Living in Singapore Magazine - January/February 2025
JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2025
WAYS TO APPROACH RESOLUTIONS
How to set goals you can keep
VALENTINE'S DAY REIMAGINED
Unique ways to celebrate
THE FUTURE OF SINGAPORE
Developments in the works
A CONVERSATION WITH AMBASSADOR JONATHAN KAPLAN
Happy New Year! As we step into a fresh chapter, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the year gone by and set our sights on the opportunities ahead. This issue is dedicated to new beginnings, thoughtful resolutions, and Singapore’s vision for the city's future.
The start of a new year is typically a moment of hope and possibility. It’s a chance to set personal goals, from picking up a new skill to cultivating healthier habits. In this issue, you’ll find various ways to make resolutions or set goals for the new year so that they work for you. Choose which works best for you – or maybe the article about starting something new when you first think about it resonates more!
With the 89th George Washington Ball coming up with a future-forward theme (we hope to see you there – it’s going to be a blast!), we’re also looking at the innovative initiatives shaping Singapore’s future.
EDITORIAL
who we are
Editor-in-Chief: Susan Williams communications@aasingapore.com
Tiara Giles, Gabriel Go, John S. Hamalian, Richard Hartung, Sasha Meyers-Spector, Melinda Murphy, Olha Romaniuk,
Haya S., Susan Williams
AMERICAN ASSOCIATION BOARD MEMBERS
President: Ashok Lalwani
Vice President: Mkulima Britt
Treasurer: Ed Fitzpatrick
Secretary: Jennifer Yarbrough
You can also read my review of a unique facial experience, and find out more about the upcoming US presidential inauguration and about Chinese New
Let’s make 2024 a year of action, fulfillment, and progress. Whether big or small, every resolution we
Here’s to a hopeful and meaningful year ahead!
Editor-in-Chief
Directors-at-Large: Christopher Ellis, Blair Hall, Idil Hasbay, Daniel Moss, Tianna Nguyen, Michelle Reeb, Priyesh Shah
AmCham: Dr. Hsien-Hsien Lei
AWA: Julia Tan
SAFL: Dan Levine
SAS: Kyle Aldous
The American Club: Dan Gewirtz
Non-Voting Members
US Embassy: Lisa Liao
US Navy COMLOG WESTPAC: RDML Todd "Chimi" Cimicata
AAS: Melinda Murphy
PUBLISHER – AMERICAN ASSOCIATION
American Association of Singapore (AAS) is a professional, not-forprofit organization established to enhance the well-being and living experience of Americans residing in Singapore and to promote relationships, both business and social, between Americans and those from different cultures and nationalities.
Living In Singapore magazine will be released six times per year, with the purpose of enhancing the expatriate experience in Singapore.
SUBSCRIPTION
A subscription to Living in Singapore is complementary with an AAS membership. AAS annual family membership is $120.
To join, visit aasingapore.com and have Living in Singapore magazine delivered to your inbox. Reproduction in any manner, in English or any other language, is prohibited without written permission. Living in Singapore welcomes all contributions of volunteer time or written material.
FOLLOW US!
Community News
Learn Something New Learn and volunteer with Friends of the Museums
28 The Future of Singapore
Read up on developments in the works
New Year's Resolutions Can they work for the neurodiverse?
Make Your Year Joyful and Meaningful Figuring out your purpose and passion
Valentine's Day Reimagined Unique ideas to celebrate the day
message from the president
BY ASHOK LALWANI
We had a burst of activity before year-end: our annual Thanksgiving dinner at the XCL American Academy and Toys for Tots at The American Club. It was great seeing so many families new to Singapore at Thanksgiving. Several wanted to connect with the community and celebrate Thanksgiving with others. It was a good reminder of why the American Association of Singapore was established over 100 years ago: to connect people and bring a piece of home to Singapore.
We had tons of kids (and adults!) all decked out for Christmas at our Toys for Tots event, where we collect toys to distribute to underprivileged and sick children at KK Women's and Children's Hospital. The Marine's brass quintet from Japan and the SAS Singers performed, and Ambassador Jonathan Kaplan shared the origins of Toys for Tots and how it is now a global charitable effort that brings smiles to kids during the holiday season. Santa also, of course, flew in for this event. This is one of my favorite events of the year, and it brings together so many pieces of Americana and American culture and values in Singapore.
This brings me to the George Washington Ball, which will be held on Saturday, February 15, at the Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore. This is our biggest fundraiser and allows us to do many things throughout the year, such as the events above, the Fourth of July celebration, Fall Fest, American sports, and community-building events. Please support the Ball and AAS by purchasing a table or attending.
Wishing you all a very happy and prosperous 2025!
AMERICAN COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS DIRECTORY
AAS aasingapore.com
AmCham amcham.com.sg
Scouting America
American Dragons americandragons.sg
AWA awasingapore.org
Troop 07: www.bsatroop07.org
Troop 10: www.sgtroop10.org
Troop 1010: sgtroop1010@gmail.com
Cub Scouts Pack 3017: cubscoutsusa.com.sg
Navy League nlus-sgp.org
SACAC Sports safl.sacac.com
SAS sas.edu.sg SAIS sais.edu.sg
The American Club amclub.org.sg
US Embassy sg.usembassy.gov
USA Girl Scouts Overseas USAGSO Singapore: www.singaporeusagirlscouts.org
member benefits
AAS paid members enjoy discounts at a range of local businesses. Check out our website for more details.
AAS members, be sure to log in to receive discount codes on the “Your AAS Membership Card” page.
Pickleball Open Play + Beginners Coaching
Jan 18, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
AAS Running Club
Jan 19, 9:30 – 11:00 AM
How to Get a Scholarship to US Schools
Jan 21, 7:00 – 9:00 PM
upcoming events
The Thirsty Eagles
Jan 23, 7:00 – 9:00 PM
Freelancers, Entrepreneurs & Small Business Owners Coffee
Jan 29, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
George Washington Ball
Feb 15, 6:30 PM – 1:00 AM
Save the Date! Ambassador's Cup Golf Tournament
Mar 22
AAS STRATEGIC PARTNERS
Our annual kid-friendly holiday bash was a big hit! Thank you to The American Club for co-sponsoring the event, to Ambassador Kaplan for sharing his love of Christmas with us, and to the Marines for their help distributing the toys. Everyone enjoyed crafts and delicious food provided by The American Club. The SAS Singers entertained us all with their beautiful voices, and we were treated to music from the III Marine Expeditionary Force Bandwho were visiting from Okinawa. A few kids won baskets provided by The American Club, and all of the kids enjoyed a visit with Santa!
We collected more than a dozen boxes of fabulous toys for the kids at KK Women's and Children's Hospital. A big shout out to BSA, Girl Scouts and the schools and companies that helped us gather toys, and a huge thanks to our members for your generosity. You've made some sick children very happy for the holidays!
See more photos here.
Shoeboxes for Sailors
AAS and Stamford American International School joined forces to pack shoeboxes for US Navy sailors based here in Singapore. A huge thank you to all who pitched in to help and who generously donated items. This project is a wonderful way to give back at Thanksgiving to those serving our nation, living far from home. We delivered dozens of packages to deployed members, just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday.
