ISSUE 126 • april 24 - May 7, 2015
Like us on Follow us on
/weekendersgp /weekender.com.sg
P6
weekender.com.sg
sports feature singapore: Stage of euro football
P12
star of the week yeo yann yann: she’s one hot mama!
P20
tech feature smartwatches: what’s the rave about?
5 Nila Bliss Packs worth $120 each
to be won!
P18
Easy, breezy & off the tour bus route in kansai & Hokkaido P24
shangri-la’s the waterfall revamped to southern italian
Avengers Age of Ultron:
New twists & OLD Favourites P14
P10
WK126B/MCI(P)119/08/2014
Entertainment W
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
superheroes, superstars, super junior
PAGE 2
& super singapore! TOP 3 EVENTS
1
DEMI LOVATO: DEMI WORLD TOUR IN SINGAPORE 2015
28 Apr, 7.30pm, from $68 With mega hits such as “Let It Go”, “Skyscraper”, “Heart Attack”, “Give Your Heart A Break” and her current single “Nightingale”, Demi will be putting up a night of stellar performance for her first full-scale concert in the Republic. Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre, Hall 601-604, Level 6, www.sistic.com.sg
2
Until 3 May Live out your super hero fantasies at VivoCity! Pose for a photo with life-sized figurines of Iron Man, Captain America, Thor and Hulk; “Become Iron Man” in an Augmented Reality station; or test your strength by lifting Thor’s enchanted hammer “Mjolnir”. Take this opportunity to snap photographs of life‑sized 3D figurines of the super heroes, participate in free interactive activities and bring home exclusive movie merchandise! Vivocity, 1 Harbourfront Walk
Get a leg up the career ladder with a degree from PSB Academy Study part-time as you work and attain an honours degree in just 16 months For working adults entering PSB Academy, career progression is the top expected outcome of learning. PSB Academy has partnered with Coventry University in the United Kingdom (UK), winner of the Modern University of the Year*, to jointly focus on their students’ future employability.
Rich Heritage and Assured Quality For the past 50 years, PSB Academy has been successfully providing top-notch education to keen learners. Besides focusing on academic rigour, it equips students with knowledge and skills that are relevant to the industry. This leading private education institute has a centrally-located, full-fledged campus (PSBAcademy@Delta) that is conveniently accessible from Tiong Bahru MRT Station, as well as a city campus (PSBAcademy@ Shenton).
Fast Track to an Honours Degree Working adults would appreciate the option of attaining an honours degree within just 16 months. Through PSB Academy, Coventry University offers degree programmes such as Accounting & Finance, Advertising, Business & Marketing, and Engineering & Technology. Students who enrol in the programmes offered in Singapore by PSB Academy will experience the same high standards that are practised in the UK. The next intake is in July 2015. *The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2015
Coventry University degree programmes • Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Accounting and Finance
• Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Business and Marketing
• Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Advertising and Business
• Bachelor of Engineering with Honours in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Advertising and Marketing
• Bachelor of Engineering with Honours in Mechanical Engineering
• Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Business and Finance
• Bachelor of Science with Honours in Computer Science
new! free! Marvel’s Avengers: Age Of Ultron Assemble in Vivocity
3
new! free! HOME Exhibition By the Singapore Memory Project
Until 31 Apr, 10am-9pm The exhibition documents an intimate aspect of life in Singapore – our homes. Four projects supported by the irememberSG Fund will be on display and they explore how our homes have influenced us. The Plaza, National Library, 100 Victoria Street
her lucky 13th Top Ten hit on The Billboard Hot 100. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, www.sportshubtix.sg
music Super Junior World Tour 1 May, 3pm, from $138 Super Junior has proven that they are the undisputed king of K-pop. From the launch of their solo concert in 2008 to the latest ‘SUPER SHOW 6’, they have set a huge record by holding more than 110 world tour shows with more than 1, 700,000 people in their audiences, writing a new chapter in concert history. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, www.sportshubtix.sg
new! Boyzone BZ20 The Anniversary Tour
new! KATY PERRY THE PRISMATIC WORLD TOUR 11 May, 8pm, from $128 International superstar Katy Perry will be touring in support of her album Prism, which debuted at number one on The Billboard 200. The platinum album has given Katy her biggest ever single with “Roar”, while “Dark Horse” just became
23 May, 8pm, price TBA The boys are back! The show promises to bring back fond memories with hits such as “Picture Of You”, “Words”, “Baby Can I Hold You”, “No Matter What”, “Light Up The Night” and many more. The MasterCard Theatres, Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue, www.sistic.com.sg
CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
New! Singapura: The Musical at new Capitol Theatre From 19 May, 2.30pm (SatSun) and 7.30pm (Tues-Sun), from $65 See the Singapore story told on a global scale! Come May 19, Singapura: The Musical will premiere at the newlyrefurbished Capitol Theatre. Be swept through a spectacular journey through the decade from 1955 to 1965, when Singapore conquered various struggles on its path to independence. Accompanied by an international and local cast and world-class musical numbers, Singapura: The Musical is a tale of strength and love – for the country and countrymen. This is our Singapore story told to the world, so come and witness it in the flesh! Capitol Theatre, 17 Stamford Road, singapurathemusical.com
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
Entertainment W
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2
music
with Tart & Co. and The Garden Slug, the weekend fundraiser will be donating 50 per cent of all proceeds to the beneficiary of choice Hope Dog Rescue. The Garden Slug, 55 Lorong L Telok Kurau, tartsforapurpose.peatix.com
The Wind in the Willows
new! Mother’s Day Special: Hong Kong Superstars in Concert 10 May, 7.30pm, from $48 Come celebrate this mother’s day with popular Hong Kong artistes, Nancy Sit, Hu Feng, Teresa Mo, Kevin Cheng, Benny Chen, Myolie Wu and Sammul Chan as they joined hands to put forth an unforgettable and a night of comedy concert. Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre, www.sistic.com.sg
family new! Purposesg: Tarts for a purpose 25-26 Apr, 11am-6pm, $25 Calling all animal lovers! Come down for a weekend of delicious tarts, a dog adoption drive, and a kibble donation drive at a cozy pet-friendly café. Together
fantasy-adventure Strange Magic, a madcap fairy tale musical inspired by A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Give your little ones a treat with the colourful cast of goblins, elves, fairies and imps as they take you on their hilarious misadventure sparked by the battle over a powerful potion! Receive a free gift with every ticket purchased. Various Golden Village theatres, www.gv.com.sg
Tulipmania 2015 Until 10 May, 9am-9pm This enchanting series of floral displays will draw visitors into the magical world of folklore, legends, fairy tales and nursery rhymes. Look out for captivating blooms like the scarlet “Red Riding Hood” and the “Purple Prince” as they grace familiar fairy tale settings like Cinderella‘s carriage and the gingerbread house of Hansel and Gretel. Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, www. gardensbythebay.com.sg
new! Golden Village Mums & Babies 27 Apr, 11am-2pm, $6 (free for kids below 90cm) Catch the visually stunning
12-14 Jun, various timings, from $42 Fans of woodland adventures will be delighted with the stage adaption of The Wind in the Willows. Set in a charming English countryside, join four friends, Mole, Ratty, Badger and Mr Toad on their picnics and boat rides, as they relate a powerful tale about friendship. SOTA, 1 Zubir Said Drive, www.sistic.com.sg
exhibitions Da Vinci: Shaping the Future Until 17 May, 10am-7pm, $19 (adult), $10.50 (child) Combining his original works with innovative contemporary design, interactive exhibits, technology, film and contemporary art, the
exhibition presents rich insights into Da Vinci’s art, science, technology and his fascination with nature. ArtScience Museum, Marina Bay Sands, www.sistic.com.sg
stirring music and songs, and astonishing life sizepuppets. Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Drive, www.sistic.com.sg
theatre new! National Theatre’s War Horse 30 Apr-1 May, 8pm (Thu), 3pm (Fri), from $22 Since its first performance at the National Theatre back in 2007, War Horse has become an international smash hit, capturing the imagination of 4 million people internationally. War Horse will take you on an extraordinary journey from the fields of rural Devon to the trenches of World War I France with
sports Meiji Run 2015
free! Chinese Zodiac Heads: A Gift from Jackie Chan Until 31 May To celebrate the Year of the Goat, the ACM displays the 12 zodiac animal heads donated by celebrated film star Jackie Chan. Modelled after fountain sculptures looted from the Old Summer Palace outside Beijing, they were made for the 2012 movie CZ12. The sculptures were designed by the Taiwanese artist aPen and cast in bronze. Asian Civilisations Museum, www.acm.org.sg
PAGE 4 Resorts World Theatre, Resorts World Sentosa, www.sistic.com.sg
King Lear (M18) 2 May, 3pm, $22-27 Don’t miss the screening of this acclaimed theatre production at the Esplanade Theatre! An aged king decides to divide his kingdom between his three daughters, according to which of them is most eloquent in praising him. His favourite, Cordelia, says nothing. Lear’s world descends into chaos. Esplanade Theatre, www.sistic.com.sg
Live Spectacle: NARUTO 6-7 Jun, 1.30pm & 7pm, $58-$168 The popular Japanese manga series is adapted into a musical and will see Naruto and his classmates start their duty as freshmen Ninja. This musical will explore the beginning of a journey where they are forced to face challenges and fatalities as well as Naruto’s personal struggle and friendship with Sasuke.
23 May, 2pm-8pm, $75 The 5km fun run will consist of various Instagram-worthy attraction points such as a life size Meiji Plain Crackers Maze and Hello Panda. Meiji is also holding a post-race party which includes a Meiji buffet, packed with a whole lot of chocolaty and milky goodness, for all participants who complete this year’s inaugural run. Sentosa, Port of Lost Wonder, www.meijirun.sg
others new! Singapore Flamenco Festival 24-26 Apr, various timings Ignite a joyous jubilee! Get blown away by dazzling Spanish culture and enjoy three spectacular days of fun-filled activities and performances including a grand musical finale for you and your family. Move with Flamenco shoes and discover a Spanish ode to passion and life. CHIJMES, 30 Victoria St, chijmes.com.sg/sff2015
From left: Healthy physical development for children was promoted through activity booths at such as kids’ soccer try-outs, obstacle courses, bouncy castles and much more; Over 2,000 parents and children set the record in the Singapore Book of Records by pledging their support for an active lifestyle last Saturday; Dr Amy Khor (right), Senior Minister of State for Health, graced the event
ev e nt r e view
Singapore’s largest outdoor play carnival Organised by Rise & Shine, this event that encouraged active outdoor play for children was parent-led and supported by Sport Singapore This was an event like no other. Over 2,000 parents and children set the record in the Singapore Book of Records by pledging their support for an active lifestyle last Saturday.
Parent-led Community Sets Record This record-setting motion took place at the Rise & Shine Carnival 2015, at The Float @Marina Bay. The event was organised by Rise & Shine, a parent-led community with the support of Sport Singapore. The pledge took form with children and parents alike, bearing temporary tattoos on their arms with the tag line “Dirt is good” to show support for an active and healthier lifestyle, despite the prevalence of a sedentary lifestyle in Singapore.
