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YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS
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The Manatees swimming in their aquatic enclosure
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Jia Jia, one of the stars of River Safari
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River Safari
Opens satisfy your curiosity and get a cuteness overload at the newlyopened river safari - asia’s first river-themed wildlife park
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9am-6pm, $17.50 (senior citizens), $23 (child), $35 Asia's first river-themed wildlife park, River Safari, has opened in Singapore. During its soft launch, from Apr 3, take the opportunity to bring your children to view one of the world's largest collections of freshwater animals in eight iconic river habitats, as there will be discounted admission rates of $25 for an adult and $16 for a child. Be prepared to experience a whole new wildlife adventure as you will be able to see animals from freshwater habitats inspired by the Mississippi, Nile, Mekong, Yangtze and Amazon rivers, without having to leave Singapore. Measuring 12 hectares, River Safari is home to 5,000 animal specimens representing 300 animal species, and 150 plant species. It will definitely be an eye-opener, as it allows you to get up close to endangered animals, such as the world’s largest otter – the giant river otter which can grow up to 1.8 metres, Mekong giant catfish, giant freshwater stingray, the Yangtze alligator, and and the giant salamander – the world’s largest amphibian. Also, the well-received giant pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia, which have charmed both the young and old, will be housed in their beautiful forest sanctuary. For a treat, bring your children to see these adorable pandas resting or nibbling on bamboo shoots, as you ooh and ahh over their cuteness. You can also stroll through the freshwater galleries and A Giant Catfish immersive exhibits, which includes the world’s largest freshwater aquarium at the Amazon Flooded Forest and the Giant Panda Forest. The boat rides and some exhibits will be ready soon, at a later date. Ms Claire Chiang, Chairman of Wildlife Reserves Singapore, says that River Safari hopes to bring visitors up-close to the fascinating wildlife that lives in river habitats, which are disappearing much faster than the other forest and marine environments. River Safari aims to highlight the importance of freshwater ecosystems and inspire positive actions for conserving them, and seeks to play a part in global captive breeding programmes for endangered freshwater species. River Safari is owned by Wildlife Reserves Singapore, which also manages the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari as well as Jurong Bird Park. River Safari, 80 Mandai Lake Road The Paddlefish
The Red Panda
The Chinese Giant Salamander: world’s largest amphibian
Great flight
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deals to Europe &
Australia
The phantom of the opera 16 Jul - 11 Aug, Tue-Fri (8pm), Sat & Sun (2pm, 8pm), $55, $95, $125, $145, $165 The world’s most successful and longest-running show on Broadway is returning to Singapore. With 130 cast, crew and orchestra members, breath-taking scenery and special effects and more than 230 costumes by international designer, the late Maria Björnson, the Phantom of the Opera contains some of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most prominent and stirring music. The Phantom of the Opera tells the tale of an enigmatic, hideous phantom who lives under the Paris Opera House and is obsessed with a young singer. Tickets from Sistic. The MasterCard Theatres, Marina Bay Sands
A Manatee as it was being transported
Xiamen – Philharmonic Orchestra: A Hakka Celebration of Music: Sound from Xiamen, Fujian, China
Dim Sum Workshop 1.2 – Ha Kao and Siew Mais
11 Apr, 7.30pm, $15, $22, $32, $42, $58, $72
13 Apr, 2pm, $45
Chinese national icon and China’s first female opera and symphony conductor, Professor Zheng Xiaoying, returns to Singapore with the Xiamen Philharmonic Orchestra to share an evening of familiar orchestral favourites and Chinese musical masterpieces, including the complete award-winning The Echoes of Hakka Earth Buildings symphony, and a solo by renowned violinist Huang Bin. Sit back and enjoy other classical pieces such as Butterfly Lovers’ Violin Concerto. Tickets from Sistic. Esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Drive
After the first Dim Sum workshop 1.1 on xiao long baos, Chef Martin Ma and the 2am: lab chefs work together to bring you another workshop to learn how to make other dim sum classics - ha kao and siew mais. If you have always wanted to learn how to make these mouth-watering Chinese dumplings, don’t miss this chance to sign up. Email rsvp@2amlab. org or call 6467 4066 to make a reservation. Connexis North Tower, 1 Fusionopolis Way, #02-13
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PICNIC at Serangoon Arts Village 13 Apr, 4pm-10pm As part of Passion Arts month, the Serangoon Division Community Arts and Culture Committee (CACC) presents the first outdoor Arts Village, PICNIC, which allows residents to gather for a delightful afternoon picnic and be entertained by story-telling corners, pop-up bookstore BooksActually, interactive quizzes and music by local indie bands such as Pleasantry. Open field at Blk 129, Serangoon North Ave 1, Singapore 550129
Awesome 4some Travel 15-17 Apr Looking to travel to Beijing, Hong Kong or Korea? Book now in groups of four for tour fares as low as $19 with Focal Travel. With every two full-paying adults, the third passenger gets 50% off, and the fourth pays a mere $19. Other destinations such as Taiwan and Shanghai are also available. Terms and conditions apply. Focal Travel Ptd Ltd, People’s Park Centre, 101 Upper Cross Street, B1-23/24, Singapore 058357. Tel: 6536 3033 (10am to 7pm)
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Cine65 – A Short Film Competition Until 12 May Aspiring filmmakers, consider joining this short film competition and stand to win attractive prizes ranging from $3,000 cash, overseas learning trips and a camera worth $7,350 for the student category and open category. Submit threeminute short films on the theme I’ll Be There For You, Singapore. Visit www.cine65.sg
free admission A Dialogue with Mondrian: Xue Song Solo Exhibition Until 25 Apr, 11am-7pm daily Iconic contemporary Chinese artist Xue Song will be showcasing his most recent series of artworks featuring 13 Mondrian-inspired collages. The artist, Xue Song, marries the master Mondrian’s graphic approach with his own, and emphasises the iconic vertical black lines and three primary colours in the works. Check it out before it ends. MOCA @ Loewen, 27A Loewen Road
MOVIE PREVIEW
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
Cold Storage Kids Run 19 May, 7am-12.30pm Come support your kids at this run, which will feature 14 categories including a new noncompetitive category – the 3GEN Family Chase where children between seven to 12 years old will walk 800m together with their parent and grandparent. It aims to promote a healthy lifestyle for the family and encourage bonding through exercise. There will also be a Pledge-A-Shoe project which
raises funds to provide children in developing countries with new shoes. Visit www.kidsrun. com.sg The Padang, Connaught Drive Every Child A Gift: Exhibition by Singapore Children’s Society Until 6 Jun, library hours Singapore Children’s Society is presenting a Heritage Corner Exhibit that features the Society's history, to commemorate its 60 years of commitment in bringing relief to children in need. A commemorative book can be borrowed from the libraries. National Library Building Promenade, 100 Victoria Street Fostering Road Show 19-21 Apr, 10.30am-9pm If you love children and would like to help care for foster children in need of a temporary home, come on down to find out more about Singapore’s fostering scheme in this road show by the Ministry of Social and Family Development. Bring your family and children along too - there will be free balloons and caricature sketches for your family. For more information, please visit www.msf.gov.sg/ fostering or call the Ministry of Social and Family Development
