We are heavily dependent on digital devices, whether for work or play. While technology has brought us many benefits, it’s important to be aware of the impact it can have on our physical and mental health. This is where digital wellness comes in. It’s about finding a healthy balance between using technology and spending time offline.
We reached out to our friends at Pacific Prime Singapore to shed some light on the importance of digital wellness in today’s world, and here’s what they had to say:
Understanding the concept of digital wellness
Digital wellness, also known as digital wellbeing, is about using technology in a way that supports our physical and mental health. Recently, digital wellness has gained popularity in the workplace as employers recognise the detrimental effects of excessive device use on their employees’ well being and, as a result, their productivity.
The growing importance of digital wellness in Singapore
With the widespread use of smartphones and increasing reliance on the internet, digital wellness is becoming increasingly important in Singapore. Spending too much time on digital devices can lead to a number of health problems, such as eye strain, neck and back pain, poor sleep and anxiety. It can also have wider social and economic implications, such as reduced productivity and increased healthcare costs.
To practice digital wellness in Singapore, it’s important to set clear guidelines for technology use, take regular breaks and create a healthy digital environment. By being mindful of the impact of technology on our lives and seeking support when needed, we can ensure that technology enhances our lives for the better. Here are some ways to take a break from the digital world:
Take the occasional break to step away from your desk and stretch
Limit your use of digital tools at work
Meet people face-to-face whenever possible
Limit digital conversations
Prioritise your health with Pacific Prime Singapore
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Oh, magical Morocco. The Mediterranean melting pot where African, Arabic and European cultures are entwined, gorgeous daylight and golden sunsets swathe the cities, maze-like souks and alleyways pull you sideways, and the roofs of riads conceal spots made for evening martinis and mysticism. How far away that world feels from Singapore, but also how near thanks to new Moroccan tapas and cocktail bar, Tajine.
For a country that – like Singapore – is big on food, sharing dishes, intriguing flavours, and puts its heart, soul and culture into cooking, Moroccan food is not particularly familiar around these parts despite the parallels. Indeed, Tajine is perhaps the most well-known Moroccan recipe, but we’ll get to that later as we start proceedings with a Mesmeric Potion, a light and refreshing cocktail with gin-infused grapes, thyme, orange bitters, and tonic. Settling into deep blue seats set against soft lighting, arabesque walls, enormous indoor palm trees and a playlist straight out of North Africa, the holiday vibe is on!
Helmed by Executive Chef Remy Carmignani, who used to work at luxury hotel La Mamounia in Marrakech, the sharing dishes start immediately with perfectly pillowy warm pita; batbout, a traditional fire-grilled bread; and vibrant salads and dips. This mixed platter of delights (S$58) features six small bowls including Zaalouk (grilled eggplant seasoned with paprika and parsley), Chlada (chilled lentil salad with cucumbers and orange blossom water), Khizou Mchermel (cooked carrot with preserved lemons), and Bessara (creamy, light fava bean hummus drizzled with extra virgin olive oil). Our can’t-stop-dipping-it favourite was the Gar’a M’asla, a smooth roasted butternut pumpkin puree with orange.
From left: Milk Fed Veal Tajine. Mesmeric Potion cocktail
The nibbles continue with wild caught Atlantic sardines in a lightly fried filo triangle, served with Muhammara sauce, but the bar was raised higher with the Spinach and artichoke pastillas. This Moroccan savoury pastry pie looked innocent from its filo-pastry exterior, but inside packed sweet and savoury spinach, artichoke, whipped ricotta and chickpea. A wood fired oven-finish and sprinkle of powdered sugar and cinnamon made for a unique taste sensation and potential new go-to snack.
For meat-eaters, Kefta comes in the shape of biteable pieces of grilled black angus beef served with harissa sauce (a fiery chilli paste made with dried chilli peppers, garlic, cumin, coriander, caraway seeds). The Tangia Marrakchia, slow-cooked lamb shoulder with an almond pistachio crust and mint sauce, is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
It was at this point we were thankful to be dining en masse as the dishes keep on coming, just in larger sizes! The authentic Couscous Royal is served with fluffy hand-rolled semolina cooked with lamb merguez, lamb chop, spring chicken, kefta, onion tfaya, and chickpea, complemented by a silky lamb and chicken bone broth.