See more photos here
Thanksgiving Feast and Fun
AAS, AWA, and XAA teamed up to kick off the festive season with a full-on feast, complete with lots of fun games and crafts at XCL American Academy! Thank you to all who joined in and brought in donations for Food from the Heart! Special thanks to Girl Scout Troop 21 who helped with games and crafts.
We hope you enjoyed the delicious turkey dinner and the Woodford Reserve cocktails specially created for Thanksgiving!
See more photos here
Future-Proof Your Child
A CONVERSATION WITH AMBASSADOR JONATHAN KAPLAN
By Melinda Murphy
As is tradition, each president selects his appointees to serve as ambassadors across the globe. So, as President-elect Trump takes office, our current ambassador, Jonathan Kaplan, will return to the United States. Ambassador Kaplan has served as the United States Ambassador to Singapore since 2021. Previously, he was the chair of EducationSuperHighway, a non-profit organization based in San Francisco. The American Association of Singapore is very grateful for Ambassador Kaplan’s support throughout his tenure. He’s played in the Ambassador’s Cup Golf Tournament, spoke at our George Washington Ball, donated toys to Toys for Tots, opened his home for the launch of the 16th edition of Living in Singapore, and so much more. We wish him and his partner, Karen Doff, the very best in their next chapter.
Has this job and Singapore been what you expected?
When President Biden and Vice President Harris asked me to serve my country in Singapore, I was filled with excitement and pride. An opportunity to work with my dedicated interagency colleagues to support our important and growing relationship with Singapore was exciting.
I can’t say that I had predetermined expectations for this opportunity, but what I can say is that this experience has been rewarding, challenging, and overwhelmingly fulfilling.
The depth and breadth of the US–Singapore relationship was unimaginable, and I’m honored to have been able to contribute to its continued strength.
What's been the biggest surprise?
There have been so many positive surprises since my partner Karen Doff and I arrived in the Little Red Dot. The food, the people, the gardens, the beauty, the cultural experiences, the art, the music, the sports, and the work have all been more than one could hope for living away from the United States of America for the first time.
What have you enjoyed most during your time here?
THE PEOPLE. The list is too long, but I want to thank the politicians, the civil servants, the business executives, the civic leaders, the youth, the religious leaders, the chefs, the restaurant owners, and all of the Singaporeans and Americans who have made me feel so welcome over the past three-plus years since I arrived. However, the extra ten kilos will be something I hope to forget after my departure.
What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of?
We have done tremendous work on all fronts, both bilaterally and multilaterally with Singapore. There is so much to be proud of, but if I must name the two most important accomplishments, I’d say: sustainable energy security and economic growth and prosperity.
The energy cooperation agreements that have been recently signed lay the foundational groundwork for a secure, sustainable, energy future for the region. This will be the most consequential accomplishment of my tenure. That being said, on the economic front, did you know the United States is now Singapore’s number one trade and investment partner?
Our bilateral trade is now over US$132 billion, our foreign direct investment stock is over US$424 billion and there are over 6,000 US companies operating in Singapore. Not bad.
What's been the hardest part of this assignment?
The most challenging aspect of being a United States Ambassador, especially in a country like Singapore, is the severity and weightiness of everyday decision-making. What the diplomatic team does every day is important and consequential. And there’s been no other job in my career that has had such significant challenges and opportunities.
Ambassador Kaplan and his partner, Karen Doff, at our annual Toys for Tots event in 2024
Ambassador Kaplan with AAS President, Ashok Lalwani, and US Embassy Management Counselor, Lisa Liao, at the launch of the 16th edition of Living in Singapore
Which Singapore dish will you miss the most?
As the US Ambassador to Singapore, I’ve made it a habit to post my favorite dining experiences on Instagram. But if you’re boxing me in a corner and forcing me to answer, I’ll give you my top ten. Maybe you can guess the names of my favorite restaurants for these signature dishes:
1. White Pepper Crab with a famous Bee Hoon in Geylang
2. A single refined block of airflown Delhi Paneer served in a puddle of saag/palak on Tras Street
3. A dim sum basket of four Xiao Long Bao across from the Berseh Food Centre
4. 7am Prawn Noodles on Joo Chiat Road
5. Spicy but refined Dry Laksa in the National Gallery
6. Greek Salad near Robertson Quay (no joke - sometimes you just need a great salad)
7. Live Oysters from the tanks of our favorite upstairs restaurant in a parking lot
8. Katong Laksa from the guy with a Greek first name
9. Super Crispy Roti Prata — there’s only one place
10. The Coconut Shake at the club near Haji Lane
Has living here changed how you look at life?
Absolutely. I have immense admiration for how Singapore uses a whole-ofgovernment approach to tackle their challenges from water security and
energy management to housing and cost of living issues. We all need to be thinking more about the big picture challenges that face our societies and better mobilize our resources and our population to tackle those issues. What will you miss most about Singapore?
I’d like to come back in 90 days and answer that question.
What's next for you?
A vacation and some restful time with my family.
The next ambassador to Singapore has not yet been announced. Note that a US ambassador to Singapore was never appointed during Trump's first term. Until an ambassador is confirmed, the Deputy Chief of Mission, Casey Mace, will lead the US mission and its engagement with Singapore as Chargé d’Affaires.
Ambassador Kaplan speaking at our annual Fourth of July event in 2024
Ambassador Kaplan at our Ambassador's Cup Golf Tournament in 2022
Ambassador Kaplan speaking at our George Washington Ball in 2023
Ambassador Kaplan graciously hosting our Appreciation Night at the US Embassy in 2024
Camping Adventure in Mongolia
By Gabriel Go, Troop 10B
Over the summer, my family and I went to Mongolia for the third camp of the trilogy series. It was our first camp, so we were unsure what to expect. Throughout the camp, we participated in a wide variety of activities, some of which included hiking and tying knots. In the mornings, we would participate in sessions to help us complete the five Merit Badges we signed up for. I signed up for Trail To First Class (TTFC), Emergency Preparedness, Citizenship in the World, Environmental Science, and Communication. During lunchtime, we would either relax with our friends or compete in a series of challenges called the Wolf Pack challenges to earn badges. Some included Knot Ninja, Scouting History, Morse Code, and many others. My favorite was the Morse Code because it was educational, and I learned how to say SOS.
We had to set up our tents on the first day, but it was really hot, and grasshoppers were everywhere. We were lucky we got our tents up early because it rained really hard afterward, so we had to go inside the main building. Because it was the first day, we got the rest of the evening free. During that time, my friends and I were busy catching crickets and getting them off other people’s tents. I really enjoyed that time because it felt like we were helping other people with the cricket problem. The next day, we started the Merit Badge workshops, which I found very productive. I had lots of fun at the Wolf Pack challenges because I got all the badges from completing all the activities. On most days, we would only have four Merit Badge sessions, two before and two after lunch, but on Tuesday and Thursday, we had five, which included the extra one we picked. After two Merit Badge sessions, we would take a break for lunch and the Wolf Pack challenges.
