SG Magazine, Apr 8 by SG Magazine

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

SG MAGAZINE | ISSUE #698 | APRIL 8, 2016

what’s on what’s new what matters

Instagrammer Leslie Heng (@blackmobil) photographs striking patterns in Singapore’s HDB flats and architectural landscape. See PHOTOGRAPHY , page 7, for an interview.

WELLNESS

DINING

TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

Alternative Sports

What’s New at Jalan Besar

Partying in Paris

Aaron Ho of MRT Reads

page 3

Donald Trump...in Bukit Batok 16

cityscape

Singapore in 24 Hours 6 culture

8 music

Voilah! French Festival

Tame Impala

7 photography

11 sports

Singapore’s Architectural Landscape

Your Guide to Rugby Sevens 19 dining

Alternative Sports

New Openings at Jalan Besar 23 interview

Paris je t’aime

Aaron Ho of MRT Reads

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

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

I believe in free trade but we have to do it in Bukit Batok. Why are our companies making their products in Chua Chu Kang, Jurong and Hong Kah North? Forget about global warming, it was created by the people in Little Guilin to make us non-competitive. And Yuhua. When we meet Yuhua residents at the border, they’re laughing at us! They do not like us; they are not our friends. When Yuhua sends us people, they’re not sending us the best people. We have to build a wall. A great wall. The greatest wall you’ve ever seen. Nobody builds walls better than me. Yuhua residents who are sick of JCube, Jem and Westgate can come to West Mall, but they have to come in legally. Why is it that they have three Starbucks and we have none? Maybe we should boycott Starbucks.

Who's in charge? Publisher & General Manager Ric Stockfis countrymanager@asia-city.com.sg

“Many people have asked me why I’ve come to Bukit Batok. Let me tell you. I love Bukit Batok. And I know my Bukits. I know Timah and Gombak, Merah and Panjang, Chandu and Purmei— even Bintang, Nanas and Kayu Hitam. And you better believe I know my Batoks. Sometimes all I can think about is Batoks. All day, every day – Batoks, Batoks, Batoks. The Bukit Batok dream is dead. But if you elect me, I will bring it back more zai, more steady; more kilat than you could ever have imagined.

18 wellness

21 travel

With the stage set for a by-election in Bukit Batok, we couldn’t help but wonder what would happen if there was a candidate like Donald Trump in the mix. So picture this: An empty chair stands before a media scrum, and in the flicker of camera flashes, a glorious orange figure emerges.

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

Junior Finance & Admin Executive 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 Leslie Heng

I think I am a nice person. I’m really rich. I’m really smart. And I’m a winner. You look at your alternatives. You have losers. We’re going to start winning so much that you’re going to be sick and tired of winning. You’ll have to throw money on System 12 Toto bets because you’re going to be so bored of winning. But we’re going to keep winning anyway. I am officially running to be the Member of Parliament for Bukit Batok Single Member Constituency. You need a leader who knows the art of the deal. And together, we will make Bukit Batok swee again!”

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.

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

High-end, hawker and everything inbetween: news on the drink and dining scene

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

Because Singapore is only so big: the best deals and destinations around Asia

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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FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

up front

Singapore’s latest news, numbers and dramas at a glance

Our biweekly study of the city’s burgeoning (and dying) trends

WE Karen Neoh

HOT OR NOT

Hot: Bottle shops

Not: Binge drinking

Kevin Dooley

NUMEROLOGY

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

Plans to build a new outward bound campus on Coney Island Costing about $250 million, the new Outward Bound Singapore will be built by 2020, the second branch here besides the nine-hectare campus on Pulau Ubin. The purpose of the new site is to expand outdoor adventure education and to encourage Singapore’s youth to cultivate “a sense of adventure, resilience and a readiness to challenge themselves to be their best,” according to a speech by Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat on Mar 24.

Ramon Peco

There have been a couple of bottle shops doubling up as cafes, bars or workshop spaces opening recently, like Gemmills at Gemmill Lane, Proof Flat at HongKong Street and Finders Keepers, a bar and retail space at Craig Road (see page 20). Buying booze to go might be all the rage now, but a recent study by Heineken Singapore shows that 70% of millennials “moderate their drinking to avoid portraying a poor image of themselves.”

9,000 Estimated number of copies printed for Sonny Liew’s controversial The Art Of Charlie Chan Hock Chye, whose graphic novel is on its fifth print run.

$16.2 million Funding and grants given by the National Arts Council to arts groups in Singapore this year.

Hot: Panda mating season Not: Being single

Mauricio Gouvea

Amorous action between Singapore’s famous panda couple Kai Kai and Jia Jia takes center stage at the River Safari. In the hope that we’ll have our very first panda offspring, the bears will be brought together for the giant panda mating season. Alas, it seems like Singaporean humans are seldom in the mood for love—a Mar 11 report by The Straits Times revealed that 70% of locals between 25-29 are single.

Hot: Hello Kitty Cafe

Not: Flaky pet ownership

The world’s beloved mouthless feline is opening its first themed cafe at Changi Airport’s Terminal 3 come May, and the 24-hour space will feature orchidinspired interiors with all-day breakfasts and desserts (for more, see page 20). While fans are all excited about its impending launch, our non-cartoon furkids need some loving, too. 18 pedigree dogs belonging to the owner of a pet grooming school were found abandoned at different locations after being informed by authorities he could not keep 30 dogs in his shop due to complaints about noise from neighboring establishments

OB INDEX

Sign up for this charity bike ride The Aidha Tour de Singapore is back on Apr 24 and this time, the cycling event is aiming to raise over $150k in funds that will benefit 780 students and family under the care of charity organization Aidha. Registration costs $45 per person at www. tourdesingapore.aidha.org. For more information on the race route, email tourdesingapore@aidha.org or call 6341-5287.

97 Number of charities deregistered in Singapore between 2010 to 2014 due to lack of staff, volunteers or donations.

9 hours Amount of time drivers in Singapore spend commuting on the roads on a weekly basis, according to a survey by research agency 2CV and motor insurance company DirectAsia.

Source: The Straits Times

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

One year after the death of Lee Kuan Yew, his daughter, Dr Lee Wei Ling, was moved to comment after a portrait of Mr Lee, constructed by 110 Singaporeans using 4,877 erasers with the Singapore flag was featured on the front page of The Straits Times. Commenting on Facebook that “it was a well-meaning effort but it made me wince,” Dr Lee added that "any veneration could have the opposite effect and lead future generations of Singaporeans to think that my father's actions were motivated by his desire for fame, or creation of a dynasty." With reports of school children made to bow before a remembrance site of Mr Lee being circulated on social media channels, we can’t help but agree with her.

MAR

BE GOOD

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

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The essential guide to what's on in Singapore Send your events news to art@asia-city.com.sg, nightlife@asia-city.com.sg, stage@asia-city.com.sg

SPORT

FOOD

Check out Timbre’s new food truck dining concept It had been rumored for a while, and now it’s finally here: the new Timbre + is an industrial-themed food court with graffiti-ed shipping containers housing hawker stalls like Wong Kee Noodles & Roasted Delights and fancier stuff like Spanish eatery Portico Platos and gourmet pizza parlor The World Is Flat by Tanuki Raw. JTC LaunchPad @ one-north, 73A Ayer Rajah Crescent, www. timbreplus.sg.

Drink beer and dance all weekend

Singapore is hosting a leg of the HSBC Sevens World Series, with 16 teams, including the indomitable New Zealand All Blacks. There’s also a concert by DJ Pete Tong and a music festival (not to mention food and drink promos) at Clarke Quay. See our pull-out guide on page 11 for more. Apr 1517, Singapore Sports Hub, www.singapore7s.sg. $2-150 from Sports Hub Tix.

Dive into the creme de la creme of French culture

FESTIVAL DRINK

Attention, s’il vous plait. Voilah! French Festival is back with something for foodies and culture vultures alike. There’s the Voilah! Food Festival (Apr 15-May 31) and Superstars of Ballet (Apr 29-May 1), a collaborative performance of productions like Giselle and Don Quixote by 12 principals from famous ballet companies, among other highlights. Apr 15-May 3, various locations, www.voilah.sg.

LITERARY DRINK

Visit the Singapore Art Book Fair

Acolytes of the printed page, don’t miss this four-day fair with exhibitors from both near and far. Along with local heroes Math Paper Press and Basheer Graphic Books, we’re excited about a visit from art book giants Phaidon and Bloomsbury Books. It all kicks off with a special edition of ArtScience Late on Apr 14, with a performance by .gif and readings by local poets. Apr 14-17, ArtScience Museum, 10 Bayfront Ave., www.facebook.com/ singaporeartbookfair.

FILM

Relive a Singaporean cinema classic

It’s been over 20 years since the release of Eric Khoo’s Mee Pok Man (yes, you are old), and the Asian Film Archive is hosting a series of screenings each followed by a discussion. The first on Apr 8 is sold out, but try and score tickets to ones later in the month. Apr 17 & 23, The Projector, 5/F Golden Mile Tower, 5001 Beach Rd., www.theprojector.sg. $13 for screening, entry to panel discussions by donation.

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

NIGHTLIFE

Party in a Kallang warehouse Organized by local party people Moonbeats Asia, Warehouse Party is bringing in young Canadian DJ Ryan Hemsworth headlining with his electro-heavy, hip hop/indie rock sample-laden set, along with ethereal-sounding American act Slow Magic and Singaporean producers/DJs Et Aliae (pictured), DuriO of Attagirl fame and Team Cake. Apr 16, Studio Point, 158 Kallang Way, www.moonbeats.asia. $70.

