Weekender #16 by Weekender Singapore

WK16A / MICA (P) 144/08/2012

Want

Check out 6 Free and interesting events this weekend

WEEKENDER

free admission on page 2 JANUARY 25 - 31, 2013

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND filled with FUN AND HAPPINESS

Acrobats and Amusements at the River Hongbao

SPECTACULAR

Hong Kong Family Fun? See SingExpress Travel ad for promotions.

PAGE 5

DELIVERED FREE TO YOUR HOME

FESTIVAL FOOD INDULGENCE

Usher in the Snake Year with the bright lights and treats at Singapore’s very own River Hongbao By Cheryl Chia

will property PRICES continue upwards?

• Continues on page 2...

02 • WEEKENDER • JANUARY 25 - 31, 2013

OVER STORY

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

Acrobatics, magic and amusement abound at River Hongbao

EVENTS W If you would like your event listed, please email the details and pictures (where applicable) to

• Continued from page 1...

events@weekender.com.sg 2 weeks before your event date.

Listings must arrive in email Wednesday two weeks before publication. Listings are free but, as space is limited, inclusion is not guaranteed. Nevertheless, we try our best to include every listing possible.

FREE EVENTS

he Lunar New Year may be about micro things such as spring cleaning, cookie baking and fending off questions of marriage from nosy relatives, but the effort to remain cohesive and peaceful during this time of the year is still prevalent. The New Year is a time where people do things as a family, and reunite despite busy schedules. One of the places I used to go with my family as a child was to the annual River Hongbao. I remember crunching on a malt candy in the shape of a fish. The River Hongbao has come a long way since then, to its shiny new home at The Float @ Marina Bay.

The Guangdong Arts Troupe - Nanfang Song and Dance Company is one of the many entertainments for the festival

Acrobats and amusements at River Hongbao

Spectacular Some delicacies are by the nine chefs flown in for the event, from Guangdong

The River Hongbao Food Street features local and Guangdong Chinese delicacies

The River Hongbao promises to be bigger and brighter this year with larger-than-life lantern displays and intricate handicrafts. Promising to entertain both food lovers as well as to provide good memories for visitors, local and foreign delicacies from Guangdong are available this year to savour. You can expect easy-to-consume dishes like grilled quail eggs, soup dumplings and char kway teow. The carnival-esque fringe activities such as amusement rides, performances and traditional fun such as Lantern Riddles and Caramel Painting also provide perfect photo opportunities to catch your family having fun. This year, the River Hongbao engages the Guangdong Arts Troupe – Nanfang Song and Dance Company and Shantou Acrobatic and Magic Troupe to bring you fascinating performances. Precious items, such as souvenirs from the museum of Dr Sun Yat Sen, silk scarves from Shunde, and Guangzhou bone and jade sculptures will be on show.

Visitors will be able to take a small part of Guangdong back with them. Mr Alex Yam, chairman of the River Hongbao, says, “We want to preserve the memory of the festival. In the 1970s, we had firecrackers to mark the occasion but due to safety reasons we can’t do that anymore. Some memories are in danger of being forgotten and the River Hongbao would like to provide the best possible Chinese New Year experience to the people.” Mr Yam also explains that the three-metre-tall 12 Zodiac Lanterns aren’t merely decorative objects but also carry interactive features that will thrill visitors. Beginning on Feb 8, a fireworks spectacle marks the start of nine continuous days of festivities with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in attendance, and Minister for the Prime Minister’s Office, Mr Lim Swee Say, will join in the festivities on Feb 9 as we countdown to the arrival of the auspicious Snake Year. W

Aibudao 24-27 Jan Hong Kong–based Eric So will be showing a life-sized sculptural ode to the renowned Chinese artist Ai Weiwei, at Art Stage 2013. Shaped much like a fibreglass version of a bop bag or toy tumbler, this sculpture intends to praise the contributions and the immense creativity to the arts of this passionate artist. Ai Weiwei is well known for his Sunflower Seeds exhibition at the Tate Modern gallery, and is an outspoken individual on human rights and politics in his homeland of China. Art Stage Singapore 2013, Marina Bay Sands Exhibition & Convention Centre, Level B2, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956 Confusion by Eric So 26 Jan, 11am-8pm Eric So will be showcasing Confusion, which is a series of 11 pieces from his celebrity friend, the infamous Edison Chen’s album art book, an artistic and visual take on Edison Chen’s music. Eric So is a consummate multi-hyphenate artist. He went on to illustrate two seasons worth of characters for Sprite. Eric is also known for making sculptures of popular celebrities such as Jay Z, Jay Chou and Japanese pop duo, Chemistry. Catch his works soon. MAD, Museum of Art and Design, 333A Orchard Road, #03-01, Mandarin Gallery, Singapore 238897 Meet-the-Author: Dr Leslie Tay 26 Jan, 2pm-3pm Meet the ubiquitous celebrity food blogger and award-winning food photographer Dr Leslie Tay of ieatishootipost, at the launch of his latest and much-anticipated food guide, Only The Best! Dr Tay will share about his relentless search over the last six years, for the very best of Singapore’s hawker food. Dr Tay might even give away his fool-proof tips for choosing a truly good durian. Come, meet the author and get your copies autographed by the good doctor himself. Please remember to produce your relevant Books Kinokuniya receipt before requesting for Dr Leslie Tay's autograph. Books Kinokuniya, 391 Orchard Road, Ngee Ann City, #03-09/10/15, Singapore 233872 Rania Matar: Ordinary Lives – Women of the Middle-East Until 27 Jan, 12pm-9.30pm In this photo exhibition, Rania Matar, a Lebanese-American photographer, portrays the beauty of how women in the Middle-East really get on with their normal, everyday lives and routine despite the turmoil and instability that has been shown in the media. Rania explores the universal and diverse aspects of humanity – whether as a mother, a child or a young woman - regardless of social status, religion or nationality - with truly unbiased eyes. Sana Gallery, 12 Blair Road, Singapore 089912

5 Things to do at river hongbao With so many things going on at the River Hongbao, we single out the highlights to maximise your family time River Hongbao Food Street Eating is what brings families together, so why not try the River Hongbao Food Street. This year’s food street will bring back local delights such as Oyster Omelette, Satay Bee Hoon and Hainanese Chicken Rice to thrill your taste buds. It also features Guangdong delicacies prepared by nine chefs, specially flown in for the event. Memory Collection Drive The River Hongbao collaborates with the Singapore Memory Project to collect memories of Chinese New Year celebrations. For your memories contributed, you will receive specially-designed red packets. You can also submit your Chinese New Year memories via www.singaporememory.sg . Guangdong Arts Troupe From Feb 8 to 10, catch the acclaimed Guangdong Arts Troupe perform amazing acrobatics and graceful dances. Catch their fluidity in motion. Lantern Riddles The tradition of lantern riddles is a dying one. Show your children the fun mystery of lantern riddles and watch their faces light up with the knowledge and satisfaction of solving each riddle. Caramel Painting Watch candy masters transform mere caramel and malt into stunning shapes. This is always a fun station to pop by for both young and old. Instagram-ers can rejoice at the chance to shoot and upload more pictures of unique-looking food for posterity.

Zhu Wei: Solo Exhibition Until 5 Mar, 11am-7pm Principally-trained in the form of Chinese ink and colour on paper, Chinese artist Zhu Wei is known for his subtle critique of social politics in his rapidly-evolving homeland. His paintings are inspired from the Yuan Dynasty, an era where neutrality or ‘blandness’ is indicative of the pinnacle of artistic achievement. Zhu Wei’s calm and minimalistic compositions feature dramatic brush strokes with barely any hint of excess. MOCA @ Loewen, 27A Loewen Road, Singapore 248839 Zadok Ben-David Until 31 Jan, 5am-12am The Yemen-born but Londonbased artist and sculptor, Zadok Ben-David, who is known for his signature cut-out sculptures, showcases 17 of his nature-inspired sculpture pieces at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, They are mostly peppered around the area of the Eco Lake of the Gardens. These steel sculptures were specially designed to form a protective layer of rust, as they attempt to fend off the elements. Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Road, Singapore 259569

TICKETED EVENTS #SGTipsyTrivia 31 Jan, 7.30pm-10.30pm, $5 Have a fun-filled night with friends at The Wok & Barrel with their Tipsy Trivia night. Unwind with a few drinks and answer a few Singaporean-themed questions and four international-themed questions and the winning team over six rounds stands a chance to get six $20 dining vouchers and 60 per cent of the pot for the night. The Wok & Barrel, 13 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089597 Ameizing World Tour: Encore! 2013 26 Jan, 8pm, $38-$228 The Queen of Mando-Pop is back. AMei, commended as the “Pride of Taiwan” has achieved many accolades over her 15 years in the music scene. AMei continues to evolve her music and stage performance during the tour with an intensive set list, dazzling new costumes and top-notch production effects. This is an experience not to be missed. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, Singapore 397691 ASEAN Basketball – Singapore Slingers v Indonesia Warriors 29 Jan, 8pm-10pm, $8-$50 Support our local Singapore Slingers as they go up against the Indonesia Warriors. The Slingers go up against quality teams from the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. There’s something for everyone as you cheer on your home team, watch the cheerleaders and indulge in the arena snacks. Tickets from Sistic. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, Singapore 397691 Being Together – Photographing with John Clang 27 Jan-1 Feb, 7.30pm, $27 Join Singaporean photographer John Clang on this special tour. Get insight into the artist’s experiences, inspirations and methodology behind his works. He was the first local photographer to win the prestigious Designer of the Year award at the annual President's Design Award in 2010. Tickets from Sistic. National Museum of Singapore, Exhibition 1, 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897 Big Night Out 2013 30 Jan, 7pm, $125 Rock out with Grammy awardwinning indie bands like the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Vampire Weekend and Band of Horses. For one night only, the bands will play at Fort Canning Hill. Enjoy hits like “Heads will Roll”, “Giving up the Guns” and “Slow Cruel Hands of Time” from the performers and kick-start 2013 with a rockin’ night out. Get ready to make some memories. Tickets from Sistic. Fort Canning Park, 51 Canning Rise, Singapore 179872 Coffee Appreciation 101 2 Feb, 10.30am-12.30pm, $45 All coffee fiends take note. This class takes participants through the cultivation, harvesting, processing, roasting and storage of coffee as well as the basics on how to make a great cuppa. You will also learn the process of selection and its part in bringing out the roast flavour and aroma. You’ll never settle for a bad cup of coffee again. Espressolab Singapore, 13 Bali Lane, Singapore 189849 Chinese Chamber Music: Silken Expression 30 Jan, 7.30pm, $28 Take in an elegant strings recital performed by Singapore Chinese Orchestra musicians Zhou Ruo Yu and Ma Huan on the erhu and yangqin respectively. Presented in the recital are various solo and ensemble pieces such as Liu Tian Hua’s erhu composition Melody on One String, Xiang Zu Hua’s Night Escape of Lin Chong – a musical tribute to the hero of Mount Liang as well as Tan Dun’s Poem in Two Parts which depicts a celebration of a good hunt. Tickets from Sistic. Esplanade Recital Studio, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981 Emily of Emerald Hill: A Singaporean Identity on Stage Until 17 Feb, 9am-7pm, adults $6; children & students free This exhibition at the Peranakan Museum examines how the play by Stella Kon was created and the different manner in which it has been performed over the years. Gain deeper insight into the story that was inspired by Stella’s own experience of living in a mansion on Emerald Hill. The play depicts a bibik, Emily, and how she evolved from being a young bride to a strong matriarch in the Peranakan enclave of Emerald Hill. Children and students with valid passes get in free. Peranakan Museum, 39 Armenian Street, Singapore 179941 Epicurean Market 25-27 Jan, Fri-Sat, 11am-9pm; Sun, 11am-8pm, $59 Marina Bay Sands presents an Epicurean Market. Experience the culinary delights and vintages from around the world with unique gourmet samples by six celebrity chef restaurants and over 80 dining establishments and industry

