weekender #120
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Feb 27 - Mar 5, 2015TRANSCRIPT
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WK120B/MCI(P)119/08/2014
ISSUE 120 FEB 27 - mar 5, 2015
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WIN A CRUISE & OTHER vAlUAblE PRIZES
THIS VIKING BABE IS A REAL-LIFE WARRIOR
5 QUIRKIEST FOOD SPOTS TO VISIT IN SINGAPORE
star of the week
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food feature
MONTIGO 3D2N sTay accOMODaTes up TO 4 GuesTs TOTal value $750++
TO Be WON!
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04THE MOST INTERESTING EPL MATCHES THIS WEEK
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EntErtainmEntWfebruary 27 - MarCH 5, 2015
1The Magic of ocean27 Feb - 1 Mar, 11am & 4pm (Fri), 11am, 2pm & 4pm (Sat-Sun), $18
In this Mandarin theatrical experience specially designed for 2- to 4-year-olds, children will discover a magical world through a visual and aural spectacle that combines shadow play, music as well as interaction.
So sit along the seabed among the bright and colourful corals and watch the wonders of the sea come alive in The Magic Ocean. Esplanade Recital Studio, www.sistic.com.sg
2 ViKingS aT MaRina SQUaReUntil 1 Mar, 10am-10pmIn line with the premiere of Season 3 of History channel’s
popular “Vikings” series on Feb 27, the interactive Vikings Village will allow the public to learn more about the mysterious world of the Vikings, providing in-depth yet succinct historical presentations. You can also get to see the original costumes from the “Vikings” series, flown in from the production set in Ireland!
Also, be a part of building the largest wall mural out of Lego bricks, which will make an entry in the Singapore Book of Records. You also stand to win prizes including exclusive “Vikings” merchandise, Lego collectors’ sets and even a trip to Denmark for the ultimate Vikings experience!Marina Square Central Atrium, www.HistoryAsia.com/Vikings
4 chRiSTina PeRRi: The head oR heaRT ToUR27 Feb, 8pm, from $118With hits like Jar of Hearts, A
Thousand Years and Human, there is hardly anyone today who hasn’t heard of Christina Perri. She brings her Head or Heart Tour to our shores this February, featuring songs from her second album of the same name.The Coliseum, Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa, www.sistic.com.sg
music
ToP 4 eVenTS ThiS WeeKend
neW! LindSey STiRLing: ShaTTeR Me 3 Mar, 8pm, $88-$148A classically-trained violinist from Gilbert, Arizona, USA, Lindsey Stirling has entered a futuristic world of electronic big beats and animation. Her unconventional combination of classical violin and dub step beats coupled with a ballet-type dancing style has garnered more than 5.7 million subscribers and counting on her YouTube channel, Lindseystomp.MasterCard Theatres at Marina Bay Sands, www.sistic.com.sg
SingaPoRe Jazz feSTiVaL5-8 Mar, $125The festival returns to enthral music lovers with another thrilling programme of jazz and jazz-inspired music.
With the iconic Singapore skyline once again providing the backdrop, more than 250 artists – international Grammy Award winners,
chart toppers, regional stars and Singapore’s best will be set to take the stage.Marina Bay Sands Promenade, www.sing-jazz.com/2015/
neW! aiR SUPPLy 40Th anniVeRSaRy ToUR7 Mar, 8pm, $78-$168With their music being described as pop rock to adult contemporary and everything
in between, the legendary soft rock duo, Air Supply has mastered the art of bringing musical entertainment live to their fans.The Star Theatre, www.sistic.com.sg
KidSfeST 2015
Until 1 Mar, various times, $42-$62Kidfest is an exciting festival for the whole family where compelling characters are brought to life and scenes from well-loved books including The Gruffalo, and
animals, ViKinGs & international sonGbirds
3 fRee! hUayi 2015 - geTai STaRRy nighT1 Mar, 7.30pmSpend an unforgettable
night of music, fun and laughter with your favourite getai stars. Hosted by actress Lin Ruping, the performance features Zhong Jin Ling, Vanessa Voon, Jayden Chew, Huang Xiu Ping and Huang Hao Feng as they bring you a series of familiar evergreen hits!Esplanade Outdoor Theatre, www.huayifestival.com
TV actress Lin Ruping
hosts Huayi 2015 - Getai Starry Night
family
The Princess and the Pea are enacted on stage. School Of The Arts, Drama Theatre, 1 Zubir Said Drive, www.kidsfest.com.sg
The Tiger Who Came to Tea
The Vikings have invaded Marina
Square!
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Submit your BaBy’S BEST PhoTo and get a chanceto be published!
Weekender is bringing back our popular Hello, World! photo column for babies!
Immortalise your precious baby in print by getting his or her photo published! What better way is there to celebrate your newborn or toddler than to show off your baby to the rest of the world?
Simply E-mail your cutest or sweetest photo of your baby to:
[email protected] your Baby’s Name, Date of Birth, Your Name, Tel No., NRIC & Postal Code
show off your precious newborn or toddler
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Chingay Parade SingaPore 2015 27-28 Feb, 8pm, $28.50-$60The 43rd Chingay Parade Singapore will be presented by 11,000 beautiful multi-cultural performers. A total of 1 million colourful “We Love SG Flowers” handcrafted from used plastic bags will form a spectacular sight at the grand opening of the Parade, with each Flower representing love and well-wishes for Singapore. F1 Pit Building, www.chingay.org.sg
aeSoP’S FableSUntil 21 Mar, 10am & 2.30pm (Tue-Fri), 10.30am, 2.30pm & 5pm (Sat-Sun), $30-$32A show and tell of a selection of Aesop’s most famous, and most interesting stories, using marvellous mask, puppetry, live action and song.
With a mixture of fun, excitement and silliness, be lead through the lives, lunches and misadventures of a band of scruffy, silly and sometimes stubborn creatures, as they learn life’s little wisdoms, and bigger secrets.Jubilee Hall, Raffles Hotel, www.sistic.com.sg
new! Free! Family Fun Zumba & KiCKboxingEvery Sun, 9-10amA great chance to bond with your family, head down for an hour of fun and an action-packed workout with Family Fun Zumba & Kickboxing. Zumba sessions are every 1st & 3rd Sunday while Kickboxing is available every 2nd & 4th Sunday.City Square Mall, Lvl 6 Sky Park
new! KidS FieSta 2015: FuntaSy adventure 13-15 Mar, 11am-9pm, $20Grab a FUNTASY Passport and go on an adventure to the Laser Maze Island where you compete between your parents and friends! The Orbitor Island is also not to be missed! Plan your trip wisely to enjoy all 9 islands. Stand a chance to win fun-tastic prizes in the Lucky Draw.Suntec Convention Halls 401 & 402, www.kidsfiesta.sg
Free! toKyo Cinderella dollSUntil 8 Mar, various timesJapanese photographer Karin Shikata makes her Southeast Asian debut in this exhibition of 15 whimsical images that tell the story of two dolls who wished to be real girls. The dolls explore the city, experiencing the everyday lives of Japanese youths, eating street food, taking a selfie and riding the train.SPRMRKT, 2 McCallum St, www.sprmkrt.com.sg
Prudential SingaPore eyeUntil 28 Jun, 10am, from $9The first ever Prudential Singapore Eye exhibition will be the largest survey of the country’s emerging artistic talent from a global perspective, as part of the Prudential Global Eye Programme – an initiative dedicated to supporting emerging artists both local and in the region.www.prudentialeye.com
CyCle out Poverty28 Feb, 7am-1pmThis is Habitat for Humanity Singapore’s first charity cycling event that seeks to raise S$50,000 for the Star-Builders programme which enables youths from disadvantaged and marginalised backgrounds to take part in a Habitat experience. 40km, 25km and 5km Fun Ride categories are available, and attractive prizes are in store for Best Dressed and Top Fundraiser.Changi Civil Service Club, 2 Netheravon Rd, habitatsg.wix.com/cop2015
hSbC women’S ChamPionS 20155-8 Mar, 8am, various pricingThe eighth edition of HSBC Women’s Champions returns to the impressive surroundings of the Sentosa Golf Club and will once again witness the world’s best golfers compete for the US$ 1.4 million purse.Sentosa Golf Club, www.hsbcgolf.com/womens
runninghour 201522 Mar, 7am, from $45Run in complete darkness and without your sense of sight! Runninghour is a national event where participants will run alongside over 200 visually, intellectually and physically challenged runners.Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade, Event Square, www.runninghour2015.com
Free! St PatriCK’S day Street FeStival 201513-15 Mar, 6pm-1am (Fri), 2pm-10pm (Sat-Sun)Dress in your wackiest green outfits to join the festivities along Boat Quay and enjoy Irish music, cultural performances, Irish food and various fringe activities for the whole family. Don’t miss the Parade happening on the 15th!Boat Quay, Circular Rd
exhibition
sports
others
beauty and the beaSt21 Mar - 12 Apr, various timings, from $65From the original creators of the Broadway production with music by Alan Menken, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast tells the story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. Grand Theatre, MasterCard Theatres at Marina Bay Sands, www.sistic.com.sg
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Free! new! Chong Pang PubliC Forum on animal ProteCtion PoliCieS7 Mar, 12.30pm-2.30pmHave your say and give animals a voice! This is an opportunity to have your say about issues that matter to you, to give your feedback and suggestions, and pose your questions related to animal protection.
