SG Magazine, May 6 by SG Magazine

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S G M AG A Z I N E | I SS U E #699 | M AY 6, 2016

what’s on what’s new what matters

Watercolorist Paul Wang paints Singapore’s urban landscapes—like this Campbell Lane gem—in a uniquely abstract style. See ART , page 7, for an interview. WELLNESS

DINING

TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

Scenic Running Routes

Indulgent Food Trends

Thailand’s Underrated Beaches

Paerin Choa of Pink Dot

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page 3 5 TV shows we wish Singapore would make

cityscape

Singapore in 2016 6 photography

8 music

Annie Leibovitz

Of Monsters and Men

6 art

10 parties

Singapore’s Architectural Landscape

Belated Cinco de Mayo

1. SPF: Petty Crimes Unit (ACTION DRAMA) From the heights of Triple 9 to the depths of VR Man, uniformed people fighting crime has always been a hot seller. But no series has ever matched the staying power of Crimewatch. After 30 years it’s time to make it a weekly show focusing on the criminals that everyday Singaporeans care about: illegal otak-otak sellers, confidence tricksters and shady masseuses.

11 dining

14 wellness

Mother’s Day Dinners

12 Amazing Running Routes

20 travel

23 interview

Thailand’s Underrated Beaches

Paerin Choa of Pink Dot

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

2. Fresh off the Plane (SITCOM) Being a migrant family in a new city is always a challenge; what more in the world’s most expensive city for expats. Fresh off the Plane charts the trials and tribulations, the thrills and spills, the sacrifices and sufferings of one family forced to live on the paltry sum of $29,000 a month. 3. Game of Temasek (FANTASY/DRAMA) A knight from a foreign kingdom arrives in a land across a narrow sea. There, he meets a prince who lost his throne to his younger brother. The knight assists the prince in regaining the crown while assuring glory for his own kingdom. It sounds like something from the pen of George RR Martin, but really, we’re talking about Sir Stamford Raffles and Sultan Hussein Shah of Johor. When you play the Game of Temasek, you win or you die.

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

Mediacorp is set to undergo a review of operations in the face of people watching practically everything but free-to-air TV. To help our national broadcaster return to its golden era when hits like The Pyramid Game, Under One Roof and Growing Up were all the rage, here are five show proposals for their consideration.

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

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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 Painting by Paul Wang

4. Drag vs Wild (SURVIVAL) We get it, stereotypical tough guys can survive the harshest environments even if they’re dumped there naked. But we’ve grown tired of this trope. What we want now is something a little more…fabulous. Let’s take the glamorous queens of RIOT!, led by Becca D’Bus, and have them stage their revues in the middle of scorching deserts, snake-infested rainforests and Asia’s most conservative cities. Drag vs Wild practically writes itself. 5. The Hantu Galah Diaries (SUPERNATURAL DRAMA) Everyone loves vampires, werewolves and zombies, and with so many ghosts and demons to call our own, Mediacorp could go global with The Hantu Galah Diaries, Teen Pontianak or Warm Pocongs.

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.

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

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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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FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

up front

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

WE Screen capture from Little Nonya

HOT OR NOT

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

Hot: Singaporean film

Not: Singaporean TV

Singaporean filmmaker Boo Junfeng, whose first feature Sandcastle made the International Critics’ Week line-up at Cannes in 2010, is making a second appearance at the festival with his second work, Apprentice, and joining him is K. Rajagopal with A Yellow Bird, which will be screened at International Critic's Week. But while our homegrown film talents are getting international recognition, our local television is struggling. Mediacorp is set to undergo a review of its operations to enhance programs “against an increasingly challenging environment for broadcasters around the world”.

NUMEROLOGY

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

Action against companies responsible for the haze According to Environment and Water Resources Minister Masagos Zulkifli, Singapore is taking action under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act and has issued notices to six Indonesia-based companies involved in the fires last year. These companies are required to indicate their plans to put out and prevent fires on their land. In a statement to reporters, Zulkifli said, "We must not let companies, corporations get away with their most egregious acts.”

$6 Million Amount Singapore spent on relocating more than 2,000 coral colonies affected by a port development in Tuas.

3,200 Number of households in Yuhua to have “smarter” homes that include sensors to help monitor the well-being of the elderly.

OB INDEX

Hot: Preserving hawker culture

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

Not: Beauty World Food Centre

Hot: New fares for Uber and GrabCar

jo.sau

Arvind Grover

It’s been a few weeks since Tiger’s viral Hokkien Mee video tugged at our heartstrings and it seems like we are finally doing something about our fast-disappearing hawker food—a 14-member committee has been set up to help hawkers sustain their businesses and attract younger talents to the trade. While there’s still hope for local street food, Beauty World Food Centre might be next to go. A mystery buyer has offered $17.5 million for the popular hawker center with plans to transform it into an airconditioned food court.

Not: Licences for Uber and GrabCar drivers

More regulations are in place for Uber and GrabCar services and a recent announcement will require drivers from these companies to have a Private Hire Car Driver’s Vocational Licence, undergo a medical examination and background screening, and have vehicles registered with authorities. These steps might be aimed at enforcing safer rides, but according to a letter to The Straits Times (Apr 15) by Uber’s general manager Warren Tseng, “The problem is that more steps do not necessarily mean safer riders or drivers in Singapore.” Following the announcement, Uber has indicated cuts of base and minimum fares for uberX, with rival GrabCar following suit.

BE GOOD

Run and raise awareness for cancer Held at East Coast Park’s Angsana Green on Jul 3 at 7am, the annual Singtel-Singapore Cancer Society Race Against Cancer will feature 10km and 15km competitive routes and a 5km fun run, with the aim to raise $1.1 million for cancer programs and services. Registration is limited to 8,000 participants, and will close on May 30. Sign up at www.raceagainstcancer.org.sg.

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016

APR

France-based international NGO Reporters Without Borders released its 2016 World Press Freedom Index on Apr 20, rating freedom of information and the press in 180 countries. Singapore continued its tumble, coming in at 154 this year, sandwiched between Swaziland (#153) and Brunei (#155). In 2015, Singapore was ranked #153, and #150 in 2014.To explain the drop in ranking, Reporters Without Borders cited the following: the MDA's censorship of media content (including online content), the shutdown of The Real Singapore and the prosecution of its editors and PM Lee's lawsuit against bloggers. While there has yet been a response statement during press time, in 2014, Law Minister Shanmugam had called Singapore's low rankings "quite absurd and divorced from reality".

$700 Million Amount the government plans to invest on boosting tourism over the next five years.

700 hectares Size of Tengah, the 24th Housing Board town and new urban development located near Choa Chu Kang and Bukit Batok.

55,000 Estimated number of homes to be built in Tengah. Channel News Asia, The Straits Times

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now

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

PHOTOGRAPHY Annie Leibovitz

PHOTOGRAPHY

The defunct station and heritage building gets its coolest event yet: an Annie Leibovitz exhibition. Women: New Portraits is part of a 10-city travelling show and builds upon the 1999 book the iconic Vanity Fair photographer developed with her partner Susan Sontag. Expect gorgeous images of movers and shakers like Misty Copeland (the first African American principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre) and feminist activist and scholar Gloria Steinem. Till May 22, Tanjong Pagar Railway Station, 30 Keppel Rd., bit. ly/1PQz9BO. Free.

