Two-night stay in a Deluxe Seaview Room for two people, including daily breakfast
VALUE SGD $1,260
Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas is an award winning hotel located along a pristine 17-kilometre beachfront facing the South China Sea, in a new high-end resort development that offers a range of luxury accommodation nestled in lush tropical gardens. Desaru Coast is located in Johor Darul Ta’zim and spans over 16 square kilometres. It is near Iskandar Malaysia and is easily accessible via a 45-minute drive from Malaysia’s Senai International Airport (JHB) and a two-hour drive from Singapore. Additionally, visitors from Singapore can travel to Desaru Coast by ferry, followed by a short drive.
T&Cs:
This voucher is valid until the date stated on the voucher and reservations must be made within such period.
This voucher is non-transferable, non-refundable, cannot be exchanged for cash and it valid for a single transaction only.
Reservations must be made through e-mail to [email protected] minimum 7 (seven) days prior to arrival date.
Reservations are subjected to availability, blackout dates apply.
Two-night stay in a Premier Room for two people, including daily breakfast and a $50 dining voucher at ROOS, the all-day dining restaurant
VALUE SGD $1,047
Vibe Hotel Singapore Orchard is nestled in the residential area of Orchard Road, offering convenient access to Singapore’s bustling and extensive shopping district. This hotel is designed for travelers seeking a unique character and a refreshing escape amidst modern design. Vibe Hotel Singapore Orchard serves as a welcoming social hub, allowing guests to connect with their work, like-minded travelers, and the local community. Whether it’s for business or leisure, this hotel provides a preferred space to unwind and immerse in the vibrant energy of the city.
Voucher includes daily breakfast and a $50 ROOS dining voucher
T&Cs:
This voucher is valid for stays between 22 November 2023 – 19 February 2024. Prior reservation is required and subject to room availability at the time of booking.
Valid for use at Vibe Hotel Singapore Orchard only.
Prior booking of at least 14 days to arrival with Vibe Hotel Singapore Orchard is required and is subject to room availability.
Blackout dates apply and not valid on the eve of Public Holidays, Public Holidays and major events.
This gift voucher is non-replaceable, non-refundable and is not redeemable for cash.
This gift voucher is not valid without the Hotel’s authorised signatory and not applicable for use with other promotions, offers, vouchers or discount cards.
Strictly no extension of this gift voucher’s validity period after its expiry date.
Presentation of the gift voucher is required upon check-in and is valid for one-time use only.
The Hotel’s check-in time is at 2pm and check-out time is at 12 noon (Singapore local time).
Preferential rates are available should you wish to extend your stay.
Two-night stay at Sea View Villa for two people, including daily breakfast – 2 chances to win!
VALUE SGD $1,030
Nestled in a secluded bay surrounded by a lush tropical rainforest, Chen Sea Resort & Spa in Phu Quoc is an exclusive beachfront hideaway with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Thailand. The resort perfectly sits along the pristine Ong Lang beach, offering unparalleled privacy and serenity. Inspired by the local environment, the resort’s architecture utilizes natural and traditional Vietnamese materials. It’s conveniently located around 20 to 25 minutes by car from Phu Quoc International Airport, with easy access to the town center within 15 minutes. Chen Sea Resort & Spa is an intimate and private retreat, exclusively reserved for villa guests.
T&Cs:
It may not be redeemed with cash
No credit or change will be given on the unused portion of the voucher
The gift voucher must be presented to the front desk upon check – in
The voucher is valid from 7th Nov 2023 – 31 Oct 2024
The voucher is not valid during Public Holidays
Reservation is subject to availability upon confirmation
Advance booking up to 14 days upon arrival is required.
Voucher copy or number should be advised upon the booking request.
Two-night stay in a One-Bedroom Pool Villa for two people, including daily breakfast and 60-min massage
VALUE SGD $895
Templation hotel, the oasis at the gates of Angkor Wat. Serenity is in the air. A secret lake by itself, the swimming pool reflects majestic palm trees. Nestled in a vast expanse of tropical flora, 50 living spaces, most with private pools, invite to rest, relax and contemplate. Your own oasis. One of a kind.
