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YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS
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02 • WEEKENDER • February 22 - 28, 2013
by Rit Xu Trio 17 Feb, 7.15pm, 8.30pm, 9.45pm
The Rit Xu Trio consists of the awardwinning Rit Xu on flutes, Nick Lim on the piano and Felix Phang on the double bass. This group of prolific and experienced composers is highly passionate about jazz improvisations. They will
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free admission Agostino Bonalumi: The Glass of the Shadows Until 24 Feb, Tue-Sat 12pm-7pm; Sun 12pm-6pm Famed Italian abstract artist Agostino Bonalumi is known for his imaginative play on light and shadows as well as his technique
bring you skilful arrangements of Cantopop and Chinese folk music such as the Love Song of Kangding, Dream of the Red Chamber and Silence is Golden. This performance will take place during the Huayi - Chinese Festival of Arts (15–24 Feb). Concourse, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981
of inserting wood and metal into canvases. In his first solo show in Asia, he displays a collection of pieces created over the span of his five-decade career. Partners & Mucciaccia (Gillman Barracks), Blk 6, Lock Road, #02-10, Singapore 108934 BOOK LAUNCH: THE SUBSTATION FAIRYTALES – STORIES IN THE END 24 Mar, 2pm to 4pm Three writers Tania De Rozario, Bani Haykal and Ng Yi-Sheng, with different creative styles, present their interpretations of a modern fairytale which explores love, identity and belonging. Tania’s story is a poignant tale of serendipity and chance, of two strangers crossing paths in the concrete jungle. Bani’s modernist play is shrouded in mystery from the outset, dealing with darker themes. Yi- Sheng’s fable is about a boy finding himself in a magical jungle. The Substation, 45 Armenian St, Singapore 179936
India On The Run, A Photography Exhibition by Mark Teo Until 24 Feb, 11am-8pm, Mon-Fri; 11am-7pm, Sat & Sun Young Singaporean photographer Mark Teo travelled across India to raise funds for charity. Support his cause and buy photographs at this exhibition, which features both stills and videos taken during his journey. For more information, please go to www.noaveragejoe.tv 21 Tanjong Pagar Road, #04-01, Singapore 088444 Lunar New Year Travelling Exhibition Until 24 Feb The National Heritage Board brings you an exhibition on how the Lunar New Year is celebrated by the Chinese in Singapore as well as in other parts of the world. Learn about the origins, practices and customs of the festival, and more about a typical reunion dinner with traditional New Year dishes and
Learn & PLAY
at Sentosa KidZ Flea Is the school break coming, and are you uncertain of what you can do? Trying to ensure your kids don’t get bored this March term break? How about picking up entrepreneurial skills? Come down to the idyllic island of Sentosa just off the coast of Singapore this March term break. The lush greenery and picturesque beaches will lead you to relaxation. Apart from the natural beauty and sunkissed beaches you will be surrounded by, Sentosa has engaging activities for your child that are not only fun but purposeful as well. Learn & PLAY this March school holidays at Sentosa. Register your child online for the Sentosa KidZ Flea from Mar 16-24 as a “PLAY-treneur” and to learn about profit and loss, simple marketing skills
to create buying interest, and recycling pre-loved items. Also, get to learn about sharing with the less fortunate, and part of the proceeds will be donated to charity. All these activities, and learning opportunities through these activities, serve to help children gain more knowledge and skills that will be useful to them as they grow up. Not only is the programme interactive, it makes for a highly educational experience for each child. A specially customised two-hour interactive training session will be provided for the children to prepare the little bosses to enter into the ‘real world’. The Speedy Gonzales Crash Course takes place on Mar 2, 9 and 10, at either 11am or 2pm. W
the symbolism behind each. Gardens by the Bay Exhibition Room, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953 Open House @ SIM University 23 Feb, 11am–5pm SIM University’s open house consists of a series of programme briefings, talks, campus tours, bazaars and other activities. Join the briefings and interact with SIM University (UniSIM) faculty members to learn more about the university’s programme offerings. For more information and registration, please go to www.unisim.edu.sg SIM HQ, 461 Clementi Road, Blk A, Singapore 599491 Singapore Red Cross Weekend Sale Check out new and used apparel from accessories, bags, shoes, toys and household appliances at Singapore Red Cross’ weekend sale! All proceeds from the sale of items will go toward the Singapore Red Cross local humanitarian work. Singapore Red Cross House, 15 Penang Lane, Singapore 238486 TOONAMI INCEPTION ‘13 23Feb, 1-9pm Toonami (StarHub TV Channel 315), TV’s exciting new action channel arrives this Saturday. Experience Toonami’s hit shows, such as Justice League Unlimited, Teen Titans, Iron Man Armed Adventures, Wolverine & the X-Men and more in an all-play actionpacked party. Enter the world of your favourite superheroes via awesome illusion art displays and an augmented reality booth. Shoot hoops with basketball stars, the Singapore Slingers. Enjoy hip hop shows throughout the day from The Toonami Crew, and B boys and girls. *SCAPE Warehouse, 2 Orchard Link, Singapore, 237978 Raffles’ Letters: Intrigues behind the Founding of Singapore Until 28 Feb, 10am-9pm This exhibition showcases unpublished, original letters of Sir Stamford Raffles and reveals many important insights into the founding of Singapore in 1819. These letters originated from the private papers of Francis
Rawdon-Hastings, 1st Marquess of Hastings, who supported Raffles’ efforts to establish a new British settlement in the East Indies. A highlight is a replica of what is believed to be the first landward map of Singapore. The exhibition is the first time these letters and the map have been presented in public. National Library Gallery, Level 10, National Library Building, 100 Victoria Street, Singapore 188064 Share to Care Donation Drive Until 22 Feb, usual mall hours Donate $2 at the Customer Service Counters of any Fraser Centrepoint Mall and stand a chance to win a Chevrolet Orlando MPV car. All proceeds will go to helping social service programmes supported by the Community Chest. All Fraser Centrepoint Malls including The Centrepoint, Causeway Point, Compass Point, China Square Central, Anchorpoint and Valley Point. Singapore Short Film Awards 25 Feb-9 Mar, 7pm, weekdays; 12pm Sat & Sun In March, the 4th Singapore Short Film Awards will take place, featuring a week of series of screenings and culminating in the Awards night on Saturday, 2 Mar. All the submissions will be screened in The Substation Theatre, with daily screenings. Entry by donation. The Substation, 45 Armenian St, Singapore 179936 South – Journeys through Australasia Photo Exhibition 22 Feb, 4-10pm, 23 Feb, 10am10pm, 24 Feb, 10am-8.30pm For this festive season, do your part for cancer research and buy a picture at Tan Jing Yi’s photography exhibition. This architect and aspiring photographer’s exhibition is held in aid of the NCC Research Fund at National Cancer Centre Singapore. Alternatively, you can make a donation to them. For more information, please go to www.jyphotographs.com The Arts House, Gallery, 1 Old Parliament Lane, Singapore 179429
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WEEKENDER ABOUT US 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 Sales Director David Phey Senior 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.
Sentosa KidZ Flea Speedy Gonzales Crash Course: Training Details Date: 2, 9, 10 Mar Time: 11am or 2pm Venue: Ixora Room @ Ficus Point, Sentosa Course topics include: 1. Let’s Go! • About Sentosa KidZ Flea • Knowing Sentosa • Stories of the pre-teen millionaires 2. The Traits of Being Little Bosses • The boss • How to plan for your business • How to differentiate your business
• Type of business • Basic business law • Networking with other bosses 3. Money! Money! (Product Pricing & Basic Accounting) • How to finance your business • What is the cost price? • How to price the items for profit? 4. Decorate to Draw (Product Display) • Planning for an attraction display • Eyeballs, eyeballs. • Attract, engage and hook!