JANUARY 25 - 31, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 03

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS

C SI AL

Kids Fest: Mr Benn – The Extraordinary Adventures of an Ordinary Man 22-27 Jan, various times, $38-$58 One ordinary day like any other, Mr Benn receives an invitation for a fancy dress party and comes across an extraordinary shop. By magic, the shopkeeper appears with an array of costumes and shows him into a dressing room. Inside, a mysterious door leads Mr Benn to incredible adventures, filled with dragons, princesses and sea monsters. Watch his journey back into his daily life, suited for the whole family from young to old. Tickets from Sistic. DBS Arts Centre, Singapore Repertory Theatre, 20 Merbau Road, Singapore 239035 Kids Fest: Room on the Broom 30 Jan to 10 Feb, various times, $38-$58 A witch and her faithful cat are flying happily on their broomstick

Kids Fest: Horrible Histories Barmy Britain 31 Jan to 9 Feb, various times, $38-$58 Get your kids interested in history with the easy style of Horrible Histories. We all want to meet people from history. Barmy Britain gives you the chance, live on stage and direct from London’s West End. Have you ever wondered why the Romans never won Master Chef? Or what happens when you lose your heart or head to Henry VIII? You’ll see in this lively, entertaining show. Tickets from Sistic. DBS Arts Centre, Singapore Repertory Theatre, 20 Merbau Road, Singapore 239035

Jersey Boys Until 17 Feb, 2pm & 8pm, $55-$230 This Tony, Grammy and Oliver Award-winning musical is based on the true story of rock and roll band Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons comprising three other members Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi. Delight your ears with their hits from the ‘60s like “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “Oh What a Night” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” Tickets from Sistic. Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956

City Gym

ST H U M ATC W

leaders. The celebrity chefs such as Nancy Silverton, Tetsuya Wakuda and Justin Quek will be making appearances and master classes will also be held. Tickets from Sistic. Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Hall A & B, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956

EVENT

For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

All events are correct at time of print.

the Musical

All events listed here are accurate at the the time of print, or are listed as stated by the organisers. Please check with the relevant organisers and contacts for more information and to book tickets.

31 Jan to 6 Feb, various times, $25-$55

WEEKENDER ABOUT US

CITY GYM the Musical is a blast from the past, set in the 1980s where muscle was king, this musical shows off 20 original rock and pop songs written by Dan Thompson. Think back to dyed hair, feathered bangs, Mohawks and fish nets and everyone was dressed in florescent colours, leg warmers and MC Hammer pants. It was the era where everything was bigger and louder. Join in the international cast for good old ‘80s fun. Jubilee Hall, Raffles Hotel, 1 Beach Road, Singapore 189673

We are a Social Enterprise! Besides enriching the lives of our readers, we provide training and employment for disadvantaged Singaporeans from CDCs, ISCOS and IMH. Our humble team:

Editorial Director Frank Young frank@weekender.com.sg Editor Lester J Wan Writer Cheryl Chia Art Director Nicodemus Aw Graphic Designer Foo Dun Jie

– until a storm kicks up and blows away her hat, bow and wand. A helpful dog, bird and frog come along, and they find the lost items and all happily hop onto the broom for a ride. But the broomstick is not made for five and it snaps in two! When a hungry dragon appears, who will save the witch? A gripping tale for the young and young at heart. Tickets from Sistic. DBS Arts Centre, Singapore Repertory Theatre, 20 Merbau Road, Singapore 239035 Laneway Festival 26 Jan, 12pm-12am, $145 Quintessential indie rock festival St Jerome’s Laneway returns for a third successive year. See popular breakout singer Gotye and Kimbra of “Somebody that I used to know” sing their hit live as well as alternative band Kings of Convenience. Other performers include Japanadroids, Nicolas Jaar, Of Monsters & Men. Alt-J, Bat for Lashes, Cloud Nothings, Divine Fits, Polica, Real Estate, Tame Impala and Yeasayer. Tickets from Sistic. The Meadow, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953

La Vie de Chateau (Film) 29 Jan, 8pm, $7.20 In the Normandy countryside, in World War II France, a woman, Marie is unhappy. She is married to Jerome, a fussy man indifferent to the war around him, and he’s unwilling to move his wife to Paris where she longs to live, shop and party. A German unit is camped in Jerome and Marie’s crumbling chateau at the behest of their commanding officer, who is pursuing Marie. She is also being monitored by a French spy working with the Allies as they plan D-Day. He woos her and in his passion, forgets his mission. Heroics ensue and Marie makes her final choice. Alliance Francaise Theatre, 1 Sarkies Road, Singapore 258130 The Lotus On Water Prosperity Fengshui Convention 26 Jan (English), 27 Jan (Chinese), 5.30pm-10.30pm, $388-$488 Themed Harnessing the Power of the Water Snake, it will be held in end-January 2013 just before Chinese New Year at the Marina Bay Sands. Popular sixth-generation fengshui master and Lotus On Water founder Master Yun Long Zi will

discuss fengshui philosophy, explain how to generate wealth, and share some surprising recommendations for 2013. Tickets from Sistic. Roselle Junior Ballroom, Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956 M1 Singapore Fringe Festival: Best of By The Necessary Stage 24-27 Jan, 3pm and 8pm, $19-$30 Thespian and award-winning actress Siti Khalijah goes front and centre in this brand new onewoman show specially created for her by Alvin Tan and Haresh Sharma. The Best Of looks at issues of the day through collective stories and personal reflection. Esplanade Recital Studio, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981 Oil Painting 1 Until 19 Feb, 7pm-10pm, $550 If you’ve ever been interested in oil painting, or thought of picking it up, now is the time. Learn the basic techniques and skills of oil painting in eight sessions, from the teachers at Lasalle College of the Arts. Lasalle College of the Arts, 1 McNally Street, Singapore 187940

OMMProm 2013 26 Jan, 5pm, $15 Come join the Orchestra of The Music Makers (OMM) as they serenade you with the best tunes across the spectrum from pop to jazz to rock and roll. Beginning with chart toppers of yore such as “I Got Rhythm” and “Embraceable You” to “Rhapsody in Blue” to David Bowie’s “Sons of a Silent Age”, this OMMProm 2013 makes a perfect musical concert for film lovers. Esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981 Public Forum on Gambling 2013 26 Jan, 9.30am, $8 Gambling may be a common recreational activity, but when it gets out of hand it begins to cause trouble in lives as well as in families. At this public forum, you will get an in-depth understanding of problem gambling, including the signs and dangers of youth gambling and how you can spot as well as to help someone you know with such a gambling issue. Tickets from Sistic. Health Promotion Board, Level 7 Auditorium, 3 Second Hospital Avenue, Singapore 168937

Sales Director David Phey Sales Manager Seth Leow CONTACT US: Advertising Sales: seth@weekender.com.sg Enquiries: +65 6493 2001 general@weekender.com.sg Weekender Group Pte Ltd 80 Playfair Road, #02-03, Blk A, Singapore 367998 CRN# 201212438E MICA (P) 144/08/2012 Disclaimer: The illustrations, photographs, views and statements expressed by our contributors, bloggers, illustrators, or writers do not necessarily reflect the views of Weekender Group Private Limited. Weekender Group Private Limited does not warrant the accuracy, reliability, currency or completeness of those views or statements and do not accept any legal liability whatsoever arising from any reliance on the views, statements and subject matter. © Copyright Weekender Group Pte Ltd. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, all rights including those in copyright in the content of this publication are owned by or controlled for these purposes by Weekender Group Pte Ltd. Copyrights to photographs, Illustrations, or any other forms of work which appear in this publication provided by non-Weekender Group Pte Ltd contributors are owned and controlled their respective creators.Except as otherwise expressly permitted under copyright law or Weekender Group Pte Ltd, the content of this publication may not be copied, reproduced, republished, downloaded, posted, broadcast or transmitted in any way without first obtaining our written permission or that of the copyright owner.

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS

04 • WEEKENDER • JANUARY 25 - 31, 2013

ASHION

For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

Get these knick-knacks Kancheong Spider Watch

Chapalang Bag

Singaporean collective the Farmstore creates quirky accessories and decorative objects out of local sayings and sights By Cheryl Chia

The “uniquely Singaporean” sentiment has taken a trendy twist with The Farmstore, taking nostalgia and turning it into fashionable, tongue-in-cheek items. You can now bring a piece of home with you, in quirky aspects of Singaporean life and culture, wherever you go. Imagine the Merlion-printed plastic bags from the convenience store turned into a strong canvas shopper bag, or tutukuehs transformed into realistic erasers. Or, even the phrase “Touch wood!” ringing true with a wooden pendant suspended from a metal chain. These are the kinds of things that The Farmstore produces. Taking turn-of-phrases and everyday things and incorporating them into witty objects such as the Kan Cheong Spider Watch ($36), Chapalang Tote Bag ($33) and Bak Chang Five Stones ($12), these nifty things make for great gifts for friends from out of town or even adding a touch of nostalgia or home to your everyday fashion. “Farmstore is a place where you can find good local designs by Singaporean designers and artists. We showcase Singapore-inspired products and promote our local talents within and beyond our shores,” says its spokesperson. They also carry amusing decorative items like the Ais Gem Magnets ($15) and the Good Morning 1965 Bath Towel ($49). We especially like the Choy! Charm Necklace ($12) which is a block of wood suspended from a metal ball chain. Created in 2010, The Farmstore has since achieved a cult status with partnerships with the National Heritage Board. “We also collaborate with our network of designers and artists while some products are self-initiated and designed in-house at Farmstore. We would also periodically carry products sourced from elsewhere, when we find something we would love to carry in our store,” they say. Objects from the Farmstore can be found at Totally Hot Stuff, Mono Yono, Books Actually and the Museum Label at the National Heritage Board. For more information and products visit their website at www.farm.sg/store . Speaking on behalf of the collective, the spokesperson summed up the sentiment of The Farmstore: “We wanted to explore what makes Singaporeans unique. Most of all, we wanted to look around us and be able to laugh at ourselves and live our lives more light-heartedly.”

