SG Magazine, Mar 25 by SG Magazine

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Your FREE independent guide to the next two weeks

What’s cooking?

SG MAGAZINE | ISSUE #697 | MARCH 25, 2016

Taking surreal, pastel shots of Singapore’s heartlands, film photographer Nguan’s most recent photobook How Loneliness Goes touches on alienation in a cosmopolitan city. See PHOTOGRAPHY , page 9, for an interview.

FOOD

CHARITY

TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

World Gourmet Summit

Local Women’s Causes

Return to Langkawi

Daniel Goh of Good Beer Company

page 3

A Long, Long Time 14

cityscape

Local Culinary Talents 8 film

12 wellness

Scuff 2016

Upcoming Runs

12 neighborhood

Revisiting HongKong Street

Blue Man Group

stage

11 things that will happen before Roy Ngerng pays back PM Lee Blogger Roy Ngerng’s defamation case is finally in the books with a settlement of $150,000 to be paid to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in installments. As The Straits Times reports, however, it will take Ngerng 17 years to do this. If that seems like an awfully long time, that’s because it is. In fact, here’s what will happen before he gets there. 1. Another solar eclipse. Singapore will witness an annular eclipse on Dec 26, 2019. 2. Our next-generation ERP will be operational. Satellite-based electronic road pricing—hurray?

16 charity

18 dining

Women’s Causes

New Japanese Restaurants

3. Raffles200 and LKY100. Which will get the bigger celebration, the bicentenary of Raffles’ arrival in 2019 or the centenary of founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew’s birth in 2023? 4. SG60. Forget the Golden Jubilee; it’s all about diamonds in 2025 5. Changi Airport will have five terminals. T4 will open in 2017 with T5 scheduled to follow in 2025.

20 travel

22 interview

6. A quarter of Singaporeans will be over 65. By 2030.

What’s New in Langkawi

Revamping Singapore’s Hawkers

7. Three more MRT lines will open. Finding it confusing with just NS, EW, NE, CC and DT? You’ll have to contend with TE (Thomson-East Coast), JR (Jurong Region) and CR (Cross Island) by 2030. 8. At least three Parliamentary Elections will be held in Singapore. The next one must take place by Jan 2021 with each term lasting no more than five 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 Features Editor Chelsia Tan Contributing Editor Kurt Ganapathy Design Associate Art Director Carmen Louise Ho Senior Designer Fishy Toh Designer Carmen Chua

Advertising Director, Business Development Intan Agustina advertising@asia-city.com.sg

Finance Senior Finance Associate Nai Rohmat finance@asia-city.com.sg

Senior Manager, Media & Marketing Shernan Plameras Executive, Media & Marketing Lee Wee Keong Junior Executive, Media & Marketing Sharon Leong

Finance and Admin Assistant Rusydi Ya’akup

Marketing Marketing Manager Silver Adrienna Ng marketing@asia-city.com.sg

Group Digital Director Greg Duncan gduncan@asia‑city.com.sg

Group Directors Chief Executive Officer Gretchen Worth gworth@asia‑city.co.th

On the cover Photography by Nguan

9. Singapore will reduce emissions intensity by 36 percent. As compared to 2005. 10. Four FIFA World Cups. Maybe we’ll have a team that can actually qualify by then. #Believe #Goal2030 11. Five Summer Olympic Games. They haven’t awarded hosts beyond Tokyo in 2020. KL/Singapore 2032, anyone?

Who are we?

Published every two weeks (with daily updates at sgnow.sg), SG (previously I-S) delivers honest, independent and irreverent coverage of the Singapore lifestyle scene. We’ve been recommending what to do and where to go here for 21 years—and we’ve never been more excited about the city than we are right now.

Where to find us! Bangkok Asia City Media Group 9/F, Room A, Sathorn Nakorn Tower, 100 North Sathorn Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Thailand Tel: 66-2-624 9696 Fax: 66-2-237 5656 bkmagazine@asia‑city.co.th

The Asia City Media Group

Singapore Asia City Publishing Pte. Ltd. Block 211 Henderson Rd. #07‑02 Henderson Industrial Park Singapore 159552 Tel: 65‑6323‑2512 Fax: 65‑6323‑2779 contact@asia-city.com.sg

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Awesome events, cool new places, the very best of the next two weeks

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Hot topics, local initiatives and ideas for making Singapore even better

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Fashion, fitness, tech and more SG Magazine is published 24 times a year by Asia City Publishing Pte Ltd., 211 Henderson Road, #07‑02, Singapore 159552. Tel: 65‑6323‑2512 • Fax: 65‑6323‑2779. Copyright ©2016 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) 166/12/2015

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HOT OR NOT

Hot: Telco price wars

Free eBook download from issuu.com/sg_magazine (or sign up at sgnow.sg/newsletters to never miss an issue)

Not: Inflated data plans

The price war between telcos M1, Singtel and Starhub, which came after the announcement of plans by local telco startup MyRepublic to offer an $8 a month mobile plan with 2GB of data, threw up some questions of how much more we were actually being overcharged before this happened.

SonicTK

Hot: Celebrating local chefs Not: Abusing hawkers

Hot: New electric cars

OB INDEX

Charting the ups and downs of Singapore's openness, tolerance and freedom of expression

A play by Drama Box and the Necessary Stage was given an M18 rating due to its political theme. Manifesto, which ended its run on Mar 20, is a multilingual production which explores the role of the arts and politics, with events set in the 1960s all the way to the year 2024. The heart of the story may have tapped on the touchy subject of the relationship of the artist and the state, but instead of limiting audience exposure, it could have been a great opportunity to engage the public in the ongoing discussion about freedom of expression in Singapore. Alas.

MAR

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2016

$1,028,000

High-tech vision for Jurong Lake Gardens

Selling price of a top-floor, five-room flat at Boon Keng, which is located in a Design, Build and Sell Scheme (DBSS) development.

A call for design ideas for the central and eastern parts of Jurong Lake Gardens by the National Parks Boards unveiled some interesting proposals showing how technology can go hand-in-hand with nature, such as using solar photovoltaic panels to generate energy for power electrical units in the park and data-collecting sensors to help researchers study environmental conditions and its impact on biodiversity. While innovation takes center stage in the proposals, the tender also emphasizes the importance of conserving the garden’s habitats.

$300 Fine for first-time offenders caught selling or using illegally-modified e-bikes.

40 Percentage of male employees in small and medium-sized enterprises taking paternity leave, according to the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (Asme).

Not: Existing electric cars

New Singapore-based company Vanda Electric is setting its sights on developing an electric super car which can reach speeds of 250 miles per hour. Before you get too excited, though, remember the local consumer who was said to have been taxed $15,000 for having a non-fuel-efficient car instead of being given the Carbon Emissions-based Vehicle Scheme rebate, after spending months trying to get his electric Tesla Model S car licensed here.

NUMEROLOGY

This week you will mainly love your city for its...

Lummi Photography

European Southern Observatory

It’s been a great month for Singapore chefs, with the likes of Jason Tan’s Corner House being listed as #17 on San Pellegrino’s Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list this year, and pastry chef Cheryl Koh recently named Asia’s Best Pastry Chef 2016 (more on page 14). Less celebratory was the day of a Singapore beehoon seller who had to endure an enraged customer whose queue was allegedly cut. The man threw a fit by buying 30 packets of beehoon, and hurling them onto the floor.

