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WEEKENDER
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YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND filled with FUN AND HAPPINESS
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a giant leap for
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the beng interview
02 • WEEKENDER • october 11 - 17, 2013
EVENTS
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS
For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
This week’s highlights
WEEKENDER
FUN-TO-DO
IDEAS
Singapore Biennale 2013: If the World Changed
Fashion Week
26 Oct - 16 Feb 2014, 10am-7pm, $5 (Student & Senior Citizen), $10
9-19 Oct, various times, $20, $40 (Day pass), $280 (Season pass)
FIDé Fashion Weeks have organised Singapore and Asia’s first complete fashion season, where they will present over 30 inspiring presentations of the latest season’s men and women’s Prêt-à-Porter labels and the Couture collections. Renowned French couturiers Alexis Mabille, On Aura Tout Vu, Julien Fournie and Stephane Rolland will present the craftsmanship and
artistry in their work, with participating retailers from The Shoppes displaying the best of their Fall/Winter 2013 collections. South Korean superstar, Rain, will also be making a special appearance. The Sands Expo & Convention Center, Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue, fidefashionweeks.com/schedule, Tel: 6688 8826
Are you a Beach Party animal? Check out Bintan’s Ultimate Chill Out 26 Oct, $199++, $299++ (Superior Twin room) Itching for an all-day beach party, and want to avoid crowded beaches? Bintan’s Ultimate Chill Out promises a short, relaxing and fun getaway on Angsana Bintan’s private beach with its white
now on Check out these events over the next two weeks FREE! NEW! Ben & Jerry’s Chunkfest 2013 12 Oct, 2-10pm Ben & Jerry’s Chunkfest is back for its sixth year, with 13 flavours mostly exclusively flown in from the US including its new flavour Couch Potato. There will be a movie screening in the evening under the stars, carnival
powdery sand, clear waters and endless views of the South China Sea. Adrenaline junkies can take a spin on the AllTerrain Vehicle, or have friendly beach soccer, beach volleyball or tug-of-war matches. The more sedentary ones can have a special beachside massage from the therapists of the awardwinning Angsana Spa. When the sun sets, the real party begins, with sunset cocktails, a barbecue dinner, and music spun by a guest DJ. Proceeds from the drinks will be used to fund laboratory facilities for a local school located near the resort; what better way is there to do good than to party while you’re at it? Guests booking the Bintan’s Ultimate Chill Out - All Day Beach Party will enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, return coach transfers for two from Bintan Ferry Terminal to Angsana Bintan, daily breakfast at Lotus Café and a beach BBQ dinner for two on Oct 26. Book online at angsana.com, call +62 770 6931111 or E-mail reservations-bintan@angsana.com.
activities, live music and the ‘Vermonster’ Challenge, where people compete to finish 20 scoops of ice cream at one shot. Local social organisations and enterprises will be setting up shop at the festival to raise awareness for their causes. The Promontory @Marina Bay, 11 Marina Boulevard, Tel: 1800 661 9898
present a working draft of an original performance incorporating elements of song, dance and physical theatre. This includes a special appearance by guest artist Ng Yulin. The audience will be invited to share their thoughts after the show. E-mail to register.
NEW! FREE! Directors’ Lab: Work-In-Progress Presentation
Firestation Family Flea
12 Oct, 8.30pm Eng Kai Er, together with her collaborators, will
WEEKENDER TICKETS GIVEAWAY
WIN A TICKET
WORTH $58 TO
ONE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP ONE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP 18 Oct, 7pm ONE Fighting Championship returns to Singapore on Oct 18 with another stacked fight card featuring a showdown between ONE FC Bantamweight World Champion Soo Chul Kim and ONE FC Interim Bantamweight World Champion Bibiano Fernandes. With more than 90% market share for MMA in Asia, ONE FC continues to dominate MMA with soldout events in major cities all across Asia. Now it is time for Singapore to once again witness the adrenaline rush of world-class MMA action as ONE FC returns with a blockbuster show that is set to thrill the crowd in the 12,000-seater Singapore Indoor Stadium. Don’t miss the chance to witness world champions and local heroes rise to the challenge and clash inside the ONE FC cage while the global TV audience of a potential 1 billion viewers cheers them on! See you at the biggest fight night in Singapore. Singapore Indoor Stadium, www.onefc.com, Twitter: @ONEFCMMA
TO WIN SIMPLY:
This year’s Singapore Biennale features works with a distinct Southeast Asian identity by 82 artists and artist collectives regionally and beyond. Titled “If the World Changed”, it presents contemporary art’s propositions for our changing worlds, looking at how artists and audiences respond to their lived experiences. Bras Basah.Bugis Precinct; Our Museum @Taman Jurong, www.singaporebiennale.org, Tel: 6332 3222
1. Like & share our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/weekendersgp 2. Drop us a private message with the words “ONE FC” 3. In the message, include your particulars: Name, NRIC, E-mail, Mobile no.
Only 1 entry per person, please. Closing date: 15 Oct 2013 Win a ticket to ONE Fighting Championship’s big fight night! Winners will be notified by E-mail. While stocks last! *Terms & Conditions apply. Visit weekender.com.sg/terms.html for Terms & Conditions.
Substation Gallery, 45 Armenian Street, www.substation.org, Tel: 6337 7535
19 Oct, 10am-3pm Instead of hanging out in town, check out Firestation Family Flea with your family and lepak. You may pick up a few gems. Firestation, 260 Upper Bukit Timah Road, forfleasake.com NEW! Museum of Horrors IV: The Twins
18-31 Oct; 6pm-11pm (18-30 Oct), 31 Oct (6pm12am); $17 (Student), $20 A gruesome story revolving around a pair of twin sisters and a fiance sets the stage for a maze with seven dioramic sets - around places in Singapore reputed to be spooky. Those who want to learn from professionals on how grisly props in Halloween sets are made, or how to apply creepy makeup can join a horror workshop (12 & 13 Oct). With the Gruesome Photo Contest, you can show off your Halloween costumes and makeup by taking a picture with the Halloween decorations outside *SCAPE Warehouse Level 2, and posting it to *SCAPE’s Facebook page.
Escape to ‘Hell’oween: Horror Creeps Within
25 & 26 Oct, 6-11pm, $8, $12, $18 Get ready for a weekend of scares this Halloween at the tenth instalment of this scare fest. Make your way through the haunted Maze of Terror, past rattling bunkbeds, deep into a spooky forest and past a sentry post. Come dressed as one of the undead to participate in the Horrorifically Dressed contest. Downtown East, D’ Marquee, 1 Pasir Ris Close, www.ticketbooth.com.sg, Tel: 6296 2929
Coming Soon Mark your calendars for these events happening in three to four weeks NEW! Mickey’s Magic Show 26 Nov - 1 Dec, various times, $35, $55, $65, $85, $115
Favourite Disney characters join an illusionist live on stage in a captivating performance where Disney magic takes on a whole new meaning. Be amazed as Cinderella’s rags turn into a beautiful ball gown in a split second; Aladdin’s Princess Jasmine levitates in the air, and the enchanted dancing brooms in Fantasia help sweep Minnie off her feet. Mastercard Theatres, Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue, www.marinabaysands.com, Tel: 6688 1029
VOLUNTEER EVENTS Lend a hand or spend your time meaningfully FREE! NEW! Tzu Chi Recycling Day @Jalan Bukit Merah
13 Oct, 9am-12pm Do your part for the environment and charity by helping to sort out recyclable items, and the funds raised from the items will go toward the charitable efforts of the Tzu Chi Foundation. Why not help out this weekend? Blk 109, Jalan Bukit Merah, www.tzuchi.org.sg, Tel: 65829958
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. 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.