5. Hello and Welcome (Guest Engagement) • Active v Passive behaviour • Hard-sell v Soft-sell • The secret of Smile! • Closing the deal 6. The Empathic Heart • Why? • To who? Price packages: The Conservative: $40 per day The Small Business: $100 for 5 days (18-22 Mar) The Big Boss: $135 for 9 days (16-24 Mar) Registration is online only and now on until Feb 28 at www.sentosa.com . Sentosa Islanders, Jewel card holders and POLW members enjoy 50% OFF stall rental prices when they register with their membership card number. Do your part for charity as part of the proceeds will be donated. Sentosa KidZ Flea 16-24 Mar, 2pm-7pm, $40 (1 day), $100 (5 days) & $135 (9 days) Beach Station, Sentosa
Or, take part in the other Learn & PLAY Workshops available at Images of Singapore, Port of Lost Wonder and Animal & Birds Encounters Guided Tour & Balloon Sculpting Workshop @ Images of Singapore 16-24 Mar, 11am & 2pm (1 hr), $10 per child For this special period only, bring your child to Images of Singapore and enjoy a guided tour – an exciting and interesting way to learn the history of Singapore. Your child will also get an opportunity to learn to twist balloons into their favourite character. Redeem a free guided tour and balloon-sculpting workshop at Images of Singapore (worth $10) with your PLAY Pass! Terms and conditions apply. Imbiah Lookout, Sentosa Curiosity March @ Port of Lost Wonder 16-24 Mar, 10am to 6.40pm (last admission 4.30pm), $8 weekday / $15 weekend (child 12 and below; accompanying adults enter free with hug from child) Engage your entire family in wonder by joining our Pots & Planks Natural Dye Extraction workshop, in which participants will have a hands-on experience with dyes from plants. Does your little toddler dance along to your radio or any music? Engage your toddlers with music from a young
age; they might just be the next big music star! Palawan Beach, Sentosa Be a Parrot Trainer for a day @ Animal & Birds Encounters 16-24 Mar, 3.30pm daily (1 hr), $20 per child (Free for accompanying adults) Have you been amazed at the many special skills parrots have? For this period only, your child will get to personally interact with
parrots and gain first-hand insight into how our handlers train these colourful, amazing birds. Register at attractions@sentosa.com.sg for this unique experience. There is limited capacity available! Palawan Beach, Sentosa Find out more at www.sentosa. com.sg and don’t forget to register for the Sentosa KidZ Flea before Feb28 for fun and meaningful days to learn and play.
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS
FebruarY 22 - 28, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 03
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04 • WEEKENDER • February 22 - 28, 2013
VENTS
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ticketed admission
Appreciating Art Lecture Series: South Asia 22 Feb, 7.30pm, $11 This lecture covers the major paradigm shift started by the advent of art schools in India from 1850 to 1950, both in terms of art production and art consumption. The emphasis on Modernism in India through the works of key figures such as Raja Ravi Varma and Rabindranath Tagore sets the stage for the Progressive Artists Group and the various artists who followed after. This emphasis on the Modern period allows one to understand contemporary art practice in South Asia. Glass Hall, Level 1, Singapore Art Museum, 71 Bras Basah Road Singapore 189555 Bras Basah.Bugis Arts Flea Market 23 Feb, 24 Feb, 1pm-7pm The Bras Basah.Bugis Arts Flea Market brings you the best in indie fashion labels, artisanal crafts and scrumptious gourmet, just to name a few. Pamper yourself and splurge on all things vintage; one-of-a-kind items created especially for this event, and munch away on delicious home-baked pastries and cupcakes while you shop. National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178897
MAKING STORIES, TELLING STORIES! 17 Mar, 3pm, $10 (4-15 years old), $15 (16 years old and above), kids must be accompanied by adults Immerse yourself in an afternoon of stories as master storyteller Kamini Ramachandran regales you with tales. She will guide you to make your very own shadow puppets and in crafting a storybook afterwards, so that you can bring them home to retell your story to your family and friends. You will also be able to stand behind the screen to perform and to watch your puppets come alive. This storytelling event at The Arts House is held in conjunction with Literally 9 – Writers Party and MoonShadow Stories. Play Den, The Arts House, 1 Old Parliament Lane, Singapore 179429 Music of The Night (SSO) 22-23 Feb, 7.30pm, $22-$58 The SSO and Principal Guest Conductor Okko Kamu performs concert favourites such as Dvorák’s timeless Serenade for Strings in E Major and Mozart’s effervescent Haffner Symphony. Pianist Thomas Hecht will present Falla’s Nights in the Gardens of Spain, a work initially conceived as a series of nocturnes incorporating elements of folk music. SOTA Concert Hall, Stamford Centre, #03-02, 61 Stamford Road, Singapore 178892 Over The Limit - Show 2013 Live Tour 1 Mar, 8pm, Standard - $88, $138, $168, $198, Restricted View $88, $168, $198 Singapore fans are in for a sensational performance as ‘Asia’s Dancing King’ Show Lo sings and dances to his high-energy dance tracks with an entourage of up to 124 dancers - with 100 of them on
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ankers, lawyers and doctors all don their fancy suits and lab coats to work. Why should people working in the creative sector be overlooked in the work-wear department? That’s exactly how the concept for Depression came into being. Kenny Lim and Andrew Loh, founders of Depression, were both burnt out ad-men when they decided to set up the brand in 2006. Depression has since expanded from a mom-and-pop store in Far East Plaza to a fullsized label with international buyers. “Depression’s collections
stage at the same time - gyrating to his familiar upbeat tunes. His concert showcases various styles of dance moves such as African dance, breaking, jazz and other types of stage performances. Don’t miss this musical extravaganza. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, Singapore 397691 Problem-free skin & reverse ageing workshop 23 Feb, 1-3pm, $20 Learn how to take care of your skin and get rid of wrinkles and pimples from Miss Helen Cheong, a wellness consultant and director of Bettalife International. Sign up now – the first 10 people to register will receive a free facial mask application worth $80. Email Helen@bettalifeinternational.com to register. Bettalife International, The Alexcier, 237 Alexandra Road, #04-14, Singapore 159929 SOCIAL MEDIA WEEK Until 24 Feb, various timings SMW is a global conference connecting people, content and conversations around emerging trends in social and mobile media. Delivered through a network of creative conferences and streamed online through social media, SMW reaches an extensive network of people in communications, connecting and communicating ideas and experiences to advance our understanding of social media’s role in society. For information, please visit socialmediaweek.org/ singapore/schedule/ Various locations
DESIGN YOUR OWN CREATIVITY Date and time by appointment, $1 per minute (eg. 1 hour workshop for $60) The new basic creative course in Design Your Creativity is for the designer or artist who wants to practice art-making in his or her own time. Simply make an appointment for a session to understand the basic theory of colours and composition in art. Goodman Arts Centre, 90 Goodman Road, Singapore 439053 Le Noir 12–29 Mar, $35-$370, various timings (3pm, 5pm, 7pm, 8pm) Le Noir is a fast paced, funny and extraordinary production of intimate cirque style entertainment with a cast of world-class acrobats, musicians, specialty acts and comedians. Le Noir explores the darker side of the acts on stage and audience members. The use of extraordinary and surprising special effects that happen above and between the audience provides a completely unique experience that not only enhances the acts, but at times becomes the show itself. Marina Bay Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956
FASHION
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
Stride with Pride 1 Mar, 8pm, $15(concession for students, senior citizens and Arts House members), $50 D’passion Wheelchair Dance Group and Laselle’s College of the Arts - School of Dance collaborate to present Stride with Pride, a dance performance featuring physically disabled performers on wheelchairs and able-bodied dancers. Be wowed by their skilful dance moves on the wheelchairs, complemented by Laselle’s dancers. Produced by Ecio Productions and led by Laselle’s creative director Melissa Quek, this event aims to create a platform for the disabled to showcase their talents. Profitable proceeds of this event goes to Make-A-Wish Foundation. Chamber, The Arts House, 1 Old Parliament Lane, Singapore 179429
Depression looks up Local avant-garde, pret-a-porter brand Depression tells us about making waves in international markets and why they stick to their signature overthe-top style
Depression is located at Cineleisure Orchard, #03-05A.