Lounge by the pool like a movie star

Coinciding with the Singapore Yacht Show on Singapore, Pool Intentions is a glam pool party by the folks behind Alibi (Catalunya’s fancy new club night) and W Singapore, with eight DJs spinning over two days. It’s free to get in, but you can make a VIP booking with minimum spends ranging from $600-2,000. Apr 9-10, W Singapore Sentosa Cove, 21 Ocean Way, www.alibi.sg.

PARTY

now PARTY

WELLNESS

Work out for a good cause

PHOTOGRAPHY Leslie Heng

7Cycle is doing a spinning session for charity. Sign up for a 45-min session, and pedal away with like-minded folks. All proceeds will go to Children for Youth, Nepal. Register in advance, and show up 15 minutes early as the ride will start at 2:30pm sharp. Apr 17, 7Cycle, 17 Anamalai Ave., www.facebook. com/7cycle. $45.

Stay out on a school night

Potato Head Folk relaunched its rooftop a couple months ago with a tiki-themed disco party. Due to popular demand, they’re making it a monthly thing. Deal with hump day blues with the next edition of TK Disco, with DJ sets and a special cocktail going for $20 and a bucket of five beers for $50. Apr 13, 7pm, Potato Head Folk, 36 Keong Saik Rd., www.facebook. com/potatoheadfolk.

Leslie Heng

FOOD

You may know or already follow amateur photographer Leslie Heng on Instagram, where he is known as @blackmobil. Heng's day job involves working for a trading and distribution company, but he finds some time to go exploring to take these images that show the patterns in the city's HDB flats. Here, we talk to him about how he got interested in photography, where he goes to shoot and the most daring thing he's ever done when exploring the island. How did you become interested in photography? It was Instagram that sparked my interest in photography. Initially, I used Instagram as a tool to document the places I have visited and the things I have done. One thing led to another; I now find myself traveling to places to take photos during my free time. I enjoy looking for buildings with interesting architecture and strong architectural elements like light, shadow, shapes, colors [and using] lines as a backdrop to create my pictures.

Indulge in a meal by a visiting Michelin-starred chef

Curate, Resort World Sentosa’s newest restaurant, features pop-up menus by Michelin-starred chefs from around the world. Its debut showcase has three Michelin-starred chef Massimiliano Alajmo of Italian restaurant La Calandre making an appearence, and he is known for dishes that focus on seasonal ingredients and molecular techniques. Prices range from $220280 for a four-course lunch to $380-480 for an eight-course dinner and the restaurant accepts only advanced bookings. The Forum-Level 1 Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, www.a-matter-of-taste.com/art-curate-2016.

LITERARY

Hear poems by profs

The creative writing faculty at Nanyang Technological University will be doing a special reading at Artistry. Catch professors Barrie Sherwood, Boey Kim Cheng, Divya Victor (pictured) and Tash Aw read original work. Apr 7, 8pm. Artistry, 17 Jln. Pinang, www.facebook.com/ artistryspace.

DRINK

Be a part of the cool club Free-flow fans might want to sign up to The Drinking Society, a new concept launched by Robbie Hoyes-Cock of The Podium Lounge, Matt Greatorex of Great New Places and Steve Yallop of The Monarchy. Sign up as a member for $80 per month, then RSVP for events that tickle your fancy. Each event is a two-hour free flow of one designated drink at a popular watering hole, and they promise at least 20 such events each month. More info at www. thedrinksociety.com.

What kind of cameras do you use? Until very recently, all my pictures were only taken with my mobile. I now toggle between my mobile phone and a digital compact camera which I bought a few years back. This camera has a funny story to it—I bought it on impulse and regretted the purchase the very next day. So I asked a friend to put it online for sale but we didn't manage to sell it, and it was left in the store room for some time. Instead of letting it go to waste, I’ve decided to learn how to use the camera properly and so it's what I am using now! What fascinates you about Singapore’s architectural landscape? I think it has got to be the colors and shapes, the mix of old and new, and the fact that there are always new buildings springing up. Ironically, I used to think that our HDB flats looked dull and ugly, but it has become one of my favorite places to shoot these days.

Where are your favorite places to shoot? Singapore has so many amazing places to shoot. HDB locations are my favorite. I love Tiong Bahru, Dawson and Bukit Panjang. Actually, the list can go on. [All estates] have their own characteristics. The geometry and bold use of color in HDB architecture really fascinates me. The bright colors have a really positive impact on me and I believe they have a similar effect on the people who see my photos. That aside, I often find myself revisiting my shooting locations more than once to get what I want, or to see what more I can get. I sometimes take my friend with me to be my "model" or I may visit the same places at different times of the day to see how the light changes the image. What is the most challenging thing you had to do when shooting? I shouldn't be saying this, but I once sneaked into a building and climbed up 24 stories on foot to get the perfect angle. It's always challenging trying to find new perspectives to shoot. Are most of your photos in the square format or do you adapt them to Instagram? No, they are never shot in the square format. I would mentally have an idea of what I wanted, but the actual cropping would always be done later. I've been posting pictures in portrait format recently, maybe because our phones are all built that way. To me, the square format is one of the most challenging ways to frame a picture.

Follow Leslie Heng on Instagram. His handle is @blackmobil. 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

SG MAGAZINE | ISSUE #698 | APRIL 8, 2016

what’s on what’s new what matters

Instagrammer Leslie Heng (@blackmobil) photographs striking patterns in Singapore’s HDB flats and architectural landscape. See PHOTOGRAPHY , page 7, for an interview.

WELLNESS

DINING

TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

Alternative Sports

What’s New at Jalan Besar

Partying in Paris

Aaron Ho of MRT Reads

Cover Up SG Magazine covers celebrate local artists, photographers and illustrators and their remarkable depictions of Singapore. 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, APRIL 8 2016 SG MAGAZINE

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

DRAG

Visit Becca at her new home

Singapore’s one and only drag revue is sadly no longer at the cavernous and trashy-fun TAB. But fear not, Riot! is moving to new digs at Clarke Quay. The first show at their new home will feature Becca D’Bus herself, along with Mona Kee Kee and Noristar and new additions Gina Gemini and drag king Papa Cherry. Apr 9, Shanghai Dolly, 3B River Valley Rd., www. riotdragshow.com. $35-50 (inclusive of one drink).

BEAUTY

Get a makeover at a secret underground hair salon

Hairstylist Ryu Oba, formerly at Japanese salon Kizuki+LIM, strikes it out on his own with B+LIM. Tucked away in a basement behind Naumi Hotel, the subterranean outlet specializes in precise Japanese cutting techniques, with cuts for men at $80 and women at $100. Hair coloring services start at $100 and a perm from $150. #B1-01 39 Seah St.,www.lessismore.co.jp.

MARKET

Pick up some sourdough at Dempsey Hill

Shop for fresh fruit, veggies, pastries and other locallymade products by independent vendors at The Farmers Market at Loewen Gardens. Who knows, you just might be able to snag some delicious home made sourdough and freshly-baked goods by Woodlands Sourdough. Apr 16, 9am-2pm, 75E Loewen Rd., bit.ly/1RxSV1U.

PARTY

Do some outdoor drinking with France’s electro heavy-hitters

Dance like you’re in Havana A collective of musicians from Singapore, the US, Cuba and elsewhere bring a casual, energetic night of Cuban and Latin American music to town. The first of a series of Cuban Nights will feature Karen Lacey. Apr 15, BluJaz, 11 Bali Lane, bit.ly/1RJIgAn. $15

Skip the Sunday blues and head over to Emily Hill for a night of outdoor dancing and beers with big-deal electro musicians from France: Saycet, who has worked with the likes of Mogwai and Steve Reich, and Anoraak, known for his synthwave treatment of the 80s. Apr 10, Kult Kafe, 11 Upper Wilkie Rd. $30 (with one drink) from Peatix.

CONCERT

Watch the Tame Impala show

Kevin Parker and his posse of Aussie indie rockers are coming to town, so head down and dance to tracks from their latest album, Currents, and previous hits like "Let It Happen," "Feels Like We Only Go Backwards" and "Elephant." Apr 21, 8pm. The Star Theatre, 1 Vista Exchange Green. $68-148 from Sistic.

Be blown away by Pakistani devotional music

Esplanade has been hosting A Tapestry of Sacred Music, bringing traditional performers from around the world. We’re particularly excited about an evening with Fareed Ayaz and Abbu Muhammad, who will perform qawwali, a form of Sufi devotional music from South Asia, known for its call-and-response forms and choral crescendos. Apr 15, Esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Dr., www.esplanade.com. $30.

EXPLORE 4 nature walks to check out this April

Bukit Timah

MacRitchie

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

The Rail Corridor may be closing for a revamp soon, but that doesn't mean that Singapore's other nature spots aren't worth the hike too. From a breakfast and walk to Mount Faber, to a treetop walk at MacRitchie reservoir, here are four outdoor events to hit. KRANJI MARSHES BUTTERFLY WALK (APR 16, 8:3011AM) This members-only event hosted by the Nature Society Singapore will bring participants to the new Kranji Marshes Park, where they'll try to spot butterflies and water birds. Where: The group will be meeting guide Anuj Jain at 8:30am at the Kranji Marshes Visitor Centre (Neo Tiew Ln. 2). More at bit.ly/1ThS6yV BREAKFAST & WALK TO MOUNT FABER (APR 17, 7:30-11AM) This leisurely hike to Mount Faber hill by Fitness Kakis starts with a breakfast at Seah Im Food Centre at 7:30 am.

