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AUGUST 1 - 7, 2014
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FUN @ SENTOSA
Sentosa Celebrates National Day 49 years of heritage 9-11 Aug, 11am-7pm Celebrate this National Day in Sentosa, the State of Fun. As Singapore turns 49, Sentosa has prepared a slew of celebratory activities; take a trip down memory lane, enjoy our many promotions celebrating our heritage and reminisce 49 years of nation building. Spend quality time with family and friends basking in island fun! Merlion Plaza & Palawan Beach enjoy these national day specials at Sentosa MERLION 9-11 Aug, 10am-8pm Special 1: Enjoy FREE* admission to the Sentosa Merlion if you are born in the year 1965! Special 2: Get a souvenir tumbler with soft drink with a top-up of $4.90 with every Sentosa Merlion admission ticket purchased. Special 3: Special $49 Combo Set for 2 to Sentosa Merlion & Wings of Time, 8.40pm, Premium Seating (U.P. $56). Sentosa Merlion BBQ Under the Stars – National Day Edition 9 Aug, 6.30pm-9.30pm, $35 (adult), $15 (child)
Be thrilled by co performances & New! Sands For Singapore Festival 2014 1–3 Aug, free and ticketed events Be part of this meaningful event as we reach out to under-served communities in Singapore. The festival is back for its second year, with a larger creativity and scale. Look forward to the line-up of exciting and noteworthy programmes! Whether it’s bidding for an item in the Celebrities Give Back to Singapore auction, taking part in the ASPN Fundraising dinner or waking up early for the ComChest Heartstrings Walk, there’s something for everyone during this special weekend. For Children & Families: Tangle Create a visually-stunning giant abstract artwork in a public space, simply by stretching your body and imagination! Free events: Strange Fruit presents Spheres Take a whimsical look at the creation of life through the eyes of four archetypical characters. The show explores humanity’s existential relationship to each other and the planet. Christof!! Meet the virtuoso clown Christof!!, described as “Charlie Chaplin meets Jim Carey”. He promises to entertain audience members of all ages and leave them weeping with laughter. Marina Bay Sands, www.marinabaysands.com/sands-forsingapore.html Photo: manzrussali / Shutterstock.com
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Enjoy BBQ food while catching the live screening of the National Day Parade! It’s a celebration not to be missed. Find out more at www.polw.com.sg Port of Lost Wonder, Palawan Beach Jazz by the Beach Aug, every Fri, 8pm till late
Relax and sway along to different genres of Jazz music, while indulging in scrumptious beach bites and irresistible drinks promotions. Lounge away the evening as the sea breeze and live entertainment sweep you off your feet. Coastes, Siloso Beach *Valid on 9 Aug only.
To find out more activities and promotions on Sentosa, scan here
Stretch your body and imagination and have fun in Tangle
Book your tickets in advance for these choice picks
New! Free! Kickboxing Session @ The Star Vista Every Mon, 7.30pm–8.30pm Beat your Monday blues with this free weekly kickboxing session. Have an hour of fun & cardioburning Kickboxing workout, sweat it out and make new friends. This high-energy exercise will not only tone your muscles, but also teach ladies some useful defense moves. The Star Vista, 1 Vista Exchange Green, www.capitamallsasia.com.sg Sensorium 360° Until 19 Oct, $10 (Adult), $5 (Students, Senior Citizens & NSFs) This visual arts exhibition calls upon the full range of human senses and explores how sensory experiences enable us in understanding the world and knowing the self. In the realm of art and daily life, vision and sight tend to dominate other senses that are equally indispensable in helping us to see and experience the world– taking in its pleasures and pains. Singapore Arts Museum, 71 Bras Basah Road, www.singaporeartmuseum.sg
New! Free! Colours of the Peranakan Heritage Until 10 Aug Changi City Point invites you to walk the Peranakan trail and get a glimpse into the glamorous lifestyle of Peranakans or Straits Chinese in the past. Gain an insight and experience their colourful and unique culture through our display of their exquisite kebaya and collectible tiffin carriers. Changi City Point, www.fraserscentrepointmalls.com New! The 22nd Israel Film Festival 30 Jul–5 Aug, various timings, $10 onwards The Israeli Film Festival is a celebration of Israeli culture and films. Every year, the slate of feature films is selected to provide a diverse reflection of Israel, telling stories of a vibrant, conflicted, modern society grappling with issues that the world can relate to. This year is the 22nd festival, and the team has carefully selected 7 award-winning films for public enjoyment. The Cathay Cineplex, www.cathaycineplexes.com.sg
NEW! FREE! I Love Children Bus Roving at Ubi Link 1 Aug, 11am-3.30pm Join in the fun with the I Love Children Bus as it arrives in Ubi, where you can learn more about government subsidy and parenthood. Win special goodie bags by participating in quizzes and answering questions. Additionally, special packages await participants who are above 21 who sign up for the Parenthood Pledge. Ubi Link, www.ilovechildren.org.sg New! Battle Royale 1 Aug, 7pm–11.30pm, $68 onwards Witness the knockout tournament that will test the skill and will of eight of the world’s toughest, most formidable and decorated Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighters. The tournament will begin with the 8 men competing in 4 quarterfinal fights. This is the first time a knock-out tournament is billed as the main event in an MMA competition in Singapore. Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition, 1 Raffles Boulevard, www.sistic.com.sg New! The Gathering with Travis 1 Aug, 8pm10.30pm, $58 onwards The Gathering is thrilled to announce its August show featuring legendary Scottish band Travis making a welcome return to Singapore shores. Catch them
perform hits from across their catalogue of seven superb albums. The Star Theatre, 1 Vista Exchange Green, www.sistic.com.sg New! Sharing the Journey at Home with Classics 1–3 Aug, 7.30pm (Fri), 4pm (Sat & Sun) The Singapore Symphony Orchestra brings the joy of music to three heartlands of Singapore. To celebrate Temasek’s 40th anniversary, you’re invited to go on an interactive musical journey to experience a diversity of popular classics such as Voices of Spring, music from movies like Star Wars, and even local melodies like Rasa Sayang. 3 locations, www.sso.org.sg
New! The Nightingale 1 Aug-14 Sept, 10am & 2pm for specific dates (Tue-Fri), 11am & 2pm (Sat & Sun), $22 onwards Watch the refreshing new take on Hans Christian Andersen’s wellloved fairy tale. The Nightingale is a joyful burst of song that reminds us all to appreciate and value the world around us. Enchanted by the lilting birdsong, the little Emperor captures and keeps her in a gilded cage for his daily entertainment. DBS Arts Centre, 20 Merbau Road, www.sistic.com.sg
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lourful activities
f e at u r e d e v e n t concerns such as confinement practices and even cancer prevention. Pre-registration is required for the workshops and seminars as seats are limited.