Oblivion:
A spectacular
sci-fi thriller
Tom Cruise stars in a sci-fi cinematic spectacle from the director of TRON: Legacy and the producers of Rise of the Planet of the Apes
Fostering Scheme at 63548799. United Square Shopping Mall, Atrium, 101 Thomson Road
My Home, My Library Until 29 Apr, library hours A series of exhibitions chronicles memories of neighbourhoods of yesteryear to provide Singaporeans with a nostalgic look at the past. Organised by the Singapore Memory Project, the exhibition features contributions from a collection drive held at the public libraries last year, where members of the public were invited to contribute their recollections of their neighbourhoods and libraries. Visit www.singaporememory.sg Various locations NGC-NEA Eco-Run 2013 20 Apr, 8am-12pm National Geographic Channel partners the National Environment Agency to launch their first Eco-Run to promote recycling efforts and awareness of environmental sustainability among youths aged 13 to 25. Youths can choose to run either 2.5 km or 5 km. An eco-concert and carnival will be held, as well as an art competition for primary school students themed "My Clean Singapore". Bishan–Ang Mo Kio Park Our Planet’s Forgotten Treasures 20 & 21 Apr, (self-guided) Explore Dragonfly Lake and Cloud Forest with a map. Learn about the threats that endanger our planet, as well as the role which plants play. You can also search for different bioindicators of pollution. Dragonfly Lake and Cloud Forest, 18 Marina Gardens Drive RAW: IN:dex 15 & 16 May, 8pm IN:dex is a performance installation exploring space through a conversation of light, sound and spatial elements. Three artists of three different disciplines interact with one
“Vika” Olsen, Jack’s by-the-book navigator who is ready to depart Earth forever; Nikolaj CosterWaldau (Game of Thrones) as Sykes, second-in-command of the revolution and the first to want Jack eliminated; and Oscar-winner Melissa Leo (The Fighter, Frozen River) as Sally, the commanding officer overseeing the evacuation, and who has an agenda of her own. The Production Crew Director/producer Joseph Kosinski has assembled an elite team of collaborators to transform his graphic novel original story into an epic motion picture event. They are led by Oscar-winning cinematographer Claudio Miranda (Life of Pi, TRON: Legacy), production designer Darren Gilford (TRON: Legacy, Idiocracy), Oscar-winning VFX supervisor Eric Barba (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, TRON: Legacy), VFX producer and co-producer Steve Gaub (TRON: Legacy, Terminator Salvation), coproducer Bruce Franklin (TRON: Legacy, Terminator Salvation) and orchestrator Joseph Trapanese
“Jack’s soaring existence is brought crashing down after he rescues a beautiful stranger from a downed spacecraft.” On a spectacular future Earth that has evolved beyond recognition, one man’s confrontation with the past will lead him on a journey of redemption and discovery as he battles to save mankind. The year is 2077. Jack Harper, played by Tom Cruise, serves as a security repairmen stationed on an evacuated Earth. Part of a massive operation to extract vital resources after decades of war with a terrifying alien threat that still scavenges what’s left of our planet, Jack’s mission is finally almost complete. In a matter of two weeks, Jack will join the remaining survivors of Earth on a lunar colony far from the war-torn world he has long called home. Earth: Past & Future Living in and patrolling the breath-taking skies from thousands of feet above, Jack’s soaring existence is brought crashing down after he rescues a
beautiful stranger from a downed spacecraft. Drawn to Jack through a connection that transcends logic, her arrival triggers a chain of events that forces him to question everything he thought he knew. With a reality that is shattered as he discovers shocking truths that connect him to the Earth of the past, Jack will be pushed to a heroism he didn’t know he contained. The fate of humanity now rests solely in the hands of a man who believed our world was soon to be lost forever.
The Stars of the Show Cruise is joined in this epic actionadventure by Academy Awardwinner Morgan Freeman (of The Dark Knight Rises) as Beech, leader of a band of survivors who are highly suspicious of Jack’s motives. Oblivion also stars Olga Kurylenko (of Quantum of Solace) as Julia Rusakova, a traveller who has crossed time and space in search of true love. Other notable cast members include Andrea Riseborough (Happy-Go-Lucky) as Victoria
another during their creative process through text and images, only revealing their final pieces to one another during the performances. Email raw@esplanade.com with your contact details for tickets. 1 Esplanade Drive
STILL LIFE ‘ORGANICA’ 20 Apr - 20 May, 10am-6pm (Mon-Sat) Singaporean artist Bary Cha Cha presents seven photographic works complemented by still life installations set up to amplify the layered dimensions of the art on the walls. Photographic moments are created in collaboration with nature. E-mail art@artforum.com.sg or call 6737 3448. 82 Cairnhill Road
Vision: The Perspectives of Nguyen Tuan & Naoko Tosa 19 Apr - 19 May, 11am-8pm In a joint exhibition between two emerging artists, both collections feature the artists’ take on the search for the true meaning of peace and happiness. While these two artists are very different, they have produced a series of work that runs parallel in perspective and thought. Visit www.naokotosa.com MAD Museum of Art & Design, 333A Orchard Road, #03-01
(TRON: Legacy). With such a power-packed combo of a crew, it is no surprise that Oblivion turns out to be a true sci-fi spectacle. Oblivion Takes Flight In 2005, five years before Joseph Kosinski directed his first feature, TRON: Legacy, the director wrote a 12-page story titled “Oblivion”. This was his sci-fi adventure set in 2077 – six decades after an alien invasion irradiates Earth. It was a dream of Kosinski’s to turn “Oblivion” into a screenplay, but the timing wasn’t quite right. The delay would prove fortuitous, however, when Kosinski met Barry Levine and Jesse Berger, co-founders of Radical Studios, several years later. Together, the men partnered to develop the story into an illustrated graphic novel known in the industry as an “ashcan”, written by Arvid Nelson, illustrated by Andrée Wallin and art directed by Kosinski, Levine and Radical Studios art director Jeremy Berger. Graphic Novel to Film Organically, this illustrated novel became a pitch for the film itself. There was overwhelming support from fans at 2010’s Comic-Con International in San Diego, at which Kosinski was also presenting footage for TRON: Legacy. Indeed, 30,000 copies of the graphic novel were distributed at the convention from the Radical Studio booth. Shortly after the team tested the waters with the property at
ticketed admission
