Weekender #96

WK96B/MCI(P)119/08/2014

ISSUE 96 AUg 29 - SEP 4, 2014

weekender.com.sg

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5 Mostunusual parks around the world

THIS WEEK’S COVER WAS VOTED BY:

Noraidah Sudri, Joey Foo, Jocelyn Joy Gwee, Alison Chu, Charmaine Yang, Darren Teng Zhi Hin, Jaslin Purification, Dennis Tan, Weiping Leong, Geri Tan, Kwek Fu Xuan, Sophia Ang, Zhang Jie, Loon Yun, Fu Qizhuang, Sin Li Jiao, Ivy Poon, Haoyuin Kong Look out for next week’s cover options for you to choose from at www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

Marina Bay sands’ epicurean

Market10 pairs

of 3-day access passes to be won!

CatCh samurai X’s swordPLaY

enTerTAInmenT

T r Av e l AT I o n

hello kitty scale-Model

airplanesto be won!

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Pg 4

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FUN @ SENTOSA

To find ouT more acTiviTies and

promoTions on senTosa, scan here

senTosa Buskers fesTival 20146-14 Sep, from 4.30pmJaw dropping sword swallowing acts, a grumpy Queen Victoria, highly-entertaining clown jugglers and a sizzling-hot fire tribal performance are just some of the captivating performances that you can expect at Sentosa Buskers Festival!

Soak in the lively atmosphere and watch the characters come to life with physical comedy, musical talents and circus skills as the buskers bring everyone together regardless of cultural background. Gather your loved ones for this one festival not to be missed!

Beach Plaza - Palawan Beach

okToBerfesT 20146 Sep, 6pm till late$88*/Adult, $48*/Child, $108/Adult (Includes 2 Erdinger Beers)Come celebrate the world’s most-loved beer festival and time-honoured German festive heritage. Bask in the festival ambience and celebrate with your buddies this Oktoberfest. Wave House Sentosa, Siloso Beach

food from The hearTMon-Sun, 6pm–11.30pm*From $65++ per person*Indulge in your favourite comfort food, whether home is Singapore or elsewhere in the world, when our chefs transform simple global classics into witty, delightful renditions.

Every Friday and Saturday, the kitchen table presents “Seafood from the Heart”, a twist from “Food From The Heart” – a delectable addition to the gastronomical spread*.

The Kitchen Table, W Singapore, Sentosa Cove

senTosa spookTacular 2014Jointly produced with GTH 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 31 Oct & 1 Nov, 7pm-1am$56.60^ (Advance Ticket), $46.60^ (Sentosa Islander Members), $66.60 (Standard Ticket)Get ready for a whole new extreme experience this Halloween! Experience the dark come to life in the new Spooktacular haunted village – Laddaland – with horror features from the movies Alone, Countdown and The Swimmers. Fort Siloso

^Valid till 30 Sep. *Terms & Conditions apply.

hoTpanTsUntil 30 Aug, 3pm & 8pm (Mon–Thurs & Sat), 8pm (Fri), 2pm (Sun), $40 onwardsSet in the early 1970s, Hotpants is Dick Lee’s revival of his 1997 musical. It features ten quirky and endearing characters coming to terms with the changing times. It focuses on the journey of three mother-daughter pairs whose lives take a turn when the three schoolmates decide to join an inter-school Talentime.National Library Drama Centre Theatre, 100 Victoria Street, www.sistic.com.sg

knuffle Bunny: a cauTionary musicalUntil 7 Sep, 11am (Sat), 1pm (Sun), $30A fun-filled musical adventure about our heroine Trixie (a too-cute toddler learning to speak), Daddy (her well-meaning father), Knuffle Bunny (her beloved stuffed animal), and their

free! pandamonium @ capiTamalls 30 & 31 Aug, 12pmIn keeping with the spirit of Panda Party, join the pre-party at Ion Orchard on 30 and 31 Aug. Panda mascots Kai Kai and Jia Jia will be making a public appearance to surprise panda fans. Also, stand a chance to win tickets to the Panda Party happening on Sep 5. Ion Orchard

puma nighT run singapore1 Nov, $59Set against the city’s idyllic resort destination, this will be the very first night race to be organised on Sentosa. Run enthusiasts are brought across different parts of Singapore as a twist is added to the typical race route.

Take up the 10km race challenge, and look forward to exciting performances by popular local band The Sam Willows and 53A, as well as DJ gigs after the race.Sentosa, go.puma.com/nightrunsg

ENjOyAblE & EXCITINg OpTIONS FOR All AgES

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Breaking Boundaries - Vertical Artistry by Bobbi’s Pole Studio

QuesTion 1 (29 aug) in this year’s sentosa

spooktacular, what will fort siloso be transformed into?

theatre family

big trip out to the Laundromat. This theatrical event is recommended for kids aged 2 to 9 years old.Ulu Pandan CC Theatrette

The nighTingale Until 14 Sep, 10am & 2pm (Tue-Fri), 11am & 2pm (Sat & Sun), $22 onwardsWatch the refreshing new take on Hans Christian Andersen’s well-loved fairy tale. The Nightingale is a joyful burst of song that reminds us all to appreciate and value the world around us.

Enchanted by the lilting birdsong, the little Emperor captures and keeps her in a gilded cage for his daily entertainment.DBS Arts Centre, 20 Merbau Road, www.sistic.com.sg

The color run singapore 201430 & 31 Aug, 12pmLess about your 10-minute-mile and more about having the time of your life, The Color Run is a 5-km, un-timed race in which thousands of participants, or “Color Runners”, are doused from head to toe in different colors at each kilometre. Sentosa

Visit Weekender website at www.weekender.com.sg/WeekenderSpooktacular or www.facebook.com/weekendersgp and stand to win a pair of Sentosa Spooktacular preview night tickets for Oct 9!

Terms & Conditions apply

SENTOSASpOOkTACUlAR

Scan the QR code to get the answer!

29–30 Aug, 7pm–2am

Featuring an explosive line-up of local and international artists, the Singapore Night Festival returns this year with a

Bold and Beautiful theme. Enjoy a night of spectacular performances surrounded by

magical lights.

Immerse yourself in performances, artistic architecture and much more at the Bras Basah Bugis Precinct. The festival will

be held in several locations in the area, National Museum Singapore, Singapore

Management University (SMU), Armenian Street, Cathay Green (Opposite SOTA) and

the Singapore Art Museum.

Admission is free for all who are interested, and will go on late into the night. Don’t miss your chance to catch Singapore’s

hottest artistic festival of the year!

Various locations, www.brasbasahbugis.sg/SNFPortal

singapore nighT fesTival

weekender.com.sgAUGUST 29 - SepTember 4, 2014

AUGUST 29 - SepTember 4, 2014

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f E a t u r E d E v E n t & G i v E a w a y

Marina Bay Sands’ Epicurean MarketPartake in a day of savouring fine food and wine within an amazing indoor garden picnic-themed setting

This year’s Epicurean Market offers a stellar line-up of celebrity chefs, a curation of only the freshest produce, as well as talks and tutorials on how you can bring a little bit of that magic into

your own home. Foodies, don’t miss out!

Culinary VeteransThe world-class line-up of celebrity chefs includes David Thompson (Long Chim) and Tetsuya Wakuda (Waku Ghin), and local talent Justin Quek (Sky on 57). Other award-winning chefs include Nancy Silverton and David Myers.

Culinary fanatics can also look forward to a mystery box cook-off between executive chefs Jonathan Kinsella (db Bistro Moderne) and David Almany (Osteria Mozza). The two superstars will go head to head in a cook-off using only the ingredients provided in a mystery box.

PriZes tO Be GiVen:- 5 Pairs of 3-Day Access Passes to

Epicurean Market, with Wine Glasses [Total value/pair: $120]

- 5 Pairs of 3-Day Access Passes to Epicurean Market [Total value/pair: $46]

Win a pair of passes for yourself simply by following the instructions.

tO Win:Either1. Visit the website at

www.weekender.com.sg/weekender-mbs-epicurean-giveaway/ and fill in the form; or

2. Like and share our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/weekendersgp and look for this giveaway on our page and follow the instructions to fill in the form.

ONLY 1 ENTRY PER PERSON, PLEASE.GIVEAWAY PROMOTION PERIOD: 21 AUG - 3 SEP (Midnight)

Master Class HiGHliGHtsDiscover the king of Cognacs, Louis XIII de Rémy Martin, available to the public for the first time ever, and take a peek into the history of vermouth and aromatised wines, with Marina Bay Sands’ mixologist Lucas Swallows.

Taste fresh handmade pasta at the Mozza booth and learn from the masters to make your own orecchiette by hand.

Eco-conscious foodies can look forward to a sharing from executive chef Christopher Christie, who presents a sustainability-themed workshop.

Aspiring junior bakers can take part in an interactive workshop with db Bistro Moderne’s Executive Pastry Chef Benjamin Siwek.

Marina Bay Sands’ Epicurean Market, 12-14 Sep. Tickets are available at $23 from Sistic, www.marinabaysands.com/epicurean-market, Marina Bay Sands Box Offices, or call Tel: 6688 8826.

