Weekender #21

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02 • WEEKENDER • march 1 - 7, 2013

All events are correct at time of print.

Deep Purple 12 Mar, 8pm, $88, $108, $128, $168

gathering

gagging sessions by Bani Haykal

8 Mar, 8pm–9pm, admission by donation

In this instalment of Tribal Gathering Gagging Sessions, Bani Haykal addresses the “history” of three instruments he

created, and physical (or acoustic) experiences in producing sound and music in Singapore. The three instruments - a carefully

destroyed electric guitar, a mangled bicycle and PVC pipes – were created during his residency under The Art Incubator, in Bandung. The presentation will include a short performance followed by an interactive session for audiences to play with the instrument. The Substation, 45 Armenian Street, Singapore 179936

Legendary English rock band, Deep Purple returns to Singapore, to fans who have eagerly awaited their return since their last performance here in 2010. One of the pioneers of hard rock and heavy metal, they have sold over 100 million albums worldwide, including 7.5 million certified units in the USA. Formed in Hertford in 1968, Deep Purple remains one of the hardest touring bands in the world, and continue to grow their fan base as a new generation discovers their music. The Star Performing Arts Centre, 1 Vista Exchange Green, Singapore 138617

Lauren Thalia's Live Lounge 11 May, 4pm, $25 excluding booking fee & Hard Rock Cafe fee A confident 12-year-old who surprised the UK when she stepped out on stage with her big guitar and sang solo in front of the judges of Britain's Got Talent, Lauren Thalia’s impressive acoustic renditions of Keri Hilson’s Turn My Swag On and Labyrinth’s Earthquake received glowing comments from Simon Cowell, one of the toughest judges. Since then, she has performed throughout the UK, enthralling fans with her powerful voice, infectious energy, swag and style and a big guitar. With hits on her YouTube performances reaching millions, Lauren’s fan base has now grown worldwide. Email askeve@eventclique.com for more information. Hard Rock Cafe Singapore, 50 Cuscaden Road, #02-01, Singapore 249724

Syndicate Subsessions by Vandetta & Kiat 30 Mar, 8pm, $20

Chill out at a night of live beats and bass performed by Vandetta and Kiat as the artistes who often collaborate together on stages worldwide stand alone to deliver performances. Syndicate Subsessions kicks off its second year with this performance featuring Vandetta's selfcreated beatscapes, and Kiat unveiling a different side of himself apart from the club sets he is known for. Widely known as Vanessa Fernandez, the Vandetta pseudonym allows the songstress to explore the electronic realm. The Substation, 45 Armenian Street, Singapore 179936


march 1 - 7, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 03

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS

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All events are correct at time of print.

in 2011. This investigation in repetition and configurationbased form-making marks a new direction in Grace’s kwodrent fabric-arts practice, yet extends and pushes the boundaries of her method-based processes and crafting roots. The Substation Gallery, 45 Armenian St, Singapore 179936

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

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 admission Open House @ SIM (Global Education) 8 & 9 Mar, 11am–5pm Experience SIM Global Education campus life at Open House @ SIM. Find out about the 50-over full-time and part-time programmes offered. Parents can take part in the Breakfast Network for Parents (9 Mar, 9am–11am) where an experienced career coach will share tips on guiding your child to choose a course related to his/ her aspirations, and an SIM GE alumnus will share his/her SIM GE experience. Log on to www.simge.edu.sg/openhouse for more info and registration. SIM HQ, 461 Clementi Road, Blk A, Singapore 599491 Out of Sight Festival 23 & 24 Feb, 2pm, by donation Get set for an indie festival at Telok Ayer Performing Arts Centre before it is demolished. This mass picnic event features music from the Kilowatt DJ collective, live band performances, live art installations, twisted beat spoken word performances and more. Expect great vibes, and get ready to dance to the beat. Telok Ayer Performing Arts Centre, 182 Cecil Street, Singapore 069547 Presentation by Grace Tan 7-17 Mar, 12pm-9pm An exercise in the patterns and structures of repetitive forms, focusing on the application and development of the graphics and patterns interpreted from JS Bach’s The Art of Fugue in her work-in-progress presentation

Shifting Between Surfaces Until 6 Mar This installation by Filip Gudovic focuses on the diversity of perceptive experiences and actions through physical and virtual surfaces. A large mural painting and three HDTVs showcase a digital work, and these build a formal narrative. TriSpace, Lasalle College of the Arts, 1 McNally Street, Singapore 187940 The Perfect Drug® - A solo exhibition by Ben Frost Until 18 Mar, 11am-7pm, MonFri; weekends by appointment In this exhibition, Australian pop artist Ben Frost presents new artworks exploring our society’s obsession and relationship with mass-consumerism. Painting new elements directly onto fast food and pharmaceutical packaging, Frost gives a humorous and subversive take on western culture and the products we have grown to love and become addicted to. Visit www.kult.com.sg/ for more information. Kult Gallery, 11 Upper Wilkie Rd, Blk C2-5, Singapore 228120 The World’s Biggest Flash Mob 9 Mar, 5.30pm Sleep Couture collaborates with Etienne Khoo, a talented choreographer from Australia’s So You Think You Can Dance, to invite dancers worldwide to take part in the world’s biggest flash mob as part of their move to raise awareness for a healthy lifestyle and good sleep. Sign up at www.facebook. com/sleep. couture, to receive details. They will then receive an instructional video to learn, perform and record the routine on Orchard Road in front of Ngee Ann City on 9 Mar, 5.30pm. Send in the video by 11Mar. Email jess.sleepcouture@gmail. com for the registration form. 391 Orchard Road, Singapore 238872

ticketed admission

7 Dance Fictions In An Ice Room 15 & 16 Mar, 8pm, $35 Like an ice core that keeps frozen chronicles of climate past, choreographer Angela Liong creates an ice-room that breeds riddles and jumbled scenes with dreamtime characters caught in fractured time space - the constant clacking of a rocking-horse casts a spell on a descending angel, forever going down the stairs, a couple looking for the perfect spot to place a table hopes to find the perfect home, and a girl on a wooden bed can't come down because she cannot find her shoes to leave. 7 Dance Fictions In An Ice Room is a surreal and tantalising sight and has to be seen. SOTA Studio Theatre, 1 Zubir Said Drive, Singapore 227968 ASIAN MALE VOICES - A Season Of Young Artists Project Performers 2 Mar, 8pm, $28 (students), $32.30 (senior citizens), $38 Asian Male Voices is a new triple-bill by three internationallyacclaimed male choreographers: Dr Danny Tan (Singapore), Yu Ho-Sik (South Korea) and ChunHsien Wu (Taiwan/Germany). It is performed by Young Artists Project Performers - the young company of Odyssey Dance Theatre Ltd. With their diversified choreographic experience and artistic backgrounds, this production is a visual treat for Singapore’s young dancers and other audiences alike. University Cultural Centre Theatre, 50 Kent Ridge Crescent, NUS Centre for Arts, Singapore 119279

