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star of the week
actress bernice liu tells us she’s single
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travel Feature
see what new year treasures we uncovered in Hong kong
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TO BE WON!
fa CUP: Battle of the davids & goliaths
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WK119A/MCI(P)119/08/2014
february 13 - 19, 2015
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lights, delights, fireworks & firecrackers!
SPRING INTO THE YEAR OF FUN
TOP 5 LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS
Chinese New Year Celebrations @ Port of Lost Wonder 16-22 Feb $10 per Child (Weekdays), $15 per Child (Weekends & Public Holidays), accompanying adults enter for Free Get creative with themed art and craft sessions, enjoy exciting Lion Dance performances and receive blessings from the God of Fortune!
Photo: www.riverhongbao.sg
Port of Lost Wonder, Palawan Beach
Chinese New Year Catering Until 5 Mar
Photo: Philip Bird LRPS CPAGB / Shutterstock.com
Photo: www.riverhongbao.sg
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new! free! River Hongbao 2015
Usher in the Year of the Goat from the comfort of your home. Choose from two menus and catch up with your loved ones over a wealth of Spring-inspired dishes catered for your family reunion, right at home. Check out one15marina.com for more details.
Sentosa Islander CNY Special 19-22 Feb Individual: $18^ (UP $25), Family: $38^ (UP $50) Sign up for the Sentosa Islander Membership to enjoy unlimited fun! Plus, enjoy a host of privileges, invitations and more! Sign up online now at www.islander.com.sg with promo code: Individual – CNYLWZKV, Family – CNYFUDL9 ^Terms & Conditions apply.
To find out more activities and promotions on Sentosa, scan here
17-28 Feb, 2pm-11pm, 18 Feb (2pm-1am) The event will be ablaze with dazzling displays of colourful lanterns, a gravity-defying aerial tightrope walking act by Adili Wuxor and AbulaitiMaijun from The Acrobatic troupe of Xinjiang China, and much more. The Float @ Marina Bay, www.riverhongbao.sg
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Chinatown Chinese New Year Countdown Party
18 Feb, 9.30pm-12.30am Usher in the Year of the Goat with live performances and a vibrant countdown celebration with Mediacorp artistes in the heart of Chinatown. Be entertained by lively performances from a medley of festive songs, skits to interactive games as the countdown party culminates in rousing firecrackers and a spectacular display of fireworks. New Bridge Rd & Eu Tong Sen St, www.chinatownfestivals.sg
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Festive Street Bazaar and Festive Carnival
Until 18 Feb, 6pm-10.30pm With a plethora of brightly-lit stalls lining up the streets of Chinatown, visitors can feast on a variety of mouth-watering Chinese New Year delicacies, enjoy the brilliant lights and festive decorations of the stalls and shop for traditional goodies. Pagoda Street, Smith Street, Sago Street, Temple Street and Trengganu Street
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Chingay Parade Singapore 2015
27-28 Feb, 8pm, $28.50-$60 The 43rd Chingay Parade Singapore will be presented by 11,000 beautiful multi-cultural performers. A total of 1 million colourful “We Love SG Flowers” handcrafted from used plastic bags will form a spectacular sight at the grand opening of the Parade, with each Flower representing love and wellwishes for Singapore. F1 Pit Building, www.chingay.org.sg
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Chinatown Walking Trail
14-15 Feb, 2pm-3.30pm, 5pm-6.30pm Discover Chinatown’s heritage and culture in this free walking trail that covers Kreta Ayer Road, Sago Street, Pagoda Street and New Bridge Road. Immerse in the Chinese New Year festivities and street ambience as you stroll through Chinatown during this festive season. Chinatown Walking Trail
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music Christina Perri: The Head or Heart Tour 27 Feb, 8pm, from $118 With hits like Jar of Hearts, A Thousand Years and Human, there is hardly anyone today who hasn’t heard of Christina Perri. She brings her Head or Heart Tour to our shores this February, featuring songs from her second album of the same name. The Coliseum, Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa, www.sistic.com.sg
Singapore Jazz Festival 5-8 Mar, $125 The festival returns to enthral music lovers with another thrilling programme of jazz and jazz-inspired music. With the iconic Singapore skyline once again providing the backdrop, more than 250 artists – international Grammy Award winners, chart toppers, regional stars and Singapore’s best will be set to take the stage. Marina Bay Sands Promenade, www.sistic.com.sg
others
featured fun destination Port of Lost Wonder: All-day fun at Sentosa! Sentosa’s Port of Lost Wonder is Singapore’s first kids’ club by the beach. Designed to provide a fun and unique family experience, there is a signature water play area, themed islets for picnics and leisure activities, and unique retail and dining experiences for both the very young and young at heart. Port Belly provides the entire family with a delectable and fun selection of meals and Just Wonder’s wide range of merchandise lets you bring home a piece of Port of Lost Wonder. With a myriad of specially-designed fun activities such as Pots & Planks, seasonal workshops and even a Bubble Party on weekends aimed at satisfying wonder, curiosity and connection, it is here where families can come together to explore and create unforgettable memories. Looking for a unique party venue or the most memorable excursion experience? Port Of Lost Wonder promises you the most awesome experience with our party packages and an excursion that the little ones will remember for a long time to come. Sentosa, Port of Lost Wonder, Palawan Beach, www.polw.com.sg
valentines Photo: SingaPlural
free! Love is in the Air
SingaPlural: Celebrating Design 2015 10-15 Mar SingaPlural returns for a 4th edition this March to showcase the best design elements from the multifaceted creative spectrum – Advertising, Architecture, Urban Planning, Landscape Architecture, as well as Interior, Furniture, Graphic Design and Fashion Design. 99 Beach Road, www.singaplural.com
13-15 Feb, various timings Come celebrate “Love is in the Air” at the Gardens - from movie screening to performances by popular local acts (Dim Sum Dollies, Inch Chua, The Sam Willows, 53A and Vocaluptuous), and fireworks to end off the evening. Create fond memories with your loved ones this Valentine’s Day! Gardens by the Bay, www. gardensbythebay.com.sg
escape game inspired treasure hunt right here in Gardens by the Bay! Enjoy the excitement of puzzle-solving while admiring the beauty of the Gardens, with no time limit while solving puzzles. Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay, lastgarden.peatix.com
World Marriage Day Flash Mob
FREE! Sketch Your Love: Make a Date with Portraits of the People Until 15 Feb, 12pm-8pm Need ideas this Valentine’s Day? Bring your significant other to one of National Gallery Singapore’s Portraits of the People events in February for a date. Take turns to sketch a portrait of your beloved to create a personal and unique token of love. One Fullerton, Seaview Channel, www.facebook.com/ nationalgallerysg
Last Garden: Save Nature, Save Humanity 13-22 Feb, from $27 Come experience the largest
14 Feb, 6pm Worldwide Marriage Encounter (WWME) Singapore is organising a Valentine’s Day Freeze Flash Mob to mark World Marriage Day and to show the world that happy marriages and families are possible in this day and age. Couples will proudly declare the number of years they have been happily married as they gamely come together to celebrate marriage! Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza
Valentine Rowmance 15 Feb, 3pm-7pm, $160 per couple Enjoy the breeze and serenity with your loved one while kayaking. The kayaking guides will share the basic paddling skills, lead a mini exploration of the reservoir and conduct kayaking games before the sunset picnic back on the land. Seletar Water Sports Centre, www.fotograft.com
Weekender is bringing back our popular Hello, World! photo column for babies! Immortalise your precious baby in print by getting his or her photo published! What better way is there to celebrate your newborn or toddler than to show off your baby to the rest of the world?
