嵳 韁㖈嵳⚥涸崞⸓罜-PWJOB 姻僽Ⱖ⚥♧⚡կ 嫦㣔幡兑 挿 荛 挿䊩〸欰崞㖈鵯♧䌄 嵳㚖涸櫕뢙嵳韁5VSTJPQT USVODDBUFT㽠⠔䒓㨤翸꧋ 侨涰〫嵳韁꧋⡤ⵌ嵳䁘꣡鵛 涸宐㚖錟굹傞罜駟魧罜饰 涸兞韌匧⚹㡫錜կ ♶㼱康 㹐䢏ぜ⵸勻랫僈傞ⴔ㽠⠔ ⛧㗂䔲㖑暵剣涸Ɤ膃軼迋 菺ⴀ嵳䋞劅腊刿鵛騄猌 㖑䱹鍘ㄤ錜餿ꅿ欰嵳韁կ 蕯

僽鵘孞♶㥩尵腊♧漾嵳韁 㴎䧬涸㣼兞幡兑ⴀ嵳⛲腊 錜餿傈ⴀ䠭「㣐嵳涸〥♧ 殣눂⸂կ

䊼⾦䀙剒繠懶䋒 勻ⵌ✫䊼⾦䀙涸⻌鿈㽠♧ 㹁♶腊ꝡ鵂〿獦僽䊼⾦䀙剒 繠⚽涸懶䋒Ղ 4FLVNQVM 懶䋒կ 4FLVNQVM㖈䊼⾦露 ⚥剣♧纈涸䠑䙼㔔姼 4FLVNQVM懶䋒䎇ꬋ歋♧ծ⚙ ⚡懶䋒絆䧭罜僽歋♫⚡㣐 㣐㼭㼭梠䫵㖈㿋䄉ㄤ綁蚇

䱲程僤됮

♴涸懶䋒䨾絆䧭կ 㼆✵㋐妅䖝姿假康涸➃ 勻霹4FLVNQVM懶䋒絟㼆僽 ⡹♶腊ꝡ鵂涸㖑倰կ 㸐⡙✵ ꫽⭉涸⚍卌⚥䗳곢銳䖝姿 荛㼱⚙⚡㼭傞䩞腊䫻鴪կ ♧ 騟♳⡹⠔瑬鵂廚䚉涸屎崨ㄤ 烱瀖鵮剣ꥧ誋涸勠䎥㔔姼 䟝銳勻ⵌ鵯ꅽ剒㥩霼䔲㖑 㼋康䌄騟կ 㖈龏龏袾袾涸㿋 卌⚥䠭「懶䋒굷峀湬♴涸 煈爏孞⸷〳䟝罜濼兞蒀剣 㢴⛎㡫錜կ ⡹〳⟄㖈鵯ꅽ佞 匠䗱䞔♸㣐荈搬㥩㥩䱹鍘կ

㽂♧〡宐卓⵳ⱺ

WORDS MEIZ PHOTOS SHUTTERSTOCK

勻ⵌ䊼⾦䀙䔲搬ⵆ䘍✫ㅷ 㽂䔲㖑涸繠굹կ ⡙✵,BMJCVL CVL涸#JOBSJB 4RVBSF僽䔲 㖑㾀字䌢翸꧋涸㖑倰⛲僽

雽㢴康㹐⠔暵㖑勻䩧⽓涸 假康兞挿կ 㖈鵯ꅽ⡹腊㢿䪪 ⵌ紬䙁ㅷ䏅ծ귬껧ㄤ㼭䶗餙 ⛲刿腊餤鵛䔲㖑㾀字涸傈 䌢欰崞կ 嫦㣔⩹儻 挿〸#JOBSJB 4RVBSFワ㔵⠔䒓㨤翸꧋䶗 餙㈒⽁䔲㖑涸⠛絡繠굹 ⫸僽⸈㢴⸈㢴HBEP HBEP ծ尪晄ծ聘⚶㶩瘝կ 蕯僽㖈縄 㪭紵尪忢䖉✫♧侮㣔䟝銳 䪪挿굹暟鍒껬齡⛎〳⟄勻 鵯ꅽ挿♧⟧ⱺⲫ涸宐卓⵳ⱺ &T $IBNQVS կ 䊼⾦䀙涸⵳ ⱺ⠔幊ざ㢴猫♶ず〡㄂涸卓 ⲏ⡹〳⟄⳪荈䊹涸㋐㥩⟣ 鷥宐卓䔲㖑➃㽍Ⱖ㋐妅⸈ Ⰶ祪啕嚔 ⛓たⱄ巵♳虊蛚 㥗䧴僽䊫⯘⸂ꃁ⚹拧拧涸 㢙傈㟞幑Ⳝⴔⲫ䠑կ

♳㕃 錜餿嵳韁僽-PWJOB剒 「妅鵓涸崞⸓⛓♧կ ♴㕃 4FLVNQVM懶䋒歋♫ ⚡㣐㣐㼭㼭涸懶䋒䨾絆䧭կ

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F O R YO U R N E X T VA C AT I O N !