A Clean Sweep 2-10Mar, 10am & 2.30pm (2, 3, 10 Mar); 11am & 4pm (4-8 Mar), $25 for weekdays, $28 for weekends Family pack: 4 tickets to same show, same time, $85 for weekdays, $95 for weekends Scotland’s Plutôt La Vie, presents

AirAsia’s inflight meals whet your appetite Not keen on inflight meals? You’ll change your mind with AirAsia By Adrian Eugene Seet

In my line of work I get to travel quite a bit and I always look forward to eating on board my flights. Airline food is as much an enjoyment as the food I get to taste in my line of work whenever I’m not flying. This is more so when I fly with AirAsia, of which the inflight dining is always the highlight. The selection of food available onboard varies, depending on your destination. Unlike inflight meals on most full-service airlines, where selection is quite limited, AirAsia has an extensive inflight menu that is comparable to a restaurant. Besides offering Asian fare such as Pak Nasser’s Nasi Lemak and Chicken Satay Combo, there is also the option of Western fare like the Chicken Lasagna, and vegetarian dishes such as the Vegetable Curry with Briyani Rice. I almost always get hungry onboard, especially when flight attendants start walking down the aisle with the food trolley. For that reason, I like to pre-book my meals in case they run out of what I want. AirAsia only carries pre-booked meals on each flight, along with limited spares for last-minute purchases onboard. This helps the plane carry only what is necessary, to reduce wastage and fuel burn a great way to go green if you ask me. Another advantage of pre-booking is variety, since when you order online you get what’s not usually available onboard, no matter which flight you’re on, as different routes carry different signature dishes. Pak Nasser’s Nasi Lemak If you’re a fan of local delight Nasi Lemak, then you need to try AirAsia’s signature inflight meal, Pak Nasser’s Nasi Lemak. This

popular dish is prepared with coconut milk, steamed rice, pandan leaf, chicken, rendang paste made of curry powder, lemongrass, chilli, garlic and onion and hard-boiled egg. Fried anchovies and peanuts are served separately so they retain their crunch and crispy texture. It also comes with a specially-created, spicy sambal sauce that gives an extra edge to the meal. The sambal sauce has just the right amount of onion, garlic, chilli, shrimp and anchovy paste to whet your appetite. This is one of my favourite dishes on board AirAsia. The rendang paste and sambal sauce go perfectly with the rice while the anchovies and peanuts add a familiar comfort. Chicken Satay combo Satay lovers like me will like the Chicken Satay Combo. It offers a perfectly-textured tender chicken with soft, moist rice blocks. The generous serving of tender satays goes well with the peanut sauce. Chicken Lasagna Something else to highlight would be the AirAsia Chicken Lasagna. I tried it recently and it instantly became one of my favourites. It is filled with minced chicken with pasta sheets prepared with chicken stock, cheese and cream sauce, mixed Italian herbs and spices, mozzarella and parmesan cheese, and thick tomato sauce. The pasta goes well with the flavourful cheeses. Dining on board AirAsia is inexpensive and fuss-free. Next time you’re travelling, take my recommendations and give some of these a try; like me, you may be converted to an inflight meal fan. Adrian Eugene Seet is founder of the lifestyle portal superadrianme.com

a production sure to tickle the little ones. It features Dustin and Walt, who live in an absurd world of brooms and brushes, while trying to understand and to control it. Cleaning is the last thing on their minds. The two of them share their dreams, passions, obsessions, as well as humanity in this piece of visual theatre where the audience will get to know them through their actions, physicality, and the clever use of props. ACT3 Theatre, ONE-TWO-SIX Cairnhill Arts Centre, 126 Cairnhill Road, Singapore 229707 Aveda CatWalks for Water 20 Mar, 7.30pm, $68 Aveda Singapore is hosting a catwalk for water to support its aim to inspire beauty professionals and consumers to raise millions for the protection of clean water a basic human right that nearly 900 million people worldwide fight for daily. This event will showcase hair and makeup talent from Singapore and present Art of Nature inspiration by Aveda Global Stylists. For more information and tickets, call 6280 3093, or head down to Aveda Experience Centres at Tangs Orchard and Ngee Ann City. 1 Marina Boulevard, Singapore 018989 INTRODUCTION TO LIFE DRAWING 2, 9, 23 & 30 Mar & 6, 13, 20 & 27 Apr, 9.30am-12.30pm, $360 (8 sessions) In this class, instructor Tang Ling Nah will teach the basic elements and principles of life drawing in relation to the human figure – observing the proportion and structure of the human body, drawing using charcoal, pencil, coloured pencils, pen and ink, and taking note of shapes, quality of line, values, texture, colour, form, and its relation with the environment. The course combines long poses and short poses focusing on the posture, gestures and movement of the model. Participants must be 18 years old and above. Email activatedcstudio@gmail.com or call 97474298 for registration and enquiries. Goodman Arts Centre, 90 Goodman Road, Singapore 439053 Leaping Fish in the City 21 & 22 Mar, 8pm, $12 (concession), $18 In Source Theatre and The Substation co-present a multimedia theatrical piece that comprises English, Mandarin and dialect. Researchers discovered that at least six different types of fish are

EVENT

able to launch themselves into the air from a solid surface. We humans have become adaptable 'leaping fish', building our lives on earth and also living at levels beneath the earth. English subtitles and multimedia images are provided. The Substation, 45 Armenian Street, Singapore 179936 Looney Tunes Classroom Capers 22-24 Mar, 7.30pm (22 Mar); 11am, 3pm & 7.30pm (23 Mar); 3pm (24 Mar), $38, $48, $58, $68 It’s back to school for Bugs Bunny and the Looney Tunes gang in Classroom Capers, the new non-stop hilarious musical production the whole family will love. The teacher is running late for class at the ACME Academy so the Looney Tunes decide to take turns as the substitute teacher - quickly becoming a textbook example of how things can easily get out of control! Starring Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Tweety, Sylvester, Taz, Marvin the Martian and Porky Pig. Don’t miss this fun-filled, up-close-andpersonal lesson of classic gags that make Looney Tunes a must-see class act! For more information, visit www.ticketbooth.com.sg D'Marquee, Downtown East, 1 Pasir Ris Close, Singapore 519599

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event is part of the Mosaic Music Festival presented by Esplanade. Esplanade Recital Studio, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981

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.

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

Mouse On The Keys 8 Mar, 7.30pm, $30 Celebrated for their minimal phrased piano and dynamic drumming, the Tokyo powerhouse trio Mouse on the Keys integrates the aggression and intensity of hard core punk with artistic piano compositions inspired by jazz, contemporary classical, the work of Godzilla composer Akira Ifukube, and the well-known Ryuichi Sakamoto. Their technically complex yet emotionally affecting work is cerebral, literate and influenced as much by philosophy and art as by music. Partly conceived as an installation art project, its live performances are complemented by film projections incorporating footage of Tokyo, landscapes, and computergenerated abstract imagery. This

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.


