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ISSUE 96 Aug 29 - SEP 4, 2014
Hello Kitty Scale-MODEL AIRPLANES to be won! Pg 19
Marina Bay Sands’ Epicurean Market 10 pairs of 3-day Access Passes
to be won! Pg 4
5 Most unusual parks T Rav e l ati o n
ENT ERTA I NMENT
Catch samurai X’s swordPLAY
around the world
THIS WEEK’S COVER WAS VOTED BY: Noraidah Sudri, Joey Foo, Jocelyn Joy Gwee, Alison Chu, Charmaine Yang, Darren Teng Zhi Hin, Jaslin Purification, Dennis Tan, Weiping Leong, Geri Tan, Kwek Fu Xuan, Sophia Ang, Zhang Jie, Loon Yun, Fu Qizhuang, Sin Li Jiao, Ivy Poon, Haoyuin Kong
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AUGUST 29 - September 4, 2014
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Entertainment
FUN @ SENTOSA
theatre
family
Hotpants Until 30 Aug, 3pm & 8pm (Mon– Thurs & Sat), 8pm (Fri), 2pm (Sun), $40 onwards Set in the early 1970s, Hotpants is Dick Lee’s revival of his 1997 musical. It features ten quirky and endearing characters coming to terms with the changing times. It focuses on the journey of three mother-daughter pairs whose lives take a turn when the three schoolmates decide to join an inter-school Talentime. National Library Drama Centre Theatre, 100 Victoria Street, www.sistic.com.sg
Sentosa Buskers Festival 2014 6-14 Sep, from 4.30pm Jaw dropping sword swallowing acts, a grumpy Queen Victoria, highly-entertaining clown jugglers and a sizzling-hot fire tribal performance are just some of the captivating performances that you can expect at Sentosa Buskers Festival! Soak in the lively atmosphere and watch the characters come to life with physical comedy, musical talents and circus skills as the buskers bring everyone together regardless of cultural background. Gather your loved ones for this one festival not to be missed! Beach Plaza - Palawan Beach
Oktoberfest 2014 6 Sep, 6pm till late $88*/Adult, $48*/Child, $108/Adult (Includes 2 Erdinger Beers) Come celebrate the world’s most-loved beer festival and time-honoured German festive heritage. Bask in the festival ambience and celebrate with your buddies this Oktoberfest. Wave House Sentosa, Siloso Beach Food from the Heart Mon-Sun, 6pm–11.30pm* From $65++ per person* Indulge in your favourite comfort food, whether home is Singapore or elsewhere in the world, when our chefs transform simple global classics into witty, delightful renditions. Every Friday and Saturday, the kitchen table presents “Seafood from the Heart”, a twist from “Food From The Heart” – a delectable addition to the gastronomical spread*.
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Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical Until 7 Sep, 11am (Sat), 1pm (Sun), $30 A fun-filled musical adventure about our heroine Trixie (a too-cute toddler learning to speak), Daddy (her wellmeaning father), Knuffle Bunny (her beloved stuffed animal), and their
Free! Pandamonium @ CapitaMalls 30 & 31 Aug, 12pm In keeping with the spirit of Panda Party, join the pre-party at Ion Orchard on 30 and 31 Aug. Panda mascots Kai Kai and Jia Jia will be making a public appearance to surprise panda fans. Also, stand a chance to win tickets to the Panda Party happening on Sep 5. Ion Orchard PUMA Night Run Singapore 1 Nov, $59 Set against the city’s idyllic resort destination, this will be the very first night race to be organised on Sentosa. Run enthusiasts are brought across different parts of Singapore as a twist is added to the typical race route. Take up the 10km race challenge, and look forward to exciting performances by popular local band The Sam Willows and 53A, as well as DJ gigs after the race. Sentosa, go.puma.com/nightrunsg
The Nightingale Until 14 Sep, 10am & 2pm (TueFri), 11am & 2pm (Sat & Sun), $22 onwards Watch the refreshing new take on Hans Christian Andersen’s well-loved 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
29–30 Aug, 7pm–2am Featuring an explosive line-up of local and international artists, the Singapore Night Festival returns this year with a Bold and Beautiful theme. Enjoy a night of spectacular performances surrounded by magical lights. Immerse yourself in performances, artistic architecture and much more at the Bras Basah Bugis Precinct. The festival will be held in several locations in the area, National Museum Singapore, Singapore Management University (SMU), Armenian Street, Cathay Green (Opposite SOTA) and the Singapore Art Museum. Admission is free for all who are interested, and will go on late into the night. Don’t miss your chance to catch Singapore’s hottest artistic festival of the year!
enjoyable & EXCITing options FOR ALL AGES big trip out to the Laundromat. This theatrical event is recommended for kids aged 2 to 9 years old. Ulu Pandan CC Theatrette
Singapore Night Festival
Various locations, www.brasbasahbugis.sg/SNFPortal
The Color Run Singapore 2014 30 & 31 Aug, 12pm Less about your 10-minute-mile and more about having the time of your life, The Color Run is a 5-km, un-timed race in which thousands of participants, or “Color Runners”, are doused from head to toe in different colors at each kilometre. Sentosa
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The Kitchen Table, W Singapore, Sentosa Cove Sentosa Spooktacular 2014 Jointly produced with GTH 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 31 Oct & 1 Nov, 7pm-1am $56.60^ (Advance Ticket), $46.60^ (Sentosa Islander Members), $66.60 (Standard Ticket) Get ready for a whole new extreme experience this Halloween! Experience the dark come to life in the new Spooktacular haunted village – Laddaland – with horror features from the movies Alone, Countdown and The Swimmers. Fort Siloso ^Valid till 30 Sep. *Terms & Conditions apply.
To find out more activities and promotions on Sentosa, scan here
sentosa SpooktacuLAR QUESTION 1 (29 AUG) In this year’s Sentosa Spooktacular, what will Fort Siloso be transformed into? Visit Weekender website at www.weekender.com.sg/ WeekenderSpooktacular or www.facebook.com/ weekendersgp and stand to win a pair of Sentosa Spooktacular preview night tickets for Oct 9! Terms & Conditions apply
Scan the QR code to get the answer!
Breaking Boundaries Vertical Artistry by Bobbi’s Pole Studio
AUGUST 29 - September 4, 2014
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AUGUST 29 - September 4, 2014
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Entertainment
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concerts New! Best of Maria Cordero 2013 30 Aug, 8pm, $38 onwards Perhaps best known by her nickname, “Fat Mama”, Maria Cordero will be entertaining the crowd with renditions of eternal classics like “Save My Life” and “The Light of Friendship”. The audience can also look forward to her ever hilarious jokes. Resorts World Theatre, Resorts World Sentosa, www.sistic.com.sg
story exploring the history and journey of the Beatles. Employing authentic Beatles instruments, amplifiers and costumes, coupled with musically-perfect renditions of your favourite Beatles classics, Beatlemania On Tour will have audiences raving about the concert long after it ends. Grand Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, www.sistic.com.sg
others NEW! FREE! Heineken Cities Festival 30 Aug The Heineken Cities Festival is a unique, one-of-a-kind urban street festival on 30th August at Ann Siang Hill and Club Street. It is part of the Heineken “Cities of the World” campaign which aims to inspire one to open their city and discover new gems and experiences. Various locations, www. facebook.com/Heineken
Beatlemania 5-6 Sep, 8pm, $55 onwards Beatles tribute ban Beatlemania comes to Singapore with a musical
Fashion TV Beach Festival 2014 30 Aug, 11am till late, $38 The world’s most glamorous beach party is back for the second year running. 5,000 partygoers and 350 million viewers will be celebrating sun, sand, sea and style on the shores of Sentosa. With the world’s hottest labels taking centre stage, the festival encapsulates this city’s status as tropical paradise and fashion capital. Tanjong Beach Club, Sentosa NEW! Writer-In-TheGardens Residency Programme Until 31 Aug Open call to all writers in Singapore who write in English, Chinese, Malay or Tamil. Selected writers will be given residency and resources to develop their writing talents. At the end of the six-month programme, writers will produce their own original work of poetry, fiction or creative non-fiction. www.nac.gov.sg
Pesta Raya 2014 Until 31 Aug The Esplanade hosts the 2014 Malay Festival of Arts from Aug 28 to 31. Comprising both ticketed and free performances, the festival features a curation of some
f e at u r e d e v e n t & G i v e away
Marina Bay Sands’ Epicurean Market Partake in a day of savouring fine food and wine within an amazing indoor garden picnic-themed setting This year’s Epicurean Market offers a stellar line-up of celebrity chefs, a curation of only the freshest produce, as well as talks and tutorials on how you can bring a little bit of that magic into
your own home. Foodies, don’t miss out!
Culinary Veterans The world-class line-up of celebrity chefs includes David Thompson (Long Chim) and Tetsuya Wakuda (Waku Ghin), and local talent Justin Quek (Sky on 57). Other award-winning chefs include Nancy Silverton and David Myers. Culinary fanatics can also look forward to a mystery box cook-off between executive chefs Jonathan Kinsella (db Bistro Moderne) and David Almany (Osteria Mozza). The two superstars will go head to head in a cook-off using only the ingredients provided in a mystery box.
of the best traditional and contemporary Malay artists presenting vibrant works of dance, theatre and music. The Esplanade, 1 Esplanade Drive, www.esplanade.com
Prudential Singapore Swim Stars 5 Sep, 7–9pm, $30-$160 The best swimmers in Singapore go head to head with some of the most exciting talents around the world. Showcasing talents from 18 different countries, people are already calling this event the most exciting swimming event ever. OCBC Aquatic Centre NEW! Mardi Gras theme at 1-Altitude 19 Sep, $68 Latino bands and dancers will being spicing up this early hours of 1 Altitude’s F1 celebrations. Accompanied with pizza and refreshing
Discover the king of Cognacs, Louis XIII de Rémy Martin, available to the public for the first time ever, and take a peek into the history of vermouth and aromatised wines, with Marina Bay Sands’ mixologist Lucas Swallows. Taste fresh handmade pasta at the Mozza booth and learn from the masters to make your own orecchiette by hand. Eco-conscious foodies can look forward to a sharing from executive chef Christopher Christie, who presents a sustainability-themed workshop. Aspiring junior bakers can take part in an interactive workshop with db Bistro Moderne’s Executive Pastry Chef Benjamin Siwek. Marina Bay Sands’ Epicurean Market, 12-14 Sep.