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*SCAPE Warehouse, 2 Orchard Link, www.scape.com.sg, Tel: 6735 4144 Retrolicious Reunion
19 Oct, 8pm, $125, $225 Retrolicious is back. The line-up of stars includes 1980s iconic pop acts Belinda Carlise, Rick Astley and Bananarama, who have headlined in this festival. Expect a seamless performance of chart-toppers in this 1980s extravaganza. Tickets from Sistic. Fort Canning Park, www.runningintothesun.com Sentosa Spooktacular 2013
19, 25, 26, 31 Oct, 1 & 2 Nov, 7pm-11pm, $56.60, $66.60 Sentosa partners GMM Tai Hub Co Ltd, the Thai movie studio and creator of international horror hits, for its haunting Halloween event. Have a frightful haunt in five elaborately themed, haunted trails inspired by the internationally-acclaimed films, namely Coming Soon, Shutter, Pee Mak, Dorm and others. Fort Siloso, Siloso Road, Sentosa; http://spooktacular.com.sg/index. aspx?gclid=CLeK7Y7t7bkCFRB04godYEcAXA NEW! uLTIMATE HAWKER FEST 2013
19 Oct, 5pm-10pm Handpicked and curated by Dr Leslie Tay of iEat iShoot iPost, Ultimate Hawker Fest 2013 features some of Singapore’s favourite hawker cuisine in one venue. Savour more than 20 hawker dishes, from the Ultimate Chicken Rice by Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice to the delectable Singapore Chilli Alaskan King Crab with White Jade Noodles by celebrity chef Eric Teo. Do your part for charity too. Millenia Walk, 9 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore 039596, Tel: 6377 0122, E-mail: ultimatehawker@touch.org.sg
CORRIGENDUM:
In last week’s Food article, “Dishing it out: Fat Cow’s new dishes revealed”, the first dish is actually “Onsen Tamago No Gyu ‘Marrow’ Furai”.
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. Editorial Director Frank Young frank@weekender.com.sg Editor Lester J Wan
Art Director Nicodemus Aw Designer Foo Dun Jie Distribution Lawrence Tan
Writer Cheryl Chia
Coordinator Syarila Zainal
Contributor Chia Hui Jun Sales Director David Phey
Advisor James Yip
Sales Seth Leow seth@weekender.com.sg
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Disclaimer: The illustrations, photographs, views and statements expressed by our contributors, bloggers, illustrators, or writers do not necessarily reflect the views of Weekender Group Private Limited. Weekender Group Private Limited does not warrant the accuracy, reliability, currency or completeness of those views or statements and do not accept any legal liability whatsoever arising from any reliance on the views, statements and subject matter. © Copyright Weekender Group Pte Ltd. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, all rights including those in copyright in the content of this publication are owned by or controlled for these purposes by Weekender Group Pte Ltd. Copyrights to photographs, Illustrations, or any other forms of work which appear in this publication provided by non-Weekender Group Pte Ltd contributors are owned and controlled their respective creators.Except as otherwise expressly permitted under copyright law or Weekender Group Pte Ltd, the content of this publication may not be copied, reproduced, republished, downloaded, posted, broadcast or transmitted in any way without first obtaining our written permission or that of the copyright owner.
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
OCtober 11 - 17, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 03
04 • WEEKENDER • october 11 - 17, 2013
ENTERTAINMENT
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
Power 98 Music Review
MOVIE PREVIEW
Loud, proud
& alive
Jessie J’s been busy but the gutsy girl managed to squeeze time to deliver an album to be proud of
Be prepared for unusual situations
By Charmaine Phua After yet another unsatisfactory New Year party, a father reveals to his son, Tim (played by Domhnall Gleeson), that the men in his family have always had the ability to travel through time. Even though they can’t change history, they can change what happens and has happened in their own lives.
I
t seems as though Jessie J’s a real veteran in the music industry, having been around for a few years. So, the realisation that Alive is only her second album may come as a bit of a shocker. The 25-year-old has been busy this year, pulling her weight as a judge on The Voice UK, recording this album and even shaving her head to raise £75million for charity.
A VOCAL POWERHOUSE Her extensive vocal range cannot be denied, and with tracks like “Wild” and “It’s My Party”, it’s not a surprise that she’s found herself on the charts once more. The former is a collaboration with Big Sean and Dizzie Rascal, while the latter shows her getting in touch with her fun side – a party-pop tune that looks set to stay on the charts for a while. This woman does like to do things in extremes though: on some songs, she sings so hard, she’s almost spitting angry. Just listen to the chorus of the emotional ballad “I Miss Her”. It’s a beautiful track, but she sounds frustrated and angry when singing it.
EMOTIONALLY CHARGED One of my favourites off the album is her team effort with Brandy, “Conquer the World”. It’s easy to listen to and it almost feels as though she’s talking directly to whoever’s listening when she sings, “I know how it feels to cry in the middle of the night” and “don’t ever give up; together we can conquer the world”. Another song to pay close attention to is “Thunder”, a love song that starts out slow but escalates quickly into a powerful display of her vocal talent. With an incredible talent for not
“With an incredible talent for not just songwriting, but singing too, there’s plenty to enjoy on ‘Alive’!”
just songwriting, but singing too, there’s plenty to enjoy on Alive! W Tune in to Charmaine Phua on weekdays, from 2pm to 4pm. Send in your pick for the Top 8 Most Requested Songs of the Day! Only on Power 98FM.
About Charmaine Phua Charmaine Phua is Executive Producer / Presenter of Power 98. She thinks that the best part of being alive is enjoying good food, good music, and good company. Tune in to her on Power 98.
Meeting the First Time, More than Once Empowered by this stunning revelation, Tim decides to improve his life by getting a girlfriend. He moves from the Cornwall coast to London to train as a lawyer, and meets the beautiful but insecure Mary (played by the alwayslovely Rachel McAdams). An unfortunate time-travel incident means that Tim has never met her at all, so he repeatedly meets her for the first time until he wins her heart, after a lot of time travelling. He goes on to create the perfect proposal, to save his wedding from the worst bestman speeches, and save his best friend from professional disaster, all using his unique power. Not All Smooth Sailing However, Tim soon finds out that his special ability is not only dangerous but also does not spare him from the travails every family experiences. Producer Nicky Kentish Barnes says, “About Time is very autobiographical,
BE HAPPIER
About Time is a quirky yet heartwarming film
About Time: When the past catches up A man learns that he can travel through time. He does so, with surprising consequences in a sense; it’s bits of (director) Richard’s life all put together in a beautiful and well-crafted story.” “The story is very emotional; we had grown men crying on reading the script. It is a slight, sort-ofmagic realism with the timetravel aspect but it adds to the emotional content,” she says. Story Inspiration This movie was inspired by a conversation director Richard Curtis (who also directed 2003 British romantic comedy Love Actually) had with a friend about what they would do if they only had 24 hours left to live. “The next step was how I would be able to incorporate this into a movie,” says Curtis. “It would have to be about someone who could manipulate
their final day, or manipulate their life in some way, to enable them to come to that conclusion,” he says. Watch out for stellar acting from this more than capable cast, in this comedy about love and time travel. You might realise, upon watching this film, that making the most of your life may not require time travel. Watch it, and see for yourself. ABOUT TIME [NC16] Director: Richard Curtis Starring: Domhnall Gleeson, Bill Nighy, Rachel McAdams, Tom Hollander and Margot Robbie Genre: Comedy, Drama Run Time: 123 min Release: Oct 10
Chefs With Heart YouTube
The Beng
By Cheryl Chia
is back!
The Broadway Beng, Sebastian Tan, is back with more pai kia [gangster] antics. We catch up with him and find out his thoughts on the show how there's a Beng and Lian in everyone! Bringing you back to the ‘cock’ humour that is so Broadway Beng, it will be a fun, fantabulous, ****ing wholesome show for the whole family! Huat ah! What makes an Ah Beng the most ‘tok gong’ [great] Ah Beng? Create a show that will make the audience chio ka peng (laugh until collapse), cry and sing along to their all-time favourite Hokkien songs and Broadway musical show tunes which is, of course, The Broadway Beng. What is your favourite Ah Beng Song and why? ”Ai Pia Jia Eh Yia” (loosely
D
ream Academy’s The Broadway Beng has been delighting us with Sebastian Tan’s Hokkienslamming, skirt-chasing antics for the past seven years. Now, Sebastian is back to reprise his iconic role in Broadway Beng: Benging You Back to Basics. This edition also stars Judee Tan and Siti Khalijah. It promises to be side-splitting. Sebastian, who also wrote the script, says, “I draw a lot from my personal experiences when I write the script. This year, I will ‘Beng’ you back to basics with stories from my childhood and growing up years!” “Audiences can look forward to
translated: Must Fight to Succeed). It's a Hokkien anthem that teaches you how, in life, you must strive then can win! Now, sing it! What will the Broadway Beng be doing next? Crazy Christmas! With some fellow 'Ting Tong Belles” at The Esplanade Theatre. Come celebrate with us; everyone's invited! If you could say one thing to Singaporeans, what would it be? Stop complaining lah and learn to laugh more. :) W Broadway Beng runs from Oct 10 at the Drama Centre Theatre.