ENJOY 10% OFF*

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WITH PURCHASE OF ANY 2 ITEMS

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*Discount not applicable to Jetstar Foam Glider, Starhub 7-Day and 12-Day 4G Prepaid Travel SIM Cards & Mini Planes Pen. Promotion valid from now till 31st October 2018.

SIM PLY PIC K UP A COPY O F J E TS H O P

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Explore I INTERVIEW

71 71

JETSTAR NEWS 72 I MAPS 76 I WHERE AM I? 81

Inflight I JETSTAR NEWS

CREW CHRONICLES

Are you caring and jovial like Jevonne?

Ex-colleagues saw how she displayed great care towards customers, and encouraged Jevonne Liew, then a sales representative for a telco, to take up flying as a cabin crew.

Jevonne took up the challenge, and has been a junior crew member flying with Jetstar Asia for close to a year.

What do you enjoy about your job? I enjoy seeing the

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smiles on my passengers’ faces when they are warmly welcomed by our crew when boarding the aircraft and also ensuring they leave our aircraft with an even greater smile.

Tell us a very important pre-flight preparation that customers usually won’t know. Before every flight, all crew members must attend a briefing in the office to ensure everyone is well prepared – physically and mentally – for the flight in case of any unforeseen situations. We will then head to the aircraft to check that our safety equipment and items which are needed for service are all on board.

What misconceptions do people have about your job?

Many people think that as a cabin crew, our main priority is to serve

passengers’ needs during flights but that is not true. I believe the job has taught me to multi-task and be an all-rounder.

My perspectives of a crew has widened as our duties not only include serving passengers but also ensuring their safety, wellbeing and comfort throughout a flight.

What are some of the interesting issues that you have encountered? One of the more interesting instances for me would be when a passenger suddenly guarded up against me. I tapped this person lightly on the upper arm to wake him up to ensure he was safely secured for take-off. However, he misinterpreted the gesture as a form of physical attack and thus guarded up against me.

After a few seconds, he realised my intention and quickly apologised for his actions.

Do you have a special way of comforting irate passengers? In most cases, passengers just require a listening ear when a situation arises.

We have to calm the passenger down using a soft approach by speaking slowly and understanding the cause of their unhappiness.

Not taking the loud approach by adding fuel to the fire is the best way to comfort these passengers.

What are your favourite destinations for leisure travel? My top favourite places to travel are definitely Bali and Bangkok. From the laid-back vibes at the beach in Bali to the street delicacies and shopping haven in Bangkok, we’re very lucky in the sense that these amazing destinations are just a short hop from Singapore.

Do you also enjoy caring for others, have great communication skills, and love working in an office 30,000 feet above sea level? Then apply via jetstar.com/ sg/en/careerportal/ cabin-crew and see your career take flight.

We offer a competitive salary, as well as a fantastic suite of staff travel benefits that allows you to see the world.

SUN-SATIONAL SANYA

T

hrill seekers, pack your swim wear and head to sunny Sanya (south of Hainan, China) for the latest waterpark in Asia.

Atlantis resort has opened its latest outpost along Sanya’s Haitang Bay, and we were there to check it out.

Just like its Dubai counterpart, the resort in Sanya also houses Aquaventure Waterpark, with its gravity-defying water slides Leap of Faith, Speedloop and more. The resort also has a myriad of dining outlets, and a luxurious hotel tower housing 1,314 rooms.

Feel the adrenaline rush of Christabel @bellywelly, Chelsea @chelzeebo, Shawne @shawnekoh and Keiji @umeandhara as they put themselves through the super fun waterslides and fastmoving waterways. Watch the video on Facebook at fb.com/ jetstarasiaairways and Youtube at youtube.com/jetstarairways.

Jetstar flies to Sanya twice weekly from Singapore, on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Jetstar also flies to Haikou (north of Hainan island) five times weekly.

The brave foursome are getting ready for a fast-moving slide with enclosed loops.