Marina Bay Sands’ Epicurean Market - 5 Pairs of 3-Day Access Passes to Epicurean Market, with Wine Glasses [Total value/pair: $120]
10 pairs of 3-day Access Passes
to be won!
- 5 Pairs of 3-Day Access Passes to Epicurean Market [Total value/pair: $46] Win a pair of passes for yourself simply by following the instructions. GIVEAWAY PROMOTION PERIOD: 21 AUG - 3 SEP (Midnight)
SCM 20th Anniversary: Flashes of Chinese Cinema Until 31 Aug, For more interesting 10am–10pm weekend ideas In and entertainment commemoration of its 20th stories, like & follow anniversary, us at STAR Chinese www. Café Fest Movies (SCM), facebook.com/ Singapore a subsidiary 6–7 Sep, $20 weekendersgp of FOX Café Fest is International Singapore’s Channels, will host a inaugural consumer event showcase of iconic film where 15 of the best cafes posters featuring movies across the island are invited from 1994 to 2013. These film to share their passions in the posters, which are significant art of coffee and food. In the and have impacted the movie true spirit of the growing cafe industry, will be showcased culture in Singapore, Café Fest across three locations until aims to bring together the Sep 14. community from all walks of Tampines Mall, 4 Tampines life through good coffee and Central 5 company. Marina Bay Sands, The Waterfront Promenade, www.cafefest.sg Wine Fair @ Wine Universe 29 Aug, 4-8 pm, 30 Aug, 1-6pm, various prices Expert advice and free wine Free! Books that Moved Me tasting at Wine Universe this Until 31 Aug, 10am–9pm weekend. Enjoy an evening Revisit fading memories surrounded by a curation about reading – memories on of 24 exclusive labels of books and reading spaces. Be wines. Certain wines will be intrigued by a total makeover available for purchase with up of the covers of 40 well-loved to 50% discount. titles, reinterpreted based on Wine Universe, #01-1079 the artists’ own memories. Raffles Boulevard They are showcased in selected MRT trains and in the National Library Building main lobby. National Library Building, 100 Victoria Street, www.nlb.gov.sg
fairs
exhibitions
Master Class Highlights
Tickets are available at $23 from Sistic, www.marinabaysands.com/epicureanmarket, Marina Bay Sands Box Offices, or call Tel: 6688 8826.
PRIZES TO BE GIVEN:
cocktails, get ready for the night of a lifetime with an international line-up and Gelato shots. 1-Altitude, 1 Raffles Place, www.1-altitude. com
TO WIN:
Either 1. Visit the website at www.weekender.com.sg/weekendermbs-epicurean-giveaway/ and fill in the form; or 2. Like and share our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/weekendersgp and look for this giveaway on our page and follow the instructions to fill in the form. ONLY 1 ENTRY PER PERSON, PLEASE.
Free! The Lightness of Sightseeing Until 4 Sep, 10am–10.30pm Deng Cheng Wen’s blind walking series is on the allegorical theme of the survival of the next generation. It captures the collective ambition, ignorance and emotional flurry within the young Chinese. Deng believes that the young Chinese are crowding around and pushing forward, seeming to only be drawn to the unknown and dangerous path. Ode to Art Platform, Raffles City Convention Centre, www.facebook.com/odetoart. gallery #EatDrinkArt Until Sep 5 To celebrate their third birthday, Mad Nest is hosting a collection of food art exhibitions featuring the creations of 14 promising young talents. Visitors can expect to be pampered with the amazing artwork from the likes of Ultraviolets Design, Limzy and many more. Mad Nest, 378/380 East Coast Road, www.madnest.sg
PEG Mid-Autumn Social Fair Until 7 Sep, 10am-10pm Privilege Enterprise Group Holdings Pte Ltd (PEG) is holding its inaugural MidAutumn Social Fair at 112 Katong and Anchorpoint malls, now on until Sept 7. Expect exciting performances, celebrity appearances, game shows and lucky draw prizes to be won. Enjoy free mooncake tasting from PEG’s various hotel partners, and special tea tasting. There will also be singing performances by students from Music Story and its Founder, Mediacorp celebrity Fang Zhong Hua. Mediacorp artiste and comedienne Abigail Chay will also choreograph a short, interesting musical performance. PEG is bringing 500 elderly folks from United Medicare Center (UMC) Toa Payoh, Lee Ah Mooi Old Age Home, Lions Befrienders Club and various elderly homes to join in the festivities. Visit the PEG Mid-Autumn Social Fair, open daily, and support the social enterprise and get your favourite mooncakes at a good price too! 112 Katong and Anchorpoint malls
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weekender.com.sg
Yak & Crow We solemnly swear to yak about local hot-topic issues or crow about our opinions on Singaporean culture
An Elite Junior College – Worth the torture?
by the Wall Street Journal and students from Raffles usually end up as bankers, lawyers or doctors, and many shining examples of success in society can be drawn from their alumni, including our Minister Mentor Mr Lee Kwan Yew. But all this at what cost? The elitism in the school is easy to see, with the cohort having been filtered four times in nationwide exams.
Making Friends
Our writer takes a candid look at what some ex-Rafflesians have to say Hailing from any of the three Raffles schools identifies you as a Rafflesian – elite for life. But is it worth the torture? RI (JC) students have an exceptionally rigorous curriculum. Besides maths and science being stressed upon, they are encouraged to take up three co-curricular activities.
Seow Wan Yi, from the pioneer batch of the Raffles Programme, says, “You theoretically know around 40 per cent of your cohort since they came from RGS or RI.” She further apologises on behalf of the Rafflesians who come from the feeder single-gender schools. “I’m sure there are many who balk at how RJC is filled with RI and RGS students who clique together, etc. I’m sorry if you had a bad experience, I really am,” she says.
Do you agree? Drop us a message on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ weekendersgp
Ultra-High Standards The standards set by Raffles teachers are high, and drive the students to aim higher. Many students also remember certain teachers, who they talk about having inspired them to “reach higher” and started a “passionate fire” in them about the subjects they were studying. Gabriel Seah says old RJC had a culture of doing more than what is necessary, like taking up S-paper subjects (Now known as H3 subjects) and going for four A level subjects instead of the mandatory three.
Ivy League Machine
JC Was a Shallow Place Xu Bei Xi, talks about RJC being a benign prison, and about withdrawing if you’re not “one of the gang”. There was no in-built friend base waiting for Bei Xi as a safety net. JC was a pretty shallow place, as far as Bei Xi could remember. Bei Xi observes RJC is fairly friendly to those who fit the mould – extroverts, leaders, talents, the athletic, the brilliant, and the beautiful. And merely one of those qualities is not enough.
Raffles is called the “Ivy League Machine”
Elite institutions: For higher aspirations or depths of imprisonment?
The Social Cost Adam Adhiyatma, another ex-RJCian, says that the largely homogeneous student body is a handicap in society. He cites the problem of not speaking fluent Malay or Hokkien in the armed forces and talking to girls outside of his circle. “Head as far out as the clubs in Clarke Quay and you might realise that the average girl has no interest in Heart of Darkness or Othello, and you are incapable of having a conversation with them,” he explains.
“JC Killed my Interest for Everything Else” Wan Yi further has this to say: “JC killed my interest for everything else. I still managed to get a decent enough grade to go to a local uni and study my subject of choice, but one of my close friends didn’t make it altogether.” “She stopped coming to school completely by the second half of the second year –
Majestic creatures & magical spectacle Purebred, Percheron, Paint Horse and Comtois. All of them are majestic. The company has reiterated its commitment to nurturing the horses and that their comfort and well-being are priority. When not performing, the horses get deep tissue massages, baths and proper daily healthcare to ensure humane treatment of the four-legged stars. The stables have also been climatized to suit the horses.
Photo: Margaret Tan
Photo: Cavalia
The Brave Connection
The only thing that betters the experience of majestic creatures in a magical show is getting up-close to them and seeing them being fed and groomed
The premiere of Cavalia saw majestic horses and a magical visual spectacle – we also reveal a bit of the VIP treatment
If you think trainer and performer Fairland Ferguson resembles a certain animated character, your eyes aren’t deceiving you. The Disney team caught a Cavalia show with her in it and supposedly got the inspiration there for Merida from Brave. Said Fairland, “Well, they didn’t come right out and say it, obviously, but they did come down in San Francisco and the next thing I knew, Brave came out. Her name is Merida Fergus and my name is Fairland Ferguson… I am flattered nonetheless!”
The VIP Experience
More than Horsing Around
Our Editor was given the full Rendez-vous VIP package experience, which includes access to the private Rendez-vous VIP Lounge 90 minutes before the show, during the intermission and after the show. This comes with complimentary food and beverage, and dessert, coffee and tea during the intermission. The Rendez-vous VIP centre-row seats for the show gave an excellent view of the horses and their feats as well as the acrobatic aerialists up above. Nonetheless, the highlight was the exclusive stable tour after the show. All were thrilled to be in the presence of the magnificent horses and to take photos of them (without flash).