Of course, the pressure was on when it came to tasting Tajine’s namesake. We tried the Milk Fed Veal Tajine, aka a slow-cooked North African stew, which was a mouthwatering mix of veal shank osso buco with bone marrow, prunes, apricot, organic saffron, almonds, and hints of honey and sesame. Due to what must be some kind of stomach-stretching miracle we had space for dessert, a frozen sorbet spiked with almond syrup, orange blossom water and candied lemon.
Inspired by Morocco’s rich tea-drinking culture, we ended on a sweet note with a punchy Mint Tea concocted from bunches of fresh mint which provided a fructose high all the way home.
Verdict: Tajine is about meeting, relaxing, sharing, and celebrating life over hearty Moroccan food. It’s perfect for groups of friends or family who love digging in together – just don’t blame us if you come to blows over who’s hogging the dips!
A Kapa Haka performance at the Melbourne Cup in the 80s
It’s incredible to think that the Australian and New Zealand Association (ANZA) we know and love today was founded in Singapore in 1948. Although it started as a male-only club, ANZA soon became a family organisation, with women at the forefront of organising activities, fundraising and events. Early initiatives included The Women’s Auxiliary Committee (now known as ANZA Action) which was formed in 1974, with a focus on raising money for local charities. ANZA Soccer and ANZA Tennis both launched in 1979. ANZA Action will celebrate 50 years of service next year.
1938: Troops in the ANZA Club, Singapore (1939 – 1945)
Today ANZA has a membership base of more than 6000 people, representing a range of nationalities and age groups including Australian, New Zealand, British and the USA as well as from countries as diverse as the Netherlands, Germany, Canada, South Africa and Singapore. Current sports groups include Cycling, Soccer, Netball, AFL, Nippers,Cricket, Walking, Running and so many more.
Our annual ANZA Ball and ANZA Melbourne Cup Race Day host more than 500 guests each and include fundraising components supporting ANZA Action charities. Our regular events range from Ladies Nights, AFL Grand Final, Volunteer Appreciation evenings and New Members Welcome sessions. Our annual Great Australia Day BBQ with the Australian International School (AIS) attracts over 4000 people. There are more than 100 additional events per year across our
sub-groups.
In the beginning: ANZA began as a registered society in the Colony of Singapore in 1917 and was known as the Australian and New Zealand Association of Malaya. In 1948 ANZA was founded, and the original society ceased to exist. It took until 1961 for official registration to begin, as there was re-building to be done after the Second World War and the administration process took some time.
Black and white photos courtesy of the National Library of New Zealand
ANZA Magazine
Back in the 1960s, the ANZA magazine members recieve today was a simple ‘newsletter’ of happenings, helpful advice and contacts. One of the earliest copies in existence is from June/July 1962 which opens with ‘News From Home’ including upcoming tours of Australia by Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh and the opening of Canberra TV station CTC-7. There’s also a round up of activities in Singapore, news of people arriving, passing through or leaving the island, and a sports section featuring the likes of Ladies Golf.
In 1979 a publication called First Edition was printed which included a competition to name the magazine; the winning title was ANZA Antics. Moving into the 1980s, an official ‘newsletter team’ typed, copied, collated and mailed a newsletter out – by March 1987, it boasted 36 pages and a one-page advert. The earliest copy in existence (that we know of) is from January 1992. While the format and style of the magazine has evolved, becoming more like the glossy publication it is today in the 2000s, the content and focus on community, information, support and fun has remained at the core.
In 1953, the annual ANZA subscription for a married couple was S$10; an individual was S$8 and a junior member (18 – 21 years) was S$5
1960-1970s
Although ANZA began as a male-only club, it soon became a family organisation, with women at the forefront of organising activities, fundraising and events. The Women’s Auxiliary Committee (now known as ANZA Action) was formed in 1974, with a focus on raising money for local charities. The first ANZA Ball was held at Singapore’s Seaview Hotel in the 1950s-60s. In 1979, ANZA Soccer sent out its first registration letter to parents inviting young players to join the ANZA International Junior Soccer League. ANZA Tennis also began in the same year, with social games played on Thursday mornings at the Minden Road Courts. ANZA Swimming was also popular, with meet-ups at the Singapore Swimming Club and Island Country Club.
Early ANZA Events
From Left: ANZA held a tea party in 1953 at The Cathay restaurant for New Zealand mountaineer Edmund Hillary and wife Louise who’d got married four days earlier. New Zealand Forces Troupe Performers take part in the ANZA Fete in 1979In 1981, the fun of the fair involved the arrival of a giant bear. See the kids cute ANZA t-shirts too!