By Cheryl Chia
Fash Snips:
From Shibuya to David Beckham Here are a few stirrings in the fashion world that you would need, love and want to know about
The Art of Kokedama Feb 28, 8pm, $12-$15 Watch instructor Tony Yau demonstrate how to make Kokedama, an organic ornament made from clay-based soil and moss hung from a string, at Aljunied Community Club. This quirky ornament is made using a variety of plants. Aljunied CC, Blk 110 Hougang Avenue 1, #01-1048, Singapore 530110
Hello, Shibuya Tokyo and Culture Mix Show A fashion and cultural event featuring a mix of Japanese and local artistry will take place over 17 days from Feb 22 to Mar 10. Immerse yourself in this subculture imported from the cool streets of Shibuya in Tokyo. Pop-up participating brands such as Jun Okamoto, Plumpynuts and Snidel will be present at the event. Local brands, Chalk, Coupé-Cousu and max.tan are also showcasing their creations. 11am-9.30pm (Fri & Sat, until 10pm), Plaza Singapura, Main Atrium, Level 1
The Winter’s Tale 23 & 24 Feb, 11am-5pm Students pursuing an acting degree perform in one of Shakespeare’s most elegant and haunting plays. This beautiful, music-filled, and magical classic is a roller-coaster ride, from romance to tragedy to comedy and finally to a place of transcendent beauty, that few other works of art have ever taken. “A sad tale’s best for winter,” says Hermione’s young son - but after unleashing a wintry tempest onto his characters, Shakespeare ultimately conjures spring’s miraculous rebirth. Tickets from Sistic. The Singapore Airlines Theatre, LASALLE College of the Arts, 1 McNally Street, Singapore 187940 WE ARE LIKE THIS ONLY 26 Feb - 3 Mar, 7.30pm, matinee shows at 3pm, $28 HuM Theatre presents We Are Like This Only! - a forum theatre production focused on topical integration issues between the local Indians and Indian immigrants. The production aims to highlight the differing perception of the two groups, each seeking to justify and present its case to the audience. Come witness the groups airing their views and venting their feelings theatrically. For tickets, please visit www.humtheatre.com. Goodman Arts Centre, Black Box, Block M, #01-53, 90 Goodman Road, Singapore 439053 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.
mainly have a medical theme, such as plastic surgery, birth defects and our latest Spring/ Summer 2013 collection, Blackout. We capture the moments just before blacking out in our designs with motion blurs and graphic prints,” says Kenny. “We decided to create work-wear for people in the creative industry such as architects, media people and fashion stylists. Black was our main palette but we’ve since expanded into prints and colour,” adds Andrew, who hand-sews and makes almost all of the things sold in Depression. The duo also had a showing of their Spring/Summer collection in Seoul Fashion Week last year and they were also invited back for another showing this year. “We had a lot of positive media responses and we were even on the cover of one of the magazines,” says Kenny. The brand counts stars such as Taboo of the Black Eyed Peas, Randy Jackson and a smattering of Mediacorp artistes as their fans. Kenny shares, “Randy Jackson’s stylist actually emailed us for a pair of shoes that caught his eye in one of our stockists in Hollywood. Taboo called me last year in October asking me where the store was as he had forgotten since the last time he visited in 2004! It’s so surreal getting a phone call from a star asking about your brand!” The duo has created their Autumn/Winter 2013 Dysmorphia collection, which is a play on silhouettes and size, to be showcased at the annual Blueprint Tradeshow this May. They enthuse, “Step in our store for a surprise. Try something on, who knows; you may like it.” W
Hansel: Sync or Swim Local label Hansel’s Sync or Swim line, inspired by synchronised swimmers, features nauticalinspired frocks, hand-drawn illustrations of synchronised swimmers and colour blocking elements. Denise Keller stars in Hansel’s lookbook for this season. The Hansel Shop, Mandarin Gallery, #02-14 For good deals to
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David Beckham: New face of H&M David Beckham Body Wear at H&M just got even steamier with a half-naked and very fit David Beckham prancing and running around in boxer briefs through Beverly Hills in their new ad campaign. Directed by Guy Ritchie, the short film-like ad sizzles. David said, “Working with Guy has been a fantastic experience. I hope everyone has as much fun watching the film as I had making it.” We hope you have as much fun checking these out as we had listing them.
Shanghai Tang Spring/ Summer 2013 Chinoiserie brand Shanghai Tang launches its Spring/ Summer line. Expect lots of tailored jackets and shirts for the men with subtle touches of Mandarin collars. The ladies have floral dresses with body-skimming silhouettes in a palette of deep blues, reds, peridot greens, as well as neutral egret. Visit www.shanghaitang.com
febrUARY 22 - 28, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 05
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PART TWO
DISCOVER
Our favourite playgrounds of yesteryears
Remember sand-based playgrounds with local designs? See if you can recognise a few and find other interesting ones The cute Watermelon Playground brings smiles to many
By Remember Singapore
The Adventure Playground
“Likely to have been built in the early 1970s, its simple design reflects the innocence of that era.”
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One of the favourite games that kids used to play in this playground was perhaps “catching”, or “police and thieves”, where the game was made difficult by having a rule that no one could come in contact with the sand, or he would be penalised. As the height of the highest level was more than 3m, it could have been quite dangerous for any kid to climb to the top. There were cases of children badly injured after falling off the bars, thus it is no wonder that this design was phased out like many other local playground designs. In the 1990s, there was a playground of the same design located near Yishun Avenue 6, and another situated at Block 144, Silat Road. To our knowledge, the information here is accurate as of end-2012. From remembersingapore. wordpress.com
The Elephant Playground at Pasir Ris
The Mangosteen Playground at Tampines Central Park
If you were one of those who spent hours playing in sand playgrounds as a child, or lived near them, you might recall some of these unqiue local designs in our playgrounds. As we continue about our favourite playgrounds of yesteryears, in this second part of our story, see which other designs you recognise and which you never knew existed. Vintage Animals Playground Without any movable parts, this vintage playground is simply made up of stone structures in the shapes of a duck, elephant and horse, that kids can ride on. Likely to have been built in the early 1970s, its simple design reflects the innocence of that era. Located at Toa Payoh Lorong 8,
it has brought joy to countless children of yesteryears. Until the mid-1990s, Bukit Merah still retained a set of these colourful vintage animals. Elephant Playground At one end of the Pasir Ris Park, an elephant-themed sand-based playground is situated within the compound of the Pasir Ris Chalets. Also having been built in the same period as the dragon, pelican and dove playgrounds, it still looks relatively new, probably due to its isolated location where few children, other than the chalet tenants, will visit. With no duplicated design elsewhere in Singapore, the elephant playground with its trunk as slides is a unique piece of work on its own.
Watermelon Playground Currently there are two watermelon playgrounds in Singapore; the one at Pipit Road is sand-based (near the baby dragon playground) whereas the other at Tampines Central Park has been refurbished with rubber mats. Creatively-shaped like a slice of watermelon, the playground structures are decorated with red, white (or yellow) and green mosaic tiles to resemble the flesh and skin of a watermelon. There are also holes on the walls to represent the melon seeds. Mangosteen Playground The mangosteen playground is just 20m away from the watermelon playground at Tampines Central Park. It consists of two giant purple mangosteen-
shaped domes linked together by a thick horizontal bar. The swings attached to the bar were removed years ago. Adventure Playground One of the most popular playgrounds among boys in the early 1990s, the design of this playground is mainly made up of horizontal and diagonal metal bars, complete with slides, swings and see-saws. There is only one such playground left in Singapore today, standing inside the restricted compound of a HUDC (Housing and Urban Development Company) private estate called Lakeview Estate at Upper Thomson Road. [The photos of this is from blog reader George Wong, who has fond memories of it.]
About Remember SG Remember SG is a non-political, non-profitable hobby started in Oct 2010, inspired by Royston Tan’s film, Old Places. The purpose of this blog is to relive memories of Singapore, and to increase awareness of our fading heritage and vanishing landmarks in the midst of Singapore’s rapid development. Armed with a humble Panasonic Lumix FZ-18 for his “exploration” around Singapore, this blog is not about detailed photography; rather, capturing memorable places and landmarks in Singapore that deserve a second look, as well as a summary of the history of these places.