A Fun-filled Time for the Kids
Strange Fruit presents Spheres is full of visual wonders
New! Pan Mei Chen World Tour 2014 Concert 3 Aug, 7.30pm-9.30pm, $38 onwards Pan Mei Chen will play various instruments and perform refreshing renditions of her chart-topping hits, including ‘I want a home’ and ‘I loved you carefully’ infused with elements of contemporary and modern movement. Be surprised as she presents a new delivery of her nostalgic evergreen hits. Resorts World Theatre, 8 Sentosa Gateway, www.sistic.com.sg
New! Wild Wild Wet’s 10th Birthday 2 Aug, $10.50 onwards Be part of the celebration this August as Wild Wild Wet commemorates its 10th birthday. A whole bunch of exciting activities planned for the celebration including life sized mascots and Aqua Zumba performances. Wild Wild Wet, 1 Pasir Ris Close, www.wildwildwet.com New! Free! Istana Open House 2 Aug, 8.30am–6.00pm, free admission for Citizens and PRs The Istana opens its doors to the public for National Day and Hari Raya. There will be a variety of performances on the grounds during the Open House. For an entrance fee of $2, visitors could tour selected function rooms in the Istana building. Souvenirs will be sold and proceeds go to charity. Istana, www.istana.gov.sg
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New! Flumpool 5th Anniversary Tour 2014 [MOMENT] Singapore Special Live 2 Aug, 7pm-8.30pm, $98 onwards Top Japanese Rock Band Flumpool, coming off from their recent 2013 mega collaboration with Taiwanese super band MAYDAY, is commemorating their five- year milestone. The Singapore Special Live ‘Moment’ is dedicated to the fans who have given them strong encouragement and support since they first visited Southeast Asia in 2012. Scape The Ground Theatre, 2 Orchard Link, www. ticketbooth.com.sg New! ComChest Heartstrings Walk 2014 3 Aug, 7.30am–11am, $10 Join us for a good cause and make a difference in the lives of over 300,000 people. With the spectacular Marina Bay waterfront as the backdrop, the meaningful walk promises to excite families, and friends. After the walk, immerse yourself in the fun-filled carnival of activities, games, live entertainment and even massages to soothe your tired muscles. Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza, 10 Bayfront Avenue, www.comchestheartstrings.sg
For more fun and interesting weekend ideas and entertainment stories, visit us at weekender.com.sg
New! Sex Tape Intimate Date Night 6 Aug, 8pm, $38/couple Bring your other half for a unique and romantic night out in GV’s cosy Gemini cinema. Be among the first to catch the romantic comedy starring Cameron Diaz and Jason Segel ahead of its opening. The event also features a talk by certified sexologist Dr Martha Lee who will dish advice on levelling up intimacy and rekindling romance after marriage. Golden Village Grand, Great World City, www.gv.com.sg
New! Rock of Ages Musical 6–24 Aug, 8pm (Thu & Fri), 1pm & 8pm (Sat & Sun), $75 onwards The worldwide party musical features a mix of 28 rockin’ 80’s tunes including Don’t Stop Believin’, ‘Here I Go Again’, and ‘I Want To Know What Love Is’. In 1987, a small town girl met a big city rocker in LA’s most famous rock club and they fell in love to the greatest songs of the ‘80s. Dream big, play loud and party on with Broadway’s best musical. Resorts World Theatre Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, www.sistic.com.sg
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Pregnancy & Babies Showcase: Tips, fun & prizes
There will also be fun and engaging workshops available throughout the three days of Pregnancy and Babies Showcase 2014 to keep the little ones entertained. The “Decorate your own Bento/Lunch Box” workshop will share beautiful and healthy lunch box ideas, for parents and kids to have fun making them together. The “Craft Session” provides a DaBox trial onestop activity box that contains creative arts and crafts materials for children to explore crafting and to have fun with it. In the “Kids’ Yoga Class”, instructors will teach simple techniques and cultivate the child’s interest for yoga for better well-being. In addition, look forward to interactive stage entertainment that promises wholesome fun for the kids. Be amazed and amused by Captain Amazing and funny clowns, who will perform shows with puppetry, crazy balloon sculpturing and magic tricks with side-splitting humour.
Promotions & Lucky Draws
The Pregnancy and Babies Showcase 2014 features up to 13 seminars and workshops for parents and parents-tobe, especially (but not only) expectant mums. Also, don’t miss various great bargains for babies and kids products and services.
Also, look out for the bazaar showcasing products and services for babies, kids and parents. Participating brands include LeHome Creation, Mummamia, Papamama, Da Little School and more. Simply spend a minimum of $10 to be entitled a chance to win prizes like a baby walker, play mat or baby hamper during the bi-hourly lucky draw! In addition, all attendees are eligible to participate in a raffle for up to $5,000 worth of prizes!
Highlights for Mummies & Daddies
Pregnancy AND Babies Showcase
Come for this showcase on pregnancy, babies and parents for informative seminars, great bargains, fun with the kids and even the Most Photogenic Baby Contest
Parents and parents-to-be can learn from various informative seminars by professionals such as an obstetrician, a gynaecologist, a paediatrician and a nutritionist, on various topics covering parenting, pregnancy and babies. Learn infant massage techniques to enhance parent-child bonding and aid in the healthy development of your infant. You can even join the other expectant mothers in a relaxing pregnancy yoga session! In another workshop, you can pick up basic first aid skills for your baby, which will prove handy in times of emergency. These talks and workshops will help you to gain a better understanding of a range of relevant topics including pregnancy issues and nutrition for mother and baby. The speakers will also address other important
8-10 Aug, 11am-9pm (Fri & Sat), 11am-8pm (Sun) Simply register to get complimentary admission to the Pregnancy and Babies Showcase 2014 and get a free Young Parent digital subscription. 300 free goodies bags (worth $50) will be up for grabs for all three days. There will also be a free flow of popcorn and candy floss for all to enjoy. Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre, 11 Cavenagh Road, register at www.pregnancyb.com for free admission
Join the Most Photogenic Baby Contest! Bring your baby (3-18 months old) down to have his or her photograph taken against the mock advertisement background. You’ll get to keep the lovely photograph, while your little one stands a chance of being featured in our advertisement! There are also attractive prizes to be won.
AUGUST 1 - 7, 2014
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COMING SOON
Mark your calendars for these events happening in two to four weeks
New! Steve-O: Guilty As Charged Tour 10 Aug, 7pm–8.15pm, $78 onwards Laugh with Steve-O as he shares his most memorable experiences from “Jackass”, “Wildboyz” and his personal life. Singapore is the tour’s only Southeast Asian stop to date. Audiences will also get to experience a little local flavour, as LA Comedy Live will hold a monthlong standup competition, “On Stage with Steve-O”, to discover aspiring local comedians. NUS University Cultural Hall, 21 Lower Kent Ridge Road, www.sistic.com.sg
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Book your tickets in advance for these choice picks
New! U Live Symposium 2014 16 Aug, 9am-6pm, various prices To empower, educate and engage their participants to lead a healthy and active lifestyle. The largest onestop event for 55+ year olds is back with a wide range of workshops and seminars. U live Symposium brings participants step by step to live a more fulfilling lifestyle, introducing Zumba, smartphone literacy and much more. Devan Nair Institute for Employment and Employability, 80 Jurong East Street 21, www.ulive.com.sg New! Alex Goot and Against the Current Live in Singapore 21 Aug, 7pm–9pm, $78 onwards For the first time in Singapore, YouTube sensations Alex Goot and Against The Current will perform a co-headlining concert. Alex Goot is a oneman band from Poughkeepsie, New York. Against The Current is a three-piece poprock band from Poughkeepsie as well, consisting of front woman Chrissy Costanza, guitarist Daniel Gow, and drummer William Ferri. SCAPE The Ground Theatre, 2 Orchard Link, www. alexgootandagainstthecurrent. peatix.com
New! Singapore International Festival of Arts 12 Aug-21 Sep, various times, free and ticketed shows Since the inaugural biennial Festival of Arts in 1977, the Singapore International Festival of Arts is an annual celebration of performing arts. This year, it is themed ‘Legacy and the Expanded Classic’. The six week line-up includes Robert Wilson’s emotional spin on Peter Pan, and a hallucinatory, wordless universe in Mystery Magnet. Various venues, www.sifa.sg Advisor James Yip
Editor Lester J Wan
Writer Cheryl Chia
Distribution Lawrence Tan
Art Director June Law
Designer Zoe Lai
Coordinator Riki Zou
Sales Seth Leow
Jamillie Chia
Erwin Lim
Interns Basil Lee Lim Wan Ling
Contributors Harry Tan Christine Winters
jamillie@weekender.sg
erwin@weekender.sg
Igert le Roux Victoria Freda Saunders
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New! Café Fest Singapore 6–7 Sep, $20 Café Fest is Singapore’s inaugural consumer event where 15 of the best cafes across the island are invited to share their passions in the art of coffee and food. In the true spirit of the growing cafe culture in Singapore, Café Fest aims to bring together the community from all walks of life through good coffee and company. Marina Bay Sands, The Waterfront Promenade, www.cafefest.sg
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The White Haired Witch of Lunar Kingdom This reimagining of The Bride With White Hair retells the fantasy epic of doomed love in the dying embers of the Ming dynasty In the Ming dynasty, corruption is rife with traitors in power and war is imminent. In the northwest, widespread famine is claiming lives. The “Jade Raksha”, or Nishang (played by Fan Bingbing of X-Men: Days of Future Past), saves the victims by fighting corrupt officials. She is then framed for the murder of Governor Zhuo, and becomes a target of the court. Meanwhile, the head of the NonAffiliated Party, Zhi Yanglu, chooses Zhuo Yihang (played by Huang Xiaoming) to be his successor. Yihang is sent to pay tribute to the Emperor with a red pellet. However, the Emperor eats the red pellet and dies. Yihang, too, becomes a target.