There will be a public forum with Mr K Shanmugam, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Minister for Law and MP for Nee Soon GRC (Chong Pang) and Mr Louis Ng, Chief Executive of ACRES. Please RSVP to www.facebook.com/events/821110444612440/. Chong Pang CC Hall, 21 Yishun Ring Road
theatre
SingaPore CoCKtail weeK 20157-14 Mar, various timings, $38, $190 (Group bundle of 6)Cocktail enthusiasts can pick up the craft of cocktail-making with an exciting line-up of workshops, discover a world of spirit-forward cocktails through themed cocktail tours and enjoy unique cocktail experiences at a variety of pop-up locations across the island.Various locations, www.singaporecocktailweek.com.sg
Savour 201526-29 Mar, various timings, $60-$65Singapore’s Premier Gourmet Festival is back! The 2015 line-up of restaurants will feature over 50 signature dishes, celebrity chef masterclasses, a hands-on cooking studio, wine workshops and other themed areas.F1 Pit Building, 1 Republic Boulevard, www.savour.sg
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EntErtainmEntw wEEkEndEr.com.sg
february 27 - MarCH 5, 2015 PAGE 4
Football Fever
The most interesting match-ups this EPL weekThis weekend’s Premier League fixtures don’t seem to pose any threat of major shocks or upsets but here are a few interesting match-ups
Consistency is the key to any team’s success and its title challenge in the Premier League, and never is consistency more crucial than in the last third of the season.
Title contenders, European championship contenders and teams struggling to stay out of relegation will all be looking to finish strong in the ten or so remaining games of this season.
West BromWich AlBion vs southAmpton (28 FeB, 11pm)These two teams settled for a point apiece when they met on the second match day of the season but so much has changed since then. Surprise package Southampton will be looking to reclaim its position in the top four after a disappointing defeat to Liverpool and a spell of erratic performances prior to the Anfield visit.
West Brom has shown promising improvement this season, sitting comfortably in 14th place, but that’s not too far away from relegation with only five points separating it from its counterparts at the bottom of the table. West Brom may be aiming for a slightly higher finish than just survival this season, with the gap above them not appearing to be insurmountable. Prediction: West Brom 1–2 Southampton
liverpool vs mAnchester city (1 mAr, 8pm)The last time around, Manchester City triumphed 3-1 at home and the match ended as somewhat of a footballing lesson for Liverpool. The Reds are looking for redemption this weekend.
The Reds have been in fine form in recent weeks, boasting four wins and a draw in their last five Premier League games. Manchester City cannot afford any slip-up if it wants to cling on to the title race with current leader Chelsea.
The match-up between the two has often proven to be entertaining and full of goals, including not just earlier in the season but last season as well, when these two teams were neck and neck in the race to the top of the table. This is surely a game not to be missed. Prediction: Liverpool 2–2 Manchester City
ArsenAl vs everton (1 mAr, 10pm)In true Arsenal fashion, the Gunners are picking up the pace toward the end of the season. Perhaps it’s too late to challenge the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City for the title but Gunners fans will be relieved that maintaining their Champions league position is no longer as close a fight as it was a few weeks ago.
With five wins from the last six games, the Gunners are the favourites in this match against Everton. The Toffees have had an abysmal season so far.
This fixture earlier in the season finished as a 2–2 thriller at Goodison park but will probably result in a more one-sided score this time. Prediction: Arsenal 2–0 Everton
By Basil Lee
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Back at his best after a prolonged absence due to injury, will Mesut Oezil reclaim his spot as a first-team regular in the Arsenal squad?
Is Chelsea already the undisputed champion this season? Or is Manchester City capable of bridging the gap?
weekender.com.sgfebruary 27 - MarCH 5, 2015
EntErtainmEntw wEEkEndEr.com.sg
february 27 - MarCH 5, 2015 PAGE 6
When I recently attended Dragon Blade’s gala premiere here, I was enamoured. How could I not be? We were personally
greeted by Asia’s Hollywood homeboy Jackie Chan, Academy Award-winner Adrien Brody, acclaimed actor John Cusack and South Korean heart-throb Choi Siwon.
Chan and his co-stars spent some extra time in the cinema personally thanking us for supporting their film. Cusack was sipping iced lemon tea with me earlier that day, and Choi had waved to me enthusiastically on his way into the theatre.
But with the murmurs of not-so-pleased critics humming away, I set down my rose-tinted glasses and took a closer look at the movie and the cast’s visit to Singapore. Here are the ups and downs, the hits and misses of note.
Hit: tHe Moving MessageIn Dragon Blade, Chan plays Huo An, leader of the Silk Road Protection Squad – a band of officers who maintain amity between the region’s 36 nations. This movie is about peace, Chan explained to us.
He said, “I think peace is what the world needs the most right now… I hope certain people in certain countries can see the film and understand the importance of peace.”
Chan revealed that he was also a peacemaker behind the scenes. He said, “We had to teach the extras step by step and make sure they didn’t feel too hot in the desert… So I spent time taking care of them, sharing meals with them.”
Moment to Notice: The only time Chan’s character kills, it is out of mercy.
Hit: tHe RutHless KilleRBrody’s portrayal as the cold-hearted Roman Prince Tiberius is spot-on. With those narrowed eyes, thin lips and slim build, his look for the Machiavellian part is complete.
Movie feature
Hits AND misses of
Like straining my neck to catch a glimpse of the cast from behind the horde of fans at the gala premiere in Singapore, I felt that Dragon Blade’s sincere message became an elusive whisper muffled by all the extra noise.
Try Not to Notice: The opening and closing scenes of the movie.
By Pamela Chow
DRagon BlaDe [Pg13]DiRectoR: Daniel LeestaRRing: Jackie Chan,
Adrien Brody, John Cusack, Choi Siwon, Lin Peng,
& Wang RuoxingenRe: Action Run lengtH: 127 minRelease: 19 Feb
Dragon BlaDebig-budget historical epic dragon blade recently hit our shores in a gala premiere with the stars, but was the blade dull?
