Raelene Tan, our Tuckerbox Columnist, offers up ideal spots to take the brood this Easter.
Photograph courtesy of Pan Pacific Singapore
With Easter almost here – a public holiday for Good Friday is on 30 March – it is now time to plan where to eat and what goodies to buy. Hot cross buns with their comforting spicy aroma, colourful Easter eggs and lusciously creamy cakes come to mind.
At Pacific Marketplace, level one, Pan Pacific Singapore, these classic goodies can be found alongside white chocolate animal eggs, various cheesecakes, cream cheese carrot cake and a variety of bread, including the ever popular sour grain loaf. Customised cakes may also be ordered three working days in advance. At the butchery take-away counter, select your favourite sausages from recipes created by a German master butcher, artisanal ham or other cold cuts, with a good selection of international wines also available.
The highlight this month is the enticing Egg-Chanted Black Forest Entremet in the shape of an egg, bringing thoughts of a fresh green spring field complete with pretty flowers and delicate lady-birds by its unique presentation.
I have always found Pacific Marketplace a cosy spot to relax over a refreshing cup of tea or coffee with a sandwich or slice of cake, to while away time people-watching in the midst of the bustling Marina Square area.
On Easter Sunday, a Champagne brunch at Edge, level three, is bound to please with traditional festive fare including seafood, lamb, spring vegetables and a spread of Easter-themed desserts complemented by free-flow of champagne. To add to the fun in this interactive restaurant with its live stations and open kitchens, entertainment for young diners features a customary Easter egg hunt as well as a jolly Easter bunny joining in the festive activities.
Pan Pacific Singapore 7 Raffles Boulevard, Marina Sq., 039595
panpacific.com/Singapore
Vacations are supposed to be relaxing – unless you’re travelling with three children under five. Here are some hacks on helping your holiday be just that, a holiday.
Location-Finder
Although you may want to show your three-year-old the world, a backpacking trip may not be the best option just yet. A resort or at least staying in one location will mean less time spent in transit and therefore less disruption-causing anxiety. Remember those exciting cultural trips you used to have, ooh-ing and ah-ing over the wonders of the world? Well now you’ll become proficient in the World’s Best Playgrounds. However, do plan your vacation where everyone can be happy – that means you too. Hence the resort idea – kids’ clubs and swim-up bars.
Flight-Planner
Life as an expat equals long haul, therefore you need to plan your flight times so that you, your child or the other passengers don’t have a melt-down. Night flights are for good sleepers. You can exhaust them all day and then re-create the bed-time experience in-flight – e.g. changing into the pjs, brushing teeth, story-telling; the full works. Day flights… good luck. Just keep them entertained!
Safety First
Couple of obvious things really but take a first aid box to rival any hospital; there will be bumps, scrapes and falls and you can’t be too sure of what you’ll have access to. Remember your Soov, Imodium, Deet, Tiger Balm, water purifying tablets, tea tree oil – it’s antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiviral; just put it under your nostrils before flying –, Benadryl for allergic reactions, charcoal tablets for iffy tummies and steristrips. IMC actually have a travel kit all prepared for you. If you have friends who have visited the same area, maybe they’ll have a doctor or clinic to recommend so it’s worth an ask. Trust your instincts – healthcare may be different to what you’re used to so if you’re worried, keep pushing for referrals. Also to bear in mind are car safety rules. In Australia, a car seat is mandatory by law, but not all countries adhere to this. Remember to book one when you’re getting your hire car, unless it’s really another item you wish to stuff into the overhead compartments on your flight.
Carry On
First off, buy the Mary Poppins of bags. It needs to fit changes of clothes – for you and the babies – a huge stash of wet-wipes; snacks and entertainment (more on these later); kids’ headphones with adaptors as often the airline ones do not fit; scarves and layers to keep warm – you know how plane temps can drop; bottles and formula – double-check with the airline but these liquids are usually fine to go through. When you’re finally seated, have sets of things at close range so you can deal with emergencies without constantly bobbing up and down to the overhead lockers.
Carryin’-the-kids
For those not yet walking, a baby ‘Bjorn’ carrier is a must. Having them strapped to your front leaves your arms free to cope with passport-ticket-holding-other-babies’-hands whilst also being helpful on the actual flight too. If you don’t have the extra seat space, then you can easily have them on your lap with the front carrier. Also, call ahead to the airport to book a stroller so you can simply check yours in with your luggage.
