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ISSUE 110 DECember 5 - 11, 2014
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DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2014
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Entertainment
Anime Fest ASia to Mystica at the zoo top 5 events this weekend
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Anime Festival Asia 2014 5-7 Dec, 9am-9pm, from $13 The region’s biggest premium festival on Japanese Popular Culture is not to be missed. This year, the festival is set to offer more dazzling content and stars for all anime and Japanese pop culture fans and lovers. Be sure to check out Anime Festival Asia 2014! Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre Level 4, www.animefestival.asia
Eir Aoi
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NEW! FREE! U Care Back to School Fair 2014 – Where Stories Come Alive 12-14 Dec, 10am-8pm The annual U Care Back to School Fair returns to
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nurture the love for book reading and prepare both parents and children alike for the upcoming school year with activities for families to bond and learn together. The Plaza, National Library Building, 100 Victoria Street, www.ntuc.org.sg/btsfair
music
ZoukOut 2014 12-13 Dec, from $118 The well-known beach festival returns this year! With acts like trance trio Above & Beyond, Swedish EDM staple Steve Angello, Dutchman Nicky Romero as well as superstar DJ Steve Aoki, be sure not to miss this epic dance music festival. Siloso Beach, 51 Imbiah Walk, zoukout.com
Let’s Keep Christmas In Our Hearts – The 10th Edition of a Jazzy Christmas 2014 20 Dec, 7.30pm, from $30 Swing into the mood for Christmas and celebrate this festive season with Singapore’s King of Swing, Jeremy Monteiro and Friends in the annual Jazzy Christmas at the Esplanade – which has become a mainstay of the Singaporean Christmas calendar. Esplanade Concert Hall, www.sistic.sg Classic Soft Rock Legend Leo Sayer Live in Singapore 17 Jan With more than 20 top ten singles and five top ten albums in his celebrated recording career, this live British performer, song
NEW! Batman & Gotham City Cosplay Competition 7 Dec, 12.30pm-3pm 2014 marks a year of celebrations as Warner Bros. Consumer Products and DC Entertainment honour the 75th anniversary of the Dark Knight and the ultimate superhero: Batman. To round up the year-long festivities, come dressed as Batman and show your best Batman impersonation! Takashimaya Square B2, 391 Orchard Road
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Mystica 2014 Until 20 Dec, 5.30pm-10pm, $25 (child), $39 (adult) See the night come to life with an all new ensemble of creatures. In their most spectacular visual treat yet, seek the mysterious Island Keeper to brave the Mystica quest and claim your treasure. Night Safari, 80 Mandai Lake Road, www.nightsafari.com.sg/ mystica
Hi-5 House Hits 2014 5-6 Dec, 11am, 3pm & 7pm, from $45 Hi-5 returns to Singapore for a spectacular show: Hi-5 House Hits 2014. The children’s musical group promises a dazzling song-and-dance extravaganza that can be enjoyed by children and parents alike. The Star Performing Arts Centre, 1 Vista Exchange Green, www.sistic.com.sg
Yui Horie
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Clash of the Continents – Nations Cup 7-13 Dec, from $4 Join us for the 9th edition of the Nations Cup this December! Newly-crowned Asian Champions and hosts, Singapore will welcome tough opposition in the shape of Botswana, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Ireland and Samoa. Lend your support and give them that added home-crowd boost! OCBC Arena, www.netball.org.sg
Singapore Symphony Orchestra Babies Proms 5-7 Dec, 2pm & 4pm (Sat), 2pm (Sun), from $25 Come join Uncle Peter and the SSO for an amazing musical adventure like no other, and discover the fun and fantastic world of the orchestra, its many instruments and classical music. Now into its 12th edition, the SSO Babies’ Proms promises to be an hour of great fun and entertainment for parents and children alike. Victoria Concert Hall, www.sistic.com.sg
writer, recording artist and Grammy Award winner will enthral the Singapore audience for a one-night concert. This is an event you don’t want to miss. Esplanade Concert Hall, www. britishtheatreplayhouse.com
They will make lightningquick costume changes, switching from icon to icon and completely redrawing the boundaries of comedy on stage! Esplanade Theatre, www.sistic.com.sg
others
theatre
Dim Sum Dollies: The History of Singapore Part 2 11-23 Dec, 8pm, from $48 The Dollies are back with more delicious satire and a wickedly candid take on the history of Singapore.
Cats 9 Jan, 8pm (Tue-Fri), 2pm & 8pm (Sat), 1pm & 6pm (Sun), from $65 One of the greatest and most adored musicals the world has ever known is returning to Singapore! With a magnificent musical score composed by the legendary Andrew Lloyd Webber and a phenomenal cast from the UK, you’ll be sure not to miss the show. MasterCard Theatres, Marina Bay Sands, www.sistic.com.sg
NEW! FREE! BookFest@ Singapore 2014 12-21 Dec, 12pm-10pm (12 Dec), 10am-10pm (13-21 Dec) Popular’s annual mega book and stationery event is back this year. The festival will feature new book and product releases, educational talks and appearances by local and overseas authors as well as guest celebrities. Chef Wan will be there on 13 Dec for a book-signing and meetand-greet and on 14 Dec as the judge of the Chef Wan Cooking Challenge Finals. Suntec Singapore Convention Centre, Halls 401-405, www.bookfestsingapore.com
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‘Frozen’ Sing-A-Long Party 6 Dec, 12pm, from $16 Frozen is back! Be enchanted once again by the magical world of Arendelle! Golden Village presents a Sing-A-Long screening of Disney’s beloved movie – Frozen. In addition, a whole host of fun Frozen themed activities – from Frozen themed crafts to photo booths – await you and little ones! GV Grand, Great World City, Level 3
FREE! Count Down to Christmas with CBeebies at Plaza Singapura Until 7 Dec, 1pm & 7pm (Mon-Fri, except Tues), 1pm, 4pm & 7pm (Sat & Sun) In celebration of its 40th anniversary, Plaza Singapura will be spreading Christmas cheer to families this school holidays, bringing them a series of exclusive live Christmas countdown shows featuring the stars of Cbeebies. Plaza Singapura, Main Atrium, Level 1
Christmas at Changi Airport Until 5 Jan This Christmas, Disney magic will welcome travellers and visitors as Changi Airport transforms into a winter wonderland, bringing yuletide festivities to life. With captivating country-themed decorations, Christmas freebies and fun-filled activities and performances, be sure to soak in the Christmas atmosphere in Changi Airport! Changi Airport, www.changiairport.com
A Pair of Passes
QUESTION: Name the DJ who’s known to be one of Asia’s Youngest Video Disc Jockeys: (Hint: She’ll be spinning in the Main Arena) Choice 1: DJ Jenni-F Choice 2: DJ Tinc Choice 3: DJ Shy Scan the QR code for the answer!
Worth $136 (PER pair)
to be won PER week
SILOSO BEACH PARTY
31 Dec, 6pm-6am Looking forward to the biggest countdown party of the year? The Siloso Beach Party is the place to be! With 12 hours of non-stop party hits, your favourite drinks at the bar, what better way is there to welcome 2015? Party 2014 away and celebrate late into the first night of the New Year! Weekender is giving away a pair of passes per week to this exciting event! All you have to do is answer the question correctly, and you could be celebrating New Year’s Eve at this smashing countdown party! Siloso Beach, Sentosa www.silosobeachparty.com
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:
Farahh Affandi’s Cinnamon Pecan
Christmas Wonderland @ Gardens By The Bay Until 1 Jan Featuring a myriad of firsts, visitors can look forward to a host of exciting programmes throughout the Gardens – from festive-themed acts and performances, Christmas treats and gifts, to winter escapades complete with the cold and ‘snow’. Gardens By The Bay, gardensbythebay. christmaswonderland.sg
FREE! The Clover Christmas Bake Fest 6 Dec, 2pm-6pm Come show your festive spirit by joining us at the Bake Fest which features a showcase of delectable treats like the Cookie Cup Shots and Ondeh Ondeh Cupcakes, baked by popular home bakers. Product price range starts from $3.50. Hotel Clover, 769 North Bridge Road, #01-01
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CODE: : Siloso, answer, your Name, Age, Gender, NRIC, Address, Postal Code, E-mail ONLY 1 ENTRY PER PERSON, PLEASE. CLOSING DATE: 24 DEC 2014 [1 question per week]
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No charge for SMS. Please check our Promotional & Contest Rules at weekender.com.sg for details.
