Documente Academic
Documente Profesional
Documente Cultură
SINGAPORE
The Skyline
Beckons
the skyline beckons
Into the
Heartland
Arabian
Afternoons
october - december 2016
BEST
ISSN 2407-1331
RP. 40.000,-
HOTEL
GUIDE
Asia Pacific’s
Best Independent Hotel
At your service.
Awarded by
HOT HOODS
16 Into the Heartland
Marissa Trew takes us on a tour of
Serangoon.
Image by Justin Eeles
P H O T O E S S AY
20 City Highlights
We look at some of the ways
Singapore celebrates every year
from international events to great
theatre and culture.
AT T R A C T I O N S
30 Family Fun on Sentosa
We pick four activities for an action-packed
day out.
33 Plain Sailing
We hit the beach on a private catamaran,
just minutes from the CBD.
hot hoods
64
34 Arabian Afternoons and Nights
Marissa Trew explores the nooks and
crannies of Kampong Glam.
coo l hoods
40 Heritage Garden
We celebrate the beauty of the Singapore
Botanic Gardens.
P r O f i l es
50 Creativity with Cointreau
The Cointreau creative crew promotes the
talents of Tracy Phillips and Amanda Wong.
84
H E A LT H A N D B E A U T Y
87 Eat, Sleep, Lift, Repeat
Marissa Trew highlights the rise of the boot
camp in Singapore.
94 Rolling Stones
We relax with a scrub and a hot stone
massage at One Farrer Hotel and Spa.
SHOPPING
96 Dempsey Style
A peek at the new Ceccotti Collezioni at
Asiatique Collections. cover photo by justin eeles
W
ith Editor Justin Eeles on holiday I
am delighted to step into his shoes
for an issue and bring you up to date
with Singapore’s latest events and
developments as we fast approach yet
another festive season!
Second there’s the Singapore River Festival at the beginning of November with bands,
performers, carnival attractions and the spectacular Tight Rope Performance!
Then there’s Swan Lake in November, the dusk to dawn revelry of Zouk Out in December,
the four month Biennale Art exhibition, the fantastic Merry Medleys at Gardens by the Bay
and just about every mall, hotel, shop, gallery, restaurant and club participating in the whole
Festive Season program island wide!
We also meet some real Singapore characters, indulge and find out which are the very best
hotels on the island and to wrap up a huge issue, we find fitness and health in the boot camps
and spas, do some shopping and finally end up in some of Singapore’s beautiful green spots.
Now if you can’t enjoy your time in Singapore with all this great advice I will be very surprised.
HEAD OFFICE Jl. Benda Raya No. 98 A-B, Kemang - Jakarta Selatan 12560
T: +62-21 781 3212, F: +62-21 781 2476
SINGAPORE BRANCH Soholife, 216 Joo Chiat Road Unit 03-05, Singapore 427483
www.nowsingapore.co.id
website www.nowsingapore.co.id
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/nowsingapore
TWITTER www.twitter.com/now_singapore
INSTAGRAM www.instagram.com/now_singapore
YOUTUBE bit.ly/NS_Youtube
Now! Singapore is published bi-monthly by PT. Phoenix Communications. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of
the writers and the publisher does not accept any responsibility for any errors, omisions or complaints arising there from.
No part of this publication can be reproduced in whole or in part, in print or electronically without prior permission of
the publisher. All trademarks, logos, brands and designs are copyright and fully reserved by
PT. Phoenix Communications.
*Package includes 2N stay at Crockfords Tower’s Deluxe Suite and a Michelin star dinner at L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon. Images are for illustrative purposes only. Other terms and conditions apply.
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS, UNIVERSAL STUDIOS SINGAPORE, Universal Globe logo, and all Universal elements and related indicia TM & © Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. © 2016 Genting International Management Limited. All rights reserved.
Follow us #rwsmemories
“Our recent trip to Singapore was very special to us. It’s been a while From the moment they landed at Singapore’s Changi Airport on Day 1,
since we’ve taken a trip together as a family of five. Plus, it was also our the Sasonos wasted no time in starting their adventure. First up was
youngest, Den Bagus’ first time in Singapore. We’ve heard so much lunch at Coriander Leaf in Chijmes, which offered a rich variety of Asian
about Singapore’s numerous family and kids-friendly attractions, so cuisines. Then it was straight to Keppel Centre for some artistic fun at
we were pretty excited to introduce some of these to him,” said Dwi. the National Gallery. The centre is well-known for its arts education
facilities, dedicated to stimulating children’s interests in art.
Nevermind that the trip took place during the recent Zika epidemic―
the family did not allow it to detract their plans to explore the Little Then, it was time for some outdoor fun onboard Duck Tour’s
Red Dot. “The Zika issue did not change our minds to visit Singapore, amphibious vehicle, which allowed for a city-tour both in and out of
although we made sure to take several precautions. We took guidance water. The family took countless photographs against the Singapore
from Singapore’s Ministry of Health, which advised members of the River’s sun-streaked skyline! For dinner, they then proceeded to check
public to use mosquito repellent regularly, and explored many indoor out Indochine’s Supertree Restaurant, located at Gardens by the Bay,
attractions. That said however, we definitely did not stray away from before catching Garden Rhapsody, an enthralling music and light
outdoor activities. In fact, while we were in Sentosa, we even took the showcase set amidst the Supertrees.
kids on a ride on the Mega-Zip! We were pretty much convinced that
Singapore remained safe for visitors,” said mom, Widi. Day 2 saw the adventurous family take on various indoor and outdoor
sports on Sentosa Island―from iFly (an indoor skydiving facility),
to Flowrider, where the kids had some flowboarding fun under the
watchful eyes of Widi and Dwi. But the excitement was far from
over, as the family of five stopped by Kidzania and Mosh! for some
educational fun, before heading down to Arteastiq, a boutique tea
house cum art-jam studio. By Day 3, the kids were all psyched up
for their visit to Universal Studios Singapore and Marine Cove at East
Coast Park, home to various sensational rides and a three-storey play
lighthouse respectively.
So after three consecutive days of family fun, what did Dad have to say
about the trip? “We definitely had a blast with the kids in Singapore! As
parents, we’re constantly encouraging Dru, Widuri and Den Bagus to
try their hands at new experiences, and we’re happy to see them learn
and grow with each such experience. Widi and I can’t wait to head
back again, just so we can strike off more must-try places on our list.
We strongly encourage other parents to explore Singapore and enjoy
its quality, kids-friendly offerings, just like we did!”
Singapore Biennale
28 Oct 2016 - 26 Feb 2017
Under the theme “An Atlas of Mirrors”,
the four-month long international
contemporary art exhibition will
showcase diverse artistic viewpoints
that trace the migratory and
intertwining relationships within the
region, whilst reflecting on shared
histories and current realities with East
and South Asia.
www.singaporebiennale.org
ZoukOut
9 - 10 Dec 2016
Back for its sixteenth run, Asia’s premier music festival
brings together the best dance music performers
from all over the world. Don’t miss out on this
two-day outdoor festival of grand proportions, with
highly-anticipated performances by Hardwell, Lost
Frequencies, TIGA, Alan Walker and Martin Garrix.
www.zoukout.com/2016
Nov 11-13
Orchid Bowl
Are you a fan of bowling and visiting the town?
Visit the sixth and newly-opened Orchid Bowl located
in #05-03 SAFRA @ Punggol, 9 Sentul Crescent.
