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New! Great EggVenture 18-20 Apr, $118 (Adult), $93 (Child), $81 (Senior) The Great EggVenture will see you flying to and from Mount Faber, across the Harbour Front and onto Sentosa Island, in search of 100 giant eggs! These are no ordinary eggs in a basket. Some 200 local artists from various associations, charity groups, independent labels and schools will be showcasing their unique interpretations of these Easter Eggs which measure 1.5 metres by 1 metre. Get ready to hunt through the nooks and crannies of the Sentosa-HarbourFront precinct for these 1.5 by 1 metre giant eggs and stand to win attractive prizes. If an egg hunt isn’t your thing, you could simply take pleasure
things to do
this easter
in admiring these creativelydesigned eggs at this first-ever local ‘eggstravaganza’! Various locations, www.rwsentosablog.com
New! Free! (Some activities are chargeable) Sentosa Egg Fiesta 18-20 Apr, 10.30am-6.30pm This fiesta is for the young and the young at heart! Look forward to a fun-filled weekend at the Emerald Pavilion with plenty of ‘egg-citing’ activities, from walking on eggs at the secret garden trail to an egg design competition. Check out local delight Mata Lembul, the egg mural wall designed by talented local artist Samantha Lo! Siloso Beach, Emerald Pavilion, www.sentosa.com.sg New! Colourful Notes Egg-Cellent Day Camp 19 Apr, 10am-2pm, $118 A half day of fun and learning at the Egg-cellent Day Camp for children to experience Easter in a special manner. The kids will get to enjoy a day of art and crafts and musical
games, plus, a special Easter egg hunt to bring the day to a perfect end. Aliwal Arts Centre, 28 Aliwal Street, #03-07, Tel: 6444 9989, www.colourfulnotes.com new! Ocean Dream: Sleepover at S.E.A. Aquarium 19-20 Apr, 5pm (Sat)–10am (Sun), $138 (Adult), $118 (Child & Senior), $468 (Family Package) At this Eggs-tra special sleepover programme, hunt for elusive golden eggs, undergo an Eggstreme Makeover, and “gear up” real eggs for an Eggstreme drop challenge. Also presenting you a chance to catch the S.E.A.A Bunny dive underwater so remember your camera. Resort World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, www.rwsentosa.com
new! Easter at The White Rabbit 2014 20 Apr, 10.30am–1.30pm, $58 onwards Back for its fifth year, The White Rabbit presents an Easter Sunday special with special fun and games for kids. What’s more, children below 6 years old eat free! Enjoy a scrumptious Sunday Roast and divine desserts from the kitchen of The White Rabbit. The White Rabbit, 39C Harding Road, www.thewhiterabbit.com
New! Go-Go Bambini Easter Celebration 20 Apr, 11am-5pm, $12 onwards Let the kids run wild at Go-Go Bambini this Easter and let them enjoy a full range of egg-citing activities too! Find hidden eggs at the heights of the 4-storey playground, get a beautiful kid-friendly glitter tattoo, or get creative with a bit of egg decorating. Block 8 Dempsey Road, www.gogobambini.com New! Kidz Hard Rocking Easter Party and Buffet Lunch 20 Apr, 12-5pm, $22++ (Child), $68++ (Adults) Feast on a variety of dishes from Asia and beyond, that will satisfy all cravings. Traditional Easter leg of lamb will be served up at the carving table. Watch out for the bunny and his basket-full of chocolate eggs too! Face painting, magic show and egg hunt will give children a good time. Starz Restaurant, Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, 8 Sentosa Gateway, www.rwsentosa.com
Where music meets food
Sungha Jung
Come watch a star-studded line up of the most talented ukulele players around, and grab good bites too
Sungha Jung (Korea) The South Korean finger-style guitarist whose YouTube channel boasts an impressive 2.5 million subscribers will be one of the star attractions at Ukulele Festival. He has performed with a series of superstars who have appreciated his online covers and has been fittingly named “Guitar Prodigy”. In 2010, he released his debut
New! Iconic Easter Until 20 Apr, various timing and prices Fulfil your childhood Easter cravings at the Shangri-La Hotel Fashion Collection. Experience creations of master-chefs as the present their expert Easter Egg designs.The family of Easter eggs are dressed in both traditional and modern designs. Shangri-La Hotel,Orange Grove Road, Singapore 258350, www.slsrewards.com. sg/iconiceaster
NEW! a hoppity Easter with spca & au chocolat 19 Apr, 11am-7pm, various times & prices Spend a meaningful Easter Saturday at a fundraising collaboration between SPCA and Au Chocolat. Au Chocolat’s exclusive Easter goodies include festive pralines, lollipops and Easter-themed cookies. Part of the proceeds will be donated to SPCA. City Square Mall, 180 Kitchener Road, www.auchocolat.com
New! Easter in the Park 20 Apr, 12-3pm, $68++ (Adults), $34++ (Child), free for children below 4 Celebrate this Easter with
Ukulele Festival 2014: Singapore’s first-ever Ukulele Festival will soon be held at Palawan Beach in Sentosa. The Ukulele Festival will feature both international and local artistes, and there will also be an Open Mic Segment, stage games and lucky draws. Grill N’ Chill will also be serving platters of good food for the event. Here are some of the star performers at the event.
your family! Adults can enjoy a scrumptious buffet at Fort Canning Hotel’s airconditioned Grand Marquee while the children will be kept entertained at the Kid’s corner with a piñata fiesta, easter egg hunt and a meet-andgreet session with Nico and Pedro from the Rio movies. Hotel Fort Canning, 11 Canning Walk, www.hfcsingapore.com
album, Perfect Blue, and has produced three more since. He has also been recognised for his angelic voice, following his performance at a concert in Bangkok where he sang “Why Georgia”. James Hill & Anne JANELLE (Canada) Equal parts disarming, captivating and mind-blowing, is how many would describe a performance by James Hill. The Canadian Folk Music Awardwinning legend has performed in the most prestigious of places such as The Kennedy Centre in Washington DC and The 40th Ukulele Festival in Hawaii. James is accompanied by cellist/singer Anne Janelle who performs seamless harmony vocals and cello lines.
RJ & Alan (Philippines/ Malaysia) Alan Soo is a ukulele enthusiast turned instructor, who has performed in numerous events. He is joined by RJ Arroyo, a sponsored artiste and aspiring comedian who has written jingles and cheers for schools and politicians in the Philippines.
Polkadot & Moonbeam and friends (Aus/SG) Since their collaboration in 2010, the duo have performed their original works and covers of contemporary classics in Australia, Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. Catch them with their friends in
this special showcase. Jack & Rai (SG) These two well-known musicians found each other to form an acoustic rock and blues duo with a chemistry that borders on telepathic. Jack & Rai have found success not only in Singapore but around the world.
Don’t miss Singapore’s first Ukulele Festival! Come on down to Palawan Beach in Sentosa on May 3, 4pm, for a party with great music and food. The event is free!
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fun from 4.30pm and will be giving away prizes. The Cathay, Handy Road, www.cathaycineplexes.com. sg/promo-detail.aspx?id=889
Check out these events & activities happening this week
New! Free! Food & Electronic Fiesta 2014 Until 20 Apr, 11am–9pm Attention all bargain hunters! Food & Electronics Fiesta brings you another awesome 4 days of exclusive deals in gourmet delights and electronics galore! Check out an array of new gadgets and great electronic bargains and local delights, comfort food and some international cuisine. Singapore Expo Hall 5, www.sphereexhibits.com.sg
new! Singapore Chinese Film Festival 2014 Until 27 Apr, 2-9pm, $13, $11 (Senior Citizens), $10 (Singapore Film Society and Unisim members) Organised by Singapore Film Society and SIM University, the Singapore Chinese Film
Festival returns with a lineup featuring the best of Chinese film at The Arts House. The Arts House, 1 Old Parliament Lane, www.sfs.org.sg/scff
New! Singapore Comedy Fringe 2014: Pre-emptive Strike Until 26 Apr, various timings, $38 onwards The inaugural Singapore Comedy Fringe 2014 will feature 30 comedians over 8 shows in 4 days of performing. A chance for audiences to witness comedic talents here in Singapore and Asia. The first Singapore Comedy Fringe promises to be an entertaining night of local and international comedy. DBS Arts Centre, 20 Merbau Road, www.sistic.com.sg
New! Free! Designing and Growing Small Edible Gardens 19 Apr, 9-10am Interested to grow your own plants at home but not sure how to or if you have the space for it? Get innovative and cost-efficient ideas on how to design and grow an edible garden with clean, fresh and nutritious herbs and vegetables that can be used for cooking. Lifestyle Corner, HortPark, 33 Hyderabad Road, www.nparks.gov.sg New! brick mansions parkour jam 19 Apr, 3pm onwards To celebrate the movie release of action film Brick Mansions, join in this exciting Parkour event. See gravity-defying Parkour stunts. Experience Parkour for yourself in one of the workshops conducted by Superfly Monkey Dragons. Participation is on a first-come-first-serve basis. Registration opens 30 mins before the workshop.HOT FM 91.3 DJs Chery Miles and Shan Wee will join in the
The next big thing in outdoor team sports Expect Ultimate to cast a wider net over Singapore’s sports fraternity… and beyond Ultimate. That’s the name of the game, and its popularity is slowly but surely growing in Singapore. You could have nonchalantly watched it played live in an open field, at a public park, or by the beach. ‘Ultimate’ is short for Ultimate Frisbee and the word is familiar to those in the sports fraternity.