show off your precious newborn or toddler
Simply E-mail your cutest or sweetest photo of your baby to:
general@weekender.com.sg with your Baby’s Name, Date of Birth, Your Name, Tel No., NRIC & Postal Code
Submit your BaBy’S BEST Photo and get a chance to be published!
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F ootbal l Fe v e r
The FA Cup: Davids & Goliaths battle Where giants fall and minnows become heroes – prepare for more upsets and thrashings in the next round of the FA Cup Chelsea, Manchester City and Southampton have all fallen to their lesser known counterparts in the last round. In the competition where anything can happen, will a second-tier side make a name for themselves?
Blackburn Rovers vs Stoke City (14 Feb, 11pm)
Perhaps an unsung hero for the Reds, Glen Johnson persists despite criticism to give his all for Liverpool
Photo: photofriday / Shutterstock.com
Not a great performance in the Premier League so far from Stoke, sitting apathetically in the middle of the pack. The same can be said for their Championship opponents Blackburn, who also sit in the middle of the table in their league. Often times mid-table Premier League teams step up in cup tournaments, as we saw with Sunderland a few seasons back. On the other hand, will we see yet another Premier League team fall at the hands of an underdog? Prediction: Blackburn 0–2 Stoke
Crystal Palace vs Liverpool (15 Feb, 1.30am) Perhaps not what one would call a classic David and Goliath face-off but Liverpool is undoubtedly the favourite in this tie. Crystal Palace sits at 13th place in the Premier League, with Liverpool ahead in 7th. What’s more, the Reds are on fire after just battling to an ecstatic 3-2 win over Tottenham in midweek. At this point, no one would be too shocked to see another top tier Premier league team fall to an opponent significantly weaker on paper but Liverpool will be looking to defy the odds and to rekindle its past romance with the FA Cup. Prediction: Crystal Palace 1–2 Liverpool
Arsenal vs Middlesbrough (16 Feb, 12am) Arsenal’s great run of form in front of goal came to a screeching halt last Sunday in a shocking defeat to long-time rivals Tottenham. They still remain the clear ‘Goliath’ in the upcoming FA Cup fixture where they will face Championship side Middlesbrough. Middlesbrough looks to be no pushover as it currently holds 3rd position in the Championship this season. After an uneasy 3-2 win against Brighton & Hove Albion in the last round, Arsenal will take no chances in its bid to defend its Cup. Prediction: Arsenal 2–0 Middlesbrough
Congratulations to the winners! fragrance bak kwa giveaway
marriott pencai giveaway
Photo: AGIF / Shutterstock.com
Preston vs Manchester United (17 Feb, 3.45am)
Can van Gaal and van Persie lift Manchester United after their late draw to West Ham?
In the last tie of the FA Cup, star-powered Manchester United failed to dispose of far lesser opponent Cambridge United. It was only during the replay where the Red Devils mustered up the quality needed to beat Cambridge 3-0 at Old Trafford. Manchester United has had an unstable road to recovery after its disastrous last season, and manager Louis van Gaal will be hoping for no more slip-ups against teams not even in the same league as the former champions. Preston is currently 4th in the League 1 table but it will not matter to the Devils, who will surely be aiming for nothing short of a one-sided thrashing. However, seeing their late draw against West Ham last weekend, will they slip up again? Prediction: Preston 0–3 Manchester United
By Basil Lee Jreen Leow Ong Lay Lay Lai Zheng Wei Ong Boon Leong Tan Eu Lin Esther Michael Lim Chew Seow Hwee Chua Ming Kai Leandro Tan Cheng Jin Susan Loh Sem Kai Peng Tan Lay Moi Irene Cher Ng Ling Li Deve Soh
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Art Director Sabrina Cao Designer Zoe Lai Writers Nicole Lee Pamela Chow
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february 13 - 19, 2015
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february 13 - 19, 2015
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s tar o f t h e w eek
Bernice Liu: Charging head-on
These things are natural; there’s nothing to push for. I’m really enjoying my life right now.
How did you get started in the wine business, and how is it doing now?
Stunning actress Bernice Liu doesn’t care about the rumours – she’s throwing herself into work, and life, and loving it!
Photo: HKTV2014
Top: Bernice in “Once Upon a Song”
You may have heard about actress Bernice Liu being pulled into the furore after her high-profile ex, Hong Kong actor Moses Chan, announced news of his first child. But speak to Bernice and she’ll tell you that she’s long moved on to greener pastures. Right now, her playing field is Asia’s first musicaldrama series, “Once Upon a Song”. A mixture of royal fantasies, childhood nostalgia and romantic ties, this new series is set to charm audiences of Asia. We spoke to Bernice and found out more about her acting, her life, and what she thinks about love.
A belated Happy Birthday to you! What did yoU do? It was really, really special – I went to a winery in Australia, and I had my birthday there. It was a very ad-hoc flight but wine has always been a passion of mine.
Apart from “Once Upon a Song”, what have you been busy with? The past four years, I’ve had a lot of work in China. I star in two dramas that haven’t aired yet. I hope that this Chinese New Year, one of them will be coming out. Hint: It’s a traditional period drama!
Left: This babe is still single, guys!
Of course I’m single! I have faith in true love and that God has a plan for me. Among the shows you’ve acted in, which is your favourite? “Virtues of Harmony”, because it gave me my mark as a princess, and that’s been my nickname up until this day. The family that I followed in that drama, they still call me – we call each other all the time. That whole experience cannot be replaced at all – the years we took to film 500 episodes. We’re seriously a family.
Could you tell us, in your own words, about your role in “Once upon a Song”? My character, although she’s very real, also has a cartoonish side to her. You just have to watch it – you can’t help but smile because it’s quite sweet but it’s kind of crazy too at the same time. It’s a loveable drama.
How do you identify with the love story in “Once upon a Song”? I’m not like my character; it’s just too hard to be her! The way she thinks is very extreme. Her extremes are quite funny, but I could never do that in real life!
“Once Upon a Song” will air on Valentine’s Day. what plans DO you have on this special day? I have no idea! [laughs] To be honest, that’s near Chinese New Year, so I’m pretty sure I’ll be working.