Ooh and aah over Singapore’s retro buildings Held at The Projector, Urban Fork is a collaboration between lensmen Phillipe Diversy and Bob Lee highlighting Singapore's '60s architecture and the designers behind it. Check out the exhibition’s collection of eight different buildings with the architect's names superimposed into each photo and learn all about their history. Through May 31, #05-00 Golden Mile Tower, 6001 Beach Rd., www.voilah.sg/urban-fork

EXPLORE

Head to Pulau Ubin

This year, the annual Pulau Ubin open house is pulling out all the stops for a fiveweek long series of events. Pesta Ubin will include walks, cycling and kayaking expeditions, exhibitions, talks, demonstrations and opportunities to experience kampong life. May 14-Jun 12, Pulau Ubin, www.facebook.com/pulauubinday

DRINK

Ria Tan

Admire badass women at Tanjong Pagar Railway Station

Visit the craft beer bar du jour

Copenhagen-based brewery Mikkeller has taken the beer world by storm, with showcase bars in cities like San Francisco, Bangkok, Seoul and Tokyo, and it’s finally Singapore’s turn to get in on the action. Mikkeller Bar Singapore is located in the cool surrounds of DECK and has 20 taps pouring a mix of Mikkeller’s standards, its experimental creations and three Singapore exclusives. Prices start at $8 for 200ml and $15 for 400ml. DECK, 120A Prinsep St., www.facebook.com/mikkellerbarsg.

PARTY

Squeeze into this silent disco

London's Silent Disco series is making its foray into Asia, with Singapore as the first stop. Each partygoer dons a pair of light-studded noise-cancelling headphones. Three DJs spin at the same time, and you choose which channel to tune in and dance to: disco on the green channel, rock on the red channel and house on the blue channel. The first night at Kult Kafe has already sold out, but they’ve added a second at CATO. May 15, CATO, 237 South Bridge Rd., silentdiscoasia2.peatix.com. $20.

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016

MUSIC

Party all day at Pearl’s Hill City Park

The Getai Group is back with a two-day, heritage-themed music festival at the cozy Chinatown park. Getai Soul will feature 16 bands like Charlie Lim & The Mothership, The Steve Mcqueens and Tim De Cotta & The Warriors, along with artists from Malaysia, Indonesia and Japan. There will also be performances by the Siong Leng Music Association, Sin Ee Lye Heng Teochew Puppetry Troupe and a Cantonese opera performance—and food stalls and drink, of course. May 7-8, getaisoul2016.peatix.com. $48-88.

now DRINK

ART The watercolor paintings of Paul Wang

Imbibe lots of rose Fans of rose and daytime drinking should not miss Rose Revolution Singapore, hosted by Eddie McDougall of TLC’s The Flying Winemaker. Showcasing over 20 of the best rose labels, sample these refreshing wines in the lush surrounds of Bukit Timah. May 14, Tin Hill Social Kitchen & Bar, 100 Turf Club Rd., bit.ly/1SH3IcJ. $50 ($90 for a pair).

CBD

ART

Emerald Hill

Paul Wang

Paul Wang is a watercolor artist and adjunct lecturer at Temasek Polytechnic’s School of Design. His work was featured in publications like Moleskine’s Art Journal Series (2011), The Urban Sketching Handbook (2014) and National Geographic Traveller Magazine (2014). Here, he talks about Singapore's unique urban landscape.

Ponder Singapore’s relationship with the sea

Olympian sailor turned artist Charles Lim represented the nation at the Singapore Pavillion of the Venice Biennale last year. That photographic show, SEA STATE, exploring Singapore’s geopolitical and psychological relationship with the sea, is now on display at Gillman Barracks. Until July 10, Centre for Contemporary Art, Gillman Barracks, Blk 37-38 Malan Rd., www.ntu. ccasingapore.org. Free.

Shiori

MUSIC

Bop to some bebop

Part of the We Love Jazz party series introducing locals to different facets of the genre, this one covers swinging bebop and straight ahead. Expect big sounds, lots of energetic improvisation, visiting Japanese bands, a mixed crowd, burgers by Wolf Burger and lots of other fun stuff at this daytime-to-nighttime, outdoor party. May 7, Kult Kafe, 11 Upper Wilkie Rd., welovejazzparty3.peatix.com. $25-30.

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

What got you into watercolor painting? I must thank my mother for sending me to weekly drawing lessons when I was in lower primary. I think that opportunity and exposure gave impetus to my current creative pursuits. I have always been fascinated by watercolors because of its transparency and fluidity. It is just a dance between water and [watercolor] paint. I like the challenge of learning a very simple and yet difficult medium, and that led me to use watercolor and markers during my studies at Temasek Polytechnic and the Queensland University of Technology. How is Singapore’s cityscape different from other Asian countries? Singapore is a melting pot of many very different styles of architecture. I can stand at any corner and see juxtapositions of different building types [that] create very interesting relationships. The old and the new, the religious and commercial spaces [are] compressed into a very exciting scene. That makes our streetscape and skyline distinct and unique. To some it may be confusing and lacking in cohesiveness, but to me, this shows that Singapore doesn't have just one style of architecture, but a "rojak" mix of styles blended over time. You have a very unique style of painting, where the lines and the colors look “messy,” but we are able to see the whole picture. My background training in interior design, architecture and theater design has greatly influenced approach to seeing and drawing. I like to respond quickly to what I see and capture the story behind the scene. I want to blur the line between drawing and painting because my brain is responding to so many sensory stimuli all at the same time. Hence, you will see quick drawings and spontaneous brushstrokes with dramatic colors. I go back

and forth between drawing and painting. I like to play and experiment a lot with my different tools and mediums. So sketching and painting to me is like a game I play and my paper is my laboratory. You are a part of Urban Sketchers Singapore. How have they influenced your work? Sketching with the Urban Sketchers locally and abroad has helped me see the world with new eyes. There is always another alternative way of seeing the same subject. We embrace all approaches to sketching as long as it is done on-location. This freedom and support I get has increased my boldness to experiment. I brew new ideas by interacting with fellow sketchers when we sketch together. Whose work inspires you? I have two heroes and they inspire me very differently. Shirley Trevena is a very famous English watercolor painter and she is self-taught and well-known for breaking all the rules of watercolor painting. Her book Breaking the Rules of Watercolor spoke to me and she is a master of texture. Charles Reid is a famous American oil painter turned watercolorist. He uses very bold colors and knows how to create beauty out of a cacophony of seemingly unrelated colors. I am inspired by the organised mess and blotches he creates on paper. He inspired my very spontaneous way of splashing and painting. What difficulties did you have when you first started painting? My earlier sketches and paintings tend to be very rigid and realistic. I think I wanted to record everything I saw and as a result some of my works became very labored. I would also spend too much time finding the best spot and the perfect view before drawing. Nowadays I try to find beauty in the most mundane scene and start drawing.

You can keep up with Paul Wang's work on Instagram (@paulwang_sg). SHI MIN XIE

FRIDAY, MAY 6 2016 SG MAGAZINE

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

MUSIC

FILM

11 10

Catch a subversive screening

Jason Soo’s controversial documentary 1987: Untracing the Conspiracy, about alleged Marxist detainees during Operation Spectrum was expected to be banned, but instead received an R21 rating for a onetime screening. The Projector applied again and received the same. Catch one of three screenings happening over the next few weeks before they all sell out. May 10 & 21, The Projector, 5/F Golden Mile Tower, 6001 Beach Rd., www.theprojector.sg. $13.

Wave your arms to some Icelandic indie rock

Of Monsters and Men, who’ve previously rocked places like Coachella, Bonnaroo and Lollapalooza with their big drum sounds, orchestral vibes and anthemic choruses, are playing on Sentosa. Expect some serious arm-waving to their newest single “Crystal”. May 10. The Coliseum @ Hard Rock Hotel, Resorts World Sentosa, www.woahfest.com. $99.

MUSIC

FOOD

Experience a feminist rock band one-two punch

If you felt like you were never cool enough in high school, this night of super-cool girl bands is your chance to do it all over again. Spanish indie rockers Hinds (pictured) are visiting and playing alongside Singaporean band Obedient Wives Club at a cozy, intimate, outdoor venue. May 11, Kult Kafe, 11 Upper Wilkie Rd., www.peatix.com. $35.

FESTIVAL

Have a fancy picnic with your friends

Get your (Shanghai) swing on

The Savour food festival is an expanded edition with three different events happening in the second and third quarter of the year: Savour Gourmet, Savour Wines and Savour Christmas. Don’t miss the first installment—a culinaryfocused event featuring over 30 dishes from Singapore restaurants, priced between $6-12. May 12-15, www.savour.com.sg.