Chapalang Bag

Fa Gao Bag

Bak Chang Five Stones

Own James Bond “we wanted to be able to laugh at ourselves and live our lives more light-heartedly.”

$28

Shakura

Pigmentation

Facial Therapy See page 1 for details.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Getting ready for the Lunar New Year or Valentine’s Day? Look sharp and bring out the charmer in you with this range

Get sun-kissed in under two minutes Menscience Facial Tone Enhancer ($55) Achieve healthy-looking skin with deeper tones. The Menscience Facial Tone Enhancer evens out skin tone and combats signs of ageing, helping improve the skin’s overall appearance. Usage: For use on clean and dry skin. Apply a dab to the forehead first and, using fingertips, thoroughly and evenly blend it into your skin. Repeat on nose, upper cheeks and chin. Have perfect hair Gatzmen Hard Styling Wax ($29.90) Gatzmen’s Hard Styling Wax provides a dynamic style and a lasting, strong hold with a no-lumps formula. It is suitable for both long as well as short hair, and cleans off very easily with shampoo. It has a strong setting, and is suitable for either short or long hair. Usage: Scoop out an appropriate amount of wax and spread it on your hands. Then, style your hair with it. Be chiselled, not chunky Billy Jealousy Six Pack Slimming Solution ($77) Billy Jealousy’s Six-Pack Slimming Solution stimulates the body’s lymphatic system through a delivery system of caffeine, enabling bio-flavinoids to break down fat. This will have your torso looking toned and chiselled.

Not long after the film Skyfall, the latest and most successful in the James Bond movie franchise, Celio* once again comes up with a new range of interesting cooperative t-shirts. Celio*’s new range of tees features the notorious secret agent James Bond, 007. You can choose from the range of James Bond prints, including some with classic poster images. Why not collect them all? You can channel the charming, debonair rogue in you. The regular price for these James Bond-themed tees is $49.90 per piece. Enjoy a 20 per cent off from its launch, for a limited time only. This series is also limited in stock. Hurry, get yours now before they are sold out. Celio*’s new James Bond series shirts are available at all Celio* Singapore stores from Jan 16 onward. Founded in 1985 by Marc and Laurent Grosman, Celio* has become an international brand for trendy urban menswear, for the modern fashionable man. Celio* also carries seasonal collections from urban to relaxed styles ranging from jackets, shirts, t-shirts, polo tees, bermudas, pants, denim jeans and accessories. Celio* Bugis+ #01-05, CityLink Mall, #B1-47, Plaza Singapura, #03-41, and Takashimaya SC, #B2-36A.

en,

gear UP for the festivities

hatHeWants is a concept store offering a hand-picked selection of grooming products for skin, hair and body care. A stockist for cult brands like Lab Series, 66°30 and American Crew, it is also exclusive distributor for Menscience, Billy Jealousy, Kyoku, Menaji, 4VOO and Gentlemen’s Tonic. These will help you look good during festivities, or for your Valentine.

Still smarting from the end of Skyfall? Don’t just sing the blues with Adele. Check out this new range of tees from Celio*

a highly-concentrated essence of cell-activating nutrients and moisturising ingredients to keep skin moist and healthy. Formulated to deeply moisturise and condition the skin, the mask essence contains concentrated natural plant extracts that help the skin absorb nutrients, reviving, nourishing, softening, as well as oxygenating the skin while removing impurities. Increase skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and brighten your skin tone. Usage: After cleansing the face, dry the skin and soothe with toning water. Gently apply the mask to fit face contours. After 15 to 20 minutes, remove the mask but do not rinse to allow excess moisture to be absorbed. Close-up ready 4VOO Confidence corrector, $69 The 4VOO Confidence Corrector covers and hides unwanted blemishes, dark circles, discoloration, tattoos and other marks. It may also be used to add colour to the complexion to give a natural vibrant appearance. Its nourishing formula contains UVA/UVB sunscreen, ten botanical extracts, essential oils, vitamins and minerals. Available in four colours, the Confidence Corrector can be blended to match most skin tones.

Usage: Use this daily for about one to two weeks for noticeable results. Apply twice daily to problem areas.

Usage: Using the colour closest to your complexion, rub the stick over the area you wish to cover. Using your finger or a makeup sponge, gently blend the corrector into the surrounding skin. Start with a small amount and continue to layer until the desired result is achieved. All the attention will now be on you. W

Your party quick-fix Storyderm Stem Cell Silk Mask, $19.90 The Storyderm Stem Cell Silk Mask is rich with

WhatHeWants, Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Road, #03-30, Singapore 238896. Tel: 6634 0386; The Cathay, 2 Handy Road, #01-06, Singapore 229233. Tel: 6738 6903

Be my Valentine? Tis’ the season of love – put your best, beautiful image on and watch others turn in envy Bonavoce Ultra Long Mascara ($25.90)

Be the very visage of beauty this Valentine’s Day. This range of products dedicated to helping you look and feel better will also make your date prep easier. Lierac Body-Slim ($88) Lierac Body-Slim is great for “orange-peel” skin, cellulite and water retention. It has scents of blackcurrant, iris, rose and jasmine. Massage into problem areas such as thighs, buttocks or arms. Lierac is available at Robinsons and John Little outlets, BHG (Bugis, Lot 1 and Clementi Mall), Metro (City Square), Watsons (Ngee Ann City and ION) and Beauty by Nature (Vivo City and ION). Bonavoce Ultra Long Mascara ($25.90) Get long luscious lashes. This jet-black mascara comes with a long-toothed comb to ensure every single lash is evenly coated without clumps. It is also water and sweat-proof with a tri-block co-polymer to prevent running and smudging. Available at selected Guardian Health and Beauty stores.

By Cheryl Chia

Laline Pele Body Butter ($36.90) Enriched with decadent shea butter, cocoa butter as well as vitamin E, the limited edition Pele collection by Laline features Monoi, a flowery and musky perfume oil from Tiare flowers. The Laline Pele Body Butter absorbs quickly, without leaving an oily residue. Laline boutiques are at Plaza Singapura, Bugis, Parkway Parade and Marina Square. B.seen I Am Milia Banisher ($39.95) Those white oil seeds beneath the eyes are hard to remove. With the B. Seen I Am Milia Banisher, you can protect the delicate skin around your eyes and encourage the turnover of new cells. The B. Seen I Am Milia Banisher also offers complex protection against both aging and dryness. Visit www. blivskin.com for more information. Lierac BodySlim ($88)

Laline Pele Body Butter ($36.90)

JANUARY 25 - 31, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 05

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

When the train arrives, all the cameras come out

TRAVELATIO

Some items are removed while some are left next to the track

“Maeklong railway market is one of the most photographed markets outside of bangkok.” The parasols and other items have to be removed before the train cuts through

P thailand off the beaten track

assportChop had the opportunity to check out an unusual market just 75km Southwest of Bangkok, in the city of Maeklong district. The Maeklong Railway Market is one of the most photographed outside of Bangkok. It is known as Talad Rom Hoop in Thai – which translates to “market”, “awning” or “umbrella”, and “pulling down”. You may think it is a weird literal translation but you’ll see why it’s known as “Market-Awning-Pulling Down”. Most of the time, Maeklong Railway Market looks similar to any other market that caters to locals – you are unlikely to get clothes and accessories. However, it is a good place for fresh vegetables and even sardines in circular dim sum basket-lookalikes (packed like sardines!). This is a busy market – with locals grocery shopping and tourists waiting for the ‘excitement’. The market is sheltered by low-hanging awnings or umbrellas, and you walk on the rails. Vegetables and fruits are placed next to these rails. A train runs through Maeklong Railway Market seven times a day. In the morning, the train passes the market four times. The train arrives at 8.40am from Ban Laem Station and departs from Maeklong (Samut Songkram) Railway Station at 9.00am. The next train arrives at 11.20am from Ban Laem and departs from Maeklong (Samut Songkram) Station at 11.30am. In the afternoon, the train passes by the market three to four times. The train arrives at 2.30pm from Ban Laem and departs from Maeklong (Samut Songkram) Station at 3.30pm. The next one arrives at 5.40pm from Ban Laem. The schedule is subject to change, so check with the train station before planning your journey. The action begins four to five minutes before the train is due. One moment, you see the locals shopping for vegetables and the next, vendors will begin packing their boxes of vegetables or meat and, as the siren sounds, the market comes alive with the vendors keeping their awnings, umbrellas – anything that lies over the tracks. The market then comes to a standstill as all the vendors hold on to the poles supporting their awnings; the keeping is a very quick process – they have a well-established Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and most of these slide easily (with wheels) to the side. The only people moving about are tourists and photography enthusiasts, as they plan the

railroad

marketing Apart from Platinum Fashion Mall and Chatuchak Market and Pratunam markets in Bangkok, why not go off the beaten track to more interesting sites like a market on railroad tracks?

