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ISSUE 102 OCTOBER 10 - 16, 2014
WK102B/MCI(P)119/08/2014
weekender.com.sg
FREE
PAPER
ISSUE 102 OCTOBER 10 - 16, 2014
T R av e l at i o n
into the heart of LANGKAWI’S legends
EVEN T S
CATCH world cup stars IN JAPAN VS BRAZIL
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THIS WEEK’S COVER WAS VOTED BY: Esther Kam, Vincent Lim, Mei Wong, Gary Gary, Gwen Tan, Daniel Peng Kwee Sy, Thea Tay, Ivy Poon, Jonathan Tiong, Muwei Yang, Ang Li Meng Alan, Andrew Tan, Melanie Laya Taloma, Lee Huei, Alvin Keh, Gobok Raudhah, Raihana Begum, Elisia Tan, Angeline Toh, Jenny Lam, Karen Ang and Noraidah Sudri
Look out for next week’s cover options for you to choose from at www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
The PREMIER LEAGUE’S BEST BUY?
WEEKENDER EXCLUSIVE
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WK102B/MCI(P)119/08/2014
October 10 - 16, 2014
Entertainment top 5 events this weekend
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da:ns festival 2014 9-19 Oct da:ns festival invites you to 11 days of dance that will inspire and lift your heart. From enthralling choreography and performances to the da:ns workshops, you’ll be sure to fall in love with dance this October! Esplanade, www.sistic.com.sg
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NEW! FREE! #bringinthedough: The Electrolux 72-hour charity bake-a-thon 10-12 Oct Here, participants simply need to volunteer a few hours of their time to prepare predetermined recipes. Food from the Heart’s active volunteers will help to deliver the baked goods to deserving families over the weekend. Come bake to show your support for the community! Sweetest Moments, Sakae Building, 28 Tai Seng Street #03-01
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Khalil Fong Soulboy Lights Up World Tour 2014 11 Oct, 8pm, from $48 Mandarin R&B, soul and urban blues-rock singer-songwriter Khalil Fong will be performing in Singapore for his Soulboy Lights Up World Tour. Fall in love with Khalil’s music style all over again, and sing along to his hit-songs that has moved us deeply. The Star Theatre @ The Star Performing Arts Centre, 1 Vista Exchange Green, www.sistic.com. sg
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NEW! Barre’s iCare Carnival 11 Oct, 10am-2pm Find out more about Barré, a group that supports the orphans and children of ethnic minorities in Vietnam by providing for their learning and education, in the iCare Carnival. Catholic Junior College, 129 Whitley Road, www.barregroup.org
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International Friendly Match: Japan vs Brazil 14 Oct, 6.45pm, $25-$180 Catch Asian Champions Japan take on five-time World Cup winners Brazil in a blockbuster match at the National Stadium. Expect to see the Samurai Blue and A Selecao’s full first teams in action, which could include stars like Neymar, Oscar, Willian and David Luiz against Keisuke Honda, Yuto Nagatomo and Makoto Hasebe. National Stadium, www.sportshub.com.sg
Photo: Helen Maybanks
The happy, the healthy & the horror - have fun!
NEW! Indian Safari Floral Display Until 3 Nov, 9am-9pm Starting from Sep 29, Gardens by the Bay has been bringing visitors on a botanical expedition to India. Come face to face with animals of the wild like tigers and elephants - made of plants of course as you take in the grandeur of India’s national bird, the peacock, elegantly draped in colourful blooms such as pansies, marigolds and orchids. Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, www. gardensbythebay.com.sg
Stick Man Until 12 Oct, 5pm (Fri), 11am, 2pm & 4.30pm (SatSun), from $42 Stick Man is a touching and witty story for children featuring an unforgettable hero with real sticking power. The show is sure to delight children and families, no matter what time of the year. SOTA Drama Theatre, 1 Zubir Said Drive, www.sistic.com.sg
halloween
Halloween Horror Nights 4 Until 1 Nov, 7.30pm1.30am, $68 This year’s fourth instalment of Halloween Horror Nights will deliver the most number of event
nights, the four haunted houses and four scare zones this year since launching in 2011. There will also be Singapore’s first ever 3-D haunted house. Universal Studios Singapore, Sentosa, www. halloweenhorrornights. com.sg Sentosa Spooktacular 2014 Jointly produced with GTH 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 31 Oct & 1 Nov, 7pm-1am, $66.60 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, www.spooktacular.com.sg NEW! Doors To ‘Hell’oween 29 Oct-2 Nov, $35 Enter the maze of narrow passages and dark chambers and scare the
living daylights out of yourself. Ghastly creatures, vengeful ghouls, demons and angels lurk in every crack, waiting to pounce on unsuspecting guests. Whatever your encounter may be, may the odds be ever in your favour. D’Marquee @ Downtown East, www.downtowneast. com.sg
NEW! Museum of Horrors V: The Relic 24 Oct-2 Nov, 7pm, $20 Unearthed from the deep sands in the Middle East is a relic so mysterious, it is believed to belong to a longlost city as enigmatic as the Atlantis. Manoeuvre your way through a horror maze with five realistic dioramic sets, and be prepared to meet your worst nightmare
at Museum of Horrors V: The Relic! *SCAPE, www.scape.com.sg/ moh2014
sports NEW! Asia’s Largest Outdoor Yoga Class: #Omtogether 19 Oct, 5pm-7pm Set to make history as Asia’s largest outdoor community yoga class, practise against the stunning backdrop of Singapore’s skyscrapers. Green Roof, Marina Barrage, sg.stretchcity.com
family
Great Eastern Women’s Run 9 Nov, 5.30am-11am, from $41 Singapore’s largest womenonly race and the largest women-only half marathon in the region - Great Eastern Women’s Run, is a run for every woman. The race features different race distances, making the run accessible to female runners of all levels. The Float@Marina Bay, www. greateasternwomensrun.com
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others Extreme Adventure on the Edge with Bryan Smith 9 Oct, 7.30pm, from $42 Experience extreme feats, adventures in challenging environments and life on the edge with Bryan Smith, an award-winning film-maker, adventurer and conservationist for National Geographic, as the extraordinarily passionate storyteller
shares his adventures and gripping moments from his assignments. Esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Drive, www.sistic.com.sg A Vintage Chic Wedding Showcase 12 Oct, 2-5pm, $68 per couple Couples will be treated to a live band, a variety of vintage table setting displays, a high-tea buffet, with the main event will being a bridal runway show.