Marina Bay SandS’ EpicurEan MarkEt

10 Pairs Of 3-day aCCess Passes tO Be WOn!

neW! Best Of Maria COrderO 201330 Aug, 8pm, $38 onwardsPerhaps best known by her nickname, “Fat Mama”, Maria Cordero will be entertaining the crowd with renditions of eternal classics like “Save My Life” and “The Light of Friendship”. The audience can also look forward to her ever hilarious jokes. Resorts World Theatre, Resorts World Sentosa, www.sistic.com.sg

BeatleMania5-6 Sep, 8pm, $55 onwardsBeatles tribute ban Beatlemania comes to Singapore with a musical

story exploring the history and journey of the Beatles. Employing authentic Beatles instruments, amplifiers and costumes, coupled with musically-perfect renditions of your favourite Beatles classics, Beatlemania On Tour will have audiences raving about the concert long after it ends. Grand Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, www.sistic.com.sg

neW! free! Heineken Cities festiVal

30 AugThe Heineken Cities Festival is a unique, one-of-a-kind urban street festival on 30th August at Ann Siang Hill and Club Street. It is part of the Heineken “Cities of the World” campaign which aims to inspire one to open their city and discover new gems and experiences.Various locations, www.facebook.com/Heineken

fasHiOn tV BeaCH festiVal 201430 Aug, 11am till late, $38The world’s most glamorous beach party is back for the second year running. 5,000 partygoers and 350 million viewers will be celebrating sun, sand, sea and style on the shores of Sentosa. With the world’s hottest labels taking centre stage, the festival encapsulates this city’s status as tropical paradise and fashion capital.Tanjong Beach Club, Sentosa

neW! Writer-in-tHe-Gardens residenCy PrOGraMMeUntil 31 AugOpen call to all writers in Singapore who write in English, Chinese, Malay or Tamil. Selected writers will be given residency and resources to develop their writing talents. At the end of the six-month programme, writers will produce their own original work of poetry, fiction or creative non-fiction. www.nac.gov.sg

Pesta raya 2014Until 31 AugThe Esplanade hosts the 2014 Malay Festival of Arts from Aug 28 to 31. Comprising both ticketed and free performances, the festival features a curation of some

For more interesting weekend ideas and entertainment stories, like & follow us at www.facebook.com/ weekendersgp

of the best traditional and contemporary Malay artists presenting vibrant works of dance, theatre and music.The Esplanade, 1 Esplanade Drive, www.esplanade.com

Prudential sinGaPOre sWiM stars 5 Sep, 7–9pm, $30-$160The best swimmers in Singapore go head to head with some of the most exciting talents around the world. Showcasing talents from 18 different countries, people are already calling this event the most exciting swimming event ever.OCBC Aquatic Centre

neW! Mardi Gras tHeMe at 1-altitude19 Sep, $68Latino bands and dancers will being spicing up this early hours of 1 Altitude’s F1 celebrations. Accompanied with pizza and refreshing

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others

concerts

cocktails, get ready for the night of a lifetime with an international line-up and Gelato shots.1-Altitude, 1 Raffles Place, www.1-altitude.com

Café fest sinGaPOre6–7 Sep, $20Café Fest is Singapore’s inaugural consumer event where 15 of the best cafes across the island are invited to share their passions in the art of coffee and food. In the true spirit of the growing cafe culture in Singapore, Café Fest aims to bring together the community from all walks of life through good coffee and company.Marina Bay Sands, The Waterfront Promenade, www.cafefest.sg

free! BOOks tHat MOVed MeUntil 31 Aug, 10am–9pmRevisit fading memories about reading – memories on books and reading spaces. Be intrigued by a total makeover of the covers of 40 well-loved titles, reinterpreted based on the artists’ own memories. They are showcased in selected MRT trains and in the National Library Building main lobby.National Library Building, 100 Victoria Street, www.nlb.gov.sg

free! tHe liGHtness Of siGHtseeinGUntil 4 Sep, 10am–10.30pmDeng Cheng Wen’s blind walking series is on the allegorical theme of the survival of the next generation. It captures the collective ambition, ignorance and emotional flurry within the young Chinese. Deng believes that the young Chinese are crowding around and pushing forward, seeming to only be drawn to the unknown and dangerous path.Ode to Art Platform, Raffles City Convention Centre, www.facebook.com/odetoart.gallery

#eatdrinkartUntil Sep 5To celebrate their third birthday, Mad Nest is hosting a collection of food art exhibitions featuring the creations of 14 promising young talents. Visitors can expect to be pampered with the amazing artwork from the likes of Ultraviolets Design, Limzy and many more. Mad Nest, 378/380 East Coast Road, www.madnest.sg

exhibitions

sCM 20tH anniVersary: flasHes Of CHinese CineMaUntil 31 Aug, 10am–10pmIn commemoration of its 20th anniversary, STAR Chinese Movies (SCM), a subsidiary of FOX International

Channels, will host a showcase of iconic film posters featuring movies from 1994 to 2013. These film posters, which are significant and have impacted the movie industry, will be showcased across three locations until Sep 14.Tampines Mall, 4 Tampines Central 5

Wine fair @ Wine uniVerse29 Aug, 4-8 pm, 30 Aug, 1-6pm, various pricesExpert advice and free wine tasting at Wine Universe this weekend. Enjoy an evening surrounded by a curation of 24 exclusive labels of wines. Certain wines will be available for purchase with up to 50% discount.Wine Universe, #01-1079 Raffles Boulevard

fairs

PeG Mid-autuMn sOCial fairUntil 7 Sep, 10am-10pmPrivilege Enterprise Group Holdings Pte Ltd (PEG) is holding its inaugural Mid-Autumn Social Fair at 112 Katong and Anchorpoint malls, now on until Sept 7.

Expect exciting performances, celebrity appearances, game shows and lucky draw prizes to be won.

Enjoy free mooncake tasting from PEG’s various hotel partners, and special tea tasting. There will also be singing performances by students from Music Story and its Founder, Mediacorp celebrity Fang Zhong Hua. Mediacorp artiste and comedienne Abigail Chay will also choreograph a short, interesting musical performance.

PEG is bringing 500 elderly folks from United Medicare Center (UMC) Toa Payoh, Lee Ah Mooi Old Age Home, Lions Befrienders Club and various elderly homes to join in the festivities. Visit the PEG Mid-Autumn Social Fair, open daily, and support the social enterprise and get your favourite mooncakes at a good price too!112 Katong and Anchorpoint malls

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weekender.com.sg

An Elite Junior College – Worth the torture?

Yak & CrowWe solemnly swear to yak about

local hot-topic issues or crow about our opinions on Singaporean

culture

by the Wall Street Journal and students from Raffles usually end up as bankers, lawyers or doctors, and many shining examples of success in society can be drawn from their alumni, including our Minister Mentor Mr Lee Kwan Yew.

But all this at what cost? The elitism in the school is easy to see, with the cohort having been filtered four times in nationwide exams.

Making FriendsSeow Wan Yi, from the pioneer batch of the Raffles Programme, says, “You theoretically know around 40 per cent of your cohort since they came from RGS or RI.”

She further apologises on behalf of the Rafflesians who come from the feeder single-gender schools.

“I’m sure there are many who balk at how RJC is filled with RI and RGS students who clique together, etc. I’m sorry if you had a bad experience, I really am,” she says.

JC Was a shalloW PlaCeXu Bei Xi, talks about RJC being a benign prison, and about withdrawing if you’re not “one of the gang”. There was no in-built friend base waiting for Bei Xi as a safety net. JC was a pretty shallow place, as far as Bei Xi could remember.

Bei Xi observes RJC is fairly friendly to those who fit the mould – extroverts, leaders, talents, the athletic, the brilliant, and the beautiful. And merely one of those qualities is not enough.

Elite institutions: For higher aspirations or depths of imprisonment?

Our writer takes a candid look at what some ex-Rafflesians have to say

Hailing from any of the three Raffles schools identifies you as a Rafflesian – elite for life. But is it worth the torture?

RI (JC) students have an exceptionally rigorous curriculum. Besides maths and science being stressed upon, they are encouraged to take up three co-curricular activities.

Ultra-high standardsThe standards set by Raffles teachers are high, and drive the students to aim higher. Many students also remember certain teachers, who they talk about having inspired them to “reach higher” and started a “passionate fire” in them about the subjects they were studying.

Gabriel Seah says old RJC had a culture of doing more than what is necessary, like taking up S-paper subjects (Now known as H3 subjects) and going for four A level subjects instead of the mandatory three.

ivy leagUe MaChineRaffles is called the “Ivy League Machine”

The premiere of Cavalia saw majestic horses and a magical visual spectacle – we also reveal a bit of the VIP treatment

Weekender was invited to the premiere of Cavalia on Aug 12. A one-of-a-kind homage to the bond between human and horse, the show comprises stunning equestrian and performing arts such as acrobatics and aerial stunts.

Cavalia was conceived by Normand Latourelle, co-founder of Cirque du Soleil. Those who are familiar with the acclaimed circus and artistic performance troupe will know that one can expect a visual spectacle.

More than horsing aroUndCavalia features 50 horses and 46 riders, aerialists, acrobats, dancers and musicians from around the world. The Cavalia herd comprises 11 different breeds of horses such as Arabian, Spanish

Majestic creatures & magical spectacle

the soCial CostAdam Adhiyatma, another ex-RJCian, says that the largely homogeneous student body is a handicap in society. He cites the problem of not speaking fluent Malay or Hokkien in the armed forces and talking to girls outside of his circle.

“Head as far out as the clubs in Clarke Quay and you might realise that the average girl has no interest in Heart of Darkness or Othello, and you are incapable of having a conversation with them,” he explains.

“JC killed My interest For everything else”Wan Yi further has this to say: “JC killed my interest for everything else. I still managed to get a decent enough grade to go to a local uni and study my subject of choice, but one of my close friends didn’t make it altogether.”

“She stopped coming to school completely by the second half of the second year –

afraid of school, afraid of the teachers; you are sick and tired of everything...”

She also cites the urban legend that RJC has the highest suicide rate and the ugly green metal grating on the third floor was to prevent jumpers. She shares of an actual suicide from the class next door. The student walked out during a GP essay exam and jumped from a block of flats in Woodlands.

Wan Yi sums up her RJC experience as a very depressing one: The teachers did not provide support – there was no one to turn to for help. Her close friends were struggling almost as badly as she was, and the bright ones in her class happened to be the selfish ones.

so, is it all Worth it? “Auspicium melioris aevi [omen of a better age],” the ex-RJCians chorus their school motto.

By Justin Lim

Weekender Group Pte Ltd71 Ubi Road 1, #06-37, Oxley BizHub 1, S408732 Tel: +65 6493 2001 E-mail: [email protected]# 201212438E MCI (P) 119/08/2014

wEEkENDErEditorial DirectorFrank [email protected]

Editor Lester J Wan

Art Director June Law

Sales Director David Phey

Advisor James Yip

DistributionLawrence Tan

Sales Erwin Lim [email protected]

Freddy LeeSyarila Zainal

Disclaimer: The illustrations, photographs, views and statements expressed by our contributors, bloggers, illustrators, or writers do not necessarily reflect the views of Weekender Group Private Limited. Weekend-er Group Private Limited does not warrant the accuracy, reliability, currency or completeness of those views or statements and do not accept any legal liability whatsoever arising from any reliance on the views, statements and subject matter. © Copyright Weekender Group Pte Ltd. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, all rights in-cluding those in copyright in the content of this publication are owned by or controlled for these purposes by Weekender Group Pte Ltd. Copyrights to photographs, Illustrations, or any other forms of work which ap-pear in this publication provided by non-Weekender Group Pte Ltd contributors are owned and controlled their respective creators. Except as otherwise expressly permitted under copyright law or Weekender Group Pte Ltd, the content of this publication may not be copied, reproduced, republished, downloaded, posted, broad-cast or transmitted in any way without first obtaining our written permission or that of the copyright owner. Information accurate at time of writing.