Miss: not His FaMilyChan hits all the right notes – and performs all the right moves – but if there’s one thing he doesn’t miss, it’s his family.
In a revelation that stirred up the room, Chan said without missing a beat, “Movies are more important than meeting up with family.”
His son, Jaycee Chan, was sentenced to six months in jail for a drug offence, and is expected to be released soon. But Jackie “won’t say anything to him”, he admitted.
“I believe he has reflected on what he’s done and will face his life positively from now on,” he told us.
But not to say that family isn’t important to him, of course. Chan proclaims that the Year of the Sheep will be a good year since Jaycee will be released, and they’ll get to meet “sooner or later”.
Try Not to Notice: Jackie usually plays a father figure to a child who’s not his – like his care for young Roman royalty in Dragon Blade.
Miss: DRaMa MaMaDragon Blade was too melodramatic. It may have been created to promote peace and co-existence but the gratuitous killing and exaggerated emotions spoke otherwise.
I also felt a certain conflict of tone in the movie. The wanton mass fighting drowned out some well-shot heart-gripping moments, and the scenes of the modern-day archaeologists romancing away in an uncovered archaeological site were as unnecessary as war and death.
Huo An (Jackie Chan) faces off with Prince Tiberius (Adrien Brody) on the unforgiving sands of the Silk Road
Jackie Chan is Huo An, the leader of the Silk Road Protection Squad in charge of maintaining peace along the vital Silk Road
The superstars at the press conference in Singapore
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You would think that such a cunning, greedy character would be predictable but Prince Tiberius is a surprise. When his treacherous actions are called out, Brody channels such emotion that you’re truly torn over whether to believe him.
We wouldn’t expect any less from the Academy Award winner, who shot to fame with his role in The Pianist.
Moment to Notice: Prince Tiberius’ flashback, which is filled with poignant emotion.
Hit: ReveRseD genDeR RolesMany of us are tired of seeing women in historical epics being portrayed as the meek domestic goddess while the men fight it out. Dragon Blade somewhat overturns this.
Huo An’s wife, played by Wang Ruoxin, teaches Chinese in a school, while Huo An sheepishly struggles to write. The princess of the Hun clan, played by Lin Peng, also fights ferociously in the field of battle.
However, it seems that the tables were once again turned in real life. Speaking to the media, Wang was the most vocal about her confidence.
“When I watched the film, I felt it’s very great,” said Wang.
But Chan kept her pride in check with a strict interjection: “Don’t praise your own film. Say it’s all right. You must remain humble.”
He further shook his head and muttered, “Very great? How have I taught you?”
Looks like Chan’s the real teacher!
Moments to Notice: The men are emotionally vulnerable and not all brawn.
AND its cAst
Academy Award-winner Adrien Brody fits the part of the scheming and ruthless prince
weekender.com.sgfebruary 27 - MarCH 5, 2015
EntErtainmEntWfebruary 27 - MarCH 5, 2015
star of the week
If you had a tIme machIne, when and where would you go? I’d go to the future. It’d be interesting just to see where the world would be in 20 years. I would travel all around the world and see different perspectives.
what do you do to relax?I’m trying to learn how to cook, which is fun! I’m a big believer in keeping your mind and body active and healthy. I love spending time with family and friends.
And I have passion for growing my business; I’ve always had a business mind. So I’m working on bringing my self-defence company to life.
I’m going to enjoy my time off because it’s back to work soon!
By Pamela Chow & Lester J Wan
“Vikings” Season 3 premieres on Feb 27 and will continue to air on Fridays at 10pm, on History channel, StarHub TV Ch 401.
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With her stunning looks, few would guess that Katheryn holds two black belts
Katheryn Winnick, Viking & real-life warrior woman
ThaT was my way of flirTing – i would give Them a good back kick insTead of a kiss. 8 Things you may
not know about VikingsBefore the new season of popular action-packed series “Vikings” premieres this weekend, we bring you fun and interesting facts about the infamous raiders from the North
While waiting for the return of Ragnar and his indomitable horde from “Vikings”, with the premiere of Season 3 on Feb 27, here are some fun facts that may blow your mind!
1. VIkIngs dIdn’t wear horned helmets!Forget almost every Viking warrior costume you’ve seen. The Norsemen never sported that horn-festooned helmet look.
Depictions from the Viking age don’t depict that they had horned helmets and the helmets discovered are horn-free. Painters seem to have fabricated this trend in the 19th Century, perhaps inspired by descriptions of northern Europeans by ancient Greek and Roman chroniclers.
2. VIkIngs were known for good hygIeneBetween rowing boats and decapitating enemies, Viking men must have stunk to high Valhalla, right? Quite the opposite.
Excavations of Viking sites have turned up tweezers, razors, combs and ear cleaners made from animal bones and antlers. Vikings also bathed at least once a week – much more frequently than other Europeans of their day – and enjoyed dips in hot springs.
3. VIkIngs used a unIque medIum to start fIresNonetheless, the Vikings had no qualms about harnessing the power of one human waste product. They would collect a fungus called touchwood from tree bark and boil it in urine for several days before pounding it into something akin to felt.
The sodium nitrate in urine would allow the material to smoulder rather than burn, so Vikings could take fire with them on the go.
4. VIkIngs BurIed theIr dead In BoatsThere’s no denying that Vikings loved their boats – so much that it was a great honour to be interred in one. It was believed that valiant warriors entered glorious realms after death and the vessels that served them well in life would help them reach their final destination. 5. VIkIngs were actIVe In the slaVe tradeMany Vikings got rich off human trafficking. They would capture and enslave women and men while pillaging Anglo-Saxon, Celtic and Slavic settlements.
These “thralls” were then sold in slave markets across Europe and the Middle East.
6. VIkIng women enjoyed some BasIc rIghts Viking girls got hitched as young as 12 years old and had to mind the household while their husbands sailed off on adventures. Still, they had more freedom than other women of their era.
As long as they weren’t thralls, Viking women could inherit property and reclaim their dowries if their marriages ended.
7. VIkIng men spent most of theIr tIme farmIngMost Viking men brandished scythes, not swords. The majority of Viking people peacefully sowed barley, rye and oats – at least for part of the year. They also raised cattle, goats, pigs and sheep on small farms.
8. VIkIng gentlemen preferred BeIng BlondTo conform to their culture’s beauty ideals, brunette Vikings – usually men – would use a strong soap with a high lye content to bleach their hair.
It’s likely that these treatments also helped Vikings with a far pricklier problem: head lice.
Photo: History channel
Considering her martial background, Katheryn was the perfect choice to portray shield maiden and wife of Ragnar, Lagertha
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elYou might not know this – star of popular historical epic series “Vikings” Katheryn Winnick kicks butt both on and off screen
Playing the headstrong and fearless Lagertha in History channel’s “Vikings”, Canadian actress Katheryn Winnick has busted out of cameo roles in various crime dramas.
But she’s not just tough on screen – the lady is a fighter in real life too. You’ll be impressed: she holds a 3rd-Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do and a 2nd-Degree Black Belt in Karate, and she’s a licensed bodyguard to boot!
We spoke with Katheryn to find out more about what it’s like to play a vicious Viking and to kick the boys’ butts.
apart from “VIkIngs”, what haVe you Been InVolVed In? I just finished Geostorm, a movie by Dean Devlin. It’s one of those big sci-fi movies and I play opposite Gerard Butler, Abbie Cornish, Ed Harris, and Jim Sturgess. The director was a big fan of “Vikings” and he wanted me to be a part of it.