Equipped with 24 bowling tracks, score screen and
high-tech interactive system, we bet you just can’t
wait for another visit!
Nearest MRT Station: Punggol
Oct 28-30
Halloween at MOSH!
Take your little one to MOSH! Let them experience various
creepy yet fun Halloween-themed special events!
October 2016
MOSH! 31 Beach View #03-01
Opening Hour: 10.00-21.00
Two-hour play limiting on Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays
www.mosh.com.sg
Nearest MRT Station: Harbourfront
Nov 4-6
Singapore River Festival 2016
Singapore River Festival is held annually to celebrate
Singapore’s historical and cultural treasure. The highlight of
this year’s event is the spectacular Tight Rope Performance,
crossing above the Singapore River. Prepare yourself for
various carnival actions around the river also packed a the
numbers of bands and performers, interactive games, and
outdoor movie screening!
November 4-6 2016
Singapore River
Clarke Quay, Boat Quay & Robertson Quay
Nearest MRT Station: Clarke Quay
31 December 2016
Marina Bay Countdown
Counting down to the new year at the ultimate Marina Bay Countdown! There’s
nothing can ever beat the firework parade in Marina Bay Waterfront, while
The Float @ Marina Bay transforms into main stage for numerous of local and
international acts all night long.
December 31, 2016
Marina Bay Waterfront
www.marinabaycountdown.sg
Nearest MRT Station: Bayfront
31 December 2016
Dance In The Park! Countdown
to 2017
Universal Studios Singapore welcome the
New Year with the Dance In The Park!
Counting down to 2017 with live tribute acts
with special pyrotechnic and LED show-sky lit
above your head. And the very best part of it?
All attractions will be opened all night long!
December 31, 2016
Universal Studios Singapore
Resorts World Sentosa
www.rwsentosa.com
Nearest MRT Station: HarbourFront
31 December 2016
Siloso Beach Party
Dance your way until the sun of the new year rises. Celebrate the Wet and Wild night
with your whole-heartedly dancing move for 10 hours nonstop!
December 31, 2016
Siloso Beach Sentosa
www.sentosa.com.sg/en/silosobeachparty
Nearest MRT Station: HarbourFront
Dec 23-25
Merry Medleys at Gardens
by The Bay
Bring back your childhood memories
when the season of joy arrives where
doll houses reveal magical moments
with melody.
November 11, 2016 – January 5, 2017
Gardens by the Bay
www.gardensbythebay.com.sg
Nearest MRT Station: Bayfront
Baba Chews
The latest addition to the Peranakan neighbourhood of Joo Chiat is
Baba Chews Bar and Eatery. Helmed by Head Chef Alvin Leong, Baba
Chews serves up local delicacies with a twist such as the local chilli crab
classic, featuring crispy golden brown pillows of Chilli Crab Cake served
alongside homemade chilli crab sauce and a serving of ‘mantou’ chips.
On top of that, Baba Chews stays true to the Peranakan culture with
its Peranakan Dinner Menu. The menu features dishes like the Beef
Short Ribs Rendang, where short ribs are stewed in a sauce made from
homemade ‘Rempah’, an aromatic spice paste key to Southeast Asian
cooking. Be sure to end off your meal with the Kueh Durian, which is
a contemporary spin on the traditional ‘Kuah Dadar’, with homemade
D24 durian mousse and shredded coconut cooked in ‘Gula Melaka’
(palm sugar) wrapped in pandan crepes and topped with a scoop of
specially made ‘Gula Melaka’ ice cream.
For dining reservations call 6723 2025 or email babachews@ihg.com
ZoukOut
Gear yourselves up for another round of
Swan Lake epic dusk to dawn revelry at ZoukOut 2016.
The two-day outdoor festival will be held at
Forget Natalie Portman and the Black Swan as the internationally acclaimed Siloso Beach, Sentosa on the 9th and 10th
St Petersburg Ballet returns to Singapore by popular demand. Between 23- of December. The 16th edition of ZoukOut
27 November 2016, catch their full-length classic production of the world’s will see classic acts from acclaimed DJs from
most famous ballet – Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake. Led by prima ballerina Irina all around the world such as Hardwell, Alan
Kolesnikova and featuring a company of 60, get ready to be enthralled by the Walker, Martin Garrix, Zedd and many more.
breath-taking pirouettes, scenery and magnificent costumes. For more information and tickets,
For more information and tickets, visit sistic.com visit zoukout.com/2016/
Into
the
Heartland
By Marissa Trew
alternatives a little farther south at the much- their quirky Japanese Curry Chicken Katsu cheeses before browsing their range of wine,
loved Serangoon Gardens area, which is home burger and even a Soft Shell Chilli Crab burger. beer and their tempting window displays of
to plenty of international offerings from local Offering similar fare nearby is A for Arbite (66A sweet, buttery croissants and pastries. While
to Korean, Japanese and even French. Serangoon Garden Way), a hidden little bistro they may not be the easiest items to transport
Set around a roundabout, this area sees offering up a mix of small and big plates like a in your luggage, our bet is you’ll munch
plenty of expats and locals alike and for very Deep-Fried Brie Salad and Asian Spiced Lamb through it all before it comes time to leave.
good reason. At its epicentre is CHOMP CHOMP Shank. And for dessert, tuck into Singaporean With so many options, it’s true to say
Food Centre (20 Kensington Park Road). renditions of European classics like a Gula that Serangoon New Town is an international
Constructed of tight alleys filled with hawker Melaka Tiramisu or a Horlicks Panna Cotta. foodie haven. Covering a much larger area
stalls serving up everything from national A somewhat surprising discovery in this than many expect, this neighbourhood is
favourites like black carrot cake (stir-fried radish neighbourhood is the amount of Korean joints definitely worth a look when planning your
cake in sweet soy sauce), satay and chicken that have popped up in recent times. If you’re next meal out!
wings, it can feel a little claustrophobic. It is craving a bit of kimchi and bulgogi, head to
absolutely packed out with diners every night, Hanwoori Korean Restaurant (76 Serangoon
so expect to stand in line for your food and Garden Way) for plenty of hearty mains and Above: Shoppers at myVillage; La Petite Boutique.
even your table. When you do come across a of course, infinite banchan (side dishes). Can’t Left: shopfront at Wimbly Lu.
City Highlights
Every year Singapore celebrates in a way no one else does
F1 Fun
The seventeenth Singapore Airlines Singapore Formula One Grand Prix, held from
September 16 – 18, was a resounding success. With the fans gathering for the
weekend, they were treated to a fiesta of racing, live music, fashion and star-studded
parties. For the fourth time, the race was won by Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg.
www.nowsingapore.co.id October
www.nowsingapore.co.id October -- DECEMber 2016 21
photo essay
Up in Lights
The annual Singapore Night Festivals are a unique celebration, with
two weekends of music, drama and stunning light shows. Here, crowds
gathered to watch projections on the National Museum during the 50th
anniversary celebrations.
www.nowsingapore.co.id October
www.nowsingapore.co.id October -- DECEMber 2016 23
photo essay
Polo Returns
The much admired game of polo is held at the Singapore Polo Club. Apart
from the polo matches between local and visiting teams, festivities often
include Taittinger champagne receptions, buffet lunches, cocktails, fashion
shows and all the trappings of high society.
www.nowsingapore.co.id October
www.nowsingapore.co.id October -- DECEMber 2016 25
photo essay
Totem Heights
Global phenomenon, Cirque du Soleil often perform in Singapore
with their awe-inspiring shows. Totem, featuring their signature
daredevil acrobatics, amazing feats of strength, agility and skill, and
quirky comedy acts, was one very popular show which succeeded in
wowing audiences of all ages.
www.nowsingapore.co.id October
www.nowsingapore.co.id October -- DECEMber 2016 27
photo essay
www.nowsingapore.co.id October
www.nowsingapore.co.id October -- DECEMber 2016 29
Attractions
FAMILY
FUN oN
SENTOSA
There’s something to
keep everyone happy in
Sentosa, no matter what
you’re looking for. The self-
declared ‘State of Fun’ keeps
getting better with newly
opened attractions, better
transportation facilities and
loads of choices for a few
refreshing drinks or dinner
after a hot day in the sun.