Photo: Eric S Lim
Know the Game Ultimate’s instrument of play is a light plastic frisbee instead of a ball and it is played between two competing 7-a-side teams. A player with the frisbee stays put, looks out for his/her teammate at the far end where the opponent’s goal is, then tosses or flicks it to the teammate to catch, hopefully, and score. A fun game just like soccer, Ultimate is played by men and women, and teams can
also comprise both genders in the mixed division. For the curious Ultimate enthusiast, there is just one catch to the game: It is played without a referee, so a high level of integrity and sportsmanship is expected of every player. Rules in Place, not Referee If you watch an Ultimate game from the sidelines, you will likely notice two features stand out: the boisterous prompting and heckling from participants and spectators – all in good nature! – and the high level of sportsmanship. Ultimate stands on the premise that participants must always uphold the Spirit of the Game (SOTG), which is the game’s most important rule, according to the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF). The WFDF also lists five key pointers for players that ensure the game is enjoyed by all: • Know the rules • Avoid fouls and body contact • Be fair-minded and respectful • Have a positive attitude • Show self-control
Through the Years First played casually among expats in Singapore in the early 1990s, Ultimate has caught on in some clubs and schools here and currently has a following of about 1,000 fans; that number is likely to grow soon. Formed in 2000, the Ultimate Players Association (Singapore) (UPAS) promotes the sport through gender tournaments and corporate leagues. Apart from hosting the annual SUO tournament which attracts contestants from this region, UPAS raised Ultimate’s profile further by hosting the WFDF Asia-Oceanic Ultimate Club Championships 2013 at The Grandstand in Singapore last August. A recent check on its Facebook page revealed 1,712 likes. Going forward, the local Ultimate Frisbee community will compete at the WFDF 2014 World Ultimate Club Championships (WUCC), August 2–9 in Lecco, near Milan in Italy. Representing Singapore are the three teams: Shiok (Mixed), Crackerjacks (Men) and Sin City (Women). Visit the Ultimate Players Association (Singapore) website on Facebook at https://www.facebook. com/pages/UltimatePlayers-AssociationSingapore/135811716441205
Ultimate trivia: Ultimate frisbee has its roots in New Jersey, USA, way back in 1968. It was played among a group of high school students, one of whom was Robert Mittelsdorf, an American expat living in Singapore.
FREE! Pets Day Out 20 Apr, 9am-12pm Featuring a unique fashion show for 10 pets and owners that have submitted their photos. Pets cafe will be available for owners and their pets alike to indulge in gourmet food and drink and the first 20 participants will receive a free grooming session at the Pet Lovers Centre station. ION Level 1, 2 Orchard Turn, www.petsforlife.com.sg new! Social Free Flow Wine Night 22 Apr, 7-11pm, $70++ Enjoy a night of free-flow red and white Italian wine at Porta Porta. dWineExperience aims to provide wine events full of fun and fusion. Build new friendships and connections in a night of revelry! Porta Porta, 5 Stanley Street, www.dwineexperience.com New! Free! Spring/Summer fashion event @ Jem Until 4 May, 10am-10pm The inaugural kicks off with their first street parade conducted. Thereafter, Jem will put up weekly themed fashion displays around the mall showcasing seasonal merchandise from its retailers. There will also be consumer promotions. 52 Jurong Gateway Road, www.jem.com.sg Continued on Page 4
WEEKENDER VIP AND SILVER NAC TICKETS GIVEAWAY Win admission tickets, including 2 VIP tickets worth $808 each, to the National Achievers Congress (NAC) event! Weekender will be giving away a pair of VIP tickets worth $808 each and 5 pairs of Silver tickets worth $88 each to National Achievers Congress (NAC) 2014. The VIP ticket entitles you entry to the VIP lounge, with lunch provided for the three days. You will get the chance to attend a private and exclusive Q&A session with the speakers, including Nick Vujicic! You also get to bring home the workbook and wristband along with a success toolbox with your VIP or Silver ticket! TO WIN, SIMPLY SMS the word “Weekender”, your full name & E-mail address to 9035 4396: <Weekender> <Full Name> <E-mail Address> Tom Hopkins
CLOSING DATE: 24 APR 2014
Brendon Burchard
National Achievers Congress (NAC) 2014 30 May to 1 Jun, 9am – 11 pm (Fri & Sat), 8am – 7pm (Sun) Renowned motivational speakers such as Nick Vujicic and Tom Hopkins will speak at the 3-day hallmark event, which is organised annually by Success Resources. NAC 2014 aims to help individuals achieve financial and personal success in today’s highly-competitive environment, covering key topics such as business, investment, wellness and wealth creation. Take the first step towards change and be empowered. Attend and participate in NAC 2014! Visit www.nacsingapore.com for more information.
Nick Vujicic
Andrew Matthews
April 18 - 24, 2014
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COMING SOON
Mark your calendars for these events happening in about two to four weeks
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new! FREE! Istana Open House - Labour Day 1 May, 8.30am-6pm The Istana opens its doors to the public once again for the Labour Day public holiday. Tour selected function rooms of the estate and witness special display of gifts presented to the President and Prime Minister for just $2. Prime Minister’s Office, Orchard Road 23, www.istana.gov.sg
showstopping encore concert! Fans are in for a spectacular music extravaganza as the multi-talented Taiwanese star promises to rock with a revised set list that includes hits from the latest album, ‘Lion Roar’, breathtaking dance choreography, extravagant stage design and a mind-blowing 3D mapping performance. Singapore Indoor Stadium, www.unusual.com.sg
New! Show Lo 2014: Over the Limit 3 May, 8pm, from $88 The ‘Dancing King of Asia’ Show Lo is returning to Singapore with a sensational
Style Your Mum Competition 11 May, time TBA Celebrate this year’s Mother’s Day by dolling up your beloved mother gowned
as a deity! Form a team of five (including the mother) and put your mom through the most glamorous of makeovers. Participants will get to undergo a course on how to do so. Stand to win up to $5,000 in vouchers. Register by Apr 18. Central Plaza, 298 Tiong Bahru Road, www.taftc.org
Little
Bosses
Babies remind us of the beauty in the world. Canon presents “Little Bosses” to give us reasons to smile. Have a little darling born in the past month or so? Send us your photos of your newborn, so the rest of us can coo and ‘ahh’ over him / her too!
WEEKENDER www.facebook.com/weekendersgp www.weekender.com.sg
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Maurice Lim Oct 9, 2013
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Weekender is delivered to hundreds of thousands of homes island-wide. You can also find copies (while supplies last) at:
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E-mail your baby’s photos to general@weekender.com.sg. Please make sure to include your baby’s name and surname, gender and date of birth, as well as your own Name, NRIC and mobile number.
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• Raffles Place • Chinatown • Dhoby Ghaut • City Hall • Orchard • Somerset • Newton • Bugis • Woodlands • Bukit Gombak • Khatib • Choa Chu Kang • Tampines • Admiralty • Tanjong Pagar • Buona Vista • Yishun • Clementi • Redhill • Queenstown • Serangoon • Boon Lay • Jurong East • Tiong Bahru • Toa Payoh • Marina Bay • Ang Mo Kio • Mountbatten
Photos of babies born in the past month will have priority. This campaign is organised by Weekender. By submitting your baby’s photo and related personal information, you consent to Weekender using and publishing the same for purposes relating to this campaign.
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Focus on the cute, not on the background
80 Playfair Road, Blk A, #02-03, S367998 Tel: +65 6493 2001 E-mail: general@weekender.com.sg CRN# 201212438E MCI (P) 060/08/2013 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.
Focusing on the cute I’m sure you take plenty of photos of your kids with your phone cam. However, are they good enough to frame? It is easy to capture those memorable moments in great photos and to treasure them forever, with these tips. Avoid Using your Phone Cam Sure, phones are convenient but they don’t have the features and quality that you will need to capture great photos. To truly capture great photos, you will need the features commonly found
in quality Compact Digital Cameras. With their better sensors, optics and functions, all you need is to use your Compact Digital Camera more often! Now, with the newer models of Compact Digital Cameras, you can even instantly connect online and upload your images to your Facebook account via Wi-Fi. How much easier could it be? Focus on Cute, Not the Background Notice the blurred background in the photo
here. This effect helps to isolate the maximum cuteness of your child. With a Compact Digital Camera, this is simple to achieve. Set the camera to the “Av” mode, or aperture-priority mode, to a small value such as f/1.8. Smaller values will produce a shallower focus range and keep the background out of focus. Now, you’ll have an ultracute photo of your child to be on your wall forever! Look out for more from Canon.