Promoting Healthy Physical Development Dr Amy Khor, Senior Minister of State for Health, graced the event. Healthy physical development for children was promoted through a line-up of activity booths at the event such as kids’ soccer try-outs, obstacle courses, bouncy castles and much more. In addition, as part of the movement’s aim to give kids a healthy start to the day, the event kicked off with a healthy breakfast picnic segment for families.
Physical Well-Being for Sharper Mind & Confidence Active outdoor play with the goal of increasing a child’s heart rate and perspiration is highly endorsed by medical professionals for children. The Health Promotion Board recommends 60 minutes
or more of moderate to vigorous physical activity for primary school goers and at least 180 minutes of structured and unstructured activities for pre-schoolers*. Dr Chong Shang Chee, Head of Child Development Unit of the National University Hospital, confirms the notion that being physically active not only supports the physical well-being of a child but also promotes a sharper mind, healthier eyesight and self-confidence too.
*Health Promotion Board, “Make Fitness Fun for your Kids”, Singapore. Retrieved from www.hpb.gov. sg/HOPPortal/health-article/508
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
Entertainment W
sp orts f eature
Singapore: New stage of top European football? Juventus FC and Andrea Pirlo, along with his legendary set-piece skills, are among the stars who have already graced the new Sports Hub stadium
Will Arsenal, Stoke and Everton’s arrival here in July change Singapore’s position in international football? Arsenal fans in Singapore were over the moon when the club announced that it would be returning to our shores after a long 24-year wait. After all, in recent years, fans of the Gunners have had to travel all across the region to catch their team in preseason. From Indonesia to Malaysia to Hong Kong in 2011 and 2012, Arsene Wenger’s team had seemingly forgotten about Singapore – until this year.
The Barclays Premier League Comes to Town On Jul 15 and 18, Arsenal will be competing under a different arrangement from its usual summer tours. It will contest in the Barclays Asia Trophy in a fourteam tournament, alongside Everton, Stoke City and a Singapore XI, at the Sports Hub in Kallang... If the Barclays Asia Trophy tournament goes well, it may just be the start of an annual summer affair here for global teams looking to capitalise on their Asian fan base. Indeed, Singapore’s strategic position and economic growth, coupled with the spending power of the fans in this region, has birthed the phenomenon of a globalised Premier League.
Singapore the New Stage of European Football? Photo: Photo Works / Shutterstock.com
Is this the current trend for top football clubs? It’s no secret that the top clubs in Britain had been toying with the idea of holding the final match of the season in an Asian city, simply for the top value it could potentially bring. “I think the point is there is a brand new billion-dollar stadium that makes it a much more attractive venue to host an event in. Combine that with the ‘wow’ factor and excellent supporting infrastructure that Singapore has, you have an attractive proposition to host an event there,” said an executive working commercially with the Singapore Sports Hub. The Barclays Asia Trophy aims to recreate an authentic English “match day feel”, with Premier League referees and television commentators flown in to add to the experience. It will be a complete package for fans here.
Premier League Clubs in Asia The last edition of the Barclays Asia Trophy was held in Hong Kong two years ago, with the participation of Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur and Sunderland from the English Premier League and South China from Hong Kong. In this edition, Stoke City is particularly “stoked” that it will be coming to
Singapore – or Asia – for the first time in its history! “I believe it will represent the first time Stoke City will have played in Asia and it’s an opportunity we are looking to embrace,” said Stoke City Manager Mark Hughes, in an E-mailed statement to Weekender. “The Premier League has an enormous following in Asia and other managers who have taken teams to the Barclays Asia Trophy in the past tell me there’s always a fantastic atmosphere at the games. We’re really looking forward to it,” said Hughes, a Manchester United legend.
‘Mickey Mouse’ Trophy? But will this Barclays Asia Trophy end up a ‘Mickey Mouse’ trophy, or simply an excuse for clubs to capitalise on the spending power of fans here? The president of Singapore’s official Arsenal Fan Club, Eric Ong, said, “From a Singapore point of view, we are delighted that Arsenal is coming here after a long time. Their decision to come here is not just for Singapore fans, but for ASEAN fans in general.” “I can’t say if Singapore is a better choice than other countries but we have a sizeable contingent that travels to see Arsenal every summer, regardless of where they go. Our counterparts from Indonesia, Malaysia, Macau, Philippines, Hong Kong have all been in touch, so I’m very sure you’ll be seeing many Arsenal fans from the region here in Singapore,” Ong added.
New World-Class Stadium Draws Big Games & Stars The newly-built 55,000-seater Sports Hub stadium has also provided opportunities for fans here to enjoy international football without having to jet out of the country. Japan and Brazil played to a sold out crowd at the stadium when they visited last September, and Juventus (along with stars such as Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal and Paul Pogba) graced the opening ceremony in July. The AFF Suzuki Cup held in December also brought regional attention to the stadium, despite Singapore’s humiliating elimination in the hands of its fiercest rival, Malaysia. Despite concerns over the state of the pitch, it is widely believed that the stadium will be able to entice commercially-viable teams with a huge fan base. Borussia Dortmund, Valencia and AS Roma have all been linked to friendly matches in Singapore in July, although no dates have yet been finalised. With big names and a world-class football stadium, surely it’s a step towards improving Singapore’s mark in global football, and drawing even bigger clubs and stars for us to be starstruck over. By Ash Hashim
Premier League clubs Arsenal, Stoke and Everton will be here in July to compete for the Barclays Asia Trophy
PRESENTING the new-LOOK weekender! Dear Weekender readers, We hope you like the thicker 28-page Weekender, with more and new types of content. This issue, we also introduce to you our new-look Weekender! We hope you like our snazzy new image, to better suit you, our trendy readers.
W
Please let us know your thoughts on our new look and new content, and follow us on weekender.com.sg and www.facebook.com/weekendersgp for the latest in lifestyle and entertainment. As mentioned, from May, Weekender will be published twice a month in this new look, and now with more pages. Thank you for your support so far. Weekends look even better!
Editorial Director Frank Young
frank@weekender.com.sg
Sales Director David Phey
Advisor James Yip
Head of Sales Karin Ng
Distribution Lawrence Tan
Editor Lester J Wan
karin@weekender.sg
Art Director Sabrina Cao
Team Lead Erwin Lim
Designer Zoe Lai Writer Pamela Chow
erwin@weekender.sg
Team Members Syarila Zainal Anabel Ang Lionel Wee
Coordinator Riki Zou Contributors Geralyne Kaye Ash Hashim Shareen Wong Andy Penders
Intern Rydell Tan
WEEKENDER www.facebook.com/weekendersgp www.weekender.com.sg
Weekender Group Pte Ltd 71 Ubi Road 1, #06-37, Oxley BizHub 1, S408732, Tel: +65 6493 2001 E-mail: general@weekender.com.sg CRN# 201212438E MCI (P) 119/08/2014 GETTING HARD COPIES:
Weekender is delivered to hundreds of thousands of homes island-wide. You can also find copies (while supplies last) at: Over 200 selected 7-Eleven locations island-wide
For actual locations, visit our website
NEW EXPANDED MRT AREAS: Disclaimer: The illustrations, photographs, views and statements expressed by our contributors, bloggers, illustrators, or writers do not necessarily reflect the views of Weekender Group Private Limited. Weekender Group Private Limited does not warrant the accuracy, reliability, currency or completeness of those views or statements and do not accept any legal liability whatsoever arising from any reliance on the views, statements and subject matter. © Copyright Weekender Group Pte Ltd. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, all rights including those in copyright in the content of this publication are owned by or controlled for these purposes by Weekender Group Pte Ltd. Copyrights to photographs, Illustrations, or any other forms of work which appear in this publication provided by non-Weekender Group Pte Ltd contributors are owned and controlled their respective creators. Except as otherwise expressly permitted under copyright law or Weekender Group Pte Ltd, the content of this publication may not be copied, reproduced, republished, downloaded, posted, broadcast or transmitted in any way without first obtaining our written permission or that of the copyright owner. Information accurate at time of writing.
Every Friday morning peak period. Subject to weather and traffic conditions.
• Raffles Place • Chinatown • Dhoby Ghaut • City Hall • Labrador • Downtown • Orchard • Yishun • Somerset • Newton • Bugis • Clementi • Woodlands • Admiralty • Sembawang • Marina Bay • Yio Chu Kang• Khatib • Ang Mo Kio • Bishan • Toa Payoh • Redhill • Bukit Gombak • Choa Chu Kang • Tampines • Tanjong Pagar • Buona Vista • Lavender • Queenstown • Serangoon • Boon Lay • Jurong East • Tiong Bahru
PAGE 7
red car d f o otball fever
Left: Eden Hazard has been in top form and was the star of the clash between Chelsea and Manchester United – will the Blues edge out Arsenal as well?
Chelsea’s Premier League title unless…
Bottom: Arsenal’s Chilean star Alexis Sanchez scored a brace and led the Gunners to a win over Reading in the FA Cup last weekend – can he inspire them to overcome Chelsea?
It’s do or-die at the Emirates stadium this coming Sunday as 2nd-placed Arsenal entertains Premier League leaders Chelsea This Sunday, the current No.1 meets the current No. 2 in the Barclays Premier League clash of the top of the table. Will Chelsea be one step closer to the title or can Arsenal hatch a plot to halt the champions elect?
Runner-Up or Usurper? Three days after this do or die clash at the Emirates stadium, the Blues could be crowned Champions of England. Should they win on Sunday and then do the deed over Leicester 72 hours later, Jose Mourinho will claim his 3rd personal Premier League title and Chelsea’s first in five years. This is because Chelsea would have an unassailable 16-point lead. The Special One would then add to his successes in 2005 and 2006. Of course, it could pan out to a very different set of circumstances. This is how Arsenal could still win the Barclays Premier League.