Siloso Beach Party: Asia’s largest beach countdown party Photo: Zouk
Take fun to new heights and countdown to a new dawn at Asia’s largest beach countdown party As 2014 comes to a close, it’s time to embrace a new tomorrow at Siloso Beach Party 2014. Asia’s largest beach countdown returns to Singapore on Dec 31, at Siloso Beach, Sentosa.
Let the Music Take You to New Heights Set against the sea front, the Siloso Beach Party 2014 begins at 6pm and will not stop until 6am on Jan 1, 2015. This year, renowned Swiss DJ Mike Candys will be headlining the party, bringing his infectious brand of dance and house music to all revellers. With more than ten international and local DJs taking to the decks to spin their own mixes of electronic dance music, from deep house to high-tempo progressive trance, let the music take over as aural nirvana takes party goers into the future of 2015. It’s time to let the music take you to new heights!
Big Name DJ Acts Zurich-based Mike Candys will take to the decks at the peak of the crowd’s energy, raising the tempo a notch higher with dance, house and electronic house flavours. Voted as one of DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJs for three years in a row, Mike has spun at festivals
including The White Festival, Temptation and Electric Mountain alongside fellow renowned artistes Axwell, David Guetta and Tiesto. A local representative among the Main Arena DJs, DJ TINC is a crowd favourite who has skyrocketed into the local and international club scene. Expect a crowdpleasing audio repertoire from the first and youngest female DJ to hold a monthly residency at Zouk and The Butter Factory in Singapore. Spinning underground trap music and other EDM tunes, she has also held residencies in DREAM and Mink. Not forgetting the Pool Side DJs, DJ Jenni-F is Asia’s Youngest Video Disc Jockey. Malaysian-born DJ Jenni-F has already played live for countless events. At only 17 years of age, she brings her own signature style of mixing, which makes her sets unmatched by other DJs in her age range.
the countdown begins, bask in the glow of spectacular fireworks and usher in the New Year at the party. The party will truly begin then as iridescent jets of UV neon paint rain down on partygoers. At Asia’s largest beach countdown party, the future belongs to those who dare to dream, and have fun doing it. Advance tickets are available from Dec 1, at $58. Visit www.silosobeachparty.com for more party and ticketing information.
Local representative DJ TINC is the first and youngest female DJ to hold a monthly residency at big clubs such as Zouk and The Butter Factory
5 Party Zones, 12 Hours of Non-Stop Music All in all, ten international and local DJs will deliver 12 solid hours of nonstop House, Funk, Electro, Trance, Trap, Electronic Dance and other music at five distinct party zones, including the Main Arena, Azzura, Mambo, Wavehouse Singapore and C-Side (Coastes, Bikini Bar and Sand Bar). Dance till the break of dawn across 1.2km of lush sand. As the clock ticks and
DJ Jenni-F is Asia’s Youngest Video Disc Jockey
Headlining Siloso Beach Party 2014 is renowned Swiss DJ Mike Candys, who has spun alongside the likes of David Guetta and Tiesto
DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2014
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Entertainment
RED CARD FOOTBALL FEVER
weekender.com.sg
Juicy reviews & tips on the EPL & the best of world football
France international Morgan Schneiderlin is one of Southampton’s top scorers
Photo: EPA
Photo: Celso Pupo / Shutterstock.com
The all-Dutch affair Dutchmen Louis van Gaal and Ronald Koeman go head-to-head in this weekend’s Premier League encounter – can the Saints find a way to get past Manchester United?
Will van Gaal show Koeman how it’s done?
The Premier League goes Dutch this weekend as Louis van Gaal’s Manchester United takes on Ronald Koeman’s Southampton at the St Mary’s Stadium. Will van Gaal come out of the tie smelling tulips, or will Koeman taste some Dutch delight? The Big Match:
Southampton vs Manchester United (Tue, 4am) Both Ronald Koeman and Louis van Gaal have taken the Premier League by storm this season. Koeman has brought the Saints back from the dead, turning a club falling apart to one that is the toast of the Premier League, having climbed up to 3rd place so far. Yes, there are still question marks on whether they could last the distance, but the fact that they have exceeded expectations so early in the season should not be undermined. On the other hand, van Gaal has relished the challenge to step into Sir Alex Ferguson’s shoes after David Moyes’ illfated tenure as United boss last season. With all the track record, reputation and experience that he brings, the “Iron Tulip” has still found it a massive challenge to bring the Red Devils back to where they belong, but slowly (and surely) he is getting there. The Saints haven’t had a good record against United in previous encounters
About Ahmad Khan
(3 losses and 2 draws), and I feel that is set to continue this weekend. United will edge out as the winner. Prediction: Southampton 0-1 Manchester United
Newcastle vs Chelsea (Sat, 8.45pm) Chelsea is definitely the favourite coming into the tie but you’d be surprised to know that the Magpies have the better recent head-to-head record against the Blues (3 Wins and 2 losses). Still, Chelsea seem too good at the moment to lose this one. Prediction: Newcastle 1-2 Chelsea
Stoke City vs Arsenal (Sat, 11pm) Stoke won this fixture last season and it held the Gunners to draws in the other two fixtures at the Britannia Stadium. Can Arsenal finally come away with a win? Possible, but I doubt so. Prediction: Stoke City 1-1 Arsenal
Manchester City vs Everton (Sun, 1.30pm) Everton has held its own against the champions recently, having won two and drawing one out of its last five matches. But the Toffees have struggled for form this season, so it should be a comfortable win for the home side. Prediction: Manchester City 2-0 Everton By Ahmad Khan Log on to the all-new www.RedCardConnect.com for exclusive articles, interviews, radio shows & videos of the Premier League, Singapore & the world of sports.
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 weekend just before the EPL matches on #RedCardLIVE.
DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2014
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DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2014
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WEEKENDER Photo contest
A camera smartlydesigned for the Selfie Generation
Weekender’s next travel photojournalist found! We have run the Weekender Photo Contest for two months, in search of Weekender’s next travel photojournalist. Our search is now over. We have found the one! Readers were asked to submit their best travel photos to stand a chance to win and, boy, did we receive a flood of entries. They were tough decisions to make but, after a long selection process, we have chosen our top 10 finalists and the very best winner from among them. The winner will walk away with a Canon PowerShot SX600 HS camera! Apart from the finalists’ photos published here for all to admire, the winner will have a chance to join us and travel on a media familiarisation trip.
