FEBRUARY 6 - FEBRUARY 19, 2015
Huat Ah!
# 6 7 1 | S G M A G A Z I N E | PREVIOUSLY I-S MAGAZINE since 1995
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS
what’s on what’s new what matters
NEIGHBORHOOD
Heartlands Go Hip DRINK
Cocktails for Chinese New Year EVENTS
Ideas for an Anti-Valentine’s Day
With a bit of love and passion, the once-defunct Golden Cinema is reborn as indie theater The Projector. See FILM , page 9, to catch a movie there.
page 3 10 feature
3 Far-Flung Hoods That Are Heating Up
Common Ground
4 top 20
5 art
14 Ways that SG50 and the Fifty Shades of Grey Movie (out Feb 12) are Pretty Much the Same Thing
Places We Got Our Hearts Broken
New Gallery, Emerging Artists
1. They have similar initials: SG50, 50SG. It’s a sign! 2. They both advocate babymaking.
7 music
14 motoring
3 New Albums by Local Bands
4 Sleek and Affordable Cars
3. Perfectly sane and functional women are now hashtagging the hell out of the Internet. #SG50 #50SG 4. Both have spawned a slew of unrelated merchandise. SG50 diaper bags, anyone? How about some 50SG pizza?
18 new bar
19 drink
5. They were millions of dollars in the making—and will recoup their investments through you, dear consumer.
Tapow
Festive Cocktails for CNY
6. Both feature lavish expenditure on gifts, including an Audi A3, a publishing company and 50 pianos. 7. 50SG and SG50 books are bestsellers at Kinokuniya.
21 travel
23 interview
Cycling in Mongolia
What’s Wrong with Foodies
8. You want to avoid both, but find yourself inexplicably drawn. 9. People have been talking about them for what seems like years.
Who's in charge? Publisher & General Manager Ric Stockfis countrymanager@asia-city.com.sg Editorial Managing Editor Mrigaa Sethi editor@asia-city.com.sg
10. Both feature copious amounts of paperwork, non-disclosure agreements and contracts. Advertising Director, Business Development Intan Agustina advertising@asia-city.com.sg Senior Manager, Media & Marketing Shernan Plameras
Staff Writer Aaron Khoo Junior Writer Letitia Tandean Custom Content Editor Clara Lim Custom Content Writer Joyce See Design Senior Designer Carmen Louise Ho Designers Fishy Toh, Celeste Chooi
Executives, Media & Marketing Lee Wee Keong, Roderick Wong, Joy Yao, Swathi Raj Marketing Marketing Manager Silver Adrienna Ng marketing@asia-city.com.sg Marketing & Admin Assistant Geraldine Tan
Where to find us! Bangkok Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd 22/F, Silom Center 2 Silom Road, Bangkok 10500 Tel: 02-624-9696 Fax: 02-237-5656 bkmagazine@asia-city.co.th Shanghai shonline@asia-city.com.cn
Finance Finance Manager Lynn Legaspi finance@asia-city.com.sg
11. Both have the island divided into cheerleaders and critics.
Accountant Huang Huiping Group Directors Chief Executive Officer Gretchen Worth gworth@asia-city.co.th Group Digital Director Greg Duncan gduncan@asia-city.com.sg On the cover The Projector, photo by Philipp Aldrup
12. Both will undoubtedly find a way to hijack Valentine’s Day. 13. Famous singers, actors and other celebrities are all powerless against the irresistible gravitational pull of SG50/50SG. 14. Both celebrate a very powerful man.
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SG Magazine is published 26 times a year by Asia City Publishing Pte Ltd., 211 Henderson Road, #14-03, Singapore 159552. Tel: 65-6323-2512 • Fax: 65-6323-2779. Copyright ©2015 Asia City Publishing Pte Ltd. The titles “SG Magazine”, “I-S Magazine” and their associated logos or devices, and the content of SG Magazine and I-S Magazine are the property of Asia City Publishing Pte Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. SG Magazine may not be distributed without the express written consent of Asia City Publishing Pte Ltd. Contact the Publisher for ad rates and specifications. All advertising in SG Magazine must comply with the Publisher’s terms of business, copies of which are available upon request. Printed by KHL Printing Co. Pte. Ltd., 57 Loyang Drive, Singapore 508968. ISSN 0218-8872 MCI (P) 174/12/2014
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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015 SG MAGAZINE
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up front HOT OR NOT
Singapore’s latest news, numbers and dramas at a glance
Our biweekly study of the city’s burgeoning (and dying) trends
OB INDEX Charting the ups and downs of Singapore's openness, tolerance and freedom of expression JAN
Hot: Far-flung neighborhoods
Not: Town
A new cool café or hip shop in Tiong Bahru or Orchard can get a bit samey. Hot new openings in Guillemard, Jurong and Changi? Now that’s way more interesting. For more on upcoming areas in the city, turn to page 12.
Hot: Hotpot
Not: Brunch
Marla Bendini
Chinese New Year is here, so put your eggs benedict on hold for a couple of weeks and opt for something a bit more traditional, like, say, meat and seafood boiled in your favorite spicy soup base. For the complete lowdown on the best hotpots around, turn to page 18.
Hot: Drag shows and street parties
Not: Roses and chocolates
If you’re over the saccharine, gushy, romantic gestures and the expensive dinners out with your beloved (there are a few of those on page 16, though), there’s some snarky, ironic, decidedly anti-Valentine’s Day ideas in SG Now on page 8.
SINGAPORE SPARKS
Celebrating the city’s entrepreneurs, start-ups and innovative thinkers
May Leong had a hand at public policy-making during her stint with the NAC. She now spearheads the non-profit, Hyphen, where she works on projects like The Mill x WeJungle. What do you think of the current arts scene in Singapore? Singapore has done well in terms of having put in place the infrastructure required to support the development of the arts, especially in comparison to other countries in the region. It would be great to see more inclusivity, allowance for spontaneity, arts advocacy and dialogue across the public, private and people sectors.
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SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015
Tell us a little bit more about Hyphen. Founded by myself and two other partners, we are a motley crew who come from different backgrounds ranging from technology to fine art. We conceptualize innovative and multi-disciplinary projects through creative matchmaking. Our first project in November 2014 was “Bring Back The Vibe: 60s Singapore and its Vibrant Music Scene” which featured limited edition prints by comic artist Krish Raghav, a talk by archivist Joseph Pereira and DJs spinning rare vinyl from the era. What projects can we expect to see in the future? More genre-defying and interconnected platforms and projects. I’m also working on [an international] exhibition called Mysterious Objects at Noon involving five pairings of Singapore and British artists, and two British curators in conjunction with the Great British Week (Mar 7-13). Letitia Tandean
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Despite our wonderful, multicultural history, mixed-race relationships were frowned upon 50 years ago. They are common now, though, and local photographer Yasin Rahim celebrates mixed-race relationships, marriages and people in his newly launched photography project, called Champur. Meaning “mixed” in Malay, Champur (http://ow.ly/ Ic6yh) is an online collection of photos, personal stories and interviews (a la Humans of Singapore). If you want to be a part of the project, contact Yasin at yasinrahim@gmail.com
BE GOOD
Ride for a cause Cycle Out Poverty (Feb 28) is a charity cycling event along the Eastern Park Connector organized by Habitat for Humanity (HFH), which provides homes for families in need through volunteer work and donations. Choose from 40km, 25km or 5km routes. After the ride, you’ll get to chill out with food, music and games at the nearby Changi Civil Service Club. $38 or $48, depending on the category. For more information, visit www. cycleoutpoverty.sg.
SAY WHAT? The best comments on our most popular web stories Ang Teck Kee Food, like religion, is a personal thing. What I like may not be what you like. —on “Many foodies don’t know what they’re talking about, says Raymond Lim” Dan Koh Golden Mile toilet #truestory #sob —on “20 places Singaporeans got dumped” Estella Koh Makes dieting harder. —on “6 new and affordable restaurants to check out this month” Irfan Ozil Those were the days… —on “20 snacks that defined your Singapore childhood” Be a part of the conversation at www. facebook.com/sgnow.sg
THROWBACK 20 To celebrate our 20th anniversary (and semi-condemn Valentine’s Day) we look back on the classic places Singaporeans have been dumped. 1 Playground. You know it’s bad news when your squeeze suddenly wants to have a heartto-heart on the HDB playground swings at night. 2 In the car. Nothing like getting dumped in a car and storming off in the middle of traffic at a red light. 3 School staircase. Of course your high school sweetheart had to dump you at your very first make-out spot. 4 Outside Zouk. It’s a Singaporean rite of passage to get dumped there. Hence all the drunk crying girls on the sidewalk. 5 The old Kinokuniya at Orchard. Luckily, the old design and architecture books section was great for hiding out until we could face civilization again. 6 Taxi stand. If you were lucky, taxi uncle knew what was up and left you well alone. 7 Cathay Cineleisure. After the movie,
you got dumped at the underage smoking area outside. 8 *SCAPE Park. Stranded with a half-finished Big Gulp and a broken heart. 9 On the bus. You knew it. It was going to be the last time you took the bus home together. 10 Neil Road. Many a couple’s journey come to an end in the space between Taboo and Tantric. 11 Clarke Quay. You caught them dirty dancing with someone else at Attica. 12 Club Street. They got it on with some sweaty finance bro or drunk blonde in a spandex body sleeve. Well, good riddance. 13 IKEA. A popular place for couple fights. Some end quite badly. 14 HDB registration office. Even the most steadfast of lovers get serious cold feet here. 15 Void deck. “Hey, can we talk? I wait at your house downstairs.” 16 Office lobby. “Hey, can we talk? I wait at your office downstairs.” 17 Park connector. For some
reason our exes thought it was OK to dump us at the nearby fitness corner or jogging track. 18 MRT station. Efficiency is after all a point of national pride. 19 24-hour McDonald’s. You wept until 5am over a mountain of french fries.
On the Go? Get the latest lifestyle news on our mobile responsive website www.sgnow.sg
20 WhatsApp. And then you spent weeks and weeks looking at their “last seen” status.
For more lists revisiting Singapore’s history, visit www. sgnow.sg. CLARA LIM
Last seen...
The essential guide to what’s on in Singapore
now
Send your events news to art@asia-city.com.sg, nightlife@asia-city.com.sg, stage@asia-city.com.sg
WED
Feb 18
FRI
Feb 6
ART urban Hysteria Flaneur Gallery’s debut exhibition showcases the works of 10 local emerging artists. Artwork ranges from paintings and drawings to photography and sculpture, and includes names like Justin Lin, ben buah, ezekiel Wong and Stellah Lim. This exhibition is split into three parts and will see different artists showcasing at different periods. Through Mar 1. Flaneur Gallery, 159 Jalan besar, www.flaneur.sg. Free.
FRI
Feb 6
NIGHTLIFE Para//el Presents Nicole Moudaber with Zushan Nigerian-born, London-based DJ Nicole Moudaber was once described as “the most underrated DJ” by Carl Cox. The Lebanese techno aficionado will spin hits like “See You Next Tuesday” and “Liberum Spirita” in her Singapore debut. Feb 6, 10pm. Velvet underground, 17 Jiak Kim St., 6738-2988, www.zoukclub.com. $28-33.
FRI
WED
Feb 6
Feb 18
MUSIC unplugged Sessions: Debra Khng COMEDY bill burr Some of you may only remember him from Chappelle’s Show, but in the last few years bill burr has become a comedy heavyweight in his own right. Here, he talks about his love life, his pet dog and his various problems with race relations. Oh and he‘ll soon be starring in his own animated series, F is For Family, with Laura Dern and Justin Long. Feb 6, 8pm. Kallang Theatre, 1 Stadium Walk, 6348-7907. $78-128 from Sistic.