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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. Information accurate at press time.
Fan Bingbing plays Nishang
Forbidden Love Yihang encounters the Jade Raksha, Nishang, and they fall in love. Suddenly, he is captured and told that his new love had murdered his grandfather. This is a bitter pill to swallow. Yihang sets out to uncover the truth. Not long after, Nishang hears that he has sworn allegiance to the imperial court and has gotten married. Her grief causes her hair to turn white overnight.
A Unique Reinterpretation
Sales Director David Phey
seth@weekender.com.sg
New! Pesta Raya 2014 28-31 Aug The Esplanade hosts the 2014 Malay Festival of Arts from 28 to 31 Aug. Comprising both ticketed and free performances, the festival features a curation of some of the best traditional and contemporary Malay artists presenting vibrant works of dance, theatre and music. The Esplanade, 1 Esplanade Drive, www.esplanade.com
The NTUC Income Kite Festival by ACT 3 is full of colour
Editorial Director Frank Young
frank@weekender.com.sg
NEW! FREE! NTUC Income Kite Festival Singapore 2014 23-24 Aug, 4-8pm Act 3 International returns for the sixth instalment of the annual NTUC Income Kite Festival. Act 3 International once again harnesses their strength in arts to put on a kite festival like no other. This year’s program features parkour performances, kite-inspired graffiti and much more. The Promontory @ Marina Bay, www.act3international. com.sg
The story involves much political sparring and sword-fighting
The movie was initially slated to be release in April but was delayed to avoid conflict with Iceman, which was produced by The White Haired Witch of Lunar Kingdom’s executive producer, Huang Jianxin. Fans can finally get to witness the muchanticipated cinematic reimagining of the classic tale during the Qixi Festival season, from which the romantic legend originated. This love story had previously been adapted into films and TV series; most notably, Ronny Yu’s The Bride with White Hair (1993) starring Lin Ching-Hsia and Leslie Cheung. Director Jacob Cheung and artistic director Tsui Hark (the same duo behind the blockbuster Flying Swords of Dragon Gate) bring breathtaking visuals in 3D and present a unique reinterpretation of the original 1950s novel by Liang Yusheng. The movie boldly carves its own path and bears little resemblance with past film
and drama adaptations. You have to see it for yourself.
Romance over Action Fan Bingbing’s strong presence in the Chinese film scene (and recent Hollywood breakthrough) will be a huge draw. However, this time, the female lead will not just bewitch audiences with her looks. Playing a formidable vigilante-heroine, she will also unleash her cold-hearted side that’s just as riveting. Although the story involves much political sparring and sword-fighting scenes, which can seem to drag on, the soul of The White Haired Witch of Lunar Kingdom is undeniably its love story. We all know that the Chinese are proficient at period drama and romance genres, and Wuxia enthusiasts will likely be excited by this tumultuous tale of the star-crossed lovers. The White Haired Witch of Lunar Kingdom [PG] DIRECTOR: Jacob Cheung STARRING: Fan Bingbing, Huang Xiaoming, Vincent Zhao & Wang Xuebing GENRE: Action, Fantasy, Period RUN LENGTH: 111 min RELEASE: Jul 31
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Guardians of the Galaxy gives a whole new meaning to the word “epic”
movie preview
GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY:
a new breed of superheroes A couple of outlaws, a maniac and an assassin are tasked to save the galaxy from a powerful villain threatening the entire universe
F
rom the studio that brought us superhero films such Iron Man, Captain America and The Avengers, comes a brand new breed of superheroes.
So Good it’s Criminal Marvel brings us more lovable yet quirky superheroes in Guardians of the Galaxy. Perhaps not as dashing as Captain America, as ripped as the Hulk, or as classy as Tony Stark (Iron Man), the Guardians are a bunch of interstellar outlaws from different backgrounds who come together as the galaxy’s final salvation. Are we doomed? Peter Quill (played by Chris Pratt of The Lego Movie and Her) the “legendary
A L SO IN T H E A T RES 7500 [PG13] Flight 7500 departs Los Angeles for Tokyo. Estimated flight time: ten hours. An ordinary encounter with turbulence becomes extraordinary as the passengers aboard the flight soon
outlaw” finds himself in a world of trouble when he steals a mysterious orb coveted by the galactically-notorious villain, Ronan the Accuser. To avoid this danger, Quill is forced into an alliance with a bunch of space misfits who, in their last ditch attempt to save the galaxy from the powers of the orb, earn their name as the Guardians of the Galaxy. This sets the scene for a galactic battle that will possibly save the universe.
Ragtag Crew Contrary to most of what we’ve seen in previous Marvel superhero films, where the heroes are clean, classy or distinguished, the Guardians of the Galaxy comprise a motley crew of outlaws, outcasts and, yes, even a raccoon. Led by the self-proclaimed “Star Lord”, Quill, the team consists of the imposing Drax the Destroyer (former WWE wrestler Dave
discover that they are not alone. STARRING: Leslie Bibb, Jamie Chung & Ryan Kwanten GENRE: Horror RELEASE: 31 Jul
And So It Goes [PG] A man fully obsessed with himself, Oren Little, is disliked by everyone he meets, and that’s just the way he likes it. With only one more house sale to make before his retirement, Oren’s
SOME OF THE GUARDIANS Zoe Saldana: Gamora Perhaps most famously known for her starring role as the blue-skinned alien, Neytiri, in the award-winning Avatar, Zoe Saldana admits her interest in and fascination with working in science fiction movies. She also starred as Uhuru in Star Trek. Gamora is a green-skinned assassin trained by the powerful Thanos. She now seeks redemption for her past crimes.
Chris Pratt: Peter Quill / Star Lord Chris Pratt is known for his role in television series “Parks and Recreation” as well as the lead character, Emmet Brickowski, in The Lego Movie. Peter Quill is an interstellar adventurer who was abducted from Earth at a young age. After recovering an ancient artefact, he must rally an unlikely team of cosmic misfits to prevent a powerful villain from destroying the galaxy.
Dave Bautista: Drax the Destroyer A former WWE wrestler and mixed martial artist, Dave Bautista cried when he got this “role of a lifetime”. A physical brute, Drax the Destroyer has a personal vendetta against Ronan the Accuser, who killed his family.
Bautista), the deadly alien assassin Gamora (Zoe Saldana of Avatar and Star Trek), the gun-toting raccoon, Rocket (voiced by none other than Bradley Cooper), and his “muscle”, Groot (voiced by action star Vin Diesel). This bunch of strange and unlikely superheroes band together in the universe’s darkest moment to put a stop to evil’s reign. Does this makeshift team of superheroes have what it takes to succeed in its epic mission? Together with Josh Brolin as Thanos, Benicio del Toro as The Collector, and Djimon Hounsou as Korath the Pursuer,
life is thrown upside down when his granddaughter is thrown into his hands. STARRING: Michael Douglas & Diane Keaton GENRE: Comedy, Drama, Romance RELEASE: 31 Jul
Hang Hoon (Thai) [TBA] The story revolves around a woman who believes she lost her father in an accident, but is approached by a stranger who explains that he died
Guardians of the Galaxy promises to be one awesome adventure set in space. Marvel’s latest superhero film of a slightly different kind is sure to bring laughter and tears to audiences of all ages. This one is not to be missed. Guardians of the Galaxy [PG13] Director: James Gunn Starring: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista & Vin Diesel Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi Run Length: 112 min Release: 31 Jul
because he had a wax figure made of himself. The Thai believe that such figures should never be made until after death. Stars Ananda Everingham of Shutter and The Leap Years and popular Thai model Rattanarat “Ploy” Aurthaveekul. STARRING: Ananda Everingham & Rattanarat “Ploy” Aurthaveekul GENRE: Horror RELEASE: 31 Jul
AUGUST 1 - 7, 2014
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Arsenal & Puma: Sol mates Arsenal FC and Puma release three new kits for the 2014/2015 season – we speak to brand ambassador Sol Campbell To unveil the three new Arsenal kits named “Future”, “Forever” and “Victorious”, former Arsenal and England defender Sol Campbell visited Singapore to present them at ION Orchard. You can imagine the crush as football fans swarmed to catch a glimpse of the legend, and to try to get his autograph. We managed to find some quiet time with the big man.