1980-1990s
By the 1980s ANZA was running a range of classes for expats, from craft to cooking, alongside regular cultural tours throughout Singapore. Events were in full swing, with the ANZA Fashion Parade a particular hit throughout the decade. The ANZA ‘Black and White’ Ball was launched and became an instant success. A Children’s Christmas Party was a yearly highlight, with families turning up to meet Santa and watch children’s performers. In 1987 a Newcomers Coffee Morning was introduced, which still runs today as Casual Coffee.
1990-2000s
Right: Haka at the Golden Jubilee BallANZA Tours today visiting Little India
ANZA celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 1998 and a grand Golden Jubilee Ball was held at the ballroom at Shangri-La Singapore. To commemorate the occasion, a team of members compiled a book entitled ‘Snippets from the Past’, documenting ANZA’s history. The Women’s Auxiliary Committee also celebrated their Silver Jubilee in the same year. ANZA Netball began in 1991, catering to the demand for the sport in the Lion City. ANZA Tours were super-popular with adventures to Pulau Ubin, Little India, Changi Prison Chapel – just a few of the destinations we still visit today. Classes were held in computing, hat making, perfect dinner parties, and mahjong.
The Melbourne Cup
Party-goers at the1998 MC
The first ANZA Melbourne Cup happened in 1998 at Singapore Turf Club where the venue had the license to televise the event. Unbeknown to revellers, panic set in a few days previously when rumours circulated that the Singapore government had banned the public broadcasting. However, it all came good in the end and there was a Hat Parade, a Grand Sweep Draw and a buffet lunch. The ANZA Melbourne Cup 2023 will be ANZA’s 25th MC, and this iconic day is still ANZA’s signature and most popular event which raises funds for Riding For The Disabled, Singapore (RDA).
The Balls
In 1977 the Annual ANZA Dinner Dance was held in the Churchill Room of the Tanglin Club. The menu included salmon, soup, pork and peach melba – fancy!
In 1980 the Black and White Ball was held at Raffles Hotel
The 1987 Black and White Ball was held at Sheraton Towers and attended by 400 people. The band was Ruff ‘n’ Ready Roadshow – wonder where they are now?
In 1989 a ‘sheep dog trial’ was the entertainment during the band break. Apparently, some guests were not impressed by the dogs’ presence and felt it inappropriate!
In 1997 Phil McDonough and Mark and Joy Greedy arrived in fancy dress as the Ugly Sisters (see pic above!)
Dover Court International School Principal, Mr Richard Dyer gives the welcome address at the 50th Anniversary Golden Gala
This year, Dover Court International School marked its 50th anniversary in Singapore. Since 1972, when the doors opened to its first cohort of 25 students, Dover Court has been providing outstanding learning experiences, within a community that champions inclusion and diversity. Its innovative approach to learning, with multiple globally-recognised British and international curricula options like IGCSE, IBDP, BTEC and ASDAN qualifications ensures every student has a path to success.
In recognition of this historic milestone, the school dedicated its year of celebrations to supporting a local charity, Curious Thoughts Giving, which drives social mobility by providing free literacy programmes for underprivileged families. These celebrations culminated in a Golden Gala bringing together nearly 200 members of its diverse community and raising $31,000 for CTG’s programmes and resources.
“DCIS is a unique school focused on ensuring all children can and do experience success. We’re thankful for the special place we hold in Singapore’s history and social fabric, as the only non-selective and fully inclusive school providing the National Curriculum for England. As we reflected on our school’s history, we wanted to highlight the important role that our community has played in our school’s success. We could think of no better way to celebrate this moment in our history than by supporting the community that has made it possible” says Richard Dyer, Dover Court Principal.
Mr Richard Dyer, Principal of Dover Court International School presents Mr Perry Shen of Curious Thoughts Giving with a donation cheque for $31,000
Built upon a rich British heritage, from campus buildings that once housed the Royal Corps of Signals, to its exceptional GCSE results, DCIS has always valued the power of community, bringing together students and families from over 70 nationalities to create a vibrant and diverse learning environment.
At Dover Court, community is more than just a buzzword. It is a value that is deeply ingrained in the school’s culture, forming the basis of its mission as a “community with inclusion at its heart.” By prioritising inclusivity and personalised learning, DCIS creates a culture of belonging and prepares students to be active participants in a globally connected community, now and throughout life.