FOOD & DRINK Crateful Pop-up Store
The local singer-songwriter headlines this unplugged session with tunes influenced by ‘70s and ‘80s pop and soft rock. She also recently released a debut eP Wolves In The Night, which includes her duet with benjamin Kheng of The Sam Willows, Strangers. Feb 6, 7pm. NuS Yusof Ishak House, 31 Lower Kent Ridge Rd. www.facebook.com/ NuSCFA. Free...
TUE
FRI
Feb 24
This pop-up marketplace for all things food and drinks-related has extended its lease till end Feb. The temporary space carries over 20 homegrown brands like GSH Conserves and Citizen Pop. The store is divided into six categories: Quenchers for drinks like teas, juices and sodas; Spreads for jams and dips; bites for granolas, chocolates and nougats; bakes for cupcakes and pastries; while Accessories and Others include ceramic wares and kitchen tools. brands include eastern Granola, The blend & Press Co., Poppy & Co., The Hunters‘ Kitchenette, Hic‘ Juice, The edible Company, Cupplets and The Wholesome Co., among others. Through Feb 28. Tofu, 1M Yong Siak St., 6438-0363. Free. www. facebook.com/crateful.com.sg.
Feb 20
ART Along the Golden Mile Local architectural photographer Darren Soh explores the historically-rich area of Golden Mile and beach Road. Floor-toceiling prints capture details of the façades and the design of charming old buildings, some dating back to the pre-war period. The second part of the exhibition takes place on the open-air rooftop space. where images shot from an aerial view give the viewer a unique perspective of the space and layout. Through Feb 18. Objectifs, 56A Arab St., 6293-9782, www. objectifs.com.sg. Free.
THU
LITERARY Fresh! Poetry Slam MUSIC Huayi – Chinese Festival of Arts Coinciding with Chinese New Year, this annual showcase of traditional and contemporary Chinese arts ranges from music to theater to dance. Highlights include What Is Sex?, a Gatsby-esque take on Dream of the Red Chamber, and Nu Shu: The Secret Songs of Women, a symphony accompanied by 13 short films inspired by a dialect used exclusively by women in an ancient Hunan community. Feb 20-Mar 1. esplanade Theatre, 1 esplanade Dr., 68288377, www.huayifestival.com. $18-118 from Sistic.
Feb 26
Word Forward‘s slam session is back at a new location. 12 spoken word poets bring their A-game for a three-round knockout tournament. expect confessional rhymes, Singlish invectives and general hilarity. Feb 26, 8pm. blu Jaz, 11 bali Lane, 6292-3800. $7.
FRIDAY, FebRuARY 6, 2015 SG MAGAZINE
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now HAPPENINGS 5 Valentine’s Day ideas that won’t make you barf
MUSIC
classical Poeme Symphonique for 110 Metronomes Hungarian composer György Ligeti composed a symphony for 100 metronomes. Set to different speeds, it creates different rhythmic patterns and the CFA Music Groups reinterprets the piece with 110. Feb 6-Mar 27. Various venues. www.nusartsfestival.com. Free.
concerts Alicia Pan Quartet Singer-songwriter (and model and host and yoga studio owner) Alicia Pan, who‘s just released her self-titled EP, graces the stage at Blu Jaz. Feb 6, 9:30pm. Blu Jaz, 11 Bali Lane, 6292-3800, www.blujazcafe.net. Free.
Nuri Bilge Ceylan
DJ Asahara
WATCH OBSCURE FILMS Turkish director Nuri Bilge Ceylan’s films show both the breathtaking vistas and the less glamorous realities of everyday life in Turkey. Showing on Feb 14: The Small Town and Cocoon. 4pm. Gallery Theatre, National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Rd., 6332-3659, www.nationalmuseum.sg. $8. GO TO A DRAG SHOW Our girl Becca d’Bus hosts and performs with divalicious drag queens Noris, Mona Kee Kee, Galaxia Birch at the first-ever Riot. Cue belly laughter, copious drinking and furious blushing. 7pm. TAB, #02-29 442 Orchard Rd., 64936952. $50 from Peatix. PICK UP TRADITIONAL BOOKBINDING The Thistle Bindery’s See Art, Make Book workshop teaches participants traditional hidden Japanese stab binding, and comes with a tour of an art exhibition. 2pm. Singapore Art Museum, 71 Bras Basah Rd., 6332-3222, www.facebook.com/TheThistleBindery. $45.
PARTY ON THE STREETS If, like us, you’re sick of couples who cannot keep their hands and tongues to themselves on the dancefloor, ‘90s hip hop and R&B street party Valentín Celebración along Haji Lane may be where to take your bros for a nongross night out. 10pm. Piedra Negra, 241 Beach Rd, 6291-1297, www.facebook.com/ Piedra.Negra.Haji.Lane. Free. HANG OUT WITH BELLE AND SEBASTIAN I mean, can you think of a better band to nurse your broken/lonely heart with? 1:30pm. Fort Canning Green, 51 Canning Rise, 63321200, www.thegathering.asia. $118 from Eventclique. For more on The Gathering, see page 9. HIT THE CLUBS Skip the soppy serenades in favor of the electronic dance anthems and head to Zouk, which welcomes the peeps from the cavernous Shibuya nightclub Vision Tokyo. 10pm. Zouk, 17 Jiak Kim St. $28-33. CLARA LIM
Paint The Sky Red album launch The Singaporean shoegaze/post-punk band launches their new album Not All Who Wonder Are Lost with Cut Out Heroes and Sleeveless. They‘ll also be talking about the inspiration behind their music. Feb 6, 8pm. Museum of Independent Music, 1B Aliwal St., www. facebook.com/theskypaintedred. $10-20. Seeing Sounds by Felix Phang & The Imaginary Forces The local jazz composer launches his album Seeing Sounds, featuring big band and solo piano renditions of his original pieces supported by an ensemble of homegrown musicians including pianist Tan Weixiang and guitarist Alvin Wong. Feb 10, 8pm. Aliwal Arts Centre, 28 Aliwal St., 6435-0131. $10-45 from Peatix. New Found Glory One of the pioneers of modern punk music is visting. Keep your fingers crossed for old favorites like “My Friends Over You” and “Hit or Miss”. Feb 12, 8pm. *SCAPE The Ground Theatre, 2 Orchard Link. $68-118 from Peatix.
SG PICK
The Revolution Will Not Be Televised
Music New local releases
A Night of Magic at Raffles Four time Merlin Award winning master magician Joe Labero has more awe-inspiring and mind blowing illusions accompanied by fire artists Burnt Out Punk. Through Feb 22, 7:30pm. Raffles Jubilee Hall, Raffles Hotel, 1 Beach Rd., 6337-1886. $75-230.
ART From Isolation to Solitude This photography exhibition offers an intimate glimpse into a drug addict’s life with raw and powerful blackand-white images shot by a former addict and captures the journey through addictition to soberity. Feb 6-12. Bar Naked, 95 Club St., 6423-4695. Free. Imprint: New Works by Suzann Victor The Singaporean artist (you might recognize her swinging red chandeliers at the National Museum) exhibits her new body of work resulting from a recent residency at STPI. There‘s also a panel discussion with the artist, SAM director Susie Lingham and STPI chief Eitaro Ogawa. Through Feb 21. Singapore Tyler Print Institute, 41 Robertson Quay, 6336-3663, www.stpi. com.sg. Free. The Devil Follows Me Day And Night, Because He Is Afraid To Be Alone Filipino artist Manuel Ocampo is known for his iconoclast paintings that critique colonialism. He explores his pursuit to be critical of his art-making process and subjects to show the motivation and intention behind an artist’s work. Through Feb 22. The Drawing Room, #01-06 Gillman Barracks, 5 Lock Rd., 6694-3289, www.drawingroomgallery.com. Free. Justin Mortimer - Sevastopol The emerging British artist features hyper-saturated, beautifully-executed paintings of contemporary scenes of ground-up political resistance, from Pussy Riot to Occupy. Through Feb 22. Future Perfect, #01-22 Gillman Barracks, 47 Malan Rd., 9835-8271. Free. S. Teddy Darmawan The titular Yogyakarta artist is a master of many disciplines, including assemblage, sculpture and performance art. This show is an installation of paintings of flags, interspersed with actual flags. Through Feb 22. Equator Art Projects, #01-21 Gillman Barracks, 47 Malan Rd., 6694-3727, www.eqproj.com. Free.
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Circle Mirror Transformation After Frozen’s super successful run, local theater group Pangdemonium’s latest production is led by veteran actors Adrian Pang and Neo Swee Lin. The hilarious play is about four strangers who meet in an acting class. Through Feb 15, 8pm. DBS Arts Centre - Home of SRT, 20 Merbau Rd., 6733-8166. $30-55 from Sistic.
SG PICK
This live gig and party will headline Lazy Habits LIVE (a seven-piece jazz and proto-funk act from the UK) with supporting performances from Michaela Therese, Benjamin Kheng, ShiGGa Shay, DJs Matteblacc (JNR& DREM) and more. Feb 13, 8pm. Dream Studio @ Henderson, #02-01 Henderson Industrial Park, 203A Henderson Rd., 62780377. $20 ($30 at the door). www.facebook.com/ hendersonproject.
Christina Perri - The Head or Heart Tour Expect new hit singles like “Human” and “Burning Gold” as this American pop singer-songwriter plays songs from her latest album. She will be supported by local up-and-comer Gentle Bones. Feb 27, 8pm. The Coliseum, Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-8888. $98-138 from Sistic.
Stage Not All Who Wonder Are Lost by Paint The Sky Red Post-rock instrumental band has just dropped its second album, with soulful numbers like “The Happy Ending Is You” and more edgy stuff like “While We Sleepwalk”. Digital downloads at www. painttheskyred.bandcamp. com.
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The Astral Journey by TAJ This home-grown soul/jazz/ hip hop trio released its debut instrumental EP on Jan 30, featuring the singles “The Astral Journey” and “Daydream”. They were a VIMA Music Awards 2014 Best Genre Bender Nominee. $10 from www.darkerthanwax. bandcamp.com.
SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, febuary 6, 2015
Seeing Sounds by Felix Phang & The Imaginary Forces The local jazz composer collaborates with a 10-piece jazz ensemble for this. Check out the wonderful horns on the song “A Thousand Li of Rivers”, and the vocals of singersongwriter Dawn Wong on “Sing it to Grandma”. www. imaginaryforces.peatix.com. ERNY LUIZA KARTOLO
comedy Talk Cock Comedy Singaporean comic Jonathan Atherton and other local performers in The Comedy Club‘s no-holds-barred open mic comedy night are back for more laughs. Feb 11, 25, 8:30pm. Blu Jaz, 11 Bali Lane, 6292-3800, www. thecomedyclub.asia. $10.
theater Great World Cabaret This swinging, cabaret-style throwback to ‘60s and ‘70s Singapore from Dream Academy has a different stand-up comedian taking center stage each week and includes Hossan Leong, Sebastian Tan and Judee Tan. Feb 19-Mar 17, 8pm. Resorts World Theatre, Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-8888. $68128 from Sistic.
Sauce for Contemporary Art Problems Indonesian artist Hahan (or Uji Handoko Eko Saputro) is part of the country‘s new breed of artistic talents informed by modern pop culture and post-Reformasi politics. He explores issues of Indonesia‘s art scene and its place in the global market. Through Feb 22. Equator Art Projects, #01-21 Gillman Barracks, 47 Malan Rd., 6694-3727, www.eqproj.com. Free.