BUY CLUB JETSTAR, GET NTUC LINKPOINTS Singapore lobang kings and queens: sign up for a Club Jetstar membership and you could receive up to 1,000 NTUC LinkPoints. For S$48 a year, you will enjoy these benefits: • Early access to sale events • 20% off bags and seat selection fees • Member-only fares • Up to four friends/family members per booking can get the same member benefits LinkPoints issuance is limited to the first 2,000 successful new member sign ups. For more details visit jetstar.com/ sg/en/ntuc-promotion.

FOLLOW US FOR TRAVEL, INSPIRATION AND MORE JetstarAsiaAirways @jetstarasia @Jetstar_Asia

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Inflight I STAR JOURNEYS

#StarJourneys

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1

2

4

5

3

1. Siok Pei @peipei_38 “I love the blue sky here.” Okinawa, Japan. 2. Hazman Salleh @withenamora “Give the ones you love wings to fly, roots to come back and reasons to stay.” Hong Kong. 3. Jensen Mong @mqz512 “Intrigued by nature and man-made wonders.”

Siem Reap, Cambodia. 4. Kanchan Mendis @kavindamax “Must dodge viper before he decides to give me a kiss.” Yangon, Myanmar.

5. Max Tay @maxtayss “Goofing around with roast goose!” Hong Kong

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.

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

More legroom to be yourself.

Because you can.

Enjoy extra legroom* on our first and emergency row seats for a more comfortable flight!

Rows 1, 12 and 13 at SGD32 or equivalent per seat.

*Please approach our cabin crew should you wish to upgrade your seat. Jetstar Asia Airways Pte Ltd BRN:200403570D.

Inflight I WHERE WE FLY

INTERNATIONAL Operated by Jetstar Airways Operated by Jetstar Asia Operated by Jetstar Pacific Operated by Jetstar Japan

Tokyo (Narita)

Zhengzhou

Nagoya (Chubu)

Osaka (Kansai)

Shanghai (Pudong)

Guangzhou Hanoi Dong Hoi

Chiang Mai

Yangon Bangkok

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Shantou

Okinawa Taipei

Hong Kong Haikou Sanya

Da Nang Clark Siem Reap Phnom Penh

Hawaii (Honolulu)

Manila

Ho Chi Minh City

Phuket Hat Yai Penang Medan

Kuala Lumpur

Pekanbaru

Singapore

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

Cairns

Cook Islands (Rarotonga)

Brisbane Gold Coast Perth Adelaide

Sydney Auckland Melbourne (Tullamarine) Wellington Christchurch Queenstown

DOMESTIC VIETNAM

DOMESTIC JAPAN

Hanoi

Sapporo

Hai Phong Tha nh Hoa V inh Dong Hoi Hue Da Nang Chu Lai Pleiku Quy Nhon

Tokyo (Narita) Nagoya (Chubu) Matsuyama Osaka (Kansai) Fukuoka Takamatsu Nagasaki Oita Kumamoto Kagoshima Miyazaki

Tuy Hoa Buon Ma Thuot Nha Trang Da Lat Phu Quoc

Flights are operated by Jetstar Japan and commence 6 September (TokyoNagasaki) and 27 October (Osaka-Kumamoto), subject to regulatory approval

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)

Launceston Operated by Jetstar Airways

Wellington Christchurch Hobart Queenstown

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Inflight I WHEN WE FLY

Jetstar Asia, together with Jetstar, operates more than 600 flights per week throughout Asia. Schedule is valid to 27 October, 2018.

SINGAPORE – HAIKOU / HAIKOU – SINGAPORE 3 hours 30 minutes (GMT+8)

JETSTAR ASIA

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

07:35

HAK

11:05

HAK

12:00

SIN

15:30

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

T

F

S

S

W

T

F

S

S

W

T

F

S

S

SINGAPORE – HONG KONG / HONG KONG – SINGAPORE SINGAPORE – BANGKOK / BANGKOK – SINGAPORE

3 hours 55 minutes (GMT+8) Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

10:00

HKG

13:50

08:45

SIN

10:00

HKG

13:55

10:40

SIN

15:45

HKG

19:45

12:10

HKG

14:50

SIN

18:40

BKK

18:20

HKG

20:35

SIN

00:25

BKK

20:40

09:25

SIN

12:50

SINGAPORE – PHUKET / PHUKET – SINGAPORE

11:40

SIN

15:10

1 hour 45 minutes (GMT+7)

BKK

12:50

SIN

16:15

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

BKK*

19:00

SIN

22:25

SIN

08:15

HKT

09:05

BKK

21:20

SIN

00:45

SIN

11:10

HKT

12:00

SIN

13:25

HKT

14:25

SIN

15:00

HKT

15:50

SINGAPORE – JAKARTA / JAKARTA – SINGAPORE

SIN

16:50

HKT

17:40

1 hour 45 minutes (GMT+7)

