1. 1 1 0 e p i c u r e a s i a . c o m
travel news
Paradise,found
Krabi, which lies across the Andaman Sea from Phuket,
is an unspoiled sanctuary that promises a mix of serenity,
luxury, and adventure. By Raymond Tan
P
huket may be the reigning beach destination in the Land
of Smiles, but those looking for respite should set their
sights on Krabi. The province promises an endless array
of activities for vacationers, but tempers its teeming energy with
a modicum of calm and tranquility.
island appeal
Home to more than 100 tiny islands, Krabi is a popular province
for island hopping. While Phi Phi Island has long been a tourist
hotspot, people have been warming up to the far less crowded
Koh Lanta, south of Krabi town.
Comprising 52 little islands, and
largely unmarred by big-scale
developments, Koh Lanta spans
mountainous regions and lush
forested hills, powdery beaches
and clear emerald waters. Need
a tan? Soak up the rays on the
plentiful beaches. Looking for
adventure? Snorkelling, kayaking
and diving opportunities abound.
Embarking on a family vacation?
The crime rate is low and the
islands are generally safe. Koh
Beach. Surrounded by lush tropical forest and adorned
with fortress-like high walls, the resort feels like a private
enclave. It boasts meticulously landscaped gardens,
majestic villas, and outdoor bathing areas, but its most
awe-inspiring feature is the infinity pool that spans two
levels. Here you can enjoy an unencumbered view of
Krabi’s limestone cliffs and the surrounding islands.
This pocket of quiet bliss is also an oasis of wellness:
since the start of the year, Phulay Bay has been holding
regular healing- and health-related personalised retreats.
This month’s Crystal Sound Healing course, for example,
is a new-age therapy that uses sound vibration to help
reduce stress and create a deep sense of peace.
Scaling new heights
Of the many beaches in Krabi, few are as postcard-
perfect as Railay. Accessible only by boat, it is a
stunningly picturesque area studded with monumental
limestone formations that attract rock climbers from all
over the world. People looking to try their hand at the
sport can sign up for beginner courses that are offered in
abundance there. Besides its appeal to climbers, Railay’s
remoteness also gives it a degree of quietness and
tranquility, making it perfect for the crowd-averse.
For swanky accommodation on Railay, make your
reservations at Rayavadee Resort (214 Moo 2, Tambon
Ao-Nang, Amphoe Maung, Krabi 81000), which has offered
its luxe premises to travellers since the 1990s. Nestled
amid a beautifully landscaped garden with coconut
trees and tropical flowers, the popular honeymoon
destination resort received a facelift in 2015 with spruced
up villa interiors and more guest pavilions with private
swimming pools. Paradise, improved. e
Lanta’s all-round appeal and endless possibilities make it ideal
for tourists who prefer a wide variety of entertainment options,
as well as those who like to travel spontaneously.
Accommodation at Koh Lanta ranges from simple and fuss-
free to ultra extravagant. If you’re going for the latter, check
in at Layana Resort & Spa (272 Moo 3 Saladan, Krabi 81000) on
Koh Lanta Yai (the largest island in Koh Lanta). The resort’s
luxurious, Thai-styled rooms and suites are spacious and airy
with large, open balconies, and the suites come with outdoor
garden showers. The hotel’s highlights include its award-
winning Linger Longer Spa,
which houses a salt room that
aims to recreate the therapeutic
conditions of a salt cave – perfect
for those who need to relax and
rejuvenate.
Life’s a beach
Kick back and watch the
world go by at Krabi’s score of
beachfront luxury resorts such
as Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton
Reserve (111 Moo 3 Nongthalay,
Muang, Krabi 81000) on Tubkaek
Phulay Bay,
a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Koh Lanta
Railay beach, one of the
most popular rock climbing
locations in Asia

2. specialfeature
www.facebook.com/thefullertonheritage
www.instagram.com/thefullertonheritage
DINING WITH
A VIEW The Fullerton Heritage precinct boasts a wide
range of dining options and panoramic views
of the Marina Bay skyline.
With the year drawing to an end, tis’ the season to be merry.