157,000 kg BE GOOD

Watch a movie to raise funds Oogachaga, a non-profit organization supporting the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual and Questioning (LGBTQ) community in Singapore is holding a movie fundraising event at GV Grand on Mar 30, 7pm. The fundraiser is screening a private showing of Batman vs Superman: Dawn of Justice. It’s $75 for a pair of tickets and a drink and popcorn set. Head to www.batmanvsuperman.peatix.com to purchase your tickets. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/oogachaga.

Weight of food redistributed by Food Bank Singapore— beneficiaries include the elderly and lowincome households.

86 Percentage of Singapore readers who prefer to read their books in print, according to the National Literary Reading and Writing Survey by the National Arts Council.

Sources: The Straits Times, Today

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FILM

FOOD

Catch nutty, scary, hilarious indie films

If you liked indie film mini-festival Scumscope last year, the boys from SCUM Cinema have a second edition on now. Scuff 2016 is underway, and you can still catch German horror flick Goodnight Mommy (Mar 25), a documentary about kitschy Turkish remakes called Remake, Remix, Ripoff (Mar 26) and Raiders (Mar 27), about obsessed fans remaking Raiders of the Lost Ark. Until Mar 27, The Projector, 5/F Golden Mile Tower, 6001 Beach Rd., www.scumcinema. com. $13 on Peatix.

Watch the world’s top culinary talents in action Foodies, don’t miss the World Gourmet Summit, which brings together international top chefs, local talents and industry experts for a lineup of workshops, talks and dining events. For the full list of activities and to book your seats, head to www. worldgourmetsummit.com. Mar 28-Apr 24, various venues.

Visit Southeast Asia’s biggest photography library

DRINK BOOKS

Sexy, esteemed German photobook publisher Steidl has donated a 1,600 volume library to edgy photography gallery Deck, making it the biggest photography library in Southeast Asia. Head down to the preview, Steidl Deck: 1001 Steidl Books, where all books will line the galleries for all to browse until May 22 before they get put on shelves. Drop them an email to tell them you’re coming. Apr 7, 7:30-9:30pm. DECK, 120A Prinsep St., 6734-6578, www.deck.com.sg. Free

FOOD

Party with burgers and slushy cocktails

Load up on burgers, hearty bar bites and booze at Eats, Beats, Treats Tropical Edition, Meatliquor SIN’s popular food party series. This time, there’s also a new healthy menu with prawn cocktail, chopped salad, devilled eggs and Greek lemon chicken. Mar 26, 99 Duxton Rd., www.facebook.com/MEATliquor. $90.

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2016

ART

Marvel at pretty tropical pictures If you haven’t seen it already, check out Singaporean artist Donna Ong’s latest show Five Trees Make a Forest, where she examines colonial tropes around tropical forests by looking at and responding to old travelogues, maps and other documents. If all that goes over your head, come admire the pretty lithographs. Through Aug. NUS Museum, University Cultural Centre, 50 Kent Ridge Rd. www.nus.edu.sg/ museum

Take selfies at the new permanent show at ArtScience Museum In case you’ve been living under a rock: the ArtScience Museum recently unveiled its big-deal permanent exhibition. Future World is a series of wow-worthy, interactive digital installations in collaboration with Japanese art collective teamLab, divided into Nature, Town, Park and Space. Don’t miss the highlight sculpture Crystal Universe, an artistic impression of galaxies and gravitational waves. ArtScience Museum, 6 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8888, www. marinabaysands.com/museum. $14-17.

EXHIBITION

now MARKET

FOOD

PHOTOGRAPHY The pastel pictures of Nguan

Hunt for vintage gems at a retro flea market Check out pre-loved items, old-school collectibles and vinyl records at the Vintage Flea Market by The Retro Factory. Besides shopping, highlights include Big Band performances, guest DJs spinning jazz, retro and smooth vibes and a gourmet food fair. Mar 26, Vicki’s, 315 Tanjong Katong Rd. www. facebook.com/

Eat $9 fancy Thai food

To celebrate Long Chim's first anniversary, the Thai street food restaurant will serve food and drink for $9. Gorge on stuff like grilled pork skewers, dried prawns with toasted coconut and betel leaves, and Chiang Mai larp and signature cocktails like Monsoon Bird and Thai Pisco. Diners can also order beers and New World wines too. Mar 30, 12pm-12am, Long Chim, 2/F The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7299, www.longchim.com.sg

Shop at the Tanjong Pagar Railway Station

MARKET

The Tanjong Pagar Railway Station will be hosting The Local People X Express Market, an art market by The Local People and the Singapore Land Authority. You can lounge on airmocks, browse wares by independent retailers or catch movie screenings, digital art installations and live performances by local musicians. Mar 25, www.facebook.com/TheLocalPeopleSG.

Film photographer Nguan has been uploading pastel-y, intriguing shots of the city on his Instagram account. The film and video production graduate from Northwestern University Illinois has produced several photobooks, with the most recent one being How Loneliness Goes, which was presented at last year's M1 Fringe Festival as a solo exhibition. We talk to him about his progress, the tools he uses, and what goes into a shot. What got you into photography? I moved to New York after graduating from film school. I started taking pictures of people and things I came across, as a way of making notes for screenplays that I intended to write. I never wrote those scripts; instead, I decided that the isolated fragments of time that I gleaned for my photographs were interesting in their own right, and possibly truer than stories with beginnings and endings.

FILM

Have a low-key Easter If you’re not into the crazy egg hunts and boozy brunches, Reelak at Zhongshan Park is happening on Sunday, with an indie vendor market per usual and a screening of the French film La Famillie Bellier, about a deaf family and the single hearing daughter who must choose between taking care of the family farm or a career in music. Mar 27, 4pm. Zhongshan Park, 18 Ah Hood Rd., reelakzhongshan.peatix.com. $16. For actual Easter deals, see page 18.

What do you look for in a shot? I used to think that photography was about waiting for things to unfold, but more and more I feel it’s a process of recognition—a process of recognizing something of myself in the world. My images reflect how I feel or what I want to say. What do you do to get that pastel-y quality in your images? I use a mechanical Fuji camera from the early 90’s, and shoot exclusively on medium format film. You use the square format a lot. Because there is less room in a square, you have to select the elements you include within it

more carefully. I seek a strong formal quality for my “Singapore” photographs, and there isn’t a shape more formal than a perfect square. You say you like Brutalist architecture, and you use directional lines to frame your shots. I suppose I’ve always had an appreciation for architecture. My father was an architect, and at the time I was born he was working on a building in the heart of Singapore that is now one of our major Brutalist structures. I used Singapore’s distinctive vernacular architecture as both scenery and supporting cast in my book How Loneliness Goes. The book is secretly dedicated to my dad. What do you want to show about Singapore? Many people–even locals–think of Singapore as being somewhat staid and sanitized. That’s not necessarily an unfounded impression. But I want to assert in my pictures that this is a city risen out of a jungle; wild vines burst forth from cracks in her asphalt. I see Singapore as a country whose true nature cannot be paved.

You can view more of Nguan's work at astnguan.tv and at Singapore Art Museum’s ongoing exhibition at The Learning Gallery, Once Upon This Island. SHI MIN XIE

w w w. s g n o w. s g | M PA S W e b s i t e o f t h e Ye a r

Your FREE independent guide to the next two weeks

What’s cooking?