26 Apr If Arsenal beat Chelsea at the Emirates, it would be its first victory over the Blues at home since 2011. Pts: Chelsea 76, Arsenal 69
29 Apr Leicester is in fine form, having won its last three games and there is a slim chance that in front of their home crowd the Foxes could manage to find a way past the Chelsea bus and hang on for a narrow 1-0 win. Pts: Chelsea 76, Arsenal 69
2 May Chelsea will be at home to Crystal Palace, who’s desperate to get revenge for a smash and grab performance by the Blues at Selhurst Park earlier this year. Alan Pardew could inspire his men to a draw. Pts: Chelsea 77, Arsenal 69
4 May Arsenal travel to take on Hull City, who could be bruised after an away defeat against Crystal Palace. The Gunners are likely to make light work of the Tigers. Pts: Chelsea 77, Arsenal 72
9 May Liverpool will be in London and the Reds have it in them to appease last season’s result at Anfield and to claim a point at the Bridge. Pts: Chelsea 78, Arsenal 72
11 May For the second Monday running, Arsenal is playing catch-up but will have the easy task of taking on an inconsistent Swansea team. Pts: Chelsea 78, Arsenal 75
Photo: mooinblack / Shutterstock.com
17 May Arsenal is now firing on all cylinders and it seems nothing can stop the Gunners, although Manchester United, who’s bounced back from the defeat to Chelsea, is good enough for a draw. Pts: Chelsea 78, Arsenal 76
18 May Chelsea’s nerves are kicking in now and a trip to the Hawthorns might see the Blues unable to breach a well-organised West Bromwich back line, with a goalless draw the result. Pts: Chelsea 79, Arsenal 76
20 May Arsenal’s game in hand is an easy one, at home to Sunderland who will offer little resistance. Arsenal could well cruise to a 4-0 win. Pts: Chelsea 79, Arsenal 79
24 May In the final game of the season, Arsenal knows it has to better Chelsea’s result to win the Premier League title. Chelsea will be at home to Sunderland and on paper it looks an easy match. However, the Black Cats are fighting for their lives, trying to stave off relegation. Dick Advocaat’s men just need a draw to stay up and they will park the bus, meaning Chelsea may not breach the rear guard. A goalless draw at the Bridge and three points for Arsenal against an already-safe West Brom will mean the Gunners win the league title. Pts: Chelsea 80, Arsenal 82 Nevertheless Chelsea could prove us wrong by the end of the month, so stay tuned for the latest results. Red Card Sports Radio – 24/7 sports news and live football commentaries. Sports fans know more. Tune in on StarHub Ch 225.
About Andy Penders
Andy Penders (@andypenders) is the Head of Sports at #RedCardConnect. Andy previously worked at ESPN Star Sports, Fox Sports, Mio Stadium and Zoom Sports.
Photo: Natursports / Shutterstock.com
Of course, it could pan out to a very different set of circumstances. This is how Arsenal could still win the Barclays Premier League.
PAGE 8
Entertainment W
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
ent e rta i n m en t featu r e
This Mothers’ Day, spend some quality time with mommy dearest with these new releases hort on ideas on how to treat your mom – or even the mom of your kids – on Mother’s Day? Take her out for a movie night just in time for these latest shows!
The unlikely pair of a rookie cop (Reese Witherspoon) and a drug dealer widow (Sofia Vergara) are pit against cartel assassins
Hot Pursuit Release: 7 May What better way to celebrate the strength of mothers than to watch more lovely ladies kicking butt? Starring one of comedy’s favourite chicks, Hot Pursuit follows rookie cop Cooper (Reese Witherspoon), who hasn’t had the opportunity to prove herself in the field. One fine day, she is plunged into action when she saves key witness and drug dealer widow Daniella (Sofia Vergara) from cartel assassins. The unlikely duo gradually discovers that there’s something more sinister at play. With suspense, action and girl power in full throttle, this would be quite a pick-me-up for the strongest woman you know.
Samuel L Jackson stars as the President of the USA whose plane is shot down, leaving him to survive the Finnish wilderness with the help of a 13-year-old boy
After crushing the local competition in Pitch Perfect, the Bellas enter an international championship against the world’s best
Big Game
Pitch Perfect 2
Release: 7 May If you two would rather watch a pseudo-father-son duo rough it out, you could check out Finland’s most expensive film ever made instead. Big Game is an action-adventure movie featuring a heroic pairing more unlikely than Hot Pursuit’s cop-criminal duo. A plane transporting the President of the United States of America (Samuel L Jackson) is shot down by terrorists, leaving the world leader stranded in the wilderness of Finland. With the terrorists closing in for the kill, the President runs into his only lifeline: 13-year-old boy, Oskari (Onni Tommila). Sounds slightly reminiscent of Hanna (2011), don’t you think? As anxious Pentagon officials look on helplessly via satellite feed, the President and his unlikely saviour must survive the most extraordinary 24 hours of their lives. They spent a cool €8.5 million on this movie. Technically, you could tell your mom you gave her a multi-million dollar gift for Mothers’ Day.
Release: 14 May With the witty tag line “We’re Back, Pitches”, who wouldn’t want to catch this sequel to the successful musical comedy? The Barden Bellas are an American college a cappella group with killer vocals and side-splitting wit. After crushing the local competition in Pitch Perfect, the Bellas now enter an international championship against the world’s best acts. How will the beautiful Bellas stand out on a stage where wild, exotic performers from around the world are known to squash the competition flat? Pitch Perfect 2 is a great way to give your mom a musical treat while introducing her to some of the best pop hits on the radio today, including covers by award-winning real-life a cappella group Pentatonix.
A group of school friends chatting online is soon terrorised after an uninvited guest uses the account of their dead classmate to communicate with them
Unfriended Release: 30 Apr This could be the best way to familiarise older people with the wonders of the Internet. A group of high school friends chatting via Skype is caught by surprise when an uninvited guest joins their conversation. The mysterious person is using the account of their dead classmate, Laura Barns, to terrorise the group. Things quickly descend into mad terror when each teen is violently attacked in his or her own home. Why would you bring your mom to such a strange choice of film, you ask? It’s a good way let her know more about cyberbullying – and perhaps to think of what we could do to reduce it. Also, it’s a good way to scare her and keep her from adding you on social media accounts. Now that would be horrifying! By Pamela Chow
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
PAGE 10
Entertainment W
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
Earth’s mightiest heroes not only look good but do everything in style, including generous servings of butt-kicking
m ov i e r e view
Avengers: Age of Ultron new twists & old favourites Marvel’s mightiest superheroes The Avengers are back and ready to take on bigger and badder villains such as the all-powerful and nefarious Ultron
The formidable Avengers must reassemble and form uneasy alliances to contain this threat before it completely mows through Earth.
The last Avengers movie ended with a happily ever after. The treacherous and power-hungry villain Loki got locked away and peace is restored to planet Earth, or so it seemed. If you had stayed for the bonus scene in the end credits, the film ended on a savoury note – our favourite Marvel heroes headed to a shawarma restaurant for a bite after saving the world. In any case, the work was done and harmony had returned. What could possibly go wrong now?
Heroes We Love
Big Bad Robot Fast forward to Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron. Back in his technological empire of an office, billionaire Tony Stark (the inimitable Robert Downey Jr) tries to jumpstart a dormant programme for peacekeeping. (And perhaps some housekeeping.) However, things quickly take a bad turn when the programme births the malicious Ultron (voiced by James Spader of “The Blacklist”). He’s a big, bad techno-being, and he’s got some big, bad plans for humanity – namely, mass extinction.
Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron stars Downey Jr, who returns as Iron Man, along with Chris Evans as Captain America, Chris Hemsworth as Thor and Mark Ruffalo as The Hulk. Together with Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow is Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye. Samuel L Jackson returns as Nick Fury, Don Cheadle as James Rhodes and even Cobie Smulders of “How I Met Your Mother” as SHIELD Agent Maria Hill.
things quickly take a bad turn when the programme births the malicious Ultron. He’s a big, bad techno-being, and he’s got some big, bad plans for humanity – namely, mass extinction.
The scene of the “Hulkbuster” Ironman slugging it out with the Hulk alone is worth catching the movie for
The Avengers confront two mysterious yet powerful new characters, the Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver, played by Elizabeth Olsen of Oldboy (2013) and Godzilla (2014) and Aaron Taylor-Johnson of Kick-Ass (2010) and Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging (2008). Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron is based on the classic Marvel comic series, first published way back in 1963.
Tips for the Movie If you’re going to catch this in cinemas – why wouldn’t you? – here are some titbits you’ll need to know. Unlike in the first Avengers movie, there won’t be a neat Easter egg end-credits scene in this one, as director Joss Whedon has revealed. So don’t foolishly stay until the end, because there’s no pot of gold waiting there! But, there’s a short bonus scene just before the credits roll.
There is one other cool detail to look out for. Along with new blood, the Avengers encounter an old friend. Paul Bettany, who voiced Iron Man’s AI assistant J.A.R.V.I.S., now returns in the new incarnation of Vision, and is ready to join in the fun. Whedon reportedly planned this appearance way ahead – as early as during the making of the first Avengers. That’s some sharp long-term vision there! Find out how the Avengers will corral their forces and witty banter this time round, just in time to save the world in style. This is one movie you certainly shouldn’t miss. By Pamela Chow
AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON [PG13] DIRECTOR: STARRING: GENRE: RUN LENGTH: RELEASE:
Joss Whedon Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Robert Downey Jr, Elizabeth Olsen & Cobie Smulders Adventure, Action 142 min 23 Apr
From Left: Is the terror of Ultron birthed from the genius of Ironman? Among the new characters are Quicksilver (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) and the Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen)
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
PAGE 12
Entertainment W
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
AL SO I N THEATRES DANNY COLLINS [NC16]
It had only been a few months after Yeo Yann Yann had given birth, but she looks absolutely stunning in Rubbers
40 years ago an undelivered letter could have changed his life forever but he just got it today. 1970s rocker Danny Collins (Al Pacino) can’t give up his hard-living ways but when his manager (Christopher Plummer) uncovers that letter by John Lennon, everything changes. Danny decides to change course and embarks on his emotional journey. STARRING: Al Pacino, Annette Bening, Jennifer Garner, Bobby Cannavale, & Christopher Plummer GENRE: Drama, Comedy RELEASE: 23 Apr
AGE OF ADALINE [PG] An accident allowed Adaline Bowman (played by Blake Lively) to miraculously remain youthful, at 29 years of age, for nearly eight decades. Fearing the exposure of her secret, Adaline keeps to herself, not allowing anyone to get close to her. After years of a solitary life, she meets Ellis (Michiel Huisman) who reignites her passion for life and romance. A weekend with his parents forces Adaline to make a decision that will completely change her life. STARRING: Blake Lively, Michiel Huisman, Harrison Ford, & Ellen Burstyn GENRE: Drama, Romance RELEASE: 30 Apr
ATM [PG] Three unemployed best friends since university days; Ah Lok, Bo Zai and Ming Ming have one mission – to rob an ATM, due to their financial issues. The only problem is that the targeted ATM somehow ends up at a nursing home and, to locate the whereabouts of the ATM, they go undercover as handymen. They soon have second thoughts about their plan after spending a few days with the old folks. STARRING: Joanne Yew, C Kwan C, Ha Yu, Feng Shui Fan, Loi Hoi Pang & Nina Paw Hee Ching GENRE: Drama RELEASE: 30 Apr
THE COBBLER [NC16] Max (Adam Sandler) has been repairing shoes in the same New York shop that has been in his family for generations, doing the same mundane routine daily. Until one day, he stumbles upon an heirloom that allows him to step into the lives of his customers and see the world from a whole new angle. This is the only way Max can ever figure out who he is. STARRING: Adam Sandler, Cliff “Method Man” Smith, Steve Buscemi, Dustin Hoffman & Dan Steven GENRE: Drama, Comedy, Fantasy RELEASE: 30 Apr
star of the wee k
Yeo Yann Yann: She’s a hot mama! Award-winning actress Yeo Yann Yann talks about how making babies helped her film local sex comedy Rubbers Strutting into the room with hot pink capri pants and power pumps, Yeo Yann Yann sports no sign of motherhood stress. On the scintillating poster of local sex comedy Rubbers, Yann Yann looks even less like a new mom. But the feisty lady, who’s known for her key roles in Ilo Ilo and 881, will tell you that she’s a mother first – no matter what raunchy scenes she may appear in. In her latest film, Rubbers, by local director Han Yew Kwang, Yann Yann stars as awkward singleton Baoling trying to seduce hunky plumber Thor (played by Julian Hee). Weekender managed to catch Yann Yann to find out how she landed herself in the role, and what this new film means to her as a mom.