Where: The group is meeting at Harbourfront MRT's exit D at 7:30am for breakfast. More at bit.ly/1PEP7K6 TREETOP WALK + RESERVOIR STORIES EXCURSION (APR 17, 9AM-6PM) The Singapore Photography Academy is hosting an all-day outdoor excursion for amateur and professional photographers to MacRitchie Reservoir's treetop walk. The hike also covers the Lower Pierce Reservoir, and the group will be breaking for lunch at Casuarina Curry restaurant. Early RSVPs with the event code TTRE are required, and the event costs $48 per person for members and $55 per person for the public. Where: They will be meeting at Bishan MRT at 8:30am, and a bus will be ferrying participants to the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. More at bit.ly/230hRX2

KAYAK PULAU UBIN'S TWO RIVERS (APR 23, 7:30AM-12:30PM) What: Organized by the Nature Society Singapore, this event brings participants to the two rivers that separate Pulau Ubin's east and west coasts: Sungei Jelutong, which flows in from the south, and Sungei Besar, at the north. You'll be kayaking through mangroves and the lucky few might be able to spot birds like kingfishers, hornbills and eagles. It is open to a maximum of 28 participants, so do register by Apr 8. The event costs $105 per person for members, to $130 for non-members. Where: Meeting point to be advised. More at bit.ly/1VSJVtD

SG MAG_Songkran_HPFC_FA.pdf

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18:57

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DRINK 4 new bars to get excited about

ART

Mo'Mor Izakaya

Chin wag at the National Gallery’s hot new show In collaboration with the Centre Pompidou, the National Gallery has just launched Reframing Modernism, an exhibition that pushes common perceptions of the movement. Works by Asian Modernist-era painters such as Georgette Chen and Le Pho appear alongside European biggies Matisse and Kandinsky, on loan from the Pompidou collection. Until Jul 17, National Gallery Singapore, 1 St. Andrews Rd., www.nationalgallery.sg. $15-25.

Freehouse

There was a flurry of bar openings in the final days of March, so you have a lot of catching up to do this week. From a fancy izakaya to a delightfully trashy booze convenience store and a bar with some solid craft beers on tap, here's where to hit. BOOZE PHARMA-C If you enjoy a tipple in the great outdoors but believe in quality over quantity, Booze Pharma-C is the place for you. The new convenience store at the Link Hotel (the same one with the cute rooftop bar, Lin) in Tiong Bahru has shelves stocked with nothing but the good stuff. On offer here are craft beers from the US, UK, Belgium and Japan along with cider, sake, soju and wine. On the spirits side, you won’t have to deal with headache-inducing budget bottles—they have Wyborowa vodka, Don Papa rum and Haig Club whisky with mixers from Tapping Tapir and Mountain Fresh. They’ll soon be adding craft beer on tap to their line-up as well. Link Hotel, 50 Tiong Bahru Rd., bit.ly/22Npjbi. FINDERS KEEPERS With raw concrete walls, industrial shelves and neon lights highlighting each drink category, this bar/bottle shop in a Craig Road shophouse is more collegiate than cool, but we like the idea of a no-frills place like this for a lowkey hangout. They stock whiskies, vodkas, sake, Champagne and red and white wines, with crowd-pleasers such as Hibiki, Grey Goose, Absolut and Johnnie Walker. Prices start at $34 for wines and $60 for spirits and highlights include Glenlivet 12 Year Old whisky ($142), Hendrick's gin ($142) and Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc ($68). The bar also serves a small selection of bites and wraps like crispy pork belly ($16), prawn paste chicken ($10) and prawn shawarma ($15). 2 Craig Rd., www.facebook.com/finderskeepersbarsg.

od porn instafo From # igans, shenan to #TGIF through ariously live vic ndy #eyeca our #sg Follow SG on Instagram @sg_now

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

FREEHOUSE This craft beer and cider bar on the second floor of a shophouse on Boon Tat Street has got 18 taps rotating exotic microbrews from around the world, plus a list of bottled beers and ciders with Asian pub grub to pair with the brews. The vibe is pretty DIY, with wooden garden furniture, raw whitewashed walls and fairy lights aross the ceilings. Last we checked, there were lots of stuff from New Zealand on tap, like Mini-Matta Tea Leaf Pale Ale by Yeastie Boys (which we'd previously only seen bottled at The Good Beer Company) and 8Wired's Semi-Conductor Session IPA. The prices are pretty sweet for now, too, with 10oz going for $9 and 16oz for $13. 21A Boon Tat St., www.facebook.com/freehousesg. MO'MOR IZAKAYA A fancy new izakaya on Tanglin Road, Mo'mor is helmed by chef Martin Woo (previously at The Ritz Taipei and Hilton Singapore) and works with local butcher Swiss Butchery for its menu of fancy Euro-Japanese tapas. Try the whole charcoal-grilled Japanese squid and the grilled veal sausage with onion confit ($14) or the hamachi collar with radish ($16.90). Desserts include exotic sounding stuff like the yuzu sabayon ($14) and the lavender pudding ($13). #B1-01 Tanglin Post Office, 56 Tanglin Rd., www.facebook.com/momorizakaya.

Go on a foreign film date

The Italian Film Festival is taking place across The Projector, the National Museum and various Golden Village cinemas. Highlights include popular Italian titles such as Wondrous Boccaccio, about 10 people who have escaped the black plague in 14th-century Florence, and My Mother by Nanni Moretti, about a comedic clash between a filmmaker and her mother. Among the classics, there’s 8 & a Half, Fellini’s 1963 comedy-drama comprising six feature films and two mini segments. Apr 21-20, various venues, www.facebook.com/ italianfilmfest.

ART

FILM

23 22

Wonder if you can afford that painting

The Affordable Art Fair is back again, with work ranging from $100 to $10,000, and 75% of the art priced at $7,500. Apr 22-24, F1 Pit Building, 1 Republic Blvd., www.facebook.com/AAFSG. $15-20 from APAC Tix.

Buy your tickets for the food film festival

The first edition of Design Film Festival’s gastronomic offshoot, Food Cine.ma takes place over two weeks, and highlights include the world premiere of Tasteology, about chefs who are advancing taste through science and the Asian premiere of boozy documentary The Birth of Sake (pictured). Tickets are on sale now. Apr 29-May 14, Objectifs, 155 Middle Rd., www.foodcine.ma. $15.

Calendar of

Events

FRI

APR 15

SAT

APR 16

SUN

APR 17

SPORTS SEA 7s Men's & Women's Finals Shield - Bowl - Plate Finals Cup Finals

E L K C A T ALL THINGS

CONCERTS DJ Pete Tong Shili & Adi 10. Seconds

E R O P SINGAPR 2016

Slingshot Zyncxation feat. ArF Back 2 Basic

PARTIES Rugby 7s After Party

15-17 A

SHOPPING Sentosa Boardwalk Bazaar

CLARKE QUAY

SENTOSA

SPORTS HUB

Navigating the City Getting around in Singapore is a breeze. If you plan to travel via public transport a lot, buy a $12 EZ‑Link card with an encoded $7 value (available from all MRT train stations), which allows cashless payment on all public buses and trains.

Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)

Buses Buses travel to almost every part of the island and fares start from 79 cents. For information on bus routes and related enquiries, call the TransitLink Hotline at 1800‑225‑5663 or log on to www.sbstransit.com.sg.

Taxis

Singapore's world‑class train system. Trains are punctual, air‑conditioned and comfortable, and run from about 6am to midnight. Single trip tickets (from 79¢ with EZ‑Link card to $1.30 cash fare) can be purchased from vending machines at all MRT stations. For information on MRT routes and related enquiries call SMRT at 1800‑336‑8900 or log on to www.smrt.com.sg.

There are five major taxi companies in the city: Comfort and CityCab, 6552‑1111; Premier Taxis, 6363‑6888; SMRT Taxis, 6555‑8888; and TransCab, 6555-3333. Fares start from $3. Charges are higher for advance bookings. Alternatively, call 6‑Dial‑Cab, 6342‑5222. Your call will be routed to the first company with an available taxi. Or simply text "Book<space>six-digit postal code" to 71222 (Comfort) or "Book<space>six-digit postal code<space>#pickup point" to 75588 (SMRT Taxis).

Accurate at time of printing. For the latest information, please refer to www.singapore7s.sg.

in Numbers

PLAYERS PER TEAM

Compared to the 15-a-side game, rugby Sevens matches are played at a faster pace with more frequent scoring.

1st

10.24s

Time it takes American Carlin Isles, the fastest rugby player in the world, to run 100 metres.

PER HALF

With 45 matches each lasting 14 minutes, Rugby Sevens tournaments can be completed over a weekend with teams playing multiple games each day.

Number of points a team earns per try. A try occurs when a player grounds the ball on or beyond the opposing team's goal line.

Your Singapore Rugby Sevens ticket will grant you exclusive privileges while you're at Sentosa and Clarke Quay.

Singapore will host the eighth leg of the 2015/16 HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series.

10 YEARS

2016

since the last Singapore Rugby Sevens Singapore previously hosted the World Rugby Sevens Series four times between 2002 and 2006.

t is the first time in 10 years that the Lion City is hosting a leg of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series at the state-of-the-art Singapore Sports Hub. You are in for a truly fantastic weekend, as the city pulls out all the stops on the field and off.

If you're in the mood to dance all night, head to Clarke Quay, the Singapore Rugby Sevens' Official After Party Zone. Clarke Quay will also play host to a three-night music festival featuring live performances by local bands. Or you can soak up the beach life at Sentosa, the State of Fun. On this island resort, enjoy panoramic views of Singapore from the Tiger Sky Tower, join a Combat Skirmish (outdoor and indoor laser tag) at Fort Siloso and race against your friends and family on wheeled gravity rides at the Skyline Luge.

10 LEGS

2006

Welcome to Singapore

Rugby Sevens will be played at the Summer Olympics for the first time in 2016, making this year's HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series the biggest ever.