“DCIS brings together students from over 70 nationalities”
Dover Court is proud to be a part of the ANZA community of partners and congratulates the organisation on their 75th anniversary. ANZA has played an important role in building a vibrant community of Australians and New Zealanders in Singapore, and DCIS is honoured to be a part of it.
As Dover Court looks towards its next 50 years, it will continue to build on its legacy of academic and personal success, while holding steadfast to its strong sense of community.
From left Working with Riding For The Disabled, Singapore. Sister Emily of Little Sisters of the Poor
Giving back to the community has always been high on the agenda at ANZA. While the association began as a male social club, by the 1960s women were at the forefront of activities, fundraising, and events. In 1974 The Women’s Auxiliary Committee was formed, which evolved over time to ANZA Action as we know and love it today!
An ANZA Art and Craft Fair raising money for charity
Early records are scarce, however according to a Women’s Auxiliary Report in 1979 by then chairwoman Wendy Kentwell, the year had seen wheelchairs and mosquito nets being purchased for Singapore Leprosy Relief Association (SILRA); Melrose Home received a television, sewing machine and some newly upholstered furniture; and Tampines Home benefited from new going-out uniforms.
By 1983, $25,000 had been donated to eight different charities, the biggest recipients being the Salvation Army Children’s Home and SILRA. By 1998, they’d raised $45,000 for those in need in Singapore, including sponsorship for a pony at Riding for the Disabled, Singapore (RDA), which back then was run by Little Sisters of the Poor.
Fundraising campaigns
While charities supported by ANZA have changed over the decades, the Salvation Army and RDA have remained a constant. Our Salvation Army volunteers travel around the island four times a month to distribute food bags to those in need as well as assist with crafts, hand massage or a game of Mahjong at the Family Support centre. Every November, our annual Melbourne Cup event continues to raise funds to sponsor our RDA charity horse, Kodie (who says a big thank you!).
“By the 1960s, women were at the forefront of fundraising”
How we give back has also evolved with the advent of technology and less free time due to more working spouses. In 2023, we offer a range of ways to get involved with ANZA Action. Members can participate in fundraising campaigns such as the yearly toy drive for LOVE, NILS who support children with cancer; volunteer at styling sessions for Dressed for Success who help lower-income women to enter the workforce; or assist AIDHA, an organisation providing financial literacy and self-improvement classes for Foreign Domestic Workers. Don’t miss our Pink Series of events in October across a number of ANZA sub-groups which raise funds and awareness for Breast Cancer Foundation (BCF).
Right now, we’re involved with around 15 local charities and community organisations and welcome all volunteers looking to help out the country that serves as our temporary home.
At ANZA, we love a drink. We’ll drink at a nice bar, at a lovely restaurant,by the beach, during a fancy Singapore brunch, and on our sofa while relaxing after a tough day. But often, when drinking at home we want just one glass, not an entire bottle of wine. However, cracking open a crisp white and then not consuming the whole thing in one evening can sometimes prove to be a bit of a challenge – after all, you don’t want good wine to go off, do you?!
Coravin is setting out to change the way we drink wine by giving you the freedom to pour the wine you desire and save the rest of the bottle for weeks, months or even years. It basically allows wine preservation without compromising on taste. We speak to Greg Lambrecht about his invention and passion for wine.
Coravin helps your wine last for weeks
How did the idea for Coravin come about?
My background is inventing and designing medical devices and in the 1990s I developed a needle which could be used for pediatric chemotherapy without damaging the surrounding tissues. When my wife was pregnant with our first child she stopped drinking and I was stuck either not drinking wine or having to drink a whole bottle of wine myself before it went bad. I started to experiment in my home workshop with the needles to see if I could develop a prototype which would allow me to pour a small quantity of wine from the bottle but leave it still effectively sealed.
I built different protoypes, giving them as presents, and refining the system over the years until I was happy that the system worked. It enabled wine preservation which allowed me to drink the wine I wanted, when I wanted, carefully chosen to compliment the food or occasion without the need to finish the whole bottle.
How does Coravin work?
After aligning the Coravin System over the bottle, the needle gently passes through the cork without displacing the cork. You tilt the bottle and pour. As you push the trigger, argon gas replaces the wine you have taken so no oxygen gets into the bottle. The cork simply expands back to its normal shape. The needle is off centre so it will insert into a different place every time you use it. When you have taken what you want you can place the bottle back in your wine rack until you next want to use it.