Planning your festive gatherings and meals? Pay a visit to The
Fullerton Heritage precinct – consisting of The Fullerton Hotel
Singapore, The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore, The Fullerton
Waterboat House, One Fullerton, The Fullerton Pavilion, Clifford
Pier and Customs House – which offers myriad dining options and
panoramic views of the Marina Bay skyline.
Nestled at One Fullerton are JING Seafood Restaurant and
The Pelican Seafood Bar & Grill. The former is an à la carte seafood
and barbecue concept restaurant offering cuisine with unique
Singaporean and Asian flavours, and their signatures include chilli
crab, fried rice with Japanese fish roe, and steamed Shanghai pork
dumpling. The latter is an epicurean seafood establishment that
serves up a selection of exquisite Roe & Caviar and raw bar classics
such as Whole Maine Lobster (500-600g, $80), Brown Crab ($69)
and Scampi ($18). Both restaurants offer the option of dining in their
elegant interiors or out on the alfresco surrounds, where one is privy
to a stunning view of the bayside skyline.
When the festive season arrives, have yourself a merry Catalan
Christmas at Catalunya Singapore, which is tucked away at The
Fullerton Pavilion, a first-of-its-kind floating glass dome structure.
Their Yuletide special items, such as Christmas Canelon with
Black Truffle and Escudella, available from 18 to 27 December
2015 for lunch and dinner, is sure to usher in the festive cheer. The
Escudella is a stew-soup, characterised by the use of a very big
meatball spiced with garlic and parsley, which is a must-have dish
in every Spanish home celebration over Christmas Day.
Once you’re done with your meals, adjourn to the Hippop’ Art
Exhibition, running till 4 January 2016, for some family fun. Housed
at The Fullerton Heritage precinct, the vibrant exhibition is bursting
with bright colours and features hippo sculptures that are sleekly
and imaginatively crafted. Children will no doubt have a blast here.
Bring home one of the mini paper marche hippos, priced at $50,
available at the Fullerton Shop, located at The Fullerton Hotel
Singapore, and have a fun acrylic painting workshop decorating
your very own hippo. Workshops run on Fridays to Sundays from
27 November to 27 December at specific timeslots. Visit www.
thefullertonheritage.com to find out more.
Catalunya
Trout Roe Brioche
(Pelican Seafood Bar & Grill)
Signature Chilli
Crab (JING Seafood
Restaurant)

3. 1 1 6 e p i c u r e a s i a . c o m
travel news
Pearlofthe
IndianOceanSri Lanka’s re-emergence as a burgeoning tourist
destination has brought about a wave of luxury resort
developments. By Raymond Tan
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Encompassing Senanayake Samudraya Lake, Sri Lanka’s largest
inland body of water, Gal Oya National Park provides ample
opportunities to get up close and personal with the native wildlife.
Resting on a 20-acre forested site next to the lake, Gal Oya Lodge
boasts rustic but comfy bungalows, a restaurant, bar and swimming
pool. The lodge specialises in sustainable tourism, with most of its
furniture handmade by local village craftsmen, evoking a one-with-
nature feel. Guests are recommended to go on organised jungle drives,
nature walks and exclusive boat safaris across the lake, the latter
providing an unblemished view of the plentiful elephants playing in
the waters. Inginiyagalla Road, Ampara, Sri Lanka. Tel: +94 55 5 656670
A WHALE OF A TIME
Be sure not to miss out on whale watching when you’re visiting
the Teardrop of India. A great place to do this is from the recently
launched Cape Weligama, which sits on the Southern coast.
Opened by the Fernando family of Dilmah Tea fame, the hotel offers
large, airy rooms and a crescent-shaped infinity pool with panoramic
views of the Indian Ocean. Gaze into the sapphire waters where
Weligama’s iconic stilt fishermen balance on slender poles while
whales glide into the Indian Ocean’s seemingly endless horizon.
Thrill seekers are encouraged to head out to the sea for some surfing
or scuba diving action. Abimanagama Road, Weligama, Sri Lanka.