On Wednesday, we celebrated the Naadam Festival, so we had no lessons. In the morning, my friends and I went on a hike to a tall hill nearby, and we managed to get to the top, where we took a picture with a massive pile of rocks. When we got down, we saw birds of prey, including a vulture and osprey. After lunch, we watched a cultural performance from the native Mongolian people, which included singing, dancing, and horseback riding. In horseback
riding, they would shoot arrows and do flips and tricks. Afterward, we got to taste some local food and watch sumo wrestling. My favorite part was definitely watching sumo wrestling and horseback riding tricks. Overall, my time in Mongolia was amazing, and I wish I could do it again.
A Visit to Bloomberg Newsrooms
By Haya S., Juliette Senior, USAGSO Singapore
Recently, a group of Girl Scouts was fortunate to visit the office of Bloomberg Singapore. We started our visit by heading to one of the studios used for live news broadcasts. There were cameras and TV screens everywhere, and in the middle of the broadcast area was a tall chair and a podium. There were many buttons on the podium, and it looked like the cockpit of an airplane. The TV screens showed us what was being captured by the cameras and what the audience would see based on where the reporter was looking. There was also a giant LED screen covering two of the walls, constantly displaying information in the background of the broadcast. The broadcast room was followed by a quick peek at a hair-and-makeup room, which the younger girls loved. There were huge mirrors and lots of makeup.
We continued our tour around the office, looking at the various facilities and workspaces available. Bright colors, comfy chairs, open spaces, indoor plants, and giant aquariums all helped to bring life to the office. We saw one of the meeting rooms, which was really cool. They also had rooms where you could go to calm down or take a break. After this, we headed to the pantry, where we could help ourselves with the snacks before entering a conference hall.
In the conference hall, I moderated a talk with Mr. Stephen and Mr. Dan about their experiences working at Bloomberg, and the girls could ask them questions about the world of news. We also learned about the different charities that Bloomberg works with, which connects to our mission as Girl Scouts to make the world a better place. We concluded our visit with a group photo in front of the reception area.
Overall, it was an exciting and unique opportunity to see what happens behind the scenes to bring us the world’s news each day.
HEAD SPACE
By Andrea McKenna Brankin
GO ATOMIC WITH NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS FOR 2025
Many people think resolutions for the New Year require huge changes and sacrifices. Like many, I’ve tried it and didn’t get very far. I wanted to learn Mahjong and then only played a handful of times. I wanted to start playing field hockey again, but my schedule (and legs) wouldn’t allow it. There are so many more, but don’t we all have those unfulfilled resolutions?
But there’s a newer-thinking idea of using smaller habits to make changes that eventually become big ones.
It’s based on a book, Atomic Habits, by James Clear, released in 2018.
The book claims to provide a framework to make small, actionable changes that, in the long term, will amount to a significant change. The author says if you can improve yourself by 1% each day for 30 days in a row, you can head toward a 37% improvement by year’s end if you do it every month. But, the key is to break it down into small increments so it’s manageable and you can find success daily.
My personal health coach and trainer, Amanda Lim of The Lift Clinic, also promotes using these atomic or actionable habits when it comes to things like weight loss or, for me, adding jogging. She suggested I add a few minutes of jogging to my weekly walks—one minute at a time—until I was comfortable doing more. Eventually, I could jog two, 20-minute segments in a long walk.
The book’s summary is structured on four laws of behavior that you need to pay attention to in order to make things work. According to the book:
“How to create a good habit:
The 1st law (Cue): Make it obvious.
The 2nd law (Craving): Make it attractive.
The 3rd law (Response): Make it easy.
The 4th law (Reward): Make it satisfying.”
(To break a bad habit, just reverse these laws.)
Atomic habits can be built around things like adding steps, drinking more water, or adding vegetables to your diet. But it works for other things, too, such as writing for five minutes every morning, keeping a gratitude journal for consecutive days, or checking your phone messages only at certain times of the day. The sky is wide open as to what you can change when you take it in small increments.
Whether you feel like making a resolution now or later, check out the Atomic Habits book or do what I did and listen to the audiobook while walking (and running!). Surely, you can find something small to change to make 2025 an even better year.
All big things come from small beginnings. The seed of every habit is a single, tiny decision. But as that decision is repeated, a habit sprouts and grows stronger. Roots entrench themselves, and branches grow…. The purpose of setting goals is to win the game. The purpose of building systems is to continue playing the game. True long-term thinking is goal-less thinking. It’s not about any single accomplishment. It is about the cycle of endless refinement and continuous improvement. Ultimately, it is your commitment to the process that will determine your progress.
James Clear, Atomic Habits
A Deep Dive into Prolapse
Feeling something dripping down in your vagina? You are not alone. Prolapse is common with age. While it is not lifethreatening, these symptoms can affect one’s quality of life. Women are often left to cope alone with a sense of shame. Urogynaecology focuses on pelvic floor disorders in women. A urogynaecologist is a gynaecologist with advanced training in pelvic floor medicine and reconstructive surgery.
What is ‘pelvic floor’?
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and ligaments that support the bladder, bowel, and womb. Damage to this area can cause conditions like prolapse of the womb, bladder, or bowel, as well as issues such as urinary incontinence and recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Pelvic organ prolapses
Nearly half of women above the aged 50 have some degree of vaginal prolapse. This occurs when the pelvic organs slip down into or out of the vagina.
Types of prolapses
1. Uterine prolapse: Prolapse of the womb into or out of the vagina. Symptoms:
• Feeling a lump in the vagina while walking and sitting
• Pulling or heavy sensation
• Discomfort during sexual intercourse
• Difficulty inserting tampons
2. Cystocele: Prolapse of the bladder into the front wall of the vagina. Symptoms:
• Feeling a lump in the vagina while walking and sitting
• Difficulty emptying the bladder completely
• Recurrent UTIs and frequent urination
3. Rectocele: Prolapse of the rectum pushing into the back wall of the vagina. Symptoms:
• Feeling a lump in the vagina or anus
• Some may face difficulty passing stool
4. Vaginal vault prolapse: Prolapse of the top of the vagina after a hysterectomy. Symptoms:
• Feeling a lump in the vagina while walking and sitting
• Difficulty emptying the bladder and bowels completely
Common causes
• Pregnancy and childbirth: Weight from pregnancy and hormonal changes can increase pelvic ligament laxity, while vaginal birth can damage the pelvic floor muscles.
• Menopause: Reduction of oestrogen after menopause results in alteration of the muscle fibres strength in the pelvic floor.
• Collagen disorders: They have a genetic component that alters ligament structure, making them laxer and more prone to prolapse.
• Obesity: Increases the pressure on the pelvic floor that leads to weakening it.
• Chronic constipation and cough: Places repeated strain on the pelvic floor making it more susceptible to prolapse.
Type of treatments
1. Lifestyle modifications
Treating cough and / or constipation, encouraging weight loss, and reducing heavy lifting help prevent the prolapse from getting worse. Pelvic floor muscle exercises strengthen the muscles and improve support for the pelvic organ.
2. Medical wearables
Vaginal pessaries are rubber or silicone devices inserted into the vagina to support the vaginal walls and pelvic organs. They are a non-surgical option for women who prefer non-surgical methods. These need to be removed and replaced by a gynaecologist two to three times a year.