Are you single? What kind of guy would you date? Of course I’m single! I have faith in true love and that God has a plan for me.
To me it’s not so much a business as a passion – I started wine-making in 2008 when I was shooting a movie in Vancouver. We went on a wine tour in Napa, and I loved that experience. It left an imprint on my heart. My wine has given me a way of expressing myself and at the same time helping a lot of children’s charities along the way.
It seems that you’ve been through a lot in life in the past few years but you’ve come out stronger than ever. How did you pull yourself through tough times? It was my family and friends’ support; they believe in my passion and my dreams. I think that’s really important: never give up on what you set out to do, or let anybody tell you that you can’t do something. My dad’s been a huge mentor for me in following my dreams and having a very strong core. I hope that when people look back to 2011 when I had my back operation and rumours were flying around (you see that), how you come above – that means so much more at the end. “Once Upon A Song” will be available on cHK On Demand (Singtel mio TV Ch511) from Feb 14 to 28. Audiences can also watch it during free preview from Feb 17 to 23. By Pamela Chow & Lester J Wan
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aca d e m y awar ds pic k s
87th Academy Awards: Weekender’s predictions With the Academy Awards soon approaching, Weekender has put together predictions for the crème de la crème of Hollywood who’ll raised to greater heights We’re only a month into 2015, and the movie world is already buzzing with brilliant masterpieces. We just can’t wait for the 87th Academy Awards on Feb 22, so we’ve gone ahead and cast our votes for the films we think deserve the trophies. Check back with us after the Awards!
Best Picture: Birdman (Or The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)
Photo: Helga Esteb / Shutterstock.com
With a host of marvellous contenders this year, from biopics such as The Imitation Game and The Theory of Everything to dark horse Whiplash, it’s a tight fight for 1st place. But Birdman has been praised as beautifully meta – a feat that not many modern works have achieved.
Photo: Jaguar PS / Shutterstock.com
Best Actress: Julianne Moore in Still Alice
Best Animated Feature Film: Big Hero 6
I want so badly for genius Rosamund Pike, who plays “Amazing A-hole Amy” in Gone Girl, to win this one. But I think the Academy is a sucker for a character who fights for her life in the face of imminent mortality, and Julianne Moore does a fantastic job of it in Still Alice.
Call me biased, but Big Hero 6 hit all the sweet notes of an award-winning animation: tears and wailing all around, whether from laughter or heartbreak. If they franchised Baymax healthcare units, directors Don Hall and Chris Williams may be taking home a Nobel prize for improving world healthcare too.
Best Actor: Eddie Redmayne in The Theory of Everything
Best Music (Original Score): Interstellar
Hands-down, no question. He made you feel for Stephen Hawking, even though Hawking cheated on his wife. Redmayne’s acting is so good that you forget he’s contorting his own face. Hawking himself approved of Redmayne, and that’s as good as handing him the Oscar! Michael Keaton in Birdman is a strong contender though.
No contention for this one either, in our books. Rivalled only by the movie’s interplanetary visual spectacle and mind-bending story, the score for Interstellar had audiences gripped way after the show stopped screening. Someone should tell director Christopher Nolan that repeating his killer combo with composer Hans Zimmer is just cheating! By Pamela Chow
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DO you know of these epic singapore hollywood moments? FEAST your eyes on these BIG SCREEN SINGAPOREAN SCENES!
I
t’s that time of the year again: curious relatives trying to catch up with your work and love life, when you just want some peace and quiet with your bak kwa and pineapple tarts. When relatives come visiting, try throwing on some of these movies and catching these epic Singapore Hollywood moments. Not only can you feast your eyes on classic Singaporean scenes from the big screen, it may divert your relatives’ attention, and you can feast on New Year goodies in peace!
Photo: Adrin Shamsudin / Shutterstock.com
feat ur e sto ry
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Did you know that Fann Wong was the very first Singaporean actress to break into Hollywood? She appears as a key character in the 2003 comedy Shanghai Knights alongside famous actors Jackie Chan, Owen Wilson and Donnie Yen. Critics had complimented her “refreshing” presence, remarking that her stunts Fann Wong appeared alongside were more memorable than Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson Jackie’s! Well, Fann got to in Shanghai Knights slap him, which must have made quite the red mark in Hollywood history.
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Adrian Pang (left) with Thor star Chris Hemsworth on the set of Blackhat, as reported by ST Online
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Taking Selfies with Chris Hemsworth
If you haven’t seen cyber-hacking movie Blackhat in cinemas, now might be a good time to catch it – but not just for Thor hunk Chris Hemsworth or pop star Wang Lee Hom. The film features a Singaporean cameo: comedian Adrian Pang. Pang stars in a small role as a Hong Kong cop. He said, “I was taking selfies with (Hemsworth) and sending them to my sons because they didn’t believe I was filming with him.” To be fair, I couldn’t believe it either – even when he was sprawled out on the big screen right in front of me!
Kungfu Fighting with Jackie Chan
Another version of Singapore
It’s no surprise that Southeast Asian countries are Hollywood’s go-to area for mysterious, exotic and perilous islands. What’s surprising is that they would pick us, since the only dangers we have are crowded trains and kiasu people. In two King Kong movies – both the 1976 and 2005 remakes – a film crew is chartered to sail to Singapore but ends up on the treacherous King Kong-inhabited Skull Island. I wonder which country this nearby islet might be inspired by – Penang? Sentosa? If they had gone on and landed in Singapore, they might have angered a giant mutant Merlion instead and spawned a series of Merlion 3D monster flicks. Quick, somebody call M Night Shyamalan to start the ball rolling!
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In Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End, Singapore makes an appearance as a Chinese pirate’s spa hangout
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Welcome to… Singapore?
In the Pirates of the Caribbean’s third instalment, At World’s End, legendary Hong Kong actor Chow Yun Fat meets Johnny Depp and crew in his spa. “Welcome to Singapore!” he warmly exclaims, before the group descends into a battle of sword fights and exploding firecrackers. Except, the movie’s got it wrong – firecrackers have been banned here since the beginning of time and we never ran a steam bath empire. Still, there might be some truth in that depiction about how Singapore used to be in our ‘pre-history’. Whichever your favourite Singapore Hollywood moment, I hope you enjoyed them as much as I did, and you’re as proud as I am about our fame! With our republic’s SG50 coming up, re-watching these scenes is as good as any other way to celebrate our national pride.
By Pamela Chow
A Dark Horse in The Dark Knight
We’re home to a trove of talents, and Chin Han is one of them. Spot the actor in his roles as the calculative Lau in Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight (2008), and Councilman Yen in Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014). Most recently, he can be seen in Netflix’s “Marco Polo”. Chin Han is named by CNNGo as one of Asia’s 25 greatest actors of all time, alongside big guns like Tony Leung and Toshiro Mifune!