What have you been busy with? Mostly with the Arsenal and Puma collaboration. I have taken a huge portion of my time promoting this kit and I’m really enjoying myself. I’ve also been working on getting my coaching certification. In fact, I am about to get my “A badge” this August.
Steve-O: Guilty as charged “Most of the time, I’ve executed the stunts because it was a terrible idea.” “Jackass” fans take note: Steve-O is coming to Singapore and, guess what, he’ll take a picture with you after the show! If you’re familiar with MTV’s “Jackass”, you’d know that the programme regularly features crazy antics, stunts and sometimes questionable choices. The mainstay on “Jackass” was Britishborn comedian and stunt performer, Steve-O. He’s certainly come a long way from graduating from the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Clown College. We catch him before his show here on Aug 10.
What can we expect from your stand-up show? My comedy is outrageous, shocking, and hilarious but, most importantly, it’s completely honest. Nobody has lived a crazier life than me, and nobody is willing to say and do the things I’ll be doing on stage in Singapore!
You’ve been doing stunts and “Jackass” for a long time, has your attitude towards danger changed as you’ve gotten older? Not really. Sometimes I think of how hard it would be to do some of the craziest things I did when I was younger, and then I do them. It’s not easy, but it’s also not really any harder.
The question most people have when they watch you execute outrageous stunts is, “Why??” So, why do you do it and how do you come up with such ideas? The real reason I do all of that stuff is because I’m an attention whore. I also have never enjoyed school or work, so I started out using this stuff as a way to get through life.
Have you ever executed a stunt and realised that it was a terrible idea midway? Most of the time, I’ve executed the stunts because it was a terrible idea. I generally try to avoid getting paralysed or killed; so, if it’s looking like that’s a real concern, I might stop doing something.
Who do you think is currently the best defender in the English Premier League? I think Vincent Kompany (Manchester City) is doing a great job for his team. He has had consistently good performances at the highest level. The partnership between Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny (at Arsenal) is incredible. I think they are only going to keep getting better with each season.
Who do you think will win the league next season? I think Manchester City still have an incredibly strong team. They are most likely going to be title contenders again. Liverpool as well; they look as impressive as ever.
And Manchester United’s fate? I’d expect Manchester United to improve from last season; I doubt they will have to carry on this form they suffered last season. Sol Campbell won the Premier League title twice and the FA Cup thrice with Arsenal
Do you consider yourself an adrenaline junkie? [Deadpan] Nope, just an attention whore.
I’ve read that you’ll take pictures with “anyone who wants one” after the show. Will you do that here as well? You bet, I will. Absolutely!
Final question: What was going through your mind when you stapled your nuts to your leg?? The first time I did it, I was thinking that it would be something that people would remember (and I was right!). Steve-O enthuses, “I can’t wait to see you all in Singapore. Thank you!” “Steve-O, The Guilty As Charged Tour” will be in Singapore on Aug 10, 7pm, at the NUS University Cultural Centre Hall (UCC). Tickets from Sistic. By Cheryl Chia
Olivier Giroud in Arsenal’s new “Forever” Home kit for the 2014/2015 season
Who’s your favourite player in the current Arsenal squad? If I had to choose, I love watching Aaron Ramsey play. He had an excellent season scoring many goals, and I can’t wait to see him at his best again next season. It was unfortunate that he injured himself when he did; I think it could have been a very different season for Arsenal had he been fit the whole way through. By Basil Lee
Arsenal’s new kits were revealed to the public on Jul 11.
Forever Inspired by the incredible fan base Arsenal has built over the decades, the name of Arsenal’s 2014/2015 season’s Home kit serves as a tribute to the community of Gunners who have always been important to the team.
Future The blue kit to be worn for Cup matches played away from home symbolises the constant progress and innovation the club continues to achieve.
Victorious The yellow Away kit for next season features the colours representing some of Arsenal’s most glorious times. The navy blue and yellow kit symbolises the class and strength of the Gunners away from home. The Home and Away replica kits and a full collection of fan wear are available online at www.puma.com and in selected Puma and other sports shops. The Cup kit will be launched instore and online on Aug 14.
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Foodmania
weekender.com.sg
Over the Moon The Mid-Autumn Festival is upon us once again – here are some of this year’s choices Goodwood Park Hotel Durian lovers can look forward to the newest mooncake from Goodwood Park Hotel: The Black Thorn Durian Snowskin Mooncake ($48-$80). This is a relatively new breed of durian discovered only a few years ago. It boasts creamy amber flesh and possesses an intense bitter-sweet flavour. Available from Jul 25 to Sep 8. Call 6730 1867/1868 from 9am-7pm, from Mon-Fri, or 9am-1pm, on Sat, Sun & public holidays, to order.
Man Fu Yuan For a non-traditional mooncake, try the Shanghai Mooncake ($30-$57) with single yolk or mixed nuts. This new variant from Man Fu Yuan features a flaky buttery pastry skin for a light and crunchier texture, similar to tau sar piah. Available from Jul 9 to Sep 8. singapore.intercontinental.com/mooncakes
Carlton Hotel’s traditional mooncake with mixed nuts
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he Mid-Autumn Festival is quickly approaching. Plan ahead so you can get the best goodies. Here are a few different and interesting mooncakes for your consideration.
Bakerzin Bliss Collection
Cherry Garden oriental mooncake with silver lotus paste, yuzu and melon seeds
Man Fu Yuan’s Shanghai mooncake is different
Li Bai yellow lotus seed paste with cranberries & hazelnuts
Carlton Hotel snowskin options
Park Hotel’s golden treasures
Bakerzin This year, Bakerzin features the Bliss ($60 for eight) and Lush ($52 for eight) collections. These delicious assortments are infused with alcohol such as whisky, champagne, Frangelico, and Grand Marnier. There are also fruity flavours such as strawberry, yuzu, pomelo, mango and lychee. They are available from Jul 8 to Sep 8. www.bakerzin.com
Carlton Hotel Red Velvet Mooncakes ($58 for eight)? Yes, please! Attention Red Velvet lovers, the sweet and smooth cream cheese paste envelopes the crunchy treasures within the handcrafted snow-skin. I can’t wait to get my hands on this one! There is also the Mini Cempedak and Pineapple ($60 for eight) snow-skin mooncake. Available until Sep 8, 11am-9pm. Carlton Hotel Singapore, Lobby, 76 Bras Basah Road, Singapore 189558
Jiang-nan Chun’s savoury fare
Goodwood Park Hotel Black Thorn Durian Mooncake
Cherry Garden This year, Cherry Garden introduces the Oriental Mooncake with Silver Lotus Paste, Yuzu and Melon Seeds, a luscious pairing of enticing lotus paste and mellow citrus fragrance accompanied with the crunchy texture of the aromatic melon seeds. Available from Aug 1 to Sep 8. E-mail mosin-mooncakes@mohg.com for orders and enquiries.
Jiang-nan Chun Fancy a savoury mooncake? You might find one you enjoy at Jiang-nan Chun. The assorted nuts with kaffir lime and BBQ chicken ($65 for four) mooncake is baked with ingredients that deliver a savoury piquancy that go well with the subtle sweetness from the pastry shell. Available from Aug 7 to Sep 8. E-mail jnc.sin@fourseasons.com for orders and enquiries.
Park Hotel The Teochew Mooncake is another level of sinfulness altogether. Golden-fried with a flaky crust, the new Golden Pumpkin with Mung Beans and Single Yolk ($62 to $68) mooncake is incredible. The rich flavours with the salted egg yolk core make this a decadent treat for the season. The traditional mooncake filled with yam paste is also sold. Available from Jul 7 to Sep 8. E-mail mooncake@parkhotelgroup.com for orders and enquiries.