3. Surgery
This is a recommended option if non-surgical ones are ineffective or the prolapse is severe. It can be performed vaginally or laparoscopically, and may include procedures such as vaginal wall repair, vaginal hysterectomy, uterine-preserving surgery, or closing the vagina.
Your urogynaecologist will discuss the benefits and risks, and create an individualised care plan for you.
Prevention of prolapse
1. Maintain a healthy body weight
2. Perform pelvic floor exercises daily
3. Increase dietary fibre
4. Avoid activities that put extra pressure on your pelvic floor
5. Stop smoking
When should you see a urogynaecologist?
You should seek help when your symptoms start to negatively impact your quality of life. Urogynaecologists want to help women with these symptoms: it is our raison d’etre (reason for being) after all.
Contributed by:
Dr Aswini Balachandran Specialist in Obstetrics & Gynaecology Consultant, Raffles Women’s Centre
THE POOL THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING
By Sasha Meyers-Spector, twelfth-grade student, Singapore American School
From the moment I first dove into the pool, I felt something shift. The pool itself is just… flawless. It feels fast, clean, and well-maintained, making an unexpected difference in being able to feel the water. But it’s not just about the pool. It's the little and big things –multiple changing rooms, personalized gear, the new scoreboard – that have had a huge impact. We have places to shower, spaces to blast music with teammates, and even areas with mirrors large enough for the whole team to do their makeup together. Those small touches make everything feel more inclusive and magnetic.
Aside from the facilities, the swim program here at Singapore American School is unlike any other. The coaches are always on deck, watching us closely. But they’re not just passively observing; they’re actively giving feedback, correcting strokes, and motivating us to be our best, encouraging us to break through our comfort zones and repeatedly break personal bests. What stands out the most is how much they genuinely care—not just about our
performance, but about us as people. They notice when something’s off, when you’re not yourself, and they’re there for you. It's hard to find words to describe it, but it’s like having a second family that constantly pushes you to be not the best swimmer you can be but the best person you can be. I truly never realized how much I needed that until I found it here.
The opportunities that have risen from this swim program have brought me to places first-grade me would've only dreamed of. From qualifying for the World Cup and talking and swimming alongside real Olympians to being able to meet other swimmers from the IASAS schools, swimming has shaped my dedication, my focus, and my joy.
Recently, the exchange meet was hosted in the new 50-meter pool. All the schools came together, and the energy was electric. There was something so unique about standing next to a competitor before a race, not knowing who they were but feeling a shared nervousness. It was easy to
strike up a conversation, and somehow, that made the competition feel less intimidating. It was like we were all on one big team, cheering each other on even though we were technically rivals. Between races, we even had access to not one but two 25-meter warmdown pools. And it's the type of thing you don't appreciate until you're in it, cooling down and chatting with swimmers from other schools. Those moments—sharing stories and talking about our struggles and triumphs— made the whole experience feel that much more vivified.
Looking back and ahead to my senior year, I feel overwhelmingly grateful… for the facilities, the coaches, the people, and the little details that all came together to regrow my love for swimming. It’s more than just a sport to me—it’s a place where I’ve hit exhaustion, and only with this support, dove back in and built up my drive for life overall.
Tammy M. Fontana, MS (USA) NCC CTRT, clinical Sex Therapist (USA)
Coming Soon!
Singapore American School SSG/ PEI Registration No 196400340R
Registration Period: 22 June 2023 to 21 June 2027
Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges
LEARN SOMETHING NEW WITH FRIENDS OF THE MUSEUMS
Looking for a way to learn more about Singapore or some way to volunteer your time? How about doing both at the same time? Friends of the Museums Singapore (FOM) offers many opportunities to learn about Asian art, history, and culture. They also provide training to become a docent guide at multiple museums in Singapore, allowing you to learn about the museums while offering your time.
Among other events, Friends of the Museums offers the following programs that may be of particular interest:
Study Tours
Journey near and far for unforgettable educational travel experiences, enabling you to expand your understanding of Asian Cultures. Current study tours offered to FOM members include tours in India, China, and Turkey.
Click here for more information about FOM Study Tours. Explore Singapore!
Discover the intriguing and exciting things about Singapore through guided tours on Thursdays.
Recent tours include City Trees; Parliament; The Haj, Singapore to Mecca; and The Black and White Houses of Singapore.
Click here for more information on our current and past events available to members.
FOM currently supports ten different museums and cultural institutions:
• Asian Civilisations Museum
• Changi Chapel and Museum
• Gillman Barracks
• Indian Heritage Centre
• Malay Heritage Centre
• National Museum of Singapore
• Peranakan Museum
• Singapore Art Museum
• Singapore Tyler Print Institute
• Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall
TRADITIONS OF CHINESE NEW YEAR
Chinese New Year is absolutely one of the most beautiful times of year in Singapore and is the most important and widely celebrated festival in Chinese culture. If you’re new to Asia, you may be wondering what all the pomp and circumstance of this 15-day festival means. Here's a little insight for you.
Spring Cleaning
Do you see a flurry of cleaning? That’s because people believe they need to sweep away bad luck and make way for good fortune and a fresh start. But take note: put those brooms down on New Year’s Day! You don’t want to accidentally sweep away the newly-arrived good luck.
Decorations
Get ready to see a lot of red as the color symbolizes luck and wards off evil spirits. You’ll see all sorts of beautiful lanterns and paper cuttings, especially in Chinatown. As 2025 is Year of the Snake, you’ll also see snakes everywhere. One popular decoration is the Chinese character "福" (fu), meaning "blessing" or "happiness," often displayed upside down to signify that good fortune has arrived.
Reunion Dinner
Chinese New Year’s Eve reunion dinners are the most significant meal of the year, bringing together family members from near and far. The feast often includes symbolic dishes such as fish (for surplus and prosperity), dumplings (for wealth), and glutinous rice cakes (for rising success). If you get invited to a Reunion Dinner wear red and each guest should bring two oranges. They're like the good luck ambassadors of Chinese New Year. When people exchange mandarin oranges, it's like passing good vibes and well-wishes. It's not just about the juicy fruit; it's about sharing prosperity, happiness, and all things positive. Many homes and businesses will also have mandarin trees at the door.
Food
Just like you might be used to special treats at Christmas, Chinese New Year has all sorts of yummy traditions. There’s one in Singapore that you won’t find anywhere else: Lo Hei
This is a magical dish known as a prosperity toss. There are lots of different foods that you add to the salad one at a time saying special things over each ingredient. Then everybody uses chopsticks and tosses the food into the air before chowing down. It’s fun and a good luck must.
Red Envelopes (Hongbao)
This is probably every kid’s favorite tradition. Red envelopes filled with money are given by elders to younger family members as a token of good luck and blessings for the year ahead. The amount is typically an even number, as odd numbers are associated with funerals. Want to give kids some hongbao? Great - $2 is a good amount or give $8 as eight is a lucky number in Chinese. People also give hongbao to hair stylists, doormen, and other people who help you throughout the year.