T&Cs:
Black-out date is applied
Reservation is mandatory and subject to availability
Two-night stay in a Private Pool Villa for two people, including daily breakfast, one way airport transfer and welcome drink on arrival
VALUE SGD $800
Puri Mas Beach Resort is located directly on the beachfront of Mangsit Bay just 4km from Senggigi the tourist centre of Lombok. Just an hour’s drive from Lombok International Airport.
Puri Mas Resort offers 45 rooms in total with 21 private pool villas within their own private garden meaning where guests can enjoy peace and tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. To chill just laze by the infinity pool gazing over to Bali and Mount Agung, walk the beach and check out the snorkeling just off from the Puri Mas beachfront terrace.
T&Cs:
Voucher not exchangeable for cash. Subject to availability. Reservations by email only [email protected].
This gift certificate is not valid on 20th December 2023 – January 5th 2024, and in August 2024.
Voucher must be presented on arrival. Voucher will expire Nov 2024.
As ANZA celebrates its rich 75 year history, Marlborough College Malaysia (MCM) joins in the celebrations, marking its 10th anniversary this year. Founded in 2012, MCM has expanded significantly since its inception, adding a range of new world-class resources to its growing community as well as enriching students’ experiences with the addition of a student-run farm, a watersports lake and a driving range to complement the outstanding existing sports facilities.
The anniversary was marked by the unveiling of MCM’s 10th Anniversary plaque by Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah Queen Consort of Johor, mirroring her opening of the College a decade ago. In addition, Marlborough has hosted events over the past 12 months to celebrate this year.
The year began with an alumni reunion, then the addition of the final tree to the College’s Queen’s Canopy project, symbolising continued growth and long life. A similarly permanent celebration was made in the Michaelmas Term as pupils from throughout the College contributed memorable items from their time at MCM to the 10th anniversary time capsule. Buried at the entrance to the College, current and future pupils arriving to school every day pass by the capsule’s plaque, awaiting the day to open it once again.
Momentous occasion
Not all of the 10th anniversary celebrations contained knowledge for future generations; the Lecture Series presented by ten Old Marlburians brought a fountain of wisdom for current pupils. Beginning with OM royalty, YAM Tunku Ali Redhauddin ibni Muhriz, eldest son of the reigning Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan and Chairman of the College’s governors, discussed his time at Marlborough in the UK, and gave advice to the current cohort of MCM pupils. Entrepreneurs, surgeons, travel writers, policy experts and investment bankers all delivered an exceptional series of lectures, giving advice to the current generation of Marlburians, and reflecting on their time at Marlborough UK.
The Spring Festival and Gala Ball were momentous collegial events, enveloping all of the Marlborough family in community spirit and fun. In between the College-wide artistic 10th anniversary batik and musical symphonies of the Gala Concert, Marlborough College Malaysia has truly marked this momentous occasion for current and future generations to Marlburians. Congratulations once again to ANZA for reaching its 75th year of community service.
For further information or to visit the College, please go to our website at www.marlboroughcollegemalaysia.org or visit us at our latest Admission Event at The British Club on the 29th August 2023.
Marlborough College Malaysia Jalan Marlborough, 79200 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Malaysia
Three-night stay in a Deluxe Room for two people, including daily breakfast
VALUE SGD $395
A warm welcome awaits at IZE Seminyak, a stylish and perfectly located in the heart of the 24-hour action in Bali’s most fashionable district. Modern architecture and interiors combine with just the right amount of Balinese bonhomie to create a cool urban retreat. Share delicious East-meets-West food with friends at Meja restaurant, chink cocktails at the Rooftop Pool Bar or sip drams in our cosmopolitan Single Malt Bar. IZE Seminyak is your ideal hub for shopping, sightseeing, hitting the beach, chilling out, or simply lounging poolside up on the roof.
Voucher includes daily breakfast at Meja Restaurant & Bar, complimentary use of gym and library, complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the hotel are
T&Cs:
Reservation is subject to availability. For reservation, please call our Reservation Manager at + 62 361 300 1011 or email us at [email protected].
