WK70B/MCI(P)060/08/2013

ISSUE 70 FEbrUary 21 - 27, 2014

f o o d m a n i a

E V E n T sJR PASTRY WORKSHOP bY MASTERCHEF ESCRIbA P3

E n T E R T a i n m E n T THE RESuRRECTIOn OF SHERlOCK HOlMES P4

WK70B/MCI(P)060/08/2013

ISSUE 70 FEbrUary 21 - 27, 2014

NEw EATERIES & COLOURFUL BUFFETS TO CHECK OUT

B E H a p p i E R YAKKIng WITH THE vIvACIOuS YunA P5

REAd OUR REvIEw OF THIS mAgICAL LOvE STORY

E n T E R T a i n m E n T

soak up THE splEndouR of

madRid

T R aV E l a T i o n

IN THIS wEEKENdER ExCLUSIvE, REAd wHAT IT’S LIKE TO ExPERIENCE THE gLORIOUS CAPITAL

weekender.com.sgevents february 21 - 27, 2014w PaGe 2

BY GUINEVERE SOFER

See Page 13 for aNSWerS.

Eagles can spot a moving rabbit over a kilometre away! But can you spot the fish net in these bird’s eye photos?

In the picture taken by the Canon Compact Digital Camera G15, it’s possible. While in the other, taken with a popular phone cam, not so.

g-DragoN: oNe of a KIND IN 3D21-23 Feb, $18 (member), $24 (public)Golden Village presents a unique opportunity for fans to relive G-Dragon’s One of a Kind World Tour in 2013, in 3D. From being a suave superhero in one music video to a cartoon villain in the next, G-Dragon never rests on his laurels when it comes to seeking innovative methods in expressing his musical creativity. This live documentary charts his journey across the many countries showcasing his distinctive brand of music, with backstage footage and in-depth interviews to boot. GV Bishan, GV Jurong, GV Marina

NeW! BugIS Street, aN exhIBItIoNUntil 14 Mar, Mon-Fri, 11am-7pm; Sat by appointmentBugis Street features portraits of the transgendered community in Bugis in the 1980s. Taken by French photographer Alain Soldeville, these recently unearthed images show a side of Singapore history that many might be unfamiliar with. Taken mainly at night, these photos show the girls on the streets as well as in their apartments. Objectifs Gallery, 56a Arab Street

free! a ChaNgeD WorlD: SINgaPore art 1950S–1970SUntil 16 Mar, 10am–7pm dailyA Changed World explores the development of Singapore art in light of the rapid changes that took place in Singapore after World War II. It charts the artists’ own engagement with changes in Singapore’s political, economic, social and urban landscape. Exhibition Gallery 2, Basement, National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Road, www.nationalmuseum.sg

NeW! WorDS go rouND oPeN houSe8 Mar, 8.30am-12.30pm, $15 (Includes a snack pack)Open to all students from 15-18 years old, the Words Go Round Open House is a full-day programme for all students to get the chance to interact with writers from all genres – film, journalism, drama and blog-writing. Meet with other budding writers and readers and be inspired by the beauty of the written word! Sign up at the website.www.singaporewritersfestival.com/wgr/open-house/

SINgaPore roCK feStIVal5 & 6 Mar, 6.30pm, $118 (early bird), $128, $148, $198 (both nights)Rock out at the very first Singapore Rock Festival as six of the hardest and heaviest rock bands join forces for two nights, featuring the likes of Korn, Rob Zombie, Black Veil Brides and more! Tickets available at Sistic.Fort Canning Park, 70 River Valley Road, www.sistic.com.sg

NeW! DalI: the PIerre argIllet ColleCtIoN22 Mar - 20 Apr, 9.30am to 9pmOriginating from the renowned Pierre Argillet Collection, the exhibition of over 100 works including etchings, drawings, and tapestries will be on for viewing and acquisition at Red Sea Gallery. All works from the Pierre Argillet Collection have been authenticated and signed by Salvador Dali and have never before left the collection. Red Sea Gallery, 10 Dempsey Road

NeW! the rollINg StoNeS - 14 oN fIre15 Mar, 8pm, ticket pricing TBCThe Rolling Stones will play a one-night only show at The Marina Bay Sands Grand Ballroom on Mar 15, as part of their 14 On Fire tour. The 14 On Fire tour will see Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts and Ronnie Wood head back out on the road across Asia, Australia and New Zealand following a mammoth run of concerts in the USA and the UK in 2013, bringing their iconic music and groundbreaking stage shows to audiences around the globe. Tickets are on sale now.www.sistic.com.sg

SeCretS of the falleN PagoDaUntil 4 May, $12; $8 for Singaporeans and PRsThe capital of Tang China (618-907AD), Chang’an (present-day Xi’an), was a hub for economic and cultural exchange. Nearby lies the Famen Temple, one of the most revered Buddhist sites in China. A finger bone relic of the Buddha and magnificent Tang dynasty objects of gold, silver, ceramics, and glass were sealed within an underground crypt there. For more than 1,000 years, these treasures were forgotten until their chance discovery in 1987. Together with objects from other leading museums in Shaanxi, this exhibition is a rare showcase of Tang aesthetics and culture for the first time in Southeast Asia. Don’t miss it! Asian Civilisations Museum, 1 Empress Place

Solo exhIBItIoN BY toMoKo KaShIKI @ ota fINe artS

Until 2 Mar, Tue–Sat, 11am–7pm; Sun, 11am–6pm, closed on Mon & PH

To inaugurate their new space at Gillman Barracks, Ota Fine Arts

presents a solo exhibition by Tomoko Kashiki,

the artist’s debut in Singapore. Reminiscent of Heian Buddhist

paintings and bijinga, traditional depictions

of beautiful women, the painter’s exquisite imaginings are derived from her original “poetic sentiment and emotion”. Created through an elaborate method of painting, sanding and finely carving the surface of the panel, then repainting layer over layer, these screens open up an intimate world that suspends Kashiki’s subjects between dreams and desires.Ota Fine Arts Singapore, 7 Lock Rd, #02-13, Gillman Barracks, www.otafinearts.com/singapore

free! art INCuBator 5: WheN We laSt MetUntil 6 Apr, Tue-Sun, 10am-6pm (closed on Mon & PH)From When We Last Met is the culminating exhibition of Art Incubator 5. This recollective exhibition brings together work by the 2013 artists-in-residence Kent Chan, Chun Kai Feng, Shi Wei Teh and the Indonesian artist collective, ruangrupa.Praxis Space, Block H, Level 1, #H101, and Project Space, Block G, Level 1, #G101

free! BaCK to PlaY! – a taMPINeS learNINg INItIatIVe23 Feb, 12pm-5pmLet’s get Back to Play! Return to the days of spontaneous fun where kids roamed free, and let them take charge of their play! Learn more about play at this family festival, which promises exciting activities ranging from a children’s maze, visual arts to construction and even wacky messy play. Highlights include a parents’ talk and craft-making for the community PLAY! Mosaic. Recommended for families with children aged three to six.Tampines Central Community Complex, Multi-Purpose Hall, 866A Tampines Street 83

free! BegINNINg of the BeCoMINg @ aSIaN CIVIlISatIoNS MuSeuMUntil 1 JunThe Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) presents over 80 Batak sculptures in the exhibition entitled “Beginning of the Becoming”. The various sculptures in wood, stone, and bronze will be on display at the museum. They shed light on the intriguing culture of one of Singapore’s neighbours – the Batak people of northern Sumatra in Indonesia.Asian Civilisations Museum, 1 Empress Place, www.acm.org.sg