ANSWERS TO SPOT THE DIFFERENCE bright lights of Broadway and the ‘obiang’ lights of ge tai as Broadway Beng comes back with a personal and intimate touch,” he excitedly adds. What can audiences expect from Broadway Beng: Benging You Back to Basics? It will be a brand new show full of brand new funny childhood stories, popular Hokkien ditties and Broadway tunes. I will also joke about the evolution of the “Beng” culture and much more! Together with my five ChioBuus (Hokkien for hot chick), we'll remind everyone
See Page 8
Picture A was taken with the phone camera at its maximum zoom setting, while Picture B was taken with a digital compact camera at its maximum zoom. Superior zoom image quality in the compact digital camera The difference in zoom capabilities is quite obvious. Moreover, the compact digital camera was still able to render minute details and great tonal quality even though it was at its maximum zoom.
New, tasty dishes Chefs With Heart helps marginalised youths attain the skills and a job in the culinary line. See what Chef Heman teaches them In Episode 6 of Chefs with Heart, a reality show featuring 12 trainee youth chefs from marginalised backgrounds, you can see (from the webisode on YouTube) the youths make a white rojak, white burnt custard and roast duck with the help with this week’s mentor. Chef Heman Tan is from JP Pepperdine, and his skills in the kitchen are apparent. Getting a Roasting Chef Heman teaches the trainees the right way to clean out a duck, in order to prepare the English Roast Duck. The trainees start the preparation of the duck for use. Chef Heman then cautions the students to “learn their fundamentals properly in their culinary journey” in order to achieve success. The trainees plate their roast ducks and pose happily with their dishes. The next day, they
make white rojak – a rojak with prawn paste instead of the usual shrimp paste. The chef also teaches them the virtue of consistency, as certain dishes may taste different each time you make it, such as with the white rojak. Making the Grade About 80 per cent of the grade is based on presentation, taste and hygiene. The remaining 20 per cent comes from a group of guests and food bloggers who will be giving comments. Chefs with Heart was conceptualised by Josephine of Just Cinnamon and produced with Threeonesix. The successful apprentices will be employed in one of the three chefs’ restaurants after the series. Watch this programme and pick up culinary tips from the chefs. Catch Episode 6 of Chefs With Heart at www.youtube.com/ watch?v=BwoNBgbh0lg
october 11 - 17, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 05
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
FASH SNIPS Stirrings in the fashion world that you would want, need and love to know about Puma
COS
Puma’s new PowerCat 1 FG is being worn by football player Cesc Fabregas of FC Barcelona on the pitch. Featuring the newest Puma technology, the PowerCat 1 FG improves ball grip and provides increased power and precision for fast-moving players. The boot delivers a bladed stud configuration for better traction, manoeuvrability and accurate pressure distribution. Available in stores now.
High-fashion street wear brand COS will finally make its way to Singapore near the end of this year. The first store will be located in Orchard Road with a second one opening in Westgate, the new mall in Jurong East. COS is part of the H&M group.
FASHION Guess Jewellery
Guess Jewellery launches its festive range, the Star Struck Collection. It comprises dynamic and faceted open star shapes with mirrored metal finishes, crystal paves and script logos.
More information can be found at www. GUESSJEWELLERY.com
Guess brings some star bling
PowerCat 1 FG is the choice of Fabregas and discerning players
Missoni
Known for its multitude of patterns, colours and different fibres such as wool, cotton, linen, rayon and silk, the Missoni label is a unique brand in ready-towear Italian fashion, which has been seen on celebrities such as Cameron Diaz and Blake Lively. Missoni is available from TheOutnet.com.
Soo Kee Jewellery
Featuring Brilliant Rose diamonds, these two new sets of wedding bands from Soo Kee Jewellery feature rose carvings on a white and rose gold band and diamonds bezel-set in the centre of the band. On the bride’s ring, the diamonds encircle the band for a brighter finish. Available at Soo Kee Jewellery stores.
YouYou
CORRIGENDUM:
Local designer YouYou launches an Autumn/ Winter 2013/14 collection entitled “Light”. It features shades of pastels and shimmer jacquard fabrics on top of the signature black and white staples to soften the mood. Visit www.iloveyouyou.com for more.
HOME
For luxury homes & better living These home products will make your home and living more beautiful, easier and fun
WEEKENDER YouYou GIVEAWAY
Win A Handmade
YouYou Square Clutch!
Bamix Pro Hand Blenders
To celebrate the launch of YouYou’s Fall/Winter 2013/14 collection, “Light”, YouYou has specially made clutches to be won. Each clutch comes with two inner compartments, and is in line with YouYou’s vision of offering classic pieces styled with a modern twist.
Bamix, a versatile and highperformance hand blender from Switzerland that is a trusted choice of culinary professionals such as Gordon Ramsay, has arrived in Singapore. This versatile hand blender comes fitted with multi-purpose blades for mincing, chopping, whisking, mixing and pureeing at the flick of a switch. Different speed settings allow for whisking and beating at varying strengths to achieve creamy salad dressings, sauces, soups, baby food, soufflés, milkshakes, desserts and even mashed potatoes. Five models for different needs range from $299 to $499.
Brother MultiFunction Embroidery Machine Brother has launched the Innov-is V7, its latest multifunction sewing, quilting and embroidery machine, which includes a large-area embroidery machine along with two long-arm sewing,
IKEA NEW ChILDREN’S RANGE
For the first time ever, IKEA is launching a new range of home furnishing solutions created just for children aged eight to 12 years old. The first-ever Children’s IKEA range features four main collections for different child personalities: The Artist (for those who like creativity, and art & craft), the Collector, the Star (for little performers) and the gamer. IKEA has revamped its entire kids’ section and promises a lot of fun and interesting furniture this school holidays.
Bamix hand blenders are available at Mayer Marketing showrooms at Great World City, Plaza Singapura, IMM Building, Causeway Point & Excalibur Centre.
About YouYou YouYou is a women’s ready-to-wear line, designed with “You” in mind. YouYou gives a fresh perspective on the daily wardrobe of contemporary women, focusing on design, quality, and aesthetics.
Philips luxury wardrobecare
quilting and embroidery machines. Aimed at both professional and hobbyist quilters and crafters, it uses advanced-level technology, including an ultra-sonic sensor function for precision placement of embroidery designs, a laser guide line marker and a dual drive foot that easily adjusts to any type of fabric. This allows users to feed an array of cloth from denim, silk and even stretchy or bulky textile with incredible ease. Visit www.brother.com.sg for more information. The Brother Innovis V7 can be purchased through authorised resellers and superstores, for $8,888 with a two-year warranty.
Goldheart’s show piece in Singapore Jewelfest 2013, featured in the last issue, should be “Bleu Mystique”.
The new all-in-one ironing solution, Philips WardrobeCare Integrated Ironing System GC9940, is an ironing machine that provides the ultimate ease of de-creasing clothes and can be easily stowed. The ironing board is equipped with a fan that has blowing and suction functions, enabling you to iron on a cushion of air. From silk to linen, cotton to cashmere – you will not need to adjust the settings, with no risk of burn or shine. Exclusively available (RRP $3,988) at Tangs.
TO WIN SIMPLY:
1. Like & share our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/weekendersgp 2. Drop us a private message with the word “YouYou” 3. In the message, include your particulars: Name, NRIC, E-mail, Mobile no.