Certificate is non-transferable and not redeemable for cash – is inclusive of 21% Government tax and Service charge and must be presented upon check-in.
This gift certificate is not valid during PEAK SEASON period (24 December 2023 – 5 January 2024) and HIGH SEASON period (15 July – 31 August 2024).
Flor De Caña, the renowned Nicaraguan rum brand, has united bartenders worldwide for the Sustainable Cocktail Challenge 2023, vying for the coveted title of “World’s Most Sustainable Bartender.”
In Southeast Asia, over 200 venues have joined the cause, committing to a month-long celebration of sustainability by crafting cocktails with Flor De Caña for the month of July, 2023. Singapore boasts 11 participating bars, including esteemed establishments such as Employees Only, Smoke & Mirrors, Writers’ Bar, Gibson Bar, Last Word, Kafe Utu,Manhattan,Night Hawk,Potato Head,Sugarhall, and 1880 Singapore, all presenting their innovative concoctions to meet the challenge.
We had the opportunity to try various cocktails at Smoke & Mirrors,Writers’ Bar, and Last Word. As we approach the last few days of this brilliant event, here’s just some of the highlights.
At Smoke & Mirrors, we were presented with the Roti Cana created by bartender Wong Wee Siong, Smoke & Mirrors. The Roti Cana is a delicious libation that gives bread and discarded orange peels a new lease of life by soaking them in vermouth. This cocktail is then served in a homemade vessel made entirely of orange skin.
At Writer’s Bar, bartender John Caballes presented us with the Billy O’Tea , this sustainable drink boasts a clarified milk punch fashioned from strained homemade pomelo demerara tea and coconut cream that is accompanied by a trio of pomelo coconut candy, pomelo marmalade and chilled milk curd to be savoured with each sip.
At Last Word, Rice & Shine is the creation of Lam Ho Yung. This was perhaps my favourite cocktail for its creativity. The Rice & Shine combines usual bar leftovers like flat champagne and egg yolks discarded from egg-white based drinks, with homemade rice milk to create a subtly sweet yet rich cocktail served in porcelain-ware with lashings of grilled salted egg yolk served on the side. Wonderful texture and balanced flavours.
Discover more details about the Sustainable Cocktail Challenge 2023here
If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s the power of connection and the importance of strong relationships. Throughout the changing pandemic restrictions, ANZA members continued to pull together to provide as much familiarity and routine as possible. The sense of togetherness kept many of us sane (and away from the banana bread/sourdough/gin).
Our sports groups were whittled down into tiny teams, Ladies Nights became cosy tête-à-têtes with strangers, Mahjong turned into mini meet-ups at someone’s home. But we all kept in contact and remained as affiliated as possible. Why? Because community is what drives our association, and it’s what also keeps us happy and healthy as human beings.
It’s no secret that good connections boost our wellbeing. Research shows that positive social connectedness can improve quality of life, promote better sleep, reduce stress and increase our ability to recover from anxiety and depression. Being part of a collective also provides opportunities for self-development and support. With others around we get to learn and share knowledge, whether that be gaining new skills or picking up everyday hacks such as where to find the best fried carrot cake to how to handle a tricky conversation with your boss.
“Humans are neurologically wired to connect with others from birth and have an innate need for togetherness and belonging,” explains Anne Sprosen, Counsellor at Alliance Counselling in Singapore (alliancecounselling.com.sg). “After the basics of sustenance, shelter and safety, it’s the most important need we have. We crave human contact in the same part of our brain as we crave food, and feel social rejection in the same part of our brain that processes physical pain.”
Craving connection
Creating meaningful friendships and maintaining them in adulthood isn’t always easy. Life is busy and carving out time to forge new relationships is not often high on our list of priorities. However, what sets expats apart when it comes to scouting out new acquaintances is the speed at which we are forced to let go of existing circles and create new ones. Says Anne, “It’s normal for our communities and those we connect with to evolve over time, but this is usually a gradual process. With expats, the transition of people coming and going can mean that friendships are formed, and also change, at a much harder and faster pace.”