perfect angle to capture the train’s arrival. The train moves slowly and passes beside the leftover items. This is when you hear lots of clicks. Once it’s gone, vendors push the awnings back into position and resume business as if nothing happened. Getting to Maeklong Railway Market the cheap and DIY way Those planning a trip to Maeklong, note that it involves two train trips, punctuated by a ferry ride. From Bangkok the train departs from Wong Wian Yai station. The nearest BTS station is Wangwan Yai (20 minutes’ walk). Here you get the train to the end of the line at Mahachai. This train takes about an hour. At Mahachai, exit left of the train, and then turn right into the market street. Walk to the end of the street and on your left you’ll see the river and the ferry terminal. You now catch the ferry across the river to Ban Laem. There, walk through the market and at the street entrance, turn right. Keep walking down the street for ten minutes and you’ll get to the station for the train. When the train reaches the end of the railway line in Maeklong, you will have plenty of time (about an hour) to get off the train and explore the market before the train turns around again. Double-check with the conductor on the last train timings, so you don’t end up being stranded. This trip to Maeklong Railway Market will cost less than $150 Baht. Guided tour to Maeklong Railway Market If you find train-changing troublesome and don’t mind paying, you can get a guided tour from Bangkok to the Market and other attractions. Rat Service is an option – www.ratservice.com. For a half-day tour of Samut Songkram area which includes the Maeklong Railway Market, Ampawa Floating Market and two beautiful temples, we paid $2,000 Baht for a driver/guide ($250 Baht per hour), gasoline and expressway tolls. The fee is per car, so you could share the cost with three friends, making it affordable, convenient and a comfortable way to tour. W Taken from passportchop.com

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS

06 • WEEKENDER • JANUARY 25 - 31, 2013

OOD

For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

Have a

Au Chocolat’s Valentine’s Day Menu

Chocolate Atelier Chef Tai, Au Chocolat’s affectionate chocolatier, is sharing love through his saccharine treats. For an irresistible gift, a box of Raspberry Caramel pralines will be splendid. Grab some Strawberry Chocolate Lollipops or Dark Chocolate Strawberry Marshmallows to surprise your loved ones; it is always joyful to receive exquisite sweet treats on Valentine’s Day.

sumptuous Have a grand and sumptuous reunion with your family this Lunar New Year, with these offerings from a few Chinese restaurants around the island By Cheryl Chia

Patisserie Au Chocolat’s head pastry chef, Chef Mai, presents the Sweet Love Macaron, a heart-shaped delight which will bring sweet smiles to the ladies. Filled with chocolate filling and raspberry gelée, our rose-scented macaron is definitely the perfect gift to express your love to your precious one.

First love in

Au Chocolat If chocolate is the food of love, dine at this lovely patisserie and bistro this Valentine’s Chocolate Lollipops

Located at level 1 at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, Au Chocolat is a unique Frenchinspired retail and dining concept, with a Confiserie furnished with a chocolate atelier and a patisserie, and The Au Chocolat Bistro that offers all-day dining with a wide variety of flavours. This February, Au Chocolat celebrates its first Valentine’s Day in Marina Bay Sands with scrumptious creations lovingly handmade by its award-winning chefs. Experience the sweetest and simplest form of love, first love, only in Au Chocolat.

Bistro In celebration of love and appreciation, indulge in the “Enchanting Chocolat Valentine Set Menu” which offers a Pink Menu and a Blue Menu to cater to the palettes of His and Hers. For just $88++ for a five-course meal, sample dishes such as Smoked Vine Tomato Purée enriched with delicious seafood flavour, or tantalise your taste buds with Foie Gras with Apple Variations. For your main course, relish in our Roast Chicken with Mushroom served with white wine and wild mushroom cream. Alternatively, savour the Duo of Beef for some braised beef cheeks with tomato bush and roasted rib-eye served with red wine sauce that will leave you asking for more. To end the meal on a sweet note, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by Au Chocolat’s patisserie’s unique creations, Pink Surprise or Enchanting Blue. Come and experience First Love in Au Chocolat. The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Avenue, #01-03, Singapore 018956, Tel: Bistro 6688 7227; Confiserie 6688 7557

The Golden Ingot Drum of Abundance

ining out for Chinese New Year might be the best option to avoid the fuss, muss and mess that a large family reunion can create. Plus, everyone will be obliged to be on their best behaviour while dining outside. You know what we mean. Family drama will be kept to a minimum. Here are a few places that serve up a great Chinese New Year feast, where you can take your family for a bountiful reunion dinner.

The Dice of Fortune

Min Jiang at Goodwood Park Hotel Dining at Min Jiang during Chinese New Year will be a thrill with its offerings this year. Add some interactivity to your dinner this year with the Drum of Abundance ($288) – containing braised pig trotters with sea treasures – encased in a salt ‘icing’. Have fun using the hammers provided to crack the drum open. If you get this for takeaway, do lay some newspapers on the ground to avoid having to clean up. Min Jiang’s signature delights such as the

Chef Patron Frederic Colin drools over his own pain au chocolat

Prosperity Hamachi Yu Sheng ($128) are also on the menu, back by popular demand. They have also created special cakes to commemorate the occasion. Their Golden Ingot ($78) – a kumquat chocolate fudge cake, Auspicious Pop! Cake ($78) – a red pound cake with cake pops, and the Dice of Fortune ($88.88) – a Mandarin orange pound cake, will also stand out from the usual dinner with their unique shapes, textures and tastes. Min Jiang is located at Goodwood Park Hotel, 22 Scotts Road, Singapore 228221, Tel: 6730 1704; and No. 5 Rochester Park, Singapore 139216, Tel: 6774 0122.

RECIPE 1

Cafe Gavroche serves up a multitude of tartines open faced sandwiches

“the atmosphere at cafe gavroche has been lifted to a much more casual and relaxed vibe.”

Exclusive: Japanese Mackerel “Pastrami” with fennel seed oil In the third in a series featuring recipes using ingredients from Japan, Chef Isaac Tan shows you how to make this japanese mackerel dish By Cheryl Chia

The interior reminds one of a Parisian enclave

Dine in

Little Paris Slip away into a French enclave with Café Gavroche on Tras Street By Cheryl Chia Walking into Café Gavroche is a little like stepping into a Disney-fied version of a Parisian bistro. It is cleaner, air-conditioned and the service is much cheerier, putting to rest the snooty stereotype. The décor is clearly French with authentic fixtures and mosaic tiles and the bar counter is a pre-war relic from the 1920s. The owners had to replace the zinc top as the metal was removed during the war to make ammunition. You may be familiar with their sister restaurant across the street, Brasserie Gavroche. Also started by Chef Patron Frederic Colin – formerly the Executive Chef of St Regis Hotel – the atmosphere at Café Gavroche has been lifted to much a more casual and relaxed vibe. One could almost imagine Amelie Poulain sitting in the indoor terrace, drinking her café. For the upcoming Valentine’s Day, take your love to brunch at Café Gavroche for a sense of escapism. The breakfast/brunch menu on the weekends is eggs galore with seven styles of cooking, freshly baked

vienoisseries, charcuterie or cheese platters and their signature tartines – an openfaced sandwich. Our favourites were definitely the Oeuf Cocotte du Jour ($15) – a creamy egg casserole with seasonal ingredients (that day’s was salmon) and the Oeuf Benedict ($22) – poached eggs on brioche, bacon and hollandaise sauce. The eggs benedict was probably one of the best we’ve tasted with the eggs poached just right and covered in tart hollandaise. It also came with a side of sautéed potatoes with rashers. Their Croque-Monsieur ($16) – an oven-baked cooked ham and Gruyere cheese sandwich covered in béchamel sauce may not look very filling, but looks are deceiving. The sweet brioche bread fills you up nicely. Add $2 more for a Croque-Madame ($18) which is topped with a sunny-side up. The vienoisseries such as the Pain au Chocolat ($3.50) and Croissants ($2.50) fly off the trays as quickly as they leave the oven. Chef Colin also pays homage to his French roots with various pastis – an anise-flavoured aperitif – from the South of France, boasting the largest range in Singapore with over 35 different labels. Weekend brunch is available from 10.30am to 2.30pm. Café Gavroche is located at 69 Tras Street, Singapore 079005, Tel: 6225 4869. Open Tues-Sat, 2.30pm-late; Sun, 10.30am-2.30pm.

Japanese foods. Your quality time.

RECIPE 2

Chef Isaac Tan of The Pelican Seafood Bar and Grill, who successfully launched Bedrock Bar and Grill previously, creates this savoury Japanese mackerel dish to whet your appetite. Mackerel is frequently consumed in Japan and research has revealed that the nutrients in these fish contribute to the long life and good

Mang

For the hot s makes this re

Ingredients • 400ml of low fat n mango-flavoured • 500ml of high-cal fat milk • 500g of mango pu • 90g of castor suga • 200g of cubed fres (adjust amount ac your own preferen • 100ml of water • 30g of gelatine po

Method 1. Heat milk with su just dissolves. The from heat and lea

Taken from www.m

JANUARY 25 - 31, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 07

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS

For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

reunion

FOO

Golden Abalone Chicken Treasure Pot

Grand Park City Hall: Park Palace Glutinous Rice with Foie Gras and Pork Ribs

Crystal Jade Indulge in the traditional Pen Cai with Crystal Jade. Its Golden Crystal Jade’s take on Yam Cake Abalone Chicken Treasure Pot ($228.80-$368.80) is filled with black moss, dried oyster, abalone, pork knuckle and fish which in Cantonese and Mandarin sound like variations of luck and fortune. This festive dish is symbolic of good things in the upcoming year. Vegetarians, Crystal Jade has not forgotten about you. Its Vegetarian Treasure Pot ($148.80-$198.80) includes mock meats of abalone, goose, chicken and fish balls. It also has radish, yam, lotus root and black moss for a slightly healthier touch. Also, try their special nian gaos like the Glutinous Rice Cake with Osmanthus & Ginger ($20.80), both good for the body. Visit www.crystaljade.com for more information on Crystal Jade’s Chinese New Year specials. Salmon Yu-Sheng

Royal China at Raffles Hotel Take your family to Royal China at Raffles Hotel for a reunion dinner with set menus from $138 for two to $1,688 for ten. Expect traditional Chinese dishes such as Pipa Duck, abalone, salmon yu-sheng and pan-fried nian gao. Other dishes include fried glutinous rice and almond cream with bird’s nest. You can also indulge in the Royal China Water Chestnut Cake ($23.80) and Japanese Sweet Potato New Year Cake ($23.80) for a sweet end to your meal, and a likewise start to your New Year. W Royal China is located at Raffles Hotel Arcade, 328 North Bridge Road, #03-09, Singapore 188719

health enjoyed by the Japanese. Chef Isaac says Japanese fish are “cleaner and fresher” compared to those from other countries. Cleaner and fresher definitely translates into taste, as with this “pastrami” dish. It’s easy to re-create on your own. Just follow the steps. Ingredients • 1 fresh mackerel, cleaned, and with skin on • 1 tablespoon of sea salt • 300ml of rice vinegar • 50ml of molasses • 10g of crushed black pepper • 10g of sweet paprika Fennel Seed Oil • 10g of toasted and pounded fennel seeds • 10g of toasted and pounded coriander seeds • 1 lemon, zest only • 3g of sea salt • 3g of black pepper • 100ml of extra virgin olive oil Method 1. Mix all of the above ingredients and let the flavours infuse overnight. 2. Clean and fillet the fish. Remove remaining bones with a pair of tweezers.