7 mins

Rugby Fans

Foodies can look forward to dining like locals at popular hawker centres such as Lau Pa Sat or sampling Mod Sin (modern Singaporean) cuisine at more upscale venues. Culture vultures should visit the new National Gallery Singapore, dedicated to Southeast Asian modern art, and pick up local designer souvenirs at Gallery & Co., one of the 10 best museum shops in the world according to international news site The Guardian. Be sure to take in the sights of Singapore's cultural neighbourhoods too, such as the Peranakan-style shophouses of the Joo Chiat/Katong district.

The All Blacks are the dominant force in Sevens Rugby, winning the World Rugby Sevens Series a record 12 out of 15 times.

Clarke Quay

Sentosa

And we've only scratched the surface. To find out more about the top things to do in Singapore, visit www.yoursingapore.com.

Singapore

teams facebook.com/sgrugby7s

12 New Zealand titles

Singapore Sports Hub

All the international heavyweights of Sevens Rugby will be competing, including Australia, England, Fiji, New Zealand and South Africa.

@sgrugby7s

How to use this guide? Fold this pull out guide in 3 easy steps:

@SgRugby7s

ugby Sevens fans know that the tournament is all about partying in the stands. But when play ends for the day, it's time to head to Clarke Quay, the Official After Party Zone. Just jump on the complimentary buses provided at the Singapore Sports Hub. Don't forget to bring along your ticket stubs or wristbands, because there are plenty of special treats for rugby fans.

Non-stop partying at

CLARKE QUAY

Clarke Quay After Sevens Music Festival If you're looking for a place to drink and dance, look no further than the Fountain Square at Clarke Quay, which hosts over a dozen big parties throughout the year. This weekend it's the Music After Sevens with five beloved bands performing over three nights.

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Clarke Quay Privileges

1 THE BUNGY BAR

SAT, APR 16

SUN, APR 17

Get ready for a full day of play tomorrow with adorable boygirl duo Shili & Adi who will have you foot-tapping to the beat in no time with their mix of Top 40 covers, love songs and oldies.

Saturday night is a high-energy double bill with 10.seconds and its charismatic vocal powerhouse Kalli Coplin, and three-man rock band Slingshot and their anthems by Aerosmith, Def Leppard and Guns N Roses.

The weekend concludes with a set by up-and-coming acoustic quartet Back 2 Basic and energetic Filipino band Zyncxation feat. ArF who bring you Top 40 essentials, disco staples and contemporary hip-hop.

GETTING THERE

R ea d B ri dg e

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Block EE Block

FRI, APR 15

Block AA Block

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14 Block Block CC

Clarke Quay Central

Clarke Quay is accessible from Clarke Quay MRT Station (NE5) on the North-East Line.

Clarke Quay bus station is served by over 20 bus lines, including the 124 from Orchard Road and the 62 and 145 from Little India and Jalan Besar.

A limited one-way complimentary bus service will operate from the Sports Hub, bringing fans directly to Clarke Quay.

A taxi ride from Orchard Road takes less than 10 minutes.

Clarke Quay MRT

Great deals on food and drink for ticket holders

2 CHUPITOS SHOTS BAR

3 CRAZY ELEPHANT

Block E, #01-07, 6339-5707, www.bungybar.com.sg

Block B, #01-05, www.facebook.com/ thechupitosbar

Block E, #01-03/04, 6337-7859, crazyelephant.sg

Still want more live sports after a whole day of rugby? The Bungy Bar screens everything from Rugby World Cup to English Premier League to the Australian Football League. Just ask the staff if your favourite sport is available and enjoy imported bottled beers for just $7.70++ each for ticket holders only.

The Chupitos Bar is a rare establishment that specializes in shots and shootersÐthey boast over 130 options, with intriguing names like Girl Scout, Milo Godzilla and Absinthe Bohemian. Get 7 single shooters for the price of 6.

Crazy Elephant is known for its no-frills d�corÐso the focus is foremost on the jazz and blues bands that perform nightly. They are also rolling out a number of drink promotions for ticket holders, such as 7 mugs of San Miguel Pilsner for $70++, 7 shots of Jagermeister for $70++ and more.

Available on selected categories only.

4 DISTRICT 10 Block D, #01-11, www.district10.com.sg

No one does post-party comfort food better than District 10. Not to be missed is their famous fish n' chips, made with Hoegaardenbattered Dory and served with perfect chips. Wash it down with a bottle of Asahi Dry Beer, $7 for ticket holders.

5 FREMANTLE SEAFOOD MARKET Block E, #01-05/06, 6337-1838, fremantleseafood.com.sg

Inspired by the eponymous seafood market in Perth, Fremantle specializes in fresh seafood flown in from around the world. Flash your ticket or wristband to get 17% off your total food bill.

6 HIGHLANDER Block B, #01-11, 6235-9528, www.highlanderasia.com

With antler chandeliers on the ceilings and tartan kilts on the waitstaff, this Scottish bar and restaurant serves all the Scottish classics. They're also offering bottles of Heineken, Tiger and Sol for $10++ and Bulmers Cider for $12++.

Terms and conditions apply.

Not applicable during happy hour.

10 PAULANER CLARKE QUAY

11 PINTS & CURRIES

12 PUMP ROOM MICROBREWERY

13 TOMO IZAKAYA

14 WAREHOUSE

15 WINGS BAR

Block B, #01-12, 6338-0480, www.paulaner-clarkequay.com

Block D, #01-14, www.facebook.com/ pintsandcurries

Block B, #01-09/10, 6334-2628, pumproomasia.com.sg

Block A, #01-04, 6333-0100, www.facebook.com/tomoizakaya

Block C, #01-09, www.facebook.com/ warehousesingapore

Block D, #01-02, 6333-4460, www.facebook.com/wingsbar.sg

The Bavarian microbrewery from Munich has a stronghold in Singapore's party zone, serving German food, bar bites and signature beers. Ticket holders get 17% off all regular-priced items.

For a robust, flavour-packed meal, head to this casual eatery specialising in both Thai and North Indian food. Wash down your chicken tikka masala, fish tikka, palak paneer and other dishes with their deal on Corona beer: a bucket of five gets you two free.

This Aussie-inspired establishment is equal parts microbrewery, bistro and club, with resident live band Culture Shock taking over later in the evenings. Order up comfort food like burgers or pastas for $17. Pair it with a house wine, beer or spirit for $27.

A casual Japanese bar and eatery in the middle of Clarke Quay, Tomo serves all the essentials: yakitori, yakimono, sashimi and sushi. Don't miss their specialtyÐthe fall-offthe-bone pork rib dish, soki nitsuke. They're offering 17% off the total food bill for ticket holders.

For a solid menu of Asian and international food, delicious beers like Fullers London Pride on tap and an excellent live band covering everything from Pink Floyd to The Beatles, head to Warehouse. Ticket holders get 20% off food.

After a day full of rugby, what could be better than a platter full of wings and ribs? Wings Bar has both, along with a fun aviation theme, with a fully-lit miniature runway and WWII fighter jet. Bring your ticket along to get 20% off food.

No bill splitting.

Terms & Conditions: Valid for Dine-in only. Not valid in conjunction with other ongoing promotions. While stocks last. For promotions valid for World Rugby Sevens Ticket Holders, WRS Ticket (and/or wrist band) must be present upon ordering. No splitting of bills is allowed. Outlet reserves the right to amend prices, discounts and/or terms and conditions without prior notice. Photos are for illustration purposes. Information is correct at the time of release.

Sentosa Privileges HOTELS

SILOSO BEACH RESORT 51 Imbiah Walk, 6722-3310, www.silosobeachresort.com

The rustic resort boasts rooms facing the South China Sea, lush surrounds and a 95-meter spring water pool. For the month of April, get 10% off the Deluxe Room, Roof Garden Suite, and One-Bedroom and Two-Bedroom Villas.

tallest stand-alone observatory tower. For each paying adult, there is a free admission for one child aged 12 and below. Mention the promo code "HSBC World Rugby Promotion" or produce a screenshot of the promotion.

ATTRACTIONS

COMBAT SKIRMISH Fort Siloso, Siloso Rd., 6272-4649, www.combatlaser singapore.com

This team-focused game is all about clever tactics and physical challenges in real-life combat scenarios. Now, you can get a complimentary admission when you purchase two tickets of same of lower value. SKYLINE LUGE 45 Siloso Beach Walk, 6274-0472, www.skylineluge. com.

Scream through a thrilling downhill trip on a gravity-powered ride. Present a ticket or wristband and get $2 off all Luge and Skyride tickets. Valid only at Skyline Luge Sentosa's ticketing counters and for a maximum purchase of four tickets. Not valid with other promotions.

TIGER SKY TOWER 41 Imbiah Rd., 6259-9288, www.skytower. com.sg

SENTOSA

SAND BAR 52 Siloso Beach Walk, 6631-8938, www.facebook. com/SandbarSingapore

Valid from Apr 13-20. FOOD & DRINK

BIKINI BAR #01-01 50 Siloso Beach Walk, 6631-8938, www. facebook.com/ BikiniBar.Singapore

Terms and conditions apply.

A weekend in

Ticket holders, don't miss these promos and discounts

This watering hole serves a wide selection of ice-cold beers and cocktails, all set to catchy pop tunes. Enjoy a bucket of five Bintang beers, six sticks of Beef Satay and a plate of Pork Belly at $58 (usual price $64). COASTES #01-05, 50 Siloso Beach Walk, 6631-8938, www.coastes.com

Lounge on sunbeds and deck chairs at this breezy beach bar, which has premium beers, house pour spirits and delicious beach food on the menu. Order a jug of Heineken, now at $34 (usual price $40).