SIN

17:15

HKT

18:00

2 hours 30 minutes (GMT+7) Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

07:20

BKK

SIN

09:15

BKK

SIN

10:45

BKK

SIN*

16:50

SIN

19:15

BKK BKK

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

* No Saturday service from 1 Sep - 27 Oct

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M

M

T

T

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

20:30

HKT

21:20

SIN

08:15

CGK

09:10

HKT

09:45

SIN

12:40

SIN

13:35

CGK

14:30

HKT

12:40

SIN

15:35

SIN

15:45

CGK

16:40

HKT

16:00

SIN

19:00

SIN

18:50

CGK

19:45

HKT

16:40

SIN

19:35

SIN

20:00

CGK

20:55

HKT

18:35

SIN

21:30

CGK

09:50

SIN

12:40

HKT

18:40

SIN

21:35

CGK

15:10

SIN

18:00

HKT

22:00

SIN

00:50

CGK

17:20

SIN

20:10

CGK

20:00

SIN

00:25

SINGAPORE – MEDAN / MEDAN – SINGAPORE

CGK

20:25

SIN

23:20

1 hour 25 minutes (GMT+7)

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

SINGAPORE – CLARK / CLARK – SINGAPORE 3 hours 40 minutes (from SIN to CRK) Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

02:15

CRK

06:00

CRK

06:40

SIN

10:20

Departure

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

SINGAPORE – CLARK – OSAKA / OSAKA – CLARK – SINGAPORE 3 hours 40 minutes (from SIN to CRK); 4 hours (from CRK to KIX) (GMT+8) Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

02:20

CRK

06:00

CRK

07:00

KIX

11:55

KIX

12:55

CRK

16:15

CRK

17:15

SIN

20:55

M

T

W

T

F

S

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

08:15

KNO

08:40

SIN

09:15

KNO

09:40

SIN

09:30

KNO

09:55

SIN

09:55

KNO

10:20

SIN

15:15

KNO

15:40

SIN

16:00

KNO

16:25

KNO

09:20

SIN

12:00

KNO

10:20

SIN

12:55

KNO

10:35

SIN

13:10

KNO

11:00

SIN

13:45

KNO

16:20

SIN

18:55

KNO

17:05

SIN

19:40

M

T

W

S

SINGAPORE – KUALA LUMPUR / KUALA LUMPUR – SINGAPORE 1 hour 5 minutes (GMT+8)

SINGAPORE – DENPASAR / DENPASAR– SINGAPORE 2 hours 45 minutes (GMT+8) M

T

W

T

F

S

S

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

07:05

KUL

08:10

SIN

09:35

KUL

10:40

SIN

12:50

KUL

13:55

SIN

17:55

KUL

19:05

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

10:55

DPS

13:40

SIN

11:00

DPS

13:40

SIN

19:35

KUL

20:40

SIN

15:10

DPS

18:00

KUL

08:50

SIN

10:00

SIN

20:15

DPS

23:00

KUL

11:20

SIN

12:30

DPS

14:25

SIN

17:10

KUL

14:40

SIN

15:45

DPS

19:20

SIN

22:05

KUL

19:50

SIN

20:55

DPS

23:50

SIN

02:35

KUL

21:20

SIN

22:30

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

W

T

F

S

S

SINGAPORE – HATYAI / HATYAI – SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE – DARWIN / DARWIN – SINGAPORE

1 hour 30 minutes (GMT+7)

4 hours 30 minutes (GMT+9.5) Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

23:05

DRW

05:10

SIN

20:15

HDY

20:40

DRW

06:00

SIN

09:05

HDY

21:35

SIN

00:05

M

T

SINGAPORE – MANILA / MANILA – SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE – PHNOM PENH / PHNOM PENH – SINGAPORE

3 hours 35 minutes (GMT+8)

2 hours (GMT+7) M

T

W

T

F

S

S

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

13:30

PNH

14:40

SIN

19:25

PNH

20:40

PNH

15:25

SIN

18:25

21:30

SIN

00:30

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

05:50

MNL

09:25

SIN

06:15

MNL

09:50

SIN

17:25

MNL

21:00

MNL

10:40

SIN

14:20

PNH

MNL

10:40

SIN

14:20

MNL

21:45

SIN

01:20

Arrival

Time

SIN

18:00

DAD

19:40

DAD

20:20

SIN

00:10

M

T

W

W

T

F

S

S

T

F

S

S

T

F

S

S

T

F

S

S

5 hours 10 minutes (GMT+9)