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06 • WEEKENDER • FEBRUARY 22 - 28, 2013
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promos AT NATAS
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he travel fair everyone is waiting for is once again here. The NATAS Travel Fair 2013, now on from Feb 22 to 24 at the Singapore Expo, is packed with bountiful promotions and deals to tempt you. Why hold back when you can be holidaying in paradise? For your ease, we have highlighted here many great NATAS deals and promotions to get the best out of the fair. Insight Vacations – Discounted Land Tours Luxury escorted journey operator Insight Vacations has a NATAS-exclusive US$68 discount on land tours above US$2,600 and departing in 2013 if you pay with your Citibank credit card. This discount can be enjoyed over and above promotional rates at NATAS. See booth 4H33. Spend over $6,000 with Citibank on Insight’s land tours and associated airfare to receive a 28-inch trolley luggage. Book and pay in full by Feb 28 to enjoy further savings of up to 7.5 per cent for selected itineraries to Europe and Britain. Terms and conditions apply. For more, call 6338 7338, or go to www.insightvacations.com/asia Trafalgar – Various Discounts Trafalgar has good deals in conjunction with NATAS, especially for itineraries for Europe. One featured holiday package is the 12-day European Whirl, covering London, Rome, Paris, Amsterdam, and other cities. Highlights include a visit to a glass-blowing workshop in Venice. Enjoy a 7.5 per cent early bird discount, per person, when you book and pay for your Trafalgar holiday before Feb 28, and receive a Bintan holiday for two or a 28-inch hard case luggage bag. Terms and Conditions apply. Past travellers and groups of five or more will receive an additional 5 per cent off per person. For more information, visit the Trafalgar booth, 4H33, at the NATAS fair. SingExpress Travel – New Zealand & China Promos SingExpress Travel is highlighting two main promotions at the NATAS fair. A 9/10D New Zealand Highlights package includes Auckland, Rotorua, Waitomo Caves, Agrodome, Rainbow Spring, Te Puia Thermal Valley, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Christchurch, as well as the Gold Coast. With this package, those who sign up will receive two free nights in Gold Coast, a free sheepskin rug, and a free 1kg of seasonal fruit from Mrs Jones Orchard. The departure dates are May 31 and Jun 7, 9 or 14. This package is from $3,488, excluding taxes and fuel surcharges, with a discount of $300 off per couple. SingExpress Travel also has a 9/10D Magnificent Three Gorges & Zhangjiajie package, featuring Chongqing, Fengdu, Yichang, Zhangjiajie, Fenghuang and Changsha. This package includes The Yangtze Gold Luxury Cruise – a world-class luxury inland river cruise in the Yangtze River. There are selected departure dates from March to June. This package is from $1,088, excluding taxes and fuel surcharges. Visit the SingExpress Travel at booth, 4H51, for more. Contiki Holidays – 3 different promos Contiki Holidays has an early bird discount of 7.5 per cent for Summer packages to Europe and Asia. Book before Feb 28, with full payment by then or 45 days before tour departure date, whichever is earlier. The price quoted excludes the air ticket to and fro. This deal is subject to availability and based on firstcome-first-serve basis. The discount can be combined with brochure discounts as well as with other NATAS promotions (UOB Credit Card, Citibank Credit Card, and Contiki Spin-A-Trip Contest). It cannot be combined with Grab ‘n’ Go or Last Minutes Deals, or promotions that are not stipulated above. Standard brochure booking condition, and terms and conditions apply. Pay with UOB credit card and Contiki gives you US$80 off. The booking period is until Feb 28, and the travel period is by Dec 31. The price quoted excludes the air ticket to and fro. This offer is subject to availability, based on a first-come-first-serve basis. This offer can be combined with brochure discounts, NATAS promotions and Contiki’s Spin-A-Trip Contest. It cannot be combined with Grab ‘n’ Go or Last Minutes Deals, other credit card promotions and any other privileges. Contiki has a fun Spin-A-Trip contest on its Facebook site at www.facebook.com/Contiki/app_141875692633603 . The redemption booking period has to be by Mar 31 while the redemption travel period is by Dec 31. The Spin-A-Trip is applicable for any new booking of a Contiki Holidays trip. Only one reward voucher per booking is allowed. The reward voucher can be combined with brochure discounts
Few sights compare to Mediaeval castles in Europe
The long-awaited NATAS Travel Fair 2013 is now on from Feb 22 to 24. Here is A number of great NATAS deals or promotions you must seize By Lester J Wan
Switzerland is yet another beautiful destination in Europe
The unique Leaning Tower of Pisa
Paris remains the pinnacle of romance
and ad-hoc promotions at Contiki travel fairs. It cannot be combined with Grab ‘n’ Go or Last Minutes Deals and any other membership privileges. The reward voucher cannot be used as balance payment of outstanding fees, and is not exchangeable or refundable for cash if the voucher is not utilised. Vouchers are subject to availability, based on a first-come-first-serve basis. Spin-A-Trip and standard brochure booking condition, and terms and conditions apply. ASA Holidays – 1-for-1 bundle deals ASA holidays has various great promotions for NATAS but its 1-for-1 promotions stand out. Grab 1-for-1 specials to hot destinations such as Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, China, Turkey and Australia, and more. Get 1-for-1 return air tickets to Hong Kong at $248, for two to go, with any purchase of either 5D Hong Kong, Shenzhen & Macau; 5D Hong Kong, Macau & Zhuhai; or 5D Hong Kong & Shenzhen. There are daily departures. There is a 1-for-1 5D Taipei Easy Go at $588 with return airfare on TransAsia Airways, a full-day tour including Chiufen and hot spring, airport transfers and daily breakfast. Departures on Apr 2 or 16, or May 7 or 21. The 1-for-1 4D Tokyo Easy Pack at $888 inclusive of return airfare on Japan Airlines and a two-night stay with breakfast is good value. There are daily departures. The 1-for-1 7D Seoul in Gangnam Style and Everland at $1,998 promises to be fun, and will cover Seoul, Yongin and Gyeonggi-Do. You will get to ascend Mount Sorak on cableway, experience Skin Anniversary Beauty Town, visit the Everland and Lotte World theme parks on an unlimited passport ticket, and visit Gangnam Style – Coex Mall, Apgujeong and Cheongdamdong Street. There will also be interesting DIY cooking classes on
Club Med Bintan’s clear waters
Club Med Kani Maldives is a beautiful resort in paradise
“For your ease, we have highlighted here many great NATAS deals and promotions to get the best out of the fair.”
Kimchi-making and Hanok costume photography. Shop ‘til you drop at Paju Premium Factory Outlets, Dongdaemun and Shinchon. There are many departure dates from March to September. The 1-for-1 7D Gold Coast & 2 Worlds & Byron Bay package is priced at $2,098, and includes the experience of Sea World and Movie World. You’ll get to see Byron Bay, Australia’s most easterly point, the Cape Byron Lighthouse and the Pacific Ocean. Also, meet Tweety Bird and Bugs Bunny and hop on exciting rides. There are various departures in June. The 1-for-1 10-day Turkey Summer Vacation at $2,588 probably presents the most magnificent setting, covering Istanbul, Canakkale, Troy, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Konya, Cappadocia and Ankara. This package includes an upgrade to 5-star Istanbul Hilton or similar, and you can enjoy a one-hour cruise along the picturesque Bosphorus Straits worth $120. Marvel at the sights of the meeting point of Asia and Europe. Promotional departures are on Apr 6, May 4 and 11, Jun 22 and 29, and Jul 6, 20 and 29. Club Med – FAMILY & COUPLE PACKAGES Club Med has various NATAS tie-in promotions available until Feb 28. This year, Club Med is delighted to offer Family (of four) Packages and Couple Packages with super discounts at five Club Med Beach Resorts – Bali, Bintan, Phuket, Cherating, and Kani-Maldives. Packages are priced at $3,025 (UP $4,880) for Family Package and $1,385 (UP $2,760) for Couple Package for Bali; $2,400 (UP $3,680) and $1,260 (UP $2,260) for Bintan; $2,475 (UP $3,920) and $1,225 (UP $2,440) for Phuket; $2,090 (UP $3,400) and $1,065 (UP $2,120) for Cherating; and $3,100 (U.P $3,640) for Couple Package only for KaniMaldives. The Family Packages are for two adults and two children between four to 11 years old. The travel period is from May 1 to Oct 31, with a minimum four-night and maximum seven-night stay (in the same room category). The rooms are Superior rooms for all packages, except Club Med Bali which comes with a Superior room with a balcony. Conditions include that blackout dates apply, and prices indicated are for an all-inclusive resort stay excluding airfares, transfers and membership fees. Purchase your Club Med packages at the NATAS fair or book online at www.clubmed.com.sg Chan Brothers – second person discounts Chan Brothers Travel has a 10/11D Turkey Special (packaged tour) from $1,838 for the first person and $1,250 for the second person, excluding taxes and surcharges. See the historic Hagia Sophia Mosque and the ruins of Troy, complete with a replica Trojan Horse. The 10D American East Air Cruise, free and easy, makes an interesting change. It is going at $3,588 for the first person and $3,088 for the second person, excluding taxes and surcharges. This is inclusive of return economy airfare. One highlight is inter-city flight by private planes through private airports. Visit the Niagara Falls, Hershey Chocolate Factory, and Washington DC, among other sites. The 8D All Taiwan package tour allows you to visit Taiwan’s cities of Taipei, Taichong, Nantou, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Taitung, Hualien and Tamshui, at 50 per cent off for the second person! This package is from $1,498 for the first person and $749 for the second, excluding taxes and surcharges. You’ll even get to spend the night in a hot spring hotel with a personal in-room hot spring facility. The idyllic 6D Shandong / Seaside City Qingdao, Yantai Whale Shark Museum, Kite City of Weifang & UNESCO World Heritage Mount Taishan package tour is going at 1-for-1. This is a real steal. Prices are from $1,538 for the first person and $0 for the second, at an all-in price. With the visit to Yantai Whale Shark Museum, the first of its kind, and the views from UNESCO World Heritage site Mount Taishan, you will definitely be charmed. Another package offering the second person to go for free is the 5D Beijing Super Tour package. It is from $788 for the first person and $0 for the second person, excluding taxes and surcharges. You’ll get to see historic sites such as the Great Wall of China, the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace, and many others. For more information, visit Chan Brothers Travel booth, 5H13, at the NATAS fair, or call 6438 8880. Head down now to the NATAS Travel Fair 2013 and book your package immediately to avoid disappointment. These promos and packages are selling like hot cakes! W
The Great Wall of China is still a wonder
Offer Coupons
REDEEM YOUR
$4 NATAS entry fee at
SingExpress Travel Simply make any travel booking with SingExpress Travel (Booth 4H51), and you can redeem your $4 Natas entry fee. To redeem, kindly present this Weekender coupon with the booking payment. Your $4 will then be deducted.