I’m also working on a self-defence company – called Win Kai Self Defense – that can give women the tools they need to defend themselves. A big passion of mine is giving back and helping other women and giving them the tools they need to feel empowered.
you hold a myrIad of martIal arts degrees, and you’re a lIcensed Bodyguard! what was growIng up lIke? dId you kIck all the Boys’ Butts?Yes! [laughs] That was my way of flirting – I would give them a good back kick instead of a kiss.
I started training Tae Kwon Do at seven, got my first black belt at 13. I started Win Kai at 16. By 21, I had three different schools around Toronto.
what made you decIde to go Into actIng?I started by teaching actors martial arts on movie sets. It gave me the work discipline and work ethic. Being on set, I realised how hard yet fun it can be to do this every day, and be given a big challenge.
I wanted to discover parts of my personality I wasn’t able to dive into because of my martial arts training, which is very disciplined; it’s not acceptable to be emotional or vulnerable. Acting is a way for me to discover what makes me tick and to know more about my personality.
how do you feel aBout your role of lagertha In “VIkIngs”?One of the reasons I love Lagertha is that she does all her own stunts and she’s a strong woman, very powerful, but she can also be effeminate at the same time.
I like playing all the aspects (of Lagertha) – that’s what makes her so unique. She’s a warrior but she’s also a wife and a mother. She is the modern woman, in my opinion, and she also has a strong voice.
I really feel that this role was meant for me. I couldn’t find a more perfect role for me and my background. It’s so creatively fulfilling for me.
what’s the Best thIng aBout BeIng on the set of “VIkIngs”?When you walk on the set of “Vikings”, you feel like you walked into a different time period.
That’s one of the best things about shooting in Ireland. We’re surrounded by landscapes and gorgeous atmosphere and livestock. It’s interesting to see animals all around with my co-stars.
Ragnar (Travis Fimmel) leads the charge in “Vikings”
PAGE 9
weekender.com.sg
NEW ON TV
“Asia’s Got Talent” to dazzle on AXNIn the first of our three-part preview for the biggest talent competition in the world, we find out what it’s all about
Many have enjoyed clips of amazing performers from the “Got Talent” series from around the world – who could forget Connie Talbot and Susan Boyle of “Britain’s Got Talent” – and, now, Asia stands on the cusp of discovering our very own stars of the region.
Biggest talent Competition in the WorldCome Thursday Mar 12, TV history will be made as “Asia’s Got Talent” premieres across the region at 8.05pm, first on AXN (StarHub TV Ch 511), to thrill with the biggest talent competition in the world! After 62 different editions of the Guinness World Record-breaking hit “Got Talent” format, “Asia’s Got Talent” is the first ever pan-regional edition, featuring contestants from 15 countries across Asia.
Spanning ten weekly episodes, Asia’s Got Talent will lead with five judges’ auditions episodes, before advancing to three semi-finals, a finale and culminating in a results show.
esteemed CeleBrity Judges & Colourful ContendersThe series’ esteemed celebrity judging panel consists of 16-time Grammy-winning musician David Foster, UK pop sensation and former Spice Girl Melanie C, Indonesian pop-rock icon Anggun and Taiwanese-American pop idol and actor Van Ness Wu.
From thousands of applicants, the four judges must select the most jaw-dropping, mind-blowing and breathtaking performances including in song, dance, comedy and magic, to any imaginable performing talent.
In addition to the amazing performances, “Asia’s Got Talent” tells the life stories behind some of the most colourful individuals and groups in the competition.
audienCe Voting & singapore stageThose who advance to the semi-finals will face an even tougher judge – the AXN audience at home who will decide the winner of the first season of “Asia’s Got Talent”! The semi-finals and finale will be held at the iconic Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.
Prizes worth up to US$100,000 are at stake in the competition, along with the opportunity for the winner to return and perform at Marina Bay Sands.
The hosts of “Asia’s Got Talent” are Marc Nelson and Rovilson Fernandez. The duo competed in AXN Asia’s “The Amazing Race Asia Season 2” and has hosted the talk show “The Duke”.
The inaugural season of “Asia’s Got Talent” is presented by Marina Bay Sands, Big Cola, Pantene, Caltex and Jetstar.
Created by Simon Cowell’s Syco Entertainment and co-produced by FremantleMedia, the “Got Talent” format is the most successful reality TV format in history and airs in 186 countries.
“Asia’s Got Talent” premieres on 12 Mar, 8.05pm, with subsequent episodes airing on Thursdays, 8.30pm, first on AXN, StarHub TV Ch 511.
The judges comprise Taiwanese-American actor Van Ness Wu, former Spice Girl Mel C, Indonesian pop icon Anggun and Grammy-winning musician David Foster
EntErtainmEntw wEEkEndEr.com.sg
february 27 - MarCH 5, 2015 PAGE 10
Jack Neo put his actors through rigorous training for authenticity – was it worth it?
If you’ve gotten tired of seeing the Ah Boys slog through their Tekong army days, don’t worry. The third instalment in the series, Ah Boys to Men 3: Frogmen, places our favourite uniformed recruits in an alternate scenario.
This time, the gang – featuring Ken “Keng” Chow (played by Joshua Tan), Aloysius Jin or “Wayang King” (Maxi Lim), Sergeant Ong (Tosh Zhang) and Lobang King (Wang Wei Liang) – is plopped into the prestigious Naval Diving Unit (NDU).
Notorious for its brutal training regime, the NDU is an elite force and puts its Frogmen through the toughest of tests that whip the mind and body into shape. So what did director Jack Neo put his Ah Boys through this time?
Flogging the FrogmenWell, no actual flogging was involved, but the cast was put through a training programme almost equal to what the actual elite Frogmen go through.
Neo said, “It was a must for the actors to go through very tough training to ensure that they portrayed the Frogmen realistically. Without the challenging and demanding preparation, the actors’ physical conditions would not be up to standard for the roles.”
Weekender understands that the boys underwent fierce physical conditioning under the Combat Diving Course, as well as a strict four-month diet of boiled food like chicken and asparagus.
This was especially challenging for actor Maxi Lim, who plays the “Wayang King” of the group. He recounted moments when he broke down and breached his diet with indulgences such as milk tea and a whole “family meal” of fried chicken and soft drinks.
gains Worth the Pains?In order to portray NDU’s training as authentically as possible, Neo worked closely with the Ministry of Defence and the Republic of Singapore Navy in researching and promoting the film.
The aggressive commitments continued way after shooting, as the cast have been promoting their show at various locations island-wide.
But, owing to its ambitious portrayal of NDU, Ah Boys to Men 3 has been assaulted with a flurry of criticism on all fronts. The general public has slammed it as blatant advertisement for the elite combat unit.
Yet the unit itself isn’t too pleased with the movie either. Actor Justin Mission, who stars as an old-time sergeant, said, “A lot of my friends were also in the NDU before and said, ‘You guys are just a bunch of clowns; you are not going to do this right. You are not going to do justice to the divers.’”
However, Mission defended the film, believing that it will “put NDU in the spotlight and let them be recognised, because they are a true force that has been silent all these years.”
ALSO IN THEATRES
Focus [nc16]Starring the ever-charming, never-ageing Will Smith, Focus follows the exploits of expert con man Nicky Spurgeon.