With beach cocktails, beers and pulsating DJ tunes, chill out amid relaxing waterfront surrounds here. Indulge in a spread of four Desperados, Pulled Pork Burger and Chicken on Fire pizza for $58 (usual price $64). SHANGRI-LA'S RASA SENTOSA RESORT AND SPA 101 Siloso Rd., 6371-1966, www. shangri-la.com

This beachfront resort offers a comprehensive array of facilities including seven restaurants and bars, a spa, a swimming pool and a flying trapeze station. On Apr 17, from 11.30am-3pm, the hotel is hosting a rugby-themed brunch with a buffet of fresh seafood, roasts and themed games for $138 per adult. For each paying adult, one child 11 years and below dines free. It's $38 per additional child aged 6-11 years-old. WOOBAR W SingaporeÐ Sentosa Cove, 21 Ocean Way, 6808-7288, www.wsingapore sentosacove.com/ woobar

FLAME 54 Siloso Beach Walk, 6631-8938, www.facebook. com/FlameSingapore

Tuck into mouthwatering roasts and grilled meats at this beach rotisserie. Feast with your friends and family by opting for a bucket of four Desperados, a Pulled Pork Burger and Chicken on Fire pizza set at $58 (usual price $64).

elax and unwind on one of Singapore's most scenic islands. Sentosa is teeming with beautiful beaches, lush nature and picturesque attractions such as the Merlion statue, Siloso Beach and cool beachside bars. Here's what to do.

One of the island's most luxurious resorts, famous for its creative cocktails, is rolling out a special concoction for the weekend. Your ticket or wristband gets you a special price of $18 for The Warwickshire, a potent and refreshing mix of rum, lime, mint and bitters. Valid Apr 16-17 only.

Marvel at a scenic view of Sentosa and Singapore's cityscape atop Asia's

Sip cocktails under a stylish canopy at Tanjong Beach Club (120 Tanjong Beach Walk, 9750-5323, www.tanjongbeachclub.com), groove to French and Latin jazz at Bora Bora Beach Bar (82 Lighthouse Beach Walk, Palawan Beach, 6278-0838, www.borabeach.com ) or watch surfers and wakeboarders in action at the Barrel and Rider Beach Bars in Wave House Sentosa (36 Siloso Beach Walk, www.wavehousesentosa.com.)

One great way to cover the island is to hop on an eco-friendly GoGreen Segway (Beach Station, 9825-4066, www.segwaytours.com.sg). The ride also offers tours of Sentosa's beaches, bringing visitors through Siloso, Palawan and Tanjong Beaches.

Soak in the beach bars

Marvel at a bird's-eye view of the South China Sea on the Skyride chairlift (45 Siloso Beach Walk, 6274-0472, www.skylineluge.com), which takes you up a 320km hillside. For more fauna, check out the Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom (51 Imbiah Rd., 6275-0013, www.jungle.com. sg) to surround yourself with colourful butterflies and birds.

There are plenty of delicious dining options at Quayside Isle@Sentosa Cove (31 Ocean Way, Sentosa Cove, 6887-3502, www.quaysideisle.com). The waterfront dining enclave offers a great mix of restaurants and cafes serving up French, Indian, Mediterranean, Chinese and more cuisines.

Take in some nature

8 HOT STONES

7 HOOTERS

9 MCGETTIGAN'S

Block D, #01-03, 6332-0190, www.hooters.com.sg.

Block D, #01-06, 6333-4868, hotstones.com.sg

Block A, #01-01C/D, 6837-0577, www.mcgettigans.com/singapore

Asia's first outlet of the American food chain serves up classics like Buffalo wings and chilli cheese fries, alongside a bevy of beers and no-nonsense spirits like bourbon and Jack Daniel's. Ticket holders get a set meal for $17 and Hooty Hour specials where two beers or house pours get you a third free.

This Clarke Quay mainstay specializes in cooking fresh meats and seafood over hot volcanic slabs, sealing in the juices for maximum enjoymentÐoptions include premium cuts like wagyu beef, Kurobota pork and Berkshire Black Pig. Get 17% off your total food bill when you flash your ticket.

An old-meets-new Irish bar, McGettigan's serves food throughout the day, screens live sports, offers ladies nights and happy hours and has a roster of live bands every night. Enjoy $7 Heineken bottles, 7 Heinekens for $50 or 7 shots of Jaegermeister for $50 when you flash your ticket.

Terms and conditions apply.

Terms and conditons apply.

Exciting Extras

Make a stop at Liang Court, a longstanding epicentre of Singapore's Japanese community, housing apparel and lifestyle brands like Uniqlo and Books Kinokuniya, as well as the well-stocked Japanese supermarket Meidi-Ya (www.meidi-ya.com.sg). And of course, there are plenty of ramen, sushi and fine dining restaurants to choose from, too.

For an unforgettable thrill, sign up to try the G-MAX Reverse Bungy and the GX-5 Extreme Swing (www.gmaxgx5.sg), right by the Singapore River. Strap into a metal capsule with a few of your friends and be blasted up at the speed of 125mph. Don't worry: you'll be in safe hands.

Have fun with the family Take the kids out for an exhilarating excursion to exciting attractions such as the Trick Eye Museum (#01-43/44 Resorts World Sentosa 26 Sentosa Gateway, www.rwsentosa.com), Universal Studios Singapore (8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-8888, www.rwsentosa.com) and Madame Tussauds Singapore (40 Imbiah Rd., 6715-4000, www. madametussauds.com). For more adrenaline-pumping action, try skydiving in a vertical wind tunnel at iFly Singapore (#01-01 43 Siloso Beach Walk, 6571-0000, www.iflysingapore.com).

Fun events to catch on Sentosa

Be dazzled by Little Japan

Just across River Valley Road from Clarke Quay is this lush and historical hilltop park, which has seen everything from the palaces of Malay kings to important milestones during World War II. Spend a couple of hours wandering its hilly pathways and exploring the ASEAN Sculpture Garden. There is also a sun-drenched caf�, Fabulous Baker Boy (www.thefabulousbakerboy. com), at street level.

Have an adrenaline-pumping experience

Satisfy your taste buds

Weekend Watch

4 more awesome things to do around Clarke Quay Visit Fort Canning Park

Go exploring

Hit the shops at The Central

Clarke Quay is also home to The Central (www.clarkequaycentral.com.sg), a shopping mall with solid food options, including ramen restaurant Santouka (#02-27) and Rendezvous Restaurant Hock Lock Kee (#02-72), serving authentic Sumatran nasi padang. For shopping, visit the elegant Naiise (#02-23, www.naiise.com) boutique, stocking apparel, lifestyle accessories and design-inspired d�cor.

EVERY SATURDAY

Sentosa Boardwalk Bazaar 4-11.30pm, Sentosa Boardwalk

Shop for handcrafted items, pre-loved and vintage clothes, or get a manicure and Henna tattoo at this outdoor marketing featuring independent and local retailers. The waterfront view is sure to please. www.tgifbazaars.com

APR 22-23

APR 23

Merlion Music Festival

The Music Run

4-9pm, Merlion Plaza

3.30-9pm, Sentosa

Local and regional musicians will perform Asian fusion tunes at this three-day outdoor music event.

If you're in town for the week, don't miss the world's loudest 5k running course, with a stellar lineup of DJs, live bands, laser lights and an exciting music festival. Test your mettle by partying your way through five interactive zones blasting rock, pop, old school, hip hop and dance soundtracks.

www.sentosa.co.sg/en/ musicfestival

www.themusicrun.com

Nicoll

Ruck and rumble at

Stadium Drive

Towards Kallang Riverside Park

Towards Geylang

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Water Sports Centre

Singapore Indoor Stadium

The Singapore Sports Hub is served by Bus 11 from Lorong 1 Geylang Bus Terminal. Buses 10, 12, 14, 16, 31, 32, 33, 158 and 196 also stop within walking distance.

Kallang Theatre

Sports Hub Library

Singapore Sports Museum

Sta

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he HSBC World Rugby Singapore Sevens weekend is taking place at the state-of-the-art Singapore Sports Hub, inaugurated in 2014. The centrepiece of the development is the 55,000-seat National Stadium, which has already played host to a number of major events, from visits by European football clubs Arsenal and Juventus to world-class concerts by Madonna and One Direction. This weekend, here's what else you can do.

Leisure Park Kallang

Stadium MRT

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The Singapore Sports Hub is accessible from Stadium MRT Station (CC6) on the Circle Line and Kallang (EW10) on the East West Line.

PICK-UP

GETTING THERE

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A limited one-way complimentary bus service will operate from the Sports Hub, bringing fans directly to Clarke Quay. A taxi ride from the city centre takes about 10 minutes.

Party with DJ Pete Tong Don't wear yourself out dancing and singing along in the stands all day. Save some energy for legendary British DJ Pete Tong, who will be hitting the decks once the final whistle sounds on Apr 16. The dance music superstar will provide fans with a unique opportunity to party at the National Stadium, along with a dazzling light show and plenty of costumed revelry.

Drop the young ones off at the Fun Zone where they can practice passing and kicking and even have a go at the scrum machine. Don't forget to create your our souvenirs at the photo booths.

Famous for its plethora of sporting goods and apparel stores, nearby Kallang Wave Mall (www.thekallangwave.sg) also has affordable international eateries and even an indoor rock climbing gym.

Show the kids a good time

Do some shopping

Tournament

Schedule

There are several solid dining options available right on premises at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, including Mexican-Indian restaurant Myra's, Thai Village and The Mushroom Pot.

Learn all about the intriguing history of sporting clubs in early Singapore at the Singapore Sports Museum. Relive the island's major sporting milestones like the first-ever Singapore Grand Prix in 1966.