PARTY

Sunshine Nation—who just did electro picnic Garden Beats Festival—is now stirring things up at Gatsby-chic restaurant and bar The Black Swan. Electro Ball 2016—Shanghai Swing will have a 1920s theme, with electro-swing music, remixed Chinese melodies, dancers and photo booths. Better dryclean those tuxes and cocktail dresses. Pay the cover or book a table and dinner with friends. May 14, The Black Swan, The Quadrant, 19 Cecil St., electroball-shanghaiswing. peatix.com. $35-1,400.

Get into all things Japanese Esplanade’s first-ever Super Japan festival kicks off on May 13, with ten days of traditional and modern concerts, large-scale performances and plays, arts & crafts sessions and of course, food. Highlights include a performance by J-pop sensation Kyary Pamyu Pamyu (May 13), a big-band extravaganza by Blue Note Tokyo All-Star Jazz Orchestra (May 15), interpretations of the famous 14th century noh play The Damask Drum (May 14-15) and lots more events—free and ticketed. May 13-22, Esplanade— Theatres on the Bay, 1 Esplanade Dr., www.esplanade.com/superjapan. Various prices.

FILM Ongoing festivals to book now SINGAPORE CHINESE FILM FESTIVAL You still have a couple more days before the end of the SCFF, which brings together top features, documentaries and shorts from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Singapore. You can still catch Ruby Yang’s documentary about the cinematic history of Chinese American immigrants, A Moment in Time (May 7) and Chinese filmmaker Degena Yun’s artful feature A Simple Goodbye (May 8), among a few others. Until May 8, various venues, http://scff.sg. $13 The Birth of Saké

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016

EUROPEAN UNION FILM FESTIVAL Singapore’s longest-running foreign film festival is back for its 26th edition with a program of 30 films from 30 countries across Europe. Highlights include the Dutch epic Admiral, award-winning Ukrainian silent film The Tribe and Latvian documentary Ruch and Norie. May 10-22, Golden Village Suntec City, 3 Temasek Blvd., www.euff.sg. $12

FOOD CINE.MA Brought to you by the same people behind the immensely successful A Design Film Festival, the first edition of this food-themed film fest will see the world premiere of Tasteology, a film that shines the spotlight on the chefs who are advancing taste through science and experiential dining, and Asian premieres of Miso Hungry, comedian Craig Anderson’s healthy eating adventure in Japan, and The Birth of Saké, a documentary that charts the 2,000 years of tradition that go into crafting Japan’s national drink. Till May 14, Objectifs, 155 Middle Rd., www.foodcine.ma. $15.

An amazing culinary spread of original creations by top restaurants, s p e c i a l a i r- f l o w n g o u r m e t p r o d u c e a n d d e l i c i o u s c o c k t a i l s a w a i t s !

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SCENE & HEARD

Andrew Arthur

MUSIC

Tegan & Sara

Singapore Coffee Festival

Party with M83

The French electronic band is coming back to Singapore. First beloved for their Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming album, they’ve played at festivals like Lollapalooza, the Melt! Festival, the Hollywood Bowl and many others. They’ll no doubt play a bunch of stuff from their latest studio album Junk. May 18, The Coliseum @ Hard Rock Hotel, Resorts World Sentosa, www.sistic.com. $79-119.

SISTER, SISTER They’ve been here before, but our inner subversive feminist is jumping for joy nevertheless that edgy twin sister duo Tegan & Sara is coming back to Singapore on Jul 29 and performing at The Star Theatre, thanks to the good folks at Live Nation Lushington. They’ll be touring in support of their Love You to Death album. Tickets start at $68 and are available through Sistic. LIGHT UP AGAIN It’s official: Singapore’s answer to the regional Laneway is coming back for a second year. Neon Lights 2016 will take place Nov 26-27 at good ol’ Fort Canning. That’s all we know at this point, but last year, we were stoked about Daughter, Kid Koala and Mogwai and smaller but solid acts like Songhoy Blues and Shugo Tokumaru—along with the plentiful fringe events. Sign up for updates at eepurl.com/bt8hhj. FESTIVE SPIRITS It’s almost June, and that means not one but two major festivals dedicated to two of our favorite beverages. The first-ever Singapore Coffee Festival is happening Jun 10, at the F1 Pit Building, and tickets are going for $18 at sgcoffeefestival.com.sg. Beerfest 2016 is happening Jun 16-19 at Marina Promenade, this time with lots more non-beer options and more exciting food options (including ceviche place Tiger’s Milk). Tickets start at $25 from Sistic. More info at www.beerfestasia.com. HOT DATE Jun 4 is shaping up to be a packed day indeed, so we’re giving a heads-up to plan your calendars. Not only is it the date of the annual LGBT picnic Pink Dot at Hong Lim Park, it’s also when crooner Damien Rice is paying us yet another visit, playing at The Star Theatre. Also exciting: live music hub Blu Jaz will host its first-ever street party (like you hadn’t already been dancing on the sidewalk there all along) on the same day.

BOOKS

PARTY

Slink away to a secret, underground festival

Underground party organizers Under the Bridge are putting together a free secret festival. The event promises two stages comprising techno, house, psy and more, lasers and projectors, cheap drink deals, free entry and a very exciting super secret location. May 14, location TBA, bit.ly/1MYlqJO. Free entry.

Attend a launch of this prison memoir

Spoken word poet and lead singer of funk band Wobology and one-time interviewee of SG Magazine, Deborah Emmanuel spent a year without trial at a Singapore correctional facility for drug offences when she was 19. Check out the launch of her memoir, Rebel Rites, about her time in the prison system. May 15, Kult Kafe, Emily Hilly, bit. ly/1qW1gFO.

DRAG

Bow down before D'Bus

In case you missed the first show, the city's only drag revue Riot! has a new home at Clarke Quay, and Becca and her girls will be back there this month with more blush-inducing humor, surreal costumes, foot-tapping lip syncing numbers and lots of hootin' n' hollerin'. May 14, Shanghai Dolly, 3B River Valley Rd., www.riotdragshow.com. $25-450.

SHOPPING

Check out the massive pop-up at Isetan Art market organizer Togetherly and multi-label store Workshop Element have teamed up for a 17,000 sq. ft retail pop-up featuring fashion, home, beauty and food products. WE x Togetherly also features a Book Exchange Corner where you can trade pre-loved tomes for "new" ones, and it even comes with a wrapping service. Through June. 1/F Isetan Orchard, Wisma Atria, 435 Orchard Rd., bit.ly/1QydeKX.

NIGHTLIFE 5 belated Cinco de Mayo parties to catch HOMBRE CANTINA This Boat Quay bar hosts the fashionably late Siete de Mayo (May 7th) with $10 deals on all margaritas and San Miguel pints along with $17 tacos, burritos and quesadillas. There’s also be Latin music by Daryl Epimaco and piñatas for a bit of weekend stress relief. May 7, 53 Boat Quay, bit.ly/1pI7TL0.