WIN a set of
Bodum products worth more than $300!
Simply cut out this Weekender coupon, fill in your particulars (name, NRIC no., contact number and address) and drop it in at the SingExpress Travel booth (4H51) Name: NRIC No.: Contact: Address: The set of Bodum products includes: Bistro Blender Stick with Accessories - Black Bistro Electric Kettle 1.5l/51oz – Lime Green
2nd person
50% off
1st person from $1,998* (Plus additional $68 OFF per couple) 6/7D 5N Japan Alpine & Takayama (JP6AT/JP7AT)
• Experience various transports through Tatayama Kurobe Alpine Route • Be awed by up to 20m high Otani Snow Walls • Visit Shirakawa-go Village and Takayama Castle Town • Pick and eat seasonal fruits at Nagano Fruit Farm • Visit Shin Yokohama Ramen Museum, World’s 1st food theme park • Consecutive 2 nights stay in Tokyo City • 1 Day free & easy in Tokyo Departure Dates: Apr to Aug (selected departures) Simply present this Weekender coupon before making your booking at the SingExpress Travel booth (4H51), and you can get this fantastic travel offer. *Price excludes associated taxes and fuel surcharges
NATAS Travel Fair 2013 22-24 Feb, 10am-9.30pm, Singapore Expo Halls 3B, 4 & 5
FEBRUARY 22 - 28, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 07
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
TRAVELATIO
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A traveller’s dream come true From Apr 1, all British Airways services between Singapore and London will move to its awardwinning home in Terminal 5. Here’s why it is a traveller’s dream If you have travelled, you would inevitably feel that the airport you are in is important. Some of travellers’ biggest gripes revolve around airport facilities, services and convenience. If you are a regular traveller, there must have been numerous times when you had wished for better hygiene, comfort, facilities, shops, and so on. British Airways gives you a traveller’s dream come true at its new home hub in London Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 5. From Apr 1 onward, all British Airways flights between Singapore Changi Airport and London will move from Heathrow Terminal 3 to the airline’s awardwinning home in Terminal 5. This means greater comfort, ease and much greater retail and dining options for British Airways customers. British Airways operates twice daily services between Changi Airport and Heathrow T5. There are daily flights between Singapore and Sydney. British Airways’ Award-winning Home Hub British Airways’ new home at Heathrow T5 is the gateway to its extensive European network. Travellers from Singapore no longer need to change terminal when travelling to Europe. This equates to seamless travel connections for Singaporeans to most sought-after destinations. The new British Airways hub at T5 has been voted the World's Best Airport Terminal by airline travellers at the World Airport Awards. Organised by independent survey company Skytrax, the awards are based on 12 million customer surveys over ten months and 388 airports. “The architecture, ambience and terminal layout were repeatedly mentioned in the feedback in the survey, as well as the extensive range of shopping and dining options," said Edward Plaisted of Skytrax. “Over the next five years, British Airways will be investing more than £5 billion in new aircraft, smarter cabins, elegant lounges, and new technologies to make life more comfortable in the air and on the ground,” added Frank van der Post, British Airways Managing Director of Brands and Customer.
Collectively, the BA lounges at T5 are capable of hosting 2,500 people
Part of one of the BA lounges or ‘Galleries’ in Heathrow T5
“The new British Airways hub at T5 has been voted the World’s Best Airport Terminal by airline travellers at the World Airport Awards.”
BA T5 Lounges: Luxury & Comfort There are six lounges within the new exclusive British Airways terminal: The Concorde Room, The First class lounge, three Club Heathrow’s T5 is filled with Lounges and an Arrivals unique architecture and features Lounge. These have been built at a cost of £60 million and are the epitome of elegance and luxury. Collectively, the lounges, known as ‘Galleries’, are capable of hosting up to 2,500 people. This is a 25 per cent increase in capacity in comparison to the current Terminal 1 and Terminal 4 lounges. There is also a 100 per cent increase in the number of showers and bathrooms, 60 per cent increase in washrooms, and 25 per cent more customer service desks to make life easier for BA customers. Shopping Exclusives: Extra value for BA customers British Airways is also inviting customers to benefit from fantastic offers from some of the UK’s best retail brands. By simply presenting their boarding pass or tickets, customers can enjoy a number of deals.
The complete benefits list is available on ba.com and includes: • 7 Camicie Covent Garden: 20 per cent off designer shirts 7 Camicie stands for high-quality tailoring and originality. With over 300 shirt designs, styles and colours to choose from for both ladies and gentlemen, modern or classic, 7 Camicie Covent Garden boasts true Italian style and elegance. Quoting the British Airways and 7 Camicie offer at the cash desk will enable British Airways customers to enjoy 20 per cent off their shopping. • Burlington Arcade: 10 per cent off your shopping The Burlington Arcade is England’s oldest luxury shopping arcade, housing over 40 specialist shops and designer brands including Lulu Guinness, Linley and Jimmy Choo. Located between Bond Street and Piccadilly, the Arcade has long been favoured by celebrities and the cream of British society. Burlington offers British Airways customers the VIP Pass which gives a 10 per cent reduction for the majority of the brands. • Westfield: Discounted VIP experience Get a discounted VIP experience at Westfield London or Westfield Stratford City, Europe’s largest shopping mall with 250 shops and 70 places to dine. Within seven days of your arrival into the UK, simply present your British Airways boarding pass or your British Airways flight booking at one of the Concierge Desks at Westfield London or Westfield Stratford City in return for a VIP pass, entitling you to discounts on a wide range of stores and restaurants. There are a number of other great shopping exclusive offers from other retailers which can be found at www.britishairways.com.
British Airways NATAS Travel Fair Promotions The following are British Airways NATAS Travel Fair Promotions for passengers travelling from 31 Mar to 31 July, from Singapore, with a stopover in London and one other European city: • London & Manchester from $1,499 • London & Paris from $1,343 • London & Rome from $1,326 • London & Barcelona from $1,318 • London & Amsterdam from $1,337 • London & Zurich from $1,343 • London & New York $2,251 • London & Boston $2,251 Terms & Conditions Sale ends 11 Mar, unless sold out prior. Subject to availability. Return Economy airfares from Singapore are inclusive of taxes and surcharges. Fares based on London stopover taken before the outbound travel on route to Europe / US. Prices are correct as at 6 Feb but may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change, so please check ba.com for the latest prices and availability. This offer is for travel on selected British Airways flights. For travel from 31 Mar to 31 Jul, 2013. One flight and date change permitted. An administrative charge and service fees will apply. E-Tickets issued are non-refundable. The cost of travel between airports is not included in your fare. British Airways’ standard terms and conditions apply.