3. Sprinkle salt on both sides of the fillet and leave it for 1 hour. 4. Pat away salt and dry the fish with a paper towel. 5. Place the fish in a Ziploc bag and pour enough vinegar to cover the entire fish. Let it marinate for 25 minutes. 6. Then, place fish on a cutting board, skin side down, and brush it with some molasses and sprinkle with the black pepper and paprika. 7. Let it dry, unwrapped in the fridge for 1 hour, and then slice the fish into 1/2-inch wide pieces. 8. Serve with seaweed crackers and some salad. Garnish plate with a drizzle of fennel seed oil. The Pelican Seafood Bar and Grill, One Fullerton, 1 Fullerton Road, #01-01, Singapore 049213

go Yogurt Pudding

summer days approaching, food blogger Sherie Lee efreshingly sweet and comforting dessert snack

natural or yoghurt lcium low

uree ar sh mangoes ccording to nce)

owder

ugar until it en, remove ave it to cool.

2. Stir mango puree and yoghurt into the cooled milk. Strain for a smoother texture. 3. Dissolve the gelatine in 100ml of hot water. 4. Stir cooled gelatine solution into mango yoghurt mixture. Blend well. 5. Pour 1/2 mango yoghurt mixture into jelly mould; chill for 20 minutes, top with cubed mangoes, and pour in the remaining mango yoghurt mixture. 6. Chill for 3 hours before serving.

maameemoomoo.com

Grand Park Orchard: Eight Gems Herbal Chicken Soup

Indulge with Park Hotel Group’s New Year dining

Grand Park City Hall: Salmon Yu-sheng

In a time for feasting with family, this Lunar New Year, the Park Hotel Group promises an abundance of lavish gourmet indulgences and happy memories Park Hotel Group presents a myriad Lunar New Year buffets, reunion specials, festive goodies as well as exquisite and symbolic dishes with a twist. Usher in the Year of the Snake with 15 days of celebrations and exclusive promotions with the Park Hotel Group. Grand Park City Hall – Golden treasures Reach the pinnacle with prosperous Lunar New Year banquets at Park Palace restaurant at Grand Park City Hall. Lauded for the finest Cantonese gastronomy, this oriental paradise beckons with evergreen a la carte Lunar New Year cuisines, set menus and New Year offerings. Early Bird Special: Book now and dine in from Jan 21 to Feb 7, and enjoy 20 per cent off your Lunar New Year set menus and a la carte dishes at Park Palace. Chinese New Year set menus start from $78++ per person (maximum two persons); $288++ per person (four persons); $438++ per person (six persons); $588++ per person (eight persons); and $788++ to $2,388++ per person (ten persons). Highlights include the Auspicious Glutinous Rice with Foie Gras, Golden Happiness Crispy Grouper, Kurobuta Pork Ribs with Strings of Fortune, Prosperity Salmon Yu-Sheng, Roasted Whole Suckling Pig, and much more. The art of tossing Yu Sheng will also get a shimmering boost as Park Palace enhances its signature Shunde Yu Sheng to a premium Golden Shunde Yu Sheng. A distinctly-prepared delicacy hailing from Shunde – a river town in Guangdong, China renowned for its freshwater fish and fresh produce, this luxurious gourmet treat uses fresh Yellowtail, while the base of crispy fried vermicelli is adorned with slices of ginger, spring onion, capsicum and finely-ground peanuts tossed in a special concoction of fragrant peanut oil and premium soya sauce. This exquisite offering is given the finishing touch with gold dust and flakes. The premium Golden Shunde Yu Sheng is available for lunch and dinner at $88++ each. Another savoury delight making its debut is the Prosperity Flambé Pen Cai. Steeped in symbolisms of goodness and abundance, this delicacy is brimming with 18 luxuriant ingredients including Sliced Abalone, Sea Cucumber, Whole Conpoy, Prawn Balls, Roasted Duck, Roasted Pork Belly, Duck Web, Soya Chicken, Fatt Choy, Black Mushroom, Lotus Root, Broccoli, Radish, Bean Curd Skin, Gingko Nut and Black Fungus with quality stock in a casserole pot. Adding a twist to this year’s creation, the Prosperity Flambé Pen Cai is infused with Cognac, and flambéed to bring out the rich flavours and tastes of its ingredients, with a tang of liquor. The Lunar New Year Prosperity Flambé Pen Cai Set Dinner for Feb 9 is $528++ (six persons) comprising Prosperity Flambé Pen Cai, Prosperity Salmon Yu Sheng; Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Diced Pork and Ginseng; Steamed Live Soon Hock with Light Soya Sauce, Stewed Eefu Noodles with Chives; Chilled Mango Cream with Sago and Pomelo and Pan-fried Nian Gao or $838++ (for ten persons) comprising Prosperity Flambé Pen Cai, Bountiful Salmon Yu Sheng; Signature Double boiled Chicken Soup with Sea Whelk and Diced Pork; Steamed Live Red Grouper with Light Soya Sauce; Fried Glutinous Rice with Preserved Meat & Chinese Sausage; Chilled Mango Cream with Sago and Pomelo and Deep Fried Sesame Ball. Prosperity Flambé Pen Cai (à la carte and takeaway) is available from Jan 21 to Feb 24 at $268++ (six persons) or $428++ (ten persons). For enquiries and reservations, call 6432 5543. Festive goodies and tempting takeaway specials are available from Jan 21 to Feb 24. Choose from perennial favourites such as the Auspicious Abalone Yu Sheng ($68+, medium; $88+, large) and Prosperity Salmon Yu Sheng ($48+, medium; $68+, large), Park Palace’s signature Imperial Suckling Pig at $238+, Good Fortune Dang Gui Roasted Duck at $68+, Lunar New Year Fish Nian Gao at $32+, and more. For enquiries and reservations, please call 6432 5543. Grand Park City Hall, 10 Coleman Street, Singapore 179809 Tel: 6432 5888 Grand Park Orchard – Auspicious all-you-can-eat From Feb 9 to 24, Open House at Grand Park Orchard has an allyou-can-eat Lunar New Year feast including the highly-nourishing Eight Gems Herbal Chicken Soup filled with Lotus Seeds, Red Dates, Bei Qi, Yu Zhu, Chuan Gong, Shan Yao and Dang Shen; Roasted Rib Eye Carving; Roasted Duck with 13 Spices; Black Pepper Pork Trotters; Prosperity Salmon Yu Sheng; Sautéed Seafood and Celery in XO Sauce; Braised Dried Oyster and Mushroom with Black Moss; Champagne Pork Ribs and Coconut-coated Crispy Nian Gao. There is also the wood-fired Bak Kwa Pizza. The Lunar New Year All-You-Can-Eat for Feb 9, lunch is $25++ per person; and dinner is $48++ per person. For Feb 10 and 11, lunch is $38++ per person; and dinner is at $48++ per person. From Feb 12 to 24, dinner is $48++ per person. Grand Park Orchard, 270 Orchard Road, Singapore 238857 Tel: 6603 8855

Grand Park City Hall: Park Palace Golden Happiness Crispy Grouper

Park Hotel Clarke Quay – Flames of prosperity Over Feb 1, 2, 8, 15, 16, 22 and 23, Fridays and Saturdays, Brizo Restaurant and Bar, Park Hotel Clarke Quay carries Lunar New Year favourites including Herbal Drunken Prawns; succulent Roasted Duck and Roasted Chicken, Nian Gao; Love letters and Pineapple Tarts. Dinner, $52++ per adult; $28++ per child. Experience a New Year like no other at Cocobolo Bar + Grill as you dine under the night sky, with Western and Chinese barbecue food. This is a great alternative for diners who want something different from the usual Chinese cuisine. $52++ per adult; $26++ per child. For New Year’s Eve, $62++ per adult; $30++ per child. Park Hotel Clarke Quay, 1 Unity Street, Singapore 237983 Tel: 6593 8855

Enjoy a hearty meal in two minutes For A quick and hassle-free meal, check out Yamie Ready-To-Eat Rice Hungry after a long day at school or work? Need something fast to eat on-the-go? The brand new Yamie ReadyTo-Eat Rice allows you to conveniently enjoy a wholesome meal in two minutes. Yamie Ready-ToEat Rice is Halalcertified, has no trans-fat, no added MSG and is free of preservatives and artificial colouring, making it a healthier choice for a convenient meal. Yamie Ready-To-Eat Rice products are shelf-stable for one and a half years, and do not need to be refrigerated. Each pack of Yamie Ready-To-Eat Rice serves one person and is a perfect choice for anyone who is busy, hungry and looking for a quick meal. Simply peel the lid to the dotted line, pop into the microwave oven on “high” setting for two minutes, and it’s ready. Yamie Ready-To-Eat Rice comes in four flavours: Fried Rice, Yam Rice, Thai Jasmine Brown Rice, and Thai Fragrant Jasmine Rice. Yamie Ready-To-Eat Singapore Fried Rice allows the Singaporean dish to be enjoyed anywhere. This complete ready meal consists of vegetables (peas and sweet corn) and crabstick added to fragrant Jasmine rice. It has a ‘wok’ flavour similar to that of food stalls. Yamie’s bestselling Ready-To-Cook Yam Rice is now available in Ready-To-Eat form. Enjoy a treat of fragrant Jasmine rice with added ingredients of mouth-watering yam, mushrooms and shrimp. For the health-conscious, Yamie Ready-To-Eat Thai Jasmine Brown Rice makes it easy to stick to a healthy regimen. Just two minutes in the microwave is all it takes to enjoy the nutty flavour and chewy texture of the Yamie Ready-To-Eat Thai Jasmine Brown Rice. Its manufacturer, Gan Hup Lee Pte Ltd, is a rice specialist with more than 60 years in providing premium quality food products.

