AIRASIA INFLIGHT MAGAZINE

Hanoi,Vietnam

CITY OFF THE GRID

Taipei & Hualien

TALE OF TWO CITIES

Touchdown

NAGOYA, JAPAN

IMPACT
Kuala Lumpur

MAXIMUM

Malaysian Invasion Mixed Martial Arts

FEASTING FRENZY

SMUGGLING ME IS SOOO 2012! ITS 2013, PEEPS. READ ME ONLINE.

www.airasia.com/travel3sixty

6 0 2013

CHECK-IN
Contents June 2013

NAVIGATOR

74 84 98

THE APPRENTICE ASIA

The Regions Best

112
MIMMA

MAXIMUM IMPACT

KL, CONSUMED
Foodie Paradise

118 124

PILOTS PERSPECTIVE
Winds beneath Your Wings

HANOI OFF THE GRID

Unearthing the Real City

TRAVEL LOG
Travelling Family

104

TALE OF TWO CITIES

Taipei & Hualien

112

98 166

34

STYLE FILE
128 OFF THE RACK
Mercury Rising

BOARDING CALL
06 CAPTAINS ADDRESS
The Journey Continues

132 VANITY FARE

Endless Summer

136 JETSETTER
Bobby Chinn

08 INBOX
The Buzz from our Guests

IN FLIGHT
142 PICTURE PERFECT
Photos Taken by AirAsia Guests

12 RED FORT
News from AirAsia

144 GET COMFY

Joy of Flying

64 20

168 MY AIRASIA
Friendly Frontliners

FLIGHT PLAN
20 SPOTLIGHT
Stuff youd Love to Know

PORT OF CALL
146 ROUTE MAP 154 DESTINATIONS 164 AIRASIA SALES OFFICES & STATIONS 166 TOUCHDOWN
Nagoya, g y , Japan p

26 HOT DATES
June Events to Keep a Lookout for

30 ASEAN COMPASS
Inspiring Ideas, Incredible Getaways

34 QUICK BITES
Palatable Pleasures

40 PAGE TURNER
Top Tomes

58 128

44 MONEY MAKER
Creating Competitive Advantage

46 PRESCRIPTION
Save Yourself

48 SCORE BOARD
Babys First Sport

52 HYPER TECH
Change The World

84

58 SLEEP INNS
Lifes a Beach

64 HIT LIST
Powerful Phenomena

140 KIDS SPACE

Wild Charms

PUBLISHER GROUP HEAD, ANCILLARY INCOME MANAGING EDITOR DEPUTY EDITOR ART DIRECTOR WRITERS PHOTOJOURNALIST EDITORIAL ASSISTANT GRAPHIC DESIGNER CONTRIBUTORS TRAVEL 3SIXTY DIGITAL TEAM CONTENT WEBMASTER WEB DEVELOPERS WEB DESIGNER ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES

Dato Kamarudin Meranun Al-Ishsal Ishak R. Rajendra Beverly Rodrigues Kan Seak Hong Chitra S Adli Syahril Adam Lee Fazlina Bee Binti Abdul Rashid Fadillah Kamarudin Captain Lim Khoy Hing, E Hamzah, Flash Parker, Pete King, Shantini Suntharajah Matthew Mok, Ellyse Ng, Irvin Hanni, Haze Jalalludin, Abby Yao, Ari Fajar, Seow Swee Har Iyan Yudhiana Mohd Suan, Zulasyraf Razak Angie Lew Indran Balavishnu (Malaysia) indran.balavishnu@pharpartnerships.com Senthuran Mohan (Malaysia) sen.mohan@pharpartnerships.com May Aung (Singapore) may.aung@pharpartnerships.com Paragorn Petchnaree (Thailand) paragorn.p@pharpartnerships.com Vikhram Radhakishnan (Indonesia) vikhram.r@pharpartnerships.com Ivan Riyansah (Indonesia) ivan.riyansah@pharpartnerships.com Frances Barsana (Philippines) frances.barsana@pharpartnerships.com Mairianne Reardon (Singapore, UK and International Markets) m.reardon@pharpartnerships.com Tel: +6 03-7966 8655 (Phar Partnerships Malaysia)

ON THE COVER
A Muay Thai / Mixed Martial Arts ghter
Cover image: Inmagine

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LCC Terminal, Jalan KLIA S3, Southern Support Zone, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, 64000 Sepang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia. Tel: 603-8660 4333 No. 16, Jalan BK 1/11, Bandar Kinrara, 47180 Puchong, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.Tel: 603-5623 9393 No 1A Jalan SS25/34, Mayang Light Industrial Park, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia

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6 CAPTAINS ADDRESS 4 0 2013

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THE JOURNEY CONTINUES

Summers during my teenage years meant a months visit with relatives in the Visayas province. In those days, my parents had to save up a considerable amount for our airfares. Those trips on the then state-of-theart BAC 1-11s were always exciting and made us feel privileged to be able to travel by air instead of taking the long and tiring overnight boat ride. In college, being a student activist involved travelling around the country mostly by bus, rail, ship and very rarely, by airplane. Flying was largely a bourgeois luxury but I must confess: I was totally enamoured by it! Fresh out of college, believing that travel was an integral part of education, my friends and I set up the Youth and Student Travel Association of the Philippines and linked up with the Swiss Student Travel Bureau pioneers of cheap student charter flights between Europe, the Middle East and Thailand. The next few decades turned me into an airplane junkie as my career morphed from one field to another television, corporate communication, music, the arts each providing opportunities for further travels. I dare say that I credit my travel experiences for enriching my life and preparing me for what is undoubtedly my most exciting and challenging metamorphosis as CEO of Philippines AirAsia. Tony Fernandes dream of making air travel affordable so that Now Everyone Can Fly! truly resonated with me an airline for the people how cool is that! I witnessed Tony and Kamarudin (co-founders of AirAsia) make that dream come true as they built Malaysia AirAsia from a two-aircraft operation 11 years ago to the largest and most successful low cost airline in Asia. They replicated this success in Thailand and Indonesia! I very badly wanted that for the Philippines as well. By the time we were ready to launch Philippines AirAsia, four other budget airlines were already operating in the country. In fact, there was a growing clamour for stricter regulations on budget carrier practices such as misleading and deceptive promo fares. Instead of seeing this as a hindrance, we saw this as an opportunity to introduce AirAsias pro-people practice of all-in fares with no hidden costs and dishonest promos. We entered the market in 2012; within a year, the government enacted the Air Passenger Bill of Rights that made all-in fares mandatory! We, the smallest and newest player on the block, pioneered this practice, which is now an industry standard. Our hub is 82 kilometres northwest of Manila in Clark International Airport, Pampanga. Today, we operate flights to two popular domestic destinations (Davao and Kalibo for Boracay) and four regional destinations (Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Taipei and Hong Kong). SMEs (Small and Medium Entrepreneurs) and travellers, particularly OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) and their families in Central and Northern Luzon, and those in Northern Metro Manila who have been underserved and saddled with poor connectivity and high fares can now connect to AirAsias vast route network in over 20 countries. Weve been taking small strides by offering low fares, awesome connectivity, efciency and quality service. A young high-schooler from Pangasinan recently e-mailed me thanking me for bringing AirAsia to Clark. Because of AirAsia, he and his schoolmates were able to see, up close and personal, a real monkey-eating eagle at the sanctuary in Davao instead of just reading about this near extinct raptor in text books. I want more Filipinos to travel around the country and explore the world not only to nd work but to experience and learn about the environment, arts, culture, heritage, music and life. We marked our first birthday in March 2013 by announcing a strategic alliance with Zest Airways, a local LCC based in Manila and Kalibo under the leadership of prominent Filipino businessman Ambassador Alfredo Yao. Through Zest, our guests will be able to y between Manila and Kalibo to points in South Korea, China and Asean as well as to major Philippine cities and island destinations. Im excited that very soon well be able to connect these major cities and small and emerging tourist islands directly to AirAsias enormous and growing network in Asia, Australia and beyond. Marianne (Maan) Hontiveros CEO, Philippines AirAsia

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Maan with her dad; Maan with the team at Warner Music with Tony Fernandes; Maan with PAA AllStar; Maan performing at the Lollipop Party ABC Ch 5 circa 1970; a still of Maan from the Road travel show Ch 4 circa 1987.

6 INBOX 0 2013

www.airasia.com/travel3sixty

I read the very inspiring article titled Timothy Sangawa (April 2013) in Travel 3Sixty during my flight from Kuala Lumpur to Tawau recently. What captured my interest was how Sangawa transited effortlessly from the corporate world to the entertainment business. I found similarities between his life and mine as I was reading the article. I too was spotted by a modelling agency scout some time ago but decided not to attend the interview; instead, I continued with my office life. Although I too have experienced lots of adventures in my life, they come no where near what Sangawa has done and achieved. My point here: I was afraid to step out of my comfort zone and with that decision, missed my y chance to try out something new and even more exciting. My advice to others: When opportunity comes knocking, grab the bull by its horns and just do it. You only live once! ~ Yeoh Yeong Kai, Singapore

HERES THE BUZZ ON AIRASIAS SOCIAL MEDIA

Thx to AirAsia, I just came back from Boracay. It was an amazing trip!
Choon Hooi

LETTER OF THE MONTH!

I bought plenty of cheap tickets for travels in 2014! Thank you, AirAsia!
Diyan Wijayanti

Kudos to Travel 3Sixty for publishing the article Real vs Reel Pilots (April 2013). As a regular air traveller, it is only natural for me to feel anxious after watching the movie Flight. However, Captain Lim Khoy Hing eased my fears by clearly spelling out the distinction between fact and fiction when it comes to the strict safety operating standards practised in air travel. The fact that there are always two competent pilots (the captain and his copilot) in the flight reassures me that I am in safe hands at all times. Also, knowing that there are safety mechanisms in an aircraft that prevent it from making dangerous manoeuvers, further provides comfort to me. With this in mind, Id not hesitate to travel more by air! ~ Lee Joo Ee, via email The article, The New Seoul (April 2013) in Travel 3Sixty proved to be very insightful in inviting readers to look at Seoul and South Korea from a more personal angle. I was in Seoul in the summer of 2012 and visiting the National Museum of Contemporary Art in Gwacheon was definitely one of the highlights. Reading the article, I was transported back to that brief time I spent walking the streets of Seoul, and I remember thinking how the ancient and contemporary existed side-by-side not incongruously, but in fact, quite beautifully. As my trip was pretty short, now I long to go back and experience more of the new Seoul after reading the article. ~ Madelline Romero, Manila, Philippines AirAsiaMegastore is a one-stop solution shopping portal where guests can purchase exciting travel products, AirAsiacollectibles, inight Comfort Kit, travel accessories, cosmetics, fragrances and loads and loads of exciting goodies. Make your online purchases from the comfort of your home or, buy that special item you have been coveting when onboard AirAsia ights. Either way, you will take home exciting products sold at amazingly affordable prizes! Whats more, lots of new products are added every month and special sales are held frequently! What are you waiting for? Shop like theres no tomorrow at www.airasiamegastore.com

Been booking tix with AirAsia for the past 10 years with minimal problems and lots of good memories.
Ajim Ajim

I had the most pleasant flight to Padang on April 26 piloted by Capt. Caesar. Friendly service that ended with a smooth landing.
@anoelblanc

Flew AirAsia for the first time with my family from Clark to Hong Kong. I just wanted to say Thank You for the fantastic service.
@JohnLamont2

Thanks AirAsia for your excellent service not only on board, but your ground staff were really nice as well.
@cahyakartika

Transfer to Koh Samui from airplane to bus, then boat. What a wonderful trip! Thumbs up to AirAsias Island Transfer package!
Eric

LETTER OF THE MONTH WINS

A MYR300 voucher to be redeemed against products available for sale at
www.airasiamegastore.com

STAR BUY!
Exclusive A AirAsia foldable backpack at MYR39 only!!

OTHER PUBLISHED LETTERS WIN

A MYR100 voucher each voucher to be redeemed against products available for sale at www.airasiamegastore.com

Finally Ive booked my ticket to Macau for only about RMB800! Even though its not the cheapest, but I got it during the holiday season. Thanks AirAsia for making my dream come true!
Wendy2007

Like what you read in Travel 3Sixty? Share your thoughts with us in English! To show how much we appreciate your feedback, well give the best letter of the month a MYR300 voucher to be redeemed against products available at www.airasiamegastore.com while two other published letters will win a MYR100 voucher each to be redeemed against products available at the said website. Each voucher code is valid for one transaction per user and only at www.airasiamegastore.com. Vouchers are not exchangeable for cash and are valid until Dec 31, 2013 only. Take note that unutilised value of the voucher is not refundable. Other T&C may apply. Please refer to said website for details.

Thanks AirAsia for fulfilling my dream! Successfully booked flight to Kunming on the cheapest fare!
Coco Face

TRAVEL 3SIXTY

6 RED FORT 0 2013

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WORRY-FREE, FUSS-FREE
AirAsia has made air travel affordable, thus enabling guests to visit and explore cities and countries with its Now Everyone Can Fly motto. Paying attention to the tips and pointers listed on this page will ensure guests truly benefit from the facilities and services offered by AirAsia.
IMAGE: INMAGINE

TRAVELLING INFANTS
We want everyone to y and this includes infants. Special air fares for infants are provided in the Fee Schedule on www.airasia.com for infants between nine (9) days old to under the age of two (2) years old (24 months) on the date of travel. For your infant to travel, he or she must sit on an adults lap. Only one (1) infant is allowed for each (1) adult. The number of infants is limited per ight due to safety regulations and as such, there may be a possibility that we may not be able to accommodate your request to carry infants with you. Furthermore, no perambulators are allowed on board the aircraft. For infants eight (8) days old and/or below we reserve the right not to carry them. However, we may in our absolute discretion, decide to carry such infants when such carriage is expressly sanctioned in writing by a medical practitioner and when the parent of the infant signs a Limited Liability Statement.

Can I fly?

CARRIAGE OF PREGNANT GUESTS

Carriage of pregnant guests are subject to the following conditions. Pregnancy up to 27 weeks (inclusive) Carriage: Permitted Limited Liability Statement: Required Pregnancy between 28 weeks to 34 weeks (inclusive) Carriage: Permitted Limited Liability Statement: Required Doctors Medical Certicate: Required with the following information Number of weeks of pregnancy Letter shall be dated not more than thirty (30) days from the date of departure. Pregnancy 35 weeks and above: Carriage: Not Permitted

SELF CHECK-IN FACILITIES

Guests flying with AirAsia can choose to check-in via any of these three facilities: Website, Mobile or, Kiosks at airports. Here is a quick graphic timeline on the facilities available.
before departure

14days

before departure

2hrs

before departure

60min

before departure

45min

before departure

20min

Web check-in opens

Baggage drop off/ Document check

Web-check-in closes

Baggage drop closes

Boarding gate closes

Self Check-in (WEB/MOBILE/KIOSK) opens 14 Days before your departure date and closes up to 1 hour prior to your departure time.

CABIN BAGGAGE
Each guest is allowed one piece of cabin baggage AND 1 laptop bag OR 1 handbag onboard. The main cabin baggage shall not exceed 56cm x 36cm x 23cm and should not weigh more than 7kgs. This baggage should also be able to fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead compartment.

before departure

14days

before departure

4hrs

before departure

3hrs

before departure

60min

before departure

20min

Web check-in opens

Web-check-in closes

Baggage drop off/ Document check

Baggage drop closes

Boarding gate closes

AirAsia X (D7) Self Check-in closes 4 hours prior to your departure time.

12

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BRANSON AT YOUR SERVICE

On May 12, Virgin Group entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson served as a female flight attendant on board an AirAsia X flight from Perth to Kuala Lumpur. This change in career for a day was the result of losing a friendly wager with Tan Sri Dr Tony Fernandes, Group CEO of AirAsia. More than two years ago, the two aviation icons bet on whose Formula One racing team then, Virgin and Team Lotus would finish ahead of the other in their debut at the 2010 Formula One Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi. The loser would have the honour of serving as a female flight attendant complete with make-up and heels on board the winners airline. In 2010, Tony Fernandes then Team Lotus finished two spots ahead of Sir Richard Bransons Marussia Virgin Racing team, sealing the fate of the British business magnate. Ever the good sport, Branson shaved his legs, slipped into a sexy red skirt and took to the skies as a female flight attendant. In the name of charity, flight tickets were sold for MYR1,308 or AUD399 one way to witness the historic event with AUD100 from each seat donated by AirAsia X to the Starlight Childrens Foundation in Australia. The airline also donated 10% of all inflight sales proceeds including duty free merchandise sold on board to the foundation. Guests were also invited to make donations on board the special flight. The Starlight Children Foundation is committed to brightening the lives of seriously ill and hospitalised children around the country.

X WELCOMES 10TH BIRD

AirAsia X welcomed its 10th Airbus A330-300 aircraft into the fold at the Airbus manufacturing factory in Toulouse, France, on April 23. The aircraft is the rst of the seven total deliveries for 2013. To commemorate the event, the airline launched a social media contest called AirAsia X: Designate our Aircraft from March 18 to April 3, asking AirAsia X fans to name all seven of the airlines soon-to-arrive aircraft. The contest received a tremendous response with 200 names shortlisted, but it was the Japanese-inspired Xakura Blossom that was picked for this special aircraft. The name reects the beauty of the sakura blossom season, which takes place from April to May. All seven winners were judged on their creativity and relevance, as well as the rationale in describing the airlines brand. Winners received a free return ight to any of AirAsia Xs destinations.

Azran Osman Rani with AirAsia X Allstars at the Airbus Delivery Centre in Toulouse, France.

In commemorating the birth of our 10th baby, we are pleased to announce its new name: Xakura Blossom. We believe that the name Xakura Blossom is synonymous with our dedication to the Japanese market. The name can also be easily remembered, as Japan is known for its sakura or cherry blossom season. ~ Azran Osman-Rani, CEO of AirAsia X
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ON TO JOHOR
Now, its even easier to visit Johor Bahru in Malaysia. Beginning June 7, AirAsia will connect the bustling cities of Medan and Jakarta in Indonesia to Johor Bahru. Check out some of the exciting attractions the sunny southern state has to offer. LEGOLAND MALAYSIA The rst Legoland in Asia has 40 interactive rides and exciting attractions such as Lego miniatures of city landmarks in Asia, the Legends of Chima 4D movie and, a super fun rollercoaster ride for adrenaline junkies. www.legoland.my PUTERI HARBOUR FAMILY THEME PARK Take your kids to this four-level indoor family theme park, which consists of Lats Place, Little Big Club and Sanrio Hello Kitty Town to meet some of their favourite characters like Hello Kitty, Barney and Bob the Builder. www.playtime.com.my JOHOR PREMIUM OUTLET This outlet offers cool fashion and designs from some 80 renowned designers and casual labels including Coach, Shanghai Tang and Charles & Keith, all selling at bargain prices.
www.premiumoutlets.com.my AirAsia ies to Johor Bahru four times weekly from Jakarta and three times weekly from Medan. Go to www.airasia.com for details. Legoland Malaysia

Left to Right: Mohd Khalid Abdul Razak, Consul General of Malaysia in Jeddah, Dato Kamarudin Meranun, Deputy Group CEO of AirAsia, Sheikh Khalid AlAboud, President and Owner of Al-Faris International Travel & Tourism

LAUNCHING JEDDAH
On April 7, AirAsia X celebrated the inaugural launch of the airlines Kuala Lumpur Jeddah route at the Hilton Hotel in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. In attendance were Dato Kamarudin Meranun, Co-founder and Director of AirAsia X; Tuan Mohd Khalid Abdul Razak, the Consulate General of Malaysia in Jeddah; Sheikh Khalid Al-Aboud, President and owner of Al Faris Travels and Tourism; representatives from tourism bodies and King Abdulaziz International Airport; as well as business associates and members of the media. Jeddah is an important destination as it is the main gateway to Makkah and Madinah, Islams holiest cities.

We are delighted to celebrate the launch of AirAsia X flights into Jeddah. Our presence will further solidify the AirAsia Groups position in offering guests greater flight connections and flexibility between Asean and the Middle East. ~ Dato Kamarudin Meranun, Co-founder and Director of AirAsia X

JEDDAH ATTRACTIONS

PAINT IT RED
On April 20, 14 teams comprising 70 AllStars from Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia participated in the Regional Paintball Tournament at Club 11Bbgun in Bangkok. The tournament was organised by AirAsias Culture unit with the aim of enhancing communication and team building skills, as well as creating a closer bond among AllStars. Thai AirAsia won rst place, taking home MYR1,000 and lots of medals, while rst runner-up went to AirAsia X. There was a tie for second runner-up with Malaysia AirAsias People Department and Thai AirAsias Engineering Department. First and second runner-up teams walked away with MYR500 and MYR300 respectively.

KINGS FOUNTAIN One of Jeddahs major attractions, the 853-foot fountain is said to be the tallest fountain in the world, and it uses saltwater from the Red Sea. Kings Fountain is simply stunning when illuminated at night. BALAD Forget the big malls and head over to Balad for

shopping. Balad is a bustling souq (open marketplace) selling local cuisine, perfumes, souvenirs and lots more. SILVER SANDS BEACH Escape the busy streets and chill by the Silver Sands Beach. Located at the northern side of Jeddah, this strip boasts clear waters, and is a perfect getaway for beach lovers.
AirAsia X ies to Jeddah from Kuala Lumpur four times weekly. Go to www.airasia.com for details. Silver Sands Beach

Winners of Allstars Regional Paintball Tournament.

16

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Hotel Pension Grimus Mt Buller

WINTER SPORTS IN AUSTRALIA

Winter in Australia begins in June and lasts till August, and this is the best time to head to the land Down Under for some quality skiing and other wintry pursuits. VICTORIA Enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing, tobogganing and snow tubing at Victorias alpine region, which is part of the Australian Alps. Top spots for winter sports include Mount Buller, home to the Olympic Winter Institute of Australia; Falls Creek, a fun retreat for all budgets; and Mount Hotham, the powder capital of Australia. TASMANIA Visit the island states two small downhill skields at Ben Lomond in the north and Mount Mawson, northwest of Hobart. When conditions permit, cross-country skiing is also possible at Cradle Mountain, part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area inscribed by UNESCO in 1982 and one of the countrys most scenic alpine locations.

CREDIT: TOURISM VICTORIA

NSW Check out well-serviced ski resorts like Thredbo, Perisher, Charlotte Pass and Selwyn Snowelds in the Snowy Mountains Australias highest mountain range for some of the best ski resorts in New South Wales.
AirAsia X ies to Sydney and Melbourne from Kuala Lumpur. Go to www.airasia.com for details.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TONY!

On April 24, AirAsia AllStars organised an early birthday surprise for Tony Fernandes, whose real birthday falls on April 30, at the RedFort. The Group CEO of AirAsia was presented with a birthday cake in the shape of an AirAsia aircraft, and entertained with a special birthday rap performed by members of the airlines Ramp Team and Flight Attendants department. Dato Aziz Bakar, Chairman of AirAsia; Dato Kamarudin Meranun, Deputy Group CEO of AirAsia; Aireen Omar, CEO of Malaysia AirAsia and members of AirAsias Board of Directors were there to join the celebration.

TUNE IN INDIA
On May 15, Tune Hotels opened its rst Indian property in the Gujarati city of Ahmedabad. The 100-room hotel within the newly-developed 4D Square Mall in the citys Motera area is located on the main road to the state capital of Gandhinagar and a stones throw away from Sardar Patel cricket stadium. Besides standard single and double rooms, the hotel has introduced family rooms that can accommodate up to six people. Tune Hotels will soon unveil ve to six more hotels in Gujarat as part of their plans to expand across India with 20 hotels in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Chennai over the next three years.

We see this as a great boost for not only travel between Malaysia and India, but adding further attraction to increasing travel within India. Like AirAsia, we pride ourselves on being a customer-focused brand, ~ Mark Lankester, Group CEO of Tune Hotels.

6 SPOTLIGHT 0 2013
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HIGHFLYING FA

SUTHA PERUMAL
HOW IT BEGAN
My career started with AirAsia when I joined as a Flight Attendant (FA) in 2006. At present, I am a Senior Flight Attendant. when a young girl walked up to me and when I asked what I could do for her, she simply smiled and told me that when she grew up, she wanted to be exactly like me!

MY MOTIVATION
The things that excite me are AirAsias guests and the cabin crew. The idea of working with the worlds best crew to serve our esteemed guests is great motivation for me.

FUN TIME ON-BOARD

We do all sorts of fun things on board such as celebrating events like birthdays and Valentines Day, as well as playing inight games with our guests. We ensure that guests have a good time on board but more importantly, it gives us FAs great joy to see others having a good time! It is very fullling to make someone feel special on board.

THE PAYOFF
A FAs job is not easy but we have been trained well to serve our guests no matter what the situation. From my daily experience engaging and serving them, Ive learnt how to be patient, how to work together as a team with the crew and how to communicate effectively with people from all walks of life. These skills have given me huge amounts of personal condence. No university can teach you that! My favourite experience was

MY ADVICE TO ASPIRING FAS

Come on board! The sky is the limit with AirAsia. Trust me; life does take on a meaningful turn when you are passionate about your role as a FA with AirAsia. It is fun and fullling and you also get to see the world. Now, try beating that!

IMAGE: ADAM LEE

SULTANS OF SCIENCE
An exhibition that celebrates the contributions of Muslim scholars in science and technology during Islams Golden Age (700-1700 CE), Sultans of Science Islamic Science Rediscovered takes visitors on a journey of discovery through interactive, sensory and static exhibits in diverse elds from mathematics to astronomy. Marvel at the innovations that paved the way for modern-day inventions at Petrosains, The Discovery Centre, Kuala Lumpur from now until June 15, 2013. www.petrosains.com.my

STOMPING THE STAGE

Internationally-acclaimed production STOMP returns to Singapore with new routines, choreography and music. Using everyday items like plastic bags, bin lids, supermarket trolleys and even kitchen sinks to create a unique performance that combines percussion, movement and visual comedy, the show has been a global phenomenon over the past two decades. Be a part of the action at Marina Bay Sands Mastercard Theatre, Singapore from June 18 to 23, 2013.
www.marinabaysands.com

Bridges and Kaki Lima

GROOVY GEORGE TOWN FIND YOUR KEYS

Tired of riing through the contents of your bag to nd your keys? Get help with My Puppies Key Finder, a nifty device that helps you locate your keys. Simply attach your keys to the device with an elastic band and turn it on. Whistle or clap and the device will instantly light up, making it easy for you to spot those elusive keys. Available on board all AirAsia ights. www.airasiamegastore.com 22
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Commemorating George Towns listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Malaysia celebrates arts, culture and heritage during the George Town Festival with events held at venues across Penangs capital from June 7 to July 7, 2013. Highlights include a concert by Italian chamber music group I Musici, Sutra - a dance performance inspired by Buddhist Shaolin monks and choreographed by Flemish/Moroccan artist Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui and, Roughcut a lm symposium by Tropfest South East Asia. www.georgetownfestival.com

1-STOP STORE, NONSTOP FUN!

With just about every AirAsia product and Tune Group merchandise under one roof, fans of these brands need not go far in search of football club memorabilia, topups for Tune Talk SIM packs, AirAsia ight tickets and all the essentials of a dream holiday. Located at Low Yat Plaza in downtown Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur, the Tune Store is a one-stop lifestyle outlet that optimises brand value through a holistic approach that engages customers with a variety of products. Ofcially launched by the co-founders of the Tune Group of Companies, Tan Sri Dr Tony Fernandes (Group CEO of AirAsia) and Dato Kamarudin Meranun (Deputy Group CEO of AirAsia), Tune Store offers a host of products that include Tune Hotels, Tune Money and Tune Insurance products, Caterham F1 Team and Queens Park Rangers Football Team (QPR) memorabilia and collectibles, and AirAsia BIG Loyalty Programme, AirAsia Megastore and AirAsia RedTix service offerings. www.tunegroup.com

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JUNE 2013

HONG KONG

HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT CARNIVAL

AUSTRALIA JUNE 21 - 23 One of the worlds biggest
celebrations, this carnival sees thousands of spectators and athletes descend on Hong Kongs Victoria Harbour to party and paddle.
www.discoverhongkong.com

CIRCUS OZ 2013: CRANKED UP

JUNE 19 - JULY 14 Australias critically-acclaimed rock n
roll, animal-free circus entertains crowds at Birrarung Marr in Melbourne with jaw-dropping stunts. www.circusoz.com

MALAYSIA

MEN IN TUTUS
JUNE 2 - 23 Les Ballets Grandivas ballerinos don uffy white tutus for another
round of hilarious ballet comedy at KL Live, PJ Live Arts and Penangpac. Their brilliant tongue-in-cheek humour will have you rolling on the oor with laughter!
www.gardnerandwife.com

SINGAPORE

COMPILED BY: ADLI SYAHRIL

LORD OF THE RINGS THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING LIVE IN SINGAPORE

JUNE 6 - 8 Catch the three-hour concert
presentation of Peter Jacksons award-winning lm for the rst time in Southeast Asia at The Star Performing Arts Centre in Singapore. The rst instalment of the lm trilogy will be projected above the 250 musicians.
www.metropolitan.sg

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TAIWAN

CIRQUE DU SOLEILS MICHAEL JACKSON THE IMMORTAL WORLD TOUR

JUNE 28 - 30 Cirque du Soleil
reinterprets Michael Jacksons unforgettable hits like Thriller, Smooth Criminal and Beat It in a theatrical stage production at the Taipei Arena. www.cirquedusoleil.com.tw

KOTA KINABALU JAZZ FESTIVAL JUNE 14-15

Dance the night away at Kota Kinabalus Sutera Harbour as the annual jazz festival returns with a series of music workshops and performances from local and international jazz musicians including Janet Lee, Kekko Fornarelli Trio and Moscow Fish.