WEEKENDERFUN-TO-DOIDEAS

Check out these events over the next two weeks

now on

Mark your calendars for these events happening in three to four weeks

Coming Soon

Photo A Photo B

Check the answer to see if you can tell which was taken with the Compact Digital Camera.

sPot tHe dIFFerence: sharp as an eagle’s eye

NeW! holIDaY fuN at aMK huB14 Mar - 13 Apr, various timingsAMK Hub celebrates the March Holidays with a delightful selection of treats, including a series of exhilarating roving performances, fabulous promotions and giveaways in store

for shoppers! Roving thematic monster mascots will make shopping even more exciting for shoppers as they make their way around AMK Hub! These friendly personalities will keep everyone

entertained with their dance performances and will definitely put a smile on every little one’s face. Visit the website for more details.Ang Mo Kio Hub, 53 Ang Mo Kio, www.amkhub.com.sg

NeW! WorlD PreSS Photo exhIBItIoN 2013 CoMeS to SINgaPore8-30 MarHaving visited nearly 100 cities in 45 countries, the annual World Press Photo exhibition will arrive at its final destination, Singapore. 154 stunning photos by the world’s top 54 photographers will be on show in the iconic setting of Raffles Hotel. Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) Lawrence Wong will open the exhibition on Mar 7.Raffles Hotel, 1 Beach Rd

MISSIoN fooDS BeaCh NetBall feStIVal2 Mar, 9am-6pm, $90/teamGet ready for more fun under the sun in this year’s Mission Foods Beach Netball Festival! With four categories, namely Women Under 23 (JC, ITE & Tertiary Only), Women Open (18-35 years old), Mixed Open (18-35 years old) and Corporate Open (18-35 years old), take part with your friends and family and stand to win up to $1,000 cash. Registration now open at the website.Siloso Beach, Sentosa Island, www.netball.org.sg

free! I lIght @ MarINa BaY7-30 Mar, 7.30pm-11pmi Light Marina Bay, Asia’s first and only sustainable light art festival will return again to Singapore’s Marina Bay waterfront, showcasing innovative content, the intelligent use of lighting as well as an international line-up of creative talents. The upcoming festival will feature more than 25 innovative and environmentally sustainable light art installations from around the world that will transform the Bay into a magical space of light and colour for an unparalleled experience!Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade

PAGE 3 weventsweekender.com.sg fEbruAry 21 - 27, 2014

s P e c I A L F e A t U r e

One wild ride with Team Aberdeen SingaporeTeam aberdeen reTurns To represenT singapore in The exTreme sailing series. don’T miss The acTion!

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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 ISlANDWIDEFor actual locations, visit our website

Following a successFul first outing in 2013, Team Aberdeen Singapore is set to return to the series in 2014 hoping to make the home crowd proud.

Local sailors Scott Glen Sydney, one of Singapore’s top Laser sailors, and Asian Games keelboat match racing gold medallist, Justin Wong, will join forces with world champion and world record holder Tom Dawson (GBR) and Americas Cup star Adam Beashel (AUS), as well as skipper Nick Moloney.

Skilful & Wily TacTicianSMoloney recently led the Aberdeen Extreme 40 to break the Hong Kong Around the Island Race record in Nov 2013. The skipper is an Extreme Sailing Series veteran and offshore legend who has

and is set to put up a fight to retain the title for a hat-trick.

Sir Ben Ainslie, the most successful Olympic sailor of all time, will be returning to the Extreme Sailing Series with JP Morgan Bar, having played a key role in Oracle Team USA’s victory in The Americas’ Cup, in one of the biggest comebacks in sporting history. Sir Ben is a four-time Olympic gold medallist, silver Olympic medallist, 11-time world and nine-time European champion.

French offshore sailing legend Franck Cammas will also return to the Extreme Sailing with Groupama Team France. His extensive silverware collection includes having won the latest edition of the Volvo Ocean Race.

Dean Barker is a world-renowned Americas’ Cup sailing legend. He boasts a host of sailing titles and will be sharing skipper duties of Team Emirates New Zealand with Peter Burling.

It’s going to be one wild ride and I hope you’re ready for the Extreme Sailing Series Singapore leg!

The Promontory @ Marina Bay, Feb 21 to 23, 11am onwards. Visit www.extremesailingseries.com for more information.

circumnavigated the world three times in three great disciplines – the Volvo Ocean Race, the Vendee Globe and the Jules Verne, in which he set the outright speed record.

Supporting him is Australian Beashel, best known for his Americas Cup achievements. An accomplished dinghy sailor, Beashel has won major international regattas in the 49er, Laser and 420 classes. He has also competed in numerous keelboat regattas, having won the Kenwood Cup, The Transpac and the Farr 40 World Championships.

OTher Team SkipperSLeigh McMillan is one of the UK’s top multihull sailors,

having represented Great Britain at two

Olympic Games in the Tornado class and winning the Extreme Sailing Series in 2012 and 2013. He will be back at the helm of The Wave, Muscat

Where imagination meets childlike funpuT aside ThaT smarTphone or console game ThaT your child has his face buried in and embrace The ouTdoors aT The all-new children’s garden

The new children’s Garden in Gardens by the Bay, a one-hectare play area, was recently opened on Jan 21.

The Gardens by the Bay, a recipient of the 2014 “Thea Awards”, which is regarded as the Oscars of the attractions industry, now offers children a place where play can be integrated into a fun garden setting.

Among the attractions of the Children’s Garden is a wet play area with fountains that flow in synch with popular music from timeless Disney movies. Be sure to bring a change of clothes for the whole family when

Flora and fun for kids of all ages

The Far east organization children’s garden

you visit this refreshing space where imagination becomes reality.

The Children’s Garden was made possible with a $10 million contribution from Far East Organization, which has all gone into the creation of this multifaceted and imaginative playground for the young and young at heart.

Children’s Garden, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953, Tel: 6420 6848

Choice event picks coming in a month or more

preview

neW! SingapOre’S firST ever JuniOr chefS’ paSTry WOrkShOp3 apr, 2pm - 4.30pm, $128At this year’s World Gourmet Summit (WGS), a small group of lucky children will get a confectionery experience of a lifetime at Singapore’s first-ever Junior Chefs’ Pastry Workshop with Spanish Masterchef and magician of all things sweet, Christian Escribà. The workshop is a chance for 16 children, aged between six and 12 years, to let their imagination run wild with the man known as “The Mozart of Chocolate” in an exclusive session held at ToTT on Dunearn Road.ToTT Store, 896 Dunearn Road

STepS in The park5 apr, 7.30am, $10 (including T-shirt)Take the first step towards understanding modern-day slavery and human trafficking at the inaugural Steps event – a 5km fun run/

walk. Meet like-minded people and learn how you can make a difference to the enslaved and those vulnerable to slavery. Silver Garden, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, stepsinthepark.com

BrunO marS live in SingapOre26 Mar, time TBc, $168, $188 (standing);

$128, $188, $268, $328 (seated) + $4 booking feeGrammy Award-winning superstar Bruno Mars will be bringing The Moonshine Jungle Tour to Singapore. Enjoy this one-night only performance at the Singapore Indoor Stadium and catch your favourite songs being sung live!

Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, www.sportshubtix.sg

neW! TaylOr SWifT red TOur in SingapOre12 June, time & ticket prices TBcSeven-time Grammy-winner Taylor Swift spent much of 2013 headlining sold-out stadiums and arenas in North America, Australia and New Zealand on her blockbuster The Red Tour; and has finished a run of sold-out shows in London and Berlin earlier this month. Tickets for her show in June in Singapore go on sale on Mar 3.www.sportshubtix.com

Creative edible pieces by Christian Escriba

entertainment weekender.com.sgw PAGE 4 fEbruAry 21 - 27, 2014

Sherlock The resurrecTion ofT

he world’s greatest detective is back for a third and new season of “Sherlock”. This means the return of the

charming Benedict Cumberbatch (who starred in Star Trek: Into Darkness) as the titular detective.

In this new season, Sherlock Holmes somehow survives his death after he took the plunge off London’s St. Bartholomew’s Hospital. It was revealed to viewers at the end of Season 2 that he had somehow survived, but not to the good doctor, John Watson (portrayed by Martin Freeman, star of The Hobbit trilogy), who was left inconsolable.

More SuSpenSe and TwiSTSThe premiering episode of the new season, entitled “The Empty Hearse”, will deal with the perfectly kept cliff-hanger, from the get-go!

With London in danger of an imminent terrorist attack, Sherlock ‘rises from the grave’ with the theatricality that comes so naturally to him. However, when the super-sleuth thinks everything is as he had left it before he had faked his own death, he’s in for a big surprise.

After two long years, Watson has found a new life working at a medical practice with his love, Mary Morstan (who is played by Freeman’s real-life partner, Amanda Abbington). He is about to propose to her.

How does Watson react to Holmes’ reappearance after so much grief? And how will they reconcile Watson’s new life and love, with the fresh

case on hand that Holmes needs help with in order to save the British parliament from a bomb attack?

BecoMing HuManAs the duo embarks on new adventures, Sherlock is on his own learning journey from being a “high-functioning sociopath” to becoming “human”.

In his own words, “I can read a crime scene the way (Watson) can understand a human being. I used to think that’s what made me special and, frankly, I still do.”

“But my words of advice – should any of you require the services of either of us – I will solve your murder but it takes John Watson to save your life,” he says.

Premiering on Feb 27, “Sherlock” Season 3 is the gripping and

The edgy new Take on Sherlock holmeS iS back and, ThaT’S righT, ladieS, ThaT meanS a new SeaSon of benedicT cumberbaTch

mind-blowing continuation to what Sherlock perfectly describes as, “two men and their, frankly, ridiculous adventure of murder, mystery and mayhem.” What joyous excitement awaits!

The new season will amaze and amuse in the ingenious, humorous and inimitable style that made “Sherlock” the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Awards’ Best Drama Series of 2011.

The brilliantly-written and surprising plots and dialogue are matched by the superlative performances and chemistry of its A-list actors.

Catch the premiere of “Sherlock” Season 3 on Feb 27, 10pm, first and exclusively on AXN, Ch 511 on StarHub TV.

Will Sherlock and Watson be able to pick up from where they left off?

t e L e V i s i o n

PAGE 5 wentertainment / Be HaPPierweekender.com.sg fEbruAry 21 - 27, 2014

The beauTy and sTory of This myThical Tale are sure To warm your hearT

In a mythical New York, where miracles, winged horses and other supernatural forces of good and evil exist, a thief has a chance encounter with a ravishing

redhead, who only has days to live.

Romantic PRemiseJessica Brown Findlay, who starred as Lady Sybil Branson in “Downton Abbey”, is both stunning and stellar as Beverly Penn, the sheltered yet strong-willed young lady who is terminally-stricken with a deadly form of “consumption”.

While Beverly is in the bath, Peter Lake (played by Colin Farrell) attempts to burgle the house and its safe, not realising there is someone home. Farrell is believable and likeable as Peter, though one suspects it wasn’t too complex a role, including with him speaking in his natural Irish accent.

Peter is stopped in his tracks as he is taken

Winter’s tale: a spark of hope in love

we speak To The gorgeous aurora florence who sTars as eliza dooliTTle in my fair lady

by cheryl chia

Holloway vehicle?

Aurora Florence: What a lady!

Yakking With the vivacious Yuna

In the fIlm My Fair Lady, the lead character, Eliza Doolittle, was portrayed by the iconic Audrey Hepburn and her musical lines were sung by Julie Andrews. Aurora Florence sure has big shoes to fill in the musical on stage.

Aurora has already played other prominent roles such as Penny in Hairspray. She is also an aspiring singer-songwriter and has recently released her debut album, It’s Wonderful.

We met the multi-talented beauty on the set.

What did do you do in PRePaRation foR youR Role?We had lots of rehearsals in New York City, I did a lot of research, and a lot of reading about what life was like for women at the time, both on the lower-class end as well as the high class.

All of which helped me create my emotional journey and what she (Eliza) went through.

eliza doolittle is such an iconic Role. hoW do you feel about having such big shoes to fill?I try not to think about it too much! I don’t want to get intimidated by it.

From MySpace fame to international stardom, singer Yuna has worked with big names such as Pharrell Williams.

Yuna started playing the guitar at the age of 14 and performed at various events in Malaysia before getting discovered in the USA. Since then, the soulful Malaysian has been performing on talk shows such as “Conan” and “Last Call with Carson Daly”.

She recently signed on to Verve Music Group. Grammy Award-winning producer David Foster, who heads creative operations at Verve, even tweeted his excitement at the prospect of working with her.

We managed to catch her briefly.

What I love about both those women (Hepburn and Andrews) in the role is that they brought so much of themselves into the role. I can’t be them, but all I can do is bring as much as I can of myself.

has PeRfoRming alWays been in youR blood?I’ve always loved this show and performing, growing up. This role is definitely my dream role, for sure!

tell us about the antics you get uP to backstage.A fun thing that Chris Carsten (Henry Higgins) and I do after the curtain comes down after the show: We go around back and come up the stairs to take a bow.

We always race to the bottom of the stairs… and I always win. Hahahaha!

hoW is it like WoRking With “henRy higgins”?Chris a lovely man and a friend, and I trust him completely. It makes my job so much easier. He is a dream to work with.

you’Re lucky; Rex haRRison Was a nightmaRe!That’s right! Haha! I am verrry lucky. Maybe it would work if you hated Higgins off stage when you’re on stage! But I am lucky to have a great scene partner. [Smiles]

a new Thriller has hiT our shores, feaTuring a “losT” sTar

by brandon era

Josh holloway. Need we say more?Apart from the “Lost” star, this new series

entitled “Intelligence” also stars Marg Helgenberger (CSI) and Meghan Ory (Once Upon a Time).

I have seen too many shows about cyborgs, where humans are fitted with robotic parts or turned into semi-robots with just a small speck of humanity remaining, such as in Robocop.

Or, it would be the complete opposite, such as a robot disguised as a human being. See any of the Terminator movies.

the PRemiseIn “Intelligence”, the story is slightly different as Gabriel (Holloway) is a high-tech intelligence operative enhanced by a super-computer microchip that has been surgically implanted in his brain.

With this microchip, he becomes the first

human to be connected directly into the worldwide information grid and to have complete access to the Internet, Wi-Fi, and telephone and satellite data. Talk about being over-connected.