Cavalia features 50 horses and 46 riders, aerialists, acrobats, dancers and musicians from around the world. The Cavalia herd comprises 11 different breeds of horses such as Arabian, Spanish
Cavalia is on until Sep 14. Tickets at $58+ to $188+ from www.cavalia.sg or Sistic.
Weekender was invited to the premiere of Cavalia on Aug 12. A one-of-a-kind homage to the bond between human and horse, the show comprises stunning equestrian and performing arts such as acrobatics and aerial stunts. Cavalia was conceived by Normand Latourelle, co-founder of Cirque du Soleil. Those who are familiar with the acclaimed circus and artistic performance troupe will know that one can expect a visual spectacle.
afraid of school, afraid of the teachers; you are sick and tired of everything...” She also cites the urban legend that RJC has the highest suicide rate and the ugly green metal grating on the third floor was to prevent jumpers. She shares of an actual suicide from the class next door. The student walked out during a GP essay exam and jumped from a block of flats in Woodlands. Wan Yi sums up her RJC experience as a very depressing one: The teachers did not provide support – there was no one to turn to for help. Her close friends were struggling almost as badly as she was, and the bright ones in her class happened to be the selfish ones.
So, is it all worth it? “Auspicium melioris aevi [omen of a better age],” the ex-RJCians chorus their school motto. By Justin Lim
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AUGUST 29 - September 4, 2014
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Entertainment
R E D C a r d F OOT BA L L F e v e r
EPL Week 2: The heat is on After Match Week 2 of the EPL, the heat has been turned up – which football club will prevail and which will fall in Week 3? Spurs have impressed under Pochettino and Chelsea have blitzed through their matches against the new boys – are the London teams set to dominate the Barclay’s English Premier League (EPL) this season? We look at the results of some of the exciting matches last weekend and predict some of the big games coming up.
Chelsea 2-0 Leicester City It seemed a straightforward match for title favourites Chelsea but the Foxes made life difficult for the Blues, causing some anxious moments that needed soothing by new No. 1 goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Eventually, the home side proved to be a class above thanks to second half goals from Diego Costa and Eden Hazard.
Sam Aronov / Shutterstock.com
Will Santi Cazorla start from the bench?
Everton 2-2 Arsenal
Arsenal got out of jail with two goals in the last seven minutes. Everton were superb throughout the game and probably ran out of steam in the closing stages.
Sunderland 1-1 Manchester United The good news for United fans is that they finally got the first point of the season. However, they looked out of sorts against a determined Sunderland despite taking the lead. These are worrying times for United fans, with the jury out on some of the underperforming players.
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*Tottenham vs Liverpool #TOTLIV (31 Aug, 8.30pm)
*Leicester City vs Arsenal (31 Aug, 11pm)
Mauricio Pochettino faces his first big test as Spurs boss after impressing with two wins out of two. But with Mario Balotelli set to make his EPL debut, this will prove to be a tantalising affair. Prediction: Tottenham 2-2 Liverpool
Poor Leicester City. First Everton, then Chelsea and now Arsenal. However, the Gunners have yet to impress this season and that might encourage the Foxes to sneak in a result here. Still, Arsenal should find a way to get past this hurdle. Prediction: Leicester City 1-2 Arsenal
*Burnley vs Manchester Utd; *Manchester City vs Stoke; Newcastle vs Crystal Palace; QPR vs Sunderland; Swansea vs West Brom; West Ham vs Southampton; Aston Villa vs Hull By Ahmad Khan
Other Results
*Exclusive “Live” commentary for the above EPL matches available on Red Card Sports Radio. Tune in to StarHub TV Channel 225 or download “StarHub TV Anywhere” App.
Tottenham 4-0 QPR; Aston Villa 0-0 Newcastle; Crystal Palace 1-3 West Ham; Southampton 0-0 West Brom; Swansea 1-0 Burnley; Hull 1-1 Stoke; Manchester City 3-1 Liverpool Here are some of the potentially exciting matches in EPL Match Week 3.
About Ahmad Khan
*Everton vs Chelsea (31 Aug, 12.30am) This is Chelsea’s first real test after blitzing through the first two games against newly-promoted sides. Everton, however, have played two consecutive entertaining 2-2 draws, and will have to make sure they can last the distance, or be punished by a ruthless Chelsea. Prediction: Everton 1-2 Chelsea
Other Fixtures
Will Eden Hazard score again, against Everton?
Ahmad Khan (@ AhmadKhan12) is a presenter for Red Card Sports Radio. He has the potty idea that football makes the world go round and is convinced that the beautiful game forges greater bonds than the United Nations. Call 6281 1898 and join him in his rant about football every weekday from 6pm8pm, on #RedCardDRIVETIME, and every weekend just before the EPL matches on #RedCardLIVE.
Did you know this about the greatest escape artist? Budapest, Hungary as stated in his birth records. This was likely due to the xenophobia immediately before and after World War I.
3. The Death of Houdini Adrien Brody is the great Harry Houdini
Before David Copperfield and David Blaine, one extreme entertainer mystified the world: Harry Houdini Many would’ve heard about the legendary escape artist, Harry Houdini. Now, “Houdini”, a two-night miniseries about “the man who could defy death” comes to our screens. The tale chronicles the life of the enigmatic Houdini through his stunts and some say mystical mastery of illusion. Adrian Brody stars as Houdini. Here are 5 interesting facts about him.
1. Houdini was a Stage Name from a Magician’s Wife Houdini’s original name was Erik Weisz. He admired French magician Jean Eugene Robert-Houdin and took the stage name “Houdini”. The French magician added his wife’s last name to his own. Houdini had unwittingly derived his name from the magician’s wife.
2. He Falsely Claimed He was Born in America Houdini claimed on several occasions to have been born in Wisconsin, USA, and not
Houdini died on Halloween day. There are a few purported causes of his death, such as that he died in the famed Chinese Water Tank trick, or after a Canadian student made several punches to his abdomen. In reality, Houdini was nowhere near a stage when he died one week after his last performance. He had already ruptured his appendix prior to the punches.
4. Houdini & his Wife are Buried Separately Houdini and his wife worked together for all of their married life but were interred in two different cemeteries, in different counties in New York state. Houdini was Jewish and buried in Queens, New York, in a Jewish burial plot. It was his wife’s wish to be interred beside him but it was denied. It is speculated that it’s because she wasn’t Jewish [She was Catholic].
5. US Postage Stamp Contains Hidden Image of Houdini To honour Houdini’s prowess, the US Postal Service put a hidden image on its 2002 commemorative stamp. With a special viewing lens that could be obtained from the post office, one could see the image of Houdini in chains. “Houdini” premieres Sep 2 & 3 (same day as USA), 9pm, on History, StarHub Ch 401.
AUGUST 29 - September 4, 2014
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AUGUST 29 - September 4, 2014
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Entertainment A Samurai by any name... Whether as Battosai the Killer, Samurai X or Rurouni Kenshin, all know of his legendary skill
“The fate of the country hangs in the balance as Kenshin takes up the sword that he vowed never to draw again.”
The reformed slayer is back and torn between his vow of peace and the fate of Japan
R
urouni Kenshin: Kyoto Inferno is the epic sequel to the 2012 film, Rurouni Kenshin, based on the popular manga and later anime. Kenshin Himura is a legendary swordsman in the wars accompanying the turbulent fall of Japan’s shogunate. Once feared as “Battosai the Killer”, he has since returned to a peaceful life as a wanderer. On the other hand, Makoto Shishio, the “Shadow Killer”, who succeeded Kenshin in the service of the new government, has been active in the Kyoto underworld. Shishio was betrayed by the new government, stabbed and had his body set on fire. He ultimately survived and, wrapped in bandages, has raised an army of disaffected former samurai with the aim of overthrowing the new regime. The fate of the country hangs in the balance as Kenshin takes up the sword that he vowed never to draw again.
The Legend Continues Rurouni Kenshin (2012) was the first motion picture inspired by Kenshin the Wanderer: The Romance of the Meiji Swordsman (Shueisha Jump Comics), the monumental manga comic by Nobuhiro Watsuki. Kenshin’s popularity further ballooned with the anime series “Samurai X”. Kenshin’s big-screen adventures continue with the Kyoto Arc adaptation (the bestloved segment of the anime and comics). Director Keishi Otomo merits a two-part treatment for the sequel: Kyoto Inferno and The Legend Ends.
movie preview
Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Inferno
A Refreshing Twist The film has made multiple deviations from the manga, from altered scripts and backstories to glaring changes in the sequence of events. Some iconic scenes from the manga have also been said to be omitted.
The art of swordsmanship Look out for the pulsating fight sequences
We’d say this creates a refreshing experience for fans of the “Kenshin the Wanderer” comic. The storyline also remains easy enough for newcomers to the lore to follow. Still, some fans may feel disappointed or annoyed by the deviations or differences.
Showdown Between Two Master Swordsmen Takeru Sato continues his spot-on portrayal of Kenshin, the formidable slayer-turnedwanderer who is asked by the government to pick up his sword once again for his country. Although a smooth-faced, softlyspoken master swordsman, he has the skill of a deadly assassin. Once again, he pulls off an intense, breathtakinglyrevolutionary performance that will leave no viewer unmoved. Shishio Makoto, the main villain of the movie, is played by Tatsuya Fujiwara of Battle Royale and Death Note, a familiar face to local anime fans and Asian film followers alike. Shishio Makoto’s piercing glare will make many swoon. Although he has to act behind the character’s bandages and his appearances in this film are relatively limited, Fujiwara owns the role as a heartless dictator leading through fear.
