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Casa Del Mar Langkawi, Malaysia

Two-night stay in a Beachfront Studio Suite for two people, including daily breakfast

VALUE SGD $730

Your beachfront haven in Pantai Cenang, Malaysia, Casa del Mar Langkawi is a boutique hotel nestled by the sea, offering an intimate retreat for couples. Immerse yourself in the serenity of the Andaman Sea, just steps away from the vibrant Pantai Cenang. Perfectly suited for couples seeking a romantic escape, Casa del Mar Langkawi provides a home-away-from-home experience, capturing the essence of tranquility and romance.

T&Cs:

  • Valid from 1 June 2025 – 30 November 2025
  • A maximum of two 2 persons (adults) are permitted in the room
  • The hotel reserves the right to refuse check-in if the number of persons exceeds 2 adults
  • Check-in is from 2pm onward; check-out is at 12 noon
  • An original copy of the voucher must be presented upon check-in
  • The voucher is non-transferable and not redeemable for cash
  • Bookings are subject to room availability. If you make a reservation with confirmation and fail to show up, the voucher will be deemed as used. The voucher excludes tourism and government taxes, which will be collected during check-in

Casa Del Rio, Melaka

Two-night stay in a Deluxe Lago Room for two people, including daily breakfast

VALUE SGD $730

Nestled in Melaka’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, Casa del Rio offers a comfortable retreat in the heart of the historic town. With spacious rooms and a homely ambience, it’s conveniently situated within walking distance of Jonker Street, making it the ideal base to explore the cultural heritage of the Portuguese, Arabic, Dutch, and Straits Chinese communities.

T&Cs:

  • The E-Voucher of this certificate must be presented upon check-in
  • Reservation is required prior to check-in, and confirmation of room is subject to availability
  • The gift certificate number must be mentioned during reservation
  • Damaged or defaced certificates will not be accepted; the hotel is not responsible for the loss of the certificate
  • The gift certificate is only valid for the specified room type and cannot be exchanged for cash or any other form of legal tender
  • The gift certificate is valid for weekdays only. A surcharge of RM162 nett per room per night applies for weekends
  • Not applicable during hotel peak season, on the eve of or on public holidays
  • Black-out dates: Agong’s Birthday (30 May – 1 June 2025), Hari Raya Haji (6 – 7 June 2025), Awal Muharram (27 – 28 June 2025), Malaysia National Day (29 – 31 Aug 2025), Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (5 – 6 Sep 2025), and Deepavali (17 – 19 Oct 2025)
  • The gift certificate is valid from 01 June 2025 to 30 November 2025 only
  • Validity extensions are strictly not permitted
  • Tourism Tax of RM10.00 nett per room per night for non-Malaysians and Heritage Tax of RM2.00 nett per room per night are subject to be collected upon check-in
  • In the event that local authorities impose new taxes after booking, the hotel is entitled to collect such taxes upon arrival

Alaya Resort Ubud, Bali

Two-night stay in a Deluxe Room for two people, including daily breakfast, one afternoon tea, and complimentary daily minibar

VALUE SGD $618

Alaya Resort Ubud is a tranquil retreat set amidst Ubud’s iconic rice fields. Blending luxury with Balinese tradition, the resort offers beautifully designed rooms, a world-class spa, and gourmet dining. Perfectly located near Ubud’s top attractions, it’s an ideal destination for those seeking a serene and authentic Balinese experience.

T&Cs:

  • The expiration date cannot be extended
  • The voucher cannot be combined with any other promotions
  • The voucher cannot be redeemed for cash
  • Not valid during high season (1 July – 31 August)
  • Valid until 19 December 2025

Temple Tree Resort, Langkawi

Two-night stay in an Estate House for two people, including daily buffet breakfast and Malaysian High Tea

VALUE SGD $545

Nestled amidst a century-old coconut tree plantation and lush greenery, Temple Tree Resort Langkawi features twenty-one uniquely designed rooms and suites set within eight meticulously preserved Malaysian heritage houses. The resort caters to various group sizes and celebrations, with options like the Estate House, perfect for solo travelers and couples seeking serenity in terracotta-floored rooms and private bathtubs. Paloh Restaurant & Bar, situated in the restored 100-year-old Ipoh House, offers a culinary journey reflecting Malaysia’s cultural diversity, accompanied by Western and Asian dishes.