Only 1 entry per person, please. Closing date: 17 Oct 2013 Win a handmade YouYou square clutch. Winner will be notified by E-mail. *Terms & Conditions apply. Visit weekender.com.sg/terms.html for Terms & Conditions.
06 • WEEKENDER • October 11 - 17, 2013
FOODMANIA
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
WORD OF MOUTH Seen and heard of the best of
racy food
Baked Eggs in a Pan
local Singaporean Food
Kok Kee Wanton Mee This stall frequently sees snaking queues and long waits. They also have their own secret ingredient which they add to the sauce, making the noodles worth waiting for. Lavender Food Square, 38 Jalan Besar, #01-06, Singapore 2099000
coq &
Hwa Kee BBQ Pork Noodles If you like your noodles sweet, this stall douses the noodles in char siew sauce. The char siew is also charcoal roasted for a better flavour. East Coast Lagoon Food Village, 1220 East Coast Parkway Stall 45, Singapore 468960
Promiscuous Noodles? For the non-native Singaporeans, Wanton Mee or Wanton Noodles do not refer to noodles that make you more promiscuous. Though, the dish can be seductively yummy. The word “wanton” here is the Cantonese word for the dumplings that come with the noodle dish. Here in Singapore, Wanton Noodles may vary from stall to stall. Some stalls serve the noodles with a Malaysianstyle spicy sauce mix, whereas others serve the Hong Kong-inspired version with gravy. Whichever your preference, here are some great stalls you can check out this weekend.
Coq & Balls Weekend Brunch Spread
Hong Mao Wanton Mee This stall was bought over by a chef who used to be at Park Royal, resulting in a very good version of wanton noodles, or so loyal patrons say. 182 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427453
“The word 'wanton' here is the Cantonese word for the dumplings that come with the noodle dish.”
“Apart from interesting dishes, with even more intriguing names, Coq and Balls carries a wide range of beers and ciders...”
Nam Seng Wanton Mee Even Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong remembers eating these noodles. The noodles are covered in a secret sauce which gives it a moreish quality. Far East Square, 25 China Street, #01-01, Singapore 049567
I-Thim Nara dessert
Best of Thai in Singapore Voted one of Thailand Tatler’s best restaurants since its opening, Nara Thai brings the best of Thailand to Singapore
Sawadee Ka Nara Thai We recently went to the Nara Thai outlet in Central World, in Bangkok, and I must say I prefer the Singapore versions of some of the dishes, such as their Hors d’oeuvres Nara ($17.90) which
Colourful Desserts True to the Thai culture, Nara Thai in Singapore also serves their special I-Thim Nara, a coconut ice cream served with
a full selection of Thai sweet condiments such as red ruby, roasted peanuts, nata de coco, palm tree seeds, jackfruit, sweet potatoes, chendol and corn. You can customise your very own dessert. Don’t miss out on one of the best restaurants from Thailand. Nara Thai, Ion Orchard, #B3-21, Singapore 238801, Tel: 6634 5787
S
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Breakfast f Late-risers wi & Balls’ week and ends at 3 to nurse that your Sunday Coq & Balls
Joel Robu
Star-struck: We have a quick tete-atete with the world’s most Michelin-starred chef, Joel Robuchon
Ayuthaya Boat Noodle
Foodies, the wait for fine Thai food is over with the addition of Nara Thai in Ion Orchard. If you’ve tried Nara Thai’s original outlet in Central World and Eight Thonglor Building in Bangkok, you’ll be familiar with the delicious Thai street food with a more refined touch. The Singaporean menu mirrors its Thai counterpart for the most part but some recipes and items might have been added or tweaked in certain dishes.
includes Thai Fishcakes, Pandan Chicken, Pomelo Salad and Satay Ga – barbecued chicken in turmeric and coconut marinade. The version of their Hors d’oeuvres Nara in Thailand lacks the Pandan Chicken, which is a crying shame as the Pandan Chicken is peppery and fragrant from the leaf wrapped around it. You definitely shouldn’t miss out on this. We also liked Phu Nim Phad Pong Karee ($16.90), stir-fried soft shell crab in yellow curry. It was reminiscent of the childhood snack, Twisties, and had a moreish quality to it, together with the rice. The Singaporean version of the Phu Nim Phad Pong Karee is a little thicker than the Thai version, which I prefer. Either way, this is another must-try dish.
Chicken Mango Salad
Joel Robuchon has plans for a new restaurant and more Michelin stars Caviar from Joel Robuchon
Best of Britain 28-Day Aged Porterhouse Steak (1kg) with Japanese wheat-beer battered onion rings
Spearheaded by Gordon Ramsay’s former Executive Chef, Mark Sargeant, Oxwell & Co brings the best of Britain to Ann Siang Road By Cheryl Chia
($18) is an acquired taste but we marvelled at the refreshing tomatoes. Do also give their Pressed Hamhock with Apple Chutney ($16) a chance.
The misconception that British food is inherently boring is quashed with the opening of the restaurant Oxwell & Co. The establishment is headed by Chef Mark Sargeant, former Executive Chef of Gordon Ramsay, who brings traditional English dishes with fresh ingredients. Oxwell & Co’s restaurant and bar have been fully open to the public from September. English Delights Start off with light bites such as the Yorkshire Pudding with Roast Garlic ($8) and the Mixed Marinated Olives ($8), before moving on to their pristine fresh salads. Even in the simple things, the quality of their fresh ingredients shines through. We like their Oxwell & Co Prawn Cocktail ($22) for the generous serving of shrimp and salad sauce. Still, we just couldn’t get enough of it. The Nursery Tomatoes with Goat’s Cheese & Wild Herbs
The Main Event The 28-Day Aged Porterhouse Steak (1kg) with Japanese wheat-beer battered onion rings ($140) is great for feeding two to three people. It is an amazing main. The porterhouse steak was cooked to perfection with the right amount of fat. The fragrant and crispy onion rings added extra crunch and flavour. Lamb lovers would like the Welsh Salt Marsh Lamb Rump ($35) with roast onions and green sauce. If you’re a little more adventurous, try the Thornback Ray Wing ($35) with leeks, anchovy and garlic for a taste of the coast. Messy Dessert What better way to end off a British meal than with a Strawberry Eton Mess ($14)? Fresh cuts of strawberries smothered in fresh cream and broken up meringue is a decadent yet light end to the meal. Let Chef Sargeant delight you with English classics and the best of Britain. Oxwell & Co., 5 Ann Siang Road, Singapore 069688. Tel: 6438 3984
October 11 - 17, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 07
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
food of
& balls Gastrobar Coq and Balls launches its brunch menu paired with beers By Cheryl Chia
The Big Coq ($16), comprises sour dough toast, mushrooms sautéed with herbs, bacon baked beans, chorizo sausage, grilled vine tomatoes and a side of homemade scrambled eggs. If the name may be offputting, the dish is not. Also try their version of the frittata. Their Baked Eggs in a Pan ($15) features creamy eggs and chunks of potatoes with cheese. Lots of cheese.
our weekend off right with a y brunch but, instead of hoityhampagne, pair your eggs with of beer instead. Bahru area has changed gnition in the past two years r Coq & Balls is one of the he scene. m interesting dishes, with even ing names, Coq & Balls carries of beers and ciders on tap as ttles.
for Lunch ill be happy to know that Coq kend brunch begins at 10am 3pm, bringing you comfort food weekend hangover, or to start in a great way. s’ signature brunch special,
PHOTOGRAPHY FEATURE
Tips for tastier food photos by Guinevere Sofer Whether you enjoy taking pictures of food to share or to keep as a memento of some of the great restaurants you’ve been in, it’s always a good idea to take the best possible photos. In this first in a series of three articles, we’ll be exploring lighting for food photography and share some handy tips and tricks. Step 1: Get a table with access to light My strategy is always to find an area in the restaurant that has the most light. This could be: 1) A dining area outside (if there is available daylight); 2) Inside, next to the window where daylight spills in; or 3) Tables under a spotlight. The more lighting you can get, the more colours and highlights you can get on your food. But it’s always good to have some fill light in, with flash from your equipment. This brings the question of control.