No matter what your circumstances are, if you’re craving more connection in your life, you’re not alone. According to a global survey in 2022 by Statistica, about 33 percent of adults stated that they experienced feelings of loneliness. An often-cited analysis led by Julianne Holt-Lunstad, a professor of psychology and neuroscience, concluded that loneliness is as harmful to physical health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
But how to boost your social circle (without looking a bit weird)? Anne suggests looking to children for initial tips. “Kids tend to be more focused on the current moment than adults. This means they worry far less about what others may think of them or how an interaction might transpire,” Anne explains. “Adults often worry about how they will be perceived or judged by others, which often leads us to holding back part of ourselves.”
Indeed, through ANZA’s many young groups we see children making new pals constantly because being willing to be honest and show vulnerability is essential in forming meaningful connections. The good news is that being a member of the ANZA family (or at least knowing that we’re there if you need us) means that opportunities for community and connection are constantly available. After 75 years, offering support and friendship is what we do best!
Get yourself connected
Anne’s advice for forming & maintaining close bonds
Reach out
Show you’re interested in connection. This could be through a text, phone call, or a post on a Facebook group. Or contact ANZA at [email protected] and we can point you in the direction of our groups. You aren’t going to connect with everyone, but the more people you initially bond with, the more likely you are to find your tribe.
Meet acquaintances in a new setting
If you normally see friends at the school gates, suggest meeting for a coffee, a yoga class, or a hike. Invite the family you chat with every week at ANZA Soccer over for a playdate, BBQ, or out to lunch. The more sides you show of yourself, the closer a relationship becomes. By meeting in a different context you’re sharing more about who you are.
Maintain regular contact
Interacting regularly is how we build and maintain relationships. Think about making a fortnightly or monthly plan, or make sure you schedule your next catchup before you leave the current one. Even just texting or replying to a text continues the interaction and builds relationships.
Stay open
To make true friends, you have to share about yourself and ask people questions, so that they share back. Don’t worry, we’re not asking you to unveil your deepest, darkest secrets. Start with your passions, how you spend your free time, or what you’re looking forward to, and ask them for the same.
Be brave
The thought of following these tips might make you cringe, but putting them into practice means doing things differently. To prevent anxiety about what might happen, try acknowledging your discomfort whilst reminding yourself why you’re doing it. Saying ‘This makes me really nervous but I’m doing it for me and a good life’ will help to boost your confidence.
Singapore National Day doesn’t just come with a day off, a cool parade, fancy fireworks and a catchy new song. Across the island, there are endless F&B outlets and hotels offering exciting National Day promotions and special offers so that we can all celebrate in style. Here’s where to head to (wearing red and white of course), for some great tastes, a vibrant atmosphere, and to say Happy 58th Birthday to Singapore!
Live it up at Lantern this National Day 2023. Photo credit: The Fullerton Bay Hotel
Lantern at The Fullerton Bay Hotel
Offering one of the best views in town, Lantern at The Fullerton Bay Hotel is hosting National Day ‘Preview Saturdays’ over the next few weeks, where you can relax and watch the fireworks rehearsals. With the Table Package ($688, for up to four pax), you bag a bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne and premium spirits, a sharing platter of rojak wings with shredded cuttlefish, mackerel otah fritters, and salted egg yolk soft shell crab. (A vegan version is available, too.) On actual National Day itself, Lantern will be screening the parade live. Reserve table packages for groups of up to six, priced at $1,200. Alternatively, pay a cover charge of $118 per person which includes two glasses of champagne, wine, or house spirit, as you soak up the festivities in style.
Lantern, The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore, 80 Collyer Quay, 049326. fullertonhotels.com
Butcher’s Block
This National Day, guests to Butcher’s Block at Raffles Hotel Singapore can enjoy a special meun put together by the venue’s super-creative and inventive staff. The multi-course experience features an exceptional spread of locally-inspired flavours: think Mantou wrapped around Kam Heong King crab and sakura ebi; Basque Country Red Mullet with lychee sambal atop; and tender Iberico Pork Ribs accompanied by black garlic purée and confit leek.