Beauty & the beast? Emi Takei stars as the beautiful Kaoru Kamiya
His principles run opposite to Sato’s Kenshin: Survival of the fittest versus the protection of the weak. This leaves much anticipation for the exciting fight scenes.
Pulse-Pounding Action Scenes Just like in the first movie, expect the fighting scenes and stunts to be topnotch in this sequel. It is commendable how Keishi and action choreographer Kenji Tanigaki (disciple of Donnie Yen) handle the on-screen action flawlessly. They maximised the beautiful impact of the many swordfighting scenes with cool, inventive moves and crisp pacing. While CGI effects drain many action films of anything resembling realism, the CGI here is done so well that it gives much justice to the characters’ superhuman swordsmanship. A must-watch for anime and manga fans. Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Inferno [PG13] DIRECTOR: Keishi Otomo STARRING: Takeru Satô, Emi Takei & Tatsuya Fujiwara GENRE: Action RUN LENGTH: 139 min RELEASE: 28 Aug
Death Note to death stare Tatsuya Fujiwara, star of Death Note, plays menacing Shishio Makoto
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A L SO I N T H E A T RES The Swimmers [TBA] Two best friends and longtime rivals are trapped in a love triangle. When the girl is found dead in the very same swimming pool in which the three swimmers train, her boyfriend goes on a pursuit of vengeance to find the man responsible. STARRING: Chutavuth Pattarakampol & Thanapob Leerantanakajorn GENRE: Horror RELEASE: 28 Aug
movie preview
The November Man: Master versus apprentice
The Hundred-Foot Journey [TBA] Two restaurants on the brink of an all-out war produce a culinary talent the world has never seen before. Madame Mallory discovers her rival’s undeniable brilliance for preparing delicious meals. STARRING: Helen Mirren, Manish Dayal & Om Puri GENRE: Comedy, Drama RELEASE: 28 Aug
Sin City 2: A Dame to Kill for [R21] The sequel to directors Rodriguez and Miller’s hit in 2005, Frank Miller’s Sin City, the film weaves together the cult classic tales and fresh new ones in the town’s deepest and darkest corners. Featuring a stellar cast that includes Jessica Alba, Eva Green, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Lady Gaga and many more. STARRING: Jessica Alba, Joseph GordonLevitt, Mickey Rourke & Rosario Dawson GENRE: Thriller RELEASE: 28 Aug
Does Alice have anything else to hide?
“Alice is portrayed by the ravishing Olga Kurylenko, famous for her roles in Oblivion, Quantum of Solace and Max Payne...”
Lucy [PG]
“The November Man” – after he passed, nothing lived Drawn out of retirement for “one last job”, can “The November Man”, played by Pierce Brosnan (of Percy Jackson & the Lightning Thief, Mama Mia and Die Another Day) put aside his past to finish this one last assignment?
Veteran Assassin Back in Action
A sci-fi action-thriller from action-thriller master Luc Besson that examines the possibility of what one human being could truly do if she unlocked the full 100 per cent of her brain capacity. Scarlett Johansson is the innocent Lucy who becomes a pawn and is then transformed into a deadly weapon. STARRING: Scarlett Johansson & Morgan Freeman GENRE: Action, Thriller RELEASE: 21 Aug
Tekken 2 [PG13] Waking up in an unfamiliar hotel room with no clue of how he got here and who he is, Kazuya Mishima embarks on a journey, through battles and conquests with an underground criminal organisation, to selfdiscovery. Will he realise his true identity? STARRING: Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Gary Daniels, Kane Kosugi & Kelly Wenham GENRE: Action RELEASE: 21 Aug
Devereaux (Pierce Brosnan) is the retired CIA marksman who is drawn out to protect Alice (Olga Kurylenko), a key witness
Luke Bracey, who starred as Cobra Commander in GI Joe: Retaliation, is no stranger to explosive action
The best in the business, Peter Devereaux was an extremely dangerous marksman trained by the CIA. He retired to a peaceful life in Switzerland and believed he had left his dark past behind. Devereaux is yanked out of sanctuary for a final assignment - to protect a witness with vital information about the agency he works for. The task at hand gets complicated when he discovers the sheer power of the knowledge this witness possesses. He also comes to discover that his former friend and prodigy, David Mason (played by Luke Bracey, who starred as Cobra Commander in GI Joe: Retaliation), has been tasked to stop him from successfully protecting valuable witness Alice Fournier. Alice is portrayed by the ravishing Olga Kurylenko, famous for her roles in Oblivion, Quantum of Solace and Max Payne, among others. She also recently starred in the TV series “Magic City”, about Miami mobsters.
James Bond Returns Best known for his role as Remington Steele in the titular TV series in the ‘80s, and his much-anticipated donning of the mantle of James Bond, Pierce
Brosnan is no stranger to fancy gadgets and slick combat. Having starred in four James Bond films between 1995 and 2002 before making way for Daniel Craig, his legacy ended with his voice and likeliness being used in the James Bond video game in 2004. Fortunately, Brosnan’s success did not die out with the Bond saga. After making way for the younger and more buff Craig, Brosnan continued to star in other big productions. He is also slated to appear in the next edition of The Expendables (4) in 2015. Yes, action heroes never die.
The Main Draws Brosnan is perhaps the big name that will draw many of the film’s potential viewers but alongside him stand a cast of fresh young talent as well as action film regular Kurylenko. The Russian goddess is still as attractive as she was in Oblivion, opposite Tom Cruise, and most men would probably watch the film just for her. Apart from Bracey, who was Cobra Commander, another fresh young star in the film is Eliza Taylor, who played one of the main characters, Clarke Griffin, in the sci-fi TV series “The 100”. Whether or not you think this story or Pierce Brosnan is worth your money, the mix of old and new stars make this movie more appealing. NOVEMBER MAN [NC16] DIRECTOR: Ronald Donaldson STARRING: Pierce Brosnan, Olga Kurylenko, Luke Bracey & Eliza Taylor GENRE: Action, Thriller RUN LENGTH: 108 min RELEASE: 28 Aug
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television
Rebel Without a Kitchen: Hard-hitting return Tantalise your taste buds and explore America’s favourite street food dishes with legendary TV chef Matthew Basile in Season 2 of “Rebel Without a Kitchen”
Humberto Ramos has illustrated Marvel superheroes as well as his own characters
A number of characters he has illustrated, such as Thanos, Mystique and Spider-Man, have appeared in live action movies
Spider-Man comic artist coming to Singapore
Pop-Up King, “Fidel Gastro”
Marvel comics’ Spider-Man illustrator Humberto Ramos will be coming for the Singapore Toy Game and Comic Convention in September – we caught him mid-swing Comic artist Humberto Ramos has his hand in Spider-Man in Marvel’s “multi-verses” as well as his own books, Crimson and Out There. Ramos comes to Singapore for the first time in September for the Singapore Toy, Game and Comic Convention (STGCC) to be held at Marina Bay Sands. We managed to catch him before his arrival.
You’ve been a comic artist for a long time; can you keep up with all the multiverses of all your characters? No [laughs], I don’t read comic books anymore. That’s the sad thing of doing this for a living. I don’t have that much free time [laughs] but when I have some, the last thing I want to do is read comic books. I’m aware of what’s happening in the Marvel Universe because, as part of the Spider-Man team, we have to be aware of what’s going on in the other books. But that’s the best I do.
Will the recent Spider-Man movies have any impact on your current work in the new Amazing SpiderMan comic series? That’s why I have Dan Slott, writer for Amazing Spider-Man. And, I think it’s the other way round. I think my work has some impact on how they portray Spider-Man in the movies, if I can say that [laughs].
Do you have a particular favourite piece of work? Yeah, I have pages that I like and pages that I keep for myself. Most of them are pages that are not filled with action or a big splash page or so. It’s mainly about images that I really enjoyed doing or that turned out better than anticipated or pages that nobody would care about.
Fresh off the successful first season of “Rebel Without a Kitchen”, TV chef Matthew Basile enjoyed his first trip around the Americas so much that he’s back for more. In Season 2 of “Rebel Without a Kitchen”, Matt is taking it up a notch with trips to New York and New Orleans in the USA and the likes of Montreal in Canada. Expect more exciting culinary exploits. Matt is going out of the kitchen and onto the street. Aside from travelling, going coast-to-coast in North America, he will be sampling the growing independent street food trends and figure out what it means for chefs stuck in the kitchen. Tune in to find out more!
Spider-Man remains one of the most recognisable superheroes
Matthew Basile is the TV chef with an attitude. Popularly known as the pop-up king of Toronto and dubbed “Fidel Gastro”, Matt specialises in bringing together the inspirations of his North American family as well as his roots from his motherland in Italy. This has led to a wide array of innovative dishes and scrumptious menus from him, throughout his culinary life. After breaking into TV, Matt relishes nothing more than to bring the best food in the world to people right at home, around the world. Don’t miss out on this gastronomic adventure.
From Italy to North America, what will his inspirations lead him to cook next?
Do you prefer creating your own comic series or working on already existing ideas such as X-men or Spider-Man? I think I like doing both. It’s a different set of rules. Both still are exciting. It’s always great to have a chance to draw iconic characters like the Marvel characters but it’s also a big excitement to come up with your own ideas, trying to build your own universes, and have this thrill mixed with excitement while being nervous.
Who’s your favourite comic book villain and why? In the Marvel universe, I would say Thanos. I had never heard of Thanos prior to the Infinity Gauntlet (series) and reading about him through the pages and how this character can beat the crap out of every superhero in the Marvel universe was awesome.