After The Event 21 Apr, 4pm, 7pm, $20 (concession), $25 Directed by Richard Webster, Chris Fitzsimmons' comedy is a contemporary story of love and loss, the people we think we are and a bag of sugar. The production will surprise the audience with their exploration of their thoughts, relationships and chequered pasts. Tickets include one complimentary post-production drink at the Caffé B Bar up to a week after the show’s run. Email office@caffeb.com.sg for tickets. Substation Theatre, 45 Armenian Street Bindi Irwin's Animal Adventure 13 Apr, 8am-12pm Discovery Kids presents Bindi Irwin – Australia’s wildlife warrior and animal extraordinaire! The morning of family fun features games from Bindi’s Boot camp, a show and tell hosted by Bindi with her mum and brother, and her tips on wildlife conservation. Winners of the boot camp challenge get to meet and greet the Irwins. Visit www.dkids. asia/bindi-irwin Singapore Mandai Zoo, 80 Mandai Lake Rd CEA-CASE Consumer Seminar 2013 27 Apr, 10am-1pm, $10 Council for Estate Agencies and the Consumers Association of Singapore are organising the inaugural CEA-CASE Consumer Seminar, themed “Safeguarding Consumer Interests in Property Transactions”. It will inform consumers of points to note when handling property transactions, consumers’ rights and responsibilities, the outlook of the residential property market and implications of the latest cooling measures, current housing loan regulations and the types of mortgage packages available. NTUC Auditorium, 1 Marina Boulevard, Level 7 Coheed and Cambria Live in Singapore Apr 23, 8pm, $88; $98 (at the door) New York progressive rockers Coheed and Cambria returns to Singapore to perform with special
Comic-Con, Universal Pictures came on board to develop the project with Kosinski, Radical Studios and Chernin Entertainment, and an Oblivion screenplay was in the works. Peter Chernin, the veteran producer who successfully rebooted a storied franchise with his 2011 blockbuster Rise of the Planet of the Apes, brought the lessons learnt on that film – one that became the foremost contemporary model of combining heartfelt emotion with exciting, intelligent, and speculative fiction. “Joe’s a great storyteller. One of the things that intrigued me to want to do this picture was his original story. It lets an audience follow along in a way where you think you know something and then you discover it doesn’t quite make sense. The secrets just keep revealing themselves, like you’re peeling back an onion. You discover the story as you go; you get filled in with more facts and get a new picture. It’s one fantastic reveal after another,” explains Henderson. Oblivion was shot in stunning digital 4K resolution on location across various sites in the USA and Iceland. OBLIVION [PG13] Director: Joseph Kosinski Starring: Tom Cruise, Morgan Freeman, Olga Kurylenko, Andrea Riseborough, and Melissa Leo Genre: Action, Thriller, Sci-Fi Run Time: 125 min Release Date: 11 Apr
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YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
guests Circa Survive!, an alternative rock band touring for their most recent album Violent Waves. Coheed And Cambria are touring in support of their epic two-part series, The Afterman. Tickets from Sistic. Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, The Coliseum, 39 Artillery Ave DIRTY DANCING – THE CLASSIC STORY ON STAGE 24 May - 16 Jun, 8pm (Tue-Sun), $55, $95, $125, $150, $175 The Singapore premiere of this worldwide smash-hit musical is here. Dirty Dancing is an adaptation of the 1987 movie written and coproduced by Eleanor Bergstein, and tells the story of two young, fiercely independent free spirits from different worlds who come together for their most triumphant summer. Grand Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave GITANJALI: ANTHOLOGY 26 & 27 Apr, 8pm-9.30pm, $35 Carnatic Music is a technically and artistically sophisticated system of music that lies at the heart of the rich cultural heritage of South India. Join Sushma Somasekharan, a Carnatic Vocalist, on a musical journey that will present an eclectic mix of Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, Sanskrit, Malayalam and Marati songs written by some of India’s greatest classical composers. Call 6337 7800 or email boxoffice@ substation.org for tickets. Substation Theatre, 45 Armenian Street Fair and Responsible Employment Practices Seminar 25 Apr, 9am, $48, $98 Join this one-day seminar co-organised by TAFEP, SNEF and Ministry of Manpower to provide employers with information on being a fair, responsible and effective employer. It covers changes in the employment landscape and key responsibilities of employers under the Employment Act and relevant tripartite guidelines. Visit www.tafep.sg National Library Building, 100 Victoria Street Goldilocks and the Three Bears Until 21 Apr, 10am (Tue - Fri); 11am, 2pm (Sat, Sun & public holidays), $18, $21, $26, $29 In the second instalment of Singapore Repertory Theatre's The Little Company Trio-series, the cast brings the well-loved fairy tale of
Goldilocks and the Three Bears to the stage. With music and lyrics by award-winning West-End musical theatre song writing duo George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, join the cast as they bring your child on an exciting journey through this classic. For three-year-olds and above. Tickets from Sistic. DBS Arts Centre, 20 Merbau Rd
Italian Film Festival 17-24 Apr, $11 (IIC and Singapore Film Society members), $12, various timings The Italian Film Festival is back, and the Italian Institute of Culture in Singapore is presenting a selection of the best Italian films from 2011 to 2012, including Me and You, Kryptonite!, Reality, and The Commander and the Stork. Me and You is about an introverted teen who tells his parents he is going on a trip but spends his time in the basement. Its screening will be preceded by a video message to the Singaporean audience by legendary film director Bernardo Bertolucci. All movies are subtitled in English. Tickets from tickets.cathay.com.sg National Achievers Congress 10-12 May, 8.30am-8pm, $88 Glean the secrets of success from speakers at the National Achievers Congress. CEO and Founder of Virgin Group of Companies Richard Branson, Les Brown, Keith Cunningham and other speakers will be sharing about Forex trading, Real Estate Investment, Leadership Training and more. Singapore Expo, 1 Expo Drive One Voice 19 Apr, 7pm, $20 Over 300 people from the Tanglin Trust School community will present an arts extravaganza of brilliant visual work by their artists, performances in various styles from the infant, junior and senior orchestras and choirs, and staged musical and dramatic scenes by
BE HAPPIE
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.
young protégés. NUS Centre for Arts, University Cultural Centre Hall, 50 Kent Ridge Crescent Perfume Appreciation Workshop by Code Deco 30 Apr, 10.30am-1pm, $150 This multi-sensory workshop covers how we perceive smell and its effect on mood, the perfumer's palette and fragrance construction, the classic fragrance families of cologne, chypre, fougere and oriental, as well as the creative process of developing perfumes. Visit www.codedeco.com.sg The Screening Room, 12 Ann Siang Road Playing With Patterns Until 26 May, Saturdays, 12.30pm2pm, free with Art of the Brick ticket Forget the usual paint brush. In this colourful workshop, use Lego bricks to create a variety of print patterns on different surfaces. Let your creativity run wild. For all ages. Art of Play Space, the Art of the Brick, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Marina Bay Sands
Fish Oil is
Jack & Rai Jack & Rai are among the most popular local performers, FROM radio-friendly songs about Fiona Xie and Fa-la-la-ing away to performing at mosaic. we find out the latest By Lester J Wan What has been your most embarrassing moment? R: In NS, there was an air raid drill, so my platoon ducked into the bushes but, after a while, I didn't know they had left already and I was hiding there for quite a while until I was finally found! J: There was this one wedding I played and I introduced the couple as: "Please welcome Mr and Mrs Lim!", and then Rai exclaimed, "Wong! Wong!" Oops. Which would you say is the high point of your musical career? J: It would have to be our first ticketed show at the Esplanade Recital Studio. Besides ticketing the show, it was our first all-original performance. That was a real rush!