The Canon PowerShot N2: Selfies will look more beautiful than ever
Canon has come up with something the Selfie Generation wants but doesn’t know it yet: The new Canon PowerShot N2
The winning photo Name: Yee Kai Mun Where: Sossusvlei, Namib Dessert When: June 2014 Dune 45 reaches more than 170m. A popular adventure for visitors during the wee hours is to climb to the top of this mighty dune and watch the sunrise over the vlei (valley). Here, the sand is about 5 million years old and red in colour due to its rich iron oxide content. As the sun rises, the rich tints of the sand change from pale apricot to vivid red and then to golden-red against a blue sky backdrop and, with the play of light, stunning shadows of the dunes and its climbers; a spectacular picturesque landscape was present in front of me. THE BEST PHOTO WINNER HAS won the CANON POWERSHOT SX600 HS (WORTH $309) The winner will be contacted directly on the collection Camera sponsored by Canon
The finalists
What does the Selfie Generation want? It seems that the people at Canon had given that question a lot of thought when they designed the new Canon PowerShot N2. Sure, it has all the features that any member of the Selfie Gen wants, such as its super compact size, 180-degree tilt screen and seamless connectivity with the Internet. But what’s most desirable is its ability to shoot beautiful selfies and automatically lighten and smoothen skin tones! You won’t have to fuss over correcting your selfies when the Canon PowerShot N2 can auto-correct in real time! Bored with shooting selfies from the same angle? The Canon PowerShot N2 can be placed further and at different angles and controlled remotely with your smart phone, with the free Canon CameraWindow app. Now you can take full-length selfies! The Canon PowerShot N2 is now available: RRP $399
Name: Nicholas Ow Where: Sahara Desert, Morocco When: June 2012
Name: Joelyn Lee Sze Yuin Where: Mt Cook, New Zealand When: Jul (Winter) 2003
Name: Nur Haryanti Binti Sazali Where: Tagaytay, The Philippines When: Feb (Tagaytay’s driest month)
Name: Hurng Yu Hui Where: Boracay, The Philippines When: April 2011
After travelling a long way from Marrakech, we finally arrived at the edge of the Sahara Desert. At about dusk, my family and I proceeded to ride the camels, led by the local guide, and came across the amazing shadows cast as we rode into the sunset, further and further away from civilisation. Soon we were surrounded by nothing but golden sand. It was then that I realised how long the shadows cast were getting and the beautiful picture it formed on the golden sand. The awe-inspiring view of the silhouettes was definitely a highlight of the entire ride.
This photo was taken during a trek in the Mt Cook National Park. Mt Cook is the highest mountain in New Zealand. I spotted this mirror lake, which was semi-frozen during the trek. It was such breathtaking scenery! We do not often get to witness such beautiful and tranquil scenery that beautifully showcased the magnificent mountain, the frozen lake and the skies... I was totally in awe of the beauty of nature. And I am very glad that my camera had managed to capture this moment perfectly!
The calmness captured in this photo was an aftermath of an awful storm, which almost capsized my banca (outrigger boat) into the once sharkinfested lake known as Taal Lake. I had just returned from hiking a live volcano, Mount Taal, seen in the background. The sun was setting when I arrived on land, and that was when I saw an old man stand-up-paddle his banca across the lake like no storm ever happened. His tranquility took away all the storm drama I experienced hardly a few minutes ago.
This photo was taken from the white beach in Boracay and captures the scene of the paraws sailing into the sunset. A paraw is a sailboat, native to the western Visayas. Traditionally, paraws were used by the locals for fishing. These days, the paraw is used to ferry tourists for sightseeing trips. This is one of the first few photos I took when I arrived in Boracay. A holiday at the beach was never my ideal type of holiday but this place had me in awe. Watching the paraws bobbing away was kind of hypnotic and relaxing.
Name: Low Poh Ai Where: Namtso Lake, Tibet When: 2009
Name: Soh Hui Woon Where: Tromso, Norway When: Nov (Winter) 2010
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Name: Peter Lee Eng Peng Where: Roppongi Hills, Japan When: Spring 2011
Name: Angie Lim Where: Monarto Zoo, Australia When: Dec 2011
Name: Stella Kae Where: Cologne, Germany When: Dec (Winter) 2013
Weekender and look out for our next photo contest coming soon!
DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2014
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DECEMBER 5 - 11, 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.
9 Quintessential fashion accessories for the 1990s’ S’pore Ah Bengs
Musings by Fluffy, the rescued pooch, on her new life as a beloved pet and other furry tales
Things to do with your pet on weekends
1. Sharp comb
A must-have in every self-respecting Ah Beng’s back pocket, the sharp comb provided relief during windy days and gang fights.
2. Motorola Memo Jazz Pager
Back in an era when 51213143344 actually meant more than just numbers, the Motorola Memo Jazz was the most popular pager around.
3. Jean Paul Gaultier stuff
Often seen sandwiching the sharp comb, the long wallet was a classic piece of Ah Beng couture.
4. Branded jeans
Brands were a big part of the Ah Beng universe. Naturally, the bigger the logo, the better. Loud was key to an Ah Lian’s heart.
5. Rocco Barocco cologne
Because of the catchy name. And because it looks like a Zippo.
Have you heard of pet cruises? Punggol Marina Country Club offers a two-hour cruise on a boat equipped with doggie life jackets, dog bowls and bottled water. If your pooch enjoys popping his head out when you drive, imagine the fun he would have with the stronger and fresh sea breeze!
Bask on the Beach Tanjong Beach Club welcomes dog owners to bring their beloved pets for a walk along their shore. In fact, it is usual for dogs and owners to share beach chairs and revel in the view together at the club. Further down Tanjong Beach Club is Coastes, a dog-friendly place as well. It offers miniature bean bags for the little furry ones to nuzzle down and relax while their owners enjoy a beer. There are so many options for us to enjoy ourselves over the weekend. Franky and I decided to spread these options over his school holidays, starting with the beach! Hopefully, we can meet other doggies at the beach too. What about you? How are you and your pet going to spend the weekend together?
See what see? Poke you with my sharp comb then you know. Back in the ‘90s, every guy aspired to look like Ekin Cheng from the Young and Dangerous (Gu Wak Zai) series. You know, the one with the long hair, dragon tattoos and the hot Ah Lian girlfriend. But now the Jean Paul Gaultier wallet-toting Ah Bengs are almost extinct in Singapore. We take a trip down memory lane with these 9 fashion accessories for Ah Bengs.
Sail to Sea with your Pet
Does the sky look clear for the weekend? If it does, why not take your pet out with you for a sail?
The weekend is coming! Are you planning to bring your pet out? Here are some places where you and your furry darling can kick back together Hi, I’m Fluffy! My owner Franky’s holidays have started and we are brainstorming together for ideas on where we could enjoy the weekends together. Franky says more places have become dog-friendly in recent years and he listed a few spots that we can head to this weekend. Which one of these looks like the best option for you?
A Walk IN a Park Bishan Park has a designated run area for dogs. There are two dog enclosures to separate the big dogs from the small ones. Owners can chat with fellow doglovers in the area. You could also drop by the dogfriendly Canopy Restaurant afterwards for a meal or a cup of coffee.
Grab a Bite at a Dog-Friendly Cafe On that note, another dog-friendly place, Cafe Melba, is famous for its delicious thin-crust pizza. Families are encouraged to come with their dogs and spend some quality time together. The dogs can laze around and stay hydrated with the water bowls provided for them. It’s a shame that there’s no doggie food here!
To find out more about responsible pet ownership, please visit: www.petsforlife.com.sg
Think of activities that you can do together with your beloved pet, over the weekend
Eating and Exercising Paw Pet-radise is a new, super woofy place along Balestier Road. This cafe serves both human and dog food – owners can unwind here with a cup of coffee as they catch up with their friends. Oh, did I mention that they stock an adorable doggie treadmill too? If your pet is up for it, take him for a whirl!
Tips from Fluffy, the rescued pooch, on caring for your furry friends and being a responsible pet owner
6. Caps that cover the face
Once a common sight in arcades, for Ah Bengs to hide from enemies, the cap has since become seen as an accessory for terrorists, as shown in the SMRT safety video.
NEW WEEKENDER PET COLUMN
7. Converse sandals
Before Birkenstock, Converse sandals ruled the day. It had so much street cred that if you left it outside your flat, it would be gone before you could say: “You from where one? See what see?”
8. Good Look Hair Gel
Without this, the next item would never have existed.
9. Centre parting
No gel, no curry pok hairstyle.
By Tan Xing Qi
Submit your Pet Family Photo and get a chance to be published! Weekender has started a new Pet Family column and we’d l ike you to be a part of it. Simply E-mail your photo of your pet with you or your family to:
general@weekender.com.sg with Pet Name, Your Name, Date of Birth, Tel No., NRIC & Postal Code
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s ta r s o f t h e w e e k
Ivan Heng on Monkey Goes West Ivan shares with us on Monkey Goes West and on how W!ld Rice nurtures young talents
How does Monkey Goes West take a different spin on a historical tale? What Alfian Sa’at as the playwright has done in Monkey Goes West, as we do with all our pantomimes, is to cleverly locate this within a Singapore context. Apart from the story itself, this is a brand new musical with an original music score composed by Elaine Chan, and directed by Sebastian Tan. It’s got wushu, snazzy song and dance routines, and an amazing cast. It’s a family show!