While pulling off his latest and most high-risk scheme
– scamming an international race car mogul – he encounters an enemy in the form of a vengeful old flame. Will Nicky be able to pull off this heist in the face of his femme fatale? starring: Will Smith, Margot Robbie,
Rodrigo Santoro & Gerald McRaney
genre: Suspense, Romancerelease: 26 Feb
tracers [Pg13]Young bicycle messenger Cam (Taylor Lautner of Twilight fame) runs into bad company when he crosses an organised crime gang in New York
City, falling deep into their debt. He then crashes his bike into a
beautiful stranger, Nikki (Marie Avgeropoulos), and is pulled into the seductively thrilling world of parkour. Is there more than meets the eye? Is he set up for a fall, or can he claw his way out?starring: Taylor Lautner,
Marie Avgeropoulos & Adam Rayner
genre: Actionrelease: 26 Feb
triumPh in the sKies [Pg13]Adapted from the highly-popular Hong Kong drama series of the same name, Triumph in the Skies stars an ensemble cast including Louis Koo, Sammi Cheng,
Francis Ng, and Charmaine Sheh. Young pilot Branson (Koo) takes over
his family’s aviation company, only to discover that his ex-lover Cassie (Sheh) is a flight attendant there. Harbouring hidden emotions for her, Branson must juggle between managing his relationships and headlining the company’s demanding campaigns.starring: Louis Koo, Charmaine Sheh,
Francis Ng & Sammi Chenggenre: Drama, Romance, Comedyrelease: 19 Feb
shaun the sheeP [g]When Shaun the Sheep decides to take the day off and have some fun, he gets a little more action than he bargained for! Shaun’s mischief accidentally causes
the Farmer to be taken away from the farm, so it’s up to Shaun and the flock to travel to the Big City to rescue him.
Will Shaun find the Farmer in the strange and unfamiliar world of the City before he’s lost forever?starring: Justin Fletcher
& John Sparkesgenre: Family, Animation, Comedyrelease: 19 Feb
Ah Boys to Men 3: No pain, no gain?
Ah Boys to Men 3: Frogmen brings the challenges to a whole new level
neW Faces to meetWhile you’re busy judging if Ah Boys to Men 3 does the real Frogmen justice, you can also look out for a line-up of new characters who are here to make the Ah Boys’ lives even tougher.
Meet “Black Dragon”, an aggressive gangster recruit in NDU who prefers to let his fists do the talking. He is played by Hong Kong actor Wesley Wong, son of veteran actors Melvin Wong and Angie Chiu.
Seeing how the ragtag team of Ah Boys survive the 40 weeks of insane training to become one of the nation’s elite Frogmen alone is interesting enough.
By Pamela Chow
ah Boys to men 3: Frogmen [Pg13]Director: Jack Neostarring: Joshua Tan,
Tosh Rock, Wang Wei Liang
& Maxi Limgenre: Action run length: 148 minrelease: 19 Feb
Ah Boys to Men 3: Frogmen features a cast of both favourite characters and new ones
Veteran actress Aileen Tan (right) once again gets to channel her emotion
What antics and situations will the Ah Boys get up to now?
february 27 - march 5, 2015
Foodmaniaw weekender.com.sg
PAGE 11
february 27 - march 5, 2015
FoodmaniaWChinese new year speCial ethniC Cuisine
Wholesome, colourful Cantonese fare with superior taste
Back to our roots: Hainanese highlights
New Mitzo puts on a show
This Chinese New Year season, you can have both traditional and contemporary Cantonese dishes that are wholesome and big on flavour
After more than ten years of serving good seafood at Joyden Seafood Restaurant in the West, the Joyden brand is set to make waves once again with a myriad of hearty, comforting Chinese dishes at its new dining establishment – Joyden Canton Kitchen.
Wholesome comfort foodAsk anyone what the epitome of Cantonese cuisine is, and the answer would most likely be “soup”. Joyden Canton Kitchen certainly lives up to expectations with its interpretation of a Foshan classic – Chicken with Fresh Huai Shan and Wolfberry in Old Coconut Soup ($12.80).
Fresh huai shan, wolfberry, chicken and other herbs are steamed in an old coconut over low heat for up to three hours to extract the essence from every ingredient, in order to achieve a light
and aromatic soup with a natural sweet taste.Joyden’s nourishing Claypot Soups give a
warm and homely feeling. Do not miss their take on perennial favourites such as Old Cucumber with Dried Oyster and Prime Rib Soup ($15.80) and Lotus Root with Dried Cuttlefish and Prime Rib Soup ($15.80).
Meat dishes are an integral part of every Chinese meal. At Joyden Canton Kitchen, a must-try is its Signature Soy Sauce Chicken ($12/18/32), which comes in different-sized servings. Gently steeped in a secret blend of superior light sauce and other herbs, the chicken is skilfully poached to achieve a silky skin and tender, pull-apart meat. Rosewater, a traditional ingredient used in classic roasting techniques, imparts a refreshing and subtle floral sweetness to this dish.
Other must-tries include the Cantonese Roast Duck ($14/27/50), Signature Crispy Shar-Pi Roast Pork ($12) and the Barbecue Pork Char Siew ($10).
zen yet homely ambienceHoused in a new mall, the spacious 120-seater restaurant exudes an almost Zen feel with its minimalistic and contemporary interior of light wood and elegant panel work. A backdrop of lush greenery and natural light flooding in through the floor-to-ceiling glass windows offer a serene, laid-back atmosphere.
Best of all, a glass panel in one wall also allows guests a peep into the bustling activities in the theatre kitchen.
Joyden Canton Kitchen is an ideal location for any occasion, be it celebratory get togethers with friends and colleagues, or a casual weekday night dinner with the family.
Joyden Canton Kitchen, HillV2 Shopping Centre, 4 Hillview Rise, #02-21, Singapore 667979, www.joydenhall.com.sg
By Eu Shuqi
An interesting twist to the familiar, comforting Chicken with Fresh Huai Shan and Wolfberry Soup – this time served in a coconut!
The Nian Gao comes in the form of a cute Koi fish
The Soy Sauce Chicken is a regular feature in most Chinese New Year menus
Mitzo’s Pen Cai is a regal pot of goodness
Joyden Canton Kitchen is spacious and offers a comfortable dining experience
The Yu Sheng at Mitzo is an interesting colourful mix with a secret sauce
Opting for a grand meal experience? Celebrate reunions and have resplendent feasts at the newly-launched Mitzo Restaurant & Bar
Set in the heart of Orchard Road, Mitzo, in the newly-renovated Grand Park Orchard hotel, has grand plans for this year. This season, you can still partake in an exquisite dining experience with its Chinese New Year menu, accompanied with artisanal cocktails.
None of us can miss raising our chopsticks to prosperity, abundance and good fortune, and Mitzo’s rendition of the traditional family Yu Sheng is an interesting one.
toss to good luckTo shake things up, Mitzo is introducing a “Prosperity Shake”, in which the waiters will sprinkle Mitzo’s homemade secret savoury sauce all over the impressive Yu Sheng
dish, complete with practiced showmanship. The sauce carried a strong fragrance of nuts, which wafted pleasantly across the table as we began tossing the Yu Sheng salad.
While the mixed greens, shredded carrots and radish are common in most lo hei experiences, the generous servings of Kanpachi Kingfish slices and the strong, yummy fragrance of peanuts and pine nuts differentiate this dish from the usual raw fish platter. Want more crunch? Bite into the crispy salmon skin!
a fiery, blue shoWThe Superior Fortune Pei Cai is not just a dish but a show too. When it was brought in, we noticed that the server had gas lighters in his apron. Shortly after setting the colossal pen cai dish down, he poured a layer of vodka over the dish.
Within seconds, he lit the dish, igniting the surface of the pen cai with blue, dancing flames.
My personal favourite in the pen cai would be the soft, sweet dried scallops.
The Roasted Duck deserves a mention too, with a perfectly crispy skin atop the chewy, succulent meat.
care for a koi?At the end of the meal, we were served a platter of three desserts. The nian gao easily stood out, with its slightly-chilled stickiness and light sweetness.