For a lively mix of adrenaline
thrills, culture, history, nature
and coastal dining, we’ve
picked a small selection of
favourites to fill your day
C Side
After all the thrill and excitement, where better
to enjoy a few cold drinks and a casual meal than
at the C Side. Taking up one of the island’s better
stretches of beach at Siloso, C Side off ers an eclectic
assortment of coastal treats including the lively Bikini
Bar (the only bar where you can get a cold Bintang on
the island), the casual eatery Coastes, and the aptly-
named Sand Bar. Hire a sun lounger at Coastes to
watch the sunset, play some pool at the Bikini Bar and
then enjoy some live music at the Sand Bar to round
off your day on Sentosa in fully relaxed fashion.
MegaZip Adventure Park, Imbiah Hill Road, tel: 6884 5602, megazip.com.sg
W
hile sailing off in a yacht a fully-equipped galley with bar and fridge, guests seriously and before setting off there is
to anchor off a perfect a spacious saloon and a BBQ pit. It also has a safety demonstration on deck to ensure no
sandy beach might be a very decent music system, so provides the one is lost at sea after one too many martinis.
the stuff of dreams ideal craft if you’re looking to party with a The boat can comfortably take between 20
for many, it’s in fact group of friends. to 26 guests, with a choice of areas to eat,
remarkably easy and Guests can charter Mikanna for the whole sunbathe and relax. Food and drinks are not
affordable from Singapore. As long as you day or choose from the morning (11:30am- included in the charter price so it’s wise to
get a decent crowd of people together, it’s 4pm) or evening (5pm-9pm) four-hour charter. stock up on supplies at the handy Cold Storage
perfectly feasible to be diving off your private It’s amazing that only a short cruise from supermarket located at the marina.
boat into azure waters less than 30 minutes Sentosa can take you a world away from Once you’ve exhausted yourself doing
from Singapore’s CBD at a cost of less than the pace and modernity of Singapore to a water sports, worked on your tan and eaten
$100 per person. deserted white sandy hideaway. and drunk your fill, the boat then makes
A number of charter boats offer To get the best of the weather, we’d its way back along the coast of Singapore
this service, with most sailing out to the advise the morning departure. This allows towards Sentosa. For many this is the highlight
undeveloped Lazarus Island, where a large you to reach Lazarus Island and have a swim, of the trip, as you get to see the city’s
stretch of golden sand and swaying palm trees paddleboard or kayak session before enjoying dramatic skyline silhouetted by the slowly
complete the paradisiacal picture. a leisurely BBQ lunch on deck, expertly setting sun.
One good option for a beach escape is prepared by the boat’s helpful crew. You can Once back on solid ground, the bars and
the power catamaran Mikanna, which docks then turn up the tunes, mix up some cocktails restaurants of Sentosa’s Quayside Isle await,
at Oneo 15 Marina Club on Sentosa. Part of a and party like a rock star until it’s time to head ensuring you don’t have to end the party until
fleet of over 35 different sized boats, Mikanna back to the marina. way after night has fallen. Happy Boating!
features both indoor and outdoor dining As alcohol is very often involved on one-
areas, two bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, day party charters, the crew takes the safety of For more information, visit one15marina.com
www.nowsingapore.co.id October
www.nowsingapore.co.id October -- DECEMber 2016 35
Hot Hoods
I
f you are planning to visit, heed our cafe (674 North Bridge Road), a casual Halal that occupy the classic shop-houses along
advice and devote at least half, if not a full eatery serving up generous plates of pizzas, Haji Lane. Ladies, make a beeline for the
day to explore everything this district has sandwiches and burgers. They’re famous for Salad Shop (25 Haji Lane), an elegant and
to offer! Tick the tourist boxes by heading their chargrilled Chicken Satay Burger, so be cleverly designed black and white shop space
to the historic Sultan Mosque (3 Muscat sure to give it a try! selling minimalist fashion pieces and home
Street) and marvel at the grandeur of If you find yourself in the area on a accessories. For timeless vintage wear, keep
its large golden domes. Constructed in 1824, weekend, opt for Symmetry Cafe (9 Jalan on the lookout for Dulcetfig (41 Haji Lane),
this heritage site is highly regarded as one of Kubor) for what is highly regarded as one but if modern fashion is more your style,
the most important places of worship on the of Singapore’s best brunch spots. Tuck into browse the rails and shelves of Modparade
island. Then, wrap your head around more of classics like their Eggs Benedict or consider (68 Haji Lane) or Mondays Off (76 Haji Lane),
Singapore’s rich Malay history at the Malay something more innovative like their Truffle for cutting edge designs that are sure to catch
Heritage Centre (85 Sultan Gate), the former Mushroom Carbonara! Aim to be there people’s attention. There’s plenty in terms
palace of Sultan Hussein. Before you break early or be prepared to stand in line as the of sustainable shopping too, from the home
for lunch, be sure to check out the Children competition for tables is fi erce! If you’re decor pieces at Gaia Living to the organic,
Little Museum (42 Bussorah Street) too. This simply looking for a snack, curb the appetite unisex bamboo clothing at Zhai (82 Haji Lane).
nostalgic place is fi lled with vintage toys and by paying a visit to 26 Tapas Bar (26 Kandahar Gents, restock your wardrobes on the
other antique treasures, tucked away in a two- Street) and order a range of sharing plates like second floor of Maison Ikkoku (20 Kandahar
storey shop-house and guarded by a quirky, their famous three-flavoured chicken drumlets Street), which houses a café on its first floor
man-sized robot at its entrance! or split their “Ugly Duckling Pizza”, to fuel you and a bar on the third, so don’t be surprised
When the hunger pangs reach an audible through the afternoon. if you find it diffi cult to leave! Those with a
growl, we guarantee there will be something To get a real taste of the ‘glam’ in this slightly more punk-rock, hipster edge, check
to satisfy even the fussiest of eaters! If you quarter, don’t leave without exploring the our SUP Clothing (34 Haji Lane), carrying top
have a voracious appetite, head to I Am… seemingly endless lines of boutique stores name brands like Herschel, OBEY and P.A.P.
www.nowsingapore.co.id October
www.nowsingapore.co.id October -- DECEMber 2016 41
cool hoods
www.nowsingapore.co.id October
www.nowsingapore.co.id October -- DECEMber 2016 45
cool hoods
Words with
Patrick Fiat
General Manager and CEO (Chief Experience Officer)
at Royal Plaza on Scotts
Images courtesy of Royal Plaza on Scotts
NS: How has Singapore changed since you first moved here? What do you
think is the single greatest achievement the city-state has accomplished in the
last decade?
PF: Singapore has seen some extremely rapid developments in recent years.