Fireworks and Firecrackers
The Chinese believe the loud sounds scare away the mythical beast Nian, which, according to legend, comes out to harm people at the start of the year. Now, they’re mostly just fun and beautiful.
Temple Visits
Many people visit temples to pray for blessings and good fortune. Offerings are made to deities, and incense is burned as part of the spiritual rituals.
Lion and Dragon Dances
You’ll see these loud and colorful dances all over Singapore. Lion dances are believed to bring good luck and drive away evil spirits, while the dragon dance symbolizes power, dignity, and strength. Both are accompanied by the loud and rhythmic beating of drums and cymbals. You may hear them before you see them!
New Year’s Greetings
You’ll hear people saying "Gong Xi Fa Cai" (wishing you wealth) everywhere you go. These wishes are often accompanied by bows or gestures of respect, such as two hands clasped together and shaken.
This holiday truly is a very special time in Singapore. Enjoy it all!
THE FUTURE OF SINGAPORE
By Melinda Murphy
Here it is a new year, and with "Future" being the theme of this year's George Washington Ball, it’s got us thinking about Singapore’s future. Just what does the Little Red Dot have in store?
For starters, in true Singapore form, the country leaves nothing to chance. There is indeed a Master Plan, a land use plan which guides Singapore's development over the next 10 to 15 years. That plan is reviewed every five years, and the goal is to use the land wisely since there’s not much of it. You can see the plan here. It’s a lot to wade through, but suffice it to say that there will be some construction projects coming up! Heck, when is Singapore not under construction?
Tuas Mega Port
Probably the most transformational thing on the horizon is the massive new port being built in Tuas. When completed, it will be the world’s largest, fully-automated terminal. It’s being built in stages and should be finished in 2040. The port will include some true whizz-bang features such as automated wharf and yard functions, and fully electric automated guided vehicles. The new port will be able to handle up to 65 million, twenty-foot equivalent units of cargo a year. If you think you see a lot of ships off the coast now, just wait. The good news? We’re unlikely to run out of your favorite foods at Cold Storage with so many ships coming in! It’ll be so big and deep that it should be able to handle the largest ships out there, including ones that have yet to be built!
Greater Southern Waterfront
Relocating the port is clearing the way for a massive development, a 30km stretch from Pasir Panjang to Marina East. What an oasis it will be, too, with about 9,000 housing units along Singapore’s southern coast, including a continuous waterfront promenade with green
and open spaces. New attractions will be built on Pulau Brani near Sentosa and we might even see a new NTUC Downtown South resort.
Founders Memorial
Ground was broken in 2024 on a new memorial in Bay East Garden complete with all sorts of cool stuff like a viewing gallery, a lake, a forest trail, and an amphitheater suitable for large gatherings. And the best part? There will be a new subway station right there.
Changi Region
There are plans to turn the area around the airport into a vibrant live/work/play/learn area. Changi will be able to handle 5.4 million tons of cargo a year when the project is complete. To put that into perspective, the entire US fleet only weighs 4 million tons. Wow, right? Terminal 5 is also underway (delayed because of Covid). When complete, Changi will be able to serve up to 50 million passengers a year on three runways. Jeepers. They’re also talking about a new waterfront district south of the airport.
Paya Lebar Airbase
Changi isn’t the only aviation area getting a facelift. When Paya Lebar Airbase moves to Tengah, Paya Lebar Airbase will be developed into a community with a nod to its airbase roots.
Founders Memorial. Image courtesy Kengo Kuma & Associates in collaboration with K2LD Architects.
Artist's impression of Paya Lebar Airbase. Image courtesy URA.
NS Square
Remember the floating square in Marina Bay where they used to host National Day? It’s being replaced with NS Square, a permanent installment for big events like National Day. Due to be completed in 2027, it will be a tribute to servicemen and women. But it’s more than just a National Day square. There will also be sporting activities, retail outlets, and F&B. So cool!
Punggol Digital District
Singapore plans to be at the forefront of the digital transformation and even has an entire area in the works to host this industry: Punggol Digital District. This area will house key industries of the digital economy, such as cyber-security and digital technology firms, and incorporate a JTC Corporation business park and the Singapore Institute of Technology’s new campus. Think of it as Singapore’s Silicon Valley. The entire area will be smart, using technology to create more livable and sustainable towns. Think things like a centralized logistics hub and a district cooling system. There will be a big boulevard for walking, connecting the city and MRT to the waterfront.
Woodlands Regional Centre
Okay all you Americans living in the Woodlands. Get ready. This area is poised to be huge with all sorts of new spaces - everything from business offices to new waterfront homes. Imagine the ultimate mixed-use area including retail, business offices, restaurants, pedestrian areas, and more.
Jurong Lake District
The goal is to turn this area into Singapore’s second central business district where people can live closer to work. There will be all sorts of nice areas near the lake, too. So, if you need to work in an office, but are tired of the commute, this might be just the ticket.
Artist's Impression of Campus Boulevard. Courtesy JTC Corporation.
Artist’s impression of an open-to-sky courtyard that is open to the public at all times and lushly landscaped. Image courtesy URA.
NS Square. Image courtesy WOHA.
Woods Square. Image courtesy Far East Organization.
ARE NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS A SHAM?
By Tiara Giles
Hey, y’all! New Year's resolution season is here. Do you have yours ready?
Are you planning to hit the gym on January 1st? Do you want to save a bunch of money? Maybe you want to teach yourself how to cook? Or do you want to go to bed early, at least twice per week? That’s great! But I have to be honest. I don’t really believe in New Year’s resolutions. I think they’re a bit of a sham, especially for neurodivergent folks.
Now, hold your horses. Put down the pitchforks. Don’t get me wrong. It’s wonderful to start a new habit and tell yourself, “From here on out, we’re going to do this thing.” I, too, have made resolutions in the past myself. Unfortunately, 90% of resolutions don’t tend to work out. I’m not saying that to say something. Actually, a lot of research has been done. But I’ll talk about what I’ve observed and experienced.
Resolutions have failed for me because:
1. I didn’t properly plan my resolution. Let’s say I resolved to go to the gym more often starting in January. Then I go back to sleep. January 1st comes, and I head to the gym. Everyone and their mom are at the gym. It’s busy at all hours. Why? Everyone else has the exact resolution.
What if I wanted to go to the gym, but preferred to have a personal trainer? Trainers are expensive, and if I didn’t plan financially, I’d have water for dinner instead of paying for the trainer fees with the money I saved in advance before starting my gym journey. Maybe I forgot I had a tiring job with a weird schedule or that I tend to get sick a lot. I didn’t plan around these factors. So, instead of going twice a week, I go when I’m not so busy and hopefully not sick. Resolution failed.
2. I only thought about the end goal, and the journey was hard. To reach a goal, there are going to be some parts of your journey that will be highly uncomfortable. A lot of people hate feeling uncomfortable. However, to accomplish really big goals, you have to get dirty. You can’t set a goal to save $10,000 in one year if you aren’t willing to make sacrifices with your finances.