With appearances in Hollywood blockbusters such as The Dark Knight and Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Chin Han is often considered one of Asia’s top actors
Photo: s_bukley / Shutterstock.com
february 13 - 19, 2015
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february 13 - 19, 2015
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ALS O I N T HE AT R E S
M ov ie previe w
Black Sea [NC16]
5 Takeaways from Fifty Shades of Grey Fifty Shades of Grey has gained international notoriety for its steamy content
Black Sea centres on a rogue submarine captain who pulls together a misfit crew to go after a sunken treasure rumoured to be lost in the depths of the Black Sea. As greed and desperation take control on board their claustrophobic vessel, the increasing uncertainty of the mission causes the men to turn on each other to fight for their own survival. Black Sea proves to be a suspenseful adventure thriller directed by Academy Award winner Kevin Macdonald. STARRING: Jude Law, Scoot McNairy, Ben Mendelsohn, David Threlfall & Sergey Puskepalis GENRE: Action RELEASE: 12 Feb
Song One [TBA]
Top: Are some depictions a little too much? Left: Ana Steele (Dakota Johnson) is an awkward Literature student who catches the attention of business tycoon Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan)
Oscar winner Anne Hathaway stars as Franny in Song One, a romantic drama set against the backdrop of Brooklyn’s vibrant modern-folk music scene. After Franny’s musician brother Henry is injured and left hospitalised in a coma following a car accident, Franny meets James Forester – whom she soon develops a strong romantic connection with. Can love bloom under the most adverse circumstances? STARRING: Anne Hathaway, Mary Steenburgen & Ben Rosenfield GENRE: Drama RELEASE: 12 Feb
Kingsman: The Secret Service [M18] This highly-anticipated sexual drama is more than an erotic bedtime story – we chose to focus on what we can glean on dealing with relationships Like it or not, Fifty Shades of Grey is one sexy story. It tells of Literature student Ana Steele, who meets and falls in love with the dangerously-dashing business mogul Christian Grey. However, Ana soon finds herself chained up in his twisted, ahem, bedroom routines, which are carried out in the “Red Room of Pain”, in his topsecret man-cave. It may not sound very realistic but there are some takeaways we can glean on dealing with relationships. Disclaimer: I take no responsibility if any of these tips don’t work wonders!
One pitfall of Fifty Shades is that everyone is too perfect – Ana, Christian, and even Christian’s power- and money-hungry family of eliteS.
1. Tell Your Partner Exactly What You Want In Fifty Shades, poor Ana thinks she’s entering an innocent love affair with Christian, clueless about the formidable contract he wants to tie her down with. The shock that she gets when she sees the “Red Room” could’ve been avoided if Christian had just told her from the start. Don’t be shy, tell your partner what you want – from your innermost thoughts to what you really want for dinner. No more saying, “Anything lor.”
2. Be Adventurous After watching Fifty Shades, you might find yourself inclined towards trying new things. Nothing like some exploration to keep the relationship fresh and adrenaline-pumping! I’m not just talking about bedroom activities, though. From taking up a new hobby like kayaking to switching up the routine a little, new and wholesome adventures can reintroduce flair into a plateaued relationship! Be careful that it’s not just a self-centred desire and it’s been talked about between the two of you though.
3. Respect Each Other’s Boundaries This one can’t be any more blatant in Fifty Shades – Christian literally draws up a contract with terms, conditions and safe words in his affair with Ana. Not that we should treat relationships like formal agreements but there should definitely be lines that cannot be crossed. Needs and wants should be outlined and if they are ever disrespected, you can kiss the treaty goodbye!
4. Not Everything (and Everyone) Can Be Controlled Christian is quite the control freak, and feels the need to dominate everything in his life. This is turned upside-down when he meets Ana, the only girl who daringly bites back with her own opinions. Because of this, he ends up falling in love with her. So it seems that it’s important that both parties are in control to keep each other in check!
5. Nobody is Perfect One pitfall of Fifty Shades is that everyone is too perfect – Ana, Christian, and even Christian’s power-and moneyhungry family of elites. From this, I’m taking the opposite message that nobody is flawless. So stop looking for that perfect Mr Grey (he doesn’t exist), and start appreciating the beauty in people.
By Pamela Chow
Fifty Shades of Grey [R21] Director: Starring: Genre: Run length: Release:
Sam Taylor-Johnson Jamie Dornan, Dakota Johnson, Jennifer Ehle Luke Grimes Romance, Drama 125 min 12 Feb
Based on an acclaimed comic book and directed by Matthew Vaughn, it tells the story of a super-secret spy organisation that recruits an uncouth but promising street kid into the agency’s ultra-competitive training programme just as a global threat emerges from a twisted tech genius. STARRING: Colin Firth, Mark Strong, Michael Caine & Samuel L Jackson GENRE: Action RELEASE: 12 Feb
Jupiter Ascending [PG13] Born under a night sky, there were signs predicting that Jupiter Jones was destined for great things. Nothing, however, seems to be working out for Jupiter, facing the cold reality of a job cleaning other people’s houses and an endless run of bad breaks. Things take a turn when she meets Caine (Channing Tatum), a genetically-engineered ex-military hunter. STARRING: Channing Tatum, Mila Kunis, Sean Bean & Eddie Redmayne GENRE: Sci-Fi RELEASE: 5 Feb
Unbroken [PG] Unbroken is Hollywood star Angelina Jolie’s directorial project and it traces the life of American Olympian Louis Zamperini (played by Jack O’Connell) whose bombardier plane crashes into the sea during World War II. After nearly 48 days at sea, his nightmare doesn’t end when he is picked up. STARRING: Jack O’Connell, Garrett Hedlund & Domhnall Gleeson GENRE: Drama RELEASE: 5 Feb
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ne w nota bl e s
Top
romantic restaurants
Some of the newest eateries and menus in town for you to check out
Ku De Ta Perched on the observation deck of the SkyPark at Marina Bay Sands, Ku De Ta boasts a restaurant, club lounge and an amazing view of Singapore. Enjoy spectacular views as you dine on food fresh from the kitchen. Anyone would feel like renewing their love here! Feel like dancing? Ku De Ta is a club with hip DJs too.
in Singapore
Ocean Restaurant by Cat Cora
Looking to impress your date for Valentine’s Day? Make sure to bring your date to one of these places
Y
ou could be looking for a different place to bring your lover or spouse this year, or have absolutely no idea where to go for a romantic date. Either way, Weekender comes to your rescue. We’ve gathered six of the most romantic settings at restaurants or bars in Singapore. There is bound to be one that suits you and your date! Show your love and appreciation and pamper the one you love most on Valentine’s Day.
There is nothing quite as exquisite as watching creatures of the sea glide by as you tuck into your grilled fish and chips – after all, there is nothing grander than having marine life join you for dinner! Patrons frequently comment that it’s like eating in a mega-sized aquarium, except that you can breathe freely and gawp openly at the bustling ‘sea’ around you.