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NEW EXPANDED MRT AREAS:Every Friday morning peak period. Subject to weather and traffic conditions.• Raffles Place • Chinatown • Dhoby Ghaut • City Hall • Downtown • Orchard • Somerset • Newton • Bugis • Woodlands • Admiralty • Sembawang • Yio Chu Kang • Khatib • Ang Mo Kio • Bishan • Toa Payoh • Bukit Gombak • Choa Chu Kang • Tampines • Tanjong Pagar • Buona Vista • Clementi • Redhill • Queenstown • Labrador • Yishun• Serangoon • Lavender • Boon Lay • Jurong East • Tiong Bahru • Marina Bay

Writer Cheryl Chia Nicole Lee

Designer Zoe Lai

Contributors Igert le RouxVictoria Harry TanChristine Winters Freda Saunders

CoordinatorRiki Zou

GETTING HARD COPIES:Weekender is delivered to hundreds of thousands of homes island-wide. You can also find copies (while supplies last) at:OvER 200 SElECTED 7-ElEvEN lOCATIONS ISlAND-WIDEFor actual locations, visit our website

Interns Basil Lee

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The only thing that betters the experience of majestic creatures in a magical show is getting up-close to them and seeing them being fed and groomed

Purebred, Percheron, Paint Horse and Comtois. All of them are majestic.

The company has reiterated its commitment to nurturing the horses and that their comfort and well-being are priority. When not performing, the horses get deep tissue massages, baths and proper daily healthcare to ensure humane treatment of the four-legged stars. The stables have also been climatized to suit the horses.

the Brave ConneCtionIf you think trainer and performer Fairland Ferguson resembles a certain animated character, your eyes aren’t deceiving you. The Disney team caught a Cavalia show with her in it and supposedly got the inspiration there for Merida from Brave.

Said Fairland, “Well, they didn’t come right out and say it, obviously, but they did come down in San Francisco and the next thing I knew, Brave came out. Her name is Merida Fergus and my name is Fairland Ferguson… I am flattered nonetheless!”

the viP exPerienCeOur Editor was given the full Rendez-vous VIP package experience, which includes access to the private Rendez-vous VIP Lounge 90 minutes before the show, during the intermission and after the show. This comes with complimentary food and beverage, and dessert, coffee and tea during the intermission.

The Rendez-vous VIP centre-row seats for the show gave an excellent view of the horses and their feats as well as the acrobatic aerialists up above. Nonetheless, the highlight was the exclusive stable tour after the show. All were thrilled to be in the presence of the magnificent horses and to take photos of them (without flash).

Cavalia is on until Sep 14. Tickets at $58+ to $188+ from www.cavalia.sg or Sistic.

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Did you know this about the greatest escape artist?

Before David Copperfield and David Blaine, one extreme entertainer mystified the world: Harry Houdini

Many would’ve heard about the legendary escape artist, Harry Houdini. Now, “Houdini”, a two-night miniseries about “the man who could defy death” comes to our screens.

The tale chronicles the life of the enigmatic Houdini through his stunts and some say mystical mastery of illusion. Adrian Brody stars as Houdini.

Here are 5 interesting facts about him.

1. Houdini was a stage name from a magician’s wifeHoudini’s original name was Erik Weisz. He admired French magician Jean Eugene Robert-Houdin and took the stage name “Houdini”.

The French magician added his wife’s last name to his own. Houdini had unwittingly derived his name from the magician’s wife. 2. He falsely claimed He was Born in americaHoudini claimed on several occasions to have been born in Wisconsin, USA, and not

Budapest, Hungary as stated in his birth records.

This was likely due to the xenophobia immediately before and after World War I. 3. tHe deatH of HoudiniHoudini died on Halloween day. There are a few purported causes of his death, such as that he died in the famed Chinese Water Tank trick, or after a Canadian student made several punches to his abdomen.

In reality, Houdini was nowhere near a stage when he died one week after his last performance. He had already ruptured his appendix prior to the punches. 4. Houdini & His wife are Buried separately Houdini and his wife worked together for all of their married life but were interred in two different cemeteries, in different counties in New York state.

Houdini was Jewish and buried in Queens, New York, in a Jewish burial plot. It was his wife’s wish to be interred beside him but it was denied. It is speculated that it’s because she wasn’t Jewish [She was Catholic]. 5. us postage stamp contains Hidden image of HoudiniTo honour Houdini’s prowess, the US Postal Service put a hidden image on its 2002 commemorative stamp. With a special viewing lens that could be obtained from the post office, one could see the image of Houdini in chains.

“Houdini” premieres Sep 2 & 3 (same day as USA), 9pm, on History, StarHub Ch 401.

After Match Week 2 of the EPL, the heat has been turned up – which football club will prevail and which will fall in Week 3?

Spurs have impressed under Pochettino and Chelsea have blitzed through their matches against the new boys – are the London teams set to dominate the Barclay’s English Premier League (EPL) this season?

We look at the results of some of the exciting matches last weekend and predict some of the big games coming up.

cHelsea 2-0 leicester cityIt seemed a straightforward match for title favourites Chelsea but the Foxes made life difficult for the Blues, causing some anxious moments that needed soothing by new No. 1 goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

Eventually, the home side proved to be a class above thanks to second half goals from Diego Costa and Eden Hazard.

everton 2-2 arsenalArsenal got out of jail with two goals in the last seven minutes. Everton were superb through-out the game and probably

ran out of steam in the closing stages.

sunderland 1-1 mancHester unitedThe good news for United fans is that they finally got the first point of the season. However, they looked out of sorts against a determined Sunderland despite taking the lead.

These are worrying times for United fans, with the jury out on some of the under-performing players.

otHer resultsTottenham 4-0 QPR; Aston Villa 0-0 Newcastle; Crystal Palace 1-3 West Ham; Southampton 0-0 West Brom; Swansea 1-0 Burnley; Hull 1-1 Stoke; Manchester City 3-1 Liverpool

Here are some of the potentially exciting matches in EPL Match Week 3.

*everton vs cHelsea (31 aug, 12.30am)This is Chelsea’s first real test after blitzing through the first two games against newly-promoted sides. Everton, however, have played two consecutive entertaining 2-2 draws, and will have to make sure they can last the distance, or be punished by a ruthless Chelsea. Prediction: Everton 1-2 Chelsea

*tottenHam vs liverpool #totliv (31 aug, 8.30pm)Mauricio Pochettino faces his first big test as Spurs boss after impress-ing with two wins out of two. But with Mario Balotelli set to make his EPL

debut, this will prove to be a tantalising affair. Prediction: Tottenham 2-2 Liverpool

*leicester city vs arsenal (31 aug, 11pm)Poor Leicester City. First Everton, then Chelsea and now Arsenal. However, the Gunners have yet to impress this season and that might encourage the Foxes to sneak in a result here. Still, Arsenal should find a way to get past this hurdle.Prediction: Leicester City 1-2 Arsenal

otHer fixtures *Burnley vs Manchester Utd; *Manchester City vs Stoke; Newcastle vs Crystal Palace; QPR vs Sunderland; Swansea vs West Brom; West Ham vs Southampton; Aston Villa vs Hull

By Ahmad Khan

*Exclusive “Live” commentary for the above EPL matches available on Red Card Sports Radio. Tune in to StarHub TV Channel 225 or download “StarHub TV Anywhere” App.

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Will Eden Hazard score again, against Everton?

Adrien Brody is the great

Harry Houdini

Will Santi Cazorla start from the bench?

EPL Week 2: The heat is on

aBout aHmad KHanAhmad Khan (@AhmadKhan12) is a presenter for Red Card Sports Radio.

He has the potty idea that football makes the world go round and is convinced that the beautiful game forges greater bonds than the United Nations.

Call 6281 1898 and join him in his rant about football every weekday from 6pm-8pm, on #RedCardDRIVETIME, and every weekend just before the EPL matches on #RedCardLIVE.



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Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Inferno

The reformed slayer is back and torn between his vow of peace and the fate of Japan

Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Inferno is the epic sequel to the 2012 film, Rurouni Kenshin, based on the popular manga and later anime.

Kenshin Himura is a legendary swordsman in the wars accompanying the turbulent fall of Japan’s shogunate. Once feared as “Battosai the Killer”, he has since returned to a peaceful life as a wanderer.

On the other hand, Makoto Shishio, the “Shadow Killer”, who succeeded Kenshin in the service of the new government, has been active in the Kyoto underworld. Shishio was betrayed by the new government, stabbed and had his body set on fire. He ultimately survived and, wrapped in bandages, has raised an army of disaffected former samurai with the aim of overthrowing the new regime.

The fate of the country hangs in the balance as Kenshin takes up the sword that he vowed never to draw again.

The Legend ConTinuesRurouni Kenshin (2012) was the first motion picture inspired by Kenshin the Wanderer: The Romance of the Meiji Swordsman (Shueisha Jump Comics), the monumental manga comic by Nobuhiro Watsuki. Kenshin’s popularity further ballooned with the anime series “Samurai X”.

Kenshin’s big-screen adventures continue with the Kyoto Arc adaptation (the best-loved segment of the anime and comics). Director Keishi Otomo merits a two-part treatment for the sequel: Kyoto Inferno and The Legend Ends.

A RefReshing TwisTThe film has made multiple deviations from the manga, from altered scripts and backstories to glaring changes in the sequence of events. Some iconic scenes from the manga have also been said to be omitted.

We’d say this creates a refreshing experience for fans of the “Kenshin the Wanderer” comic. The storyline also remains easy enough for newcomers to the lore to follow. Still, some fans may feel disappointed or annoyed by the deviations or differences.

showdown BeTween Two MAsTeR swoRdsMenTakeru Sato continues his spot-on portrayal of Kenshin, the formidable slayer-turned-wanderer who is asked by the government to pick up his sword once again for his country. Although a smooth-faced, softly-spoken master swordsman, he has the skill of a deadly assassin. Once again, he pulls off an intense, breathtakingly-revolutionary performance that will leave no viewer unmoved.

Shishio Makoto, the main villain of the movie, is played by Tatsuya Fujiwara of Battle Royale and Death Note, a familiar face to local anime fans and Asian film followers alike. Shishio Makoto’s piercing glare will make many swoon. Although he has to act behind the character’s bandages and his appearances in this film are relatively limited, Fujiwara owns the role as a heartless dictator leading through fear.