The waiter introduced the koi fish to us, explaining that it was made primarily with nian gao and that what we had was a sample of it. Oh, it tastes as good as it looks!
Mitzo, Grand Park Orchard, 270 Orchard Road, Singapore 238857
By Nicole Lee
The Hainanese Pork Chop – originating from immigrants who used to cook for the colonials – is not actually from Hainan. What other Hainanese dishes do you know?
The Hainan cuisine is a showcase of the cooking styles of the people on Hainan Island, the smallest and southernmost province of China. Hainan food is usually light in taste, less oily and more seasoned than mainland fare.
While seafood is the staple – mainly shrimp, crab and fish – there is meat such as chicken.
hainanese chicken riceIf you don’t already know, the popular Hainanese Chicken Rice dish does not originate from Hainan Island! It was created here in Singapore, and is based on the popular Hainanese dish called the Wenchang Chicken.
Hainanese Chicken Rice is one of our “national dishes” and has found its place in most food courts in Singapore.
The chicken is prepared using traditional Hainanese methods. It is steeped in sub-boiling temperatures in a pre-simmered pork and chicken bone soup stock.
Wenchang chickenOne of the most famous dishes in Hainan cuisine, the Wenchang chicken dish is made using a type of free-range chicken.
The traditional way of preparing it is by “white cutting”. This means to immerse the chicken in boiling hot water to cook it, to preserve the softness and tenderness. It is then seasoned with a mixture of spices, such as chopped ginger and salt.
The skin of the Wenchang chicken is usually yellow.
hele crabThe Hele Crab is produced in the sea around Hele Town. The dish is prepared by steaming the creamy crab with ginger, garlic and vinegar.
While there is a variety of cooking styles possible, such as boiling or stir-frying, steaming is the preferred method as it helps to retain the crabs’ colour and flavour.
new restaurant
PAGE 13
weekender.com.sg
Marinated for 24 hours and braised in beer reduction sauce, the short rib is delightful
Roasted pig liver with caramelised onions has a strong, tasty flavour
new MenU
German winter fare in the tropics
Lo Hei with Coffee Cured Salmon with Roma
Wendy’s specials are back & better!
One great thing about Singapore’s culinary landscape is its highly-competitive environment. It doesn’t allow chefs to be complacent, and that’s good for diners.Take the German restaurants for instance. It’s not enough to serve standard fare; they need to be creative with their menus.
Brotzeit is no exception. The Raffles City branch has recently undergone a renovation and has a revamped seasonal menu.
With the new design, Brotzeit has moved further away from the traditional Bavarian beer house feel. Indeed the Raffles City outlet didn’t feel typically German with high airy ceilings, hip images and a clean, modernist overall design.
Care to LoCk Your Stein?In the renovation, Brotzeit has also redesigned a chilled room for its kegs, which helps to keep its draught beer consistently cool and with less foam. The Raffles City branch even has lockers for its best customers’ beer steins. Apparently, it’s a Munich custom.
Sure, we leave our unfinished bottles of XOs labelled and kept safe behind the bar for the next visit but why would we want to lock a beer stein?
a taSte for German WinterI hate the cold. Thankfully, I live in the tropics filled with fresh seafood, etc. For countries that have to go through the bitter cold of winter, though, their seasonal cuisine needs to be fortified – meatier, heavier and loaded with more nutrients to power the persistent shivering.
Brotzeit’s winter menu, designed by Group Executive Chef Claus Schwarzmann and exclusive to the Raffles City branch, gives us a taste of hearty traditional German
winter dishes. The menu includes Black Forest ham & caramelised figs, beetroot carpaccio, pumpkin tart, veal cheeks, duck confit tart, slow-cooked beef short ribs, roasted pork liver and sweet curd cheese puffs.
menu HiGHLiGHtSBeetroot Carpaccio ($19.50) is a red and happy dish. Goat cheese, leafy greens, walnuts and a foundation of thinly-sliced beetroot (the ‘carpaccio’) drizzled with raspberry vinaigrette make up this very typical German dish. Refreshing, light and delicate, it gently paves the way for heavier mains to come.
The Slow-Cooked Beef Short Rib, or Rinder Ripperl ($42.50), is marinated for 24 hours, seared, and then braised for three hours in a special dark beer reduction. The meat was dark and rich. It was also tender and soft, yet firm enough to hang from the bone. A side of truffle mash potatoes nicely completed the dish. It was delightful, well-balanced and comforting.
The Roasted Pork Liver ($32.50) is really for liver lovers. Served with caramelised onions and brown pork sauce, it has a rich, gamey pork-liver flavour with a tinge of white vinegar. It is very savoury, and will delight anyone who loves the flavour of pork liver.
Both these dishes pair well with chilled beer. Isn’t it great that Brotzeit has plenty of good Bavarian beer?
Brotzeit German Restaurant & Bar (Raffles City), 252 North Bridge Road, #01-17, Tel: 6883 1534
By Frank Young
The winter menu is available exclusively at Brotzeit at Raffles City until the end of March.
German meat dishes such as short ribs get centre stage in Brotzeit’s seasonal menu at its newly-revamped Raffles City outlet
Celebrity Chef reCipe SpeCiAl prOMOtiOnS
metHoD1. Dissolve the salt and brown sugar in Nespresso Roma Grand Cru coffee. Cool the mixture down to room temperature and marinate the salmon overnight in the mixture in the refrigerator. Vacuum the salmon to avoid oxidation. Remove the salmon from the fridge the next day and pat dry, before cutting into thin slices.
2. Julienne all of the vegetables into thin strips.
3. Cut bean curd sheets into 25mm squares and deep-fry in the oil until crispy.
4. Make the sauce by whisking all the ingredients for the sauce into the Roma coffee.
5. Arrange the salmon, vegetables and crispy bean curd sheets attractively on a serving platter.
6. Just before serving, pour the sauce over the lo hei and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
“Demon Chef” alvin Leung Celebrity Chef Alvin Leung is better known as the “Demon Chef” and he helms Michelin-starred restaurants Bo Innovation (Hong Kong) and Bo London. He is known for his unusual and unique culinary style known as “X-treme Chinese”.
inGreDientS
for tHe Lo Hei• 500g Salmon fillet
• 25ml x 2 Nespresso Roma Grand Cru coffee
• 15g Brown Sugar
• 5g Sea Salt
• 50g Carrot
• 50g Beetroot
• 50g Green Apple
• 50g Cucumber
• 50g Yellow Bell Pepper (Capsicum)
• 5g Sesame Seeds
• 30kg Bean Curd Skin
for tHe SauCe• 50g Orange marmalade • 25ml Nespresso Roma Grand Cru coffee• A pinch “Five Spices” Powder• A few drops Vanilla essence• 5g Sesame oil
Looking for a unique type of lo hei this Lunar New Year? Try the Demon Chef’s lo hei with coffee creation!
Don’t miss Wendy’s brand new take on the popular Mushroom Cheese Melt Burger, the all-new Pretzel Mushroom Cheese Melt Burger
From 18 Feb 2015, Lunar New Year Eve, Wendy’s ever-popular Mushroom Cheese Melt (MCM) Burger is back with a twist – the all-new Pretzel Mushroom Cheese Melt Burger (MCM in a pretzel bun)!
The new Pretzel Mushroom Cheese Melt Burger is available in 3 options: A la carte, Combo and, for a limited time only, the CNY Feast.