To you, why is it important to discover young theatre talents? It is important to invest in the performers and audiences of tomorrow. It is important to provide opportunities and a nurturing environment for them to grow and learn. Truth be told, we don’t know how many of them will eventually become the Siti Khalijah, Chua Enlai or Sebastian Tan of the future. But the experience of making theatre also imparts important values; where young people learn the meaning of empathy, teamwork and expressing themselves.
How does W!ld Rice seek them out and nurture them? We hold public auditions every year, and young talents from the age of five to 11 are identified. They go through singing, dancing and acting classes and rehearsals. At some stage in the process, they begin to rehearse alongside professional actors, and finally perform in the same company with them. What also makes the First Stage programme very different is that each child has to perform at least 14 shows. Performing again and again before a live audience enables the young performer to grow and learn in leaps and bounds.
What advice do you have for kids and young adults who want to explore theatre acting and production? Go for it. With all your heart. And have fun! By Pamela Chow
Ivan Heng is Artistic Director of W!ld Rice’s Monkey Goes West, which is now on until Dec 13.
DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2014
Entertainment
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Top 5 movies to watch out for C this Christm s
What better way to spend Christmas than snuggling up in the theatre with your loved ones and some of cinema’s finest releases?
hristmas is almost upon us and, with the plethora of exciting movies being released during this holiday season, you might want to plan your schedule. Here are our top five picks for the most anticipated – or most Christmassy – movies coming out in December. Keep an eye out on our upcoming issues for more on these movies!
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Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
Release: 4 Dec A funny tale based on a children’s book of the same name, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day follows 11-year-old Alexander and his antics at home and at school. The story is a humorous take on the modern family, with some nostalgic nuances reminiscent of Christmas movie classics like Home Alone, as well as “Malcolm in the Middle”. Starring some of our favourite faces, such as Steve Carrell (from The Office, Evan Almighty) and Jennifer Garner (“Alias”, Daredevil, Dallas Buyers Club), this movie looks to be a fun ride for the family!
2
Paddington
Release: 11 Dec Did you know that the lovable Paddington bear, who is decked out in English colours and signature British Wellington boots, isn’t actually British? This film, Paddington, reveals the origins of this popular character, which the world has come to love, and how he became one of London’s icons. [Spoiler alert] The young bear actually hails from Peru, and has a burning passion for all things English. Paddington is a heartwarming movie about love, self-discovery and kindness – the right kind of spirit to suit this season of joy and giving!
A L S O I N T H E AT R E S The Crossing [NC16] In the year 1945, the Chinese army, led by General Lei Yi Fang, defeats the Japanese. Tong Da Qing, an army signaller, successfully captures Yan Ze Kun, a Taiwanese doctor working for the Japanese army. After the Japanese surrender, all three embark on different paths. STARRING: Zhang Ziyi, Song Hye Kyo, Takeshi Kaneshiro, Huang Xiaoming, Tong Dawei & Masami Nagasawa GENRE: Romance, Drama RELEASE: 5 Dec
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The Hobbit: the Battle of the Five Armies
Release: 18 Dec This last movie instalment marks the end of the JRR Tolkien saga, and definitely can’t be missed for any Christmas gathering – unless it involves a Tolkien marathon first! Here’s a catch-up: Hobbit protagonist Bilbo and his dwarf companions must go to war when the fearsome dragon Smaug unleashes his rage. Meanwhile, Gandalf the wizard identifies their mysterious assailant as Sauron, the power-hungry villain of Middle Earth (and The Lord of the Rings trilogy). Though this movie isn’t festive, you must still catch it with your family or friends. It is, after all, the conclusion to one of the greatest fantasy epics and the last film based on a Tolkien novel (for the forseeable future).
The Pyramid [NC16] The ancient wonders of the world have long cursed explorers who’ve dared to uncover their secrets. But a team of US archaeologists gets more than it bargained for when they discover a lost pyramid unlike any other in the Egyptian desert. As they unlock the horrific secrets buried within, they realise that they aren’t just trapped; they’re being hunted. STARRING: James Buckley, Ashley Hinshaw, Denis O’Hare & Amir K GENRE: Action RELEASE: 4 Dec
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Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb
Release: 25 Dec Ben Stiller is back with a big treat on Christmas Day! Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb is the third film of the side-splitting franchise. It follows the adventures of security professional Larry Daley (played by Stiller) and his friends from the museum. When the powers of the Tablet of Ahkmenrah (an ancient artefact that brings the museum exhibits to life) begin to wane, Larry must travel across continents to unite his historical pals. Together, can they save the magic before it is gone forever? This movie meets all our criteria for the perfect Christmas movie: friendship, adventure, and a shower of magic. How timely and apt to be released on Christmas day!
Penguins of Madagascar [G] If you’ve seen any of the Madagascar films, you’d know these adorablycrafty penguins deserve more than a few showstopping scenes. Now, the four slippery ones are finally the stars of their own movie! Expect lots of slapstick humour and guffaws, especially if you’re bringing your kids. STARRING: Tom Grath, Chris Miller, Christopher Knights, Benedict Cumberbatch & Ken Jeong GENRE: Comedy RELEASE: 27 Nov
5
Seventh Son
Release: 31 Dec You’d probably still be in the holiday mood even after Christmas, and all prepped up to usher in 2015. So here’s a movie to catch before saying goodbye to 2014. Based on the enchanting novel The Spook’s Apprentice, Seventh Son is a fantastical tale about Thomas Ward and his adventures as an apprentice of the Spook. The movie stars award-winning actors Jeff Bridges (as the Spook) and Julianne Moore. Like Thomas, we wish we could see magical creatures too. With so much Christmas magic surrounding us, one can never be too old to dream.
By Pamela Chow
A Fantastic Ghost Wedding [M18] The movie stars popular Hong Kong actress Sandra Ng as a neurotic ex-singer who copes with her son’s death by burning copious amounts of paper offerings. Despite her showers of extravagance, she is still haunted by her son’s unhappy spirit. To appease him, she hires a fatherson spirit medium duo, played by Mark Lee & Keane Chan, to find him a wife. STARRING: Sandra Ng, Mark Lee, Jim Chim & Keane Chan GENRE: Comedy, Drama RELEASE: 20 Nov
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weekender.com.sg
s ta r s o f t h e w e e k
Into the wild with Robert Irwin This lively lad will no longer be known as The Crocodile Hunter’s son or Bindi Irwin’s baby brother with the premiere of his show, “Wild But True”, this week Crikey! A love for wildlife runs strong in the Irwin family! Last year, The Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin’s lovable daughter, Bindi, starred in “Bindi’s Bootcamp”, a nature game show for kids. She came to Singapore with her brother, Robert, and their mom, Terri, and our Editor had a chat with them. Now, Robert is hosting his first show, “Wild But True”, on how nature has inspired modern-day technology. Robert was recently back in Singapore with his family to promote his show. He shared with us about their exploits around the world, and his thoughts on how humans can help to save the animals.
When you arrive in a new country, what’s the first thing you want to do? To be honest, check out the native wildlife. Especially with Singapore; the wildlife here Even at a young age, Robert’s passion for animals and conservation is obvious
is absolutely incredible. We went to MacRitchie Reservoir where we saw monkeys, Asian water monitor (lizards) and squirrels!
You work with so many animals – is there one you wish you could see? (I’d like) to go out and see wild tigers. We actually do conservation work in Sumatra, where we have an anti-poaching unit… I think it would be really fun to go out there and see – or even just hear – a wild tiger.
What kind of animal would you want to be? My favourite animal is the crocodile, so I would love to be one! But I also think it’d be cool to be an emu, because emus are direct descendants of dinosaurs.