The opening of the integrated resorts and casinos has been one of the most
significant moves. It shook up the hospitality industry and introduced new
markets to the city. The integrated resorts were also strategised to target both
leisure and corporate travellers. Resorts World Sentosa caters more to the
leisure market, with a host of family-friendly facilities and attractions, while
Marina Bay Sands attracts more of the M.I.C.E business.
NS: What were the highlights for you during the last few years?
PF: SG50 was a major highlight here in Singapore as it was a year full of
celebrations throughout the city. Here at Royal Plaza on Scotts, we held
fundraising activities for Community Chest, a charity for the less
privileged. The Singapore government generously matched the amount
we raised dollar-for-dollar, which was a great success.
but of course every year has events nearly as glamourlous as SG50
and 2016 is no exception!
NS: Where will you be spending the festive season? Is Singapore
a good destination at this time?
PF: I will be spending the festive season in Singapore.
Singapore is a great place to be for all big festivities including
Lunar New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, Deepavali and Christmas.
You can immerse yourself in a melting pot of cultures for a
unique experience.
A constant state
of evolution at Meta
O
By Marissa Trew I Images courtesy of Meta
n a road like Keong Saik, plating is vibrant and appetising, and of course,
you could pick a restaurant cooking techniques are handled flawlessly.
blindfolded but still be quite Nit-pickers could argue that the restaurant
secure in knowing you’re in lacks a certain level of ambience, as the dark
for an excellent meal. That space is illuminated by a single row of lights
being said, competition outside the kitchen and the dark tones of the
amongst restaurants vying for diners’ attention furniture do little to add to the vibrancy. But
is undoubtedly fierce, with each establishment eating here, your attention will hardly be on the
needing to earn their pride of place along the choice of upholstery. Those fortunate enough
stretch of prime dining real estate. Joining the to score counter seats in this 30-seater space
ranks is Meta – a contemporary restaurant that will be hypnotised by the flurry of tenacious
has slipped its way into a little shop-house and chefs immaculately preparing each dish whilst
is quickly garnering the attention of the local hardly making a sound. Like a well-oiled pan,
dining scene. service is slick, warm and steady. All attention is
Head Chef Sun Kim has every reason to on the staff and most importantly, on the food.
boast about his culinary track record – having On the menu, there is a seasonal ‘prix fixe’
worked both at Tetsuya’s in Sydney and Waku of six- or eight-courses that – as is customary
Ghin in Singapore – but the soft-spoken chef’s with budding fine dining restaurants – evolves
talents speak loudest on the plate. Focusing on seasonally. As Meta’s name suggests, the kitchen
modern cuisine with undoubtedly Asian flair works on the principle of existing in a constant
in places, every course at Meta is a delicate phase of metamorphosis – dynamic and
little creation. Ingredients are well matched, constantly evolving. Whilst we have not yet had
Ode to
A Culinary Inspiration By Marissa Trew I Images courtesy of Odette
Whether you prefer to kick back with a classic beer or two or you are
preparing for a grand night of mid-week revelry, few of us can deny
that a great Happy Hour deal often makes a drink just that extra little
bit sweeter! For some of Singapore’s best Happy Hour deals, hop on
over to nightlife central, Clarke Quay. We’ve selected some of the
funkiest spots for a Happy Hour bar crawl that’s sure to give you a
buzz without breaking the bank!
Muchos
Take a quick trip to Modern Mexico at this colourful dining joint. Head
there between 5pm to 8pm for an early dinner, dig into your favourite
Tex-Mex classics and wash it all down with a fresh mug of Tiger beer or
their house-pour wine for $8. Or, why not get the gang to kick off the
fiesta straight away with a few Corona beer buckets for just $30!
Señor Taco
Paulaner Wirtshaus There’s far more than just beer on offer at this fun taqueria! Freshen
up with a $12 margarita or mojito but if you’re looking for a heavy
hitter, the obvious choice is the $7 tequila shot on offer from 5:30pm to
7:30pm, every day of the week! There are spirits on offer too, like aged
rum, vodka and gin, each going for a pocket-friendly $9. For a more
laidback evening, opt for a deep red with their $11 sangrias and house-
pour wines.
Octapas
You’ll need extra hands to hold your drinks at this Spanish tapas bar as
they offer a 50% discount every night until 8pm on their red and white
sangrias, their house-pour wines and spirits, as well as their Heineken
and Tiger beers!
Crazy Elephant
Crazy Elephant
Highlander Bar and Restaurant Octapas There’s a great selection of beer favourites here, from a draught Stella
Artois mug, San Miguel mug or Hoegaarden half-pint for just $8 from
5pm to 8pm, and that goes for their house pour liquors too! Grab a cold
one and soak in the great sounds of their live blues band as the evening
continues.
China One
If you need an extra little bar bite to go with your beverage, head to
China One where not only will you get any of their house-pour drinks
for $8 daily until 8pm, but they also serve up tasty little morsels for the
same deal between Wednesday and Saturday.
Late Night
Dessert
and Edible
Art By Marissa Trew I Images courtesy of Janice Wong
love Coco Chanel and think she’s a great NS: You have a lot of work featuring edible Kong where it was lot of eggs, oil, deep-fried
inspiration. I have her quote in my office, “I art. How did you decide between art and food and fresh seafood. Hong Kong cuisine is
don’t make fashion, I am fashion.” dessert? so different from Japanese cuisine. I kept doing
JW: Well I was always interested in both
but that for the last eight years of my childhood,
NS: Is there a creation you consider to be honestly, it really merged together in 2011 before I came back to Singapore. Another
your favourite, one that is particularly close when I launched the book, “Perfection in factor that has helped me is the discipline
to your heart? Imperfection.” I had to feed 400 people for involved in competitive sport. When I was
JW: My current favourite would have to be the book launch and I wanted everyone to younger I played squash for 12 or 13 years for
the Cassis Plum – the dish that I entered on ‘taste the book,’ so we created massive edible Singapore. So I would train every day – some
MasterChef Asia – because it was created installations. So for example, I would take
a days more than once – and entered around
without reference. I basically took ingredients page with a recipe featuring Marshmallows for 14 competitions a year. The training was very
and made something new. Usually you follow instance and I would recreate it on a wall so intense and really pushed me to a new level.
a recipe, and you’re always looking at other everybody could eat them. It became so engrained in me so it just comes
recipes. So just taking raw ingredients and naturally with the discipline and the focus in
making something different is the most NS: You also recently returned from a trip what I do. I’ve always been very curious and
difficult thing to do. to Spain where you spent time with the inquisitive.
renowned Roca brothers. What did you do
NS: Is there a particular ingredient you love there? NS: Are you doing anything for the World
to work with more than others? JW: I went there for five days as part of a Gourmet Summit this year?
JW: Chocolate. I love making chocolates and culinary exchange. I was introduced to their JW: This year I‘ve been included in the
I’m very glad I have the platform here to do it family and learned about their craft and their Hall of Fame. When they sent me the e-mail
every day. philosophy. It was more about learning their informing me, I thought oh no, I’m so old! But
philosophy than any kind of skill set. What I looking back I’m not that old yet!
NS: What is your favourite flavour to blend always want to capture is a philosophy. It’s the
with chocolate? gist of everything, like ‘how are you going to NS: What are your current projects?