T&Cs:

  • Valid from 1 June 2025 to 1 December 2025; the validity cannot be extended
  • Stay dates must be within the validity of the voucher and cannot be combined with other discounts. Non-bookable blackout dates apply
  • Reservations must be made by phone or email
  • Advanced room reservation must be made 7 days before arrival
  • Rooms are subject to availability. All applicable taxes are payable upon check-in
  • Subject to other terms & conditions stipulated by Temple Tree Sdn. Bhd
  • Temple Tree Sdn. Bhd. reserves the right to change these terms & conditions at any time without prior notice
  • The voucher may not be available during public holidays and peak seasonal periods (long weekends). A surcharge of RM350 nett per night applies for stays during peak periods (eve of Malaysian public holidays and public holidays)
  • To redeem your voucher, please contact our reservations team

Vibe Hotel Singapore Orchard

One-night stay in a Premier Room for two people, including breakfast and 24-hour access to the Vibe Pantry

VALUE SGD $432

Vibe Hotel Singapore Orchard is located in the residential enclave of Orchard Road, within easy access to Singapore’s busiest and longest shopping belt. Catering to travellers looking for a hotel with character, Vibe Hotel offers a welcome retreat amidst contemporary design. It is a hidden gem for those seeking an escape in the heart of the action. The restaurant, bar, and swimming pool also make for great spots to unwind.

T&Cs:

  • Valid for use at Vibe Hotel Singapore Orchard only
  • Prior booking of at least 14 days before arrival with Vibe Hotel Singapore Orchard is required and subject to room availability
  • Blackout dates apply, and the voucher is not valid on the eve of public holidays, public holidays, or major events
  • This gift voucher is non-replaceable, non-refundable, and not redeemable for cash
  • This gift voucher is not valid without the hotel’s authorised signatory and cannot be used 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 3pm and check-out time is at noon (Singapore local time)
  • Preferential rates are available should you wish to extend your stay

ANZA Cycling demonstrate the power of perseverance

The Road to the Ironman World Championships
By Martin Tresca

Three years ago, I decided to take a leap into the unknown. With no background in swimming, biking, or running, I reached out to my coach and told him I wanted to train for triathlons. He assured me that triathlon is the fairest sport out there, rewarding those who show up, rain or shine, and put in the work day after day. That belief became my guiding principle.

Over the past three years, I’ve logged countless hours of training – on my own, with friends, and with the incredible ANZA cycling community. The crazy Mandai Madness sessions, the relentless Bartley-Changi loop, and the long, challenging Saturday rides with ANZA were more than just workouts – they were where I built strength, endurance, and camaraderie. Those rides turned gruelling miles into opportunities to push limits, share laughs, and gain invaluable support.

Last October, all that training culminated in an amazing experience at the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii – a magical place that feels like the beating heart of the triathlon world. Athletes from every corner of the globe go to Kona, bringing with them inspiring stories of dedication and resilience. But it’s also an intimidating atmosphere – everywhere you look, people appear incredibly strong and prepared. You can feel the weight of the competition in the air, and it pushes you to give your absolute best.

The race itself was everything I had imagined and more. The course is tough, both physically and mentally, but undeniably beautiful. The swim in Kailua Bay, the ride through the scorching heat of the Queen K, and the run through the iconic Energy Lab all challenged me in ways I could never have anticipated. One of the highlights was seeing the pro triathletes up close, battling through their own pain and proving that no one escapes Kona without suffering.

Crossing the finish line was the culmination of years of commitment, supported by my family and the incredible community around me. Kona isn’t just a race; it’s a place that captures the heart of the triathlon world and leaves you yearning for more.

I’ve already set my sights on returning in 2026. Because if Kona taught me anything, it’s that the journey is just as important as the destination – and that magic, once experienced, keeps pulling you back for more.

Here’s to chasing dreams, to those who believe, and to those who never quit.

Masters Tour of Chiang Mai
By Gonzalo Rico

The 12th edition of the Masters Tour of Chiang Mai (MTCM), a four-stage cycling race, was a challenging yet rewarding experience. The event attracted a diverse field of cyclists from across Asia, including some top-tier riders from Thai Pro Continental teams.

The first 65km stage started with promise. However, a puncture early on derailed my momentum, and I ended up finishing in 19th place in the 30-39 age category. Disappointed but determined, I shifted my focus to the upcoming stages.

The second stage, the 90km “queen stage”, was a turning point. The course featured several challenging climbs, and I found myself in a select group of riders battling for position. After attacks and counterattacks, I managed to bridge the gap to the breakaway group and even overtake a few riders on the final climb, finishing in second place. This propelled me to 12th in the overall standings.