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essential for
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Don’t Cry Mommy: An eye for an eye Revenge of mothers has been a common theme in many Korean films, such as Princess Aurora, Bystanders, and Seven Days. Underage sexual assault is becoming a serious problem in Korean society, with one case of a girl who was raped by 44 boys, and with the process filmed and uploaded onto the Internet. Based on these real-life cases, this revenge thriller tells the tale of a mother who takes justice into her own hands, after the nonpunishment meted out by the justice system fails to satisfy her thirst for revenge. Synopsis Mother, Yoo-lim (played by talented Yu Sun, who has acted in dramas and films such as Romantic Heaven, Moss and Glove), is looking forward to a new life with her only daughter Eun-ah (played by Nam Bo-ra) after getting divorced. However, her world comes crashing down when Eun-ah – a high school girl who loves playing the cello and dreams of being a cellist – is raped by three boys her age, and commits suicide. After that, the boys are acquitted by the courts with just a warning because they are underage. Yoo-lim complains to Oh, the police officer in charge of the case (played by Yoo OhSeong), to no avail. Enraged, You-lim decides to hunt down the rapists one by one. She follows her first target Park Jun to a parking lot, and runs him over with her car. Upon hearing about this incident, Officer Oh tries to find out who the next target will be. Yoo-lim follows directions to the second target Han Min-gu’s house, which were texted to Eun-ah, and finds out that the boys had recorded videos
Jamming and jesting WITH
Savour 2013 11-14 Apr, various timings, $45, $65 Your taste buds are in for a treat at Savour 2013, Singapore's largest gourmet festival. Engage with Michelin-star celebrity chefs, restaurant personalities and produce craftsmen in this showcase of global cuisine with over 60 signature dishes from $6 to $18. The Gourmet Village will be hosting 18 award-winning restaurants, and you can move from menu to menu on a food trail that will take you around the world in one venue. Visit www.savour.sg F1 Paddock and Pit Building, 1 Republic Boulevard
A young girl commits suicide after being raped by three boys, and her mother begins on a path of exacting revenge on the three perpetrators
MOVIE PREVIEW
H
aving started out as solo acoustic musicians, Jack Ho and Rai Kannu came together in 2002 to form a partnership that has pleasantly surprised many with their lively playing, telepathic chemistry, and humorous quips. With early hits on radio such as “Fiona”, about a well-endowed local TV starlet, and the catchy “Fa La La Song”, Jack and Rai’s fan base rapidly blossomed. Nonetheless, their greatest strength lies in their live performances, inspiring audiences with their music and entertaining them with their antics. Jack and Rai were named Elle Magazine’s Musicians of the Year 2009, and m:idea Youth Choice Awards’ “Band I wanna throw myself at” 2010 and 2011. They recently played at the opening of the Mosaic Music Festival 2013. We have good news for anyone who’s ever seen or heard them perform: Jack & Rai have a new album coming out soon, will continue to perform weekly, and are slated to play in further upcoming events. Watch out for this dynamic duo. What has been going on for Jack & Rai? Jack: You won't believe it, but we've been busy setting up our new café. It's called The Flying Squirrel and we are super proud of it! Rai: We're also writing for our next album. Working on something different from our first. Who is your musical icon, and why? R: The Beatles! They managed to make the transition from being a 'boy band' to songwriters and music creators, infusing their own artistry and music style, especially in their later albums. J: Right now, it's probably Pink Floyd's David Gilmore. I've got my different phases. It used to be John Mayer, then there was Stevie Ray Vaughn. If you had a time machine, where and when would you go? R: 1969. Woodstock! J: Probably sometime in the early ‘60s in the UK. So I can catch a Beatles show.
of the rape to post online. She then stabs Ming-gu. She then goes to the third rapist Jo-han’s classroom, and chases him to the roof. With Officer Oh hot on her heels, she puts in everything to end the suffering she and Eun-ah have undergone. Production In this film, director Kim Yong-
R
han, who was awarded for his short animation film in the Seoul Animation Festival in 1996, hopes to deal with the topics of underage crime and rape, and discuss the problems in Korea’s legal system. “We all have mothers. I directed this film truly hoping that all mothers in the world would not cry, because sexual violence makes not only the victims but also their families cry. With a heart full of hopes that there would be no more sexual violence, I want to show this film to everyone,” says Kim, whose other works include Me and DollPlaying (2004). This movie was selected for Long-length Documentary Support 2011 at the DMZ Documentary Film festival, and was screened at the Busan International Film Festival. DON’T CRY MOMMY [NC16] Director: Kim Yong-han Starring: Yu Sun, Yoo Oh-seong, Nam Bo-ra, Dongho Genre: Thriller Run Time: 91 min Release Date: 11 Apr
What makes you smile? R: Nailing a song! It makes me feel like an evil genius. J: Spending time with wifey and doggie at the beach. I love family time! What has been your strangest or funniest request? R: I find it funny when I'm out on a date with someone I'm getting to know and suddenly, in the middle of nowhere, she asks me to sing her a song. J: I wouldn't call it strange, but there was once a friend who wanted to propose to his girlfriend on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. So when they were on holiday, we planned it such that he called me in Singapore, and I sang the song "All I Want Is You" by U2.
How far do you think you have come since your secondary school days? R: Very very far! After secondary school, through work and music, I've gained more life experience and meeting all sorts of people has definitely moulded my philosophies in life. J: Super far man! I think this music journey for me has taught me everything from people management to music management to everything else in between. How would you describe your ‘bromance’? R: A laid back type of spontaneity. J: I think we complement each other pretty well. What has been the most beautiful moment in your life? R: When I asked my girlfriend to go out with me. The look of confusion on her face was priceless! J: Snowboarding lesson with my wifey at Niseko Village in Hokkaido. What you read in the travel books about 'powder snow' is really true! What is your next, upcoming project? J: Besides keeping busy with The Flying Squirrel, we are in the midst of writing our new album and, hopefully (fingers crossed), we can show something to our fans during the year-end. W Jack and Rai can be found performing at Timbre @ Gillman Barracks on Wednesdays, Skyloft (iFly, Sentosa) on Thursdays, and Wala Wala at Holland Village on Sundays.