Pre-festivities include activities that couples will surely be able to draw inspiration from for their weddings. The Grand Ballroom, The Ritz-Carlton, E-mail: samantha.wong@ ritzcarlton.com NEW! FREE! Renting Out Your HDB Flat/ Room 18 Oct, 2pm-3.30pm Keen to learn more about renting out your HDB flat/room? Learn
4 Pairs of
RUN FOR YOUR LIVES PASSES worth $179.80 per pair
to be won! Run For Your Lives [Zombie/Survivor] 25 Oct, 12pm-8pm Run For Your Lives as the world’s premier zombie-infested obstacle course returns this Halloween. Originally from the USA, zombie fever spread here in the wildly-successful first Run For Your Lives race at the Padang in January this year. In this second edition on Oct 25, participants can either sign up as a Survivor or a Zombie. As a Survivor, the goal is simple: to get to the Safe Zone with a least one life remaining – only there will be several hundred Zombies standing in your way. Survivors start off with 3 lives (flags) strapped around their waist, and have to make their way past obstacles along the 5km route. Zombies have one job: satisfy your insatiable appetite for humans by grabbing flags off survivors. In order to become a Zombie, one must go through a zombification process with full Zombie hair and makeup. There is also a post-race Apocalypse Party for all Survivors and Zombies to dance till dusk! Group promo for friends still on: Group of 4 or more, enjoy tickets at a discounted price of $69.90 each. (UP $89.90) Win a pair of passes for yourself now! West Coast Park Grand Lawn, www.runforyourlives.asia/sg/
THREE EASY WAYS TO ENTER: Look for pinned post on our Facebook page:
facebook.com/weekendersgp
and follow the instructions
weekender.com.sg/runforyourlives
Visit contest page to enter contest:
SMS to 85026567
CODE: runforyourlives, your Name, Age, Gender, NRIC, Postal Code, E-mail ONLY 1 ENTRY PER PERSON, PLEASE. CLOSING DATE: 15 OCT 2014 Good Luck! No charge for SMS. Please check our Promotional & Contest Rules at weekender.com.sg for details.
about the policies and procedures for renting out your HDB flat/room to foreigners and about engaging the services of a real estate salesperson at the talk conducted by HDB personnel. HDB Auditorium, Basement 1 HDB Hub, 480 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh, www.hdb.gov.sg/ heartlandbeat
International A Cappella Festival 11 Oct, 7.30pm, from $35 Come support local group NANU at the International A Cappella Festival! In NANU, the diverse A Cappella backgrounds of each singer bring together a rich and varied portfolio of musical skills. The silky smooth blend of NANU today comes with a good dose of youthfulness and spunk as it innovates and recreates itself in today’s musical scene. You can expect to hear arrangements of chart-toppers like “Royals” and local songs like “Ru Yan” from “The Little Nonya”, and also a set of close harmony titles like “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy”. It will be a delightful evening not to be missed! TAS@AAC, 28 Aliwal Street, #03-03, Aliwal Arts Centre, www.a-cappella.org.sg
October 10 - 16, 2014
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Entertainment Juicy reviews & tips on the EPL & the best of world football
Chelsea’s title to lose, United revitalised The break for international games this weekend gives us a good reason to review the performances of the Big Four over the past seven Premier League games Like it or not, the international fixtures mean we’re forced to take a breather from the Premier League. Let’s take a look back and reflect on the Big Four’s performances over the past seven games.
Chelsea – 1st (6W, 1D, 0L) Speak to any fan and they’ll tell you, even before the season began, that Chelsea is the clear favourite for the title (trust me, my co-host Andy and I debate about this on a daily basis). The Blues risk making the “most competitive league in the world” a rather boring one this season. The only way they will drop points is if Diego Costa really gets injured (like, really injured and not how Jose Mourinho always says he is but he ends up playing and scoring) or the
Ghanaian witch doctor curses them. On behalf of every other football fan in the world, let’s hope that one or more of these things will occur!
Manchester United – 4th (3W, 2D, 2L) Crisis? What crisis? After a disastrous start to the season, including that embarrassing 5-3 defeat to Leicester City, United actually find themselves 4th in the table after recent back-to-back wins against West Ham and Everton. 4th! With Angel di Maria in scintillating form, Falcao finally opening his scoring account and the defence finally showing some grit, United fans are finally starting to see some light at the end of the tunnel. But, then again, you never know with United these days…
Arsenal – 8th (2W, 4D, 1L) Let’s be honest. None of us believe Arsenal is good enough to challenge for the title. Seven games in and it’s easy to see why. With impressive performances coming only in spurts, the only admirable quality we’ve seen from the Gunners so far is their fighting spirit, having recovered from losing positions in at least four of their games. Plus, they conceded only two goals against Chelsea! Even then, that’s not reason enough to believe they’ll finish anywhere other than 4th… again. Yawn.
Photo: AGIF / Shutterstock.com
RED CARD FOOTBALL FEVER
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Liverpool – 9th (3W, 1D, 3L) Unrealistic expectations, no Luis Suarez, Daniel Sturridge’s injury, coping with the Champions League, new players not gelling and so on. The excuses are piling for Brendan Rodgers, who has obviously been a victim of his own success from last season. With three defeats already, the Reds will need a miracle to replicate last season’s brilliance. They need Sturridge back badly, and if he cannot form a formidable partnership with Mario Balotelli then it’s time to face the harsh truth that the team just isn’t as good enough this year. By Ahmad Khan Tune in to #RedCardConnect on StarHub TV Ch 225 or download the “StarHub TV Anywhere” app.
The Argentinian could well be Man U’s best buy this season
About Ahmad Khan
Ahmad Khan (@ AhmadKhan12) is a presenter for #RedCardConnect. 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 6pm-8pm, on #RedCardDRIVETIME, and every weekend just before the EPL matches on #RedCardLIVE.
From left: Srihari G Sikhakollu, Managing Director and Madeline Tan Director, Ad & Sponsorship Sales APAC, ESPN, with representatives from CIMB Bank
Ne w S p o r t s S i t e
ESPN FC Southeast Asia launched New, localised, device-responsive ESPN football site launched on Oct 1 ESPN FC, the global multi-platform football brand from ESPN, has unveiled a brand new Southeast Asia edition of ESPNFC. com on Oct 1. This was announced in early September at a launch event for the site.
From Strength to Strength Bimal Kapadia, Senior Director of ESPN FC, said, “The launch of the Southeast Asia edition of ESPN FC highlights the unique advantage ESPN has to bring the very best coverage of the global game to fans every day.” ESPN FC is already the No. 1 football site in Singapore and Malaysia and among the most popular digital platforms for football globally.
Former England & Manchester United star Paul Parker is one of the regular pundits
Global & Local Football ESPNFC.com’s Southeast Asia edition will feature extensive daily news, scores analysis and video, bringing Southeast Asian fans a combination of focused local content and the best global coverage of the sport. The site is responsively-designed to adapt to all devices – computers, smartphone and tablets. ESPNFC – Southeast Asia Edition will include global coverage on the top international leagues including the Barclays Premier League; local coverage by a dedicated team on the Malaysian Super League, S-League, AFF Suzuki Cup, AFC Champions League, AFC Cup, Thai Premier League and Indonesian Super League; the ESPN FC Blog Network with more than 50 blogs including dedicated blogs for every Premier League club and top global clubs, as well as transfers, key tournaments, leagues, national teams and more; video content including exclusive interviews, locally-produced features, previews and analysis, as well as segments from ESPN’s signature global edition ESPN FC TV show; and special contributors including Paul Parker, ex-England & Man United defender, Ian Walker, ex-England & Spurs goalkeeper and R Sasikumar, ex-Singapore defender. Check out the new Southeast Asia edition at ESPNFC.com now.