Tel: +94 41 225 3000
TEA ESCAPADES
If you’re yearning for idyll, put up at Ceylon Tea Trails, nestled
in Sri Lanka’s scenic Ceylon tea region. The resort comprises four
luxurious colonial era bungalows, which are connected by walking
paths through beautiful tea gardens. Explore lush plantations and
visit a century-old factory for a crash course in the fundamentals of
Ceylon tea. A typical day for guests starts with the tradition of bed
tea served by a butler, who will also draw your bath. A chef will
then suggest meals based on fresh produce as well as vegetables and
herbs grown on the resort’s premises. The elevated region’s cool
climate and verdant surrounds make it ideal for leisure trekking and
biking. 46/38 Nawam Mawatha, Norwood, Hatton 22000, Sri Lanka.
Cape Weligama
Ceylon Tea Trails
Gal Oya Lodge

4. 1 1 4 e p i c u r e a s i a . c o m
travel news
Island getaway
There’s no better time than now to
book a Sentosa hotel staycation.
CAPELLA SINGAPORE
Perched in a quiet corner of Sentosa, this
hotel is the perfect fusion of old and new,
natural and the designed. Its buildings sit
snugly surrounded by the verdant rainforest;
guests will be received by hotel staff in two
restored colonial bungalows, and can expect
services like a personal assistant, flexible
check-in and check-out times, and free Wi-Fi.
A favourite hotspot is Bob’s Bar which offers
an unblemished view of the South China Sea.
Time to check in: Till 10 October,
guests who stay at the Premier Garden Room
will enjoy a daily breakfast and dinner for
two at The Knolls Restaurant, as well as two
tickets to Universal Studios Singapore. $799
per night for a minimum of two nights for the
Premier Garden Room. 1 The Knolls, Sentosa.
Tel: 6377 8888
Shangri-La's Rasa
Sentosa Resort &
Spa, SINGAPORE
Set on Siloso Beach facing the
South China Sea, Shangri-La’s Rasa
Sentosa Resort & Spa, Singapore
is the only beachfront resort in
Singapore. Each room comes with
an attached private balcony – perfect
to kick back and enjoy the sea
breeze. It’s also a great one-stop
staycation destination for familes,
what with its large, free-form
swimming pool, and fully equipped
health and sea sports centres,
offering an extensive array of leisure
activities for energetic children. It’s
situated close to Universal Studios; a
shuttle bus from the hotel will ferry
you there directly.
Time to check in: Purchase
the Family Fun Package for stays
from 7 to 10 August and receive an
additional dining perk at the resort.
Throughout the stay, there will be
family activities, such as cultural and
lion dance performances to celebrate
Singapore’s big birthday. From
$485 a night. For more information,
visit www.shangri-la.com/singapore/
rasasentosaresort. 101 Siloso Road,
Sentosa. Tel: 6275 0100
THE
SINGAPORE
RESORT
& SPA
SENTOSA
Set atop a cliff in 27
acres of lush greenery,
distanced from the
bustling city and
removed from the busy
attractions situated in
Sentosa, The Singapore
Resort & Spa Sentosa
is the hotel poster child
of tranquillity. Besides boasting a glorious view of the South China Sea, it also houses an
18-hole championship golf course, and a sprawling 33 metre-long pool that’s a hit with visitors.
Time to check in: Till 31 August, enjoy 25% off your stay when you book a minimum
of three nights, or 30% off the Best Flexible Rate when you book five nights and above.
Singaporeans or permanent residents checking in over the National Day weekend of 7 to
10 August will also enjoy $50 off any à la carte treatment at the spa. 2 Bukit Manis Road, Sentosa.
Tel: 6275 0331

5. W SINGAPORE SENTOSA COVE
The trendy W Singapore Sentosa Cove is tailored for
the futuristic, tech-conscious consumer. Its interiors, for
example, are jazzed up with LED art. The 40-inch LED
television in every hotel room is paired with a Bose sound
system, and with their iPhone and iPad docks, you can
charge your devices while simultaneously playing music.
But their pièce de résistance has to be the hotel’s 1,338
sq m WET pool, which emanates a series of sonic waves
underwater, so you’ll have electronic beats accompanying
you as you make your laps. The hotel also wears its quirky
heart on its sleeve, and its minibar comes stocked with
things like canned oxygen (yes, that’s right).