His principles run opposite to Sato’s Kenshin: Survival of the fittest versus the protection of the weak. This leaves much anticipation for the exciting fight scenes.

PuLse-Pounding ACTion sCenesJust like in the first movie, expect the fighting scenes and stunts to be top-notch in this sequel. It is commendable how Keishi and action choreographer Kenji Tanigaki (disciple of Donnie Yen) handle the on-screen action flawlessly. They maximised the beautiful impact of the many swordfighting scenes with cool, inventive moves and crisp pacing.

While CGI effects drain many action films of anything resembling realism, the CGI here is done so well that it gives much justice to the characters’ superhuman swordsmanship. A must-watch for anime and manga fans.

RuRouni Kenshin: KyoTo infeRno [Pg13]diReCToR: Keishi OtomosTARRing: Takeru Satô, Emi Takei &

Tatsuya FujiwaragenRe: ActionRun LengTh: 139 minReLeAse: 28 Aug

“The fate of the country

hangs in the balance as

Kenshin takes up the

sword that he vowed never

to draw again.”

The art of swordsmanshipLook out for the pulsating fight sequences

Beauty & the beast?Emi Takei stars as the beautiful Kaoru Kamiya

Death Note to death stareTatsuya Fujiwara, star of Death Note, plays menacing Shishio Makoto

A Samurai by any name...Whether as Battosai the Killer, Samurai X or Rurouni Kenshin, all know of his legendary skill

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A L s o I n T H e A T r e sm o v I e p r e v I e w

The November maN:

“The November Man” – after he passed, nothing lived

Drawn out of retirement for “one last job”, can “The November Man”, played by Pierce Brosnan (of Percy Jackson & the Lightning Thief, Mama Mia and Die Another Day) put aside his past to finish this one last assignment?

Veteran assassin Back in actionThe best in the business, Peter Devereaux was an extremely dangerous marksman trained by the CIA. He retired to a peaceful life in Switzerland and believed he had left his dark past behind.

Devereaux is yanked out of sanctuary for a final assignment - to protect a witness with vital information about the agency he works for. The task at hand gets complicated when he discovers the sheer power of the knowledge this witness possesses.

He also comes to discover that his former friend and prodigy, David Mason (played by Luke Bracey, who starred as Cobra Commander in GI Joe: Retaliation), has been tasked to stop him from successfully protecting valuable witness Alice Fournier.

Alice is portrayed by the ravishing Olga Kurylenko, famous for her roles in Oblivion, Quantum of Solace and Max Payne, among others. She also recently starred in the TV series “Magic City”, about Miami mobsters.

James Bond returnsBest known for his role as Remington Steele in the titular TV series in the ‘80s, and his much-anticipated donning of the mantle of James Bond, Pierce

Brosnan is no stranger to fancy gadgets and slick combat. Having starred in four James Bond films between 1995 and 2002 before making way for Daniel Craig, his legacy ended with his voice and likeliness being used in the James Bond video game in 2004.

Fortunately, Brosnan’s success did not die out with the Bond saga. After making way for the younger and more buff Craig, Brosnan continued to star in other big productions. He is also slated to appear in the next edition of The Expendables (4) in 2015. Yes, action heroes never die.

the main drawsBrosnan is perhaps the big name that will draw many of the film’s potential viewers but alongside him stand a cast of fresh young talent as well as action film regular Kurylenko. The Russian goddess is still as attractive as she was in Oblivion, opposite Tom Cruise, and most men would probably watch the film just for her.

Apart from Bracey, who was Cobra Commander, another fresh young star in the film is Eliza Taylor, who played one of the main characters, Clarke Griffin, in the sci-fi TV series “The 100”.

Whether or not you think this story or Pierce Brosnan is worth your money, the mix of old and new stars make this movie more appealing.

noVemBer man [nc16]director: Ronald DonaldsonstarrinG: Pierce Brosnan,

Olga Kurylenko, Luke Bracey & Eliza Taylor

Genre: Action, Thrillerrun LenGth: 108 minreLease: 28 Aug

“Alice is portrayed by the ravishing Olga Kurylenko, famous for her

roles in Oblivion, Quantum

of Solace and Max Payne...”

Devereaux (Pierce Brosnan) is the retired CIA marksman who is drawn out to protect Alice (Olga Kurylenko), a key witness

Does Alice have anything else to hide?

the swimmers [tBa]Two best friends and long-time rivals are trapped in a love triangle. When the girl is found dead in the very same swimming pool in which the three swimmers train, her boyfriend goes on a pursuit of vengeance to find the man responsible.

starrinG: Chutavuth Pattarakampol & Thanapob Leerantanakajorn

Genre: HorrorreLease: 28 Aug

the hundred-Foot Journey [tBa]Two restaurants on the brink of an all-out war produce a culinary talent the world has never seen before. Madame Mallory discovers her rival’s undeniable brilliance for preparing delicious meals.

starrinG: Helen Mirren, Manish Dayal & Om Puri

Genre: Comedy, DramareLease: 28 Aug

sin city 2: a dame to kiLL For [r21]The sequel to directors Rodriguez and Miller’s hit in 2005, Frank Miller’s Sin City, the film weaves together the cult classic tales and fresh new ones in the town’s deepest and darkest corners.

Featuring a stellar cast that includes Jessica Alba, Eva Green, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Lady Gaga and many more. starrinG: Jessica Alba, Joseph Gordon-

Levitt, Mickey Rourke & Rosario Dawson

Genre: Thriller reLease: 28 Aug

Lucy [PG]A sci-fi action-thriller from action-thriller master Luc Besson that examines the possibility of what one human being could truly do if she unlocked the full 100 per cent of her brain capacity.

Scarlett Johansson is the innocent Lucy who becomes a pawn and is then transformed into a deadly weapon.starrinG: Scarlett Johansson &

Morgan FreemanGenre: Action, ThrillerreLease: 21 Aug

tekken 2 [PG13]Waking up in an unfamiliar hotel room with no clue of how he got here and who he is, Kazuya Mishima embarks on a journey, through battles and conquests with an underground criminal organisation, to self-discovery.

Will he realise his true identity?starrinG: Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Gary

Daniels, Kane Kosugi & Kelly Wenham

Genre: ActionreLease: 21 Aug

Master versus apprentice

Luke Bracey, who starred as Cobra Commander in GI Joe: Retaliation, is no stranger to explosive action



Spider-Man comic artist coming to SingaporeMarvel comics’ Spider-Man illustrator Humberto Ramos will be coming for the Singapore Toy Game and Comic Convention in September – we caught him mid-swing

Comic artist Humberto Ramos has his hand in Spider-Man in Marvel’s “multi-verses” as well as his own books, Crimson and Out There.

Ramos comes to Singapore for the first time in September for the Singapore Toy, Game and Comic Convention (STGCC) to be held at Marina Bay Sands. We managed to catch him before his arrival.

You’ve been a comic artist for a long time; can you keep up with all the multiverses of all your characters? No [laughs], I don’t read comic books anymore. That’s the sad thing of doing this for a living. I don’t have that much free time [laughs] but when I have some, the last thing I want to do is read comic books.

I’m aware of what’s happening in the Marvel Universe because, as part of the Spider-Man team, we have to be aware of what’s going on in the other books. But that’s the best I do.

Will the recent Spider-Man movies have any impact on your current work in the new Amazing Spider-Man comic series? That’s why I have Dan Slott, writer for Amazing Spider-Man. And, I think it’s the other way round.

I think my work has some impact on how they portray Spider-Man in the movies, if I can say that [laughs].

Do you have a particular favourite piece of work? Yeah, I have pages that I like and pages that I keep for myself. Most of them are pages that are not filled with action or a big splash page or so. It’s mainly about images that I really enjoyed doing or that turned out better than anticipated or pages that nobody would care about.

Do you prefer creating your own comic series or working on already existing ideas such as X-men or Spider-Man? I think I like doing both. It’s a different set of rules. Both still are exciting.

It’s always great to have a chance to draw iconic characters like the Marvel characters but it’s also a big excitement to come up with your own ideas, trying to build your own universes, and have this thrill mixed with excitement while being nervous.

Who’s your favourite comic book villain and why? In the Marvel universe, I would say Thanos. I had never heard of Thanos prior to the Infinity Gauntlet (series) and reading about him through the pages and how this character can beat the crap out of every superhero in the Marvel universe was awesome.

Would you ever consider creating a series based in Singapore? Well, first I’d need to know the country; so, are you going to take me out for a tour?

By Cheryl Chia

The Singapore Toy, Game and Comic Convention takes place over Sep 6 & 7, at Sands Expo & Convention Centre, 10am-8pm. Visit www.singaporetgcc.com for tickets.

Rebel Without a Kitchen: Hard-hitting returnTantalise your taste buds and explore America’s favourite street food dishes with legendary TV chef Matthew Basile in Season 2 of “Rebel Without a Kitchen”

Fresh off the successful first season of “Rebel Without a Kitchen”, TV chef Matthew Basile enjoyed his first trip around the Americas so much that he’s back for more.

In Season 2 of “Rebel Without a Kitchen”, Matt is taking it up a notch with trips to New York and New Orleans in the USA and the likes of Montreal in Canada. Expect more exciting culinary exploits.

Matt is going out of the kitchen and onto the street. Aside from travelling, going coast-to-coast in North America, he will be sampling the growing independent street food trends and figure out what it means for chefs stuck in the kitchen.

Tune in to find out more!

PoP-UP King, “FiDel gAStro”Matthew Basile is the TV chef with an attitude. Popularly known as the pop-up king of Toronto and dubbed “Fidel Gastro”, Matt specialises in bringing together the inspirations of his North American family as well as his roots from his motherland in Italy. This has led to a wide array of innovative dishes and scrumptious menus from him, throughout his culinary life.

After breaking into TV, Matt relishes nothing more than to bring the best food in the world to people right at home, around the world. Don’t miss out on this gastronomic adventure.

gooDbYe HogtoWnContinuing from the end of the previous season, Matt’s first order of business in Episode 1 is to broaden his scope. Before embarking on his mammoth journey, he takes a trip to his home of Toronto where he will host one last event.