Would you ever consider creating a series based in Singapore? Well, first I’d need to know the country; so, are you going to take me out for a tour?
Matt reinvents various North American classics along the way
By Cheryl Chia The Singapore Toy, Game and Comic Convention takes place over Sep 6 & 7, at Sands Expo & Convention Centre, 10am-8pm. Visit www.singaporetgcc.com for tickets.
Matthew Basile is Rebel Without a Kitchen
Goodbye Hogtown Continuing from the end of the previous season, Matt’s first order of business in Episode 1 is to broaden his scope. Before embarking on his mammoth journey, he takes a trip to his home of Toronto where he will host one last event. At the Canadian National Exhibition, he cooks up a storm and says an emotional goodbye to his friends and family. What mouth-watering dishes will his home inspire?
Ready, Set, Chowda In Episode 2, Matt travels to the Clam Chowda Competition at the famous Boston Local Food Festival, where he dukes it out as a special guest, no less. He eats his way through one of America’s most famous cities. He also connects with the local clam fishermen, and discovers a new secret ingredient that he thinks will win over the locals! Catch the Season 2 premiere of “Rebel Without a Kitchen” on Thu, Sep 11, 10pm, on Asian Food Channel, StarHub TV Ch435.
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This season, some of the mooncakes come encased in pretty boxes, making them perfect as gifts
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he Mid-Autumn Festival is almost upon us and it is a good time to think about getting clients, associates and friends an appropriate gift for the season. Whether as corporate gifts or treats for your friends and family, there’s no need to rack your brain. Here is a simple guide to some of the most interesting mooncake boxes this year.
“A limited edition range, this pink dome-shaped treasure box with a gold lock includes two pieces of Hello Kittymoulded mooncakes.”
Hello Kitty & other stylish mooncake boxes
Crowne Plaza Hotel The mini snowskin mooncake selection from Crowne Plaza Hotel comes in a purple handbag box, which is perfect for the budding fashionista. The mooncakes come in six flavours ($63.80) such as Soursop and White Peach Bellini. E-mail crowneplazadining.cpca@ihg.com to order.
Bakerzin Bakerzin boxes come with three pieces of holographic origami paper, as well as instructions on how to fold a Moon Rabbit. Simply follow the instructions and blow up the origami paper for a fun activity with your family as you savour the mooncakes. Visit www.bakerzin.com for more information.
BreadTalk Singapore Airlines For the first time ever, Singapore Airlines gets in on the mooncake business. The SIA Selections flavours boasts Passion Fruit with Rosella, Pandan with Five Grains, Orange Lotus with Walnuts and White Lotus with Black Sesame ($68 for four). The boxes feature a collectible magnet as well as individual mooncake boxes with SIA‘s iconic batik print. Don’t miss out! Visit www.krisshop.com to purchase.
If you know a fan of Hello Kitty, perhaps you can acquire these Hello Kitty four-piece Baked Mooncakes ($38.80) from BreadTalk. A limited edition range, this pink domeshaped treasure box with a gold lock includes two pieces of Hello Kitty-moulded baked macadamia with lotus mooncakes and cranberries with lotus mooncakes. Available at all BreadTalk outlets.
Cutesy Hello Kitty mooncakes with adorable boxes from BreadTalk
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n e w n ota b l e s
Chef Siu presents many delicacies such as roasted duck
Brizo Restaurant & Bar Reviewed in Aug 1 issue Go on a crab binge at the latest Crazy about Crabs buffet, with over 19 types of creations to suit different taste buds. Look forward to the debut of Signature Heavenly Fragrance Crab as well as the popular Steamed XO Crab. Park Hotel Clarke Quay, Level 1, 1 Unity Street, Singapore 237983, Tel: 6593 8855
The French toast with melted butter is simple yet tempting
Buttero Reviewed in Jul 31 issue Buttero is as boisterous and robust as its name (meaning “cowboy” in Italian) with lashings of Italian comfort food, which is refined yet affordable. Indulge in the signature Porchetta with Braised Beans and the freshly fried Cannoli for a galloping good time. 54 Tras Street, Singapore 078993, Tel: 6438 7737 Potato Head Folk Reviewed in Aug 1 issue Potato Head Beach Club in Bali has set up its first foreign venture, in Singapore. The menu has hip-hop inspired names like LL Kool Slaw. Indulge in the Baby Huey burger and the Naughty Fries, while sipping a cocktail to refresh your palate. 36 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089143, Tel: 6327 1939 Seasons Bistro Reviewed in Aug 15 issue A better and brighter bistro has taken over defunct Applebee’s spot. Rejoice with American gems such as fish tacos from the South to poutine from the North, inspired from the chef’s own travels around the continent. Triple One Somerset, 111 Somerset Road, #01-11/12, Singapore 238164, Tel: 6836 5841 The Clifford Pier Reviewed in Jun 20 issue An air of adventure and discovery surrounds the Pier, which is representative of Singapore’s story. For a blast from the past, enjoy good classic local dishes such as Soup Kambing and Rickshaw Noodles. The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore, 80 Collyer Quay, Singapore 049326, Tel: 6597 5266
Legendary Hong Kong’s siu mai is sure to please
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Authentic Eats at Legendary Hong Kong Eight Hong Kong Chefs have been brought to Legendary Hong Kong in Jurong Point for a legend- wait for it -dary meal I’m usually quite disappointed in the quality of the ‘Hong Kong Cafes’ in Singapore, as the food is usually sub-par. However, upon discovering Legendary Hong Kong in the new “Mongkok Street” in Jurong Point, I’m no longer disappointed. Walking into Mongkok Street is actually quite a shock on its own because the décor is essentially Hong Kong, with bright neon signs and somewhat tacky designs. Legendary Hong Kong is one of the establishments in the new street with eight chefs from Hong Kong specialising in roast meats, noodles, congee, dim sum, and drinks.
The Duck Confit Donburi is an unusual combination of East and West
“There are over 300 items available on the menu of Legendary Hong Kong...”
Best of Hong Kong There are over 300 items available on the menu of Legendary Hong Kong, with four different entrances corresponding to the sub-themes of the restaurant. After trying the specialities, I decided that I like the Roasted London Duck ($14.80 a portion) best.
Enjoy Yum Cha I was also introduced to another type of chee cheong fun, which I was told is the original way chee cheong fun was eaten in Hong Kong – the Thick Rice Roll with Dough Fritters ($4.50). The combination is crunchy, savoury, and familiar at the same time. Talk about having the best of both worlds! What’s a Hong Kong Café without gong zai meen (instant noodles)? The Nissin noodles used at the restaurant are brought in from Hong Kong because the owners felt that the one in Singapore tasted different. There was no discernible difference to me, but I did like the standard Noodle with Luncheon Meat and Egg in Soup ($5.20) However, there is a queue with about a half-hour wait to get into the restaurant. Luckily, we think it is worth the wait. Go, and judge for yourself. Legendary Hong Kong, Jurong Point 2 Shopping Centre, 63 Jurong West Central 3, #03-80, Singapore 648331 By Cheryl Chia
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Feast at Babette
The duck is imported from Ireland’s Silver Hill Farms, which supplies most of the best Chinese restaurants in Europe. The duck is tender and fatty, but my favourite part was the lack of gamey scent.
987FM DJ Darren Wee’s new restaurant Babette has opened on Tyrwhitt Road The hipster enclave of Jalan Besar sees another addition in Babette at 987FM DJ Darren Wee’s new restaurant in Park Sovereign Hotel. Babette is inspired by the 1980’s Danish film “Babette’s Feast” – a charming movie about how a good meal can right wrongs and how a good chef can transform a dinner into a love affair. This Babette at Park Sovereign Tyrwhitt Road serves a fusion of modern French cuisine and Japanese sensibilities.
East Meets West The meal got off to a good start with the Grilled Octopus Salad ($17), Mediterranean
octopus braised in the in-house Japanese sauce, and served with fresh garden greens. The octopus was fresh and chewy and went well with the slightly tart dressing. The Roasted Avocado ($12) is a healthier take on potato-skin. The flesh of the avocado is aburi-ed and tossed with tomatoes before it’s stuffed back into its skin before serving, resulting in a creamy dish with a slight smoky flavour. Mmm! Sinful beer-snacks such as Bacon Tempura ($10) are great for sharing too.
Rice Bowls and More The donburis (rice bowls) at Babette are a bit of hit-and-miss, as I felt some of the combinations didn’t really work well together. The Steak and Foie Gras Donburi ($28) is one of them. The rice in all the
donburis are meant to be on the wetter side and the combination with the soft foie gras and chewy steak made us feel like we were eating a slightly gamey bibimbap. However, I did like the Duck Confit Donburi ($28). The duck leg is panseared to a crisp and served on rice with a side of pickles. The meat shredded quite easily, and the duck skin made for a sinful indulgence. If rice isn’t your thing, try the Confit Salmon and Soba ($17) instead. The Matcha Lava Cake ($12) is also a must if you love green tea. The fondant cake oozes a thick, green tea liquid centre that I savoured with glee. Babette, 165 Tyrwhitt Road, Singapore 207569, Tel: 6341 7727
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Top 5 Cafes
weekender.com.sg With an atmosphere so delightful, the food almost doesn’t matter as much
A cake is more delicious when it is Instagramworthy, no?
in Singapore
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3. What: The Bravery Cafe Where: 66 Horne Road Singapore 20907 The Bravery Café’s brunch is incredible. Let me go on the record to say that I do not like poached eggs but this place made me change my perception of it and got me hooked so badly, I actually didn’t mind travelling from the West just to have my fix again.