The Pretzel Mushroom Cheese Melt is available in:• Beef Pretzel Mushroom Cheese Melt Burger (Single/Double)• Grilled Chicken Pretzel Mushroom Cheese Melt Burger • Spicy Chicken Pretzel Mushroom Cheese Melt Burger
CoMBo ( WiTh SMaLL FRieS & SMaLL Coke) PRiCe
Mushroom Melt Beef (A la Carte) $6.00
Mushroom Melt Beef (A la Carte) Double $7.50
Mushroom Melt Grilled Chicken (A la Carte) $6.00
Mushroom Melt Spicy Chicken (A la Carte) $6.00
Mushroom Melt Beef (Combo) $9.00
Mushroom Melt Beef Double (Combo) $10.50
Mushroom Melt Grilled Chicken (Combo) $9.00
Mushroom Melt Spicy Chicken (Combo) $9.00
The Chinese New Year Feasts are valid until 18 Mar 2015 and available in 2 options:
Feast of Goodness – $18.80 (UP $26.60)• 1 x Beef Pretzel Mushroom Cheese Melt Burger (Single)• 1 x Grilled Chicken Pretzel Mushroom Cheese Melt Burger• 2 x Small Fries • 2 x Small Soft Drink• 1 x 4pcs Nuggets • Garden Salad / Caesar Salad
Feast of abundance – $28.80 (UP $44.40)• Choice of 4 burgers from the following: > Beef Pretzel Mushroom Cheese Melt Burger (Single) > Grilled Chicken Pretzel Mushroom Cheese Melt Burger > Spicy Chicken Pretzel Mushroom Cheese Melt Burger• 2 x Small Fries • 4 x Small Soft Drink• 1 x Baked Potato • 1 x 6pcs Nuggets
Visit www.facebook.com/wendyssingaporeofficial for more information
february 27 - march 5, 2015
SHOPSavvyW
home inspirations
Get ideas for transforming your home
Get ideas for transforming your home
PamPered by Nature
Article first published in Lookbox Living #36 May/Jun 2014
Lookbox Annual 2015 is out now! Available at major bookstores and news stands! For more interior projects, visit www.lookboxliving.com.sg
The walls have been painTed in a comforTing laTTe colour
and laminaTed joinery all feaTure The naTural TexTures of honey-Tone Timber...
keeping Things warm and welcoming.
Our popular section continues with more inspiring ideas and home makeovers
Why go for a holiday when your own home is a personal retreat to rival the best resorts? One might imagine that’s how the owners of this apartment feel.
Designed by interior design firm Weiken, this relaxing apartment pays homage to nature but with a fair share of luxury thrown in. Timber textures play a pivotal role in creating the down-to-earth feel of the space while polished finishes have been thrown in as a suitable contrast.
Nature’s CharmThe home feels very modern but also offers a clear nod to rusticity. Avoiding anything too stark and pristine, the living area and its adjacent dry kitchen is wrapped in warm tones: the walls have been painted a comforting latte colour, laminated joinery all feature the natural textures of honey-tone timber, and a bronzy feature panel adds an element of luxe while keeping things warm and welcoming.
Another notable feature is the wall lighting feature that follows the abstract form of a tree. It adds a playful nod to the apartment’s design inspiration while keeping things tasteful.
First impressioNsThe entrance foyer wastes no time in setting the tone for the apartment. It is cloaked in soft, sandy tones, not least because of the woodgrain laminate that has been used over the built-in cabinets.
In a clever play of balance, the design team incorporated mirrored accents on the cabinet fronts to break up the expanse of timber textures. Playing along with the look, the walls have been painted in a complementary biscuit colour.
a Night outJust beyond the living area is a luxurious outdoor deck. In the evening, this space is perfect for convivial gatherings under the balmy night sky with friends and family. Little needed to be done to this space.
The only bit of decoration comes in the form of wall lighting that casts a graphical shadow on the wall.
play timeThe only room that departs from the nature-inspired theme is the son’s room. A veritable playground of colours, it is flanked by padded panels in solid hues.
Even the study desk is spruced up in a trio of colours – yellow, red and blue. The bed is pushed up against the window and framed by overhead storage and a low platform with concealed storage for toys and other knick-knacks.
the KNowledge treeEven the study, associated with work, has been treated as a retreat for the senses. The timber textures that were present in the rest of the apartment are introduced in the form of a generous work unit for two.
Keeping things fun and casual, a light feature in the form of a graphical tree adorns the wall.
By Redzman Rahmat www.lookboxliving.com.sg
Avoiding anything too stark and pristine, the living area and its adjacent dry kitchen is wrapped in warm tones
Even the study, though associated with work, has been treated as a retreat for the senses
weekender.com.sg
PAGE 15
weekender.com.sg
Beauty in Brief
A girl can never have too much makeup – we care too much about cushion powders, killer mascaras and whitening gems
Additions to your beauty regime
CNP LaboratoryFormulated to deliver effective clinical results, CNP Laboratory products are subject to a stringent verification system and years of research and testing on actual skin conditions.
Its proudest product, the Vita-Solution Whitening Ampule, contains a whitening essence Vitamin C that penetrates deep into the derma layers, brightening skin tone while adding a glow to skin.
Available exclusively at Guardian Health & Beauty
EtudE HousEBeing the very first colour makeup brand in Korea, Etude House aims to not only embody beauty and confidence for a woman but also to help her realise her childhood dream of being a princess inside out.
Its Princess Happy Ending range further accentuates the brand's stand that all women are befitting of a princess’ title, with the product series inspired by the likes of Snow White, Jasmine and Cinderella.
Available at Etude House outlets
INNIsfrEEThis long-wear cushion is formulated to keep the skin looking bright and smooth all day while staying strong against sweat. Expect long-lasting makeup with the long-wear complex, which stands well against sebum.
This cushion leaves the skin feeling smooth, refreshed and soft. It calms pores and bumps as well.
Available at departmental stores
d’skINPerfect for the everyday busy woman with dehydrated and tired skin, this oxygen therapy helps to strengthen the skin’s elasticity, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, diminish pores, and is clinically proven to increase hydration level up to 40 per cent.
This treatment hydrates, plumps and renews the skin.
Available at D’Skin outlets
NIvEaThe camu berry is one of the world’s most abundant sources of Vitamin C and has up to 50 times the Vitamin C from an orange. This in-shower body lotion is enriched with Vitamin C from Camu Camu, which repairs signs of dull and damaged skin by evening out skin tone and lightening dark patches.
Available at leading supermarkets
tErrIfIC tExturEs!Scandinavian retailer Make Room recently moved into its new showroom at Tan Boon Liat Building. To celebrate its bigger, better space, the store has brought in a new range of home-ware and accessories.
Part of the new haul includes a collection of woven rugs. These carpets are a great way to add texture and colour to a lacklustre room, and they come in a range of colour-ways and patterns.
Rugs, price on enquiry, from Make Room, www.make-room.net
rIgHt rouNdAre you an audiophile who wishes you could plug into the rich, warm sound of vinyl everywhere you go? Well, you can with the Crosley Cruiser three-speed portable turntable.
This briefcase-style record player is amazingly lightweight and features built-in stereo speakers. It also comes in a variety of vibrant colours so you know it’ll look as good as it sounds.
Crosley Cruiser, $219, from Actually, www.actually.com.sg
famILy-frIENdLyJapanese brand Hirata designs dining tables and chairs based on the theory that the dining room is where the family enjoys one another’s company every day.
As such, Hirata’s TOPO collection of solid wood furniture features rounded corners that make them kid-friendly additions to the home.
Hirata TOPO furniture collection, $299 to $1,799, from Ewins Home, www.theewinshome.com
Home makeover ideas
Texture & tone
PAGE 16fEbruAry 27 - mArch 5, 2015
SHOPSavvyw weekender.cOm.Sg
Fash sNIPs
february 27 - march 5, 2015
TRAVELATionw wEEkEndER.com.sg
PaGe 17
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Montigo is only 30 minutes by ferry from Singapore and has facilities for everyone. The young ones can play the day away at OLO Kid’s Club while you relax at Montigo Spa. Or take the family on an adventure through a jungle trail, or on a magical boat ride to see the fireflies light up the night! The resort is also a perfect starting point to Indonesia’s shopping malls, entertainment centres and historical sites.