The History of Java Prepare for effigy-burning installations in this one. Referencing Sir Stamford Raffles‘ time in Indonesia, local artist Jimmy Ong reimagines Raffles‘ documented adventures between 1781-1826 in Java with largescale three-meter drawings depicting scenes from the establishment of Islam to the arrival of the British forces. Through Mar 1. Fost Gallery, #01-02 Gillman Barracks, 1 Lock Rd., 6694 3080, www.fostgallery.com. Free. Yang Fudong: Incidental Scripts The contemporary Chinese artist brings his first major solo exhibition that shows four of Yang’s works across film, photography and video installations. Through Mar 1. Centre for Contemporary Art, Gillman Barracks, 43 Malan Rd., www.ccasingapore.org. Free.
now SG PICK
Carlos Rolon: Mi Casa The Chicago-based artist explores the universal theme of the home, namely in the middle-class American sense, through shrine-like pieces loaded with overthe-top faux luxury, maximalist excessiveness and the artist‘s signature Kustom Kulture aesthetics. Through Mar 15. Pearl Lam Galleries, #03-22 Gillman barracks, 9 Lock Rd., 6570-2284. Free. Thousand Knives Known for his surreal and multidisciplinary work, Wong Lip Chin showcases seven diptychs, including oil painting, stainless steel reliefs and video work. Through Mar 15. Michael Janssen Gallery, #02-21 Gillman barracks, 9 Lock Rd., 6734 8948, www. galeriemichaeljanssen.de. Free.
Hiroshi Senju Well-known for his monumental images of nature, Japanese artist Hiroshi Senju‘s solo show presents new single- and multi-panel paintings of waterfalls, combining both classical Japanese painting techniques and subjects with contemporary elements like UV-reactive fluorescent blue paint. Through Mar 8. Sundaram Tagore Gallery, #01-05 Gillman Barracks, 5 Lock Rd., 6694-3378, www. sundaramtagore.com. Free. A Tree With Too Many Branches Singaporean artist Ang Song Nian examines the power struggle between people and the environment through mixed-media installations. The star of the show is a site-specific installation of 800 potted plants accompanied by photographs of human-created and -controlled landscapes. Through Mar 15. DeCK, 116 Prinsep St. Free.
PantoneMyArt - Tattoo in Color This year‘s edition features 10 Singaporean tattoo artists who have designed an artwork in their chosen Pantone color. Instead of the skin, they translated their skills, techniques and styles onto paper. Through Mar 30. TCC The Connoisseur Concerto, Circular Road, 51 Circular Rd., 6533-9033, www.facebook.com/ PantoneMyArt. Free.
WIN UP TO $10,000 WORTH OF GIVEAWAYS, ALL YEAR ROUND It’s our 20th anniversary, but we’re giving you the presents! Fancy a luxurious $10,000 grand suite staycation in Hong Kong? A $5,000 fitness membership to keep you in shape? A night of partying in style that’s worth $1,500? Spending credit of $1,000 to splurge on dining and cocktails? There’s all that and much more to win throughout the year.
Mad Love Artists such as Hong Kong photographer Wing Shya, Japanese street artist Madsaki, Swiss artist Natanel Gluska and more explore and interpret love, sex and desire through their various artistic mediums. Through Apr 26. MAD Museum of Art & Design, #01/02-01, 10 Tanglin Rd., 6734-5688, www.madmuseumsingapore. com. Free. The Mill x WeJungle: Destruction & Rebirth The Mill and creative collective WeJungle bring artists, musicians and designers over the course of three weekends at the soon-to-be-demolished The Mill building. There are over 20 local and international artists, musicians and DJs, as well as pop-up stalls by A for Arbite, Artistry, A Juicery and Chef Federico Pinzi. Through Feb 14, 11am. Annex @ The Mill, 5 Jalan Kilang. Free.
To get clues on how to win, like us at facebook.com/sgnow.sg
FRIDAY, FebuARY 6, 2015 SG MAGAZINE
7
now MUSIC
FOOD & DRINK
Tune-Yards people listening. Music is a way of creating amazing communal experiences. It’s also the music I grew up with, great pop music which is hard to come by these days. Deep musically and lyrically—those are the songs I want to create. I think it’s possible to do both: songs that are catchy and accessible but which have depth to them.
Tune-Yards shows are a flurry of tambourines, neon paint, live drum loops, dark lyrics and various African influences. Ahead of the one in Singapore, we spoke to frontwoman Merrill Garbus. For your new album, Nikki Nack, you went to the library to learn how to write a hit song. But traditional hit songs have never been your thing. I have enough experimentation and tendencies towards weird, but I really did get into music because there were more
What are you listening to these days? I’m a voting member of the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences, so I have to vote on the music nominated for the Grammys. Today I was listening to a lot of beyonce and beck. I really enjoyed his new one Morning Phase. He combines lots of new digital elements with these Neil Young-y sounding songs. I’m still listening to [Nigerian funk musician] William Onyeabor and lots of different music from ethiopia. What’s with all the bright neon clothes and music videos? For better or for worse, the image that musicians present is part of the package, from beyonce and Katy Perry to Yoko Ono and Debbie Harry to women who dress more masculine like Laurie Anderson who’s lately been a hero of mine. The music is very dark and very light at the same time, so I really wanted to highlight the light side of it.
Tune-Yards is performing at The Gathering, along with Belle & Sebastian, How to Dress Well, Real Estate and others on Feb 14 at Fort Canning Green. Tickets start at $98 at Eventclique. For more info, visit thegathering.asia. MRIGAA SeTHI
aPORKalypse IV - Journey to the PORK of no return Shen Tan makes a return with this anticipated pork extravaganza by pop-up organizers Gastrogig. The five-course dinner inspired by her foodie trip to Hong Kong includes dishes like Hong Kong-style French toast with braised pork belly and har cheong pork ribs. Feb 7. Venue will be revealed 24 hours before the dinner. $120 from Peatix .
HAPPENINGS
sports Runners Convention There are talks by international athletes like Lizzy Hawker, Ricky Lightfoot and Mok Ying Ren, practical workshops, and training sessions from experts in sports injury prevention, barefoot running and yoga. Feb 7-8.. Suntec Singapore, 1 Raffles blvd., 63372888, www.trainlivecompete.com. $55-70. Armour@TheBay x 7Cycle Outdoor Night Ride Choose between three different sets of workout lasting 35 to 45 minutes, including rhythm-based rides, full-body workouts and circuit trainings. Plus, there’s a great view. Feb 3 and 17. 6:30pm. Clifford Square, Fullerton bay, 80 Collyer Quay, www.7cycle. sg. Free.
outings Real Escape Game Vol. 8: Last Garden The Real escape Game folks team up with SCRAP (the Japanese company that created ReGs) to bring a modified escape room treasure hunt about a selfsufficient city with a failing energy source. Feb 13-22. Gardens by The bay, 18 Marina Gardens Dr., 6420-6841, www.realegame.sg. $27-165.
Mosbit and multimedia artist brian Gothong. There are discussions and feedback panels, too. Feb 27, 7:30pm; Feb 28, 7:30pm; Mar 1, 3pm. The Necessary Stage black box, #b1-02 Marine Parade Community building, 278 Marine Parade Rd. Free from Peatix.
sales & fairs TGIF Bazaar The flea market organizers’ latest series is a monthly event at Paya Lebar mall One KM, happening every last Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the month. Feb 27-Mar 1; Mar 27-29. One KM, 11 Tanjong Katong Rd., 6702-3610, www.facebook.com/ TGIFatKatongMall. Free. Workshop by McNally & Co. This unusual project by Lasalle‘s Faculty of Design is a cross between a retail design exhibition and a pop-up store with lots of locally-designed clothes and lifestyle goods. Through Feb 15. LASALLe College of the Arts, 1 McNally St., 6496-5000, www.facebook. com/wmcnallynco. Free.
NIGHTLIFE Darker Than Wax Presents Modern Hieroglyphics Release Party Inspired by Chor boogie’s Jack McKain, a worldrenowned street artist, this biannual art and design publication has everything to do with art, music, fashion and culture. Celebrate the mag’s second issue with local artists like Clogtwo!, big Wave and Troy Samuela. Feb 6, 9pm. Canvas, #b1-01/06 The Riverwalk, 20 upper Circular Rd., 6538-2928, www. canvasvenue.sg. $22-25.
SG PICK
classes & workshops Backstage Pass by Peatix One of our favorite networking events tackles marketing. experts dole out tips and tricks about reaching the right people, writing great event descriptions and engaging your audience on a limited budget. Feb 10, 7:15pm. The Hub Singapore, National Youth Council Academy, 113 Somerset Rd. $12-25 from Peatix. Impromptu Speaking with Confidence & Clarity Overcome your fears of public speaking and addressing large groups at the day-long workshops that neutralizes fear, allows you to exude confidence, craft clear and convincing messages, handle questions and use imagery to drive home your points. Feb 6, 9am. Concorde Hotel Singapore, 100 Orchard Rd., 6720-3333. $528. Imagining the Future uK nonprofit group Forum for the Future’s director James Goodman chairs this roundtable about the future and sustainability in Singapore. Speakers include Veerappan Swaminathan, Tong Yee, Dr Peter edwards and Michelle Lim. Feb 7, 2:30pm. ArtScience Museum, Marina bay Sands, 10 bayfront Ave., 6688-8826., www.marinabaysands.com/ ArtScienceMuseum. Free. What She Gave To Me Get alternative on V Day with a series of workshops that teach urban farming 101 and three different types of floral arrangement classes. Feb 7, 1:30pm. Mad Nest, 378/380 east Coast Rd., 6743-5518. $60 180 per pair. Romeo & Juliet: A Love Affair with Great Photography and Design Learn about the latest Adobe software and get expert tips at this workshop, led by Russell “Romeo” brown and Julieanne “Juliet” Kost. Products include Photoshop, Lightroom, Lightroom Mobile, Mix and behance. Feb 12, 9am. NTuC Auditorium, #b1-01, 1 Marina blvd., 6213-8008. $66 -88. The Orange Playground Showcase 1 A creative R&D program launched by The Necessary Stage, TOP showcases actors like Siti Khalijah Zainal and Aidli ‘Alin’
Kura Not only does this 25-year old Portuguese DJ turn heads, he spins electronic music with tracks like “Makhor” and “Roll the Drum”. Feb 7, 10pm. Zouk, 17 Jiak Kim St., 6738 -2988, www.zoukclub.com. $28-33. Max Vangeli This hotshot Moldovan San Francisco-based DJ has been on the forefront of remixing tracks from DJs like Steve Angello and Tiesto but has also collaborated with AN21 on “Swedish beauty” and example. Feb 13, 10pm. Zouk, 17 Jiak Kim St., 6738-2988, www. zoukclub.com. $28-33. Bruce Hill blue Marlin Ibiza‘s DJ, bruce Hill, spins at this monthly event where one partier will be flown out for a weekend trip to Attica‘s sister beach-club Xana Phuket. Feb 13, 10:30pm. Attica, #01-03 Clarke Quay, 3A River Valley Rd., 6333-9973, www.attica. com.sg. $30. No Strings Attached (Valentine’s Day) A V-Day at Attica always signals a night of debauchery. Celebrate with resident DJs and their themed lock and key game where you stand a chance to win a bottle of Möet Champagne. Feb 14, 10:30pm. Attica, #01-03 blk. A Clarke Quay, 3 River Valley Rd., 6333-9973, www.attica.com.sg. $30. Bumpin’ It’s R&b goodness and hip hop attitude with a slew of guest and resident DJs. They said to expect turbulence, so be prepared to shake some booty. Feb 21, 10:30pm. Attica, #01-03 Clarke Quay, 3A River Valley Rd., 6333-9973, www.attica.com.sg. $30.
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SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FebuARY 6, 2015
now Send your events news to events@asia-city.com.sg
SCENE & HEARD with Letitia Tandean
Sing Jazz Festival
recently gotten their grant approved, there’ve been murmurs that purchasing 50 Steinwaydesigned pianos for an SG50 concert might not be the best way to encourage local music. Still, we’re sort of pleased to see the scene get some attention and hope a few more artists get the grants they need.