Having problems transporting your stuff?
GoGoVan to the rescue!
How to Use GoGoVan in 3 Easy Steps:
With GoGoVan, transporting items of any size instantly to anywhere islandwide is now possible Here’s the scenario: It is 2am. You don’t own a van or know a friend who owns one but you need to transport a table over to your parents’ home before you catch your flight at 5am. Time is running out. Who can come to your rescue?
The Best Solution to Your Transport Problem Fret not; help is just a few clicks away. With the hassle-free, easy-to-use GoGoVan mobile app, you can get that table shifted effortlessly and affordably, even at 2am.
All you have to do is download the free GoGoVan app, book the delivery service you need, and you can expect professional delivery staff at your pick-up point within just 30 minutes! Yes, GoGoVan can do all that and more. It’s an indispensable app that gets things moving.
With GoGoVan, Delivery Is Now a Breeze GoGoVan has revolutionised logistic options in Singapore. It trumps traditional delivery services that are troublesome, time-consuming or costly. With GoGoVan’s island-wide network of 2,500 professional drivers, you can expect efficient delivery
services anytime, anywhere. The size of the item to be transported isn’t an issue. With an extensive fleet that includes motorcycles, vans and lorries, GoGoVan helps you to deliver items as small as documents or as bulky as furniture easily, reliably and quickly. Gone are the days when you have to make advance arrangements with traditional delivery services. With GoGoVan, you can book a vehicle to shift goods instantly, or choose to schedule a vehicle at your convenience.
GoGoVan Goes the Extra Mile for You Via the GoGoVan app, with the aid of GPS technology, you can track your driver’s location and route taken. No time will be wasted, and the whole delivery service is expedited for your convenience.
You can easily download this FREE GoGoVan app from the App Store (iPhone users) or Google Play (Android users). Step 1 — Select the service and key in the route (the fee will be reflected) Step 2 — Set the date and time Step 3 — Enter your information and place the order instantly Why download the GoGoVan App now? Download the GoGoVan app now and enjoy up to $20 discount for your first booking by using the promo code “GGV20”. The promotion ends 30 Nov. What are you waiting for? Get your hands on this handy dandy mobile app now! You can also be assured of safety at all times, because the drivers registered with GoGoVan are verified and screened. Its fleet of vehicles are also inspected.
October 10 - 16, 2014
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Entertainment
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Print-worthy photos to be treasured memories
Call in the Pros This is where you must realise not all cameras will perform the way that you need them to. For the advanced photographer who likes the brilliance without the bulk, Canon has released a new premium Digital Compact Camera that promises to be of superb image quality in the class of compact cameras.
Miss No Detail With the newest 4.2x Optical Zoom, you never have to worry about lost quality again. The zoom is powerful enough to capture rain drops on the slate of your travelling bus, while perfectly framing the background of the mountains behind.
Canon introduces the Canon PowerShot G7 X, a premium Digital Compact Camera
PHOTO TIPS
ARE YOU DAZZLED YET Have you heard of their newlyintroduced bokeh effect? With the bright f/1.8 lens feature, Marina Barrage photos will never be the same again. Imagine the ordinary night scene photo but with a dazzling dosage of bokeh. Everything would look so much more beautiful.
Nothing is more lasting than photos, so make sure you do a good job capturing your best moments!
People say a picture is a worth a thousand words. They missed out “a good picture”. Say hello to Canon PowerShot G7 X There are few things as precious as memories. In this new age, where we take and delete photos without thinking, we’ve stopped trying to take the perfect photo to be developed and washed. When was the
last time you developed a selfie? I don’t know about you but I love holding a photograph in my hands and hanging it up. But I realise phone-taken photos are developed very badly and Digital Compact Cameras turn out much better photos. Now, the important question: Do you really want to forget what it is like to touch a photograph and smile?
Do Not Lose Your Focus There is a new 31-point AF feature that ensures the desired object will always be in focus, due to its new smart accuracy in determining the object. Now, you never have to worry that your camera may be shooting the wrong subject.
• Before taking a one-time night scenery, make sure you switch your setting appropriately to achieve the bokeh effect. If a wrong mode is used, you may end up with a sharp, focused image instead of the desired blurred, bokeh one.
To find out more, visit www.canon.com.sg
Ever taken a great photo with your Digital Compact Camera? Now you can share it with us and win a prize by doing so. Weekender is looking for our next travel photojournalist and you could be the one! Simply submit your best travel photos to stand a chance to win. The winner will walk away with a Canon PowerShot SX600 HS and a chance for the photo to be published. That’s not all. You’ll stand a chance to join us and travel on our media familiarisation trips too! Here’s the part you’ve been waiting for.
WEEKENDER Photo contest
Terms and conditions 1) Photos must be taken with a Digital Compact Camera – photos taken with phones and DSLRs will be disqualified immediately 2) A person can only submit a maximum of 5 entries FOR A CHANCE TO WIN, SIMPLY:
are you WEEKENDER’s NEXT TRAVEL PHOTOJOURNALIST?
What will you stand to win? 1) Canon PowerShot SX600 HS 2) The official title of Weekender Travel Photojournalist with your photo published 3) A chance to travel sponsored with us on media familiarisation trips
WIN
A canon Powershot SX600 HS (worth $309) & BE Published!
Like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ weekendersgp Look for this contest on our page - like & share it Email us at general@weekender.sg with the following: Subject: Weekender Photo Contest Entry (Attach your image) Name: NRIC: Phone number: E-mail:
Winners will be selected by a panel of judges. CLOSING DATE: 19 NOV 2014 Camera sponsored by Canon
No charge for SMS. Please check our Promotional and Contest Rules at weekender.com.sg for details.
October 10 - 16, 2014
weekender.com.sg
October 10 - 16, 2014
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Entertainment Mothership.sg covers current affairs, lifestyle topics as well as soon-to-trend issues. It is read by more than 700,000 Singaporeans monthly.
5 aspects S’poreans consider when choosing their next travel destination make or break your vacation. A vacation should not be spent trying to decipher the directions just explained to you by the concierge.