“I introduced the couple as: ‘Please welcome Mr and Mrs Lim!’, and then Rai exclaimed, ‘Wong! Wong!’ Oops.”
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06 • WEEKENDER • APRIL 12 - 18, 2013
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YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
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Master Chef Matt Moran
Savour 2013: A culinary journey Eat your way around the world at this year’s Savour 2013 gourmet food festival By Cheryl Chia Singapore’s largest gourmet food festival returns to tantalise the taste buds of Singaporeans with almost double the number of chefs and activities than the year before. From Apr 11 to 14, the F1 Pit Building and Paddock grounds will be filled with the fragrant aromas of more than 60 awardwinning dishes, over 30 worldrenowned chefs and local talent, a two-storey gourmet market, and an array of 300 complimentary master classes, workshops and demonstrations. Mr Darren Chen, Executive Director of Savour Events says, “We are working hard to make Savour 2013 a heightened experience for our attendees, with a wider variety of itineraries and more hands-on involvement for everyone. An entire community of chefs, restaurateurs and producers are showcasing their best for Savour 2013 so attendees will experience an unparalleled gastronomic journey that is unique to the event.” Participating chefs this year include Mauro Colagreco
(Mirazur, France), Alvin Leung (Bo Innovation, Hong Kong), Emilio Macias (Astrid y Gaston, Peru) and Ulf Wagner (Sjömagasinet, Sweden), Emmanuel Stroobant (Singapore) and much more. Margot Janse, Head Chef at The Tasting Room at Le Quartier Francais in South Africa, one of the World’s 100 top restaurants, shares, “Singapore’s reputation as a food paradise is already well known. I am privileged to showcase my creations and introduce South African cuisine to food lovers at Savour 2013.” With fringe showcase activities such as “Cook with Your Kids” by Balzac Brasserie and “Wine Classes with a Twist” by Equatorial Wines, there is definitely something for every participant. This year’s Savour is set to see at least 18,000 guests – about 4,000 more people than the year before. Irene Latoa, Country Manager for presenting sponsor, Nespresso Singapore, says, “We know attendees to Savour will have a fantastic time.”
Master Chef Matt Moran at
The Prime Society
The World Gourmet Summit 2013 gets another addition to its star studded line-up with chef Matt Moran cooking up a storm at The Prime Society By Cheryl Chia
Tickets to Savour are available from Sistic, from $35 to $65.
The 7 wonders of Laksa Laksania has many wonderful varieties of laksa and is a social enterprise too
The Fried Laksa
The Kelantan Laksa
By Cleon Ong
The classic Singapore Laksa
Laksa is a local delicacy loved by all. This is not surprising, considering it has a range of beautiful, fragrant scents and flavours, all in one dish. Unbeknownst to many, there are many interesting variations of Laksa, such as the Sarawak Laksa and the Kelantan Laksa. Laksania puts all these different variations of laksa from various cultures under one roof. More than that, they even have a few modern or updated takes on laksa dishes. Laksania, which, according to them, means “Simply Laksa” in a Singaporean context, is a social enterprise as well. Currently, Laksania’s outlets are located at Nex in Serangoon Central, at Bugis+ along Bugis Street area in town, as well as at East Coast Road. Mdm Sim Sin Sin, founder of Laksania, had wondered why there were so many different variations of the laksa dish. That was how the idea of a laksa concept stall came about. More than just serving a hot, piping, tasty bowl of laksa to hungry customers, Laksania employs people who have been marginalised by their mental or physical disability. They believe that working is the best form of therapy for their beneficiaries. To aid them in their cognitive and motor functioning, business processes are broken down into simple tasks such that they will be able to work with greater ease and comfort. Laksania prepares all the various laksa pastes and ingredients from scratch in a centralised
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n partnership with the 17th World Gourmet Summit (WGS), The Prime Society will be hosting Australian chef Matt Moran from Apr 17 to 20. In line with the “Artisans & The Art of Dining” theme, Chef Moran has come up with a five-course Epicurean Delights menu ($168) showcasing signature dishes from his restaurant, Aria. True to his signature style, he focuses on the simplicity of the freshest ingredients and seasonal produce to create an innovative menu. The menu will be served for lunch and dinner at The Prime Society. “Chef Moran brings a wealth of experience, not just in terms of food, but also being a successful business owner. We are all looking forward to working with him as Aria’s respect and attitude towards food is very much in line with our own,” says Head Chef Dallas Cuddy of The Prime Society. Aria is located in Sydney and Brisbane, with a multitude of awards that include Chef’s
Hats from the Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide on ten occasions. Chef Moran was awarded GQ Chef of the Year in 2012 and has since appeared in television programmes such as Master Chef, My Restaurant Rules and Chopping Block. “It’s been many years coming. I’m excited to meet and see chefs from all around the world to exchange ideas,” says Chef Moran, who is participating in the WGS for the first time. He also recently launched a restaurant and bar, Chiswick in Woollahra, featuring wood-fired ovens and an on-site vegetable and herb garden. The Epicurean Delight menu features a refreshing yellowfin tuna sashimi with cucumber wakame and avocado puree to start, Alaskan crab scotch egg with celeriac and lemon salad, and entrée with steamed sea bass with puffed quinoa, pine nuts and jamon, a main course of roasted fillet and slow cooked shoulder of
RECIPE Our food blogger was supposed to write a 400-word write-up for school but when her fingers finally got typing, SHE couldn't resist writing a recipe blog entry By Kelly ANN ZAINAL
kitchen. These ingredients and pastes are then delivered to the various outlets every alternate day. This is to ensure that Laksania constantly provides fresh, quality dishes for all their customers as well as to simplify the preparation process and reduce the work area required in each outlet. All these translate to great tasting food too. The Chicken Satay is an interesting appetiser, tasting more fragrant and a tad spicier than its more commonly-found form. The Singapore Laksa is bursting in flavour, with just the right amount of spiciness. However if you love chilli, feel free to add their self-made chilli which gives you the extra kick. There is also the Penang Laksa, Kelantan Laksa and Sarawak Laksa, each with its unique fragrance and flavour. Apart from the more conventional laksa dishes, Laksania has come up with its own creations. The Laksa Lasagna is possibly the unsung hero. With every mouthful, you will be able to fully immerse yourself in the delicious taste of the thick gravy, leaving you craving for more. It is a wonder this has not yet caught on with locals and foreigners. It is truly a great fusion dish which is a feast for the senses. The desserts, such as Chendol, are simple yet a sweet treat after the meal and greatly satisfying. If you want to fulfill your laksa craving, or try the different versions of laksa, do give Laksania a shot. Don’t just take our word for it, have a taste for yourself. You will quickly be converted into a Laksania fan. Laksania’s fourth outlet will be opening soon, in May, at JEM in Jurong. Laksania can be found at Nex, 23 Serangoon Central, #B1-08; Bugis+, 201 Victoria Street, #04-04; and 382 East Coast Road.