Photo: AVLXYZ; Creative Commons Licence
Coq & Balls, 6 Kim Tian Road, Singapore 169246, Tel: 6276 6609
The flash is over-powering the rest of the photo. I recommend at least a compact digital camera that will allow you to adjust the flash power to help balance the light.
uchon Joel Robuchon – the world’s most Michelin-starred chef, who owns Joel Robuchon Restaurant and L’Atelier Joel Robuchon in Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) as well as several others around the world – was in town for the RWS Food Affair in September, where he crafted a course for the RWS Celebrity Chefs Dinner that included Iron Chef Cat Cora. Known for his touches on haute-French cuisine, his menu during the Food Affair comprised an intricate ten-course meal at his restaurant, as well as a caviar dish for the RWS Celebrity Chefs Dinner.
Bonjour Monsieur Robuchon, it is nice to meet you. Can you tell us about your upcoming plans? Well, we are currently planning for a Christmas menu with foie gras, turkey, ham, etc. But it is way too early to say exactly what. We are also opening a new restaurant in Bordeaux, and I hope I can earn another three stars! How often do you change your menu in Singapore? We change the menu seasonally
Step 2: Control your flash setting with compact digital camera We’ve seen it all before when we use our handphone’s flash: the glaring highlights
but, of course, there are certain items on the menu we can never remove! It’s like going to a shoe store and finding that your favourite shoe is out of your size. People will clamour for it. Do you think that Singapore should have a Michelin guide? Yes! It is surprising to me that Singapore does not have it. Hong Kong has it, Paris, etc. It’s about time for Singapore to have one too and, of course, I hope my restaurants here can get starred too!
More than 500 wines at International Wine Fair The Cold Storage International Wine Fair was back again from Oct 1 to 7. A number of these great wines are still available
More than 500 wine labels were on sale at the Cold Storage International Wine Fair 2013, held at VivoCity, including 45 new French labels, 45 new Italian labels, and a range of organic and sulphite-free wines showcased for the first time. Up to 50 per cent of the wines were exclusive to Cold Storage. French Wines The 45 new French labels included pickings from
Italian Wines The 45 new Italian labels made it a total of 70 Italian wines. Among them were affordable quality choices from the likes of Trulli’s, and Paparazzi, that range from $12.95 to $100. A bubbly to look out for was the Paparazzi’s Prosecco Superiore Millesimato 2011 ($39.50) that is produced in Valdobbiadene, Veneto. Featuring light straw-yellow hue and a delicate bouquet full of exotic fruits, peach and melon, the prosecco is soft, harmonious and aromatic. New World Wines Among the best of the New World wines is Tiki Estate from New Zealand, which is committed to sustainable winegrowing and produces award-winning wines. Its highly acclaimed Tiki Single Vineyard Marlborough Pinot Gris 2011 ($46) and Tiki Estate Waipara Pinot Gris 2011 ($37) both swept
which simply blast away any detail or texture of the food. To avoid that, you need to be able to control the flash. That’s why, I always carry a compact digital camera. Even the most basic compact digital cameras have the ability to control the flash setting, which can reduce or increase the flash intensity to balance out the ambient lighting in Step 1. Balance simply means that the flash should not overpower the other available light. [See example]. There is a setting on every camera which reduces or increases the intensity of the flash easily. This feature may not be easily available on phonecams. Step 3: Take lots of variations The final and surest way to take better pictures is to do what the pros do. Take about six to ten variations of the same scene, then delete the ones you don’t like. In each shot, make sure you adjust the flash in small increments; the “sweet spot” is where the flash from the camera will balance in harmony with the surrounding lighting.
Photo: Eileen Braybook; Creative Commons Licence
“...I hope my restaurants here can get starred too!”
respectable Bordeaux vineyards such as Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande and Château Giscours – both sold out last year.
RECIPE
Food photography seems to get be getting ever popular. Here are a few tips on how you can get it to look more appetising!
Healthy Bites If having a heavy egg-filled breakfast is not your kind of scene, Coq & Balls’ Baked Granola with Yogurt & Wild Forest Berries ($12) is a great alternative. We love the baked rolled oats and nuts in honey and Bulla yogurt topped with berries. Sometimes breakfast needs to be sweet, yet healthy. If you’re in the mood for something savoury, try their Chicken Mango Salad ($14) – a roasted chicken breast salad with fresh mangoes and romaine lettuce in honey mustard dressing, sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. You can also get this as a wrap if you prefer. For dessert, Coq & Balls has brought in a selection of pies from Windowsill Pies. If you’re familiar with them, you would know that they have interesting names and are tasty as well. W
We had a quick catch-up with him on his thoughts and plans.
(Part 1 of a series)
FOODMANIA
up double gold medals at the prestigious 2013 San Francisco International Wine Competition. There were other pickings from Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Chile and the UK. Organic & Sulphite-Free Wines To cater to customers’ increasing preference for organic products, Cold Storage also introduced a selection of wines that are free from sulphites and additives, and are grown in accordance with principles of organic farming, so as to better reflect the subtle nuances of terroir. French label Naturae, produced by Gérard Bertrand (European Winery of the Year in January 2012 by US magazine Wine Enthusiast), offered award-winning sulphites- and additives-free wines from the South of France’s terroir in Languedoc Roussillon. Visitors enjoyed free wine samplings and opportunities to talk to winemakers and experts who had specially flown in. A number of the wines are still available after the fair. Check with Cold Storage on which ones are still available.
The photographer used a strong light from the background window and the camera’s flash from the front to balance it out. Compared to the previous image, the use of flash is more pleasing. Don’t forget to take multiple shots and adjust the power of the flash incrementally, and choose the best one.
Grilled Garlic Prawns If you are a fan of food or cooking, rejoice! Chef Sean Connolly of On the Grill, on the Asian Food Channel, shares his recipe with us Chef Sean Connolly is known for On the Grill, on the Asian Food Channel. He has kindly shared with us his recipe for very yummy Grilled Garlic Prawns. Ingredients • 150g prawns, de-veined • 160g unsalted butter • 1 small shallot, finely minced • 2 garlic cloves, finely minced • 1 handful of fresh, chopped parsley • Salt & pepper, to taste • 35ml of Pernod Method • In a heated pan, over medium heat, add
the butter and fry the shallots and the garlic. • Reduce the heat, and then cook until the aromatics have softened. • Increase the heat of the pan, and add in the prawns. • When the prawns are almost cooked through, add the Pernod and then flambé the prawns. • Once the flame has died down add the salt and pepper, to taste. • Just before serving, add the fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
08 • WEEKENDER • OCTOBER 11 - 17, 2013
TECH
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS
For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
SPOT THE DIFFERENCE
BY GUINEVERE SOFER
Phone cam or Digital Cam?
Tech Bytes These bits and bytes make you the most tech-savvy Lenovo Miix
Let’s zoom into the details. Two similar pictures using zooms captured with two very different cameras: one a phone cam, the other a compact digital cam.
The Lenovo Miix is a 10.1-inch Windows 8 tablet with a PC processor, perfect for entertainment and productivity on the go. Sporting a “quick-flip” detachable folio case with an integrated AccuType keyboard, the Lenovo Miix instantly switches between PC mode and tablet mode to quickly adapt to user’s needs. Weighing in at approximately 0.5 kilograms and measuring just 10mm thin, it’s a perfect fit for today’s consumer who needs one integrated device for work and play.
Can you tell which photo was taken with which and why the pictures look so different?
Sony Walkman
Picture A
The new Walkman WH Series brings you the best of Sony – speakers, headphones, and digital music player – in a wire-free design. The WH Series can also be used as comfortable headphones through the use of its supplied cable for easy listening. For the NWZ-WH505, it is capable of music playback of up to 20 hours, and has a built-in storage of 16GB, which allows for up to 4,000 tracks. Retails at $249 in all Sony stores and authorised dealers.
Picture B
See Page 4 for answers.