SG MAGAZINE | ISSUE #697 | MARCH 25, 2016

Cover Up SG Magazine covers celebrate local artists, photographers and illustrators and their remarkable depictions of Singapore.

FOOD

CHARITY

TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

World Gourmet Summit

Local Women’s Causes

Return to Langkawi

Daniel Goh of Good Beer Company

They look so good, we’ve even started hanging them on our walls.

To suggest someone we should feature or to partner with us on this initiative, email editor@asia-city.com.sg

FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

now Send your events news to art@asia-city.com.sg, nightlife@asia-city.com.sg, stage@asia-city.com.sg

FILM

THEATER

Check out the legendary men in blue

Around for 25 years, they’re a bit past their heyday but we’re still excited for Blue Man Group, where three blue-faced men take turns being silent comedians, rock stars and dancers in this hard-to-categorize show. Mar 29-Apr 17, Sands Theatre, MasterCard Theatres at Marina Bay Sands, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave. $90-155 from Sistic.

Watch a heartwarming documentary at a sexy hotel

Continuing its promise to bring interesting, arty events and parties to the city, Hotel Vagabond is doing a low-key but free screening of In the Spirit of Laxmi, a documentary about a German hotel manager who is asked to care for an abandoned leopard cub in the Indian state of Rajasthan. Mar 28, 6pm. Hotel Vagabond, 39 Syed Alwi Rd. RSVP at bit.ly/1XPj2G0.

Globe-trotting dinner theater show from Brisbane, Faulty Towers is inspired by the John Cleese classic (the misspelling is on purpose), where you play the part of diners in a play starring three nutty hoteliers whose comedy of errors unfolds as you eat a three-course meal. Apr 1-10, Casuarina Suite A, Raffles Hotel, 1 Beach Rd. $179-219 from Sistic.

THEATER

PARTY

Sip caipirinhas by the pool

There were a couple Carnival-inspired parties a few weeks ago, and Singareta, we’re told, is inspired by the ensuing off-Carnival parties. A ticket gets you entry, free-flow Brazilian barbecue, special prices on caipirinhas, live samba music and pool access, of course. It’s a family-friendly event, running from 3pm-1am, so go later if you’re not into sharing the pool with kids. Apr 2, Owl Bar, 2 College Rd., poolsidebraziliancarnivalbbqparty.peatix.com. $53-60. No door sales.

OUTING

Photograph a Singapore icon before it’s demolished

Grab your camera and some hydration and sign up for the Rochor Centre Photowalk, led by The Photography Academy. They’re meeting at the Bugis MRT station at 11am, and the walk will include guidance and critique for amateur photographers. Apr 2, Bugis MRT, www.facebook.com/ thephotographyacademy. $5.

NEIGHBORHOOD What’s brewing around HongKong Street For a long time, speakeasy-style cocktail bar 28HKS was the main reason to go to the streets between Hong Lim Park and Boat Quay. Then over the last two years came a slew of new openings, such as the new location of Bacchanalia, the opening of tapas joint FOC and the arrival of South Americanthemed bar and restaurant Vasco. And starting in 2016, there seems to be another wave of new openings on HongKong Street and the surrounding area. Here are some great reasons to head down asap. THERE'S A HUSH-HUSH NEW INDUSTRY PREVIEW While it’s all a little hush-hush at the moment, we do know that The Proof Flat is a new fine spirits salon from the folks who brought you 28 HongKong Street and Proof & Company. Located at 43A HongKong Street, the beautiful space is all about tufted couches, backlit bottles of fine spirits, industry workshops and tastings, and a bit of retail.

The Hive

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2016

AND A CHIC NEW CO-WORKING SPACE Occupying three shophouses, new co-working space The Hive offers everything from single desks to private offices with a rooftop café to boot. They also organize regular networking events. 59 New Bridge Rd., www.thehive.sg.

JAPANESE WHISKY FANS HAVE A NEW OPTION With top-shelf service from a team led by sommelier Daisuke Kawai, La Terre is the perfect place for refined conversation over a few fine wines and whiskies. The bottle list for both is exhaustive, with something like two dozen options from Karuizawa distillers alone, though only some are available by the glass. The booze may be pricey but the bar bites are affordable and good. #01-01 11 Upper Circular Rd., www.laterrewine.com. AS DO LOVERS OF BRUNCH SPOT RONIN One block over on North Canal Road, the people behind brunch hotspot Ronin have opened a gorgeous new cafe, with soaring ceilings,

elaborate foliage, clean lines, Zen garden vibes, excellent coffee and easy, Instagrammable food. Punch is a two-part space with a Brew Bar serving fancy single-origin coffee along with mini doughnut holes. The courtyard eating area does weekend brunch plates like poached eggs and American-style oatmeal porridge. They're also open for lunch and dinner, serving grilled seabass with mango salsa and mussels in white wine sauce with sourdough toast. 32 North Canal Rd. KURT GANAPATHY

THE KITCHEN TABLE PRESENTS

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SCENE & HEARD

CONCERT

Alibi

SINGAPORE SAKURA The tradition of viewing sakura (cherry blossoms) in bloom was once a pursuit that called for an overseas trip with the very real possibility that you might not even see anything when you got there. But you can experience hanami, or “flower viewing”, right now if you head to Blossom Beats at Gardens by the Bay's Flower Dome. There are more than 20 different sakura on show at the display and half have already started blooming. The display is scheduled to end on Mar 27. More at www.gardensbythebay.com.sg KAMP KALLANG It looks like the next big electro dance party is happening out in a Kallang warehouse. Organized by local party heroes Moonbeats Asia, Warehouse Party on Apr 16 is taking place at Studio Point in Kallang (ok, so not a real warehouse, but pretty grungy anyway), with young Canadian DJ Ryan Hemsworth headlining with his hip hop/indie rock sample-laden set. Also on the ticket are the surreal, etherealsounding American electro act Slow Magic and Singaporean producers/DJs Et Aliae, DuriO of Attagirl fame and Team Cake. Tickets are $70. More at www.moonbeats.asia.

THANK YOU FOR THE BOOZIN’ It’s with a heavy heart that we inform you that two of our favorite bars in Singapore are (temporarily? permanently?) closed. The Great Escape, also known as the parking lot bar behind The Projector, is closed for renovations, according to their Facebook. There's no word yet on when they expect to open again, and our request for comment hasn't yet been answered. Also closed is Neil Road staple L’Aiglon. RIP. PANORAMIC PARTY The folks behind the decadent F1 Podium Lounge parties and Collyer Quay Spanish restaurant Catalunya (with its gorgeous views over the bay) have teamed up to launch an OTT club night series. Alibi happens every Friday and Saturday (and eve of public holidays) from 10pm onwards, there’s a roster of visiting DJs spinning house. This Friday (Mar 25) it’s DJs Shigeki (Japan) and Farhan C (UK) and on Mar 26, it’s an Israeli double-whammy with DJs Rocco and Orio. Basic cover is $50 with a free drink, but there are some luxurious VIP packages with three-figure minimum spends. More info at www.alibi.sg.

WELLNESS 6 upcoming runs to train up for

16 17

Take your dad for a blast from the past 1970s British reggae band UB40 are paying a visit to Singapore, with their hit parade of guilty pleasures like “Red, Red Wine” and “Falling in Love (I Can’t Help)”. Apr 2, Grand Theatre, MasterCard Theatres at Marina Bay Sands, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave. $88-258 from Sistic.