He can hack into any data centre and access key intel to protect the USA [surprise, surprise] from her enemies. It’s no wonder there are people who want to harm him.

Riley Neil (Ory) is a secret service agent sent to protect him, including from his own reckless and unpredictable behaviour.

If you’re not a fan of Holloway, you might not find this series so intelligent.

“Intelligence” is on RTL-CBS, Singtel Mio TV Ch 318, every Tuesday at 9.55pm.

hello, yuna. hoW has the Whole Ride been foR you thus faR?It’s been amazing… The last three years have been so much fun and I learned so much too!

What can fans look foRWaRd to in youR uPcoming conceRt?New songs from the album! It sounds very different from the previous projects I used to do.

being in the music industRy, you must meet loads of otheR aRtistes. has theRe been one in PaRticulaR that’s made you staR-stRuck?I have to say, Mike Einziger (of Incubus).

any Plans you can shaRe With us?I’m gonna be back in studio in April, hopefully, to work on new material. Other than that, I’m launching my own clothing line and website 14novbyyuna.com on Feb 15!

What Would you like to say to fans?Thank you, times a million (for all the support and love)!

Catch Yuna in her upcoming “Nocturnal” concert on Feb 24, at The Esplanade Concert Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets from Sistic.

m o V i e r e V i e w in by her beauty and personality and becomes determined to save her, even though he is on the run from the shadowy Pearly (Russell Crowe). Pearly is nothing short of demonic [literally] and diabolical, and is unflinching in his pursuit of vengeance against Peter.

With various twists and developments, often preternatural, and as the thread of interconnecting incidences begin to unravel, the scene is set for a climactic tussle between good and evil, and the redemptive power of miracles and hope in love.

One can’t help but wonder if writer-turned-director Akiva Goldsman’s work on the popular Sci-Fi TV series, “Fringe”, has influenced this film. “Fringe” fans will also recognise Kevin Corrigan, who played Sam Weiss in the series.

inteResting cameosOne notable appearance is that of Eva Marie Saint, who starred in On the Waterfront opposite the legendary Marlon Brando and was one of the famous “Hitchcock blondes”. She starred with Cary Grant in North by Northwest – one of the Master of Suspense’s greatest films.

Will Smith as the enigmatic “Judge” is amusing. Following Men in Black 3 and After Earth, this role is much less prominent. Moreover, Smith doesn’t appear sufficiently diabolical or convincing in the role.

While the plot and dialogue could be better, Winter’s Tale is beautiful, stirring and intriguing. It might even spark hope in those who’re experiencing a winter in love.

This review was possible thanks to Golden Village.

WinteR’s tale [nc16]

diRectoR: Akiva GoldsmanstaRRing: Colin Farrell, Jessica Brown Findlay, Russell CrowegenRe: Romance, Drama, FantasyRun length: 118 minRelease: Feb 13

Josh Holloway is a high-tech operative in “Intelligence”

inTernaTionally-renowned singer yuna is in Town for her “nocTurnal” concerT on feb 24

by cheryl chia

B e H a P P i e r

t e L e V i s i o n

you WeRe once a founding membeR of imagine dRagons. have you sPoken to them since theiR success at the gRammys?I am very happy for them. It’s really exciting as they are doing so well!

At this point, we haven’t talked about collaborating but they were a really big help with advice for my debut album.

ah, yes, you funded it’s WondeRful With cRoWd-funding site kickstaRteR.You know, I wanted to record an EP and so I decided to try Kickstarter as I didn’t have a ton

of money to do it. So, I kind of threw it together and everything worked out.

We made twice than what we were expecting. We made about $2,500.

What Would you like to say to fans of the musical?Come, watch My Fair Lady! You’ll laugh, cry and enjoy your evening.

My Fair Lady runs until Mar 2 at the MasterCard Theatres at Marina Bay Sands. Tickets from Sistic.

Jessica Brown findlay is ravishing and stellar in her role

Yuna is in town for a concert on Feb 24

B e H a P P i e r

FOODMANIA weekeNDer.cOM.sgfebruary 21 - 27, 2014w PaGe 6

The local breakfasT favourite, you char kway or you tiao, is commonly-eaten with a hot bowl of porridge, bak kut teh or tau suan dessert, or even tau huay.

You char kway is also popular in other Asian countries. The Vietnamese eat it with their pho (Vietnamese beef noodles).

Here are a few options to try or to get your fix.

RochoR oRiginal BeancuRdKnown for its tau huay, Rochor Original Beancurd also fries its you char kway to go with the bean curd dessert. Try this method of eating you char kway if you haven’t. Rochor Original Beancurd’s tau huay is known to be one of the best in town as well.2 Short Street, Singapore 188221

MR YoutiaoThis new-fangled you tiao stall even has sunflower seed encrusted crullers, green tea you tiao and sesame seed you tiao.

Mr Youtiao also uses the crullers like bread with ‘sandwiches’, filled with otak, chicken satay or tuna mayonnaise. An interesting version indeed.Square 2, 10 Sinaran Drive, #02-09, Singapore 307506

You tiao ManThis stall also sells other traditional fried snacks such as ham chin peng and the “butterfly”. The you tiao is crispy and does not go hard even after leaving out for a few hours. Toa Payoh West Market & Food Centre, 127 Toa Payoh Lorong 1, #02-05, Singapore 310217

dough cultuReThe you char kway from this stall is its signature item, with a crisp outside yet tender and fluffy inside.

Dough Culture also sells other fried goodies such as goreng pisang, sesame ball and carrot cake.Visit www.doughculture.com.sg for a list of outlets.

Xin Xin You tiaoInstead of having the usual kaya toast and coffee for breakfast, why not have you tiao, kaya and coffee for a change?

Xin Xin You Tiao also uses coconut oil to fry the crullers for a more fragrant dough stick. Hainanese Village Food Centre, Block 105 Hougang Ave 1, #02-19, Singapore 530105

WORD OFMOUTH

Seen and heard of the beSt of local Singaporean food

Hot & Tasty You Char Kway

Seasonal bounty at BasilicoSpecial SeaSonal delightS await in a bountiful italian buffet

I’ve always felT that Italian restaurant Basilico at the Regent Singapore is a highly-underrated hotel restaurant and buffet.

The ingredients used are always fresh and there is always a bountiful array of Italian cheeses and charcuterie to choose from.

This year, Basilico launches its Savour the Seasons ($84++), a seasonally-driven menu that changes quarterly to reflect the time of the year.

WinteR SpecialSFor the European winter months of January to March, expect hearty dishes containing violet and spiny artichokes, violet potatoes and game meat such as boar, venison and quail, as well as the famous Tartufo Nero (black truffles) from Piemonte.

When I was there, I loved the risotto with porcini and leeks with cured venison, a well-seasoned and

comforting dish. Other traditional and authentic Italian dishes abound.

The wonderfully-seared milk-fed lamb comes with a smidgen of violet potato puree, which was pleasant surprise. Most of us thought that it was yam! The crispy pork belly with radicchio and vine tomatoes further enhances the winter menu.

The Sicilia’s Globe is a chocolate and pistachio cream encased sphere with beautiful marbling. The painstaking globes are made by Basilico’s pastry chef and there is a limited quantity made per day. Be sure to order early.

look FoRWaRd to MoReFor the upcoming seasons, diners can look forward to wholesome vegetables such as heirloom carrots, white asparagus and even succulent meat such as suckling pig and spring lamb.