2 hours 30 minutes (GMT+7) Time

T

SINGAPORE – OKINAWA / OKINAWA – SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE – DANANG / DANANG – SINGAPORE Departure

M

T

F

S

S

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

02:00

OKA

08:10

OKA

09:00

SIN

13:10

M

T

W

SINGAPORE – MANILA – OSAKA / OSAKA – MANILA – SINGAPORE SINGAPORE – SIEM REAP / SIEM REAP – SINGAPORE

3 hours 35 minutes (from SIN to MNL); 3 hours 55 minutes (from MNL to KIX) (GMT+8/GMT+9) M

T

W

T

F

S

S

2 hours 10 minutes (GMT+7)

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

02:50

MNL

06:25

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

MNL

07:35

KIX

12:30

SIN

13:55

REP

15:10

KIX

13:45

MNL

17:00

SIN

16:40

REP

17:55

MNL

17:40

SIN

21:25

REP

15:55

SIN

19:15

REP

18:50

SIN

22:10

M

T

W

SINGAPORE – PENANG / PENANG – SINGAPORE 1 hour 20 minutes (GMT+8) Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

09:45

PEN

11:10

SIN

16:00

PEN

17:25

SIN

19:30

PEN

21:00

PEN

11:50

SIN

13:20

PEN

18:10

SIN

19:45

PEN

21:40

SIN

23:10

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

SINGAPORE – YANGON / YANGON – SINGAPORE 2 hours 55 minutes (GMT+6.5) Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

08:55

RGN

10:25

SIN*

16:55

RGN

18:35

RGN

11:15

SIN

15:50

RGN*

19:15

SIN

23:50

M

T

W

79

* No Wednesday service from 5 - 26 Sep

SINGAPORE – HO CHI MINH CITY / HO CHI MINH CITY – SINGAPORE 2 hours (GMT+7)

SINGAPORE – PALEMBANG / PALEMBANG – SINGAPORE

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

SIN

07:10

SGN

18:15

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

13:50

SGN

14:55

SIN

11:20

PLM

11:25 16:40

1 hour 05 minutes (GMT+7)

SIN

19:50

SGN

21:00

SIN

16:35

PLM

SGN

08:55

SIN

11:55

PLM

12:05

SIN

14:10

SGN

15:35

SIN

18:40

PLM

17:20

SIN

19:25

SGN

21:40

SIN

00:40

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

SINGAPORE – PEKANBARU / PEKANBARU - SINGAPORE SINGAPORE – TAIPEI – OSAKA / OSAKA – TAIPEI – SINGAPORE

1 hour (GMT+7) M

T

W

T

F

S

S

4 hours 45 minutes (from SIN to TPE); 2 hours 40 minutes (from TPE to KIX) (GMT+8/GMT+9)

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

07:35

PKU

07:35

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

11:30

PKU

11:30

SIN

01:10

TPE

06:00

PKU

08:15

SIN

10:20

SIN

07:00

TPE

11:50

PKU

12:10

SIN

14:10

TPE

06:55

KIX

10:25

TPE

07:00

KIX

10:25

TPE

12:40

KIX

16:30

KIX

12:15

TPE

14:25

KIX

17:20

TPE

19:25

TPE

15:25

SIN

20:15

TPE

20:20

SIN

01:10

SINGAPORE – SHANTOU / SHANTOU – SINGAPORE 4 hours 5 minutes (GMT+8) Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

09:40

SWA

13:50

SIN

13:40

SWA

17:50

SWA

14:50

SIN

18:50

SWA

18:50

SIN

22:50

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

F

S

S

SINGAPORE – SURABAYA / SURABAYA – SINGAPORE 2 hours 15 minutes (GMT+7)

SINGAPORE – SANYA / SANYA – SINGAPORE 3 hours (from SIN to SYX); 3 hours 10 minutes (from SYX to SIN) (GMT+8) M

T

W

T

F

S

S

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

11:10

SUB

12:30 16:20

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

SIN

15:00

SUB

SIN

05:40

SYX

09:50

SUB

13:20

SIN

16:40

SYX

11:00

SIN

14:10

SUB

17:05

SIN

20:30

M

T

W

T

Inflight I WHEN WE FLY

JETSTAR

JETSTAR PACIFIC

MELBOURNE – SINGAPORE / SINGAPORE– MELBOURNE

HO CHI MINH CITY – SINGAPORE / SINGAPORE – HO CHI MINH CITY

7 hours 45 minutes (GMT+11)