Where to go next? Decisions, decisions. Sometimes the most difficult part of planning a vacation is choosing the destination, especially after you’ve exhausted the obvious choices — Bangkok, Hong Kong, Tokyo and so on. What you need is a holiday at a destination of your choice, where you will be able to fully enjoy your break. Here’s a handy cut-out-and-keep guide to choosing your next holiday destination. 1. Asian vs. Western (vs. Latino vs…) Some people are perfectly comfortable visiting countries and cities where everything is different. Others enjoy their holidays better if their surroundings still seem somewhat similar. Always pick a destination based on how close it is to our own culture.
3. Shopping vs. Sightseeing vs. Rest & Relax Are you a culture buff? Or do you simply want to kick your feet up and relax? Maybe you’re an adventure lover raring to explore famous hiking trails. While some destinations offer all those options, a vacation without a single overriding purpose is going to pull you in too many directions. 4. Backpacking You might like to stay in one place while travelling. Or you might prefer spending as much time as you can exploring all the major cities in one country over your vacation. Both options might vary in terms of price, but whether you’d like to backpack or not should come into consideration when planning your next holiday. 5. Time Zone / Flight Hours A vacation is supposed to re-charge you, and it certainly won’t help if you’re suffering from jet lag over half the time or if you’re stuck in transit for too long.
2. English-speaking vs. NonEnglish-speaking Picking a destination where English is spoken widely or not could potentially
By Nitasya Ibrahim
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Distribution Lawrence Tan
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Designer Zoe Lai Interns Runbin Yew Eu Shuqi Alison Chu
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karin@weekender.sg
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Hello, guys! How was your weekend?
weekender.com.sg
FLUFFY’s Pet DIARY Musings by Fluffy, the rescued pooch, on her new life as a beloved pet and other furry tales
Part 2 of 8
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Have you prepared them for each other?
Weekender Singapore
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Arts & Entertainment • Travel & Transportation • Food & Restaurant
Have you liked us yet?
Photo: PC Chong
We don’t know about you but we have been doing a lot of eating this weekend! Remember our Canon contest? Here are some of our most stunning entries.
INTRODUCiNG Your Pet TO BABY Tips from Fluffy, the rescued pooch, on caring for your furry friends and being a responsible pet owner
Ever wondered what exactly you’re eating? I know some people who still think well-done means bloody beef. Get your guide right here!
We went to try out some Peranakan food and it was delicious! Look at how pretty the kueh pie tee cups are:
See you there!
Our neighbour has a baby! When Dad and Mum came back from visiting them, they told Franky, my owner, and I interesting things about pets and babies.
What is Toxoplasmosis? When our neighbour was pregnant, her husband took on the role of cleaning their cat Kitty’s litter as the faeces of cats may carry toxoplasmosis, a lethal disease that can cause serious birth defects. The parasite responsible for this disease can also be found in uncooked or undercooked meat and contaminated soil.
Getting your Pet ready
Congratulations to the winners!
costa cruise GIVEAWAY
bombay bicycle club GIVEAWAY
for beloved one GIVEAWAY
Fonteyn Leow SXXXX087A Lee Shah SXXXX461E Yan Chui Ping SXXXX554J
Vanessa Santhi Bain Addison Lim Winnce Lim So Khim Low Benita
Wang Yuan Mun Chong Jaslyn Chng Cecilia Lai Kam Yet Tan Hong Joo
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SXXXX643C SXXXX948J SXXXX467J SXXXX754D SXXXX481C
Don’t miss out on more great giveaway prizes & exclusive lifestyle experiences. Like & follow us at www.facebook.com/weekendersgp Winners will be contacted directly on the collection. Look out for more Weekender giveaways in upcoming issues.
Dad said that some families give up their pets when the baby is coming along, for fear that the two won’t get along or that pets are dirty. I was so sad when I heard that. Thankfully, our neighbours educated themselves on this, so Kitty gets to stay! They read books and spoke to their obstetrician and Kitty’s vet. Besides practising good hygiene, they also ensure that Kitty (already sterilised) is showered with lots of love by the baby’s father. They also invited friends with babies to go over to their home. Kitty was initially frightened of the small-looking humans who didn’t speak a word she understood. Some crawled towards her and she darted away. But Kitty soon realised they were harmless. Some were even nice to cuddle up with! When our neighbour started decorating the baby’s room, they also gave Kitty preview of it and involved her in the process. They spoke to her about ‘the baby’ that was coming and so Kitty had a vague idea that someone was joining the family soon.
Mum said that shortly after the baby was born, her father took home the pair of mittens that she wore and let Kitty sniff them. Kitty was very curious about the scent and kept tapping the mittens gently with her paws. When the baby was finally home, Kitty rushed up to sniff her and found that she smelt just like the mittens! Ah, that solved the puzzle. That said, Kitty didn’t know how to react to the baby and so she stayed away from her for sometime. During this time, the baby’s father took care of Kitty while the mother was busy looking after the newborn. Kitty was also given extra doses of love, toys and treats. Whenever Kitty got curious and went up to investigate the baby, our neighbour was patient, loving and gentle to her. They didn’t shout or scream. That made Kitty more comfortable with the baby as each day passes. Dad and Mum said that Kitty and the baby are now very good friends despite just knowing each other for a short while. We hope all pet owners around the world would take care of us as well as our neighbour does even after they’ve had a baby! To find out more about responsible pet ownership, please visit: www.petsforlife.com.sg
October 10 - 16, 2014
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Entertainment
There’s just too much gore
The ravishing Katie Carter falls victim to a modelling scam
The comeuppance the devilish guys get is not pretty
movie preview The sequel to the bloody film I Spit On Your Grave gets a belated release here
C
hances are you didn’t get to catch this movie when it released last year – in fact, you probably didn’t even know there was such a
sequel. That’s because I Spit On Your Grave 2 was only released to one theatre in the US, and only for one week. Go figure. Anyhow, it’s finally being screened here, and we’re anticipating the second bloodbath that is to follow I Spit On Your Grave. This sequel, like the first movie, is directed by Steven R Monroe. So if you’re a fan of his grind-house gore fest, then you’ll want to give this one a shot.
Spitting on an old grave
Like the 1978 original and the 2010 remake, I Spit On Your Grave 2 features a copious quantity of abject horror. Blood, guts, electroshock, faeces, various body parts taking a beating, and psychological terror are all rolled up into a reel of torture that will make you flinch in shock and disgust. This sequel also explores the same line of social issues as its predecessors: rape, the ethics of revenge, and the failings of authority. And let’s not forget the big question of whether the end justifies the gross, brutal means.
Too much of a good thing
revenge SERVED EVEN COLDER Also carried from the first movie – and the 1978 original – is a similar revenge plot. In I Spit On Your Grave 2, Katie Carter (Jemma Dallender) falls victim to a modelling scam, and is made the rag doll for physical and sexual torture. After several twisted turns of events, Carter finally escapes and gains the upper hand on her tormentors. What follows is the promised sequence of violence and vengeance, delivered in gorier and nastier fashion than in the previous two films.