F Fingertip fashion 04 • WEEKENDER • march 1 - 7, 2013

ASHION

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Fash Snips Here are a few stirrings in the fashion world that you would need, love and want to know about

Buying clothing online has been made even easier with new fashion websites By Cheryl Chia

With the sudden influx of online shopping platforms, buying foreign brands and one-of-a-kind pieces has become much, much easier. Gird your wallets for the shopping storm. Popular websites such as ASOS. com, Zalora, AsiaFashionInc have curated a multitude of brands and products from all around the world for a unique shopping experience at any time of the day. New kid on the block, TheFashionHeadlines stocks up on international brands such as Rainbow People, Artessorio, Phyllis Boho and a smattering of local labels such as Al&Alicia. Founders Evon Tan and Fia Sirikanya have a simple motto of “travel to shop” as you never know what you can find. Evon says, “People have to know such extraordinary designers exist; we simply create a portal to display their talents.” Evon, who is also the designer of Malaysian brand Armoire, and her partner Fia decided to create a platform that features all their finds. Creators of AsiaFashionInc, Timothy Chen and Aidan Yeoh share a similar motto with brands such as Depression, AI by Ashley Isham, Dressotomy and Desti Saint. They also provide fashion tips and publish a bi-monthly guide for Asian fashion and lifestyle. They are also in a brick and mortar pop-up store, The Emporium at Millenia Walk. English online retail store ASOS is definitely the grandfather of online shopping. Since they commenced in the year 2000, they have garnered a mass following all over the world with over 50,000 branded and own-label products spanning across fashion and beauty. They also offer free international shipping. Zalora.sg is another website to visit for a quick fix with a myriad of brands such as Something Borrowed, organic cotton brand Etrican and Future State. Selling

Whether you are a Disney, Snoopy, Sanrio or One Piece fan, you’ll able to find a design you love. With additions such as GreenGate, that marries Scandinavian design values with a rich heritage of antique French and English rustic floral patterns and prints, and Metal Gear Rising Revengeance, a popular video game, there is all the range to shop from now. Available in Uniqlo stores.

a hodgepodge of clothing, accessories, shoes and even home decor things, the website is a one-stop online shop. Some of their items deliver within 48 hours of ordering if the stock is in their Singaporean warehouse. Do double-check the sizing charts of the items sold, as the sizing of some brands sourced differ from others. Zalora is also known to have flash sales once in a while, so do look out for announcements on their Facebook page. With such websites easily accessible, you never need to conform to the mere shopping hours of the mall ever again. Visit www.asos.com, www.asiafashioninc.com, www.thefashionheadlines.com and www.zalora.sg for more. Tip: Look through their clearance or discount section for the best deals. You might get lucky with an outfit that’s 70 per cent off.

These are some of the pretty frocks found on TheFashionHeadlines

Seafolly Ladies, keep your eyes peeled for this vintage and curve-hugging bikinis and swimsuits from Australian beachwear brand Seafolly. Their Spring/Summer 2013 range showcases sports luxe styles with bright hot shades such as chartreuse and classic black and indigos. These vintage-cut suits flatter any shape with good cuts and quality fabrics. Look out for them starting from March. Seafolly is located in Wisma Atria, #02-16-17.

MCL by Matthew Campbell Laurenza This Spring, Matthew Campbell Laurenza releases his newest addition, English Garden. This new collection celebrates beauty, new awakenings, and femininity. In anticipation of bright sunshine, longer days, and fresh blooms, Matthew introduces his creative interpretation of all things spring and summer. It includes sapphires, rubies and semi-precious gemstones set in handcrafted sterling silver settings. Visit www.mcldesign.net for store locations.

Uniqlo Enjoy this new eclectic range of printed t-shirts by Uniqlo.

Unique bags and accessories can be found too

Clarks Clarks takes a military twist with their Spring/Summer 2013 range of camou-printed jacquard fabric lace-ups. Coming in sand and olive green, these shoes are easy to match. Clarks has also partnered with Hanon of Aberdeen to create breathable cotton fabric that repels water. Prices start from $199. Exclusively at Actually, 29A Seah Street, Singapore 188385


March 1 - 7, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 05

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

HEALTH & BEAUT

Manuka Honey: Cure for colds and more

The cold, rainy season brings a spike in the number of flu and sore throat cases. Manuka Honey is the perfect remedy

“Manuka Honey is the perfect remedy for those sniffles and raspy throats.”

Lately, the weather has been bringing some people down. This cold, rainy season brings with it not only the chance to bundle yourself up in warm clothes but, unfortunately, also a spike in flu and sore throat cases. Manuka Honey is the perfect remedy for those sniffles and raspy throats. Sourced from New Zealand’s remote, pollution-free forests, Manuka Honey is renowned for its unique flavour and healthmaintaining effects. The bees feed off the Manuka plant, which is native to New Zealand. Honey has been used to treat multiple conditions since ancient times. It wasn't until the late 19th Century that researchers discovered that honey has natural antibacterial qualities. Manuka Honey is no different. A natural healing agent widely recognised for natural antiseptic and anti-bacterial qualities, it has been used for centuries to heal and repair damaged skin and wounds, and to maintain good health and wellbeing. Manuka Honey has natural anti-inflammatory properties, and so it helps with sore throats, wound-healing, soothing sunburn, and boosting general wellbeing. Everyone gets food poisoning, viral sore throats or digestive problems once in a while. Consume Manuka Honey for

a touch of sweetness and to lift the gloomy spirits. Manuka Honey also alleviates these conditions. Active Manuka Honey contains Methylglyoxal or MGO, a unique compound found in high quantities in Manuka Honey, and possesses incredible antibacterial activity. MGO is a compound found in most types of honey, but usually only in small quantities. MGO has been shown to kill viruses including helicobacter pylori – which causes digestive upset, acid reflux and stomach ulcers, and staphylococcus aureus – a superbug that is resistant to many antibiotics. It is an all-natural E coli-killer – the common culprit behind food poisoning and streptococcus pyogenes – the virus that causes a sore throat. This is because it fights several bacteria that cause sore throats. Take a teaspoon of Manuka Honey several times a day, swishing it in your mouth before swallowing. You’ll feel better quickly. Studies have also shown that it possesses powerful anti-fungal properties. When used in its raw, natural form, it is great in treating fungal infections like athlete's foot, ringworm as well as jock itch. It can also provide relief from gum disease and tooth decay. Studies have found that it fights off three different types of mouth bacteria. People with acid reflux have a quick fix, as Manuka Honey can help. It coats