MARKET

Support our local farmers Open Farm Community’s farmer’s market series is back with more independent local vendors, fresh produce and fun outdoor activities. The last edition had yoga and pilates classes and gardening workshops, so check their Facebook page for updates. Apr 2-3, 130E Minden Rd., www.facebook. com/openfarmcommunity/events.

A five-event series, the first leg will be held at Punggol Waterway Park and Coney Island. There are 2.5km, 5km and 10km races available and the course will take you through the heartlands, Punggol's Waterfront and the rustic surrounds of Coney Island. May 1. $35-220, www. theperformanceseries.com

Music Run

From fun party runs to intense triathalons, here are some major running events happening in the next three months. MUSIC RUN Dance your way through a 5K running course lined with over 120 speakers blasting tunes ranging from rock, pop, old school, hip hop and dance across five interactive themed zones. The event ends with a music festival, which features international DJs, live bands, dancers, laser lights, LED screens and fireworks. Apr 23. $50-90, www.themusicrun.com/events/singapore 50 HOURS NON-STOP RUN This non-competitive run is great for those who prefer to run at their own pace. Participants are allowed to run a maximum of 10 laps (4.3km each) around Bedok Reservoir Park, all to be completed within a 50-hour period. It might not be a competition, but that doesn't mean you can slack off—finisher medals will be awarded to those who complete 12.9km, 25.8km and 43 km laps. Apr 30. $20, www.50hoursnonstoprun.sg THE PERFOMANCE SERIES SINGAPORE If you've always preferred the challenge of racing through nature, then sign up for this run.

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2016

SPARTAN RACE SINGAPORE Not for the faint-hearted or out-of-shape, this obstacle race pushes your endurance with challenging courses filled with mud, water and uneven terrain. But for first-timers, it's not as terrifying as it sounds. You can choose to start with a 5km, 20-obstacle "sprint" or if you're game for a more intense experience, then opt for Conquer the Super, a 13km, 30-obstacle course. May 7. $108-208, spartanrace.sg BUBBLE GLOW RUN Fans of the Illumi Run might want to give the Bubble Glow 5K a go. It's slightly tamer, but if fun is the key agenda, then frothy, glow-in-thedark UV bubbles may just be up your alley. The night run also features a music festival with food and drink stalls, all set to the tunes of local musicians at Gardens by the Bay. May 21. $4065, www.bubbleglow5k.com OSIM SUNDOWN MARATHON This annual night race, which flags off at the F1 Pit Building, will have you running through the city. There are categories like a 5km fun run, 10km, 21.1km and 42.195km for more serious competitiors. The event's not just for marathoners—there's a Race Village complete with sports zones offering activities like dodge ball, basketball and rock climbing, food and drink stalls and performances by local bands. May 28. $38-251, www.sundownmarathon.com. CHELSIA TAN

WORKSHOP

LITERARY

Learn to dance the Charleston At Tea Dance Saturdays, you can sign up for an introduction to the Charleston and the Balboa, followed by an hour of social dancing, with music by DJs Taufan and Dezy K. For your next dose of dance lessons, there are follow-up sessions every Saturday in April. Apr 2, 16, 23, 30. Dancing with Friends, 2/F, 66A South Bridge Rd., tinyurl.com/ hmp4sa3. $30-120.

Write a poem a day for a month

April is Singapore Poetry Writing Month, or SingPoWriMo, where professionals and dabblers pledge to write a poem a day for the month, based on prompts by the city's literary types. BooksActually is hosting a kick-off party with readings from the 2015 anthology, and a general mingle sesh with writers. Apr 2, 7pm, BooksActually, 19 Yong Siak St., www.facebook.com/BooksActually

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Willin Low

Francis Khoo

ure, Singapore is the most expensive city in the world yet again, according to Economist Intelligence Unit’s Worldwide Cost of Living Survey, but that hasn’t stopped the following locals from creating exciting and flourishing passion projects that are getting worldwide attention. Here are six Singaporean restaurateurs and bar-owners who were in the news this month.

Willin Low

Daniel Goh

Cheryl Koh

Who he is: A long-time darling of local foodies, the lawyer turned chef pretty much spearheaded the so-called Mod Sin way of cooking at his Emily Hill restaurant Wild Rocket, which serves dishes like baked halibut with buah keluak pesto and laksa pesto linguine with king prawns.

Who he is: When Daniel Goh got laid off from his corporate job, he bit the bullet and started not a craft beer bar, but a less-expensive, lower-risk craft beer hawker stall in 2011. His Good Beer Company became a symbol of the hipster hawker revival, sending hepcats in droves to the Chinatown Food Centre. He also owns Smith Street Taps a couple of stalls over and runs the exciting booze blog at www. spiritedsingapore.com. See our full interview on page 22.

Who she is: Pastry chef Cheryl Koh is probably best known for dishing out her toe-curling treats at Les Amis, but prior to that, she has worked with Michelin-starred chefs in France, Dubai, Italy and Macau. So delicious are her tartes and financiers, the Les Amis Group started a takeaway offshoot Tarte on the same street for Koh to showcase her talents.

Why we’re proud: A surprise entry, Wild Rocket debuted at #38 on the big-deal Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list earlier this month. It’s about time a home-grown chef playing with Singaporean flavors got some regional regard, even if he’d already been lauded in The New York Times and the Financial Times in recent years. Where to check out his goods: Wild Rocket is at Hangout Hotel, 10A Upper Wilkie Rd., 6339-9448, www.wildrocket. com.sg. You can also visit Low’s casual offshoots. There’s the burger-focused Relish (www.facebook.com/ relishbywildrocket), with branches at Cluny Court and myVillage, and casual alfresco spot Wild Oats (www. facebook.com/wildoatspunggolpark) at Punggol Park.

Gan Guo Yi Who she is: One half of the couple that runs the Jigger & Pony empire, Guo Yi—along with her husband Indra Kantono—has several excellent bars under her belt, including the rum-focused Sugarhall. Why we’re proud: The regional offshoot of the World’s 50 Best Bars list, Asia’s 50 Best Bars is going to announce its inaugural rankings on Mar 31. It’s no secret, however, that Gan’s Jigger & Pony, Sugarhall and Gibson are all on the list. Where to check out her goods: If you’ve already done Sugarhall and Jigger & Pony, check out their new-ish threein-one shophouse, which contains whisky dive bar Flagship (www.theflagship.sg), seafood cocktail bar Humpback (www.humpback.sg), which also serves Sunday brunch, and oh-so-atmospheric speakeasy Gibson (www.gibsonbar.sg).

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2016

Why we’re proud: Goh’s bar have been staples in local lifestyle magazines and tourist guides, but earlier this month, he got the much-vaunted stamp of approval in a form of an article in The New York Times on Mar 1. Where to check out his goods: The Good Beer Company (#02-58) and Smith Street Taps (#02-62) are located at Chinatown Food Centre, 335 Smith St. More info at www. facebook.com/goodbeersg.