Robert co-hosts “Wild But True” on Discovery Kids, with Isabel Yamazaki
2014 has been an awesome, awesome year. (My family and I) have been lucky enough to travel to a lot of different places this year. We went to Canada for mountainbiking!
The most important thing: It’s not just (about) directly helping a little injured animal but it’s all about education. So if we can go out and educate people, that’s how positive change is going to be made. It doesn’t really matter if you have a positive or negative take on something – (as long as) we could all just start talking about it then, eventually, positive change can definitely be made.
Whatever we do and want to do, Mom always supports us. I think that’s the only reason why we can do what we do. By Pamela Chow
That’s really hard to decide! Probably (the one where) we got to spend the day with monster trucks. The whole day was spent in this massive monster truck going over jumps and all kinds of things. I think it’s going to be very exciting to watch.
Like many young ones, he loves to go romping about
movie review
“Wild But True” premiered on Dec 2 & airs every Tue, 5pm, on Discovery Kids, StarHub TV Ch308 & Singtel mio TV Ch230
Gyllenhaal Redeemed?
Nightcrawler will make your skin crawl This is not a superhero or vigilante movie – expect to be unnerved
When Bloom discovers that his crimewatch videos can fetch big bucks at his local news station, he gets greedy about his coverage. Obviously, getting inside a crime scene is nigh impossible when you’re sporting a giant camera – but that doesn’t stop him.
We’re so lucky – we get to travel everywhere as a family. Wherever we go, we support each other. When it comes to schooling, we do distance education. We take online courses, complete the work sent to us, and do work with our teachers over the phone or online. We always work throughout the school holidays, and take time off when we’re filming or travelling. (This way,) we can always stay ahead in school, and build up extra credit. [Terri tells us that Robert is two years ahead in school – the youngest seventh grader in Queensland, Australia!]
What has helped you the most in these few years, to find your place in this field?
Which episode from “Wild But True” IS your favourite?
Up All Night to Get Lucky
With your busy schedule, how do you find time for family and school?
You and your sister also believe in aiding people AND communities. How do you help them?
It seems you’ve been busy! What’Ve you been up to this year?
When Nightcrawler’s trailer was launched, many expected a movie about a man who moonlights as a crime-busting hero. Instead, it shows amateur videographer Lou Bloom (Jake Gyllenhaal) camping out at late-night crime scenes, hoping to film the victim or even the attack on his handy camcorder. Its title shares the name of a Marvel Comics mutant and with the talented Gyllenhaal (Donnie Darko, The Day After Tomorrow) as the face of Nightcrawler, it’s easy to mistake this film for a vigilante or superhero flick. But, I assure you, it doesn’t even come close to that. In fact, it’s the total, unsettling opposite.
If look closely underneath their wings, they’ve still kept one massive claw, over millions of years.
Bloom’s (Jake Gyllenhall) true nature is exposed when he encounters TV director Nina (Rene Russo)
Desperate to muscle into the scene, he breaks into victims’ houses for his exclusive shots, which get more and more titillating and unsettling. But what happens when simply filming the aftermath isn’t enough?
Make and Break the News As the movie progresses, Bloom’s psychopathy is slowly revealed, and we are forced to watch him relentlessly challenge the
He remorselessly pushes the limits of crime and reporting
boundaries of ethics and sanity. He values filming his exclusive over helping the injured victims. In one case, he even lets the killers go in order to orchestrate and film their arrest. One scene in particular sent chills down my spine. A news anchor describes Bloom’s footage on TV, stating that he had rushed to the scene to render aid. The camera, however, shows a close-up of Bloom smiling sadistically at his masterpiece.
Since Jake Gyllenhaal’s disappointing performance in 2010 box office flop Prince of Persia: Sands of Time, the actor has bounced back with a myriad of positivelyreceived titles. From French-American sci-fi hit Source Code in 2011 to the award-winning thriller Prisoners in 2013, he has certainly put his good face to great acting. With Gyllenhaal’s flawless portrayal of Nightcrawler’s disturbingly calm and manipulative Bloom, I believe this is his Renaissance. It is hard to convince the audience to hate a character, to grow cold with dreading anticipation, and to shiver from start to finish. Well, I shuddered throughout the movie, and not because it was chilly. Good job, Gyllenhaal. By Pamela Chow
Nightcrawler [PG13] Director: Dan Gilroy Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal, Rene Russo, Bill Paxton & Riz Ahmed Genre: Thriller Run Length: 117 min Release: 4 Dec
DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2014
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Foodmania
new Confectionery
An adorable, picture-perfect gingerbread house can add to the Christmas cheer in your home and would make a tasty snack too Christmas is a busy time, with many rushing to create the perfect dish for the season to celebrate in a feast with friends and family. But a gingerbread house is different. It requires great finesse, incredible attention to detail and a genuine passion to create something beautiful. Fret not, you don’t have to attempt making one yourself. Do these options impress you?
Shangri-La Cupcake House Christmas Cake Shaped to look like a sugary, cupcake home for our North Pole friends, this could be ShangriLa’s most delicate Christmas cake yet. With fondant as the primary ingredient, the Shangri-La Cupcake House Christmas Cake (not exactly gingerbread) is a divinely moist cake that carries hints of cherry and vanilla. Candy lovers will fall in love with the overload of edible ornaments! Available at Shangri-La Hotel
The Coffee Bean Gingerbread House, $45
The Coffee Bean Gingerbread House Come a-knocking at this house full of fragrant, spiced gingerbread decked with a sweet load of candy, chocolate and jelly sweets. Made of soft sponge cake and hard icing, the many figurines peppered around the cake add to the white Christmas. Available at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf outlets
Häagen-Dazs Chalet, $85
Häagen-Dazs Christmas Chalet Häagen-Dazs’ creation is perhaps the most evocative of the Christmas season. It has come up with a Christmas Chalet instead of the usual Santa Claus’ or gingerbread-looking houses. Reminiscent of a wood cabin, the HäagenDazs Christmas Chalet is made with its festive limited edition ice cream flavour: Vanilla & Florentine. The sponge cake base is charmingly decorated with whipped cream and chocolate pieces. Available at Häagen-Dazs outlets
Cloud9 Spiced Gingerbread House
Resorts World Sentosa unveils a fairy-tale house splashed with an assortment of delicious cookies on the roof and a delightful toffee flavoured base. Icing is used to create the effect of dripping snow.
Coming in three flavours – chocolate, gingerspiced and vanilla, Cloud9 presents its Christmas special this year. Approached by a company to design a cake to fit its Christmas-themed figurines, Cloud9 decided to tailor a house for each doll. Hence, each doll comes with her own corresponding colourful home.
Available at Resorts World Sentosa
Available at Cloud9
RWS Gingerbread House
Shangri-La Cupcake House Christmas Cake, $50 onward
Cloud9 Spiced Gingerbread House, $38
By Nicole Lee
Strongbow Apple Ciders, possibly the most recognisable cider brand in the market, recently launched three new flavours: Gold Apple, Elderflower and Red Berries.
S avo u r t h e S i p
Elderflower or Red Berries cider for you?
New Variants to Enhance Flavours
After more than ten years in the market, the popular Strongbow Apple Ciders has refreshed itself with three new flavours and new 330ml bottle
A nice golden-yellow apple cider, the Strongbow Gold Apple is sweet and crisp with a pleasant green apple note. The Strongbow Elderflower apple cider is infused with elderflower and lime, and has a sweet floral aroma with hints of fresh fruit. This pale variant also possesses a natural slightly tangy zest and fresh lime flavours. A full-flavoured deep rosé, the Strongbow Red Berries apple cider is made
with premium berries. It is juicy with hints of delicate berry and strawberry flavours. The sweetness of the apples is wellbalanced by the acidity of the red fruits. Strongbow Apple Ciders are authentic gluten-free apple ciders made from culinary apples. The new Elderflower and Red Berries variants enhance the flavours of the natural apple sweetness, giving it a more refreshing taste with a fruity cutthrough. These new flavours are available at Cold Storage and FairPrice Finest stores and several pubs and restaurants including Timbre, Privé and One 15 Marina Club.