The Beauty of Changi This airport has everything so all of that extra time you need for checking-in and getting sorted for your flight will be time easily spent. There’s the butterfly enclosure, a super slide and a movie theatre to name but a few. Get the kids active so they will be exhausted for the flight and ready to settle…hopefully.
Feeding Time
Your best bet here really is to plan ahead and have your healthy snacks sorted. We’re talking veggie sticks – they take twice as long to chew so use up some time – rice crackers, dried fruits etc. Obviously for ease, there are lots of take-away snacks on offer at the airport and inflight, but you’re going to pay for that in the long-run when that sugar-rush hits. To deal with ears popping on take-off and landing opt for sugar-free lollipops.
Be the Entertainer
A long-haul flight stretches endlessly before you; just how do you keep the kids quiet for 10+ hours? First off, try and limit the screen-time. It may seem like an easy option to let them get carried away with the endless movies and iPad games, but it’s going to leave them wired and not being able to rest. Instead, assist with their motor skills and concentration by packing the crayons and pads; buying the toy shop out of stickers and organising some activity books. Also, an option is to wrap a couple of tiny presents – there’s a twofold benefit as it’s another time-waster and they’re enjoying the thrill of something new… or that they haven’t used in a while. #recyclegifts
All-in-all though, remain calm. And remember this is a vacation; the excitement of a break-from-the-norm; the experience of travel; showing the kids something new; making memories. Happy holidays.
WANDERING YOGI COLUMNIST: Lee Carsley admits to being that friend with the inspirational sayings – but are they really that motivating?
Seen any inspirational sayings today? If you’re on any social media, you’ll know exactly what I mean. Did one of your Facebook friends share some ‘carpe diem’-style quote designed to add a bit of get-up-and-go to your Tuesday morning? That’s me, I’m that friend and I love an inspirational saying. Here’s your yearly dose from me right now:
“If you are irritated by every rub, how will you be polished?” Rumi “If your compassion does not include yourself, then it is incomplete.” Buddha “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” Aesop
They’re goodies, right? Some of these sayings are from genuinely smart people, like this one from Dr. Seuss: “Why fit in when you were born to STAND OUT?” You’d expect nothing less from Dr. Seuss. He’s a doctor, after all. Or how about this from Einstein? “A person who never made a mistake, never tried anything new.” You can’t argue with that. Who’s smarter than Einstein? And I love a good productive quote too: “Things may come to those who wait, but only the things left by those who hustle.” Damn right, Abraham Lincoln (at least that’s who it’s attributed to). I say this one to myself when I should be writing but instead I’m wasting time reading inspirational sayings on social media.
You’ve almost certainly heard them all before. Maybe your eyes are rolling, about to skip the page, or reaching for that cup of coffee – but bear with me. Ultimately, they all deliver the same basic message which is: “You are great; you can do it; you are unique, wonderful, etcetera, etcetera.” I don’t have a problem with that missive, do you? This can only be a good thing, right?
Ok, maybe I have a teeny problem. Because whilst most people’s eyes glaze over at another “You’ve Got This” affirmation, I’m taking notes. I read every single one, giving them thoughtful consideration and even changing my daily activities based on what I read as I pick up the mobile that morning. Maybe I’m addicted. But on the whole, I think a little social media pick-me-up is a nice thing to put out there.
However, I have to confess not all #inspirational tags do it for me. Like this one from Rumi: “Respond to every call that excites your spirit.” That’s a little scary. In a literal sense, does this mean I have to answer my phone and be excited every time it rings? I doubt my spirit would be excited about a call from the bank manager. I’m not sure I don’t want to do a bit of call screening; to decide whether that opportunity is for me. Unless it’s Channing Tatum calling. In which case, I’m definitely motivated.
We often do affirmations in my yoga classes – one of my all-time favourite sayings is by Thich Nhat Hanh: “Smile, breath and go slowly.” Most of the yogis with the ANZA group will hear this at least once a week in my class guiding. It is obvious, but hardly ever practiced, yet now most of them smile, slow down and remember to breath!