Joie Reviewed in Dec 26 issue Tucked in Orchard Central’s rooftop garden, Joie presents a refreshing take on modern meatless cuisine. Using only the freshest vegetables, fruits and herbs, be treated to a feast by Executive Chef Sherwin Sim, formerly of Coriander Leaf Restaurant. The highlight of Joie lies in the elaborate six-course set lunch and seven-course dinner menus. Be spoilt for choice as Joie offers ample variety with four to five options per course. Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Road, #12-01, Singapore 238896
D.Bespoke Reviewed in Dec 19 issue A certified venenciador (an expert at drawing sherry from barrels using a cylindrical cup at the end of a long shaft), Daiki-San Kanetaka, owner and head bartender of D.Bespoke, demonstrates the art of pouring sherry with flair and showmanship. Experience the style and ambience of a Ginza-styled bar experience, here in Singapore. 2 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089816
1-Altitude Al Fresco Bar There is no view more breathtaking than 1-Altitude’s. As the highest bar in Singapore, it is inevitable it would find its way into this list. In a comfortable setting with drinks and cigars at your fingertips and gourmet meals just two floors down, this place is perfect for love and for dining.
Catalunya Catalunya Singapore is a contemporary Spanish restaurant and tapas bar at The Fullerton Pavilion. It is located in a unique glass-encased dome floating atop the waters of Marina Bay. Ease back gently into your seat as you raise a toast to your partner, against the picturesque view of Marina Bay right before you. You’ll almost feel like you’re dining upon the Mediterranean Sea.
Hard Rock Hotel Rock Bar
Boch
inche
Bochinche Look for review in upcoming issue Bochinche is an Argentine restaurant that has a fun, casual look. Grass-fed beef from the plains of Argentina features strongly on its new menu. Other additions include a Cold Bar featuring light and refreshing Argentinean starters, as well as a selection of mouthwatering side dishes to complement the grilled meat. 22 Martin Road, #02-01, Singapore 239058
While this is technically not a restaurant, we have to ask – how often do you get to lounge coolly against a bar while sipping on cocktails fancier than the waiter’s suit? The bar serves simple finger food and cocktails and, most of all, it is a wonderful location where you two can reminisce over fond memories and happy times. The cool ambience and rock memorabilia don’t hurt either.
Hyde
& Co.
Hyde & Co
Sentosa Sand Bar OK, Sentosa Sand Bar is not a restaurant and the menu consists of just finger food, and the drinks are the usual, but coming here gives you the chance to walk along the beach at night together, when the beach-goers have finally packed up, and to watch the nightly fireworks over at Songs of the Sea. It is truly magical to listen to the lapping sounds of the waves and to feel the sand between your toes as you walk hand-in-hand with your loved one, surrounded by the wonders of nature. These make this place truly one of the most romantic spots in Singapore.
Indochine @ Club Street Right in the heart of this lively street would be Indochine’s newest pride and joy. Who says “romantic” must be about views and roses? This avant-garde establishment would be a good option for those who scoff at the usual cliché romantic settings. By Nicole Lee
Hyde & Co celebrates Singapore’s long history as a flourishing trading port for teas and other exquisite products. It draws inspiration from its past – the Old World British charm and its present – a thriving and exciting metropolis. A cosy, contemporary English-themed cafe located in the heart of Kampung Glam, Hyde & Co’s offerings are English-inspired with a touch of local. With an extensive tea menu and artisanal gourmet coffee, fresh artisan pastries and cakes daily, and a menu chock-full of goodness, there’s so much to enjoy. 22 Martin Road, #02-01, Singapore 239058
february 13 - 19, 2015
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Foodmania
C H INE S E N E W Y EAR R EC IPES
Demon Chef’s devilish coffee recipes for New Year
Lou hei for a good year ahead
Left: The CNY Candy Box Coffee Affogato with Rosabaya de Columbia and other creations were inspired by the Lunar New Year Right: Michelin-starred “Demon Chef” Alvin Leung is known for unusual creations
Savour gourmet coffee creations curated by Asia’s Michelin-starred “Demon Chef”
The CNY Candy Box Coffee Affogato with Rosabaya de Columbia is the perfect cup of tropical-flavoured coffee. Topped with coconut ice cream and raspberry puree, the subtle acidity and red fruit notes of Nespresso’s delectable Rosabaya de Columbia Grand Cru are the perfect foil to the combination of sweet tastes. For the adventurous, the Salty Peanut Caramel with Taro & Coffee milkshake with Ristretto will satisfy your taste for the exotic. Rich and intense Ristretto is paired with Taro ice cream and sweet yet salty peanut butter. It is a wickedly-rich treat. Chef Alvin also takes on a Hong Kong classic of coffee mixed with milk tea. The AlmondFlavoured Milk Tea with Coffee Jelly with new Arpeggio Decaffeinato is a refreshing change. The cocoa notes of the rich and full-bodied Arpeggio Decaffeinato Grand Cru mingle with the sweet caramel, whipped cream, English tea and almond flakes to become a modern classic. Try them yourself!
Through a partnership with Asia’s Michelinstarred “Demon Chef” Alvin Leung, Nespresso presents delicious gourmet coffee creations that can be easily created in the home.
The Perfect Combination Chef Alvin, better known as the “Demon Chef”, helms Michelin-starred restaurants Bo Innovation (in Hong Kong) and Bo London. His ingenious creativity makes him the best partner for Nespresso in this collaboration. Chef Alvin’s Nespresso coffee recipes are specially-designed to excite and delight the palates of coffee-lovers. With bold and unique flavours, they certainly leave an impression.
Delicious & Innovative The coffee recipes curated by Chef Alvin definitely did not disappoint. They were indeed out of the ordinary yet satisfying.
Chinese New Year Menu
25kg Pen Cai is the grand cherry on top Usher in a prosperous Lunar New Year by raising your chopsticks to lou hei, and to tuck into the luxurious 25kg Pen Cai Be it a joyous family reunion or a celebration with friends, Cherry Garden offers a memorable setting for a festive dining experience. Mark an auspicious beginning to the year with the magnificent Cherry Garden Treasure Pot and indulge in traditional Yu Sheng, handmade delicacies as well as signature set menus. It will be a grand way to start the Lunar New Year.
By Alison Chu
Reunion Dinner Staple
Cherry Garden’s dishes match its tasteful setting
Gather loved ones and business associates for the time-honoured tradition of tossing Yu Sheng, and indulge in the Weekend Family Brunch while enjoying an abundance of delicate dim sum, roasted meat and seafood, as well as delectable soups and desserts. We started our festive lunch with the trademark Prosperity Yu Sheng, with salmon and crispy fish skin. The fried vermicelli lends a crunchy texture to this usually soft dish. Crispy fried fish skin and salmon slices add their dash of colour and flavour, with olive oil and spring onion green sauce bringing their touch of sweetness to the dish.