Left – right: Podium pals Marco and Gonzo

The third stage was a fast-paced 40km criterium. While I couldn’t quite make it into the decisive breakaway, I managed to secure a solid 4th place finish and moved up again to 8th overall.

The final stage, a challenging 10km individual time trial, was a true test of strength and endurance. Despite the tough uphill course, I pushed myself to the limit and finished in 4th place, cementing a 5th place overall.

Gonzo finished in impressive 5th place

The MTCM was a fantastic experience. While the first stage was a setback, I was proud to be able to overcome adversity and deliver strong performances in the subsequent stages. The race showcased the high level of competition and the incredible camaraderie among the riders – a big shout-out to my ANZA teammate Marco Scognamiglio, who helped make the experience so enjoyable. I’m looking forward to future races!

Looking for a cycling club in Singapore? Join ANZA Cycling and ride with us!

Cool extra curricular activities for kids in Singapore

Away from school in Singapore, the options for extra curricular activities are endless, offering something for every child’s passion and interest. From sport to drama, art to exploration,  there’s no shortage of ways for kids to explore and develop their talents. For those with a curious mind, these activities not only nurture skills but also build confidence, teamwork, and lifelong memories. Read on for some of the red dot’s top offerings.

“Children learn the fundamentals of dance and develop important life skills”

Who we are: Tanglin Arts Studio (TAS)
What we offer: At TAS, we provide a wide range of dance classes that cater to various age groups and skill levels. Our programmes include classical ballet, jazz, acrobatics, musical theatre, and more. We also offer creative movement classes for younger children and specialised programmes for aspiring dancers aiming for professional training. Classes are designed to be both fun and educational, encouraging children to express themselves while learning the fundamentals of dance.
What kids learn: Children not only learn the fundamentals of dance but also develop essential life skills. Through our classes, they enhance their coordination, flexibility, and musicality, while building self-confidence, discipline, and teamwork. Each session is crafted to foster both technical skills and artistic expression, encouraging students to explore their creativity.
Who’ll love us: Tanglin Arts Studio is perfect for children who love to move, express themselves, and be part of a community. Whether your little one is a beginner looking to explore a new hobby or a budding dancer aiming to hone their craft, we provide the perfect after-school destination. Parents who value a balanced blend of education, creativity, and physical activity will appreciate our inclusive approach and the welcoming environment we nurture.

22 Camden Park, Hollandse Club, 299814
 tanglinartsstudio.com

“Our programmes emphasise confidence-building, discipline, and sportsmanship”

Who we are: TFL (Total Fitness Leisure)
What we offer: We offer professional, well-rounded tennis and swimming lessons and camps. Each session is tailored to the student’s skill level, experience, and ability in the sport. Our company thrives on providing students with a fun and engaging learning experience that focuses on personal growth, skill development, and building confidence, all while fostering a love for sports.
What kids learn: Children learn essential techniques and skills tailored to their individual abilities. For tennis, they develop proper strokes, footwork, and game strategies. In swimming, they improve their strokes, water safety, and endurance. Beyond physical skills, our programmes emphasise confidence-building, discipline, and sportsmanship, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable learning experience. Whether your child is a beginner or looking to refine their skills, our lessons offer the perfect environment for growth and enjoyment.
Who’ll love us: Anyone looking to learn tennis or swimming, from beginners to those with a passion for the sports. We welcome participants of all ages and skill levels to join us in becoming better sportsmen and sportswomen.

info@tfl.training.com
+65 9750 7400

“We’re a safe space for children to develop their confidence, creativity, and imagination”

Who we are: Centre Stage School of the Arts (CSSA)
What we offer: Led by UK actors Peter Hodgson and Alison Tompkins, Centre Stage celebrates its 25th anniversary this year as Singapore’s premier creative and performing arts school. Our curriculum includes drama, dance, and musical theatre, and we’re proud to be one of the few arts schools offering students the opportunity to develop skills both on and off the stage, culminating in fully staged productions. Our experienced instructors, trained at leading drama institutions worldwide, teach carefully structured courses designed for children of all ages and experience levels. These include Creative and Performance Drama, Musical Theatre, and a wide range of dance styles, including the prestigious RAD syllabus.
What kids learn: Centre Stage’s vibrant and inclusive community provides a safe space for children to develop their confidence, creativity, and imagination. Whether it’s honing acting skills, perfecting dance techniques, or mastering the art of musical theatre, students learn not only to express themselves artistically, but also to develop essential teamwork and strong communication skills, forging lifelong friendships with their fellow performers along the way.
Who’ll love us: Creative education is essential for all children as it empowers them to have faith in themselves, to become confident communicators, and to be creative and collaborative. We offer classes for children aged 3 – 18 years, and complete beginners are always welcome. For children considering a career on the stage, we also offer professional training courses and workshops that provide valuable experience and industry insight.