JW: There are so many possibilities but I love approach an apple’ kind of thing. Everybody JW: We have just released the Singapore
caramel and chocolate – it’s a marriage that approaches an apple differently. Signature Series of chocolates, which includes
can’t be beaten. local flavours like laksa leaf, lemongrass, chilli
NS: What would you say your own padi, kaffir lime and even bak kwa (barbeque
NS: In the past you have done caviar and philosophy is? pork).
chocolate (to contrast salty and sweet), so JW: I think philosophies will always keep In Hong Kong, we open a full-fledged
do you stick with flavour bases and mix and evolving with time, culture and exposure. I restaurant on March 22 so I have been working
match when experimenting? grew up overseas in Hong Kong and Japan, on the menu everyday. The outlet in Japan
JW: I have a whole mind map. There are and that allowed me to be exposed to a lot of opens on April 15. We began planning the
a lot of disasters and a lot of trial and error cultures. I kept moving around, going to four Japan outlet almost two years ago and Hong
but we experiment almost every day. I can’t different primary schools and two different Kong came along a year later. I didn’t choose
remember any disasters right now but typically secondary schools, so it was always about the timing!
things that are too harsh on the palate don’t adaptation. And then my palate kept changing,
work. I think I did something once with black from being exposed to delicious creams and 2am:dessertbar, Holland Village, 21A Lorong
garlic… as a sweet. seafood in Japan, then going back to Hong Liput, tel: 6291 9727, 2amdessertbar.com
the
ParkRoyal on Pickering
Perched in between Chinatown and the Central Business District, within walking distance to both, the
ParkRoyal on Pickering is not only a design icon in Singapore, it’s also one of the best locations for business
travellers with excellent facilities to boot. From the function rooms to the impressive pillar-less ballroom (with
space for up to 800 guests), it is the ideal environment for everything from a casual meeting to major corporate
events. Wi-Fi is free throughout and their breakfast is spectacular, whether you go for Lime restaurant’s buffet
on the ground floor, or the homely Orchid Club Lounge - book an Orchid Club room for the best experience
(including a champagne breakfast!) After a day of business, enjoy the unique pool terrace, which features a
delightful path through the hotel’s raised garden and birdcage pagodas offering great views. For entertainment,
some of the city’s best bars and restaurants are within a five-minute stroll.
Conrad Centennial
Singapore
Located in the business hub of Marina Bay,
close to the CBD and Suntec City Convention
Centre, the Conrad Centennial offers not only
comfort, convenience and the luxury you
expect from such a respected five-star hotel,
it’s also very well equipped to handle a full
range of business events. The hotel is part of
the Suntec Singapore Joint Marketing Alliance,
allowing access to over 42,000m2 of event
space. With a Grand Ballroom located within
the hotel and a connecting Grand Salon, the
hotel is equally ready to host large corporate
gatherings as it is to host smaller events in the
choice of conference rooms, boardrooms and
private salons.
WANGZ Hotel
WANGZ Hotel’s curved architecture is difficult
to miss as it is one of the most unique hotel
buildings in the city. Perfect for both business
and leisure travellers, every room is fitted with
either king-size or twin Sealy Posturepedic beds,
the softest bed sheets and goose feather down
duvets. The hotel also offers a pillow menu to suit
every guest’s individual preferences. It is home to
Nectar, a casual dining eatery, but it is The Rabbit
Stash, a fine-dining rooftop restaurant and bar
specialising in seasonal, contemporary cuisine,
helmed by awardwinning Chef Matthew Mok, that
is truly worth raving about.
Best
Hotels
in a
heritage
Wanderlust Hotel area
Wanderlust is the ultimate destination when it comes to the playful traveller. Located just a stone’s throw away
from the colourful heritage neighbourhood of Little India, the former school building has enough character to be
a destination in its own right. The intimate hotel has only 29 guest rooms, each featuring its own unique design,
from Pantone colour palettes, Pop Art and nine Whimsical suites with themes like ‘Bling’, ‘Space’ ,‘Tree’ and
‘Typewriter’. Blending both pop and traditional cultures, guests will get the best of both worlds!
Dorsett Singapore Hotel, 333 New Bridge Road, tel: 6678 8333,
dorsett hotels.com/singapore
www.nowsingapore.co.id October
www.nowsingapore.co.id October -- DECEMber 2016 71
best Suites
PARKROYAL
on
Pickering
Photos by Patrick Bingham
www.nowsingapore.co.id October
www.nowsingapore.co.id October -- DECEMber 2016 73
best hotels
www.nowsingapore.co.id October
www.nowsingapore.co.id October -- DECEMber 2016 75
best Suites
Business travellers are not the only visitors business hotel. There’s complimentary high- example of the many stylish touches evident
taking advantage of the recently opened speed Wi-Fi/internet connection, Bose stereo, throughout the hotel’s polished interior. With
The Westin Singapore, located bang in the iPod docking station, a personal Nespresso understated elegance, the hotel successfully
middle of the CBD in the new Asia Square machine and large flat-screen TVs in both the blends cleansing marble and dark woods,
development. Part offices, part hotel, with one bedroom and living area. with soft textures and natural fabrics, creating
of the best food courts in Singapore, this sleek In the main bathroom, a free-standing a cool but sophisticated environment that’s
inner city hub has been attracting its fair share tub offers the views over the city for the brought to life with design flourishes.
of tourists as well, drawn by the sweeping less shy bather – don’t worry, electronic From the lift buttons, set in antique Chinese
harbour views, excellent lifestyle facilities and blinds are on hand to protect your vanity. chests on the Ground Floor to the spectacular
the hotel’s strong international reputation. For alternative viewing, the bathroom views from the dynamic reception area on the
Those booking a suite here will not mirror comes with built in TV screen which 32nd floor, The Westin certainly makes a very
be disappointed – rooms are wonderfully magically disappears when not in use. In the strong first impression.
spacious, beautifully furnished and feature guest toilet, a giant Alessi basin pays homage Suite guests gain automatic entry to the
all the hardware you’d expect from a five-star to the best in contemporary design – just one hotel’s Executive Club Lounge, which serves
The Duxton
Not only does this boutique hotel sit in one of
Singapore’s most thriving nightlife neighbourhoods,
but it also has its very own bar lounge, Mars Bar,
specialising in craft cocktails inspired by Singapore’s
quirkier side. While leading bar destinations like
Jigger and Pony or Nutmeg and Clove are just around
the corner, the eclectic blends here are perfect for
those with more adventurous palettes. Cocktails like
‘Something Nutty’ (a blend of Frangelico, Mozart Gold,
milk, Nutella, ice cream and Himalayan sea salt) or
perhaps the ‘Sago Jendol’ (a play on the traditional
Singapore dessert, containing Cruzan aged rum,
Gosling’s rum, gula melaka, pandan syrup, honeydew,
lychee caviar and Malibu) are sure to get your
imagination fired up!
Best
Hotel
Cocktail
Bars
Fairmont Singapore
Head Craftsman Tom Hogan has recently won the inaugural Singapore Bar Awards’ ‘Best
Male Bartender’ category, yet another testament to their success as one of Singapore’s
top cocktail bars. The mixes here are both creative and clever, inspired by Hogan’s
interactions with people he has met. Their newest additions go by the names – ‘The
Tragedy of Tom Dooley’ (with tequila, aperol, lavender syrup and egg white), ‘Seeger
Seelbach’ and ‘Aqua Fresca’, all of which are defi nitely worth a try. Otherwise, you
simply cannot go wrong with Anti:dote’s lasting signatures, the ‘Corpse Reviver #2’ (gin,
homemade orange liqueur, homemade vermouth, lemon juice and absinthe) or the
‘Brown Derby’ (a blend of bourbon, grapefruit juice and honey syrup).