MACAU

FEAST OF NA CHA
JUNE 25 Taoists pray for good weather, prosperity and social harmony at Na Cha Temple on the 18th day of the fth month in the Chinese lunar calendar. During this ritual, a statue of the Taoist deity of protection, Na Cha, is carried in procession accompanied by lion dance performers from the temple to the city. www.macautourism.gov.mo CHINA

SARAH BRIGHTMAN LIVE IN SHANGHAI

JUNE 23 Soprano superstar Sarah Brightman, whos known for popular classical crossovers, performs hits like Angel and One Day Like This at Shanghai Grand Stage as part of a world tour to promote her 11th studio album, Dreamchaser.
www.piao.com.cn

WE LOVE ASIA PRESENTS JOACHIM GARRAUD JUNE 21

Experience electronic music like never before when French DJproducer Joachim Garraud entertains ravers with his rst live 3D show at KL Live in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

SOUTH KOREA

ULTRA MUSIC FESTIVAL KOREA 2013

INDONESIA

Join us at twitter om/RedTix

twitter.c

Join us at Facebook edTix

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RICHARD CLAYDERMAN LIVE IN JAKARTA

Richard Clayderman performs instrumental renditions of popular songs and easy-listening classical music at Balai Kartinis Nusa Indah Theatre in Jakarta.
www.rajakarcis.com

JUNE 7 French pianist

your rave gear ready for one of the worlds biggest dance music festivals. In its second year, the event will see some of the best DJs including Avicii, Armin van Buuren, Kaskade take Seouls Olympic Stadium Complex by storm.
www.umfkorea.com

JUNE 14 & 15 Get

BE OUR FAN ON FACEBOOK.COM/ AIRASIAREDTIX, FOLLOW US ON TWITTER.COM/REDTIX AND PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS FOR THE ABOVEMENTIONED EVENTS AT AIRASIAREDTIX.COM

ELSEWHERE
THAILAND NJs Story Concert JUNE 8 www.
thaiticketmajor.com MALAYSIA Heineken Green

Room JUNE 15 www.heineken.com/my HONG KONG Sesame Street Live: Elmos Super Heroes JUNE 28 - JULY 1 www.hkticketing.com INDONESIA G-Dragon 2013 World Tour JUNE 15 & 16 www. myticket.co.id CHINA Designing 007: 50 Years of Bond Style JUNE 1 - 30 www.shanghai247.net AUSTRALIA Melbourne International Jazz Festival MAY 31 - JUNE 9 www.melbournejazz.com

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

INSPIRING IDEAS, INCREDIBLE GETAWAYS

Want to soak up the sun on a pristine beach, tuck into a bowl of delicious Vietnamese noodles or absorb the beauty and spirituality of ancient Buddhist temples? Browse our list of the worlds top spots for amazing holiday experiences. All thats left to do is book that flight!

EAT & LOVE ASIA

Many people fall in love with Asia the moment they discover the continents diverse and delicious cuisine. Here are some musttry dishes to begin your love affair.

BEST BEACH HOLIDAY EVER!

If youre having a hard time deciding the ideal spot for a beach vacation in Asia, here are some sizzling picks based on feedback from millions of travellers who participated in the 2013 Travellers Choice Beach Awards by TripAdvisor. WHITE BEACH, BORACAY, VISAYAS, PHILIPPINES Famous for breath-taking sunsets, this gem is considered Boracays most popular beach and a romantic spot for honeymooners. RAILAY BEACH, KRABI, THAILAND Ideal for family getaways, this beach serves up idyllic views and fun activities like snorkelling and kayaking. RADHANAGAR BEACH, ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS, INDIA With turquoise waters and diverse flora and fauna in its surrounding area, this is one of the worlds best beaches and a nature lovers paradise. OTRES BEACH, SIHANOUKVILLE, CAMBODIA A little off the beaten track, this lovely beach offers a peaceful escape. SECRET LAGOON BEACH, MIMAROPA, PHILIPPINES This spectacular beach is surrounded by limestone cliffs, and accessible only by swimming through a hole in the cliff!

one of the most popular Asian dishes around. A basic pad thai consists of at rice noodles, aromatic spices and meat or shrimp. Its topped with bean sprouts, ground peanuts, strips of omelette, and a dash of lime juice. Pad thai has found its way around the world but you havent really had pad thai till youve tasted the authentic version in Thailand.

THAILANDS PAD THAI This is arguably

VIETNAMS PHO A mouth-watering delight, the classic pho is a rice noodle dish served with a avoursome broth that is prepared using beef and marrow-rich bones, and seasoned with cinnamon, cloves, fennel and star anise. It is served with basil leaves, chilli peppers, green onions, bean sprouts and lime wedges. MALAYSIAS LAKSA

This is a spicy noodle dish with a somewhat fanatical following, especially in Penang. While there are many varieties hailing from Malaysias different states, the popular ones come in two styles: Curry laksa, which is usually coconut milk-based and asam laksa, which has a sh and tamarind paste.
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WORDS: SHANTINI SUNTHARAJAH

For an extensive list of beaches and island destinations, scan this QR code for a free download.

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DADDY TIME

To surprise your dad this Fathers Day, treat him to an unforgettable vacation. Its a wonderful way to show him your appreciation and enjoy quality time together. Here are a few dad-worthy vacation spots that your father will absolutely love. Theyre certainly far more enjoyable than the boring wallet or tie he gets every year! surng class, and you both will be riding waves like pros in no time!

SAVING BIG IN JAPAN

Theres no doubt about it if youre serious about seeing the world, Japan is a must-visit country. However, budget travellers tend to give Japan a wide berth because even though its easy on the eye, it can be hard on the wallet! Here are some tips to help you cut costs.

FOR FOOD-LOVING DADS Plan a

culinary trip to Manila, Philippines and savour delicious local fare like sinigang (a sour stew) and lechon (roast pork). If your dads adventurous, theres balut, a fertilised duck embryo that is boiled and eaten in the shell.

FOR NATURE-LOVING DADS If your

FOR BEACH-LOVING DADS If your dad cant get enough of the beach then Indonesias world famous surf spots in Bali and Sulawesi are the places to go. Book a

dad enjoys an outdoor challenge, why not climb Mount Kinabalu together? The shared triumphs and tribulations that come with conquering one of the tallest peaks between the Himalayas and New Guinea, will give the two of you something to talk (and brag) about for the rest of your lives!

ACCOMMODATION Capsule

GETTING THERE AirAsia ies to Clark (Manila), Bali and Kuala Lumpur from various destinations. Go to www.airasia.com for details.

hotels are basic accomodations that give you just enough room to sleep. They may look cramped but many guests find them to be quite comfortable and affordable at less than USD40 a night. www.hostelworld.com

TRANSPORT Public transport especially cab rides can be extremely pricey, setting you back JPY600 to 700 for just the first two kilometres. Savvy budget travellers opt for buses or bicycle hire. Walking will help you save yen and work off that sushi lunch! www.rentabike.jp FOOD Load up at lunch as
IMAGE: INMAGINE

many eateries offer special set menus that dont cost a bomb. Basement fl oors at large supermarkets are also a great place to find cheap and good meals.

NEPALS GEMS
Nepal is known for its almost otherworldly beauty, famed Himalayan mountain range and of course, Mount Everest, the worlds tallest peak. Kathmandu, the capital and tourism gateway to Nepal, was once believed to be the fabled city of Shangri-La. Even if you have no plans to scale a mountain, Nepal will keep you busy with its stunning historic and spiritual sites.

Swayambunath

BHAKTAPUR Located in the east corner of the Kathmandu Valley, Bhaktapur is one of three royal cities in Nepal. Home to the Newari people, Bhaktapur is also known as Nepals Cultural Gem as it is brimming with architectural wonders such as terracotta monuments, palaces and temples with elaborate carvings and gilded roofs, and fabulous pagodas and religious shrines. BOUDHNATH One of the most
important Tibetan Buddhist pilgrimage sites, the highlight of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed town is its ancient stupa. One of

the worlds largest, this stupa has been attracting Buddhist pilgrims for hundreds of years. Watching pilgrims chant mantras and circle the stupa certainly counts as a peaceful, even spiritual experience.

SWAYAMBUNATH

GETTING THERE AirAsia X ies to Kathmandu from Kuala Lumpur. Go to www.airasia.com for details.

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Swayambunath is located west of Kathmandu, and is one of Nepals oldest religious complexes. Ancient inscriptions found on a stone here indicate that it was founded at the beginning of the 5th century AD. The site is also known as the Monkey Temple as monkeys actually live in parts of the temple.

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PALATABLE PLEASURES
Food plays such an important role in our lives that we even use it to express ourselves, while flowers that normally prettify a table can become an ingredient in our daily meals.

A NATURAL HIGH
If you are looking for an energy drink that is packed with natural goodness, try the new EQ8 Orange & Passion Fruit! Made from natural ingredients such as green tea, guarana and just a nip of natural caffeine from green coffee beans, the drink provides you with a pleasant jolt of energy within minutes. Combining the refreshing taste of oranges and the revitalising properties of coffee, EQ8 is lightly sparkling and is best enjoyed chilled. Grab one today and put that spring back in your step. Priced at only MYR6, EQ8 is available on board Malaysia AirAsia flights.

FOOD SPEAK

LIGHT MY FIRE
Richard Miller, the new Director of Cuisine at W Retreat Seminyak in Bali has overhauled the menu at Fire, the resorts grill restaurant, offering guests a brand new culinary experience that includes fresh produce from an organic garden with emphasis on traditional Indonesian herbs. The outlets offerings still revolve around grilled dishes such as grain-fed Black Angus prime rib aged 200 days and Wagyu Beef +7 marbling grade from the wood-red grill. New highlights include Iced Lombok Prawn Ceviche and Torched Tuna Chutoro. Wanting to introduce locally grown cocoa products in the menu, Miller is working closely with fellow Australian, Toby Garritt, who has set up a chocolate factory and caf in Bali called Pod Chocolate. The collaboration has resulted in Miller creating delicious chocolate dishes such as the Pod Chocolate Melting Sphere (white chocolate mousse, popping candy, choc-mint streusel and orange jelly) and Pod Couverture (chocolate chilli brul, dark chocolate souf, milk chocolate bon bon, macaroon, ice cream and pandan cotton candy).
www.starwoodhotels.com

Food has found its way into language and how we express ourselves. Here are some popular idioms and expressions with food as a basis. FULL OF BEANS Someone who is overly energetic TO COOK SOMEONES GOOSE To damage or ruin someone TO CRY OVER SPLIT MILK To express regret over something thats already done MILK OF HUMAN KINDNESS Sympathy and compassion NOT FOR ALL THE TEA IN CHINA Not for anything at all in the world TO EAT HUMBLE PIE To admit ones mistake
WORDS: R. RAJENDRA

EAT HIGH ON THE HOG Eat luxurious food EAT LIKE A BIRD Eat very little

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FLAVOURS OF MELBOURNE
With signature recipes like Spicy Tuna Tataki from Izakaya Den Chef Yosuke Furukawa and Risotto Venere with Bug Tails from Grossi Florentino Chefs Guy Grossi and Chris Rodriguez, this coffee table book invites readers on a culinary excursion through Melbournes best restaurants and bars. Restaurant owners also share stories and anecdotes on the history of their eateries, and the inspiration behind some of their popular dishes. With beautiful photography that can serve as inspiration to budding restaurateurs worldwide, this book is a denite keeper and a great gift idea for foodies.
www.smudgehouse.coma.au

IT MAKES ZENSE
Located on the 17th floor of Zen World in downtown Bangkok, ZENSE Gourmet Deck & Lounge Panorama is all set to wow epicurean sensibilities with whats being touted as the most sensational wining and dining outlet in the Big Mango. Offering a tantalising spread of international cuisines such as Thai, Italian, Japanese fusion, Indian and contemporary fusion complemented with a to-die-for array of decadent desserts and an extensive selection of wines and cocktails -- all served in a stylish-yet-comfy setting, Zense is a true feast for the senses in every sense of the word. With spectacular city views from the ZENSE Gourmet Deck and Lounge Panorama, this is not merely a place to grab a bite but a destination dining experience that highlights the pleasures of wining and dining in an environment that is as elegant as it is exciting. Zense is open daily from 5.00pm to 1.00am. For reservations, call +66 (0) 2100 9898. www.zensebangkok.com

COLA DECODER
Take a sip of your favourite cola and try describing the taste. Chances are youll fumble for words and end up giving vague descriptions. Cola tastes like... well... cola! The recipe for this world famous soda drink is a ercely guarded secret. Researchers claim it contains the ingredients listed below but good luck in trying to recreate your own batch! POSSIBLE INGREDIENTS IN COLA Citric acid caffeine sugar lime juice vanilla caramel orange oil lemon oil nutmeg oil coriander neroli cinnamon water

Zucchini flowers

EATING FLOWERS
Flowers dont just look pretty as a garnish; some are edible too! A large variety of owers can be tossed into salads and some can even be cooked for example, zucchini owers as their large petals hold their shape when fried. Some owers like rose and lavender lend a delicate fragrance to desserts, while others like chrysanthemum and hibiscus can be dried and steeped as tisane. Do ensure the owers that you consume are free from pesticides, and not collected from roadsides. Additionally, some parts of the owering plant may be poisonous. Go to http://whatscookingamerica.net/EdibleFlowers for an extensive list of edible owers. 36
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TOP TOMES

2012 SHORTLIST
Check out the other Man Asian Literary y Prize-nominees for 2012.
Between Clay and

This month, we take a look at Man Asian Literary Prize-winning books and chat with the current winner, Tan Twan Eng.

Dust by Musharraf Ali Farooqi captures the bond between a great veteran wrestler and a renowned courtesan, both past their prime, in a Pakistani city after Partition.

Silent House by

Orhan Pamuk recounts the poignant, funny and chilling events that unfold as a Turkish family comes together in the days before the military coup of 1980.

LITERARY TRIUMPHS
Founded in 2007 to recognise the worlds best works by Asian writers, the annual Man Asian Literary Prize is a prestigious award that unfailingly unearths incredible literary gems. In 2007, the inaugural prize went to Chinese writer Jiang Rong for his book Wolf Totem in which he depicts the spiritual relationship and respect between wolves and humans who dwell along the border of Inner and Outer Mongolia. The Guardian proclaimed Jiang Rong one of the most celebrated and controversial Chinese novelists in the world." The second year saw Filipino writer Miguel Syjuco nab the prize for his novel Ilustrado, which chronicles a young students investigation into the murder of his mentor and the case of a missing manuscript that exposes the crimes of the Filipino ruling families.
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The Washington Post said Syjuco is only in his mid-30s, and he already possesses the wand of the enchanter. In 2009, the prize was secured by a Chinese writer; Su Tong, best known for his book Wives and Concubines in the West, took the prize with his political fable The Boat to Redemption. This funny tale of an ofcers fall from grace and a young boys coming of age among the drifting boat people, portrays people torn between powerful desires and needs, and an allseeing and unforgiving political party. The following year, Bi Feiyu, who's known for his complex portrayals of the female psyche, did China proud when he became the third Chinese writer to bag the coveted prize with his novel Three Sisters. In 2011, the honour was bestowed upon a female writer for the very rst time; South Korean

author Kyung-sook Shin won the award for her poignant novel Please Look After Mom, which follows the desperate search for a missing mother. Told through the perspectives of the womans two grown children, husband, and nally herself, the different voices serve to piece together a portrait of a complex woman, and emphasise the great sacrices mothers make that often eclipse their own identities. In the end, the once-missing mother says Did Mom know? That I, too, needed her my entire life? revealing a profound truth that we all need our mothers no matter how old we are. The most recent winner of this award is Malaysian writer Tan Twan Eng, whose book The Garden of Evening Mists is set in the aftermath of the Japanese Occupation of Malaya. In this book that spans three time

The Briefcase by Hiromi Kawakami explores loneliness and companionship with a story that revolves around the growing affection between a 38-year-old woman and her former teacher, who is 30 years her senior. Narcopolis by Jeet Thayil paints a fantastical image of Bombay as it depicts the evolution of this once great metropolis over 30 years, delving into topics like drugs, sex, death, addiction, love and God.

periods and deals with the role of memory, a war survivor struggles with the guilt of not being able to save her sister. To create a Japanese garden as a tribute to her sister, the protagonist becomes an apprentice to the former gardener of Emperor Hirohito, and falls in love with him despite her resentment for the Japanese. Commenting on Tans book, Dr Maya Jaggi, chair of the judging

panel said Taking its aesthetic cues from the artful deceptions of Japanese landscape gardening, it opens up a startling perspective on converging histories, using the feints and twists of ction to explore its themes of personal and national honour; love and atonement; memory and forgetting; and the disturbing co-existence of cultural renement and barbarism.

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WORDS: BEVERLY RODRIGUES

SEPTIMUS HEAP, BOOK SEVEN: FYRE

Angie Sage
In the conclusion of this fantasy series, Septimus Heap embarks on a journey to destroy the power of the evil Two-faced Ring, and nds his loyalties tested as he discovers more about himself and develops his Magykal powers.

A POWS STORY
Tan Twan Eng is the first Malaysian to win the coveted Man Asian Literary Prize, and the second writer to receive this distinguished honour for a novel originally written in English.

THE GHOST BRIDE

Yangsze Choo
Destitute and with few marriage prospects, Li Lan enters into a ghost marriage with the late son of the wealthy Lim family. Soon, shes haunted by her otherworldly beau, as well as her growing attraction for the familys new heir.

EXTENSIVE RESEARCH
In The Gift of Rain, I wrote about the period before and during the Japanese Occupation. With The Garden of Evening Mists, I wanted to explore the consequences after the war how did people regain normalcy in their lives after experiencing such a devastating upheaval? My research was conducted via books memoirs and diaries of concentration camp survivors and history books. I looked at old photographs and interviewed the owner of a tea plantation in Cameron Highlands about what life was like up there in the 50s. For the gardening aspect, I spoke to landscape designers, horticulturalists and gardening enthusiasts. I also did research via reference books and visited Japanese gardens in the various cities where I was touring to promote The Gift of Rain or speaking at literary festivals.

LETS EXPLORE DIABETES WITH OWLS

David Sedaris
This ridiculously amusing compilation of short stories from the master of humorous observations includes such brilliant anecdotes as Understanding Understanding Owls, in which a trip to a taxidermy shop turns out to be a soul-baring experience, READ and Attaboy wherein Sedaris reminisces over the good OF THE old days when hitting other MONTH! peoples kids was as customary as beating your own! Interwoven with Sedaris memories are hilarious satirical snippets with voices so real you can almost imagine Sedaris as a nasty, husband-stealing sister or gaybashing bigot on a killing spree.

SCARCE REPRESENTATION OF FEMALE POWS IN LITERATURE

Perhaps its because they are more reticent about what they've been through, so writers and historians have more difculty accessing primary sources. One of the most harrowing experiences I read was in Sybil Kathigasus book, No Dram of Mercy. She was severely tortured by the Japanese. Its partly because of this absence of female POWs voices that I decided to explore how a woman would have experienced the war and, later, the Emergency.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

This tale of race and choices follows the journey of a couple who fall in love as teenagers in military-controlled Nigeria, go their separate ways, and eventually reunite in newly democratic Nigeria where difcult decisions must be made.

AMERICANAH

BIGGEST COMPETITION FOR THE AWARD

I made it a point not to read the other writers books before the winner was announced, so, in terms of reputation, I thought Orhan Pamuk was the strongest competition. But I was very much aware that I was in the company of some of the best writers in Asia, so I thought all of them were huge competition.

GHAURIS SWORD
Blending adventure, romance and the threat of nuclear warfare, this book follows NASA scientist Randy Brown on a mission to rescue his ve-year-old son from terrorists, and into the thick of hostilities between India and Pakistan.
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Bruce J Sylvester

FREE TIME
Reading, dealing with the details of life: paying bills, xing something in the house, answering emails. But a part of me is always observing. A writer never stops writing, even when hes not at his desk!

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CREATING COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE

Learn to enhance your products and milk the uniqueness of your services to create a competitive edge for your small venture.
% of small business enterprises are looking into boosting their investments in technology this year with 33% looking into mobile technology, another 33% into hardware, 22% into security systems, and the remainder into general technologies to upgrade office equipment.
(Research in Motion Limited)

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IMAGE: INMAGINE

PRECISE PROPOSITION
Its essential to come up with a clearly dened selling proposition for your business. Ask yourself: Why would people choose to buy my product or service, instead of someone elses? Think about what separates your business from the rest. Here are some possibilities: BETTER PRICING Think in terms of affordability instead of cheap. Something thats affordable may be an attractive option, while something cheap may create doubts about quality. MORE VARIETY WITH GOOD QUALITY Whether youre offering products or services, its best to ensure quality rst and foremost. Once youve achieved this, start thinking about expanding your range to complement your existing products and/or services. FASTER DELIVERY OR SERVICE Work out a plan where your customers know exactly when they will receive the product or service. Better yet, offer delivery with a guarantee such as in 48 hours or your money back if you are certain it can be done. PAYMENT FLEXIBILITY If possible, work out a deal with your bank to offer your customers exi payments through their credit cards. For example, six month instalments with 0% interest. Give your customers a payment option. LOYALTY PROGRAMMES OR MEMBERSHIP INCENTIVES You want returning customers in order to sustain your business, and a loyalty programme can do that for you. Offer fabulous discounts and give them incentives of added discounts for introducing new customers. Something as simple as you get a free product from our exclusive range provides great motivation.
Source: www.entrepreneur.com

% of internet users worldwide have purchased at least one item clicked on in Pinterest, while another 10% make at least one purchase a day via their smartphone.
(Survey by Havas Worldwide)

10

2,250
USD is the cost of renting one single square foot of a shop in 5th Avenue, New York, per year, which makes shops on this fashionable street the most expensive to rent in the world today!
(TravelSupermarket.com)

LAST LAUGH GOES TO THE WORLD

100% of the revenue made by Laughing Man Coffee and Tea, based in New York, USA, goes to charity. Set up by actor Hugh Jackman in October 2011 to give back to charities worldwide, this company focuses on education to ensure a peaceful, healthy and prosperous worldwide community. Laughing Mans coffee products can be bought online (https://secure.
laughingmancheckout.com/).

3 REASONS TO REVIEW INSURANCE PLANS

VALUE Health, investment or education policies may depreciate in value over the years. The sum you pay may not change, but the value in terms of what you get back may. For example, the education policy that you bought for your children when they were born, which pays back USD20,000 by the time they turn 18 years old, may not be enough for the university courses they want to pursue. APPLICABILITY As we grow older, our needs change. If you have mapped out a plan of policies for your young family, you may want to review what needs to be added or subtracted. Consult your insurance agent so your family is protected as the world around them changes. INVESTMENT OPTIONS Not many people opt for investment policies these days due to the diversity

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WORDS: EFI HAFIZAH HAMZAH

of policies out there. However, with a solid insurance company, this may be a less complicated option. You could start with a smaller value investment policy for your young children, and as they grow up and earn, they may continue to pay into it. This will teach them the value of money and responsibility, and help them set up a safety net for their retirement.

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SAVE YOURSELF
IMAGE: INMAGINE

The best care for your health begins with self-care. Pay attention to your body when its acting up because a simple headache could be a sign of something more serious.
NON-STOP HEADACHES: You could be drinking too many soft drinks,
especially those of the diet variety. Articial sweeteners like aspartame can trigger migraines and headaches. People with a genetic disorder called phenylketonuria (PKU) lack the enzyme needed to metabolise a substance present in aspartame, causing headaches or fuzziness of the brain, which may lead to nerve damage. IMMEDIATE ACTION If your headache lasts for more than a few days, it may be a blood pressure, neurological (brain) or cardio (heart) problem.

ITCHY EARS, THROAT OR NASAL PASSAGE: A

common cold and several types of allergies may cause such itches. But theres another possibility candida (yeast) overgrowth. This usually happens if youre into sugary or high carbohydrate foods. Left untreated, itll lead to poor blood circulation, indigestion, low immunity, chronic fatigue and other ailments. IMMEDIATE ACTION Cut out all rened and unrened sugars in your diet for a while. This includes fresh and dried fruits as well as fruit juices. Drink plenty of water.

TermLifeInsurance.org)

% of breast and colon cancers are diagnosed in obese individuals.

(Source: Nutrition. Suite101.com)

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LISTEN & LEARN

The human body is a glorious machine. When it acts up, this is usually a sign of something more serious. Stress, exhaustion and a lack of sleep can cause disharmony, but if symptoms persist, seek professional medical attention. Here are some symptoms that we often take lightly.

CRACKS AT THE CORNERS OF MOUTH: We tend to attribute dry mouth, chapped lips and cracks in the corners to insufcient water consumption. But, you could be suffering from a Vitamin B deciency. Cracks could be a sign that youre anaemic (low blood count).
IMMEDIATE ACTION Include whole grains, red meat, fresh proteins, whole eggs and legumes in your diet. If youre vegetarian, take Vitamin B supplements.
Source: Elson M. Haas, MD., author of Staying Healthy with Nutrition; webmd.com; www.scoop.it

healthymagination.com)

million people worldwide get an infection during a hospital stay that requires further care. So, if the doctor discharges you, go home! (Source:

1.7

3 MIGRAINE TRIGGERS

BUST BOOSTERS
If having a modest breast size is getting you down, eat foods that are high in oestrogens and phytoestrogens. These suppress testosterone production for a more bountiful chest. See more at: http://visual.
ly/foods-increase-breast-size

CAFFEINE
WORDS: EFI HAFIZAH HAMZAH

MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE (MSG)

Found in Chinese food, seasoned salt, salty snacks, ready-to-heat soups, many low fat and low cal foods, veggie burgers, fermented and hydrolysed vegetables, soy and plant proteins.

ASPARTAME
Generally used in diet soft drinks, aspartame contains excitotoxins known to affect nerve cells in the long run.
Source: www.care2.com

FRUITS VEGETABLES GRAINS SEEDS HERBS & SPICES

Apple Beetroot Barley Flaxseed Garlic

Cherry Carrot Rice Sunowers Seed Parsley

Plum Cucumber Wheat Fennel Seed Clover

Found in coffee, tea, fizzy drinks and colas. Going off caffeine suddenly can also trigger headaches.

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NOTE: ALWAYS CONSULT A DOCTOR BEFORE YOU EMBARK ON ANY ALTERNATIVE THERAPY OR EXERCISE REGIME.