Trained Act Meghan Trainor
All About That Bass Sing Jazz Festival (Marina Promenade, F1 Tracks, www.facebook.com/singjazzfestival) is back from Mar 6-8 with more international acts. First of all, there’s uK pop starlet Jessie J and then there’s pianist Ramsey Lewis and trumpeter Chris botti. Indonesia’s blues rock band Gugun blues Shelter also makes an appearance alongside Grammy Award-winner bobby McFerrin. Tickets start at $125 and are available from Sistic.
Access Granted We’ve all heard a lot about the $348,000 National Arts Council music grant boost that will allow local musicians to apply for more funding. Although some bands like Caracal have
FILM
indie screenings Our Hobby is Depeche Mode Catch this rare and poignant documentary inspired by the band Depeche Mode by Turner prize winner Jeremy Deller and film maker Nick Abrahams. It follows Depeche Mode fans all around the world and focuses on the intensity and peculiarities of fan culture. Feb 6, 7pm, 9pm, 11pm. Dream Studio @ Henderson, #02-01 Henderson Industrial Park, 203A Henderson Rd., 62780377, www.facebook.com/thehendersonproject. $15. Café Cino: Battle of the Bands Get ready for a week of music-themed films with a line-up that includes Yellow Submarine, This is Spinal Tap, Pink Floyd - The Wall, local band documentary The Obs: A Singapore Story and a special mystery film screening. Through Feb 8. The Projector, 5/F Golden Mile Tower, 6001 beach Rd., theprojector.sg. Singapore Short Film Awards Fringe Screenings The annual Singapore Short Film Awards (SSFA) is a joint effort between The Substation and Objectifs Films with a curated selection of short films including documentaries, dramas and experimental films. Feb 13, 8pm. NuS university Town, 6601-2135, www. facebook.com/NuSCFA .
cinema highlights A Most Violent Year 1981 is touted as one of the most violent years in New York City’s history. Starring Oscar Isaac and Jessica Chastain, this crime drama centers around the lives of an immigrant family trying to expand their business amid violence and corruption. Opens Feb 5. Unbroken Directed by Angelina Jolie, this epic drama follows the life of Olympian and war hero Louis “Louie” Zamperini who survived on a raft for 47 days after a plane crash in WWII, got caught by the Japanese Navy and became a prisoner of war. Open Feb 5.
Meghan Trainor (The Coliseum, Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-8888, www. livenationlushington.net) is actually coming to Singapore. The singer-songwriter, known for her happy and soulful tunes like “All About That bass”, makes a pit stop in Singapore on Apr 23. That bass Tour tickets start at $128 from Sistic.
Designer Brands Singapore Design Week (National Design Centre, 111 Middle Rd., www.designsingapore. org) is back Mar 10-22 with a host of international designers and creative agencies. There are a bunch of trade shows, conferences, exhibitions and workshops to attend, including the International Furniture Fair (www.iffs. com.sg) and SingaPlural (www.singaplural. com), a showcase of lcoal architecture, interior, graphic and fashion design.
Just the tip of the iceberg We add tons of new parties, concerts, exhibitions, meetups every day. Keep up at sgnow.sg/events Still Alice Happily married with three children, Alice Howland (Julianne Moore) is a linguistics professor who starts forgetting words. She’s diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s that eventually tests her family’s bonds. Also starring Alec baldwin and Kristen Stewart. Opens Feb 5. Wild Jean-Marc Vallée’s (Dallas buyers Club) latest venture is all about bestselling author Cheryl Strayed and her Pacific Crest Trail adventure. After years of reckless heroin use and a failed marriage, Strayed (Reese Witherspoon) backpacks thousands of miles in the wild with no experience. Opens Feb 5. Fifty Shades of Grey One of the most awaited openings yet, this erotic novel makes it on the big screens. Needless to say, you know the types of erotic acts to follow. Stars Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson. Opens Feb 12. Kingsman: The Secret Service based on a comic book, it tells the story of a suave, James bond-y british superspy who recruits a rough-and-tumble street kid into his agency’s competitive and top-notch training program that so happens to fall on the brink of a global threat. If you love Colin Firth, there’s no other reason not to catch this flick. Opens Feb 12. Ah Boys To Me 3: Frogmen Jack Neo strikes again with the third Ah boys franchise. Starring Wang Wei Liang and Tosh Rock, expect more local comedic debauchery about a group of servicemen. Opens Feb 19. FRIDAY, FebuARY 6, 2015 SG MAGAZINE
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feature
Hot Hoods
We suss out three areas that had been flying under the radar until recently—but now it’s high time for a revisit or perhaps even a complete relocation. By Joyce See
Jurong
Village Hotel Changi
Brawn & Brains
Changi
It’s far, it’s home to the airport, HDBs and a bunch of trees. But last month’s Super O reminded us that there are plenty of reasons to make the trek out to Changi.
lots to Do Missed Super O last month? Changi is gearing up for yet another festival. This time, it’s one of the biggest music festivals in the region, the Future Music Festival Asia (Changi Exhibition Centre, 9 Aviation Dr., www.futuremusicfestival.asia). Set to take place on Mar 13-14, it is expected to draw some 50,000 fans with heavyweight headliners like Avicii, The Prodigy, Knife Party and Afrojack.
Cool Hotels It seems like Changi has ditched its basic chalets in favor of chic boutique hotels. The latest addition is the charming 50-room Raintr33 Hotel (33 Hendon Rd., 6653-
3833, www.raintr33hotel.com) that has taken over the derelict army barracks just down the road from the old, supposedly haunted Changi Hospital. There’s also the modern 380-room Village Hotel Changi (1 Netheravon Rd., 6379-7111, www. stayfareast.com) that’s minutes from the tranquil Changi Beach.
Sprawling Spaces One thing this far-flung neighborhood is known for is its abundance of space and greenery and it’s evident in its hip multiconcept eateries too. Unlike cozy cafés found across the island, the Kakis Bistro & Bar (289 Farnborough Rd., 6214-2956, www.kakis.sg) is huge and is housed
Kakis Bistro & Bar
“Changi feels like the fittest part of Singapore! You see so many cyclists around and Changi Beach is nearby and there’s also Pulau Ubin.”—Jaye Tan, co-fouder of Kakis Bistro & Bar within a nursery that’s almost the size of a basketball court. There’s also live music by local band The Passerby on Friday evenings and weekly fitness classes.
GOOD COFFEE
Future Music Festival
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SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, February 6, 2015
Aside from the rustic charms of The Coastal Settlement and the too-cute-todrink lattes at Chock Full of Beans, also in the vicinity is the new-ish halal café Peloton Coffee and Juice Bar (#01-2008, 1 Changi Village Rd., www.facebook. com/pages/peloton-coffee-juice-bar) that not only serves up a mean cuppa (with coffee beans from Oriole) but ice cream sandwiches and savory waffles.
HOMES FOR ACTIVE TYPES Populating the stretch of road near Flora Road and Upper Changi Road North are a slew of new condos. Set to be completed by year end, Parc Olympia (60 Flora Drive) features a synthetic jogging track and also a large putting ground (golfer’s dream come true). There’s also Palm Isles (32 Flora Drive, www.palmisles.sg), a collection of terrace houses and high-rise apartments with facilities like a manmade beach and a 50-meter lap pool. It is located between Tampines and Changi MRT stations and is right beside TPE, a 15-minute drive from town.
Guillemard Road
It’s one street over from Geylang bustle, but it’s become a destination in its own right, thanks to the slew of new mid to high-end restaurants and cafés.
RIVERSIDE FUN
CAFE CULTURE
At the tip of Guillemard Road is the newish, pet-friendly Bottle Cap Café (511 Guillemard Rd., 6743-4770, www.facebook. com/bottlecap) that lets diners tuck into simple Western plates while seated next to the scenic Geylang River. Further down the road, you’ll hit our long-favorite craft beer joint, The Tuckshop (403 Guillemard Rd., 8511-8102, www.tuckshop.com.sg).
Just off Guillemard Road is the quiet residential area of Cassia Crescent where you will find two cute cafés, a block apart. One’s a trendy waffle specialist, The Hideout (#01-52, 32 Cassia Crescent, 6440-0971, www.facebook.com/ thehideoutsg) and the other is a stylish bakery, Maple and Market (#01-82, 34 Cassia Crescent, 6348-8068, www. mapleandmarket.com), helmed by baker Sarah Khaw (formerly of Loysel’s Toy).
INDIE GYMS
The Old Singapore Badminton Hall is now home to two unusual gyms, Onsight Climbing (100 Guillemard Rd., 6348-8272, www.onsight.com.sg) and GymKraft (100 Guillemard Rd., 9128-4644, www. gymkraft.com) that offers indoor rock climbing and parkour. Outside, you’ll find Brawn & Brains (100 Guillemard Rd., 6348-8892, www.facebook.com/ brawnbrains.sg), a tiny coffee joint that serves seriously good artisanal coffee at affordable prices (think $3.50 for a latte—and it’s double shot, too).
Geylang River
Onsite Climbing
FANCY CONDOS Pick from two upcoming condos, both set to be completed in 2018. There’s Sims Urban Oasis (60 Sims Drive, www. urbanoasis-simsdrive.com) that comes with a skypark on the 19th floor and there’s also the Tre Residences (Geylang East Ave. 1, www.treresidencecondo.com) with its gardens and wave pool. Both are a five-minute walk from Aljunied MRT station and a 10-minute drive to town, with links to PIE, KPE and Nicoll Highway.
“I like that the area is soulful and unpretentious; with its mix of new cafés and old hawkers. My favorite hangout is Brawn & Brains. They serve really good coffee!”—Nathalia Kasman, resident of Guillemard Road
The Tuckshop
JURONG EAST
Gone are the days where the best thing about it was the ice skating rink in Jurong Entertainment Center. Now there are tons of shopping and food options and even some hot condo developments.
Malls Galore The last few years has seen mall after mall fling open its doors. First came JCube (2 Jurong East Central 1, 66842153, www.jcube.com.sg) and Jem (50 Jurong Gateway Rd., 6225-5536, www.jem.sg), then came Westgate (3 Gateway Dr., 6908-3737, www.westgate. com.sg). There’s also the newly opened three-story mega shopping warehouse, Big Box (1 Venture Ave., 6801-6688), which is kind of like Ikea, Courts and Giant all rolled into one with massive shelves stocked with affordable groceries, clothes and furniture. Not quite Orchard Road, but these aren’t your average heartland malls either.
High Street & Hidden Gems For starters, Westgate stocks big name fashion labels like Armani Exchange, Kate Spade Saturday and Cos, while Jem has a bunch of high-street favorites like H&M, Topshop and Uniqlo. And if you’re not into mainstream fashion, hit up JCube’s
new-ish J.Avenue (2/F, 6684-2153) that houses over 70 hip and trendy fashion and accessories stores with a Japanese-Korean vibe. If vintage’s your thing, there’s The Good Old Days (#02-18, 6734-6137) in Jem that carries pretty vintage dresses. Oh and Japanese lifestyle mecca Tokyu Hands— that’s stocked floor to ceiling with kitsch stickers, stationery and beauty products— set up shop here first (before a second outlet popped up in Orchard Central).
Foodie Haven Plenty of food options here with popular eateries like Four Fingers (#02-05, www. gimme4fingers.com), Ippudo (#03-03) and Tonkatsu by Ma Maison (#04-06) all readily available at Westgate while Jem offers options like Imperial Treasure Seafood Restaurant (#B1-11, 63391881, www.imperialtreasure.com) and Ichiban Boshi (#B1-01, 6659-6186, www. ichibanboshi.com.sg). There’s also upscale Japanese food market Isetan (#01-23/24, 6896-7777, www.isetan.com.sg) that stocks air-freighted food, tasting tables and live food stations.