Wow, you look great in the movie poster! How do you feel about this visual? This photo was taken a year after I gave birth. I was a proud new mom but I didn’t have confidence in my figure. I was still big then – no editing needed. [laughs] Now I’m back to my original size!
What was your first reaction to the racy script? I said no at first. How would I face my kid in the future? “This isn’t real, Mommy’s only acting!” When she turns 18, [the director] will have to explain to her how her mother could do such things! I’m just kidding. We’re actors, after all.
What made you decide to take on the role? When Yew Kwang came to me, I had just given birth three months ago. I told him I don’t think I’m in good shape. But he had come to my home in Malaysia to look for me. I think he wanted to make changes and explore different things [in film]. So despite my tiredness I said okay, let’s try.
Yeo Yann Yann is known for her flexibility in portraying both serious and comedic roles
Things do get racy but this is no gratuitous flick
So how did you slim down? Actually I was a spokesperson for a slimming campaign. And it worked very well – without reducing the size of my assets too!
How was it like acting seductively towards Julian? I’m a very, very lucky girl. [laughs] As actors, when we work, we have to leave the awkwardness outside. (On set,) I am not Yann Yann, I am Baoling.
Was it awkward for you to play such a role? Do you feel sexy after it? Baoling is awkward; I don’t find her sexy at all. It’s natural to try to be sexy but for myself, sexiness comes from the inside, not just from your body. Even though I look different from the poster now, I still feel really sexy.
Any funny behind-the-scenes stories you can share with us? The director and a staff went with me to pick out my wardrobe. So I’d come out of the changing room and have two guys tell me, “It’s not short enough, try something shorter.” It was like shopping with two boyfriends.
What surprised you most during this experience? Condoms taste quite bad, even with a banana. It’s weird!
I’d come out of the changing room and have two guys tell me, ‘It’s not short enough, try something shorter.’ It was like shopping with two boyfriends.
Would you dare to let your husband watch this film? Of course I would! Hopefully he will find me sexy after watching it, and maybe he’ll miss my after-birth figure.
Then would you two consider having another child after that? That would be up to fate! [laughs] Rubbers premieres in theatres on Apr 30, with a rating of R21.
By Pamela Chow
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
Foodmania W
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
F ood F eature
SHANGRI-LA’S THE WATERFALL REVAMPS TO SOUTHERN ITALIAN Amidst the lush landscaping and sprawling pools, the poolside restaurant of the Shangri-La Hotel, The Waterfall, has changed its gastronomic direction
With their new Chef de Cuisine Marco De Vincentis, The Waterfall now offers authentic and heirloom southern Italian cuisine. Hailing from Naples, Chef Marco brings with him traditional recipes and inspiration from another chef from the region — his grandfather. His certificate of authenticity runs deep in his blood.
Buffet Bravo Chef Marco has revamped the menu, which now offers authentic southern Italian buffet and à la carte dishes to guests. The buffet features a range of Italian antipasti, cold cuts, cheese, handmade pasta dishes, pizza, Italian roast and desserts. Though the selections aren’t very large compared to other buffets in restaurants from top hotels, the selections are quite enticing, especially since the buffet includes three pasta specials of the day that are made fresh to order. The lunch, served daily from noon to 3pm, is $48 per adult and $24 per child and offers better value.
Veni, Vidi, Vici the à la Carte MENU Chef Marco De Vincentis of The Waterfall at Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore
The Babba al Rum (Neapolitan sponge cake, $16) is a favourite dessert at weddings in Napoli
Seafood Stew: As tasty as it is colourful
If you’re looking for something exceptional, I’d suggest ordering from the à la carte menu. Here, Chef Marco, creates Italian cuisine worthy of Julius Caesar. Take for instance his Stufato di Pesce (Seafood stew, $68 for two) – super-sized prawns, scallops and mussels swimming in a sea of bright tangy tomato sauce with slices of toasted bread. This is a memorable signature dish. Even though this serves two, it was so good, I could have it all to myself. His Doppio Raviolo alla Parmigiana (Ravioli from Parmigiana, $26), a classic Italian dish, was delightfully creamy. The fresh pasta was soft and delicate, as were the eggplant and sun-dried tomato stuffing. The additional Scarmoza cheese rounded it off with a subtle smoky flavour. Lasagna Croccante Ragu Bianco e Porcini (Crunchy lasagne with white mushroom sauce, $24) is Chef Marco’s personal interpretation of the classic lasagne. As an homage to his mother’s lasagne with the dried crispy edges, which he loved so much as child, he created a visuallyarresting dish by curling lasagne strips into a flower-bud shape, baking it until it turns light golden brown, and using it as the centrepiece in a dish surrounded by a moat of béchamel sauce. Another wonderful delight is the Parmigiana di Melanzane (Baked eggplant with Parmesan cheese, $20). Embedded within a rectangular cast iron pot, the layers of eggplant are draped over with wonderful molten cheese. For meat lovers, the Tagliata de Manzo Rucola e Grana (Hunter Valley Australian grain-fed Tenderloin, $41) was succulent and delicate tasting. Typically, I don’t usually like heavy meaty dishes from Italian restaurants, preferring pasta and cheese instead, but his Tagliata was quite tasty.
Delizioso Desserts For dessert, try the Torta Caprese (Tart from Capri, $16), which is a kind of Italian lava cake served in a mini cast-iron pot. The Biancomangiare (Almond pudding, $12) is also worth a try as well. The taste of almond with a touch of orange blossom water made this dessert sublime. Finally, a favourite dessert at wedding ceremonies in Napoli: Babba al Rum (Neapolitan sponge cake, $16). Essentially a sponge cake soaked in syrup and rum presented with cream and quartered strawberries. The taste begins with the fluffy texture of the sponge cake and cream, then progresses to a bold, sharp sweetness accentuated by the rum. It’s a very pleasant and light dessert to end a fine meal. With the contribution of Chef Marco, the reinvented Waterfall menu provides an excellent place for southern Italian cuisine in Shangri-La’s lush tropical setting. After a meal, you can truly say: “I came, I saw, I conquered – the food at The Waterfall.” By Frank Young
A visually-arresting modern take on traditional lasagne The Waterfall Buffet Spread – small but enticing.
The Waterfall, Shangri-La Hotel Singapore, 22 Orange Grove Road, Tel: 6213 4138
NEW OUTLET
Kanpachi carpaccio sashimi with yellow petals drizzled with truffle oil
PAGE 15
Ben & Jerry’s new flagship store moo-ves into downtown Orchard
The new Ben & Jerry’s flagship store at 313 Somerset includes a Community Action Hub and new flavours
new r e s taur ant
Tburu: Where sushi & sensuality meet Does the highest level of Japanese gastronomic experience have to be created by a Japanese Master Chef? Frank Young explores Tburu and discovers the answer I have eaten plenty of Japanese food in my life. Although, I refuse to believe that a chef’s ethnicity must match the ethnic cuisine for it to be good, I must confess, I have eaten in many Japanese restaurants where the chefs weren’t Japanese and, more often than not, it ended unsatisfactorily.
Calvin Yeung, Serial Restaurateur So, when I arrived for a tasting at Tburu, it was with some reluctance and trepidation. Calvin Yueng, the mastermind behind Tburu (a phonetic play on the word for “table” in Japanese), was there to greet the guests. The first thing I thought to myself was: “Uh oh, let’s hope I’m wrong!” As I discovered, Calvin is a Hong Konger with a flair for design and gastronomy. He has opened a series of Chinese restaurants in Hong Kong which received wide acclaim, and his latest two are Japanese restaurants in Singapore – Kiku at Duxton Road and Tburu at Orchard Gateway.
Spartan Meets Sophistication Tburu’s décor is modern minimalistic chic – simple lines and lots of warm unvarnished wood and glass. At first glance it appears spartan but it’s in the details where the magic begins. From the exquisite translucent green and blue sake glasses to aluminium cups with rattan handles, and to the sensuous bamboo cutting board upon which the food is served, every detail appears to be meticulously and aesthetically planned.
Visual and Gastronomic Delight The first dish to arrive was the Cucumber from Kyushu with homemade miso. At first glance, it appeared ho-hum. However, the miso was exquisite. The trifecta of taste – sweet, salty and umami – melded in harmony and grew ever so addictive, while the cucumber provided cool and crunchy satisfaction. The Kanpachi Carpaccio (yellowtail thinly sliced) with Truffle Oil ($22) and the Hotate (scallop) Chawanmushi (Chawanmushi starts at $8) were equally exciting in taste. Their presentation with bits of flowers and caviar was a work of art in colour and details. It was a fantastic start. Next up were the Whole Fish Sashimi and Mentaiko (roe of pollock and cod) Sushi & Sake Mentaiko Aburi (top-grilled) Sushi (sushi and sashimi prices vary). They were fine but they didn’t achieve the previous wow factor. Where they were lacking, the Hotate Foagura Maki ($32), or scallop sushi with foie gras sprinkled with sprigs of tiny yellow flowers, brought back the shine. Cubes of wagyu were enclosed in a fine glass bell jar filled with charcoal smoke. Lifting the bell jar released the aroma of the grilled wagyu. The experience was extraordinary.
Food artist Samantha Lee produced whimsical ice cream creations
Calvin Yueng, mastermind behind Tburu
Opening its very first flagship scoop shop in South-east Asia, Ben & Jerry’s will serve an exciting menu of 18 chunky and euphoric ice creams, along with new shakes, sundaes, ice cream cakes and merchandise.
Ben & Jerry’s Newest Collaboration
Grand Finale Finally, from the grill, the A4 Japanese Wagyu from Gunma Japan ($22) and Iberico Pork Jaw ($18) were presented like works of art. Cubes of wagyu were enclosed in a fine glass bell jar filled with charcoal smoke. Lifting the bell jar released the aroma of the grilled wagyu. The experience was extraordinary. The Iberico was scored evenly on one side, then presented curled in a cluster, making it look like ribbons on the cutting board. Both premium meats were juicy, flavourful and charred to perfection. Overall, Tburu paired visual sensuality with a fine Japanese dining experience. And it surpassed many of its contemporaries in its field. I left happy and relieved; reaffirmed in my belief that the quality of ethnic cuisine is irrelevant to a chef’s ethnicity because of people like Chef Calvin Yueng.