Time to check in: Till 23 December, save 20% of
your room bill when you stay for a minimum of two nights
at the hotel. Stay two/three nights, get one night free
promos are also available. From $349 per night. 21 Ocean Way.
Tel: 6808 7288
AMARA
SANCTUARY
RESORT
SENTOSA
The hotel suites are
sensitively restored
in a heritage colonial
building that used to
be a British Sergeants’
quarters in the 1930s.
A stroll around the
resort is akin to
embarking on a
journey of Singapore’s
rich history – a fitting tribute to those whose hard work
and sacrifices helped to build this island nation.
Time to check in: The hotel is honouring pioneers
and seniors aged 50 years and above by offering 50% off
the best available rates for Verandah Suites and Courtyard
suites till 31 August. The 72 sq m Verandah Suite features
a private outdoor verandah, while the latter, at 96 sq m,
offers a personal lounge pool. 1 Larkhill Road, Sentosa Island.
Tel: 6825 3888

6. 1 1 6 e p i c u r e a s i a . c o m
travel news
Bigappleluxury
A slew of new accommodations and revamps adds to the
already bustling hotel scene in New York. By Raymond Tan
The Ludlow Hotel
The hotel poster child of rock
‘n’ roll chic, The Ludlow
Hotel continues to up the
edgy ante with the launch of
its plainly named Penthouse.
Perched on the 17th floor
of the hotel, the 1,500 sq
ft Penthouse showcases a
curated collection of vintage
and contemporary furniture
and artwork. Hardwood
floors and handmade silk rugs complement artisan-crafted
Moroccan pendant lamps and Indo-Portuguese style beds.
Floor-to-ceiling windows and a spectacular private terrace
that offer views over Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge
complete the picture. Rates for the Penthouse from $1,950.
180 Ludlow Sreet, New York. Tel: +1 212 432 1818
Mile High BUBBLY
Wine aficionados travelling first class on Emirates now
have one more reason to rejoice: two rare champagnes,
the Dom Pérignon Vintage 2005 and the Dom Pérignon
Vintage Rosé 2003, have been offered to Emirates as a
global airline exclusive. The airlines has also introduced
a pairing menu of six carefully designed canapés in
collaboration with Pascal
Tingaud, two Michelin-starred
chef and chef de cuisine at
Dom Pérignon. The menu,
which includes cured duck
with saffron poached peach
and walnut baguette with
Persian feta cheese, fresh fig,
and truffle infused honey, are
available on flights to and from
Dubai. www.emirates.com
The Knickerbocker
Located in the heart of Times Square, this iconic
building, built in 1906, was a favourite haunt of John
D. Rockefeller and F. Scott Fitzgerald. The hotel closed
in 1921 and fell into disrepair, but has been revived
in many forms since, serving as an office building
and the home to Newsweek magazine at one point of
time. Following a lavish facelift, the Knickerbocker
reemerged in February this year as Times Square’s
premier luxury hotel. Its original Beaux-Arts façade,
constructed of red brick with terracotta details and a
prominent mansard roof, has been restored to once
again channel the glamour and opulence of New York
City’s Gilded Age.
Guests can expect a choice of 330 bedrooms, an
unblemished view of Times Square from the hotel’s
rooftop lounge, and priority bookings to a restaurant
overseen by celebrated chef Charlie Palmer. Rates from
$478. 6 Times Square, New York. www.knickerbocker.com
Tel: +1 855 865 6425
The New York EDITION
The New York EDITION is the brainchild of legendary hotelier Ian Schrager
and Marriott International. Housed within the landmark Clocktower building
on Madison Avenue which was built in 1909, the hotel exudes an understated
charm with its less-is-more aesthetic. The clean, uncomplicated lines of its
room furnishings and creamy white interiors are both gorgeous and soothing.