In the summer months of July to September, expect the harvest of Norcia Summer Black Truffle, juicy Pugliese cherries, and some of Italy’s best seafood such as sea urchin and scampi. Look forward to dishes of summer with Caciucco alla Livornese, a flavourful soup of lobster, scallops, prawns and cod as well as a Ferrovia Puglia Cherry and Almond Tart.

Any epicurean worth his or her salt knows that autumn, October to December, brings delicacies such as Tutti Funghi (all forest mushrooms), handmade pastas such as gnocchi and, in tribute to hunting season, quail, pheasant and goose.

On top of this grand bounty, Basilico will still have its standard array of desserts and freshly-made gelati.

Basilico, Regent Singapore, Level 2, Mon to Sun, 6.30pm to 10pmE-mail basilicogrm.rsn@fourseasons.com for reservations.

Modern Indian food to Melt in your mouthindulge your craving for indian food with modern and quality diSheS in a bountiful buffet Spread at melt – the world cafe

The buffeT aT Melt in Mandarin Oriental hotel sets itself apart from the rest with its signature Indian food buffet spread.

Known for quality Indian food, Melt’s Chef Santosh Kumar adds to their usual buffet spread with a further array of traditional and signature Indian dishes, from Mar 6 to 15.

Rich & deliciouS cuRRYThe Flavours of India ($68++ to $88++) buffet draws inspiration for its dishes from all over India but with a modern twist. The Tandoori Chicken Roulade, a juicy baked chicken leg stuffed with prawn saffron mousse was slightly spicy with an aromatic fragrance.

We also liked Lagen Ki Chop, a tender lamb chop cooked in a copper pot of rich cashew and saffron gravy. We are normally quite wary of lamb as it can be slightly gamey but this one had hardly any scent at all.

The Tandoori Jhinga featured succulent king prawns marinated in a blend of spices and carom seeds. The prawns had a great flavour to

them with just enough seasoning that did not overwhelm the natural taste of the prawns.

MoRe indian goodieSWhat is Indian food without a dish of biryani? Their Dhaba Chicken Biryani is a delectable combination of chicken, minted green chilli and curd, served with aromatic basmati rice. Not forgetting, the hearty Butter Chicken Masala.

There is also Lazeez Paneer, a vegetarian option of a cottage cheese roll stuffed with mixed vegetables. If you are peckish for naan bread, Melt does a great cheese naan, cheese and garlic naan as well as plain naan. These are great for soaking up the gravy as well.

Wash down your meal with a

cup of masala milk tea for the full authentic Indian experience. Apart from Indian food, you can also help yourself to the array of seafood, sashimi and desserts available should you still be hankering for more.

E-mail mosin-dining@mohg.com for reservations.

AffordAbleFrench introductionfrench food doeSn’t need to be pretentiouS or expenSive, aS evidenced at la cuiSSon

by cheryl chia

When I first heard that Le Cuisson was re-branded to La Cuisson Bistro and Wine Bar, I laughed. I think the

owner realised the error in the feminine form of the word a few years into the business.

Chef Kenneth Lin trained at DB Bistro at Marina Bay Sands before opening La Cuisson. Le Cuisson (its former incarnation) started out at a hawker centre in Queen Street, and then moved to Holland Drive.

Recently, it moved again into a cushy shop house along Prinsep Street, and expanded its menu. With a new, cushier setting came the surreptitious name change.

I would say La Cuisson is a great introduction for those who may be unfamiliar with French cuisine.

FRench cuiSine FoR the uninitiatedThe meal began with a Charcuterie Platter ($22) with chorizo, saucisson and a selection of homemade

terrines as well as a Homemade Duck Rillette ($8). But what I really liked was the Langue de Boeuf ($16), the ox tongue salad.

I’ve had bad experiences eating tongue before but I was pleasantly surprised at how well the tongue was cooked. i.e. I couldn’t feel any taste buds. The ox tongue was cooked sous-vide and came with Kipfler potatoes, mustard tarragon dressing, mesclun salad and shaved onions. I also liked the Pork Pot au Feu

($29), a traditional cocotte from France. Normally, beef is used in the pot au feu, but Chef Lin’s version with pork is not too shabby either. The sous-vide pork shoulder, pork sausage, puy lentils and mixed vegetables are stewed in an aromatic pork jus.

The meat was soft and tender and warm, making it a comforting dish for a rainy day. Another dish worth a try is the Shoulder Tender ($28), a

200-day grain-fed Australian Angus beef loin served with mashed potatoes, shallot confit, roasted parsnips and garlic. Cooked to medium doneness, the meat remained juicy and was flavour-rich.

I didn’t really like the Lamb Duo ($68 for two). I found both the lamb shank and the rump to be stringy and too gamey. The accompanying Kipfler potato gratin was delicious, though. It was creamy and nicely roasted on the top.

FoR the SWeet toothLa Cuisson’s Dark Chocolate Ganache ($13), was a little complicated, with white chocolate sesame crisp, chilli pistachio brittle, pomelo pieces and Earl Grey pudding, but the dark richness of the Valrhona chocolate block shone through.

If you like your desserts sweet, try the Poached Pear ($10), a syrup-poached pear with vanilla ice cream and beetroot puree. On the whole, La Cuisson is not the finest of French cuisine but does an acceptable job.

La Cuisson, 44 Prinsep Street, Prinsep Place, Singapore 188673, Tel: 8332 0302

Part of the spread of Flavours of India

The buffet has a large spread of dishes using a broad variety of spices

Agnello Sardo (Spring Lamb Chops)

Pork Pot Au Feu

Angus Shoulder Tender

Oven-baked Quail stuffed with Chestnut and Truffle

FOODMANIAPAGE 7 wweekeNDer.cOM.sg fEbruAry 21 - 27, 2014

Chocolate Chip CakeBy DeBorah yap

IngredIents• 180gbutter,unsaltedandsoftened• 175gcastersugar• 2teaspoonsgratedorangezest• 4eggs• 1/2cupchocolatechips• 188mllightsourcream• 1&1/3cupsplainflour• 1/3cupcocoapowder• 1/4teaspoonbakingsoda• 75gwalnuts,chopped(optional)

Method1.Preheatyourovento175degreesand greasea20cm/8-inchroundpan.2.Combinetheflour,cocoapowderandbaking soda,andsiftintoabowl.Setaside.3.Creambutter,sugarandorangezestuntil lightandfluffy.4.Beatin1eggatatime,atlowspeed.5.Foldinthesourcreamandchocolatechips.6.Foldinthesiftedflourone-thirdatatime.7.Addinthewalnuts(optional)andstirto combine.8.Pourthemixtureintothepanandbake for55minutesoruntilatoothpickcomes outcleanwheninsertedintothecentreof thecake.9.Allowcaketostandfor10minutesbefore turningitontoawirerack.

notes & tIps- Allingredientstobeatroom temperature.- ‘Bulla’lightsourcreamwas usedtomakethiscake.- Donotomittheorangezest, asitisflavourful.- Becarefulnottooverbeat theeggsasitmaycurdle andcausethecaketosink ortohaveairpocketswithin thecake.- Gentlyfoldinalltheflourto preventover-mixing.- Thecakecanbestoredinan air-tightcontainerforabout threedays,oraweekinthe refrigerator.