By Frank Young
Highly-popular Ben & Jerry’s ice cream finally has a shop in the heart of town, at 313 Somerset Discovery Walk
Precious sake glassware
Whether or not its your choice of preference, Ben & Jerry’s is renowned for having unconventional flavours and you might think there is no way it can get any crazier. It appears Ben & Jerry’s continues to surprise. Samantha Lee, known for her interesting and cute-looking food art, collaborated with Ben & Jerry’s to come up with a deliciously euphoric creation, the Peace, Love & Comoonity Sundae. Made from Ben & Jerry’s Fairtrade ice cream, chunky chocolate brownies and topped off with fresh fruits, this sundae is exclusive to the flagship scoop shop for a limited time.
DESSERTS FOR A CAUSE? Tburu, Level 5, Orchard Gateway @ Emerald, Tel: 6221 0004 Author’s note: Some items mentioned in the article were specials of the day and their prices were not indicated.
Ben & Jerry’s always has a soft side to it’s business and that’s giving back to the community. This new flagship scoop shop is no different and is sticking to its values. Bakery items such as brownies and cookies will be supplied by SCORE bakery, which works to rehabilitate inmates through skills training. Herbs such as mint will come from the social enterprise Edible Garden City. A new Benefit Tuesday Night programme that is exclusive to this flagship, allows various local welfare organisations to engage the public and spread the word. From 7pm to 9pm on Tuesday nights, 20 per cent of sales will go to its social mission partners. By Rydell Tan
Foodmania W
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
have in Singapore. Another top dish was the savoury and aromatic Penang Fried Kway Teow ($9++). The street food favourite came chock-full of ingredients and is definitely a must-have.
Typical Peranakan Food
n e w res tauran t
3 Cuisines at The Straits Express: Not all hits
Peranakan Chef Philip Chia shares his recipe for his special sauce for the Babi Tohay
The Straits Express at Kallang Wave officially launched this month, carrying three types of Straits cuisines: Peranakan, Anglo-Hainanese and Penang food The owners of The Straits Express, James Wong, an F&B veteran, and Tony Tan, who also owns China One in Clarke Quay, hatched their latest culinary endeavour based on two main inspirations.
First and foremost, they wanted an establishment that carries the cuisines reminiscent of their childhood days and joys. This led to the idea of an eatery with a nod to our region’s heritage in three types of Straits Settlements cuisines: Peranakan, AngloHainanese and Penang food. Chef Frankie Ooi was convinced to move from his home in George Town to Singapore, while Anglo-Hainanese Chef Bermuda Say was persuaded to postpone his retirement! The last piece of the puzzle was acclaimed Peranakan Chef Philip Chia. Together the chefs form a tripartite alliance in the kitchen to create a menu with classic cultural dishes, further elevated by their secret recipes, skills honed from years of experience and meticulous methods. The concept was further defined in the railway-themed setting with inspiration from the old Orient Express train and the Malaysian railway.
Left: The Penang Assam Laksa ($8++) was a colourful dish packed with different flavours, though a tad sour – this is not the usual type of Singaporean laksa Right: The Penang Lor Bak ($8++), a more fragrant, tastier version of our ngoh hiang, will whet your appetite for more
Fragrant Penang Street Food Penang is most renowned for its fragrant and delicious street food. Chef Frankie Ooi has managed to transport classic Penang street food dishes to The Straits Express here, in better incarnations. The best dishes I had on the night were from the Penang menu. The Penang Lor Bak ($8++), a tastier version of our ngoh hiang, is great as an appetizer. The freshly-fried aroma of the roll, the crispiness of its skin and the taste upon biting into it all whet my appetite for more. The Penang Assam Laksa ($8++) was an attractive dish appearing in almost a rainbow of red (chilli), orange (Assam broth), yellow (pineapple), green (vegetables and garnishing) and purple (onions). It was packed with different types of flavours combined in one mouth-watering dish. It was yummy, though I wasn’t used to laksa being that sour. Do note that this is not the usual type of laksa that we
I much preferred the Penang food to the Peranakan food. Perhaps there were a few reasons why. The Nyonya Chap Chye ($9.50++) was typical Peranakan fare, so there was no expectation. The Prawn Belimbing ($18++) was quite tasty yet I felt the overall flavours and the chilli taste could’ve been more pleasing. The pungent Babi Tohay ($18++) surprised me, and not in such a pleasant way. Perhaps I prefer the sweeter babi pongteh. The best of the Peranakan lot that I tasted was certainly the Nyonya Mee Siam ($8++). I wished I had a second serving, yet, once again, I’m not sure that it was fantastic.
What is Anglo-Hainanese Food? Anglo-Hainanese food originated from the kitchens of British households in our colonial past. Then, there were Hainanese ladies (dressed in white sum-fu tops and black trousers) who served as cooks and servants. Out of the cravings of their colonial employers was born Western food with a Hainanese touch. These dishes include the Hainanese Pork Chop, the Toad in the Hole (a type of sausage pie, $10.50++) and Oxtail Stew ($18.50++). The latter two were pretty good but not particularly memorable. The Straits Express also has Nyonya Chendol, Durian Pengat and English Apple Pie, and you can choose to end your meal in an Asian or Western style. The Straits Express, 1 Stadium Place, #0124/28 & #01-K13/K17, Singapore 397628, Tel: 6702 2964
EXECUTI VE CH E F RE CI P E
Insalata di Carpaccio Chef Antonio Massagli Chef Antonio Massagli was born into a farming community in the Tuscan town of Lucca in Italy. As Executive Chef of Buttero Trattoria Italiana, Chef Massagli lets the quality and freshness of ingredients speak for themselves with a menu of comforting Tuscan dishes reminiscent of childhood favourites he enjoyed while growing up.
FO O D o n TV
Showdown of the best of Singapore & Malaysia delicacies Be one of the first to catch the deliciously new programme “Food Wars Asia”, which airs every Tuesday night – time to keep your evening free It’s a well-known fact that Singapore and Malaysia are famous food havens. But which stall is worthy of the title “Best of the Best”?
IT’S TIME FOR A FOOD WAR Too often, food establishments claim to be the best. But are they really? Well, this is going to help us verify their authenticity. Host Michele Lean visits Singapore and Malaysia to seek out renowned local food establishments that serve identical dishes, to battle it out head to head for the title “Best of the Best” in town. Putting their reputations on the line and hoping to claim the title and victory, these food war contenders are pit against one another in the ultimate Blind Taste Test! From Asian classics such as Singapore’s fishball to Western dishes such as the cheeseburger, it’s all covered. Two parties will enter the food war arena but only one can emerge victorious!
Left: Host Michele Lean seeks out renowned eateries to battle it out for the title “Best of the Best” Right: Feast your eyes on mouthwatering delicacies
MORE ABOUT MICHELLE LEAN Michele Lean is the 2014 winner of “Food Hero”, an Asia-wide talent search for fresh new on-air talent, which was aired on two food and lifestyle channels. So, never fear, Michelle is well-equipped to judge and critique when it comes to food.
A PEEK AT the Singapore stalls The programme starts with the star of the burger, the grilled meat patty. The two famous contenders are Omakase and Fatboy’s The Burger Bar. Who will go down during the battle and who will claim victory in that arena? The two Gen-Y contenders for the fishball noodles episode are Joanne Ng of Ru Ji Kitchen, and Douglas Ng of The Fishball Story. Both are young, hungry and passionately believe that their recipe is the best! Which has what it takes to conquer the blind taste test challenge? Watch to catch all the food action! “Food Wars Asia” airs every Tue, 8pm on Food Network, StarHub TV Ch 433. The second telecast will start on Tue, May 19, 8pm, with two episodes back to back.
Chef Massagli of Buttero Trattoria Italian presents this quick dish of Italian Carpaccio Salad Many Singaporeans love Italian food and this is one dish you can prepare at home, without much difficulty. It is especially great when you need to prepare something quick for a gathering.
INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • • •
400g 1 30ml 1 tsp 300g 100g 200g 100g
Serves 4
Beef (preferably rump or loin) Lemon Extra Virgin Olive Oil Dijon Mustard Mesclun Lettuce Arugula Lettuce Cherry Tomatoes Shaved Parmesan Cheese Salt Black pepper
METHOD 1. Slice the beef thinly and lay the slices on a plate. Beat lightly with a tenderiser before seasoning with salt, pepper and lemon juice. 2. Let the seasoned slices rest for 3-5 min, allowing the lemon juice to preserve and “cook” the meat. 3. Carefully wash and prepare your vegetables and dry lightly. 4. Place the salad in a mixing bowl along with your halved cherry tomatoes. Season with extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt and pepper and mix well. 5. Plate your salad as desired and top it with the seasoned beef slices. 6. Sprinkle with shaved parmesan cheese and a light final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Buon appetito!
SHOPsavvy W
PAGE 17 for 14 to 18 weeks within greenhouse chambers, under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions. These units can reach temperatures of 1,000°C! IIa Technologies has 200 greenhouse chambers that run on clean energy and zero water wastage. Finally, the raw diamonds go through laser-cutting. These finished diamonds are sold for industrial applications such drilling, but jewellery is the largest market for IIa Technologies.
Where to Get Grown Diamonds
fas h i o n f eatu r e
Largest diamond greenhouse opens in Singapore
Left: IIa Technologies pink grown diamonds Right: The world’s largest grown diamond (3.04 carats) by IIa Technologies
The world’s largest diamond greenhouse recently opened right here in Singapore, which naturally cultures rare Type IIa diamonds
in 2 per cent of all the mined diamonds in the world. And now, these prized jewels are available on the market at more affordable prices!
What’s the difference between a mined diamond and a grown diamond? There’s virtually no difference in the diamonds themselves – except for the price. Currently, cultured diamonds are 30 per cent cheaper than mined ones, and they’re environmentally-friendly, sustainable and conflict-free. All the diamonds cultured by Singaporebased IIa Technologies are Type IIa, the rarest kind that can only be found
Largest Diamond Greenhouse in the World
IIa Technologies’ 200,000 sq ft facility in Boon Lay cultures high-quality Type IIa diamonds
50 sets of Slimming 101 Signature Meridian Therapy (UP $200) treatment voucher worth $188 + Hydro Minerals Masque worth $300
to be won!
Flabby Arms
Slimming 101 treatments
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: bitly.com/slimming101 SMS to 86668101
For more information and personal consultation, please call 6737 3101.
Cellulite
What troubles females most in current society is weight and fat problems. Different ages encounter different problems. Ladies are more prone to lowerbody fats as most of them are working adults having to sit indoors for long hours daily. They may lack regular exercise as it is harder to plan their time after a long day of work. This will result in the accumulation of fat, especially at the lower part of the body such as the tummy and thighs.