Carrying the legacy
I Spit On Your Grave 2 [R21] Director: Steven R Monroe Starring: Jemma Dallender, Yavor Baharov & Joe Absolom Genre: Horror, Thriller Run Length: 106 min Release: 9 Oct
There’s nothing wrong with a little torture and dismemberment – but some initial viewers have pointed out that this sequel just has too much gore. One critic said – and we paraphrase – “That’s the thing about this endless torture: It isn’t frightening. It isn’t tense. It just goes on and on, just torture upon torture.” But if that’s your thing, well...
A L S O IN T H E ATR E S Good People [TBA] You’re in debt. One day, you find cold hard cash that’s more than enough to solve your existing problems. What do you do? Take it, of course. James Franco and Kate Hudson star as an American couple living in London who find money in a time of financial crisis, and keep it for themselves. That’s when bad things start happening to good people. STARRING: James Franco & Kate Hudson GENRE: Action, Crime, Thriller RELEASE: 9 Oct
Laggies [PG13] Megan watches as her friends check off milestones as adults, while she remains unemployed and underachieving. It is obvious she is in the throes of a quarterlife crisis. In a turn of events, her high school sweetheart proposes - and Megan panics. How does she react? STARRING: Keira Knightley, Chloe Grace Moretz, Sam Rockwell, Kaitlyn Dever & Mark Webber GENRE: Comedy, Romance RELEASE: 9 Oct
Outcast [TBA] A mysterious warrior teams up with the daughter and son of a dethroned Chinese Emperor to defeat their callous uncle, who seeks their death. Nicholas Cage stars in this American-Chinese-Canadian production. STARRING: Nicholas Cage, Hayden Christensen & Liu Yifei GENRE: Action, Adventure RELEASE: 9 Oct
Rurouni Kenshin: The Legend Ends [NC16] Based on the popular manga series, Himura Kenshin tries to stop Shishio Makoto, a former government assassin, in his attempts to overthrow the government in order to conquer Japan. This is the final part of the swashbuckling movie trilogy. STARRING: Takeru Satoh, Emi Takei, Tatsuya Fujiwara & Yosuke Eguchi GENRE: Action RELEASE: 9 Oct
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movie preview
Lawyering up with Robert Downey Jr
Robert Downey Jr (left) and Robert Duvall (right) play the tense father-son duo
Will the playboy star of Iron Man pull off the damaged act in his latest dra-medy? Shedding his iron gear for a sharp suit, Robert Downey Jr – the face of laugh-fest Due Date and the Iron Man franchise – returns as a big city lawyer in the upcoming dra-medy, The Judge. He plays Henry “Hank” Palmer, pulled back home to a small town in Louisiana for his mother’s funeral. There, he discovers his estranged father, Judge Joseph Palmer, is a prime suspect in a murder investigation. He must reconnect with the father he has long lost, and defend his honour against one of the most brutal attorneys in town.
The Judges Alongside Robert Downey Jr, Robert Duvall stars as the town judge cum grumpy ol’ gramps. The award-winning actor is best known from classics like The Godfather (1972), Gone in 60 Seconds (2000) and Get Low (2010). Now he’s Judge Palmer – mourning husband, separated father and murder suspect. It’ll be quite the treat to see both son and father reconciling their differences and recovering lost
time, especially in the face of lawyer Dwight Dickham. Played by Billy Bob Thornton of Armageddon (1998) and Love Actually (2003) fame, Dickham is going all out against the Palmers. He’s got some dirt on the duo, and we’re eager to find out what it is. Whichever side wins – though we’re partial towards the Robert and Robert duo – it’s going to be a heated courtroom battle not to be missed.
The Jury Compared to his hyper-masculine, chiselled and glamorous image in Iron Man, Downey Jr’s role in The Judge is unvarnished and downto-earth. It’s a refreshing change to see the famous actor cast in a new light, and it’ll renew our perception of him as a truly charismatic and talented actor. Look out for the squabbles between him and Duvall, which are later reflected in the more intense sparring at the judge’s table.
The Verdict With Downey Jr as the face of this movie, it should take little more to convince us to flock to theatres for it. And from the movie’s slogan alone – “Defend Your Honour” is splashed across the poster – we’re looking forward to a movie filled with wise cracks and witty banter. After all, that’s what Downey Jr does best. THE JUDGE [TBA] Director: David Dobkin Starring: Robert Downey Jr, Robert Duvall & Billy Bob Thornton Genre: Comedy, Drama Run Length: 141 min Release: 9 Oct
s avo u r t h e s i p
Secrets of wine tasting revealed at Chateaux
Get intimate with top imported wines at the exclusive Chateaux Lounge
Discover the true experience of savouring boutique wines with the connoisseurs of Wine Guru
Appreciation Night. We invite our readers for an elegant evening of wining and dining, with exquisitely fine wines, accompanied by the passionate aficionados of Wine Guru. Savour some of the best selections from award-winning wineries, direct from New Zealand and Australia. This exclusive closed-door event will be held at the luxurious Chateaux Lounge in Boat Quay, with limited seating available. Tickets are going at $65, all-inclusive, so hurry and book your place today!
Register at http://weekender.com.sg/ wineevent01
Discover the experience of blind wine-tasting, guided by a professional sommelier who will reveal the tricks to sniffing your favourite wines.
Join us for an elegant night of luxury in the beautiful Chateaux Lounge for just $65.
Be pampered by a sterling selection of 5 wines from New Zealand and Australia, complemented by premium tapas and cheeses.
http://weekender.com.sg/ wineevent01
There’s a proper way to enjoy wine, down to the very last whiff. Some ranges of white wine, for example, emit a light tropical scent upon the first sniff.
But reposition the glass just slightly and take another sip, and suddenly a tinge of lychee and ginger emerges. The connoisseurs of Wine Guru know how to treat a glass of good wine, and they’ll be letting you get a taste of them and dish out tips at our exclusive Weekender Wine
Event Organiser
Weekender Wine Appreciation Night 29 Oct, Wed, 7pm-10pm $65 per person, drinks & food included Chateaux Lounge, 79 Circular Road, Boat Quay
Only 50 seats available. RSVP early to secure your place AT
29 Oct 2014 7PM to 10PM Chateaux Lounge 79 Circular Road Boat Quay
Wi n e P a r t n e r
Ve n u e P a r t n e r
October 10 - 16, 2014
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Foodmania
n e w R e s ta u r a n t
Start off with the healthy Omega 3 Salad ($15)
Level2 Wine Bistro takes hearty dining to new heights Located along the bustling Killiney Road, this up-and-coming restaurant serves enticing, wholesome meals in a cosy setting
T
he recently-opened Level2 Wine Bistro superbly marries homestyle cooking with classical Western cuisine. I love the hearty yet healthy dishes here. Since the restaurant’s opening, the menu has been refined a few times according to the feedback of regulars in the Killiney neighbourhood. How thoughtful!