% is the increased risk of Type 2 diabetes with every 10th sip of a soft drink, and up to 90% for people already predisposed to the disease. (Source:

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BABYS FIRST SPORT

Children have boundless energy to expend and getting them into sports will teach them the value of working as a team and communicating with others. According to paediatricians and experts, the best time to introduce children to a specic sport is when they are about three years old. But allow them to lead you to where their passion lies and keep in mind that interests may change drastically over the years. Expose them to different types of sports and allow them to choose what they like best. If they are tired, dont force them or they may think of sports as a chore. Make their sporting experience a sweet memory by snapping photos of them as they kick off or shake their pom poms. To give you an idea of what children learn at different stages, here are examples of ageappropriate activities and sports for your little ones. Ages 2 5 years: Running, climbing, kicking, tumbling, dancing, playing catch with a lightweight ball, pedalling a tricycle or a bicycle with training wheels, supervised water play. Ages 6 7 years: Softball or baseball, football, gymnastics, swimming, tennis, golf, track and eld, martial arts. FOOTBALL & FUTSAL These sports provide structure through rules and regulations, and allow your kids
IMAGE: INMAGINE

Naturally inquisitive, young children have the energy and enthusiasm to explore and learn. Encouraging them to take up a sport from a young age will help them discover their true potential.
to run around while learning the importance of sportsmanship. CHEERLEADING & GYMNASTICS If your kids display singing and/or dancing skills, these activities would probably interest them. Theyll learn techniques to increase exibility and be able to express themselves to music.
Source: www.everydayfamily.com; www.mayoclinic.com

37.2
% of Chinas 1.3 billion-strong (approx) population pedal to work daily.
Source:www.top10hell.com

42,858
calories was the amount of energy burnt by American ultramarathon runner Dean Karnazes in one single non-stop run of approximately 563.2 kilometres in 2005.
Source: http://goo.gl/ yd3wX

2.23
billion USD is the highest value of a single sports team as of 2012 the Manchester United Football team.
Source: wc1.smartdraw.com

MORE THAN A SPORT

DID YOU KNOW

Olympic badminton rules state that the shuttlecock used in a game must have exactly 14 feathers. The exchange of jerseys among football players was ofcially prohibited at the 1986

World Cup because FIFA didnt want players to bare their chests on the eld. Gonzales or Gonzalez is the most common name for World Cup players. India withdrew from the 1950 World Cup nals because they were not allowed to play barefoot; they havent had a chance to compete since. USA beat England 1-0 in the 1950 World Cup nals but a British newspaper reported the result as USA 1, England

10 because it was believed that it would be an easy win for England where double-digit goals were expected. This error is considered one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history. Golfers worldwide use an estimated USD800 million worth of golf balls annually. Up until 1967 it wasnt illegal for Olympic athletes to use drugs to enhance their performance while competing.

Bossaball is a new sport that combines football, volleyball, gymnastics, capoeira moves, dance and even sepak takraw (kick volleyball). This all-round sport is sweeping nations off their feet. You have to see it to believe it! Check out http://goo.gl/z3bYp 48
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AIRASIA WORLD OF SPORTS

GREAT STRIDES WITH AIREEN OMAR, CEO OF MALAYSIA AIRASIA
Aireen Omar shares her experience of running in the Malaysia Womens Marathon, and offers insight on how she maintains a healthy lifestyle while running the worlds best low cost airline.

KICKOFF CAPTURED LIVE

Not all footie fans are able to follow their favourite football team around the world but AirAsias recent QPR Live Viewing Party brought QPR fans as close to the action as possible. On April 13, AirAsia erected a 60ft-wide screen at Sunway Giza, Kota Damansara in Malaysia for the Everton FC vs. QPR match, and pulled out all the stops to create an airport experience where fans were able to check-in to enter the event and enjoy the gaming stations and a QPR museum. One lucky fan, Eric Ho walked away with a once-in-alifetime trip to catch a QPR match live in Loftus Road London.
Eric Ho (2nd from left) being presented with a mock cheque by Ishsal Ishak, AirAsia Group Head of Ancillary Income, AirAsia.

Aireen Omar (sixth from left) and fellow AllStars at the marathon.

T360: How was your experience running in the Malaysia Womens Marathon? Aireen: It was both inspiring and fun. You need the same kind of discipline, determination and perseverance required to reach the end game of anything you attempt. The most challenging part was trying to run comfortably in a tutu! Next, Id like to see if I can complete a half marathon. T360: Do you run with music? Aireen: No, I prefer to run in peace and take in the sounds of nature and the surroundings. T360: How do you maintain your health while running an airline? Aireen: I schedule time for exercise in my daily regime and sometimes drag a friend along. I love Pilates and swimming, and prefer brisk walking to running. Right now,

Im quite addicted to the power plate workout! T360: Do you follow any particular diet? Aireen: Not really. I generally eat what I like but I do make a conscious effort to control the portion. My guilty pleasures include chocolates, peanut butter and cupcakes! T360: How do women-centric events empower women? Aireen: I think that this is one way to create awareness for women in this part of the world, and remind them that they are capable and should be given equal opportunities in their communities to be successful in their lives. T360: Advice to women out there? Aireen: Be confident. Always believe in yourself and be passionate about whatever you choose to do.

This has certainly been right up there in terms of match watching experiences! What can be better than watching football in front of a gigantic screen with your mates, and then winning a trip to Loftus Road? This was a fantastic football viewing experience like no other! ~ Eric Ho, QPR fan

SQUASHING THE COMPETITION WITH AIRASIA

FIRST MALAYSIA WOMENS MARATHON

Over 2,000 women made history at the inaugural Malaysia Womens Marathon that took place at I-City Shah Alam on April 7. The fifth womens marathon to be organised in the world outside Japan and the USA, the event was a celebration of the strength of women who dedicate themselves tirelessly to their family, nation and the world. 50
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Low Wee Wern (left) with Aireen Omar.

AirAsia recently announced support for Malaysias squash star Low Wee Wern. Currently the second national female squash player, the 22-year-old is ranked sixth in the world.

A special event was held in George Town, Penang to announce the one-year sponsorship with Aireen Omar, CEO of Malaysia AirAsia; Al-Ishsal Ishak, AirAsia Group Head of Ancillary Income; Low Wee Wern. Low was presented a special AirAsia squash racquet to commemorate the partnership. The Penangite began her journey in squash when she was just eight years old, and turned professional in 2008. So far, Low has won numerous tournaments and championships including three Asian Junior Champion titles and the prestigious British Junior Open. She even broke into the top 20 world ranking at a younger age than fellow Malaysian squash player and world number one, Nicol David. Low is currently based in Penang where she trains with her coach Aaron Soyza.

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CHANGE THE WORLD

Technology is constantly propelling the world forward and changing the way we do things be it listening to music or driving.

EASY LIFELOGGING
Swedish company Memoto has designed a small wearable camera that automatically shoots high resolution photos every 30 seconds. It is meant to be worn on clothing or around the neck, and its battery runs for up to two days with no off switch. This rechargeable camera only shuts down when its dark, placed face-down or put into a pocket great for lifeloggers! http://memoto.com/

DRIVE SMART
Using your smartphones GPS and data plan, Automatic Link provides feedback on your driving habits. It tells you when you do things that waste gas like braking abruptly or accelerating too fast and even monitors gas ll-ups, records travel info and reports crashes! www.automatic.com

MOOD MUSIC
Sensors on Neurowears mico headphones read your brainwaves to check if youre happy, stressed or sleepy. This information is sent to your iPhone to select music that suits your mood using an app. www.micobyneurowear.com

3D BUSINESS CARD
To stand out from competitors jostling for the same business, present clients with a CallingCube. This 3D-printed calling card has your name, address and other details printed as indented text on four to six sides. www.callingcube.com

WRITING IN THE AIR

Syntellias virtual keyboard called Fleksy allows you to type without looking at the screen. Combining this technology with another called Leap Motion, Syntellia has come up with a new virtual keyboard that allows you to issue commands using gestures just like Tom Cruise did in Minority Report! http://syntellia.com/

TYPING OLD SCHOOL STYLE

F.A.T. Labs Theo Watson has written an app called Noisy Typer for the MAC computer. With Noisy Typer, your MAC will produce the old-fashioned clickety-clack sound of manual typewriters whenever you press a key, and make those ding and carriage return noises.
http://goo.gl/Hy3gQ

READ YOUR BODY

In the future, patients and athletes will be able to monitor certain aspects of their health using a biostamp, which records temperature, hydration and other medical data. This thin stretchable stamp-sized device wont come off when showering. It peels off after 14 days.
www.mc10inc.com

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TIMELY TIPS
CHOOSING THE RIGHT EAR GEAR
Consider activity and location. For use at home or in the workplace, choose headphones over earphones for better audio. For the gym, jogging or cycling, get earplugs or earphones so that they keep in place while youre moving. Invest in good models for better sound quality for higher frequencies, like deeper bass and higher treble. Consider the kind of music you listen to.

COOL TOOLS

Technology continues to surprise and spoil us with sweet innovations.

SAMSUNG GALAXY S4
Following eye movement, the Samsung Galaxy S4 allows you to scroll up and down using just your eyes. It even pauses a video when you look away, and continues playing once you look back. Just hover a nger over the screen for a preview and wave your hand to answer a call. Its that easy! www.samsung.com

For classical music, get noise-cancelling headphones. You dont need this as much if you are listening to pop, rock or jazz. Get head or earphones with shorter cables as they wont get entangled so easily.

GAMESTICK
At just USD79, the GameStick remains one of the cheapest game consoles for the HD TV. Running on Android, and small enough to carry around in your pocket, this thumb drive-sized device can be plugged into the HDMI port of a TV. You play games using a wireless controller with gaming buttons. www.gamestick.tv

PLANET OF THE APPS

CALVIN HARRIS 18 MONTHS

Innovative apps for music lovers take music appreciation to higher levels.

Like musician Calvin Harris album 18 Months, his app contains new songs. But to listen to them, you have to keep moving. If you or your phone stops moving, the song stops playing. Taking a photo of the albums cover with the app unlocks remixes.
OS: iOS & Android Price: Free

ECOVACS WINBOT 7
Hate cleaning windows? Stick the Ecovac Winbot 7 robot in the middle of a window, and allow it to do all the work. Latching onto glass panes by suction and moving around on caterpillar-like feet, it washes windows using pad scrubs and a squeegee, and dries them with belly-pads all in about ve minutes! www.ecovacs.com

I AM T-PAIN 2.0
Let T-Pains auto-tune technology used by Cher, Kanye West and Lil Wayne change the way you sound when you sing. You can craft your own song using background tracks and sing with that distinct T-Pain effect remember Chers song Believe? Then, play it back or share it on Facebook and Twitter! OS: iOS Price: USD2.99

BJORK: K: SOLSTICE
If you like Bjorks song Solstice, and want to create your own musical version, ersion, get this app. You can compose ose your own score by using your r nger to pull chords on a circular harp made of light rays ays and orbiting planets to create different gameleste (gamelan-celeste melan-celeste hybrid) sounds. Record your version and email it to friends!
OS: iOS Price: Free

LG POCKET PHOTO PRINTER

To print a photo us using this pocket-sized printer in under 45 seconds, all you need to do is tag your s smartphone to the NFC sticker on the printer. An app allows you to edit your photo rst with frames and lters, and resize it to passpo passport or business card size. Inste Instead of ink, it prints by heati heating specially-treated paper http://goo.gl/Z7UQm

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LIFES A BEACH

The lure of Langkawi Island, located in the north-westerly corner of Peninsula Malaysia, is its mountainous spine that unfurls into glorious beaches. Calling it a tropical paradise simply doesnt do justice to this isle of legends.

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WORDS: R. RAJENDRA

Im no stranger to Langkawi but despite my many trips to this island, Id never set foot on Cenang Beach, probably because it has always been described as a haphazardly-developed beachfront strip. Although not completely wrong, the relatively empty angsana tree-lined street with the occasional tourists cycling by somewhat debunked my perception of the place. But when my taxi drove past the grand archway into the hotel compound, I conceded that my earlier judgment had been a tad hasty. The Cenang stretch has its own special charm and shining like a beautiful gem on that stretch is the Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa Langkawi. A grand open-concept lobby reminiscent of a Malay palace welcomed me with high ceilings held up by solid timber cross beams and elegant lattice carved light fixings. Short of expecting a Malay warrior to jump out from behind the pillars brandishing a keris (dagger), I found the space most pleasant and welcoming, with the gentle whirring of ceiling fans and the incessant babble of water features lining the pathway to the inner recesses of the resort. During the daytime, the
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RAINBOW KISSED

lobby shields guests from the searing island heat. At night, it transforms into a sexy spot with its dark timber tones perfect to yarn the evening away over a few drinks. The resort is styled after a traditional Malay village with the lobby serving as the focal point ensconced in 35 acres of lush beachfront. With 51 single and double storey chalets housing 331 rooms in the shape of traditional Malay village houses on stilts, the units evoke nostalgia for locals while introducing foreigners to Malay architecture. Painted in a dark brown shade that contrasts sharply with the green of the lawn, the choice units are those facing the ocean but be assured that just about every unit here has some interesting feature to boast of, be it the swimming pool, well-manicured lawns or man-made ponds. A few units have the dramatic Flame of the Forest trees in full bloom right outside, while scarlet hibiscus and fuchsia bougainvillea plants streak the overall palette transforming this resort into a bonade tropical paradise! The chalets are modeled after traditional Malay village houses and wood plays an important aspect in the decor while natural furnishings such as sisal carpets provide a homely look. At night, the glow of the

lights in the room peeking through sheer curtains cast a romantic vibe throughout the resort. But as much as these chalets beg you to stay cocooned within their walls, the real clincher of an experience is walking through the garden together with your loved one, hands locked, and nally settling down on a deck chair facing the murmuring ocean under the moonlight. Romantic with a capital R! But why stop at holding hands and snuggling when the resort offers a variety of activities? Yes, the practically deserted beach facing the hotel

ISLAND ESCAPADE
Longing for a beach holiday? Well... look no further! June and July are arguably the best months to visit Phuket, Thailand outside its high season. The beaches are less crowded and visitors enjoy glorious sunny days, warm seas and gentle ocean breezes. Here are two choice hotels that are highly recommended by Expedia: The Racha on Racha Island and the Avista Hideaway Resort & Spa.

The Racha
Located just 20kms south of Phuket on Racha Island, The Racha is a private paradise that takes your beach holiday to brand new heights. With the islands natural beauty, powder white beaches and breath-taking corals and marine life as a backdrop, the resort offers 85 luxurious villas for guests to truly enjoy their stay there. Above all, the resorts unusual ve-story villa, The Lighthouse, is a unique accommodation that comes with its own private pool, terrace, sun deck and observation lounge, which offers magnicent 360 degree views of Racha Island and the Andaman Sea.

offers you hours of sun worship and the deck chairs under the trees may become your permanent hibernation ground, but get off your bum, dust the sand off and head to even more fun at the poolthats if you can resist joining the kids at the waterpark section that has slides and an oversized bucket that dumps hundreds of litres of water every two minutes. But if you cant bully the kids out of their fun area, swimming up to the Cascade Pool Bar and ordering a tall one is a pretty good substitute. The restaurants and bars at Meritus Pelangi are varied enough to take care of your F&B needs. Spice Market Restaurant is a lovely restaurant facing the pool that serves all-day dining and themed dinners, while Pelangi Bar at the main lobby is a great nook for a tipple or two with an in-house band belting out popular numbers. The go-to spot at the resort, however, is the newly opened C.Ba. Facing the ocean, this combo of chic chill out lounge and an ber trendy restaurant offers an international menu with clever Asian accents. With live music and cool lounge numbers serenading guests throughout the evening, this spot is arguably the only such venue in Langkawi that offers a mix of food of international standards and great music to soothe the soul. Ending the night at C.Ba was my personal favourite as the food was great, the drinks smooth and the music, a salve to the senses. Pelangi means rainbow in Malay and Meritus Pelangi unleashes upon its guests all the colours of the rainbow in so many wonderful ways makes me wonder why I didnt visit this spot in Cenang sooner.

Avista Hideaway Resort & Spa

Built on the hills of Patong Beach, the Avista Hideaway Resort and Spa offers mesmerising panoramic views overlooking Tri Trang and Patong beaches on Phuket Island. Enjoy a luxurious stay at the resorts beautifully appointed rooms and private suites, or partake in one of the many activities at the resort that are designed to pamper you to the max. In the evening, from your perch above the bustle of Patong beach, drink in the stunning vistas before you as the sunset lights up the Andaman Sea.

MERITUS PELANGI BEACH RESORT & SPA, LANGKAWI

Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi, Malaysia

www.expedia.com.sg
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A weekend on the beautiful duty-free island of Langkawi sounds fun but add a stay at the Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa, and you have a tropical dream vacation and Im not just saying that because the resort has a swim-up bar! The moment I stepped into Westin Langkawis airy Breeze Lounge for my relaxing check-in, I felt any residual stress ebb away. With lots of natural light and a gorgeous view of the shimmering Andaman Sea, there are few places on Earth that offer this soothing effect. Having stayed at this resort a couple of years ago, I was happy that the tranquil island vibe was pulsing as languidly as ever. The resorts rooms and villas were undergoing refurbishment, and I had the opportunity to stay in one of the recently-transformed Premium Ocean View Rooms. My white-tea scented haven bathed in white, offered splashes of bright orange like it had been given an invigorating

ISLAND INDULGENCE

SuperFoods make their biggest appearance during the Westin Signature Breakfast at Seasonal Tastes with a vast selection of dishes that incorporate nutritious ingredients. Executive Chef Chandran Narayan has designed a spectacular menu thats big on avour, and one of my favourite dishes here was the meat-falling-off-the-bone duck cont with fragrant parsnip puree and red currant jus comfort food at its best! For a truly meaty affair, Breeze Lounge serves up a steak menu with favourites like the Wagyu beef and 200 days old grain fed Australian Black Angus taking prime position. Meanwhile, at Tide, diners can select fresh seafood and have their bounty poached, baked, deep-fried or grilled to perfection, or opt for a seafood platter loaded with an assortment of sea bass, squid, mussels, clams, lobsters, king prawns and scallops. Need to work off all that grub? Take a dip in any of the hotels four pools, go kayaking or dance the night away at Cenang Beach. To arrive in style, rent the resorts Mini Cooper! Im not an automotive enthusiast,

WORDS: BEVERLY RODRIGUES

squeeze of a citrusy fruit. The spacious room boasted seaside motifs in its design, from coral-patterned cushion covers to surreal artworks incorporating seashells and bubbles. I particularly loved the breezy balcony a lovely spot for afternoon cocktails mixed from a bottle of duty-free rum. But if youd like to enjoy a few drinks in the pool, theres the cool Splash bar that serves up the resorts signature mojitos. I loved the refreshing pineapple ginger mojito made with Bacardi and the orange raspberry mojito, mixed with Captain Morgan Spiced Rum and Malibu Rum. True to the hotels dedication to SuperFoods healthy ingredients that are rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients the bar also offers SuperFood cocktails like Moonlight Martini with a blend of blackberries and lemon juice.
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but even I couldnt resist booking the Mini just to drive with the top down and savour the cool island air. After a wild night on the town, theres nothing like an invigorating massage to relieve worn-out feet and revive tired souls. At the Heavenly Spa, I opted for an 80-minute Heavenly Massage with white tea aloe aromatherapy oil. Starting with a soothingly warm herbal pouch massage to release tension (what tension?) my therapist moved on to a powerful aromatherapy remedy, kneading my already relaxed limbs with gentle pressure till I slipped into a blissful coma.

WESTIN LANGKAWI RESORT & SPA

Jalan Pantai Dato Syed Omar, 07000 Langkawi +604 960 8888 www.westinlangkawi.com

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LOST IN LUXURY
The Andaman in Langkawi is nestled between a 10 million-year-old rainforest and an 8,000-year-old fringing coral reef in tranquil Datai Bay.The 186 rooms and beautifully appointed suites here reect a contemporary Malaysian style, with sweeping views of the Andaman Sea and the ancient rainforest. Guests can enjoy the scenery from their rooms while indulging in the bespoke amenities that the Andaman is renowned for. The resort also houses 14 units of Direct Pool Access Rooms, the rst of their kind in Langkawi. Additionally, the Luxury Garden Terrace Rooms open to a serene 27-sq metre private garden, overlooking the rainforest. Here, guests can bask in the sun or enjoy the moonlight from their designer garden terraces. F&B options too are aplenty with four topnotch offerings. The Restaurant is an all-day dining venue that features buffet breakfasts as well as a la carte local and international favourites. Cradled between the pool and the beachfront is Tepian Laut that offers casual dining. Overlooking the poolside and rainforest, The Japanese Restaurant brings authentic Japanese dishes to the shores of Langkawi, while the award-winning beachfront restaurant, Jala, is The Andamans latest and exclusive seafood dining venue. A 5-star luxury hotel that has won many international awards, The Andaman is also dedicated to preserving nature and has embarked on many CSR activities such as the Coral Conservation project where guests can take part in discovering, understanding and helping to preserve the marine kingdom by taking part in the transplanting of live coral onto new substrates, which are then placed into the nursery for observation.

THE ANDAMAN, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT, LANGKAWI

Jalan Teluk Datai, Langkawi, 07000, Malaysia +604 959 1088 www.theandaman.com

FIRM FAVOURITE
Just over a year old, the favehotel Cenang Beach Langkawi is already garnering favourable reviews from travellers. Labelled as a trendy budget stay, favehotel Cenang Beach is a simple yet stylish hotel that blends functionality with affordability, while offering guests pleasant and comfortable accommodation. Located mere minutes from Cenang Beach, which is packed with restaurants, bars and night spots, the hotel offers 97 rooms that are all done up in pleasing neutral tones accented with bold cheerful colours. The beds at this hotel are nice and comfy, something you wouldnt normally expect from a budget-style hotel. The hotel offers good rates on rather spacious rooms, and pleasant and attentive service. Staffs are well-trained to attend to every possible request and can put some high-end establishments to shame with their cheery disposition and consistently good service. The rooftop sundeck is a clever attraction that offers lovely views of the mountainside and is a great spot to catch some rays away from the hustle and bustle of the beach. The hotels pool is another attraction here. Deep cobalt in shade, the pool is also a great place to grab a bite as the coffee house has been extended to include the periphery of the pool area. All in all, the favehotel Cenang Beach delivers a smart and stylish stay without the overpriced frills. That just leaves you with even more cash to go duty-free shopping in Langkawi!

FAVE HOTEL LANGKAWI

Lot 119, Pantai Tengah, Mukim Padang Mat Sirat, Langkawi, Malaysia +604-955 6600 www.favehotels.com

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As hard as I tried peering into the crevice of a gnarled tree outside my Rainforest Chalet tucked deep in the jungle, I couldnt for the life of me make out the creature that was fast asleep or, even make sense of its name. Thats a colugo, explained Shumin, the resorts PR manager. I had never heard of such a creature and the more Shumin described it ying lemur, nocturnal creature, covered in membrane that enables it to glide, carries its babes in a pouch like a marsupial the more I wanted to clamber up the tree and check out this arboreal mammal. I only stopped straining when a loud hammering sound broke my reverie. A huge hornbill had swooped down onto a high branch and wasnt feeling particularly hospitable that day. Shumin, I and three nearby macaques with the most forlorn looking faces (guests are advised not to feed them) all looked skywards and quickly decided to let the colugo sleep and the hornbill roost in piece. We homo sapiens were, after all, trespassing in these creatures habitat.

NATURES BOUNTY

Anywhere you lodge at this resort, youre bound to be amidst the glory of nature. If the Rainforest chalets and studio units are well camouaged in the forest, the Seaview and On Water chalets and suites take you right to the waters edge. My unit high up in the hills was comfortably furnished and had the silvery ocean peeping between the trees. Built on stilts, the units give you the feeling of staying high up in the trees. Dining options at the resort are extensive. At the all-day dining Dayang Caf, I had the most delicious sh curry ever! Oriental Pearl serves Sichuan and Cantonese cuisine while the Beach Restaurant is a beachfront outlet that serves Western and Indian cuisines and is perfect for romantic dining. The gem amongst these restaurants is Pahn-Thai that serves authentic Thai dishes in a setting thats matched only by its location at the end of a 150-metre boardwalk that extends to the ocean. Swept over by the gentle sea breeze and with a strolling band in attendance, fresh seafood is served up in many delicious ways. Even if you are not staying at the resort, do make the trip to dine at this delightful restaurant.

If you have even a vague afnity with nature, the Berjaya Langkawi Resort is your dream destination. Not only do you stay within a tropical rainforest believed to be over 500 million years old, you also get the added attraction of staying close to the ocean. Despite its sandy beachfront, the resort is perhaps the only one in Langkawi that offers the jungle, ocean and a sandy shoreline, with a nearby mangrove swamp within its premise. This place is a naturalists playground with so many eco-systems thriving in perfect harmony. Harmony is such an important factor here that the owners have gone to great lengths to preserve the natural ora of the terrain. Often, a huge tree may partially obstruct your view of the ocean but this slight hindrance is necessary to save the trees. In other areas of the 70-acre resort, buildings and boardwalks have been thoughtfully built around the natural landscape with minimal disruption or damage to the ora and fauna. Do say Hello to a majestic tree believed to be over 500 years old and still growing sturdily in the resorts spa area.
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But Berjaya Langkawi Resort isnt all about eating, watching and observing. The list of activities here is so extensive, youd hardly have any time for your room. From beach to indoor, rainy day activities, sports and arts and crafts, the list of things you can do here is pretty exhaustive. But even if you give everything else a miss, do sign up for two very special activities: The Nature Walk and the Mangrove Walk. These activities are free for in-house guests and introduce the amazing fauna and ora of the island up close and personal. It is a wonderful way to understand the environment and appreciate why the resort is so passionate about its natural surroundings and dedicated to preserving it for years to come.

WORDS: R. RAJENDRA

BERJAYA LANGKAWI RESORT

Burau Bay. 07000 Langkawi

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POWERFUL PHENOMENA
Wielding the elements water, earth, wind and fire Mother Nature surprises us when she unleashes her mighty powers in spectacular and at times, malevolent forms that weve come to call natural phenomena.