2 hours (GMT+7)

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

MEL*

11:10

SIN

16:50

SGN

07:10

SIN

10:10

SIN*

21:00

MEL

06:20

SIN

11:00

SGN

12:05

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

* No Monday service from 23 Jul - 31 Aug

PERTH – DENPASAR – SINGAPORE / SINGAPORE – DENPASAR – PERTH 2 hours 35 minutes (from SIN to DPS); 3 hours 45 minutes (from DPS to PER) (GMT+8/GMT+8) Departure

Time

Arrival

Time

PER

17:50

DPS

21:25

DPS

22:15

SIN

01:00

SIN

05:00

DPS

07:40

DPS

08:30

PER

12:10

M

T

W

T

F

S

S

Flight durations are estimates only, departing from Singapore. Information correct at press time.

Operated by Jetstar Asia Airways Operated by Jetstar Airways Operated by Jetstar Pacific Airlines 80

SAFETY, SECURITY & COMFORT Carry-on baggage Liquids, aerosols or gels (LAGs) must be in containers with a maximum capacity of 100ml each. Containers must be placed in a transparent resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity not exceeding one litre.

Safety first Please ask the cabin crew for an infant seatbelt if your child is under two years old.

Return the infant seatbelt to our cabin crew upon disembarkation. Sleeping on the aircraft floor is not permitted. Please read the safety instruction card in your seat pocket, noting emergency exits and location of life jackets.

Please watch the safety

demonstration prior to take-off. In an emergency, the crew will give specific instructions. They may speak assertively and will require your cooperation.

from the lower legs.

During your flight, move your legs and feet three or four minutes per hour, and move about.

Cabin pressure Smoking Government regulations prohibit smoking on all flights. There are smoke detectors in all toilets and penalties for regulation breaches.

The importance of blood circulation and muscle relaxation during flights Compression stockings can assist in preventing swelling of the ankles and feet, and they may improve the blood return to the body

To “clear” your ears, try swallowing and/or yawning.

When you are flying with an infant, give them a dummy or feed them during the aircraft’s descent. Sucking and swallowing will help the infant equalise the pressure in their ears.

Cabin humidity / dehydration Low humidity in the aircraft cabin can cause drying of the nose, throat and eyes, and can irritate wearers of contact lenses.

Do: • Drink water frequently.

• Drink coffee, tea and alcohol only in moderation.

• Remove contact lenses if your eyes are irritated.

• Use a moisturiser to refresh skin.

Jetstar security policy Jetstar has a strict policy on denying boarding to any passengers who are inappropriate in flight or on ground in comments or behaviour. Jetstar does not accept any inappropriate comments as “jokes”.

All matters are referred to relevant authorities for prosecution. Jetstar will seek to recover all costs incurred as a result of inflight incidents from those involved.

Inflight I QUIZ

Where am I?

ANSWERS 1_ Municipal Theatre, Ho Chi Minh City 2_ National Monument, Jakarta 3_ Silver Palace, Phnom Penh 4_ The Helix, Singapore PHOTOS ISTOCK, GETTY

This issue we’re featuring iconic architecture in cities around the network.

Can you guess the structure and its location?

Fun fact: One of these structures has a floor of solid silver tiles, weighing 500 tonnes in total.

81 1 Clue: This building has a rotating stage perfect for theatre and opera. It was built by a French architect in 1897.

3 Clue: This building is in the same complex as a king’s official residence. It houses a Baccarat-crystal sculpture of Buddha.

2 Clue: The numbers 17, 8 and 45 were incorporated into the design of this structure to represent the date of its country’s independence.

4 Clue: This is the longest pedestrian bridge in its city and its architecture is modelled after DNA strands.

Inflight I DESTINATIONS

82

Phuket SRIRAM KAILASAM General manager of Banyan Tree Phuket, banyantree.com What are most of us missing out on in Phuket?

I think Phuket town is underrated with its cafés, galleries and SinoPortuguese architecture.

I like walking down Soi Rommani to see folks taking pictures of the

THAILAND

ornate colourful doors on this narrow street and then to Gallery Café by Pinky for a good cup of coffee and a piece of cake.

Where do you like taking your guests? Lobby Bar at Banyan Tree Phuket to watch the lobby turndown ritual, which features local

drums and the lighting up of lobby candles, while we sip premium gin, a classic cocktail or wine. After this, I like to take them out to my favourite restaurant, Suay, for contemporary Thai cuisine in an excellent setting.