Lucha Loco

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016

MOGAMBO & HERO’S Also in the vicinity of Boat Quay, Mogambo and Hero’s will be throwing a Cinco de Mayo Fiesta with $10 Coronas and Jägermeister shots. Come in your finest poncho and sombrero and you can look forward to a free shot as well. May 7, 3

Canton Street, Boat Quay, bit.ly/1YUPfLO. LUCHA LOCO Over on Duxton Hill, Lucha Loco is changing things up with “Disco de Mayo”. With DJ El Mysterio spinning, there’ll be disco dance-offs, lots of tacos and plenty of tequila. May 7, 15 Duxton Hill, www.bit.ly/244Bxx8. SINGAPORE PUB CRAWL Everyone’s favorite pub crawl organizers Singapore Pub Crawl are putting on a special Cinco de Mayo event. You’ll hit up three Latinthemed bars and finish off the night at a “mega” club with free shots, all-night happy hour deals

and a ride on a party bus along the way. May 7, Meet at Botero’s Bird sculpture, UOB Plaza, 80 Raffles Place, wwww.cincodemayo. peatix.com. $50 TERRA Known for their Latin-inspired dishes and cocktails made with house-grown botanicals, Terra brings a week of Mexican festivities to the Suntec City Sky Garden. You can catch the tail end of the celebration with $8 margaritas (lime and strawberry basil), $12 Bloody Marias and $48 tequila shot half-dozens. Until May 6, #03308 Suntec City Sky Garden, 3 Temasek Blvd., bit. ly/237WUHR.

now FOOD 6 Mother’s Day dinners to book now

Debbie Y

PARTY

Cocotte

Drink by a fancy pool

Eyes to the Front is back with its Light Pool Party in the CBD’s fancy Sofitel So, with great drink deals—$12 beers and wine, $15 house pours and mojitos—and DJs Titus, Rocky Suave and Oliver Osborne. May 7, Hi-So, Sofitel So Singapore, 35 Robinson Rd., www.facebook.com/eyestothefront. $10 (with one drink, before 4pm).

Brizo Restaurant & Bar

ART

See the latest work by a top Singapore artist Simon Ng has a new show. Mysterious Skin is a series of abstract portraits combining bright colors with the contrast of the seemingly violent impasto technique. Until Jun 5, Chan Hampe Galleries, Raffles Hotel Arcade, 328 North Bridge Rd., www. chanhampegalleries.com.

DRINK

Pick up some specialty booze...at a shoe store

Proof & Company is selling a range of spirits and bartending books and tools from now till August 2016 at its Scotts Square pop-up, and shoppers can expect a selection of gins, rums, vodkas, bourbons, piscos and artisanal mezcals from craft distilleries around the world. There will also be an interactive tasting sessions hosted by industry insiders on this weekend, too. Through August. 2/F Pedder on Scotts, Scotts Square, 6 Scotts Rd., www.pedderonscotts.com.

Check out Tiong Bahru’s hot new yoga studio

WELLNESS

The White Rabbit

Artemis Grill

Give that special woman in your life a scrumptious treat—from dim sum buffets to crab feasts, here are some ideas. ARTEMIS GRILL Soak in the Marina Bay skyline as you wine and dine with a three-course Mediterranean lunch menu comprising an entree, main dish and dessert. Choose from dishes like the signature beetroot tortellini with feta and ricotta or the John dory, served with chorizo, almonds, preserved lemon gremolata and kale. From $68 per person. May 8, 11:30am-3pm. #04-01 CapitaGreen, 138 Market St., www.artemisgrill.com.sg. BRIZO RESTAURANT & BAR AT PARK HOTEL CLARKE QUAY Tuck into a spread of crab dishes at this seafood buffet, which has highlights like Singaporestyle chili crab, snow crab meat au gratin and salted egg yolk crab. Other star items include the Spanish-style roast pork belly, roast duck and King prawns in creamy butter. From $70++ per adult and $35++ for children. May 8, 123pm. 1 Unity St., www.parkhotelgroup.com. COCOTTE Just for Mother’s Day, the restaurant’s popular brunch trolley features crepe dishes with seafood, egg, ham and gruyere cheese and wild mushrooms. There are also mainstays like roast chicken, quiches, ham and brie baguettes, desserts and a free flow of rose, prosecco and other wines. At $139++ per person and each table receives a complimentary DIY bouquet kit. May 8, 12-3pm.1/F Wanderlust Hotel, 2 Dickson Rd., www.restaurantcocotte.com.

If your class is all booked up at Tiong Bahru's Yoga Movement, you now have a second option. Guillemard Road’s Yoga Inc has expanded to the same street with a simple space decked out in retro touches inspired by Chinese pop culture. There are classes for all levels, and prices start from $35 for a single drop in to $840 for an unlimited three-month membership. 21 Yong Siak St., 9092-3922, www.yogainc.sg.

LAWRY’S The steakhouse is offering a four-course menu with salad, white cod and avruga caviar, a choice of roasted prime rib of beef or Atlantic lobster and balsamic glazed salmon, and a dessert made of honeycomb, fresh berries, custard and Haagan-Daz ice cream. From $88++ per person. May 7-8, 11:30am-3pm. #04-01/31 Mandarin Orchard, 333A Orchard Rd., www.lawrys.com.sg. LIME RESTAURANT AT PARKROYAL ON PICKERING The buffet restaurant is once again serving up a spread which it dubs the “Mom-strous” lunch buffet. On the international menu are premium items like the roasted wagyu topside, a selection of foie gras, lobster eggs benedict and 36-hour braised pork belly, as well as local dishes such as roti prata and satay. From $108 to $158 per adult and $54 per child. May 8, 12:30-4:30pm. 1/F Parkroyal on Pickering, 3 Upper Pickering St., www.parkroyalhotels.com. THE WHITE RABBIT Celebrate Mother’s Day in full force at The White Rabbit’s Mother’s Day brunch buffet. Featuring hearty items like US prime ribs, freshly shucked oysters, Maine lobsters, braised pork belly and grilled Angus steaks, it’s an eat-all-you-can feast. Moms will also receive a surprise from Yves Saint Laurent Beauty. From $98++ (first seating) to $108 ++ (second seating) per adult, and $48 ++ per child. May 8, 10am-12:45pm (first seating); 12:30-3:30pm (second seating). 39C Harding Rd., www.thewhiterabbit.com.sg.

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

FRIDAY, MAY 6 2016 SG MAGAZINE

Erwin Soo

city scape

AWARE camptaign for single parents

CITY LIVING

It’s a New Day

5 signs Singapore has finally realized it’s 2016. By SG Staff

here’s no doubt that Singapore is one of the most advanced countries in the world. We’re near the top when it comes to HDI, GDP and all the acronyms that matter, and when a lifestyle trend sweeps the world, you can bet Singapore will be among the first to embrace it (and then run it into the ground). Yet, there are many surprising areas where Singapore continues to fall short. That might be changing if these developments are anything to go by.

SIA hires its first women pilots Pop the champagne, women now have every opportunity to become pilots in Singapore! What? According to The Straits Times, Singapore Airlines is “the last Singapore passenger carrier—and quite possibly major global airline —to hire women pilots”? Well, better late than never. We’re looking forward to meeting this new “Singapore Girl”.

Single mothers finally get equal treatment (well, almost) After months of reviews, the government has finally announced that single mothers will enjoy some of the same benefits as their married counterparts. Their eight weeks of maternity leave has been upped to the standard 16 and their children will be eligible for Child Development Accounts. However, single mothers still won’t receive Baby Bonus gifts or parenthood tax rebates, and they’ll have to wait until they’re 35 to get their own flats under the HDB’s singles scheme. No word on what support will be provided for facing moral crusaders who ask whether this move will “encourage promiscuity”.

Dads get to be dads Now more than ever, raising kids is a team effort that requires contributions from both parents. Previously only eligible for one week of paid paternity leave, Singaporean fathers can now look forward to spending a lot more time with their newborns. The one week has been doubled to two weeks, and they also have the option of sharing four weeks of the maternity leave available to their wives

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016

(up from one week). On top of the one week of childcare leave and one week of unpaid infant care leave already available, this means a Singaporean dad can take up to two months off work in his child’s first year. The changes will be implemented in stages from Jan 1, 2017.

Singaporean father and child

The education system makes a “paradigm shift” The days of rote learning are over! According to Channel NewsAsia, Acting Minister for Education (Schools) Ng Chee Meng has declared a need for Singapore to look beyond academic excellence. “Currently, despite our efforts to move towards a holistic education, there is still a narrow emphasis on academics and paper qualifications,” Ng said. “This is deeply ingrained in our culture, translated into the expectations of our children, parents, and teachers. Eventually, this is perhaps even manifested in employer mind-sets in workplaces.” Gee, we wonder where such a culture came from.