A slew of cafes dot our entire island. Which are the top 5 cafes you should visit? With cafes being all the rage now, it is too often that we find ourselves hurriedly Googling “which cafe is the best?” as we try to make the most out of our lunch breaks. It is thus important not to end up patronising the ones that disappoint. We present our guide to the Top 5 Cafes in Singapore.
1. What: The Dispensary Cafe Where: 69 Tiong Bahru Rd, Singapore 168723 The Dispensary Cafe has quite a quirky decor theme – go see it for yourself! I have never believed in true love till I met their Oreo cupcakes. It is amazing how they manage to pack so much sugary goodness and delish cream into one tiny, little morsel.
4. What: d’Good Cafe
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Much of the decor in this place reminds us of a darling, dainty Parisian cafe
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5. What: Three Hands Coffee Cafe Where: 17 Binjai Park, Singapore 589825 I love salmon more than life and the smoked salmon salad here at Three Hands Coffee Cafe is magic, so this is one of the cafes I frequent often. I have not tried much of the drinks here but with a dish this amazing, they truly need to offer nothing more. I would come back here any day.
2. What: Chye Seng Huat Hardware Where: 150 Tyrwhitt Rd, Singapore 207563 The prices at Chye Seng Huat Hardware can go quite high for a meal of disproportionately small portions. But the atmosphere and the decor of this place make the visit worthwhile. Drop by for their Ah Huat Breakfast Set. I certainly felt more “huat” after having mine.
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The mechanic-like shelf doubles as a retail rack for the delicious coffee beans and nifty machines
By Nicole Lee
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Three Hands Coffee pairs their superb brunch with a variety of drinks
new Outlet
new Gastrobar
Izakaya chain Shirokiya opens its second outlet in CHIJmes The newly-renovated CHIJmes wing is good to go with several Japanese restaurants having opened in a row, including Shirokiya’s second outlet. The izakaya (drinking establishment that serves food) gained popularity in Singapore in Cuppage Plaza, the Japanese haunt. Shirokiya has a strong focus on the concept of bishoku-ryori, meaning that the food is good for you from the inside out. The menu promotes a range of dishes containing ingredients such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, and capsaicin.
From Within The Cold Tofu Sprinkled in Salted Rice Malt Dressing ($8.80) is a must-try. The soft and slightly mashed texture of the homemade tofu reveals a strong taste of soy beans. It is only available in limited portions each day, so go early!
The Avocado and Seafood Salad with Hyaluronic Acid Jelly ($20.80) may sound unusual because hyaluronic jelly normally goes in skin products. However, the jelly itself has no taste and supposedly moistens the skin from the inside out. The salad also contains raw tuna, salmon, red sea bream and snow crab, and salmon roe. Another one to try is the Bonito Fish Cooked in Hay Straw ($14), which is marinated in ponzu sauce and topped with minced spring onions. The fish is cooked on the outside while the middle remains raw. The meat is slightly fishy but otherwise it is well-masked by the sauce.
Hot Pots for Health The Kurobuta Shabu Shabu ($38.80 for two to three packs) is served in collagen soup, making the broth rich and creamy. The slices of shabu shabu pork were also tender and went well with the soup. One hungry person could probably finish the whole pot on his or her own. Other options for shabu shabu include kimchi stock, chicken collagen stock, and tomato soup. There are also traditional Japanese desserts such as Warabi Mochi ($7.80), which is a bracken starch dumpling with brown sugar syrup. Shirokiya, CHIJmes, 30 Victoria Street, #01-05/06, Singapore 187996, Tel: 6337 5188 By Cheryl Chia
Photos: From respective Facebook pages apart from d’Good Café, from the cafe itself.
Fancy A BESPOKE Drink? The elusive ‘Tess’ is not a person, we were told. It is simply an acronym for “ThirtyEight Seah Street” (TESS). I told Alex I liked whisky and smoky flavours, and he brought me a whisky drink with an orange peel and studded with star anise. Not bad, indeed! As for the menu, I liked the Luscious Duo ($24) with Remy Martin VSOP, dark grapes, apricot liqueur, and fresh lemon with Cinzano Prosecco. It may have run slightly on the sweeter side, but I did like the fresh and fruity flavours with the strength of the VSOP. If you prefer a creamier drink, I’d suggest the Scandalous Pear ($21), which comprises Bankes Gin, homemade pear with port puree, fresh lemon, egg white, and cinnamon sugar.
Shirokiya opens in CHIJmes
Briled Pressed Mackerel goes well with sake or beer
Where: 273 Holland Ave #02-01/02, Singapore 278992 This place is beautiful beyond reason with all three storeys decorated in varying styles and with the daintiest memorabilia. I especially love the outdoor garden on the third floor, sprinkled with fairy lights and with painted windows. Oh, and the food is unbelievable. For a place that so overcompensates in decor, I am genuinely surprised their food is on par. Amazing.
Bespoke cocktails and dishes such as Slow Braised Beef Cheek await
New food & bespoke cocktails A new gastrobar with fancy cocktails and reasonable food has opened Seah Street has seen a few shake-ups with several eateries closing or opening. One of the newer additions is Tess Bar & Kitchen, which serves bespoke cocktails and proper food. Tess’ chef once trained in Joel Robuchon’s restaurant in Singapore, and its bartender is Alex Ng, formerly from Bitters & Love.
FooD FAILINGS Unfortunately, the food at Tess is more miss than hit, considering the chef’s training. But I’ll talk about the hits first. I liked the Baby Octopus, Chorizo and Sun Dried Cherry Tomato ($9) tapas, and Tess Wagyu Cubes and Bone Marrow ($26) from the medium plates. A number of the other dishes I tried at Tess were a little odd and mismatched, such as the Medley of Forest Mushrooms with Ravioli Surprise ($10). It was an attempt at innovation gone wrong. The tossed mushrooms tasted all right but the ravioli surprise was cheese-wrapped wanton skins. It felt cheap, and the smell of alkali from the wanton overpowered most of the dish. All in all, I’d say go for the drinks at Tess instead of the food. Tess Bar & Kitchen, 38 Seah Street, Singapore 188394, Tel: 6337 7355 By Cheryl Chia
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Speculoos Cookie Butter from Poppy & Co comes in creamy or crunchy versions
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Cookies in spreadable form? We’re sold!
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Congratulations to the winners of the WEEKENDER SOPHIE BAKERY GIVEAWAY
“Imagine all that caramelised goodness blitzed into a spreadable mixture!” Move over, Nutella, we finally have cookie butter in Singapore The magical elixir that is cookie butter has been floating around the “inter-webs”, thanks to the popularity of Buzzfeed and 9Gag. European nations have been enjoying cookie butter, or as they call it, “Biscoff”, for a long time, where it is readily available in the supermarket.
Coffee BeanS Set Winner Tan Lay Chin Regina Khng Eng Hock Cheng Kelly
Cookie BUTTER’s BETTER Now we can finally get some in Singapore, courtesy of Poppy & Co. More specifically, we can get Speculoos Cookie Butter ($13.90 for 400g) in crunchy and creamy varieties. Speculoos biscuits are better known by the name “Lotus” here in Singapore, and they are quite often given as a sweet treat with an order of coffee or tea. Imagine all that caramelised goodness blitzed into a spreadable mixture! Poppy & Co. currently supplies several baked goods outlets in Singapore such as Fluff Bakery, Bloomsbury Bakers, Once Upon a Milkshake, and Twelve Cupcakes.
Yummy Bakes In our opinion, Fluff Bakery uses the Speculoos butter in the best way. The Speculoos Liquid Cheesecake Pretzel Crumbs Cupcake is one of the best I’ve had, and I tend to dislike cupcakes. Once Upon a Milkshake’s sister store, Once Upon a Rosti, created a rosti with Speculoos crumbs and butter, resulting in a sweet and savoury delight. Talk about an epic meal time! Joys Baking & Co specialises in macarons, and it even has Speculoos butter-filled macarons. The creamy Speculoos Cookie Butter is emulsified into a Valrhona Opah 33 percent white chocolate ganache with cookie crumbs. Absolutely sinful and delicious. If you’re not a baker, just grab a spoon and eat it straight out the jar! Yes, it is that good. By Cheryl Chia www.poppyandco.me
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Ng Cecil Louis Lee Jane Lee Foon Ling Wijaya Christy Kong Desmond Luh Shii Lim Cheong Chew Kai Kah Hui Lim Angela Siow Rui Min Katthaworn Pattharavadee Chan Poh Ching Lia Agustina Kiong Gertrude Koh Valerie Ho Seng Chee Tan Hui Xiu Suryana Suryana Keng Chin Tan Lapuz Abraham Wong C.H. Pat Lim Daisy Tan Grace Chee Hong Moi Xuan Qi Tan Leow Grace Lee Siau Teo Chan Mei Jun Koh Jun Jie Jason Lim Beng Hai Tan Celine Tan Chew Hoon Jacelyn Lizaso Kaori Lim Juat Yiah Kher San Bee
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69 Wong Nai Jee 70 Koh Zhin Yen 71 Sim Anna Kimberley 72 Tan Lyn 73 Lim Weehong 74 Low Angie 75 Lee Huei Yuen 76 Tan Sing Teck Petrus 77 Cheo Boon Ming 78 Tan Beng Seck 79 Goh Heng Kwee 80 Francis Mary Arokia 81 Chua Sharon 82 Wong Yin Chee 83 Kosasih Agus Kurniawan Lucky 84 Lee Han Jie Han 85 Hong Chong Quek 86 Lau Lay Koon Jolin 87 Leong Chung Heng 88 Ngo Ming Sharon 89 Foo Jessica 90 Lim Weiing 91 Koh Hui Wen 92 Tay Lucy 93 Ang Yoke Wah 94 Lin Pei Toh 95 Yip Alex 96 Lim Seo Hoon 97 Wong Oi Siew 98 Tan Choon Mei 99 M Tan 100 Ng Moi Kheng
Winners will be contacted directly on the collection. Look out for more Weekender giveaways in upcoming issues
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SHOPsavvy
weekender.com.sg
Fash
For more of the latest fashion launches and beauty & lifestyle tips, like & follow us at www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
Snips Stirrings in the fashion world that you would want, need and love to know about
HOM Known for its comfy underwear, HOM’s Autumn/ Winter 2014 collection takes inspiration from the smart silhouette of business wear, Italian sensibilities and even military wear. Available at Metro Paragon, Takashimaya, Tangs Orchard and Tangs VivoCity.