3. I’m chasing motivation, but motivation is too fast. I always forget how hard it is to find motivation within myself. For some, motivation appears out of thin air. However, for me, I have to figure out other ways to create a placebo effect that feels like motivation to actually get things done. If I rely on motivation to appear on its own, I
am guaranteed to drop the ball on my goals. For example, you’ll tell yourself in December that you’ll start cooking for yourself on January 1st. You went out for New Year’s Eve on December 31st, and now it’s January 1st. You’re tired; it’s probably 3:00 pm when you finally decide to get out of bed. You could probably make yourself a simple bowl of cereal. However, you’ve decided the kitchen is too far away, so you might as well order in. “Okay, I’ll start tomorrow,”
you tell yourself because you’re tired and don’t feel like it. Tomorrow comes, and you end up beating yourself up for not starting precisely on January 1st. This leads me to my next point…
4. Self-deprecation. You are your worst critic. Well, at least I know I am my worst critic. Let’s say I paid for a dance class
that only allows me to pay for one month at a time. To get my money’s worth, I must attend at least two classes per week. But what if I’m sick or tired or have to work longer hours? I’ll have to skip a lesson. Immediately, I’ll begin to beat myself up for not going and getting my money’s worth. “This was your goal, Tiara. Get up and go!”
“But I’m so tired!!!” It’s okay to be tired. It is okay to struggle to form a habit. It is definitely okay to be sick. I feel like it’s a stroke of luck to be able to remain 100% consistent with a goal. So be kind to yourself. You have an entire year. Keep going.
New Year’s resolutions come with the ability to form habits within the first 30 days of the year. It’s tough for me to form habits. I’m very forgetful, and my brain creates side quests that magically appear as soon as I give myself a primary task. I’m not kidding. I told myself in 2024 that I’d drink more water this year. However, I forgot to plan correctly and around my brain.
I’ll wake up and tell myself I need to
glass are both in the kitchen. I have to leave my room to make this journey. And it is a journey because a video game has activated in my brain, and ten side quests have appeared. “Oh, I need to find my glasses first.” “Where did I put my hand cream?” “Don’t I need to take medicine?” “Oh yeah! I was getting water.” “Oh. I forgot to pack my suitcase. Let me do that now.” “Oh! My water!” “There are dishes in the sink. Let me clean them.” To fix this, I’ve started leaving a water bottle beside my bed and one in the living room.
I wrote all this to say that you should start your goals as soon as you think of
you’ll go to the gym more, then go to the gym the following week if you can afford it. If you can’t, look up the price and start saving for it as soon as possible. Then go as soon as you have the money for a membership or a personal trainer.
You do not have to wait for January to start a resolution. You can begin at any time. Just go for it. You’ve got this!
US PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION WHAT TO EXPECT
AND HOW TO WATCH
The United States presidential inauguration marks the beginning of a new administration. Held every four years on January 20th, it symbolizes the peaceful transfer of power. For those of us in Singapore, staying informed about this global event is straightforward with the right preparations.
What Happens on Inauguration Day?
The inauguration typically begins with a formal ceremony on the steps of the US Capitol in Washington, DC. Key elements include:
1. Oath of Office: The president-elect and vice presidentelect take their oaths, administered by the Chief Justice of the United States and a designated official, respectively.
2. Inaugural Address: The newly sworn-in president delivers a speech outlining their vision and priorities for the term ahead.
3. Parade and Celebrations: A presidential parade proceeds down Pennsylvania Avenue following the ceremony. In recent years, the format of these events has incorporated virtual elements due to health and security concerns.
4. Evening Festivities: Traditionally, inaugural balls are held to celebrate the new administration. These may be streamed online for global audiences.
What to Expect in 2025
The 2025 inauguration is expected to include heightened security measures in Washington, D.C., and may continue to emphasize hybrid events, combining in-person and virtual formats to ensure accessibility.
How to Watch in Singapore
Due to the time difference, the live broadcast of the inauguration will take place in the late evening or early morning hours in Singapore. Here’s how you can tune in:
1. Major News Channels: International networks, like CNN and BBC, will provide live event coverage.
2. Streaming Services: Platforms like YouTube and Twitter often stream the inauguration live through official channels like the White House and news outlets.
3. Local Timing: The oath of office typically occurs around noon Eastern Time in the US, which is 1:00 AM the following day in Singapore (SGT). Set a reminder to catch the key moments live.
4. Highlights and Recaps: If staying up late isn’t feasible, major news outlets will offer comprehensive recaps and analyses the next day.
Significance
The US presidential inauguration signals shifts in US domestic and foreign policies. Watching the inauguration provides insights into the leadership style and priorities that may influence international relations, including those with Singapore.
I CAN'T KEEP MY NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION!
Resolving to do better at resolutions.
By John S. Hamalian
"A Failure to Plan is a Plan for Failure" is a mantra that was drilled into me by my mentor, Timmy Shaw, back in the old GM factory where I practically grew up. We all know this kind of age-old wisdom, and we understand that planning is important both professionally and personally, but how do we actually do it and do it better? With roughly 90% of New Year’s Resolutions failing to be achieved, we have a great opportunity to improve how we do them. Let’s explore ways to leverage well-established strategies and planning techniques to help enhance our lives, careers, and families.
1) Begin in the Mirror: Part of the history of New Year’s Resolutions goes back to Roman times, when Julius Caesar established January 1 as the beginning of the new year. "January" was named after the god Janus, whom the Romans believed symbolically looked backward into the previous year and ahead into the future, helping to trigger an annual process of people promising good conduct in the new year. Like Janus, before we look ahead, we ought to look back and practice a habit of deep reflection on ourselves and our situation. Think about your goals from last year, critically reflect on what went well and did not, and carry those revelations into the new year planning.
2) Just Where Do You Think You are You Going?: A colleague once facilitated an organization's strategy workshop and struggled to help them align to a shared vision. During a break, he asked one of the participants where he thought they were going with all
of this, and this person incredulously replied, "I’m not sure, but we’re getting there fast!" This can also happen in our personal lives, so it is important to set some direction. Often called our true north, a vision or aspiration is like a compass that helps us keep to our desired destination. Even as we may swerve off course and occasionally get lost, our vision gets us back on track. For me, my true north is to become a National Geographic writer. Make your vision interesting; make it challenging. Some I have heard include "Obtain Financial Freedom" and "Be Happy and Be There for My Family and Myself."
3) Define Your "Big What": A vision is lovely, but it can only be achieved by imagining some concrete goals that need to be met so that we can get there. These ambitions help define "what" you need to do, but in a large sense - not just a simple action item. An example of a goal could be "Turn my hobby into a business." This is a "Big What" because it will likely involve a lot of smaller actions ("Small Whats") to achieve it. Depending on
your aspirations, you may want to have different categories for your goals to cover all the important aspects of your life, not just one or two. Some examples of personal goal categories are Financials, Career, Family & Friends, Learning & Growth, Health, and Hobbies. The rule of thumb is to set no more than one goal per category. Otherwise, you risk overextending yourself.