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weekender.com.sg
Recipes and tips from local chef Violet Oon! A little-known secret in Italian cooking is the use of chillies. The Arrabbiata Sauce is a simple recipe that gets its distinctive Italian flavour from the combination of garlic and olive oil but gets its kick from sliced chillies. Use frozen boneless, skinless chicken tenders, pre-cut and easily available in supermarkets, for a wonderful contrast of texture.
Chicken Arrabbiata with Penne
INGREDIENTS • • • • • •
230g ¼ tsp 30g 1 whole 50g 5 to 6 tbsp
Frozen chicken breast (1 whole breast) Fine salt Plain flour Egg, beaten Breadcrumbs Vegetable oil
For Penne Arrabbiata • • • • • • • • • • •
1tsp 5 whole cloves 200g 3 large 500g ½ to 1 tsp ½ tsp ½ tsp 5 tbsp 200g 1 large pot
Roughly chopped garlic Garlic Large onions Red chillies, sliced Whole canned tomatoes Salt Black pepper powder Italian seasoning (dried herbs) Olive oil Uncooked Penne or any other dried pasta Water
CHOOSE FROZEN MEAT
Food safety tips • Place thawed-out meat in the refrigerator if not cooked immediately.
Stretch your grocery dollar by choosing frozen meat! Frozen meat comes from fresh meat, which has been rapidly frozen to maintain its freshness. When properly handled, frozen meat tastes just as good as chilled meat.
• For frozen meat, thaw only the amount you need. • Do not refreeze meat that has been completely thawed.
carlton hotel log cakes
to be won!
THREE EASY WAYS TO ENTER: Look for pinned post on our Facebook page:
3 Mango Yuzu manjari Log cakes worth $62+ each
facebook.com/weekendersgp
and follow the instructions Visit contest page to enter contest:
Boasting both sweet and tangy goodness in a delicate creation, the Mango Yuzu Manjari Log Cake is a lovely balance of sweet fresh mangoes combined with the flavour of yuzu, a refreshing Japanese citrus fruit, that melts in your mouth. The bittersweet Valrhona Manjari dark chocolate coating serves as a welcome to those who prefer a less-sweet option.
weekender.com.sg/carltonlogcake
SMS to 85026567
Win one for yourself now!
Good luck!
For orders, call 6349 1292, fax to 6311 8170 or E-mail: restaurants@carltonhotel.sg
No charge for SMS. Please check our Promotional & Contest Rules at weekender.com.sg for details.
CODE: Carlton Log Cake, your Name, Age, Gender, NRIC, Address, Postal Code, E-mail ONLY 1 ENTRY PER PERSON, PLEASE. CLOSING DATE: 17 Dec 2014
Method 1. Defrost frozen chicken breast in chiller for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken has softened a little. Cut into 4 long pieces, wash and pat dry. 2. Rub salt over the chicken, dip each piece of chicken into flour, and then add in the egg and finally the breadcrumbs. Keep aside. 3. Now make the Arrabbiata Sauce. Peel the whole garlic and smash each clove with the back of a knife. Peel and slice the onions, and red chillies into circles. 4. Heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a wok or frying pan and, when hot, add the chillies, stir fry for around 1 to 2 min until lightly crisp. Remove chillies with a slotted spoon. 5. Add whole garlic to the olive oil and stir fry until lightly browned, and then add the chopped garlic and stir fry well until cooked. Add the sliced onions, stir fry until limp and then add whole tomatoes from the can, keeping the tomato juice aside. 6. Add Italian seasoning, salt and black pepper, and simmer for 15 min before adding the canned tomato juice. Bring to boil. Add pre-fried chillies and simmer for 10 min until sauce is a little thick and the olive oil has seeped out. Turn off heat, and keep aside. 7. Boil a large pot of water, add in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, put in the pasta and continue to boil. When cooked, drain and toss in the Arrabbiata Sauce. 8. For the chicken, heat the oil in a flat-bottomed frying pan. When hot, shallow-fry the chicken on one side on mediumhigh heat until brown. Turn over and fry the other side until brown. It takes about 3 to 4 min each side. Keep the oil hot to keep the breadcrumbs intact. Drain on paper towels. 9. Divide the Penne with Arrabbiata Sauce into 2 pasta plates, top each plate with 2 pieces of Fried Chicken, and serve.
DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2014
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PAGE 14
Foodmania
weekender.com.sg
n e w R e s ta u r a n t
Would you have a 6-course puffer fish meal for $400?
Can you even see it? The most dangerous dish of all, the Thinly Sliced Fugu Sashimi was wellprepared and safe for consumption
We all know the horrors of fugu, better known as the puffer fish. Is this fish, more poisonous than cyanide, worth the risk, and the money? Fuku stands amid a stretch of eateries along Mohammad Sultan Road. It looked unassuming and homely, with dim lighting and light music playing as we walked into the establishment. It was interesting to know that each of the dishes in our meal in this harmless -looking restaurant featured fugu, but prepared differently.
The dependable deep-fry A favourite for most, the Deep Fried Fugu is crispy and fragrant on the outside while giving you a meaty, fleshy bite for the inside. The bland, almost tasteless fugu makes this form of preparation well-liked by most seasoned taste buds. It was the tastiest on the menu, as the rest of the dishes carried little to no memorable flavour.
A taste barely there
The best for last?
The Lightly Boiled Fugu Skin was tasteless to me. When we dipped it into the complementing sauces, it got overpowered and it felt as if we were sauce-tasting instead. After four courses of fugu had passed, each had left a weaker impression than the last. It led me to the conclusion that it could be the risk of eating the poisonous puffer fish that people seek, not so much the taste. I suppose taste is secondary when you get to try a dish that allows you to flirt with death.
Now for the famous dish: We were served the thinly-sliced Fugu sashimi, once referred to as “gun-powder” because of the result of instantaneous death if it’s not prepared right. The very thin slices of fugu were presented in an intricate blossom atop a patterned plate, making it a beautiful translucent arrangement. It was vital to pair the dish with the complementing ingredients: A selection of strips of blanched fugu skin, Japanese spring onion, ponzu sauce with spicy
Top: The most savoury of all the dishes served, the Deep Fried Fugu was a welcome appetiser Bottom: The Lightly-Boiled Fugu Skin was quite tasteless; dipping it in any sauce would overpower it entirely
radish and shoyu sauce with wasabi. These condiments are much-needed to the otherwise bland fugu. I’m not sure if the taste (or lack of it) is worth the money. By Nicole Lee FUKU Fine Fugu Kaiseki Restaurant, 14 Mohamed Sultan Road, #01-01, S 238963
DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2014
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PAGE 15
SHOPsavvy
weekender.com.sg
Ultralight Adult Scooter Stainless Steel Camera Lens Coffee Mug, $18.90 onward Pamper Essentials: Bliss, $87.90
Camera Lens Coffee Mug
Pamper Essentials: Bliss
This is a model copy cup and not an actual camera lens. Made of food-grade PVC plastic materials with a stainless steel interior, this creative mug is definitely safe to use for drink consumption. How better to impress your photography fanatic of a sibling than with this nifty mug?
Pamper your skin with Mt. Sapola’s Pamper Essentials series. The Bliss series bundles up all you need to re-create the full spa experience at home with a matching home scent reed diffuser or room spray. Have an aunt who has been showing off her newly-installed bathtub? This would please her!
Available on Qoo10
Available at Mt. Sapola
Part 3
The gift of Surprise Our ultimate gift guide continues: Now it’s time for the gifts that will surprise your loved ones – that is, if you can bear to hand them over! Christmas is a time to celebrate and be joyous. How better to tell someone you that love him or her than by giving a gift from the heart? Here are some of our quirkier choices for a bigger reaction this gift-giving season!