Singapore Airlines

We’re looking at ways to go “car-lite” While not popular with everyone, the move towards a more “car-lite” Singapore is essential in the face of climate change and a growing population. The mooted licensing for Uber and Grab drivers turned out to be relatively uneventful, car sharing options are growing, the government is looking at six potential cycling routes to connect housing estates to the city within 30 minutes and car-free days are all the rage.

Grab Freedom Day Cars

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

The latest openings and hottest trends in Singapore

WELLNESS

Marklin Ang

Danny Santos

island

On the Run

Bored of making loops around your estate? Head for these scenic running routes instead. By SG Staff

MacRitchie Reservoir

Vincent Chong

Helix Bridge

East Coast Park

Changi Boardwalk

unning could be considered a national pastime, judging from the number of running events mushrooming on the sporting calendar these days. And for good reason, too—you don’t need any fancy equipment, just yourself and a good ol’ pair of running shoes. Here, we round up 12 running routes around Singapore that are great for clocking some mileage.

Bedok Reservoir The 88-hectare park features a 4.3km track that loops around the reservoir, offering joggers scenic views of the waterfront. For nature lovers, the area is home to over 14,000 wetland plants and the lucky few might even spot birds like swallows, little herons and kingfishers. What makes this a great place to run is the variety of dining options along the way, such as Bedok Food Centre and popular bistro Wawawa. Along Bedok Reservoir Rd.

Changi Beach Park This coastal park is just 3.3km long. However, you can choose to continue along Changi Coast Road, where you’ll get to see airplanes taking off and landing (it’s parallel to the airport’s landing strip). If you still have fuel left in your tank, you can even race down East Coast Park before calling it a day. Nicoll Dr.

Coney Island This leafy off-shore nature sanctuary has a rich ecosystem, with 80 species of birds such as the nationally critically endangered spotted wood owl, rare plants that were thought to be nationally extinct and a free-roaming

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016

Brahman bull. The 50-hectare park, located next to Punggol Promenade Nature Walk, has boardwalks that lead through the island’s forest, mangroves and to the beach. Coney Island West Entrance (500 meters east along Punggol Promenade Nature Walk).

East Coast Park If you’re a seasoned marathon runner, you’ll probably be tired of pounding along this 15km track already (the park almost always features in marathon events here). That said, it’s still favored by many runners—you get to feast your eyes on gorgeous beach scenery, with the sea breeze in your hair. East Coast Park Service Rd.

Fort Canning Park This historical park needs no introduction—popular with locals, expats, tourists and concert-goers alike, the many steps leading up to the hilltop reserve at Clemenceau Avenue are great for a pre work-out warm up. And for those who prefer a more challenging run, it’s also where you can find steep slopes and uneven paths, all set along a trail of heritage trees. River Valley Rd.

Kallang Riverside Park Not many people are aware of this, but the footpaths along Kallang River make for great running routes—you’ll pass landmarks like the Singapore Flyer and the F1 Pit Building on one side of the river, and the Singapore Indoor Stadium and private estates of Tanjong Rhu on the other. Plus, you’ll get to see plenty of dragonboats and kayaks out on the water, especially on weekends. Kallang Rd, Stadium Rd., and Crawford St.

Keppel Bay Check out luxury yachts docked along this posh waterfront precinct. Starting from Labrador Park Reserve, this leisurely route brings you on a straighforward trail along the bay, through the Keppel Bay Bridge and Keppel Island on a track that measures about 3km. Labrador Villa Rd and 2 Keppel Bay Vista.

MacRitchie Reservoir Park Long a favorite with endurance athletes and weekend warriors alike, MacRitchie offers up to almost 11km of terrain. It’s easy to customize your own running route (just be sure not to get lost)—for instance, you can start

Marklin Ang

NEIGHBORHOOD Where to shop in Kampong Glam Singapore’s retail scene may be up and down, with recent Max Tan at Capitol Piazza, CB2 at Peranakan Place and even the decade-old vintage shop Granny’s Day Out all closing, but things in Kampong Glam are looking quite exciting. Here’s the lowdown.

Scene Shang

Singapore Tourism Board

Darren Soh

Marina Bay Waterfront

SCENE SHANG Previously only available online and at department stores Tangs and Robinsons, e-commerce home and decor brand Scene Shang opens its first boutique at Kampong Glam’s Beach Road. The 1,000 sq ft. boutique is located in an airy shophouse, with a mini courtyard inspired by traditional Chinese gardens. Owners Pamela Ting and Jessica Wong take inspiration from Asian heritage, and their designs feature the label’s signature chinoiserie elements. Product highlights include the President’s Design Award-nominated Shang multi-storage drawer system (from $1,400) that has brightly-colored and stackable compartments, and the Art Deco cushions with prints of iconic heritage buildings in Singapore ($27.50-28). Scene Shang also plans to host workshops, exhibitions and art installations. 263 Beach Rd., www.shop.sceneshang.com.

Supermama

Fort Canning Park

Punggol Waterway

off on the boardwalk, or head straight for the dirt tracks. Cardio bunnies should try the full 10.6km loop around the reservoir—the undulating trail is tricky and challenging, to say the least—but the immense sense of satisfaction you’ll get at the end of your run will be oh so worth it. Lornie Rd.

Marina Bay Waterfront You’ll find lots of business folk running along the promenade after work. The (approximately) 3.5km route is especially scenic, with landmarks like the Helix Bridge, Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion along the way. If you’re looking for extra mileage, you can even run around the nearby Kallang Riverside Park before heading back. 2 Bayfront Ave.

Punggol Waterway Park Another leisurely trail for non-competitive joggers, this 12.25-hectare waterfront suburban park is popular with families and cyclists, too. The Punggol Promenade Riverside walk is an ideal spot for a nighttime run, as it has pretty fiber optic features that light up after dark and for early birds, the Sunrise Bridge is where you’ll want to be to catch the sunrise. Sentul Crescent Rd.

Sembawang Park

SUPERMAMA The Kampong Glam bit of Beach Road has gotten some exciting new shops lately, including homegrown independent lifestyle boutique Supermama, which has launched another outlet, selling quirky knick-knacks with a nostalgic Singapore slant. Check out their signature ceramic series, featuring artist collaborations and graphics of local icons, or one-of-a-kind homeware items that will make great souvenirs. 265 Beach Rd., www.supermama.sg.

This neighborhood park is rather picturesque—there’s a tranquil, unspoiled beach that’s great for swimming. Plus, the Sembawang Park Connector runs along the 4km-long Sungei Sembawang, where you’ll get to see an assortment of water birds like kingfishers—it can break up the monotony of a run nicely. 19 Jalan Mata Ayer.

The Southern Ridges Take things up a notch with the 9km-long Southern Ridges trail, which covers Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, Hort Park, Kent Ridge Park and Labrador Park. Expect lots of steep slopes that will make your calves and quads cry out for mercy—definitely not for the faint of heart. However, you’ll get to observe loads of flora and fauna along the way (plus some great views across to Sentosa), if that’s any consolation. Mount Faber Rd.

The General Store

THE GENERAL STORE Not to be confused with networking outfit General Assembly and other cute-stuff shop General Company, once online-only shop The General Store opened a brick-and-mortar shop on Arab Street late last summer, bringing its curated collection of design-focused lifestyle labels under one roof. They carry cute and quirky (and mostly affordable) streetwear, accessories, watches and homeware, and frequently host pop-ups. 38 Arab St., www.thegeneralstore.sg.

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

eats

The inside scoop on Singapore’s drink and dining scene

TRENDS

Too Cute for School It’s time to check these indulgent food trends off your list. (And disavow them next month) By Chelsia Tan Chir Chir Fusion Chicken Factory

Prima Deli

Pompompurin Cafe

Bao Makers

Antoinette

Redpan

aindrop cakes and rainbow bagels may not have graced our shores yet, but there’s been a few queue-inducing trends (some new, some still holding on) taking over Singapore’s food scape in recent months. If you’re all over Hello Kitty Cafe making its debut at Changi Airport, then this one’s for you.