From batterdayswithdeb.wordpress.com

By Cheryl Chia

reCIpe

Champagne Brunch at the Edge

B U F F e T A L e r T

Start the week Beautifully with thiS new inDulgent Champagne BrunCh

EdgE at PanPacificSingaporehaslaunchedanewChampagneBrunchexperiencethatwillbeavailableonSundays,from12pmto4pm.

For$158++,enjoyavastarrayofpresentationscomplementedwithunlimitedVeuveClicquotchampagne,wine,beerandcocktails.

OneofSingapore’slongestbrunches,thefour-hourlongSundayChampagneBrunchatEdgeoffersasensorialexperiencewitha la minutepresentations,toenjoyandindulgein.

WIde VarIety aVaIlableGuestscanexpect“CrustaceanonIce”(Bostonlobsterandoysters),a‘live’grillwithPanPacificsausagesandOmiWagyubeef,aneggstation,duckconfitraviolia la minute,“Feast-On-Wheels”signaturefoodandmeatitemssuchashome-curedSalmonGravlaxandCrispyKurobutaPork

Belly,atwo-metrelongcheeseboardandadessertstation.

Thereisalsoakids’cornerwithDVDs,forparentswhowantabreakfromtheirchildrentoenjoybrunch.

Edge, Pan Pacific Singapore, 7 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore 039595Every Sun, 12pm to 4pm, $49++ to $98++ for kids & $158++ for adults. Children under six dine for free. Look out for our detailed review next week.

The eaglet brings new cocktailsnew gaStro Bar l’aiglon tantaliSeS with potent CoCktailS anD Bar BiteS

By Cheryl Chia

tuckEd in aposh-lookingshophouserightnexttoTabooonNeilRoadisasexyandvisibly“grown-upsonly”gastrobar,L’Aiglon.

Servingpotentanddeliciouscocktails,L’Aiglonisagreatplacetoendtheweek.

OwnerPierre-EmmanuelPlassartcomesfromafamilyofartistsandentrepreneurs,startingwithhisgrandfather,whoopenedachainofsupermarketsalloverFrance.WiththeadviceofChefPatronFredericofBrasserieGavrocheandCaféGavroche,hedecidedtoopenL’Aiglon.

WInd-doWn drInksL’Aiglon,whichmeans“theeaglet”inFrench,isapetnamethatPierre-EmmanuelgainedwhenherefusedtoremovehisHalloweencostumeofNapoleonforweeksasachild.Thesentimentalnameaside,thebar’suniquecollectionofcocktailsiscourtesyofmixologistLouisTan,whorecentlywonthequalifyingroundoftheDiageoReserveWorldClass2014competition.

IespeciallylikedtheIndianCooler($20),containinganAsian-inspiredmixofgin,freshgrapefruitjuice,freshlimejuice,lemongrasssyrupandfreshgingerjuice.

TheScreamingTomatoes($22)isthemixologist’stakeontheBloodyMary.HeflamestheFrenchvinetomatoesandstrainsthemtogetthejuicebeforemixingit

ScreamingTomatoes

eat like a BoSS in the new ramen aDDition to the CBD area

Whostartsoffthefirstdayofbusinessby

givingawayfreeramen?ButaRamendidwhenitopeneditsdoorsinOctoberlastyear.

Startedbythreefriends,SandyYeo,ChrisTanandJohnNg,whohaveapenchantforgoodfoodwithgoodvalue,ButaRamenthuscametofruition.SpecialisinginHakataRamenwithatonkotsubroth,thesmallshopseemstohavegainedtractionwiththeworkingcrowdinRafflesPlace.

QuICk QualItyDuringthehigh-speedlunchhourtypicalforofficestaffintheCBDarea,Chris,whooverseesthedaytodayoperations,servesbowlsoframeninaboutfiveminutes.WhenIwasthere,fourbowlsoframencameoutwithinonlytenminutes!

OriginatingfromKyushu,Japan,Hakataramenischaracterisedbyarich,creamy-whitepork

broththatcanonlybeachievedbystewingporkbonesforseveralhours.Eachbowlcontainsfreshly-madenoodles,ajitsuke tamago(marinatedsoft-boiledegg),nori(Japaneseseaweed),menma(fermentedbambooshoots)andtraditionalchashu(slicedporkbelly)orButaRamen’ssignatureflame-grilledYakitoriPorkRibs.

yuMMy raMenWhatIlovedwastheBlackGarlicBossRibRamen($14.90).Theblackgarlicaddedfragranceandaslightsweetnesstothetonkotsubroth.Theribsareflamedandglazedwiththeirin-housesaucebeforebeingserved.Themeatissosoft,itcomes

offtheboneeasily.Welldoneonthat.

However,Iwouldhavepreferredthesoftboiledeggtobealittlemoreconsistentwiththedoneness.TheeggatButaRameniswhiterthanthetypicalrameneggastheydon’tmarinateitlong.Iwouldhavepreferredittobesoakedalittlemoreinthemarinade.

Ifyoulikethingshot,trytheSpicyChilliBossRibRamen($14.90)ortheSpicyChilliChaShuRamen($12.90).Buttherecentadditiontotheirmenu,theGrilledBellyRamen($12.90)isagem.Thesmokybellyporkgoeswellwiththetonkotsubroth.

Thereisalsotalkamongtheownersaboutaddingamiso-basedramenintheweekstocome.Switchfromthetypicaldouble-boiledsoupforthiseight-hourcookedbrothatButaRamenforachange.

Buta Ramen, Far East Square, 137 Amoy Street, #01-04, Singapore 049965Open 11am to 8pm (last order 7.30pm); closed on weekends & public holidays

New rameNin the city

ButaRamen’sBossRibsRamen

L’AiglonSignatureFrench69

Edgehasanextensivespread,includingatwo-metrelongcheeseboard

ThegrillstationatEdge

withvodka,freshlemonjuice,herbsandblackpepper,resultinginamoreauthentic-tastingcocktail.

Food not to be MIssedDonotleavewithouttryingthebar’ssignature,French69($22),astrongmixofgin,freshlemonjuice,sugarsyrupandChampagneLabruyere.Fromthemenu,youcanseethatPierre-Emmanuelhasapenchantforgin.Thebarstocks30differenttypesofgin.

L’AiglonisalsothefirstintheworldtodebutChampagneLabruyere,fromFrenchwineentrepreneurEdouardLabruyere’sacquisitionofDomaineChristianBusin,achampagnegrower.

Apartfromthecocktails,thekitchenserveslittlebitessuchasL’Aiglon’sSpicedNutsandGreenOlives($15)andPEP’sChickenMini

Burger($14).Thechickenisfreshlyhand-choppedinthekitchenbeforeservingtheburger–nopremadechickenpattieshere.

AlsotrytheCrabCakeswithCurrySalsaandGrannySmithApples($14)forasweetyetspicysnack.Ifyou’relookingforaplacetochillortowinddownwithfriendsafterwork,L’Aiglonissomethingnewandinterestingthatyoucantry.

L’Aiglon, 69 Neil Road, Singapore 088899, Tel: 6220 0369

TigerTailSour

IndianCooler

“...Mixologist Louis Tan

recently won the qualifying

round of the Diageo

Reserve World Class 2014

competition.”