Francis Khoo Who he is: One of the four founders of the warehouse-like Little Island Brewing Company behind Changi Village Food Centre, entrepreneur Francis Khoo’s maiden F&B venture has quickly gathered steam in less than a year—in addition to serving bottled craft brews and food like beer-battered seabass and smoked Balinese pork ribs, LIBC also brews its own ales and stouts. Why we’re proud: Little Island Brewing Company’s That Old Black Magic Irish Stout won a gold medal at the Asia Beer Medals that took place at Craft Singapore at the beginning of the month. For such a young and small-scale outfit, it’s quite an achievement. Here’s hoping LIBC fills the hole left behind by Jungle. Where to check out his goods: Little Island Brewing Company is located at #01-01 Blk 6 Changi Village, 65439100, www.libc.co.

Why we’re proud: While the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants announcement was primarily about the main restaurant list, there were a couple of awards given to individual chefs. Cheryl Koh was recognized the same night as Asia’s Best Pastry Chef 2016. Where to check out her goods: Tarte, #01-12 Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Rd., 6235-3225, www.tarte.com.sg.

Jason Tan Who he is: Cutting his teeth at places like Les Amis and the Robuchon restaurant in Macau, Jason Tan was at Sky on 57 for a few years before moving onto his current job in the kitchen of Corner House at the Botanic Gardens, where he has been wowing diners with his “gastro-botanica” dishes like his Cevennes onion with a 62-degree egg, buckwheat, hazelnut crouton and black truffle. Why we’re proud: Corner House debuted on the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list at a super impressive #17. With Willin Low, he’s the only other home-grown chef on the list. Where to check out his goods: E J H Corner House, Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Rd., 6469-1000, www. cornerhouse.com.sg.

The latest openings and hottest trends in Singapore

island

We Can! Singapore

CHARITY

Rule the World

Where to get involved in women’s causes in Singapore. By Chelsia Tan

Women on a Mission

Singapore Women’s Association

Singapore Women’s Association Kelly Fan

What is it: This former girls’ club dedicated to helping under-privileged girls is now a non-profit and nongovernment organization supporting women in different facets of life such as health, livelihood, education, culture and community, with a focus on the elderly. How to help: You can participate in outreach activities for the elderly, fund-raising efforts, empowerment workshops for women and other projects. www.singaporewomenassociation.org.

UN Women Committee Aware

Aidha

nternational Women’s Day has come and gone earlier this month, but it’s always a good time to do your bit for causes championing gender equality and women’s rights. From helping disadvantaged women to taking part in empowering campaigns, here are some ways you can pitch in.

Aware

Project X

What is it: Gender equality advocacy group Aware (Association of Women for Action and Research) are strong supporters of equal opportunities in education, marriage and employment, as well as sexual and reproductive rights. The organization has just rolled out a social initiative in collaboration with design agency Kinetic and Daughters of Tomorrow, a charity supporting women from low-income families. A Single Love aims to support single parents by introducing programs like skills training and legal advice, and to raise awareness for a more inclusive environment for single parents here.

What is it: Protecting the rights of sex workers here, Project X is an organization that aims to encourage acceptance of this marginalized community in society, and to debunk any misconceptions or stigma associated with their work. The group speaks out against violence against sex workers and also campaigns for better sexual health education and services.

How to help: You can volunteer your time at various parts of the charity, from dispensing legal advice or becoming a board committee member to researching data or creating content for collaterals. www.aware.org.sg.

Aidha What is it: This organization helps lower-income women and domestic workers by empowering them with important life skills like money management, computer literacy, leadership and business acumen. How to help: They’re currently looking for mentors to teach a money management, computer or business management class every second Sunday for four and a half to nine months. You can also volunteer your help with fund raising, outreach, event planning, communications, marketing and administration. www.aidha.org.

How to help: They are looking for volunteers to help with their IT systems, database creation and managment, events and outreach efforts. www.projectx.org.

Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations What is it: For an overview of women’s associations in Singapore, then the Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations (SCWO) is where you might want to start. They have 58 member organizations under their wing, like Mums at Work Singapore, Singapore Women’s Association and Society for WINGS (Women’s Initiative for Ageing Successfully). How to help: There are volunteer opportunities available like helping at the Star Shelter for women and children, manning the New2U Thrift Shop or teaching basic IT classes. www.scwo.org.sg.

What is it: Another non-profit organization that’s all about women’s empowerment and gender equality, this Singapore outpost of UN Women provides programs for both women and girls in areas like education, healthcare, economic independence, and also initiatives against violence against women and children. How to help: Besides volunteering your time at events and on projects, you can also learn more about women’s causes through discussions at its book club, film screenings or at talks hosted by guest speakers. www.unwomen-nc.org.sg.

We Can! Singapore What is it: This local initiative against violence against women is part of an international campaign spanning countries like India, Tanzania, Kenya, Canada and Afghanistan. It aims to raise awareness through interactive theater, workshops and collaborative projects with allies in the community. How to help: Get involved by supporting the White Ribbon Campaign, which promotes healthy relationships, gender equality and the obliteration of violence and discrimatory attitudes against women and girls. For a start, you can attend their change maker workshops, which is an introductory forum comprising discussions and shared experiences. www.wecansingapore.com.

Women on a Mission What is it: Supporting women survivors of violence and abuse, this Singapore-based non-profit group organizes expeditions, events and campaigns to raise awareness and funds for other groups here like Aware’s sexual assault care center and the UN Women Committee’s anti-human trafficking cause. How to help: You can either join one of their upcoming expeditions (the group will be on a charity desert crossing trip in Iran from November 12-25) or volunteer your time at one of their events. www.womenmission.com.

FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

eats

The inside scoop on Singapore’s drink and dining scene

Ramen Keisuke Lobster King

NEW RESTAURANTS

Nippon Wave Fall back on old favorites like ramen, shabu shabu and maki at these new Japanese restaurants this month. By Chelsia Tan Tokyo Sundubu

Sakurazaka

510 Sake Bar

Sakurazaka

dding more choices to the wide variety of Japanese restaurants in Singapore is a slew of new eateries openings this month that’s dishing out old favorites like ramen and shabu shabu—there’s even a Japanese chain specializing in Korean stew.

510 Sake Bar Hidden Door Concepts’ newest venture is this Japanese sake gastrobar, which specializes in sake and craft beer, with over 100 craft beer brands and 50-something sake labels such as White Dog (US), Lucky Jack (US), Ginrei Gassan Junmai Ginjyo and Zuiyo Honjun Junmai. The group is also behind craft beer house Nickeldime Drafthouse (where Sake 510 is located), so you can expect quality beers on tap. While the bar has been up and running since October 2015, the food menu has a sizable range of bar bites featuring a fusion of Japanese and Western touches. Items like the pulled pork maki ($10), blue cheese beer maki ($10) and Sriracha nuts maki ($15) all come with drink pairing suggestions for both sake and beer. #01-06 273 Thomson Rd., www.nickeldimedrafthouse.com.

Menya Takeichi Joining existing establishments like Enbu, Nigiro Cafe, and Nikuhoni, the fifth restaurant to open at Suntec City’s Eat At Seven is Tokyo’s chicken ramen chain, Menya Takeichi, which has 40 stores across Japan. Tuck into the Tokyo ramen chain’s signature dish, the chicken Paitan ramen ($15.50), which features a creamy chicken and collageninfused broth. And while it’s the hot favorite here, diners

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2016

can also choose to have the clear soup alternative, made from bonito flakes for an umami flavor. The eatery also serves up other hearty side plates like the grilled prawn with anchovy creamy sauce ($8), and the gyoza ($6 for five pieces). #03-313 Suntec City Mall, 3 Temasek Blvd., www.noukou-torisoba.com.