the oesophagus and intestinal tract, which prevents damage from stomach acid and relieves symptoms. It may also help to heal the damage already caused by acid reflux. If you have bowel problems, consider taking Manuka Honey on a regular basis, as it can prevent and treat bowel problems such as ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome. Manuka Honey also encourages the growth of good bacteria in the intestines and gets rid of unwanted bacteria – like yoghurt. On top of that, it aids in the prevention of, and is a panacea for, stomach ulcers. Research has found that Manuka Honey prevents the growth of h. pylori (helicobacter pylori), the bacteria that causes stomach ulcers, while maintaining good bacteria in the stomach. Note that Manuka Honey is not suitable for babies under the age of 12 months. You can consume Manuka Honey in several easy ways. One way is to add it to drinks such as milkshakes and smoothies. If you like a warm, comforting drink when you are sick, dissolve it in organic tea from Holland & Barrett (UP from $4.90 per pack). Or, spread on bread or Holland & Barrett’s crunchy cereals & muesli (UP from $7.90 per pack) for a wholesome breakfast or tea. As the UK's leading health food retailer since 1920, you can trust Holland & Barrett to provide the finest quality Manuka Honey products, under renowned brands such as Medibee, Comvita and Pure Gold. Medibee Manuka Honey UMF 15+ (250G) retails at $54.90, Comvita Manuka Honey UMF 5+ (500G) at $29.90, and Comvita Manuka Honey UMF 10+ (500G) at $47.90. Pure Gold UMF 25+ Manuka Honey (250G) is $68.90 and Pure Gold UMF 6+ Manuka Honey (500G) is $32.90. These and more are available at Holland & Barrett stores islandwide, including at Citylink Mall, #B1-61 and 313@ Somerset, #B3-08. Visit the nearest one to get a bottle of Manuka Honey today.

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YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS

06 • WEEKENDER • march 1 - 7, 2013

OOD

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An interesting dish from Amuse

“People register via are informed thro list and Facebook e Mostly, it is also w as well.”

“With more than 105 restaurants to choose from, this year’s edition promises a larger range than before.” Equinox’s Beetroot with Braeburn apple

Tantalising offerings at Restaurant Week Restaurant week is back for its sixth edition with a smorgasbord of signature dishes By Cheryl Chia Get your clicking fingers ready to start booking tables for the much-anticipated dining event, Restaurant Week. With more than 105 restaurants to choose from, this year’s edition promises a larger range than before. Changing its usual fixed set Restaurant Week menu, it now includes “The Grand Tour of Taste”, where the participating restaurant will craft a tasting platter where diners can relish portions of signature dishes that the establishment is known for. For example, Tamarind Hill – a Thai fusion restaurant – will serve up signature soft shell crabs, fish cakes and tuna tataki in their platter. Diners can also expect appetisers such as the beetroot with Braeburn apple and scallop ceviche with pink grapefruit from the Equinox in Swissotel. Lunch and dinner menus are offered at $25-$35 as in previous years, since the event

Absinthe, one of the restaurants participating

A gastronomic Pop-up restaurant Gastrogig comes and goes quickly but is by no means forgettable

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ou’ve heard of pop-up stores, concepts and art installations but have you heard of a pop-up restaurant? Year-old establishment Gastrogig does exactly that. Partners Angela Zheng and Jasmine Cheah aim to transform any empty space into a platform for budding chefs. Angela says, “A pop-up restaurant takes place in an unconventional setting, like on the roof top of the Sime Darby building for example.” “Our most recent event in January was Skin Deep, on the roof of the Luzerne Building

By Cheryl Chia began in 2010. The participating restaurants this year include new comers such as 7Adam and Le Petit Cancale as well as favourites such as Bistro du Vin, Salt Grill & Sky Bar and Buyan Russian Haute Cuisine and Caviar Bar. Miss Desi Wentink, Managing Director of DiningCity Singapore, organisers of Restaurant Week, says, “We want to serve only the best for Restaurant Week patrons. Restaurants will showcase their

trademark items through these tantalising, grand tasting platters so that every guest will have the opportunity to fully enjoy each restaurant’s culinary marvels.” This bi-annual event saw 37,000 reservations last year and they “are all fired up to surpass this feat”. Bookings for Restaurant Week are open now. Visit www. restaurantweek.sg. Restaurant Week lasts from Mar 18 to 24.

RECIPE

Baked Tom Yum Chicken Wings You may love the spicy tang of Tom Yum soup, but this new invention will give you spicy wings to fly on

The sweet fusion

The Pork Belly Skewer is a must-try

of Euro-Tokyo

New Ministry of Food addition Dolce Tokyo combines Japanese sensibilities with Western dishes

The refreshing Yuzu Cake

Ingredients This portion serves two. • 5 chicken wings (about 400g)

By Cheryl Chia If you’ve always loved Japanese fusion delights, Dolce Tokyo might be the place for you. In the convenient locale of 313 Somerset, it is a great place to sit down for a spot of afternoon tea or brunch. ‘Dolce’ meaning sweet in Italian, lives up to its name with a variety of Japanese desserts such as kakigori – soft-serve ice cream with shaved ice and flavoured syrup, layer cakes and panna

The Kakigori dessert

My family loves chicken wings so I’m always experimenting with new flavours. These Thai-inspired Baked Tom Yum Chicken Wings is the latest creation, and they were very wellreceived on our dinner table. The marinade is really easy to make, as I am using instant tom yum paste as the base. They are also cooked the fuss-free way, entirely in the oven. You can tweak the marinade sauce to your liking. For example, even though there is no chilli in this recipe, you can add it in for that extra heat. Different brands of tom yum paste have varying saltiness and flavour, so adjust the seasonings to taste accordingly.

The Matcha Goma Cake

cotta available. We especially like the Dessert Bento ($18.90) where the desserts come in five different tasting portions. It usually comes with the Shiratama – Japanese rice cake – with konnyaku jelly, fresh vanilla bean panna cotta with fruit and mocha balls and a small pat of Turkish delight. Value for money, especially if you’re a dessert person. Apart from signature desserts, Dolce Tokyo also serves all-day breakfast treats such as Smoked Salmon Ben ($20) – eggs benedict with smoked salmon, with a side salad, an assortment of pancakes as well as a main menu with Japanese tojis – hot plates – and skewers. We especially like the tender pork belly skewer that gave

The mouth-watering Mixed Skewer Platter

off a beautiful smoky flavour. Fans of matcha latte can also indulge their habit with Dolce Tokyo’s Iced Matcha Latte ($7.50), a richly-sweet, milky mix infused with copious amounts of matcha powder. It was a little sweet for our taste but leave the ice to melt a little for perfection in a glass. Dolce Tokyo also has an

assorted array of cakes such as yuzu and green tea with goma. The latter is a bit of an acquired taste with black sesame paste in between each layer. All in all, a good place for a mid-afternoon tete-a-tete. Dolce Tokyo is located at 313 Somerset, #03-23. Tel: 6836 5612

“In the convenient locale of 313 Somerset, it is a great place to sit down for a spot of afternoon tea or brunch.”