Suffice to say, not all messages will resonate with you; one man’s karmic lightning is another man’s sceptical thunder – but try and find the ones that do and thus be inspired.
Lee Carsley is an executive coach and leadership expert-turned-yoga instructor, who currently runs ANZA’s yoga classes each week.
Australian singer, Tony Dee, will be belting out tunes from The Great American Songbook at the incredible True Colours Festival this weekend.
Photograph by Rock This! Photography
What are you most looking forward to at the True Colours Festival?
Performing with the other artists at the Festival, in numbers that show off our talents together.
Why do you feel the ethos behind the Festival is so important?
We should celebrate our abilities and our perceived disabilities. Respect for the uniqueness of each person on this planet is of paramount importance. I am grateful to Very Special Arts Singapore (VSA) for this bold initiative in producing the Festival.
What have you found has been your biggest challenge in pursuing a career in the music industry?
Probably my lack of self-belief, which is gradually being turned around – especially recently.
Tell us about your experience with the Rio Paralympics [Tony was the voice of the We’re the Superhumans ad for the RIO TV coverage in 2016].
Making the Rio Paralympics promo was a heap of fun and I got to mix with some amazing people from around the world. I learned a lot about film-making – more so than singing. We had such a professional crew with an award-winning director. It was always going to be a hit.
What do you feel you personally got out of being involved with the We’re the Superhumans project?
I got a big boost in my confidence because I heard what I had recorded in the studio and it was really good! It was actually the first time I had ever heard myself recorded on anything better than a home stereo or phone.
Dream collaboration?
I like to sing the songs from what’s known as The Great American Songbook. They are swing tunes and love ballads sung by masters such as Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole. So, my dream collaboration would be with Tony Bennett. A “Tony and Tony” duet. A close second would be Michael Bublé.
True Colours Festival, the Asia Pacific Celebration of Artistes with Disabilities runs 23-25 March.
Charley Larcombe has a business lunch which boasts Catalan tastes, whilst nestled in Singapore’s CBD.
You really are spoilt for choice for where to lunch if you’re office is located in the CBD. Every type of cuisine is within walking distance or, at the click of an app, it can be delivered straight to your desk.
However, if you’re looking for a midday business spot with good food, good history and a good space for a productive chat with colleagues, check out Gaig, tucked away on a quieter street off Telok Ayer.
This Catalan restaurant has an impressive back story; its older sister in Barcelona has been in the Gaig family since 1869 and it earned its first Michelin Star in ’93. Luckily for us, celebrated Chef Carles Gaig has curated a delicious menu of tapas and traditional Catalan dishes for this Singapore ‘outpost’ which is managed by his daughter Nuria Gibert. Rest assured you’re tasting the real flavours of Barca. Everything is made ‘in-house’ in the kitchen or imported directly from Spain to perfectly recreate the original dishes and to ensure an authentic experience.
Must tries include the traditional cannelloni, a 150-year-old recipe of roasted meat, wrapped in homemade pasta and bathed in truffle sauce; and the squid ink seafood fideuà which is similar to paella but with vermicelli noodles to give a nod to the region. A dish for the ravenous is the oven-roasted suckling pig for melt-in-your-mouth goodness, whilst a selection of the tapas plates – the croquettes are the winners – would be ideal for sustenance whilst brain storming with your team.
Do take a moment to talk to Nuria who is charming and knowledgeable but also fascinating in her stories for each dish; not only do your tastebuds get the flavours of Spain, but your transported there too by her accounts of the history of her family and the original Taberna d’en Gaig.
Lucy James talks us through the numerous benefits of ANZA Athletics to your kids.
It’s no secret that sports help children build confidence, develop focus, and teach them about emotional control. They also learn essential life skills, such as hard work, patience, persistence, and how to respond positively to setbacks and failure. At ANZA Athletics we strive to do all this in a safe, fun and supportive environment.
As children from many schools take part in ANZA Athletics, new friendships are also formed throughout the season. Athletics give kids the opportunity to develop personally, socially and physically through participation in a variety of activities.
In addition to improving a child’s physical ability, another key aim of ANZA Athletics is to help them cultivate a sense of sportsmanship by supporting one another in their efforts. Positive reinforcement from peers is beneficial for both sides.