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Foodmania
If you like mooncake with liqueur, don’t miss Yan Ting’s Chocolate Royal Liqueur Truffle
TWG’s Red Lantern Tea Collection and mooncakes
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Li Bai Cantonese Restaurant Traditionalists will like this baked Yellow Lotus Seed Paste with Cranberry and Hazelnut mooncake ($63 for four). Its fragrant yellow lotus seed paste is imbued with the tart-sweetness of the cranberries and complemented with the crunch of hazelnuts. Available from Aug 6 to Sep 8. E-mail mooncake@sheratonsingapore.com for enquiries.
Raffles Hotel Apart from the much-awaited Champagne Truffle mooncakes every year, Raffles Hotel’s new offerings include the Snowskin Tropical Mango Tango Mooncake ($64 for eight), which is a blend of mango, passion fruit and pineapple encased in a white chocolate shell. They also have the Snowskin Irish Coffee Truffle Mooncake ($64 for eight), which has Irish Whisky and chocolate with the creamy coffee liqueur centre within a smooth praline core. Available from Jul 18 to Sep 8. www.rafflesmooncake.com
Yan Ting
Raffles Hotel’s colourful snowskin mooncakes
The newest creation from Yan Ting is the Chocolate Royal Liqueur Truffle ($70 for eight). Chocolate-lovers will fall for the dark richness and the bittersweet aroma of the chocolate paste while the truffle breaks open to reveal the heady smells of liquor. Available from Aug 1 to Sep 8. yantingrestaurant.com/ midautumn
TWG Tea Have an illuminating Mid-Autumn Festival with the Red Lantern traditional mooncakes ($60 for four) from TWG. It comes wrapped in a baked golden-brown crust, with a combination of mixed almonds, hazelnuts, macadamia, and pecans nestled within smooth lotus paste and infused with an uplifting combination of jasmine, exotic fruits, and sweet spices of TWG’s Red Lantern Tea. Available from Aug 7 to Sep 8 at all TWG Tea outlets. By Cheryl Chia
n e w O u t l e t s & C o ff e e
Sophie is the choice Choose Sophie Bakery for French pastries and check out new coffees that have just been launched Since its inception in 2012, Sophie Bakery has opened four outlets around Singapore with two more to launch soon, within this year. Sophie Bakery pastry shops sell Frenchinspired vienoisseries and breads. Sophie Bakery has tweaked its recipes to suit local palates, resulting in comparatively softer and fluffier buns, according to Chef Nicolas Moutalidis, who used to work in Maison Kayser in the USA.
FRESH BREADS & PASTRY One of the more popular items in the store is definitely the Chocolate Bun ($2) a chewy brioche studded with chocolate chips. A white chocolate version is available as well. Coming in close second are its flaky Croissants ($2). The croissants are fairly reasonably-priced for bakeries situated in the Central Business District. This makes it a great breakfast or teatime stop for young executives
working in the CBD. The breads and pastries at Sophie Bakery are baked three times a day in the flagship store in Telok Ayer as well as in its central kitchen at Kampong Ampat. The delivery of freshly-baked stock arrives at each store between 7am to 2pm. Don’t miss out on this fresh and fragrant goodness.
From Kitchen to Doorstep A little known fact is that Sophie Bakery also delivers its bread within 1km of its shops’ locations. With a minimum order of $20, you can have fresh bread at your door. Please note: there is a $4 surcharge for orders below $20.
Launch of 3 new coffees Sophie Bakery has also just launched its range of artisanal single-origin coffees from Brazil, Ethiopia and Sumatra, ranging from mild to strong. The beans are ground in-store and packed in 250g bags. Each bag sells for $18.90. Look out for the promotions on these new coffees that have just been launched by Sophie Bakery.
www.sophiebakery.sg
WEEKENDER SOPHIE BAKERY GIVEAWAY Win
a set of 3 packs of coffee beans worth about $60 or A $10 Sophie Bakery voucher 100 vouchers to be given! Launch of 3 New Coffees Sophie Bakery has just launched its range of 3 new artisanal singleorigin coffees from Brazil, Ethiopia and Sumatra. Each pack of coffee beans to be given is worth $18.90 per pack. Sophie Bakery Sophie Bakery is one of the few leading French artisanal bakeries in Singapore that provides affordable and rustic French breads, viennoiseries, pastries and desserts, and freshly-roasted coffee.
TO WIN, SIMPLY: 1. Click this link to fill in this form to enter the giveaway: http://bitly.com/ SophieBakery 2. Or, go to the Weekender Facebook page www.facebook. com/weekendersgp or website www. weekender.com.sg to fill in the form. ONLY 1 ENTRY PER PERSON, PLEASE. 100 participants will get a $10 Sophie Bakery voucher, and 3 winners will be picked by lucky draw to win a set of 3 types of coffee beans. Each set retails at $56.70.
GIVEAWAY PROMO PERIOD: 31 JUL – 13 AUG (Midnight)
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n e w R e s ta u r a n t
The dishes have hip names such as the Honky Tonk The cheekily-named Naughty Fries
Raw Black Kingfish Soldiers atop Chick Pea Pancakes
Buttero gallops onto Tras Street An Italian cowboy rides into town with the opening of this new restaurant Buttero, the newest kid on the block to join the Tras Street boom, is as robust as the sound of its name with lashings of comfort food that are, at the same time, refined. “Buttero” [say boo-tairo] means “cowboy” in Italian. Executive Chef Logan Campbell brings Italian fare fit for a Tuscan cowboy. When I visited Buttero for lunch on a weekday, the restaurant was fairly packed.
Hog-Tied and Loving It
n e w R e s ta u r a n t
Potato Head Folk: More hype than hip? With the much-anticipated Potato Head Folk opening in Singapore, does it live up to the hype? When word got out that the famous Potato Head Beach Club in Bali was setting up its first venture out of Indonesia in Singapore, there was much hype and buzz among foodies everywhere, myself included. I’ve been to Potato Head Beach Club in Bali and I was amazed by the beautiful décor, swimming pool and beachside view. The food was affordable and its quality was excellent. Of course, I wasn’t expecting a beach club in the middle of Keong Saik Road but I went with high expectations. Perhaps too high.
Reality Bites? The new Potato Head Folk on Keong Saik Road houses burger joint Three Buns on the second floor, Studio 1939, an intimate bar, and a rooftop bar that will also be open to the public. Three Buns brought in Chef Adam Penny from London, who was the brains behind Patty & Bun, a place renowned for its burgers. The menu is quite amusing, with hip-hop inspired names such as the LL Kool Slaw but, unfortunately, I feel that the food could use some improvement. When I was there, I tried the Baby Huey ($20), with a prime 150g beef patty, cheese, lettuce, and the Notorious T.O.M – house tomato sauce, spiced mayonnaise and pickles. The burgers do not come with sides and are served at a default of medium unless otherwise specified. However, I did specify for my burger to be medium rare but the burger arrived well done. The burger did not taste bad; it was decent. But, seeing that diners would be paying a fair amount for the burger, I think the least they could’ve done was to have plated it nicely instead of having served it on a wooden plate in a paper wrapper,
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“As with the burgers, I wish they’d put in more effort in the presentation...”
similar to McDonald’s. Some of the burgers didn’t even arrive properly wrapped. Furthermore, The Honky Tonk ($19), a buttermilk fried chicken burger, arrived soggy due to the over-zealous amount of hot sauce on it.