At the Canadian National Exhibition, he cooks up a storm and says an emotional goodbye to his friends and family. What mouth-watering dishes will his home inspire?

reADY, Set, CHoWDAIn Episode 2, Matt travels to the Clam Chowda Competition at the famous Boston Local Food Festival, where he dukes it out as a special guest, no less. He eats his way through one of America’s most famous cities.

He also connects with the local clam fishermen, and discovers a new secret ingredient that he thinks will win over the locals!

Catch the Season 2 premiere of “Rebel Without a Kitchen” on Thu, Sep 11, 10pm, on Asian Food Channel, StarHub TV Ch435.

Spider-Man remains one of the most recognisable superheroes

Humberto Ramos has illustrated Marvel superheroes as well as his own characters

From Italy to North America, what will his inspirations lead him to cook next?

Matt reinvents various North American classics along the way

Matthew Basile is Rebel Without a Kitchen

t E l E v i s i o n

A number of characters he has illustrated, such as Thanos,

Mystique and Spider-Man, have appeared in live action movies



FoodmaniaW

Hello Kitty & otHer stylisH mooncaKe boxes

This season, some of the mooncakes come encased in pretty boxes, making them perfect as gifts

The Mid-Autumn Festival is almost upon us and it is a good time to think about getting clients, associates and friends an appropriate gift for the season.

Whether as corporate gifts or treats for your friends and family, there’s no need to rack your brain. Here is a simple guide to some of the most interesting mooncake boxes this year.

Crowne Plaza HotelThe mini snowskin mooncake selection from Crowne Plaza Hotel comes in a purple handbag box, which is perfect for the budding fashionista.

The mooncakes come in six flavours ($63.80) such as Soursop and White Peach Bellini. E-mail [email protected] to order.

SingaPore airlineSFor the first time ever, Singapore Airlines gets in on the mooncake business. The SIA Selections flavours boasts Passion Fruit with Rosella, Pandan with Five Grains, Orange Lotus with Walnuts and White Lotus with Black Sesame ($68 for four).

The boxes feature a collectible magnet as well as individual mooncake boxes with SIA‘s iconic batik print. Don’t miss out!Visit www.krisshop.com to purchase.

BakerzinBakerzin boxes come with three pieces of holographic origami paper, as well as instructions on how to fold a Moon Rabbit.

Simply follow the instructions and blow up the origami paper for a fun activity with your family as you savour the mooncakes.Visit www.bakerzin.com for more information.

BreadtalkIf you know a fan of Hello Kitty, perhaps you can acquire these Hello Kitty four-piece Baked Mooncakes ($38.80) from BreadTalk.

A limited edition range, this pink dome-shaped treasure box with a gold lock includes two pieces of Hello Kitty-moulded baked macadamia with lotus mooncakes and cranberries with lotus mooncakes.Available at all BreadTalk outlets.

“A limited edition range, this pink dome-shaped treasure

box with a gold lock includes two pieces of Hello Kitty-

moulded mooncakes.”

Crowne Plaza Hotel

Cutesy Hello Kitty mooncakes with adorable boxes from BreadTalk

PAGE 13

weekender.com.sg

Authentic Eats at Legendary Hong KongEight Hong Kong Chefs have been brought to Legendary Hong Kong in Jurong Point for a legend- wait for it -dary meal

I’m usually quite disappointed in the quality of the ‘Hong Kong Cafes’ in Singapore, as the food is usually sub-par. However, upon discovering Legendary Hong Kong in the new “Mongkok Street” in Jurong Point, I’m no longer disappointed.

Walking into Mongkok Street is actually quite a shock on its own because the décor is essentially Hong Kong, with bright neon signs and somewhat tacky designs. Legendary Hong Kong is one of the establishments in the new street with eight chefs from Hong Kong specialising in roast meats, noodles, congee, dim sum, and drinks.

Best of Hong KongThere are over 300 items available on the menu of Legendary Hong Kong, with four different entrances corresponding to the sub-themes of the restaurant. After trying the specialities, I decided that I like the Roasted London Duck ($14.80 a portion) best.

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Brizo restaurant & BarReviewed in Aug 1 issue Go on a crab binge at the latest Crazy about Crabs buffet, with over 19 types of creations to suit different taste buds. Look forward to the debut of Signature Heavenly Fragrance Crab as well as the popular Steamed XO Crab.Park Hotel Clarke Quay, Level 1, 1 Unity Street, Singapore 237983, Tel: 6593 8855

ButteroReviewed in Jul 31 issueButtero is as boisterous and robust as its name (meaning “cowboy” in Italian) with lashings of Italian comfort food, which is refined yet affordable. Indulge in the signature Porchetta with Braised Beans and the freshly fried Cannoli for a galloping good time. 54 Tras Street, Singapore 078993, Tel: 6438 7737

Potato Head folKReviewed in Aug 1 issuePotato Head Beach Club in Bali has set up its first foreign venture, in Singapore. The menu has hip-hop inspired names like LL Kool Slaw. Indulge in the Baby Huey burger and the Naughty Fries, while sipping a cocktail to refresh your palate.36 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089143, Tel: 6327 1939

seasons BistroReviewed in Aug 15 issueA better and brighter bistro has taken over defunct Applebee’s spot. Rejoice with American gems such as fish tacos from the South to poutine from the North, inspired from the chef’s own travels around the continent.Triple One Somerset, 111 Somerset Road, #01-11/12, Singapore 238164, Tel: 6836 5841

tHe Clifford PierReviewed in Jun 20 issueAn air of adventure and discovery surrounds the Pier, which is representative of Singapore’s story. For a blast from the past, enjoy good classic local dishes such as Soup Kambing and Rickshaw Noodles. The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore, 80 Collyer Quay, Singapore 049326, Tel: 6597 5266

n e w r e s t a u r a n t

Feast at Babette

987FM DJ Darren Wee’s new restaurant Babette has opened on Tyrwhitt Road

The hipster enclave of Jalan Besar sees another addition in Babette at 987FM DJ Darren Wee’s new restaurant in Park Sovereign Hotel.

Babette is inspired by the 1980’s Danish film “Babette’s Feast” – a charming movie about how a good meal can right wrongs and how a good chef can transform a dinner into a love affair. This Babette at Park Sovereign Tyrwhitt Road serves a fusion of modern French cuisine and Japanese sensibilities.

east Meets WestThe meal got off to a good start with the Grilled Octopus Salad ($17), Mediterranean

octopus braised in the in-house Japanese sauce, and served with fresh garden greens. The octopus was fresh and chewy and went well with the slightly tart dressing.

The Roasted Avocado ($12) is a healthier take on potato-skin. The flesh of the avocado is aburi-ed and tossed with tomatoes before it’s stuffed back into its skin before serving, resulting in a creamy dish with a slight smoky flavour. Mmm!

Sinful beer-snacks such as Bacon Tempura ($10) are great for sharing too.

riCe BoWls and MoreThe donburis (rice bowls) at Babette are a bit of hit-and-miss, as I felt some of the combinations didn’t really work well together. The Steak and Foie Gras Donburi ($28) is one of them. The rice in all the

donburis are meant to be on the wetter side and the combination with the soft foie gras and chewy steak made us feel like we were eating a slightly gamey bibimbap.

However, I did like the Duck Confit Donburi ($28). The duck leg is pan-seared to a crisp and served on rice with a side of pickles. The meat shredded quite easily, and the duck skin made for a sinful indulgence. If rice isn’t your thing, try the Confit Salmon and Soba ($17) instead.

The Matcha Lava Cake ($12) is also a must if you love green tea. The fondant cake oozes a thick, green tea liquid centre that I savoured with glee.

Babette, 165 Tyrwhitt Road, Singapore 207569, Tel: 6341 7727

The duck is imported from Ireland’s Silver Hill Farms, which supplies most of the best Chinese restaurants in Europe. The duck is tender and fatty, but my favourite part was the lack of gamey scent.

enjoy yuM CHaI was also introduced to another type of chee cheong fun, which I was told is the original way chee cheong fun was eaten in Hong Kong – the Thick Rice Roll with Dough Fritters ($4.50). The combination is crunchy, savoury, and familiar at the same time. Talk about having the best of both worlds!

What’s a Hong Kong Café without gong zai meen (instant noodles)? The Nissin noodles used at the restaurant are brought in from Hong Kong because the owners felt that the one in Singapore tasted different. There was no discernible difference to me, but I did like the standard Noodle with Luncheon Meat and Egg in Soup ($5.20)

However, there is a queue with about a half-hour wait to get into the restaurant. Luckily, we think it is worth the wait. Go, and judge for yourself.

Legendary Hong Kong, Jurong Point 2 Shopping Centre, 63 Jurong West Central 3, #03-80, Singapore 648331 By Cheryl Chia

“There are over 300 items available on the

menu of Legendary Hong Kong...”

For more restaurant reviews and foodie stories, like and follow us at www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

The Duck Confit Donburi is an unusual combination of East and West

Chef Siu presents many delicacies such as roasted duck

The French toast with melted butter is simple yet tempting

Legendary Hong Kong’s siu mai is sure to please


Foodmaniaw weekender.com.sg

pAGe 14

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Izakaya chain Shirokiya opens its second outlet in CHIJmes

The newly-renovated CHIJmes wing is good to go with several Japanese restaurants having opened in a row, including Shirokiya’s second outlet.

The izakaya (drinking establishment that serves food) gained popularity in Singapore in Cuppage Plaza, the Japanese haunt. Shirokiya has a strong focus on the concept of bishoku-ryori, meaning that the food is good for you from the inside out. The menu promotes a range of dishes containing ingredients such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, and capsaicin.

From WithinThe Cold Tofu Sprinkled in Salted Rice Malt Dressing ($8.80) is a must-try. The soft and slightly mashed texture of the homemade tofu reveals a strong taste of soy beans. It is only available in limited portions each day, so go early!

The Avocado and Seafood Salad with Hyaluronic Acid Jelly

($20.80) may sound unusual because hyaluronic jelly normally goes in skin products. However, the jelly

itself has no taste and supposedly moistens the skin from the inside out. The

salad also contains raw tuna, salmon, red sea bream and snow crab, and salmon roe.

Another one to try is the Bonito Fish Cooked in Hay Straw ($14), which is marinated in ponzu sauce and topped with minced spring onions. The fish is cooked on the outside while the middle remains raw. The meat is slightly fishy but otherwise it is well-masked by the sauce.

hot Pots For healthThe Kurobuta Shabu Shabu ($38.80 for two to three packs) is served in collagen soup, making the broth rich and creamy. The slices of shabu shabu pork were also tender and went well with the soup. One hungry person could probably finish the whole pot on his or her own.