At the weekly athletics meets, children get to learn the skills of track running, hurdles, discus, shot put, long jump, triple jump and high jump. They are exposed to all of these events during a six-week rotating program – learning these skills and building on them over successive weeks and seasons.
The 2017/2018 ANZA Athletics season is just finishing, but registration for the 2018/2019 season will open in May – don’t miss out and register early!
There is always plenty of room for more wonderful volunteers to join the Committee, so if you are keen, please get in touch.
ANZA Athletics caters to kids aged 5 to 14-years-old, with a focus on fun, fitness and skills, and is held at Yio Chu Kang Stadium.
Enlisting the services of a personal trainer is a big decision! There are many factors to consider such as cost, time, and benefits. Perhaps you have been contemplating taking on a personal trainer since Christmas, but still haven’t been able to take the plunge. The benefits of training with a personal trainer are plentiful, and it is one of the best investments you can make in your personal health and wellbeing.
Read the top five benefits of training with a personal trainer, so you can decide if it is the right time to make the next investment in YOU!
1. Motivation
Let’s face it. Getting up to go to the gym is difficult. When the alarm goes off, it can be hard to find the drive to get into that gym gear, lace up the trainers, and get in the car. Training with a personal trainer gives you the motivation to start each and every session because you have made a commitment to training with someone else, someone who is equally invested in seeing you meet your training plan.
2. Personalisation Training
Of course, it’s in the name, but a key benefit of training with a personal trainer is PERSONALisation. Every individual’s body is different; every body’s goals are different. Therefore, every training plan should be tailored to suit specific desired outcomes. Unlike the ‘one size fits all’ classes that require participants to mould into the structure of the class, enlisting a personal trainer gives you the opportunity to train to your needs.
3. Training Safety
One of the biggest setbacks to achieving fitness goals is injury, especially for those just starting out on their training journeys. Incorrect technique, bad habits and overworking your body can not only hinder your immediate progress, but can also cause long-term damage.
4. Confidence
Sometimes working out in public spaces like parks and gyms can be very daunting, especially if you’re unsure what you’re doing. Training with a personal trainer gives you the confidence to not only perform the exercises correctly, but to also feel comfortable in a variety of fitness spaces. Before long you will be equipped to tackle the weight room or the outdoor circuit on your own, and there’s nothing like a boost to the ego to promote stronger motivation for committing to your exercise program long term.
5. Overall satisfaction
When you’re feeling good about yourself and your body, the satisfaction that is generated emanates. By sticking to the promises you’ve made to yourself and your personal trainer, you will feel more physically, mentally and spiritually nourished. We all know that rush of feeling that comes from finishing a hard session. When training with a personal trainer, you’ll be able to see the fruits of your hard work, and will carry that feeling of satisfaction throughout all aspects of your personal life.
Looking for a Personal Trainer in Singapore? Contact us for more information today! www.pts.sg
TRAVEL: Rafael Dalmau explores current travel hotspot, Portugal, discovering a country of great food, spell-binding architecture and welcoming people.
Photography by Raf Dalmau
Over the years, I’ve peered through a miniscule window into the Portuguese culture or rather its presence around the world. As I’ve observed during my travels in Asia, the country’s influence is glimpsed in the architecture and culture of Sri Lanka, Penang, Malacca and, most of all, Macau. However, such brief experiences did not prepare me for the marvels I saw in the actual country, when I visited Portugal with my wife last June.
The first stop on our Portuguese tour was the beautiful city of Porto. A magnificent location, it is divided by the calm waters of the Duoro River, yet criss-crossed by colossal bridges connecting both sides.
The name Porto, of course, evokes the fortified wine that many of us have had at the end of a hearty meal. However, it is so much more than a wine producer; it’s one of the oldest cities in Europe (dating as far back as 300BC) and is the second largest after Lisbon. Its rich history includes an incarnation as an outpost of the Roman Empire and being declared an UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a city filled with wonderful sights, food, culture, arts, and, above all, friendly people.
Photography by Raf Dalmau
We roamed the city by foot; taking in the sights and marvelling at the imposing architecture including the Sao Benito train station where the lobby walls are covered by the famous Portuguese tile-work.