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movie preview
More than 1½ hours of Donnie Yen Another budget-blowing potential blockbuster starring Donnie Yen hits the big screens – you decide if it’s cool or not
D
uring the Ming Dynasty, the four orphans Ying (played by Donnie Yen of Ip Man fame), Sao (Wang Baoqiang), Yuanlong (Simon Yam) and Niehu (Yu Kang) are raised as close as brothers. Their exceptional martial arts skills allow them to reach the highest rank within the Imperial Guard. Artefact & Intrigue After they successfully kill a Japanese troop leader, the Emperor orders Ying to escort the Golden Wheel of Time from Sindu (now India) back to the capital. The artefact is said to have the power of time travel. From the correspondence between the Japanese and Ming officials that was seized, Mr Tu, the Chief of National Defence, reveals that he can identify the traitor by the handwriting. Framed for Murder While escorting the Golden Wheel of Time, Ying is surprised to encounter Sao, Yuanlong and Niehu. They inform Ying of the murder of Tu’s family, with Ying as the prime suspect. The Emperor is convinced that Ying has killed Tu in order to conceal his identity as traitor, and has ordered the death of Ying. From the evidence presented to Ying, he
movie preview
Kiki’s Delivery Service: Anime to live-action How will this updated liveaction adaptation fare? Fans of Miyazaki’s anime version should note that this version is not based on the anime at all but rather on the original novel. There is little resemblance in the storyline, except the general idea of the young witch learning to be independent.
This well-loved children’s fantasy novel, made famous in a Hayao Miyazaki animation, has returned to the big screen as a liveaction motion picture Produced by Takashi Shimizu, best known for horror flick The Grudge, this moving story of a young girl coming of age is a long-selling classic in Japanese children’s literature. It was first brought to life on the big screen as a Hayao Miyazaki animation in 1989.
A Young Witch’s Adventure in the Human World Kiki is a 13-year-old who sets out with her black cat, Jiji, to live on her own for one year in a strange place, in order to qualify as a full-fledged witch. She sets out full of hope, only to discover that things do not always go her way. Not only is she stuck in an unfamiliar environment, she has to deal with the prejudice from mortals who do not trust her. She manages to earn a living by providing a unique broombased delivery service with her special abilities. She also befriends a local boy, Tombo. Soon enough, Tombo develops a crush on Kiki.
We feel that the plot is a tad predictable, with few surprises. Even the love story between Kiki and Tombo is too wishywashy to win our hearts. Hirota‘s commendable portrayal of Tombo is, however, worth looking out for. Visuals – The good & the bad The lack of special effects is perhaps the biggest flaw of this film. It appears as though little effort is made to hide the green background behind Kiki whenever she is ‘flying’ in mid-air. Jiji the cat and the hippopotamus, done in CGI, look fake to say the least. The saving grace of the visuals is definitely the styling. The costumes are delightful and distinctive, yet not over the top. The island Kiki settles on looks lovely, with its pseudo-European architecture and the spectacular view of the ocean. As Kiki flies from place to place, frequently, you get to admire the lovely aesthetics. We would say that this movie could give you and your family light-hearted enjoyment, especially for the young ones. That said, don’t expect it to be anywhere near the level of excitement of flashy Hollywood movies.
KIKI’S DELIVERY SERVICE [PG] (Japanese w/ English & Chinese subtitles) Director: Takashi Shimizu Starring: Fuka Koshiba, Ryohei Hirota & Machiko Ono Genre: Fantasy Run Length: 108 min Release: Apr 17
concludes that the traitor has to be one of the three, who is also behind the killing of Tu. Ying has to fight his way out. The intensity of the duel shakes the earth, causing an avalanche that buries the four in the heat of battle. Love in the Present In the present, Squire Tang digs up three ancient icemen from the outskirts of China. They are Ying, Sao and Niehu. As he is transferring the icemen to Hong Kong for further analysis, the vehicle is involved in an accident which, unexpectedly (or not), defrosts Ying. After being frozen for 400 years, Ying arrives in modern-day Hong Kong. By chance, he meets an intoxicated May (played by the beautiful Eva Huang, known for Kung Fu Hustle and The Emperor and the White Snake). May later gives Ying shelter. Ying and May gradually start to fall for each other. Changing History Ying is unable to forget this injustice and has an overwhelming desire to correct history. To do so, he requires the aid of the Golden Wheel of Time. To complicate matters, Sao and Niehu also reanimate in the present. They continue the chase from the past, which eventually leads to a showdown. Yuanlong suddenly appears in a modern-day role. During the
encounter, Ying gets shot and falls into the sea. Will he be able to re-write history, or is he history? Ballooning Budget The cost of this potential epic blockbuster was a whopping 250 million Hong Kong dollars (S$40 million), mainly for its grand effects. The result is about 3.5 hours of footage, which is why it is being released in two parts. Part of the ballooning budget was because a request to use the Tsing Ma Bridge was turned down by the government, which led to the film incurring greater cost for the replication of the bridge in a contingent location. The Iceman Cometh Iceman 3D is inspired by the 1989 film The Iceman Cometh, featuring film legend Yuen Biao. It turned out to be one of Yuen’s most memorable roles in his career. Yen, the master of modern kungfu flicks, is confident that Iceman 3D will be a hit. Whether or not you agree, you can expect 90 minutes of action-packed sequences with Yen’s trademark moves. If that isn’t enough, you can look forward to part two. ICEMAN 3D [TBA] Director: Law Wing Cheung Starring: Donnie Yen, Simon Yam & Eva Huang Genre: Action, Fantasy Run Length: 90 min Release: Apr 17
movie preview
Son of God: Message of love and the ultimate sacrifice Ushering in Eastertide, this standalone revival epic weaves cinematic style and substance without the Hollywood slant Ten years after Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ shook cinema halls worldwide, another epic on Jesus Christ comes to screens this Easter. Son Of God revives the story of the compassionate and humble saviour and his brief ministry on earth, followed by his crucifixion and finally, his resurrection. Conservative Approach Gibson’s Passion on the last hours before Christ’s crucifixion may have had more bite and blood. Son Of God, on the other hand, leans towards a conservative approach and follows closely the events depicted in the Bible. The movie’s notable director Christopher Spencer, whose talents include producing and writing, has a knack for directing long-running and feature drama-documentaries, among which are “The Human Body” and “Seven Wonders of the Industrial World”. Husband-wife team Mark
Burnett and Roma Downey produced Son Of God, fresh from their hit TV miniseries, “The Bible”, which attracted 80 million viewers. They have included some excerpts from the miniseries in the movie. Burnett is known for producing popular reality TV series such as “Survivor”, “The Voice” and the Donald Trump corporate talent-spotting show, “The Apprentice”. Downey, who has acted in the long-running TV series “Touched By An Angel” several years ago, reprised the role she played earlier in the “The Bible” miniseries – that of an aging Virgin Mary, with her tresses of grey hair.
Morgado as Jesus Son of God sees Diogo Morgado, a Portuguese model-turned-actor, portraying the main character of Jesus. Some critics have said that Morgado is too good-looking and sexy for the role. Regardless of what the critics think, the handsome Morgado, 34, is a shoo-in for the part. Morgado’s acquired placid nature and affable smiles make for a congenial Jesus character. His chiselled features resemble another handsome actor – Jeffrey Hunter, who played the same character in the 1961 Hollywood epic, King of Kings. Carrying the universal message of love, Son of God seems a good catch this Easter for all of its 138 minutes.
SON OF GOD [PG13] Director: Christopher Spencer Starring: Diogo Morgado, Roma Downey Genre: Historical, Epic Run Length: 138 min Release: Apr 17
April 18 - 24, 2014
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Entertainment
A L SO IN T H E ATR E S That Demon Within [NC16] Daniel Wu stars as a cop who saves the life of a notorious gang leader played by Nick Cheung. The gang leader continues on his rampage of illegal activity which instigates the cop who saved his life to embark on a scheme to destroy the syndicate once and for all. STARRING: Nick Cheung, Daniel Wu, Andy On & Liu Kai-Chi GENRE: Action, Thriller
RELEASE: Apr 17 The Face of Love [PG] The Face of Love is the story of a widow named Nikki (played by Annette Bening) who, several years after the loss of her husband, meets a man named Tom (Ed Harris) who looks exactly like her deceased husband. Suddenly, a flood of old feelings rush back: she’s met the love of her life – again.
The film is a romantic story filled with humour, surprise and reflections on the mystery of love surrounding us. STARRING: Annette Bening, Ed Harris & Robin Williams GENRE: Romance RELEASE: Apr 10 cuban fury [NC16] In 1987 a 13-year-old, natural-born dancer is ready to explode all over the UK Junior Salsa Championships.