Saving Grace The cocktails at Potato Head Folk did not disappoint. The Queen La Tea-Fah ($18) with Tiro’s vodka, apple, rhubarb bitters and lemon is a refreshing mid-afternoon drink. And, unlike the mains, the side dishes actually fared much better. The Naughty Fries ($9), homemade fries with spiced béarnaise, hot beef chilli, crisp shallots, parmesan cheese and sesame seeds, is excellent to share for a slightly sinful bar snack loaded with sauce. The desserts are kept simple with pudding pots ($6) and they come in two flavours, Zesty Lemon and Rich Chocolate. I preferred the zesty lemon for its tart flavour that cuts through the decadence of the cream pudding. However, as with the burgers, I wish they’d put in more effort in the presentation of the puddings instead of having served them in disposable containers. On the whole, I was disappointed with Potato Head Folk and I do hope they improve the quality of the food and the presentation as time goes by. Potato Head Folk, 36 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089143, Tel: 6327 1939 By Cheryl Chia
For more yummy options & the latest lifestyle tips, visit us at weekender.com.sg
The meal got off to a good start with the appetiser of Pulled Pork Waffle Fries ($15) – golden-fried waffle fries with shredded pieces of pulled pork smothered in a mozzarella cheese sauce. Utterly sinful but utterly good. Another sinful and cheesy treat is the Triple Cheese & Truffle Toasty ($16). To quote one of our Instagram followers, “What kind of sorcery is this?” A warm grilled toasty filled with caramelised onions, mozzarella, parmesan and fontinella cheese which oozes when you bite into it makes a gooey and yummy sandwich.
From the Barn to the Table From the rotisserie at Buttero springs forth the Porchetta with Braised Beans ($32). It is marked as one of Buttero’s signature dishes, and rightly so. The porchetta was well-seasoned and savoury, with a crackling crispy rind all around. The braised bean sauce reminded
new Cafe
Hip in Havelock
Finally, a café that we can say is cheap and good has opened up in the quieter side of Tiong Bahru The quieter Havelock area of Tiong Bahru sees a quiet awakening with the opening of The Tastemaker Store. Three siblings now own the establishment but their grandfather used to own the shop space at Block 22, Havelock Road, as a bookstore. It has come full circle as the siblings have since taken over and opened The Tastemaker Store, which is a minimalist café serving toast, eggs and… glutinous rice and yam cake.
Cheap Eats in Atas Café The café could easily fit in with the many hipster joints sprouting up all over Tanjong Pagar but I’m glad to say The Tastemaker keeps it real with affordable prices. The familiar Glutinous Rice ($3.80) and Yam Cake ($3.80) are traditional dishes served in generous portions. The Yam Cake, yes, the Chinese kind, is smooth and contains chunks of pumpkin as well. The accompanying chilli sauce helps to bring out the taste of the fragrant
us of baked beans smothering the pork but in a good, homely way. I also liked the Dirty Steak ($34), a California dry-rubbed Wagyu flank steak that is cooked on hot coals topped with verde and comes with sides of onion rings and shallots. The flank steak is quite substantial in size and tender, and arrived at the default of medium, not well done. Take note, other Singaporean restaurants. The Handmade Gnocchi ($21) with sautéed Brussels sprouts in honey, lemon and sage was a little disappointing to me. Although I was told that the gnocchi was meant to be on the soft side, I prefer my gnocchi to be chewy and less mushy. End the meal with the freshly-fried Cannoli ($12) filled with fresh ricotta, lemon and strawberry salad. The drizzle of chocolate sauce and powdered sugar on the cannolis added to the decadence of the dish. The satisfying crunch of the cannoli yielded the rich creamy filling, which I took great pleasure in slurping up. It is so difficult to find cannoli in Singapore, and this will be my go-to place. Head to Buttero for a galloping good meal. Buttero, 54 Tras Street, Singapore 078993, Tel: 6438 7737 By Cheryl Chia
dried shrimps. The Glutinous Rice comes with generous sprinklings of peanuts and mushrooms and has a springy bite.
Britain Meets Singapore The “Toast, Eggs and Coffee” set ($5.80) fuses Singapore’s local breakfast with our colonial roots. The Lemoncurd Toast with clotted cream ($3, a la carte) comes on a dusted bun, which we found slightly dry but the lemon curd and clotted cream – both imported from the UK (where the one of the siblings resides) – is deliciously tart, zesty and sweet at the same time with a touch of richness brought to life thanks to the clotted cream. It also has Kaya Toast with clotted cream ($3) for you traditionalists out there. There are also a few savoury options, such as the Hot Dog Bun ($5.80) with crisps, and a Pizza ($5.80) with mushroom or sausage. The coffee is still decidedly café instead of kopitiam. Get your Espresso ($3.50), Americano ($3.50-$4.50) or Mocha ($5-$6) at this quiet café as you feast on glorious local treats. Give this café a shot; it’ll be worth your money. The Tastemaker, Blk 22 Havelock Road, #01-705, Singapore 160022, Email: info@thetastemakerstore.com By Cheryl Chia
AUGUST 1 - 7, 2014
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SHOPsavvy
Family comes first hdb inspirations
“It was necessary to retain space for the children to grow up in. At the same time, storage space was just as important to keep the home looking spic and span.”
Article first published in Lookbox Living #29, Nov/Dec 2013
The designers wanted to create a living room where the family can spend quality time with one another. Colours are kept quiet and neutral to act as an unobtrusive backdrop. Large mirror panels line the walkway leading to the bedrooms, visually enlarging the corridor and hiding the entrance to the bathroom.
Lookbox Living out now! Available at major bookstores and newsstands. For more interior projects, visit www.lookboxliving.com.sg
The linear design of the cabinetry gives the wife ample space to flit about the kitchen without leaving a mess.
master bedroom, the designers included the staples of a five-star suite: a high kingsize bed, plush drapery and a clean and unhindered layout. Storage comes in the form of pull-out drawers beneath the bed and a wall of shelves next to the television set.
Kitchen Capers The kitchen places function over form. The linear design of the cabinetry gives the wife ample space to flit about the kitchen without leaving a mess. Also of note is the contrasting colours of the top and lower cabinets; it’s easy on the eyes and makes daily maintenance a breeze.
Into The Blue A burst of blue brings a vibrant and energetic atmosphere to the son’s bedroom. Designing a room for a young and active child meant that designers could be a bit bolder in their colour choice. As such, different shades of blue cover the walls, shelving system and even the bed.
Key to Comfort The family enjoys spending their evenings together. As such, the designers wanted to create a living room where the family can spend quality time with one another. Colours are kept quiet and neutral to act as an unobtrusive backdrop. At the same time, luxe touches are apparent in the choice of ceiling lights, plush furniture and quality furnishing.
Slide Aside Large mirror panels line the walkway that leads into the bedrooms. This visually enlarges the narrow corridor and, at the same time, conveniently hides the entrance to the bathroom.
Hotel Class
By Redzman Rahmat
The family travels regularly, and the parents are used to sleeping in luxurious hotel rooms. To evoke a similar feel in the
A burst of blue brings a vibrant and energetic atmosphere to the son’s bedroom.
HOME MAKEOVER TIPS
Shapes & shades
Seasoned Shakers
Dinner parties will get a dash of quirkiness when you serve up these shakers with your entrees. Each shaker represents a different season, such as a cactus for summer and pine tree for winter. Four Season shakers, $49 for a set of four, from Totally Hot Stuff
Power Puff Poufs
You never know when you might need an extra seat, making occasional seating a must-have in any social home. These low-lying poufs are a great option, since they are firm enough to also be used as an end table. Donna Wilson Ernest and Henry pouffes, $992 and $639, from Foundry
Right On Time
Time to make a statement with this asymmetrical wall clock. It’s made from rubber wood with fine grains that complement almost any kind of interior. Diamond wall clock, $185.95, from BoConcept
Colour Me Perfect
Whether you use them as a vase, a bowl or a table centrepiece, these Shibuya containers will put a smile on your face. We love these acrylic containers’ graphical take on traditional Japanese lacquerware. Kartell Shibuya containers, price on enquiry, from Space
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ilan Interior Design turned a plain HDB flat into a home that’s reminiscent of a serviced apartment. The neutral colour scheme sets the foundation for the design, with a detailed focus on quality finishes and plenty of hidden storage space. More importantly, Milan Interior Design created a home that specifically caters to the homeowners’ needs and wants.
Get ideas for transforming your flat in our 8-week series!
All Laid Out
The striking colours, Aztec print and intricate handweave – what’s not to like about this 100% wool rug? Peru rug, $1,245.95, from BoConcept
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Beauty In Brief
The hairy issue Moist Diane If you have fine flat hair with and a problematic scalp, the Moist Diane Volume & Scalp Shampoo and Treatment ($16.90 each) might suit you. It contains argan stem cells that help active ingredients penetrate the scalp and hair while Alpine rose stem cells offer protection from UV rays and dryness. Available at Watsons, selected departmental stores and supermarkets.