Ramen Keisuke Lobster King Another new 62-seater ramen bar has opened up a latenight dining branch at Clarke Quay. Ramen Keisuke Lobster King launches its lobster stock ramen here, with four different choices like clear soup ($13.90), rich creamy soup ($14.90), miso ($14.90) and spicy miso ($15.90). The 10th Singapore outlet, which opens from 6pm-5am, offers fans of ramen delicious bowls of broth reminiscent of lobster bisque, garnished with pork belly and chicken char siew slices, prawn dumplings and bamboo shoots. Prepare for mad queues. #01-07 The Cannery, 3C River Valley Rd., www.keisuke.sg.

Sakurazaka This new Japanese hotpot restaurant at Greenwood Avenue serves shabu shabu sets with premium meats like the F1 Joshu waggyu, Kyushu shirobuta pork and the Japanese

Aomori rice-fed beef. Priced between $95 for two for a pork set to $150 for two for a beef set, each set comprises a starter, vegetables, rice or noodles, and desserts on top of a choice of two broths. There are a total of six available—chicken, pork bone, bouillabaisse, ago dashi, beef, and soya milk—but choices vary for each set. Diners are also given three different dips (goma, shiyo ponzu and ponzu) to complete their simmering DIY meal. 24 Greenwood Ave., www.sakurazaka.com.sg.

Tokyo Sundubu Sundubu, a type of Korean stew with tofu and an assortment of ingredients like chicken, beef and clams, may not be a Japanese dish, but it has quite a following in Japan. With 35 outlets across the country, Tokyo Sundubu makes its debut here at Suntec City’s Eat At Seven, offering diners over 23 collagen-infused variations. The restaurant is known for its premium, handmade tofu and the savoryspicy broth boiled with tategi, a red pepper condiment. #03--312 Suntec City Mall , 3 Temasek Blvd., www. tokyo-sundubu-singapore.sg.

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eats

Lime at Parkroyal on Pickering

NEW MENUS

Easter Eats Where to eat and drink this long holiday weekend. By Chelsia Tan Catalunya

The Carvery

garden”, with chocolate Easter eggs and a free-flow strawberry Swiss chocolate fountain. From $118 (with free flow drinks) to $168 (with free flow Piper Heidsieck champagne, house wines, beers and drinks). Mar 27, 12:30-4:30pm. 1/F Parkroyal on Pickering, 3 Upper Pickering St., www.parkroyalhotels.com.

Movenpick Heritage Hotel Sentosa

Adrift

f you’re planning on treating yourself to a lavish spread this Easter holiday, then jump on these great dining deals. From hotel buffets to celebrity chef restaurants, here’s where to go for a solid brunch or dinner.

Adrift by David Myers Tuck into a seafood-themed brunch and special a la carte dishes like roasted leg of lamb, halibut with asparagus, wild mushrooms and Meyer lemon sauce, strawberry shortcake and coconut sorbet. From $88 per person. Mar 27, 12-3pm. Marina Bay Sands Hotel, Tower 2, 10 Bayfront Ave., www.marinabaysands.com/Adrift.

The Carvery Park Hotel Alexandra’s roast-specialty restaurant is serving up traditional European plates like Australian wagyu roast beef, leg of lamb, hot cross buns and Yorkshire pudding accompanied with signatures such as the herb roasted chicken, seafood bouillabaisse, wood-fired pizzas and mashed potatoes. From $68 (with coffee and tea) to $128 (with free flow beer, wine and Veuve Clicquot champagne). Mar 27, 11:30am-3pm. 7/F Park Hotel Alexandra, 323 Alexandra Rd., www.parkhotelgroup.com.

Capella Singapore Sample charcuterie and French fusion creations by guest chef Fabien Pairon and take part in an Easter egg hunt on the hotel’s lawn. Winners walk away with prizes such as a one-night stay in a one-bedroom Garden Villa, a Nespresso machine or a Sunday brunch for two adults and one child. From $188 (with free flow mocktails and drinks) to $258 (with free flow vintage Taittinger champagne, boutique wines and beers). Mar 27, 12:30-3pm. 1 The Knolls, Singapore, www.capellahotels.com/singapore.

Catalunya For three days only, this Spanish joint is offering an authentic lineup of six Spanish Holy Week dishes like the

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2016

spring lamb Wellington, chickpeas and cod stew, on top the restaurant’s 30 brunch items such as suckling pig, seafood paella and free-flow jamon Iberico. From $98 per person, with an additional $48 for free-flow cava, white and red wine, cocktails and sangria. Mar 25-27. The Fullerton Pavilion, 82 Collyer Quay, www.catalunya.sg.

db Bistro & Oyster Bar Just for the Easter weekend, this posh seafood bar has whipped up a three-course menu comprising choices like the traditional matzo ball soup, red wine braised beef brisket and strawberry and rhubarb tart with lavender honey and creme fraiche ice cream. From $98 per person. Mar 25-27. #B1-48 Galleria Level, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., www.dbbistro.com.

Hilton Singapore The five-star hotel is cooking up an extravagant spread of seafood, prime meat cuts, European cheeses and other premium items—dine on fresh oysters, Alaskan king crabs, Canadian lobsters, free flow pan-fried foie gras, scotch eggs with black truffle hollandaise and a charcuterie selection of whole leg iberico ham, mortadella and saucisson sec cured meat. Mar 27, 12-3pm. From $108-$128 (with unlimited sparkling wine, selected white and red wines and beer). 581 Orchard Rd., www3.hilton.com.

Lime at Parkroyal on Pickering It’s all about European classics at this fusion buffet restaurant. Some Easter-themed dishes include the lobster eggs benedict, roasted wagyu topside and duo of foie gras, Australian fish and chips, German schnitzel and blue swimmer crab pizza. One of the highlights is a “dessert

It’s chocolate galore as the hotel culinary team puts out an array of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-themed dishes ranging from interesting creations like the cocoa maple syrup glazed pork rib to desserts like Charlie’s warm chocolate toffee and honeycomb crumble, and the rocher praline chocolate tickets. But it’s not just about indulging your sweet tooth. There’s also the Sunday buffet brunch, which has fresh seafood and Easter items like sesame tuna loin tataki and Spanish Easter quail egg salad. From $99 per person. Mar 27, 12-4:30pm. 23 Beach View Sentosa, www.movenpick.com.

St. Regis Singapore Indulge in a champagne brunch at Brasserie Les Saveur, which comes with fancy canapes, salads, cold cuts and a selection of mains like pan-seared black cod, slow-roasted Angus beef tenderloin, and garlic basted tiger prawns. From $168 (with free flow coffee and tea) to $218 (with free flow wines, beer, juices and “R” de Ruinart Brut NV). Mar 27, 12-3pm, with complimentary aperitifs served from 11am-noon. 29 Tanglin Rd., www.stregissingapore.com.

The White Rabbit Book yourself a spot at the fine-dining restaurant’s Easter brunch buffet, which serves up items like slow-cooked lamb rump, seafood pot-au-feu, fresh lobsters and raw oysters. There are two seatings: the first at 10am is priced from $98 per person, while the second at 12:30pm is priced from $108 and includes a glass of Torresella Extra Dry Prosecco. Mar 27. 39C Harding Rd., www. thewhiterabbit.com.sg.