HEALTH & BEAUTY wEEkEndEr.com.sgw PAGE 8 fEbruAry 21 - 27, 2014

A heAlthy diet And exercise regime Are the bAsics of keeping fit And stAying in shApe, but here’s how you cAn do more

be fit as a fiddle

s P E c I A L F E A T U r E

Holland & Barrett High Protein Promax

Holland & Barrett Progain Extreme

Holland & Barrett Advanced Pure Whey Protein

It’s been about a week since Chinese New Year has ended and, for many of us, it’s the time when you feel that all that snacking has done your midriff no good.

Keeping yourself fit with your regular exercise regime as well as eating healthy is, of course, crucial to a healthy lifestyle but here’s how you can achieve optimal health for your body.

SportS & FitneSS For HealtHExercise is a vital component of

good health. Whether it’s regular sessions at the gym, cycling to

work or exercise DVDs that you can follow at home,

every little effort helps to keep you fit – from push-

ups, sit-ups and various other static exercises

you can do in the comfort of your home to a nice jog or run after you come back from work.

Some men choose

to support their exercise

regime with sports nutrition

supplements such as whey protein or

creatine, which are usually consumed in the form of a milkshake. This is easier with the use of a handy shaker

bottle. Other popular sports nutrition products include amino acid supplements like L-Arginine Capsules and L-Glutamine Tablets.

protein power For tHe Male Body

Whey protein is a natural by-product of milk. As well as being

a popular nutritional supplement used by body builders, it is also suitable for any adult wishing to increase his daily protein consumption.

Protein is an important part of the male staple diet, due to the genetics that make up the male body, which differs from that of a woman by a

reported 81 per cent as having no subsequent infection, compared to 49 per cent in the placebo group.

Intense exercise lowers blood levels of glutamine, which can remain persistently low with over-training. Glutamine supplementation raises levels of growth hormone at an intake of 2g per day, an effect of interest to some athletes because of the role of growth hormone in stimulating muscle growth.

Holland & Barrett L-Glutamine tablets give you an excellent source of this precious amino acid that helps you in more ways than one, so that you can achieve that desired fitness level you’ve been chasing after.

a HealtHier Sex liFeHaving a fulfilling sex life can be an important element to many men’s lives. This comes with the maintenance of good sexual health. Holland & Barrett has a range of specialised products, all of which have been designed to help to increase your sexual health and satisfaction, as well as that of your partner.

Holland & Barrett Prelox tablets, consisting of various supplements and vitamins designed and streamlined to cater to the average male body, will give you that extra “oomph” in your sex life.

Prelox is a patented combination of two naturally-occurring substances, L-Arginine and Pycnogenol.

L-Arginine is an amino acid found in many foods, whereas Pycnogenol can only be obtained from an extract of the French Maritime pine tree (also known as Pinus pinaster). Pycnogenol supports normal blood circulation throughout the body, including the genital area.

Do seek medical consultation if you are undergoing any treatment or medication and are unsure if these supplements will affect your treatments.

Holland & Barrett supplements are available at all Holland & Barrett stores, subject to item availability. Visit any Holland & Barrett store for more details on health supplements and promotions.

mEN, you caNsignificant extent. It has various uses that are important to the function of a healthy male body.

Protein makes up the structure of all cells and tissues in the body, including muscle tissue, internal organs, tendons, skin, hair and nails and also contributes to the maintenance and growth of muscle mass and normal bones.

Whey Protein is an excellent source of protein for any male body and the ease of making it makes it that much more convenient as a staple protein intake for your daily requirement of protein, especially for those who are working out and living a more active lifestyle.

It’s easy to mix and tastes great so you won’t have to bear with any bitter taste.

eSSential For tHe BodyCreatine occurs naturally within the body to supply energy. It is mainly produced in the liver from the amino acids glycine, arginine and methionine. It is then transported from the liver by the blood to the muscle cells.

The precision-engineered Holland & Barrett Creatine Capsules are derived from the purest, highest quality creatine monohydrate available.

Creatine increases physical performance involving successive bursts of short-term, high-intensity exercise and this beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 3g of creatine.

The amino acid arginine has a few roles in the body, such as assisting in wound healing, helping to remove excess ammonia from the body, stimulating immune function and promoting secretion of a few hormones, including glucagon, insulin and growth hormone. L-Arginine can be converted in the body into nitric oxide which promotes the widening of the blood vessels to allow greater blood flow and thereby enhancing athletic performance.

alleviating aMino acidSGlutamine is the most abundant free amino acid in muscle cells and is involved in more metabolic processes than any other amino acid. Glutamine is converted to glucose when more glucose is required by the body as an energy source.

It serves as a source of fuel for cells lining the intestines. Without it, these cells waste away. It is also used by white blood cells and is important for immune function. Double-blind trials having given athletes glutamine

weekender.com.sg wPAGE 9fEbruAry 21 - 27, 2014

S P E C I A L F E A T U R E

Malaysia is just north of our tiny island nation and is truly a land filled with a host of culinary delights and treats

Malaysian food reflects the ethnic mix of the local population – spanning traditional

Malay cooking, a dozen different Chinese regional cuisines and Indian dishes that range from spicy South Indian vegetarian curries to rich Sikh offerings from the Punjab.

Malaysians are serious foodies, equally if not more serious than you and I, as can be evidenced from the many blogs and various television programmes. Here’s just a little taste of what Malaysia has to offer.

A GourmAnd’s PArAdiseWith the diverse cultures, celebrations and activities in Malaysia, there is always an excuse to meet and eat – whether it is at a restaurant, at a fast food outlet, or just a stall beneath a tree. In fact, now, in the fasting month of Ramadan, you can join the throngs of hungry people at any of the Bazaar Ramadan night markets, where you can sample an endless supply of delicacies, some of which are only available in Malaysia.

Tourists and foreigners call it a feast for the senses and they are quite right, as the Bazaar Ramadan is guaranteed to strike you with the diverse variety of colours, tastes and scents.

that’s hard to beatA lAnd of treAts & eAts

it’s A CelebrAtionGenerally speaking, when it comes to eating out in Malaysia, a celebration just heightens the pleasure but, on a daily basis, good food is available at every corner of buildings or residences.

Whether Malay food with traditional simplicity and fragrant spices, Chinese cuisine created with imagination and skill, Indian delicacies blessed with richness and colour, Peranakan dishes of exquisite Nyonya specialities, or traditional Portuguese Eurasian delights with their creative fusion of eastern and western cuisine, all these are parts of Malaysia’s culinary landscape.

Needless to say, it might not be possible for you to try all of these delicacies in one visit but there are places that offer buffets with a variety of delectable dishes that represent Malaysians of all races.

seleCtions to mAke You sAlivAteAs Malaysian food varies significantly across the country, each of the 13 states has its own native specialities. Typical Malaysian cuisine consists of a generous helping of steamed or boiled rice, accompanied by a wide selection of dishes comprising fish, vegetables, beef, poultry and sambal belacan (a

spicy chilli paste). Sample excellent dishes cooked

in different styles, ranging from the coconut-rich nasi lemak, to the crisp and fragrant nasi goreng. Be sure to also try the popular choices of nasi biryani and nasi ayam.

Malaysia is a meat lover’s paradise as well, with the ever-so-tender rendang, which is so good that you could just eat it on its own. And, of course, who can forget

delicious satay?What better way to find out more

or to experience this than to taste these dishes for yourself? Sumptuous treasures await you at the dining table of Malaysia.