The city has many memorable landmarks and one in particular stands out for visitors: Livraria Lello. This beautiful building with its heavy art nouveau and gothic influence was an inspiration for the library in the Harry Potter movies, thus attracts a multitude of fans and tourists. Be sure to go early to miss the crowds.
As self-confessed foodies, we were left delighted – the food was fantastic! We tried much of the local cuisine with a bias for all seafood including Portugal’s famous dry-cod fish dishes, although we skipped the locals’ favourite: tripe.
In the gastronomical sense, it seems that no visit to Porto is complete without trying the francesinha, the Portuguese take on the French croque monsieur. Be warned vegetarians; this isn’t the snack for you as the sandwich is filled with different meats and covered with a red, beer-based sauce (every restaurant claims to have its own recipe); a delicious and very filling treat.
Photography by Raf Dalmau
We then moved onto the capital city, Lisbon. Instead of opting for a train ride, we chose to rent a car and drive along the stunning coastline, giving ourselves time to appreciate the scenery and stop and stare where we chose. We paused for lunch at a small cidade where we enjoyed a plate of freshly caught sardines and a glass of the local wine. We also dropped by the coastal town of Nazare, well-known for some of the biggest waves in the world and a paradise for monster-wave surfers, before driving onto our destination. As we approached Lisbon, we caught a good view of Vasco da Gama Bridge, a truly impressive sight, before driving along the beautiful tree-lined Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon’s main avenue.
After checking into our charming hotel, we set out along Rua Augusta, a pedestrian-only street lined with dramatic black and white tiles. This took us to the remarkable Praca do Comercio or as it is commonly known, Terreiro do Paco – Palace Yard. Prior to the devastating 1755 earthquake, the Royal Palace was situated in this location. Nothing seems small in this square, the buildings are large and painted in bright yellow, and the skies are deep blue under the scorching sun. After a long stroll along the boulevards, we arrived at the red brick walls of Campo Pequeno, the bullring and a popular monument in Lisbon (worth noting that under Portuguese law, the bull is never killed). The city truly is a vibrant cultural collage that has taken many centuries to forge – and the best way to fully appreciate the architecture and iconic sights of this amazing city is undoubtedly on foot.
Photography by Raf Dalmau
However, when your shoes start to pinch, there is another option. We unapologetically, took the hop-on/hop-off bus to further our acquaintance with the city. It was definitely time well spent as it’s a vast city to cover. Bear in mind that there are plenty of hills, but luckily the elevador system helps you reach these upper parts. The system not only includes the famous yellow trams; but also the city lifts such as the Elevador Santa Justa, the most famous and not to be missed.
Like many a capital, Lisbon is made up of many, many areas. However, Baixa and Rossio, Alfama, Chiado, Principe Real, Cais do Sodre, and Bairro Alto are amongst the most popular and where the main areas of interest are located. The latter changes dramatically from day to night. During the day, Bairro Alto is a shopping and somewhat bohemian district, but at night it transforms into a hotspot for nightlife teeming with restaurants, wine bars, and clubs.
A short ride away from Lisbon’s old-part of town is the district of Belem, which offers some of the most amazing UNESCO World Heritage Sites in this part of the world. These include Mosteiro dos Jeronimos, an impressive monastery commissioned in the early 16th century and built in the Portuguese old-gothic style known as Manueline with magnificent serene interiors. There is also the Torre de Belem which was built as a fort overlooking the Tagus River; and the relatively new Padrão dos Descobrimentos which represents and celebrates the ‘Age of Discovery’.
In Belem (and next to Jeronimos) is a bakery known for its delicious flaky custard tarts called pasteis de Belem. These pastries have been made here since 1837 and are famous all over Portugal. While many cafes, bakeries and restaurants offer pasteis de nata; these are just not the same. This simple and tasty treat is worth the fare to get to Belem!
Lisbon is a city where a simple stroll turns into a history, architecture and gastronomical lesson; and a coffee stop can become an evening making new friends with the locals. I was amazed by the colours and diversity of this city. Whilst parts of it date back to Roman times, it has the energy and attitude of a young town. The people are warm and welcoming, but don’t let that relaxed countenance fool you; these are people ready to roll up their sleeves and work hard. There is a tremendous amount of pride in their daily work and their heritage that purveys throughout the streets. Despite spending only a short time in Portugal, I know that Lisbon in particular, is a place where we could retire and live wonderfully.