DRx Medispa The Nanogen Thickening Treatment Shampoo ($30) is fortified with triple the growth factor concentration of regular products. It is an invigorating non-pore blocking shampoo suitable for thinning hair that contains moisturising Hyaluronic Acid. Paired with the Nanogen Daily Volume Active Thickening Conditioner ($39), hair shines and is more volumised from within. DRx Medispa, Tong Building, 302 Orchard Road, #14-02/#16-02
Having silky and manageable locks shaves much time off your daily routine, and it starts from the first step The first step to beautiful looks is having clean hair. Build that perfect look from beauty ground zero with these shampoos and conditioners.
Alterna
Living Proof
Put your hair on a detox diet with the Alterna Caviar Clinical Detoxifying Shampoo ($44). It prevents sebum build-up for fuller and denserlooking hair. Available at Sephora from Jul 24.
Get your PHD in hair. The Perfect Hair Day (PHD) shampoo and conditioner ($32 each) is a genius solution which volumises, conditions, smoothens, strengthens and polishes. Available at Sephora.
John Frieda Maintaining luscious curls sans frizz in Singapore is sometimes next to impossible but with John Frieda’s newest line, Frizz Ease Dream Curls shampoo and conditioner ($15.90 each), you might stand a fighting chance against the elements. Available in selected Watsons and Guardian outlets from August.
Human + kind Save time with this Shampoo + Body Wash for Sensitive Skin ($25) from human + kind. It features a combination of calendula, aloe vera and marshmallow root extract. Available at Superberry.me, WhatHeWants and selected Watsons outlets.
AUGUST 1 - 7, 2014
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TRAVELation Farm-stays in Taiwan were never really on my vacation radar, until I learned more about it – here’s what you need to see
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or most people, vacations usually take place in another city, such as Bangkok, or at the beach, such as in Bali. Another travel option that’s great for young families, couples or the elderly is a farm-stay. Taiwan has many to offer.
New Traditionalists Generations of families have been farming in Taiwan since the emperors ruled China. Over the years, however, the glitz of city life has lured many of the younger generations away from the farms. Recently, they have returned, not as farmers but entrepreneurs, transforming farms into farm-stays. They have taken their parents’ knowledge of the land and tradition and modernised the farm-stay to suit city dwellers. The service standards are top-notch, the accommodations are tastefully rustic, and the marketing is as savvy as any modern hotel chain.
T R AV E L F E AT U R E
Fresh air, fragrances, fun and feasting. Fantastic!
Farm-stays across Taiwan There are over 200 Leisure Farms across most of Taiwan’s districts. We sampled a few on the western coast of Taiwan to get a sense of the variety. We found profoundly heart-warming people, fantastic food, and refreshingly-clean air in relaxing natural settings.
Here are just some examples of what you can experience. Breath of Fresh Air at Sheipa Leisure Farm
Rustic Charm of Da-Keng Leisure Farm
Family Value at Nan Yuan Garden
Jubilant hospitality, fresh blueberries, and fresh mountain air await in Sheiba Leisure Farm.
Located adjacent to a national park, 1,923m above sea level, the weather at this farm is always cool and the air, fresh. It is said, “Every breath of Sheiba air you breathe extends your life an extra day.” With that type of promise, no wonder it’s a favourite among urbanites escaping from the city smog. And, you’ll need lungfuls of fresh air for hiking in the national park, picking blueberries and kiwis and, not forgetting, strolling in the fabulous gardens filled with hydrangeas and prune trees. Early risers can see the sunrise above the cloud banks in the valley. www.sheipa.com.tw
Feeding time is a pleasure at the Nan Yuan Leisure Farm
For families with young kids, this is the perfect place. Stay in Canadian camphor log cabins, visit the private zoo, pet farm animals, have water cannon fights on man-made moats, or participate in many of the D-I-Y workshops. This place has been around for over 20 years, so expect the facilities to be somewhat dated. www.nanyuanfarm.com.tw
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For more beautiful destinations and travel anecdotes, explore our website at weekender.com.sg
Breathtaking sunrises, tasty bamboo shoot porridge, Swiss cottage-styled accommodation and the opportunity to feed the livestock at Da-Keng Leisure Farm
Formerly a traditional farm, Da-Keng, with the help of the owner’s three young daughters, is now a sophisticated hospitality establishment with rustic charm. It’s still a farm but it only grows organic items that they serve in their restaurant. Their signature items include sweet and succulent bamboo shoot, bananas, mangoes, and farm-raised pigs and chicken roasted on the premise. For activities, there are zip lines, hot springs and vigorous hiking trails within the acreage. It’s a great place for families with pre-teens. www.idakeng.com.tw
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Leisure Farm – What’s that?
Leisure Farms aren’t strictly farms, which guests stay in. Some are simply restaurants, which grow and serve their own produce, while others provide full hospitality services. Most of them have evolved from a traditional farming business into a tourism business, providing guests with fresh air, fresh food and a fantastic break from the city.
Feast your eyes on these Staying on a leisure farm may be new and exciting but it’s their food that’s king. For many of the dishes served at the leisure farms, the ingredients are literally grown in their backyard! It can’t get fresher than that. While most leisure farms have accommodation, others are only restaurants with adjoining farms. Nonetheless, they offer a tantalising taste adventure for anyone experiencing farm-stays in Taiwan. There are simply too many great ingredients to name. So let your eyes be the judge!
Xun Zhi Yuan Garden Leisure Farm Specialises in growing organic herbs and spices, which they add to their traditional and Western cuisine.
Stylish Modern Fu Wan Leisure Farm
Hua Lu Flower Home Leisure Farm
www.ptherb.tw It’s all organic with fresh herbs and spices from their own garden at Nature Garden Restaurant
Matige Clam Farm and Restaurant Serves farmfresh succulent clams and manufactures the most fragrant bee hoon I’ve ever eaten! Freshly-farmed clams and fragrant Taiwanese bee hoon from Matige
www.matige.com.tw/
Lim’s Historic Home
A fragrant floral wonderland, farm-fresh ingredients, and their own strawberry beer at Flower Home Leisure Farm Chocolate-covered shrimp, anyone? Fu Wan adds twists to traditions in its food as well as its accommodation
Designed by the owner’s eldest son, this eco-friendly resort offers Balinese-style villas, as well as stylish and sophisticated tentage rooms with wooden bathtubs for its guests. The second son, a trained chef, prides himself on fusing traditional southern Taiwanese cooking with a Western twist. www.fuwan.com.tw
If you enjoy aromatherapy, then this place is for you. Three daughters run this family farm, which specialises in growing flowers and plants for their essential oils. Tour their museum filled with antique equipment used for extraction in the good old days. The modern rooms are tastefully-decorated with wooden twigs and vines for a fairy tale gazebo feeling. www.flowerhome.com.tw By Frank Young
Lotus and lilies are grown in the backyard and served fresh at Lim’s Historic Home. A must-visit when you’re in Taiwan!
Specialises in Hakka Maioli cuisine using lotus and lilies. www.lin-jia.com This trip to the Taiwan farm-stays was made possible thanks to CTC Travel and China Airlines. You can contact CTC Travel (www.ctc.com.sg) for a selection of free and easy farm-stay options in Taiwan.
AUGUST 1 - 7, 2014
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TRAVELation
Mocárabe or “Honeycomb Work” in the Alhambra
A view of the magnificent Alhambra, once the seat of the Moorish Emirate of Granada
and fought under both the Christian crown as well as Islamic rulers. Long after the Reconquista, or Christian re-conquest, and the founding of the Empire of Spain (as well as the discovery of the Americas) in 1492, the rich and multi-faceted legacy of Moorish Spain still endures. Here are some must-see destinations to get a feel of Moorish Spain.