08 • WEEKENDER • JANUARY 25 - 31, 2013

E HAPPIER

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

Drama Mama

Thespian Judee Tan starred in Crazy Christmas and the Noose. Weekender finds out more about her upcoming dramatic play Glass Anatomy, and what makes her happy By Cheryl Chia when I am feeling shy and timid, Ivory Low is such a self -confident bimbo and I think I’m like this at times. It’s an aspect that is lighthearted. Meng Yu, is a bratty and impulsive character from the play December Rain, she was a very memorable character for me as it was a tragedy, and I was crying all the time. I used a lot of my own emotions and it was a great challenge. I do not get to be like this in real life, but I can on stage. So it was a thrill!

nown for regaling us with her Kim Bong Cha persona as a North Korean correspondent in the satirical programme The Noose, Judee Tan shows us her villainous side as fading starlet Shen Ni in the Mandarin musical, Glass Anatomy – inspired by the 1983 Taiwanese movie Papa, Can You Hear Me Sing? How did you prepare for your role in Glass Anatomy? Shen Ni was the star of the show before Ah Mei came along and she tries all she can to stop Ah Mei from stealing her glory. I think this sort of struggle is universal. What do you do when you have everything to lose? From the outsider’s point of view, that person may seem villainous but it’s about looking out for yourself. I drew a lot from personal experiences for this role and I use that to reflect the sentiment of survival. You are also tasked with choreographing the musical. How do you feel about that? To be very honest, it is out of my comfort zone. But Boon Teck (the director) has a very clear idea on what he wants, so I feel that I am merely translating it. I’m an actress first; the way I move is deeply connected to the way I feel. All the movements I create would invoke a kind of emotion rather than it just being a beautiful movement. In terms of theatre, the idea of dance is not aesthetic. It is a portrayal of emotions. Who has been your favourite character to play? I have three! I love Teo Chew Mui, Ivory Low Aikyu and Meng Yu. All my characters have to be a part of me. Teo Chew Mui is who I express

What is the funniest moment you’ve had on set? Before I was Kim Bong Cha, Teo Chew Mui and Ivory Low, I played another villain in another of Boon Teck’s productions, Shanghai Blues. There’s a scene where I had to slap a girl to the ground and throw a cigarette, and walk out laughing. It was set in the cheongsam-era where everyone was so dramatic. It was scripted that I had to laugh. Boon Teck said, “Don’t worry if you can’t do it. Just walk out. It’s cool.” But I insisted on doing it because it was in the script. I had so much trouble with it as I just couldn’t find the right laugh. It came out like ‘ha….hahah…ha”, very unnatural. Every night I left the stage with my face burning as I knew the audience was laughing at me, not with me. My friend joked with me after, “That’s your start in comedy!” [laughs] While we’re on the topic, where do you get your funny bone from? Hahaha! Where do you get your funny bone from? I suppose I’m a very straightforward person. I’m not a bad person but at times I see someone fall and I’m like, “Haha! He fell down!” Some people tell me not to be so mean. However, to me, life is like that. I got into a car accident when I was younger and that changed my perspective on life. I started to really laugh at things. I’m a very determined person and sometimes when I slip and fall, people laugh at me. I’ve also learnt to laugh at myself, because it is funny; isn’t it? Don’t take yourself so seriously. See the humour. With tragedy there must be comedy. What makes you smile? Babies, children, old people. I really like to see people taking moments. They could be just sipping coffee in a café and giving a little sigh. These little things bring me comfort. What do you do on a typical weekend? Apart from working, I’m a homebody. I’m not a clubber or partier; I think I got that out of my system when I used to sing Canto-pop in some club, to ah bengs every night… I think I’ve hit my quota of clubbing when I used to work in one! W

Glass Anatomy – the musical SYNOPSIS Toy Factory Productions, the bilingual theatre company and pioneer in the realm of Mandarin musicals, presents Glass Anatomy. Inspired by the award-winning Taiwanese film Papa Can You Hear Me Sing? the musical follows the journey of speech-impaired army veteran Uncle Ya and his adopted daughter Ah Mei, who wrestles with the dilemma of pursuing her dreams, versus filial piety. SOME OF THE CAST Judee Tan as Shen Ni Judee spends her time dressing as a North Korean correspondent and making Singaporeans laugh at her role in The Noose. She has also appeared in stage productions such as Broadway Beng, Titoudao, Beauty World, Broadway for Suakus, Liao Zhai Rocks, and 881. She has since graced Shanghai’s stage for Toy Factory’s production, K. In Glass Anatomy, she stars in not one but two roles. Della Ding Dang as Ah Mei Ding Dang is a Chinese singer based in Taiwan who debuted in 2007. She is known for having a good singing voice as well as for singing the theme

songs to the popular drama Autumn’s Concerto. Her album was extensively produced and collaborated by top songwriters and producers such as Mayday’s AShin and Chang ChenYue (A-Yue) but it was her clear, captivating voice and spectacular range that brought her the success she’d hoped for. She has recently finished her concert tour in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Malaysia, where her concerts in Taiwan and Malaysia were sold out. This is her first foray into musical theatre. Jeffrey Low as Yu Guang Tai Jeffrey is a versatile and bilingual actor. He had the privilege of Kuo Pao Kun’s mentorship, which enables him to incorporate rich cross-cultural elements into his works. His extensive exposure through multi-lingual, multicultural theatrical studies and approach sees him crossing over to various performance arts formats such as musicals, short plays, dramas and producing. A founding member of the Toy Factory Theatre Ensemble, his accolades include a nomination for Best Actor in Life! DBS Theatre Awards 2002 and winning the Straits Times Theatre Award 2003 in the Best Ensemble Performance category.

JANUARY 25 - 31, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 09

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

FAMILY & FRIEND

The Star

book review

The following is a letter from our Daddy Blogger, Winston, to his son

Dear Xander, Last Saturday, at a birthday party hosted by Mummymoo for her two-year-old son, you managed to score a big bunch of helium balloons – five normal-coloured balloons topped with a gold star-shaped balloon. You always had a love for balloons of any sort, but that evening you were particularly infatuated with the gold star balloon in that bunch. But after the party, as we were driving, I noticed the star balloon was losing its volume slightly faster than what one would usually expect from such balloons, so I said to you, "Your balloon's losing gas. You know what

would be a good idea? If we let it go while it's still floaty." "Why?" you asked, not quite understanding the concept of a helium balloon losing gas and hence its ability to float. So I changed the tactic. "Because stars belong in the sky." "Okay," you said. "I want to let go of the balloon." Your mother, who was sitting next to you in the car, was surprised when you said that; you have never ever volunteered to give up a balloon before. We decided to stop over at Raffles City for some coffee before making our way home,

About Dear Xander Winston Tay has been a father since 2008. The idea for Dear Xander came from watching an old movie, My Life. In it, Michael Keaton stars as a cancer-stricken father who records video clips of himself giving all sorts of advice to his son – from shaving tips to dealing with his death. Winston thought, he would one day do the same (or similar) for his own kid. And, one day, he did.

and it was there that we found a suitable clearing where your star balloon was able to float up into the sky without obstruction. As you prepared to let go, I said to you, "Now, you got to make a wish on the star before you let it go. Tell the star what you want and, after it reaches the sky, it will get you what you want and make your wish come true." "Okay," you said. You brought the star balloon right down to the level of your face, and said right to it, "Star, star. I want you to float up into the sky and make the Earth happy, so it won't be sick anymore." Your mother and I both paused in bewilderment upon hearing what you wished for. Then, you turned to me and asked, "Can I let it go now?" I nodded. And you let go. About 30 seconds later, you were bawling your eyes out, saying you wanted it back. Regretfully, Dad *** Dear Star, You better do what you're told. Xander's Father Photos and content from dear.xander.sg

“I’m no Michael Keaton, but I always thought my most comfortable form of communication was in my writing, so this blog was launched and its first post published on my son’s third birthday, Boxing Day 2011.” He hopes this weekly quest to connect with his son will also help other dads who may have trouble finding the words to the situations they find themselves in with their own children. His other blog, Blogfathers! was started in March 2012 as an idea to bring together a community of daddy

bloggers to learn from one another, share diaper-changing “war” stories, and exchange tips to make everyday fatherhood easier. It offered him the opportunity to meet many like-minded bloggers, pro-family activists, active dads, dads who want to be active, and “other wonderful people in the parenting community”. Check out blogfather.sg or www. facebook.com/BlogfatherSG

Commonly misunderstood, dyslexia does not mean a slow mind By Cheryl Chia

Inside the minds of little sunshines Dyslexics often get a bad rap, as teachers often assume they’re slow or difficult, or other negative preconceptions. Dyslexics are bright but need the right person and approach to bring out their potential. My Inner World – A Celebration of Dyslexic Minds is a book showcasing the artwork, creativity and rich imagination of children with dyslexia. The book also commemorates the Dyslexic Association of Singapore’s (DAS) 21st anniversary. The book shows extensive depth, with dyslexic children writing about how parents think they are stupid. They even demonstrate understanding of ethical issues in essays they had written on how eating sharks fin is cruel, with well-drawn images. This disproves the unkind myth that they are dull. These works are contributed by the dyslexic children working with various centres of the Dyslexic Association of Singapore. Jonathan Tan, 11, wrote that the “DAS is like a cleaner for brains” that will slowly “clean up the stupid-ness”. You can’t help but be moved. The children’s colourful and animated drawings pepper the entire book, making it a thoroughly cheerful read, all while providing insight into how these children are conscious of how the outside world views them and their determination to change these prejudiced opinions. Celebrities such as Steven Spielberg and Keira Knightley have been diagnosed with dyslexia and have been quoted on their frustration. The late Apple founder Steve Jobs was diagnosed with it but went on to become one of the most successful developers in the IT industry. These show dyslexia has nothing to do with intelligence. There might be trouble with pronunciation, spelling and, in some cases, comprehension but with the right help and motivation they can lead successful and fulfilling lives. My Inner World – A Celebration of Dyslexic Minds ($20) is available at all DAS centres and www.das.org. sg/book . Proceeds go to beneficiaries of DAS.

Free 3-Hour Workshop From Adam Khoo for you and your child.

Check page 3 for details now.

Clariss Pang Born Jun 26, 2012

Lukas Joel Xie Born Jul 13, 2012

Lee Jiahao Colin Born Oct 21, 2011

Kate Allyson Foe Born Oct 16, 2011

Kareen Tan Born Dec 19, 2012

HELLO

Babies - aren’t they the cutest things ever? That’s why Weekender dedicates a section to your adorable darlings in diapers. Send us your favourite photos of your newborn, so the rest of us can ‘coo’ and ‘ahh’ over him / her too! What better way is there to celebrate your child than to share him / her with the rest of the world?