Giorgio Armani Tsovet HOM
The Spring/Summer collection of Giorgio Armani features accent pieces such as this pastel acetate sunglasses in shades of pink and blue. The temples have a mother-of-pearl plaque with the Giorgio Armani logo. Available at selected retailers.
Juicy Couture Juicy Couture launched its Fall/Holiday 2014 range which features loud printed track suits, faux fur covered vests as well as ‘70s style flower power dresses. Available at Takashimaya Shopping Centre and The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.
Celebrity Sighting! Giorgio Armani
Tsovet Inspired by World War I infantrymen’s field watch, this FW44 model from Tsovet has a rugged design with military detail. It is a quartz watch with luminous hands and markers. Available at Robinsons Orchard and selected retailers.
Celebrity Sighting! The Queen B, Beyonce, was spotted out and about with her CH Carolina Herrera Andy Bag in blue crocodile, in New York. She wore her hair in cornrows, and a flowery summer dress.
Juicy Couture
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weekender.com.sg
Beauty In Brief
Beauty in the air
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3 2 6 Must-have beauty travel essentials to help you look fresh as a daisy when you get off the plane We all know the dry air and other conditions during a flight can cause us to feel tired and dehydrated. Imagine what this does to our skin and the rest of our body. Here are a few nifty products to help you look and feel your best, even after a long flight.
1 Innisfree
Bringing all your products on the plane is not an option. So, cut down your routine for the day with the 6-in-1 essence from Innisfree’s new Soybean Energy ($59). It is designed to be used as the first step of a skincare regime, and promises to exfoliate dead skin cells, firm up pores,
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smoothen skin, promote cells turnover, brighten skin tone and further strengthen the skin barrier. Available at Innisfree stores.
2 Crabtree & Evelyn
This new Caribbean Island Wild Flowers range from Crabtree & Evelyn evokes tropical citrus notes alongside a marine accord making this perfect for your Caribbean holiday. Oh, you’re going to Langkawi? Also can, lah. The range includes an eau de toilette, ultra-moisturising hand therapy and more. Available in Crabtree & Evelyn stores.
3 Bliss
Dry lips are quite often a problem when in the air. This nifty range from Bliss will solve that problem in a jiffy.
f e at u r e d p ro d u c t
A miracle for flawless skin The Skin Concept’s Miracle Snail Cream is taking the beauty world by storm as a way to achieve flawless skin – why not give it a try?
The Skin Concept Miracle Snail Cream grants women 3 wishes - Repair, Remove & Renew - to protect aging skin from the effects of time
The Fabulips ($28 to $34 each) range features a foaming lip cleanser, sugar lip scrub and instant lip plumper. It sloughs off dead skin and gives lips moisture for an enviable pout. Available at Sephora.
4 Atkinsons
This British perfumery has scented the likes of Lawrence of Arabia and Queen Victoria and if it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for us. The signature 24 Old Bond Street ($132$173) was recently awarded the Perfume Extraordinaire prize at the annual Fragrance Foundation UK Fifi Awards. Now you can smell like royalty as you step off the plane! Available at Robinsons Orchard.
5 Burt’s Bees
The Intense Hydration Treatment Mask ($35) is enhanced with probiotic technology and hydrates skin. It also can reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Apply for 30 minutes as an overnight mask before rinsing off when you awake. Smooth and dewy skin is possible postflight! Available at Sephora.
6 Pureheal’s
Korean brand Pureheal’s new Ginseng Berry Overnight Mask ($48) is rich in ginsenoside with 80 per cent ginseng berry extracts to firm and energise skin for a brighter complexion the next day. Excellent for long haul flights. Available at Sephora from Sep 4.
Women would do anything to look beautiful but why resort to painful and invasive treatments when you can use The Skin Concept’s Miracle Snail Cream for flawless skin? Now you can have the confidence to go foundation free!
Smooth & Silky Skin The Skin Concept’s Miracle Snail Cream can be used as a moisturising primer to achieve flawless skin. The snail mucin formula prevents wrinkles and pigmentation. Made up of a complex mix of proteins, glycolic acids and elastin, snail mucin protects snails from sun rays as well as rough surfaces. The extract is also effective in the restoration of damaged tissue in humans. The cream is also infused with Nacinamide, a vitamin B3 and nicotinic acid, the main ingredient for whitening and improving complexion. Aregireline in the cream relaxes facial muscle
tension to smooth wrinkles naturally. Why not give this dermatological miracle a try? The product is now available at all Clariancy stores. Tel: 63382619. Visit www.facebook.com/ theskinconcept for more information.
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Things to expect Hello Kitty jet when you take EVA Air’s
The cutest feline airline in the sky must be EVA Air’s fleet of Hello Kitty planes. With departures from Singapore starting on Dec 4, here’s what you can experience.
Be prepared to take off to Hello Kitty heaven when you board EVA Air’s Hello Kitty jet. It doesn’t matter if you’re in the Laurel Classes (Business class) or Premium Economy classes or Economy classes, Hello Kitty branded items are everywhere! Six of EVA Air’s Boeing 777 are emblazoned with different Hello Kitty themes. (Check out our Weekender article online for details about the six planes at www.weekender.com.sg)
3 sets of scalemodel EVA Air
Hello Kitty airplanes to be won!
Are you ready for Hello Kitty heaven?
INFLIGHT EXPERIENCE
Okay. I’ll take two, please. These pillows are just the cat’s meow.
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The representative from EVA Air, explaining the interior decorating details including the headrest covers for these flights.
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You probably don’t want your kids to touch these boxes, if you want to keep them as collectibles.
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EVA Air stewardesses eagerly presenting the meals on board. Notice their speciallydesigned aprons.
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Short haul or long haul, Hello Kitty and friends will keep you company throughout the trip.
MEALS ON BOARD
For a chance to win the EVA Air Hello Kitty scale model giveaway, simply: 1. Like our Facebook page at www.facebook. com/weekendersgp 2. Look for this giveaway promotion on our page – like & share it 3. In the comment, tag 3 friends who would love to try this flight too! 4. Fill in the form at
http://bitly.com/WeekenderHelloKitty
What’s this?! Awww… super adorable edible kitties.
Adult meals on board premium economy. I like the iron-branded Hello Kitty icon on the zucchini slices.
Mimimalist Hello Kitty. For those flying Laurel Class, EVA Air’s business class, the friendly feline only appears during dessert.
ONLY 1 ENTRY PER PERSON, PLEASE. CLOSING DATE: 7 SEP
These baby bottles are just too cute to use. Better wean the baby off the bottle for this flight!
EVA Air will have a nine specially-chartered Hello Kitty flights from Singapore, from Dec 4, 2014. Seats are limited, so book early. Book through these exclusive agents: CTC Travel, Chan Brothers Travel, CS Travel, Dynasty Travel, Green Holidays and New Shan Travel. The author would like to thank EVA Air for giving us the opportunity to experience Taipei, and the Hello Kitty plane. By Frank Young
”Ban Lat” with 52 of the most wanted Hello Characters.
Head to the bathroom for a break from kitty kitsch? Sorry, she’s already there. And, on the toilet tissues too.
How often have you read the in-flight safety cards? You will now that it’s cuter and more fun.
PRE-FLIGHT EXPERIENCE IN TAIPEI
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Urge to purge? Not to worry. Hello Kitty is there to contain the problem with these adorable air sickness bags.
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Specially-designed check-in areas in EVA Air Taoyuan Airport for the privileged few.
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Hello Kitty passengers can check-in through the kiosks in Taipei’s Taoyuan Airport.
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Special Hello Kitty pre-boarding gates and children’s area for Hello Kitty passengers.
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weekender.com.sg
Best known for its famous beaches, what else does sunny California have to offer?
Eateries such as Valerie offer the classic LA counter experience with a full menu of savoury and sweet options for breakfast, brunch and lunch. If you’re afraid the heat will dampen your mood, fret not, because the Grand Central Market is properly ventilated.
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alifornia, popularised in many songs, films and TV shows, is home to major cities like San Francisco, San Diego and Los Angeles. There are many reasons why the Sunshine State is often portrayed in such a beautiful and carefree way. Here are a few must-sees if you ever get a chance to visit sunny California in the USA.
The Last Bookstore: The Most Gorgeous Bookstore Ever
In-N-Out Burger: Fast & Yummy Arguably the best fast food restaurant in the USA, In-N-Out burger originated in California in 1948 and is a bona fide classic. It was only about a decade ago when they started expanding to several other states, including Nevada, Texas and Arizona. Priding itself on fast, fresh food, its burgers are only made when ordered. You won’t get frozen fries that go through the deep fryer more than once – their fries are freshly cut and thick. You can customise your order, too. Check out the not-so-secret menu that has been going around, until they decided to place it on their official website.