Belly Fats
CODE: Slimming101, your Name, Age, Gender, NRIC, Postal Code, E-mail ONLY 1 ENTRY PER PERSON, PLEASE CLOSING DATE: 6 May 2015 Note: All data for this giveaway will be captured by Slimming 101.
Good Luck! No charge for SMS. Please check our Promotional & Contest Rules at weekender.com.sg for details.
IIa Technologies unveiled the world’s largest diamond greenhouse, right here in Singapore. The 200,000 sq ft facility in the Boon Lay industrial area cultures highquality Type IIa diamonds. Grown diamonds go through three major phases. Firstly, the ‘seeds’ – or diamond plates – are carefully inspected and cleaned. Then, 50 to 100 seeds are cultured
IIa Technologies actually supplies its quality diamonds to United States-based brand Pure Grown Diamonds, which is the world’s largest distributor of lab-grown diamonds. These new treasures have gained quite a celebrity following in the USA, with stars such as Patricia Arquette, Kevin and Danielle Jonas and Heather McDonald having endorsed the conflictfree diamonds. Thinking of getting your hands on one of these sparkling beauties? Eager customers in Singapore can look forward to these Type IIa babies debuting in local stores towards the end this year. Look out for the “Cultured in Singapore” label when making your next purchase in a jewellery shop! Or, if you simply can’t wait, you can actually order your own cut of lab-grown diamonds, from PureGrownDiamonds. com, which ships internationally. You can even customise your own designs, down to the band and the colour of the gem. Pure Grown Diamonds has a 60-day return policy. I’m even considering getting a sparkly ‘best friend’ myself. After all, they are environmentally-friendly and conflict-free. By Pamela Chow
SHOPsavvy W
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
Fas h s n i p s
Fashion for
the hotter seasons
Aldo x Misha Nonoo
Zalora Denim Spring/Summer is here and so denim is in trend. If you’re afraid that it might not look ‘cool’ and flattering anymore, look at how the pieces have been styled.
Aldo is thrilled to announce its latest Spring/Summer collection that’s in collaboration with New York-based label, Misha Nonoo. Recognised for its commitment to highquality craftsmanship, the footwear and handbags are sure to last you through the warmer season. Misha Nonoo x Aldo Rise collection available in stores now
Tip: Avoid picking denim pieces that are of the same wash and play around with proportions for a street-styled vibe. www.zalora.sg
Bimba Y Lola Tropicana
Uniqlo UT Spring/ Summer
Bimba Y Lola Tropicana embodies the zesty tropical essence of Brazil, covering the exotic wildlife, carnival-esque atmosphere, famed beaches and tropical landscape. This range features vibrant colours, geometric prints and polka dots.
Ranging from iconic graphic content, including Mr Men Little Miss, to various collaborations with storybook illustrator Leo Lionni, and New York interior designer Thomas Paul, this UT line has something for everyone. These airy casual tops are perfect for a chilling session with some friends and family during this warm season.
Tropicana Collection available in stores now
UT line available at Uniqlo stores
Charles & Keith Spring/ Summer The new season calls for a revamp in the closet, and not just for clothes but also for shoes and accessories as well. The Spring/ Summer collection from Charles & Keith incorporates wildlife prints and certain summer colours, such as chilli red, to spice up that wardrobe of yours! Available in Charles & Keith stores
F eatured H e a lt h P ro d uct
The essential truth of essential oils
What’s So Good About Nila Products?
Nila products are free of parabens, artificial colours and chemical fragrance
All Nila products are free of parabens, artificial colours and chemical fragrance. The ingredients used to create the products are sourced globally from reputable farms, and all products are registered with the Singapore Health Sciences Authority (HSA). Nila essential oils are all 100 per cent pure oil without adulteration, extracted using distillation and expression.
Something for the young ones
5 Nila Bliss Packs
Essential oils have been gaining popularity of late, especially when more individuals are seeking alternative remedies to relieve daily ailments or enhance one’s well-being
worth $120 each
to be won! Nila Bliss Pack
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: bitly.com/nilablisspack SMS to 85026567
The Nila Bliss Pack includes 1 bottle of “His Charming” massage oil for him and 1 bottle of “Beautiful” massage oil for her, plus 1 bottle of “Romance” blend essential oil. Essential oils are one of nature’s best-kept secrets, valued for their wonderful cosmetic properties and numerous health benefits, and have been increasingly explored by the scientific community for treatment of a variety of diseases and ailments. Nila is a Singaporean brand of essential oils and base oils related products. All products are free of parabens, artificial colours and chemical fragrance. The ingredients are sourced globally from reputable farms and manufactured locally as well as in Japan.
CODE: Nila, your Name, Age, Gender, NRIC, Postal Code, E-mail ONLY 1 ENTRY PER PERSON, PLEASE CLOSING DATE: 6 May 2015 Good Luck! No charge for SMS. Please check our Promotional & Contest Rules at weekender.com.sg for details.
Essential oils, which are commonly used in aromatherapy, have a history dating as far back as nearly 6,000 years ago when early Egyptians first used it in their daily lives. In modern days, aromatherapy is widely used as a form of complementary therapy to enhance one’s health and well-being by assisting the body’s natural ability to heal, balance and regulate. Nila is a home-grown brand of pure essential oils and related products that can help to rejuvenate and bring out the best in you. Nila brings the ancient tradition of essential oils, suited to our modern-day lifestyles, to consumers. Nila has opened its first aromatherapy bar which offers a one-of-its-kind, bespoke aromatherapy experience. Nila Aromatherapy Bar, through its unique custom-blending service, creates essential oils that address the different needs of customers.
Nila’s other star products include its “Nila Baby” line, which is the choice for parents who appreciate the importance of using natural products and the health benefits of essential oils for their little ones. Unlike some baby oils that are made of mineral oils (from petroleum) and scented with chemicals, “Nila Baby” products are gentle and safe for little ones. Massaging is a wonderful way to relax your baby and to create a loving and trusting bond.
Signature Blends Aid bodily issues Nila also offers signature blends such as Insomnia Blend, Breathe Easy, Anti-Ageing and many more, to relieve modern-day ailments. Drop by at Nila Aromatherapy Bar and pamper yourself with a wide range of products including body, skin and hair care, foot cream and nail-strengthening oils. Nila Aromatherapy Bar, 1 Scotts Road, #03-25, Shaw Centre, Singapore 228208. Open Mon-Sun, 11am-9pm. For more information, please call 6737 7822 or 9119 7822.
PAGE 19
Miche Bloomin’ Dream Lashes Get lashes as light as air and have heavy eyelids no more! Made from a highly-resistant type of polyester, the Dream Lashes from Miche Bloomin’ are manufactured to be 20 per cent lighter than the average falsies and made ultra-thin with tapered lash tip, with a similar texture to replicate our real eyelashes. Say no to thick and clumpy falsies that irritate the eye. Available at all Sasa outlets
Beauty in Brief The long and the short of the beauty industry
Bio-Oil Have stretch marks from weight gain and scars you can’t wait to get rid off? For moms, are your pregnancy marks still there? Bio-Oil, a skincare solution used by many celebrities in Hollywood such as Hilary Duff and Kim Kardashian, is now available here. It fights acne and nourishes the skin, eliminates spots and scars and purifies your skin giving it a radiant look. Available in May at various pharmacies
Biore The highly-popular Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover is back and better than before. Removing makeup should be just as thorough as applying makeup. The softer and even lighter texture makes rinsing off easier, leaving a non-sticky and nongreasy feel. Going beyond simply removing makeup, the improved Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover is now infused with a 40 per cent moisture essence to pamper the skin. Available at personal care stores and pharmacies
Earths Botanics The new Earths Botanics is an innovative range of luxurious bath and body products. This revitalising range is available in these categories: bath and shower gel, exfoliating hand and body scrub, and hand and body scrub. Unlike most beauty products, Earths Botanics products contain no parabens (cosmetic preservatives) or synthetic colours and it does not support animal testing. Available in Cucumber and Mint, Lavender and Lemon, and Tangerine and Ginger notes. Available at departmental stores and Sephora
t e c h S to rm featu r e
Confused about smartwatches? Here’s your easy, handy guide from Tech Storm Everyone is either talking about or already owns a smartwatch. So, what’s so great about a smartwatch? Well, for starters, smartwatches do more than just tell the time in style. Here is a quick seven-point guide to everything you need to know about the smartwatch.
Photo: Samsung Mobile
SHOPsavvy W
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
you a ridiculous amount of US$10,000 (a Rolex is actually cheaper)! With its usefulness, most people should consider getting a smartwatch, albeit one that’s not too pricey. With so much talk about smartwatches, it’s about time you figure them out!
By Geralyne Kaye
The Basics of Smartwatches A smartwatch functions exactly like a smartphone but it sits on your wrist. Both gadgets are seamlessly connected via Bluetooth, and keep you constantly connected but hands free! The smartwatch prompts you of notifications in real-time with a small vibration and responds to voice commands. In general, it allows you to be connected to social media, view and reply snippets of messages, make and answer calls directly, on top of just telling time.
Smartwatch Display and Battery Life Most smartwatches come with vivid fullcolour display. However, this also means that the battery life of smartwatches is rather short. Most smartwatches have an average battery life of nine hours, depending on the usage and particular model of smartwatch. However, Pebble has found a way to tackle this with the use of e-ink technology. This novel technology allows the screen to remain always on without draining the battery, allowing Pebble’s smartwatch to last up to seven days with a full charge!
Tech Storm is a brand new avenue for you to get plugged in to addictive tech trends, reviews on gadgets and apps, and be inspired by the coolest start-up stories. Check us out at: www.techstorm.tv
Smartwatch Apps Every smartwatch comes with its own app store. Smartwatches, whether Android-specific or Pebble, have over 1,000 apps that are now available for download. These apps include heart rate monitors, location-sharing apps, as well as games.
Fitness Tracking
More than just an accessory, smartwatches work just like a smartphone but on your wrist
Smartwatch and Smartphone Compatibility Not every smartwatch is compatible with every smartphone. Yes, they are selfish. Android smartphone companies such as Samsung, ASUS and LG produce smartwatches that are only Android compatible. Similarly, the soon-to-be launched Apple Watch is only compatible with iOS. However, not all smartwatches are as petty – certain brands such as Pebble are compatible with both Android and iOS.
Most smartwatches have also packaged themselves as a gadget perfect for the fitness fanatics. Smartwatches such as Samsung’s Gear 2, Motorola’s Moto 360 and the Apple Watch are just some that have an in-built pedometer or heart rate monitor. The Apple Watch pushes the envelope further by having a great feature that motivates the wearer to hit a certain fitness target he or she has previously set. Most are water-resistant and come with replaceable silicon straps to facilitate an active lifestyle.
Additional Features Smartwatches from Samsung or Arrow now have inbuilt cameras. These allow you to take pictures on the go without having to physically whip out your smartphone.