Other options for shabu shabu include kimchi stock, chicken collagen stock, and tomato soup. There are also traditional Japanese desserts such as Warabi Mochi ($7.80), which is a bracken starch dumpling with brown sugar syrup.Shirokiya, CHIJmes, 30 Victoria Street, #01-05/06, Singapore 187996, Tel: 6337 5188

By Cheryl Chia

Shirokiya opens in CHIJmes

New food & bespokecocktailsA new gastrobar with fancy cocktails and reasonable food has opened

Seah Street has seen a few shake-ups with several eateries closing or opening. One of the newer additions is Tess Bar & Kitchen, which serves bespoke cocktails and proper food. Tess’ chef once trained in Joel Robuchon’s restaurant in Singapore, and its bartender is Alex Ng, formerly from Bitters & Love.

Fancy a BesPoKe DrinK?The elusive ‘Tess’ is not a person, we were told. It is simply an acronym for “Thirty-Eight Seah Street” (TESS).

I told Alex I liked whisky and smoky flavours, and he brought me a whisky drink with an orange peel and studded with star anise. Not bad, indeed! As for the menu, I liked the Luscious Duo ($24) with Remy Martin VSOP, dark grapes, apricot liqueur, and fresh lemon with Cinzano Prosecco.

It may have run slightly on the sweeter side, but I did like the fresh and fruity flavours with the strength of the VSOP. If you prefer a creamier drink, I’d suggest the Scandalous Pear ($21), which comprises Bankes Gin, homemade pear with port puree, fresh lemon, egg white, and cinnamon sugar.

FooD FailinGsUnfortunately, the food at Tess is more miss than hit, considering the chef’s training. But I’ll talk about the hits first. I liked the Baby Octopus, Chorizo and Sun Dried Cherry Tomato ($9) tapas, and Tess Wagyu Cubes and Bone Marrow ($26) from the medium plates.

A number of the other dishes I tried at Tess were a little odd and mismatched, such as the Medley of Forest Mushrooms with Ravioli Surprise ($10). It was an attempt at innovation gone wrong. The tossed mushrooms tasted all right but the ravioli surprise was cheese-wrapped wanton skins. It felt cheap, and the smell of alkali from the wanton overpowered most of the dish.

All in all, I’d say go for the drinks at Tess instead of the food.Tess Bar & Kitchen, 38 Seah Street, Singapore 188394, Tel: 6337 7355

By Cheryl Chia

n e w g a s t r o b a r

With an atmosphere so delightful, the food almost doesn’t matter as much

Top 5 Cafesin SingaporeA slew of cafes dot our entire island. Which are the top 5 cafes you should visit?

With cafes being all the rage now, it is too often that we find ourselves hurriedly Googling “which cafe is the best?” as we try to make the most out of our lunch breaks.

It is thus important not to end up patron-ising the ones that disappoint.

We present our guide to the Top 5 Cafes in Singapore.

The mechanic-like shelf doubles as a retail rack for the delicious coffee beans and nifty machines

A cake is more delicious when it is Instagram-worthy, no?

Three Hands Coffee pairs their superb brunch with a variety of drinks

Much of the decor in this place reminds us of a darling, dainty Parisian cafe

1. What: the DisPensary caFeWhere: 69 Tiong Bahru Rd, Singapore 168723The Dispensary Cafe has quite a quirky decor theme – go see it for yourself! I have never believed in true love till I met their Oreo cupcakes.

It is amazing how they manage to pack so much sugary goodness and delish cream into one tiny, little morsel.

2. What: chye senG huat harDWare

Where: 150 Tyrwhitt Rd, Singapore 207563The prices at Chye Seng Huat Hardware can go quite high for a meal of disproportionately small portions. But the atmosphere and the decor of this place make the visit worthwhile. Drop by for their Ah Huat Breakfast Set. I certainly felt more “huat” after having mine.

3. What: the Bravery caFeWhere: 66 Horne Road Singapore 20907The Bravery Café’s brunch is incredible. Let me go on the record to say that I do not like poached eggs but this place made me change my perception of it and got me hooked so badly, I actually didn’t mind travelling from the West just to have my fix again.

4. What: D’GooD caFeWhere: 273 Holland Ave #02-01/02, Singa-pore 278992This place is beautiful beyond reason with all three storeys decorated in varying styles and with the daintiest memorabilia. I especially love the outdoor garden on the third floor, sprinkled with fairy lights and with painted windows.

Oh, and the food is unbelievable. For a place that so overcompensates in decor, I am genuinely surprised their food is on par. Amazing.

5. What: three hanDs coFFee caFeWhere: 17 Binjai Park, Singapore 589825I love salmon more than life and the smoked salmon salad here at Three Hands Coffee Cafe is magic, so this is one of the cafes I frequent often.

I have not tried much of the drinks here but with a dish this amazing, they truly need to offer nothing more. I would come back here any day. By Nicole Lee

Photos: From respective Facebook pages apart from d’Good Café, from the cafe itself.

Bespoke cocktails and dishes such as Slow Braised Beef Cheek await

Briled Pressed Mackerel goes well with sake or beer

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Foodmaniaw weekender.com.sg

pAGe 16

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Cookies in spreadable form? We’re sold!

Move over, Nutella, we finally have cookie butter in Singapore

The magical elixir that is cookie butter has been floating around the “inter-webs”, thanks to the popularity of Buzzfeed and 9Gag.

European nations have been enjoying cookie butter, or as they call it, “Biscoff”, for a long time, where it is readily available in the supermarket.

Cookie BUTTeR’s BeTTeRNow we can finally get some in Singapore, courtesy of Poppy & Co. More specifically, we can get Speculoos Cookie Butter ($13.90 for 400g) in crunchy and creamy varieties.

Speculoos biscuits are better known by the name “Lotus” here in Singapore, and they are quite often given as a sweet treat with an order of coffee or tea. Imagine all that caramelised goodness blitzed into a spreadable mixture!

Poppy & Co. currently supplies several baked goods outlets in Singapore such as Fluff Bakery, Bloomsbury Bakers, Once Upon a Milkshake, and Twelve Cupcakes.

YUmmY BakesIn our opinion, Fluff Bakery uses the Speculoos butter in the best way. The Speculoos Liquid Cheesecake Pretzel Crumbs Cupcake is one of the best I’ve had, and I tend to dislike cupcakes.

Once Upon a Milkshake’s sister store, Once Upon a Rosti, created a rosti with Speculoos crumbs and butter, resulting in a sweet and savoury delight. Talk about an epic meal time!

Joys Baking & Co specialises in macarons, and it even has Speculoos butter-filled macarons. The creamy Speculoos Cookie Butter is emulsified into a Valrhona Opah 33 percent white chocolate ganache with cookie crumbs. Absolutely sinful and delicious.

If you’re not a baker, just grab a spoon and eat it straight out the jar! Yes, it is that good. By Cheryl Chia www.poppyandco.me

Tan Lay Chin Regina SXXXX550IKhng Eng Hock SXXXX672FCheng Kelly SXXXX725D

Congratulations to the winners of the weeKenDer soPhie BaKerY giVeawaY

1 Ng Sharon SXXXX317I 2 Yong Fun Sui SXXXX924A 3 Wong Boonwah SXXXX496Z 4 Goh Mei Eng SXXXX394F 5 Teo Soon Hock SXXXX598A 6 Chua W.L SXXXX045J 7 Xuan Shen Cheng Michael SXXXX948D 8 Chang Elaine SXXXX483E 9 Tan Kuan Leng SXXXX436E 10 Liew Sure Man SXXXX625I 11 Cai Jiahui SXXXX092D 12 Teo Han Choo SXXXX200E 13 Ooi Chooi Peng SXXXX530C 14 Lee Qiu Wei SXXXX284F 15 Mia Camay Alegrado SXXXX377Z 16 Tan Marcus SXXXX681G 17 Tan Yan Fen SXXXX759G 18 Woon Keng Wee Joe SXXXX631J 19 Lu Siu Ching SXXXX823I 20 Wong Linda SXXXX194G 21 Ang Beng Hong Sally SXXXX530B 22 Ang Chin Tiang SXXXX409G 23 Yap Jing Hui Jason SXXXX851G 24 Lee Gi Bebe SXXXX620H 25 Leong Francis SXXXX720C 26 Teo Ting Yan SXXXX126G 27 Tong Johnny SXXXX916G 28 Kwa Mooi Chen SXXXX525C 29 Cheng Keh Kim SXXXX213G 30 Guan Xiaoyan SXXXX275B 31 Chan Yvette GXXXX214P 32 Khoo Jethro Eddy SXXXX701E 33 Ting Geraldine SXXXX796C 34 Lee Monita SXXXX454D

35 Ng Cecil Louis SXXXX841I 36 Lee Jane SXXXX836H 37 Lee Foon Ling SXXXX875D 38 Wijaya Christy GXXXX791X 39 Kong Desmond SXXXX905J 40 Luh Shii Lim SXXXX077E 41 Cheong Chew Kai SXXXX364C 42 Kah Hui Lim Angela SXXXX285J 43 Siow Rui Min SXXXX926Z 44 Katthaworn Pattharavadee SXXXX488E 45 Chan Poh Ching SXXXX219J 46 Lia Agustina SXXXX207A 47 Kiong Gertrude SXXXX087H 48 Koh Valerie SXXXX362F 49 Ho Seng Chee SXXXX988E 50 Tan Hui Xiu SXXXX019H 51 Suryana Suryana SXXXX346J 52 Keng Chin Tan SXXXX659C 53 Lapuz Abraham GXXXX513R 54 Wong C.H. Pat SXXXX437Z 55 Lim Daisy SXXXX099Z 56 Tan Grace SXXXX877I 57 Chee Hong Moi SXXXX457E 58 Xuan Qi Tan SXXXX673Z 59 Leow Grace SXXXX290J 60 Lee Siau Teo SXXXX985F 61 Chan Mei Jun SXXXX864D 62 Koh Jun Jie Jason SXXXX152B 63 Lim Beng Hai SXXXX709E 64 Tan Celine SXXXX126A 65 Tan Chew Hoon Jacelyn SXXXX460Z 66 Lizaso Kaori SXXXX299F 67 Lim Juat Yiah SXXXX830C 68 Kher San Bee SXXXX855C