Grab a bite

Soak in some sports history

Day 1 SAT APR 16 8:00 10:00 9:00-21:00 11:00-20:00

· · · ·

Doors Open Pool Matches Fun Zone Kids Drop Off Zone

12:55 13:20 16:15 16:40 18:10 18:20 19:45 20:00

· · · · · · · ·

SEA 7s Womens Finals Pool Matches SEA 7s Mens Finals Pool Matches Entertainment Pool Matches International DJÐPete Tong Complimentary bus service to Clarke Quay commences

(registation starts 10:30)

Part of the Singapore Sports Hub, the Water Sports Centre caters to national athletics teams as well as the public, offering kayaks, pedal boats and canoes for rent for as little as $11/ hour. Pedal leisurely as you explore the Kallang Basin and soak in the skyline.

The indoor stadium is home to a branch of Brewerkz, Singapore's award-winning microbrewery. Order up their American-style bar bites and wash them down with signature beers like the rich Oatmeal Stout and the caskconditioned Hopback Ale.

Go out in a pedal boat

Try some local brews

20:30 · Music After Sevens @ Clarke Quay

Day 2 SUN APR 17 8:00 10:30 9:00-21:00 11:00-20:00

· · · ·

Doors Open Quarter Finals Fun Zone Kids Drop Off Zone

13:25 13:50 15:15 15:40 17:10 17:35 19:00 19:35 20:05 20:15

· · · · · · · · · ·

U14 Schools 7s Finals Semi Final Shield/Bowl Entertainment Semi Final Plate/Cup Entertainment ShieldÐBowlÐPlate Finals Cup 3rd/4th Cup Finals Prize Presentation Complimentary bus service to Clarke Quay commences

(registation starts 10:30)

The Singapore Sports Hub is a short walk or quick taxi ride away from the beloved Kallang Riverside Park, where locals relax, picnic, kayak, go jogging and ride bicycles. You can even rent a bike on premises. Stop by Kilo Kitchen (www.kilokitchen.com) for an Asian-fusion bite.

You are a short taxi ride away from Geylang, a quintessentially Singaporean neighbourhood whose numbered alleys (lorong) are full of delicious local food. Don't miss the beef fried noodles (kway teow) on Lorong 9, and the fish head curry at Penang Seafood on Lorong 25A.

Take a walk in the park

Explore the historic East

(limited service)

20:30 · Music After Sevens @ Clarke Quay

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Features spectacular attractions, exciting adventures, delicious dining deals and unmissable events

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FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

city scape

A Day in the Life of Singapore Highlights from the 2016 edition of the 24 Hour Project. Edited by Kurt Ganapathy

The fifth edition of the 24 Hour Project (www.24hourproject.org) took place on Mar 19 with 2,785 participants in 107 countries documenting a day in the life of everyday people around the world. Among that number were more than 80 photographers based in Singapore. Here are some of the best photos they took and their reflections on being street photographers in Singapore.

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HOUGANG

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ANGULLIA MOSQUE

MERLION PARK 13

08:47AM

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TAMAN JURONG

BEDOK

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SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

12:00PM

*SCAPE

THE PADANG

04:20AM

CUSTOMS HOUSE

HAJI LANE

LITTLE INDIA

02:59PM

ROCHOR CENTRE

03:05PM CHINATOWN

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MARINA SQUARE

ROCHOR CENTRE

06:49PM

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ORCHARD ROAD

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MARINA BAY SANDS

1. “Midnight Love Affair” by Keith Wong (@keithwongz) 2.“Toilet Break” by Dzul Fadzli Hassim (@zooliejoe_gf) 3. “How nice it is to have a brother to drink yourself to oblivion with in your old age." by Nigel Heng (@nigelheng) 4. “Haji Lane” by Rushdi Jamari (@bearfangs) 5. "When you're done but your friends won't leave the club." by John See (@johnseejm) 6. “{TITLE}” by Bucky Hussain (@buckyhussain) 7. "Morning Prayer" by Amirul Asyraf (@a.asyrf),

MARINA BAY WATERFRONT PROMENADE

10:57pM

11:11PM

TAMAN JURONG MARKET AND FOOD CENTRE

8. “Good Morning Singapore” by Dzul Fadzli Hassim (@zooliejoe_gf) 9. "When You Were Young" by Haikal Amir (@haikalblurr) 10. "Sometimes I wonder where I’ll be or what I’ll be doing when I get old." by Khairul Irfan (@khairul_irfan) 11. “3 for $1” by Farhan Hashim (@nearhan_farhan) 12. “Bail Out” by Dzul Fadzli Hassim (@zooliejoe_gf) 13. "To Live and Let Live" by Khairul Irfan (@khairul_irfan) 14. "Pre-Match Smiles" By Keith Wong (@keithwongz) 15. "Under My Umbrella" by Wei Song Lai (@l3prekon)

TEKKA MARKET

16 "Important Decision" by Barry Millare (@ashowiseeit) 17. "Clockwork Balloon" by Keith Wong (@keithwongz) 18. "Ip-Man" by Amirul Asyraf (@a.asyrf) 19. "King of Orchard" by Stevy Wiratno (@king_theaterofdream) 20. “Pretzel Kind of Love” by Bucky Hussain (@buckyhussain) 21. "Stranger On Keys" by Dzul Fadzli Hassim (@zooliejoe_gf) 22. "Finding Prince Charming" by Wei Song Lai (@l3prekon) 23. "Don't You Worry" by Haikal Amir (@haikalblurr) 24. "Vibrance" By Keith Wong (@keithwongz)

Q&A What is unique about Singapore street photography?

“It’s the very lively vibe and interesting mix of my two favorite street elements: the people of different races you meet and the unique places and surroundings coming from different cultural origins.” ¬Barry Millare

“It's always sunny and there are always people around so you always get good shadows for composition and don't have to worry about not having a subject! But most people here are camera shy and would detour just to avoid you so it takes some effort to blend into the environment in order to get the shot you want sometimes.” ¬Wei Song Lai

“Most people here do not like their pictures being taken candidly, so most of the time I will shoot discreetly and try not to get caught. It’s like a game, and I really enjoy playing it. Sometimes I need to be bold and not care about people's privacy or feelings when photographing them to get a better picture.” ¬Dzul Fadzli Hassim

“The best part about shooting streets in Singapore is you are part of the street. Especially as a commuter, you walk, take the bus, take the train. And the main thing in Singapore is you feel safe on the street.” ¬Stevy Wiratno

“I get to capture what might appear as normal but it may seem totally different to people from different countries. The small details such as the way we interact or the way we spend our free time together is different from others. ” ¬Khairul Irfan

“Whenever I hit the street, there is this rush of adrenaline and anxiety before I decide to shove my camera within one meter of a total stranger and press the shutter. But the best part of being a street photographer would be meeting and talking to different people all the time. You get to connect with them, listen to their stories and maybe even be friends with them!” ¬Farhan Hashim

“I personally think the best part of being a street photographer in Singapore is being able to capture people from all races, religions and social classes. Living in a multiracial country, it’s very interesting to see how different worlds collide and how they influence each other.” ¬John See

“There's so much hidden beauty in Singapore. Because of how densely concentrated all of Singapore is, there are all these fleeting moments of synchronicity happening all the time—all you have to do is look. Also, the generally brutalist architecture all around our island helps build contrast with the more human moments very well.” ¬Bucky Hussain

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

island

The latest openings and hottest trends in Singapore

SPORTS

It’s a Match

Faizal Basir

Rugby

From lacrosse to Australian Rules football, there’s more to working out than just soccer. By Chelsia Tan

Lacrosse

he much-anticipated Singapore leg of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, happening on Apr 16-17, has brought the spotlight on hugely popular sports that have taken a backseat to Singapore’s national obsession with soccer. Here’s where you can test your batting skills or even learn how to snowboard.

Australian Rules Football This uniquely Australian sport, which incorporates elements of basketball and rugby, is Down Under’s version of football. Each 18-player team attempts to handball and kick their way towards goal across a cricket pitch in a high-intensity game. Where to sign up: There are weekend training sessions conducted by Australian football club Singapore Wombats (www.singaporewombats.com), and the group welcomes players of all levels of experience. For more information, email info@singaporewombats.com.

Baseball In case you’ve arrived from Mars, the classic American game pits two teams of nine players against each other on a diamond-shaped dirt pitch, where they try to score runs by dashing around four bases (first, second, third and home plate) each time the batter hits a ball thrown by the pitcher. Where to sign up: For those unfamiliar with the sport, you can opt for personal coaching sessions at The Hit Factory (Kallang Diamonds Stadium Walk, www. thfbaseball.com), an indoor training facility which offers baseball and softball training courses. These 60-min classes start at $100 per player but if you prefer to strike it out on your own, try renting a batting cage from $30 for 15 minutes.

Lacrosse Pride and joy of New England prep school boys, lacrosse involves using a long-handled stick fitted with a loose mesh at the end, where players of two different teams compete to score by catching, cradling and then hurling a small rubber ball past the goalie and into the opposing team’s goal.

The entire season costs $150 per person and equipment is provided. More experienced participants can join practices which run on Sundays from 10:30am-12pm and fees range from $250 for men and $150 for women.

Baseball

Rugby If this month’s Rugby 7’s tournament (see page 11) has made you keen to learn more, there’s no shortage of opportunities to do so. Where to sign up: There are currently eight rugby clubs in Singapore with training sessions that cater to players of all experience levels. To join, simply contact the Singapore Rugby Union (www.singaporerugby.com) at info@sru.org.sg for referrals or for the full list of clubs here.