Tom Yum marinade • 1/2 stalk of lemongrass (only the white part), finely snipped • 1 kaffir lime leaf, finely snipped • 5 shallots, peeled and sliced • 1 heaped tablespoon of instant tom yum paste • 1/2 tablespoon of fish sauce • 1 tablespoon of cooking oil

Method 1. Using kitchen scissors, cut the chicken wings into 3 portions at the joint (drum-let, mid-section and tip). Freeze the tips for making chicken stock. Pat them dry with paper towels. Tip: For easy cleaning and quick drying, opt for detachable kitchen scissors. 2. Cut the lemongrass stalk and kaffir lime leaf (rolled up like a cigar) into thin snips. Add the Tom Yum marinade into the food processor and blend it until the paste is smooth. 3. Coat the chicken evenly in the tom yum paste. Chill the marinated chicken, covered, in the fridge, for at least half an hour. 4. Arrange the chicken pieces on a wire rack with a foil-lined tray beneath. This helps in easy clean-up. Bake in a pre-heated oven at 200°C for 25 minutes, turning once, halfway. The Baked Tom Yum Chicken Wings are now ready to be garnished and served. From www.noobcook.com


march 1 - 7, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 07

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS

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

via our website and ough our mailing events page. word of mouth

Jasmine and Angela with the tattooed chefs

FOO

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Have a hearty breakfast

Take your family out this weekend for a hearty breakfast without breaking the bank By Cheryl Chia

which was a collaboration between three tattooed chefs, Jimi Tegerdine of Level 33, Culina Global Utama's Raj Abat and Balibased James Tombleson,” she says. The location and secret access code was SMS-ed to the diners about a day before the event. Jasmine, founder of Gastrogig, says, “People register via our website and are informed through our mailing list and Facebook events page. Mostly, it is also word of mouth as well. We usually inform guests by email close to the event date.” Gastrogig events usually last from between one to three nights, to about a week long, “no more than two weeks”. The pair has organised a total of five events with chefs from all over the world such as Henrique Sa Pessoa (Portugal) of Alma Henrique Sá Pessoa, Roberto Pengson (Philippines) of The Goose Station, Will Meyrick (Indonesia) and Peeter Pihel (Estonia). The chefs create special menus only for the diners

I’ve always had fond memories of Swensen’s. Digging into their Firehouse special for birthdays, challenging friends to finish the massive Earthquake sundae without gagging and, not forgetting, weekend dinners to their now defunct flagship store, where the Abercrombie & Fitch store currently is, on Orchard Road. Swensen’s has revamped its menu a few times since then, and this newest one hits the sweet spot. Swensen’s new breakfast menu on the weekends and public holidays features nine dishes to cater to your taste for the morning. With heavier meals such as the Sunrise Omelette ($10.90) – with diced tomatoes and herbs served with sides of baked honey butter cream, Ciabatta rolls, chicken sausages, a hash brown and sautéed mushrooms – and the Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict ($12.90) – served on two slices of sourdough bread with smoked salmon, poached eggs, Hollandaise sauce and homemade barbecue beans – you’re in for a filling time. If you prefer sweet foods for breakfast, try the French Toast ($7.50) or Waffles Supreme ($7.50) – a stack of three waffles with buttermilk – instead. The French Toast is also served with hash brown, sausages and sautéed mushrooms ($10.90) should you want the best of both worlds. A complimentary cup of coffee or tea is given with any breakfast set. Fruit juices are also served for an additional dollar. Swensen’s breakfast menu is available from 8am to 11am on weekends and public holidays, at regular outlets. The outlet at Changi Airport serves this menu daily.

attending the Gastrogig event. The event usually costs between $150 to $300 per person, depending on the number of courses and types of alcohol served. “We had beer pairings with all four courses during the Skin Deep event, for example. So the cost of the menu really depends on all these factors,” Angela says. The pair is currently looking into other pop-ups of different natures. “It could even be a popup patisserie,” teases Jasmine. She adds, “There is a story to be told through food, and the chefs are telling a narrative through these dishes. Unravelling these stories are the past, present and future about eating. We create a platform for creative talents to jam together once in a while to change up their routine. Most of them are used to preparing what is on their menu; this gives them a chance to mix things up.” To collaborate with Gastrogig, call them at 6474 6347 at least three to four months ahead of the intended event. W

Visit www.swensens.com.sg for more information.

London city at good prices. and another

Page 11

A WEEKENDER EXCLUSIVE RECIPE

Japanese foods. Your quality time.

In the eighth in a Series featuring chefs sharing recipes using ingredients from Japan, Chef Seki makes a tasty Hokkaido Rice Ball Soup Chef Takuma Seki of Ikyu

By Lester J Wan

Hokkaido Rice Ball Soup Japanese rice has a natural sweetness and soft, chewy texture

Chef Takuma Seki, of Ikyu Japanese restaurant, is back with his smiles and enthusiasm. Here, Chef Seki eagerly shows us how to make a savoury rice dish with a simple yet classy look. Japanese rice is a product of high quality water and clear seasonal changes that are unique to Japan, yielding a natural sweetness and a soft, chewy texture. It plays a key role in Japanese cuisine, and it goes well with vegetables, meat, tofu, fish and other types of dishes. This Hokkaido Rice Ball Soup is something uncommon that you can re-create and enjoy at home. Ingredients • 500g Hokkaido Japanese rice • 60g Edamame beans • 30g Ginger • 6g Salt • 10g Soy sauce • 15g Salad oil • Moromi miso • Yuzu skin Soup • 200ml Dashi soup stock • 1 teaspoon of light soy sauce

Method 1. Pearl the edamame beans and slice the ginger. 2. Wash the Japanese rice then cook all the ingredients together, except the miso and the yuzu. 3. Heat up the Dashi soup stock with light soy sauce. 4. Make a rice ball, and then grill it a little. 5. Put the Moromi miso and yuzu

The Golden Gate ice cream with chocolate wafers, cherries and waffle

skin in the middle of the grilled rice ball, and then pour the Dashi soup stock into the dish.

Not only is the Hokkaido Rice Ball Soup not difficult to make, it is also tasty and classy-looking. Ikyu, 5 Yong Siak Street, Singapore 168643


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08 • WEEKENDER • march 1 - 7, 2013

E HAPPIER

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

All the

right notes Singapore’s leading a cappella group Vocaluptuous shares its gregarious personalities and greatest achievements with us What are your favourite genres to perform? John: Jazz, Pop, R&B Simone: Jazz Gerald: Jazz and Rock Tim: Jazz Haz: R&B and Jazz Kai: Pop! Also, generally anything with really lush chords.

You've opened for artistes like Paquito D'Rivera, performed with David Foster and been in musicals like Crazy Christmas. Which is your greatest achievement? Leading Singapore in our National Anthem at NDP ’09!

“when we walked on stage, we were greeted by a happy group of about 15 kids, whom none of us knew, waving Vocaluptuous signs and banners, cheering us on!”

which artiste, dead or alive, would you kill to perform with? John: Vocal group Take 6 Simone: The Manhattan Transfer Gerald: Tony Bennett Tim: Bee Gees Hazrul: Brian McKnight Kai: One of Singapore's best beatboxers, Dharni Ng, though I would first kill to reach a standard at which I can perform with him.