SOUL FUEL COLUMNIST: Book a holiday that heals you this month encourages Kim Forrester.
There is no doubt that living in Singapore brings with it an amazing range of benefits. Not least of these is the fact that – with direct flights to nearly 130 destinations – living here offers amazing opportunities to travel. But, as any seasoned expat knows, life on the Little Red Dot can also be emotionally and psychologically stressful; the busy-ness, noise, crowds and isolation from all that is most familiar can be tough on our wellbeing in subtle, and not so subtle, ways.
In order to truly thrive in Singapore, it is imperative that you acknowledge and nurture your mind, body and soul. And travel can be the perfect opportunity to do so! So, while making the effort to travel the region, I encourage you to integrate holistic health into your plans. This is especially important if you are struggling with stress, depression, claustrophobia, chronic loneliness or other challenging effects of expat life.
There are three ways, in particular, you can incorporate greater wellbeing into your desire to travel. These are:
CONNECTING BACK TO NATURE: It’s hard to overstate the incredible effect that nature has on our emotional health and overall wellbeing. Scientists have discovered that being in natural spaces improves a multitude of physical and cognitive processes, including lowering stress hormones, increasing brain function and slowing our heart rate. We are natural beings and, quite simply, getting back into nature heals us. Bear this in mind when booking your travel destinations. Look regularly for destinations that offer the vital elements Singapore lacks: natural spaces, big skies and open horizons.
GOING WHERE THERE’S NOTHING TO DO: Our modern world is based on the concept of constant doing. We are often so used to being busy, that we are unaware of the impact this is having on our wellbeing. Many of us find it hard to slow down, but the truth is there is a desperate need for us to do “nothing” on occasion. Instead of looking for travel destinations where you are always on the go, try travelling to locations that offer (or even force) you to slow the heck down! If you have trouble slowing down, nudge yourself gently into the slower pace of life. Give yourself something to do that is not stressful – like completing a book, learning to surf, or taking a cycling tour.
TRAVELLING WITH UPLIFTING COMPANIONS:As important as a travel destination can be, it’s equally as vital to be discerning about who you travel with. Science has shown that happiness is contagious; hanging around happy people will actually increase your sense of joy and wellbeing. In addition, laughter has been proven to lower stress, boost the immune system and increase a sense of wellbeing. Laughter really is medicine. In contrast, being surrounded by people who are pessimistic, unhappy or nasty has a measurable, detrimental effect on your mental and physical health. For a truly healing holiday, choose your companions wisely. Travel with friends and family who leave you feeling uplifted, inspired and good about life.
Kim Forrester is a holistic wellbeing author, consultant and educator. www.kimforrester.net
Meet Mr. Sam See, stand-up and improv’ comic – and the MC for ANZA’s Hilarity for Charity event on Wednesday 18 April.
What was the day job before becoming a full-time comic?
I was a show runner and producer for other comedy shows and festivals, but I gave that up last year to fully focus on being a performer.
What do you draw on most with your comedy?
It seems weird to say but “anger” and “hate”! Things that annoy me drives me to speak in a passionate and funny way about them.
What would people be most surprised at when coming to see your set?
The fact that I am acerbic and caustic, all coming out from something that small and petite.
Toughest gig?
Performing in front of my parents for the first time in a theatre. They haven’t disowned me yet so I guess I did okay.
Who’s been the most exciting comic to open for?
Honestly, all of the people I’ve opened for. I’ve been fortunate that it’s nothing but a pleasure to watch and work with other stand-up performers.
Do you do many charity events?
I have done a number of them through my time in comedy, and they’re always fun! (Especially when the audience has a drink… or five).
What can ANZA members look forward to with your set at Hilarity for Charity?
A host that’ll wow you, entertain and also help you to finish off any alcohol you can’t consume.
The evening is in aid of IC2 Prephouse and Dignity Mama, two incredibly worthwhile charities which will benefit massively from your generosity and by attending Hilarity for Charity. We look forward to seeing you there.
Read the top five benefits of training with a personal trainer, so you can decide if it is the right time to make the next investment in YOU!