But there are still pops of extravagance everywhere: rooms are outfitted with
floor-to-ceiling windows that provide unencumbered views of the Empire State
Building and the New York City skyline, and adorned with throw pillows,
artwork, and photography. The New York EDITION is also home to aptly
named The Clocktower, Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton’s U.S. debut,
which offers all day dining. Rates from $1,020. 5 Madison Avenue, New York. www.
editionhotels.com/newyork Tel: +1 212 413 4200
Aloft Manhattan Downtown
There’s now a hip new hotel in the Financial District that strikes the perfect
balance between work and play: Aloft Manhattan Downtown, which opens
this month. Just a stone’s throw from Wall Street and the World Trade Center,
the hotel’s convenient location, many event spaces, round-the-clock grab-and-
go gourmet pantry, and up-to-the-minute technology (hotel-wide high speed
Wi-Fi) make it an ideal place to schedule meetings, no matter the time. Besides
catering to the fast-paced culture of the financial district, the hotel also offers
pockets of relaxation: chill out at their quirkily named W XYZ lobby bar or
kick off a game of pool at their Re:mix lounge. 49-53 Ann Street, New York
Tel: +1 212 513 0003
The Knickerbocker
The New York EDITION
TRUFFLE GALORE
Gourmet Trails is
putting together a
foodie itinerary that
includes a visit to The
Alba Truffle Festival,
which will run from
10 to 17 October.
Apart from a taste of
this year’s harvest of the white truffle, you’ll get to visit
charming hill towns, beautiful villages and historical
cities in Piedmont and Tuscany. For more information, visit
www.gourmettrails.com.

7. #01-07 Thye Hong Centre, 2 Leng Kee Road.
Tel: 6473 6770
KIT YOUR
KITCHENBreathe life into your cooking spaces
with KCROOM.
A modern kitchen is more than a utilitarian work corner. It has
evolved into a space that encapsulates the warmth of a home;
it’s a welcoming communal area, a laboratory of love. Décor and
efficiency help elevate a kitchen into a place where family and friends
flock to create fond memories. And creating a space that forms the
heart and soul of family life is the vision that guides KCROOM, a
subsidiary of Kitchen Culture.
KCROOM’s 2,900 sq ft showroom at Thye Hong Centre
specialises in premium European and American appliances, fittings
and accessories that will make cooking and home entertaining
a breeze. Its wide range of kitchen appliances, accessories
and furnishings are sure to entice even the most discerning
homeowners. Some of the top-of-the-line labels that feature in
KCROOM’s stable of quality offerings include: Sub-Zero & Wolf from
America, V-ZUG and KWC from Switzerland, and Küppersbusch
and Liebherr from Germany.
Customers are presented with an extensive range of
choices and designs for their kitchen system. From Liebherr’s
comprehensive range of free-standing and built-in freezers and
wine cabinets to V-ZUG’s innovative combi steam ovens and
dishwashers, from Wolf’s stylish induction cooktops to Sub-Zero’s
sleek and technologically advanced refrigerators – you’ll find all your
kitchen needs here.
And if the wide selection is a tad overwhelming and you need
an expert opinion, KCROOM’s kitchen specialists are always on
hand to recommend equipment that will best meet your functional
demands as well as aesthetic and lifestyle needs, cleverly integrating
the kitchen as a seamless and striking feature of your living space.
There’s nothing more beautiful than bringing together the best of
form and function in one room.
specialfeature

8. 1 74 e p i c u r e a s i a . c o m
travel news
LuxereduxFor the perennial globetrotter contantly looking for truly
memorable experiences, here’s where to go in 2016.