What's the funniest or most memorable moment you've had? John: One memorable performance was at the Marina Promontory, for the Youth Olympic Games. We played to an embarrassingly sparse audience, but it didn’t matter because when we walked on stage, we were greeted by a happy group of about 15 kids, whom none of us knew, waving Vocaluptuous signs and banners, cheering us on! They had read about our performance on our Facebook page and decided to come and support us! What a special experience! Simone: Running to and from our performance at Crazy Christmas and our own two shows on the same night was crazy but definitely memorable! Gerald: Very visibly trembling hands in my first year with Vocaluptuous; singing and acting in our very first musical, No Strings Attached. Tim: Singing at NDP '09 was one of the most memorable moments. Always my childhood dream to perform at NDP. Haz: We were invited to perform in Taiwan, and the night before the concert, we laughed so hard I totally lost my voice

the next day! Despite that, the audience was so supportive and I enjoyed every moment of it! Kai: Performing two sold-out shows at our Christmas concert last year, under the direction of the talented and evercreative Dick Lee, and in the company of an amazing audience, and of course the wonderful fellow members of Vocaluptuous, has got to be one of the most memorable thus far. Describe Vocaluptuous in five words. John: Soothing. Lush. Pop. Jazz. Harmonies. Self-explanatory, no? Simone: Good friends make great music. Gerald: Outlet to satisfy musical needs! Tim: Always ready for a challenge. Haz: Crazy bunch of GREAT friends! What makes you smile? John: When we hit our target of raising enough money from our CD sales to buy a wheelchair transporter for Assisi Home. Simone: Kindness. Gerald: My wife! And cute animals. Tim: Innocence of children. Haz: The company of my loved ones. Kai: Beautifully clashing chords followed by their resolution. I'm such an a cappella geek. How do you spend a typical weekend? John: Taking walks and exploring Singapore, movies, malls, catching up with friends and family. Simone: Walking my dogs, having a leisurely breakfast reading the newspapers, cooking, and singing with the guys! Gerald: It’s like any other day, except with practice. Tim: Jogging and practice. Haz: I work most weekends plus we have

Check out the latest

property

promotion 12 on page

MOVIE PREVIEW

Making his debut as a big-screen director and leading man, RZA of rap group the Wu-Tang Clan — along with a stellar international cast led by Russell Crowe and Lucy Liu— tells the epic story of warriors, assassins and a lone outsider hero in 19th Century China who must unite to destroy the clan traitor who would destroy them all. Since his arrival in China’s Jungle Village, the town’s blacksmith (RZA) has been forced by radical tribal factions to create elaborate tools of destruction. When the clans’ brewing war boils over, the stranger channels an ancient energy to transform himself into a human weapon. As he fights alongside iconic heroes and against soulless villains, one man must harness this power to become saviour of his adopted people. Blending astonishing martial arts sequences from some of the masters of this world with the signature vision he brings as the leader of the Wu-Tang Clan and as one of hip hop’s most dominant figures in the past two decades, RZA embarks upon his most ambitious,

A righteous kungfu fight fest Quentin Tarantino presents The Man With the Iron Fists, an action-adventure inspired by kungfu classics as interpreted by his long-time collaborators, RZA and Eli Roth stylised and thrilling project to date. The Cast Joining Crowe, Liu and RZA are Rick Yune (of Ninja Assassin and Die Another Day) as Blacksmith’s warrior-in-arms, Zen Yi; Jamie Chung (of Samurai Girl and Sucker Punch) as the love of Blacksmith’s life, Lady Silk; Cung Le (of Dragon Eyes) as the traitor, Bronze Lion, who threatens to usher in the destruction of the village; David Bautista (of House of the Rising Sun) as the indestructible mercenary, Brass Body; Byron Mann (of A Stranger in Paradise and Motherland) as the treacherous soldier, Silver Lion, who claims to be the rightful clan heir; and Daniel Wu (of The Banquet) as the traitor, Poison Dagger, who keeps his secrets as close as his enemies. The cast is further buoyed by legendary performers, including Pam Grier (Jackie Brown) as Blacksmith’s mother; Gordon Liu (of The 36th Chamber of Shaolin and Kill Bill) as the stoic Abbot who instructs his pupil in the ways of the masters; Chen Kuan Tai (of Boxer From Shantung and Crippled Avengers) as the mosthonourable clan chieftain, Gold Lion; and Ka Yan Leung (of The Postman Fights

Back and Last Hero in China) as the group leader, Hyena Chief, tricked into an early grave. About the Production The Man With the Iron Fists draws from a story by RZA and a screenplay by RZA and Eli Roth. World-renowned fight choreographer Corey Yuen (of The Transporter and The Enforcer), whose decades of astonishing stunt work has set the bar for this genre, helms the action sequences. The production team

Vocaluptuous: A bio Here’s a little more on the gregarious group and their performances Formed in 1997, Vocaluptuous made history in 1999 with Singapore’s first a cappella musical, No Strings Attached, featured during Action Theatre’s 42day arts festival. The current line-up comprises Kai Wen Hwang (Beatboxer), Timothy Huang (Bass), Simone Khoo (Soprano), Gerald Tan (Tenor), John Lee (Tenor) and Hazrul Nizam (Tenor). Vocaluptuous also opened for Paquito D’Rivera and The New York Voices during the Mosaic Music Festival 2006, and was interviewed by the BBC for a programme featuring highlights from music festivals around the world. They have also performed in revues such as Crazy Christmas and performed alongside David Foster and Friends last year at the inaugural concert of the Star Vista. Vocally unique and visually entertaining, Vocaluptuous ranks at the top of the list of a cappella talents in Singapore. They have recently reached their target for CD sales for the Assisi Hospice, to fit its van with wheelchair access, and they would like to thank all who have helped to make it possible.

practice every Sunday afternoon. Kai: Practicing with Vocaluptuous is the best (and sometimes, only) way to spend a weekend! What would you like to say to all Singaporeans? John: Do listen to our second album, Notes From An Island: it’s inspired and dedicated to Singapore. And made especially for you! Simone: A smile and a kind word go a long way to making this world a better place. Gerald: There’s a lot more to Singapore than we give her credit for. Tim: A good friend once taught me, "Don't cry because it's over; smile, because it happened". I hope all Singaporeans will always be brave enough to be happy. Haz: Support local music! W