Photo: Richard Bowden / Shutterstock.com
Moorish Al Andalus
Colourful costumes evoke antiquity in the annual Moors and Christians Festival in Guardamar
The Moorish double-arches of the Mezquita de Cordoba
Long Haul
The legacy of Moorish spain When we think of Spain, we think of European culture, food and monarchy but many don’t realise it has a wealth of legacy from its Moorish past
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pain has been a European powerhouse for many a century now. Understandably, most people perceive Spain, in its language, culture, architecture, food and monarchy, to be predominantly Mediterranean or Western European. Few non-Europeans realise that Spain
has had a grand and colourful past that includes a time when large parts of the country fell under Moorish rulers or the expansive Caliphate of Cordoba. The Moors, or Arabs and Berbers from the Maghreb (North Africa), were the Muslim conquerors.
Conquest & Reconquista One of the most renowned figures in that mediaeval age was the hero El Cid (a term of address meaning “The Lord”), or Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar, who lived from c1043 to 1049AD
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
gym for rock-climbing fanatics. From $48, AirAsia. Promotion ends 3 Aug.
Krabi – Railay Beach
Jakarta – Taman Mini Indonesia Indah
Isolated from the mainland, the peninsula of Railay is surrounded by the warm Andaman Sea, lush jungle, twisted rocks and towering limestone cliffs that shelter the incredible beaches. Although the atmosphere is laid-back and tranquil, Railay Beach offers plenty of adventure opportunities – it is a jungle
Taman Mini Indonesia Indah or Beautiful Indonesia in Miniature Park is an extensive culture-based park, the prime showcase of Indonesia’s rich cultural and natural diversity. This 100ha park has traditional houses of each province, with displays of regional handicrafts and clothing, a mini-scale
The region of Andalusia in southern Spain is the most characteristic of Moorish Spain. The name is from “Al Andalus”, which is an Arabic reference to Muslim Spain. The Legado Andalusí, a touristic and cultural project to recover and promote the historic legacies of Moorish civilization, has designed seven tourist routes criss-crossing the eight provinces of Andalusia. These include the Caliphate Route linking Córdoba and Granada, which travels through towns of white architecture and protected natural spaces such as the Sierra Subbética; the Washington Irving Route, in honour of the 19th Century American writer and traveller, which connects Seville and Granada and journeys through towns with an important Arab past including Carmona, Antequera and Loja; and the Route of the Nasrids (dynasty), which begins in Navas de Tolosa in the province of Jaen and continues south to Granada passing through monumental cities such as Úbeda and Baeza. More information on these routes can be obtained from www.spainisculture.com or from the Spain Tourism Board at www.tourspain.es. The Moorish legacy is scattered throughout Andalusia, in mosques, castles and watchtowers peppered throughout the Andalusian lands, making this landscape a convergence of Islamic and Christian cultures. Nonetheless, it is in the cities of Granada and Córdoba where this heritage is richest.
The Mezquita of Cordoba The Mezquita or Great Mosque of Córdoba is an amalgam of varied architectural styles layered over nine centuries. It is one of the most iconic examples of Islamic art in Spain and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built in 785AD by Emir Abdurrahman I, on the site of the Visigothic Church of San Vicente, the mosque underwent consecutive extensions over later centuries. The interior resembles a labyrinth of pretty columns with double arcades and horseshoe arches. After the Christian re-conquest, a cathedral was built inside. Its decoration comprises Byzantine mosaic with crafted marble.
The Alhambra of Granada The Alhambra is a grand complex which includes a palace, fortifications, residential buildings and gardens. Its palace is characterised by spacious rectangular courtyards and several fountains. The Alcazaba citadel, resembling a reddish castle, is the most prominent and impressive part of the Alhambra, while the Courtyard of the Lions with its fountains is one of the most beautiful in the compound. The Alhambra is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is not surprising to find that the Alhambra has inspired numerous works of music or literature.
The Giralda of Seville The Cathedral of Seville’s minaret, or Giralda, was the culmination of Almohad Muslim architecture and served as a model for the minarets at Rabat and Marrakesh in Morocco. It was used for calling the faithful to prayer as well as an observatory, and was so venerated that the Moors wanted to destroy it so that the Christians could not lay their hands on it. The Giralda dominates the skyline of Seville. You can ascend to the bell chamber for an incredible view of the city.
Arabs Baths in Jaen Villardompardo Palace in Jaen was built in 1592, on the orders of the former Viceroy of Peru. What is little known is that Arab baths from the 10th Century were hidden under this palace. In Moorish Spain, these baths were important for personal hygiene but also for social life. They were declared a Spanish National Monument in 1917. Pay these Moorish monuments a visit and you may find their magnificence transporting you to a land of Arabian Nights. Special thanks to the Spain Tourism Board for information provided. www.tourspain.es
By Lester J Wan
Mt Borobudur, flora and fauna, theatres and more. From $64, AirAsia. Promotion ends 3 Aug.
All information is accurate at time of writing.
Phnom Penh – The National Museum of Cambodia The National Museum of Cambodia is housed in a graceful terracotta structure of traditional design, with an inviting courtyard garden. It is home to a millennium’s collection of the world’s finest Khmer sculpture. Photography is not allowed so you have to come here to admire them for yourself! $54, Jetstar. Promotion ends when sold out.
The National Museum of Cambodia
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The Pearl of Arabia Visit Qatar and experience the latest in architectural brilliance set against an ancient desert landscape Qatar is one of the smallest countries in the Middle East. That’s why, when it was awarded the 2022 FIFA World Cup, many people around the world had not heard of it before. Nonetheless, Qatar, or its capital of Doha, is sometimes compared to an oasis in the desert, or a pearl in the ocean. Here’s why. Throughout Qatar’s history, this land, with a tranquil coast facing the Indian Ocean, has been well-known for pearl diving. Qatar was under the rule of the mighty Ottoman Empire for most of its history, before falling under the British until its independence in 1971. Despite its colourful past, Qatar has remained a treasure till this day. Today, Qatar is a centre for oil production and perhaps the richest country in the region. This prosperity and industrialization has led to modern wonders such as Doha, its striking capital city, accompanied by the equally-beautiful white beaches of Al-Khor. Here are just some of the sights you have to see.
Qatar’s modern stadia helped it win the bid for the 2022 FIFA World Cup
Photo: Philip Lange / Shutterstock.com
A vintage canon and Zubarah fort
Aside from the traditional fish market on the waterfront and the sun-kissed beaches, you have the variety of birds. Different kinds of tropical birds reside in the mangroves and in the gardens of the city, so you’re never far from the wildlife. Fancy a bit of camping? Bir Zekreet is a popular place for camping. This small city is surrounded by sand dunes and desert landscape. During your stay, you can also visit the wild deer reserve and a deserted village once used as a set for films.
Khor al-Adaid – The Magical Inland Sea
A trainer with a racing camel
The Seaside Road of AlCorniche The seaside road on the harbour of Doha is a must-see before you leave. You have the pristine waterfront of the Indian Ocean, along with the innovative modern architecture in the background. Make sure you catch the sight of the traditional “dhow” sailing vessels bobbing in the water.
Souq Waqif & Shopping Sprees If you’ve got the itch for shopping, Souq Waqif is the area for you. It’s been the main market in Doha for centuries. The only difference is that the mud-rendered
storefronts in the 19th Century style now have the Villagio Mall sitting next to them. There’s something for everyone here, whether you’re looking for little trinkets to take home or some yummy Qatari cuisine. Look out for the Middle Eastern coffee pots.
Al-Khor & Bir Zekreet – The Twin Cities While there’s much to see in and around Doha, there’s much more to Qatar. You have two amazing cities on opposite coasts to each other: Al-Khor and Bir Zekreet. Al-Khor was one of the foremost pearl fishing villages. Today, it’s more of a fishing village.
Khor al-Adaid is called the Inland Sea. It’s easy to imagine crystal waters and remote beaches but this isn’t the case. It’s actually a dune sea where there’s nothing but soft sands for hundreds of miles around. Despite its sparsity, it’s a destination practically every foreigner visits. The surroundings have been turned into a landscape filled with camps, spiritual retreats, camel riding and sand skiing. It’s the only place in Qatar where you can participate in many of the desert pursuits of old. This Arabian treasure is a must-see. You’ll be amazed at how much fun you can have! By Victoria
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