Snowboarding This winter sport is pretty self-explanatory—combining elements of skateboarding, sledding, surfing and skiing, it involves descending downhill with your feet strapped to a board. There are different snowboarding styles, ranging from free riding, an uninhibited ride down any terrain, to freestyle, which involves performing tricks and stunts.

Snowboarding

Where to sign up: Urban Ski (#01-46/47/48/49 Millenia Walk, 9 Raffles Blvd., www.urbanski.com.sg) has adult classes set on an indoor slope with five experience levels (introduction, beginner, intermediate, higher intermediate and advanced) and you will learn how to balance, turn, perform freestyle tricks and control your speed. Public group classes range from $90 per person for a single session to $1,288 per person for an off-peak season pass with unlimited sessions over three months. For private classes, rates range from $230 per person on weekdays to $360 for a group of four on weekends and public holidays.

Where to sign up: From now till June, the Singapore Lacrosse Association (www.singaporelacrosse.com) is offering sessions for new players from 9-10:30 am on Sundays at the field behind the Grandstand at Turf City. Australian Rules Football

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

eats

The inside scoop on Singapore’s dining scene

NEIGHBORHOODS

True Grit What’s hot and yummy in Jalan Besar: Cool new cafes and a boutique hotel. By Chelsia Tan

Jalan Besar

Swee Choon

Gills N Shells

Bao Makers

Antoinette Hotel Vagabond

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Late-night dim sum hangout 5 Swee Choon (181-191 Jln. Besar, www.sweechoon.com) has collaborated with gourmet coffee e-commerce site Hook Coffee (www. hookcoffee.com.sg), which offers ethically-produced beans from countries like India, Colombia, Brazil and El Salvador.

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Swee Choon now serves fancy drip coffee

Newcomer 4 Hotel Boss (500 Jln. Sultan, www.hotelboss. sg) may not be brimming with quirky, design-driven rooms and cool art vibes, but the boutique hotel makes up for the lack of a creative facade (it looks like an office building in the CBD) with luxe, airy spaces and an expansive sky terrace and swimming pool. It also has a decent selection of food and retail stores like seafood restaurant Gills N Shells (#01-19, www.gillnshells.com.sg), and is located close to Kampong Glam.

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And there’s a shiny new boutique hotel

Chye Seng Huat Hardware is not the only decent coffee shop in area—for more than just brunch and lunch grub, head to 2 Roots Kitchen (30 Dickson Rd., www. rootskitchen.bar). The menu has hearty and unpretentious items for brunch and dinner, like baked camembert with apple chutney and Nagano pork rack, which you can have with a selection of beers, wines and spirits. Plus, their happy hour promotion (11am-8pm daily) includes draft beer at $10 per pint and selected house pour wines at $9 per glass. Another stylish nook to dine at is 3 Bao Makers (78 Horne Rd., www.baomakers.com), a Kinfolk-style cafe

which offers Western-fusion baos on top of other JapaneseWestern mains, desserts and coffee. There’s the braised pork belly, bulbogi, salted egg shrimp, teriayki chicken, nanban chicken and chili crab bao to try, with vegetarian options available upon request.

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More hip new cafes have opened up

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Possibly the next big food trend after salted egg yolk croissants, more local renditions by French-inspired patisserie 1 Antoinette (30 Penhas Rd., www.antoinette.com.sg) are stirring demand for the buttery pastry. Delving into Singapore’s hawker favorites, the chili crab croissant is one of Chef Pang’s latest creations and features a house-made, savory-spicy tomato sauce. Besides croissants, also new on the menu is the scallion arlette, a modern interpretation of chong you bing, a popular Chinese street snack.

Antoinette’s croissant frenzy continues

CITY SQUARE MALL

alan Besar may be a lot grittier than trendy hoods like Tiong Bahru and Kampong Glam, but there’s always plenty of action happening along this bustling stretch off Little India and Lavender. From salted egg and chili crab croissants to lots of bao, this underrated area is bubbling with exciting developments.

Antoinette

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EW11 KALLANG MRT

Hotel Vagabond is hosting an artsy boozy party Get your portrait drawn by emerging artists from Pinacotheque’s Uncanned Art: Face It project, a non-profit collective from the gallery’s Art Academy. Here, all you have to do is RSVP for a seat at Bar Vagabond (39 Syed Alwi Rd., www.hotelvagabondsingapore.com), show up on Apr 14, 6:30pm and look all debonair swirling your martini while the artists sketch their interpretation of you. For RSVPs of more than five, email salon@ hotelvagabondsingapore.com.

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

eats honey mustard dressing and sunflower seeds, the wedge salad ($15), with blue cheese, bacon and ranch dressing, and the buffalo cucumber ($8), which has blue cheese, cucumbers and Frank’s hot sauces. There’s also the margarita prawn cocktail ($18), with fresh poached prawns, celery salt and house made cocktail sauce. 99 Duxton Rd., www.meatliquor.com/ singapore.

NEW AND NOTED with Chelsia Tan

Kilo

MEATliquor SIN

nadia@seriesofintentions.com by Apr 10. Shortlisted participants will be called down for an interview and a trial run before the event. More information can be found at bit.ly/1MM2bxc.

Artichoke

Aryaa

HELL’S KITCHEN Returning after a four-year hiatus on Apr 28, cooking competition Kilo Under Pressure might not have Gordon Ramsay breathing fire down your neck, but you’ll still have to whip up a three-tofive course dinner for a guests at Kilo Orchard (who will be your judge, jury or executioner) under a 48-hour time frame. But fear not—the restaurant’s kitchen crew will stop you from sticking your head in the oven. Send your profile, portfolio, menu proposal to

EAT ALL YOU CAN Easily Singapore’s coolest Middle Eastern restaurant, Artichoke has a new dinner menu. Order sharing plates of the house made feta burrata, a creamy dish of cheese, Turkish toast and tomato salad ($24); samke harra, with pan roasted salmon, green pea tehina soup and coriander salad ($28) or the brassica tabbouleh, which has fried brussel sprouts, pickled roasted red onions and labneh ranch ($18). There’s also a list of mezze, or small bites, to kickstart your meal. Options include the babaganoush (smoked eggplant with pomegranate molasses teriyaki, $8) and the hummus, with chickpea dip, tahini, sumac and paprika ($8). 161 Middle Rd., www.artichoke.com.sg. COUNT YOUR CALORIES Previously only catering to the dinner and supper crowds, fancy burger joint MEATliquor SIN will now open for lunch from ThuSat, 11:30am-2:30pm. Besides the usual burgers, the restaurant offers a new all-day lunch menu with healthier options which it dubs “rabbit-style food”. The menu comprises three types of salads, like the vegetarian chop salad ($12) that’s garnished with

CAT POWER It’s official—a cafe dedicated to the world-famous Hello Kitty will be opening at Changi Airport Terminal 3 in May this year. Taking inspiration from the orchid, which is Singapore’s national flower, the cafe features a “garden city” theme with plenty of greenery and whimsical blooms. Hello Kitty Orchid Garden will operate 24 hours and offer all-day breakfasts and desserts like gelato sundaes, waffles, pastries and tea cakes. The cafe will also have a retail space selling Hello Kitty merchandise such as tea blends and grow-it-yourself plant kits, all of which are exclusive to Singapore. For updates, head to www.facebook.com/ hellokittycafesingapore. COMMAND & CONQUER Inspired by Alexander the Great and his conquests across continents in Europe, the Middle East and South Asia, Aryaa serves Mediterranean and North Indian cuisine in an elaborate setting. Bordering on dramatic, the space is awash in warm orange lighting and flamboyant red Moroccan tents. The menu covers Greek, Moroccan and North Indian food, with dishes like the garides saganaki with baked prawns, tomato and feta cheese ($17), Moroccan tagine served with slow-cooked lamb ($26), and pasrur malai tikka ($16), which has chicken kebab drizzled with cheese, lemon juice and coriander. Besides food, the restaurant also has a full bar and lounge serving cocktails and wines from Italy, France and Greece. #01-201 Diners Building, 7500E Beach Rd., www.thearyaa.com.

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What’s in it? Tons of affordable, delicious and instagrammable eats 16 categories: Brunch, hipster hawkers, healthy lunches, late-night supper and more Search by cuisine and alphabet

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Holidays, hotels and insider travel news

Paris Plages

Rock en Seine Douglas O’Brien

La Maison Champes Elysees

FRANCE

The Light Fantastic Planning a summer trip to Paris? Here are 5 great reasons why you should be. By Ric Stockfis Les Berges

Early morning in Paris

Petit Palais

arisians are famous for fleeing the French capital in the summer in search of cooler climates. But with a host of celebrations and cultural activities on offer, there’s no better time to take the temperature of the City of Light.

Fete de la Musique

Celebrating the summer solstice on June 21 each year, this event (which has expanded to more than 100 countries across the globe in the three decades since its inception), is an excuse for the whole city to let its hair down, with concerts in parks and palaces (including Jardin des Tuileries and the Petit Palais), as well as impromptu gigs on street corners and even apartment balconies. Getting around town to soak it all in is a cinch, with discounted public transport and some Metro lines running all night. www. fetedelamusique.culturecommunication.gouv.fr.

Bastille Day

July 14 is not the day to visit Paris if you’re looking for a quiet time. But with the French going all out to celebrate the start of the Revolution, including a full military parade down the Champs Elysees (with tanks, helicopters, jets and thousands of soldiers) and a half-hour fireworks display from the Eiffel Tower (and elsewhere), it’s a pretty memorable way to experience the city. Among the unexpected highlights: the tradition of fire stations throwing open their doors to the public on the 13th and 14th for dancing and demonstrations, as part of the fun and quirky Fireman’s Balls.