Cartoon cafes

Croissants with wild fillings

Fries with toppings

Forget whitewashed walls, Scandinavian furniture and bare-bulb chandeliers—cute and cuter is the name of the game here. From Hello Kitty Cafe’s first orchidthemed outlet at Changi Airport Terminal 3 to the new Pompompurin Cafe (#04-08 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Rd., www.facebook.com/pompompurincafesg), you can have your favorite Sanrio character served to you on a plate. Just be prepared for eye-rolls from your sensible friends.

Remember the salted egg croissants from Flavour Flings which sparked a queueing frenzy? After launching their own version of the savory French pastry, Antoinette’s (30 Penhas Rd., www.antoinette.com.sg) chef Pang Kok Keong is on a roll. He has since pushed out several fancy fillings and flavors, ranging from the popular chili crab and matcha, to charcoal kaya and quatre fromages, with aged cheddar, gruyere, parmesan and mozzarella.

Sure, fries topped with cheese/mayonnaise/beef chilli may not be a new concept, but we’ve noticed a trend of unusual toppings on cafe and restaurant menus. From kimchi cheese to marshmallows with salted duck egg cream sauce, you can find them at eateries and stalls like The World Is Flat (JTC LaunchPad @ one-north, 73A Ayer Rajah Crescent) and Redpan (#02-03/04 Marina Square, 6 Raffles Blvd., www.redpan.sg).

Cheese tarts

Fried chicken

Fusion bao

You no longer have to lug boxes of these diet-busters from sojourns to Hong Kong, Bangkok or Seoul. Hokkaido-based confectionary shop Bake (#B4-33 Ion Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, www.bakecheesetart.com) opened its Southeast Asian flagship store at Ion Orchard on Apr 29. PrimaDeli (www.primadeli.com) has also launched a selection of lava cheese tarts that come in original and (what else?) salted egg flavors, available in limited quantities at all outlets.

Singapore’s love affair with fried chicken continues with Bjorn Shen’s trashy/messy Thai concoctions at Bird Bird and Korean chimaek chain Chir Chir Fusion Chicken Factory’s new honey butter chicken dish (#B3-04/05/06 313@Somerset, www.facebook.com/chirchirsingapore). And at one of the hottest places to dine at right now, Timbre + (JTC LaunchPad @ one-north, 73A Ayer Rajah Crescent, www.timbreplus.sg) is setting Instagram on fire with salted egg chicken wings from Two Wings.

While there has always been a handful of places like 40 Hands and Neon Pigeon offering East-West renditions of the popular Chinese pulled pork bun on the side, it seems like the tea-time favorite is becoming a menu highlight. At Bao Makers (78 Horne Rd., www.baomakers.com), a relatively new Jalan Besar cafe, diners have a choice of braised pork belly, salted egg shrimp, teriyaki chicken, nanban chicken and chili crab. Opening soon is Full of Luck Club (243 Holland Ave., www.fullofluck.club), a Cantonese-inspired eatery offering five different variations like salted egg yolk prawn, smoked duck and kung pao fried chicken. Yum.

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eats Paul Gooder

NEW AND NOTED with Chelsia Tan

dark leather booths and an open kitchen. They set themselves apart from other fancy burger restaurants here, with a short, affordable selection of four different burgers (cheeseburger, hamburger, bacon burger and bacon cheeseburger) ranging from $13.10 for a hamburger to $15.80 for a bacon cheeseburger. And in true New York fashion, don’t be surprised if you get the side-eye for not clearing after yourself. There are also 18 craft beers on tap and a cocktail by Proof & Co. 115 Amoy St., 6221-8648, www.burgerjointny.com.

Bowled Over Ninja Bowl

Burger Joint

comes dripping with som tum barbecue sauce. And if you can’t get over the salted egg yolk craze, there’s the Salty Duck, with ground duck patty, salted egg tartar sauce, fresh mint and grilled onions. 18 Ann Siang Rd., www.facebook.com/birdbirdsg.

BARS

New York Confidential

Damian D’Silva

Bird Bird

NEW MENU

Flipping Bird-gers

We’re fans of Bjorn Shen and his “shen-nanigans”, and now the bad boy chef has launched a new late night supper menu at fried chicken paradise, Bird Bird. Available every Friday and Saturday until 2am, his decadent burger creations include The Chickenator, a fried chicken patty sandwiched between a toasted bun, with green papaya, onions and som tum sauce. If that’s not enough, you can add Unicorn Jizz (or truffle mayo) for an extra dollar. Also worth a heart attack is the Duck You! burger, a sloppy mess that

Singapore’s cocktail scene is heating up, with 28 HongKong Street named Asia’s Best Bar and eight other local watering holes making the Asia’s 50 Best Bars list. Now, a famed New York cocktail bar is set to arrive. Employees Only is a swanky bar with interiors reminiscent of the Prohibition era. It is fronted by ex-Marine and bartender Steve Schneider, a veteran of the US bar scene and star of Hey Bartender, a cocktail documentary by Douglas Tirola. The bar will be opening on Amoy Street, but details on its launch are still under wraps. For updates, check out www.facebook.com/employeesonlysingapore.

RESTAURANTS

Another Joint by NYC

Located alongside cool cats like bottle shop and cafe Gemmills, Mediterranean restaurant Maggie Joan’s, and the soon-to-be-open Employee’s Only (see previous entry), fellow New Yorker Burger Joint has just opened., with an “underground” diner-style vibe,

The definitive guide to eating out in Bangkok Packed with recommendations on Thailand’s famous street food stalls, finest restaurants and the best craft cocktail & brew bars Decad

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After months of suspense, veteran chef Damian D’Silva has unveiled his newest venture at Timbre +. D’s Joint is a simple set-up serving honest, Singaporean favorites and Western plates, albeit in a faux-gritty setting. Sure, there’s the usual fish and chips, pastas and burgers, but what’s sending food critics here in a tizzy is his nasi lemak, with a generous portion of fried ikan kuning, omelet, fragrant coconut rice, sambal and ikan bilis. Besides this hot favorite, the menu also offers other interesting highlights like the kai fun (or street rice), rice served with chicken broth, char siew, lup cheong and shredded chicken that was a staple for coolies back in the day, and Peranakan specialty sek bak; pig offal in thick, aromatic gravy. JTC LaunchPad @ one-north, 73A Ayer Rajah Crescent, www.timbreplus.sg.

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The Astronauts Group, which owns Chillax Cafe and Babette Restaurant & Bar, opens their third venture along Duxton Road. Ninja Bowl is a fuss-free Japanese fusion eatery specializing in single bowl items. Located in a shophouse, the 46-seater space is a trendy but typical combination of industrial finishes and minimalist decor. The menu features Japanese-Western dishes for brunch, lunch and dinner like the Buta ($14); cured pork belly, ume-pickled apples, roasted pumpkin, balsamic tomatoes and onsen egg, Genki ($16); unagi with toppings of roasted pumpkin, Korean mung beansprouts, pickled beets and onsen egg and Kaisen ($16); Hokkaido scallops and New Zealand mussels in lemon butter sauce, with carrots, shimeji, shiitake and button mushrooms. 15 Duxton Rd., www.ninjabowl.com.sg.

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Phang Nga

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ou may have missed Songkran, but the best bits of Thailand are yet to be discovered. If you’re over Samui, Phuket and all that, try some of these islands.