Was there resistance from the wine industry to your product?
During my testing period I had worked with winemakers to blind test using my protoypes. Once I had convinced them that wines accessed through the system remain as fresh as opening a new bottle they were happy to work with me, using it to enable them to provide tastings of expensive or limited bottles to wine critics or potential purchasers without worrying about the wine deteriorating once opened.
Restaurateurs immediately saw the benefit – they could serve a larger variety of better quality wines by the glass without the risk of wastage. Now many of the world’s best restaurants use Coravin wine preservation by the glass systems. In the USA and Australia we sell a lot of products to the home consumer who just want to be able to enjoy a variety of different wines at home.
Can you only use it if you have a wine bottle with a traditional cork?
My initial system was designed for corks only, but we’ve continued to develop the product and now offer a system suitable for sparkling wine and a screw cap which can be secured on to any screw cap bottle for use with the Coravin needles. We also have a Pivot system which can be used on any container which the stopper fits which will preserve the remaining bottle for at least 4 weeks – we use it on olive oil at home.
What’s next for Coravin?
I came to Singapore to launch our new Coravin Vinitas Device at the Vinexpo Asia 2023. It is a device which allows businesses to fraction standard sized bottles into preserved, single serve bottles to address the consumer need to “try before you buy”. It will allow, for example, wine clubs and suppliers to send seven small sample bottles, reducing the carbon footprint and shipping expense and help introduce consumers to a range of wines before they make their purchasing decision, or to conduct virtual tastings. We’re excited to see how this helps the wine industry to connect with a younger consumer audience.
Chris Rawlings Member since 2006
“I came to Singapore in 2002 thinking I would spend a couple of years in Asia and return to the UK. Twenty-one years later, I’m still here! There were many reasons for staying in Singapore long-term, one of them was belonging to ANZA Cycling.
Right: Chris at the Super League Triathlon Race in 2019
I first started riding with ANZA in 2006 to improve my cycling for a half ironman I’d entered. When I turned up with my tri bike at Long House, I could see strange looks from all of the pure road cyclists! Along with this I wasn’t wearing socks, which was also met with disapproval. On the ride I was reminded not to use my tri bars in the group, and to stay in line and call out for obstacles. These were all rules and etiquette that I was not used to, being a triathlete. But I was made to feel welcome, the ride was safe and I enjoyed the social coffee afterwards. I was hooked, and soon purchased a road bike and a pair of regulation length socks.
At Long House back in 2014
In the 17 years that I’ve ridden with ANZA I’ve made lifelong friends, ridden in many countries, taken part in races, been a member of the committee, organised mountain bike rides and trips, and kept fit and healthy. But most of all, I’ve had a huge amount of fun being part of a diverse social club that welcomes all different levels of cyclists. There’s now a triathlon-specific part of the club, along with off-road, racing, and Chix groups. It’s amazing how big the club has grown and progressed over the years.
This will be my last year with ANZA Cycling and in Singapore, as I look forward to moving to Hawaii for a new adventure. I will miss the regular weekday rides and weekend club rides, but most of all I will miss the people I’ve met and the friends I’ve made. If you’re ever in Hawaii, look me up and I’ll take you out for a bike ride. Thank you, ANZA Cycling, it’s really been awesome!”
The Newbie
From left: ANZA Induction Ride last November. Ash with her partner Gunnar Scholz in 75th anniversary kit
Ashrin A. Member since 2022
“For most of my life, I was into running and MMA, but all that changed after my spinal surgery in 2022. Determined to keep up my active lifestyle, I picked up cycling, mainly with my partner. We would occasionally ride with friends and other local cycling groups, and I always stared in awe whenever we were overtaken by ANZA cyclists. It was only much later that my colleague, an ANZA member, invited me to an induction ride. I joined and was blown away by how organised and disciplined the group was! The ride was longer and faster than what I was used to, but we were chatting away so much that I didn’t really notice or feel tired at all!
Ash’s 3rd Round the Island ride in May 2023
The best part about ANZA Cycling is that there are varying speed groups and group rides every day. As my partner works offshore, I’m happy to find someone to ride with when he’s away. I’ve improved my speed, learned to ride safely on the roads, and best of all, I’ve made so many new friends from all over the world. Everyone is happy to share riding experiences and cycling tips. We work as a team in group rides, not to outdo each other. And of course, there’s always that coffee at the end of each ride …”
For the past 75 years, ANZA has played a vital role in connecting expatriates and creating a sense of community in Singapore for individuals and families from Australia, New Zealand and many other nations. A large part of my role as a financial advisor with Select Investors, is working with our clients to build long-term partnerships and work towards what could be 75 years worth of planning. This ranges from retirement planning to education fee planning for your children, all the way through to legacy planning.