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Photographer’s Review:
Canon Pixma MG 7170 As a serious photography enthusiast, Danny Santos II always believes that having the ability to print your photos is a necessity. He tells us why By Danny Santos II
The Canon Pixma MG7170 prints great photos every time
“You can be sure that your prints won’t turn yellowish after a few months.” Don't let the great shots you take turn out badly when printed
S
eeing your photographs in hard copy is just so much better than looking at it in the monitor. It also enables you to edit and analyse your images more easily, especially when you're working on sequencing a group of photographs, or even just archiving your best work. Sure, high-definition printers can cost an arm and a leg but nowadays there are more practical and, in fact, more efficient ways. Enter the Canon Pixma MG7170. I'm sort of a gadget geek, so I easily get excited with new gadgets in the market, especially when features that I haven't seen or tried before are introduced. Recently, I got my hands on the Canon Pixma MG7170 and, reading through its features, I couldn't wait to try it out. But when I took it out of the box and placed it in the corner of my room, the first thing I noticed was its modern design. I thought to myself, that’s a thing of beauty. First Impressions The first things I appreciated were the little things, like when the out tray automatically opens up by itself when it’s printing. That was pretty slick. Another smart feature that Canon put here is the Intelligent Touch System which selectively shows you the buttons for the options you need for a particular task. I worked as a User Interface Designer for more than a decade and I can definitely say that this is best practice in the industry.
Wireless Printing through Wi-Fi Usually, whenever I get a new printer, I have to rearrange my furniture in the room to make sure that the printer is located near the computer, particularly because the USB cable from the printer needs to reach the computer. Now, with wireless printing, I can put the printer anywhere I want. I can even put it in the kitchen if I wanted to. This sort of convenience is gold in my book. And, setting it up with Wi-Fi was surprisingly a breeze. More wireless options A new Access Point Mode has been introduced in these printers, and it is designed to answer the increasing demand for ad-hoc wireless printing between wireless digital capture devices and printers, without the need to connect them via a signal broadcast by a wireless router. This means that a visiting friend will be able to make use of your printer without you having to disclose the security pass phrase for your home
wireless network. For users with wireless digital cameras that support the DPS over IP protocol, or Wireless PictBridge as it is more commonly known, they will also be able to send their photos wirelessly to the Canon Pixma MG7170 wirelessly, over a local wireless network, without the need to connect the devices with data transfer cables. Printing Online Photos One of the features that piqued my interest was the ability to print photos from your online sites like Flickr, Facebook, Twitter and Picasa. Ever since I started photography five years ago, I uploaded all of my good photos in Flickr. So, I have a huge archive of photos online, and it's now instantly available for print with the Canon Pixma MG7170. Now, if I need a certain image printed, I don’t have to dig into my computer archives; I can just access Flickr through my printer. Though, I noticed that it takes a wee bit of time for the photos to be processed and printed... but after seeing the photos, the wait was worth it. Printing through Mobile Devices This one seems like something out of a futuristic movie. Just whip out your iPhone and start printing photos from there. Of course, you’ll need to install the free app in your smart device, the Pixma Printing Solutions. Although I don’t find myself using this feature much, since I prefer to print properly-processed photos, the convenience to print personal or family pictures is priceless. It is almost like a modern day polaroid: just shoot and print. If I were to have a party at my house, I can see myself taking a few photos, printing it in real-time, and giving it out for novelty’s sake.
surprised by how good the photos came out. I love how it shows even the smallest of details in the photos. It’s good enough that it will do your best photos justice. Good enough for your portfolio, for trading prints, and definitely for just appreciating your works of art. This is all thanks to the six-colour individual ink tank system with 1pl ink droplet and 9,600dpi resolution. It also boasts the Chromalife 100+ Photo System for better reproduction of colour as well as long-lasting photos which could be preserved, up to 300 years guaranteed. You can be sure that your prints won’t turn yellowish after a few months.
Note: Video calling will not be supported on BlackBerry, Windows Phones, Nokia phones, or feature phones.
Other Features The features I listed above are my favourite features of this new gadget. In addition to this, it still has a host of other functionalities, like the multi-card slot for photo direct print (JPEG) and direct scan of PDF/ JPEG files to memory card, direct print to CD, and the auto photo fix function – handy for personal or family photos. The Verdict The Canon Pixma MG7170 is definitely a great addition to my workflow. The convenience of having to print wirelessly from my computer, from my mobile device, and from online sites like Flickr makes it easy for us photographers so that we can focus more on taking good images. Printing is no longer a chore. For print quality, I’ve always believed that photographers should print out their photos to better gauge the quality of their image. This printer will definitely serve that purpose as it does your artwork justice.
Printing through E-mail I’ve seen this in the Canon Pixma MG7170 commercial, and I can see myself doing the same thing: you’re travelling somewhere and you see something you like and want to share it with your loved one. Take a quick photo, and then send it to your printer in your room by E-mail. Better yet, take a selfie with the words “Missing You”. Print Quality Now, we come to the most important feature of the printer for me: its print quality for photos. To be honest, I wasn’t expecting much since this is basically an all-in-one print/scan/copy device. If I want a high-definition fine art print, I would go to the professionals. But, I have to say, I was
Line 3.9.0
LINE 3.9.0 version unveils “Snap Movie” and video call. Snap Movie, a video recording and sharing feature, allows users to create 4-10 seconds of personalised video clips with their choice of background music. Users can post the video clips on their Home and Timeline, or on other social networking platforms as well. With LINE’s new video call feature, users can have real-time one-on-one video communication anywhere. Users can also switch between video and voice any time during the call.
Even the smallest of details are reproducted clearly by the Canon MG7170
Twitter Alerts
Imagine you are touring a country and an earthquake occurs, and you’re subscribed to one of the organisations (Red Cross, World Health Organisation, etc.) that use Twitter Alerts. You’ll be able to receive Twitter notifications and SMSes for accurate and reliable information so as to be better informed on which places to avoid, etc. Twitter Alerts is a new feature offered to users to provide useful and important messaging during times of crisis: emergency evacuations, natural disasters or when other forms of communications are inaccessible. Public service agencies and non-governmental organisations already make use of Twitter to share information or make a public announcements. Twitter Alerts can be their alternative option for them to communicate with their followers or customers during times of crisis. For example, if a governmental organisation needs to share information about an imminent haze coming the country’s way, Twitter Alerts can help assist them and send out a notification to relevant parties. Twitter Alerts is opening up a partners programme to enrol organisations who wish to provide critical information to the general public in times of crisis. Learn more here: blog.twitter.com/2013/introducingtwitter-alerts
october 11 - 17, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 09
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
AntiOxidant
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HEALTH & BEAUTY
“Taking the right supplements can help slow and prevent free radicals from taking over...” proanthocyandins (OPCs), a group of flavonoids found in pine bark, grape seed, grape skin, bilberry, cranberry, black currant, green tea, black tea and other plants that have shown to strengthen capillaries in double-blind research, using as little as two 50mg tablets a day. French researchers reported reduced symptoms in women with chronic venous insufficiency – a condition where the veins cannot pump oxygen-poor blood back into the heart – with a total of 150mg a day. Alpha Lipoic Acid Their Alpha Lipoic Acid supplement is a powerful natural antioxidant. Trials have found that supplementing with 6001200mg of lipoic acid a day improves symptoms of diabetic nerve damage. In a preliminary study, supplementing with 600mg
of alpha lipoic acid a day for 18 months slowed the progression of kidney damage in people with Type 1 diabetes. Pycnogenol Holland & Barrett also has Pycnogenol, a high quality maritime pine bark extract sourced from pine trees found in sustainable forests in the southwest of France. It naturally has OPCs and can help with hypertension by reducing diastolic blood pressure and improving some measures of kidney function in hypertensive patients. Who Needs AntiOxidants Almost everyone and anyone needs antioxidants in their diet. People who especially need antioxidants include those with stressful, busy lifestyles, or who are exposed to a polluted environment, or flight attendants
who are constantly exposed to UV radiation, or smokers, or even athletes, as exercise can increase free radical activity. People on restricted diets or who have poor diets are also in need of antioxidants. To ensure sufficient consumption of this important health supplement, head down to one of Holland & Barrett’s 23 outlets including at CityLink Mall, #B1-51, 313@Somerset, #B3-08, VivoCity, #B2-27A or Wisma Atria, #B1-47 to get some today. W
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10 • WEEKENDER • OCtober 11 - 17, 2013
TRAVELATION SPECIAL FEATURE
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
from red dot to Red planet:
where no one has gone before One-way ticket to Mars, anyone? Three Singaporeans have signed up for this maiden voyage from which there is no return By Cheryl Chia
F
or years, popular media has bombarded us with images of aliens invading the Earth. The reverse is about to occur. Human beings will, for the first time ever, colonise another planet. For the intrepid voyagers on this mission, it will be a one way trip – there is no return. Mars-One is a non-profit organisation that hopes to establish the first human settlement on Mars by 2023, with the guidance of advisors and prospective suppliers to create a viable place for humans to live. Mars-One will fund the mission, from sponsorship to broadcasting rights of every aspect of this mission – astronaut selection, training in a Mars-like mockup and eventually humanity’s first step on Mars. These space settlers’ lives on the Red Planet will be filmed and broadcast. This is truly an unprecedented and historic initiative.