AURORA BOREALIS
aka Northern Lights
LOFOTEN ISLANDS, NORTHERN NORWAY On cold winter nights, when daylight is short in the Lofoten Islands of northern Norway, mysterious lights appear in the black skies. This majestic illumination is known as the aurora borealis. Depending on the altitude when highly-charged particles from solar winds and the Earths magnetosphere collide with oxygen and nitrogen atoms, the colour of the aurora can be green, red, blue or purple. The aurora is shrouded in myth and mystery; a Scandinavian superstition says that it gleams with the light of young womens souls. Its name is derived from the Roman goddess of dawn Aurora, and the Greek name for the north wind Boreas. WHEN & WHERE: While there are no guarantees that youll be rewarded with a sighting of the aurora borealis, the best time to head to northern Norway is between late September and early March. Should you miss the real thing, visit the Polarlight Centre Lofoten in Laukvik, which reproduces this spectacular phenomenon.
www.lofoten.info

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MOONBOW
aka Lunar Rainbow
WAIMEA, HAWAII The equivalent of a rainbow, but much rarer, the moonbow only occurs at night. Due to its faint appearance, the human eye usually misses it. As with a rainbow, it happens when light is broken up into its constituent colours as it passes through water droplets or mist. The source of light in both occurrences is the same the sun. The difference being that a rainbow is produced by direct sunlight, whereas in the case of the moonbow, sunlight is rst reected off the surface of the moon. When it happens at a certain angle, the light then shines to Earth. WHEN & WHERE: This phenomenon is truly rare and when all elements are aligned, you may be lucky enough to see a moonbow over Waimea on the Hawaiian island of Kauai; the Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada, California, USA; or the Cumberland Falls in Kentucky, USA.
www.ratestogo.com/blog/moonbows/

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IMAGE: GETTY IMAGES

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FIRE WHIRLS
ANYWHERE THERE ARE STRONG WINDS DURING A FOREST FIRE Fire whirls can occur during bush or forest res when severe heat combines with rotating air pushing re to swirl upwards creating tornadolike infernos also known as re tornadoes. Fire whirls usually last no more than a few minutes but can reach anywhere between 10 to 60 metres in height, expelling embers and debris into the air and causing wildres to spread. WHEN & WHERE: Fire whirls can happen anywhere in the world under certain conditions of air temperature and currents that have a vertical vorticity (a spin in relation of vertical axis). Check out this stunning clip on ABC news (http://goo.gl/cJr7l)
http://goo.gl/MuZkN

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IMAGE: INMAGINE

PENITENTES
THE ANDES MOUNTAIN RANGE THROUGH SOUTH AMERICAN COUNTRIES Penitentes are a snow formation that is often experienced by ice climbers and serious mountain hikers at very high altitudes. Named after the peak-hooded New Mexican monks, penitentes look like ice blades that peak towards the sun and can stand almost three times the height of an average man, appearing as a eld of icicles. Its natural to think that these peaks would melt in the sun, but strangely enough, the melting process is slowed down by the shadows cast, as well as cold winds blowing over the peaks. Instead, they turn into water vapour without liquidising a process known as sublimation. WHEN & WHERE: Penitentes are visible all year round on the high altitude glaciers along the Andes Mountain range that stretches across the highlands along the western coast of South America covering seven countries Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela.
www.andes.org.uk

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LENTICULAR STACKS
MT RAINIER, WASHINGTON, USA Lenticular stacks can easily be mistaken for UFOs. These clouds often resemble layers of uffy pancakes, and are formed by high winds blowing over the tops of hills and mountains. As moist air spirals upwards, it condenses and forms lenticular stacks over summits. These clusters of clouds occasionally take the shape of miniature waves or choppy seas, and may remain stationary, hovering over one spot for hours or even days until the wind or weather changes, causing the clouds to disperse. While aeroplane pilots avoid lenticular stacks due to the turbulence caused, sailplane aviators love them for the voluminous internal uplift that can drive motor-less yers to greater heights. WHEN & WHERE: Lenticular stacks occur all year round over mountain tops in places like Mount Shasta in Siskiyou County, California, USA and Mount Fuji on Honshu Island, Japan. The best formed stacks can be seen over the summit of Washingtons Mount Rainier, USA.
www.visitrainier.com

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STAIRCASE TO THE MOON

BROOME, WESTERN AUSTRALIA When the full moon rises over the little towns along the coastline of northwest Australia, its light reects off the exposed mudats, conjuring what seems to be a stairway to the moon. This optical illusion takes place in the coastal towns of Onslow, Dampier, Point Samson Peninsula, Hearson Cove and Port Hedland, but is best experienced in Broome where it is known as the Staircase to the Moon. This phenomenon has turned these quaint coastline towns into tourist attractions where visitors can also experience local markets brimming with charming crafts and fun entertainment. WHEN & WHERE: The best time to view this phenomenon is between March and October. Be sure to check the local visitor centre for updated information as times vary for each town.
www.australiasnorthwest.com

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IMAGE: TOURISM WA

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SUPERCELL
THE GREAT PLAINS OF USA (COLORADO, KANSAS, MONTANA, NEBRASKA, NEW MEXICO, NORTH DAKOTA, OKLAHOMA, SOUTH DAKOTA, TEXAS AND WYOMING) A supercell, also known as a rotating thunderstorm, is a force of nature thats both spellbinding and terrifying at the same time. It wreaks havoc, producing some of the most violent and destructive weather around the world. Although supercells can last for hours on end, fortunately, theyre not very common. A supercell is unique; unlike other thunderstorms, it contains a deep and unrelenting rotating updraft called mesocyclone that produces tornadoes, large hail storms, ash oods and lightning. If you ever catch sight of a tall storm cloud with a head that seems to pull in the clouds from the heavens and spiral down to earth with a erce force swiping away everything in its path, this is a supercell that has spawned a killer tornado. WHEN & WHERE: Supercells occur most frequently on the Great Plains of USA. America sees about 1,000 recorded tornadoes yearly, and about 200 of them have so far been spawned by supercells. Check out videos by the Texas Storm Chasers (http://goo.gl/pL1n5) to see the formation of a tornado spawned by a supercell.
www.theweatherprediction.com/habyhints/42/ IMAGE: INMAGINE

OTHER UNUSUAL PHENOMENA

DRAGON FIREBALL
MEKONG RIVER, THAILAND This phenomenon can be witnessed during the Naga Fireball Festival. Held at the end of Buddhist Lent yearly, this event attracts throngs of local and foreign visitors all keen on witnessing the mysterious phenomenon of hundreds of flaming orbs shooting up from the Mekong River in the Nongkhai province of Isaan solidifying the local belief that a naga (dragon) dwells in the river. Check out http://goo.gl/sxYHT

GREAT BARRIER REEF

NORTH-EAST COAST, AUSTRALIA It is the largest living structure on the planet stretching from the coast of Queensland to the western edge of the Pacific Ocean covering approximately 2,300 kilometres. Bigger than the UK, Switzerland and Holland combined, it can even be seen from outer space! The Great Barrier Reef is a protected coral reef system listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check out http://goo.gl/EpkdM

RED TIDE aka Algal Bloom

occurs when a sudden and massive influx of single cell organisms called dinoflagellates concentrates in one vast area and washes up on the shores of a beach. Although generally harmless when in contact with human skin, they may kill when ingested, and is disastrous to marine life. Check out http://goo.gl/QRqd7

RAIN OF FISH
YORO, HONDURAS The sleepy town of
Yoro experiences the rain of fish at least once, and sometimes twice a year. There are various scientific explanations for this, yet none are absolute. Perhaps, the best explanation was given by the award-winning documentary on BBC (check out http://goo.gl/KCE0Y) but locals believe that this phenomenon is nothing short of a divine occurence.

WULFERT POINT, NORTH OF SANIBEL ISLAND, FLORIDA, USA The red tide

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6 FEATURE 0 2013

www.airasia.com/travel3sixty

BASED ON THE HIT REALITY SERIES STARRING DONALD TRUMP, THE APPRENTICE ASIA IS FINALLY HERE WITH AVIATION TYCOON TONY FERNANDES AT THE HELM. THE SHOW WILL PIT 12 CONTESTANTS FROM AROUND ASIA AGAINST EACH OTHER IN A BATTLE OF WITS AND SKILL FOR THE HONOUR OF BECOMING ASIAS VERY FIRST APPRENTICE. THE WINNER WILL TAKE ON A MUCH-COVETED POSITION IN ONE OF FERNANDES MANY ENTERPRISES.

CONTESTANTS PROFILES
NAZRIL IDRUS, 38, MALAYSIA
Marital status: Married Education: Chartered Accountant, Institute of Chartered Accountants, Australia Current Occupation: Financial Coach, Trainer & Entrepreneur

I LIKE TO WIN, ACTUALLY I LOVE WINNING. IF I EVER ENTER ANYTHING, I ONLY WANT TO BE THE BEST.
Nazril dons multiple hats as a nancial coach, trainer, entrepreneur and TV host. Years ago, Nazril found himself in a rut after losing money in investments. This was a wakeup call for him especially since his dad died bankrupt, spurring him to take on nance management. He now specialises in coaching wealth management to fellow celebrities, and is also writing a book about investment and nance management.

NIK AISYAH AMIRAH BINTI MANSOR, 25, MALAYSIA

Marital status: Single Education: Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) from University of Adelaide Current Occupation: Auditor

CELINA LE NEINDRE, 30, PHILIPPINES

Marital status: Single Education: Philippine School of Culinary Arts, Master Chef Program Current Occupation: Food & Beverage Consultant

IVE ALWAYS BEEN THE ORGANISER BE IT AN EVENT, PARTY, ASSIGNMENT OR EVEN A SIMPLE OUTING, AS I POSSESS STRONG LEADERSHIP SKILLS.
Nik Aisyah has always dreamt of owning her own business, and is here to prove that she is not just all book-smart. A quick learner, she has always been on the fast track. In school, she jumped a grade and nished primary school a year earlier than her peers. In her rst and current job, she rose up a rank six months before she was due for promotion. In the Arabic language, Amirah means leader, which is how people look to her, both in a social and professional capacity. Nik Aisyah describes herself as an ordinary girl who pushes herself to be the best. The Apprentice Asia presents the opportunity for her to take the next big leap in her career. 76
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IM A SORE LOSER BUT I ENJOY A GOOD CHALLENGE. I POUT AND EVEN GET ANGRY WITH MYSELF. I GREW UP BEING USED TO WINNING, AND GETTING WHAT I WANT.
Celina is quite the globetrotter. Growing up, she followed her father, a general manager for a large hotel chain, as he was transferred from France to Tanzania and Philippines. Following her passion for hospitality and tourism, she started off in the South of France by washing dishes and scrubbing toilets! This was in part inspired by her father, who worked his way up from a bellboy to general manager during his 40-year hospitality career. She is now a food and beverage consultant for a steakhouse, and also established and managed her own pasta bar in Philippines.

NG KIAN TAT (HANZO), 34, MALAYSIA JONATHAN ALLEN YABUT, 27, PHILIPPINES
Marital status: Single Education: Bachelor of Science (Economics) from University of the Philippines Current Occupation: Senior Product Manager Marital status: Married Education: SPM (O levels equivalent) Current Occupation: Business Owner

I AM AN EXTREMELY DRIVEN AND PASSIONATE PERSON. I ALWAYS SET MY EYES ON THE PRIZE, AND AS MY FRIENDS SAY - WHAT NATE WANTS, NATE GETS.
Jonathan is a proud Pinoy and is not afraid to show it. His belief that Asians are the best in the corporate world drives his personal track records. He successfully launched a new pharmaceutical brand, achieving market leadership in terms of volume and sales in just eight months, a world record in his companys history across 30 countries. Jonathan was also the recipient of the 2012 Mansmith Young Market Masters Award, as one of the top seven marketers in Philippines under the age of 35.

MONEY IS MY NO. 1 PRIORITY IN LIFE. NO MONEY NO TALK RINGS LOUD. EVERYTHING I DO IS FOR MONEY AND WHAT MONEY CAN DO FOR ME AND MY FAMILY.
Hanzo has always chosen the road less taken. At 18, he came across a motivational book that changed his mindset about life and career, and subsequently led him to leave college in the third semester. At 19, he started his rst business, which failed; it wasnt till he embarked on his third and current venture that he succeeded. Even as one of the few candidates without a tertiary degree, Hanzo exudes an air of condence and is all ready to demolish the competition. He might also have an edge as a fan who has watched all the different franchises of The Apprentice, from the US and UK to the Irish and Australian editions.

NINGKU LACHUNGPA, 29, INDIA

Marital status: Single Education: Masters in Advanced Management Practice from University of Bath Current Occupation: Director of an infrastructure development company

PEOPLE RARELY INTIMIDATE ME. SITUATIONS DO.

Ningku comes from a big family with six other siblings, and the fact that she is the only one in the family business is perhaps most telling of her close relationship with her father. Though she was not professionally trained in construction, she picked things up quickly on the job. Ningku is always raring for new challenges. She improved the efciency of her workers by more than 40 percent with her creation of a wheelbarrow that runs on a track. This same wheelbarrow system is now being implemented by other big contractors in her state.

HENDY SETIONO, 30, INDONESIA

Marital status: Married Education: Advanced Diploma in E-commerce from Informatics Computer School Current Occupation: Founder and CEO of his F&B company

THERE ARE MANY FORMULAS TO SUCCESS, BUT NOTHING WILL HAPPEN UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION.
Hendy did not nish university, but that did not stop him from setting up his own kebab chain at 19. Starting from a small village in Surabaya, he operated a push cart with just USD400 in capital. Today, his business is a roaring success, hiring 1,900 employees in over 1,000 outlets in Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines. With several entrepreneurship awards under his belt, Hendy has a trophy in common with Tony Fernandes; they both won Ernst & Youngs Entrepreneur of the Year award in their respective countries.

DUSSADEE OEAWPANICH, 35, THAILAND

Marital status: Single Education: Master of Arts (Communication Studies) from University of Northern Iowa Current Occupation: Owner of a bistro bar

SAMUEL RUFUS NALLARAJ, 37, INDIA

Marital status: Married Education: MBA (Marketing & Information Systems Management) from Xavier Institute of Management & Entrepreneurship Current Occupation: Vice President, IT infrastructure, in one of the Big Four professional services rms

MY DIVERSE BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCES THAT I BRING TO THE SHOW WILL HELP ME WIN. IM SURROUNDED BY ALL TYPES OF PEOPLE; IM GOOD AT DEALING WITH THEM AND IM GOOD AT ORGANISING AND PLANNING.
Dee grew up with both eastern and western inuences, in Thailand where she was born, and in the States where she survived hurricane Katrina. Moving from the countryside to the city has made her resilient. Her parents have been a big inuence on her life her tough and savvy father was a shrimp farm owner, a risky business with unpredictable income, while her meticulous mother, who operated a restaurant, taught her all about hospitality. Aside from her family business, Dee opened her own bistro in 2007, which serves international gourmet food inspired by her travels, as well as authentic Thai cuisine. 78
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I BELIEVE A GREAT LEADER IS ALSO A GREAT FOLLOWER BUT NOT VICE VERSA.
The son of a retired pastor, Samuel believes he brings a multi-faceted personality to the show. Sams loyalty to a company is proven, with him still in his rst and only company after 12 long years. During these 12 years, he has taken on four different roles in the company, and has been promoted six times on the fast track. His professional expertise lies in strategic business consulting, and he has experience setting up a remote IT command centre, growing it to a 76-member strong outt from scratch. Samuel counts acting, emceeing, script writing and directing plays and short lms as some of his special talents.

DIAN KRISHNA MUKTI, 36, INDONESIA

Marital status: Married Education: Master of Arts (Mass Communications) from Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology Current Occupation: Housewife

ALEXIS LOTHAR BAUDIN, 29, CHINA

Marital status: Single Education: Bachelor of Business from IPAG Business School (France) Current Occupation: Asia Pacic Director in a leading luxury goods conglomerate

I ONLY DREAM ABOUT MEETING SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE. IF I AM GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO WORK WITHIN AN ORGANISATION AS WELLOILED AS TONY FERNANDES TEAM, I WILL CHERISH THAT.
Dian is a familiar face to many in Indonesia, having been a news anchor on local TV stations for over six years. The former Miss Indonesia 2003 and Mrs Indonesia 2010 has since taken on the role of a homeland engineer, her spirited take on managing a household of three. Dian looks up to her dad, a director of a state-owned enterprise in Jakarta, who lives by the old school business method of standing by handshake agreements. To Dian, relationships and integrity in business mean more than money-making.

I GET PROMOTED FAST IN EVERY COMPANY I WORK IN. THAT SPEAKS BETTER THAN ANY AWARD.
At 29, Alexis is the youngest Asia Pacic director in the history of his liquor brand, a subset of a leading luxury group. His core achievement is making the spirit brand the fastest growing in its category in China, increasing business revenue exponentially in just three years. Being an expat in Asia, his special talent lies in his linguistic abilities. He speaks four languages and picked up Mandarin in just two and a half months.

ANDREA LOH ERN-YU, 25, SINGAPORE

Marital status: Single Education: Bachelor of Laws (Hons) from National University of Singapore Current Occupation: Lawyer

I TAKE A TASK MORE SERIOUSLY WHEN I REALISE THERE IS A COMPETITIVE ELEMENT. I ALWAYS EXAMINE WHAT EDGE THE WINNER HAD OVER ME AND MAKE A MENTAL NOTE FOR THE FUTURE.
Having always dreamt of being a lawyer, Andrea has now fullled her dream practising law in her rst full-time job, specialising in civil and commercial litigation. A few months into the job, she worked on a SGD250 million real estate nancing deal that opened her eyes to high level negotiations. She has also been involved in two vastly different businesses a theatre startup, and a alcoholic beverage manufacturing/ distribution company, which is still operating. Andreas independent streak manifests itself when it comes to her chronic wanderlust she always travels solo and has proven that she can stand up for herself. During a trip to Laos, the feisty young lady boldly decked a rugby player who got too close for comfort. 80
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ABOUT THE BOSS AND HIS ADVISORS

TONY FERNANDES
GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, AIRASIA
Believe the unbelievable, dream the impossible and never take no for an answer this is the credo that Fernandes has built his success on. A graduate of the prestigious London School of Economics in the United Kingdom, Fernandes began his career as a nancial controller at Virgin Communications London, and went on to become the vice president of Warner Music South East Asia. In 2001, he founded Tune Air together with partners Dato Pahamin Rajab, Dato Kamarudin Meranun and Dato Aziz Bakar with a vision to democratise air travel by offering low fares and quality service. They bought the then loss-making AirAsia from DRB-Hicom for a token MYR1 (USD0.25), and took on the airlines debt of MYR40 million. AirAsia repaid that debt in less than two years despite the extremely challenging environment in the post-September 11 era. AirAsia has now grown into a regional airline group that includes short-haul carriers Malaysia AirAsia, Thai AirAsia, Indonesia AirAsia, Philippines AirAsia and AirAsia Japan, and long-haul carrier AirAsia X. Voted Worlds Best Low Cost Airline by UKbased aviation research organization Skytrax for the past four consecutive years, AirAsia continues to revolutionise air travel, true to its motto Now Everyone Can Fly. In 2007, Fernandes co-founded Tune Group with the aim of breaking down affordability barriers via Tune Hotels, Tune Talk and Tune Money. Tune Groups portfolio also includes the automotive technology company Caterham Group and the English Premier League team Queens Park Rangers (QPR). Fernandes daredevil attitude and business savvy has earned him a slew of accolades including Forbes Asias Businessman of the Year in 2010, a listing as one of the most creative people in business by New Yorkbased magazine Fast Company in 2011 and GQ Indias International Businessman of the Year in 2012 among others. At only 49, Fernandes is one of Asias youngest and most celebrated leaders.

IM EXCITED TO SEE HOW THE UK AND US VERSIONS OF THE APPRENTICE HAVE INSPIRED MANY ENTREPRENEURS. WITH THE DIVERSE POOL OF TALENT IN ASIA, I HOPE TO FIND SOMEONE WHO DARES TO FOLLOW HIS OR HER DREAMS, AND WORK FOR ME.~ TONY FERNANDES

MARK LANKESTER

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, TUNE HOTELS GROUP

At the helm of Tune Hotels for the past six years, Lankester endeavours to change the face of the hospitality business and build a global brand, business model and network. Under his stewardship, the international value hotel brand has grown with 27 properties in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines and the United Kingdom. With over 15 years of experience in the entertainment and leisure consumer goods industry, Lankester brings to the table solid strategic and nancial skills as a marketer and business developer. Lankester recently won the Outstanding Entrepreneurship Award 2012 at the Asia Pacic Entrepreneurship Awards (APEA) and is recognised within the industry for his leadership and marketing experience.

KATHLEEN TAN

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, AIRASIAEXPEDIA

With a string of awards to her name including Marketer of the Year at the Web In Travel annual conference 2012, Tan was instrumental in driving the commercial success of Asias biggest low cost carrier. Known for her marketing prowess, she was also responsible for AirAsias popular Free Seats campaign and its social media development, and for establishing AirAsias presence in China. Her efforts in driving airport negotiations and securing government support made AirAsia the rst low cost carrier to serve China in 2005. Previously AirAsias Group Head of Commercial, she was recently appointed as CEO of AirAsiaExpedia, a joint venture between AirAsia and Expedia, the worlds largest online travel company.

To celebrate the launch of The Apprentice Asia, AirAsia unveils a special livery emblazoned with an image of Tony Fernandes against a cityscape.

NOW SHOWING!
Catch the excitement and boardroom drama on AXN every Wednesday at 9.05pm from May 22, 2013.

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6 FEATURE Malaysia 0 2013

www.airasia.com/travel3sixty

Acme Bars Chempedak cake

KL
Stir-fried bee hoon (rice vermicelli)

Naan with tandoori chicken

CONSUMED

Kuala Lumpur (aka KL), the capital city of Malaysia, is a huge melting pot of people, cultures and cuisine. From Malay, Chinese, Indian and regional cuisines to international offerings that experiment with local avours, eating here is a national obsession, and food is cheap too! Street fare is hugely popular and eating out into the wee hours of the night is the norm. While most others stop with breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner, city folks continue their love affair with food with supper and maybe even a late night bite before nally retiring for the day. It is a consuming affair but one that everyone does with great relish! Heres a quick roundup of the citys popular enclaves that are popular with the locals.

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Assam laksa

The Daily Grinds foie gras burger

Hokkien noodles at Jalan Alor

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KLCC/Suria KLCC
Food options are aplenty here and not limited to the gleaming twin towers. The area is well-connected all the way from the Bukit Bintang shopping district by a covered and air-conditioned pedestrian walk.

Makan Kitchen

TROIKA SKY DINING Dine with the city skyline in the background at one of the three brand new restaurants on level 24 of The Troika building. The establishment is separated into Cantaloupe (French restaurant), Strato (Italian restaurant) and

Claret (wine bar).

Troika, Persiaran KLCC

Tower B, The 03 2162

0886 www.troikaskydining.com

ACME BAR & COFFEE Acme

serves Western dishes with clever Asian accents. Try the sambal hebi aglio olio

spaghetti (pasta in shrimp based spicy sauce), black ink pasta (clams with Asian-style stir-fry vegetables and ginger oss) and for dessert, go bananas with their scrumptious jackfruit cake.
The Troika, 19 Persiaran KLCC. www.acmebarcoffee.com 03 2162 2288

Sundays are busy with families spending hours at the dining table, so reservations are highly advised. Corus Hotel KL, Jalan
Ampang 03 2161 8888 www.corushotelkl.com

BUMBU DESA (INDONESIAN CUISINE) The restaurant is

within walking distance from my workplace and I dont think I can get good nasi padang anywhere else in the city centre besides Bumbu Desa. The restaurants ikan nila (nile tilapia sh) is to die for! ~ DJ Luqe (Zouk KL Resident DJ / Hip-hop DJ)
Level 4, Suria KLCC, KL 3530 www.bumbudesa.my 03 2161

The Continental fare at Troika Sky Dining.

MAKAN KITCHEN The restaurant

has three separate sections for guests to sample food from Malaysias three main ethnic groups. Some of the dishes such as the ayam percik panggang (spicy grilled chicken), ikan pari bakar (grilled stingray) and satay are prepared in front of guests.
DoubleTree by Hilton KL, 182 Jalan Tun Razak kitchen.com 03 2172 7272 www.makan-

DJ Luqe

MING PALACE One of the grand

dames of KL, Ming Palace serves amazingly good Sichuan-style food with Thai and Shanghainese touches. Located within Corus Hotel Kuala Lumpur premises, the restaurant is also renowned for its Peking Duck and dim sum.

Chinatown
Although Chinatown may not be as upscale as other areas in KL, the street still has its own charm. The area is well known for its heritage buildings despite modernisation creeping up around it with supersonic speed. The main attraction here is the night market on Jalan Petaling. Also, do wander around the main streets and you will discover many stalls selling traditional Chinese fare like charcoalame cooked Hokkien noodles, bak kut teh, wantan noodles etc. Follow your nose and look out for queues. The longer the queue, the tastier the food! Check out for these eateries in the Chinatown area.

OLD CHINA CAF Established in the 1930s, Old China Cafs decor is a throwback to the past with its marble-topped tables and salon-like wooden swing doors. One of the oldest restaurants in KL, the restaurant serves mouth-watering Nyonya food such as sh head curry, devil curry chicken and beef rendang (meat in dry spicy sauce).
11 Jalan Balai Polis www.oldchina.com.my 03 2072 5915

The Warehouse

cheesecake.

30 Jalan Tun H.S. Lee

03 2022 1899 www.loklcoffee.com

Wondermama

Bangsar
Just four kilometres from the city centre, Bangsar is a suburb that keeps reinventing itself. Once a clubbing area, Bangsar is home to the well-shod, young executives, expats and even students from neighbouring universities. Two malls Bangsar Shoping Centre and Bangsar Village house the most number of eateries here. Over and above that, many stand-alone restaurants, pubs, boulangeries, cafs and humble coffee shops jostle for attention.

LOKL COFFEE CO. Caffeine addicts can get their daily x at this modern coffee shop that sells all types of coffees from European-style espressos to local kopi susu (coffee and milk). The dessert counter here serves both local and Western delectables such as putu mayam (string hoppers) and strawberry

THE WAREHOUSE Patrons can enjoy refreshing drinks with snacks and bites at the ground oor, while the second oor houses Rils steakhouse, which is said to be one of the best in town. 198 Jalan Tun HS Lee 03
2022 0528 www.thewarehouse.com.my

commonplace Asian fare with a twist. For instance, Wondermamas special Maggi Mee Soup gets an uppity makeover with the addition of salmon, chicken hot dog, beef bacon and a fried egg!
Ground Floor, Bangsar Village, Bangsar Baru, KL Gday Burger 03 2284 9821

Old China Cafs beef rendang.

THE DAILY GRIND The only gourmet burger joint in Bangsar, this diner dishes out a variety of tasty burgers such as GDay Burger, Classic Beef Burger and Triple Stack Burger. 1 Jalan
Telawi 1, Bangsar Baru, KL 03 2287 6708 www.thedailygrind.com.my

WONDERMAMA This restaurant offers an extensive menu of

MARMALADE The caf is known for its cheery ambiance with a good selection of meals from salads to hearty homemade pies and lasagnas. Many claim the cafs beef lasagna is one of the best in town. A play land for children keeps the tykes occupied while mummy and daddy grab a bite. First Floor, Bangsar
Village, Bangsar, KL www.ilovemarmalade.com 03 2282 8301

Brickfields/ Little India

This area was once a brick kiln, hence the name. Later, it housed a railyard that subsequently became the citys main transportation hub at KL Sentral. Often called the religious centre of KL as the small area houses many temples, churches and mosques, Brickelds is also famous for its Indian fare. From ery South Indian curries to mellow Punjabi dishes, Brickelds is a riot of colours and avours.

Banana Leaf Rice

SARAVANA BHAVAN This restaurant is one of the top choices for South Indian vegetarian cuisine in KL. Sample the restaurants parotta (South Indian bread served with two curries) and hot idly (steamed rice and lentil patties served with chutney and sambar, a lentil stew). Order a banana leaf meal if you want something more lling. 196
Jalan Tun Sambanthan, Brickfields 03 2260 3755 www.saravanabhavan.com

SIN KEE This little gem of

Brickelds has been serving Hainanese fare since 1969 and is still known for the best chicken and pork chops in the city. 194 Jalan Tun Sambathan,
Brickfields 03 2274 1842

VISHAL FOOD & CATERING

Two words to describe this banana leaf joint: Cheap but good. Try rasam (South Indian pepper soup) and dhal (lentil stew) with rice, or tuck into the various chicken, mutton and seafood preparations youll be licking your ngers at the end of the meal! The eating arrangement is mess style communal eating at long tables. 22 Jalan Scott, Brickfields,
KL 03 2274 0995

RESTORAN PUTERI Facing KL Sentral and a mere 200 metres from KL Sentral Monorail station, Restoran Puteri serves simple but honest Malay food at very reasonable prices. The assam pedas (sour and spicy gravy) sh and masak lemak (meats in coconut and turmeric gravy) dishes are well worth a second helping here while the kerabu (Malay salads) are refreshing and use greens and vegetables seldom found on city slickers dining tables. The spread of kuih-muih (Malay cakes) in the evening is equally mouth-watering. 146 Jalan
Tun Sambanthan, KL 03-2274 7831 http://restoranputeri.com.my

Kenny Hills and feast on simple, excellent, value-for-money meals sold from the side of a van. The menu is limited and stays away from unnecessary ourish but the dishes such as the carbonara and pita breads are quick xes on hungry nights. Humble Chef also operates a branch in Plaza Damansara. Jalan Damanseri, Pusat
Bandar Damansara, KL 014 229 6854

NATHALIES GOURMET STUDIO

The restaurant serves exciting modern French and fusion dishes delicious and very presentable. My personal choice is the Moist Hazelnut Cake. Its served with a dollop of lemon curd and milk chocolate curls. Simply divine. ~ Deborah Henry (Miss Universe Malaysia 2011 / TV Host) A-4-1-5 Dutamas Solaris,
Jalan Dutamas, KL 03 6207 9572 www.nathaliegourmetstudio.com

Jakes Lobster Thermidor

Solaris Dutamas & Damansara

Located just behind the spanking new Istana Negara (National Palace), Solaris Dutamas is the latest F&B enclave in KL. This new kid on the block is sprawling with trendy restaurants, cafs and pubs.

PICKNIK Co-owned by
Masterchef Malaysia contestant Nik Michael Imran, this restaurant is fast gaining cult status for its refreshingly uncomplicated offerings. An extensive selection of Western dishes such as tapas, pastas and straightforward fare like baked sh and lamb cutlets are served at reasonable prices. Block A4,
UG1-05, Solaris Dutamas, Jalan Dutamas 1, KL 03 6411 6499

Rosman Hussain, founder of The Humble Chef.

JAKES CHARBROIL STEAKS

This steakhouse has been dishing out quality cuts of prime beef for more than 30 years in Medan Damansara. The food is reasonable priced but denitely worth paying for perfectly cooked steaks and prime cuts. 21 Jalan
Setiapuspa, Medan Damansara, KL 2094 5677 www.jakes.com.my 03

Deborah Henry

THE HUMBLE CHEF Where else can you nd a MYR5 plate of pasta in the city? Head over to the yover bridge that links Pusat Bandar Damansara to

Moist Hazelnut Cake at Nathalies Gourmet Studio.

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Bukit Bintang
The street that never sleeps; the CBD of KL is jam packed with restaurants serving every imaginable cuisine. The norm here is to shop rst and then eat, or eat rst and go clubbing later due to the concentration of clubs, lounges and dancehalls. Easily accessible by monorail, most of the eateries are housed in the many malls there with whole oors dedicated to the pastime of stufng ones face silly. The main streets and side alleys too are teeming with good restaurants. Hawker fare, however, reigns supreme here!