Smartwatch Price Range Sadly, smartwatches do not come cheap, with prices starting from $199 for the original Pebble, while the most expensive smartwatches to date from Apple will cost
Most smartwatches are water-resistant and come with replaceable silicon straps to facilitate an active lifestyle
PAGE 21
Tech Bytes These bits and bytes will make you the most tech savvy
Microsoft – Surface 3 Like Surface Pro 3, the Microsoft: Surface 3 is a tablet that can replace your laptop but thinner and lighter. It is optimised to run full Windows and Office and features long battery life. With the versatile pen experience that comes along with it, Surface 3 is ideal for note taking or marking documents. Available from 5 May at authorised retailers
PlayStation 4
Olympus Stylus TG-860 Tough Olympus Imaging has released the 16-megapixel Stylus TG860 Tough compact digital camera with the widest zoom lens amongst active lifestyle ‘tough’ cameras and a 180-degree tilting screen for selfies. The new camera features the industry’s widest 21mm zoom lens in the active lifestyle camera market, POV recording functionality and advanced ruggedness. Its 180-degree capable tilt screen enables easy composition for underwater shooting and super-wide angle selfies.
The special edition PlayStation 4 “Batman Arkham Knight” includes a specially-designed Steel Grey PS4 system chassis with a custom Batman Arkham Knight faceplate, a matching Dualshock in steel grey and the epic finale, Batman: Arkham Knight. Channel the spirit of the Dark Knight on your next adventure. Available from 23 Jun at Sony Centre
Available at selected electronics shops
Bang & Olufsen – BeoSound Moment
Philips – Saeco Intelia Cappuccino
This intuitive wireless music system integrates your music collection and services into one. The top of the BeoSound Moment is a detachable double-sided interface, the wood and aluminium, that allows two different listening experiences. A feature included is the intelligent PatternPlay that adapts to your listening pattern and suggests music that fits your preference.
Craving for that cup of cappuccino from your favourite café but you’re just too lazy to get out and get it? Intelligent and easy to use, the Philips Saeco Intelia Cappuccino automatic espresso machine has an integrated milk function that froths and desired the amount of steamed milk desired by each individual for that perfect cup of cappuccino. This is perfect for mothers at home, so pamper your mom this Mother's Day.
Available exclusively at Bang & Olufsen Grand Hyatt showroom
Available at Philips store
SHOPsavvy W
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
home inspirations
Get ideas for transforming your home
The designers gave the rooms a refreshed, open concept that also benefits from a deluge of natural daylight entering through full-height glass sliding doors by the side
Subtly Simple Our popular section continues with more inspiring ideas and home makeovers
R
estraint was the name of the game as Weiken.com designed the interior of this four-storey house. Led by Emily Tan, the design team was tasked to create a contemporary setting for this family home while keeping things understated and elegant. “The homeowners are quite reserved, so they were looking forward to a home that reflects their personality – something simple and restrained,” said Emily.
Out in the open After a bout of spatial reconfiguration, the first floor of this four-storey house is now a large and open space. The designers gave the rooms a refreshed open concept that also benefits from a deluge of natural daylight entering through full-height glass sliding doors by the side. Coupled with the white neutral colour scheme, the living and dining areas are now spacious and airy – just the way the owners like it.
Texture feature Despite having a considerably large floor space, the design team didn’t want to clutter the living room by filling it up with too many pieces of loose furniture. But leaving the room bare wasn’t an option either. “The homeowners prefer to live in a home that is slightly minimalist, but still warm and inviting,” Emily explained. She achieved this balance by playing up the textures in the living room. In particular, the living room feature wall has been crafted using black glass and a marblelike laminate, which lends the space a contemporary elegance.
Kidding around Some homeowners have a tendency to go overboard when designing a bedroom for their children. The kids’ rooms in this home, however, have a more understated look. The design team reined in the design to make sure that the rooms will continue to appeal to the children even as they grow older. Each room has also been outfitted with a built-in study table and extra cabinet space to make them as functional as possible.
The homeowners prefer to live in a home that is slightly minimalist but still warm and inviting - Emily achieved this balance by playing up the textures; in particular the living room feature wall has been crafted using black glass and a marble-like laminate
Be Our Guest An easy elegance can be found in the guest bedroom, where the designers focused on creating a cosy ambience. Like in the master bedroom, Emily customised a headboard using synthetic leather to give this room a dramatic flair. Bold decisions were taken to mix light neutral colours with a deep charcoal colour for a room that is neither overly masculine nor bland. Instead, the colour palette gives the room a timeless modernity.
Crossing the line A similar “no frills” attitude follows through into the master bedroom. Since the ceilinghigh, wall-to-wall window is the star of this space, Emily and her team didn’t want to take anything away from the view. This is not to say that things were left bare and uninteresting. They provided subtle design elements that include a unique zigzagging ceiling light, patterned wallpaper and a synthetic leather headboard that adds instant luxe to the space.
By Redzman Rahmat www.lookboxliving.com.sg
Emily and her team provided subtle design elements such as a unique zigzagging ceiling light, patterned wallpaper and a synthetic leather headboard that adds instant luxe
Article first published in Lookbox Living #36 May/Jun 2014
Lookbox Living #40 is out now! Available at major bookstores and news stands! For more interior projects, visit www.lookboxliving.com.sg
SHOPsavvy W
TRAVELation W
PAGE 23
Weekender congratulates all the winners of our Travellers’ Choice 2015 awards, recognising Singaporeans’ favourite destinations and travel brands, as chosen by Weekender readers. Here, we present the photos of the winning agencies and brands, as we presented the awards to them. Look out for more exciting travel and adventure coverage in our pages!
MEET
THE WINNERS
These travel agencies and brands were recognised for being the top in Singapore for their service excellence as well as quality in itineraries for the respective countries or categories. These travel agencies and brands were nominated from Weekender’s travel advertisers and partners, and the winners were chosen by Weekender readers.
EU Holidays Wong Yew Hoong Director (right) Marcus Low Director (second from right)
Costa CRUISES
Diners World Travel
jetabout Holidays
Konsortium Express & Tours
Eunice Lee Marketing Director (right)
Loo Kian Wai General Manager (right)
Cindy Loo Manager Leisure (left)
Joe Lim Executive Director (right)
Tiger Air
Citystate Cruises
Chan Brothers
New Shan Travel
Ava Ang Marketing Manager (right)
Koh Chong Wee General Manager (right)
Rosa Ho General Manager (left)
Chris Tay Asst General Manager (left)
Hom e M a k e ov e r I d e a s
Child’s play
Bird Rocking – Patch $197.95, from Comfort Design
Why let kids have all the fun? These playful pieces look great both in and out of your child’s room.
FLENSTED Tate Hanging mobile $99.90, from The Better Toy Store
MAGIS Downtown $1,870, from XTRA Bruno Enzo Mimmo plane $139, from Grafunkt
TRAVELation W
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
t r av e l Featu r e
KANSAI & Travelling to and around Japan doesn’t have to be costly – Our writer finds out how and experiences a variety of fascinating sites in Kansai and hokkaido, some off the tour bus route Japan is magnificent but is there an easier and more affordable way to experience its endless beauty? Even if you manage to snag cheap flights to Japan, the pricey shinkansen (bullet train) rides can cost around ¥14,900 ($170)*. This tends to deter visitors from venturing to multiple prefectures. But no more pining for Nippon. Here’s how you can get low fares from Singapore to Japan, and even within Japan itself.
Photo: AYA
Cheap flights in, out and about
Our writer, Pamela, is thrilled to be transformed into a doll-like geisha
Believe it or not, you can fly from Singapore to Osaka for as low as $244 – and that’s during the peak season in June! Low-cost carrier Jetstar offers perennial cheap rates to this prime destination. One of the most popular low-cost carriers among Singaporeans, Jetstar is known for offering unbelievably affordable prices to the hottest travel destinations. From short-haul getaways within Asia to long-haul holidays across the globe, the airline throws in deals and promotions that travellers love to look out for, and snap up. And now, thanks to Jetstar, flying to Japan doesn’t have to be a costly affair. Flights from Singapore to Osaka’s Kansai International Airport take a short transit either at Taiwan’s Taoyuan Airport or Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport. It’s a fuss-free journey with great service from the flight attendants, who’ll see you through a safe and comfortable trip from boarding to transit, to the minute you land. Be spoilt for choice with Jetstar’s lovely in-flight menu with treats that’ll remind you of home. The ease of travel doesn’t stop there. If you’d like to visit another Japanese city, Jetstar can connect you from Osaka’s Kansai International Airport to six other major Japanese airports in a single booking. A great route I’d recommend is a transfer between Kansai and Hokkaido. Experience the buzzing city lights of Kansai’s major cities of Osaka and Kobe, and get transported back in time in the ancient streets of Kyoto. Then, take a short two-hour flight to Hokkaido (Sapporo), where serene mountains and colourful scenery await. Travelling between these two regions opens your eyes to the different cultures and sights of Japan. Jetstar transits from Osaka to Hokkaido (Sapporo) for only about $50. That’s right, it’s a mere fraction of the price of the shinkansen. Domestic flights within Japan are run by Jetstar Japan – so you can look forward to even friendlier service and a special in-flight menu filled with seasonal specialities so you can make the most of your time even while travelling to different parts of Japan.
Seasonal Selections But don’t rush into booking the next available flight just yet! You should know when to travel
PAGE 25
& HOKKAIDO by low-cost Carrier and for what. Here’s a breakdown of Japan’s seasonal specialities. Probably the most adored season is spring, when the cherry blossoms bloom. Warmer cities such as Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto see earlier blooming (end-March), while colder regions like Sapporo can see the sakura as late as May. Limited edition cherry blossom-flavoured snacks and themed products go on sale in March and you should check them out. If you want to avoid the spring crowd, summer is also a great time to take in the burst of colours throughout Japan. Kansai alone throws a multitude of must-catch festivals, most popular of which are the Tenjin Matsuri in Osaka and Gion Matsuri in Kyoto. Join the parade of fireworks and festivities as the whole nation celebrates with giant floats and decorations that are larger than life! Autumn (October to early-December) is the season of lovely warm colours. Enjoy the spectacular spectrum of orange, yellow and red koyo leaves that blanket the entire country. Travel activity is quite low, except at national parks where you can view the best shades of fall. And winter (December to March) brings a totally different feel to the scenery. In the countryside, flower fields like Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park change into large-scale snowy playgrounds. Admission here costs ¥410 (¥80 for kids), but it’s free during wintertime! Even if you’re a beginner such as myself, you can easily slalom down the gentle slopes, or enjoy the endless white wonderland while sliding downhill on a tube. Takino Snow World has the longest tube-sledding course in Japan. (Psst, March is Hokkaido’s crab season too!) Times to avoid travelling here are the Golden Week (end-April to early-May), when trains and sightseeing spots get very crowded with locals alone; June when it’s rainy and overcast; and August to September, the peak of the typhoon season.