What should we eat or drink in Phuket? Visit Lock Tien, a long-standing restaurant in Phuket town that is famous for

its Hokkien-style fried noodles. For a drink or meal with a view, Baan Rim Pa Patong provides panoramic views of Patong Beach and the Bay of Kalim.

The best place to go shopping is… Naka Market, open only on weekends, has a maze of stalls that sell anything from clothes, shoes and jewellery to local handicrafts.

Where’s the best place to take a photo? Promthep Cape, where you’ll have Thailand’s most amazing sunset as your photo backdrop.

Inflight I DESTINATIONS

83

Siem Reap

PHOTOS ISTOCK

MARC DUPUIS General manager at Ibis Styles Siem Reap, accorhotels.com What’s a good souvenir to buy? The most famous one is the kroma, the traditional Khmer scarf. It is colourful, can be used in many ways and can be found everywhere.

Is there anything that I can do for free? Visit the Artisans

CAMBODIA

d’Angkor. They are very skilled and watching them work is just magic.

I’m in Siem Reap for just one day. What can I fit in? Stay in the downtown area, visit the Old Market (Psah Chas), buy handcrafted souvenirs and enjoy a traditional Khmer meal at the Sugar Palm.

What’s the best attraction in Siem Reap? Without a doubt it’s the temples of Angkor. I have been there four times and still there are so many things that I have not seen.

Travellers to Siem Reap usually stay for only two

to three days but it is definitely not enough if they want to visit Angkor.

During sunset the colours at Angkor Wat are just incredible.

What about local eats?

Angkor Kjung Yu is a local entertainment place with great Khmer street food.

What are some scenic spots in the city? The night market with its colourful lights and wooden river bridges. If you want a meal or a drink with a view, Pub Street is the liveliest place in town in the evenings.

Every Sunday, you can find me at… Gelato Lab, an Italian gelateria near Ibis Styles – the ice creams are world-class.

Inflight I DESTINATIONS

84

Hong Kong LI WAI HUNG, Business development director, Hong Kong, klook.com Where can we take selfies?

There are too many places in Hong Kong for stylish selfies. The most symbolic one is Victoria Harbour and also the Hong Kong Observation Wheel.

What are some attractions that we have to check out?

Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park, both famous world-class theme parks. No matter who you are going with, you can enjoy various rides and take lots of beautiful photos. Also Victoria Peak.

Although it usually takes hours to line up for the

Peak Tram to head up, Klook offers a fast-track combo that comes with a tour guide.

What are your foodie recommendations? Block 18 Doggie’s Noodle in Tsim Sha Tsui is my favourite.

The décor here is simple and the restaurant is small but they are very focused on the food quality. They are also open 24 hours.

Any Hong Kong snacks that I can bring home?

Chinese cakes, almond crisps and egg rolls from Kee Wah – which has a lot of branches. They have seasonal products like rice dumplings, mooncakes, Chinese New Year puddings… all worth a try.

A good place for drinks is…

If you like somewhere quiet and romantic, consider Sky100. If you want to chill out, there’s Ozone in Ritz Carlton. Both are in the International Commerce Centre, the tallest building in Hong Kong.

85

Okinawa MASAHIRO YAMASHITA Regional manager, Northeast Asia, Kayak, kayak.co.jp What’s a place in Okinawa that we can visit for free?

All the great, beautiful beaches. But if I have to choose one, I would say Manzamo Beach. The parking there is free too.

We heard there’s a great aquarium… The Okinawa

J A PA N

Churaumi Aquarium is one of the largest in Japan.

It will keep sea lovers, kids and couples entertained.

You’ll be able to see a whale shark swimming right in front of you.

Is Kokusai Street worth a visit? It is in the heart of Naha City. Just walking

through here you get to experience the Okinawan cuisine, buy all your souvenirs and listen to Okinawan music all along one street. Try restaurant Ayagu Shokudo, which serves good-sized portions.

What are good souvenirs to take home? Brown sugar blocks or a beni imo tart (a purple sweet potato tart), which you can find in any souvenir shop. If you are

feeling adventurous, why not try the habu snake liquor?

Where should we go for a meal with a view? Café Kurukuma, where you can enjoy the beautiful sea colours and corals while eating and drinking. You may need to queue to get in, but the view is worth the wait.

Any other scenic locations that you would recommend?

Zanpa is famous for its lighthouse and beautiful sunset views. Enjoy a scenic walk, have some ice cream and watch the sun go down.

Inflight I DESTINATIONS

86

Penang NORLINDA BT RAMLI, Service associate, Parkroyal Penang Resort, parkroyalhotels.com What is a good one-day itinerary? Take a stroll around George Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to discover the fascinating heritage buildings and street art.