Fit for the Health-conscious The Omega 3 Salad is the best-selling salad, probably because it’s yummy and nourishing. I am stoked by the splendid mix of smoked salmon, avocado slices and salmon roe on a bed of greens. The chef’s recommendation is Braised Beef Cheeks, which I find to be tender and succulent. Paired with broccoli, tomatoes and mashed potato, the dish looks as brilliant as it tastes.
Burgers with a Twist The unique Su (Vegetarian) Burger is an excellent option for vegetarians who
High-protein and robust, the Energy Breakfast ($17) is sure to fill your tummy
The Hand-craft Wagyu Beef Burger ($21) will please meat lovers
are tired of just salads. The Portobello mushroom patty offers a ‘meaty’ texture, and the eggplant and squash are roasted to perfection. Meat-lovers will relish the Hand-craft Wagyu Beef Burger. The 200g beef patty is juicy and has just the right amount of bite. However, I would’ve preferred it if shredded cheese was used instead of sliced cheese.
All-day Brunch The substantial Energy Breakfast consists of bacon, scrambled egg and sausages. Not surprisingly, this high-protein dish can easily fill you till dinner time.
A Sweet Finish Cute Little Pancake is a trio of mini-pancakes paired with caramelised banana and vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream contrasts nicely with the warm caramelised banana. Delightful! For those who enjoy a tipple, you’ll be glad to know that the bar is stocked with beer and specially curated wines. Aromatic coffees and artisan teas are excellent nonalcoholic options. Level2 Wine Bistro, 117A Killiney Road, Singapore 239554 By Runbin Yew
new menu
10 Limited edition
HEINEKEN CITIES packs
Peranakan refuge at Scotts Road The Ayam Buah Keluak was intensely-flavoured and easily the archetypal Peranakan dish
worth about $30 each
to be won!
Heineken “Cities of the World” inspires one to open their perspectives and live adventures by unlocking the secrets of their city. The Limited City Edition Heineken bottles are named after New York, London, Amsterdam, Rio de Janeiro, Shanghai and Singapore. They retail for $12-$18 each, for a limited period. Also for a limited time only, a complimentary Limited City Edition Heineken bottle will be bundled with nine cans of Heineken beer in a take-home pack. Each pack retails for between $26 to $30, at leading supermarkets, while stocks last. Win a Heineken Cities Pack now!
THREE EASY WAYS TO ENTER: Look for pinned post on our Facebook page:
facebook.com/weekendersgp
and follow the instructions Visit contest page to enter contest:
weekender.com.sg/heineken SMS to 85026567
CODE: Heineken, your Name, Age, Gender, NRIC, Address, Postal Code, E-mail ONLY 1 ENTRY PER PERSON, PLEASE. CLOSING DATE: 15 OCT 2014 No charge for SMS. Please check our Promotional & Contest Rules at weekender.com.sg for details.
Must-Haves & Must-Misses The Kueh Pie Tee is a common dish. While done well, it had nothing particularly memorable about it. I preferred having the filling and Kueh Pie Tee cup separately. The Ngoh Hiang, on the other hand, was a salty and delicious mix of flavours. It was one of the dishes that were restaurant-standard, yet with a touch of homeliness – a delicate mix that is not easy to juggle.
The Mains Should Not Be Missed
Being quite a conservative eater, I found myself surprisingly enjoying many of the dishes here. Note that because the dishes are Penang influenced, it is much milder but saltier than the usual Peranakan spread.
For me, the Rendang Sapi was one of their top dishes. The beef was very tender and well done. The accompanying sauce was delightfully spicy yet tangy all at once. Being a person who doesn’t usually take spices, I found myself surprisingly enjoying this. Their Ayam Buah Keluak has to be the headliner for this restaurant. The meat tasted wonderfully Peranakan; it was salty and intensely-flavoured and the accompanying sauce was sweet. But what sold me was that it actually made the eater work for it – I spent a good five minutes trying to scoop the meat out of its nut shell. The work made it all the more delish.
A Twist on the Classic
Always Room for Dessert
One of my favourite dishes was the Classic Penang Otah. As opposed to its name, the Classic Penang Otah is actually a spin on the traditional Otah dish. It was served in a bowl and had a texture much like chawanmushi. The spice was delightfully mild and the otah was decadently soft, complementing each other and going great even with rice.
Indocafe, 35 Scotts Road, Singapore 228227
Trying to avoid the hustle and bustle of Scotts Road, we found ourselves at Indocafe, a quaint and quiet refuge with a variety of Peranakan food
My meal ended with a Home Recipe Bubur Cha Cha, a common dish but with its own twist! The ingredients were yam, sweet potato, sago and, most unusual of all, banana. The tastes come together fragrantly, with yam particularly standing out.
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Food Heroes host on Asian Food Channel & Food Network Sarah Benjamin and Michele Lean become Scripps Networks’ first local talents to front local programmes on Asian Food Channel and Food Network Scripps Networks Interactive, one of the leading producers of engaging lifestyle content in the home, food and travel categories, recently announced the winners of Food Hero, its inaugural Asia-wide talent search.
LOCAL TALENT TO FRONT PROGRAMMES With their outstanding on-screen personas and passion for all things food and travelrelated, Sarah Benjamin from Singapore and Michele Lean from Malaysia triumphed over nearly 300 talented hopefuls to become the new faces of Asian Food Channel and Food Network, respectively. Sarah will host Scripps Networks’ original production, “Must Try: Asia”, a brand new six-part series that follows two hosts on their quests to discover must-try dishes from around the region. Michele will host the Asian version of well-loved Food Network programme “Food Wars”, where each week she will pit two of the best restaurants in Asia against each other
in a culinary showdown.
PASSIONATE HOSTS WITH VAST EXPERIENCE Michele graduated from the worldrenowned culinary institute Le Cordon Bleu in Ottawa, Canada where she trained in French cuisine. Her time there gave her an in-depth understanding of French cooking techniques and expanded her culinary repertoire, giving her the confidence and skills to tackle any recipe. Sarah, a former marketing executive, grew up in a multi-cultural family. With a fervent passion for cooking, Sarah also writes for her own food blog, sharing her unique culinary creations and passion for food with the online community. As two individuals with a strong passion for delivering quality culinary standards, both Michele and Sarah couldn’t be more suited for their roles and would be sure to add flavour to the different productions they will be hosting.
A GROWING PRESENCE As the first dedicated food television channel to broadcast pan-regionally, the Asian Food
Sarah Benjamin from Singapore and Michele Lean from Malaysia triumphed over nearly 300 talented hopefuls to become the new faces...