Big Box
J.Avenue
Tokyu Hands
TRENDY HOUSING With its freshly minted super-hood status, it’s not hard to see why property is getting snapped up like hot cakes. It happened with J Gateway (2-6 Gateway Drive, www.jgate-way.com) which is flanked by JCube, Westgate and Jem. Then, again with Lake Life (4 Tao Ching Rd., www.
lakelife-executive-condo.com)—they’ve got an edible garden and offer daily hot yoga classes by True Yoga. But, you can still get your hands on Lakeville (Jurong West St. 42, www.lakeville.sg) that’s minutes away from Lakeside MRT and offers views of the peaceful Jurong Lake. For drivers, it’s within easy reach of PIE and AYE and is a 25-minute drive from town.
“I’m losing track of all the malls opening in the last few years. But I’m not complaining because there’s so much to do here and you also don’t have to battle the crazy crowds like you do in town.” —Justin Fernando, resident of Jurong
Like this issue? Read it and every new issue of SG free on your tablet or mobile. issuu.com/sg_magazine FRIDAY, February 6, 2015 SG MAGAZINE
11
is island
The latest openings and hottest trends in Singapore
style Werk It Swiss brand Urwerk is known for its classic timepieces, so we’re excited to report that they’ve recently added a new watch to their existing UR-110 collection, the UR-110 Eastwood. This latest iteration features a durable tweed strap and a richly polished ebony bezel. What that means is it’ll look sexy on your wrist and will last you for years. Available from The Hour Glass, #0124/25, 290 Orchard Road, 6735-6466.
style Lookin’ Fly
One of Nike’s coolest releases, the new Roshe Flyknit sneakers are even more lightweight and eco-friendly than earlier Flyknit models. 12 colors of leftover yarn from other shoes are used to create these sports shoes that you can wear for working out or (let’s face it) just to be stylish. As a result, each pair is unique, which should help you justify adding yet another pair of sneakers to your collection. Prices start from $120. Available from select Nike Sportswear retailers. Shop online at www.nike.com/sportswear.
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SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, february 6, 2015
tech Room for Radio
Bose has refreshed and expanded its SoundTouch lineup of music systems, which allow multi-room playback and plugs in to Deezer, Spotify, internet radio stations and even (if you’re old school like that) your own music library and playlists. The star of the new lineup is the SoundTouch 20 Wi-Fi Series II ($639), a one-piece wireless stereo system that’s great for the bedroom or kitchen. Available at Bose, #01-35 Millenia Walk, 9 Raffles Boulevard, 6339-0966 and #01-19A Republic Plaza, 9 Raffles Place, 6438-3240, www. atlasestore.sg.
NEW SPA Marina Bay Hands
The newly opened spa boutique, Lacquer & Spa, offers manicures and pedicures, treatments and facials, and body and foot spa therapies. Relax and treat yourself at this cozy place lined with plush chairs and chandeliers. Or have your mani/pedi done (using products from Orly and Mave) in one of their two private rooms. Their manicures start at $25, facials at $98 and reflexology at $22. #B1-01/02 Marina Bay Sands Hotel Coach Bay, 1 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7773, www.lacquerspa.com.sg.
ADVERTORIAL
A Family Reunion on the Singapore River Chinese New Year is all about celebrating with family and friends. What better way to kickstart the Year of the Goat than with a communal feast of live seafood, some spice and perhaps even Italian flair at one of these picturesque riverside locations. Ton gK an g
Say “Huat Ah” over traditional and fiery Sichuan cuisine on the banks of the river. This place has tons of meats and seafood that are great for big groups, from the Sichuan-style chili crab and griddle-cooked spare ribs to the signature Chongqing grilled fish. 50 Boat Quay, 6224-7071, www.tongfujugrilledfish.com
TongKang Riverboat Celebrate with a throwback and dine aboard the old tongkang boats berthed along the Clarke Quay stretch. Rally everyone for a cold cocktail before tucking into a wide array of dishes from lamb to oysters. Dishes are cooked on a hot stone, so take turns playing chef. Don’t skip the wagyu. #01-06 Clarke Quay, 3D River Valley Rd., 6333-4868, www.tongkang.com.sg
Dragon Phoenix Restaurant For large groups, you can’t go wrong with banquet-style celebrations. This restaurant has several set menu options that include items like spring chicken, soon hock and, of course, a signature yu sheng recipe that dates back to 1963. 6/F Singapore Clarke Quay Novotel, 177A River Valley Rd., 6339-3368, www.novotelclarkequay.com novotelclarkequay.com
Red House Seafood Restaurant
Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant The chefs here take Chinese New Year seriously, with a multitude of dishes perfect for sharing. On offer this season are dishes like baked crab with glutinous rice and a traditional yu sheng, too. 4/F Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium, 317 Outram Rd., 6733-0188, www.holidayinn.com/sinatrium
Fremantle Seafood Market How about taking a jaunt down to Perth’s Fremantle Market through this restaurant? The seafood sourced from Australia and Alaska is always fresh and there’s no better way to celebrate the festivities than with a seafood platter. #01-05/06 Clarke Quay, 3E River Valley Rd., fremantleseafoodmarket.com.sg
Red H ou se
Soi 60 If traditional Chinese food doesn’t tickle your fancy, head to this modern Thai restaurant. Dishes are familiar and it’s all about the sharing here. Exciting menu additions include softshell crab with watermelon salad, but for something substantial go for the beef short rib panaeng curry. #01-04 The Quayside, 60 Roberston Quay, 6635-6675, www.soi60.com.sg
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Xin Cuisine
t ran au est R e es Chin
Freman tle Se af oo d
Tong Fu Ju Grilled Fish
t ke ar M
Rosso Vino Who says Lunar New Year is all about the Chinese cuisine and lo hei? If you’re planning on a meal with a big group, head to this Italian restaurant that makes killer 30cm thin-crust pizzas and flavorful pastas. 15 Merbau Rd., 9449-9542, www.rossovinosingapore.com
Chinese New Year not your thing? Prepare for the raucous St. Patrick’s Day parties. The annual street festival celebrating everything Irish, green, beer-related and fun is back this Mar 13-15, in Boat Quay (Circular Road). Don your best green outfit and let loose with Ireland’s culture, arts and community. Plus, there’s a parade (Mar 15) with tons of Irish music, dance, street performances and food and drink promos along the river. Don’t forget the shamrocks.
Although this seafood restaurant’s specialty lies in chilli crab, it’s an ideal place for an alfresco family meal. Between the breeze and the scrumptiously spiced food, we can’t pick what we like better. This year, it also has a special Treasure Pot that includes seafood fried rice and a salmon yu sheng. #01-14 The Quayside, 60 Robertson Quay, 6735-7666, www.redhouseseafood.com BROUGHT TO YOU BY SINGAPORE RIVER ONE
island More importantly, the interior has got sexy sport seats and a leather sport steering wheel. The cute rear VW logo now also serves as a handle for opening the boot lid. Specs: Four-cylinder engine with turbocharger, seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, fuel consumption: 6.3/100km
MOTORING
Car Bazaar
4 zippy and affordable models arriving this year. By Erny Luiza Kartolo
Price: $139,300 from Volkswagen Centre Singapore, 247 Alexandra Rd., 6474-8288.
Subaru BRZ
Nissan Note 1.2L CVT (I)
Nissan Note 1.2L CVT (I) Volkswagen Scirocco 1.4 TSI (DSG)
Mazda 2
Mazda 2
Subaru BRZ
Features: The latest Mazda is small but sleek. It has improved SkyActiv technology, which means lower emissions and increased fuel efficiency (if you care about that sort of thing—which you should!). But our favorite bit is the MZD Connect, an infotainment system that allows you to load your social media and other online content. It even reads your texts and emails out loud for you. Specs: Four-cylinder 16-valve SkyActiv engine, six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift, fuel consumption: 5.1/100km Price: $122,800 from Mazda Showroom, 23 Leng Kee Rd., 6603-6118.
Features: It’s small on the outside, but the Nissan Note has a surprisingly large amount of cabin space and legroom. This miniMPV has a sleek exterior with these subtly etched speed lines along the side. It also has a neat Idling Stop System that shuts off the engine when you stop, and restarts it when you take your foot off the brake. Specs: Three-cylinder 12-valve engine, Xtronic CVT transmission, fuel consumption: 5.4/100km Price: $101,800 from Tan Chong Motor Sales, 911 Bukit Timah Rd., 6466-7711.
Volkswagen Scirocco 1.4 TSI (DSG) Features: This new coupe features the powerful and new-to-Singapore 1.4 TSI engine. It consists of both a supercharger and a turbocharger which basically means better boost and lower fuel consumption.
Features: Subaru isn’t just for American soccer moms. We are swooning over this sports coupe (it doesn’t take much), Subaru’s first ever rear-wheel-drive car. It’s got better acceleration and stopping, is easier to control and has better weight balance as the car’s load is spread across all four tires. Great for those road trips to KL. Specs: Four-cylinder 16-valve engine, 6AT rear-wheel-drive transmission, fuel consumption: 7.1/100km Price: $152,600 from Subaru Hub, 19 Lorong 8 Toa Payoh, 6703-8333.
Who does the best hotpot? Burgers? Cocktails? Only one place to find out sgnow.sg/toplist
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The buzz: Love it or hate it, cult yoga wear brand Lululemon’s hotly anticipated store has opened up shop at Ion Orchard— the 299th store worldwide, but the first ever store in Asia. The vibe: While the store is attractive enough, we kind of expected something a bit more out-of-the-box. The interiors are pretty minimalist with lots of blonde wood, bright lighting and peppy sales assistants. Brightly colored clothes are lined up along the exterior of the store, separated into men’s and women’s areas. The goods: Although most (in)famous for leggings (thanks to a fiasco involving their now-ex-chairman’s remarks that women without thigh gaps shouldn’t be wearing them) they also stock all kinds of workout gear. Leggings, running shorts, sports bras and singlets dominate, with
a smaller range of accessories like sports bags, sweat bands and yoga mats. While not completely breaking the sportswear mold, the clothes themselves are pretty cool with streamlined design and fun patterns. Feeling the clothes as you walk around the store you get a sense of why Lululemon are known for their fabrics; the clothes are soft, light and seriously stretchy. You will have to pay a pretty penny though. Leggings range between $100-150, tanks $70-100, sports bras and shorts from $70 and sweat bands $22. Why you’ll be back: You’ve been a devotee of the brand ever since you started those advanced ashtanga yoga classes and realized everyone else was wearing Lulu. Never turning back!