Be prepared to splurge – this ultralight kick-scooter is great for both adults and children. Turn every head as you cruise the streets effortlessly with its 200mm wheels. This is the perfect gift for a colleague who stays too near the office to justify a bus trip, and yet too far to walk. Ultralight Adult Scooter, $129.90+
Available on Groupon for a limited time only
iFly Experience, $90 onward
Grandma’s Garden Box, $138
Ma Hou Pao Tee, $29.90
Ma Hou Pao Tee Ma Hou Pao means a cannon behind the horse. It is equivalent to the local saying, “extra lah”, which in turn means to give belated advice or to say something pointless after an event has happened. This gift is ideal for that uncle who talks too much – talk about a hinting gift!
Grandma’s Garden Box
iFly Experience
The box includes staples such as carrots, potatoes, beetroot, pumpkin and turnip, sweet leeks, tomatoes and onions, and hearty cauliflower and radicchio that take you right into the heart of a European grandma’s own garden. I know my grandma would take a look at the box and decide in a second which to cook first!
Experience true free-fall conditions, just like in a real skydive. Every flyer at iFly will enjoy two skydives in the flight chamber. The time it takes for each skydive is equivalent to falling through the air from 12,000 to 3,000 feet! What better gift for an athletic brother who sees mountain hiking and parachuting as child’s play?
Available at simplyfresh.sg
Available at iFly, Sentosa By Nicole Lee
Available at wetteeshirt.co
Dolce & Gabbana
Fash Snips
Aimer
Aimer introduces its newest collection, Blessing. It features pastel colour tones, with embroidered lace flowers and a touch of dazzling Swarovski crystals. The thick padded bra cup, designed with the use of 3-D cutting techniques, ensures all-around comfort and care for a woman’s bosom.
Stirrings in the fashion world that you would want, need and love to know
Fa s h S n i p s
The masterpiece of the Enchanted Beauties collection is a luxury limited edition frame. Sparkling Swarovski crystal flowers bloom on an oversized clear smoky grey acetate frame. Next to them, little enchanted creatures create the illusion of a fairy garden. Available at selected optical stores
Available at Aimer outlets
Dress in style this winter with Celio’s stylish down jackets and knitwear, designed to offer comfort and casual chic flair. The utilitarian down jacket comes in a variety of styles such as a blended twomaterial for a dressed up look, full-flannel for a classic touch or ultra-lightweight with or without hood in various colours for discerning urbanites. Available at Celio outlets
For the party season, Jack Wills presents the classic Salcombe Shirt made from polished Oxford cotton for a nod to traditional dress shirts, and then reimagined in modern eye-catching prints. Casual shirts are made from a heavier flannel for winter in richly-coloured checks. Women’s shirts are reinvented in lighter, more feminine fabrications like the semi-sheer chiffon. Available at Jack Wills, Raffles City
Paul Smith
Celio
Jack Wills
Inspired by the combination of metal and acetate, the Redbury is a design that represents the personality of the Paul Smith aesthetic. A vintage vibe, bold colours and juxtaposition of materials give this design an effortlessly cool look. Available at selected optical stores
DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2014
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PAGE 16
SHOPsavvy
home inspirations
weekender.com.sg
Get ideas for transforming your home
Dark wooden panels behind the TV console hide ample storage
The kitchen got most of the attention with elements like a chalkboard wall to enliven the space
A storage niche, a display ledge and concealed storage were all efficiently incorporated into this compact corner
Warm timber tones set the scene in the bathroom, and the original floor has been changed out
Simple Does It
Rest and Relax
When time is short, design battles have to be chosen and it turned out that a simple dining area was sufficient for the family. Save for a nice dark wood dining set and a pendant lamp, little else was done to the space. Instead, it was the adjacent kitchen that got most of the attention with elements like a chalkboard wall to enliven the space.
A modern resort theme defines the master bathroom. Here, warm timber tones set the scene while the original floor has been switched out for tiles that complement the desired warm, laid back look. Storage continues to be a priority in this space as Sri incorporated storage behind the mirror and under the sink. According to the designer, ample storage gives the apartment (and its owners) room to grow and evolve as a home over time.
The Big Concealment
Our popular segment returns to bring you more creative ideas for your home One of the best assets to have in doing a renovation project is time. But when Habitat One was commissioned to design this apartment at Haig Court, time was not on their side. “The owners wanted to move in before the school holidays and we basically had five weeks to complete the project,” said principal designer Sri Redjeki Sukardi. Still, the short time frame did not stop the design team from pulling off a renovation miracle.
HOME MAKEOVER IDEAS
Dining details
Storage is of utmost importance for this family of five, and had to be incorporated wherever possible – this applied even to the living area. Sri was careful to do it tastefully by detailing storage space as a feature. Dark wooden panels behind the TV console hide ample storage. “We didn’t want the cabinets to look too utilitarian, and thinking about them as an accent panel was very helpful,” said Sri.
In the corner
Details that Matter As with most of the apartment, the master bedroom saw minimal changes. And when there were changes, it was because it would count, and go a long way. Here, a slim console was built at the front of the room. A storage niche, a display ledge and concealed storage were all efficiently incorporated into this compact corner of the room.
Despite its petite size, the bathroom has been cleverly reconfigured to make full use of available floor space. A shower stall was installed in the corner of the room, with sliding glass doors to prevent water from splashing throughout the room.
Butterfly Kisses Liven up a bland corner of the room or make a statement at the dinner table with these tall flower vases from Nordal. The whimsical floral and butterfly motifs are sure to put a smile on your guests’ faces. Nordal flower vase, $89 each, from Make Room
Turn The Key Unlock your tastebuds with the Keytlery cutlery. The set of teaspoons, tablespoons, forks and knives come in either black or gold, with intricate key detailing on its handles.
Seletti Keytlery cutlery set, $356 for a set of 24, from Fred Lives Here
Eat Your Greens Encourage a healthier lifestyle by serving your salads (or pasta) on these earthenware bowls. Each bowl features graphic prints of heart-shaped artichokes in tones of red and green. Artichoke pasta bowl, $17.95, from Crate & Barrel
By Redzman Rahmat
Article first published in Lookbox Living #36 May/Jun 2014 Lookbox Living #39 is out now! Available at major bookstores and news stands. For more interior projects, visit www.lookboxliving.com.sg
DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2014
weekender.com.sg
DECEMBER 5 -11, 2014
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TRAVELation
t r av e l f e at u r e
5 best luxury steals in the region You don’t have to fork out thousands to travel in luxury – here are our top picks and secrets on how to get the best deals on luxury travel So you want to travel in style, yet without burning holes in your pockets. The trick to hunting for luxury bargains is extensive research, so we’ve gone ahead and done most of it for you. Here are our top 5 finds in Asia that will let you travel like royals, without having to worry about pawning all your gold and jewellery. Get your planners ready!
Luxurious hotel rooms are surprisingly cheap in Shenzhen
What would you have to fork out for such a luxurious tropical retreat? Not much!
Overwater resorts are coveted for their lush and serene tropical surroundings
There is a growing number of luxury staycation options available in Singapore
A cruise is a great way to feel like you’re living in the lap of luxury, with multiple food and entertainment options available
Iryna Rasko Shutterstock.com
A 5-star hotel in Shenzhen, China From $101/night
A private villa in Bali, Indonesia From $150/night
Shenzhen is often known as a shopper’s paradise but did you know about its treasure trove of affordable brand-name suites? Lying just across the border from Hong Kong, this city is a pearl hidden among its neighbours, given its rock-bottom prices. In most other cities, rates at international luxury hotel chains may hit several hundred – and even thousand – dollars per night, leaving you feeling more like a pauper than a king by the end of your stay. But in Shenzhen, the prices are so reasonable, they defy reason. For example, let’s take a certain brand of hotel whose name alludes to a mythical Himalayan utopia; a “Deluxe Room” would cost $620/ night in Singapore, but only $210 in Shenzhen. What a steal!
It’s amazing what you can get for under $200 per night. From a villa with a private pool to a bungalow that opens up to the majestic shore, you are this close to that dreamy island life. Bali is populated with privatelyowned bungalows rented out to tourists. The nightly rates may be comparable to a typical hotel, yet take note that these prices are not just for a single room but the entire property – complete with housekeeping. Great deals like these can be found on various bed and breakfast websites, where you can compare multiple villas and user reviews before making your decision.