Channel and Food Network reach out to viewers in 11 territories. As the region’s leading food-focused channel that celebrates the unique Asian culinary experience with the added touch of global flavour, the Asian Food Channel (AFC) entertains viewers with a range of local and international content from reality to lifestyle to travelogue programmes. Food Network is a unique lifestyle network that connects viewers to the power and joy of food. The network offers a mix of local original productions and global programming featuring kitchen competition, culinary adventure, instructional cooking and home entertaining. Look out for Food Heroes Sarah Benjamin and Michele Lean’s debuts on Asian Food Channel & Food Network in end-2014 & early 2015 respectively.
Michele Lean (left) and Sarah Benjamin are the Food Heroes to host the new programmes
October 10 - 16, 2014
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SHOPsavvy
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H O ME MAKE O VER T I P S
One home, three looks When it comes to condominium renovations, homeowners tend to be less adventurous with built-in designs and go with neutral design schemes – the investment made in the property is not to be taken lightly. At the same time, a kick of personality in our homes is always welcome. For Ciseern, the best of both worlds can be had. Take this apartment, for example. Designed as a polished white canvas, the apartment can easily be adapted to various looks just by changing up the furniture and accessories. Ciseern puts together three different looks that would work well in a neutral space like this. Article first published in Lookbox Living #35 Mar/Apr 2014 Lookbox Living #38 is out now! Available at major bookstores and news stands.
Tribu Branch armchair, $1,120, from XTRA
For more interior projects, visit www.lookboxliving.com.sg
SUMMER LOVE
FALL COMFORTS
WINTER WONDERLAND
If you are partial to the delicious warm tones of autumn, accessories in auburn shades and dark woods will be right up your alley.
Greek isles and Mediterranean escapades serve as inspiration for a blue and white scheme. Pair casual textures with a bit of shine, and throw in tongue-in-cheek accessories for an easy, summer-y home.
An all-white colour scheme can be made more interesting when a variety of textures and metal tones are thrown into the mix.
Derek suitcase, $319, from Galanga Living
Deer cushion, $112.35, from Lifestorey
Retro 3 lights floor lamp, $690, from Molecule
Batan bottle, $39, from Galanga Living Block stools, Price upon enquiry, from Mode Studio
Caitlin round basket, $139.95, from Crate and Barrel
A resort lifestyle, now right at home
Kartell T table, $401, from Lifestorey
Other sports facilities include a fullsized tennis court, a basketball halfcourt and a futsal court. Professional coaches are on hand to help residents, including children and toddlers, hone their tennis skills.
Fun and Recreation for ALL
Residents can look forward to cycling trails amidst nature at their doorsteps and tranquil walking paths
Lake Life is Singapore’s first futuristic condominium to offer facilities to promote active, healthy living for the young and old alike Lake Life, brought to you by the Evia Real Estate-led consortium, redefines condo living with a myriad of facilities and activities to promote an active, healthy lifestyle for its residents and even their pets.
Facilities Galore For an Active Lifestyle Residents can look forward to cycling trails amidst nature at the upcoming Jurong Lake Gardens located just at their doorsteps and tranquil walking paths located conveniently within the Lake Life compounds.
Menu Marble wall clock, $482, from Grafunkt
Gym enthusiasts will have easy access to modern and sophisticated gym equipment from leading brand Precor. These gym machines are linked to the True Fitness chain of health clubs, a bonus to help residents stay in tip-top form. True Yoga’s trainers will also be on site to provide residents with different types of yoga classes daily to rejuvenate themselves. These classes will be held either outdoor, at the Yoga Garden, or indoor, at a special hot yoga studio. Lake Life’s resort-style, full-length 65m swimming pool is where residents can engage in water aerobics and water therapy. Additional perks include CPR lessons and swimming lessons for the young ones conducted by Start Young coaches.
Children can enjoy endless fun in the “Adventure Hill” playground, resembling a Hobbiton enclave featuring a giant hillock with slides and burrows. A variety of dance lessons for residents both young and old are also available. Professional instructors from Dancepointe Academy are on hand to teach ballet, jazz, hip-hop and K-pop. The elderly will have their own wellness and fitness zone. Families can walk their dogs and socialise in the “Pet Obstacle Zone”. Bird lovers can enjoy themselves at the aviary.
Relax and Recharge IN the Gardens Even the gardens have different themes. The Yoga Garden is ideal for meditation, while the Reading Garden is designed for solitude. The Zen Garden is distinctively tranquil, and the whimsical Chess Garden is perfect for families who love this challenging game. Edible Gardens, co-founded by Bjorn Low and Rob Pearce, will teach residents about urban farming by helping them cultivate their own fresh produce. An impressive 8,000 sq ft of green area has been set aside a to accommodate this community-building and educational activity. A cabbage patch gives children the opportunity to experience hands-on farming and learn more about where their food comes from.
Mr Leslie Lim, CoManaging Partner at Evia Real Estate 1. Is your career choice related to your educational background? Having lived in a land-scarce society, real estate is close to the hearts of many Singaporeans. We naturally appreciate the value of the current use of land, its surrounding area and perhaps even the enhancement potential of the land. Legal training has given me structure and problem-solving skills.
2. When did you get started in property fund management at Evia Real Estate? Together with my other Managing Partner Vincent Ong and Partner Micheal Tan from Ho Lee Group, Evia Real Estate was formed in 2011 with the objective of investing in industrial and residential projects.
3. What is your current role in Evia? My role now is to augment current skill sets and key relationships with service providers, and on the capital-provider front, to broaden our investor base to include two or three more global investors. I was fortunate to have gained the initial trust and support from a close group of smart, sophisticated investors that continue to support us. My goal is to maintain that trust and continue delivering a decent return in the long term.
4. What are your thoughts on the creation of Lake Life’s resort lifestyle amenities? The highlights and features of Lake Life stem from our unique concept of active living. We want to go beyond providing consumers with living spaces, to giving them a holistic lifestyle and wellness experience in the comfort of their home.
October 10 - 16, 2014
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October 10 - 16, 2014
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TRAVELation Go on an adventure amidst the wonders of the Geoforest Park
S P OT L IG H T ON M A L AY SI A
Immerse in legendary Langkawi
But there are many more stunning sights hidden away in the heart of the region.
A UNESCO World Heritage Geopark On this island paradise, exciting discoveries run deep inland beyond the pearly-white shores So you think Langkawi is a haven of glittering waters and sprawling beaches. Well, you’re not wrong, but there’s more to be discovered on this cluster of islands. With sandy stretches that overlook the mesmerising sea and clear waters that proudly boast effervescent coral reefs, seldom do visitors pull away to explore the rest of Langkawi.