Portsdown Road & East Coast locations
 info@centre-stage.com
 +65 6732 7211 | WhatsApp +65 9118 0221

“Kids are engaged in arts, sports, and outdoor adventures, blending fun and exploration”

Who we are: Camp Asia
What we offer: An extensive range of camps tailored for kids aged 3 – 16, with five main categories to suit every interest and skill level.
What kids learn: The five categories of multi-activity camps engage kids in arts, sports, and outdoor adventures, blending fun and exploration.
Who’ll love us: Everyone! Activities range from rock climbing to orienteering, with weekly excursions for added excitement.

  • Get Physical Camps offer sports like Super Soccer, Basketball, and Gymnastics, as well as unique options like Dragonboat Paddling and Parkour, fostering athleticism and teamwork
  • Be Creative Camps inspire budding chefs, artists, dancers, and actors, guiding kids through culinary creations, expressive art, and dynamic performances
  • Clever Stuff Camps ignite curiosity in science, maths, and language through hands-on projects in Junior Scientist, Math Mania, and Intensive English programmes
  • Tech-Savvy Camps dive into STEM with engaging coding, robotics, and engineering workshops for young tech enthusiasts

Each camp combines indoor and outdoor experiences to keep kids engaged and active, with excursions to places like urban farms and Sentosa for real-world learning. Camp Asia continuously develops new programmes, ensuring that campers return year after year for fresh experiences. Whatever your child’s passion, Camp Asia offers the perfect opportunity to learn, play, and grow.

info@campasia.asia
 Parent Hotline: +65 6289 5888

Get your child’s preschool, sorted!

“Our school pedagogy revolves around nature and the outdoors”

SCHOOL NAME: Adventure Tree Preschool

STUDENT AGE: 2 months – 6 years old

PRESCHOOL PHILOSOPHY:Adventure Tree Preschool’s play-based approach is grounded in fostering a lifelong love of learning in every student, while nurturing self-esteem, integrity, and a respectful attitude towards others. The curriculum encourages children to discover, create, and imagine, providing a supportive environment for questioning, problem solving, and critical thinking. Learning extends beyond academics, promoting holistic development through play.

STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO:1:3 for infant care (under 17 months); 1:10 for Kindergarten (6 years).

LEARNING & ACTIVITIES: We take a seamless, integrated approach to learning using real-life materials and resources, making education come alive both inside and outside the classroom. Our pedagogy revolves around nature and the outdoors. We believe placing nature at the centre of a child’s education is crucial.

PARENT COMMUNICATION: We maintain open communication through the LittleLives app, enabling parents to stay in touch with teachers, view photos of school drop-offs and pick-ups, and access bi-weekly updates on select activities. We also hold bi-annual parent-teacher meetings.

CONTACT DETAILS:

Katong: 4 Crescent Road, S439289
Braddell: 45A Carmichael Road, S359826
Bukit Timah: 59 Yuk Tong Avenue, S596360
Holland: 9 Grove Drive, S279050
Tel: 9012 6315
contact@adventuretree.com.sg

“Activities provide an engaging and enriching educational experience”

SCHOOL NAME: Little Paddington Preschool

STUDENT AGE: Infant Care: 3 – 17 months (selected centres); Preschool: 18 months – 6 years (all centres)

PRESCHOOL PHILOSOPHY:Little Paddington Preschool follows a child-centred, play-based philosophy that fosters creativity, social skills, and cognitive development. The curriculum emphasises structured and unstructured play, promoting social-emotional growth through collaborative activities. It integrates early literacy and numeracy into daily routines, encourages outdoor exploration, and includes diverse cultural experiences to promote inclusivity.

STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO:

  • Infant Care (Little Cubbies): 1:3
  • Playgroup (Little Winnies): 1:6
  • Nursery 1 (Grizzlies 1): 1:8
  • Nursery 2 (Grizzlies 2): 1:10
  • Kindergarten 1 (Giant Panda 1): 1:12
  • Kindergarten 2 (Giant Panda 2): 1:14

LEARNING & ACTIVITIES:

  • Creative Arts
  • Science Experiments
  • Culinary Activities
  • Outdoor Exploration
  • Storytelling and Literacy
  • STEM Activities
  • Show and Tell
  • United Nations Programs
  • Social-Emotional Learning
  • Physical Activities
  • Each activity is designed to provide a balanced, engaging, and enriching experience, catering to the diverse needs of preschoolers while promoting their overall development.

DAILY SCHEDULE: Children begin with free play to socialise and settle in, followed by the Be-Pawsitive Morning Assembly, fostering a positive mindset. Circle Time includes discussions, songs, and movement, while Jolly Music introduces rhythm and melody. Structured learning covers literacy, numeracy, and hands-on experiences in art, science, and sensory play. The Paddington Prep Program develops essential primary school skills. Children also enjoy Atelier classes in arts, cookery, and science, plus immersive Mandarin learning through activities like Panda Village. Story Time and Jolly Phonics support bilingual literacy, and outdoor play promotes physical exploration.

PARENT COMMUNICATION: We maintain clear communication with parents through the LittleLives app. Each Friday, we send a comprehensive weekly overview, highlighting key activities from the past week and previewing what’s coming up.

CONTACT DETAILS:

enquiry@littlepaddington.com

“Each classroom is staffed with one English and one Mandarin-speaking educator”

SCHOOL NAME: St. Joseph’s Institution International Preschool

STUDENT AGE: 3 – 6 years

PRESCHOOL PHILOSOPHY: At SJI International Preschool, we prioritise collaborative exploration, dialogue, and shared meaning-making. Children engage in real-world experiences, constructing knowledge through questioning, investigating, and reflecting with peers and educators. We provide structured components for English Literacy, Mandarin Literacy, and Numeracy to ensure progress and success.

STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO: In Early Years 1, the ratio is 1:8 to ensure personalised care. The ratio adjusts to 1:12 in Early Years 2 and 1:16 in Kindergarten 1 and 2, promoting individual attention and peer collaboration.

LEARNING & ACTIVITIES: SJI International Preschool offers a comprehensive bilingual English and Mandarin Immersion programme, with each classroom staffed by at least one English and one Mandarin-speaking educator. Our outdoor learning programme promotes sustainability, citizenship, and life skills like self-reliance and leadership. Activities such as urban farming offer eco-conscious perspectives, while adventurous play empowers children to assess and manage risks.

DAILY SCHEDULE: The core programme runs from 9am – 5pm, beginning with mixed-age group interactions to foster social skills. After breakfast, children enjoy Circle Time with songs and discussions, followed by music, movement, and outdoor play. Bilingual learning is integrated throughout the day with immersive inquiry and learning space exploration. After lunch and storytime, a calming rest period follows. The afternoon includes more bilingual activities and character-building sessions, with the day ending in mixed-age interactions.

PARENT COMMUNICATION: We share regular updates on each child’s progress, development, and special moments via our school management system. We also encourage open communication through face-to-face conversations during pick-up and drop-off, email, and phone calls. In-depth parent-teacher conferences are held three times a year.

CONTACT DETAILS:

49A Holland Road, Singapore, 258850
+65 6908 4520
 admin@sji-internationalpreschool.com.sg

What to know about ANZA Adult Netball

ANZA Netball has been one of our most popular sports groups for children for the past 20 years, but why should the kids have all the fun?!

Seeing the satisfaction our younger players get from regular games prompted the netball committee to invite those aged 18+ to the court. After the successful launch of Adult Netball Training sessions in 2024, Term 1 Adult Netball started on 23 January 2025 for a 10-week block.

If the last time you graced a court Boyzone were in the charts, hear us out. ANZA Netball’s senior coach is all set to lead the sessions, designed for both beginners and those looking to return to the game. Participants can expect plenty of fun skill-building and matches. As netball is an excellent cardiovascular exercise, you’ll also get a full-body workout that will help to improve endurance, strength and flexibility. Additionally, playing netball helps maintain bone density which is crucial as we age, and for preventing the onset of osteoporosis. By joining you’ll be future-proofing your body without even realising it!

As a team sport, netball is especially brilliant for encouraging social connection and fostering a sense of belonging which is vital for mental wellbeing. Engaging in a game as an adult allows players to focus on the present moment, providing a mental break from daily stress (and thoughts of what to prep for dinner). 