As we celebrate ANZA’s birthday, I thought it would be good to investigate how investing for 75 years can make a difference to your financial wellbeing.
Looking back
If we look back at life in Singapore in 1948, it was still a separate crown colony with a civil administration. Singapore’s main trading was through tin and rubber which brought economic recovery to Singapore post WW2.*
Investing for three quarters of a century might sound impossible, but it is not. ANZA Singapore is a testament to this: over the last 75 years, it has grown into a dynamic organisation. Similarly, investing in the stock market for 75 years can lead to substantial wealth creation.
For instance, if you invested $10,000 in the S&P 500 Index in 1948, your investment would be worth over $32 million today.** That is an astounding 310,278.88% return on investment. Over the years there have been positive and negative days. If we look at key issues that have taken place in the last 75 years which may have impacted on the return negatively there have been many: wars, global recessions, many bear markets and a global pandemic.
$10,000 invested in S&P500, 1948-2023
Global inflation
Over the past year, there has been media attention on global inflation figures, which erodes the value of your money over time. Investing in a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, and other assets can help you weather market volatility and achieve consistent returns over the long-term.
If we’re to take inflation into account in the above scenario, you would still achieve a return of 24,682% or roughly a figure of $2,468,210 in 1948 dollars.**
S&P 500 monthly returns, 1948-2023
It’s also essential to remember that time is a valuable asset when it comes to investing. The longer you commit, the more time your money has to grow and compound. Albert Einstein famously referred to compounding as the “eighth wonder of the world.” He believed that those who understand compound interest earn it, while those who do not pay it. As ANZA Singapore turns 75, it’s a reminder of the benefits of long-term investing which requires patience, discipline, and a long-term perspective. By remaining invested in the stock market for 75 years, you can achieve returns that can help you achieve your financial goals and create generational wealth.
Jamie Burgmann is a Partner with Select Investors, a Partner Practice of St. James’s Place, and works closely with expatratiates during their Singapore journey and beyond.
The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than you invested.
If you would like to reach out for a complimentary review of your personal financial situation, please email [email protected] or +65 91679634 to arrange a consultation.
The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Members of the St. James’s Place Partnership in Singapore represent St. James’s Place (Singapore) Private Limited, which is part of the St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group, and it is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and is a member of the Investment Management Association of Singapore and Association of Financial Advisers (Singapore). Company Registration No. 200406398R. Capital Markets Services Licence No. CMS100851. St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group Ltd Registered Office: St. James’s Place House, 1 Tetbury Road, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 1FP, United Kingdom. Registered in England Number 02627518.
Whispers of the kids’ club started circulating before we reached the island. The journey to this staycation from Singapore, which involves a boat from Harbourfront Ferry Terminal to Sekupang, Batam, followed by another boat from Sepkupang directly to Telunas (3-4 hours in all), involved murmurs of toys, swimming, and nature hunts. Rumours spread with such anticipation that it was hard to tell who was more excited: the children or parents.
Indeed, Telunas Private Island in Indonesia is an idyllic crowd-pleaser. It’s Robinson Crusoe-esque with powder white sands, turquoise waters and chill beach vibe, but also offers plenty of back-to-basics activities for families, couples and singles from Singapore looking to unwind in paradise without boarding a flight.
Being a WiFi free zone, guests come here to switch off and/or reconnect – with themselves and each other. Couples can languish poolside, enjoy a spa treatment in one of the overwater ‘villas’, or dine-a-deux by the water. The kids’ club is a gorgeous sandy space for those aged 5-12 years-old to play, create, and have fun. A babysitting service is also available if parents want time alone. Lots of cool sports are on tap including kayaking, SUP, fishing, badminton, darts and table tennis – just head to the ‘sports shed’ and they’ll deck you out with equipment, life jackets and a smile. I found a hammock and spent several hours with a good book.
Right: Jo, last seen in paradise.