By Raymond Tan
Visit QC Terme San Pellegrino, where you can not only drink
the popular mineral water, but also soak in it. Located in the
northern Italian town of San Pellegrino Terme, home of the
mineral spring, QC Terme San Pellegrino’s restored frescoes and
majestic columns provide a grand backdrop for a rejuvenating
wellness retreat. The resort’s panoramic thermal pools and
tonic waterfalls are filled with sulphated water that have eroded
precious mineral salts after flowing through layers of rock, and
are hence rich in calcium, bicarbonate and magnesium that
nourish the skin. Spa entrance fees start from €40 (S$60). Viale della
Vittoria, 53, San Pellegrino Terme BG, Italy. Tel: +39 0345 20102
Gili Lankanfushi recently refurbished The Private Reserve, their
sprawling 1,700 sq m villa. The three-bedroom hideaway boasts
floor-to-ceiling windows that allow for breathtaking views of the
Indian Ocean. As part of the upgrade, The Private Reserve now
sports a freshwater swimming pool, a library and study room, a
Gili Lankanfushi
QC Terme San
Pellegrino

9. private spa with sauna and steam room for all pampering
needs, as well as a state-of-the-art cinema for immersive
film screenings. A personal chef will even plan meals for
guests. The villa’s remoteness – it lies about 500m away
from the main resort and is accessible only by boat – lends
it an intense romantic allure. Rates start from US$11,000
(S$15,690) per night. Lankanfushi Island, North Malé Atoll,
Republic of Maldives. Tel: +960 664 0304
For cultural immersion, book a stay at the recently
launched The Grand Mansion, A Luxury Collection
Hotel, Nanjing. The hotel serves as a gateway to
experience Nanjing’s contemporary art, design and cuisine
and showcases an extensive art collection, handcrafted
textiles, and opulent chinaware. Besides featuring 158
luxurious guestrooms and suites, it also houses The
Travellers’ Library – one of China’s largest hotel libraries
with a massive collection of 3,000 books on local cultures –
that is befitting the city’s rich historical heritage. Rates start
from 1,250 RMB (S$277.50) per night. 300 Chang Jiang Lu,
Xuanwu Qu, Nanjing Shi, Jiangsu Sheng, China.
Tel: +86 25 8435 5888
For a mix of Old World charm, luxury and tranquility,
book a stay a Six Senses Douro Valley, which is
located in the eponymous Portuguese UNESCO World
Heritage area and famed wine region. Occupying a
renovated old manor house set high on a hill, the hotel
weds the romance of 19th century architecture with sleek
contemporary interiors, and its soothing décor conjures
an air of serenity. The hotel contains an expansive spa
that comprises 10 treatment rooms and offers treatments
using freshly picked fruits. Another highlight is The
Wine Library, which serves up a menu of tapas, cheese,
smoked hams and local sausage that pairs well with their
wide selection of wines. Rates start from €240 per night.
Quinta Vale de Abrão, 5100-758 Samodães,Lamego.
Tel: +351 254 660 600
Stay at Finch Hattons Luxury Camp to experience the
wild elegance of an Old World African safari. Having
recently been refurbished, the luxury camp now flaunts
tented suites, a pool, spa, conference facilities and even a
stargazing terrace. Located to capture the views towards
both Mount Kilimanjaro and the Chyulu Hills, the
camp is surrounded by Kenyan wildlife. For lovers of
nature and animals, few things offer as much pleasure as
peering out to gaze at the shimmering stars or hearing
herds of wildebeests thundering across plains. Sticklers
for comfort need not be worried though: the tents are
spacious and decked out with plush furniture. Starts from
US$590 during off-peak season. Tsavo West National Park,
Taita Taveta County, Kenya. Tel: +254 20 357 7500 e
Finch Hattons
Luxury Camp
Six Senses
Douro Valley
1 7 6 e p i c u r e a s i a . c o m
The Grand
Mansion,
A Luxury
Collection
Hotel, Nanjing

10. www.royalcaribbean.com/harmonyoftheseas
Tel: 6305 0033
ALL ABOARDHarmony of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the world, offers a dazzling
range of entertainment and dining options for a memorable vacation.
Crystal clear azure waters at every turn?
Check. A dizzying array of live entertainment
programmes? Check. A sprawling water
theme park that’s bound to keep the kids
and adrenaline junkies energised? Check. A
smorgasbord of delectable dining options?
Double check.
That’s what’s in store when you embark
on a holiday aboard Harmony of the Seas,
Royal Caribbean International’s latest ship
that is set to launch in April 2016. The
largest cruise in the world, this luxurious ship
takes extravagance to new levels, affording
guests an unforgettable experience.
The days on board will feel short
as the ship boasts myriad activity and
entertainment features to keep guests busy.