Butcher’s Block, Raffles Hotel Singapore, 1 Beach Road, 189673. butchersblock.com.sg
LeVel 33
Parents! Book a babysitter sharpish and head to LeVeL33. This is a standing cocktail event, so you won’t get a specific table, but you will get awesome views of the party. This one-night-only knees-up includes live food stations, unlimited pours of house-brewed beers, wines and – of course – the Singapore Sling. Tuck into soy chicken wings, Westholme Wagyu Rendang and ice-cream sandwiches ($268+ per person). Pssst! They’re also hosting a preview event on 29 July.
LeVel 33, #33-01, 8 Marina Boulevard, Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 1, 018981. level33.com.sg
Make your treats sweet ones at The Marmalade Pantry. Photo credit: The Marmalade Pantry
The Marmalade Pantry
Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea of local delights at The Marmalade Pantry. This gorgeous session offers refreshing beetroot rojak shooter, flavourful Hainanese chicken quinoa, and coconut cake with sambal prawn mayo. Sweet treats include kueh salat petite cupcake, gula melaka mousse cake, and pandan cream puff. The afternoon tea inspired by Singapore’s rich culinary heritage takes place at multiple locations, including Ion Orchard and Anchorpoint, from 1 August to 31 October (starting from $64++ for two).
Head to the ultimate rooftop party in celebration of Singapore’s 58th Birthday on Wednesday, 9 August 2023, from 4pm – 10pm. Enjoy shareable platters such as the Classic BBQ Platter ($150++) or the Surf & Turf Platter ($200 ++), or indulge in the live food stations including Satays, Tutu Kuehs and Muah Chee. Expect an electric atmosphere ignited by rhythmic beats from resident live DJs and fun, kid-friendly temporary tattoos. while you anticipate the magnificent firework displays later in the evening. The magnificent firework displays later in the evening will complete night with a bang!
If you’re big on burgers, spend the National Day celebrations at 25 Degrees where they’re paying homage to the island’s most beloved dishes by transforming them into a burger and milkshake duo. The 25 Degrees National Day Soft Shell Chilli Crab Burger ($20) is a soft-shell crab coated in spicy chili crab sauce, served with a fried or steamed mantou bun. Pair with a nostalgic Kaya Toast Milkshake ($18), a creamy blend of kaya jam topped with kaya bread. Available until the end of August 2023.
Hotel G Singapore, 200 Middle Road, 188980. randblab.com
Mini versions of Singapore favourites await at The Kempinski Hotel. Photo credit: The Kempinski Hotel
The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore
Throughout August you’ll find fabulous nibbles at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore. Their special National Day Afternoon Tea (SGD 56++) offers elevated local treats such as the Chili Crab Tartlet, Charred Carrot Cake, Beef Satay and Pandan Scone. Pair with premium teas or sparkling wine to make it a proper party.
The Kempinski Hotel, 15 Stamford Rd, 178906. kempinski.com
The Westin Singapore
Find National Day Specials at Seasonal Tastes, the signature restuaramt at this lovely CBD hotel that’s ideally located and comes with an elegant vibe. On 9 August they’re hosting a seafood buffet dinner from 6pm – 10pm with prices starting from SGD 108++. Those born in 1965 can take their pick from two special offers: either dine on the day for SGD 58++ only or get 58% off their next Seasonal Taste dinner.
Celebrate Singapore’s 58th birthday with fantastic food and views to match! Photo credit: Artemis Grill
Artemis Grill
Artemis Grill is putting on a spread to remember for Singapore’s birthday. The three-course menu ($98++ per person) includes the likes of burrata with black figs and prosciutto di parma, hamachi crudo and Fremantle octopus, black cod with bouillabaisse and Moroccan lamb chops with cauliflower saffron pilaf rice. Still got room? Get a sticky date cake, chocolate and coconut rice pudding, or apricot tart down you!
Momentous occasion
Butcher’s Block