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weekender.com.sg However, when a bullying incident robs him of his confidence, his life is diverted down a very different path. Today, 22 years later, the nowadult Bruce Garrett finds himself out of shape and unloved, trapped in a downward spiral of self-pity and takeouts. Only Julia, his smart and gorgeous boss, gives him reason to live. But she’s out of his league. Somehow, Bruce must learn to unshackle his dancing beast, regain his long-lost fury and claim the love of his life... on the dance floor. STARRING: Nick Frost, Rashida Jones & Chris O’Dowd GENRE: Comedy RELEASE: Apr 10
The Best Offer [M18] A tale of love, lust, and secrets. Virgil Oldman is hired by a mysterious heiress to auction off antiques that she has inherited. The elderly and esteemed auctioneer proceeds to hire an artificer to help him restore some of these antiques, while advising him on how to befriend this heiress. His reputable auctioneer’s prestige is counteracted by his scam. STARRING: Geoffrey Rush, Jim Sturgess & Sylvia Hoeks GENRE: Crime, Mystery RELEASE: Apr 3
be happier
Herbert Vongpusanachai, MD, DHL Express Singapore, and Gary Pallister with the English Premier League trophy
A legendary defender Gary Pallister is a Manchester United and England legend – read his thoughts on United now Manchester United legend Gary Pallister was a rock in one of the leanest defences in the history of the English Premier League (EPL). Few would forget his rock-solid partnership with Steve Bruce in the heart of the United defence. Gary was recently in town with the EPL championship trophy that United won last season. This is part of the “United Trophy Tour” by DHL that covers a total of 25 countries around the world. Accompanying the tour was a mini Manchester United exhibition of memorabilia (from the Old Trafford Museum) from various vital moments in United’s history. We spoke to the big man on life after United and his thoughts on the club. Hi, Gary. pleased to meet you. What’ve you been up to? Well, I’ve mainly been a football pundit for BBC and ITV. I must say, it’s a great job. Which is your favourite moment with United? Winning the FA Cup in 1990 was special. It was the first major trophy United had won in a while. The double in ’94 was also special. Winning the UEFA Cup Winner’s Cup and UEFA Super Cup in 1991 was also fantastic. It was the beginning of our European exploits. You were a key part of one of the leanest defences in the league. Which do you think is the best defence in the Premiership now? Chelsea has a solid defence, with the likes of Terry, Luiz, Ivanovic, Cahill and Cole. Manchester City also has a great defence and is a team to watch.
The exhibit included Solskjaer’s boots from the Treble-winning campaign of ‘99
Any plans to go into football management? I know some of the guys are going into that but I don’t think that’s for me. I’m happy with what I’m doing now. What makes you happy? My kids and my family. They are the ones who keep me going. What are your sentiments on United’s footballing hopes for the future? This is a difficult moment but I’m sure the lads will bounce back. They just need a bit of time to get used to things after Alex Ferguson. If United were to buy another player, who do you think they need? Well, any team could use Lionel Messi with all his skill. He’s a brilliant player and I just think of what he could do for the team. But we’ve got a number of great players now and we’ll have to give them some time to see how well they can work together. The United Trophy Tour by DHL recently ended its five-month journey in Oslo, Norway. By Lester J Wan
April 18 - 24, 2014
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weekender.com.sg
a lively catch of succulent fish stories to make you salivate
Know the difference Pick Up A Hobby
Catching your own If you must have the freshest fish, there is no better way than to catch your own
Should seafood meals be served fresh or from the freezer? Read what some industry sources say resh food is quite often perceived to be better than frozen food. To a certain extent, that’s true. But is there really any discernible difference between the two? Weekender taps market knowledge on the issue from a few sources. An article on the National Geographic website states that having frozen fish for meal preparation no longer seems to be a cruel and unjust punishment. Thanks to advanced technology, frozen fish now is often more delicious, nutritious, more economical and better for the environment – and the fishermen – than fresh catch from the sea.
F
There are those who like fishing and those who don’t. But for those who really make the effort to learn how, it can be more fun than playing a video game. Here are some basic tips on how to pick up fishing and to get the most out of your weekend fishing trip. Using the Right Tools Fishing equipment is a determining factor in a fisherman’s success. Having the wrong size of hooks, type of rod and even length or thickness of fishing line can greatly diminish your chance of hooking your nimble prey. As a rule, for beginners, you want to get the simplest rod and line to do the job. Nevertheless, be aware that a rod or line that is too light is unable to catch fish of decent size. Do approach those who are experienced in fishing for guidance and advice.
Changi Village is filled with shops that can provide the right equipment you need, and at an affordable price. Some of the shopkeepers can also be quite helpful if you ask for tips on what equipment to get. There are even foldable rods or those that can be dismantled into smaller pieces for easier transportation. Nevertheless, this type of rod may not perform as well as a normal one. Good & Safe Fishing Sites Keep in mind that fishing is only allowed in designated areas in certain locations. Fishing outside of these designed areas will get you a hefty fine or, worse, you may even hook a passing swimmer! From the word of mouth from those experienced in fishing, good and legal spots include MacRitchie Reservoir, Bedok Reservoir, Upper Pierce Reservoir and Bedok Jetty.
From Sea to Table A spokesperson from the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) explains the advantages in frozen food: “Freezing is an efficient method of preservation as chemical and microbial changes are slowed down, and freshness of the seafood can be better maintained. There are various ways seafood can be frozen. Examples include freezing the food product using the Individually Quick Frozen technology or tunnel/contact freezers.” CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
According to Gabriel Ng, 20, who regularly fishes as a hobby, Changi Coastal Beach is known to be not bad either. Some bridges in Pulau Ubin also see experienced fishermen. However, if you decide to cast your line there, be careful of passers-by as well as the rocks on which your line could get caught. According to Gabriel, there are usually large signs that tell you if it is legal to fish there. Especially in a reservoir, there are usually obvious signs telling you it is illegal to fish in a particular spot. If you are uncertain, do contact the relevant authorities to check. Wherever you fish, talk to the regular and experienced fishermen to pick up valuable tips from them. Many of them are friendly, and their advice can be very helpful. The more you let them know you are a beginner, the more they are willing to aid or to give you tips.
Final Tips At all times, be aware of your surroundings and where you will be casting. This ensures your safety and that of the people around you. Whatever your location or target catch, it is important to use live bait, unless you are an expert and familiar with when and how to use dummy bait or lures. You could either dig for earthworms (wear a glove or it will stink your hands) or buy bait such as shrimp or squid (which could be expensive). So, spend your day in the sun and with the breeze in an idyllic setting by going fishing. The scenery and serenity will soothe you. If you manage to hook a fish, it will be great fun trying to reel it in too!
April 18 - 24, 2014
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Foodmania
Delectable Fish Meals
Specially for fish lovers, here is a checklist of recommended outlets in town Fish dishes are dime a dozen but the really good ones are to be commended. Here are a few that Weekender tested for all you fish lovers out there to appreciate and savour this weekend.
CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE He adds that the frozen seafood must be maintained at a temperature of 18 degrees C or below during storage. The stored seafood must also be properly packed, to prevent freezer burn and to maintain the quality. If the seafood is stored properly, you could even preserve it for up to a year. How is it possible to maintain the freshness when seafood is transported all the way from the West to Singapore, where it is served, for instance, as steamed fish at a Singapore restaurant?
Nothing Fishy About It Chef Emmanuel Stroobant, who owns Blue Lotus Chinese Eating House on Quayside Isle, says, “Of course, the freezing process changes the texture of most products. While it is irrelevant when it comes to liquids such as soups and stocks, the difference is more evident when it comes to seafood such as crabs, prawns and scallops.” You know that overly mushy texture you get from frozen scallops? Chef Emmanuel explains that the crystallisation of water inside the proteins will alter the texture of seafood. There might not be a difference in terms of taste, but if the product is frozen for a long period, the change in texture will be more pronounced.
He adds, “For instance, a fresh scallop is crunchy, sweet and naturally smooth. A frozen scallop will be soft, watery and even fibrous. There is also usually a large amount of water oozing out of frozen seafood.”
The Chinese View What about the Chinese restaurants that display live fish and crabs in tanks? How does that impact the food cooked and served at the table? Miss Chang Yeeling, Director of Red House Seafood Restaurant, says, “We generally do not keep the fishes in the tanks for too long - maximum two to three days - as they will lose their mass/weight the longer we keep them there. With crabs, we move them to tanks to liven them up after they are unpacked (they get somewhat sleepy dormant while being transported).” Miss Chang does concede that although the taste and texture of frozen seafood will deteriorate over time, “frozen seafood such as prawns and fish can taste great if they are cooked well”. Chef Emmanuel still maintains that “fresh is always better” as good products do not require as much work. For instance, a sashimi that isn’t fresh would require technique to mask the lack of freshness with heavy sauce. The general consensus is that fresh seafood has its benefits with the brine zing and natural sweetness but certain cooking methods can make it tricky for the consumer to actually differentiate between food fresh and frozen.
Mellben Seafood Well-known local seafood chain Mellben Seafood serves hearty tzi char items and one of its best dishes is the Steamed Chye Poh Style fish (at prevailing market price). Depending on the seasonality, you’ll either be served a red garoupa, a pomfret or a Soon Hock fish. We had the red garoupa, which is quite a meaty fish paired with the sweet yet savoury tang of the preserved radish a.k.a the chye poh. With a bowl of rice or on its own, it is a great dish to share with. Mellben Seafood, 232 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3, Singapore 560233, Tel: 6285 6762
How to expertly pair wine with fish, or pretend to
Wine pairing with fish can be slightly tricky, with many different types of fish and dishes – here’s how to make it or fake it Even if you know nothing about wine and you’re trying to impress your date or colleagues and clients at a work event, all you need are a few tips to help you shine. Here’s how to be an expert sommelier, or appear like one, at your next dinner with fish on the menu. Wining with Dining You may not know the flavour profiles and characteristics of the grapes within the wine but, according to WineMag.com, the secret to a successful pairing lies in picking a wine with the right weight and texture to that of the fish. Andrew O’Brien, General Manager, SEA, Japan, Korea and India, Treasury Wine Estates, says, “What’s so wonderful about wine appreciation today is that we no longer have to adhere to the old convention of white wine with ‘white’ meat and red wine with ‘red’ meat.” “The key to a successful pairing is to match the weight or texture of the wine to the fish,” O’Brien explains. Wine to Match the Dish “A simple rule of thumb: Light food with light wine, and heavy food with heavy wine,” says Vincent Fredon, Assistant Manager of Basilico at the Regent Singapore. “For example, a scallop carpaccio complements well with a light white wine – it’s not too acidic or oak-flavoured so it doesn’t overpower the taste of the food, such as a Chardonnay which has a subtle almond flavour and roundedness that goes well with fish,” he says.