Bijans Kerabu Pucuk Paku.

This is one place youll never get bored of as the choices are simply endless. Some famous bites you must try are the Soong Kee beef noodles, Campbell mini popiah (spring rolls) and Ipoh chicken rice. Lower Ground, Lot
10, Jalan Bukit Bintang, www.lot10hutong.com 03 2782 3840

Salted egg crab at Jalan Alor

JALAN ALOR/ CHANGKAT BUKIT BINTANG, TENGKAT TONG SHIN / JALAN MESUI/JALAN NAGASARI Located on a road
parallel to Jalan Bukit Bintang, locals and even tourists go into a feeding frenzy at this hawkerfare haven. Lined with stalls selling everything from noodle dishes, rice served with meats and vegetables, fresh seafood to freshly-squeezed sugarcane juice and even scarily large durians, Jalan Alor used to be notorious for nocturnal activities but is now purely dedicated to the crime of overeating. During the daytime, it is a nondescript city street but at night, plastic chairs and tables line the street while chefs get busy with their woks, pots and pans. Grilled

dishes are quite popular here. Look for Ah Wahs nger-licking chicken wings and Ming Kees grilled sh. Be prepared to sweat it out from the humidity and wrestling with delicious crab claws! Further down are Changkat Bukit Bintang, Tengkat Tong Shin and Jalan Mesui/Jalan Nagasari where literally every type of world cuisine is well represented by the many, many restaurants, pubs and lounges there. Notable are Delucca ( Gr Floor, Office Tower, 1 Jalan Nagasari 03 2144 6545) for Italian fare, The Green Man
( 40 Changkat Bukit Bintang 03 2141 9924)

offers a ne introduction to Malay cuisine served in a a contemporary setting. Signature dishes here include rusuk panggang (chargrilled marinated short ribs) and rendang itik (deep-fried duck topped with aromatic rendang sauce). 3 Jalan Ceylon 03 2031
3575 www.bijanrestaurant.com

LUK YU TEA HOUSE I love dim

sum and this is one of the few places that serves halal dim sum in KL. Luk Yu Tea House is great for me to bring my family and Muslim friends to enjoy Oriental dishes. ~ Deanna Ibrahim (Model) 181 Starhill Gallery,
Jalan Bukit Bintang http://goo.gl/kBpia 03 2782 3850

for British grub, and

Limablas ( 15 Jalan Mesui 03 2110 1289) for authentic Nyonya ( Straits Chinese) dishes. Jalan
Alor, Bukit Bintang (walk towards the KFC building opposite Plaza Bukit Bintang and turn into Changkat Bukit Bintang. Jalan Alor is on your left)

LOT 10 HUTONG The food court in the basement of Lot 10 shopping mall has been artfully transformed into Hutong. Like a rabbits warren with an exciting food outlet at every turn and corner, this is the go-to place to sample popular Chinese dishes scoured from all over the country.
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Deanna Ibrahim

BIJAN Malay cuisine is best eaten at warung (stalls) or preferably in the kitchen of someones grandmother. But if you want some frou frou with your sambal, head to Bijan. This upscale restaurant

Ethnic Eats
ROTI CANAI
A popular all-day dish with Malaysians, roti canai is an unleavened bread, which is kneaded with oil and compressed over and over on itself to create aky layers when the bread is cooked over a at griddle. Contrary to popular belief, the word canai doesnt refer to Chennai in India as the bread has been in existence long before the city changed its name from Madras to its current name. The word canai in Malay refers to the action of kneading. GO HERE: Valentine Roti 1 Jalan Semarak, KL

ROJAK
Literally meaning a mix or even a mess, rojak is simply a salad of our fritters, cucumbers, jicama, boiled potatoes and hardboiled egg with a thick peanut sauce to complete the dish. A fruity version consists of chopped fruits tossed in a thick soy sauce and shrimp paste sauce. 92
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BANANA LEAF RICE

This meal is usually eaten during lunch or dinner and the portions are generally big. The rice is served on a banana leaf with an assortment of vegetables and papadom. You can order side dishes as well such as chicken, mutton or sh. This is a South Indian speciality and many restaurants will also offer a vegetarian spread and free payasam (sweet gruel like dessert) on Fridays. GO HERE:
Sri Nirwana Maju 43 Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar, KL; Sentul Curry House 22 Jalan Scott, Brickfields, KL 239 Batu 2, Jalan Ipoh, KL; Vishal Food & Catering

FISH HEAD CURRY

The sh head is considered a delicacy and tastes amazing in a broth of rich curry with assorted vegetables such as okra and brinjals. The curry is a very popular Indian way of serving it but Nyonya style calls for a tangy tamarind and coconut milk broth. GO HERE: Restoran Ahamed
(or known as Stadium Fish Head Curry) Jalan Stadium, KL

NASI LEMAK
This is undoubtedly Malaysians favourite breakfast dish. The rice is cooked in coconut milk and served with cucumber slices, fried whitebait sh (ikan bilis), fried groundnuts, hard-boiled egg and chilli sambal.
GO HERE: Nasi Lemak Antarabangsa Nasi Lemak Tanglin Old China Cafe Fish Head Curry Nasi Lemak CT Garden 4 Jalan Raja Muda Musa, Kampung Baru, KL; Medan Selera, Poliklinik Komuniti Tanglin, Jalan Cenderasari, KL; Jalan Dewan Sultan Sulaiman, Kampung Baru, KL

CHAR KWAY TEOW

This stir-fried noodle dish is a Penang favourite but some pretty tasty ones can be found in KL too. Flat rice noodles are fried on a very high heat with light and dark soy sauce, chilli, belacan (shrimp paste), prawns, cockles, bean sprouts and Chinese chives. GO HERE:
Rocky Doli 15 Jalan Telawi 5, Bangsar; 16 Jalan Wan Kadir 4, Taman

Tun Dr Ismail, KL

CENDOL
This is a traditional dessert of coconut milk, jelly noodles made from green pea our, shaved ice and palm sugar. Refreshing to drink on a hot day, some cendol dishes may also have stewed red bean, durian esh and glutinous rice. GO HERE: Wahabs Cendol
43 Jalan Rampai Niaga, Setapak, KL

SATAY
Satay consists of skewers of marinated meat, grilled over charcoal re. This dish is best eaten with cucumber, raw onions, and ketupat (compressed rice cubes) all slathered in thick and spicy, peanut sauce.GO HERE: Sate Kajang Haji Samuri
21, Medan Mara, Jalan Raja Laut, KL; Satay Station 1, Ampang Waterfront, Ampang

BAK KUT TEH

A Chinese herbal soup that is stewed with pork ribs and braised bean curd skins, its usually eaten with rice and Chinese cruellers. GO HERE:
Sun Fong Ban Lee 35, 37, 39 Medan Imbi, KL; 222 Jalan Ipoh Batu 2, KL

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Food Institutions
NASI LEMAK ANTARABANGSA
This iconic nasi lemak stall in Kampung Baru has been serving a wide variety of dishes to go with the rice since the 1970s. MUST TRY: Nasi lemak with sambal sotong (cuttlesh in chilli) or paru goreng (fried cow lungs) 4 Jalan Raja Muda Musa, Kampung
Baru, KL 03 2202 8812 www.nasilemakantarabangsa.my

JAI HIND
Stop by Jai Hind to sample authentic Indian delicacies that wont hurt your wallet. This hidden gem is known for its high quality Indian sweets. MUST TRY: Indian sweets such as kalakand (solidied, sweetened milk and cottage cheese), laddu (ball-shaped sweet made of our and sugar), and jalebi (deep-fried wheat-our batter in circular shapes, which are then soaked in sugar syrup.) 15-17, Jalan Melayu, KL

COLISEUM CAF
The steakhouse has been faithfully serving good food since colonial days and preserves its nostalgia with starched linens, smoky hallways and stern looking elderly waiters. MUST TRY: Hainanese chicken chop, sizzling steak 98 Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, KL 03 2692 6270

YUT KEE
Famous for their soulful pork dishes, Yut Kee has been around since 1928 and it is now run by the third generation members of the family. MUST TRY: Roti Babi (deep fried bread stuffed with minced pork) 35 Jalan Dang Wangi, KL 03 2698 8108

S& RD WO R KE AR HP S LA :F HY AP R OG OT PH

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6 FEATURE Hanoi 0 2013

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OPPOSITE PAGES: Along the tracks exists a whole other world. Make way for the Reunification Express. BELOW: Community reigns in Hanoi, and the street is where youll get to know the people, but these stools take some getting used to.

The concierge unfurled one of those tourist maps with the citys main attractions rendered in comical proportion an ancient temple twice the size of the Taj Mahal and a train station larger than Hong Kong and Macau combined! The map made everything seem larger than life, and in a city like Hanoi, everything is. Hanoi is overwhelming for tourists, the concierge told my travel buddy and me, circling the big attractions with a red marker pen. These are the places you want to visit. Everything else, you will want to skip! Also, tourists should take taxis when they can, she continued, looking into my eyes so earnestly that I had no choice but to believe what she would say next. Hanois streets can be dangerous, and the people are not always friendly.

OUTSIDE THE RED CIRCLE

Id been to Vietnam before on a trip that saw me rumble from the muddy waters of the Mekong Delta to Ho Chi Minh City, out the other side to the dusty sand dunes of Mui Ne, and northwards to Danang. Now, those memories were being challenged. Ive always thought of Vietnams edginess as a visceral energy, a restlessness of spirit that inhabits 90 million souls. If the concierge was to be believed, achieving a real experience, and moving outside the red circle, was going to be difcult. I was determined to show my travel partner the Vietnam Id already experienced, and wilfully accepted the challenge. Hanoi, in sharp contrast to bustling modern-day Ho Chi Minh City, emerged

from the Vietnam War (known here as the American War) largely intact. The city is sold to visitors as an intoxicating mix of exotic old world grace and new Asian pace, rich in colonial heritage, cultural marvels and time-tested traditions, and bursting at the seams with modern amenities and attractions. Vietnamese nightlife is, was, and always will be the stuff of legend. We planned on chipping away at Hanois not-so-friendly reputation until the city presented its true colours. Borrowing the concierges red marker, we took to the streets.

INTO THE REAL HANOI

Looking out over the serpentine trafc along Hang Phen, deep in the heart of Hanois Old Quarter, I knew wed never see anything from
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BELOW: The whole of Vietnam seems to either own a motorbike or a bicycle. Crossing the road takes both skill and confidence. OPPOSITE PAGE, LEFT: All hard lines and severe edges, there is no denying that the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum makes a bold statement. OPPOSITE PAGE, RIGHT: Hanoi is home to hundreds of micro-brew bia hoi joints - and a pint costs pennies.

The city is sold to visitors as an intoxicating mix of exotic old world grace and new Asian pace, rich in colonial heritage, cultural marvels and time-tested traditions, and bursting at the seams with modern amenities and attractions.
the back of a taxi. So, we set off on foot, one eye on the street, the other on the chaos around us. We meandered down Hang Ga and Hang But, past upmarket boutiques on one side and hawker stalls on the other. Slipping into what looked like a coffee shop, we found ourselves in the tidiest tattoo parlour wed ever seen. The owner, Ricky, apologised for closing early. Probably for the best, Ricky said. Ive had a couple of beers, and my hands 100
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the city being unwelcoming. Sit down at a caf outside the Sotel Legend with a cup of civet shit coffee, and wait ve minutes. Youll make more friends than youll know what to do with!

CIVET CHAT
Wanting to investigate the veracity of this claim, we walked to the Sotel, a neoclassical masterpiece that dates back to 1901. Jazz music drifted from Le Club while the citys best-dressed denizens congregated at Le Beaulieu known for exquisite French cuisine, an outstanding wine list, and, once upon a time, for hosting politicians, diplomats and war correspondents. At La Terrasse, we watched the world pass. Vietnams caf culture criminally underrated is on par with that of France and Spains. Of course, sipping a latte in Hanois

arent very steady. In lieu of ink, Ricky invited us for a bite at his favourite street cart. Settling into impossibly low plastic stools on a busy corner, we were surrounded by boisterous locals and served piping hot pho (beef noodles). The next time you have pho, Ricky said, lifting the bowl to his lips and slurping loudly youll think of this little corner of the world. While agreeing that Hanoi can be overwhelming for rst time visitors, Ricky scoffed at the concierges description of

trendiest digs costs a fraction of what it does in Europe! Here, while sampling civet poop coffee, known locally as ca phe chon, we met a local couple and joined them for cocktails at Hanoi Rock City a spectacular multipurpose music garden that hosts homegrown talent like DJ Y Rough on all-night vinyl spin trips, as well as rotating art installations, ea markets and thrash metal dance parties. At the independent Manzi Art Space, a beautiful little gallery with its own top notch caf, our new friends introduced us to foods wed never even heard of. Entering back alley galleries wed never be able nd on our own, we lost ourselves in the indie rock scene at Mandrake and ATK. Trying to cling to the pulse of this city is like riding a bamboo basket boat into the bay good fun, but you never know where youre going to land next.

LOCAL INSIGHT, HIDDEN TREASURES

Later, weaving through the warrens of the Old Quarter, it became obvious that if we spent too long trying to decide where to go next, someone would make the decision for us. Our map was passed from shopkeeper to taxi driver to student to businessman and back again; the locals each had their own ideas. The concierges pen once a tool used to detach us from Hanois essential experiences danced across the map making notes in the margins and pointing out details we simply couldnt miss. There was Tamarind Caf, a quaint vegetarian restaurant, and Hoan Kiem Lake where goateed men in billowy threads practised tai chi and children studied moves across wooden game boards. As the streets became increasingly congested and

WHEN TO GO
Vietnam can be visited year round, but keep in mind that the country is large enough to see significant seasonal variance from one region to another. Temperatures in the north can dip to 15C in winter, and skyrocket to 40C in summer. Extremes are amplified in the mountains and the hill country.

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OPPOSITE PAGE: A street vendor on her way to set up shop. BELOW: Iconic conical hats can be seen everywhere in Vietnam - and make a solid fashion statement. BELOW, RIGHT: Paper lanterns hang over diners at an outdoor restaurant, so thick in spots that they block out the sun.

motorised trafc ground to a halt, we found ourselves among throngs of shoppers at the manic Dong Xuan Market. Women turned frogs inside out for a happy chef and sh danced in big blue bins. Here, I collected a few handshakes as well as ingredients for bn riu cua (a hearty vermicelli soup made with mashed paddy crabs) and a bespoke suit (impossible to wear in the sweltering heat, but a deals a deal!).

WHAT WOULD CONFUCIUS DO?

Popping out of the market, we followed the tracks of the Reunication Express, and found a different side of Hanoi operating on the rails perhaps the only place where motorbikes cant go! Street vendors operate on the 102
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tracks, pulling back against crumbling brick buildings when the trains whistle sounds in the distance. It was unlike anything wed ever seen; Hanoi was unlike any place wed ever been. Jumping off the tracks, we headed to the Temple of Literature, home to Vietnams rst university and earliest recorded Confucian temple. Wandering the ve beautiful courtyards, we wondered what Confucius would do next, and decided that the philosopher would ponder the nature of life before the dark and impressive Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum at Ba Dinh Square, where old Uncle Ho is famously laid to rest against his wishes. I wonder if Confucius saw that coming! Hanois many museums offer fascinating exhibits and architecture. The History Museum, built by architect Ernest Hebrard

between 1925 and 1932, is a ne example, and the Womens Museum impresses and edies. The infamous Hoa Lo Prison, commonly known as the Hanoi Hilton, was largely destroyed in the 1990s; what remains are the gatehouse and a few rooms, which have been converted into a museum. While exhibits drip with anti-colonial and antiAmerican sentiments, a sense of historical importance resonates throughout.

THE JOURNEY CONTINUES

In the evening, we started off having frosty bia hoi at Bia Hoi Viet Ha on Hang Bai, and ended up touring Hanois many excellent mini brewpubs including the Czech-style pilsner pourhouse Goldmalt. At a pub adjacent to the

TRAVEL FACTS
Visitors flock to Hanoi to be fitted for custom suits, shoes, dresses and every other article of clothing you can imagine, and end up paying more in excess luggage charges than they do for these new purchases! Hotel standards are high throughout Vietnam, and rates are cheap compared to neighbouring countries like Thailand and Southern China. Vietnamese street food is of exceptional quality, and is always good value. Try a steaming bowl of pho in Hanoi, freshly baked bread in Sapa and braised mountain goat in Ninh Binh. Vietnam has a fascinating micro brewing culture with more than 100 microbreweries and beer vendors that set out chairs for patrons along the river in Ninh Binh in the evenings. Look for signs that advertise bia hoi.

Botanical Gardens, we witnessed no fewer than seven wedding photo shoots, and were asked to participate in three! Everyone, I can assure you, was smiling. As the sun began to set, our new friends gave us a lift back; my travel buddy hopped onto the back of a manually -powered cyclo, and I climbed onto a motorbike for a xe om ride translated literally as motorbike hug. Back at our hotel, we unfurled what was left of our tattered map, and realised that we had 101 places left to see. We made a note in the margins: Book another week in Hanoi, and have the concierge make a few copies of our map.
GETTING THERE AirAsia ies to Hanoi from Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. Go to www.airasia.com for details.

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6 FEATURE Taiwan 0 2013

www.airasia.com/travel3sixty

returns r a holiday and fo an iw Ta to RAPHY: ADAM LEE s A city girl head g experiences. WORDS: ELLYSE NG PHOTOG stin with two contra

T aleof

Two Cities

Tiny stones scuttled down the 10-metre drop. I stood atop the towering cliff and stared at the river below. The deep shade of turquoise suggested a minimum depth of at least 12 metres. My teammates below yelled out words of encouragement. Anytime youre ready my river-tracing instructor urged in Mandarin. I took a deep breath, stepped up to the edge of the cliff and jumped. My earlier days in Taipei played out like a cinematic experience.

CITY ONE: THE CONCRETE JUNGLE

Surrounded by skyscrapers, a delectable food scene and friendly locals, my elation at having arrived in this city was boundless. Taiwan excites me with its charm, and my affection for this island has been a continuous love affair that could easily rival the greatest romances in history. Four days earlier, Id arrived at the Land of the 101 where the iconic attraction serves both as a national symbol and a useful landmark for tourists. A structure synonymous with Taipei, it truly reflects the citys persona as a forest of silver skyscrapers, accented with artistic structures and well-manicured lawns. It was almost nightfall when I stepped out of my airport taxi at Ximending, the unofcial street to see and be seen. Predominantly catering to the young and inhabited by wideeyed hopefuls desperate to make it big in the city, the streets youthful pulse promised insights into the citys underbelly. The street was ablaze with neon pants, even brighter hair hues and statement Tees

TOP: Visitors get to shave fish flakes to top their meals at Chihsing Katsuo Museum in Hualien. ABOVE: Saying Hello to a dolphin or two at Hualien waters. RIGHT: Attired in brightly coloured clothes, the young truly enjoy being seen as they rollerskate at Ximending. BELOW: Before jumping from the 10-metre cliff, the writer and her team strike a pose. BELOW, LEFT: Pictures of Buluowan Village depicting its rich culture and history at the Leader Village Hotel in Taroko. PRECEDING PAGE, LEFT: The dazzling lights of Taipei, an exciting city that is also home to the famous Taipei 101 tower, the second tallest building in the world. PRECEDING PAGE, RIGHT: The mountainous landscape of Taroko National Park in Hualien.

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thatd have had my mother howling in protest! I quickly ducked out of the way of a chain of youngsters on roller skates, stared (politely) at a group of Cos-players in full getup, and took a minute or so to snap photos of a friendly poodle. Soon, even the cute poodle and the shenanigans of the ber cool crowd couldnt keep my hunger pangs at bay. I wandered off, seduced by the enticing aromas wafting from the many street hawkers and cafs. That night, I dreamt of eating stinky tofu on the viewing deck of Taipei 101. Refreshed, the next morning I set out in search of one of the worlds most beautiful bookstores as listed by FlavorWire, in Section 4 of the Zhongxiao District. Thankfully, the locals were ever willing to help, despite my feeble attempts to converse in Mandarin, and pointed me towards a Bohemian neighbourhood of colourful art spaces and kitschy shops. It was here that I found the bookstore named VVG Something. The premise was surprisingly small not what Id expected from one of the worlds best bookstores. The long wooden table in the

middle of the room was piled with beautifully bound coffee table books and imported hardbacks. A coffee bar at one end provided my daily caffeine x as I settled down with a humongous cup of cappuccino and a pop-up book based on C. S. Lewis fantasy series The Chronicles of Narnia. Not big or beautiful in the conventional sense but with coffee in hand and a delightful book to read, I readily agreed that this was the best bookshop in the world! Soon, it was time to bid farewell to the bookstore as I wanted to head over to Xinyi District to catch the sun as it set over Taipei 101. Adam (the photographer) and I searched for a vantage point to capture the moment and soon found the perfect spot on a pedestrian bridge behind the World Trade Centre. The weather was chilly but the spectacle itself was worth a thousand years of connement in the North Pole. Later, wanting to explore the city on my own, I bid Adam goodbye and walked towards Simple Market. By day, the concrete warehouse and its vicinity are an organic

outdoor market, vibrant and lively but, by night, the businesses retreat indoors and the warehouse turns into a lifestyle store. I walked into this building and was thankful for the warmth of the foyer that also doubles up as an art gallery. Inside, I noticed a large crowd queuing in front of Good Chos Caf (www.streevoice.com/goodchos). Knowing this to be the universally recognised sign of good food, I joined the line and ordered a vinegar pork bagel. It was the perfect culinary balance of east meets west; the Asian vinegary pork wonderfully complementing the chewy bagel a memorable meal indeed! By my last day in Taipei, the trafc gridlock at rush hour and ultra-fast elevators had become a norm. Despite the maniacal pace, I managed to nd solace in the vast compound of the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. A hushed silence enveloped me like a blanket of hallowed tranquillity. The compound boasted Chinese gardens complete with ponds and bridges, while a huge monument in honour of the former President of the Republic of China
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stood majestically in the centre. Staring at this historic icon, gloom hung over my head as I noticed my time in this city was coming to an end. In a couple of hours, a new chapter was about to begin.

CITY TWO: THE NATURAL JUNGLE

My high cliff jump into the river ended in a spectacular splash. My teammates cheered loudly as I raised both hands in victory disregarding the hard whack my bum had just taken upon landing on the hard ground. Despite wearing the most horrendous orange wetsuit, the exhilaration of having jumped off the cliff into the turquoise waters of San Zhan River was an experience that words fail to capture. Before I drowned completely in euphoria a n d t h e d e e p w a t e r, t h e r i v e r- t r a c i n g instructors from Peace Diving Company (www. peace-diving.com.tw) pulled me out of harms way, setting the tone for my adventure in Taiwans Eden-esque town of Hualien.

Aboard the two-hour train ride to Hualien the day before, I had reminisced about my time in Taipei and how Id blended into this mighty metropolis so well. My city girl upbringing had rejected the very thought of living in the embrace of nature for the next four days, but 10 minutes after stepping onto the platform, I was smitten. Gone were the silver skyscrapers, futuristic sculptures and maddening malls. In its place were jade mountains, majestic limestone caves and twisting highways built along magnicent cliffs. The air was fresh in Hualien, and the unobstructed view of never-ending mountains was a refreshing sight. The locals were friendly and ever ready with colourful stories. It wasnt my idea of a holiday but this wasnt all that bad either I convinced myself. Right after my river adventure, my travel party and I packed into a tiny bus and headed for the forests of Taroko National Park. The starting point for our exploration was the Swallow Grottoes. The sheer marble cliffs are home to swifts and swallows who take

up residence in the gaps and openings in the rock face. The gargantuan cliffs were truly awe-inspiring but even more excitement awaited me as we entered a darkened tunnel, emerging at the end to nd a forest trail. In the light drizzle, what kept egging me on despite my inappropriate choice of footwear (ballet flats, unfortunately) was the distant view of the Bai Yang Waterfall. As we neared the white waters that cascaded into a jade green river, my group oohed and aahed, taken up by the sheer beauty of the falls. Crossing a suspension bridge, I entered The Curtain Cave where I could easily make out curtains of natural spring water raining down from the ceiling, hence its name. Determined to stay dry in the caves heavy downpour, I donned a raincoat and tried opening my umbrella but all these proved to be an exercise in futility as within minutes, I was as wet as a sh. After a day well spent in Taroko National Park, it was time for some much-needed rest. Arriving at Leader Village Hotel Taroko (www.leaderhotel.com) in Buluowan Village, I was

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ABOVE: If taxis and motorised vehicles are not your cup of tea, renting a bicycle to explore Taipei is the eco-friendly way to go. ABOVE, RIGHT: Shaped like a water drop and done up in a blue and white theme, Wanderlust is one of the most memorable homestays in Hualien. LEFT: When in Hualien, do catch the traditional dance of the A-Mei Tribe, the largest indigenous tribe in the county. BELOW: The entrance to the Chiang Kaishek Memorial Hall, one of Taipeis most important monuments. BOTTOM: This delightful pop-up book of The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.

TAIWANS MEMORABLE EATS!

LU ROU FAN Its amazing how a simple bowl of braised

pork rice has the nation queuing up for hours. Simple yet flavourful, this is considered local comfort food.

STINKY TOFU Once youve gotten past the putrid smell, you may just be up for the challenge of tucking into this savoury bean curd. Love it or hate it! DEEP-FRIED CHICKEN Bite into Taipeis much-loved fried
chicken for a mouthful of juicy chicken goodness beneath deliciously crispy skin.

BEEF NOODLE A visit to Taipei is never complete without the famous beef noodle thats so famous it has its own annual festival! There are many variations, which are easily found all over the city. YU TIAO & SOY MILK Dont let the simple cruller and soy milk fool you into lowering your expectations. Sweet yet savoury, its no wonder locals cant get enough of this staple breakfast dish.

CHIHSING KATSUO MUSEUM Echoing the Chinese saying work for your own meal, here you can shave your own fish flakes to top your Japanese-fusion dishes. An educational walkabout around the former fish flake factory is also available for the curious. www.formosoft.com/E_case04.htm SAN GUO YI (THREE KINGDOMS) RESTAURANT Sample
dishes made from one of the worlds strangest looking fish (the mola-mola). At certain times of the year, the menu here focuses entirely on appetisers, mains and even drinks and desserts inspired by the mola-mola. http://www.tw301.com.tw/

HOT SPOTS IN HUALIEN

HUALIEN SHUTAO SOUVENIR SHOP Savour melt-in-your-

mouth pineapple bay cakes at the Hualien ShuTao Souvenir Shop, and meet the jolly owner whos ever willing to let you sample first. www.funny111.com.tw TRAVEL 3SIXTY

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ABOVE: Princess Coffee is an establishment run by an actual tribal princess! Here, she is with her famous honey black tea leaves, harvested only during summer. ABOVE, RIGHT: Come day or night, the streets of Taipei is bustling with cars, bikes and pedestrians.

given a quick tour of the tribal-themed lobby before the hotel owner regaled me with tales of his forefathers who helped build the twisting highways of Hualien a seemingly impossible task judging from the lack of modern tools and the extremely steep cliffs. According to him, many men sacriced their lives during the construction in order to connect Hualiens once-rural villages to the modern world. Dinner was a splendid affair as the hotel staff re-enacted the Buluowan hunting tradition where the men bring home the kill (a roasted pig) flaming torches in hand as they belt out traditional hunting songs in 110
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Buluowans native language. Meanwhile, local children entertained the hotel guests with Buluowan warrior dances and harvest songs. Fatigue and a full tummy conspired and soon, I was yearning for a bed to rest my weary body. Mercifully, the kids soon stopped prancing about and I sauntered off to my wooden chalet on a lush green plateau, surrounded by mountains. That night, I slept soundly in the bosom of Mother Nature. My adventures didnt end there. On my last day in Hualien, I boarded a luxury boat for the most amazing natural encounter ever whale watching. When it comes to this activity, Huadong Whale World (www.huadong.com.tw) is one of the most reputable tour operators in Hualien. The weather was not in our favour, but the formidable-looking captain was adamant not to let grey clouds and choppy waves ruin the day. As he navigated the boat through the treacherous ocean with precision and skill, the rest of us held on to the railings, battling seasickness while trying to stay brave. The waves grew bigger by the minute, and our hope of sighting a whale or two faded away.

Suddenly, the captain yelled and turned the boat sharply. On the starboard, we spotted the grey fin of a dolphin! A rounded snout emerged from the surface of the water, and soon, four other dolphin families joined in the fun, frolicking in the waters next to the boat. I snapped away with my camera phone. By the end of the day, my phone battery at-lined and I had no other means of connecting to the modern world, but I could not be happier.