4) Smarten Up Your Success Criteria: It is often said that "if you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it." Many know the acronym SMART for target-setting: Smart, Measurable, Aligned (to the vision), Realistic, and Time-bound. Possibly the most important one for New Year’s Resolutions might be "Realistic." Take a promise such as "Quit Smoking" - for a heavy smoker, is it a wonder why such an ambitious goal does not get met anytime soon? This then can leave the promiser demotivated and eventually giving up. One of my colleagues likes to say, "Design your goals and objectives so they are difficult…but achievable." A more realistic and less intimidating challenge might be "Reduce Smoking," with some measurable targets and timing included.
5) Break It Down: This may be the single most crucial act you can do to ensure you meet a New Year’s Resolution. Remember those "Small Whats" from before? By nature, any stretch or transformational goal is a
considerable effort, so we need to split it into small, manageable chunks of action. The oft-elusive resolution of "Lose Weight" is a perfect example of this – what exactly is the plan to lose those ten pounds? Trying to meet a lofty goal without breaking it down may be one reason our resolution success rate is so low. "Exercise More" may be a tempting action to choose, but is it specific enough? Here is where 30-Day Challenges can be helpful. For the weight-loss example, a Challenge may be to only drink soda on the weekends or walk 1,000 steps each day. Try it for 30 days. Whaddya got to lose? Then, review your results after one month. If it goes well, expand your challenge. If it doesn’t, pivot and try
something else. As Saint Augustine said, the main idea is to "Keep advancing."
6) Keep It Up: Checking up on your New Year’s Resolution(s) only on the following January 1st is way too long a time horizon, especially in today’s fast-moving world. Instead, set up a management system to make yourself accountable for meeting or not meeting your goals by scheduling time during the year to reflect on your plans. Use that time to review progress, feel good about any successes you have achieved, and identify any impediments on which you can take action. I suggest doing this no less frequently than once every three months. I set a recurring reminder on
Resolutions include more physical activity?
Then check out...
Yankee Noodles
The Yankee Noodles are not just any slow-pitch softball team; they are a tight-knit family of players who share a passion for the game and a commitment to camaraderie. The Noodles bring together a diverse group of players ranging from seasoned veterans to enthusiastic rookies. Each member contributes unique skills and personalities, creating a dynamic and cohesive team. The team is constantly looking to grow and expand, and players of all walks are welcome.
my to-do list app that pops up on my phone every quarter.
New Year’s Resolutions can be a terrific way to practice several core competencies essential to thrive in our personal lives. These include planning, strategic thinking, the habit of reflection, problem-solving, and selfdiscipline. Depending on how broad and ambitious your goals are, you may even want to think of a New Year’s Resolution as more of a "New Year’s Strategy." By linking your vision, goals, and actions to a process of regular check-ups, you will be well on your way to building a "Personal Operating System," allowing you to finally break free from the annual regret cycle of "I can’t keep my New Year’s Resolution!"
Red Wolves
This past Spring, the Red Wolves flag football team completed their inaugural season as a part of the Singapore Flag Football Association. Their relentless drive embodied the essence of sportsmanship both on and off the field. The team comprised a range of players with a mix of experience levels, each bringing their distinct talents and skills to the field. Together, they formed a cohesive and dynamic team, always eager to welcome new members and continue growing and competing.
The AAS Running Club
The Running Cub is made up of those who have a passion for running and socializing. The monthly runs typically attract all types of skill levels, from those who run long distances to short jaunts, as well as walkers out to enjoy nature. Each month, they tread a familiar path that's open to hardcore runners, leisurely joggers and casual walkers. The club is a great way to exercise in a casual, friendly setting, coming together with a little social cool-down at the finish line.
AAS Pickleball Open Play
The craze that is sweeping the nation in the US has also hit Singapore. The game is a mix of tennis and ping-pong, so it's easy to see its attraction to all skill levels, from beginners to intermediate players. Our monthly sessions include doubles open play plus an option for beginners to drill with a coach. See you with a paddle on the courts!
MAKE YOUR YEAR JOYFUL AND MEANINGFUL
By Richard Hartung
Year-end holidays can be a time for happiness and making New Year’s resolutions. However, happiness may fade in the new year, and resolutions can be forgotten. Find and focus on your purpose to give yourself a meaningful life and joy throughout the year.
Determine Your Purpose
The first step towards a meaningful life is figuring out your purpose.
A good place to start is to find your "why." Start with Why author Simon Sinek suggests that finding the “why” for what you do allows you to live your life purposefully and leads toward fulfilment. Your "why" is your personal purpose, cause, or belief that explains why you do what you do and why you get out of bed in the morning.
To identify your "why" and your purpose, consider what you find important and what makes your life meaningful. Ask yourself what is truly important to you. It could be helping others, supporting your family, creating an innovation to reduce climate change, teaching, your faith, or something else.
To get more ideas, Greater Good writer Jeremy Smith suggests reading about other people's lives and finding out where they found meaning so their lives can inspire you. Another is to spend time on behaviors such as awe, gratitude, and altruism that can foster a sense of purpose. You can also find purpose by getting insights from what people thank you for, or writing a narrative helps you see your strengths.
Good to Great author Jim Collins uses a "20-10" assignment. Suppose you wake up tomorrow and receive two phone calls. The first phone call tells you that you have inherited $20 million, no strings attached. The second tells you that you have an incurable and terminal disease and you have no more than ten years to live. What would you do differently, and, in particular, what would you stop doing? Ask yourself
what you are deeply passionate about and what activities you feel "made to do."
These techniques can help you develop an idea and create a short, clear, memorable statement of your purpose.
Turn Purpose into Practice
The next step is developing a roadmap to put that purpose into practice.
To do that, Seven Habits author Stephen Covey suggests you develop a personal mission statement that focuses on what you want to be and do. By looking at your talents and imagining how you’ll use them, you can move towards achieving your mission.
Executive coach Rafael Sarandeses suggests working backward from your mission or purpose statement to create a goal and determine milestones to reach it. You can then incorporate high-impact actions into your daily, weekly, and monthly schedules and set up processes around them. To stay on track, set aside time each week to review what you need to do to move forward.
A purpose statement can also help you create a roadmap and decide what to do or not to do. If you’re asked to do something new, see whether it is essential and fits within your purpose statement. If it doesn’t, decline the opportunity so you can focus on your purpose and live a more fulfilling life.
To get help along the way, Duke University suggests finding an accountability partner. "Having an accountability partner can be incredibly beneficial for achieving your goal. An accountability partner checks in regularly and offers motivation during tough times, creating a sense of obligation and fostering a powerful motivation to succeed."
Along with making your life more meaningful, establishing your purpose can add joy. While joy and happiness may seem similar, they are different. Whereas happiness is an emotional reaction to what is happening around you, "joy is more a state of being," Mayo Clinic Austin chief wellness officer Rebekkah Frunzac suggests Joy is often driven by internal motivations like working toward a goal or a purpose. People find joy in caring for others, spiritual connections, spending time in nature, learning, activities, relationships, or personal empowerment. "While building joy," Frunzac says, "focus your time on things you can control, show appreciation for the things and people around you, and help others."
Rather than just making a resolution that delivers a temporary change that may easily be forgotten, figure out your purpose and align your activities with it to make your life meaningful this year and in the years ahead.