For more information or enquiries, please log on to facebook.com/TMSingapore or contact Tourism Malaysia (Singapore) at Tel: 6532 6321.

“As Malaysian food varies

significantly across the

country, each of the 13 states has

its own native specialities.”

Street hawker stalls present some of the best food choices available

One of the many versions of

Malaysian Laksa

TRAVELATION wEEkENdER.COm.Sgw PAGE 10 fEbruAry 21 - 27, 2014

weekender.com.sg wPAGE 11fEbruAry 21 - 27, 2014

TRAVELATION wEEkENdER.cOm.sgw PAGE 12 fEbruAry 21 - 27, 2014

Weekender had an exclusive invitation to spain, and our Writer gets a first-hand experience of travelling around and seeing the glorious capital

By cheryl chia

I was invited to Spain to attend the Madrid Fusion 2014 gastronomic summit. Madrid, the glorious capital of Spain, has a host of

history and attractions to see and to experience, which I did.

As I was the only one from Singapore invited, I was on my own for the most part. I’ve heard many horror stories of pickpockets – one in particular where my editor had his camera bag and passport stolen,

Soak up the Splendour ofMadrid

The Palacio de Cristal is located in Parque de El Retiro in Madrid

w E E k E N d E R E x c L u s I V E

in the blink of an eye. Wary as I was, I’ve emerged unscathed.

How to Get AroundPersonally, I found the people in Madrid friendlier and more helpful than people in Paris. Moreover, most of them can at least speak basic English and will try their best to help.

I tried to approach old ladies or groups of friends or families for directions. This is much safer for a solo female traveller than approaching a strange man.

The Madrid Metro app helped me greatly and I recommend that you download it to your phone and use it. It works offline too.

All you need to do is to enter the station you are departing from and arriving at and, voila! The route will be mapped out for you, including where you need to change lines.

SHoppinG & BArGAinSI stayed at Campos de las Naciones, which is quite far from the city centre. Nonetheless, a 20-minute or so train ride took me to the main road of Gran Via.

Perfect for a spot of shopping, the main thoroughfare has renowned Spanish brands such as Zara, Bershka and Pull & Bear, as well as departmental store El Cortes Ingles.

I highly recommend Lefties, the cheapest outlet store for past season Zara clothing items. Do be careful in

more crowded or touristy areas as many pickpockets lie in wait there for their next victim.

As you pass Plaza de Espana, on the west end of Gran Via, look out for the large monument of Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, the Spanish novelist most renowned for the classic, Don Quixote de la Mancha.

Further down, you’ll see the grand and elaborate Palacio Real or Royal Palace. Entry costs €10.

Also in the vicinity are the Templo de Debod (an Egyptian temple right in Spain), Plaza Mayor and the Museo Nacional del Prado, which contains one of Europe’s largest collections of art from artists such as El Greco, Goya and Velasquez.

temptAtionS ABoundThe huge park, Parque de El Retiro, is located within the same area. There are several majestic fountains and large ponds with ducks and geese.

At the end of Parque de El Retiro was the Palacio de Cristal, a glass structure specially-made for showcasing the beautiful flora.

After a long day of walking, I was more than ready for my next meal and I was fortunate to be taken to Restaurante La Barraca, which is said to have the best paella in Madrid. I completely agree. La Barraca has been around since 1935, and serves hearty and traditional Spanish cuisine.

I loved the Paella Negra, a black squid ink paella with seafood. It was flavourful, warm and covered with just enough sauce. Most paellas in Singapore are too wet and I end up with mui-fan. I also fell in love with the Croquetas de Jamon, a potato croquette with béchamel sauce and chopped Spanish ham.

There are several options if you wish to try a Michelin-star restaurant. I visited the one-Michelin star Restaurante Coque.

The degustation menus there range from €80 to €200 but the food was a little too chichi for my taste.

While in Spain, you must patronise one of the many stalls selling Churros con Chocolate. The churros in Spain are crispy, and un-dusted with sugar or cinnamon, but come with a warm cup of melted chocolate – perfect for cold weather.

Mercado de San Miguel is a great place to see the variety of produce and tapas Madrid has to offer. For a less touristy option, try Mercado de San Anton.

Soak up the splendid atmosphere, tapas, shopping and warmth of the lovely people when you visit Madrid.

This trip was made possible by Tourist Office of Spain. Weekender would like to thank Pullman Madrid Airport & Feria, La Barraca and Restaurante Coque for hosting us.

PAGE 13 wtech weekender.com.sg fEbruAry 21 - 27, 2014

Answers to sPot the dIFFerence:

See Page 2 for queStion.

Photo B

This is an enlarged section of Photo B, the image taken with the Compact Digital Camera. See the light blue net suspended above water. It’s clear that the camera was able to capture the details.

Moreover, look at the definition of the palm fronds in the foreground. It’s much sharper compared to the photo taken by the phone cam.

With a simple CompaCt Digital Camera, laCklustre sCenery Can easily be transformeD into something magiCal. guinevere sofer reveals the seCret

How to transform mundane into magical

Whether it’s the majestic Niagara Falls or the humble Tegenungan waterfalls in Bali,

waterfalls are enchanting and irresistible to tourists.

Be sure to bring the right camera along to capture the waterfall’s wonder and beauty.

Want aWeSome PhotoS? avoid Phone CamSThose who choose to use their smartphone to capture scenery will be very disappointed with the results. Typically, waterfalls are nestled in forests and

s P e c I A L F e A t U r e

Make waterfalls milky, velvety smooth with any Compact Digital Camera

heavily-shaded. The lack of adequate lighting

often causes the camera to capture the scenery poorly.

The result: Phone cam photos in low-light situations are typically grainy and blurry images. Who wants to come back with dark or blurry photos of waterfalls?

for ConvenienCe & quality: Bring a ComPaCt digital CameraCompact Digital Cameras are just as “pocketable” as smartphones these days, and the quality they produce is certainly worth the effort.

Here are the reasons why. Compact Digital Cameras have options to control shutter speed, to capture low-light scenery better, and to keep the picture steady with better image stabilisation.

make WaterfallS milky, velvety SmoothThe key to creating stunning, magical images of waterfalls or babbling brooks is long exposure. During a long exposure, rapidly-flowing water begins to look smooth and velvety in the photo [see main photo].

To make this magic happen, all you need to do is: 1. Set the camera to shutter speed priority or the “Tv” setting [see sidebar]; 2. Set the shutter speed to anywhere from

What iS Shutter SPeed & “tv”?I will use an analogy to explain shutter speed. Suppose you’re in a room with all the curtains drawn, a house plant will not get any exposure to sunlight at all. However, if the curtain opens for one hour and closes again, the plant receives a timed duration of light for an hour.

It’s the same within a camera. There is a curtain or, in the case of cameras, a shutter, which opens and closes based on a desired duration of time. You can choose to set the shutter speed as priority by setting the camera onto “Tv Mode” or “Time Value Mode”.

This allows you to choose the duration that the ‘curtains’ open and close, for different effects. In the case of long exposure, the shutter speed is set to seconds to capture the magical waterfall effects.

The magic of long exposure is obvious in this wonderful photo

A normal shutter speed makes for a dull photo of running water

1 sec to 15 sec, and use the self-timer to take the photo.

For these types of long exposures, you will need to use a small tripod to hold your camera steady. A practical hand-sized tripod is perfect for putting it by the banks or perched on a boulder.

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