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

It was with mixed feelings that I left Taipei and Hualien. As different as day and night, one was a capital filled with lights, colours and excitement, the other was the canvas that Mother Nature painted herself. The one similarity they both bore was the Taiwanese stamp of hospitality warm smiles and an ever willing helping hand. Two wonderfully contrasting cities in one vacation I could not ask for more!
GETTING THERE AirAsia X ies to Taipei from Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu and Clark (Manila). Go to www.airasia.com for details.

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IM PACT
Mixed Martial Arts fighters take to the cage in the hope of turning pro.

MAXI MUM

Yusnor Rizan resists the Armbar submission from Julian 'Johan' Lee by standing up to attempt a slamming (Flyweight division).

Shammah Chandran (on the ground) attempts to engage Mah Yong Jian (top) who is in full guard position with a transitioning Triangle Choke (Lightweight division).

A MIMMA official removes the shinpads from Muhammad Farqani who fought well in the Bantamweight class.

Iskandar Zurkanain, a Flyweight contestant is being neckheld at the medical room for post-checkup after his defeat from a Rear Naked Choke.

Oliver Coste, the Chief Referee of MIMMA announces the winner of the Bantamweight bout, Loh Lim Shen Jen, after three rounds of tough fights.

Why stop at jabbing and grappling when you can kick, punch, strike and pummel your opponent to oblivion? Welcome to the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) a full contact combat sport that allows both striking and grappling techniques while standing and, on the ground. Separating the men from the boys, this high-octane sport is fast gaining popularity. To nurture young talents in Malaysias MMA arena, Tune Talk Mobile Prepaid recently launched the Malaysian Invasion MMA Fighting Championship (MIMMA FC). This championship will see MMA ghters set the cage on re when the mind-blowing grand nals of the MIMMA FC takes place in Kuala Lumpur on June 15, 2013. A fast growing sport that has taken the world audience by storm, MMA combines multiple disciplines. Participants are assessed for their striking, grappling and sparring capabilities the three key skills required for the sport, which combines multiple martial arts disciplines like karate, taekwondo, silat, muay Thai, boxing, wrestling, judo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu into a single competition. Fighters at the MIMMA FC will battle it out inside a specially-designed 900 square feet metal enclosure, presided over by professional referees and judges. With cash prizes totalling MYR150,000, MIMMA FC will be the rst professionally-managed pan-Malaysian amateur ghting championship. The amateur championship is open to all Malaysians aged 18 and above. Participants will battle it out in various weight class categories: Flyweight (up to 56.7kgs), Bantamweight (up to 61.2kgs), Featherweight (up to 65.8kgs), Lightweight (up to 70.3kgs), Welterweight (up to 77.1kgs), Middleweight (up to 83.9kgs) and Light Heavyweight (up to 93kgs). More than 500 participants turned up for the two-day preliminary try-outs held in Kuala Lumpur this February. From the try-outs, 112 participants were selected to proceed to the Ladder Match round on March 23 and 24. Quarter Finals were held on April 20 and 21 and Semi Finals on May 18. The MIMMA FC champion for each weight class will be crowned at the Grand Finals on June 15.
For more information on MIMMA FC, visit www.malaysianinvasion.com.

MIMMA'S FIGHT GURU

The Quarterfinals Ring Girls posing with round cards inside the MIMMA Cage.

Peter Davis

UK CFC Champion, Lightweight, Malaysia

Peter Davis is a ONE FC superstar who currently holds a pro record of six wins, one loss and zero draws. He is an exponent of Wuji unorthodox Wushu free-style fighting. Davis plays a dual role in MIMMA: Official TV host of six MIMMA episodes on StarSports and a fight consultant. Davis co-hosts the said TV show with Rashid Salleh by providing useful insights on MMA, explaining and simplifying techniques while interviewing fighters for a greater understanding of MMA. As MIMMA's fight consultant, Davis conducts talks on dieting and training, health-related matters, injury prevention and most importantly, safety matters with regards to MMA. Davis also acts as a mentor, offering useful advice and insight into MMA ruling, safety procedures and techniques, and even helps spot potential participants.

MIMMA PROVIDES A PLATFORM FOR UPCOMING FIGHTERS TO REALISE THEIR POTENTIAL IN THE CAGE. MIMMA ALSO RECOGNISES TALENT FROM THE GRASSROOTS AND IS ABLE TO PROVIDE A TRUE OPPORTUNITY FOR ASPIRING FIGHTERS TO PUT THEIR YEARS OF TRAINING AND HARD WORK TO THE TEST BY COMPETING IN MIMMA. THIS SERVES AS A STEPPING STONE TO THE PRO LEVEL OF MMA. ~ PETER DAVIS

TUNE TALK WARRIORS

The Tune Talk Warriors a group of meticulously-selected pro MMA fighters feature in xONE Fighting Championship, Asia's largest mixed martial arts event. These exponents have all represented Malaysia in pro fights, and are forerunners in their game, inspiring the youth of the country to join ranks with them in the ring. Tune Talk takes great pride in nurturing young talent and actively encourages newcomers in their aspirations to become seasoned athletes and eventually, professional fighters in the MMA arena.

BJJ & Muay Thai Champion, Welterweight

Adam Kayoom

Top Malaysian MMA Prospect, Flyweight

Gianni Subba

URCC Champion, Featherweight

Eric Kelly

National Silat Champion, Featherweight

Aj Pyro

#1 Ranked WMA Featherweight, Flyweight

Saiful Merican

Malaysian Muay Thai Champion, Featherweight

Jian Kai Chee

South Malaysian Muay Thai Champion,

Melvin Yeoh

Raymond Tiew
Wushu Champion, Featherweight

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WINDS BENEATH YOUR WINGS

THE GOOD WIND
Ever wonder why sometimes your ight arrives at your destination earlier than expected? Its usually a pleasant surprise unless of course your welcoming party is not there yet! Well, the reason for this is that wind has been blowing your plane from the back. This is what we call a strong tailwind a boost as if someone is pushing you to make you move faster. Wind can be good, bad or ugly depending on how it is perceived in relation to the plane. Wind is good when it helps to speed up a long journey but bad when it is blowing the plane from the back during a landing. Tailwind can cause landing distance to be longer, thus reducing the safety margin. Sometimes, it may even cause a tail strike in which the bottom of the aircraft scrapes the runway! Similarly, it is good when the wind is blowing from the front on take-off or landing 118
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and hence a shorter runway is required, but bad on a long ight as it takes a longer time to reach your destination. On take-off, a strong headwind gets the plane airborne faster as compared to a tailwind. As such, the air trafc controller will use a runway with the strongest headwind. Consequently, some delays are to be expected when theres a need to change runway due to the shift in wind direction for safety reasons. All planes have to be re-sequenced either on the ground or in the air.

CROSSWIND LANDINGS
Wind can be ugly when it blows across the runway at speeds beyond the limitations imposed by the manufacturer. This is known as crosswind. For instance, on an Airbus A330, when wind exceeds 40 knots (depending on the

airline), landing is not allowed on a dry runway. If the runway is wet, the crosswind limit is reduced to 27 knots as it is more difcult to keep the plane centred on a slippery runway. On August 22, 1999, a China Airlines MD-11 ight to Hong Kong crashed due to strong crosswind. Strong crosswind landings may be a little difcult as the nose is pointed into the crosswind direction in order to maintain the centre line of the runway. It looks awkward as the plane has to crab-in and only points the nose back to the runway centre line just before touching down. In this accident, the captain landed hard on the right landing gear. As a result, the right engine scraped the runway causing the right main landing gear and the wing on that side to break off. The plane then rolled inverted as it skidded off the runway. There are lessons to be learned by pilots never land or take off when the crosswind

is beyond the manufacturers recommended limitations. This reminds me of my own experience on a Boeing 777 ight from a previous airline. See The Divine Wind in the October 2010 issue of the Travel 3Sixty magazine for an anecdote worth repeating and reproduced below for those who missed the article.

TRYST WITH A TYPHOON

I vividly remember an incident some years back in Shanghai when I was working for my former airline. I refused to take off on a Boeing 777 because of an approaching typhoon. An irate passenger said something to the effect of How come the other airlines Boeing 777 pilot was able to take off whilst this cowardly pilot refuses? This remark prompted the airport manager to try and persuade me to take off. I adamantly told him No way, my friend!

IMAGE: INMAGINE

There are different kinds of winds that aid or encumber aircraft on the ground and in the air, but good pilots always know what to do when one of them blows their way.

when we heard over the radio that a United Airlines Boeing 747 and a Virgin Atlantic Airbus A340 were forced to return after aborting their departures. I was pleased that Id stood rm in refusing to give in to the demands of the airlines airport manager. My passengers safety was of utmost importance and I was certainly not about to take a chance with it. I recalled a doctors comment once about my responsibility being heavier than his. He remarked that when a doctor makes a mistake, only one patient dies, whereas a pilots mistake would impact the lives of over 300 passengers! The other pilot may have been trying to be heroic but each time we pilots sign in to y an aircraft, we are duty bound morally and professionally to y as safely as possible. In all honesty in this instance, Id rather be a coward whos alive (along with all his passengers!) than a dead hero!

Naturally, I too was surprised that the Boeing 777 parked next to us had taken off. Of course, this angered the passengers who had been stranded at the lounge for several hours. It made plain sense to the passengers; if the other ight could take off, then why was this pilot (yours truly), being difcult? I had my reasons and good ones they were too. You see, an approaching typhoon comes with winds that gradually increase in strength. Worse still, the wind on that day was blowing across the runway. Every plane has a 120
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crosswind limitation whereby the manufacturer cannot guarantee a safe take-off if it exceeds a particular strength. The wind on that fateful day was gusting well above the take-off limit, hence my refusal to take off and endanger the lives of those in my care.

NO WAY, JOS!
I tried my best to explain the reasons behind my refusal to take off but the airport manager was not convinced. However, that all changed

LEST ALL THESE ACCIDENTS WORRY YOU, IMPROVEMENTS IN TECHNOLOGY HAVE COME TO THE RESCUE! HUMAN BEINGS ARE VERY INNOVATIVE. LESSONS FROM PAST ACCIDENTS ALWAYS HELP TO MAKE FLYING SAFER FOR THE FUTURE! TODAY, WIND SHEAR DETECTION TECHNOLOGY HAS BEEN DEVELOPED TO ENABLE PILOTS TO PREDICT WIND SHEAR EVEN BEFORE TAKEOFF. MOST MODERN PLANES INCLUDING PLANES SUCH AS THE AIRBUS A320 AND AIRBUS A330/A340 ARE NOW INSTALLED WITH THIS SYSTEM.

HANDLING WIND SHEAR

Recently, a report alleged that wind shear was the probable cause of a Boeing 737 crashing into the sea at the Bali International Airport. Fortunately, all 101 passengers and seven crew survived the crash even when the plane broke apart in shallow waters. Severe wind shear can be very vicious. It is caused by a sudden and powerful change in wind direction that occurs frequently in or near thunderstorms. The downdraft created can give rise to a strong headwind that will cause a corresponding increase in airspeed. When a plane passes through the downdraft, it will encounter a tailwind, which will cause the aircraft to dangerously lose airspeed and altitude.

IMAGE: GETTY IMAGES

Bali. In my ying career, since the installation of this warning system, I must admit that I have only encountered a real Go Around, Wind Shear Ahead! warning once during my approach to land. I did what I was taught abort the landing and return for another safe one only when the wind conditions subsided.

LORD OF THE WINDS

The next time you see a plane landing cocked (pointing) towards the wind and not on the runway centre line, you know that the captain is working very hard to control a crosswind landing. He has to do that crabbing or else he misses aligning on the runway centre line. Not to worry, just before touch down, he will use the rudder to bring the plane towards the centre. Intensive wind shear practices by pilots in this airline include the mandatory six-monthly check to ensure that our passengers are safely taken care of at all times. With that in mind, I hope to relieve any anxieties that you may have as a result of gusty winds during your ight. Safe and Happy Landings!

Airplanes are most vulnerable to wind shear during take-offs and landings, and the situation can turn very ugly should pilots be caught by surprise. It has also caused several crashes. On June 24, 1975, an Eastern Air Lines Boeing 727 crashed whilst landing at the JF Kennedy International Airport in New York due to severe wind shear caused by thunderstorms. Of the 124 people on board, 106 passengers and six crew members did not make it. The investigation board found that the captain was aware of severe wind shear reports on the approach path but decided to continue nonetheless. That was a fatal decision! On August 7, 1975, a Continental Airlines Boeing 727 crashed after take-off from the International Airport at Denver, Colorado due to severe wind shear. 134 people aboard the aircraft survived the crash with 15 persons seriously injured. The aircraft was badly damaged. On July 3, 1982 a Pan Am Boeing 727 ight crashed on take-off after encountering 122
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wind shear. The aircraft was destroyed during the impact and subsequent ground re with many fatalities.

PREDICTIONS & WARNINGS

Lest all these accidents worry you, improvements in technology have come to the rescue! Human beings are very innovative. Lessons from past accidents always help to make ying safer for the future! Today, wind shear detection technology has been developed to enable pilots to predict wind shear even before take-off. Most modern planes including planes such as the Airbus A320 and Airbus A330/A340 are now installed with this system. Basically, this warning system makes use of the weather radar to identify the existence of wind shear before take-off. The radar picks up water and ice particles ahead of the airplane and warns the pilot with this audio message Wind Shear Ahead! This is effective and provides the pilot an opportunity to abort the take-off.

Whilst airborne, during takeoff or landing, this system also warns of any wind shear ahead. Its not clear whether the wind shear warning was activated in the recent B737 accident in

Captain Lim Khoy Hing is a former AirAsia Airbus A320 and AirAsia X A330/A340 pilot who also used to fly the Boeing 777. He has logged a total of more than 25,500 flying hours and is now a Simulator Flight Instructor with Air Asia X. In his spare time, he shares his opinion on aviation issues with others. For more air travel and aviation stories, check out his website, Just About Flying at www.askcaptainlim.com. w.askcaptainlim.com.

IMAGE: INMAGINE

6 TRAVEL LOG 0 2013

www.airasia.com/travel3sixty Fiyya with her siblings at Kiyamizudera Temple. The girls with their father at Miyajima.

Living apart from her mum, 12-year-old Fiyya talks about how flying has brought her family together for many enjoyable vacations.
Im a seventh grade student at Al Irsyad Satya Junior High School in Bandung, Indonesia, where I live with my younger sisters (Raihana, 10 and Rheisya, 5) and my dad. Since January 2011, we have lived apart from our mother because she is taking her PhD in Kyoto University, and will only be done in 2014. To live apart was really hard at rst. We miss our mums lovely smile and bedtime stories, the girly chit-chats we used to have, and of course, her delicious food. Thanks to AirAsia, weve managed to full our dream to meet mum as often as possible. Since mid-2011, my mum has visited us practically every three months. My dad buys her three or four Osaka Bandung return ights a year during AirAsia ticket sales, and takes us, all three girls, to Japan once a year to visit our mum. Now, I would like to tell you about our last travel experience, which took place from June till July 2012. My sisters, dad and I visited Singapore, Japans Kansai area, Hiroshima and Shikoku Island, as well as Malaysias Kuala Lumpur and Genting Highlands all within two weeks. My dad said that we should make a backpacker journey, so each of us could only carry luggage not exceeding 7kg. We started our journey from Bandung on June 27, and our rst stop was Singapore. We arrived at 9am, and spent 12 hours in Singapore. Within a short time, we visited several interesting places such as Marina Bay Sands. Waiting for our next ight in Changi International Airport was not boring, since there were so many entertainment facilities
The girls with their mother at Hiroshima.

TRAVELLING FAMILY

such as a movie theatre, game centre and lots more. At around 9pm, we continued our journey to Osaka via the LCC Terminal in Kuala Lumpur. We arrived in Kansai International Airport the next day, and to reach Kyoto City, we used a limousine bus. We spent most of our time in Japan visiting tourist attractions in the Kansai area. Higashiyama and Arashiyama areas were my

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Posing for a picture in front of the many bridges at Shimanami Sea.

All smiles in Osaka.

favourites as the scenery was very beautiful. During our stay in Japan, my dad rented a car and brought us to Hiroshima and Shikoku Island. We visited the Peace Memorial Park and its museum. I cried when I saw so many pictures of the bomb victims and read their stories. I hope that there will be no more wars in the world. We also went to Miyajima Island that boasts some of the best scenery in Japan. On the way back to Kyoto, we went through Shimanami Sea Route. We passed 10 giant bridges that connect Honshu and Shikoku Islands. I was impressed with the landscape of the small islands and how they are connected to each other with those beautiful bridges. There are separate roads for cars and bicycles too. Next time, I want to try cycling on these roads. My dad stopped the car in many beautiful spots so we could take pictures. Unfortunately, after spending 11 days in Japan, we had to return home as school holidays were coming to an end. Before arriving in Bandung, we spent one night in Kuala Lumpur and one night in Genting Highlands. We could only visit Bukit Bintang area for several hours before taking a shuttle bus to Genting Highlands. We tried almost all the indoor entertainment in Genting Highlands! My sisters and I enjoyed our short visit there very much. On July 9, we returned to Bandung. Although the journey was very exhausting, it was really enjoyable, especially when we were in Japan. Together, we went to many interesting places, and I observed that my youngest sister, Rheisya, had become a very strong little girl; she carried her own luggage everywhere without complaining at all. She was very enthusiastic about traveling. 126

Got an interesting tale about your travels with AirAsia? Email your story (around 800 words) and images (high res min 1MB in size and clearly captioned) to us at travel3sixty@airasia.com. Published submissions will receive a 1N/2D stay at the Grand Premier Room for 2 inclusive of breakfast valued at MYR1,200++, and a MYR100 voucher redeemable at any of F&B outlets at InterContinental Kuala Lumpur.Travel 3Sixty reserves the right to edit the article for clarity and length or change the value of the prize to another gift of similar value. Prize voucher cannot be exchanged for cash and the Editorials decision is final. Entries must include name, address, e-mail address and telephone number.

MYR1,200! INTERCONTINENTAL KUALA LUMPUR, located in the heart of Malaysias bustling capital, is the ideal urban retreat for discerning business and leisure travellers with a taste for style and substance. Providing iding guests with an impressive view of the citys skyline just steps away from the iconic Petronas Twin Towers and Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, the hotel is also within walking distance to countless other shopping and entertainment activities. With the convenience of shuttle services and a nearby LRT (Light Railway Transit) station, guests looking to dive into Kuala Lumpurs bustling shopping options such as Central Market and Chinatown will nd the hotels strategic location the main draw. The 31-storey hotel has spared no expense in upgrading its facilities and services for a refreshingly luxurious feel in ensuring top-of-the-line amenities and comfortable stays for all its guests. The hotel boasts 473 elegantly designed rooms and eight meeting rooms with multifunctional capabilities along with two ballrooms. Recreation facilities include a swimming pool, Fitness Centre and the Sompoton Spa. Offering guests only its best, InterContinental Kuala Lumpur is a true jewel in the heart of Malaysia. www.intercontinental-kl.com.my

A HOTEL STAY WORTH OVER

WIN

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MERCURY RISING
A CLASS ABOVE
Continuing its tradition of sophistication, the Spring/Summer Mens collection from Massimo Dutti celebrates minimalism with a line that features exquisitely designed suits and casual wear. Cashmere, cotton and linen are the fabrics of choice while colours take on summery hues of pink, green and mauve. Highlights include nylon/linen reversible parka and pin-striped tailored shirts. www.massimodutti.com

Turn up the heat with the latest catwalk trends and easy, breezy summer fashions.

WE ARE YOUNG
Fun, fresh and trendy is what the latest collection for girls by Bershka is all about. The brands youth-oriented Spring/ Summer collection features ethnic-inspired prints and embroidery, symmetrical cuts, bleached denim and fabrics in sorbet tones, sandy shades and bright corals.
www.bershka.com

FOR RICHER OR POORER

Whether you like them plain, striped, checked or with cute motifs, socks are an essential part of any wardrobe. Los Angeles-based Richer Poorer injects fun into its range of socks for both men and women and turns them into statement pieces. Constructed with a cotton blend, these socks are light and durable and come in a variety of eye-catching colours and patterns. Available at Actually and Actually+, Singapore. www.richer-poorer.com

WORDS: WORD W ORD RDS S: :C CH CHIT CHITRA HIT H TRA RA S

EASY ELEGANCE
The latest footwear collection by Charles & Keith Signature Label is all about replicating the casual ease of summer without sacricing elegance. The collection features heeled sandals, platform wedges and peep-toe pumps with iridescent metallic, snakeskin and embossed leather accents. Walk on the wild side with leopard print heels or go glam in shimmery gold platforms.
www.charleskeith.com

TRENDSPOTTING
SHEER PLEASURE Dare to bare
in sheer fabrics that show off your best assets in style. See-through is no longer taboo and the trend has taken the runways by storm. If you dont want to bare it all, choose sheer sleeves, trouser legs or midriffs that are subtly sexy and still leave lots to the imagination.

WHITE HOT The height of summer chic, pristine white steals the show this season with pared down and clean cut outts seen on the catwalk. While white can be worn year-round, wearing white on white is the way to go this summer for an elegant and rened look.

LIVE LIFE LUXE Offering a stable

of luxury brands at affordable prices, Singapore-based Reebonz is a fashionistas dream-come-true. To shop at Reebonz and receive exclusive invites to sales, simply sign-up at www.reebonz.com for free! Find your favourite luxury goods online or shop at Reebonz SPACE, Singapore - the companys flagship retail lounge designed with sleek interiors for a pleasurable shopping experience. Reebonz SPACE also houses Asias largest collection of vintage Chanel and Herms Birkin bags. Reebonz SPACE is located at 24 Raffles Place, Clifford Centre, Singapore.

REEBONZ-AIRASIA PROMO From June 1 till 30, 2013, AirAsia guests travelling to Singapore need only present their boarding pass stubs at the Reebonz Space outlet to enjoy 25% off goods storewide (Terms and Conditions apply).
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Boarding pass stubs must be presented with NRIC/passport to redeem the offer. Travel dates on the boarding pass must be from January 1, 2013 onwards. The offer can only be redeemed by the person named in the boarding pass stubs. The offer is only valid at Reebonz SPACE and cannot be used together with other promotions, sale events, discounts and vouchers. The offer is not applicable for Best Buys and Special Markdown items.

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ENDLESS SUMMER

Hot, sexy nights and lazy, balmy afternoons summers here and its time for fun in the sun with our red hot picks in makeup, fragrance and skincare.

ALL THAT GLITTERS

Turn up the heat with MACs Temperature Rising makeup collection featuring vivid shades of lip, eye and cheek colour, as well as bronzing oil and nail lacquer for sizzling summer nights. Highlights include creamy nude Liquid Passion lip glass, Golden Elixir Strobe Liquid for luminescent all-over body shimmer and Scorching Haute super glitter magenta nail polish. www.maccosmetics.com.my

WORK OF ART
Inspired by the eccentric style and creative palette of iconic grafti artist Keith Haring, DKNY Fresh Blossom Art is a vibrant fragrance bursting with bold notes and crisp accents. Floral notes of freesia, magnolia and rose essence are accented with cassis and pink grapefruit against a backdrop of musk, sandalwood and cedar wood. www.dkny.com
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SUN SHIELD
Get the tan you long for while protecting your skin from the suns harsh rays with Sothys Cellu-guard Sun Care SPF30 a sunscreen that offers the optimal combination of UVA and UVB lters to ensure safe sun exposure. The hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formula is ideal for sensitive skin and protects against photo-aging and free radical damage. www.sothys.com.my

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WORDS: CHITRA S

SCENT OF A MAN
Ermenegildo Zegna unveils Uomo its latest fragrance for men who have a zest for life. The fragrance combines bergamot harvested exclusively for Zegna perfumes with violettyne captive that captures the pure essence of violet leaves. Notes of vetiver and cedar wood add warmth. www.zegna.com

SMOOTH OPERATOR
Revlons ColorStay Makeup draws on its patented long-wear technology to ensure makeup stays on for up to 24 hours. The liquid foundation offers light to medium coverage that helps skin tone stay even for a smooth and awless nish. Available in ve shades suitable for Asian skin: Nude, Sand Beige, Toast, Early Tan and Warm Golden. www.revlon.com

CHEEK-TO-CHEEK
Achieving perfect sun-kissed cheeks is easy with Kanebo Lunasol Modelling Cheeks a limited edition cheek colour combo that offers four different blend-able hues. Ivory and brown beige help accentuate cheekbones while coral and orange bring out that natural summer ush. www.kanebo.com

ROSY REVIVAL
Ideal for all skin types, a refreshing spritz or two of LOccitanes Rose Face Mist Duo revives and maintains skins optimal moisture levels. Rose oral water and soothing active ingredients help reduce irritation leaving skin feeling soft and supple.
www.loccitane.com. Available on board AirAsia X ights.

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BOBBY CHINN
WHAT PERSUADED YOU TO LEAVE WALL STREET FOR THE CULINARY WORLD?
I was dissatised with simply pushing paper and shouting out numbers all day long. I stumbled into the culinary scene through a course of semi-planned mishaps. While pursuing standup comedy, I worked as a waiter and because I didnt know much about food then, I decided to volunteer in the kitchen. That was pretty much the route!

Born in New Zealand to a Chinese father and Egyptian mother, and schooled in the UK and the US, Bobby Chinn was exposed to different cuisines and cultures from a young age. Passionate about good food, this boyishly charming chef, restaurateur, author and award-winning TV presenter shares his culinary journey with Travel 3Sixty and reveals the one dish hed whip up to melt a womans heart!

school and authentic Chinese food with my grandparents. My parents were also foodies and I enjoyed their diverse tastes. That helps with the creation of food. If Im going to create my version of a classic dish from any region, Id nd out what the original avour prole is and then make adjustments from there. It helps when you know the original avour to be able to play off it.

HOW LONG DID IT TAKE TO LEARN THE ROPES IN THE KITCHEN BEFORE STRIKING OUT ON YOUR OWN?
Im not really sure if you ever totally learn the ropes! Its a profession in which youre constantly learning and adjusting. Theres a lot of on-the-job training and over the years Ive put in many hours. I continue to learn and work on my mistakes.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE VIETNAM AS THE BASE FOR YOUR RESTAURANT BUSINESS?
I came to Vietnam to learn the cuisine and got a job as a chef. I never really had any intention of opening a restaurant here, but I did and I keep on trying to do it better each and every time. After 18 years of being here, I no longer limit myself to Vietnam; Im open to going to other places.

HOW DOES YOUR CHINESEEGYPTIAN BACKGROUND LEND TO THE CREATION OF YOUR SIGNATURE DISHES?
COMPILED BY: CHITRA S

I learnt at an early age that there was an incredible diversity of food because I was eating Arabic food in Egypt, American junk food in
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TELL US ABOUT THE CHALLENGES YOU FACED WITH YOUR LATEST VENTURE IN HO CHI MINH CITY
One of the biggest challenges I had was opening a restaurant and

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lming it simultaneously! I wanted to do something greener, and I wasted a lot of time and resources trying to develop a farm-to-table concept for a restaurant with a lower carbon footprint, developing relationships with farmers and growing organic, but none of it panned out. We also had staff walkouts, budget overruns and construction delays with defects that are still visible to this day!

IS THAT CHEEKY PERSONA WE SEE ON TV THE REAL BOBBY CHINN?

What you see is what you get, although I think TV is somewhat limiting as I nd myself much broader than just a cheeky character.

AS A RESTAURATEUR AND CONSUMER, HOW IMPORTANT IS SUSTAINABLE FOOD TO YOU?

Sustainable food is very important to me. In order to get sustainable, we have to alter attitudes. To do that effectively and immediately, we need to change policies and spend money on education. I tried doing sustainable food for my TV show but I fell at on my face. It would be great to try again and succeed.

IF YOU COULD ONLY WEAR ONE PIECE OF CLOTHING WHILE COOKING, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Id probably wear overalls so Id still have pants on while cooking or maybe a galabeya (a traditional Egyptian gown).

KITCHEN TOP, STOVE OR SINK WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO BUTTER YOUR BAGUETTE?
If youre anal-retentive, I highly suggest the sink!

WHAT TYPE OF CUISINE WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE THE VIETNAMESE PEOPLE EAT MORE OF?
The Vietnamese have gravitated tremendously towards other Asian food like Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Malaysian/Singaporean and obviously Thai, but I hope that theyll experience more European, Latin American and Middle Eastern cuisines as well.

WHICH THREE FEMALE CHEFS WOULD YOU LIKE TO HAVE FOR DESSERT AND WHY?
I have a girlfriend so I would need to pass on all three chefs!