Phang Nga

Phang Nga has long been overshadowed by neighboring Phuket, despite the undoubted majesty of Khaolak Beach and Andaman Sea hot spots the Similan and Surin islands. Head here: There’s plenty here for adventure seekers. Dubbed “Little Amazon”, Klong Sang Nae (+66 86-953-1789, +77 76-424-176) looks like something out of an Indiana Jones film, snaking its way through thick banyan tree forests in Takua Pa district, an old mining boom area. It costs THB500 ($19.19) to rent a canoe or paddle boat and THB700 ($26.87) for a motorboat. Other nearby must-visits are Samed Nang Chee and Toh Li viewpoints, which offer unrivaled views over Phang Nga Bay from vantage points 2km apart. From Hin Rom Pier you can take a cruise around Phang Nga Bay. As well as homestays and legit fisherman family-run seafood restaurants, other attractions around the bay include Tham Phung Chang (or Elephant Belly Cave), the savannah-like Koh Phra Thong and Koh Yao Noi. One particular highlight is the 2km sand spit that connects Koh Yao Noi and Koh Plong at low tide. Locals call it “San Lang Mangkorn”, which means “dragon spine”. Check tide times if you want to catch it. Stay here: De Chom Villa (+66 81-926-3286, www.fb.com/ dechomvilla) is a good choice nearby. You can also stay at Khaolak or Koh Yao Noi: Beyond Resort Khaolak (+66 76-592300, goo.gl/O8FS0o) recently unveiled new villas, while Paradise Koh Yao (+66 76-584-450, www.paradise-kohyao. com) comes with a grand sunset view of Phang Nga Bay. How to get there: It’s better to rent a car as local buses are sparse. It takes 10 hours to drive from Bangkok but you can fly to Phuket and rent a car from there.

Chumphon

This gateway-to-the-South province is a hidden gem for deep-sea activities in the Gulf of Thailand. It’s home to Mu Koh Chumphon National Park, an archipelago that spans islands such as Koh Tao, Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. And now some of the more remote

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016

spots are just being opened for diving tours. Head here: A diving day trip sets off from Mu Koh Chumphon National Park. The diving spots are separated into two zones: the north, which comprises Koh Ngam Noi, Koh Ngam Yai, Koh Talu, Koh Pitak and Koh Kalok, and the more accessible south, where you’ll find Koh Langka Jew and Koh Lawa. Koh Talu is probably the top pick, an underwater world of colorful fish species and coral, while Koh Langka Jew is home to a heart-shaped coral reef. Stay here: Mu Koh Chumphon National Park (+66 77-558144-5, goo.gl/s5OYb8) offers its own accommodation but if you want luxe, Tusita Resort (+66 77-579-151, www. tusitaresort.com) offers tasteful rooms and villas by the sea. How to get there: Nok Air operates daily one-hour flights from Bangkok starting at THB2,804 ($107.62) for a round trip.

Ranong

Covered in dense rainforest, this mountainous province has plenty of natural charm in the form of untouched jungles, beautiful coastlines and natural geysers. It’s also an important port for visitors looking to take a day trip to Myanmar’s gorgeous Andaman islands. Head here: Koh Phayam has been on the tourist trail for years, but retains its no-frills charm. Apart from the pristine beaches, the island is home to the amazing Phukhao Ya Song Si (two-tone grass hill). The name refers to the color of the grassland, which is green in rainy season (May-Oct) and gold in dry season (Nov-Apr). For chill beach time, head to Ao Khao Kwai, home to the iconic Hippy Bar, a heavydrinking establishment that looks like a pirate ship. Further afield, Grand Andaman Travel (+66 80-243-8888, +66 90-7105555, www.fb.com/grandandamantravel) offers THB3,900 ($148.68) tours to Myanmar’s Cocks Comb Island, whose deep azure inland lake is dubbed “The Emerald Heart.” Get a day pass for a fee. Stay here: The boutique Sino-Portuguese-style Hidden Resort & Restaurant Ranong (+66 77-821-900, www.thehiddenranong.com) just added a new pool where guests can swim

surrounded by vibrant greenery. Alternatively, consider a farm-stay at Baan Rai I Arun (+66 96-938-2981, www.fb.com/ baanraiiarun) and its modishly-styled wooden house. On Koh Phayam, Blue Sky Resort Koh Phayam’s (+66 2-247-7310-11, www.theblueskyresort.com) villas dot a mangrove forest. How to get there: Nok Air’s one-hour-20-minute flights from Bangkok start at THB3,354 ($128.72) and offer a considerable shortcut from the eight-hour drive.

Satun-Trang

While this province in Thailand’s deep South is renowned for popular summer destinations Koh Lipe and Koh Adang, this year sees neighboring islands Koh Phetra and Koh Laoliang also opening their shores to tourism. Head here: Protected bird reserve Koh Phetra is welcoming tourists for the very first time, though activities are limited to swimming and snorkeling. It’s a similar case with Koh Lao Liang Phi and Koh Lao Liang Nong, which come under the management of Mu Ko Phetra National Park National Parks & Marine Reserves (+66 77-558-144-5, goo.gl/V6xxj6), though here you can also camp and go rock climbing. You’ll probably have to base yourself at Koh Sukorn, a larger island famous for rice and watermelon plantations. Nearby Koh Hin Son is renowned for its unique landform of two rocks stacked on top of each other—a popular spot to catch sunset. Stay here: Yataa Resort (+66 75-828-594, +66 90-545-9614, www.yataaresort.com) is your best option on Koh Sukorn. It offers daily diving trips to Koh Phetra and Koh Lao Liang Phi at THB900 ($191.90) per person for groups of six. How to get there: You can fly to Trang from Bangkok via AirAsia (www.airasia.com) and Nok Air (www.nokair.com) starting from THB5,000 for a round trip. From here, catch a local van to Taseh Pier and connect to Koh Sukorn with a 15-minute longtail boat ride.

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Koh Mak

Situated between Koh Chang and Koh Kood, this small island’s local businesses have banded together to market the island as a low-carbon destination. That means lots of low-key outdoor activities like kayaking and diving. Organic food is produced on the island and many places use solar power. Head here: Diving still dominates. Koh Rang, a 10-minute boat ride away, is praised as the most beautiful spot for shallow coral reef diving in Eastern Thailand. At Koh Rad, the underwater scene is marked out by nine giant elephant statues put in place by the Department of Fisheries. You’ll have to go scuba diving to see it, though. Other top diving islands include Koh Kham, Koh Yak Yai, Koh Yak Lek and Koh Mapring. Another neighbor, Koh Kradad, is dubbed the “Sea Safari” for the herd of deer that calls it home. The island is only 1.2km at its widest and home to just one resort, Kradad Resort (www.

kohkradadresorts.com), who you will need to book with to take a tour. Stay here: There are around 30 resorts on the island and all of them have diving packages on offer. Go luxe at Plub Pla Koh Mak Retreat (+66 87-802-7575, www.plubplakohmak.com) or opt for mid-range at Koh Mak Cinnnamon Art Resort and Spa (+66 39-501-054, www. kohmakcinnamonresort.com), which offers well-designed huts right by the sea. How to get there: A six-hour drive from Bangkok will get you to Trat where you catch a boat to Koh Mak from Laem Ngob Pier. Bangkok Airways (www.bangkokair. com) offers a one-hour flight between Bangkok-Trat starting at THB5,400 ($207.25), but do note it’s a one-hour transfer from airport to pier. Boonsiri Ferry (www.boonsiriferry.com) rolls out an all-inone package that includes a van ride from Bangkok and catamaran ferry ticket with prices starting at THB750 ($28.78).