Cinema en Plein Air

Held from late July to late August in Parc de la Villette in the northeast of the city (half an hour’s walk along Canal St Martin from Gare du Nord), this charming, free event (there’s a small rental fee if you want a chaise longue) showcases recent releases and classic films nightly on a giant screen in a gorgeous outdoor setting. Last year saw Beetlejuice and The Shining mixing it up with Far from Heaven, Moulin Rouge and many more. One of the best picnic spots in town. www.lavillette.com.

Paris Plages

Running from mid-July until mid-August, this hugely popular initiative sees the banks of the Seine (as well as Bassin de la Villette and even some city squares) transformed into urban beaches. First launched in 2002 to give Parisians a reason to stay in the city over summer, it’s now a huge tourist draw in its own right, with deckchairs, ice cream vendors, book-borrowing and beach volleyball providing an excuse to lounge around in the summer heat, as the beaches open from 9am to midnight. A related development in 2013 was the opening of Les Berges, which saw a 2km stretch of riverside road in front of the Musee d’Orsay given an industrial-chic makeover with the installation of outdoor activity stations as well as bars, restaurants and a promenade for walking, rollerblading and cycling. There are even renovated cargo crates (aptly named “Zzz”) where you can take a nap.

Rock en Seine

A three-day affair (this year it runs from August 26-28), Rock en Seine is well established as the city’s top summer music festival. Last year’s edition, which saw 66 acts take to five different stages, was headlined by the Libertines, Kasabian and the Chemical Brothers, and the first wave of artists for 2016 has just been announced: expect Foals, Massive Attack and Chvrches, with lots more to come. The location, on the banks of the river, inside the 17th century Domaine National de Saint-Cloud park, takes some beating, and it’s an easy 10-minute walk to and from the nearest Metro stop. A three-day pass goes for €119 ($181), but you can also buy passes on a per day basis. www.rockenseine. com/en.

ESSENTIALS GETTING THERE Air France (www.airfrance.sg) has direct flights from $1,320 return, while Qatar Airways (www.qatarairways. com) can get you there, via Doha, from $1,050. WHERE TO STAY La Maison Champs Elysees (www.designhotels.com/ hotels/france/paris/la-maison-champs-elysees) is a fancy boutique property just behind the Grand Palais. In the heart of the so-called Golden Triangle, it’s a short walk to the Champs Elysees, Jardin des Tuileries and—just across the Seine—the Musee d’Orsay. Open since 2012 in a classic 19th-century townhouse, it’s most famous as the first interior project by fashion house Maison Martin Margiela, with 17 of the rooms and suites taking inspiration from trompe l’oeil, in surreal and unexpected fashion. In our White Cover Suite, for example, the furnishings and objects in the room– including the pictures on the wall–were draped with white cotton, while the ceiling above the bed lit up a night to reveal a huge mirror. We also snuck a peek at the Curiosity Case suite, in which the walls and floor are painted black and haunting objects and images are mounted on the wall. It’s definitely not for everyone (although fashionistas will love the off-the-wall style), but not all of the rooms are quite so outlandish (and even those that are still come reassuringly equipped with Macs, flatscreen TVs and bespoke toiletries). And while the in-house restaurant, La Table du 8, sticks to the whimsical theme with poured concrete flooring and “floating” tables and chairs, the quiet breakfast terrace, surrounded by greenery despite the heart-of-the-city location, really is great. Rates start from $205 per night (excluding breakfast) if you book through Design Hotels.

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

escapes GRAND OPENING Jing An Shangri-La Shanghai Overview: While Shangri-La has long been established in Shanghai on the other side of the river in Pudong, this gleaming city center spot, just of Nanjing West Road, has hogged the limelight since it opened in mid-2013. The 508 rooms (which start from 42sqm) take up the top 29 floors of the 60-storey Jing An Kerry Center, the centerpiece of an ambitious urban remodeling project which saw blocks of old lane houses replaced with a slick new, mixed-use development of offices, restaurants and upmarket malls. A short walk from historic Jing An Temple and the leafy Jing An Park, it’s a great base for exploring China’s most happening city. Grand Suite Bedroom

Pool

Jing An Shangri-La Shanghai

Calypso

Design: This being Shanghai, it’s not short on wow factor: sweeping city views, heated marble floors in the bathrooms, more than 200 bespoke works of art on display, and more than four million pieces of crystal used in the design. But, as you’d expect from the HK hotel brand, it’s all tastefully done (think subtle silver touches and rosewood finishing). If there’s a theme, it’s the all-encompassing “China”, right down to the lotus flowers, auspicious fish displays, an array of peacock colors at Cantonese restaurant Summer Palace and creative use of bamboo in the stunning, glass-ceilinged Calypso, a Mediterranean restaurant and wine bar designed by famed Japanese architect Shigeru Ban (he of the TED talks about emergency shelters made

from paper). Even the hotel’s silk carpets are designed to look like traditional paintings. Rave: In a city not short of great viewpoints, the Horizon Club Lounge’s 360-degree panorama still takes the breath away (it’s accessible to anyone staying in a Grand Premier room or suite). Of the in-house dining options, 1515 WEST, styled like a New York steakhouse, with memorabilia from old Shanghai movies, has quickly established itself as one of the city’s best steakhouses (though it doesn’t come cheap). And the fourth floor spa, including a 25 meter indoor lap pool, complete with cabanas, and Shangri-La’s own CHI, The Spa, is a great place to escape the frenetic pace outside the window. Rant: The service at Calypso leaves something to be desired: a shame, as it’s an otherwise fantastic space. Price: Rooms start from RMB 1,488 ++ ($311) per night. 1218 Middle Yan’an Road, Jing An Kerry Centre, West Nanjing Rd., www.shangrila.com/shanghai/jinganshangrila. RIC STOCKFIS

Make every meal count

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last word

Aaron Ho You might not notice him, but if you’re flipping through a book on the MRT, there’s a good chance he’ll notice you. Aaron Ho is the Instagrammer behind MRT Reads (@mrtreads), an account dedicated to recording the books that Singaporeans read on their commutes. Kurt Ganapathy caught up with the PhD candidate to find out more about him and his project.

I’m a PhD candidate at a New York university, specializing in Victorian literature. I returned to Singapore to write my dissertation, and once I’m done, I’ve to go back to New York to take my final exam. I’m at my last chapter of dissertation. I got the idea to start MRT Reads from Underground New York Public Library. It’s a website that posts photos of people reading on the New York subway. In New York, you see a lot of people reading. I just wanted to document Singaporeans reading on public transport because I’m always curious about what others are reading. I did it also because seeing other people read is inspiring and makes you want to read. It’s like watching those “extreme weight loss” TV shows; they are motivational. And this project is to encourage more citizens and residents in Singapore I love it that to read. There is a sociological aspect. By noticing what people are reading, you can tell what sort of community we live in.

books. It’s the idea of forming a community I’m in interested in because communities encourage conversations, and conversations are good for democracy.

If you take public transport, or if you take a dump in the toilet, or if you surf Facebook, then you’ve time to read. But time and energy are two different things.

Communities are important because they tie to national identity and nationalism. What’s more Singaporean than MRT trains? No matter how rich or poor a Singaporean is, they would have taken the MRT before. I’m a closet patriot.

After a long day at work, using so much brain power, the last thing you want to do is to read and ponder over complex issues. At the end of a long working day, all I want is Korean BBQ with cold beer, and to watch a stupid Adam Sandler movie.

There have been some positive responses, but the few negative responses are louder. They are concerned about the privacy of an individual. That’s actually something I thought about before starting the project because I am a private person myself, and wouldn’t like my photo to be taken.

Singaporeans are not reading “literary” books, because what really is “literary”?

Firstly, there are no laws against public photography in the world. Hey, if New York, one of the most liberal cities in the world, has no qualms about it, then we shouldn’t too.

Many people are reading self-help and books on religion. This phenomenon implies how spiritually bankrupt our society is. And the solution is that we need to read more fiction to enrich our lives! We need more art.

Many negative responses seem to be concerned with what the people are reading, seeming to imply that reading certain books is illicit. Although Eve Sedgwick, a prominent gender theorist, once said that the action of reading is like a person in shame with bent heads, reading is never shameful.

Reading is often seen as a solitary activity: heads bent low, avoiding eye contact, engrossed in a world. Looking at MRT Reads, you’ll see reading isn’t as solitary as it seems. The photos join together to form a big picture, as if these readers are communicating with one another through

As Oscar Wilde said, “There is no such thing as a moral or an immoral book. Books are well written, or badly written.” That said, if someone’s photo is posted and they are uncomfortable about it, please write to me and I’ll take the photo down.

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

I love it that Singaporeans are not reading “literary” books, because what really is “literary”? What we consider “literary” these days was considered trash in the past. Shakespeare’s plays were often watched by prostitutes and pickpockets. Charles Dickens’ novels were considered as sensational as 50 Shades of Grey. Books’ cultural value arise from their ability to speak to a generation. If 50 Shades of Grey and Harry Potter and The Hunger Games have large readership, it means people identify with the books’ morality and values. Although it is true that you can gain more from reading a “literary” book, there is nothing wrong with reading “non-literary” books. What is important is one should always keep reading. Currently, I’m reading for my dissertation. Havelock Ellis’ 600-page autobiography. He was a sexologist during the fin de siècle. But I read all kinds of books. I just finished Rainbow Rowell’s Carry On, a Young Adult fan-fic book on a gay Harry Potter and a gay Edward Cullen. Before that, I read Booker Prize winner, Marlon James’s A Brief History of Seven Killings – sort of like The Godfather – and George R R Martin’s A Dance of Dragons, from the Game of Thrones series. I should be reading more Victorian novels.

by Kathy Macleod

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016 SG MAGAZINE