WHAT WOULD YOU MAKE TO SWEEP THE LOVE OF YOUR LIFE OFF HER FEET?
Id make her a molten chocolate cake.

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WILD CHARMS

Tasmania may be Australias smallest state, but its big on charm. This month, we unveil some of its star attractions that will get you up-close and personal with some of the islands amazing wildlife.

Play Zone

RIDDLES
1. Can you think of an English word with consecutive three double letters? 2. Can you match the colours with the emotions? Yellow Sadness Green Rage Blue Envy Red Fear Purple Anger 3. What phrases are represented here? i. 37S4528A95F3E86T Y4293 ii. _____ dancing iii. fa/st 4. I have keys but no locks. What am I? 5. Can you remove eight letters to reveal something related to eight? WEOFCBVTAPGUONX

BONORONG WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary in Brighton houses native animals that are extinct everywhere but Tasmania such as the famous Tasmanian devil, Tasmanian bettong, eastern quoll and Tasmanian pademelon. You can also hand-feed friendly animals like wombats, koalas and kangaroos here. Dont forget to bring your camera! www.bonorong.com.au

SEAHORSE WORLD
Learn about seahorses at the awardwinning Seahorse World in Beauty Point, Tasmania. A fun 45-minute guided tours here reveals fascinating facts about these marine sh as well as other sea creatures that inhabit their world like spider crabs, giant cuttlesh and sea dragons. Youll also be able to play with seahorses at the touch pool. www.seahorseworld.com.au

PLAY ON WORDS
1 2

FUN FACTS
The female seahorse inserts her eggs into the males brood pouch. The male becomes pregnant and gives birth to their babies. http://goo.gl/RcKGV

Kangaroos hop fast on two legs but walk slow on all four. http://goo.gl/VAVlb Tasmanian tigers are already extinct. The last Tasmanian tiger died in the Hobart Zoo on September 7, 1936. http://goo.gl/vF5rJ

QUICK QUIZ
1. Which famous historical gure rode a horse called Bucephalus? 2. In Anaheims Disneyland the paddlesteamer is named after which famous American writer? 3. The San Fermin Festival featuring The running of the bulls takes place in which Spanish city? 4. What star sign is represented by a pair of sh? 5. Which actor made his debut in a 1914 lm entitled Making A Living? 6. In 1671 Colonel Thomas Blood attempted
IMAGE: http://goo.gl/hS4Fn

BRUNY ISLAND
Bruny Island is a haven for nature lovers. Large portions of South Bruny are categorised as national park, and you can spot rare bird species such as the forty-spotted pardalote and hooded plover here. Uncommon reptiles including the tiger snake and lowland copperhead also inhabit this area. At dusk, colonies of little penguins return to their burrows along The Neck a long and narrow sand strip connecting North and South Bruny to feed their chicks.
www.brunyisland.org.au

PLATYPUS HOUSE
It can be difcult to spot a platypus in the wild as this creature is active mostly at night. At the Platypus House, next to Seahorse World, visitors can observe platypuses in daylight conditions, indoors, and watch how these semiaquatic animals dive with their eyes closed and hunt for food. The platypus is one of the worlds only egg-laying mammals and is found only in Australia.
www.platypushouse.com.au

to steal what famous objects? 7. Name the organisation that places bibles in hotel rooms. 8. On which island will the rst three stages of this years Tour de France be held? 9. Which book by childrens author Michael Morpurgo was turned into a Steven Spielberg movie? 10. What type of nut grows on an oak tree?

PUZZLES ARE COURTESY OF LOVATTS CROSSWORDS & PUZZLES

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RIDDLES 1 Bookkeeper 2 Yellow, fear; Green, envy; Blue, sadness; Red, anger; Purple, rage 3 i.Safety in numbers ii.Line dancing iii.Breakfast 4 A piano 5 Octagon PLAY ON WORDS 1 Golden handshake 2 Behind the eight ball 3 Piece of cake 4 Needle in a haystack QUICK QUIZ 1 Alexander the Great 2 Mark Twain 3 Pamplona 4 Pisces 5 Charlie Chaplin 6 The Crown Jewels 7 Gideons International 8 Corsica 9 War Horse 10 Acorn

Lovatts Puzzles

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PIX OF THE MONTH

Just snapped a cool picture? Send it to travel3sixty@ airasia.com with Snapshot in the subject line.

SECOND PRIZE WINS

A 3D/2N stay in an Urban room at Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit 11, inclusive of breakfast at Crave Wine Bar & Restaurant for two worth MYR730!
An adventure awaits you in Thailands hippest hotspot! Delivering style at a steal, Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 is a modern, fresh and fun destination. Just steps from the citys best shopping, nightlife and dining destinations with a quick ve-minute stroll to Nana BTS Sky Train and MRT Subway stations, Aloft Bangkok is unbeatable when it comes to location! The chic hotel features all the high-tech facilities you need during your stay, including free WiFi all over the hotel and plug and play docking stations that link your computer and tunes to a 42 LCD TV. At its hip w xyz bar, guests can meet and mingle over music and molecular cocktails or grab gourmet meals, mix-and-match munchies and healthy bites at re:fuel by Aloft. Alternatively, head over to Crave Wine Bar & Restaurant where style meets technology and culinary creativity offering a delectable menu of international and local cuisines at great prices.

WINNER

Child playing withpigeon at Durbar Square, Kathmandu

Md. Humaun Kabir Manik, Malaysia

BEST PICTURE WINS

A 3D/2N stay in a Classic Room at Le Mridien Bali Jimbaran inclusive of breakfast for two at Bamboo Chic worth MYR3,430.12!
Le Mridien Bali Jimbaran is located less than 8 kilometres from Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport and just steps away from white sandy beaches, stunning scenery and a romantic ambience. The resort offers 118 beautifully appointed guest rooms, suites, rooftop penthouses and villas with integrated in-room technology. The Lagoon Rooms are modern in style with direct lagoon access or views while the signature Aqua Studio Sky Penthouse and Ocean View Sky Villa invite guests to a new level of stylish living with personal plunge pools. Guests can enjoy the resorts 1,800 square metre saltwater lagoon pool or discover new gastronomic experiences within the propertys three-storey dining and entertainment destination. Here, Bamboo Chic features Pan-Asian street food, Smoqee Lounge & Sky Bar offers sunset views and interactive music, Latitude 8 features cool cocktails and lagoon views and WaLa is the place to go for handcrafted gelato or coffee.

ALOFT BANGKOK SUKHUMVIT 11

35 Sukhumvit Soi 11, Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110, Thailand www.aloftbangkoksukhumvit11.com

LE MRIDIEN BALI JIMBARAN

Jalan Bukit Permai, Jimbaran, Bali www.lemeridien.com/balijimbaran

RUNNER-UP

Penang Island, Malaysia.

Ngu Dik Sen, Malaysia

TERMS & CONDITIONS: Readers may submit images that are 300dpi and 1MB in size (minimum half A4 paper size) Each entry must include name, address, phone number and caption Readers must own the rights to the picture submitted Judges decision is nal Entries are automatically disqualied if they do not meet our criteria. Winner will be notied via e-mail when the prize is ready to be sent out. Prizes cannot be exchanged for cash.

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JOY OF FLYING

Whether on a short or long-haul journey, flying can be a pleasant experience if you are well-prepared. Here are some steps to ensure you have a safe, smooth and comfortable flight.

Nick Harris, Human Performance Specialist and HPE (Human Performance Engineering) founder has worked with a broad range of clients from Formula 1 World Champions, London 2012 Olympic medalists and Grand Slam-winning tennis players to rock legends AC/DC during their world tour. Here, Harris shares tips on how to stay fit and healthy whilst travelling:

DRINK WATER
Drink lots of water throughout the ight and continue keeping your body hydrated even upon reaching your destination. Airplane cabins are extremely dry and dehydration can occur easily. Drink at regular intervals but do not attempt to drink too much water at one sitting, as the sudden increase of uids will act as a diuretic and the body will try to expel the water with frequent trips to the toilet. Also, keep the consumption of coffee, tea and alcohol to a minimum.

SHOULDER LIFTS
Gently lift your right shoulder and lower the left one simultaneously. Repeat the movement ve times by alternating both shoulders.

KNEE LIFTS
Lift knee up toward your chest and hold the position for 10 seconds. Gently lower knee and repeat with the other leg. Repeat the exercise as desired.

FOOT PUMPS
Keeping both heels on the oor, point feet upwards as high as you can. Return feet to earlier position.Then, lift heels while keeping the balls of your feet on the oor.Repeat the exercise as desired.

STAY BALANCED
Guests who suffer from motion sickness can get relief without resorting to drugs and medication with the AirAsia AntiMotion Sickness Wristbands. The wristband employs a technique that draws on an ancient Chinese acupuncture practice, which addresses the Neiguan point located on the wrist. This point is said to control nausea and vomiting. By wearing the band, balance is restored in the body, hence providing relief. The AirAsia Anti-Motion Sickness Wristband is safe, non-toxic and washable, and comes in a pair of two, with adjustable Velcro straps. Available on selected AirAsia ights.
* The motion sickness wristband is not a cure and will provide relief from motion sickness only when worn properly. Guests are advised to read instructions carefully.

COMPRESSION CLOTHING
Wearing compression clothing alleviates fatigue and muscle soreness because the fabric increases oxygenation, resulting in improved and regulated blood ow to the muscles. It also decreases muscle oscillation that helps reduce the severity of fatigue and normalises pressure. Made from climate control FRESHFIT fabric, HPE compression wear helps to keep you cool and dry, as the specially constructed yarn reacts as skin temperature rises, drawing heat away from the body to cool you down. Additionally, the silver technology protects you against harmful bacteria, enabling you to arrive at your destination feeling fresh and in good health. The compression outts are worn by AirAsia Flight Attendants and are now available for purchase to AirAsia guests via www.airasiamegastore.com and onboard AirAsia ights.

BEAT THE LAG

To counter the effects of jetlag, get as much sleep as possible when ying west to east. When ying in the reverse direction, try and stay awake as much as you can. The AirAsia Comfort Kit comes complete with eye shade, neck pillow and blanket to help you sleep. If you need to stay awake, the neck pillow allows you to get comfy while reading a book or listening to music. The AirAsia Comfort Kit can be purchased onboard or pre-booked online at www.airasia.com

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SAUDI SAUDI ARABIA ARABIA

Jeddah Jeddah

INDIAINDIA

Chennai Chennai Bangalore Bangalore Tiruchirappalli Tiruchirappalli Kochi Kochi

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Beijing Beijing Seoul Seoul

SOUTH SOUTH KOREA KOREA JAPAN JAPAN

Tokyo Tokyo Osaka Osaka

Chengdu Chengdu

NEPAL NEPAL

Shanghai Shanghai Hangzhou Hangzhou

Kathmandu Kathmandu

CHINA CHINA
Taipei Taipei Kunming Kunming Guilin Guilin Guangzhou Guangzhou TAIWAN TAIWAN Nanning Nanning Shenzhen Shenzhen Macau Macau Hong Kong Hong Kong Hanoi Hanoi

KolkataKolkata

Chiang Chiang Mai Mai Vientiane Vientiane Yangon Yangon Da Nang THAILAND THAILAND Da Nang Siem Reap Bangkok Bangkok Siem Reap

MYANMAR MYANMAR LAOSLAOS

Clark (Manila) Clark (Manila)

Phnom Phnom Penh Penh Ho Chi Minh Ho Chi City Minh City

CAMBODIA CAMBODIA VIETNAM VIETNAM

PHILIPPINES PHILIPPINES

SKYTRAX WORLDS BEST LOW-COST AIRLINE 2009, 2010, 2011& 2012

Krabi Krabi Phuket Phuket Hat Yai Hat Yai Langkawi Langkawi Kota Kinabalu Kota Kinabalu Banda Banda PenangPenang Aceh Aceh BRUNEI BRUNEI Kuala MALAYSIA Medan Medan Kuala MALAYSIA Miri Miri Lumpur Lumpur Johor Bahru Johor Bahru Kuching Kuching Pekanbaru Pekanbaru SINGAPORE SINGAPORE PadangPadang Balikpapan Balikpapan Palembang Palembang

PACIFIC PACIFIC OCEAN OCEAN

INDONESIA INDONESIA Makassar Makassar JakartaJakarta Semarang Semarang Bandung Bandung Surabaya Surabaya Solo Solo Yogyakarta Yogyakarta Lombok Lombok Bali Bali

INDIAN INDIAN OCEAN OCEAN

AUSTRALIA AUSTRALIA

AIRASIA HUBS IN MALAYSIA

Kuala Lumpur International Airport Kota Kinabalu International Airport Penang International Airport Johor Bahru International Airport Kuching International Airport AirAsia Malaysia Route AirAsia X Route

Gold Coast Gold Coast Perth Perth Sydney Sydney

SOUTHERN SOUTHERN OCEAN OCEAN

Melbourne Melbourne

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Xian

CHINA
Chongqing Wuhan

INDIA

Kolkata

MYANMAR

Mandalay Hanoi

Guangzhou Macau

Shenzhen Hong Kong

Chiang Rai Chiang Mai Yangon Udon Thani Nakhon Phanom

THAILAND
Bangkok

Ubon Ratchathani

Chennai

CAMBODIA

VIETNAM

Phnom Penh Ho Chi Minh City Surat Thani Nakhon Si Thammarat Krabi Phuket Trang Hat Yai Narathiwat Penang Kuala Lumpur

MALAYSIA

SINGAPORE

INDIAN OCEAN

INDONESIA
Jakarta Surabaya Bali

AIRASIA HUBS IN THAILAND

Don Mueang Int. Airport, Bangkok Phuket Int. Airport International Route Domestic Route

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THAILAND
Bangkok

PACIFIC OCEAN

Phuket Banda Aceh Medan Kota Kinabalu

Penang Kuala Lumpur

MALAYSIA SINGAPORE
Balikpapan

Johor Bharu Pekanbaru Padang

Palembang

INDONESIA
Jakarta Semarang Bandung Surabaya Yogyakarta Solo Bali

Makassar

INDIAN OCEAN

AUSTRALIA

AIRASIA HUBS IN INDONESIA

Soekarno Hatta Int. Airport, Jakarta Ngurah Rai Int. Airport, Bali Husein Sastranegara Int. Airport, Bandung Juanda Int. Airport, Surabaya Polonia Int. Airport, Medan Sultan Hasanuddin Int. Airport, Makassar International Route Domestic Route

Perth

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Sapporo

JAPAN SOUTH KOREA

Busan Fukuoka Nagoya Seoul Narita, Tokyo

ROUTE MAP AirAsia Japan

Okinawa

AIRASIA HUBS IN JAPAN

Narita Int. Airport, Tokyo Chubu Centrair Int. Airport, Nagoya International Route Domestic Route

CHINA

Hong Kong

TAIWAN

Taipei

ROUTE MAP AirAsia Philippines

Clark International Airport International Route Domestic Route

Clark (Manila)

Kalibo

PHILIPPINES
Davao Kuala Lumpur

MALAYSIA SINGAPORE

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KUALA LUMPUR

Malaysia

KUCHING, SARAWAK
Indigenous woman

Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur skyline

QUICK FACTS

Capital city of Sarawak, the largest state in Malaysia Kuching means cat in the local language Around 980 kms from Kuala Lumpur by air Home to the longest river in Malaysia the Rajang River (563 kms) that originates from the interiors of Borneo The local ethnic groups are made up of Dayak and many other smaller tribes Kuching has fantastic museums that showcase its historical and tribal past along the Waterfront area.
Sultan Abdul Samad Building AirAsia flies to various from Kuching to Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Miri, Bintulu, Sibu, Johor Bahru, Penang and Singapore.

KOTA KINABALU, SABAH

Malaysia

Mt. Kinabalu

QUICK FACTS Capital of Malaysia Popularly known as KL Home to the Petronas Twin Towers Local currency is Ringgit (MYR) English is widely spoken with Bahasa Malaysia being the official language Mix of Malay, Indian and Chinese ethnic groups Food paradise for cheap and delicious meals especially hawker fare Climate is hot and humid with temperatures around 32 Celcius on average.
AirAsia flies to various destinations from Kuala Lumpur. Refer to route map on page 142 for more info.

PENANG

Malaysia

Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang

QUICK FACTS Capital city of Sabah in East Malaysia on Borneo island Popularly known as KK Around 1623 kms from Kuala Lumpur by air Local indigenous people include the Kadazandusun people apart from local Malay, Chinese and other ethnic groups Jumping off point to many of Sabahs attractions such as Mount Kinabalu, Sipadan Island and Danum Valley Tuanku Abdul Rahman marine park is located just opposite the city in the South China Sea.
AirAsia flies from KK to from Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, Miri, Tawau, Sandakan, Johor Bahru, Penang, Singapore, Jakarta, Taipei, Shenzhen, Guangzhou and Hong Kong.

JOHOR BAHRU, JOHOR

Legoland in Johor Bahru.

Malaysia

QUICK FACTS

QUICK FACTS Penang island is located up north on the west coast of Peninsula Malaysia Around 369 kms from KL Popularly known as Pearl of the Orient Its capital, George Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage City Great beaches along Feringgi and Tanjung Bungah Also known as the food paradise of Malaysia for cheap and delicious eats.
AirAsia flies from Penang to Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Johor Bahru, Bangkok, Medan, Jakarta, Surabaya and Singapore.

Gateway to the south part of Peninsula Malaysia with easy access to Singapore via the Causeway around 368 kms from KL Lots of city shopping such as Johor Premium Outlets and theme parks such as Legoland and Puteri Harbour family theme park Nearby beaches on the east coast such as Desaru are good for surng and seaside activities.
AirAsia flies from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Miri, Sibu, Penang, Surabaya, Medan and Jakarta.

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BANGKOK

Thailand

CLARK (MANILA)

Phillipines

Reclining Buddha statue in Bangkok.

Manila Cathedral

QUICK FACTS Capital city of Thailand Locally know as Krung Thep Shopping paradise with hundreds of malls and streets markets Local currency is baht (THB) Great dining, clubbing and shopping options at Sukhumvit and Silom streets Chatuchak Weekend market 18 kms outside the city is a must visit for a great shopping experience Take a riverboat ride down the Chao Phraya River Travel in the city is easy with the BTS and MRT Thai food is cheap and delicious in Bangkok!
AirAsia flies to various destinations from Bangkok. Refer to route map on page 144 for more info.

PHUKET
Stunning islands in Phuket.

Thailand

QUICK FACTS About the size of Singapore, Clark is located in the Philippines Luzon island Clark is one of the fastest growing commercial centres in Philippines and is well connected by air and road to many parts of the country AirAsia Philippines connects to Davao and Kalibo from Clarks Diosdado Macapagal International Airport Visit The Salakot, a structure that resembles a farmers hat, symbolising Philippine sovereignty Go for horse rides at El Kabayo Riding Stables Nayong Pilipino is a theme park that showcases replicas of Ifugao and Muslim houses, Aeta village and other attractions Puning Hot Springs has 13 hot springs for your swimming pleasure There are many army base attractions as Clark used to be an American army air base.
AirAsia flies from Clark (Manila) to Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Singapore and Taipei. AirAsia Philippines flies to Kalibo and Davao from Clark.

QUICK FACTS

Island paradise on the south-western part of Thailand Sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and sunny tropical climate makes the island the perfect beach destination Many beaches on Phuket are literally deserted Patong Beach is the most popular but Karon, Bang Tao, Kamala, Kata and Surin are good alternatives The Andaman Sea off Phuket can be rough, so pay attention to warnings.
AirAsia flies from Phuket to Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Udon Thani, Hong Kong and Jakarta.

TOKYO

Japan

CHIANG MAI
Mulberry paper parasols

Thailand

The second largest city up north in Thailand Popularly known as the Rose of the North Climate is cool and very pleasant Local culture is called Lanna and is unique to the northern region of Thailand The Walking Market on Sundays in the Walled City is a wonderful market to explore and buy local goods Khantoke meals are popular in this city City is very popular for spas and wellness centres.
AirAsia flies from Chiang Mai to Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Phuket, Hat Yai and Macau.

QUICK FACTS

Mt. Fuji on Honshu Island.

QUICK FACTS Megalopolis of over 13mil people Local currency is Yen ( ) Home to the worlds largest fish market Tsukiji Fish Market Temperatures average 27.5 C in summer and 6 C in winter Has the most extensive urban railway network in the world Tokyo has around 88,000 restaurants and more Michelin stars than any other city in the world. Vending machines all over the city offer everything from soups to umbrellas. Check out the hip crowd at Harajukus Takeshita-Dori.
AirAsia X flies from Tokyo to Kuala Lumpur. AirAsia Japan flies to Fukuoka, Okinawa, Sapporo, Nagoya, Seoul and Busan from Tokyo.

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JAKARTA

Indonesia

MEDAN
Traditional custom of Nias island.

Indonesia

Jakarta skyline

QUICK FACTS

The fourth largest city in Indonesia, Medan is located on the east coast of Sumatra Island The city is a lively place and the jumping off point to Lake Toba and Bukit Tinggi 2 of Sumatras natural attractions Nias and Mentawai Islands are accessible from Medan and are great surfing spots kek lapis or layered cake is a very popular food item from Medan.
AirAsia flies from Medan to Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bharu, Bangkok, Surabaya, Pekanbaru and Bandung.

QUICK FACTS The capital city of Jakarta is a huge metropolis with a population of around 10 million people Local currency is Rupiah (IDR) Stay in the city centre to avoid the notorious Jakarta traffic Shopping and leisure activities abound at Kuningan and Kemang area Great shopping is available at Plaza Senayan and Plaza Indonesia Visit historical sites and museums at Kota Tua Ancol is a water theme park north of the city Pulau Seribu is another attraction with literally untouched islands just 45 kms away from Jakarta.
AirAsia flies to various destinations from Jakarta. Refer to route map on page 146 for more info.

SURABAYA

Indonesia

Bullrace in Surabaya.

BALI

Indonesia

Island of the Gods

QUICK FACTS Dubbed the City of Heroes for the role the people of Surabaya played in the struggle for independence Surabaya means shark and crocodile, derived from a legend about a battle between a shark and crocodile It is the second largest city in Indonesia Mount Bromo is a stunning volcanic mountain and a place for many ritual practices
AirAsia flies from Surabaya to Kuala Lumpur, Medan, Bandung, Semarang, Jakarta, Bali, Makassar, Johor Bahru, Penang and Bangkok.

BANDUNG
Tangkuban Perahu crater

Indonesia

QUICK FACTS Known as the Island of Gods for the numerous

temples and shrines on the island Bali is predominantly Hindu while the rest of Indonesia is predominantly Muslim Bali is famous for its beautiful beaches and highland retreats Kuta is famous for its beach culture Seminyak and Legian are hip leisure activity enclaves with great dining, clubbing and hotel options Go further inland to Ubud for cooler climate or to less visited areas like Padang Padang for great surfing opportunities You may spot dolphins at Lovina Make sure you visit Tanah Lot and Mount Besakih temples to experience the spiritual side of Bali.
AirAsia flies from Bali to Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Bangkok, Yogyakarta, Jakarta, Bandung, Makassar, Surabaya and Perth.

QUICK FACTS Located in West Java, Bandung is the third largest city in Indonesia and about 146 kms from Jakarta Bandung is known as the Paris of Java Bandung is famous for its shopping with numerous factory outlets all around the city Enjoy the distinctively Dutch colonial architecture here Visit the areas with volcanic activity such as the Tangkuban Perahu area The mountainous landscape offers a cool and wet climate, enabling some of the best tea and coffee to be grown in Bandung.
AirAsia flies from Bandung to Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Medan, Pekanbaru, Surabaya and Bali.

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AIRASIA INDONESIA
ROUTES & NETWORK
FLY FROM JAKARTA DOMESTIC ROUTES Bali (6x Daily) Semarang (2x Daily) Yogyakarta (3x Daily) Makassar (2x Daily) Surabaya (3xDaily) FLY FROM BANDUNG DOMESTIC ROUTES Bali (2x Daily) Medan (2x Daily) Pekanbaru (1x Daily) Surabaya (1x Daily) FLY FROM YOGYAKARTA DOMESTIC ROUTES Jakarta (3x Daily) Bali (1xDaily) FLY FROM SEMARANG DOMESTIC ROUTES Jakarta (2x Daily) Surabaya (1xDaily) FLY FROM PEKANBARU DOMESTIC ROUTES Bandung (1x Daily) Medan (3x Weekly) INTERNATIONAL ROUTES Kuala Lumpur (1x Daily) INTERNATIONAL ROUTES Kuala Lumpur (1x Daily) INTERNATIONAL ROUTES Kuala Lumpur (2x Daily) Singapore (1x Daily) INTERNATIONAL ROUTES Kuala Lumpur (4x Daily) Singapore (2x Daily) INTERNATIONAL ROUTES Bangkok (2x Daily) Ho Chi Minh City (4x Weekly) Kuala Lumpur (7x Daily) Penang (1x Daily) Phuket (3x Weekly) Singapore (6x Daily) FLY FROM SURABAYA DOMESTIC ROUTES Medan (2x Daily) Bali (2x Daily) Bandung (1x Daily) Semarang (1x Daily) Jakarta (3x Daily) FLY FROM BALI DOMESTIC ROUTES Jakarta (6x Daily) Surabaya (2x Daily) Yogyakarta (1x Daily) FLY FROM MEDAN DOMESTIC ROUTES Bandung (2x Daily) Pekanbaru (3x Weekly) Surabaya (2x Daily) Banda Aceh (1xDaily) FLY FROM MAKASSAR DOMESTIC ROUTES Jakarta (2x Daily) Balikpapan (2x Daily) FLY FROM BALIKPAPAN DOMESTIC ROUTES Makassar (2x Daily) INTERNATIONAL ROUTES Kuala Lumpur (3x Weekly) INTERNATIONAL ROUTES Kuala Lumpur (1x Daily) INTERNATIONAL ROUTES Kuala Lumpur (5x Daily) Penang (4x Daily) Bangkok (1x Daily) INTERNATIONAL ROUTES Kuala Lumpur (5x Daily) Perth (3x Daily) Singapore (4x Daily) Bangkok (1x Daily) INTERNATIONAL ROUTES Bangkok (1x Daily) Kuala Lumpur (6x Daily) Penang (3x Weekly) Johor Bahru (4x Weekly)

FLY-THRU

SELF CONNECTING (via Kuala Lumpur)

FROM JAKARTA AUSTRALIA Melbourne Gold Coast Perth (via Bali) Sydney CHINA Guangzhou Chengdu Hangzhou Beijing Shanghai Shenzhen HONG KONG Hong Kong MACAU Macau JAPAN Tokyo-Haneda Osaka-Kansai SOUTH KOREA Seoul PHILIPPINES Clark TAIWAN Taipei BRUNEI Brunei FROM BANDUNG AUSTRALIA Melbourne Gold Coast Perth Sydney CHINA Guangzhou Chengdu Hangzhou Shenzhen HONG KONG Hong Kong MACAU Macau JAPAN Osaka-Kansai SOUTH KOREA Seoul TAIWAN Taipei BRUNEI Brunei FROM BALI AUSTRALIA Melbourne Gold Coast Perth Sydney CHINA Chengdu Hangzhou Beijing Shanghai MACAU Macau JAPAN Tokyo-Haneda Osaka-Kansai SOUTH KOREA Seoul PHILIPPINES Clark TAIWAN Taipei BRUNEI Brunei FROM MEDAN AUSTRALIA Melbourne Gold Coast Perth Sydney CHINA Guangzhou Chengdu Hangzhou Shanghai Shenzhen MACAU Macau JAPAN Tokyo-Haneda Osaka-Kansai SOUTH KOREA Seoul TAIWAN Taipei FROM SURABAYA AUSTRALIA Melbourne Gold Coast Perth Sydney CHINA Guangzhou Chengdu Hangzhou Beijing Shanghai HONG KONG Hong Kong MACAU Macau JAPAN Tokyo-Haneda SOUTH KOREA Seoul PHILIPPINES Clark TAIWAN Taipei FROM MAKASSAR AUSTRALIA Melbourne Gold Coast Perth Sydney CHINA Guangzhou Chengdu Hangzhou Beijing Shanghai HONG KONG Hong Kong MACAU Macau JAPAN Tokyo-Haneda SOUTH KOREA Seoul PHILIPPINES Clark TAIWAN Taipei