Bar-Roque Who would have thought that the standard seafood bouillabaisse could be done like this? This newly added item from Bar-Roque features a whole fish bouillabaisse. The whole fish is well-seasoned and comes with assorted seafood such as squids and shrimp. It is also complemented with rouille – a sauce that consists of olive oil with breadcrumbs, garlic, saffron and chili peppers, seafood broth and slices of baguette. This comforting dish from the south of France is given new life at Bar-Roque. Visit www.bar-roque.com.sg
Does it Matter if it’s Red or White? It’s also possible for red wines to be paired with fish if they have similar flavour profiles to white wine. Fish can appear quite acidic to taste, and most white wines have higher acidic content than red – meaning it could be slightly tart, which complements the dish. White wines have a lower alcohol content than red wines, that does not overwhelm the delicate taste of the fish. Fredon states that, normally, red wines will overpower the taste of the fish, but a light Pinot Noir is “not the best combination, but still enjoyable”. O’Brien also recommends the crowdpleasing Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris or Chenin Blanc. They tend to go very well with buttery sauces that often accompany fish but good red wine and seafood pairings are more suited to medium-bodied wines, such as a Merlot with tuna and a Shiraz with spicier seafood dishes.
Fake It Until You Make It – More Tips Andrew O’Brien shares more: • Pair acidic foods with acidic wines. Chardonnay is a highacid wine and goes great with tomatoes and citrus-based dishes. • Pair fruit-forward wines with sweet foods. Moscato is an excellent choice. Drier wines like Cabernet Sauvignon taste too acidic and/or bitter with sweet foods. Try Rosemount O Moscato. • Pair tannic wines with high-fat dishes. Strong cheeses and meats go well with Cabernet Sauvignon. The tannins break down proteins and make food taste better. • Pair lush or acidic wines with rich foods as they need a similarly rich wine to match, or a highly-acidic wine to cut through. • Start with white. A general rule of thumb is to drink white before red, and young before old. As the evening progresses you should drink bigger, bolder and darker wines and ultimately end with a dessert wine such as the Penfolds Grandfather Port or Muscat.
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n e w n ota b l e s Element on Tras Street Element in Amara Hotel’s new chef, Mikel Badiola, presents Basque treats. Try the Pescado a la parrilla con su refrito, a grilled fresh fish with rehas sauce. The fish comes sprinkled with garlic and cilantro to give it a fragrance. Tras Street, 100 Tras Street, Singapore 790027, Tel: 6879 2607
IKYU Sometimes, the best fishes don’t have to be cooked. One of the best otoro (tuna belly) sashimi can be found at Japanese restaurant Ikyu on Yong Siak Street in the Tiong Bahru enclave. Otoro is the lowest section of the tuna belly and is the fattiest part as well. It is high in Omega 3 fatty acids; soy sauce should be used sparingly with this cut to allow it to melt in your mouth. It is not cheap, but definitely a treat. IKYU, 5 Yong Siak Street, Singapore 168643, Tel: 9663 2003
Some of the newest eateries and menus in town for you to check out Hatter Street Reviewed in Mar 28 issue Find mouth-watering desserts on the menu such as the kumquat tart and crispy waffles. The cuisine is inspired by The Hatter’s (from Alice in Wonderland) passion, so every dessert is made from scratch with just a “touch of madness”. 212 Hougang Street 21, #01-333, Singapore 530212, Tel: 6988 4591
Royal Mail For a cosier ambience, you could try going to the Royal Mail at Ascott Raffles Place. The Deboned Fish of the Day features a roasted whole fish with grilled lemon, garlic confit and scallions. This whole fish is probably the easiest to eat as it is deboned before being served. The lemon also complements the fish well and gets rid of the fishy scent. Royal Mail, Ascott Raffles Place Singapore, 2 Finlayson Green, Singapore 049247
The Manor Bar Reviewed in Apr 4 issue Here, Singapore’s forefather of bespoke cocktails lives up to his name by whipping up “Campbell’s”, a tequila-based cocktail inspired by the iconic Andy Warhol painting. Also, grab some pizza and bar bites to steel your stomach after all that drinking. 8 Ann Siang Hill, Singapore 069788, Tel: 9696 6695 Owl Café Reviewed in Apr 11 issue The people behind Owl Coffee have ventured into the F&B scene. Owl Café brings you various blends of authentic Straits Asianinspired coffee and unique dishes such as the Assam Chicken Wings and Spaghetti with Laksa Sauce. Visit one of the Owl Cafes and check out the food and coffee. Go to www.owlcafe.com.sg to find out more on the various outlets. Anti:Dote Reviewed in Mar 7 issue If you’ve ever thought of incorporating fresh herbs from the garden into your food and drink, try the cocktails and bites at Anti:Dote. The stylish cocktail bar features a progressive selection of concoctions for you to unwind after a long week. Fairmount Singapore, 80 Bras Basah Road, Level 1, Singapore 189560, Tel: 6431 5315 Labyrinth Labyrinth’s innovative take on modern Singaporean cuisine leaves a deep impression on every diner. Expect dishes such as the Labyrinth Chilli Crab, Mango Tomato Bruschetta and Chendol Xiao Long Bao to arouse your five taste sensations: sweet, sour, salty, bitter and umami. 5 Neil Road, Singapore 088806, Tel: 6223 4098
What it should have been: In last issue, under “Easter Extravaganza”, the food image was not from Tablescape but Spathe. We apologise for the error.
Fuss-free seafood at Mellben Signature
Salted Egg Yolk Prawn
Seafood chain Mellben Seafood opens a new outlet at the city fringe Getting good quality Chinese food at reasonable prices for lunch is no longer just a dream. Popular seafood chain Mellben Seafood has opened a new outlet, Mellben Signature, on the fringe of the hip Tanjong Pagar enclave. Mellben Seafood started as a humble stall on Alexandra Road in 1988. Now a household name, its flagship stall is in Ang Mo Kio. The outlet in Bestway Building on Prince Edward Road is hardly a year old but it is just as good. Crab as an Entree As with Chinese-style dining, it is better to eat in a group as dishes are served communal style. The outlet’s signature dish Creamy Butter Crab (seasonal price) is not as common as the chilli or pepper crab, but it is impressive taste-wise. There is also an optional side order of five mini fried mantous to dunk in the creamy and sinful sauce, almost like a butter sauce you would find topping a salmon dish in a Western restaurant. I also liked the Salted Egg Yolk Prawn ($20-$40). A nice change from the usual cereal prawns, the shrimp is coated in a slightly sweet salted egg yolk batter before being fried in its shell, resulting in a shrimp that can be eaten from head to tail.
Vegetables to Complement If you’re hankering after vegetables, I suggest the Assorted Mushroom with Spinach ($15-$25). You get a mix of shitake, abalone mushrooms and straw mushrooms with either spinach or kailan. The vegetables are crisp and well-flavoured with garlic, and go well with a bowl of rice. The Coffee Pork Ribs ($15-$30) can be a little messy as the ribs kept slipping from my fingers, but contrary to most coffee pork ribs, Mellben Signature’s is not overly sweet but had a hint of bitterness from the coffee, resulting in a charred taste. Mellben Signature opens Mon to Fri, from 11am to 10pm, weekends and public holidays from 5pm to 10pm. Reservations recommended. Mellben Signature, Bestway Building, 12 Prince Edward Road, Singapore 079212, Tel: 6220 5512
Creamy Butter Crab
Assorted Mushroom with Vegetables
Exclusive cut-out coupon for Weekender readers!
15% off
Mellben Signature With minimum spending of $150 on a single receipt Mellben Signature, Bestway Building, 12 Prince Edward Road, S 079212, Tel: 6220 5512 Coffee Pork Ribs
Steamed Chye Poh Red Garoupa
This coupon is valid until 31 Jul 2014 for either lunch or dinner, including on eve of Public Holiday & Public Holiday.
April 18 - 24, 2014
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SHOPsavvy
Fash
Snips
Traffic-stopping fashion fiesta Fashion Steps Out 2014 opens in style with 150 models strutting down Orchard Road
Charles & Keith The Summer 2014 Charles & Keith line treads away from the typical nautical stripes with a preppy, polished look in hues of red, yellow and pastels. Expect espadrilles, embellished gladiators and platform boat shoes.
Mondaine The Stop2Go collection from Mondaine is framed in two matt-brush finished stainless steel braces, scratch resistant anti-reflective coated sapphire glass and a soft leather strap. Available at Robinsons at Raffles City and The Centrepoint, Metro at Paragon and City Square, OG at Orchard Point, and authorised retailers.