Don’t miss the street food – from char kuay teow

M A L AY S I A

(rice noodles) to chendol (jelly with shaved ice and coconut milk) – which is synonymous with Penang.

Penang food is famous.

Where do I start? Medan Selera Padang Brown food court, where the Muslim operators serve up halal

fare like pasembur (salad with seafood), satay and mee goreng (fried noodles). There is a non-halal section that operates in the afternoon only. I love having cucur udang at Chowrasta Market: prawn fritters eaten with a special sauce. The market is also a popular spot for locals to pick up delicacies like fresh pickles, nutmeg and biscuits.

The best spot for a selfie is…

At the beach front of Parkroyal Penang Resort.

We have great sunset views overlooking the beach, and you get a different one each day.

Any other scenic spots in the city? The Penang Clan Jetties – take a walk along the wooden walkways flanked by houses built on stilts. Get up close with the residents, many who operate food and souvenir shops from their homes. And to experience the Malaysian rainforest, I like The Habitat on Penang Hill.

Inflight I DESTINATIONS

87

Taipei ALEX LAI Chief concierge at Regent Taipei, regenthotels.com/ regent-taipei Where can I shop for clothing and jewellery by Taipei designers? The area surrounding Zhongshan MRT station is a treasure trove of design shops, hip restaurants, and cultural gems. There are plenty of independent boutiques

TA I WA N

scattered in the alleyways that stock affordable clothing and jewellery.

What’s the ideal souvenir?

Pineapple custard pastries from Regent Taipei’s gift shop, which consistently rank as one of the best in Taiwan with their soft pastry and chewy pineapple filling.

Which of Taipei’s famous night markets should I visit?

Shilin Night Market may be the biggest one, but for a more authentic experience visit Ningxia Night Market for some of Taipei’s best street food.

Where should I go if I want both a drink and a great view? The Top located near Yangmingshan National Park offers a panoramic view of Taipei city. The resort-inspired bar and restaurant is delightfully romantic.

If I’m in Taipei for a day, what’s one must-do? Visit the Jiufen district,

best known for its striking resemblance to the setting in Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away. The former gold mining town is a maze of lanes and alleyways rich with history and culture.

For a longer stay, what would you recommend? Visit the National Palace Museum, which has a collection of nearly 700,000 ancient Chinese imperial artefacts and artworks.

Inflight I TRAVEL TALES

The check-in checklist

88

IN SOME LUXURY HOTELS, the bellhop insists on helping me with my luggage and showing me to my room. This is when a gentle tug-ofwar game ensues – not because I can’t part with a tip, but because I have certain check-in to-dos that I’d rather the bellhop not witness.

Before entering a hotel room, I like to knock on it a couple of times. Urban (Asian) legend has it that if you do so, you can enjoy a peaceful, pleasant stay because you have politely warned any lingering spirits (who have stayed beyond their 10am checkout time) that you do not need their company.

Once inside, I fling open all the wardrobe doors, check out the bathtub and draw open the curtains.

I repeat the routine each time I head back to the room. Why? Blame it on The Conjuring (have you seen that scene where strange knocking noises come from the wardrobe?), Psycho (never met a shower curtain I liked after that) and every other horror movie or crime thriller with mask-wearing serial killers and mutant monsters tucked behind chintzy curtains.

And since I’m onto the curtains, I make it a point to see what I’ll be looking

I have certain check-in to-dos that I’d rather the bellhop not witness out at for the next couple of days. Panoramic view of the sea? Curtains open.

Sterile office boardrooms?

Curtains closed.

Next comes the more serious stuff. I’ve been told that some travellers do a bed test the moment they step into a room. Maybe they do a snow angel pose on those perfectly

pressed, wallpaper-white silken bedsheets that look and feel nothing like the mismatched ones at home. Maybe they bounce up and down a little to test the supple springs.

Me? The bed can wait.

The possibility of eating in bed is more crucial. Even if I have no plans to order in, I love knowing if they

still serve a juicy burger at 2am and being acquainted with the market rate for muesli breakfast bowls.

What follows next in my hotel ritual? I locate the TV remote control and channel surf to see if it’s a good hotel (48 channels and counting... and, what, they even have Fashion TV?) or if it’s just a hotel (three channels with fuzzy reception and... something in a foreign language that I can’t understand).

And that’s when I know I’ve finally and fully checked into my room.

ILLUSTRATION KURT PARTON

Call it superstition or just pragmatism – there are some things that PEARLYN THAM must do at hotels