Lavender Shortbread I’ve been wanting to bake with lavender ever since I watched an episode of Masterchef Australia (two seasons ago – I know, I’m slow) featuring Fiona’s Chocolate Ganache, Lavender Cream and Raspberry Tart. I finally got the courage to stomp into Phoon Huat to grab a packet of dried lavender flowers. It’s really not expensive at all, can be kept in the fridge for a long time, and a little pinch goes a long way in spreading its scent to any dessert. This shortbread recipe is different from before; it gives a really light and crumbly texture instead of the dense shortbread cookies that you see in supermarkets. The scent of lavender is so delicate, it calms you down after a long day in school or at work. This is best enjoyed with a cup of warm tea (and I recommend Earl Grey). I encountered a bit of difficulty with the dough softening too quickly in the warm and humid environment but it can be easily
salvaged by being less lazy and returning the dough into the fridge when it’s not needed. Ingredients • 1 cup of butter, softened • 2 cups of flour (all-purpose or plain), sifted • 1/2 cup of super-fine sugar (or use castor sugar, it’s finer than normal fine sugar) • 1 tablespoon of dried lavender Method 1. Beat the butter and sugar in a mixing bowl, until creamy. Add the flour, and beat until combined. Add the lavender, and beat until distributed throughout the dough. 2. Scrape the dough mixture onto a sheet of cling-wrap; use your fingers to press it into a disc. (The mixture would be slightly soft and sticky, but don’t worry because it will harden in the fridge.) Wrap it tightly in the cling film, and put it on an even surface (e.g. plate or tray) and refrigerate until firm, for at least an hour. 3. Preheat the oven to 160 degrees Celsius. 4. Roll out the dough to about 1/4" thickness and cut out the desired shapes. (Here’s when cute cookie cutters come in handy.) Place them on a baking tray lined with baking paper, and bake until just golden, about 18 minutes. Let the cookies cool in the tray for 5 minutes before transferring onto the wire rack. Your Lavender Shortbread cookies are now done and ready to be tasted. From kellkelkell.wordpress.com
APRIL 12 - 18, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 07
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“In line with the 'Artisans & The Art of Dining' theme, Chef Moran has come up with a five-course Epicurean Delights menu...”
Signature dishes from The Prime Society's new menu by Head Chef Dallas Cuddy. Images courtesy of The Society Group.
lamb with black olive and fennel and finally a tart Summer berry trifle with strawberry jelly and buttermilk sorbet. When he was 15, Chef Moran started his apprenticeship at La Belle Helene in Sydney where he learnt and polished his French cooking skills that remains as his foundation even today. “From an early age, I’ve had a strong love of food and local produce. I believe that seasonality is an important basis for menu production and one of the
most significant ingredients in achieving a flavoursome, balanced and premium quality menu,” he added. He has also served on the Culinary Panel for Singapore Airlines, from 2003. The Alaskan Crab Scotch Egg ($28), Roasted Fillet and SlowCooked Shoulder of Lamb ($52) and the Summer Berry Trifle ($22) are also available a la carte. Premium cuts of ethically-sourced Rangers Valley grain-fed beef, Cape Grim grass-fed beef and
Mayura Station full-blood wagyu is also available with a price range of $48 to $130. The Prime Society grill and steakhouse blends colonial charm with contemporary chic and specialises in premium cuts of Australian beef and a variety of fresh seafood dishes. W The 150-seater restaurant is located at 10 Dempsey Road, #01-20, Singapore 247700. Tel: 6474 7427
FOO
D
More than a plan B choice
Nouveau Italian fine dining restaurant Caffé B has re-launched its popular “i Sentieri” menu By Cheryl Chia Soba noodles
Following the success of its first “i Sentieri” menu launched in August last year, fine dining Italian establishment Caffé B has tweaked its menu, updating its Kaiseki-inspired degustation menu. The new menu will be available for daily dinner service until August. The menu ($160) starts off with an amuse-bouche of Zucchini & “Sekai-ichi” Apple Tempura in a nori cone with a springy, refreshing Wakame Sesame Salad. Next, an anti-pasto of Buffalo Mozzarella topped with Honey Mascarpone, Pesto Espuma, Roasted Pine Nuts, and Lotus Roots for a creamy and refreshing bite. Their entrée comes with a touch of molecular gastronomy with a choice of either Squid Ink Tonnarelli with Clams, Black Mussels and Bottarga topped with “Ikura” and Lobster Foam or Saffron and Truffle Risotto with Beetroot Reduction and Parmesan Cheese Air. No, you have not hit the main course yet. The Sautéed
Scallop and Foie Gras on Ginger Puree, Pomegranate Seeds and Cranberry Sauce topped with Black Caviar and Sake Jelly is only just part one of the main course. Part two comprises a Slow Cooked Duck Breast with Fig Sauce accompanied with Polenta, Peach, Berries and Green Apple for a fruity and meaty addition to the meal. End off the experience with pistachio soufflé and a scoop of truffle ice-cream. The i Sentieri menu also comes with wine pairing for an additional $65. Those who pick this option also get to take home a 375ml bottle of il Pollenza Popora wine, exclusive to Caffé B. Caffé B is located at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Avenue, B1-15 & 01-83.
Pistachio Souffle & Truffle Ice Cream
“The new menu will be available for daily dinner service until August.”
Salmon & Truffle Risotto
Find great
Squid Ink Tonnarelli
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08 • WEEKENDER • APRIL 12 - 18, 2013
EALTH & BEAUTY
for all ages
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Teenagers and older people usually use different skin products, as a person’s skincare needs changes as he or she grows, from the treating of acne to acquiring anti-ageing benefits. Now, Lustre Skin Pro tablets can accompany you from adolescence to old age, with its wide range of benefits for the skin. No matter how old you are, this can be your skin’s best friend. Launched in April 2005, Lustre Skin Pro contains the finest ingredients from natural sources, in order to ensure its efficacy. Teenagers who use Lustre Skin Pro will find that it helps to control an oily T-zone and inflammation in acne, to contain and reduce the incidence of acne, and to lighten scar marks as well as pimple marks. For the more mature in age, Lustre Skin Pro can help to lighten pigmentation, to
“No matter how old you are, this can be your skin’s best friend.”