25kg Pen Cai
5 sets of CARLTON HOTEL TUXEDO CAFÉ vouchers WORTH $50 EACH
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TUXEDO CAFE
This impressive Pen Cai weights 25 kg!
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Are you a fan of muah chee? If you are, you will love the dessert! A simple, muah chee-like ball encases macadamia nuts and chewy, delightful filling inside. Paired with the refreshingly warm snow fungus soup and topped off with a single serving of the handmade nian gao, Cherry Garden provided a sweet end to a fulfilling meal.
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A loving tribute to fine European coffee and pastries, Tuxedo is Singapore’s chic destination for those who appreciate fine coffee, cakes, pastries and sandwiches. The ideal spot for casual morning meetings or business associate chats, Tuxedo is also great for takeaway snacks and light meals. Enjoy a selection of classic items such as delicate French croissants and rich baked cheesecake, and signature specialities such as the freshly-baked chicken pie and indulgent Tuxedo cake made with Valrhona chocolate. The open kitchen allows you to watch the bakers at work, making everything fresh daily from scratch and by hand. 76 Bras Basah Road, Singapore 189558
THREE EASY WAYS TO ENTER:
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Yes, that’s right. This is Cherry Garden’s Luxurious Pen Cai – Singapore’s largest traditional ‘basin dish’, weighing more than 25kg and measuring up to 45cm in diameter! Overflowing with an abundance of fortune, the pot is filled to the brim with superior ingredients such as braised eight-head abalone, lobsters, scallops, sea cucumbers, prawns, dried oyster rolls, conpoy, dace fillet, roasted duck, soy chicken, crispy pork belly, waxed sausages, mushrooms, cabbage as well as black moss to represent a year of endless wealth and prosperity.
Cherry Garden, Mandarin Oriental, Marina Square, 6 Raffles Blvd, Singapore 039797 The Green Tea Mochi looks adorable
By Nicole Lee
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weekender.com.sg Yu Sheng was inspired by a Teochew-style raw fish salad
Mee Pok is one of the common Teochew dishes
Pig’s Organ Soup or Zhu Zha Tang originates from the Teochews
E T H NI C C UI SIN E
Back to our roots: Teochew tastes Hello, fellow Teochews! One of the biggest dialect groups in Singapore would be Teochew, and its cuisine is big on taste The Teochew (Chaozhou) cuisine originated from the Chaoshan region, East of Guangdong (Canton) province. Teochew cuisine has often been referred to as the cousin of Hokkien (Fujian) cuisine. Teochew and Hokkien cuisines share so many striking similarities that there are trademark dishes that overlap both dialect groups. Do you know that both dialects lay a claim on our local Bak Kut Teh and Oyster Omelette (Orh Luak) dishes? Nonetheless, there are dishes that are predominantly Teochew. Do you know which?
Pig’s Organ Soup (Zhu Zha Tang)
The famous Yu Sheng, which is the centrepiece and grand beginning to all our Chinese New Year feasts, is a proud part of Teochew heritage. The grand dish we cannot do without originated from a Teochew-style raw fish salad, and was invented by a group of chefs in Singapore. Yu Sheng consists mainly of raw fish strips,
Did you have this for breakfast? Chwee Kueh a regular staple of our local breakfasts, with many stalls specialising in selling chwee kueh only in the mornings, as it sells out quickly. Chwee Kueh, meaning “water cake”, is made by mixing rice flour and water together. It is then kneaded into small bowl-shaped vessels and steamed, forming its characteristic shape after being cooked. Chwee Kueh is always topped with diced preserved radish and often taken with a bit of chilli.
Mee Pok Mee Pok (meaning “thin noodle”) is one of the most common Teochew dishes that had quickly spread across Asia. It is characterised by its flat and yellow noodles, which vary in thickness and width, depending on where it’s made. Depending on the style, the noodles are usually tossed with a sauce if it is a “tah” (dry) version or added into soup for the “terng” (soup) version. Traditionally, Mee Pok is eaten with fishballs or minced meat and mushroom (“bak chor”). Which is your favourite?
5 HUNGRY HEROeS dining VOUCHERS WORTH $100 EACH
TO BE WON! HUNGRY HEROES
Hungry Heroes is a restaurant and bar specialising in hearty meats. The restaurant follows an eclectic interior style featuring superhero memorabilia collected over the last two decades, and quirky decorative pop art from new retailer Art Art And Away. Come savour the menu highlights such as the twice-cooked Pork Ribs, which come in three flavours, and grill favourites like the 150-day Grass-fed Tenderloin, and the 100-day Grass-fed Ribeye and Lamb Rack. For a hearty communal feast, go for the Hungry Heroes Platters, such as the “Nice to Meat You” ($59+ per platter, serves 2-3 guests) and the “Steak-Out” ($116+ per platter, serves 5). Each platter features a combination of meats, and is served with fries or roasted potatoes, caramelised onion and sautéed corn. 33 Tessensohn Road, Singapore 217656
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Yu Sheng
Chwee Kueh
The broth of the Pig’s Organ Soup dish, originating from the Teochews, is boiled with a mix of ingredients mostly from a pig – thus the name. Parts of the liver, heart, intestines, stomach and tongue, and meat slices, are used in the dish. Traditionally, it is served with a special chilli or soy sauce with a bit of chilli. This had led many chefs to experiment with the sauce in order to attempt to create a unique one.
shredded vegetables and a variety of sauces and condiments. Recent additions include peanuts and crackers. Yu Sheng is considered a symbol of abundance and prosperity and it is tradition to mouth many poetic well-wishes and blessings as the dish is communally tossed before tucking in.
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CODE: : Hungry Heroes, your Name, Age, Gender, NRIC, Postal Code, E-mail ONLY 1 ENTRY PER PERSON, PLEASE CLOSING DATE: 18 Feb 2015 Good Luck!
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By Nicole Lee
february 13 - 19, 2015
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home inspirations
Get ideas for transforming your home
The dining area sits in the refurbished balcony – a pendant lamp and accompanying spotlights hang from the false ceiling
Private Dining The dining area sits in the refurbished balcony. Gary walled up the windows with sliding doors, and concealed them behind soft drapery. He also created a false ceiling from which hangs a pendant lamp and accompanying spotlights. Bay windows line the length of a wall in the living room.
Double Space “This apartment used to have a small living room,” said designer Gary Wong from Neu Konceptz. “It was only big enough to accommodate the sofa and a television set. There wasn’t even a space for the dining set!” he exclaimed. Gary and his team solved the problem by merging the living room with the adjoining balcony. By closing up the windows and extending the ceiling at the balcony, the home now has a much larger space for the family. Also of note is the monolithic black column next to the TV wall. What started out as a simple feng shui requirement has evolved into a design element clad in laminates and mosaic tiles.