Celebrity Sighting! Olivia Munn was spotted in a resplendent orange and white candy-striped Carolina Herrera bandeau dress at the Los Angeles premiere of RoboCop. Coach + Philip Crangi Coach Men’s and American designer Philip Crangi, two New York icons, have looked to the past to create new classic heirloom pieces for the modern man. The collection includes belts, bracelets and key fobs. The brass elements of each of these unique pieces have been left in their raw natural state. Over time, they will age to a richer, more beautiful colour.
Etam French lingerie and swimwear brand Etam’s Summer 2014 line brings the season’s hottest bikini and swimsuit trends to you. Expect a mix of triangle string bikinis, underwired halter bikini and a range of cover ups and vintage-inspired monokinis and one-piece suits.
Kult Kult Gallery has released its latest addition to its new online store – the “Sin City” series of tote bags and T-shirts. Available in a range of six designs, each piece is a mash-up of familiar local street names with cult film classics such as The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Big Trouble in Little China, putting a local, humorous spin to them. Visit www.store. kultmagazine.com.sg/ category/accessories for the range and to purchase.
Fashion Steps Out @ Orchard Road returned in grand style to Singapore’s premier shopping street. Held annually, the grand fashion festival kicked off last Saturday on the signature runway, as models traipsed down the traffic-free roads. “This longest runway show is a clarion call reminding all that fashion isn’t just meant for those with a penchant for the esoteric,” said May Sng, Chairman of Orchard Road Business Association (ORBA). “It is for anyone and everyone, and the sheer array of merchandise on catwalk is actually available for sale in our Orchard Road stores,” she said. Showstopping Parade About 150 models strutted down Orchard Road, showcasing international brands such as Aimer and Ashley Isham as well as home-grown talents The Reckless Shop and Depression. Guests at the gala were also invited to a post-event party at Topshop Topman at Knightsbridge. Fashion Steps Out will go on until May 18, with various happenings and great deals. Visit the Fashion Tower at Paterson Road/Scotts Junction to see the highlights of this year’s Spring Summer palette. This six-week fashion fiesta will also feature fresh events such as Fashion Reimagined and Local Labels Exhibit @ Orchard Central in support of the up and coming local designers and using the platform to showcase their talents. Local Designers Shine Fashion Reimagined will feature promising designers from the Raffles Design Institute (RDI) who will be converting shopping bags from Paragon Shopping Centre and festival participating retailers on Orchard Road, such as Adolfo Dominguez and Karen Millen, into wearable and fashionable apparel. In an effort to enliven Singapore’s local fashion scene, Orchard Central will be showcasing the creations of four local designers with five iconic pieces from their SpringSummer Collection. There are 20 designs featured from brands which include The Reckless Shop, SABRINAGOH, MATCHBOX and Sans & Sans. Visit www.orchardroad.org/fso for more information.
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Beauty In Brief
The long and short of the beauty industry
Innisfree Korean brand Innisfree brings in the latest Creamy Tint Lip Mousse for colour-rich flawless lips. Formulated with melting essence ingredients, a gentle application of the Creamy Tint Lip Mousse reveals a soft choux cream-like texture that conceals cracks and imperfections. It comes in seven different shades.
Biore Biore Uru Uru 2-in-1 facial wash contains 800 per cent more micro bubbles than hand-lathered foam. The micro bubbles effectively lift light makeup from the skin surface while penetrating deep into pores to remove all traces of UV, makeup residue, dirt and sebum.
Crabtree & Evelyn In Crabtree & Evelyn’s new fruity fragrance of Pear Magnolia, the scent of juicy pear is blended with creamy lemon and the floral accent of pink magnolia, giving it fruity-fresh scent. The additional notes of jasmine, apricot-scented osmanthus and the violet tones of orris round off the aroma.
Marc Jacobs Marc Jacobs makeup finally arrives on our shores this week! The highly-anticipated brand has the blackest and darkest liquid eyeliner on the market. The Magic Mar’Cer #10 Blacquer was inspired by the dark obsidian shade of a coffee table in Marc Jacobs’ own home.
Available at Takashimaya S.C.
Available at all Watsons stores.
Available at Crabtree & Evelyn stores.
Available in Sephora from Apr 17.
Mary Kay The Mary Kay Skinvigorate Cleansing Brush is a two-speed power brush that gently massages as it thoroughly cleanses the skin and removes residue, dirt and makeup in seconds. It allows skincare products to absorb better and helps to maximise the hydration benefits of your moisturiser. www.marykay.com.sg
FA S H I O N AT A C L I C K
Rakuten offers online deals: over 100,000 items Japanese giant e-retailer launches Singapore website Online shopaholics, take note: Now, you can find all things oshare for the current season on Japanese the e-commerce giant Rakuten’s website. Oshare (say, oh-shar-ray) is the Japanese slang for stylish or fashionable. Rakuten brings the best of Japanese and local merchants’ products. The e-retailer’s three-day launch event held at Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza in March also saw local celebrities such as Wong Li-Lin, Keagan Kang and Paul Foster in attendance. Mr Okamoto Shingo, Head of Singapore e-Commerce Business, Rakuten, explains, “One key reason why we chose to start up our Singapore operations was that we saw a tremendous response from Singapore consumers on our global marketplace.” “We thus wanted to create a Singapore e-marketplace that offers consumers access to high-quality Japanese products that are not readily available elsewhere, with the added benefits of lower shipping rates and shorter delivery times than when purchasing from our global marketplace,” Mr Shingo added. “Through this event, we hope to introduce the Rakuten brand to even more people in Singapore, and enable more people to experience and enjoy what we have to offer,” he said.
Hit the Honey Pot Soothe your skin with Vecua Honey Forest products In this humid weather, beauty products of any type have to be light to avoid the sticky residual feeling. I dislike body creams or hand creams which leave an oily or sticky feeling on my skin. However, I was pleasantly surprised with the products from Vecua Honey Forest. Creamy and Cool I especially like the Honey Dew Body Cream Pure Floral ($34). This light body cream smells good and absorbs into the skin very quickly. I also like how it cools the skin upon application. It contains nourishing ingredients of
walnut extract, royal jelly extract, honey and birch bark extract. The cream is also enriched with maple water and yuzu extract to hydrate the skin further. If you like floral scents, you’ll pick up on the scent of Bulgarian rose, tuberose and jasmine. The Honey Dew Hand Cream Maple Honey ($16) is a little richer and more suited for people with
Cart Away Your Picks In Japan, Rakuten has over 75 million users on its site purchasing an extensive array of products available. Apart from clothing, it also markets cosmetics, household items and electronics, among others. The Singapore site currently features 150 Japanese and local merchants with about 100,000 products from across a broad range of categories - fashion, food, health and beauty products, electronics, kids’ and babies’ products, toys and games, furniture and more. Rakuten Singapore aims to have up to 300 merchants on its site by the end of this year. Start-Up Perks If you find the seller name Rakuten Direct on the website, you’ll see the latest Summer collection from Japan from brands such as MACKDADDY, Dip Drops, BLONDY ReLISH and rosebullet plying their wares online for the most fashionable Japanese threads. Here is a piece of good news for Rakuten fans and customers: You will be awarded 200 Rakuten Super Points for every sign-up on the website, with every 100 points worth $1. You can use the points to offset your online buys ten days from credit date. This promotion will end on Apr 30. Much like the Japanese version of eBay, aspiring online retailers can set up shop by signing up to be a seller on Rakuten. Visit www.rakuten.com.sg
drier skin. Blended with honey, royal jelly extract, walnut extract and birch bark extract, the cream penetrates into deeper epidermal layers. It leaves a slight oily residue upon application but is absorbed fairly quickly, resulting in a smooth feeling. The hand cream is also formulated with 80 per cent honey water for a comforting maple honey scent that reminds one of warm waffles topped with syrup. Smooth and Clean Feel Vecua Honey Forest products are natural and it
does not support animal testing. Made in Japan, its products also aim to moisturise skin, boost clarity and protect it from harmful everyday pollutants. One such product is the Honey Dew Cleansing Water ($36), which cleanses skin while removing makeup effortlessly. Through its signature ingredients such as royal jelly extract and birch bark extract, the cleansing water soothes the skin and also removes impurities and grime. The product gets rid of foundation and even waterproof mascara. It is also lightly scented for those who are averse to pungent cleansers, and does not contain mineral oil, alcohol or colourants. My skin felt more hydrated and smooth after its application.
500 pieces worth $16 each to be won
WEEKENDER VECUA HONEY DEW HAND CREAM GIVEAWAY Win a Vecua Honey Dew Hand Cream (50g). While stocks last! TO WIN, SIMPLY: Sign up for the mailing list at www.vecuahoney.com.sg ONLY 1 ENTRY PER PERSON, PLEASE. CLOSING DATE: 31 MAY 2014
april 18 - 24, 2014
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home inspirations
weekender.com.sg
Get ideas for transforming your home
Go with
the flow A simple yet stylish bedroom
Refreshing view of a longish dining/living room
A streamlined design gives this apartment the versatility to adapt to the owners’ fluid lifestyle
Kitchen gloss and glow from the wall light-box
ike many condominium apartments, this threeroom 1,300 sq-ft unit at Costa Del Sol has a long and narrow layout. With it comes an intrinsic flow that moves naturally from one space to another. Keeping this in mind, Wilson Teh from interior design firm Rezt & Relax wanted to utilise the streamlined layout and create a home that would work for its owners. Wilson adds, “The homeowner couple understands the intricacies of design and wanted something clean-cut and fuss-free.”
no boundaries or partitions in between,” he says. He accentuated the layout with a long feature wall that runs across the living and dining areas. The black stucco wall has a rough finish, with small specks of glitter for a subtle dash of glamour. Although the design is straightforward and uncomplicated, Wilson reveals that it’s a departure from what most interior designers would typically do. “Usually, designers like to line up mirror panels along the wall, since it can make a room look bigger. But I wanted a cleaner design for the homeowners – and this design basically just follows the length of the wall,” he explains in detail.