69 Wong Nai Jee SXXXX503J 70 Koh Zhin Yen SXXXX773H 71 Sim Anna Kimberley SXXXX672I 72 Tan Lyn SXXXX515H 73 Lim Weehong SXXXX208A 74 Low Angie SXXXX174C 75 Lee Huei Yuen SXXXX085I 76 Tan Sing Teck Petrus SXXXX078E 77 Cheo Boon Ming SXXXX646A 78 Tan Beng Seck SXXXX764A 79 Goh Heng Kwee SXXXX755E 80 Francis Mary Arokia SXXXX966I 81 Chua Sharon SXXXX802C 82 Wong Yin Chee SXXXX617Z 83 Kosasih Agus Kurniawan Lucky SXXXX528I 84 Lee Han Jie Han SXXXX340C 85 Hong Chong Quek SXXXX758C 86 Lau Lay Koon Jolin SXXXX000H 87 Leong Chung Heng SXXXX293C 88 Ngo Ming Sharon GXXXX624Q 89 Foo Jessica SXXXX959H 90 Lim Weiing SXXXX154J 91 Koh Hui Wen SXXXX667Z 92 Tay Lucy SXXXX782C 93 Ang Yoke Wah SXXXX451J 94 Lin Pei Toh SXXXX344E 95 Yip Alex SXXXX212B 96 Lim Seo Hoon SXXXX046F 97 Wong Oi Siew GXXXX549X 98 Tan Choon Mei SXXXX257F 99 M Tan SXXXX674G 100 Ng Moi Kheng SXXXX131E

Winners will be contacted directly on the collection. Look out for more Weekender giveaways in upcoming issues

“Imagine all that caramelised goodness blitzed into a spreadable mixture!”

Coffee BeanS Set Winner

$10 VouCher Winner

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Speculoos Cookie Butter from Poppy & Co comes in

creamy or crunchy versions


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Fashsnips

For more of the latest fashion launches and beauty & lifestyle tips, like & follow us at www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

HOMKnown for its comfy underwear, HOM’s Autumn/ Winter 2014 collection takes inspiration from the smart silhouette of business wear, Italian sensibilities and even military wear. Available at Metro Paragon, Takashimaya, Tangs Orchard and Tangs VivoCity.

GiOrGiO ArMAniThe Spring/Summer collection of Giorgio Armani features accent pieces such as this pastel acetate sunglasses in shades of pink and blue.

The temples have a mother-of-pearl plaque with the Giorgio Armani logo. Available at selected retailers.

Juicy cOutureJuicy Couture launched its Fall/Holiday 2014 range which features loud printed track suits, faux fur covered vests as well as ‘70s style flower power dresses. Available at Takashimaya Shopping Centre and The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.

tsOvetInspired by World War I infantrymen’s field watch, this FW44 model from Tsovet has a rugged design with military detail. It is a quartz watch with luminous hands and markers. Available at Robinsons Orchard and selected retailers.

celebrity siGHtinG!The Queen B, Beyonce, was spotted out and about with her CH Carolina Herrera Andy Bag in blue crocodile, in New York. She wore her hair in cornrows, and a flowery summer dress.

Stirrings in the fashion world that you would want, need and love to know about

celebrity siGHtinG!

GiOrGiO ArMAni

HOM

tsOvet

Juicy cOuture


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B e a u t y I n B r I e f

Beauty in the air

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A miracle for flawless skin

The Skin Concept’s Miracle Snail Cream is taking the beauty world by storm as a way to achieve flawless skin – why not give it a try?

Women would do anything to look beautiful but why resort to painful and invasive treatments when you can use The Skin Concept’s Miracle Snail Cream for flawless skin?

Now you can have the confidence to go foundation free!

Smooth & Silky Skin The Skin Concept’s Miracle Snail Cream can be used as a moisturising primer to achieve flawless skin. The snail mucin formula prevents wrinkles and pigmentation.

Made up of a complex mix of proteins, glycolic acids and elastin, snail mucin protects snails from sun rays as well as rough surfaces. The extract is also effective in the restoration of damaged tissue in humans.

The cream is also infused with Nacinamide, a vitamin B3 and nicotinic acid, the main ingredient for whitening and improving complexion. Aregireline in the cream relaxes facial muscle

tension to smooth wrinkles naturally. Why not give this dermatological miracle a try?

The product is now available at all Clariancy stores. Tel: 63382619. Visit www.facebook.com/theskinconcept for more information.

The Skin Concept Miracle Snail Cream grants women 3 wishes - Repair, Remove & Renew - to protect aging skin from the effects of time

6 Must-have beauty travel essentials to help you look fresh as a daisy when you get off the plane

We all know the dry air and other conditions during a flight can cause us to feel tired and dehydrated. Imagine what this does to our skin and the rest of our body.

Here are a few nifty products to help you look and feel your best, even after a long flight.

1 inniSfreeBringing all your products on the plane is not an option. So, cut down your routine for the day with the 6-in-1 essence from Innisfree’s new Soybean Energy ($59).

It is designed to be used as the first step of a skincare regime, and promises to exfoliate dead skin cells, firm up pores,

smoothen skin, promote cells turnover, brighten skin tone and further strengthen the skin barrier. Available at Innisfree stores.

2 Crabtree & evelynThis new Caribbean Island Wild Flowers range from Crabtree & Evelyn evokes tropical citrus notes alongside a marine accord making this perfect for your Caribbean holiday. Oh, you’re going to Langkawi? Also can, lah.

The range includes an eau de toilette, ultra-moisturising hand therapy and more. Available in Crabtree & Evelyn stores.

3 bliSSDry lips are quite often a problem when in the air. This nifty range from Bliss will solve that problem in a jiffy.

The Fabulips ($28 to $34 each) range features a foaming lip cleanser, sugar lip scrub and instant lip plumper. It sloughs off dead skin and gives lips moisture for an enviable pout. Available at Sephora.

4 atkinSonSThis British perfumery has scented the likes of Lawrence of Arabia and Queen Victoria and if it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for us.

The signature 24 Old Bond Street ($132-$173) was recently awarded the Perfume Extraordinaire prize at the annual Fragrance Foundation UK Fifi Awards. Now you can smell like royalty as you step off the plane!Available at Robinsons Orchard.

5 burt’S beeSThe Intense Hydration Treatment Mask ($35) is enhanced with probiotic technology and hydrates skin. It also can reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

Apply for 30 minutes as an overnight mask before rinsing off when you awake. Smooth and dewy skin is possible post-flight!Available at Sephora.

6 Pureheal’SKorean brand Pureheal’s new Ginseng Berry Overnight Mask ($48) is rich in ginsenoside with 80 per cent ginseng berry extracts to firm and energise skin for a brighter complexion the next day. Excellent for long haul flights. Available at Sephora from Sep 4.


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The cutest feline airline in the sky must be EVA Air’s fleet of Hello Kitty planes. With departures from Singapore starting on Dec 4, here’s what you can experience.

Be prepared to take off to Hello Kitty heaven when you board EVA Air’s Hello Kitty jet. It doesn’t matter if you’re in the Laurel Classes (Business class) or Premium Economy classes or Economy classes, Hello Kitty branded items are everywhere!

Six of EVA Air’s Boeing 777 are emblazoned with different Hello Kitty themes. (Check out our Weekender article online for details about the six planes at www.weekender.com.sg)

14Specially-designed check-in areas in EVA

Air Taoyuan Airport for the privileged few.

For a chance to win the EVA Air Hello Kitty scale model giveaway, simply:1. Like our Facebook page at www.facebook.

com/weekendersgp2. Look for this giveaway promotion on our

page – like & share it3. In the comment, tag 3 friends who would

love to try this flight too!4. Fill in the form athttp://bitly.com/WeekenderHelloKitty ONLY 1 ENTRY PER PERSON, PLEASE.CLOSING DATE: 7 SEP

16Things to expect when you take EVA Air’sHello Kitty jet

INFLIGHT EXPERIENCE

1 EVA Air stewardesses eagerly presenting the meals on

board. Notice their specially-designed aprons.

2 Okay. I’ll take two, please. These pillows are just the

cat’s meow.3 The representative from EVA

Air, explaining the interior decorating details including the headrest covers for these flights.

4Short haul or long haul, Hello Kitty and friends will keep you

company throughout the trip.

MEALS ON BOARD

5 You probably don’t want your kids to touch these boxes,

if you want to keep them as collectibles.

6What’s this?! Awww… super adorable edible kitties.

7Adult meals on board

premium economy. I like the iron-branded Hello Kitty icon on the zucchini slices.

8Mimimalist Hello Kitty. For those flying Laurel Class, EVA

Air’s business class, the friendly feline only appears during dessert.

9These baby bottles are just too cute to use. Better wean the

baby off the bottle for this flight!10”Ban Lat” with 52 of the most

wanted Hello Characters.

11Head to the bathroom for a break from kitty kitsch?

Sorry, she’s already there. And, on the toilet tissues too.

12How often have you read the in-flight safety cards?

You will now that it’s cuter and more fun.

13Urge to purge? Not to worry. Hello Kitty is there to

contain the problem with these adorable air sickness bags.

PRE-FLIGHT EXPERIENCE IN TAIPEI

15Hello Kitty passengers can check-in through the kiosks

in Taipei’s Taoyuan Airport.

16Special Hello Kitty pre-boarding gates and

children’s area for Hello Kitty passengers.

3 SETS OF SCALE-MODEL EVA AIR

Hello Kitty airplanesTO BE wON!

EVA Air will have a nine specially-chartered Hello Kitty flights from Singapore, from Dec 4, 2014. Seats are limited, so book early. Book through these exclusive agents:

CTC Travel, Chan Brothers Travel, CS Travel, Dynasty Travel, Green Holidays and New Shan Travel.

The author would like to thank EVA Air for giving us the opportunity to experience Taipei, and the Hello Kitty plane.

By Frank Young

Are you ready for Hello Kitty heaven?


TRAVELATionw wEEkEndER.com.sg

TRAVEL FEATURE

Low-cosT gETAwAYs

Best known for its famous beaches, what else does sunny California have to offer?

California, popularised in many songs, films and TV shows, is home to major cities like San Francisco, San Diego and Los Angeles. There

are many reasons why the Sunshine State is often portrayed in such a beautiful and carefree way.

Here are a few must-sees if you ever get a chance to visit sunny California in the USA.

In-n-Out Burger: Fast & YummYArguably the best fast food restaurant in the USA, In-N-Out burger originated in California in 1948 and is a bona fide classic. It was only about a decade ago when they started expanding to several other states, including Nevada, Texas and Arizona.