Ride The Waves
By The Bay Our popular section continues with more inspiring ideas and home makeovers In the study room, Gary once again incorporated the bay window into its design – a custom-designed table is attached to the bay shelf, creating a T-shaped workspace
I used marble to make the tabletop and the walls are covered with an ashwood laminate that gives the room a polished and seamless look.
M
any interior designers consider bay windows as a space-wasting feature in the home. Unfortunately for this 3-bedroom condominium apartment, there is a row of bay windows in each room. Although the windows bring in plenty of sunlight into the home, design firm Neu Konceptz knew that they had to come up with a solution to effectively incorporate the windows into the interior design. The designer carved out a walkin wardrobe for the owners
To create visual depth in the master bedroom, Gary wanted to create a feature wall that would blend in with the design of the room. He built a soothing feature wall using wave board design panels and mounted the television set on it. The panels help to soften the tones in the bedroom, especially when combined with the wallpaper backing.
Back Against The Wall As with most of the rooms in this apartment, the bedroom has a stretch of bay windows along the wall. Gary didn’t want to be restricted by this layout. He pushed the back of the bed against the ledge while a cushioned headboard partially covers the window. The rest of the bay window acts as bedside tables.
Fashion Runway The designer also managed to carve out a walk-in wardrobe for the owners. This surprisingly large closet space, dressed all in white, boasts a dresser on the far end of the room and is crowned by a regal chandelier. In this space, every piece of clothing and accessory has its place.
Keep it Professional In the study room, Gary once again incorporated the bay window into its design. A custom-designed table sits in the centre of the room and stretches down its length, effectively splitting the room into two. This table is attached to the bay shelf, creating a T-shaped workspace. In order to raise the luxe factor of the room, Gary was careful with the material palette. “I used marble to make the tabletop and the walls are covered with an ashwood laminate that gives the room a polished and seamless look,” he pointed out. By Redzman Rahmat www.lookboxliving.com.sg Article first published in Lookbox Living #36 May/Jun 2014 Lookbox Annual 2015 is out now! Available at major bookstores and news stands! For more interior projects, visit www.lookboxliving.com.sg
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weekender.com.sg
Hom e M a k eover Ideas
STOCKHOLM flatwoven Rug $359, from IKEA
Summer & sunshine While it is now spring, summer will soon be upon us – are you ready? To prepare for the coming summer, brighten up your home with vibrant sunshine yellow. Just a small pop of colour can cheer up your room.
Seletti Pantone wallstore $87, from Fred Lives Here
Tiger plate $18, from Galanga Living
Yellow/ Pink Mug $12, from Galanga Living
B e au t y i n Br ief
New Year compliments Nothing sounds as good as “Wow, you look amazing this year!” – make your relatives envious this Chinese New Year with these beauty fixes
Eucerin Restore youthfulness to your face with the Eucerin HyaluronFiller range. Working like filler injections but without the high price tags and pain, this line of anti-ageing products helps you look up to three years younger! Using this before bedtime when skin is at its most restful and receptive state helps to continue the production of your skin’s own hyaluronic acid even while you sleep. Available at Sephora outlets
Vichy Vichy’s iconic new whitening product restores and boosts your skin’s metabolism for flawless, radiant and translucent skin. This creamy essence penetrates quickly with a fresh watery sensation, leaving a non-sticky natural pearly finish. Enriched with titanium dioxide and a pink pearlescent agent, it provides an immediate whitening effect and rosy glow, and leaves skin plump and smooth. Available in Derma Centre, Westgate
June Jacobs
The Body Shop Featuring shimmering, girly shades, The Body Shop eye shadow palette lets you mix and match colours to create exactly the look you want – whether you want a subtle look during the day or a more dramatic look for the evening. Each of the eye shadow colours in the palette work amazingly together. Each colour can be used on its own or blended with the other colours to create a look that’s your own. Available at The Body Shop outlets
Paraben and preservative free, this hydrating toner is enhanced with cranberry extract, a rich source of vitamins, minerals and flavonoids, combined with sodium hyaluronate and jojoba seed extract to enhance the natural moisture of skin. The powerful patent-pending anti-oxidant blend of white, red and green tea extracts combined with goji berry, pomegranate and grape seed extracts help to neutralise free radicals, protect skin from environmental toxins and combat the visible signs of premature aging. Removes residue and maintains the skin’s natural pH, leaving the skin smooth and refreshed. Available at Junejacobs.com
february 13 - 19, 2015
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Fash S NI PS
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february 13 - 19, 2015
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TRAVELation
weekender.com.sg
Bucket List Exceptional ideas to experience in your lifetime
Come face to face with the Devil Tasmania may appear a little remote but the island is naturally stunning, unique and, best of all, is home to the endangered Tasmanian devil Tasmania has it all – vast, uninhabited expanses of wilderness, an abundance of flora and fauna, gourmet food and wine, as well as a thriving arts scene. Most interestingly, almost 45 per cent of Tasmania lies in natural reserves, national parks and even World Heritage sites! Though located a good 240km South of the Australian mainland and separated by the Bass Strait, Tasmania has been attracting a good number of visitors who flock to experience first-hand Tasmania’s breathtaking wonders and to come face to face with the ‘devil’.
Tasmania’s UNIQUE ANIMAL treasures The natural wonderland of Tasmania supports a large population of mammals, many of which are ancient in origin and endemic to Tasmania, including the Tasmanian devil and other marsupials such as the eastern quoll, pademelon and bettong. The Tasmanian devil, as the name may suggest, is now found in the wild only here in Tasmania. As the world’s largest surviving carnivorous marsupial (after the extinction of the Thylacine or Tasmanian tiger in 1936), the devil has a thickset, squat build, with a relatively large, broad head and short, thick tail. The devil is a Tasmanian icon and has even been seen in popular media such as in the Looney Tunes cartoon but, unfortunately, it is also highly-endangered. Come and see these unique creatures roam the wild in Tasmania, or visit any one of the many parks and sanctuaries in Tasmania dedicated to protecting the species, like the Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park, the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and the Trowunna Wildlife Park.
Activities aplenty For every adrenaline-junkie, the island’s natural treasures live up to their hype – bushwalking, cycling, rafting and kayaking opportunities abound. Don’t miss the curvaceous Wineglass Bay, the craggy Cradle Mountain and the heavenly Huon Valley. Wild, imposing settings such as these are the essence of Tasmania and are what draw numerous visitors to the quaint island.