Down the Line The living and dining areas share the same space - an elongated room that stretches out towards a view of lush greenery. Wilson didn’t want to segregate the two spaces but to embrace the layout of the apartment. “I wanted to create a natural flow from room to room, with
Bright Lights Wilson outfitted the rest of the home with design elements that would accentuate the floor plan, naturally complementing the flow from room to room. Recessed false ceilings can be found throughout the home and they house cove lights, that gently illuminate each room.
L Open wardrobe with vanity table
The kitchen in particular makes good use of these lights. Wilson created a typical galley kitchen with two rows of cabinets against the walls. But instead of top cabinets, he replaced it with a light-box that emanates a warm, cosy glow. Back to Basics The black-and-white scheme seen in the living area is also echoed in the galley kitchen. There’s a reason for Wilson’s use of a simple monochromatic colour scheme. “It’s a cleaner look,” he says. He goes on to explain that with a neutral, black-and-white palette, the homeowners are free to introduce brighter accent colours with their furniture and accessories as they continue to build and nurture their home. Photos: Edward Hendricks
Article first published in Lookbox Living #29, Nov/Dec 2013 Lookbox Living out now! Available at major bookstores and newsstands. For more interior projects, visit www.lookboxliving.com.sg
“With a neutral palette, the homeowners are free to introduce brighter accent colours with their furniture and accessories.”
HOME MAKEOVER TIPS
Before you start renovating… Marc Wong of Linear Space shares with homeowners some design tips
Marc Wong, founder of Linear Space, has a clear passion for interior design. During his 13-year stint in the industry, he has learnt to think outside of the box, and is always game for new challenges. The young designer has earned a reputation for coming up with designs that eschew the predictable. It helps that he has a keen eye for design, and a knack for spotting key trends. Here are some useful tips from the design stalwart: 1. Have your own distinct style Don’t look at magazines and websites and try to copy the ideas for your home. Your
home should have your own personal touch. A basic design should have clean lines and a clean profile to allow it to stand out. 2. Achieve a good balance One of the things I learned in this industry is that we need to balance the different design elements together. In designing a home, you need to balance function with beauty. There’s no point for a design element to simply look good; it needs to have a purpose too. 3. Find the right designer Have an open conversation with your designer. Communicate your concerns and together, you can come up with different solutions. That’s why it’s so important to find
the right designer, someone that you can click with and feel comfortable. 4. Be discreet with colours Don’t force colours into your home, especially if it’s a colour that you dislike. Just because your neighbour’s wall is coated yellow, it doesn’t mean you should follow suit. You can add colour to your home gradually with small accessories like cushions and curtains. This way, you can have better control over the outcome!
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Bucket List
Liverpool fans are said to be among the best fans in the world, as evidenced here in a pre-season tour of Thailand
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Exceptional ideas to experience in your lifetime
Known as the Theatre of Dreams, Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium has a capacity of over 75,000
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Football Pilgrimage
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The top English Premier League clubs draw thousands each year and impress with their stadiums, museums, trophy rooms and modern facilities – see them at least once! With the English Premier League (EPL) season reaching its climax and soon its end, and the 2014 World Cup Finals closing in on us, football mania will truly reach fever pitch come June. The EPL, with its history and some of the biggest football stars on the planet, has a special attraction. Millions of followers are captivated by each weekend’s matches, some among whom are diehard fanatics. At least once in your lifetime, you have to pay a visit to some of these hallowed turfs. We profile two of the biggest names in English football in the past three decades or more. Manchester United FC – The Theatre of Dreams While the great Manchester United may not be doing so well this season, it remains one of the hottest football clubs with one of the largest followings in the world. Its rich history and trophy hoard are reasons enough to visit the “Theatre of Dreams”. Until the end of April, Manchester United is offering free admission to its museum. This is fantastic as you’ll get to see exhibits from United’s rich and colourful history, stories of the players, the famous trophies in the expansive collection, and many pieces of memorabilia from poignant moments. For an extra £18, you can join the official Manchester United Stadium Tour. This includes a visit to the players’ dressing room, with their jerseys hanging in place. How about sitting on the actual bench where the players received the famous “Hair Dryer Treatment” from former manager Sir Alex Ferguson? That alone promises to be a good social media post. Get into the spirit of the Red Devils as you walk down the very same red tunnel the players take, right to the end of the turf on which the stars have tread. You may even get the chance to sit in the dugout and yell at ‘your players’ just like the manager. The sheer collection of photos, trophies and memorabilia, together with the immense capacity of the Old Trafford stadium, make this an undoubtedly memorable trip.
Liverpool FC – You’ll Never Walk Alone Another famous football club in the EPL is Liverpool FC, with its 120 years of history. Liverpool is said to have among the best fans in the world, and countless hordes have streamed into Anfield for the ‘sacred’ tour or to try to catch a glimpse of their stars. At the museum, you can explore the great club through exhibitions and stories. Take a tour through the Halls of Fame and see the areas dedicated to stars of the past and present. See all of Liverpool’s European trophies and much more silverware accumulated over its illustrious history. The Anfield Stadium Tour takes an hour and includes touching the famous “This is Anfield” sign. The tour costs about £16.50. Who knows? You might bump into one of the stars, like Luis Suarez.
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Other Giants & Match Day If you are looking at visiting other giants on the European continent, the must-visit stadiums and museums include those of FC Barcelona, Real Madrid CF, FC Bayern Muenchen (Munich), Ajax Amsterdam, Juventus FC and AC Milan. An extra-special touch would be to attend a live match, getting to join in the singing of the terrace anthems, cheering on your favourite team, and even eating game grub like hot pies. Experience first-hand the thunderous atmosphere of these colossal stadia.
EVENTS. FOOD. TRAVEL. SHOPPING. Packed in every weekly issue!
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around 813 AD, and endorsed by King Alfonso II. A chapel was built on the site and St James became the patron saint of Spain, while Santiago de Campostela became a holy city for pilgrims wanting to earn “indulgences”, to lessen their time in purgatory. Towns, churches and albergues (hostels) sprung up along the route to feed and house the pilgrims. In 1993, UNESCO declared Santiago de Campostela a World Heritage Site. There are some 1,800 heritage buildings along the route. Today, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from around the world still make the journey to Santiago de Campostela and walk the various routes of the Camino de Santiago (the Way of St James). Apart from making the pilgrimage, you can admire stunning Spanish landscapes including rugged hilltops, ancient buildings and towns, and beautiful countryside.
T R AV E L F E AT U R E
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Thousands visit the Holy Grotto in Lourdes
Many beautiful places around the world celebrate Holy Week and Easter in a big way, attracting thousands of pilgrims each year
H
oly Week or Passion Week was the most important period of time in the life of Jesus, and so too for his followers. If you are a believer and you have not experienced Holy Week in these places, you should make the pilgrimage some time. Taranto, Italy – Peak of Religious Passion Packed with history, myth and religious passion, Taranto is a seaside city in Italy founded in the 7th Century BC by the Spartan Greeks. The more imaginative believe it was founded by Poseidon’s son, Taras, who arrived on the back of a dolphin. Today, thousands journey for the processions of Holy Thursday and Good Friday. There are three successive processions. During the early afternoon of Holy Thursday, or Maundy Thursday, pairs of
Palm Sunday procession in Italy naipung / Shutterstock.com
L OW- C O S T G E TAWAY S If you need a short holiday but your budget for your flight is $100 or less, look no further Don’t miss out on these promotions for budget airlines and low-cost carriers.
Wave hello to Krabi’s white sand beaches, emerald waters and cheerful sunshine
Krabi Rejoice in the thrilling experiences that Krabi has to offer: from coral reefs and quiet canyons for beginners, to dramatic rock overhangs and flooded caves for the hard-core adventure seekers. If adventure is not your cup of tea,
there are many amazing beaches where you can simply chill by. The local market also offers a vast selection of Thai cuisine that is exotic yet palatable, at staggeringly low prices. $79, Tigerair. Promotion lasts until sold out.
brothers set out on a pilgrimage barefoot and at a slow pace, from the Church of the Carmine to the sepulchres in the main church of the city where the altars have been strewn with flowers and funerary ornaments in memory of the Holy Sepulchre of Jesus. At midnight of the same day, from the church of San Domenico Maggiore, the Procession of Our Lady of Sorrows begins to the sombre tunes of the troccola (a wooden instrument that sets the pace of the procession) and by the moving funeral marches. The statue of the ‘Addolorata’ is paraded all night long in a symbolic quest for her Son, together with the pairs of brothers bearing crowns of thorns. Friday afternoon marks the beginning of the Procession of the Mysteries as groups of statues are carried on the participants’ shoulders throughout the night. This slow parade consists of the Gonfalone (black flag and symbol of the Carmine), the Cross of the Mysteries, the statue of Christ in the Garden, Christ at the Column, the Hecce Homo, the Fall, the Crucifix, the Holy Shroud, Dead Jesus and Addolorata. Accompanied by funeral marches through the quarter, the procession returns to the Church of the Carmine only at dawn of the morning after when, in a moving and long-awaited ceremony, the troccola player approaches the main door of the church and knocks three times with the bordone (the staff that he carries in his left hand), finally entering the church amidst the applause of the people. It is a stunning ancient festival that symbolises the beauty and emotion of Italy’s religious traditions.