#B1-11 ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, www.lululemon.com/singapore/ionorchard. EIMEAR ELKINGTON
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SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBUARY 6, 2015
ARAB STREET/KAMPONG GLAM · Artistry Cafe · Working Title · BEACH ROAD · Blu Jaz · WineBos · The Plaza L1 Office Lobby Reception · BOAT QUAY · Le Comptoir · Enoteca L’Operetta · Harry’s @ Boat Quay · Southbridge · The Arts House at Old Parliament · Timbre @ The Arts House · London · BUGIS · Hood Bar and Cafe · Essensuals by Toni & Guy @ Bugis · K Suites @ Bugis+ · Stuttgart Blackforest Boutique S-Cafe · BUKIT TIMAH · The Great Beer Experiment @ Pasar Bella · CHINATOWN · Ô Batignolles · The Chamber · The Muffinry · Wa-Cafe · Morsi & Sorsi · CITY HALL · Smoothie King @ Suntec City · The Soup Spoon @ Suntec City · The Soup Spoon @ Raffles City Shopping Centre · Addictions Café & Remedy Bar @ Marina Square · Barossa @ Esplanade · Coffee Club @ Millenia Walk · Outback Steak House · Paulaner Brauhaus · Timbre @ The Substation · Ice Cold B’s · Brotzeit @ Raffles City · Coffee Club @ Raffles City Shopping · MICA Office Lobby Reception · The Substation · Front Row · Loof · Dome Café @ Singapore Art Museum · Privé CHIJMES · CLARKE QUAY · Brewerkz · KURO Restaurant + Bar · Ricciotti @ The Riverwalk · Wings · The
Central L1 Customer Service · Crazy Elephant · Mad for Garlic · DEMPSEY · Taphouse by Brewerkz · Jones The Grocer · White Rabbit · House, Barracks & Camp · Dome Café @ Dempsey · Red Dot Brewhouse · DHOBY GHAUT · Kith Café @ Park Mall · Dôme @ Plaza Singapura · EAST · Tolido's Espresso Nook · The Tuckshop · City Square Mall Customer Service Counter · Loysel’s Toy · Morsels · HARBOURFRONT · King Louis · Prive Bakery Café · Brotzeit @ Vivo City · Coffee Club @ Harbourfront Centre · Sky The Fitness Lifestyle · HOLLAND VILLAGE · The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf @ Holland Village · Barossa @ Holland V · Harry’s @ Holland Village · Wala Wala · Fosters - An English Rose Café · MARINA BAY · Carnivore Brazilian Churrascaria @ Marina Bay Sands · Erwin’s Gastrobar · The Coffee Bean @ Marina Bay Sands · Bazin · Salad Stop @ MBFC · Smoothie King @ MBFC · MOHAMED SULTAN / ROBERTSON QUAY · Kith Café @ Watermark · Harry’s @ Pier Robertson · Blow+Bar · Wine Connection Cheese Bar @ Robertson Walk · Wine Connection Tapas Bar & Bistro @ Robertson Walk · Toby’s Estate · En Grill and Bar · Singapore
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Repertory Theatre · NOVENA · Kitchenette ORCHARD · Active Life Center · ION Concierge counter · The Marmalade Pantry · Balaclava · Coffee Club @ Paragon · Dome Café @ Paragon · Dôme @ Scotts Square · PS.Cafe @ Paragon · The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf @ Paragon · Dome Café @ Shaw House · TAB · Saveur · Sky Pilates · Smoothie King @ Centerpoint · Essensuals by Toni & Guy @ Orchard Central · Hansel · Lawry’s The Prime Rib · Leftfoot @ Cineleisure · Rockstar by Soon Lee · RAFFLES PLACE · &SONS @ China Square Central · Catalunya · Impact MMA · The Bank Bar & Bistro · Coffee Club @ One Raffles Quay · 1-Altitude · Coffee Club @ Raffles Place Square · Impact MMA @ Shenton House · The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf @ Republic Plaza · The Exchange · The Royal Mail Restaurant & Bar · True Fitness @ Chevron House · Dome Café @ UOB Plaza 1 · O’Briens Irish Sandwich Bars · Salad Stop @ One George Street · Boathouse · Kinki · Capital Square · Simply Sandwich · RIVER VALLEY · Five & Dime · Zouk · Bangkok Jam · The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf @ Great World City · True Fitness @ Great World City · SENTOSA · Kith Café @ Sentosa Cove ·
Hard Rock Café RWS · iFly @ Sentosa · The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf @ Palawan Beach · Tanjong Beach Club · Wave House Sentosa · SOMERSET · Smoothie King @ 313 · Actually · Editor’s Market@ Somerset · Dean & Deluca · Ice Cold Beer · No. 5 Emerald Hill · Oriole Café & Bar · Brotzeit @ 313@Somerset · Jibiru · KPO Café Bar · Porterhouse Butcher Bar · Toni & Guy @ Mandarin Gallery · TANGLIN · The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf @ Forum Galleria · K Suites @ Orchard Parade Hotel · Hard Rock Café · TANJONG PAGAR · Jekyll and Hyde · Foodology Fresh · GAEST · Kyo · 137 Telok Ayer Street Level 1 Reception · The Ogilvy Centre · Boulevard · Pacific Coffee Company @ Reddot Traffic · The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf @ CPF Building · Gloria Jean’s Coffees @ Twenty Anson · Red Dot Design Museum · The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf @ International Plaza · The Coffee bean & Tea Leaf @ Fuji Xerox Tower · Broth · Latteria Mozzarella Bar · Sprmrkt · TIONG BAHRU · Tiong Bahru Bakery · Coq & Balls · Forty Hands · Books Actually · WEST · Skyve Elementary Bistro & Bar · Salad Stop @ Fusionopolis · One Rochester · Nosh
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FRIDAY, FEBUARY 6, 2015 SG MAGAZINE
15
eats
The inside scoop on Singapore’s drink and dining scene
BRUNCH New Policy Our favorite Tiong Bahru hangout Open Door Policy (19 Yong Siak St., 6221-9307, www.odpsingapore. com) has a new brunch menu full of hearty dishes. Think breakfast burgers filled with bacon and gruyere cheese and an English breakfast with smoked pancetta and sausages. We’re most excited about the countdown Champagne brunch where you drink your way to free bubbly. Glasses start at $20 and reduce by $5 with each round.
NEW BAR Hop To It
There’s a new craft beer bistro in the oft-overlooked neighborhood of Dhoby Ghaut. HopHeads (11 Penang Ln., 9119-6980, www.facebook.com/HopHeadsSingapore) is a breezy, busy faux-dive (think metal stools and Darth Vader action figures) parked outside the inconspicuous Innotel Hotel and serves fancy brews from the sweet to the hoppy. There’s Crabbie’s strawberry & lime ginger ale ($11) and the rich and robust Ninkansi oatmeal stout ($13). The place also has two rotating draft taps and a slew of beer-drinking food like burgers and wings.
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SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015
VALENTINE’S DAY Rah Rah Romance
No one, not even SG, is immune to V-Day. The city is awash with decadent and fast-selling dinners, from a casual meal with nice views at microbrewery Level 33 (#33-01 Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 1, 8 Marina Blvd., 6834-3133, www.level33.com.sg) to The Halia’s (Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Rd., 8444-1148, www.halia.com.sg) intimate pan-Asian affair to UNA’s (1 Rochester Park, 6773-0070, www.una.sg) gardenthemed Valentine’s with free-flow Champagne. For the full list, go to our monster list at ow.ly/HVkVo.
CHINESE NEW YEAR Salad Days
Chinese New Year is just around the corner so it’s time for some yu sheng. Cocotte (2 Dickson Rd., 6298-2211, www.restaurantcocotte.com) gives the traditional dish a French twist with a mix of grapefruit, pears, kumquats, ginger, hazelnuts, pine nuts, parsley, tarragon and chervil topped with a quatre épices spice blend and a honey-hazelnut-citrus dressing with salmon ($49) or poached lobster ($102). Available until Mar 5. Get it togo or while dining in.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015 SG MAGAZINE
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eats TASTE TEST
Steamboat Smackdown Call it whatever you want: steamboat, hotpot, shabu shabu or sukiyaki—we all love DIY soup. We choose four places and see who does what best. By Letitia Tandean
Hotpot Kingdom #B1-01B The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7722, www. hotpotkingdom.com.
Shabu Shabu On-Yasai #01-03/04 CHIJMES, 30 Victoria St., 6336-4002, www.on-yasai.com.sg.
MK Restaurant #B3-30 313@Somerset, 313 Orchard Rd., 6884-9224, www.mkrestaurant.sg.
Imperial Treasure Steamboat Restaurant #04-09/10 ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, 6636-9339, www. imperialtreasure.com.sg.
The broth
The meat
The seafood
The perks
Choice of 10 soup bases like Macanese pork bone, pork tripe with pepper soup, la-la seafood soup and traditional herbal chicken soup.
Premium stuff: Japanese wagyu Best for tenderloin, US Black carnivores Angus, Kurobuta pork belly and fresh handmade meatballs.
Polka dot garoupa, lobster and abalone as well as the run-of-the-mill cuttlefish, scallops and live prawns.
You can opt for two broths in one (divided) pot as well as a range of Hong Kong-style dim sum to stay your hunger pangs. Plus, the waiters cook the ingredients for you.
Six soup bases, including classic seaweed soup, Sichuan spicy soup and the mild soya milk soup.
A standard buffet price covers pork belly, pork collar and chicken thigh, while the premium stuff has beef chuck roll, Kurogegyu shoulder and wagyu chuck roll ($24.90 top up).
Sadly, nothing live—just lobster balls, fish balls, squid and fish cakes. What they do have is lots of veggies and mushrooms.
It’s mandatory to choose two Best value for soups,so there’s money no extra charge. The buffet set up means you can keep topping up on ingredients.
Thai-style hotpot or sukiyaki with two soup bases, original and tom yum in a single pot.
The usual: marinated and sliced pork and beef. There’s also pig liver. Be sure to get a side order of the signature MK roasted duck.
Seafood is the focus here, from sliced fish and scallops to shrimp roll on crabsticks and stuffed squid.
We love the signature jade Most addictive noodles and the sauce crack-like signature sauce. Don’t forget about their famous red ruby dessert, too.
10 choices, from the standard (classic pork bone) to the intriguing (drunken imperial chicken).
Extensive. This place doesn’t skimp on variety. Highlights are Kurobuta pork belly, pork liver and kidneys, beef prime rib and chicken.
Alive and kicking. Most There are fresh fish sublime like soon hock and seafood options garoupa, oysters, Boston lobster and our favorite live prawns, which are some of the sweetest we’ve tasted. Don’t miss the cuttlefish and prawn noodles.
The twin-broth soup pots that come with free flow top-ups. Plus you concoct your own sauces from a tray full of chilies, peanut sauce, sesame pastes, garlic and herbs.
Coming Soon Our 200-venue guide to chic and affordable dining around Singapore. Book now at sales@asia-city.com.sg NEW PLACE La Taperia The buzz: Although we only had Terry’s for a hot minute after the Philippines-based chef Juan Carlos de Terry closed shop after a mere week, the folks behind fine dining institution Les Amis reincarnates its Spanish flair with La Taperia, housed in the same space and retaining some Terry’s recipes.
and flavorful; baby squid in squid ink batter ($14) and the classic gambas al ajillo ($18), a classic Terry’s recipe of prawns in garlic and chilli on a sizzling platter. While the suckling pig confit ($45) can be on the saltier side, the peaches with caramelized onions balance the dish out (look out for soft cartilage though).
The vibe: From the brightly tiled floors, wooden tables and rattan-like chandelier lamps, the atmosphere is classy Spanish bodega. The music is lively (and kept at a non-shouty level) and there’s a lot of action no matter where you sit, from the open bar to the kitchen’s half-windows.
The drinks: There are mojitos and sangrias (both $14) but Les Amis are wine people. Expect bottles of La Granja verdejo viura ($55), tempranillo ($55) and Emilio Lustau Jerez light fino sherry ($55). The terrace is a perfect after-work drink space: sexy, intimate and rife for people watching.
The food: With a menu of Spanish classics, standouts include the suckling pig croquetas ($14) that are creamy
Why you’ll be back: It’s a rare and affordable Spanish option on Orchard.
#02-10/11 Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Rd., 6737-8336, www.lataperia.com.sg. LETITIA TANDEAN
Foodie gossip For weekly updates on new restaurants, bars and events on The Dish. Sign up at sgnow.sg/newsletters
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SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015
eats Send your food news to food@asia-city.com.sg
DRINK CNY Cocktails
NEW AND NOTED with Letitia Tandean
The Wejs
Savour
The Find
Get the Scoop
Everyone knows that Ann Siang Hill and Club Street have high turnovers. This time, we bid farewell to Scoop, a bar that catered to media folk and served some very purple drinks. Taking its place is the grungy-cool Tapow (19 Ann Siang Rd., 6423-1213, www.facebook.com/ tapowsg), a cocktail bar doing “Singlish” cocktails and surprisingly well-executed dishes like beef rendang burgers and curry tiffin sets. It’s not a groundbreaking concept, but Zac Mirza, formerly of House of Dandy, is making it work.