Getting there There are regular flights to the capital of Hobart. Within Tasmania, travelling is easy. The island is compact – at least by Australian standards – so it makes travelling easy with a rented car, bus or van. With good roads and scenic views wherever you go, going around Tasmania is part of the fun. By Eu Shuqi
The serene view of Wineglass Bay and The Hazards in Freycinet National Park, Tasmania
The Tasmanian devil is a unique marsupial creature only found on the island of Tasmania
february 13 - 19, 2015
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TRAVELation
Some flock to the famous Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees in the Tai Po district to hang up their wishes for the Lunar New Year
Shopping malls and plazas also gear up to celebrate the Lunar New Year with great festivity
travel F eat ure
Our travel writer, Pamela, jets off to the exciting land of lights, sounds and dim sum to celebrate Chinese New Year in a unique way Worshipped for its New World charm; sought after for its irresistible snacks and pastries; and heralded for throwing some of the best celebrations on Earth – Hong Kong is a nest of excitement, and one of the prime times to experience its full glory is the Chinese New Year (CNY) period. None of my previous experiences here could compare to the surge of joy, festivity and tradition that the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival brings. This is Asia’s life of the party: the throbbing world city of Hong Kong. And the New Year just made it even better. Ding Dim is a rare gem in a city where traditional teahouses are fading out
Shanghai Min’s poon choi is stuffed with abalone, sea cucumber, fish maw and other delicacies, and soaked in a pork bone broth
Don’t miss a visit to Woody, Buzz and all your friends from Toy Story
Disneyland Chinese New Year items will be on sale in the Disneyland Hong Kong shops until the end of February
Putting the Yum in Yum Cha What is Hong Kong without its culinary brainchild, dim sum? You’ve probably heard of Tim Ho Wan, the Michelin-starred franchise that has arrived on shores (and into our stomachs). But this time, I was brought to a more discrete contender. A small restaurant wedged between blocks in Central, Ding Dim is a rare gem in a city where traditional teahouses are fading out. Lunch and dinner crowds throng to Ding Dim for its juicy har gow (shrimp dumplings), crispy and fragrant BBQ pork buns and chewy beef tripe. Did I mention that its head chef, Master Black, ahem, transferred here from an aforementioned brand-name restaurant? No wonder Ding Dim’s so highly sought-after.
Of course, Hong Kong has more than just dim sum fare to offer. During this season, you’ll be spoilt with a flood of special menus. Traditional favourites such as poon choi (or pen cai, a big bowl feast) and suckling pig are rolled out with lip-smacking condiments. Some restaurants have even adopted Singapore’s lou hei (prosperity toss) with a mouth-watering twist. One restaurant, Shanghai Min, puts out a pretty ensemble of the yu sheng (raw fish) dish that’s generous with fresh sashimi. Toss it in messy fashion, take a mouthful, and you’ll find that it’s rather different from the Singaporean variety. Holding back on sweetness, it’s instead got a salty and tangy taste, complimented by the crunchy veggies, some of which had actually been baked to a crisp.
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weekender.com.sg
LOW-COST GETAWAYS If you need a short holiday but your budget for your flight is around $100 or less, look no further
r.nagy / Shutterstock.com
Don’t miss out on these promotions for budget airlines and low-cost carriers.
Taipei – Night Markets From $99, Tigerair. Promotion ends when sold out. Come experience what Taiwan is best known for – night markets. Located all over the country, these markets attract both locals and tourists on a daily basis. Come soak up the bustling and lively atmosphere, savour Taiwan’s best local dishes and shop at discounted prices!
Boracay – Island Hopping From $99, Tigerair. Promotion ends when sold out. What do you do when you’re in Boracay, and want to experience all the islands this paradise has to offer? Island hop, of course! Home to more than a dozen undeveloped beaches, turquoise waters and colourful coral reefs, come snorkel, dive or swim at different islands with thriving sea life. Many companies offer tours and these tours often include snorkelling equipment and meals.
Phnom Penh – Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
From $108, Jetstar. Promotion ends when sold out. This poignant museum chronicles the tumultuous events in Cambodia during dictator Pol Pot’s regime. The site was previously a high school before it was used as the notorious prison to hold over tens of thousands of prisoners, many of which were innocent. A warning though, many of the exhibits in this genocide museum are fairly gruesome and it is definitely not for the faint-hearted. All prices are correct at time of printing.
Taipei – Night Markets
Shanghai Min’s poon choi is another winner. Stuffed to the brim with a wealth of regional delicacies such as abalone, sea cucumber and fish maw, the bowl is personally arranged before being soaked in a divinely sweet pork bone broth. These dishes are available until Mar 5 and only for delivery – so if you’re travelling for CNY, you can get a hot, steaming, yummy tray of poon choi and lou hei (yu sheng) delivered right to your hotel doorstep!
Fortune- and Bargain-Hunting After all that feasting, it’s important to work it off. What better way to do that than sprinting (from sale to sale) and lifting heavy weights (of shopping bags)? The whole city is stocked with everything you’ll need for CNY shopping. Street markets burst into a blossom of red and gold as vivid and detailed decorations and sweet goodies are put up for sale. From big bazaars like Fa Yuen Street Market and Flower Market in Mongkok to village markets in Sha Tin and the New Territories, towns come to life with more treats and bargains than at any other time. But don’t just cruise through the main routes – dig a little beneath the surface and you’ll uncover more bargains of the stylish kind. Hiding just behind the stalls of Fa Yuen Street Market is a string of outlets hawking the latest fashion items. There are so many deals to grab that CNY in Hong Kong can become your runway show. You’ll want to steer clear of colossal and central malls unless being swamped by crowds is your idea of a good time. Hunt for slightly more secluded plazas – like the new MOKO in East Mongkok – that are less populated and thus great to wander in.
Celebrations Old and New You may remember this advertisement: two ladies frolicking in the neon city with shopping bags, proclaiming their looping itinerary of eating and shopping in Hong Kong. Thanks to this, the nation has been branded by many of us as the trove of food and retail – but it has so much more hidden up its sleeves, especially during this festive season. People gather to pray for good health, wealth and happiness in the temples dotted all over the country. Some flock to the famous Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees in the Tai Po district to hang up their wishes for the New Year. You can give it a shot too. Nevertheless, don’t forget Hong Kong’s centrepiece when you visit during this time. Its International CNY Parade is, after all, ranked among the best of festivals in the world. On Feb 19, floats, dancers, and a whole sea of vivacious performers will trawl through the streets. Victoria Harbour will be lit up with a blazing and magical display of fireworks on the night of Feb 20, and Feb 21 is CNY Race Day, where horses take to the tracks for an exciting tradition not to be missed. But you know what my favourite thing about CNY in Hong Kong is? It’s the best kind of chilly, with temperatures hovering between 12 to 18 degrees Celsius. So you can walk all you want, explore temples, and brave the streets and mountains without so much as breaking a sweat. You can be sure I’ll return! By Pamela Chow Weekender would like to thank the Hong Kong Tourism Board and the venues in its itinerary for hosting us.
Trip photographer: Joelyn Lee Photographs were taken with a Canon Powershot SX60 HS by our freelance photographer Joelyn Lee. Joelyn was one of the top finalists of the Weekender Canon Giveaway Contest.
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