is also supported by accomplished special makeup effects artists, four-time Emmy winner Greg Nicotero (of The Walking Dead and Kill Bill: Vol. 1) and Oscar winner Howard Berger (of The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and Sin City). Before he became known to the world as RZA, Robert “Bobby” Fitzgerald Diggs grew up in New York City as a diehard kungfu fan. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, he consumed a steady diet of films from the wuxia genre (movies with Chinese martial arts protagonists) and the jidaigeki genre (period Japanese films that tell the stories of craftsmen, farmers, samurai and merchants). Indeed, the boy who would become the Grammy Award-winning leader of the infamous Wu-Tang Clan lived, ate and breathed martial arts movies from the Shaw Brothers for the majority of his childhood. RZA explains what this alternate universe has meant to him: “Martial arts films have been influencing me since I was nine when I first saw kungfu movies and karate flicks on Staten Island at the St George Theater.” “Later on, I’d go to 42nd Street and see movies like Godfather of Hong Kong, Fists of Double K and Five Deadly Venoms, which got me addicted to the genre. Growing up in New York, we would break dance, hip hop, graffiti, all these types of things, and we’d catch moves from the movies,” RZA recalls. Though for most people these films were strictly entertainment, RZA found a deeper connection. “Some of the names we would use, like ‘Grand Master’, would go with us,” he continues. “As I started becoming more of a hip hop deejay rapper, the sounds and the spirituality of the movies started affecting me more.” “When I came up with Wu-Tang Clan in 1993, it was the martial arts films and genre that gave me this idea of how to express myself. The brotherhood they showed, the loyalty, the spirituality—as well as the swordplay and the kungfu ass-kicking — all that went along with how we felt good as emcees and producers, and I made albums to reflect that,” says RZA. In short, be prepared for a righteous kungfu fight fest between international stars as unique and quirky characters. THE MAN WITH THE IRON FISTS Director: RZA Starring: Russell Crowe, RZA, Lucy Liu, Rick Yune, Jamie Chung, Cung Le, Dave Bautista and Pam Grier Genre: Action-Adventure Run Time: 95min Release Date: 3 Mar


march 1 - 7, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 09

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

GHOSTBUSTING SINGAPORE STYLE Conquer your darkest fears when you try ghost-hunting, singapore style By Lee Li Ying Hunting for the pontianak or other signs of ‘night life’

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or such a tiny metropolitan state, we are a nation obsessed with the supernatural. Singaporeans share in hushed whispers their creepy encounters and stories of ghastly Tekong hauntings, elaborate on how to thwart attacks from terrifying vampiric demons like the pontianak and the penanggalan from Malay folklore, and debate the veracity of unexplainable sightings during the Chinese Seventh Month Ghost Festival. For some, these are merely exaggerations and fabrications birthed from a superstitious mind. Others, however, hold fast to the belief that there are alternate forces that exist outside the realm of human understanding. No matter which you belong to, you’ll have to admit that the paranormal does raise interesting questions about the world that are impossible to ignore, and are a tonne of fun to explore.

Do ghosts really exist? Can they really communicate with us? Why do they appear to some and not to others? Are they the form we take in the afterlife or entities separate from mankind? Or are they figments of our imagination? Singapore’s Ghostbusters It was a thirst to find the answers to this plethora of questions that led Kenneth Jee, Metaphysics Advisor of Singapore Paranormal Investigators (SPI), to pick up ghost-hunting. “I have always had an interest towards the paranormal since I was young as I have had several unexplainable encounters etched deeply in my mind. Over the years, I have been doing my own research on supernatural phenomenon,” he shares. “I was seeking a systematic, logical and scientific explanation for the supernatural, and the SPI’s professional methodology offered me a conclusive way to

explore interesting supernatural manifestations and the unknown.” Ghosthunting arsenal The SPI take their ghost-busting seriously. They are armed with a whole arsenal of equipment and gadgetry capable of capturing signs of an otherworldly presence in the form of electromagnetic interference and Class A Intelligent Electronic Voice Phenomenon (the equivalent of getting a voice message from the grave from your deceased grandmother). It is not about the quantity of evidence they are able to garner, but the quality. The SPI spare no expense to ensure that all the evidence they gather during their investigations is not “contaminated” by factors such as hand phone signals or other light or sound sources, and are “genuine” instances of supernatural manifestations. Photographic evidence with an inordinate amount of orbs (suggesting the possibility of a hantu near you) goes through rigorous testing in the SPI’s IT department before being awarded a stamp of approval (or not). This is no mere child’s play. This unique hobby provides experiences that are three times more thrilling (and ten times more heart-attack inducing for a scaredy cat like me) than your average excursion. “We embark on missions to different places in and out of Singapore rumoured to be actively haunted to find out the truth,” says Kenneth. challenging Ghostbusting Kenneth recounts almost getting stuck in the jungle when the group attempted to seek out the abandoned Japanese shrine in MacRitchie Reservoir.

HOBBIE

Rumoured to be haunted by the spirits of vengeful Japanese soldiers who committed mass suicide in the aftermath of Japan’s defeat during World War II, it is believed that the spirits will create trouble for nosy-parkers. “We were trapped in the jungle with threatening hornet hives above the trees, sharp thorns from tree branches and only half an hour to get out of the forest before last light. Our main obstacle was to cross a small river nose-deep and rumoured to be infested with crocodiles. Using natural resources like chopping down trees with small knives and creating a mini-stilt, we managed to guide the group safe and sound across the river,” he says.

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Cultural takeaways “Using my knowledge, I am able to help others understand how different cultural groups or religions see the supernatural, and how these different perspectives may complement each other, increasing understanding of each other’s belief system,” he says. I’m glad to say, my scariest encounter was having a spider cling on to my jeans. Despite not catching a glimpse of the pontianak, I had gained interesting cultural insights. If you possess the guts to traipse in the dark and the curiosity to find out more about the unknown, join the SPI as they investigate supernatural hauntings. W Find out more at www.spi.com.sg

ROAD CLOSED

“Photographic evidence with an inordinate amount of orbs (suggesting the possibility of a hantu) goes through rigorous testing...”


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10 • WEEKENDER • march 1 - 7, 2013

AMILY & FRIENDS

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

What love means when you’re

parents Valentine’s Day was the week before. We’ve all heard so much about love, but what does love mean when you’re a parent? By Susan Koh

A handmade gift from Susan to her husband, with a bible quote

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“it’s a love that always protects, always trusts, always hopes and always preserves!”

he Thursday before last was Valentine’s Day. While we didn’t make any special plans for that day, I was secretly hoping and wishing that my husband got me something, anything, just because it was Valentine’s Day. And, it’s been a long time since I received a card or even flowers from him. As it turned out, the only Valentine’s Day card I received was from little Sophie. And I forgot to add, when I wished him Happy Valentine’s Day in the morning, all I got was a “Yah, Happy Valentine’s Day. Can you please go and get ready for work?” Pretty much a shoofly response, which was the first damper. I tried to make him feel guilty about it and sent a Whatsapp message at midday, only to be shot back with more, “Next time can you please get ready faster? Wake up earlier, yada yada…” So, I was bummed… the whole day. After you become parents, the

only person getting all the lovin' is the baby or the kids. They are the ones who are receiving the hugs, the good night kisses and even the silly grins. Truth be told, Sophie is now at an age that really zaps up the rest of our energy and time after we get home from work, so it’s no wonder that we don’t even have time for a proper conversation as a couple. But, that evening, as I wrote this familiar verse from the First Letter to the Corinthians, chapter 13, verses four to eight, on a handmade gift I had made for my husband, I got reminded that love is no longer just a word that we utter on our lips. For us, love is now an outward demonstration of our vow, our commitment that we make to each other every single day. While we don’t express it with flowers or gifts, we do it with acts of service, like taking turns to tuck Sophie into bed so that one of us can have a quiet evening. Or, when I cook a healthy meal for