WORLD

Samyukta Chutkay Siddharth Born Mar 25, 2012

Email your photos to

Adam Rayyan Bin M.Ramadan Born Dec 24, 2011

general@weekender.com.sg or mail hard copies to us at

our office at 80 Playfair Road, #02-03, Singapore 367998. We look forward to receiving photos of your loved one!

Yenn Neo Born Feb 16, 2012

Jaden Tang Born Mar 23, 2012

Tharagai Born Jun 6, 2012

10 • WEEKENDER • JANUARY 25 - 31, 2013

ISCOVERY

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

“The busy beast was poking its snout into crevices and energetically zigzagging up the mudflats as the water rushed in.”

Snake-like

creature and others

spotted at Pasir Ris Pasir Ris Park’s mangrove swamp holds an abundance of life, including a mysterious resident that needs closer inspection

the Berembang (Sonneratia Caseolaris). Wild trees are rare and located in difficult places to reach, but these trees are planted at the Park and very easy to view. The planted trees have grown very tall! There were lots of fruits and buds and developing fruits. I stopped by to see some of the other rare mangrove trees planted here. The Gedabu (Sonneratia Ovata) had lots of fruits but no blooming flowers. The Tumu Berau (Bruguiera Sexangula) was not flowering nor fruiting. These trees are rare and were planted in the Park. After looking at the plants, I had a quick look along the boardwalk hoping to see some snakes. At night, the Giant Mudskippers (Periophthalmodon Schlosseri) look very different! Most of those I saw had their 'pyjamas' on, broad bars going across their body. Only a few of the Giant mudskippers had their 'daytime' pattern of two dark stripes along the body. There were also many small crabs busy among the leaves. They are less shy at night and easy to view from

the boardwalk. Also on the leaves, there were little snails and lots of spiders of all kinds. On the ground, there were lots of big tree-climbing crabs (Episesarma sp.). Some of these tree-climbing crabs have colourful or striking pincers. As the tide rushed in, the tree-climbing crabs climbed the trees! I was hoping to see the rare snake that we saw here with Dr Dan on a night trip in March 2012. Alas, I didn't see any snake of any kind. The water was rather murky so, hopefully, the water snakes are still there and I just couldn't see them. Pasir Ris Park's mangrove boardwalk is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It's easy to access too. The Naked Hermit Crabs group sometimes holds free guided walks for families at this mangrove boardwalk. W Taken from Wild Shores of Singapore, at wildshores.blogspot.sg 5

By Ria Tan 1. This mudskipper wears its night ‘pyjamas’ pattern

s that a snake? I was looking out for snakes when this huge long-striped thing slid up among the Giant Mudskippers with the incoming tide. On this night trip to Pasir Ris Park, I also spotted all kinds of things that are not often seen during the daytime. The busy beast was poking its snout into crevices and energetically zigzagging up the mudflats as the water rushed in. Crabs were already climbing to higher ground, precisely to escape such predators. I think it's a fish; some kind of Snake Eel (family Ophichthidae) because it has a pair of comically-tiny fins. The head is huge, but the eyes are tiny and at the front. I've never seen anything like this before! I dropped by the Park at night to catch the night-blooming mangrove trees. Finally, I saw a lovely blushing blossom of

2. There is a variety of species and colours of crabs here 3. The strange creature spotted, resembling a snake, is probably a type of eel 4. There is an abdundance of flora here, and fauna that seek refuge 5. Many of the newly-planted flora already had flowers fully in bloom

HOBBIES

Ride on a scenic journey Let these miniature train models take you on a ride through different times and locations By Lee Li Ying

“there is a romantic In a world where airplanes feeling of promise to cut across distances Liberty in the and time-zones, railway trains thought of seem to hold a rustic, old-fashioned charm. There is a a train...” romantic feeling of liberty in the thought of a train, with the locomotive meandering through a blur of scenery and the landscape of our thoughts. It can be said that the beauty of railways is unrivalled. A Google search for the railways of the world will turn up some of the most stunning images. The Trans-Siberian Railway, longest in the world, traverses between Moscow and Vladivostok and its endless stretch of scenic pleasures is filled with pine forests, meadows blooming with wild purple

Train stops Here are some places in Singapore where you can get your essential train modelling supplies! Singapore Railways Pte Ltd By appointment only Singapore Railways Pte Ltd offers a wide range of model trains, including indoor railways, outdoor garden trains and other

flowers, and lovely hills in the distance. The West Highland Line, links Glasgow to Fort William and has one of the most uniquely picturesque routes with yawning vistas of glens, heather and rugged mountains. Railways are not merely transportation, but also a journey through some of the most beautiful places on the face of the earth. The beauty of vintage trains and the connotative novelty of freedom seem to be the birthplace of train modelling as a hobby. Train modelling involves attempting to encapsulate the majesty of the railway systems into scaled-down, miniature versions. It is an intricate and fine craft, capturing the details of the tracks, signalling, roads, buildings, and features such as streams, hills and canyons. More than a simple miniature train set designed to run on a rudimentary track, it is about recreating real locations and periods in history, and is done through building a landscape for the trains. The most thrilling

technical or creative articles. These products are selected in terms of quality, design and operability, guaranteeing compatibility to most international standards. With a good number of actual H0- model train sets with Swiss, Dutch, French, Austrian and German railways on stock, accessories such as houses, figures, trees, rock-moulding kits, scenery kits, greenery, locomotives, rolling stock, DCC systems and decoders, and signals and lights in corresponding scales are also provided. 3 Eng Kong Place, Singapore 599095 Tel: 9726 7737

Toycraft Pte Ltd Mon-Sat, 11.30pm-7pm Toycraft Pte Ltd was incorporated in 1995, and was the only model train specialist shop in Singapore at that point in time. The shop stocks LGB, Roco, Faller, Pola and Brawa trains to extend the range of their model trains and accessories. Toycraft is popular among hobbyists in Singapore with a wide base of customers. 1 Coleman Street, #B1-08, The Adelphi, Singapore 179803

part of the whole endeavour is that it is possible for the trains to be fully functional and run as though it was a real railway – literally bringing train modelling to life. Thomas Bhat, a train modelling enthusiast and IT consultant, started playing with model trains in 1976. He professes, “It is the fascination for mighty, moving, manmade machines in natural environments that fascinated me endlessly.” Drawn to the challenging yet rewarding task that train modelling has to offer, Thomas attempts to replicate an actual railway to a high degree of precision and realism. With the amount of creative rigour involved, the hobby can be said to be an artistic pursuit. Thomas explains, “Train modellers are like painters or sculptors – the beauty is in the detail and in the craftsmanship. It is important to bring the model to life.” Looking at the finished models, it is evident that there must be utmost dedication in planning and building the landscapes in order to make a convincing and lifelike replica. Above assembling the model train kits and rail tracks, train modellers often do the weathering of objects for added realism. The goal of weathering is to make a model look like it has gone through intense wear and tear, by simulating grime, rust and dirt. Fuel stains, corrosion on battery boxes, evidences of accidents or repairs such as dents or freshly painted replacement parts are all tiny touches of ingenuity that can add depth to the story-telling. The finished product becomes a compelling diorama. Thomas reveals, “It is most fulfilling to be able to appreciate the minute details of craftsmanship be it a train or a vintage model after it is done. The whole concept of bringing a macro-mechanism into a micro-model with fine finishing and functioning is what would appeal to most people.” This hobby is perfect for those who appreciate art or find satisfaction in perfecting the tiniest, most intricate details. Children aged eight and above can start in this hobby with the initial guidance of parents. Thomas gathers with other enthusiasts on Saturdays, from 10am to 1pm, at 3 Eng Kong Place, Singapore 599095

Trains N Toys 11am-7pm The Trains N Toys shop is a one-stop shop, and a must-visit for any model railroad enthusiast. It stocks a comprehensive range of trains and accessories for tracks, signals, turnouts, etc. and, to complete the model, they have buildings, lights and signals – the whole works required for model railroading. There is a wide range of models from various manufacturers in Germany and Italy. 1 Grange Road, #02-22, Orchard Hotel, Singapore 239693

JANUARY 25 - 31, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 11

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

Italian class

HOME DECO

for your kitchen With Italian style and creativity, your kitchen will never be the same

Diva Coffee Machine A perfect cup of espresso coffee is achieved through the control of three basic parameters: temperature, water pressure and extraction time. A great espresso coffee machine like Diva can help achieve this coffee enjoyment. Its cone-shaped design leaves room for cups on the warm plate at the top of the machine to heat them just like in Italian bars. The water tank is smartly-integrated and the unique Bugatti dropsystem ensures fresh water flows from the boiler. $1,899 for assorted colours and $1,999 for chrome model.

Volo Toaster Volo is a unique, versatile toaster where its accessories are wellintegrated into the sleek design. Its various features include the ‘Bagel’ function that toasts only one side of the sliced bread. The ‘Defrost’ function defrosts bread while the ‘Reheat’ function warms up toasted bread. The ‘Browning’ selector lets one choose up to six levels of toasting perfection. Thanks to the motorised Bugatti LIFT system, slices of bread enter and automatically come out of the toaster with surprising effect. The generously-sized bun warmer easily accommodates thick slices and can also be used as a serving tray. $559 for assorted colours and $589 for chrome model.

Vela Food Blender Vela comes with a unique conical-shaped mixing jar that helps food to move easily for perfect blending. Apart from four speed settings (1, low; 2, medium; 3, high; and 4, maximum), it also offers a ‘Pulse’ function, and ‘Ice’ function that allows one to blend/grind ice in auto mode to get the best results. The reinforced clear glass mixing jar features contents marks on both sides and can blend up to 1.5 litres at a time. The jar can also be stored on the power base in different positions without the need to lock it. $559 for assorted colours and $589 for chrome. Via Roma Coffee Maker Designed by Andreas Seegatz, Via Roma is a must-have for any coffee lover. This coffee maker has a body that is made with stainless steel. Its handle is reinforced with nylon and glass fibre. The boiler is designed to run on all heat sources: gas, electric, ceramic or induction. $299

ugatti Italy, an exquisite Italian lifestyle brand, makes its debut in Singapore with a range of innovative and stylish household appliances and kitchenware. It offers what discerning home owners look for – design, functionality and style that are unmistakably Italian. Design, Quality & Innovation Since 1923 Established since 1923, Bugatti Italy has been offering top quality innovative products in more than 50 countries around the world. The driving values of the company have remained unchanged: family, a strong link to one’s land, Italian style and savoir-faire, aesthetic research and design, and focus on quality and innovation. Its team of architects and designers constantly seeks new and creative ways to merge functionality and technology with great taste and design. Launched in Singapore for the first time, Bugatti’s range includes a selection of elegant kitchenware, sleek coffee machines, electric kettles, toasters, and blenders that come in a palette of vibrant colours and luxurious finishes. Bugatti has also created a myriad of colours with water-based paints and vacuum chrome plating that have no environmental impact. These are all the winning factors that make Bugatti products special gifts for every occasion.