A 5-star over-water bungalow resort in Malaysia From $217/night
Have an award-winning staycation IN singapore From $339/night
It may not sound like much, but trust me – this heavenly retreat is a lot like a boutique resort in the Maldives. In particular, the Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort is the largest of the water villa retreats in the world. Besides offering generous allinclusive services, such as a threemeal package with drinks, this resort is located close to Kuala Lumpur International Airport. So you can grab a cheap flight out here and live a weekend of luxury without breaking the bank!
If you’re going to splurge on an indulgent staycation, why not go for the classiest? Singapore has our own share of luxurious hotels that have fast become icons of sophistication – and if you know when to book a room, you can get the best treatment that they offer at a bargain. Some hotels have seasonal promotions which they blast out online, including web-exclusive offers and bed-and-breakfast deals. Others dole out whole spa and massage packages that will pamper you to no end.
If you need a short 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. Bali – Uluwatu Temple
Bali – Uluwatu Temple From $98, Tigerair. Promotion ends when sold out. The Uluwatu Temple, or the Pura Luhur Uluwatu as known to locals, is a Balinese sea temple. Located on the southernmost tip of Bali, the temple is renowned for its beauty and architecture. It was built in the 11th Century as one of the nine directional temples meant to protect Bali from evil spirits. However, it isn’t evil spirits that visitors should be wary of. Instead, it’s the wild animals that inhabit the area. A word of advice: Keep a lookout for all personal belongings, and personal safety.
One of the best travel tips I’ve embraced: Don’t sweat the small stuff. It’ll save you tons of dollars, which you can then spend on something more fulfilling. For cruises, this holds especially true. There aren’t many truly luxurious liners that come cheap – unless you know how to look. An eight-night trip on an award-winning ship can cost an intimidating $1,700, but what if I told you that you can get it for less than half that price? The secret is to look past the details. Forget that tempting “ocean view” suite and get an interior cabin. Don’t be afraid to miss out on the horizon – you are, after all, on a ship. Just step outside for that beautiful sunrise. Lastly, book in advance for great discounts. By Pamela Chow
All prices were compiled from various travel sites and may vary during peak periods.
LOW-COST GETAWAYS
Sail on a luxury liner ON the high seas From $469/pax
Surabaya – Baluran National Park From $79, Tigerair. Promotion ends when sold out. The Baluran National Park is located on the eastern-most edge of Java and consists predominantly of open savannahs, where wildlife roam free. Watch as the sun rises over the savannah and the wildlife move in herds across the grassland, while some graze in the abundance of flora and fauna. The park consists of an open savannah, an extinct Baluran volcano and also a pristine Baluran Beach that more than matches up in comparison to its counterparts.
Medan – Sipiso Piso From $79, Jetstar. Promotion ends when sold out. Sipiso Piso is a picturesque waterfall located in the highlands of North Sumatra. As one of the highest waterfalls in Indonesia, it plunges at a height of 120m into an impressive gorge below. Talk about feeling like you’re in a postcard photo – Sipiso Piso is surrounded by lush greenery all around and is definitely a magnificent natural wonder not to be missed when visiting Medan. All prices are correct at time of printing.
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Bucket List Exceptional ideas to experience in your lifetime
of the Holy Spirit”. It is located in the same building that is believed by Jews to house the tomb of King David. Another example is the Al-Aqsa Mosque, connected to the Muslim belief that Muhammad was miraculously transported one night from Mecca to the Temple Mount of Jerusalem (also sacred to Jews), where he ascended to Heaven.
Discover the holiest city in the world
An Old World given new life The Stone of Unction or Stone of Anointing in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Christianity’s holiest site, is said to be where Jesus was laid before burial
The man behind Christmas
Jerusalem is filled with various sites sacred to the major religions of Judaism, Islam and Christianity
Find out more about the man behind Christmas or why Jerusalem is sacred to three religions While many of us today celebrate Christmas as the season of giving and time spent with loved ones, many forget that Christmas originated from the Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
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T r av e l U p dat e
Travel giants split from NATAS & plan free fair
The Sentosa Massage for two By So SPA
Several travel agencies, including the “Big Four”, have broken away from NATAS and will organise a competing free travel fair Just last week, several popular local travel agencies announced that they have pulled out of 2015’s NATAS (National Association of Travel Agents Singapore) Travel Fair. Don’t panic – you’ll still be able to make your holiday plans and get great promotions at their alternative event. These travel agencies – which include the “Big Four” of Chan Brothers Travel, CTC Travel, Dynasty Travel and SA Tours – will be organising a free convention for travel consumers next year. This is unlike the paid-admission NATAS Travel Fair, so far Singapore’s largest travel fair (held twice a year at the Singapore Expo). The new travel exhibition, tentatively titled the “Outbound Travel Fair”, will be held at the Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre from Mar 27 to 29, 2015. At least 20 other travel agencies will be participating in this fair, and invitations have already been extended to insurance companies, banks, airlines and other supporting partners. The size of the new fair will span some 70 per cent of NATAS Fair 2015’s floor area. These travel agencies have announced that visitors can look forward to bigger savings and promotions at the Outbound Travel Fair, as well as regular singleagency travel fairs held throughout the year. By Pamela Chow
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Being sacred to Judaism for roughly 300 years, to Christianity for around 2,000 years and to Islam for approximately 1,400 years, Jerusalem a city full of religious meaning and history. One of the many other holy Christian sites still standing today is the Cenacle, believed by Christians to be the site of Jesus’ Last Supper as well as that of the “Descent
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Whether or not you are a believer, there have been various records from different sources about this intriguing man and Jerusalem is the best place to discover more about his life, what he did, and how Christmas came to be celebrated today. Moreover, Jerusalem is a holy city to three major religions: Judaism, Islam and Christianity. Walking through and exploring this ancient and hallowed city may just help to illuminate for you the origins and history, and legacy of these unique monotheistic faiths.
According to the New Testament of the bible, Jesus was born in a manger in the town of Bethlehem. While he was raised in Nazareth and came to be known as “the Nazarene”, he spent much of his adult life and ministry in Jerusalem. In fact, the famous “Passion of the Christ” is set in this very city, as it was also in this area that he was crucified. Golgotha, the very site of Jesus’ crucifixion, sees pilgrims thronging from all over the world to pay homage and to reflect on their faith. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where Jesus’ body was laid, is often regarded as Christianity’s holiest site.
The Old City of Jerusalem was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981. Nonetheless, modern Jerusalem has grown far beyond the Old City’s boundaries. Today, there’s plenty to see and do in this ancient city apart from going on a pilgrimage to hunt for sites of religious meaning and importance. The Israel Museum remains a key attraction in Jerusalem, drawing nearly 1 million visitors annually. In fact, it accounts for approximately one-third of tourists. The complex spans across 20-acres and comprises several buildings featuring extensive collections including Judaica, archaeological finds and Israeli and European art. A must-see would be the famous Dead Sea Scrolls, discovered in the mid-20th Century in the Qumran Caves near the Dead Sea. The Dead Sea Scrolls include the second-oldest surviving manuscripts of Jewish scripture or some books of the bible. Another must-visit site to soak in Jerusalem’s modern culture is Mahane Yehuda Market, where a colourful array of local produce, snacks and handicrafts are peddled. Often called “The Shuk” or “Machne”, this market is also a popular spot for locals and tourists to enjoy a grill or shashlik (shish kebab).
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So SPA by Sofitel We know you’re stressed – so why not reward yourself with The Sentosa Massage? This signature massage at So SPA combines Eastern and Western techniques to stimulate energy pathways and recharge overworked muscles, to relax the mind and invigorate the body. So SPA is tucked away in a quiet haven of lush greenery, with a private lap pool and cascading waterfalls to massage the body and mud pool to detoxify your skin. It’s an inviting therapy for the soul, and you will leave revitalised. Win a set of couple massage vouchers for yourself now!
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