F
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
08 • WEEKENDER • FEBRUARY 22 - 28, 2013
OOD
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Fruit Juice Crayfish Mee Siam? Food blogger Daniel posted a challenge to fellow bloggers to find a unique, strange, interesting or neverbefore-seen hawker food, such as this Fruit Juice Crayfish Mee Siam By Daniel Ang After a very long search, this is my discovery: a stall at Hong Lim Market and Food Centre called the “Famous Sungei Road Trishaw Laksa”, though its laksa is hardly as famous as Katong’s. However, their signature dish is most likely the only one in Singapore found at no other place. Presenting… the Fruit Juice Crayfish Mee Siam ($6). Huh? When I texted my friend I wanted to try Hong Lim’s famous Fruit Juice Crayfish Mee Siam, she thought I left out the “and”, and meant fruit juice and crayfish and mee siam. No, no, no. This dish is everything in one. Mee Siam is a dish of thin vermicelli cooked in a light, spicy, sweet and sour gravy, though the Chinese and Malays in Singapore cook it slightly differently. Ingredients are simple and similar, such as hardboiled egg, bean sprouts and dried bean curd. But nobody calls it fruit juice mee siam, or adds a crayfish on top. Owner Daniel Soo is one of the friendliest hawkers I have
ever met, mild-mannered and all smiles. He explained in fluent English that his food is “healthy, all-natural, good quality, and found nowhere else in Singapore.” I believe him. He uses only fresh products and ingredients because health of customers is his number one priority. The mee siam is more tangy, sour and slightly citrus-y, very unlike any other mee siam you’ve ever tried. There is no assam added; only some “secret ingredients” which the owner refused to reveal. I guess there is pineapple juice added. Tell me what you think. The Asia Delight Laksa ($3, $4, $5.50 with crayfish) is also one of a kind. The gravy cooked using fresh coconut, scallops, dried oysters and dried prawns is rather sumptuous and flavourful, yet very very thin with texture like some chicken soup. It is not as ‘lemak’ (coconut-y) or thick like the normal (unhealthier) ones, but taste is not compromised. Mr Soo is also generous with the ingredients with fishcake, prawns, cockles, tau pok and slices of chicken added. Where to find? Delicious? Yes. #UniqueHawker? Definitely. Mission accomplished.
Octopus Squid Ink Risotto
Savour Singaporean startup café Morsels serves up homely dishes made from scratch
morsel by morsel G
et a taste of warm, real food at the month-old Morsels on Mayo Street. Nestled in a lane of shop houses, one can even escape the hustle and bustle of the city by stepping into the rustic decorated space. Founders Bryan Chia and Petrina Loh had spent much time travelling around the United States, making rounds in restaurants and cafes while learning the trade. The pair reconnected at a party after their respective stints and decided to start Morsels together. Bryan has worked for Singaporean establishments such as Saint Pierre, and even spent time in the Napa Valley learning about the vineyards. Singaporebased “chef-in-black” Emmanuel Stroobant even gave Bryan his first proper kitchen knife to help him get started.
By Cheryl Chia Hokkaido Scallop Ceviche
Famous Sungei Road Trishaw Laksa, Blk 531A Upper Cross Street, Hong Lim Market and Food Centre #02-66, Singapore 051531, Mon-Sat (closed Sun), 10.30am-6.30pm From danielfooddiary.com
Beef Goulash
Beef Pastrami Sauerkraut Cheese Sandwich
Couscous Salad
“I’ve always had jobs in the kitchen since I was young. After I went to hospitality school in Hawaii and worked in some hotels, in 2010, I decided to try working at a ski chalet in Val D’Isere where I had first-hand experiences in running a kitchen,” says Bryan. Petrina, trained at the Cordon Bleu, is also a force to be reckoned with after working with “a very strict chef” at a one-Michelin star restaurant in San Francisco. Morsels has a distinctly homely identity with communal dining and “small plate” dishes. “In Singapore there are many restaurants that are part of a chain or a group. The classic ‘mom and pop’ stores here are definitely a lot lesser than in the United States. So, we decided to do that to get the vibe we want. With a personal touch,” explains Petrina. And, it shows in their
RECIPE
Stir-fried spicy Sakura prawns with mango These hormonefree Sakura prawns definitely make a dish the whole family can enjoy. Bring out their natural sweetness with this spicy and piquant recipe by Chef Thomas Chiam, a consultant to Sakura prawns
Toss & Turn to good food Take a break from all that festive eating with these wholesome foods from Toss & Turn, a brand new salad and soup bar by Cedele By Cheryl Chia
“We highly recommend the Beef Goulash with its thick and comforting consistency and tender beef cubes...”
All those heavy cookies and cakes have gone to your waist. It’s time to kick-start your healthy diet once again. You probably know Cedele for their artisanal breads and cakes that are sensitive to the dietary requirements of individuals, and here they are again with salad, soup and sandwich bar Toss & Turn. Toss & Turn’s café boasts a salad bar with a range of ingredients such as pasta, couscous, salad leaves and deli meats, their homemade peppered prawns and teriyaki chicken. Simply pick a salad base, two deli meats and two vegetables and fruit ($9) and you’re good to go. We also loved their Teriyaki Chicken Tofu Noodles ($10.90) with edamame beans, grilled mushrooms and tender cuts of chicken fillet. Their soup menu also features four daily standard selections – Rustic Mushroom ($5.30-$7.80), Red Pepper and Tomato ($5$7), Chicken Mushroom Riso ($5.30-$7.80) and Beef Goulash ($6.50-$8.90), as well as two daily specials that change every day.
We highly recommend the Beef Goulash with its thick and comforting consistency and tender beef cubes but if you prefer a lighter touch, the Chicken Mushroom Riso is reminiscent of one a mom might make at home. Their sandwiches also feature standard deli staples such as beef pastrami and ham but what stands out is definitely the Hawaiian Tuna Onion Melt ($5-$7.90), a tuna salad sandwich with pineapple slices that went together perfectly. What’s a meal without dessert? Toss & Turn offers slabs of cakes for a sweet ending to your meal. Try their Pandan Tiramisu Cake ($5.50 a slice) or, if you like your desserts infused with alcohol, the Truffle Rum Cake ($5.50 a slice). Toss & Turn, Ion Orchard, #B4-55, Tel: 6636 5835
The Sakura prawn stirfried and with mango
Apple Cinammon Cake
Toss & Turn’s assortment of cakes
Ingredients • 500g of shelled Sakura prawns • 1 fresh mango, cut into cubes • 1 sliced fresh red chilli padi • 1/2 white onion, cut into cubes • Some capsicums, cut into cubes Method 1. Cut a small line along the back of the prawn to de-vein. 2. Heat up the olive oil in a frying pan. Then, add onions and chilli padi, and fry on high heat for 3 minutes.
3. Add in the prawns and stir-fry until the prawns turn red. 4. Add mango cubes, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Stir-fry for 5 seconds. 5. Serve on plate and garnish with the colourful capsicums. Your stir-fried spicy Sakura prawns with mango are ready. Sakura prawns are available at selected FairPrice Finest and Xtra stores.
FEBRUARY 22 - 28, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 09
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
FOO
For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
Firecracker Pork Pasta
“Singapore based ‘chef in-black’ Emmanuel Stroobant even gave Bryan his first proper kitchen knife to help him get started.”
You can choose to sit in booths or at partitioned tables
Steaming it up Enjoy homemade fish balls and other steamboat treats at Fat Fish
Marinated olives
By Cheryl Chia
carefully-selected menu. Our favourite is definitely the grilled Mediterranean octopus, squid ink risotto in salted egg sauce ($25). The portion may not look big, but it is filling. Don’t be fooled. The firecracker pork pasta in habanero pesto and sour-cream ($12) is also a good carb dish to share. Lighter dishes such as the house-marinated olives ($6) and the Hokkaido scallop ceviche ($17$25) that comes with a side of crispy home-made tortilla chips, are great for pairing with Mayo’s extensive drink menu. The ceviche is a hot favourite
at Morsels for its tangy and sweet flavour from the addition of fresh plums. Although the pair faces the growing pains of a start-up, they both love meeting people from all walks of life and chatting with them. “We like to see people sharing food, just eating, drinking and being merry. There is no dress code and you can relax at Morsels and enjoy food made from scratch,” they say. W
Nothing brings family and friends together like the communal dining of a steamboat meal. The waiting for the soup stock to simmer, throwing in of choice ingredients and then debating on whether the food is cooked through is all part and parcel of a big friendly Asian meal. Fat Fish Thai Steamboat Restaurant is one of the steamboat places around the island that you
One of the many types of fresh meat available
D Fat Fish is a Thai steamboat place for the whole family
should try. Established in 2009, the restaurant created an a la carte steamboat buffet with pristine ingredients and fresh meats served directly to your table. They, of course, have the standard Ying Yang bowl of spicy tom yum broth and chicken broth. Signature handmade ingredients such as their fish glue, fish balls and shrimp balls are not to be missed. Their fish glue is a paperthin paste that cooks in the broth quickly, resulting in a smooth and light bite. Fresh seafood such as cockles, squids, shrimp and cuttlefish is also available for order. Try their shrimp dumplings dipped in their secret recipe Thai chilli sauce for a taste explosion. The sweetness of the chilli sauce complemented the boiling hot ingredients,
fresh out of the pot. For those who need carbohydrates, tang hoon, udon or steam rice is available. Their premium ingredients such as fresh kurobuta, sea cucumber, fish maw and scallops are also available. Fat Fish Thai Steamboat Restaurant opens daily from 11.30am to 10.30pm and cost between $19.42 to $28.90 for an adult and $9.76 to $15.90 for a child. Children below one metre in height can dine for free with every paying adult. Fat Fish Thai Steamboat Restaurant is located at eHub @ Downtown East, 1 Pasir Ris Close, #01-103/104 and Sembawang Shopping Centre, 604A Sembawang Road, #B1-12/14.