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CODE: : Montigo Resort, your Name, Age, Gender, NRIC, Postal Code, E-mail ONLY 1 ENTRY PER PERSON, PLEASECLOSING DATE: 4 MAR 2015
Good Luck!
The craters atop Kelimutu Volcano conceal a trio of gorgeous lakes that change colours throughout the year
In photos, the tri-coloured lakes of Mt Kelimutu look like a dreamscape.
Lined up in a row, each lake almost always takes on a different colour from the others. At most times they’re almost a vibrant spectrum, and always a sight to behold.
The lakes of Kelimutu, meaning “boiling lake”, have been observed to appear blue, green, black, white, red and blue. Yes, and at different, totally unpredictable times too. So don’t be disheartened to see one lake a murky chocolate brown – the one beside it may just be a shocking shade of red!
The westernmost lake is called Tiwu Ata Mbupu, meaning “the lake of old people”. The middle one is named Tiwu Nuwa Muri Koo Fai, or “the lake for young men and maidens”. Finally, the easternmost one is called Tiwu Ata Polo, or “the lake for evil spirits”.
cOlOuRS Of ThE WINDThe constant and unpredictable changing palette of the lakes has remained an intriguing subject, even though it has been scientifically explained.
Research states that lakes sometimes change colours due to minor volcanic eruptions or seismic activity over time, via sub-aqueous fumaroles (openings in the earth’s crust) at the bottom of the lakes. These create highly-acidic water bodies, which Mt Kelimutu’s lakes are.
However, that doesn’t quite explain why all three lakes take on different colours simultaneously. Local rangers at Kelimutu National Park will tell you that it’s because of the materials contained within each lake.
The locals of Moni, on the other hand, believe that it is a result of people who have committed evil deeds and who’ve since died around the mountain. This sounds intriguing. I think I’m going to go with this folklore!
A SuRREAl pARkThe lakes are part of Kelimutu National Park, one of the most beautiful natural masterpieces in Indonesia. At 1,690m, Mt Kelimutu is the park’s second-highest point, behind Mt Kelibara’s 1,731m.
The park protects 19 endemic and endangered animal species, including the native Floresian eagle (Spizaetus floris), the Wallacea owl (Otus silvicola) and the Timorese tesia (Tesia everetti), a small bird.
The Kelimutu area is also home to flora that is rarely found in other parts of Flores. Locals believe that Mt Kelimutu is a sacred source of fertility to the surrounding lands.
Bucket ListExceptional ideas to experience
in your lifetime
The volcanic lakes Ata Polo and Nuwa Muri Koo Fai at the summit of Kelimutu Volcano
See Indonesia’s ever-changing tri-coloured lakes
Up: Shop local style at Kelimutu! The villagers of Flores gather in a market to buy and sell fresh produce
Below: Flores is also home to the Komodo National Park, where you can see the famous Komodo dragons
chAllENGING clIMBAs with all good things, we must work hard to get to the treasure. Kelimutu’s lakes lie atop a winding road that takes hours to traverse by car. The path features sharp turns but offers unparalleled panoramic views.
Several parts of Kelimutu National Park are restricted due to geothermal instability, so trekking is the best mode of travelling within the safe areas around Mt Kelimutu. Even after your car ride up to the parking area, it’s a 12km rocky trek to the peak that will take about more than half an hour.
But ask those who have braved this route, and they’ll tell you that it’s entirely worth it. And many would do it all over again, just to see the lakes magically shift into a new spectrum.
GETTING ThEREFrom Singapore, you would first have to fly to a major flight hub in Indonesia, such as Jakarta. There, you’d have to book a flight to either Ende or Maumere. From there, you’d have to make your way to the town of Moni, about 9 miles from the lakes.
From Maumere, the trip to Moni will take roughly three to four hours while from Ende it will take about one to two hours.
By Pamela Chow
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TRAVELATionw wEEkEndER.com.sg
PaGe 18
While everyone is busy winding down from the New Year high, I’m getting pumped for even more celebrations in other parts rest of the world. But there’s no need for red-eye flights to Coachella or Glastonbury because Asia has its own impressive line-up of music festivals.
Whether you’re a music junkie or a culture vulture, these fests are worth making the trip. Travel by day, revel by night – these are definitely going into my long-weekend calendar!
When: 6-8 MarWhere: Jakarta International Expo, IndonesiaThis international festival has attracted dozens of big-name artists from around the globe, while also showcasing pockets of regional talent. Imagine swaying to the crooning of artists under the Yamaha Music Project, then jumping wildly to the pop beats of Jessie J.
The three days will be packed full with performers. More artists will soon be announced. Considering the prices of tickets, this festival looks like a big bargain.
Tickets available from RP440,000 at www.JavaJazzFestival.com
When: 13-14 MarWhere: Changi Exhibition Centre, SingaporeA carnival of fantastic music just around the corner? Oh, goody! FMFA will be bringing in world-renowned acts including electronic powerhouse The Prodigy, Fatboy Slim and Swedish DJ Avicii.
Look out also for some of our own talents, like Singapore’s Andrew T and Nez, and Malaysia’s Bottlesmoker and Bud Culture.
Tickets available from $148 at www.FutureMusicFestivalAsia.com
When: 13-15 AprWhere: Chiang Mai, ThailandEver wanted to gear up with fully-loaded Super Soakers and engage in a massive water war? The Thais are way ahead of you! Stemming from the Buddhist tradition of sprinkling water over Buddha statues for purification, Songkran has evolved into a three-day country-wide water fight.
Amidst cultural performances and music, locals douse each other with sparkling jets of water under the scorching tropical heat. What a combination of old practices and modern amusement!
Participation is free, just come equipped with a water gun (or two, or three)!
By Pamela Chow
When: 24-26 JulWhere: Naeba Ski Resort, JapanDelicious raw fish and novelty vending machines aren’t the only great things that have come out of Japan. The Fuji Rock Festival is one of the biggest concerts held in the country, and the line-up of the 2015 edition is knocking my socks off already.
It will feature headlining acts Muse and The Foo Fighters, alongside equally explosive artists such as Johnny Marr, Of Monsters and Men and Ryan Adams. Even if I had to survive on cup noodles just to pay for my flight and tickets there, it’d be worth it!
Tickets available from 16,800 Yen at www.FujiRock-Eng.com
When: 31 Mar - 5 AprWhere: Bali, IndonesiaMost of our experience with festivals involves throwing ourselves into the party and burning out all our energy in the name of fun and feeling young. Well, this is a different type of festival that will leave you buzzing with recharged spirit.
Deep in the lush lands of Bali, you can take lessons from health and wellness experts from around the world, and mingle with other participants with the same calm state of mind. It’s a beautiful experience that will leave you physically and spiritually energised for months to come.
Tickets available from US$25 at www.BaliSpiritFestival.com
Jessie J is one of the headlining acts of Java Jazz Festival 2015
The Future Music Festival Asia this year will bring in legendary DJ Fatboy Slim
Songkran, originating from a Buddhist tradition, has evolved into a three-day country-wide water fight
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The Fuji Rock Festival draws throngs of people with its impressive line-ups every year
BaliSpirit Festival brings together health and wellness experts and enthusiasts around the globe for a rejuvenating good time
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Weekender FPFC_150211_Pathed_HR.pdf 1 2/24/15 3:33 PM february 27 - march 5, 2015 weekender.com.sg
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