ARAB STREET/KAMPONG GLAM · Afterwit · Artistry Cafe · Maison Ikkoku · The Beast · Working Title · BEACH ROAD · Blu Jaz · The Plaza L1 Office Lobby Reception · The Projector · BOAT QUAY · Enoteca L’Operetta · Harry’s @ Boat Quay · Southbridge · The Arts House at Old Parliament · Timbre @ The Arts House · O Comptoir · BUGIS · Hood Bar and Cafe · Zeal Salon · Kapok @ National Design Centre · BUKIT TIMAH · PasarBella · Skyve Elementary Bistro & Bar · Spruce @ Firestation · CHINATOWN · Lepark · The Working Capitol · The Chamber · The Muffinry · Wa-Cafe · Morsi & Sorsi · CITY HALL · Dimbulah @ Chijmes · The Soup Spoon @ Raffles City Shopping Centre · The Soup Spoon @ Suntec City · Barossa @ Esplanade · Outback Steak House · Paulaner Brauhaus · Timbre @ The Substation · Ice Cold B’s · Brotzeit @ Raffles City · Coffee Club @ Raffles City Shopping · MICA Office Lobby Reception · The Substation · Loof · Dome Café @ Singapore Art Museum · Privé Chijmes · WineBos · CLARKE QUAY · Brewerkz · Ricciotti @ The Riverwalk · The Central L1 Customer Service · Crazy

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Hokkaido

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Beyond Borat

A trip to Hokkaido from Singapore generally requires a lengthy transit, a seat on a chartered flight only available in winter or (more recently) a ride on a Shinkansen, but that’s all set to change soon. Scoot will commence flights between Singapore and the prefecture’s capital, Sapporo, on Oct 1. Available three times a week, the new flights will make a brief stop in Taipei on the way. Known for its ski slopes, mouth-watering cuisine, natural attractions and booze (think Sapporo beer and Nikka whisky) Hokkaido has become a tourism hot spot in recent years. Return flights are available from $497 (including taxes, excluding baggage) at www.flyscoot.com.

Thanks to a new Memorandum of Understanding signed by the National Association of Travel Agents Singapore and the Embassy of Kazakhstan, tour agents in Singapore will soon be offering packages to the world’s ninth largest country, and direct flights are in the pipeline. One of the first travel agents to get on board is exotic trip specialist United Travel Corporation (www. universaltravel.com.sg). UTC will be rolling out an 11-day Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan package in the coming weeks. As part of the tour, you’ll explore Kazakhstan’s former capital, Almaty, and its current capital, Astana. You’ll spend an afternoon at a falcon farm, visit the spectacular Charyn Canyon and shop at Khan Shatyr, a massive tent that

Boxtel Thailand

stands over a space the size of 10 football fields. Along the way, you’ll discover Kazakh and Kyrgyz culture and cuisine. Pricing is still being confirmed.

these bright wooden rooms are surprisingly roomy. Stays are charged in one- to five-hour slots, starting at VND130,000 ($7.90) per hour for a single room.

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Boxed In

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Traveling through Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport or Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport? You can now sleep away your transits or flight delays in comfortable sleep pods. Café-style Boxtel Thailand (fb.com/ boxtelthailand), on the B floor of the Airport Link Zone at Suvarnabhumi, is built around a common area with dangling plants, pastel walls and natural woods. Two-hour stays are priced at THB600 ($23). In Hanoi, Noi Bai’s SleepPods (hanoiairporthotels.vn) may look like vending machines from the outside but

International human rights documentary film festival Freedom Film Fest 2016 will take place in Kuala Lumpur from Aug 20-28. With the theme “What Lies Beneath” this year’s festival seeks to shed light on human rights and public interest issues that don’t get enough coverage. Screenings will be held at PJ Live Arts, Jaya One, Petaling Jaya. For more information, head to freedomfilmfest.komas.org.

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last word

Paerin Choa Running Pink Dot, Singapore’s largest LGBT event, is no easy feat. The personal struggles of its organizers aside, there is backlash from critics, backlash from fellow LGBT organizations, not to mention the work of staging an event that gets larger every year. Less than a month away from the next one on June 4, attorney and committee spokesperson Paerin Choa tells Mrigaa Sethi about how it all started, why coming out at work is productive and why millenials are so amazing.

I was a typical Singapore student, who had tuition after school. I went to a Chinese school, and grew up in a staunch Catholic family. Growing up for me was a lot of hiding. I was also the eldest and only son in the family. I knew I couldn’t be gay. I’m 40 this year, and growing up, I had no Internet. I had no resources. There was no one I could talk to. All I knew was that the church says that it’s wrong, and my friends would make fun of me. As a kid in Singapore, all you need to do really is study and get into the stream that your parents want you to get into. When you have to study eight subjects, there’s not much distraction anyway. I went to law school for practical reasons: my science and math were not good. I wanted to study mass communications or English, but I studied law so my parents could feel that they had been decent parents. After law school, I got into acting. I went to the rehearsal room for a musical. I’d never seen so many gay people in the same room in my life. It was then that I realized that I was not alone. I acted for six years, and then I went back to law, and I felt myself walking back into the closet. And I did it, because I was afraid of career progression, being ostracized by colleagues, by bosses, by clients. But there came a point when it was just too tiring. You spend most of your hours at work. It’s just unproductive at work to be hiding, to be conscious of what you’re saying or doing. If you can’t bring yourself fully at work, you can’t really be productive. Pink Dot was very integral in my coming out. The second year, I invited my colleagues to Pink Dot, and that was my way of coming out to them. And when they came, it was their way of saying it was a non-issue. I was touched.

Before Pink Dot, there was a stereotype of what a gay person was. My mom thought a gay person would inevitably end up killing themselves. In her mind they will all end up sad and lonely. In the first two years of Pink Dot, no press wanted to talk to us. We couldn’t get an interview. It was so taboo. Pink Dot became a social media baby, and by our third year, we began to get some interest. Somebody needed to go out and speak to press. And that person was me. In everything you see on mainstream media, the gay character is erased or dies or ends up alone or becomes a serial killer. Or they turn straight—which is even worse!

The biggest backlash we had was two years ago, with the Wear White campaign. It was scary and unfamiliar territory. It was also the year we had the most press coverage. We were covered by foreign media, and local media was covering it as a culture war. We’ve never criticized our detractors. We’ve never spoken ill of the Wear White campaign. We only ask for dialogue. We ask people to see the human side of things. Marriage equality is not something we even dare to think about. Section 377A needs to go. Even though the PM has said it will not be enforced, the law is still on the books. Nothing can progress in education, healthcare, media, and registration of societies with this law on the books.

We wanted to provide a narrative people don’t have access to. We wanted people to see gay Singaporeans in our videos and see we’re just like everyone else.

There are real people who can’t get the help that they need. If a gay kid is questioning, he has nowhere to go. He can’t ask his teachers or counselors. They can’t This event needed to be tell him that it’s ok. Teachers are not tailored to the unique trained to counsel a gay teenager.

Pink Dot is an inclusive, familyfriendly event. We target straight psyche of Singapore. No allies, friends of gay people, and The government has said we families of gay people. You see other protests, no marches. can’t change the laws because the gay people with their families, and people are not ready, and we should your mom might not feel alone. let society evolve. But then it’s a She might see that there are other moms who are coping, catch-22. If you don’t give them access to information, how dealing and accepting. will they evolve? This is where Pink Dot comes in. We start dialogue, make videos and hope more people will come. The first year, people wrote to us to say they were across the road, but they just didn’t dare to walk in. That was eight The millenials are fearless. They have no hang-ups. They’re years ago. People are more courageous now. also not necessarily gay. There are a lot of straight, young people coming to volunteer for Pink Dot. We were clear that this event needed to be tailored to the unique psyche of Singapore. No protests, no marches. It Society is changing at different paces. The older needs to be “safe”. We even had Pinky, our mascot, and you generation is changing slowly. In my generation, some of don’t get any less threatening than Pinky. It’s very fuzzy. us are still living in fear. And then the millenial generation just doesn’t see being gay as even an issue. I was asking this Certain LGBT groups find we are not hard-hitting and not young person about coming out. In my generation, we were advocating enough. But we’ve always maintained there are all obsessed with it. But he said, “Oh, that’s so 80s.” other advocacy groups that are more positioned to advocate.

THIRSTY? Don’t miss out on our guide to the best of the Singapore nightlife scene—more than 100 of our favorite nightspots, from the best rooftop bars and cocktail gems to the coolest microbreweries and wine lounges. Head to is.gd/SGbestbars to download the e-guide, it’s free.

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016 SG MAGAZINE