Priding itself on fast, fresh food, its burgers are only made when ordered. You won’t get frozen fries that go through the deep fryer more than once – their fries are freshly cut and thick. You can customise your order, too.

Check out the not-so-secret menu that has been going around, until they decided to place it on their official website.

DIsneYlanD CalIFOrnIa aDventure: the happIest plaCe On earthLos Angeles, or LA, is the entertainment capital of the world. Visit the Disneyland California Adventure theme park with the classic Mickey Ferris Wheel.

However, try to avoid the park from May to September. It’s the summer holidays for the US kids and the queues do get pretty long.

If you do visit the park during that period, go to each individual attraction and get the Fast Pass tickets, and return to the ride at the exact allocated time, without having to queue.

Also, get the Park Hopper tickets and visit both Disneyland California Adventure and Disneyland (just right opposite) in one day.

granD Central market: FOr Fresh prODuCeWith a cluster of open-air restaurants and stalls selling fresh produce, the Grand Central Market in Downtown Los Angeles serves a variety of food and fresh produce and is sure to satisfy your appetite.

If you need a short holiday but your budget for your flight is about $100 or less, look no further

Don’t miss out on these promotions for budget airlines and low-cost carriers.

rIzal park – manIlaAt no other place in the heart of Manila can one find serenity and diversity as in Rizal Park. The 53ha park boasts world-class sculptures, historical markers, exhibits and other forms of aesthetic entertainment. In the morning, catch the ‘dancing’ fountain show with multi-coloured jets of water.

Discover the uplifting story of the Philippines’ national hero, Rizal, in this lovely park renamed in his honour. $99, Jetstar. Promotion ends 1 Sep.

Eateries such as Valerie offer the classic LA counter experience with a full menu of savoury and sweet options for breakfast, brunch and lunch. If you’re afraid the heat will dampen your mood, fret not, because the Grand Central Market is properly ventilated.

the last BOOkstOre: the mOst gOrgeOus BOOkstOre everDecorated with intricate interiors, this two-level building houses a bookstore, a section dedicated to records and even a coffee bar.

Head to the back of the shop where there’s a counter where you can sell your old reads. The large space houses two whole levels of both used and new books, and in the “labyrinth” (Level 2), books are mostly priced at US$1 each.

They even have a few shelves where they colour coordinate all the books, which is a feast on the eyes. Quaint, quiet and comfortable, it is truly a place you can spend an entire day in.

YOsemIte natIOnal park: CalIFOrnIa’s gemAbout a three-hour drive outside of the San Francisco bay area, the Yosemite National Park is truly California’s gem. Serene, picturesque and vast, it almost is like the entire place is part of a desktop wallpaper.

Overnight stays in the park are possible with the availability of camping grounds and cabin lodges in the park. Avoid the area in summer, though, which spans from May to July. Bush fires often occur during the period and trees appear burnt or black, which isn’t most ideal if you’re looking for breathtaking scenery.

Winter is an interesting time to visit, when everything is snow-covered, making Yosemite look even more magical than it already is. In the beginning of summer, California can still be pretty chilly, so be sure to bring a sweater along.

From the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the calm and serene Red Woods in the North, California has something to offer for everyone. Be sure to take a trip down the next time you’re planning to go to the USA. By Eu Shuqi

YangOn – ChaukhtatgYI temple

While it’s hard to miss the numerous pagodas in Yangon that glitter in bright gold, check out the Chaukhtatgyi Temple wherein lies a magnificent giant reclining Buddha.

The sheer size and presence of the reclining Buddha is enough to take your breath away.

The temple provides a sanctuary from the crowded pavements of Yangon’s city life.$78, Tigerair. Promotion ends when sold out.

hOng kOng – ChI lIn nunnerY anD nan lIan garDen

Chi Lin Nunnery is a large temple complex of elegant wooden architecture, treasured Buddhist relics and soul-soothing lotus ponds.

The tranquil Nan Lian Garden is meticulously landscaped over an area of 3.5ha, in which you can explore permanent exhibitions of Chinese timber architecture, rocks and potted plants. Both parks are built in the style of the Tang Dynasty.$99, Scoot. Promotion ends when sold out.

Hollywood Boulevard, where the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame is located

Yosemite National Park is filled with natural wonders

The well-known Santa Monica Pier, California, facing the ocean

The cable car is the oldest mechanical public transport in San Francisco, in service since 1873

In-N-Out Burger has possibly the best fast food in the USA

For more gorgeous destinations and interesting travel anecdotes, like & follow us at

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TRAVELATionW

C o V E R S T o R Y

Spreepark, GermanySpreepark, or Kulturpark Plänterwald (its old name), was an amusement park that opened in 1969, in Kulturpark Plänterwald in the Republic of East Germany. Since 1999 it had to deal with large debts. Spreepark has been locked in a deep slumber since it closed in 2001.

In 2011, scenes for the movie Hanna were filmed in the abandoned park, including one of the final action scenes with Cate Blanchett and Saoirse Ronan.

Today, this abandoned park still fascinates local and foreign explorers alike. Exploration isn’t possible without getting a thumping heartbeat and goosebumps.

The eerie remnants include the gaping jaws of a fearsome psychedelic cat at the roller-coaster tunnel, a Ferris wheel what shifts idly in the wind, and a row of swan boats that stare at you with their beady eyes.

Don’t be surprised if you hear strange sounds, occasionally.

Bomarzo monSter park, ItalyBomarzo Monster Park may seem for some like it is out of a nightmare. It was com-missioned in 1552 by Pier Francesco Orsini, who wanted to create a shocking “Villa of Wonders” in memory of his beloved late wife.

Upon entering, the message that greets visitors is already intriguing: “You who enter this place, observe it piece by piece and tell me afterwards whether so many marvels were created for deception or purely for art.”

The park is filled with bizarre mythical sculptures. Among them are a war elephant, a giant tearing another giant apart, a dragon attacked by two lions and a turtle with a winged woman on its back. There is even a tilted house there.

Perhaps the most terrifying piece is Orcus or the “Mouth of Hell”, which is a giant face with a screaming mouth. The accompanying inscription reads, “All reason departs.” It may make you feel like departing immediately.

Grüner See (Green lake), auStrIaGrüner See or “Green Lake” in Tragöss, Austria is known for its shimmering waters of emerald-green hues. Every spring, melting snow from the nearby glacial summits leaves the park completely submerged, creating a veritable dreamscape.

The lake’s depth reaches some 30 feet and provides a unique experience for scuba divers. You can dive in to explore the spectacular underwater park, fully adorned with shrubbery, hiking trails, and even submerged bridge and bench.

The submerged trees in the clear, colourful waters complete the magical look.

yellowStone natIonal park, uSaThe geological area of Yellowstone National Park was formed some 640,000 years ago when a sudden eruption devastated the landscape within minutes. Today, it is much more than hot ground and gushing steam.

Yellowstone Park encloses geysers, alpine lakes, deep canyons, and vast forests. Its list of wildlife includes elk, bighorn sheep, grizzly bears, trumpeter swans, the legendary (and threatened) bison, and more.

Most of the park rests atop the slumbering volcano that erupted half a million years ago. The iconic spots — Old Faithful, Lower Falls and Yellowstone Lake — are familiar from photographs and documentaries but seeing them with your own eyes is an enthralling experience.

The Morning Glory Pool looks like a portal to an alien realm.

This abandoned roller-coaster track was seen in the movie Hanna

A war elephant, said to be Hannibal’s, mangles a legionary

Grüner See has submerged trees, hiking trails, bridge and bench

The Morning Glory Pool looks like it leads to another dimension

“The Mouth of Hell” greets you at Bomarzo Monster Park

5 Most unusual parks around the worldFrom astonishing sculptures in gardens to a submerged lake park that you have to access by scuba diving, we’ve rounded up a list of unusual parks that you must visit once in your lifetime.

Let us know the mysteries you uncover when you visit.

weekender.com.sg

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spotlight on malaysia

A far cry from the usual lakes,

hills and beaches; these parks are not meant to please but to astonish the

visitor

Bryce canyon national Park, USaThousands of delicately-carved spires rise in brilliant colour from the amphitheatres of Bryce Canyon National Park. These pinnacles, called “hoodoos”, were believed to have been wicked people turned into stone, according to Native American lore.

They were actually formed by “frost-wedging” and chemical weathering. Firstly, freezing meltwater expands, tearing the rocks apart. Furthermore, acid-ic rainwater slowly dissolves the limestone, carving it into fantastic shapes.

By Lim Wan Ling

Fuss-free stay at Aloft KL Sentral

One of only two Aloft hotels in Asia, Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral is a no-frills and comfy stay

Whether you’re a business traveller yearning for convenience or on a family trip with young children, staying in a central area of an unfamiliar city is quite often the best option.

The next time you’re in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, why not try the Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral (KLS) hotel?

Located in Sentral, the new business district of Kuala Lumpur, the Aloft KLS is right next to the metro rail and nearby attractions include the National Museum, Bird Park and Little India of Kuala Lumpur. It is also a short ride to the touristy Bukit Bintang area.

SimPle yet PlayfUl roomSThe rooms at Aloft KLS are simple yet playful with pieces of humorous art illustrating Malaysian customs hanging above the soft foamy bed. The rooms also have a work desk, a flat screen television and ironing board.

The toilets have no bathtubs but are fully furnished with amenities such as toothbrushes, cotton wool, bathrobes… You get the picture.

What surprised me on my last trip was the quality of the hotel shampoo and soap. Aloft has special Bliss all-in-one shampoo and soap in the shower dispensers. My hair has never been softer from hotel shampoo!

eat me, Drink meThe fridge is empty, without a mini-bar, allowing you to store your own items. If you’re feeling peckish, there is a Re:fuel station available throughout the day where you can grab items from instant noodles to muesli and yoghurt. The items are chargeable to the room, of course.

If you’re looking for a spot of partying, head up to the 30th floor where MAI Bar resides, with the infinity pool. The thumping beats and cocktails will set the mood for some poolside clubbing!

On the whole, we were pretty pleased with our experience.

This trip was made possible by Starwood Hotels. Visit www.alofthotels.com/kualalumpursentral for more information.A soak in the infinity pool will complete your stay

Aloft KL Sentral’s Sweet Suite

Native Americans believe these “hoodoos” were evil people who

were turned into stone

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Weekender #96

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