A Walk in the Park
It seems like Rochester is where you’ll find affordable bistro fare. The Find (#02-15 Rochester Mall, 35 Rochester Dr., 6659-8215, www.thefind.com.sg) is an
airy space serving pastas and risottos. Over in Rochester Park, you’ll find a heritage black-and-white house dishing out Tunisian food. But there’s nothing too wild at The Wejs (44 Rochester Park, 9144-8452, www.thewejs.com): lots of couscous and tomato-based sauces.
Sip and Savor
Slightly delayed by V-Day and Chinese New Year, one of our favorite food events of the year, Savour, (www.savour.sg) is taking place Mar 26-29. Returning to the F1 Pit Building, Savour dishes out some more affordable fine dining, with prices from $18. There will be more than 50 signature dishes by local and international restaurants, cooking workshops, an artisanal market and an appearance by Tokyo’s famed Tsukiji Market.
Leaving a Legacy
Sample the top five cocktails from the Bacardi Legacy cocktail competition. While the finals (Mar 11) will be held at Raffles Hotel, you can, in the meantime, sip on the contending cocktails by Ricky Paiva of Manhattan, Vijay Mudaliar of Operation Dagger, Alvin Au Yong of The Library, Russell Cardoza of Tippling Club and Peter Chua of 28 HongKong Street at their respective bars.
When one door closes… Another opens the very next day. At least in Singapore. Stay in the loop at sgnow.sg/newplaces
Pi Pa Brew
Eastern Remedy ($14) Alvin Au Yong shakes a drink inspired by family and friends (okay…) with Bacardi, creme de cacao blanc, Benedictine DOM and coconut water. The Library, 47 Keong Saik Rd., 6221-8338, www.the-study.sg Hop Pot ($22) A savory ginseng chicken broth-tail cocktail served up in a traditional Chinese cup with vodka and sake. Hopscotch, 28 Maxwell Rd., 6327-4820, www.hopscotch.sg Golden Dawn ($16) Prosper over gin, ginger wine cordial, Chinese hawthorne, red jujube shrub and an orange peel stamped with an auspicious Chinese character. Nutmeg & Clove, 17 Ann Siang Rd., 6423-9885, www.facebook.com/ nutmegandclove Pi Pa Brew ($23) This cure-all has Benedictine DOM, gin, pi pa gao, dates, goji berries, chrysanthemum and osmanthus flower. Mars Bar, 83 Duxton Rd., 9651-6714, www.mixesfrommars.sg. LETITIA TANDEAN
A celebration of Singapore The fourth edition of the , the premier luxury guide for discerning travelers, will be published in March 2015.
Showcase your brand to the world. A very limited number of premium positions are available. Email sales@asia-city.com.sg to find out more.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015 SG MAGAZINE
19
escapes
Holidays, hotels and insider travel news
ROAD TRIP
Bravo, Brava
Llafranc
©Dan Patittucci
Spain’s Northeastern coast is not just Dalí country. It’s the perfect destination for an active holiday. By Ric Stockfis
Running Costa Brava
S
tretching all the way from the French border to just 30 miles outside of Barcelona, the rugged Costa Brava enjoys a mixed reputation with Euro holidaymakers. It’s true that some resorts get overrun in the summer, but the coastline twists and turns around so many beautiful coves and tiny towns steeped in history, it’s never that hard to escape the crowds.
Dalí, Lah
Everyone’s favorite Spanish surrealist was born in Figueres, and connecting the dots of the Dalí Cultural Triangle (the Dalí Theatre-Museum, housing a huge collection of his works in Figueres itself; his former home, the Portlligat Museum-House in Cadaques; and the now-crumbling castle he gifted his wife in Púbol) is one of the big draws, lending a semblance of purpose to your wanderings around the region. Two of our favorite spots were the postcard-perfect village of Pals and nearby Begur, a beguiling medieval castle town on a hill overlooking the coast, which has become a favorite weekend spot for stylish Barcelonés and is packed with hip little boutique hotels and restaurants. Among the best: contemporary Catalan fare (and a vinyl playlist) in a neoclassical hotel/mansion at Aiguaclara (St Miquel, 2 Begur; +34 (0) 6 1925-3692; www. aiguaclara.com), where three courses go for €32 ($52); and the rustic and ridiculously romantic Sa Rascassa, tucked away in a pine-wooded cove (Cala d’Aiguafreda, 3 Begur; +34 (0) 9 72622845; www.hostalsarascassa.com). The namesake rockfish is a highlight of a simple menu, and their five basic rooms (starting from €98 ($158)) get booked up, for good reason, well in advance.
Get Your Hands Dirty
It’s by no means all chi-chi haunts, though—not for nothing does Costa Brava translate to “wild coast”. Spain is home to some epic hiking trails, aka Gran Recorrido (GR) and both the GR11 and GR92 routes pass through the Costa Brava. The former starts at Cap de Creus, the country’s easternmost point,
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SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015
before winding some 840km across the Spanish Pyrenees. It’s rugged, wild and spectacular—and the influence of the landscape on Dalí’s work isn’t hard to spot. The GR92, meanwhile, hugs the coast south, through Cadaques and onward via a succession of stunning bays and picturesque fishing villages. With proper prep, these routes are perfectly navigable solo, but if you’re looking to cover more ground without worrying about logistics, we’d recommend the very enthusiastic Pablo of Running Costa Brava (www. runningcostabrava.com), who organizes running (and hiking) tours of the region. Prices start from €84 ($136) for a single day to €1,000+ ($1,615) for a seven day, 160km adventure package. The coastal paths are by no means the only routes to explore: the rest of the Costa Brava is perfect cycling country— straight roads, little traffic, tough climbs, perfect weather. There’s no shortage of serious cycling operators here (plenty of pro riders call nearby Girona home), and if you’re after some heavy-duty training you’ll find prices to match. But we liked the more informal (and much less challenging) tours offered by Cycle Catalan (www.cyclecatalan. com), with an all-inclusive, week-long guided tour for art lovers (including key Dalí sights, as well as Picasso’s haunts in Barcelona) going for €1,500 ($2,420). Another option is to explore, at your own pace, the network of old railway lines that criss-cross the Costa Brava, now converted into gravel paths and known as the Vies Verdes. Maps and other information, in Spanish, are available at www.viesverdes.cat.
Stolli’s Divebase
Get Wet
Yet another kind of discovery is on offer in the tiny seaside village of Tamariu (on the GR92 and just 15 minutes’ drive from Begur), where Stolli’s Divebase (+34 (0) 9 7262-0035; www.stollis-divebase. de) offers scuba courses and trips to explore the nearby marine life. It’s very reasonably priced, at least compared to many Asian resorts: a boat dive costs €28 ($45), but you can purchase a weeklong pass for “unlimited” dives (free air for dives in the bay and one boat dive per day) for €196 ($317). While you’re there, the tiny Es Furio restaurant (+34 (0) 9 7262-0036; www. esfurio.com), a former fisherman’s house by the beach, is well worth a stop, and the simple Hotel Tamariu
(Passeig Mar, 2 Tamariu; +34 (0) 9 7262-0031; www.tamariu.com ) has some of the more affordable rooms in the region (from €90 ($145)). A short walk around the headland from Tamariu and you’re back in the more rarefied, boho territory of Llafranc, with restaurants like the clifftop El Far (Muntanya de Sant Sebastià; +34 (0) 9 7230-1639; www.elfar.net), oldfavorite Simpson (Passeig Cipsele, 10 Llafranc; +34 (0) 9 7230-1157) and casual waterfront spot Tragamar (Platja de Canadell, Calella de Palafrugell; +34 (0) 9 7261-4336; www.tragamar.com) competing for your attention. Truth be told, you can’t go far wrong at any of them, especially at the end of a long day exploring that incredible countryside.
Bulli For You El Bulli’s acclaimed chef Ferran Adria will reopen a new concept in the same spot in the Costa Bravan town of Roses in 2016, and the region remains one of the best places in the world for experimental cuisine. Over in nearby Girona, el Cellar de Can Roca (Calle Can Sunyer, 48 Girona; +34 (0) 9 7222-2157; www.cellercanroca.com) was voted 2013 World’s Best Restaurant by Restaurant Magazine; and has the €190 ($305) menu and year-long waitlist to match. If dishes inspired by perfume or caramelized olives hung from a bonsai tree get you excited, you’ll want to book well before you go.
Insider travel tips
Sign up to Escape Routes, our weekly travel newsletter at sgnow.sg/newsletters
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ESCAPE ROUTES with Joyce See French border
Cap de Creus Cadaqués Figueres Roses
El Far
E-15
Púbol Girona
Mekong Floating Bungalows Pals
CAMBODIA
Begur
Float Away
Tamariu
Spice Roads
Want to escape the city (and technology) and spend your afternoons staring out at the calm river as fishermen go about their day? Check yourself into Phnom Penh’s newest one-bedroom hotel, the Mekong Floating Bungalows (+855 1753-1514, www.mekongbungalows. asia). This sexy floating hotel sits on the Mekong River itself and consists only of two wooden bungalows: the bedroom and the restaurant/bar. Rest assured; you still get modern comforts like a plush double bed, hot shower and air-conditioning. Opening rates start from US$110 ($146).
FLIGHTS
BALI
The Flying Feline
Spirited Salutations
Llafranc To Barcelona
Tamariu
ESSENTIALS
Hotel del Teatre
WHERE TO STAY Castell d’Emporda (3 La Bisbal, Empordà) is a stunningly renovated 14thcentury castle in the Catalan countryside, half an hour’s drive from both the Costa Brava and Girona. The story goes that the present owners beat Dalí to it—he’d offered to pay for the place in paintings. We’d recommend paying the extra for a room in the castle itself rather than the modern extension, but regardless, it’s a great base for further exploration, with impressive views over the surrounding plain. Rates start from $250: www. mrandmrssmith.com/luxury-hotels/ castell-demporda. Closer to the coast, just a five minute drive from Begur, is Hotel del Teatre (Plaça Major, Regencós, Empordà), a set of converted farmhouses (just seven rooms and a handful of suites) in a charming—if rather quiet—medieval village. The rooms are lovely (courtesy of an acclaimed Barcelonan designer) and the contemporary Catalan restaurant, which occupies the village’s 19th century theater, is worth the trip even if you’re not staying here. Rates start from $332: www.mrandmrssmith.com/luxury-hotels/ hotel-del-teatre. We booked with Mr and Mrs Smith, which meant we also received a bottle of cava on arrival at both destinations. Check
Castell d’Emporda
out their website or call 800 321-1098 for more information. GETTING THERE There are currently no direct flights to Barcelona from Singapore, but plenty of European airlines can get you there with one stop, British Airways, Singapore Airlines and Lufthansa among them. The cheapest deal we could find on Skyscanner (www.skyscanner.com) was with Swissair: $1,010 for a return flight via Zurich. GETTING AROUND You’ll need a car. In addition to the major rental companies, it’s worth checking www.holidayautos.com for cheap deals with the Spanish operators based a short bus ride from Barcelona airport. We paid €122 ($197) for nine days’ rental of a Nissan Micra, not including petrol and insurance. It’s a two hour drive from the airport to Begur. VISA Singaporeans do not require a visa for stays in Spain of up to three months. EXCHANGE RATE $1 = €0.65. That’s close to a five year high, meaning now’s a great time to visit.
For better or for worse, looks like Hello Kitty-themed flights are set to become a permanent affair in Changi Airport starting June 2015, thanks to Eva Air (www.evaair. com). Expect to see everything from the seat cushions to the toilet paper being plastered with the mouthless cat’s face. You’ll also get to check-in at special Hello Kitty booths at Taiwan’s Taoyuan Airport that prints your boarding pass on Hello Kitty paper. Early bird tickets start at $160 for a return flight from Singapore to Taiwan (excluding taxes and surcharge).