Vera Electric Kettle Vera electric kettle offers an elegant cone-shaped design that makes use of the latest technology to achieve substantial energy saving and the maximum level of thermal efficiency. It comprises a detachable body and a base that supplies power and feeds the display battery. The 360° connection to the base permits easy use from any position. A special electronic control allows the kettle to reach the desired water temperature and guarantees efficient heating. The unique display is integrated into the handle and shows functions such as a clock and timer that can be easily programmed for a coffee or tea break. The display is also equipped with a protective thermal safety system that prevents the kettle from overheating. $659 for assorted colours and $729 for chrome model.

HOT’s store design is intended to resemble a turntable, from store window to layout, etc

“HOT’s store interior is specially designed to mirror a larger than life turntable, with a hip display shaped as a turntable tone arm cutting across the floor.”

Collect designer audio A new concept store with European sound systems, from turntables and vinyl records to audio accessories, has just opened downtown House of Turntables (HOT) is a unique new audio concept store which has just opened in downtown Orchard Road. This concept store within Plaza Singapura carries European sound systems, from turntables and vinyl records to amplifiers, loudspeakers and even audio accessories. HOT’s store interior is specially-designed to mirror a larger-than-life turntable, with a hip display shaped as a turntable tone arm cutting across the floor. The store perimeter is boxed in much like the turntable platter and cover, with wood and acrylic shelving. All this is to create the effect for the customer who walks in to feel as though he or she would be walking into a turntable. For a moment it may feel as though time has stood still, or that vinyl records are still widely played. The store is undoubtedly quite a sight, with its walls spruced with artsy vinyl records, from pop icons such as Katy Perry to American thrash metal band Exodus. These, together with a lone turntable in the centre of the store playing contemporary songs from the likes of Adele through the sound system, bring a modern, cool vibe to the otherwise traditional music player. Apart from being a retail store selling hip, modern versions of turntables, HOT also offers free consultation to customers, on creating customised sound systems to cater to individual preferences. “We are thrilled to bring this new, unique retail experience to Singapore,” says Kevin Pang, founder of HOT, whose passion for vinyl had inspired him to develop the retail concept for HOT. “Our new store aims to be the ultimate place for sound lovers to shop, learn and be inspired,” he says. The HOT store has more than 15 models of analogue turntables, 12 amplifiers, 10,000 vinyl records, acoustic speakers and an extensive range of third-party products available for customers to enjoy a hands-

Vinyls and posters lining the wall include that of modern artistes such as Katy Perry and Exodus

Luxurious customisation for IndiViduals Bugatti recognises the expression of individual personality, that’s why they have come up with the IndiVidual collection that is available in a variety of luxury finishes that elevate the appliances to personal statements in the kitchen. Now customers can custom design their favourite Bugatti product with a choice of preferred colours and plush materials such as Swarovski crystals, hand-stitched leather, denim and even 24-carat gold. Contact the Mayer Showrooms for customisation orders. Advance notice of four months is required. Glamour Tableware The colourful Glamour range encompasses fun salad bowls, cutlery sets and tableware. The salad bowls are available in two sizes and feature an acrylic material called San. $59.90 & $79.90 W Bugatti Italy is exclusively available at Mayer Showrooms at Great World City and Plaza Singapura, and Tangs Orchard and VivoCity.

HOT carries various ranges of turntables with unique features

on audio experience. HOT’s knowledgeable staff is ever-ready to share their expertise and to offer customers personalised advice on everything from getting started with a turntable to customising their own turntable sound system. HOT offers further value and service to customers, in giving them great ways to get the most out of their turntables, such as free advice at the testing bar, workshops and special programmes. Customers can also book a free appointment with a HOT personal shopper to get expert buying advice or help in selecting the perfect gift for anyone. The cosy retail store experience also encourages customers to sample HOT’s extensive vinyl record collection. “Music is an art encompassing an all-rounded sensory indulgence; therefore, we have brought in Italian designer sound systems such as Do Acoustic and Absoluta,” explains Pang. “To further enhance one’s audio sensory experience, we also carry Audel, a loudspeaker brand renowned for its pristine sound quality and elegant designs,” he adds. Audel Art Loudspeakers seeks to provide an all-round sensory indulgence to its consumers by combining pristine sound quality and elegant design. The philosophy is based on three fundamental principles: timeless design; no compromise in the laws of electro-acoustics due to design; and production focused on natural materials and traditional methods, exemplifying Italian craftsmanship. Audel Art Loudspeakers use a multi-panel system in designing its cabinets. They are made with laminated multi-layered birch wood, with panels cut with the help of computer numerical control. These panels are then glued together, pressed and subsequently given a satin finish through six-stages of hand-sanding. The surface is polished with a fine layer of natural beeswax at the end. Audel Art Loudspeakers carries three collections: Reference series, Design series and Home series. The Vienna-based company, Pro-Ject has received rave reviews for achieving a level of musical realism at affordable price points. Lauded as an excellent first turntable capable of converting a budding audiophile into the hobby, Pro-Ject is also known for its use of eco-friendly materials. The shop stocks multiple ranges of the award-winning Austrian turntable maker. Prices start from $550. House of Turntables (HOT), 68 Orchard Road, Plaza Singapura, #04-65, Singapore 238939 Tel: 6884 4390 Open daily 10am - 10pm.

12 • WEEKENDER • JANUARY 25 - 31, 2013

EALTH

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS

For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

Singapore property prices at an all-time high Based on analysis of the URA numbers done by the Singapore property research site PropertyMarketInsights.com, at the current levels the price index is 19.4 per cent above the previous Second Quarter, 2008 peak, and 16.8 per cent above the previous all-time high in Second Quarter, 1996.

the 1997-1998 Asian Crisis and 2008-2009 Financial Crisis, or whether it would be a more gradual decline as we saw during the 2000-2004 Post-Dotcom Bubble and SARs era. Instead, based on the Fourth Quarter, 2012 estimates the URA PPI is actually up 2.8 per cent in 2012, an unexpected outcome versus the initial predictions of a 5 per cent to 15 per cent decline in prices predicted by most analysts. The question now hanging on most people’s minds is now: will property prices continue to rise in 2013? Certainly the re-acceleration of the PPI starting from the second quarter of 2012 was unexpected, but it should be noted that the 2.8 per cent property price increase in 2012 is already a deceleration from the 5.9 per cent in 2011 and 17.6 per cent in 2012. I believe that we will only see significant levels of price declines if there is an external crisis to cause a sense of panic, which we had in each of the previous three declines (e.g. Asian Crisis, Dotcom Bubble, and Global Financial Crisis). This is because the abundant global liquidity situation and sustained low interest rates will continue to support Singapore property prices in the meantime.

*Figure 1 – URA Property Price Index (based on Fourth Quarter, 2012 flash estimate) This estimated increase of 1.8 per cent comes after last quarter’s 0.6 per cent quarter-on-quarter increase, indicating an accelerating pace of price growth. It appears that the strength of property demand, supported by low interest rates, has outweighed concern over the recession in Singapore, worrying global economic situation especially with the troubles in Europe and weak growth in the US, and the dampening effect of multiple rounds of government measures.

Singapore

property prices

reach all-time high but…

But it is mainly supported by strength in the Outside Central Region The rate of price growth differed across the various market segments. In the Core Central Region, prices of non-landed private residential properties increased by 0.8 per cent versus an increase of 0.1 per cent in the previous quarter. Prices increased by 0.9 per cent in the Rest of Central Region (versus a 0.8 per cent increase in the previous quarter), and increased by a remarkable 3.4 per cent in the Outside Central Region, an acceleration from the 1.0 per cent increase in the previous quarter. Do note that the URA’s flash estimates are compiled based on transaction prices given in caveats lodged during the first ten weeks of the quarter. The actual second quarter statistics will be updated four weeks later, and past data has shown that the difference could be significant, especially when the change is small. Will property prices go up or down in 2013?

By Mr Propwise

Since reaching a low of 2,738 points in June, the Straits Times Index (STI) has recovered to 3,167 points as of end December 2012, up 17.8 per cent for the year and 3.6 per cent versus the last quarter. If you believe that the stock market is a leading indicator for the property market, then we could see continued support for property prices in the coming quarters. More cooling measures on the way? The continued resilience of property prices despite the previous six rounds of government measures increases the probability of a seventh round of property measures to further cool sentiment. It is not clear right now whether a potential new round of cooling measures would comprise merely of refinements to the current measures (e.g. increase ABSD?) or be something brand new. Will property prices keep going up? There are a couple of ways to think about this. First, based on the Property Market Cycle Model of PropertyMarketInsights.com, we are in the Late Bull Stage of the market. This means that the upside potential risk is limited while the downside risk is significant. Second, while everyone believes that low interest rates will continue to prop property prices up, the large amount of upcoming supply could depress prices if demand is not able to keep up. Third, as I’ve mentioned before, unexpected crises (“black swans”) tend to occur when we least expect it, especially when everyone has become complacent. Finally, I believe property prices cannot continue to defy gravity forever, and that investors looking to buy property in this market should continue to be cautious. W

While local property prices may have reached an all-time high, it is not all doom and gloom. Check out what Mr Propwise has to say

rom the URA’s recent flash estimate of the Fourth Quarter, 2012 Private Residential Property Price Index (PPI), property prices have continued to defy gravity and have even accelerated quarter-on-quarter. The Fourth Quarter, 2012 URA PPI flash estimate hit 211.9 and was up 1.8 per cent on a quarteron-quarter basis.

*Figure 3 – Straits Times Index (till Dec 31, 2012)

*Figure 2 – Change in Property Price Index (based on Fourth Quarter, 2012 flash estimate) At the beginning of 2012, most analysts were expecting a fall in prices, and were divided on whether we would see a sharp decline as during

Mr Propwise is the founder of top Singapore property blog Propwise.sg and PropertyMarketInsights.com, an essential property market analysis site that helps buyers and sellers make profitable investment decisions. Visit his sites to download free property reports.

Weekender is published by Weekender Group Pte Ltd, 80 Playfair Road, #02-03, Blk A, Singapore 367998. Printed by KHL Printing Co Pte Ltd, 57 Loyang Drive, Singapore 508968.