Capella Singapore
What could serve as a better reminder
that you are on a tropical island than
uninterrupted views of the South China Sea?
This cascading three-tiered swimming pool
set amidst the lush greenery of the hotel
grounds reminds us a litle of Ubud’s vast
rice paddy fi elds. You’re guaranteed to feel
worlds away from Singapore’s busy inner
city, making it the perfect place to unwind
after an eventful day of shopping and dining.
Plus, we reckon the roving peacocks give it an
extra special touch… more than ideal for any
romantic getaway. For a little extra privacy,
guests can opt to check into one the hotel’s
villas or manors, each boasting a private pool.
My Favourite Five:
Grain Traders
Grain Traders needs no introduction. This lunchtime eatery has taken like quinoa, bulgur wheat, soba noodles and sushi rice sitting beneath
Instagram by storm for its beautiful bowls of colourful, nutritious generous slivers of sous-vide salmon, roasted chicken, grilled steak,
allsorts. The concept is the same as you’d get from a conventional salad tataki tuna, slow-roasted pork or lentil patties. Instead of your run-of-
bar but this is no ordinary mix of limp greens. Brought to life by the lads the-mill salad fillers like plain beans and blanched veg, Grain Traders
that kicked off Kilo and Kilo at Pact, the industrial-chic space will entice goes ‘full gourmet’ with a mix of cold and hot veggies like roasted
you to dine-in rather than opt for a takeaway, preventing yet another butternut squash and sweet potato, charred furikake corn, mixed
sad desk lunch. And while the ‘lunch bowl’ concept isn’t exactly a new bean pico de gallo and apple kimchi. Then, your bowl is drizzled with
idea, we love Grain Traders for the quality of the ingredients they put imaginative dressings that would put the classic ‘balsamic and olive
into each and every bowl. It’s no wonder then that the lunchtime rush oil’ to shame. If you like things tangy, sweet and spicy all at once, then
has people queuing literally out the door, as a hard and fast-working opt for the tamarind chipotle vinaigrette. Need to clear your sinuses?
team of staff function like a well-greased conveyor belt, assembling Wasabi sauce has got you covered. To up the ante on your superfood
each dish with precision, generosity and haste! (Secret tip: while waiting quota, the beetroot feta yoghurt is as violently pink as it is nutritious.
in line, keep an eye out for free tables and don’t be afraid to ‘chope’/ Though, we’re suckers for the salty-sweetness of the miso caramel.
reserve your seat, as competition can get pretty fierce!) Once your combo is complete, simply #mixeatlove.
For a fixed price, you can either build your own bowl or pick from
the killer combinations on the menu. Think wholegrain superfoods 01-01/02/03 CapitaGreen Building, 138 Market Street, grain-traders.com
May May
Hidden in an elegant, colourful little shophouse on Tanjong Pagar’s Tras
Street, May May is a respite from the overshadowing, grey skyscrapers
overhead. Inside, the space is delightfully bright and airy, with a living
green wall and sunrays flooding in through the skylight. More a full-
fledged restaurant than a ‘lunch bowl’ eatery, it makes for a lovely dinner
venue too, with rich bowls of Lobster Noodles in coconut broth, Oven
Roasted Chilean Sea Bass with celeriac and Spiced Lamb with quinoa,
pickled papaya and okra. However, in the daytime, May May serves up
five unique bowls that range from healthy to straight up sinful, with well-
prepared proteins championing each dish. Choose between slow-cooked
Beef Rendang, Red Chilli Chicken or Braised Pork Belly if you’re really
looking for a treat. Though if you need to power through the afternoon
sans siesta (without a nap, that is), the lighter choices of Butter Poached
Cod with wakame or the Grilled Miso Aubergine with tofu will fill you
up without filling you out. As for the remaining bulk of your bowl, there
are only slight variations as each is paired with oven-roasted tomatoes,
grilled mushrooms, pickled lotus root and soft-cooked egg, with the
optional substitution of quinoa instead of rice.
If you’re niggling for some noodles, sidestep the rice bowls and choose
between May May’s Spicy Noodles section, which offers Cold Somen (with
grilled prawns, garlic chilli sauce, tobiko and crispy seaweed) or Warm
Somen (minced pork and their signature chilli sauce). Before heading back
to the office or exploring the neighbouring shophouses, take a cheeky
glance at the sweets menu, as dessert here can’t go amiss. May May is
famous islandwide for its Liu Sha Custard Doughnuts – a crispy-on-the-
outside-but-fluffy-inside doughnut ball bursting at the crumb with its
salted egg yolk custard filling! You have to be swift though, as only a limited
amount is prepared everyday and demand is very high!
DSTLLRY
Full disclosure: we love DSTLLRY for way more than its killer bowl
of Bara Chirashi Don at lunch hour. While definitely off the beaten
track for some (near Queensway), DSTLLRY is a sleek and sexy
space that specialises in bespoke cocktails and a monthly changing
Japanese-inspired omakase menu. Resembling a photographer’s
studio, the dimly lit bar buzzes with life as drinks are mixed and the
chefs behind the counter prep dishes with intense focus.
Typically reserved as an evening hideout, the lunch hour is not
to be underestimated, as the ‘chef’s choice’ menu is switched out
for a limited selection of delectable donburi. True fans will always
stick to a classic and that’s where the Bara Chirashi Don reigns
as champion. A dismantled Rubik’s cube of fresh salmon, tuna,
hamachi, dotted with vibrant orange spheres of ikura are hard to
resist no matter where you are, but by God are they seductive at
DSTLLRY. Marinated in a soy-mirin dressing to give it a hefty punch
of umami, you will want to savour it slowly.
Being a creative space, DSTLLRY isn’t afraid to bend the rules
a little bit… so trust your instincts and try their spin on the typical
donburi – ditching the don (rice) and serving their bara chirashi
with spicy ramen instead! Flavourful, filling and leaving just a bit
of a tingle on your lips, it is a meal you won’t soon forget. After a
lunch here, we imagine it won’t be long until you’re back for more.
The day menu also offers a melt-in-the-mouth Aburi Salmon Don
and a well-marbled Miyazaki A4 Wagyu Don. Though if you really
want to see DSTLLRY at its prime, return in the evening and tuck
into their 10-course omakase to truly make a journey out west
worthwhile.
My Favourite Five:
Wine Bars
By Justin Eeles I Images courtesy of participating outlets
With the recent explosion in the number of speakeasy cocktail bars and
craft beer drinking holes in Singapore, less attention has been given to
the city’s choice of wine bars, despite a rise both in the choice of bars
available and the number of wine drinkers in the city. Here we list five of
our top spots for enjoying a fine vintage or two with friends around town.