Lourdes, France – Divine Healing Nestling in the mountainous Pyrenees region of France, Lourdes holds one of the most important shrines in the Catholic faith: the Grotto of Massabielle. Between Feb 11 and Jul 26, 1858, Bernadette Soubirous, a 14-year-old peasant girl, experienced 18 apparitions of the Virgin Mary near this grotto. During the 9th vision, an underground spring with healing powers was revealed. The Holy See (of the Roman Catholic Church) recognises 67 miracles attributable to the water that flows from this miraculous spring. Approximately 5 million pilgrims, of whom a great number are sick or handicapped, come to Lourdes each year. They come to drink the water from the spring in hope of a healing miracle. During Holy Week, it is especially significant as it is a place that connects people with God. Whether or not you are a believer, these sites are rich in beauty, culture and tradition, and would be lovely to visit. Pilgrims carry the cross on their journey
Santiago de Campostela, Spain – The Way of St James Legend has it that the bones of St James (Santiago), one of the 12 Apostles of Jesus, were brought by boat to the region of Galicia in Spain, for burial. The remains were later rediscovered in the hills of Campostela
Kuala Lumpur Can East meet West and live in harmony? From the historic temples and mosques rubbing shoulders with breathtaking skyscrapers, you can tell that this modern cosmopolitan city has retained much of its old character. Kuala Lumpur’s remarkable cultural diversity will probably be the most memorable thing about your trip. Don’t miss these promotions From $36, Tigerair & $36, Jetstar. Promotions last until sold out. haveseen / Shutterstock.com
The Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur are among the tallest man-made structures in the world.
The famous Songkhla Lake is an unforgettable sight in Hat Yai
Hat Yai Explore the city that throbs with life – featuring a multitude of markets in both local and international culture, restaurants, shopping malls and even pubs and discos. Regional attractions include Songkhla Lake (the largest in Thailand), the Bhasawang Big Splash (a 15m-long water slide), and the region’s most popular spectator sport, bullfighting. Don’t forget to try the outstanding seafood that Hat Yai is famous for. $79, Tigerair. Promotion lasts until sold out.
Bandung Let the natural beauty of hills, valleys and waterfalls enchant you. Bandung also offers great promise for bargain hunters to shop to their hearts’ content. Get transported back into the past as you admire Bandung’s rich art-deco architectural heritage found throughout the city. Also, immerse yourself in the youthful creative atmosphere of music, painting, fashion and the culinary arts. From $78, Tigerair. Promotion lasts until sold out. Red-faced puppets in a performance by the locals in Bandung
Have you any low-cost getaway destination that you would like to share? Drop us a personal message at www.facebook.com/weekendersgp.
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POWER 9 8 TRAV EL
Lost in the charms of Seville
I was moved. After all, how often do we take the time in busy Singapore to walk a complete stranger to where he or she wants to go? That pretty much sums up my experience in Seville. Seville is surprisingly charming in every way. The architecture is spectacular, the place is rich in history, and the people, food and pace of life made me feel I could spend forever wandering around getting lost and I would be happy. Here are the first two jawdropping sights not to be missed.
The cityscape of Seville with Catedral de Santa María de la Sede lit up at night
part 1 of 2 If you’re looking for a city known for beauty, culture and good food, head to scenic southern Spain and get lost in the charms of Seville I got lost. After peeping into countless homes with gorgeous courtyards, I still couldn’t locate the hammam [Turkish bath]. So, I asked for directions, expecting the guy to point me in the right direction. Instead, he walked me there!
The Alcazar of Seville is the oldest royal palace still in use The baths of Dona Maria Padilla in the Alcazar of Seville
Being the cynic, I was sure he was expecting a tip or to sell me something. But after a three-minute stroll, he located Aire De Seville (the hamman I was looking for), wished me a pleasant trip and went on his way.
The Giralda The cathedral of Seville, Catedral de Santa María de la Sede (Cathedral of St Mary of the See), stands in the centre of the old town and is said to be the largest Gothic building in the world. It is also the largest
Spotlight on Malaysia
cathedral and the third-largest church in the world. One of the most interesting features of the cathedral is the Giralda, which is a former minaret of a 12th Century mosque that has been converted into the bell tower of the cathedral. The tower has no stairs; instead there are 35 ramps that take you to the top where you are rewarded with a dazzling view. The best way to admire the intricate stained glass windows and gargoyles is to book a hotel room overlooking the cathedral. My apartment windows opened to this stunning view and you really can’t get a more convenient location in the city. Visit www. puertacatedral.com to check out the Puerta Cathedral Apartments. The Alcazar of Seville Imagine a palace built in the 1300s that’s still in use by the royal family today. The Alcazar of Seville or Reales Alcazares de Sevilla, will take your breath away. The Alcazar of Seville is a combination of different architectural styles from Mudejar to Gothic and is a real masterpiece. You might even get a bit of a neck ache from looking up as the arches and ceilings are so intricately decorated and gorgeous! Take your time and stroll through the picturesque gardens as well.
TO BE CONTINUED Catch Shareen Wong on the only travel show on local radio, “Getaways”, on Wednesdays, 7pm-8pm, on Power 98FM. Follow her on Instagram @ShareenWong98
About Shareen Wong Shareen Wong is Programming Consultant of Power 98FM. While languages are not her strong suit, eating and shopping definitely are. Shareen felt right at home in sunny Spain and she can’t wait to explore the supposed food capital on her next trip to Spain – San Sebastian. Tune in to her on Power 98.
Experience the simple life in the lap of nature
Taste the goodness of tree-plucked fresh fruit
Escape to the Kampong The Malaysian Homestay Programme gives you a chance to experience traditional village life while immersing in a laid-back, beautiful environment After a busy week in the office rushing for deadlines, fighting with lunch crowds and cramming into packed trains, don’t you think enough is enough? Where could one go to escape all this city stress and high blood pressure? Where are places that are green and lush, laid-back and quaint; and nearby so that travel is convenient and quick? Just watch a classic P Ramlee movie with friends and it will hit you. A Malay kampong would be so nice to escape to. Where else has the best and the most varied kampongs? Malaysia, of course. A homestay in a traditional kampong across the border would be just perfect. Enjoyed by All Malaysian Homestay Programmes can be enjoyed with family and friends, corporate and incentive groups, and
simply by yourself. It is the ideal way to not only escape the rush of city life but to also experience the traditional kampong lifestyle at its most authentic. The Homestay Programmes vary according to which state in Malaysia you want to stay. Some kampongs are close to the towns, others are near the sea, or up in the highlands, or in crop-producing areas. Whichever kampong you choose, the villagers and your hosts will be friendly and hospitable. You can try your hand at what the local villagers do from fruit-harvesting and fishing to batik painting and kite flying. It will be an eye-opener for children to see where real food comes from. No, it does not come in a plastic punnet, it comes from the trees and soil and hard farm work.
can breathe in the cool, clean air of the surrounding coconut trees and green fields. There are no sounds of cars honking, neighbours blasting music and rushing people but the clucks of chickens and birdsong. In the distance is the sound of the rhythmic waves of the sea. Just taking things slow and laid-back in this kind of atmosphere heals your body, mind and soul. Whether or not you are a foodie, you would find the local food interesting. You can try your hand at making rendang using a recipe that has been passed down from the great grandmother to the current girls of the household. The food here is simple and the freshest you can find. Herbs and vegetables are plucked from the compound. Even the fish is caught in the nearby sea.
Laid-back Ambience that Heals Body, Mind & Soul Kelantan in the east of Malaysia is a great place for a kampong stay. Each morning, when you wake up, you
The Freshest Food & Produce Every day, you can enjoy food like rendang, acar (pickles), sambal ikan goreng (fried fish with sambal),
Have fun making traditional music with your hosts
Try a hand at catching your own dinner
ayam panggang (grilled chicken), siput lemak (shells in coconut gravy) and ulam (a platter of herbs and salad leaves). You can experience plucking coconuts and grating them, or mangoes growing on the trees to make dessert. Even tapioca can be dug up to make snacks. Apart from cooking, you can also try your hand at batik painting, playing local musical instruments, weaving rattan mats, flying kites and climbing coconut trees. Take stunning photos of the landscape, the friendly people and
the kampong house in which you’ll stay. You’ll remember them forever. The Malaysian Homestay Programme is available in other parts of Malaysia as well. Instead of popping a headache pill for all that stress, pack your bags and escape to a kampong in Malaysia. That will be your happy pill. For more information, contact: Tourism Malaysia (Singapore), 80 Robinson Road, #01-01 B/C/D, Singapore 068898, Tel: 6532 6321, Fb: Facebook.com/TMSingapore.
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