Initial sessions at ANZA Adult Netball will focus on skill development and building strength and agility to prevent injury, while working towards strategy and match play for players joining leagues and tournaments. Let’s show the young ‘uns how it’s done!

Fascinating netball facts

  • Netball has roots in basketball
    Netball originated from basketball in the late 19th century. It was developed by Clara Baer in 1891, who modified basketball rules to make it more suitable for women.
  • Netball was once played on horseback
    In the early 1900s, a variant of netball known as “horseback netball” was created, where players would ride horses while playing. The game was quite challenging due to the difficulty of passing the ball while riding, so the horses were dismissed.
  • Netball is big in Commonwealth nations
    While netball may not be widely known in some countries, it is hugely popular in the likes of Australia, New Zealand, England, Jamaica, and South Africa.
  • Not all netball courts are created equally
    The standard adult netball court measures 30.5 metres long x15.25 metres wide, but there are variations in court sizes for different age groups and levels of play. Junior players, for example, use smaller courts.

Registrations are now closed for the current term. You can register your interest for Term 2 here.
Date: TBC (watch the ANZA website for updates)
Time: 7pm – 8:30pm
Location: Tanglin Trust School
Cost: $250 for 10 weeks

Tuckerbox: A taste of Thaipusam

During the Hindu tenth lunar month (Thai), when the brightest star (Pusam) shines, the Thaipusam Festival honours Lord Subramaniam who battled victoriously using a spear, and represents good over evil.

PREPARATION

Thaipusam, signifying penance and thanksgiving, sees devotees walking four-kilometres from Sri Srinivasa Temple on Singapore’s Serangoon Road, to Chettiars Temple, Tank Road. Preparations involve cleansing spiritually and physically for 48 days, eating only one meal (vegetarian) daily, and fasting for 24 hours before Thaipusam.

THAIPUSAM DAY

After early morning bathing in turmeric-spiced water (representing goodness), devotees dressed in yellow (with its calming affect) pray at the temple.

Many carry kavadis (arched steel structures) on their shoulders, while some females carry palkadams (milk pots) on their heads. A kavadi could be four-metres high, weigh up to 35 kilograms, decorated with flowers, fruit, neem leaves and peacock feathers. Devotees might have their cheeks, tongue and body pierced with skewers, or spears, some weighted with limes against negative energy. The sacrificial walk, which takes several hours, culminates with the removal of kavadis and the emptying of milk pots as an expression of thanks to Lord Subramaniam.

FASTING

Vegetarian food for Hindu religious fasting includes nutritious dairy products, nuts for energy, and fruit and vegetables. Garlic and onion are avoided, spices used sparingly, plus abstaining from caffeine and chocolate.

Photographs: snacks, payasam, from Raelene Tan

INDIAN VEGETARIAN DELIGHTS

Popular dishes for general meals include lentils, a protein-rich staple; plantain poriyal curry made with bananas for an energy boost; accompanied by sambar, a lentil and vegetable puree; and chutney. Other favourites include olan, a mild curry with cooling winter melon slices; rasam, a spicy tamarind-based soup that aids digestion; and mouth cooling raita, a refreshing condiment made with yogurt, herbs, spices, and cucumber.

Long-time friend Dhershini Govin Winodan, author of Indian Food Today and Feast of Flavours from the Indian Kitchen shared, “A meal might include rice, sambar, aviyal (mixed vegetable thick curry with coconut-milk), ereshery (green bananas cooked with white kidney-beans and pumpkin, high in fibre), and a host of others. Payasam dessert is favoured (milk-based, sweet, thick porridge made with rice or vermicelli, nuts and fruit).”

Snacks include crispy appalam (fried thin wafers using rice and ground lentils), enjoyed with chutney; popular mango-chutney uses tamarind, strengthening immune systems; papadam (crisp thin flatbread) of chickpea-flour and cumin; farali chevdo (potato-sticks) provides energy from nuts, spices, and potatoes.

Beverages include milk, tea, coffee and fruit juices. Buttermilk incorporates yoghurt, herbs and spices. Lassi is yoghurt-based. Cumin water aids digestion, winter-melon tea is cooling. Falooda dessert-drink contains milk, basil-seeds, rose syrup, tapioca and vermicelli.

ORDERING A MEAL

Food is generally shared at the table. A meal typically includes three vegetable dishes (including lentils) and two curry items, depending on the number of persons, choosing different textures, tastes and colours. Rice and bread are staples. Very sweet desserts or fresh fruit end a meal.

“Sapudungal” “Please eat.”

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