Singaporean Space Voyagers More than 78,000 applicants from all over the world have registered to be one of the first human settlers on Mars. Out of the many thousands, at least three applicants are from our sunny red dot of Singapore. Choo Peng Hong, a 39-year-old adventure course centre manager, Roy Chan, a 34-year-old polytechnic lecturer, and another man known only by his first
name, Robinson, a 54-year-old man with grown-up children, are attempting to fly the Singapore flag on a new, uncharted frontier – Mars. Roy says, on his decision to apply, “I feel it is the most awesome thing – on one hand to be able to serve mankind by being a pioneer in space exploration to the planet Mars, like how our early forefathers who came from all parts of the region to Singapore to develop the country, and on another hand to be able to realise my childhood dream of being an astronaut [and] having the experience of floating in zero-gravity environment.” “Mars-One allows me the opportunity to fulfil these two purposes,” he says. Most Coveted One-Way Trip Dr Norbert Kraft, Mars-One Chief Medical Officer says, “Applicants we have received come from a very wide range of personalities, professions and ages. This is significant because what we are looking for is not restricted to a particular background. “From Round 1, we will take forward the most committed creative, resilient and motivated applicants,” he explains. The first round of selection ended in August and the selected candidates will undergo an intensive six to eight years of training to prepare themselves for the harsh living conditions in a simulated environment of Mars. From their online profiles, it is
apparent that both Choo Peng Hong and Roy Chan are fans of science-fiction, and have been interested in the concept of space travel, which prompted their application to the Mars-One initiative. Alien Ambassadors? Roy speaks of his intentions should he be selected: “I want to foster goodwill by making an entirely new living environment where humans will live in harmony and peace without conflicts and desire in the form of greed.” “Everybody will be invested in a common goal, which is the development of the planet Mars into an even more habitable and friendlier living environment for our future generations to come. I feel, that is my purpose in life, in tandem with my ambition,” he elaborates. Should one of these three bold Singaporeans finally make it into space, it would also be a historic moment for Singapore. “By being the first Singaporean astronaut, I hope to inspire more Singaporeans to become interested in space aeronautics and exploration as well,” says Roy. We wish all three Singaporean astronauts-to-be well and hope that they will play a part in making history. W Visit www.mars-one.com for more information on the project.
“Out of the FAQs for Living on Mars thousands, Here are some burning questions about humanity’s possible future at least on the Red Planet, and the answers from Mars-One three are from our sunny red dot of Singapore.” Why Mars, of all places?
If these Singaporeans make it to Mars, they will be able to talk to anyone from Earth with a 20min delay
After Earth, Mars is the most habitable planet in our solar system. Its soil contains water and the temperature on its surface is manageable. There is enough sunlight to use solar panels and its gravity is 38 per cent that of Earth’s, which is sufficient for the human body to adapt to in good time. It has an atmosphere, albeit a thin one, offering some shielding from radiation from the cosmos. The only other celestial bodies close enough from Earth are our Moon and Venus. There are far fewer resources on the Moon than on Mars, and one Moon day lasts a whole Earth month. It also does not have an
atmosphere to form a barrier against radiation or small meteoroids. Venus, among other things, is too hot at 400 degrees centigrade. What will the participants do on Mars?
The settlers will spend their time exploring the Martian surface, doing experiments, construction work and farming. This will be in addition to regular system operations including health and fitness evaluations, monitoring of all systems parameters and conferences with mission control. Why not choose experienced astronauts?
Astronauts, as we have known them from the space-faring
missions until now, are often pilots, medical doctors, science payload experts or engineers. For a crew that will permanently settle on Mars, the most important skill is their ability to function in a group. The best individuals fulfilling such criteria can be found in all backgrounds. Of course, they need to be healthy and smart. Mars-One will train the astronauts for seven years: long enough to learn to solve any medical and mechanical problems and to grow their own food. Why settle on Mars permanently? isn’t there a way back?
There is no way to go back. Going to Mars is a decision that you make for the rest of your life. The technology for a return mission does not exist.
October 11 - 17, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 11
For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
YEAR-END HOLIDAY SPECIAL
don’t snooze & Lose: book your holidaY NOW!
TRAVELATION Greater comfort for pregnant passengers Pregnant and travelling? This amenity kit will make your journey more pleasant
Book your year-end vacation before it’s too late. Here are some of the best promotions to make it a great holiday for you and your loved ones Cruise to Malaysia & Thailand on Mariner of the Seas
Nothing can replace the joy you share as a family; book before it’s too late
Visit Sun Moon Lake, and savour Taiwanese treats
NEW SHAN: TASTY TAIWAN New Shan Travel Service’s 8D Taiwan – China Airlines Charter Flights package is a tasty treat of scenery and local cuisine. In Taipei, visit Leofoo Village Theme Park, Chiufen, Shihlin Night Market, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall and the 101 Shopping Mall. Also, visit the hot spring as well as experience orchard fruit-picking in Taitung, and the eye-opening Feng Jia Night Market, Sun Moon Lake and Wen Wu Temple in Taichung, and much more. You will also get to enjoy various delicious cuisines including Hakka, Taiwan, high tea, Tainan local delights, and a special steamboat meal. Please note, this tour is conducted in Mandarin, and there is compulsory tipping for the local guide and driver at NT$700 per person, and compulsory tipping for the tour leader at S$16 per person. The departures are on Nov 30 and Dec 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20 and 21. The prices for adult are $1,388 for twin-sharing, or $1,688 for single, and prices for child are $1,388 for half twin-sharing, $1,328 with bed, and $1,188 with no bed. Book now and you can save up to $400 per person, first come first serve. Terms and conditions apply. Contact New Shan Travel Service for a variety of other holiday packages. New Shan Travel Service Pte Ltd, 20, Maxwell Road, Maxwell House, #01-02, Singapore 069113, Tel: 6481 1181 (Maxwell House) / 6745 9333 (City Plaza), www. newshan.com Sledging fun on the Swiss Alps
EU HOLIDAYS: STUNNING USA, EUROPE, KOREA OR JAPAN EU Holidays is an award-winning travel operator for Europe yet has a broad range of packages, to the USA, Korea or Japan. The 12D USA Western Delight covers San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge, Los Angeles including Disneyland and Universal Studios, Las Vegas and the Nevada and Arizona areas,