Caveau
Located bang in the middle of the Orchard shopping area, just off Scotts
Road, Caveau is brought to you by the same people as its neighbouring
Les Amis restaurant, a Singapore fine dining institution. This casual
wine and coffee bar is open all day (11am-11pm), attracting a regular
morning crowd for the quality of its beans, sourced from Singapore’s
highly respected Nylon roasters. With a small patisserie attached, it’s
the ideal place to take a break from shopping for well-deserved coffee
and cake. Come the evening and a different crowd arrives for the
well-stocked drinks list, which offers a selection of Old World wines
and rare whiskies at very competitive prices. Offering an enomatic elite
wine storage system, Caveau allows customers the chance to sample France, with prices starting at around $60++ a bottle. With a selection
six whites or reds in three separate measures, 25ml, 75ml or 150ml. of bar snacks and larger bites available, which includes everything from
These bottles are changed every month so there’s always something ham and cheese platters to lobster rolls and duck rilettes with crostini,
new to try if you’re not ready to purchase a bottle. Alternatively, opt Caveau is a great choice for a relaxed drink with friends.
for a Tasting Flight and let the resident sommelier choose a selection
of four wines for you for $50++. On the wine list, there are over 200 Caveau, 1 Scotts Road, 01-12 Shaw Centre, tel: 6737 2622,
labels to buy by the bottle, most originating from boutique wineries in caveaubar.com.sg
RilLette Bar
Located above the popular French restaurant Le Bistro du Sommelier, starting with the rabbit rillette and a glass of sweet unwooded
Rillette Bar is a hidden treasure, offering some of the best wines chardonnay before enjoying the richer foie gras terrine or charcuterie
available in Singapore in a charming rustic chic setting. With platters with a fruity red like the 2007 Les Vercots Pinot Noir. Apart from
whitewashed walls decorated artfully with kitchenware and casual the bar menu, visitors are free to order from the restaurant menu below
bench seating, this generous space is quite unlike anywhere else in the for more substantial meals prepared by Executive Chef Brandon Foo.
city. With its high ceiling and exposed wooden beams, you could quite The wine list offers offer 300 vintages, with wines by the glass
easily be in a barn in the French countryside. It’s not just the setting that changed on a daily basis, offering a choice of regular or premium wines.
screams French – the wine is almost exclusively from French vineyards Sommelier Maximilien Fedkiw curates a wine list that changes with
(there’s one just Italian wine on the menu) and so is the food. the seasonal menu from the kitchen, concentrating on established and
Rillette is a close relation to pâté, made from cooking salted meats cult wines from particular areas of France. The list is currently heavily
like pork or duck slowly in fat and then shredding the meat so it forms a focused on the Burgundy area, with Maximilien travelling extensively
rough paste. Here, as the name suggests, they serve an excellent selection around France each year in search of new and interesting vintages.
of homemade rillettes to accompany the wine, as well as other traditional
nibbles like house-smoked hams or rich foie gras terrine. We recommend Rillette Bar, 53 Armenian Street, tel: 633 31982, lebistrodusommelier.com
ô Batignolles
Located at the base of Club Street, this lively Parisian style wine bar is
busy every night, due to its fabulous location, great value for money
and good selection of wine. The French couple that opened the bar four
years ago wanted to create a little corner of Paris in Singapore and the
result was an instant success. Its position on the corner of Club Street
and Gemmill Lane, with seating that spills out onto the pavement, is
instantly recognisable to fans of the French capital. The wine list offers
six whites and reds by the glass together with a monthly special also
available by the glass. By the bottle, the list is split into the price ranges
of $35-$50, with six bottles of white and red available, $52-$70, with 10
of each available and over $70, with eight whites and nine reds on offer.
For Singapore, these are exceptional value – there are not many other
places where you can buy a Châteauneuf du Pape for just over $100.
Wines are now also available to take home at a lower price ($66 for the
Châteauneuf du Pape) so if you find something you like, take it with you!
To accompany the wine, the food menu includes charcuterie and cheese
platters as well as some new healthier options like salads and vegetarian
dishes. Service is friendly and the atmosphere very much like a busy
bistro in the Parisien district the bar is named after.
With the whole of Club Street on its doorstep, Ô Batignolles is an
ideal place to begin an evening out on the town - although with prices like
these, you may find yourself staying longer than planned.
Merchants
With three outlets now in Singapore, Merchants has expanded at quite a rate
since opening in PasarBella three years ago. This Aussie husband and wife team
has created a wine co-operative with select vineyards in Australia and New
Zealand, enabling them to bring over small boutique wines at very competitive
prices. With the vineyards themselves partners in the business, Merchants enjoys
a busy wine calendar of events, tastings and dinners, meaning customers get
regular access to the wine makers themselves in Singapore. Designed as a wine
shop that sells food, guests can browse the many vintages on display before
making their choice. With a casual laid-back atmosphere, Merchants is an ideal
place to get to know some of the smaller producers from across 26 regions of
Australia and New Zealand while enjoying a bottle or two with friends. Wines by
the glass change every month, with four white, one rosé and five reds available.
Prices for bottles range from $35 to $155, with discounts available for take out
bottles. Merchants now also exists in two lively heritage areas, on Duxton Road
in Tanjong Pagar and on Joo Chiat Road in Katong, so if you’re exploring these
historic enclaves, be sure to drop by for a sundowner. Each outlet offers a menu
of freshly made snacks, charcuterie and cheese platters and a selection of larger
bites – outlets are open all day, serving brunch, coffee, lunch and dinner.
Wine Connection
One of the most popular wine shops/bars in
Singapore, Wine Connection has expanded fast over
the past nine years and now has retail outlets across
the city-state. Offering a selection of very affordable
lesser-known new and old world wines in a casual
wine shop setting, the chain has opened four bistros
and a cheese bar to date. This expansion is showing
no signs of slowing down, due to their ongoing
popularity amongst both the local and expat crowd.
For a wide selection of wines by the glass, cold cuts
and an extensive choice of cheese, we recommend
the original Robinson Walk outlet. Split into a wine
shop/bar and a separate cheese room, this offers both
inside and al fresco seating. Apart from all the wines
on display, the drinks menu also offers craft beers and
ciders. With over 40 different cheeses flown in from
Europe every week, snacks include salads, tartines
and even raclette – something to warm the soul on
those long cold winter nights! However, if you’re after
a more substantial meal, their largest property is just
around the corner, offering a western menu of at very
competitive prices.
Boot
Camps
in
Singapore
By Marissa Trew I Images courtesy of participating outlets
Kilter Avenue
The folks at Kilter Avenue know that weekends are for sleeping in, so they hold their classes no earlier than 10am! However,
that is where their mercy ends. The classes take place every Saturday and are ideal for people of all fitness levels. The trainers
at Kilter will push you to your limits through sets of bodyweight drills and dynamic exercises that incorp rate functional
strength and cardio movements. Currently, their most regular class, aptly titled Stairway to Heaven, is a gruelling but satisfying
HIIT session (high intensity interval training) at the base of Fort Canning’s notoriously steep stairway (Hill Street), entailing
variations of push ups, sit ups and mountain climbs. They also host special guest trainers that focus on a particular craft or
fitness discipline, like capoeira and zumba, to put your moves to very good use! Perhaps our favourite part of all is Kilter
Avenue’s positive approach to fitness, and their belief that everything is about balance. You won’t find anyone promoting juice
cleanses or diet fads here; instead the dedicated team teach the philosophy that you simply need to treat your body with the
care it deserves. Their self-empowering attitude definitely makes the “boot” in “boot camp” feel a lot less like a kick to the
backside and it is always a pleasure to know that it is perfectly acceptable to occasionally have your cake and eat it too!