Telunas Resorts launched Telunas Beach Resort consisting of 40 overwater villas in 2004. We visited their sister property, Telunus Private Island Resort, which opened in 2014 within waving distance across the water to the beach resort. Here you’ll find 15 shabby-chic overwater villas as well as five Ritz Villas which were completed in 2018 and are nestled high up in the rainforest. Warning: those with dicky tickers or dodgy knees would be wise to book an overwater stay. However, if you’re the picture of health and it’s ultimate privacy and lush, unadulterated greenery that gets you going, opt for a Ridge Villa. The path to reach them is a little steep, but your glutes will thank you for it.
The panorama itself is absolutely worth the trek. A beautiful villa with crisp white sheets, a separate living room/dining space, whopping outdoor bathroom, private pool and unparalleled sunrise vistas awaits. And the sounds of wilderness! I eschewed my iPods for the entirety of the trip to become fully immersed in an aural symphony of nature. Unfasten your mosquito net, open the sliding doors, and soak it all up.
From Left: A packed sports schedule at Telunas Private Island Resort. Enjoy local and western fare at Telunas
Come nightfall, the vibe is romantic with low lighting, stillness, and the occasional beach bonfire. Dining is a seamless affair as you order your forthcoming meals each morning and just wait for them to be served to you. Three courses come generously portioned and include the likes of beef and vegetable salad, traditional Indonesian Rijsttafel, and tangy lemon meringue tart.
For a post-dinner drink, a cute outdoor bar serves beer, wine and cocktails which you sip with your toes in the sand. However, most guests at Telunas Private Island were going for more retro styles of relaxation. Families were playing Scrabble. Two teenage sisters enjoyed a game of darts. Dads were reading actual printed books to their brood. It felt like the 1980s again: simple, peaceful, and thoroughly charming, which sums up Telunas Resorts perfectly. telunasresorts.com
ANZA Travel Offer At Telunas Resorts! Book a minimum 2-night stay at Telunas Beach Resort or Telunas Private Island and receive a complimentary 60-minute Spa Body Massage. Offer applicable for two adults. Please remember to state ‘ANZA – Free Massage’ under ‘How Did You Find Us?’ on the booking form to claim the offer. Offer is based on space availability and valid until 19 December 2023.
The Westin Singapore
Right: The Westin’s rooftop pool is the CBD’s biggest secret
Escape from the city while in the city? It’s totally possible with a staycation at The Westin Singapore. While it may sit pretty in Asia Square Tower 2 in the Marina Financial District, relaxation is practically instant as you’re whisked from the hubbub and up to the 32nd floor for check-in.
Entering the reception area, enormous pendant lamps, marble floors, squishy suede daybeds and comfy lounge chairs set the scene before incredible views of the city’s Southern shore. It’s spacious, slick and super-luxurious. Depending on your package, you might be handed a glass of fizz as you confirm your stay, meaning that you feel quite giddy by the time you reach your room and it has nothing to do with the high altitude.
For a more business-focused hotel, The Westin Singapore does a remarkable job of promoting comfort, leisure and wellbeing. Rooms are huge with two double beds featuring plush Heavenly® Bed and White Tea Aloe toiletries to promote maximum sleep. A wellness menu is placed on the work desk extolling the importance of rest, healthful food and fitness as a reminder that life is about work and play. Massive picture windows overlooking the water bring your heart rate down (unless you don’t like heights). Bathrooms come with giant bathtubs for the ultimate indulgence.
A unique touch is the option to exercise from your room thanks to the new WestinWORKOUT® Gear Lending Kit programme. As a bid to make training easily accessible, Westin’s Sculpt & Follow Kit by Bala is a mini-gym-in-a-bag that you can get delivered to your room so you can keep fit in private while wearing your PJs (just us?). The kit comes complete with a yoga mat, resistance bands and bangle weights. Another lending option is the Recover & Recharge Kit by Hyperice – super-cool tech to massage achy muscles.
From left: Sue at The Westin Singapore with welcome drink and nibbles
Alternatively, head to the 35th floor where you’ll find a big gym and spa offering treatments from Heavenly Gemstone Journey to Couple’s Rejuvenation. The outdoor infinity pool surrounded by chaise lounge and submerged sunbeds has to be one of the best hidden gems in the CBD. Swimming amongst the skyscrapers while trying to nosy into office windows in the distance felt gloriously decadent (and a bit naughty).