“their fish glue, fish balls and shrimp balls are not to be missed.”
Morsels, 35 Mayo Street, Singapore 208316. Tel: 6396 6302
Fish glue: a paper-thin paste with a smooth texture
A WEEKENDER EXCLUSIVE RECIPE
The Spathe Special
Grow your appetite with Spathe Japanese foods. Your quality time.
Melon Akaniku with Calpico Agar Agar
Spathe is no longer merely a term for a blossoming plant. Spathe Public House specialises in helping your appetite bloom By Cheryl Chia
Mohammed Sultan Meter Dog
In the seventh in a series featuring recipes using ingredients from Japan, Chef Dan Segall shows you how to make a simple and sweet treat By Lester J Wan
The lively Chef Dan Segall, Group Executive Chef of The Big Idea Group, once again graces us with his skills. He whisks and whirls and whips up a simple treat, making it seem almost effortless. Japanese rock melons are known for their intense sweetness and juiciness. Their other characteristics include impeccable roundness and size. As with other Japanese fruit, the rock melons are carefully, individually wrapped before being shipped to ensure their quality is preserved throughout and beyond the journey. “Japanese fruit stay longer on the vine, and are allowed to ripen slowly. This ensures that the fruit is as ripe and as sweet as possible, and are harvested at
the optimal time,” says Chef Dan. Chef Dan presents a very easy to make yet classy-looking dish that is also uplifting to the taste buds. Ingredients • 1 can of Calpico sweet tonic water • 5g of plain agar agar powder • 1 Japanese rock melon • 1 Japanese sudachi lime (if you can’t find, use normal lime) • Small Chrysanthemum petals (if you can find) Pre-Preparation for Agar Agar • Boil the can of Calpico sweet tonic water with the agar agar powder • Once it boils, whisk the mixture until it boils
•
again. This would take about 2 minutes Once this is done, pour it into a tray mould to set.
Directions 1. Slice the melon into strips and place them on the plate 2. Dice the agar agar into cubes and place them beside. 3. Grate some sudachi lime zest over the melon. 4. Slice off a ring of the lime and place it on the side. 5. Add some tiny petals of small, fresh Chrysanthemum on the agar agar if you can find them. Your fresh and zesty Melon Akaniku with Agar Agar is ready. Fat Cow, 1 Orchard Boulevard, #01-01/02, Singapore 248649
The Confit Duck Puff
Yellowfin Tuna Poke
If you’re looking for a new spot to graze during your next makan session, give Spathe Public House a try for a touch of European communal dining. Spathe – pronounced as spey-th – is based on the philosophy that good food is meant for sharing, with most of its creations coming in mammoth portions to feed hordes of family and friends. Chef Claudio Sandri – originally from Switzerland – brings his European sensibilities to the menu. Start off with a light Hawaiian-inspired ceviche, Yellowfin Tuna Poke (say po-keh) ($18) with tangy shiso-yuzu vinaigrette and avocados on tuna sashimi chunks topped with crispy shallots for an Asian touch. Fans of foie gras can add a pan-seared slice to the Confit Duck Puff ($18-$38) that is filled with caramelised onions and shredded duck. Order the head-turning Mohammed Sultan Meter Dog ($18-$55) featuring a whole metre-strip of veal and chicken curry wurst with wasabi mayonnaise and caramelised onions, nestled in a sweet bun. If you alone can finish it in 10 minutes, you eat for free. Even their alcoholic beverages are served in “Social Pitchers”. Try their Watermelon Lemonade ($55) that is chock full of fresh watermelon, lemonade and soda with lashings of vodka. Mint leaves are also thrown in for a touch of freshness. Their Spathe Special ($58), a luscious concoction of chocolate, espresso, Bailey’s Irish Cream, crème de cacao, Frangelico and Myer’s Dark Rum, is also another one to try if you like your liquor sweet. End your meal with a light Poached Pear Charlotte Royal ($11), a Madagascan vanilla custard topped with poached pears and surrounded by a wall of panettone. The entire sculpture sits in a shallow pool of warm chocolate sauce for a highly comforting yet light dessert. Spathe Public House is located at 8 Mohamed Sultan Road, #01-01, Singapore 238958. Tel: 6735 1035
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10 • WEEKENDER • FebrUARY 22 - 28, 2013
E HAPPIER
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
Fashtalk You may recognise fashion royalty Daniel Boey from his latest stint on Asia’s Next Top Model, as resident judge. We have a chat with him for a peek into his world
How has the entire Asia's Next Top Model experience been for you? It was a bittersweet rollercoaster ride of great and not-so-fun moments, but having my fab fashion team with me throughout the entire shoot, and working with 14 fabulous girls, made the whole experience worthwhile. What has been the most memorable moment that occurred on the job? I think the most memorable moment occurred off-camera, when I sat down with some of the girls after the last catwalk challenge and had a good heartto-heart talk. That’s reality at its
best - no cameras, no producers or scriptwriters telling you to be bitchier and nastier. And, with none of the other judges around – no one had to play a role, no one was being judged. It was the single, nicest moment of the entire series. What would you say inspires your sense of style? Spiffy sartorial dressers, like Thom Browne, show how you can look smart and have fun at the same time. My dad and paternal grandfather seemed to have passed down their Savile Row sensibility to me too. If you could meet anyone, alive or dead, who would it be? One is the inspirational, quirky and flamboyant, Diana Vreeland, the late editor of American Vogue
with Daniel in the ‘60s. She was fearless, ground-breaking and created some of the most iconic images in the history of the magazine. The other is the late Brazilian architect, Oscar Niemeyer – the architect responsible for the beautiful buildings in Brasilia. His work has inspired the designs of many of my event sets. If you could give one fashion tip to Singaporeans, what would it be? There’s a right time and place for all kinds of dressing – from suits to jeans and tees to shorts and flip flops. It would be nice if we could dress appropriately for the right occasion. What makes you happy? Working and sharing my life with people I love, inspirational projects with awesome clients, and being constantly surrounded by real people.
What are some of your upcoming projects? Apart from the coming men's fashion week, we are excited to be conceptualising the launch of Robinsons’ fab new store at the Heeren. We are also creating signature events for several malls, stores and designer labels, which will be a great collaboration of cross-creative disciplines and a wonderful showcase of Asian creative talent. Oh, and I’m building a house for my family too. I’ll be working with some awesome creative individuals – architects, fashion and furniture designers, theatrical set designers etc. W
What do you do on a typical weekend? When I do have some free time, I would probably be catching up with friends over a long-drawn tea in a nice quiet part of Singapore, or curled up in some corner of a coffee bar with a good book. Have you ever been star struck in the course of your career? Several times: When I met Adam
Giant -slaying fun An age-old war is reignited when a young farmhand unwittingly opens a gateway between our world and that of a fearsome race of giants, sparking a quest of gargantuan proportions Unleashed on the Earth for the first time in centuries, the longbanished giants strive to reclaim the land they once lost, forcing a young farmhand, Jack, into the battle of his life to stop them. Fighting for a kingdom, its people, and the love of a brave princess, Jack comes face to face with the unstoppable warriors he thought only existed in legend – and gets the chance to become legend himself. Hence, Jack the Giant Slayer.
About the Film Acclaimed filmmaker Bryan Singer, of The Usual Suspects and X-Men fame, directs this 3D action adventure which stars Nicholas Hoult as Jack, as well as Eleanor Tomlinson as Princess Isabelle, Stanley Tucci as the deceitful Roderick, Ian McShane as Isabelle’s father, King Brahmwell, Ewan McGregor as the knight Elmont, and Bill Nighy as General Fallon, the ferocious two-headed leader of the giant army.