Give in to your adrenaline on the Ultimate
Abyss, the tallest slide at sea touting
a 100 ft dramatic plunge, or be enthralled by the AquaTheatre
shows – performances featuring feats of water acrobatics – as well
as ice-skating shows and other live entertainment programmes.
The ship also houses 10 whirlpools, two surfing simulators, and a
Central Park outdoor garden with galleries,
restaurants, shops, and much more.
When you’re on board Harmony of
the Seas, you don’t have to suffer through
repetitive dining – the ship provides 20
different dining options. For quality, hand-
cut steaks, head to Chops Grille. At the
signature steakhouse, which is the first
restaurant to offer dry-aged steaks at sea,
meats are hand-selected and aged for
four weeks to achieve the best flavour and
aroma. Among the other dining options
are a restaurant that puts a fresh spin on
Mexican cuisine and a Japanese restaurant
that serves teppanyaki specialities.
For happy hour or a nice night cap,
adjourn to the ship’s one-of-a-kind Bionic
Bar, and sip on cocktails crafted by a robot.
Place your orders via a tablet and have fun
watching the automations work their mojo.
With an amazing new collection of innovative activities and
gastronomic experiences, Harmony of the Seas promises a unique
and memorable vacation for revellers.
specialfeature

11. epicure news
2 8 e p i c u r e a s i a . c o m e p i c u r e a s i a . c o m 2 9
epicure news
PARKROYAL on Pickering’s Christmas
Eve Buffet lunch ($68) and dinner will
offer delectable signatures like Foie
Gras Torchon flambéed with Cognac
and Wok-Fried Kam Heong Swimmer
Crab. Their New Year’s Eve lunch ($68)
and dinner ($128) buffets at Lime will
be serving up favourites such as Lobster
Bisque, Roasted Atlantic Salmon and
Thyme & Garlic Lamp Chops. The
family-friendly buffets also cater to kids
with pizzas, a sweet crêpes station and
an ice-cream booth. Adjourn to their
Skygarden for the New Year’s Eve
Skygarden Countdown Soirée ($128)
of molecular desserts. Available on 31
December. 3 Upper Pickering Street.
Tel: 6809 8899
Dining at Colony is a feast for the eyes
and stomach with eight live stations
serving up a storm. Their Christmas
Day Dinner ($98) will present
Yuletide delights like honey baked
ham with pineapple raisin sauce, while
their New Year’s Eve Dinner ($328)
encompasses unlimited servings of
Singapore’s heritage cuisines, on top of
their signatures like Iberico suckling
pig. Available on 31 December. The
Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, 7 Raffles
Avenue. Tel: 6434 5288
The Clifford Pier’s New Year’s Eve
Seafood Buffet Dinner ($248) allows
diners to indulge in a spread of gourmet
offerings including Scallops in Shells,
Snow Crabs, and Slow-cooked Octopus,
as well as roasts such as Herb-marinated
Roasted Prime Rib with Beef Jus and
Porchetta with Smoked Paprika and
Rosemary. Catch the dazzling Marina
Bay nightscape light-up with the
spectacular New Year fireworks display.
Available on 31 December. The Fullerton
Bay Hotel, 80 Collyer Quay. Tel: 6597 5292
The Christmas Eve dinner buffet ($90) at
Spices Café comes with a complimentary
serving of 200g cheese lobster and a glass
of sparkling wine, house wine, beer or
juice on top of their festive offerings.
Available on 24 December. Concorde Hotel
Singapore, 100 Orchard Road. Tel: 6739 8370
At Mövenpick Heritage Hotel Sentosa,
pastries take a turn for the whimsical
with quirky creations inspired by Alice
in Wonderland. Available during their
Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet ($98),
the Alice Tea Party Set comprises
delightful desserts such as the towering
Christmas Croquembouche Tree, Peanut
Butter Chocolate Log Cake, and Swiss
Chocolate Fountain complete with
Mövenpick Ice Cream. Available on 24
December. 23 Beach View, Sentosa.
Tel: 6818 3388
An array of all-new pastries and artisanal
breads at Café Noël will sweeten any
celebration. The exquisite Chocolate Egg
Nog Brandy Log Cake ($78 for 1kg)
is a creamy mousse cake that combines
a crunchy, spiced eggnog base with
generous layers of divine chocolate and
St. Rémy’s Brandy; and the Brioche
with Red Praline is topped with crunchy
almonds and whipping cream ($18).