and Carmel, the second mission in California under Spanish reign. You’re sure to be stunned by the raw beauty of the New World. EU Holiday’s popular 11D Europe Highlight includes a free hotel upgrade at Lakeside Hotel at Lucerne, and bonus inclusions of ascension to the Eiffel Tower’s second level without queue, and a scenic Amsterdam Canal Cruise. Some of the main sites include the Duomo Cathedral and La Scala Opera House in Milan, Champs Elysees, Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre Museum in Paris, and the famous Black Forest region in Germany. If that is not exciting enough for you, EU Holiday’s amazing 13D Italy-Switzerland-Paris includes free upgrade in hotels to 5-star at Interlaken, at Beau Rivage / Victoria Jungfrau, the Hilton at the French Riviera, and Lakeside Hotel at Lake Lucerne. Bonus inclusions are entrance to the Coliseum, a Vatican City tour of St Peter’s Basilica, the Montreux Marché de Noël Christmas Market, and ascension to the Eiffel Tower’s second level without queue. Among the special exclusives only for EU Holidays customers is the enjoyment of sledging on the Swiss Alps on the longest snow route in Switzerland (5-star rating by Trip Advisor). Highlights of the tour include the cities of Rome and Paris and their world-famous monuments, Venice and its arresting waterways, and Siena, the picturesque mediaeval village. EU Holiday’s 7D5N Premium Hunt of Hokkaido is an eyeopening package. Highlights include a scenery train (with limitations in winter), Hakodate Seafood Market, Tropical Garden with the Snow Monkeys, and Sounkyo Waterfalls. You’ll also go to the popular photo-stop of the Otaru Canal, and see the Glass House with unique glassware, and the Otaru Music Museum, with the world’s smallest and biggest musical box. 7D6N Winter Korea + Jeju allows you to experience the unique Ice Gallery, a scenic cable car ride, sheep feeding, D-I-Y cheese-making, and ski lesson by a guide. You’ll also get to visit theme parks such as the Snow Park, Everland and Lotte World. Visit the traditional Koreanstyle Bukchon Hanok Village and experience D-I-Y Kimchi, and savour Korean cuisine with ginseng chicken, roasted mackerel, squid and pork bulgogi, a seafood buffet, bibimbap, shabu shabu and much more! EU Holidays Pte Ltd, 150 South Bridge Road, Fook Hai Building, #01- 06, Singapore 058727, Tel: 6307 7878
CITYSTATE: MALAYSIA & THAILAND ON CRUISE Citystate Travel offers a fun and thoroughly-relaxing journey on board a cruise ship. Another Voyager Class ship of Royal Caribbean International, “Mariner of the Seas”, will be offering cruises between three to five nights, to Malaysia and Thailand. This 15-deck Mariner of the Seas is the sister ship of “Voyager of the Seas”. With a total capacity of 3,807 guests, she is the largest cruise liner based in Asia. In addition to innovative features such as the Royal Promenade, an ice skating rink and a rock-climbing wall, there are popular dining options such as Johnny Rockets and Chops Grille Steak Restaurant, and the new Boardwalk Dog House and Giovanni’s Table. For entertainment and activities, there is complimentary Broadway-style entertainment in the Main Theatre, complimentary ice skating shows, and 15 bars, clubs, and lounges. For kids and families, there is a complimentary DreamWorks Experience with memorable moments such as parades, meet and greets and even dining with your favourite characters from Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda and more. Citystate Travel’s 3N Best of Malaysia Cruise, from $387, departs on Nov 15, 22 or 29, or Dec 6, 13 or 20. The port of call is Port Klang. The 4N Isles of Southeast Asia Cruise, from $448, departs on Nov 18 or 25, or Dec 2, 9 or 16. The ports of call are Port Klang and Phuket. Citystate Travel’s 5N Spice of Southeast Asia Cruise, from $500, departs on Nov 10, or Dec 23 or 28. The ports of call are Port Klang, Penang and Phuket. All these packages are available for booking only until Oct 21 latest. Citystate Travel, Cruise Line: 6222 9222, E-mail: tour@citystate. travel, Website: www.citystate. travel/holidays TRAFALGAR: SUNNY FLORIDA & EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS From the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Everglades, to the island revelry of Key West, to the Old World charm of St Augustine, Trafalgar’s Florida Sunshine Trail 2013 has it all. Insider experiences include an intimate evening with a Cuban host as he closes his restaurant for you and transports you from Miami to Havana, Cuba, for a charming night of Cuban music, drinks and cuisine. Also, participate in the demonstration of the making of a local speciality, Key Lime Pie. The ‘last minute’ promotional price is US$2,336, and departure is on Nov 9. Trafalgar also has Christmas itineraries to Germany, London, Paris and Switzerland. Trafalgar Tours, 600 North Bridge Road, Parkview Square, #06-06, Singapore 188778, Tel: 6295 6383 ASIA-EURO: hokkaido fun Asia-Euro Holidays has an 8D6N Hokkaido Snow Fun Tour + Bangkok Stay. The usual for the package is $2,088, but it is now only $1,888 + $451 airport and fuel taxes, after discount. You’ll fly by Thai Airways, and there are group departures on Dec 9 and 16. The package includes four nights’ accommodation based on twin-sharing in Hokkaido and two nights’ accommodation based on twin-sharing in Bangkok. Tour highlights include a Sapporo City Tour, the Otaru Canal, the Otaru Music Box Museum, Tomamu Ski Resort, Noboribetsu Ainu Village, Edo Wonderland, and onsen (hot spring). The price excludes the guide and driver tips per person per day
of 600 Yen in Japan and S$10 in Bangkok. Asia-Euro Holidays Pte Ltd, 133 New Bridge Road, Chinatown Point, #03-08, Singapore 059413, Tel: 6338 5566, www.aeholidays.com
Experience the majestic Grand Canyon sunset
APPLE TOURS: THE WOW WEST Apple Tours has an extensive and awe-inspiring 13D USA Western Romance package that covers San Francisco, the Mojave Desert, Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon, and Los Angeles. Highlights include a Grand Canyon Overnight Experience with spectacular sunset and sunrise views, as well as the B-21 Cavern at Route 66, shopping at the Gilroy Premium Outlets and the two big theme parks of Disneyland and Universal Studios City. There are departures on Nov 24 and 28, and Dec 6, 12 and 19. The price is from $2,888. Book quickly. Apple Tours, 101 People’s Park Centre, B1-17F, Singapore 058357, Tel: 6736 2736, www. appletours.com.sg Please Note: Packages & prices are subject to changes, and availability. Contact the agent as soon as possible.
From Oct 1, Korean Air has begun providing a complimentary inflight amenity kit for pregnant passengers traveling from Korea to all its international destinations. The newly-launched amenity kit for pregnant passengers consists of an organic blackberry foot cream, an organic skin care cream, sleeping socks made of organic cotton, tea for relieving morning sickness and a bag accessory for pregnant women. Organic & Eco Concept All the skin care products and
sleeping socks are made of organic materials with consideration for pregnant passengers' health, and tea for relieving morning sickness has been selected from one of the most popular organic Korean brands called ‘The Organic’. The special bag accessory helps passengers to notify of their pregnancy when it is in the early stage, and the pouch of the kit has been designed with an eco-concept to be environmentally-friendly. Going the Extra Mile In order to obtain and make use of the amenity kit, passengers are to notify the airline about their pregnancy when making a reservation for their tickets. Once on board, the cabin crew will provide the kit as well as dedicated service. In launching the new amenity kit and service, Korean Air plans to lessen the fatigue of air travel for pregnant passengers.
Air France goes upmarket Air France has unveiled its new offer in Economy and Premium Economy classes Air France has unveiled its new products and services in its Premium Economy and Economy cabin classes, as part of its move upmarket for its customers. MORE comfort & detail In Economy class, there is a new fully-revised seat, with more legroom, a new seat cushion, more comfortable headrests and a wider tray table. The seat has been ergonomically redesigned to guarantee optimum comfort. In Premium Economy, there are more comfortable seat cushions and a multi-position footrest. For entertainment, wide touch screens with HD images will soon be available, with over 1,000 hours of music, movies, TV series and many other programmes available on demand.
New Meal Service & Tableware Since Sep 1, the meal service has been upgraded, with a second hot dish and new gourmet offer. Passengers travelling on longhaul flights in the Premium Economy and Economy cabins have been enjoying meals from the new tableware collection by Eugeni Quitllet and IPI. This new range by the Catalan designer adds a refreshing touch. Thanks to the lighter weight, this full eco-designed tableware and accompanying tray reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 30 per cent. from 2014 From Summer 2014, Air France will equip 44 Boeing 777 in its long-haul fleet with the new seats and entertainment systems.
12 • WEEKENDER • October 11 - 17, 2013
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