Good skin
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
Lustre Skin Pro tablets are beneficial for both the young and old
even out the skin tones and even to heal cracked heels, since it moisturises the skin from the inside. On top of that all these wonderful benefits, Lustre Skin Pro gives the appearance of rosy cheeks as it contains grape seed extract, which is full of OPC (oligomeric polyanthocynidins) – an antioxidant that improves blood circulation, strengthens blood vessels and benefits the heart, making beauty truly more than skin deep. The ingredients are carefully chosen to give the body wholesome goodness. Lustre Skin Pro contains natural plant extracts to help reduce inflammation and to control free radicals that destroy our cells and contribute to aging. The Vitamins A, C and E in Lustre Skin Pro also help with anti-oxidation, and play a role in providing nutrition for our cells, fighting free radicals and lightening the skin tone. Lustre Skin Pro also contains lycopene which is found in tomatoes, lutein which is found in green leafy vegetables, and quercetin and zeaxanthin. All these ingredients serve to detoxify the body, and to promote general health and wellbeing for everyone. Also, one no longer has to worry about crow’s feet, as the marine
The latest
deep fish collagen in it reduces fine lines on your skin. Collagen is found in the skin and connective tissues, and starts getting depleted when a person is 25 years old. With Lustre Skin Pro, you no longer need to take collagen and a variety of health supplements for your body’s skincare needs, as it provides multiple benefits for the skin. The ingredients chosen and used are of the very finest quality in order to maintain the high efficacy of the supplement. Just pop two Lustre Skin Pro tablets daily, either in the day or at night, with a full glass of water, and you are well on your way to having even skin with fewer blemishes. Lustre Skin Pro tablets are made in the USA in an FDAapproved cGMP facility, and is certified Halal by the Islamic Food & Nutrition Council of America. You can order Lustre Skin Pro tablets from MyLustre Pte Ltd, which provides beauty and wellness products for hair, skin and women care. MyLustre sells direct to customers through their telesales centre via their hotline 6275 4123, and delivers free to customers’ doorsteps on the same day. For more information, please visit www. mylustre.com.
For Week 6 of our Happy Happy Campaign, the first 80 SMSes for that week’s giveaway will win a bottle of Nopal Cactus from My Lustre.
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Beauty in Brief The short and the long of the beauty industry for this week Audrey Christian Norwegian cosme-ceutical brand Audrey Christian has begun selling their products in Guardian and Sasa Cosmetics. Their range of products is aimed at reducing varicose veins (Venetrim) and firming up breasts, neck and tummy (Push Up) that also fades stretch marks and wrinkles. The Push Up range also has an eye gel and antiaging cream for top-to-toe care. Visit www. audreychristian.com for more information. Prices range from $77 to $129.
Bliss Spa skincare brand Bliss introduces their Incredipeel ($75) and Firm Believer ($115) products. The former contains glycolic exfoliating pads to reduce wrinkles and dark spots with witch hazel and liquorice to calm and cool skin. The latter contains gardenia phyto stem cells to boost elasticity and collagen as well as peptide to plump skin. Both products are available at Sephora now.
Hugo Boss RED Launched this April, this fragrance features contrasting ingredients with top notes of rhubarb and grapefruit with a base of cedar wood and hot amber. Jared Leto, frontman of 30 Seconds to Mars and the face of the brand, says, “Pushing boundaries is important for everyone – that’s when you find the greatest reward, the biggest breakthrough.” Prices range from $38 to $129.
Soap and Glory British sugar-sweet skincare brand Soap and Glory brings in their saccharine sweet Sugar Rush Body Scrub ($25), Body Wash ($20) and Body Buttercream ($25). If you are a fan of sweet and vanilla-like scents, these products are for you. Pair the body scrub and buttercream for thorough exfoliation and moisturising. They are available at Sephora.
APRIL 12 - 18, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 09
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HEALTH & BEAUT
Fish oil for many
hearty Fish oil contains Omega-3 fatty acids which can help prevent heart trouble, assist in joint care, and give you a longer, healthier life
days L ooking to build better health and to develop a stronger heart? Look no further than to the treasures of the sea. Omega-3 fatty acids are necessary for health but are not produced by the body; they are naturally-found in oily fish such as mackerel, salmon, herring and trout. These fish provide a bounty of health benefits for everyone. Holland & Barrett Fish Oil contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which support healthy heart function in several ways. First of all, it may reduce the risk of irregular heart rhythm, which can possibly lead to death. Secondly, it may reduce blood pressure and blood triglycerides. Last but not least, it slows down plaque build-up in blood vessels. Since every second counts during a heart attack, it becomes of paramount importance to be aware of the symptoms of an impending heart attack. Here are some symptoms you should heed, with slight differences felt by men and women.
Chest Discomfort or pain elsewhere Chest pain is the classic symptom of a heart attack, and is often described as “an elephant sitting on the chest”. It can also be an uncomfortable pressure, squeezing or fullness; or, for women, a burning sensation in the chest. Often, pain begins in the chest, spreading to the shoulders, arms, elbows, back, neck, jaw or the abdomen. For some people, the pain is felt in these areas, with the chest pain absent. Men often suffer pain in the left arm, while women suffer pain in both arms or between the shoulder blades. Dizziness and Fatigue Heart attacks or potentially dangerous heart rhythm abnormalities known as arrhythmias can cause lightheadedness or a loss of consciousness. Unusual or constant fatigue may precede or happen during a heart attack.