The largest of the cluster of islands is the eponymous Langkawi Island, which has been declared a UNESCO-endorsed Geopark – the only one in Southeast Asia. Go on a journey through nature and discover the diverse population of vibrant flora and fauna flourishing in these untouched lands. Or take to the waters and drift past towering karsts and sandstone peaks. If you’re feeling extra daring, spend some time spelunking the magical caves beneath the Geopark’s limestone mountains.
weekender.com.sg Be embraced by the arms of Mother Nature and get up close to streams and waterfalls
Legends of Langkawi
Each of its 104 islands has a different myth to tell. Take Pulau Dayang Bunting for example – its name translates into “Island of the Pregnant Maiden”. It was named after Princess Dayang Sari, who gave birth to a son but shortly after drowned in a lake here, and transformed into a rock. Now, the island attracts hopeful women who wish to be blessed with children. The curious names of Langkawi’s villages have stories of their own too. Kuah (gravy), Belanga Pecah (broken pot) and Air Panas (hot water) were named after the messy fight between two giants during their children’s wedding. These two giants can now be seen as the mountains Gunung Raya and Gunung Mat Cincang. Enjoy the beauty of nature and fascinating culture at this premium Southeast Asian destination, and don’t forget to uncover the wildest tales when you visit Langkawi!
But Langkawi’s legendary quality extends beyond its sparkling waters and shopping and spa retreats. Venture inland and you will uncover the mystical tales that surround this charming archipelago.
For more information or enquiries, please contact Visit Malaysia Year 2014 Secretariat at +601300 88 5050 or log on to www.vmy2014.com.
Legendary Leisure The villages of Langkawi are a great place to unwind on a sunny day with a lazy stroll. Visit Air Hangat Village to observe locals making handicrafts, putting up traditional performances, and enjoying intriguing snake shows. Then, cool down at Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells), a shaded sanctuary where some have reported mysterious sightings of fairies bathing. Or beat the heat at any of Langkawi’s premier duty-free shopping complexes, such as Jetty Point Mall, Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall and Langkawi International Fashion Zone. Finally, end the day with a breathtaking ride on the award-winning Langkawi Cable Car, which offers an arresting panoramic view extending as far as Thailand.
October 10 - 16, 2014
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October 10 - 16, 2014
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TRAVELation
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L OW- COS T G E TAWAY S If you need a holiday but your budget for your flight is around $100 or less, look no further Don’t miss out on these promotions for budget airlines and low-cost carriers.
the nuclear plant itself. Some central areas of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone still have elevated radiation levels, so don’t go wandering off now!
The Bunker Museum at Waldhotel Rennsteighöhe Where: Frauenwald, Germany Scare: 3.5/5
Yangon – Shwedagon Pagoda
R.M. Nunes / Shutterstock.com
From $98, Tigerair. Promotion ends when sold out. It is almost impossible to not see any pagodas in Yangon, which dominate the Yangon landscape. In the heart of downtown, the 2,000-odd-year-old Shwedagon Pagoda is truly a majestic sight. The mystical atmosphere that surrounds the Pagoda gives every visitor a feeling of tranquillity and spirituality that one rarely gets to experience. Visit in the night, when the Shwedagon is beautifully illuminated.
Penang – George Town From $49, Jetstar. Promotion ends when sold out. Visit the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site just across our border. Embrace the fascinating fusion of eastern and western influences in Georgetown and catch a glimpse of how Singapore might have looked like in the past, with an arty update.
Auschwitz is a place that brings poignant memories
T R AV E L F E AT U R E
Travel to the dark side of the world Murder sites, cities with a dark history, and even disaster areas are becoming a hit with those not of faint heart
S Phnom Penh – Mekong River From $49, Jetstar. Promotion ends when sold out. When you get to Phnom Penh, join a river cruise on the Mekong River and, along the way, pass through the rural Cambodian countryside and walk by the roadside stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to even fried insects. On the cruise, pass the villages built up high on stilts and watch as the people go about the hustle and bustle of their daily life. At the end of the day, admire the city from the water as the setting sun provides a stunning backdrop to the skyline.
o you want to go off the tourist-beaten path for your next vacation? It’s time to get a lot more adventurous. Get into some “black tourism”, or Thanatourism (from the Greek word “thanatos”, referring to violent death) if you’re feeling hardcore. From a single site to a city – or even a whole country – these attractions draw in the morbidly curious with their tragic stories. Here’s a list of destinations with a special place in the heart of black tourism. In case you change your mind halfway through, we’re saving the best for last.
Auschwitz I & II-Birkenau
If you’re looking for something more experiential, you’re going to enjoy Waldhotel Rennsteighöhe in East Germany. Once under the German Democratic Republic (DDR), the facility is now a modern hotel with a very special Bunker Museum. It offers a 16-hour overnight package where you get to eat, sleep, and train like a DDR soldier. Some of the trainers were veterans in the Cold War, so don’t expect them to go lightly on you.
Where: Oświęcim, Poland Scare: 2/5
These haunting sites housed the different facilities used by the Nazis in World War II. Walk through the grounds of Auschwitz I, where the Nazis conducted experiments on prisoners using Zyklon B and other instruments. Then follow the tour to Auschwitz IIBirkenau about 3.5km away, which housed the Nazis’ largest concentration camp and mass extermination facilities, such as the gas chambers and crematoria. Shudder. Here is an extensive collection of documents and personal effects from the Holocaust
Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe Where: Berlin, Germany Scare: 1/5
This famous sprawl of grey cement blocks and pillars in fact conceals a museum. In here, visitors can find an extensive collection of authentic documents from the Holocaust, including handwritten farewell letters, personal effects, and scraps of paper with heart-wrenching poems scribbled on them. All documents are translated, so you can listen and read the crushing truth through your sobs and tear-clogged eyes.
In Karosta, they’ll lock you up in a room made of iron, secured by iron bars
Karosta Prison
Where: Liepaja, Latvia Scare: 4/5 If you’re wondering why the Bunker Museum was 3.5 on the scare rating, it’s because Karosta Prison makes it look like a resort staycation. In Karosta, they’ll lock you up in a room made of iron, secured by iron bars, and furnished with nothing but a bed, table, and toilet. Just like in prison. And you get insulted, ordered around, and fed prisoner’s fodder. It’s a good thing you’ll have to sign an agreement for all of this.
Keep in step because Big Brother is watching
North Korea
Where: The best Korea Scare: 5/5 Wanna groove on a radiation vibe?
Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant Where: Kiev, Ukraine Scare: 3/5
Don’t worry, it’s safe. Mostly. The Chernobyl disaster happened almost 30 years ago, and the site is now open for official tours only. You can choose from several itineraries that circle the plant, explore the abandoned town of Pripyat, or even comb through
You thought all of that was bad? At least you could flee down town for some comfort fast food and shopping. Imagine a whole country isolated from the world, monitored, and restricted by an all-seeing government. Now, imagine you’re stuck in it. Small companies offer custom group tours to this communist nation, reportedly accompanied by ‘chaperones’. Top tip: Those may not be one-way mirrors in your hotel room. By Pamela Chow
October 10 - 16, 2014
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October 10 - 16, 2014
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October 10 - 16, 2014
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