HALOTHERAPY & FACIALS: A REVIEW OF PABLO BLAU
By Susan Williams
When I was invited to experience a bespoke facial at Pablo Blau in Raffles City, I thought, “I have a bunch of holiday events and a quasi-landmark birthday coming up – why not?” I hadn’t heard of Pablo Blau before, but that doesn’t mean much since, as a busy working mom, I’m not up on the spa scene in Singapore. As I started learning more about it, I was intrigued.
Pablo Blau is the first of its kind in Singapore, offering facial and body treatments in salt rooms modeled after European salt caves. Halotherapy, or salt therapy, was an entirely new idea to me when I started reading about it. A form of alternative medicine, salt therapy has been mentioned as far back as the 12th century in Poland. More recently, in the mid-1800s, Polish physician Dr. Feliks Boczkowski observed that workers in salt mines had clearer skin and did not have respiratory or lung problems compared to coal and metal miners. While the differences between mining salt and coal or metal seem apparent in the 21st century, in 1843, the thought was that the salt itself was beneficial. Dr. Boczkowski published his findings on salt therapy, and nearly a century later, salt therapy started to increase after a German physician noticed that villagers who sought refuge in a salt mine during World War II did not suffer from any respiratory illnesses.
So, where does this all come into play with facials? In addition to respiratory benefits, the aerosolized salt benefits
the skin with its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps the skin absorb the products used during treatment and is a natural antioxidant.
Wherever you might stand on the salt aspect (and full disclosure, I actually did feel like my sinuses were clearer and I could breathe better after an hour in the salt room), the facial treatment was one of the best I’ve had. My appointment started with Dr. Julia, who, using a Chowis diagnostic device, analyzed my skin for wrinkles, hydration, pigmentation, pores, and keratin. This deep dive into my skin could pinpoint where extractions would be helpful and what treatment would be most beneficial. Using this high-tech skin analysis, Pablo Blau can customize the treatment to your skin rather than guessing based on a quick visual analysis. Color me impressed!
I ended up with the Revitalize Youth Power treatment. As I’m approaching middle age, my skin needs a boost of collagen and hydration, which is this treatment’s focus. Following the analysis, I was introduced to my fabulous therapist, Eyan, who led me to the changing room, giving me a robe and blue booties for my feet. When they say the room is salt-covered, even the floor is salt! I cozied up in the heated bed, and Eyan went to work. Along the way, she informed me about my skin, showing me that what appeared to be wrinkles was just dry skin, so I needed to emphasize hydration. She showed me ways to massage my face to combat sagging and suggested
products for pigmentation (thanks to my tennis habit and the Singapore sun). This wasn’t just a fantastic facial; it was a learning experience!
The facial included cleansing and toning, steam to open the pores, exfoliation, and a few extractions. But it also included head, face, and shoulder massages, and Eyan even trimmed my eyebrows! I enjoyed collagen eye and face masks while dozing off in the quiet, cozy salt room, nestled under a warm blanket with no one to bother me for 20 minutes. Bliss!
While I enjoy getting a facial a few times a year, I often leave them feeling greasy, wanting to wipe my face as soon as possible. Usually, I look like I’m glowing, but oily. This time was different. I looked in the mirror, and my skin really did look cleaner, clearer, and softer. It was glowing, but not in the way an oil slick glows. And for once, I was walking away with a plan to keep my skin looking great. I made my way to Sephora to pick up a better moisturizer and some exfoliating toner. Pablo Blau doesn’t sell products, so when something is recommended, it’s a generic recommendation and not because they’re making a hard sell of their own stuff.
before Valentine’s Day and the George Washington Ball, to look my best for a hot date and a fun night.
AAS members can enjoy a 75-minute Hydro Bespoke facial or a 75-minute Detoxification Bespoke back facial at Pablo Blau for $85. What a steal! I will for sure be using this benefit! See the member benefits section of our website for details.
While this particular facial was complimentary, I am already planning my next trip to see Eyan and have her work her magic on my skin. I’m thinking around February 13, just
VALENTINE'S DAY REIMAGINED
By Olha Romaniuk
Step away from the clichés and make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable with these unique, out-of-thebox date ideas that will leave a lasting impression.
With Valentine's Day just around the corner, perhaps this year is the time to think beyond the usual dinner-andflowers routine and get a little creative. Whether celebrating with a partner, friends, or even on your own, why settle for the ordinary when you can make this day extra special? From outdoor adventures to uniquely themed experiences, there are plenty of ways to break away from the norm and infuse your celebration with unforgettable memories. If you're ready to surprise your loved ones (or yourself), here are some less conventional ideas to ensure your Valentine's Day is anything but ordinary.
Luxury
For a romantic and extravagant experience, consider renting a yacht for a day and indulge in a luxurious day in the open air with a few glasses of bubbly and a private chef to whip up some noteworthy dishes. Many yacht clubs in Singapore, like Sailuxo Yacht Club, pride themselves on offering meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to luxury that can promise an exclusive celebration like no other. While many yacht rentals are ideal for large-group milestone celebrations, a smaller vessel can be perfect for creating a more exclusive and romantic atmosphere for a day-long getaway.
Escape
If you are up for a more extended adventure, consider an escape to Telunas Private Island. Located only 50 kilometers from Singapore, Telunas prides itself on being an eco-luxury natural island accented with resort comforts. Offering 15 overwater villas,
various sea and land activities, and a selection of traditional Indonesian and Western dishes, there are plenty of opportunities to have fun or simply unwind on a beach. While the island is so close to Singapore, the exclusive access and its embrace of eco-luxury at the core of its offerings craft a getaway that feels much more fulfilling and tranquil than just a quick escape from the city.
Hands-On
Looking for ideas for a uniquely fun Valentine’s Day date but don’t want to leave Singapore? Treat your special someone to an unforgettable experience at The Tanglin Gin Distillery, Singapore’s first gin distillery, nestled in the heart of Dempsey Hill. Immerse yourselves in the artistry of gin-making at the Tanglin Creations Lab, where you can explore the world of gin, whether you are a gin aficionado or simply seeking a memorable date. After touring the distillery, finish your experience with a gin and food tasting at The Tanglin Gin Jungle, where you can enjoy the cozy ambiance of the luscious outdoors and a view of the long bar.
Local
For an exquisite experience that combines culinary extravagance with a unique walk down a Singaporean memory lane, consider joining the Highlights Guided Tour at the National Gallery Singapore where, in under one hour, the Gallery’s docents will offer a guided exploration of more than 300 artworks that include some of the most important works in The Gallery’s collection. After working up an appetite exploring the art, culminate your evening at Odette, a remarkable restaurant by chef Julien Royer that fuses his French upbringing with influences from his time spent in Asia and where every dish is a stunning work of art.
Adventure
If you prefer to keep your Valentine’s Day plans more low-key, kayaking in Pulau Ubin just might be the experience for you and your significant other. Imagine paddling side by side, surrounded by the serene beauty of nature as you explore peaceful waters and lush landscapes. To make your experience effortless, book your kayaking tickets online and secure the perfect time slot for an intimate getaway. Whether you're seeking a quiet escape or an adventure to share, kayaking (and other waterbased activities) in Pulau Ubin provides the perfect setting for a memorable, romantic experience with a little kick of adrenaline.