Of course, all this healthy living is going to make you hungry. Breakfast at The Westin Singapore is a smorgasbord of delights, including cereal and scrambled eggs, fried noodles and bao. Cook & Brew, the hotel’s hip gastro bar offers delicious Asian-inspired dishes like Pad Thai, western favourites such as Fish & Chips and Guiness Braised Lamb, and stocks more than 100 varieties of beer. Meanwhile, come nightfall the Lobby Lounge transforms into a sophisticated hangout. Sip on a cocktail as a pianist tickles the ivories with some Frank Sinatra and Singapore’s evening skyline puts on a gloriously twinkly performance around you. 12 Marina View, #2 Asia Square Tower, 018961. marriott.com
Tiny Away Escape, Lazarus Island
Ellie’s tiny house was small in size but big on satisfaction
When it comes to travel, tiny has never been bigger. All the rage in Australia and New Zealand already, ecotourism start-up Big Tiny bring their delightfully diddy eco-accommodation to Singapore as part of a growing trend to simplify lives without sacrificing quality. As we took the 20-minute boat ride from Marina South Pier we had questions. How tiny is tiny? Will everything in the tiny house be tiny? Would we only get a tiny sleep?
From the outside, the five houses on Lazarus Island look like little containers on wheels with blacked-out windows, making what lies inside a total mystery. Unlocking the door was like opening a box of delights! Each house is designed with its own unique theme including
a colonial-era aesthetic, 1960s style, 1980s retro vibe, beachy chic and modern 2000s.
The bed was one of the most comfy I’ve ever slept in. The tiny ‘living room’ packs in a cushion-clad sofabed, footstools and a flatscreen TV (complete with Netflix). The dining table, which can accommodate a family of four, sits in the ‘kitchen area’ with a fridge, microwave, toaster, sink and cutlery-filled cupboards.
The bathroom won us over being bizarrely sizeable with a flush toilet, sink and strong shower. There’s also storage facilities for bags, a hanging area for clothes, essentials such as blankets, torches, snacks, a hairdryer and – joy of joys – excellent aircon and WiFi.
So, what’s missing? Nothing, apart from lots to do on Lazarus Island. Guests can hike, cycle (BYO bike), head to the beach, enjoy a picnic, fire up a portable BBQ and marvel over how near yet so far you feel from civilisation. More amenities and leisure activities are expected to be introduced, but for now this is not a place to visit if you get easily bored, are scared of the dark or dislike the great outdoors.
With no facilities on the island you’re invited to bring your own food, drinks and sundries. Seeing as Big Tiny is not only a low-carbon and sustainable company with the welfare of the planet at heart, you’re also asked to take your rubbish away with you. A lovely touch is that guests receive two microwavable meals per person per day which you can heat up in your kitchen and eat al fresco on the table outside your door.
After an evening dip, we cracked open our canned cocktails, arranged the nibbles, whacked the micro on for three minutes and had a gorgeous evening experiencing our very own Castaway island. For city dwellers looking for a unique escape away from the hustle and bustle, here’s your spot. escapeatlazarus.com
We are heavily dependent on digital devices, whether for work or play. While technology has brought us many benefits, it’s important to be aware of the impact it can have on our physical and mental health. This is where digital wellness comes in. It’s about finding a healthy balance between using technology and spending time offline.
Oh, magical Morocco. The Mediterranean melting pot where African, Arabic and European cultures are entwined, gorgeous daylight and golden sunsets swathe the cities, maze-like souks and alleyways pull you sideways, and the roofs of riads conceal spots made for evening martinis and mysticism. How far away that world feels from Singapore, but also how near thanks to new Moroccan tapas and cocktail bar, Tajine.
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How we give back has also evolved with the advent of technology and less free time due to more working spouses. In 2023, we offer a range of ways to get involved with ANZA Action. Members can participate in fundraising campaigns such as the yearly toy drive for 
Chris Rawlings
Jamie Burgmann is a Partner with Select Investors, a Partner Practice of St. James’s Place, and works closely with expatratiates during their Singapore journey and beyond.
The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Members of the St. James’s Place Partnership in Singapore represent St. James’s Place (Singapore) Private Limited, which is part of the St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group, and it is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and is a member of the Investment Management Association of Singapore and Association of Financial Advisers (Singapore). Company Registration No. 200406398R. Capital Markets Services Licence No. CMS100851.
ANZA Travel Offer At Telunas Resorts!
The bathroom won us over being bizarrely sizeable with a flush toilet, sink and strong shower. There’s also storage facilities for bags, a hanging area for clothes, essentials such as blankets, torches, snacks, a hairdryer and – joy of joys – excellent aircon and WiFi.