him that not only feeds the body but nourishes the soul. Yes, we may not wake up feeling dizzy with love on Valentine’s Day anymore but I know that we have a love that is anchored in the security, that we have each other’s back, and we’re looking out for each other’s best interests; the kind of love that sticks around even when things get tough. And, I’m reminded that this love is one that needs effort. It needs constant nurture with encouraging words, acts of service, appreciation and dates

from time to time just to keep the spark alive. Which, we did spend Valentine’s Day with a nice meal and a movie. So, that my friends is what love is for a married couple. Not the most exciting kind of love that you may look forward to, but it’s a love that always protects, always trusts, always hopes and always preserves! Do link up every Monday with my Motivational Mondays post. Have a great week ahead! W From ajugglingmom.com

About A Juggling Mom Susan is a mom who’s learning to juggle the many roles of being a mom, wife, daughter and career woman on a daily basis. A Juggling Mom is her parenting and lifestyle blog in which she chronicles the many roles that she plays, especially her journey and adventures as a mother to a three-year-old toddler. She hopes to share resources on how moms can lead a balanced life and be a happy, healthy and fulfilled mom. Susan says, being a mother has been one of her most gratifying and rewarding roles.

For a

healthy honey cure, 5 read page

Lex Neo Born Jul 4, 2012

Benjamin Teh Born May 29, 2012

Shannen Lee Born Nov 12, 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

Jade Wong Born Sep 13, 2012

Mason Tham Born Jun 28, 2012

Nur Adrianna Binte Rosham Born Oct 19, 2012

Email your photos to

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!

Adolphus Chong Born Sep 9, 2012

Dacia Chan Born Sep 25, 2012

Jonathan Sim Born Oct 15, 2012

Djibril Qaiser Sharif Born Aug 24, 2012


march 1 - 7, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 11

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

TRAVELATIO

AirAsia and Club Med both have great deals to idyllic Bali

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Photo credit: Courtesy of AirAsia and Club Med

Club Med Cherating Beach’s scenic Zen Space by the sea

The NATAS Travel Fair is now over but there still are great mid-March getaways for you to book and to have that welldeserved break The Club Med Cherating Beach splash pool is a kids’ favourite

By Lester J Wan

Mid-March

getaways D

on’t feel sore if you missed the NATAS Travel Fair. There still are promotions for travel in midMarch, for a good break. Here are a few, including last-minute deals.

AirAsia - $50 to indonesia AirAsia Singapore is offering an all-infare from $50 to Bali, Jakarta, Bandung, Semarang and Yogyakarta in Indonesia, directly from Changi Airport Terminal 1. The promotion is valid now until Mar 3, for travel between Mar 1 to July 31. For more information, visit www.airasia.com . The all-in-fare includes fares, fuel surcharges and airport taxes, and with payment processing fee applicable. Seats are limited and may not be available on all flights during public holidays, school breaks and weekends. Please contact AirAsia at their website above to confirm.

Chan Brothers - march getaways Chan Brothers has last-minute tour promotions for the March school break. The 6D Super Value Hainan Island tour is from $1,098 for two to travel, at onefor-one, excluding taxes and surcharges. Highlights include the World Heritage Huoshankou National Geopark; a boat ride to the Jade Belt Beach with the world’s most narrow yet longest divide of saltwater and fresh water; and the Lu Hui Tou Hilltop Park, the highest point in Sanya City with a panoramic view. The 8D Romantic Jiangnan & Shanghai Shopping Spree is going from $1,388 for two to travel, at one-for-one, excluding taxes and surcharges. Highlights include savouring local speciality dishes such as Hangzhou Dong Po Pork. The 4D Taipei Discovery is going from $798 for two to travel, at one-for-

one, excluding taxes and surcharges. This package includes three nights’ accommodation, return airfare and return airport transfer. Book by Mar 4. The 7D Northern Taiwan package is going from $740, excluding taxes and surcharges. This includes return airfare. Book by Mar 4 latest. Its main highlight is the serene experience of the release of heavenly lanterns into the night. The 8/9/10D New Zealand Lord of the Fun package with Love 97.2FM DJ Wallace Ang is from $3,188, plus $200 off per couple, excluding taxes and surcharges. Highlights on this celebrityled tour include Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, the Ko Tane Maori Cultural Show and Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand’s highest peak. For more information or to book, please call Chan Brothers Travel at 6438 8880.

Flights to Jakarta, one of the most popular destinations, is only $50 with AirAsia

Club Med - family resort stays Club Med has two special offers especially for families planning for the March school term break. Available on a firstcome-first-serve basis, pick from two different exotic destinations – Bali or Cherating Beach. The 4D3N all-inclusive Coach Package to Club Med Cherating Beach has three fixed departures, on Mar 16, 21 and 28. Your whole family can relax and play in this idyllic setting with engaging activities, wholesome meals and the tranquillity of nature all around. First come, first serve. For departures on Mar 16 and 21, starting prices are $698 for adult and $599 for child four to 11 years old, for a Superior Room; and $868 for adult and $738 for child four to 11 years old, for a Deluxe Room. For the departure on Mar 28, starting prices are $738 for adult and $620 for child four to 11 years old, for a Superior Room; and $890 for adult and $765 for child four to 11 years old, for a Deluxe Room. There is an additional $60 surcharge for connecting rooms.

The Coach Package includes a two-way coach transfer to Club Med Cherating Beach, daily buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner with unlimited wine, beer and beverages, Club Med accommodation, sports and leisure activities, nightly entertainment, and a personal entertainment system in the coach. Club Med has partnered Garuda Airlines to offer vacationers a 5D4N Garuda all-inclusive Flight Package to Club Med Bali. The dream of an escape to a blissful getaway is now a reality. There are four departure dates, on Mar 16, 17, 18 and 19. Bookings are first come, first serve, so hurry. These dates fall within the period of the Body & Soul event at Club Med Bali, from Mar 12 to 23. Prices are from $988 for adult and $760 for a child four to 11 years old, for a Superior Room. Please check with Club Med for the various prices for different dates, and for different rooms. This package includes return flights by Garuda Indonesia and return airport transfers, daily buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner with unlimited servings of wine, beer and beverages, twin-sharing accommodation, sports and leisure activities, and nightly entertainment. Club Med terms and conditions apply, and programmes are subject to change. Call 1800 258 2633 or visit www. clubmed.com.sg for more information. With these great prices and packages, there’s no reason not to have a short break or a getaway. You know you and your kids deserve it. W Note As these are last-minute deals and offers, availability is limited. Please call immediately to book or to check with the various tour operators or agents.


12 • WEEKENDER • March 1 - 7, 2013

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS

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.


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