For more information, visit kilteravenue.com
UFIT
The award for the most diverse offerings has to go to UFIT, who host not
one but nine different boot camp classes based on guests’ preferred forms
of exercise. For the everyday workout warrior, the UFIT class caters to all
levels and covers all basic fitness modes like flexibility, core work, power
and speed, with plenty of strength work thrown in for good measure. If
you can’t deny yourself the rush of a good old fashion HIIT session, the
OZFIT class is sure to get those muscles fired up. More challenging still is
HITFIT, combining the best of both UFIT and OZFIT classes to rev up your
metabolism through dynamic circuits using kettle bells, medicine balls, TRX
bands and more! (Be advised – this class is not for the faint at heart and
is best suited for more experienced ‘campers’). Running away from your
usual routine? Pick up the pace with RUNFIT – a cardio-focused class that
will you get you from the couch to the trail in no time. Though this is no
stroll in the park – the coaches will have you and your newfound running
crew sprinting, tackling hills and climbing stairs against the clock! Those
short on time will love QuickFit, compacting the hour-long workout into an
intense 45 minutes. UFIT also hosts SHEFIT (women only), BOXFIT (boxing
drills, cardio and strength circuits), YOGAFIT (combining Vinyasa yoga with
HIIT cardio) and finally, Tanjong Beach Boot Camp, perfect for a change of
scene. In fact, all their classes are hosted at various meeting points on the
island (ranging from East Coast Park to Fort Canning and even MacRitchie
Reservoir), so you can get plenty of fresh air during your workout.
Ritual
Stripping away any excuse of simply ‘not having enough time’ in our of bodyweight and strength exercises designed to build strength,
day to workout, Ritual is a studio that specialises in highly efficient function, mobility and cardiovascular health without the need for
20-minute boot camps that are guaranteed to get you in and out of any fancy equipment or treadmills. Despite its name, the workouts
the door in 30 minutes flat. Better yet – they hold 10 sessions a day, so at Ritual are far from being repetitive. The workouts change daily
you can pick a time that suits your schedule on any given week. Ritual (and can be found scrawled on a board in the gym), keeping you on
even provides active wear and shower facilities so you won’t have to your toes and preventing you from hitting a fitness plateau. Before
lug around a duffel bag containing the undoubtedly sweaty aftermath. you leave, make a pit stop at the Fuel Bar, where you can pick up a
Simply put, none of our clichéd excuses will ever work here, so we may nutritious meal replacement shake to keep your hunger pangs at bay
as well buckle down and get involved. before getting on with the rest of your day.
Practicing the motto of training the body “as the machine,
not with machines,” every session at Ritual involves a dynamic set For more information, visit ritualgym.com
to Surf
deep seas by trying something completely different and way
more challenging? Packed with an additional fun factor, we
introduce to you Surfset.
If you are intimidated by the unpredictability of seawaters, Surfset is
perfect for you! Surfset is essentially surf-inspired core and fitness training,
By Linette Leong or simply put, indoor surfing. The surfboards are balanced on top of three
Images courtesy of Surf Set and Justin Eeles bouncy balls, thus mimicking the instability of actual waters.
Located along the historic shophouses of Katong, Surfset I was privileged to be coached by two superb instructors, Ashley and
Singapore is the first of its kind in Asia. The cosy little studio houses up Shuyi, in the Balance and Core class. Both of them were encouraging,
to 10 students, and each session lasts for 45 minutes. There are three motivational and very helpful. If you do not have any background in any
main classes to choose from – Balance, Core and Sweat. The Balance other forms of fitness classes, these thoughtful instructors will adjust
class is recommended for beginners and once you have acquainted the level of difficulty of the movements based on your fitness level.
yourselves to the surfboards, feel free to try out the Core and Sweat With no prior experience in surfing, I embarked on my first ever
classes. surfing adventure. They say that the first step is the hardest, but in my
rolling O
ne of the joys of living in Singapore is the access to
a selection of excellent spa facilities, most of which
are located in the city’s top hotels. Last year, the
stones
ranks of world-class spas available in the city-state
grew further with the opening of One Farrer Hotel
and Spa. This impressive urban resort-style property,
located in the historic cultural enclave of Farrer Park, offers travellers a
refreshing change of scene from the city’s more established properties
surrounding the CBD.
By Ben Wu I Images courtesy of One Farrer Spa It also offers one of the best spa facilities in Singapore, with a list of
treatments geared towards both men and women. These include rituals,
facials, body treatments, retreats for men, massage, mani and pedi
essentials, waxing services and a hair salon.
Dempsey
Style
Images courtesy of CeccottiCollezioni and Asiatique Collections
Green Spaces
Text & Photos by Justin Eeles
www.nowsingapore.co.id October
www.nowsingapore.co.id October -- DECEMber 2016 99
cool hoods
www.nowsingapore.co.id October
www.nowsingapore.co.id October -- DECEMber 2016 101
cool hoods
www.nowsingapore.co.id October
www.nowsingapore.co.id October -- DECEMber 2016 103
cool hoods
MacRitchie Reservoir
Walkers around this picturesque stretch of
water may be outnumbered by joggers by
three to one, but that doesn’t negatively affect
the experience – this is one of Singapore’s
more impressive natural parks. Offering hiking
trails, kayaking and a stunning tree-top walk,
MacRitchie is Singapore’s oldest reservoir and
offers walkers a good choice of trails through
the forest ranging from an easy 90 minutes to
a challenging five hours. Alternatively take it
easy, relax by the water-side and meet some of
the local macaque inhabitants.
Online
Ola Cocina Del Mar Alaturka International Manicur.ious
#01-06 Marina Bay Financial Centre Turkish & Mediterranean Restaurant 41 Beach Road
news
Tower 3, 12 Marina Blvd 16 Bussorah Street Singapore 189 680
Tel: +65 6604 7050 Singapore 199437 Tel: +65 6333 9096
olarestaurant.sg Tel: +65 6294 0304 E: info@manicurious.sg
alaturka.com.sg manicurious.sg
Sabio
5 Duxton Hill VEGETARIAN Mythology
Singapore 089591 88 Club Street You can find all
Tel: +65 6690 7562 Lingzhi Vegetarian Singapore 069456 these online
E: info@sabio.sg Liat Towers #05-01 Tel: +65 6223 5570
sabio.sg 541 Orchard Road my-thology.com at www.
Singapore 238881 nowsingapore.co.id
Sabio By The Sea Tel: +65 6734 3788 Spa Esprit Downtown
31 Ocean Way lingzhivegetarian.com 290 Orchard Road, #05-10 Paragon withs clickable links
#01-02 Quayside isle Singapore 238859 to all the website
Singapore 098375 Loving Hut Tel: +65 6836 0500
Tel: +65 6690 7568 229 Joo Chiat Road #01-01 spa-esprit.com and emails. If you
sabio.sg/bythesea Singapore 427489 wish to subscribe
Tel: +65 6348 6318 Spa Esprit at Beauty Emporium
Salt Tapas & Bar www.lovinghut.com.sg House 8d Dempsey Road, Level 2 to our monthly
#01-22A Raffles City Shopping Singapore 249672 newsletter simply
Centre, 252 North Bridge Road Tel: +65 6479 0070
Tel: +65 6837 0995 SHOPS & BOUTIQUES spa-esprit.com go online and
salttapas.com click ‘newsletter’
Ana Boutique Strangelets
UNA 86 Club Street, Singapore 7 Yong Siak St. and you will be
Tapas, 1 Rochester Park Singapore 069454 Singapore 168644 subscribed.
Tel: +65 6773 0070 Tel: +65 6221 2897 Tel: +65 6222 1456
una.sg anaboutiques.com strangelets.sg