The Rails and Roads Less Travelled So you want to uncover Japan’s unseen and beautiful lookout spots. Going free and easy – even if it’s just two extra days without a guide – is the best way to do that, and it can be quite simple! Take advantage of the Japan Rail Pass – it’s only available for tourists, and you can go on unlimited train rides on Japan Railway (JR) lines for discounted flat rates. For example, a sevenday pass would cost ¥29,110. Most of the lines within and between the prefectures are operated by JR. Jetstar is still the cheapest and fastest way to travel between faraway regions but you can take JR trains between cities nearer to each other, like Osaka and Kobe. If you find yourself in Hokkaido, don’t just stick to your hotel’s public bath – take Noboribetsu’s onsen walking trail to experience its diverse range of natural springs. Start at Jigoku-Dani (Hell Valley), a 450m-wide valley of boiling and bubbling geysers. Continue on to a gushing sulphur spring called Oku-no-yu, then dip your feet in the Oyunuma Brook Natural Footbath. Finally, end your journey at Taisho Jigoku, where a 10m-wide geyser is rumoured to have turned seven different colours.
Up north in the city of Sapporo lies the Okurayama Ski Jump, where the 1972 Winter Olympics were held. Here, enjoy a rare commanding view of the Sapporo cityscape from a viewing lounge atop this 307m mountain, while savouring Hokkaido’s signature vanilla-melon soft serve. Yum! The ski lift ride down provides another spectacular view – if you dare to open your eyes! A round trip along the steep slope to the viewing café costs ¥500 (adults) and ¥250 (kids). For more of such amazing sights, be sure to visit the Floating Garden Observatory and Abeno Harukas for stunning 360-degree views of Osaka, and Mt Rokko’s Garden Terrace for a marvellous vista of the Kobe waterfront.
Jetstar offers perennial low fares to Osaka and to many other destinations, and is well known as a reliable low-cost carrier
Off the tour group path Independent travel is an unbeatable experience you have to try when in Japan, because you’ll have the luxury of time. Here are some musttries that most tour groups can’t cover. Hokkaido is known for Shiroi Koibito, a famous brand of sweets produced exclusively here. While you’re touring its Tudor-styled Park, you can design a giant Shiroi Koibito to bring home with you for just ¥1,080 (apart from the entrance fee). Speaking of personalised souvenirs, you can also customise classy glassware at the popular Kitaichi Glass Hanazono Shop in Otaru, Hokkaido. I chose my favourite chalice and sandblasted my selected designs onto it. Courses start from ¥900. Be sure to wrap it up well so that it’ll reach home in one piece! In Kyoto, I found myself engaged in an interesting affair. Kyoto is home to geisha and maiko (trainees), talented female entertainers in high demand with Japan’s most sophisticated. Naturally, I dolled up as a maiko, and got all wrapped up in layers of white powder and colourful kimonos. This is definitely a must-try for the ladies! Packages start from ¥11,500 at the popular AYA Kyoto. Popular choices include the garden photo shoot and location shoot around the Gion district. And there’s more to enjoy in Kobe than its juicy beef. The Kitano Meister Garden here is filled with vintage handicraft workshops where you can make your own products. I tried my hand at waxing and painting a traditional Japanese candlestick (¥1,200). These activities can take upwards of two hours – time that many tours cannot afford but which you can if you’re going free and easy. It’s definitely something I’d recommend. Who knows what new exquisite facets of Japan it will open to you?
Our writer on the slopes: Takino Snow World promises a fun and exhilarating time
Along Noboribetsu’s onsen (hot spring) trail, you may spot Japanese snow monkeys relaxing in a natural onsen in Jigoku-Dani (Hell Valley)
By Pamela Chow
Weekender would like to thank the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Kansai Transport Bureau, New Kansai International Airport Company, Ltd, Jetstar and all the venues in the itinerary for hosting our writer.
*Some prices stated are excluding tax and any other service fees. Flight and train prices may vary.
Pamela with some of the delicious meat buns at a stall in Chinatown in Kobe
TRAVELation W
APRIL 24 - May 7, 2015
cru i s e r e v i e w
Sapphire Princess:
Sweet culinary surrender
The Sapphire Princess experience includes theatrical productions, spectacular swimming pools, land excursions and exquisite food on board
activities on board while the ship sails at 30 knots/hour to the next port of call. But one is the champion of all cruise activities – eating!
Food, Glorious Food Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, supper and even late night snack – from Day One, thousands of passengers never miss the opportunity to eat every single possible meal and then some! The food served is divided into a few categories. There is the main buffet area where most of the meals are served, the more traditional themed restaurants, a myriad of cafes and light bite options and a few free-standing kiosks serving ice cream, prawn noodle soup, hot dogs, etc.
Pizza Pleasure
Let the entertainers burn the calories while you indulge
What’s to the best thing to do while sailing the high seas? Eat, of course! The Sapphire Princess delivers flavourful cuisine Jogging tracks, swimming pools and state of the art fitness machines – you’d imagine that a cruise with all these facilities is the perfect place to get in shape. But perish any thought of trying to lose weight. With many wonderful things to eat on a cruise, it would be amazing if you didn’t gain weight over the course of a weekend.
Captive Audience In the days of old, unsuspecting pedestrians were drugged or clubbed then shanghaied to serve as crew on ships. These days, we are seduced by the casinos, theatrical productions, spectacular swimming pools, excursions and the food on board the luxurious cruise ships plying our harbours. We surrender ourselves, willingly, to days and nights of indulgence as thousands of crew members serve our every need on the high seas. Other than the short excursions ashore, passengers are essentially ‘captives’, finding and trying all of the different
With the exception of the main buffet area, where the food tends to be of cafeteria standard, the rest serves excellent fare. For instance, on the Sapphire Princess, Alfredo’s Pizzeria served some of the best authentic Italian pizza I’ve ever tasted. Thin crispy crust, succulent salty anchovies, flavourful cheeses, beautiful presentation and in a wonderful ambience. Order one, or ten. It’s all free! I think I gained a kilo in one sitting.
Breakfast is Served For breakfast, one can opt for the selfservice buffet areas or one of the full-service restaurants. You can order any of the full breakfasts from pancakes to salmon and bagels, to egg platters. The glutton within me wanted all of it!
Premium Dining For those who are looking for more exceptional cuisine, most cruises offer premium dining where they serve the ship’s best fare, with a cover charge. US$25 per person, for instance, will get you into Sapphire Princess’ Sabatini’s or Sterling Steakhouse. There, you can choose from a variety of dishes for each of the courses, at no additional charge. At Sabatini’s, for antipasti, I had the burrata with tomato carpaccio and balsamic vinegar along with the white bean and
One of the many lovely places to work off the calories – but it’s a lost cause on a cruise
black mussel soup. For the pasta, I couldn’t resist the langostino and seafood in cherry tomato sauce. For the “secondi”, I had the lobster three way, which was a combination of lobster tail, lobster orzotto and lobster bisque sauce. I couldn’t help but think how much this would’ve cost in Singapore! Overall, the taste was exquisite and the experience was delightful. Of course, this is only the food I experienced on the cruise. There is also the food that I experienced on excursion to Penang! The gourmand’s experience on board a cruise is truly relentless. By Frank Young
Weekender thanks Princess Cruises for arranging this trip aboard the Princess Sapphire. For more information about Princess Cruises visit www.princess.com.
Langostino and seafood pasta in cherry tomato sauce
PAGE 27
Bucket List
Exceptional ideas to experience in your lifetime
Photo: Roshan_NG / Shutterstock.com
The Fairmont Empress, a National Historic Site of Canada, is renowned for its dainty Afternoon Tea in Victoria experience
Photo: JR, Flickr
The Empress Room at The Fairmont Empress is the most picturesque dining room in Victoria, Canada
Photo: meunierd / Shutterstock.com
Enjoy an unforgettable afternoon tea in the royal setting of the Fairmont Empress where Edward, Prince of Wales, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, and actress Shirley Temple have all graced
Have high tea in a castle graced by the stars Imagine taking a bite from a soft, buttery scone as the gentle clinking of delicate tea cups echoes around a Victorian-styled lounge. This is not just any afternoon delight – it’s the quintessential high tea experience in a castle. Plan to spend a day or two at the Fairmont Empress in Canada, one of the oldest and most famous hotels in Victoria, British Columbia. Facing the Inner Harbour, the Empress is fashioned like a grand chateau for royals.
High Tea in High Fashion The Empress is known for its Afternoon Tea in Victoria, in a stately lounge that serves signature handmade Empress scones, sweets and clotted “Empress cream” on dainty china. The room itself is decked out in Victorian furnishing, perfect for that idyllic slow afternoon of sipping the scented blend of The Empress Tea and chatting with your travel partner. What an enchanting experience to complete your trip to Victoria! Another must-visit is The Bengal Lounge. Here, you can feast in a Colonial Indian style salon – the very same one where legendary author and poet Rudyard Kipling was a frequent guest!
Picturesque spots to experience & capture with your camera
A Royal Favourite The Fairmont Empress, which has been designated a National Historic Site of Canada, is immensely popular with royalty and celebrities. The hotel was built between 1904 and 1908. In 1919, Britain’s Edward, Prince of Wales waltzed in the Crystal Ballroom here. In 1939, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth attended a luncheon at the Empress. In the 1930s, actress Shirley Temple arrived with her parents and two formidable bodyguards, sparking rumours that she was fleeing from kidnapping threats in California.
Tips to Travel tHere The Empress is located on Government Street, on the Inner Harbour. The closest airport to the hotel is Victoria International Airport, 30 minutes away by car. Tea service begins at noon daily, with the last seating at 3.45pm. The rate from May 1 to Sept 30, 2015 is CA$63 per head, and children under 12 may enjoy the regular Afternoon Tea at half price. The hotel also offers packages now and then to make your stay worthwhile. Right now, it has partnered with Butchart Gardens for a package that includes Afternoon Tea, a day trip to the Butchart Gardens and one night’s stay at the Empress. Whether you’d like to bring your mom here for Mothers’ Day or you’re simply looking for a change of pace when in British Columbia, having high tea in a palace like this one is definitely an experience not to be missed.
By Pamela Chow
Photo: Ana Raquel S Hernandes
Dine in a palace where kings, queens and movie stars have vacationed for over 100 years
picture perfect
Pools of the Gods These corners of the world look too magnificent to be true – but they are, and they’re absolutely perfect in pictures Pamukkale, meaning “cotton castle” in Turkish, is a natural hot spring in the River Menderes Valley of Denizli Province in Turkey. These surreal steps are travertine terrace formations of carbonate minerals left by the flowing water. In the late 2nd Century BC, the ancient city of Hierapolis – in the dynasty of the Attalids, the kings of Pergamon – was built on top of Pamukkale. The site reaches about 2,700m long and 160m high. The ruins of the baths, temples and other Greek monuments can also be seen here. The nearest major city to Pamukkale is Denizli, where you can take a train, bus or car to this magical-looking hot spring.
ADVERTISEMENT