Yoga fiends, it’s time to start planning for one of the world’s biggest yoga festivals: Bali Spirit Festival (+62 81 1392-2293, www.balispiritfestival.com). The eighth edition is set to take place in Ubud Mar 31Apr 5 (there’ll be a one day break on Apr 3). Get ready for five full days of yoga and meditation with some of the world’s top yoga instructors, seminars on healing and health and there’s also plenty of music and dancing to be done. Early bird tickets for the entire festival start from US$550 ($734). MONGOLIA
THAILAND
Rough Riders
Sweet Hearts
With Valentine’s Day creeping up on us, consider whisking a lover off to the luxurious cliff side Paresa Resort (49 Moo 6, Layi-Nakalay Rd., +66 7630-2000, www. paresaresorts.com) in Phuket for a serious spot of pampering. Their new Chocolate Lover’s Heaven package involves getting coated in warm chocolate as you take in the gorgeous views of the Andaman. There’s also a masterclass on chocolate related treats and daily sparkling wine breakfasts. Prices start at THB55,000 ($2,233) and include a three-night stay in the Aqua Pool Suite.
Adventure seekers, time to get into tip top condition for this epic nine-day tour around Mongolia’s earthy terrains with plenty of cycling, trekking and horse riding to be done. Spice Roads’ (www.spiceroads. com) new cycling tour covers some 218 kilometers and along the way, you’ll get to sample horse milk and cheese (oh joy!), chat up locals and spend nights in tented camps under a blanket of stars. This tour costs US$2,250 ($2,979) and includes bike hire, meals, accommodation and a guide.
THE INSIDER’S GUIDE TO
Kuala Lumpur
Unmissable events, shopping, dining and attractions. Plus handy maps!
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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015 SG MAGAZINE
21
FREEWILL ASTROLOGY
Week of Feb 6 © 2015 Rob Brezsny
X AQUARIUS (JAN 20-FEB 18): In 1753, Benjamin Franklin published helpful instructions on how to avoid being struck by lightning during stormy weather. Wear a lightning rod in your hat, he said, and attach it to a long, thin metal ribbon that trails behind you as you walk. In response to his article, a fashion fad erupted. Taking his advice, fancy ladies in Europe actually wore such hats. From a metaphorical perspective, it would make sense for you Aquarians to don similar headwear in the coming weeks. Bolts of inspiration will be arriving on a regular basis. To ensure you are able to integrate and use them—not just be titillated and agitated—you will have to be well-grounded.
PISCES (FEB 19-MAR 20): ”According to the Bible, Jesus said, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Author David Foster Wallace added a caveat. “The truth will set you free,” he wrote, “but not until it is finished with you.” All this is apropos for the current phase of your journey, Pisces. By my estimation, you will soon discover an important truth that you have never before been ready to grasp. Once that magic transpires, however, you will have to wait a while until the truth is fully finished with you. Only then will it set you free. But it will set you free. And I suspect that you will ultimately be grateful that it took its sweet time. ARIES (MAR 21-APR 19): In 1979, Monty Python comedian John Cleese helped direct a four-night extravaganza, The Secret Policeman’s Ball. It was a benefit to raise money for the human rights organization Amnesty International. The musicians known as Sting, Bono, and Peter Gabriel later testified that the show was a key factor in igniting their social activism. I see the potential of a comparable stimulus in your near future, Aries. Imminent developments could amp up your passion for a good cause that transcends your immediate self-interests.
All you want this CNY is Dr Denim jeans, you just don’t know it yet. Actually.sg
TAURUS (APR 20-MAY 20): In the film Kill Bill: Volume 1, Taurus actress Uma Thurman plays a martial artist who has exceptional skill at wielding a samurai sword. At one point, her swordmaker evaluates her reflexes by hurling a baseball in her direction. With a masterful swoop, she slices the ball in half before it reaches her. I suggest you seek out similar tests in the coming days, Taurus. Check up on the current status of your top skills. Are any of them rusty? Should you update them? Are they still of maximum practical use to you? Do whatever’s necessary to ensure they are as strong and sharp as ever. GEMINI (MAY 21-JUN 20): French Impressionist painter Claude Monet loved to paint the rock formations near the beach at Étretrat, a village in Normandy. During the summer of 1886, he worked serially on six separate
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canvases, moving from one to another throughout his work day to capture the light and shadow as they changed with the weather and the position of the sun. He focused intently on one painting at a time. He didn’t have a brush in each hand and one in his mouth, simultaneously applying paint to various canvases. His specific approach to multitasking would generate good results for you in the coming weeks, Gemini. (P.S. The other kind of multitasking—where you do several different things at the same time—will yield mostly mediocre results.) CANCER (JUN 21-JUL 22): In 1849, author Edgar Allen Poe died in his hometown of Baltimore. A century later, a mysterious admirer began a new tradition. Every January 19, on the anniversary of Poe’s birth, this cloaked visitor appeared at his grave in the early morning hours, and left behind three roses and a bottle of cognac. I invite you, Cancerian, to initiate a comparable ritual. Can you imagine paying periodic tribute to an important influence in your own life—someone who has given you much and touched you deeply? Don’t do it for nostalgia’s sake, but rather as a way to affirm that the gifts you’ve received from this evocative influence will continue to evolve within you. Keep them ever-fresh. LEO (JUL 23-AUG 22): “What happens to a dream deferred?” asked Langston Hughes in his poem “Harlem.” “Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun? Or fester like a sore—And then run? Does it stink like rotten meat? Or crust and sugar over—like a syrupy sweet?” As your soul’s cheerleader and coach, Leo, I hope you won’t explore the answer to Hughes’ questions. If you have a dream, don’t defer it. If you have been deferring your dream, take at least one dramatic step to stop deferring it. VIRGO (AUG 23-SEP 22): Virgo author John Creasey struggled in his early efforts at getting published. For a time he had to support himself with jobs as a salesman and clerk. Before his first book was published, he had gathered 743 rejection slips. Eventually, though, he broke through and achieved monumental success. He wrote more than 550 novels, several of which were made into movies. He won two prestigious awards and sold 80 million books. I’m not promising that your own frustrations will ultimately pave the way for a prodigious triumph like his. But in the coming months, I do expect significant progress toward a gritty accomplishment. For best results, work for your own satisfaction more than for the approval of others. LIBRA (SEP 23-OCT 22): Hall-of-Fame basketball player Hakeem Olajuwon had a signature set of fancy moves that were collectively known as the Dream Shake. It consisted of numerous spins and fakes and moves that could be combined in various ways to outfox his opponents and score points. The coming weeks would be an excellent time for you to work on your equivalent of the Dream Shake, Libra. You’re at the peak of your ability to figure out how to coordinate and synergize your several talents. SCORPIO (OCT 23-NOV. 21): In 1837, Victoria became Queen of England following the death of her uncle, King William IV. She was 18 years old. Her first royal act was to move her bed out of the room she had long shared with her meddling, overbearing mother. I propose that you use this as one of your guiding metaphors in the immediate future. Even if your parents are saints, and even if you haven’t lived with them for years, I suspect you would benefit by upgrading your independence from their influence. Are you still a bit inhibited by the nagging of their voices in your head? Does your desire to avoid hurting them thwart you from rising to a higher level of authority and authenticity? Be a good-natured rebel. SAGITTARIUS (NOV 22-DEC 21): The crookedest street in the world is a one-way, block-long span of San Francisco’s Lombard Street. It consists of eight hairpin turns down a very steep hill. The recommended top speed for a car is five miles per hour. So on the one hand, you’ve got to proceed with caution. On the other hand, the quaint, brick-paved road is lined with flower beds, and creeping along its wacky route is a whimsical amusement. I suspect you will soon encounter experiences that have metaphorical resemblances to Lombard Street, Sagittarius. In fact, I urge you to seek them out. CAPRICORN (DEC 22-JAN 19): In the baseball film The Natural, the hero Roy Hobbs has a special bat he calls Wonderboy. Carved out of a tree that was split by a lightning bolt, it seems to give Hobbs an extraordinary skill at hitting a baseball. There’s a similar theme at work in the Australian musical instrument known as the didgeridoo. It’s created from a eucalyptus tree whose inner wood has been eaten away by termites. Both Wonderboy and the didgeridoo are the results of natural forces that could be seen as adverse but that are actually useful. Is there a comparable situation in your own life, Capricorn? I’m guessing there is. If you have not yet discovered what it is, now is a good time to do so.
last word
Raymond Lim He’s a head honcho at the Les Amis group, a panel judge at San Pellegrino Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants (Mar 9) and a snappily dressed gentleman. And he thinks Singaporeans are missing out on the true pleasures of food. Here he talks to Letitia Tandean about how he got the Les Amis gig and his boring, wholesome lifestyle. I still remember the first time I tasted wine when I was 14. It was the first time I took an airplane for a school trip to Perth. When the steward was serving food, I pretended to be atas and asked for a glass of red wine. It was the worst thing I’d ever tasted and I poured it into the food tray when no one was looking and closed the foil. When I was looking for jobs, I had one resume left as I was walking down Orchard Road. I walked into Les Amis and a few days later Ignatius Chan called me and told me they were opening The Lighthouse at The Fullerton Hotel.
I’ve met a lot of journalists and bloggers who don’t know what they’re talking about. You’ve got to know the difference between a crème brulée and crème Catalan, for example. Restaurants that Loh Lik Peng does are very trendforward. He brings restaurants that he sees in New York and London to Singapore, like Library and Burnt Ends. When you’re in the industry, you’ve seen them before, but it’s very radical in Singapore. There are a lot of places that serve really bad food. Singaporeans should be more discerning. Concepts are fun, but you must pay equal attention to the food that comes out of the kitchen and not see it as an afterthought.
I didn’t grow up in a family that was serious about food. I don’t Restaurants get distracted along the way. think my mom is a good cook as Foodie is not a badge They try to be everything: having beans she grew up in rural Malaysia, so from the same roasters, selling cupcakes, that you wear the food I grew up with was quite putting Monocle on the bookshelf, the forgettable. I remember the first same industrial-chic furniture. Singaporean time I ate an apple pie in McDonald’s. I was ashamed as [restaurateurs] try to do the fanciful things without studying I didn’t know what to order so I had whatever my friend the basics. was having. I hate having to wait with nothing to read. I have CNN Eating has become a social currency. To some people, and BBC on my phone so I’ll read the news, but if I don’t their sense of self-worth and social standing is decided have other things to read I get very angry because I feel by whether or not they’ve been to the latest “it” like I’m wasting my time. restaurant and hobnobbed with the hottest chefs. Foodie I’m quite boring, but it’s a wholesome lifestyle. I spend is not a badge that you wear. Don’t let the superficial 45 minutes praying and reading the Bible in the morning. attraction rob you of the real joy of understanding food.
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Then when I get to the office, I’ll go for a five-km run and be home by 6pm to have dinner with the family before clearing e-mails. I stumbled upon the inaugural San Pellegrino list and there was not a single Asian restaurant on it. I wrote to the organizers and told them there’s something wrong with the list. The third year, one Asian restaurant made the list and it was Felix from Hong Kong’s Peninsula. I said, “Cannot. The best Asian restaurant can’t be this one.” That’s when it became more fragmented with each geographical region having its own chairman. I started reading UK’s GQ when I was about 17 and started to hone the basics of dressing. I like classic styles like Panama hats and nice umbrellas. The first time I started wearing braces; people were laughing and saying “Wah you old man ah?” But there was one time I was very bohemian. I don’t know why I dared to wear it, as it was almost tribal. For me, it’s about the relationship with God: when that’s in place, everything will come. But also what matters in life is not how you start, but how you finish. The most important thing is that we must look back and be proud of the work we have done and the relationships we have forged.
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