Zafferano For an Italian twist, head to this rooftop restaurant overlooking Marina Bay. Chef Marco Guccio has created traditional Italian dishes ranging from a selection of pastas, roasts and seafood starters. There are also sweets like tiramisu cakes, macarons, panna cotta and affogatos to round up your meal. From $98 (with free flow drinks) to $118 (with free flow prosecco and drinks). Mar 26, 11:30am-3pm. 43/F Ocean Financial Centre, 10 Collyer Quay, www.zafferano.sg.

eats NEW AND NOTED with Chelsia Tan

Full of Luck Club

Chilli crab croissant

Kith

white pepper minced pork patty bao. It’s slated to open mid-April and their full menu is not yet released, so check out their Instagram (www.instagram.com/fullofluckclub) for updates. FRENCH FUSION Hot on the heels of its popular salted egg yolk croissant, Frenchinspired patisserie Antoinette has rolled out its new chili crab croissant. Drawing inspiration from local hawker favorites, the chili crab croissant ($7.50) is another of Chef Pang’s creations and it has a special savory-spicy tomato sauce crab filling made in house. While the croissant is a meal in itself, the scallion arlette ($3.50) is more of a tea-time snack. It’s a French rendition of the traditional Chong You Bing (or scallion pancake), a popular Chinese street food. 30 Penhas Rd., www.antoinette.com.sg.

I SEE i SEE

HOT BUNS Cafe/restaurant renditions of the popular Chinese pulled pork bao have been seen at places like 40 Hands and Neon Pigeon, but lately, more restaurants cooking up these banging buns have emerged on our radar. One such example is Full of Luck Club (243 Holland Ave., www.fullofluck.club) is a new casual Cantonese-fusion restaurant dishing out five variations of Asianinspired burgers such as the salted egg yolk prawn bao, braised pork bao, smoked duck bao, kung pao fried chicken bao and the

STAR POWER Marina Bay Sand’s series of gourmet masterclasses at celebrity chef restaurants is still on. You can sign up for workshops hosted by the restaurants’ executive chefs and leading bartenders, such as learning how to prepare a delicious seafood plateau or making trendy, botanical cocktails. Chef David Myers will also be making an appearence in an interactive session on how to cook Japanese tapas-style plates. Through Apr 9. $89-276. www. marinabaysands.com/restaurants/craft-taste.

DESSERT STORM Making waves in Hong Kong during its launch in May last year, popular artisanal ice pop brand I SEE i SEE has launched its first outlet in Singapore. Owner Candice Yung offers a rotating list of new flavors each week, and depending on the availability of the ingredients, you may find choices like Earl Grey Pistachio ($6.90), Cheesy Raspberry ($6.90), Refreshing Kiwi ($5.90) and Strawberry Hokkaido Milk ($6.90), among an array of 12 flavors. There are also interesting renditions like Stinky Durian ($7.90) and Chilli Mango ($6.90) for more adventurous tastebuds. Prices range from $5.90-7.90. #B3-46 313@Somerset, 313 Orchard Rd., www. facebook.com/ISEEiSEEsg. THE BRADY BRUNCH Local breakfast chain Kith Cafe has set up another outlet at Millenia Walk, bringing its popular brunch plates to the heart of town. Like its other branches in Park Mall and Sentosa, this new casual-dining restaurant serves a wide variety of breakfast items, pastas and mains such as the smoked salmon sous-vide eggs, steak and fries and wagyu beef burger. Brunch is from 8am-5pm daily, lunch starts from 11am-5pm and dinner from 5-10pm, but available throughout the day are a selection of red, white and sparkling wines, craft beers and coffee. #01-44/45 Millenia Walk, 9 Raffles Blvd., www.kith.com.sg.

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escapes

Holidays, hotels and insider travel news

MALAYSIA

Islands in the Sun 4 great new reasons to head back to Langkawi. By Ric Stockfis

Tuba Trail Run

Naga Pelangi

The Datai

Skydive Langkawi

St. Regis Langkawi

alaysia’s paradise islands are barely an hour’s flight away but somehow always slip under the radar—losing out to Phuket and Bali in the weekend getaway stakes. But that just means quieter beaches and fewer crowds for the rest of us. We wrote about some of the key attractions there a few months back (read the story at is.gd/langkawi2015) but now there are even more reasons to make the trip.

A chance to sail on the last boat of its kind

For only the second year, luxury retreat The Datai (www.thedatai.com) has teamed up with the crew of the Naga Pelangi (Rainbow Dragon), the last remaining Malaysian wooden junk schooner, for excursions in the bay in front of the resort and beyond. Hand-built in the shipyards of Terengganu on Malaysia’s East Coast it’s a truly beautiful vessel, made of traditional chengal wood and evoking the glory years of South China Sea sailing, and the views — across to Thailand in one direction and back over Langkawi’s Machinchang mountains in the other—are stunning (not for nothing did National Geographic list Datai Bay among its top 10 beaches in the world). Sunset cruises (including freeflow Champagne) are RM450 ($152) per person, while a private day charter goes for RM7,000 ($2,360) for up to 10 hours. Also new at The Datai: Forest Therapy (Mandi Embun in Malay), which involves a soothing walk through the 10 million year-old rainforest that surrounds the resort, and —since March—three new spa treatments at the secluded Datai Spa, including the Tungku Batu (heart of stone) massage and a synchronized treatment with two therapists working in tandem. The resort is also offering a special ASEAN retreat package (valid for stays from Apr 1 - Jul 5 and Sep 1 - Dec 23 2016), in which ASEAN residents get special rates starting from $330++/night for a Canopy Deluxe Room, inclusive of breakfast, guided nature walks, complimentary nonmotorised water sports, 15 percent off spa treatment and 10 percent off F&B.

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2016

A very different kind of diving

Langkawi boasts some fantastic scuba diving, but Skydive Langkawi (www.skydivelangkawi.com), which opened for business in mid-December, offers a more adrenaline-fuelled day out. Packages, which start from RM1495 ($505), include a 20-minute scenic flight with views of the 99 islands that make up the Langkawi archipelago and a tandem skydive from 10,000 feet (with 32 seconds of freefall) with an experienced instructor (the operation is keen to stress that they comply with Australian Parachuting Safety Standards), finishing with a landing on Tanjong Rhu, one of the island’s most beautiful beaches.

A new way to explore some of the smaller islands

Langkawi is already well established as a destination for adventurous fitness fanatics, with the grueling Tour de Langkawi cycle race having just concluded for this year and the Ironman Langkawi (http://is.gd/ironmanlangkawi) coming up in November, but a new trail race opens up a previously under-explored area. Pulau Tuba is the archipelago’s second-largest island after Langkawi itself and, despite being only a 15-minute speedboat ride away, remains remarkably undeveloped. Together with neighboring Pulau Dayang Bunting it’s home to just 2,000 people, and only certain motorized vehicles are permitted, which makes for a fascinating glimpse of island life before tourism takes hold. To celebrate the opening of a new 30km trail across the two islands, Apr 2 sees the first ever Tuba Trail Run (www.spacebib.com/members/events/view/57), a challenging course taking in pristine mangrove forests and imposing limestone cliffs, as well as beaches and ancient

rainforests, with some RM21,000 ($7,000) on offer for the winners across six categories. There’s also a 4.6km fun run if you’re not in the mood for the main event.