For more information click www.airasia.com

AIRASIA INDONESIA
Sales Office
Rukan Dharmawangsa

DISTRIBUTION & PAYMENT CHANNEL

Call Center
JAKARTA BANDUNG SURABAYA YOGYAKARTA MEDAN BALI MAKASSAR BALIKPAPAN MAKASSAR MANADO +6221 - 2927 0999 +6222 - 4266 888 +6231 - 868 4564 +62274 - 487 879 +6261 - 457 1547 +62361 - 936 0108 +62411 - 44 7171

AirAsia Travel & Service Center

Jl. Kopo - (+6222) 7000 2899

Payment Channel

JAKARTA

Boulevard Kelapa Gading Sarinah Plaza

BANDUNG
Jl. Ir. H. Juanda - (+6222) 253 0529

Credit Card

Visa/MasterCard* AMEX** Klik BCA

BANDUNG SURABAYA YOGYAKARTA MEDAN BALI

Grand Serela Hotel Tunjungan Plaza 3 Melia Purosani Hotel Garuda Plaza Hotel Jl Legian Kaja No 455, Kuta

SEMARANG MEDAN PADANG

Simpang Lima - (+6224) 844 0599 Jl. Asia - (+6261) 732 6111 Jl. Veteran - (+62751) 840109

Direct Debit

BCA KlikPay CIMB NIAGA

ATM Payment EDC Machine

Bank BNI BCA

+62542 - 763 279

+62411 - 44 7171 +62431 - 860 555

Operating hours: 6am - 10pm (GMT+7) Monday to Sunday

Group Desk: iaa_groupdesk@airasia.com / (021) 722 9007

*Visa/Mastercard : All currencies available on AirAsia.com **Amex : Accepted only for MYR, THB, USD, AUD, SGD, BND and HKD

TRAVEL AGENT LIST

ADYA TOURS 021-3926770 ALAM PESONA WISATA 021-80873068 ANDIARTA WISATA 021-7254456 ANTA EXPRESS HO T&T,PT 021-3800202 ARITA TOURS AND TRAVEL 021-7511075 ASTRINDO TOURS & TRAVEL 021-2305151 AVIA TOUR 021-4223888 BAYU BUANA TRAVEL SERVICE HO 021-2350999 CARLSON WAGONLIT TRAVEL 021- 2506649 CHAN BROTHERS TRAVEL ID 021- 63858411 DIAN PRAMITA TOUR, PT 021-4352516 DUA SEKAWAN MANDIRI T & T 0251-8392727 DWI RATNA PERTIWI (GO HOLIDAY) 021-63864005 DWIDAYA WORLDWIDE 021- 62203838 GENTA TOURS 021-4222622 GOLDEN RAMA 021-2313131/7204240 INNOVATECH MEDIASKY 021-72787151 JENDELA INFORMASI WISATA 021-56953812 JOE TRAVEL SERVICES, BOGOR 0251-8311885 K.I.A TOUR & TRAVEL ASCOT 021-3925128 KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS 021-8517262 LAENA TOUR 021-8356660 LINTAS ISKANDARIA, PT 021-74714400 MARCO TOUR & TRAVEL, PT 021-8576343 MARS INDONUSA T & T, PT 021-5307578 MASINDO BUANA WISATA 021- 797233 MIDAS MUTIARA GADING 021-82613729 MMBC TOUR & TRAVEL 021-5228526 MUTIARA INDAH TOUR & TRAVEL 021-2526008 NATA BERSAMA T & T 021-8584727 PAN TRAVEL 021-8291008 PANORAMA TOURS 021 -63862002 PRIMA VIJAYA INDAH TOUR 021-5602961 DUTA PELANGI INDAH 021-6252745 COMMITA INDAH INDONESIA 021-89117785 RAMANTHA AYU TOUR 021 -4268888 ROYALINDO UTAMA 021-6323222 SAPTAWIRA ADHITAMA 021-2702727 SINTA PESONA WISATA 021-80889953 SUNDISH TRAVEL INDAH, PT 021-42876269

JABODETABEK

TARA TOUR 021-3809430 TX TRAVEL 021-47866858 VAYATOR HQ 021-3800155

SURABAYA
ANGKASA EXPRESS 031-3772222 ANTA UTAMA 0354-699401 ASIA HOLIDAY 031-5613458/5613486 CIPTA KARUNIA PRATAMA 031-5313253 DUTA TOUR JUMANTARA 031-8400125 DUTA WISATA LESTARI 031-8689941 FELIA TRAVEL 031-5319920 GLORIUS LINTAS NADA 031-5352020 GOSEPA 031-5318495 GRESIK GRAHA WISATA 031-3972838 HARYONO TRAVEL 031-5032606 JUANDA DELTA MANDIRI 031-8682222 KAHA TRAVEL 031-3536000 LINDA JAYA,PT 031-5047000 MATRIX 031-5015000 MURNI KALIANYAR 031-5486456 NIRWANA TOURS AND TRAVEL 031-8496911 NIRWANA WISATA 031-8075000 NOER TRANSPORT 031-8665670 PRIMA VIJAYA 031-5460000 RODEX 031-5662000 SAHABAT CAKRAWALA 031-5037212 SPIRIT SURYA SEMESTA 031-8069333 SURYANALENDRA 031-3556363 THERA BUANA 031-3727777 TOTAL PESONA NUSANTARA 031-8474333 TRANSNUSA HOLIDAY 031-3047599 TX SUNGKONO 031-5621199 WARNA INDONESIA 031-339739

BALI

ABBEY TRAVELINDO DPS, PT 0361-759736 SANTA BALI, PT 0361-286826 BUMI NATA WISATA T & T,PT 0361-229873 KASURI BALI TOUR & TRAVEL 0361-484389 PALMMAS HOLIDAY 0361-754794 PT PURI ASTINA PUTRA 0361-223552 SAKA MELATI WISATA 0361-246561 SUMANINDO GRAHAWISATA, PT 0361-288570 TJENDANA MANDRA SAKTI T & T 0361-414252 TX TEUKU UMAR 0361-222799

PEKANBARU
GRAND HAWAII 0761-20988 BLESSING TOUR 0761-42226 INDO RAYA MULIA 0761-322622 GABE TRAVEL 0761-7894225

MEGA SANEL LESTARI 0761-27736

BANDUNG

AERO TOUR & TRAVEL 022-4203657 CIPAGANTI TRANSINDO, PT 022-2060140 EXODUS TOUR & TRAVEL 022-4264899 GOLDEN RAMA BANDUNG, PT 022-4206457 INTERLINK TOURS & TRAVEL, PT 022-4235529 JAYA PRIMA UTAMA LESTARI, PT 022-2000999 TASIK INDAH PRIANGAN EXPRESS 0265-324694 HARLIE TRAVELINDO 022-4223999 RATU EXPRESINDO, PT 022-4239742 REKATRANS SUTERA, PT 022-5221881 SETIABUDHI GRAHAMANDIRI,PT 022-2038800 SHILLA TOUR 022-4215168 TRI INTI MANUNGGAL T & T 022-218550

NOVA TARUNA WISATA 0761-20268 PDA TIGI MAYA 0761-589666

SULAWESI
AGUNG WISATA TOUR 0411-3654777 AGUS TOUR AND TRAVEL 0411-314476 ALIF INTER BUANA TOUR & TRAVEL 0411-3627922 ANTATOUR 0411-3618648 BERKAT TOUR 0411-332929 BONEWARU ARFAIDA T & T 0411-4723461 CAKRA WISATA TRAVEL 0411-3636666 DEWI SARTIKA TOUR & TRAVEL 0411-457169 DEWI WISATA 0411-3615858 DUTA TOUR JUMANTARA 0411-3621838 FORTUNA TOUR & TRAVEL 0411-3651001 GEDE NUSA TRAVEL 0411-887311 HAKATA TOUR & TRAVEL 0411-3634646 HOKKY TOURS & TRAVEL 0411-3650353 LAENA MAKASSAR 0411-447800 LIMBUNAN 0411-3633555 MANORIAN TRAVEL 0411-858858 MARS TOUR & TRAVEL 0411-553130 PATAPULO TOUR & TRAVEL 0411-442021 RABITA ANUGERAH TOUR & TRAVEL 0411-4660077 SANTANA TOUR 0411-312228 SUITA TOUR 0411-3613164 TALENTA INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL 0411-437611 TWOFIVE HOURS TOUR & TRAVEL 0411-8111000 TX CENTRAL 0411-3619199

MEDAN
AMARJUN WISATA 061-77270285 ANGKASA TOUR 061-7321188 CROWN HOLIDAY 061-4158282 ELSHADAI 061-621542 ERIC DIRGANTARA 061-4578899 ERNA WORLD TOUR 061-77530731 EVE FLY TOUR 061-7860022 GOHO WISATA 061-7330022 GRAHA TRAVEL 061-4145555 GRAND HAWAII TOUR 061-4522288 GREAT WORLD WISATA 061-4557556 GREEN TRAVEL 061-4523625 HOLLYWOOD TOUR 061 -452652 HOLY HOLIDAYS 061-4518585 INDOLINK HOLIDAY 061-77797718 KINGS STAR 061-4515111 LOVELY HOLIDAYS 061-4528853 MAJU IKA JAYA 061-7321111 NEW BISON MANDIRI 061-4571333 RASA SAYANG 061-4558333 RAYA UTAMA 061-4570011 TIKET KITA BERSAMA 061-8210569 TROPHY TOUR 061 -4155777 TX TRAVEL KATAMSO 061-4566199 YUKI TOUR 061-4514455

SEMARANG

AGENI TOUR & TRAVEL 024-3580101 CV MITRA UTAMA 024-3397001 GIANTRA WISATA 024-8443333 KARUNA TOUR & TRAVEL 024-3521616/3521515 MEGA WISATA 024-3584141/3582468 NUSANTARA TOUR & TRAVEL 024-8442888/3554888 DEWANGGA TRAVINDO 024-8451805 PESONA TOUR 024-8448918 ABC VACATION, SOLO 0271-668380 NUSANTARA TOUR & TRAVEL, SOLO 0271-652888

KALIMANTAN

YOGYAKARTA

CITOS TRAVEL CONNECTION 0274-389529 GAMMA WISATA 0274-553934 GEMA HAROMAS 0274-549999 INTRASTOUR 0274-371217 LOVINA TOUR & TRAVEL 0274-889742 MITRA PERSADA TRAVELINDO 0274-511100 NUSA SANTANA PRIMA 0274-513873 NUSANTARA TOUR & TRAVEL 0274-560988 TOTAL NUSA INDONESIA 0274-561617 TURINDO TOUR & TRAVEL 0274-540000

BINTANG MEGA WISATA T & T 0542-7112211 CAKRAWALA INDAH TOUR & TRAVEL 0542-871095 PUSAKA 78 TOUR & TRAVEL 0542-73500187 SUN JAYA ABADI 0541-206097 SUMBER MUTIARA ENAM DELAPAN 0541-737899

ACEH

CENDANA TOUR 0651-638733/734 KANA TOUR 0651-635700 NUANSA TOUR 0651-23480 SAM TRAVEL 0651-25665 TARA TOUR 0651-33541

6 SALES OFFICES & STATIONS 0 2013

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BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Bangunan Kambang Pasang, Jln Gadong BSB, BE4119 Brunei Darussalam

MAKASSAR
Hasanuddin, International Airport, Makassar, South Sulawesi R28 Panakukkang Mas

Departure Terminal, Sultan

No 71 Jalan Metro Perdana Barat, 1 Taman Usahawan Kepong 52100 Kuala Lumpur Lot UG-003, UG-003A & UG0038, Upper Ground Floor , Plaza Low Yat, 7 Jalan 1/77 , 55100 Kuala Lumpur KELANTAN Lapangan Terbang Sultan Ismail Petra, 16100 Pengkalan Chepa, Kota Bharu PT639,Jalan Sultan Ibrahim, (Opp. KB Mall),15050 Kota Bharu. PERAK
The Host, Jalan Veerasamy, 30000 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan.

SL11 Ground Floor, Lot 2541 Lee Ling Heights Phase 2, Mile 6.5 Jalan Penrissen, P.O. Box 2044, 93250 Kuching Lot 6813, Ground Floor Synergy Square, (Matang Jaya Commercial Centre), Jalan Matang Jaya, 93050 Kuching SELANGOR Ground Floor, Terminal 3, Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, 47200 Subang, Selangor Jalan KLIA S3, Southern Support Zone, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, 64000 Sepang, Selangor Lot-35 Mydin Mall USJ 1
Kenari 5, Bandar Puchong Jaya 47170 Puchong Selangor

DAVAO
Davao, J.P Laurel Avenue, Bajada Davao City, Philippines.

HAT YAI Hat Yai International Airport, 125 Hadyai International Airport, Moo 3 Klongla, Klonghoikong, Songkhla 90115 Tesco Lotus - Hat Yai, 1st Floor,
1142, Kanchanawit Road, Hat Yai, Songkla, 90115

4th Level, Gaisano Mall of

Unit No.110 Ground Floor,

Jl. Boulevard Ruko Ruby no. MANADO

SINGAPORE
2, Singapore Changi Airport, Terminal 1, Singapore

Row: 13 & 14, Departure level

CAMBODIA
PHNOM PENH Phnom Penh Airport Ofce, 17 Mezzanine Floor of Arrival Domestic Terminal, Phnom Penh Airport, Phnom Penh 179, Street Sisowath, Sangkat Phsar Kandal 1, Khan Daun Penh, 12204 Phnom Penh, Kingdom of Cambodia.

Sam Ratulangi International Airport Jalan A.A. Maramis, Manado 95374 MEDAN Bandara PoloniaTerminal, Keberangkatan Internasional, Medan 20157 Sumatra
Sisingamangaraja, No.18 Medan-20213

SRI LANKA
COLOMBO Setmil Aviation (Pvt) Ltd., Ground Floor, Setmil Maritime Centre, 256, Srimath Ramanathan Mawatha, Colombo 15, Sri Lanka

KRABI 133 Moo 5 Petchkasem Road, Tambol Nuakrong, Amphur Nuakrong, Krabi 81130 NARATHIWAT Narathiwat Airport 330 Moo 5 , Tambol Kok-Kian, Amphur Muang, Narathiwat 96000 PHUKET Phuket International Airport 312, 3rd Floor, Tumbol Maikao, Amphur Thalang, Phuket 83110 Unit 9, Laora Patong Area, No. 39, 39/1, Thaveewong Rd., Patong, Kratoo, Phuket Tesco Lotus Phuket, 2nd Floor, 104, Chalermprakiat Road, Rasada Sub District, Muang District, Phuket, 83000 SURAT THANI Surat Thani International Airport, 73 Moo 3 Tambol Huatuey, Amphur Punpin, Suratthani UBON RATCHATHANI Ubon Ratchathani Airport 297 Ubon Ratchathani Airport, Thepyotee Road, Amphur Nai Muang, Ubon Ratchathani 34000 UDON THANI Udon Thani International Airport, 224 Moo 1, Tambol Makkhang, Amphur Muang, Udon Thani 41000 PATTAYA Tesco Lotus South Pattaya 2 Floor, 408/2 Moo 12, South Pattaya, Sukhumvit Rd., Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150

Garuda Plaza Hotel, Jl.

Tune Hotel, No.2, Ground Floor,

PADANG
Airport, Padang, West Sumatra

TERENGGANU
Sultan Mahmud Airport, 21300 Kuala Terengganu

B-G-3A, IOI Boulevard, Jalan

THAILAND
BANGKOK 127 Tanao Road, Phra Nakorn, Bangkok 10200 Suvarnabhumi Int. Airport Room A1-062 Ground Floor, Concourse A, Bangna-Trad Road, Racha Teva, Bang Pli, Samutprakarn 10540
2nd Floor, 3109 Ladpro Road, Bangkapi, Bangkok, 10240

CHINA
MACAU
Passenger Terminal, Macau International Airport Taipa, Macau

Minangkabau International PALEMBANG

Level 1, Terminal Building,

Ofce 20, Mezzanine Level,

Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport Palembang, South Sumatra PEKANBARU

Airport, Jalan Perhubungan Udara Simpang, Tiga, Pekanbaru, Sumatra

LABUAN Level 1, Labuan Airport Terminal, 87008 Wilayah Persekutuan MELAKA

23, Taman Melaka Raya, 75000 Melaka

Lot S141, 2nd Floor, Plaza Metro Kajang, Section 7, Jalan Tun Abdul Aziz, 43000 Kajang No 10, Jalan Bandar Rawang
11, Bandar Baru Rawang, 48000 Rawang, Selangor.

GUANG DONG Century Holiday International Travel Service(Shenzhen), Co.Ltd, XY-10 Junting Hotel,2085 Eastern Road, Luo Hu, Shenzhen 518001
Travel Service(Guang Zhou), Co.Ltd, First Floor, No 8 Zhong Shan 3 Road,Guang Zhou 510000

Sultan Syarif Kasim II, Int.

No 32, Jalan Melaka Raya

No 2, Jalan Dagang SB 4/2, Taman Sungai Besi Indah, 43300 Seri Kembangan, Selangor.

Tesco Lotus Bangkapi,

Century Holiday International

SOLO Adi Soemarmo International Airport, Solo, Central Java SURABAYA Lobby International Terminal, Juanda International Airport, Jalan Raya Juanda Surabaya, Jawa Timur Grand Circle Tunjungan Plaza 3 Lantai 1, (Lobby Condominium Regency), Jln. Basuki Rahmat 8-12, Surabaya YOGYAKARTA Adisutjipto Int. Airport, Jln. Solo km.9, Yogyakarta, 55282
Suryotomo No.31, Yogyakarta

MYANMAR
YANGON Yangon International Airport Ofce Unit# 01-L, Parkroyal Yangon, Myanmar MANDALAY Room 3, 26th (B) Road, between 78th and 79th Road, Mandalay, Myanmar.

PENANG Penang International Airport 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang Ground Floor, Kim Mansion 332, Chulia Street, 10200 Penang No 723 L-G, Jln Sungai Dua 11700 Pulau Pinang
Business Park, 13700 Seberang Perai Penang.

Tesco Lotus Rama1, 3rd Floor, 831 Rama 1 Road, Wangmai, Pathumwan, Bangkok,10330 Tesco Lotus Rangsit, 2nd Floor, 392/4, Moo2, Phaholyothin Road, Thanyaburi, Pathumthani, 12130
1st oor, 1710, Sukhumvit Road, Klong Toey, Bangkok, 10110

1151,South Of YingBin Road Of Zhuhai,Zhuhai 519000 Guang Dong BEIJING

Travel Service (Beijing) Co Ltd.,No 163A Floor Of Yi No 6, Chaowai Street Of Chao Yang District Beijing China, 100022 Beijing

Tesco Lotus - Sukhumvit 50,

Century Holiday International

A-G-07, Jalan Todak 4, Sunway

PHILIPPINES
CLARK Diosdado Macapagal International Airport Clark Civil Aviation Complex Clark Freeport Zone, Philippines 2023 MANILA
Unit 108 SM City North Edsa The Block SM City Complex, North Edsa, Pag-Asa 1, Quezon City, Manila Unit 126 South Parking Building, SM Mall of Asia Complex, J.W Diokno Boulevard, Pasay City

SABAH
Building, Sandakan Airport, 90719 Sandakan

Tesco Lotus - Lad Prao, 2nd Floor, 1190, Phahonyothin Road, Jompol, Jatujak, Bangkok, 1090 CHIANG MAI Chiangmai Int. Airport 416 Thaphae Road,
60, 1st Floor, Tambol Sutep, Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai 50200

CHENGDU Century Holiday International Travel Service(ChengDu) Co.Ltd,No 172-5 Binjang East Road,Jinjang District, ChengDu

Lot 1 & 2, 1st Floor, Terminal

Melia Purosani Hotel, Jl

INDONESIA
BANDA ACEH
Muda, Blang Bintang, Aceh

MALAYSIA
JOHOR Tune Hotels.com Danga Bay, Lot PTB 22819, Jalan Skudai, Mukim Bandar, 80200 Johor Bahru GL 13 Senai International Airport, 81250 Johor Bahru No. 26 Jalan Meriam, 84000 Muar, Johor No 7, Jalan Bestari 1/5, Taman Nusa Bestari, 79100, Bandar Nusajaya, Johor
Lot GK-01, Ground oor, Kluang Mall, Jalan Rambutan, 86000 Kluang, Johor

FL4, 1st Floor, Tawau Airport Building, Jalan Apas-Balung, 91100 Tawau TB228, Lot 5, Ground Floor, Istana Monaco, Jalan Bunga, Fajar Complex 91000 Tawau
Sabah, Jln. Tun Razak, 88000, Kota Kinabalu

Wintrex Travel Corporation,

Chiang Mai

Bandara Sultan Iskandar DENPASAR, BALI

Lot G24, Ground Floor, Wisma Ground Floor, Terminal 2, Kota

Tesco Lotus - Chiang Mai Kamtieng, 2nd Floor, 19, Kamtieng Road, Patan Sub District, Muang District, Chiang Mai, 50340 CHIANG RAI Chiang Rai Int. Airport 2305/2 404 Moo 10, Tambol Bandu, Amphur Muang, Chiang Rai 57100

VIETNAM
HANOI Lobby A,3rd oor, Noi Bai International Airport. HO CHI MINH Room # 1.4.19,Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

Wintrex Travel Corporation,

Bandara I Gusti Ngurah Rai, Terminal Keberangkatan International Bali 80361

Kuta, Bali

Jl. Legian Kaja no. 455 BANDUNG

Kinabalu Int. Airport, Old Airport Road,Tanjung Aru 88100, Kota Kinabalu

Ruangan Nombor 34, Bandara Husein Sastranegara, Jalan Pajajaran No 156 Bandung, Jawa Barat Lobby Grand Serela Hotel Jl. L.L. R.E Martadinata (Riau) No 56, Telp. (022) 426 1636 JAKARTA Terminal 3, Departure Hall Airlines Ofces, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Cengkareng Jl. Boulevard Raya, Blok LA 4, No. 10 Kelapa Gading, Jakarta Utara
Jl. Dharmawangsa VI No.43, Jakarta Selatan

Lot G67, Ground Floor, Oneplace Mall, Putatan, 88200 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah SARAWAK GL02, Ground Floor, Bintulu Airport, 97000 Bintulu Ground Floor, Miri Airport, 98000 Miri Lot 946, Jalan Parry, 98000 Miri
International Airport, 93756 Kuching

CALL CENTRE NUMBERS

AUSTRALIA 1300 760 330 CHINA +86 20 2281 7666 INDIA 1860 500 8000 INDONESIA +62 21 2927 0999 JAPAN 0120 963 516 JEDDAH +966 8008449458 +966 8008500001
(For Guests using Zain as their Telco service provider)

KEDAH
Sultan Abdul Halim, 06200, Kepala Batas, Alor Star

Lot 20, Lapangan Terbang, Langkawi International

PHILIPPINES +63 2 588 9999 SINGPORE +65 6307 7688

Airport 07100 Padang Mat Sirat, Langkawi

Departure Level, Kuching

No. 68-B Ground Floor, Jalan Ibrahim, 08000 Sungai Petani, Kedah Darul Aman KUALA LUMPUR Lot 4, Level 2, Stesen Sentral, Kuala Lumpur, 50470
Podium Block, Plaza Berjaya,12 Jalan Imbi,55100 Kuala Lumpur

Wisma Ho Ho Lim, 291 Sub Lot 4,Ground Floor, Jalan Abell, 93100 Kuching GFLO1, Departure Area, Ground
Floor, Sibu Airport, 96000 Sibu

HONG KONG +852 3112 3222 MACAU 0800912 MALAYSIA 600 85 8888

(AirAsia X Premium Line)

SOUTH KOREA 00798 1420 69940 TAIWAN 008 0185 3031 THAILAND +66 2 515 9999

Komp Rukan Dharmawangsa, Sarinah Plaza Jl. Mh Thamrin,

No. 11 (LG level) Jakarta Pusat

Lot G027B, Ground Floor,

Ground Floor, No. 36 Jalan Keranji, 96000 Sibu Grd Flr, Lot 4034, Jln Tun Ahmad Zaidi, Parkcity Commercial Sq, Phase 5, 97000 Bintulu

(AirAsia X Premium Line) chargeable at RM1.95 per minute

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Japans fourth-largest city buzzes with action and offers history, culture, plenty of good eats and a quirky experience or two.
Situated on the island of Honshu, Nagoya is one of Japans major economic centres. The Aichi prefecture of which Nagoya is the capital is the birthplace of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who contributed to Japans unication in 1603, and ordered the construction of a castle around which the city grew. Strategically located, the city rose to prominence during the Meiji era, but was badly damaged during WWII. Although rebuilt with a modern layout with plenty of green spaces, wide avenues, a subway system and skyscrapers, Nagoya is not all modern sheen; magnicent castles and gardens, museums and ancient shrines offer a slice of history and culture as well. NAGOYA NOH THEATRE This theatre is dedicated to preserving traditional Japanese arts like noh a musical-drama performance featuring masked characters. NAGOYA MATSURI Nagoyas largest festival is celebrated in mid-October with colourful oat processions, karakuri (puppet) shows, folk dancing, music, reworks and the Parade of Heroes in honour of national heroes: Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu. HADAKA MATSURI Dubbed the Naked Festival, Hadaka Matsuri is held every February at the Konomiya Shrine just outside Nagoya and draws thousands of people. Men in loincloths chase after a naked volunteer called the shin otoko (god man) as they believe touching him will rid them of bad luck and bring good fortune.

NAGOYA, JAPAN

Nagoya Matsuri

MUST SEE/DO
NAGOYA-JO Built by Tokugawa Ieyasu, this 17th century castle is among Japans most famous. Its museum displays relics like the armours from Nagoyas once-prominent Oda, Toyotomi and Tokugawa families.
www.nagoyajo.city.nagoya.jp

mirin, and sprinkled with sesame seeds, this is Nagoyas take on humble deep-fried chicken wings. HITSUMABUSHI This dish of unagi (eel) and rice is rst savoured on its own before a second serving is eaten with scallions, wasabi and other condiments. Finally, green tea or stock is added and the dish is enjoyed as soup.

EAT
TEBASAKI Battered and double fried before being coated in a sauce of sake, soy and

SLEEP
HILTON NAGOYA, 1-3-3 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya 460-0008 BEST WESTERN HOTEL NAGOYA, 4-6-1 Sakae, Naka-ku,Nagoya 460-0008 HOTEL TRUSTY NAGOYA, 2-11-32 Nishiki Naka-ku,Nagoya 460-0003
GETTING THERE AirAsia Japan ies to Nagoya from Sapporo, Fukuoka and Seoul, South Korea. Go to www.airasia.com for details.

Night view of the Nagoya TV Tower From Oasis 21, Nagoya.

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IMAGE: INMAGINE

IMAGE: TOKYOBLINGS BLOG

6 MY AIRASIA 0 2013
www.airasia.com/travel3sixty

FRIENDLY FRONTLINERS

Ever wonder what Guest Service Agents (GSA) do? This month, we catch up with some of AirAsias most passionate GSAs to get the lowdown on how they handle the airlines most precious cargo: Our guests.

PHILIPPINES AIRASIA I regard each guest as an experience and a new learning opportunity. Each guest is unique and has different needs. I treat all guests with enthusiasm regardless of their background, and always keep in mind that I should be able to deliver and be of help to them. Going the extra mile to give guests a great experience is one way to make them feel well cared for. Even a little gesture can mean a lot to our guests, and make them return to experience our service repeatedly.

REX ERICSON M. BAMBA

INDONESIA AIRASIA

DIAN PUSPITASARI

Guest Service Agents are important as we are the airlines frontliners at the airport. We start with a simple smile and are friendly towards our guests when attending to their needs both before and after boarding. We hope our assistance pleases our guests so that well see them travelling with us many more times!

KOSUKE SATO
AIRASIA JAPAN Not many people in Japan are familiar with the concept of low cost airlines. As Guest Service Agents, we present ourselves as fun and friendly so that our guests feel comfortable to approach us with their questions. We want to show them that it is safe, affordable, comfortable and fun to fly with AirAsia.

COMPILED BY: ADLI SYAHRIL IMAGES: ADAM LEE

MARK SAMUEL WILLIE

MALAYSIA AIRASIA We ensure our guests are informed of their flight time and boarding gate location. One of our main tasks is to make sure that our guests have all their travel documents, and that these documents are updated so that they can fly with us. Also, another important task is to ensure our guests checked-in luggage arrives at the correct destination!
TRAVEL 3SIXTY

APAPORN SAYANPRASERT
THAI AIRASIA Good service is important for our guests. We represent AirAsia at the airport, and were the first people our guests meet. We attend to them from flight check-in right up till the moment they board the aircraft. If they face any difficulties, we try our best to assist them to ensure that they are happy and will return to fly with us again and again!

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