About a Boey Here’s a little more about Daniel Boey and his rise to fashion fame. Daniel Boey is a fashion/creative director who is synonymous with inspired, cutting-edge ideas, and is one of the most soughtafter fashion and lifestyle event producers in Asia. Daniel’s extensive portfolio includes high profile events and fashion weeks in cities such as London, Berlin, Manchester, New York, Ho Chi Minh City and Bangkok, for clients like Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany and Vera Wang. As a stylist, he has also worked with international celebrities such as Tyra Banks, David Archuletta, Bar Rafaeli and Adam Lambert. In 2012, Daniel appeared in the inaugural cycle of Asia’s Next Top Model as the resident fashion director and judge.
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Tokyo Bust
Daniel with Jourdan Dunn
Like people of all ages the world over, director/producer Singer grew up on thrilling tales of adventure, of good and evil, and bold voyagers seeking fortune or fighting for their lives in worlds ruled by beasts and monsters. Among them was the story of a young man named Jack, who confronts a gruesome giant bent on grinding his bones into bread. “What appealed to me about the story then, as now, was how deceptively simple it was, and yet how fantastic and full of potential,” says Singer. Now, this familiar tale has been given a new dimension, with freshly-rendered characters that draw audiences into a larger world of peril and destiny.
MOVIE PREVIEW
“Fighting for a kingdom, its people, and the love of a brave princess, Jack comes face to face with the unstoppable warriors he thought only existed in legend – and gets the chance to become legend himself.”
Lambert for the first time… and the second time; when I met Tom Ford in London; when I worked with a bevy of ‘90s top models such as Irina Panteva, Sophie Dahl and Stella Tennant during London Fashion Week; and when I got to meet the original Singaporean supermodel Ethel Fong last year at couture week. Lastly, James McAvoy!
An Updated Fairytale “The impetus for me was to bring a legend to life in a big, physical way. To take what was a childhood abstraction or some illustrations in a storybook and make them real in their full scope and scale, with action and drama and a beanstalk five miles high,” says Singer, who applied the most advanced filmmaking technology available to the task, graphically depicting the interaction of man and giant, and creating the story’s rich terrains with the fullness and impact they deserve. “We’re telling our own tale, loosely based on stories like Jack and the Beanstalk and the older and darker Jack the Giant Killer, which grew up around the legends of King Arthur,” he continues, “combining elements of both and introducing our own lore to give it a context and history and to bring these characters and this world to life in a dynamic way, with a kind of heightened realism.” Producer Neal H Moritz adds, “We were lucky to have someone of Bryan’s skill and vision to take it to the next level and elevate it from the perception of being just a children’s story. When people see these images I believe they will realise this is a big, epic journey with huge giants and huge themes, humour and romance, amazing action and spectacular visual effects that anyone can enjoy.” Expect More “We’re firing crossbows, zip-lining across huge divides, swinging from vines and dodging flaming trees that the giants uproot and hurl at us. You never know what to expect,” says Hoult, who first worked with Singer on X-Men: First Class, and stars in the title role of this film. Singer’s version begins faithfully with the classic arc
See page 12 of a poor, ordinary farmhand who accepts the unlikely barter of a handful of beans for his horse and soon finds himself in possession of a mighty beanstalk — a living, vertical highway that leads him into a land where giants roam. Though unprepared for the dangers that await him, he rises to the challenge, relying not only on his strength but also on his wits and courage to face the maneating monsters of nightmare. Rooting for the underdog Producer David Dobkin, who shares story credit with screenwriter Darren Lemke, has long been a fan of what he calls “the David and Goliath element of the tale”. “I think most people see themselves as the underdog. We all share the feeling that forces in life are bigger than us and that we often have little control. Jack is not a super-hero, he’s an everyman; he has dreams and ambitions and some idea of what he’s capable of, but until now he’s never been tested. So we root for him because we want him to succeed and show us it’s possible,” he says. “Overcoming the obstacles in his path, Jack proves, time and again, that heroes aren’t born, but made, and that — much like the beanstalk, itself — from small beginnings, big things can come,” adds Lemke. More About the Production Shot entirely in 3D, Jack the Giant Slayer blends live action, practical locations and traditional effects with Computer Graphics (CG) characters born of precision motion- and facial-capture performances, using the latest generation of the Simul-Cam system developed for Avatar to integrate the live with the virtual in real time. “There’s a lot of scary stuff in the movie, and some shocking moments. The giants are definitely not good guys and they take obvious pleasure in eating people — head first,” Singer concedes, “but it’s all done with a measure of fun and a wink to the audience.” Jack the Giant Slayer is a New Line Cinema presentation, in association with Legendary Pictures. It is distributed by Warner Bros Pictures. Jack the Giant Slayer (PG13) Director: Bryan Singer Starring: Nicholas Hoult, Eleanor Tomlinson, Bill Nighy, Stanley Tucci, Ewan McGregor Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy Run Time: 114 min Release Date: 28 Feb
february 22 - 28, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 11
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
FAMILY & FRIEND Daddy M’s children with others in his family during New Year
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Steamboat is another popular dish for family reunions
Malaysia, in the 1960s. It has since become a focal point for most reunion or Lunar New Year meals.
The feast has begun The reunion dinner happens on the eve of the Lunar New Year. It is a magnet that draws all family members home for a feast before the start of a brand new year By Daddy M
O
ur family celebrates reunion dinner in our own unique way. Traditionally, we will have three reunion dinners during the period leading up to the Lunar New Year. Thankfully, we did not hold them all on the same day!
Lo hei or yu-sheng is always popular with the kids
“I have slowly understood why we have dinners such as these. The reunion dinner is a good time to catch up with relatives.”
Reunion Dinner Part 1 The feasting for the New Year began with a simple steamboat dinner with our immediate family. First off is a steamboat dinner with Dad's family. We have a special guest for the evening, with the matriarch, our great-grandmother, attending our little feast. Reunion Dinner Part 2 The reunion continues with Mom's family. Steamboat seems to be a traditional mini-reunion dinner menu – adults love to cook the food on the spot while having a leisurely chat to catch up. Dinner is not complete without lo hei or yu-sheng. Lo hei is said to be a modern tradition with roots in Singapore and
Reunion Dinner Part 3 The climax to our reunion series is The Big Feast. This is Dad's reunion dinner with his extended family. Every year, aunties and uncles as well as cousins will gather for the big feast. The clan numbers about 50. We usually have dinner at our grand uncle's place. Typical menu The typical reunion dinner is very large and traditionally includes chicken and pork. Fish also features, stemming from a pun on the Chinese phrase “Nian Nian You Yu” or "Every year there is leftover". Yu can be the word for “fish”, with the same sound but different Chinese character. Similarly, a type of black hair-like vegetable, "fatt choy" (literally "hair vegetable" in Cantonese), is also featured in many dishes, especially for the Cantonese, as its name sounds similar to "prosperity” (Fa Cai). Looks like we got the dishes covered in our main feast. The Realisation I have slowly understood why we have dinners such as these. The reunion dinner is a good time to catch up with relatives. It may be a tradition that is slowly fading with every generation, but we do hope it will continue in the spirit of the Lunar New Year. With evolving traditions and modernisation, the reunion dinner serves to remind us of our roots. For one night, the family comes together and gives thanks. It is the Chinese version of Thanksgiving. No matter what is said about reunion dinner being old-fashioned, it is still a tradition for us and our future generations to keep and practise. On a side note, Grand Uncle is a practising kungfu shifu. Till the next reunion dinner, Gong Xi Fa Cai, Wan Shi Ru Yi! W From www.thewackyduo.com About Daddy M & the Wacky Duo Daddy M is a firm believer of: "A wedding is an event, a marriage is the journey, parenthood is a blessing and family is the reward." TheWackyDuo.com was launched in Mar 2012. It seeks to chronicle the lives of Daddy M’s children, Charles and Louis, and to track their growth. The aim of the Wacky Duo is to provide an insight into family life in Singapore through personal experiences. For those thinking of starting a family, they hope to show that it is not as scary or difficult as one might envision.
Dio Benson Born Jun 25, 2012
Gordon Ow Born Mar 23, 2012
Miranda Ou Born Dec 14, 2012
Rhyden Lee Born Jan 8, 2013
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12 • WEEKENDER • february 22 - 28, 2013
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS
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