Exciting new accommodation options

Other than The Datai and the Four Seasons, Langkawi isn’t exactly overflowing with high-end accommodation options. That looks set to change next month, with the opening (on April 6) of St. Regis Langkawi (www.stregis.com/langkawi), the brand’s first Malaysian property, offering 85 suites and four water villas, five F&B venues and what’s billed as the island’s “largest swimmable lagoon”. Their opening offer is USD$580 ($800) nett per night for a St. Regis Suite. Also on the horizon (though pushed to next year) is the 132-room Ritz Carlton, Langkawi (www.ritzcarlton.com). The new resort, which includes 42 villas, overlooks a quiet cove on the island’s south-western corner, and will feature the island’s first hammam (Turkish-style steam bath), with a view to further establishing Langkawi as a premium spa destination. It’ll be positioned as a family-friendly destination, complete with a dedicated children’s swimming pool and Kids Club, so you can expect a slightly different crowd to the one you’ll find at the more established resorts.

ESSENTIALS GETTING THERE Tigerair (www.tigerair.com) and AirAsia (www.airasia.com) have return flights from Singapore starting from $80-100. Malaysia Airlines and Silkair have more timing options, but require a short stopover in KL.

escapes Send your travel news and promotions to travel@asia-city.com.sg

ESCAPE ROUTES

ZoukOut

UberMOTO

PHILIPPINES

Boracay Bound

For 15 years ZoukOut has reigned supreme as Singapore’s biggest dance music festival. Now Zouk’s new owners Genting Hong Kong have set their sights on conquering the rest of Asia. ZoukOut heads to the paradise island Boracay in the Philippines from Apr 30-May 1. Dubbed ZoukOut Prelude Edition, the Boracay event is scheduled to be part of a three-venue series with Hong Kong next in line later this year. The original ZoukOut will be held at Siloso Beach in December as usual. Headliners in Boracay include Kaskade and DVBBS alongside a supporting cast of local and Zouk resident DJs. Presale tickets are available from PHP 2,000 ($59) through SM Tickets while VIP packages start at $2,000 (for reservations, call 6738-2988 or email ZoukOutBorocay@ zoukclub.com). Tigerair flies to Kalibo, the gateway to Boracay, three times a week. Return flights start at $257 (excluding baggage).

Peranakan Nitat

THAILAND

Hello MOTO

Thanks to UberMOTO, you’ll be able to breeze through traffic on your next trip to Bangkok. The new motorbike service, launched last month, offers a cheap and efficient transport option with flag rates starting at THB 10 ($0.40) plus THB 0.85 ($0.03) per minute and THB 3.5 ($0.14) per kilometre. Cancellation is THB 10 ($0.40).

Peranakan Pride

Everyone loves Phuket for the beaches, resorts and parties, but those with a bit of a heritage fetish will be glad to know that there’s a beautiful new museum to check out on your next trip. In mid-March, Phuket Town welcomed another museum dedicated to Baba-Nyonya heritage. Peranakan Nitat Museum occupies a stately building dating back to 1907. Once the home of Standard Chartered bank, the building now celebrates the unique Straits Chinese culture that permeates the Strait of Malacca, including Penang, Singapore and parts of Indonesia. Check out their Facebook

page (www.fb.com/peranakannitat) to confirm their opening hours. Entrance fee is THB190 ($7.40). Tours are organized eight times per day. AROUND ASIA

Sakura in Bloom

With sakura trees blooming at Gardens by the Bay, Singapore has come down with a case of cherry blossom fever. That got us thinking about other places around Asia where we’d be able to witness the spectacle aside from taking the well-beaten path to Japan. If you’ve got the chance to travel in early April and want to tick an item off your bucket list, head to Seoul for the Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival (Apr 4-10), to Taiwan for the Alishan Cherry Blossom Festival (until Apr 10) and Shanghai for the Shanghai Cherry Blossom Festival (until Apr 15). Alternatively, you can wait for the Auburn Cherry Blossom Festival in Sydney, Australia (late Aug).

Make every meal count

s g n o w . s g

SINGAP

ORE

RESTAURAN

GUIDE

2016

www.toptables.sg w w w.

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FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

last word

Daniel Goh He’s an entrepreneur, a blogger and the voice of a new generation of hawkers. Daniel Goh, the man behind Chinatown Food Centre’s Good Beer Company and Smith Street Taps, was recently featured in The New York Times. (For more local F&B all-stars, turn to page 14). Here he talks to Kurt Ganapathy about good beer, bad beer and the way forward in preserving Singapore’s hawker heritage.

Like most of my peers, I used to drink Erdinger, Hoegaarden and Stella Artois. They were all right, you know, for what they were. They’re still all right at the right place and the right time.

Beer shouldn’t be ice cold; you don’t taste anything that way. There is a specific serving temperature for each beer style; some can go up to as high as 16°C, like wine.

The big, bold flavors of the Belgian strong dark ale Pauwel Kwak opened my palate to what a beer could be. It also came in a very interesting drinking vessel, which showed me that a good story behind the beer also helps. Retrenchment inspired me to make the leap from drinker to proprietor.

I understand that our climate is hot, but if you’re going to put ice in your beer just so you can “cool down” you’re better off drinking iced water. It’s better for your wallet and craft beer people won’t snigger at you.

I don’t really think that craft beer is as trendy here as it is in the United States— just compare us to the local bespoke cocktail scene and you’ll know what I mean. But there’s a growing community of craft beer aficionados who really enjoy the myriad of flavors offered by craft beer. We’re hardly mainstream yet.

Beer towers are a big no-no for me. You don’t see that in the craft beer scene in other parts of the world. Do most people even realize that far too many bars don’t wash the dispensing taps of the beer towers properly? Whatever you pour from those atrocities is generally skunky.

For sure in the coming days more bars and restaurants will stock craft beers; right now the saturation point is happening at the supplier and distributor level. There is still a lot more supply than there is demand. It’s hard to blame them though, because they want to drink good beer themselves!

There is a decreasing demand for hawker food, little or no continuity of our favorite hawker brands and a diminishing number of hawkers and hawker stalls.

Commercial beer marketing has taught us all the wrong ways to drink beer.

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2016

by Kathy Macleod

F&B entrepreneurs are really at the bottom of the entrepreneurship pile here—we’re no sexy technopreneur types, if you know what I mean. It’s both a good and bad thing.

“Preserving our hawker culture and providing cheap food for the masses may be diametrically opposing objectives.”

The authorities need to totally revamp the hawker scene. The first place to start? To understand and realize that preserving our hawker culture and providing cheap food for the masses may be diametrically opposing objectives. It’s hard to preserve heritage when it’s not commercially viable.

A bar is on its way. That’s my next goal—to make it successful. I like being a “hawker”, mind you, but to own and run a bar with airconditioning is nice too. I love what I do. When it’s fun you don’t quite see it as a chore.

Being called a pioneer makes me feel old. And the truth is that I’m standing on the shoulders of giants; we’re just that much more visible because we’re customer-facing all the time. If I entered the market today, I would control my supply chain upstream and import my own beers instead. There are plenty of great distributors, but there are also a number of unprincipled ones who are more than willing to sell you bad beer for a quick buck. My proudest moment so far is telling my mother and mother-in-law that I’m a hawker and not having them flinch.

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