Nausea, Appetite Loss, Swelling, Weakness People may feel sick to the stomach and throw up during a heart attack, and abdominal swelling related to heart failure can interfere with their appetite. Heart failure can cause fluid accumulation and hence swelling in the feet, ankles, legs or abdomen, as well as sudden weight gain. In the days leading up to or during a heart attack, some people complain of severe, unexplained weakness. Rapid or Irregular Pulse, Shortness of Breath, and Sweating A rapid or irregular pulse, accompanied by weakness, dizziness and shortness of breath, is another symptom. Some people experience the breathlessness felt as when one has run a marathon, except that they haven’t moved. They can also break out in a cold sweat, even when sitting down. A person can experience only one symptom, a few, or even not at all, as silent heart attacks can occur without the sufferer
knowing that he has suffered one. With heart attacks being the number one killer in Singapore, prevention is better than cure, so you should consider taking fish oil supplements for the good of your own heart. Holland & Barrett Fish Oil contains Ester Omega, a highlyconcentrated and purified Omega-3 Fish Oil selected from the finest deep sea, cold water fish in the Norwegian Sea. Scientifically formulated in an antioxidant matrix to enhance potency, Ester Omega provides better absorption of EPA and DHA fatty acids by the body so that you can reap its full benefits. Fish oil supplements are molecularly distilled to remove mercury, heavy metals, PCB, and dioxins, so you can increase Omega-3 intake without eating large amounts of fish and worrying about a high intake of heavy metals. If you have not tried taking
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fish oil supplements, now is the time to get fish oil products from Holland & Barrett as they are currently having a special promotion. Omega-3 Fish Oil (1200mg, 100 soft gels) is now retailing at $29.90 for two bottles (UP $29.90 per bottle) and two bottles for the price of one for all fish oils. Holland & Barrett retails a wide range of fish oil supplements, which includes krill oil, fish oil, and combinations of fish oil with flaxseed oil and starflower oil. They offer a range of natural health products of unparalleled high quality at the best value-formoney price. One’s health and general wellbeing is crucial, and Holland & Barrett is a brand you can trust as it is a leading brand of health supplements and food. Having been established for 92 years, it is owned by the world’s largest nutritional supplements manufacturer NBTY. Head down to one of Holland & Barrett’s 18 outlets, including at Raffles City Shopping Centre, #B2-13/14 or 313@Somerset, #B3-08, to get some Fish Oil for your health today. W
“Omega-3 fatty acids are necessary for health but are not produced by the body; they are naturally found in oily fish such as mackerel, salmon, herring and trout. ”
10 • WEEKENDER • APRIL 12 - 18, 2013
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
TRAVELATION
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You can see the majestic Alps from the city of Innsbruck, Switzerland
Europe has many beautiful fountains and plazas
Easy holiday Packaged tours may not be everyone’s preference but why not take a relaxing, effortless tour to romantic Europe? Romeo & Juliet’s city, Verona
Whether you’re a firsttime traveller or an experienced globetrotter, one of the main things that puts one off travelling or travel planning is the hassle of it all. Finding the different things you need, planning, booking, and coordinating, can all be highly taxing. When you book a package tour, you won’t have to worry about anything as everything will be taken care off for you to simply relax and enjoy yourself. For a change, book a grand 13-day Italy-Switzerland-France tour, covering famous tourist attractions in Rome, Pisa, Siena, Venice and more. You need not worry about getting lost while
to Europe navigating with a map, or burying your nose in a guidebook, as a tour guide will take care of you and everything you need. This 13-day tour to Italy, Switzerland and France allows you to set foot in Vatican City in Rome, to see the world’s largest cathedral – St Peter’s Basilica, and take in the breath-taking sight of Michelangelo’s detailed artwork including the famous Pieta and the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel. You can also marvel at Italy’s architectural feat, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and visit a beautiful Mediaeval village in Siena. Enjoy the magnificent views of a high-Alpine wonder world of ice, snow and rock as you take the Jungfraubahn ‘Top of Europe’ train ride, the highlight of any trip to scenic Switzerland. To sweeten the deal, especially for culture buffs, bonuses include entrance to the Colosseum; to the Swiss Riviera’s Chillon Castle; riding in one of Venice’s water taxis; and being in the VIP queue to ascend the Eiffel Tower.
No trip is complete without good food and quality hotels, so you can rest assured that you will be staying in four-star hotels and above, and get to savour the culinary goodness of all three countries in a four-course Swiss Fondue meal, a three-course Italian dinner with wine, as well as a three-course French dinner. The package also includes a one-night stay at Lucerne Lakeside Hotel and at Alpine Resort Hotel, a sumptuous buffet breakfast throughout the trip, and wine tasting at the only UNESCO World Heritage Site vineyard, with a wine glass memento. With these alluring attractions, why not book your package with EU Holidays? EU Holidays specialises in packages to Europe and the USA, and has won the 2013 Singapore Excellence Award, Best Europe Tours Travel Agency 2012, and the Asia Excellence Award 2013. EU Holidays, Tel: 6535 8535, contact@euholidays.com.sg
See good flight deals to
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FAMILY & FRIENDS Atreyu Kadenn A. Barba Born Jan 22, 2013
Lauren Cassidy A. Acasio Born Dec 8, 2012
Chin Aelly Born Nov 23, 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 Email your photos to
Ngoh Jia En Ariel Born Jul 17, 2012
Aiden Tan Wee Kiat Born Oct 17, 2012
Orion Yap Born Oct 3, 2012
Wang Soo Kee Born Dec 31, 2012
general@weekender.com.sg . Please make sure to include your baby’s name and surname, gender and date of birth. We look forward to receiving photos of your loved one!
Zola Amelie Born Jun 25, 2012 Livia Sim Born Oct 3, 2012
Sean Goh Born Dec 29, 2012
APRIL 12 - 18, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 11
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Fukushima is a great experience for children and adults
TRAVELATIO
“With a hot spring in the basement and snowy mountain scenery out back, you’d be in for a treat.”
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The Tsuruga-jo or “Crane” Castle
Children helping to harvest in the snow
PART TWO
Visit snowy
Fukushima You may have reservations about Fukushima, but it is truly a beautiful place worth visiting
By Cheryl Chia
Few realise how breath-taking the scenery of Fukushima is
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veryone’s been making jokes since I’ve come back from Fukushima, but I’m happy to say that I’m healthy and I haven’t been physically altered either. Take the Shinkansen – bullet train – to Aizu Wakamatsu City in Fukushima and you’ll notice the transition from bustling city to tranquil mountain scenery. From the train, you would be able to see Mount Bandai with its snowy caps. The quiet city has many farms visible, as well as a beautiful Oyakuen – landscaped garden. Feudal lords used to encourage the common people to plant medicinal plants, which still can be seen today, along with a beautifully expansive pond filled with black and gold koi fish, and with the occasional duck floating serenely. A short bus ride would take you to the nearby Tsuruga-jo Castle, where the Aizu clan of the Shogun (i.e. samurai lord) fought to the end to preserve the ways of the samurai during the Meiji Restoration. Tsuruga-jo Castle, meaning “crane” castle, is one of the famous landmarks in the Aizu area. The five-storey castle is now a history museum and observation platform. The dragon statues on the roof have eyes made of two-carat diamonds, and have a vantage point overlooking the castle grounds and the dormant volcano, Mount Bandai. If you’re a sake fan, be sure to pop by the Aizu Sake Historical Museum and watch as the owner
and guide takes you through to explain the process and the intricacies of sake and shochu-making. Be warned that not all the guides can speak English. For a perfect view of Mount Bandai, and if you are an avid skier, try staying at the Bandaisan Onsen Hotel. With a hot spring in the basement and snowy mountain scenery out back, you’d be in for a treat. The neighbouring Alts and Nekoma Mountain Resort has over 200 hectares covered in ‘powder snow’. The ski season runs from December to mid-May. Lessons are provided with a money-back guarantee in case you do not learn to ski in five lessons or less. The Internet connection is also free at the hotel. Warm up in the traditional Japanese onsen filled with geothermally-heated spring water. Its minerals are said to have healing and recharging properties. Everyone is in their birthday suits in the bath, and the genders are separated. Don’t feel shy. The Japanese are so nonchalant, they walk around as if
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you aren’t even there. Samantha Tan, Singaporean winner of the Wow! Japan Photo Contest, had won an exclusive trip to Fukushima and said she intended to extend her trip. A wedding photographer by profession, she submitted a 38-photo pictorial on Japan to win. Other winners came from Vietnam, Taiwan, South Africa, Korea, Canada and China. The contest was held to help funnel tourism back to Japan after the devastating earthquake. W This trip was made possible by the Japan Tourism Authority.
Test the beautiful ski slopes of “powder” snow
12 • WEEKENDER • APRIL 12 - 18, 2013
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS
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