Disneyland California Adventure: The Happiest Place on Earth
T R AV E L F E AT U R E
Hollywood Boulevard, where the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame is located
Decorated with intricate interiors, this twolevel building houses a bookstore, a section dedicated to records and even a coffee bar. Head to the back of the shop where there’s a counter where you can sell your old reads. The large space houses two whole levels of both used and new books, and in the “labyrinth” (Level 2), books are mostly priced at US$1 each. They even have a few shelves where they colour coordinate all the books, which is a feast on the eyes. Quaint, quiet and comfortable, it is truly a place you can spend an entire day in.
Yosemite National Park: California’s Gem
Yosemite National Park is filled with natural wonders
The well-known Santa Monica Pier, California, facing the ocean
Los Angeles, or LA, is the entertainment capital of the world. Visit the Disneyland California Adventure theme park with the classic Mickey Ferris Wheel. However, try to avoid the park from May to September. It’s the summer holidays for the US kids and the queues do get pretty long. If you do visit the park during that period, go to each individual attraction and get the Fast Pass tickets, and return to the ride at the exact allocated time, without having to queue. Also, get the Park Hopper tickets and visit both Disneyland California Adventure and Disneyland (just right opposite) in one day.
About a three-hour drive outside of the San Francisco bay area, the Yosemite National Park is truly California’s gem. Serene, picturesque and vast, it almost is like the entire place is part of a desktop wallpaper. Overnight stays in the park are possible with the availability of camping grounds and cabin lodges in the park. Avoid the area in summer, though, which spans from May to July. Bush fires often occur during the period and trees appear burnt or black, which isn’t most ideal if you’re looking for breathtaking scenery. Winter is an interesting time to visit, when everything is snow-covered, making Yosemite look even more magical than it already is. In the beginning of summer, California can still be pretty chilly, so be sure to bring a sweater along. From the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the calm and serene Red Woods in the North, California has something to offer for everyone. Be sure to take a trip down the next time you’re planning to go to the USA. By Eu Shuqi
Grand Central Market: for Fresh Produce With a cluster of open-air restaurants and stalls selling fresh produce, the Grand Central Market in Downtown Los Angeles serves a variety of food and fresh produce and is sure to satisfy your appetite. The cable car is the oldest mechanical public transport in San Francisco, in service since 1873
In-N-Out Burger has possibly the best fast food in the USA
For more gorgeous destinations and interesting travel anecdotes, like & follow us at www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
L OW- COS T G E TAWAY S If you need a short holiday but your budget for your flight is about $100 or less, look no further Don’t miss out on these promotions for budget airlines and low-cost carriers.
Rizal Park – Manila At no other place in the heart of Manila can one find serenity and diversity as in Rizal Park. The 53ha park boasts worldclass sculptures, historical markers, exhibits and other forms of aesthetic entertainment. In the morning, catch the ‘dancing’ fountain show with multi-coloured jets of water. Discover the uplifting story of the Philippines’ national hero, Rizal, in this lovely park renamed in his honour. $99, Jetstar. Promotion ends 1 Sep.
Yangon – Chaukhtatgyi Temple While it’s hard to miss the numerous pagodas in Yangon that glitter in bright gold, check out the Chaukhtatgyi Temple wherein lies a magnificent giant reclining Buddha. The sheer size and presence of the reclining Buddha is enough to take your breath away. The temple provides a sanctuary from the crowded pavements of Yangon’s city life. $78, Tigerair. Promotion ends when sold out.
Hong Kong – Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden Chi Lin Nunnery is a large temple complex of elegant wooden architecture, treasured Buddhist relics and soul-soothing lotus ponds. The tranquil Nan Lian Garden is meticulously landscaped over an area of 3.5ha, in which you can explore permanent exhibitions of Chinese timber architecture, rocks and potted plants. Both parks are built in the style of the Tang Dynasty. $99, Scoot. Promotion ends when sold out.
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AUGUST 29 - September 4, 2014
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TRAVELation
COVER STORY
5 Most unusual parks
around the world From astonishing sculptures in gardens to a submerged lake park that you have to access by scuba diving, we’ve rounded up a list of unusual parks that you must visit once in your lifetime. Let us know the mysteries you uncover when you visit.
“The Mouth of Hell” greets you at Bomarzo Monster Park
Grüner See has submerged trees, hiking trails, bridge and bench
This abandoned roller-coaster track was seen in the movie Hanna
Spreepark, Germany Spreepark, or Kulturpark Plänterwald (its old name), was an amusement park that opened in 1969, in Kulturpark Plänterwald in the Republic of East Germany. Since 1999 it had to deal with large debts. Spreepark has been locked in a deep slumber since it closed in 2001. In 2011, scenes for the movie Hanna were filmed in the abandoned park, including one of the final action scenes with Cate Blanchett and Saoirse Ronan. Today, this abandoned park still fascinates local and foreign explorers alike. Exploration isn’t possible without getting a thumping heartbeat and goosebumps. The eerie remnants include the gaping jaws of a fearsome psychedelic cat at the roller-coaster tunnel, a Ferris wheel what shifts idly in the wind, and a row of swan boats that stare at you with their beady eyes. Don’t be surprised if you hear strange sounds, occasionally.
A war elephant, said to be Hannibal’s, mangles a legionary
Bomarzo Monster Park, Italy Bomarzo Monster Park may seem for some like it is out of a nightmare. It was commissioned in 1552 by Pier Francesco Orsini, who wanted to create a shocking “Villa of Wonders” in memory of his beloved late wife. Upon entering, the message that greets visitors is already intriguing: “You who enter this place, observe it piece by piece and tell me afterwards whether so many marvels were created for deception or purely for art.” The park is filled with bizarre mythical sculptures. Among them are a war elephant, a giant tearing another giant apart, a dragon attacked by two lions and a turtle with a winged woman on its back. There is even a tilted house there. Perhaps the most terrifying piece is Orcus or the “Mouth of Hell”, which is a giant face with a screaming mouth. The accompanying inscription reads, “All reason departs.” It may make you feel like departing immediately.
Grüner See (Green Lake), Austria Grüner See or “Green Lake” in Tragöss, Austria is known for its shimmering waters of emerald-green hues. Every spring, melting snow from the nearby glacial summits leaves the park completely submerged, creating a veritable dreamscape. The lake’s depth reaches some 30 feet and provides a unique experience for scuba divers. You can dive in to explore the spectacular underwater park, fully adorned with shrubbery, hiking trails, and even submerged bridge and bench. The submerged trees in the clear, colourful waters complete the magical look.
The Morning Glory Pool looks like it leads to another dimension
Yellowstone National Park, USA The geological area of Yellowstone National Park was formed some 640,000 years ago when a sudden eruption devastated the landscape within minutes. Today, it is much more than hot ground and gushing steam. Yellowstone Park encloses geysers, alpine lakes, deep canyons, and vast forests. Its list of wildlife includes elk, bighorn sheep, grizzly bears, trumpeter swans, the legendary (and threatened) bison, and more. Most of the park rests atop the slumbering volcano that erupted half a million years ago. The iconic spots — Old Faithful, Lower Falls and Yellowstone Lake — are familiar from photographs and documentaries but seeing them with your own eyes is an enthralling experience. The Morning Glory Pool looks like a portal to an alien realm.
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Spotlight on Malaysia
Eat Me, Drink Me The fridge is empty, without a mini-bar, allowing you to store your own items. If you’re feeling peckish, there is a Re:fuel station available throughout the day where you can grab items from instant noodles to muesli and yoghurt. The items are chargeable to the room, of course. If you’re looking for a spot of partying, head up to the 30th floor where MAI Bar resides, with the infinity pool. The thumping beats and cocktails will set the mood for some poolside clubbing! On the whole, we were pretty pleased with our experience.
Fuss-free stay at Aloft KL Sentral
Aloft KL Sentral’s Sweet Suite
One of only two Aloft hotels in Asia, Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral is a no-frills and comfy stay Whether you’re a business traveller yearning for convenience or on a family trip with young children, staying in a central area of an unfamiliar city is quite often the best option. The next time you’re in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, why not try the Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral (KLS) hotel? Located in Sentral, the new business district of Kuala Lumpur, the Aloft KLS is right next to the metro rail and nearby attractions include the National Museum, Bird Park and Little India of Kuala Lumpur. It is also a short ride to the touristy Bukit Bintang area.
Simple Yet Playful Rooms The rooms at Aloft KLS are simple yet playful with pieces of humorous art illustrating Malaysian customs hanging above the soft foamy bed. The rooms also have a work desk, a flat screen television and ironing board. The toilets have no bathtubs but are fully furnished with amenities such as toothbrushes, cotton wool, bathrobes… You get the picture. What surprised me on my last trip was the quality of the hotel shampoo and soap. Aloft has special Bliss all-in-one shampoo and soap in the shower dispensers. My hair has never been softer from hotel shampoo!
Native Americans believe these “hoodoos” were evil people who were turned into stone
A far cry from the usual lakes, hills and beaches; these parks are not meant to please but to astonish the visitor
Bryce Canyon National Park, USA Thousands of delicately-carved spires rise in brilliant colour from the amphitheatres of Bryce Canyon National Park. These pinnacles, called “hoodoos”, were believed to have been wicked people turned into stone, according to Native American lore. They were actually formed by “frost-wedging” and chemical weathering. Firstly, freezing meltwater expands, tearing the rocks apart. Furthermore, acidic rainwater slowly dissolves the limestone, carving it into fantastic shapes. By Lim Wan Ling
A soak in the infinity pool will complete your stay
This trip was made possible by Starwood Hotels. Visit www.alofthotels.com/kualalumpursentral for more information.
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