Available till 25 December. Fairmont
Singapore, 80 Bras Basah Road. Tel: 6338 8785
Lawry’s The Prime Rib Singapore’s
Christmas Eve Candlelight Dinner (from
$138) will conjure a magically romantic
atmosphere for you and your loved one.
The menu includes dishes such as a
classic pumpkin soup, and comes with a
choice of mains that include Signature
Roasted Prime Ribs of Beef, poached
salmon served with breaded cheese
potatoes, and Roasted Honey Pineapple
Turkey. Available on 24 December.
#04-01/31 Mandarin Gallery. Tel: 6836 3333
Christmas gets an Asian touch at
Flavours at Zhongshan Park with
their Festive Weekend High Tea Buffet
($35). Look forward to festive buns
such as Pan Seared Chestnut and
Minced Pork Patties in Spinach Bun,
and Honey Glazed Char Siew Turkey
Ham in Beetroot Bun. Available till 30
December, except 25 December.
16 Ah Hood Road. Tel: 6808 6846
A luxurious spread awaits you at Senso
Ristorante & Bar’s indulgent five-course
Christmas Eve Set Dinner ($158). Dine
on seasonal creations such as Terina di
Fois Gras or Veal Tenderloin Medallion
Greatfood
forgoodtidings
Go on and indulge in the year-end festivities and celebrations!
Colony
PARKROYAL on
Pickering
Mövenpick
Heritage
Hotel Sentosa
Flavours at
Zhongshan Park
Lawry’s The
Prime Rib
Singapore

12. 3 0 e p i c u r e a s i a . c o m
epicure news
gently roasted with winter black truffle
sauce and brussels sprouts on the side.
Available on 24 December. 21 Club Street.
Tel: 6224 3534
Even Indian fare gets a Yuletide twist at
The Song of India. Their four-course
Christmas Celebration Feast ($59)
includes Mangalore Fish Fry (fish
marinated in corgi style masala and fried)
as well as the Signature Turkey Roulade
Stuffed with Baby Spinach, served with
tomato honey kahani sauce. Available
from 20 to 26 December. 33 Scotts Road.
Tel: 6836 0055
Raise a toast to Christmas over classic
dishes such as Oven Roasted Turkey
with chestnut stuffing and Carved
Roast Wagyu Beef on Wagon at 10
at Claymore’s festive Sunday Brunch
($88). Save some stomach space for the
homemade confections, sweet treats and
chocolate fountain at the dessert table.
Pan Pacific Orchard, Singapore, 10 Claymore
Road. Tel: 6831 6686
Wagyu Ribeye Miso Coriander and
Ankimo Yaki Sunomono are the order of
the day at Kinki Restaurant + Bar’s six-
course ($188) New Year’s Eve dinner.
Available on 31 December. #02-02, 60
Collyer Quay. Tel: 6533 3471
Cantonese classics get a festive touch
at Li Bai Cantonese Restaurant. Their
two celebratory set menus (Christmas
Eve/Day menu, $148; New Year Eve/
Day Menu, $158) feature Double-boiled
Clear Broth of Chicken with Fish Maw
and Morel Mushrooms, as well as Baked
Lobster Noodles with Homemade
Portuguese Sauce. Available on 24 and
25 December, and 31 December and
1 January. Sheraton Towers Singapore, 39
Scotts Road. Tel: 6839 5623
Quench your thirst at Cook & Brew
with either a traditional spiced mulled
wine or a Christmas-inspired cocktail.
Gluehwein (spiced mulled wine, $15)
mixes red wine with cloves, lime juice,
orange and cinnamon sticks, while
Kandy Krusher ($15) is a refreshing
combination of Cointreau, fresh
clementine, vodka and cranberry juice.
Available from 1 to 31 December 2015.
Level 33, The Westin Singapore, Asia Square
Tower 2. Tel: 6922 6948
Special occasions call for bubbly, so
head to Brasserie Les Saveurs for their
Christmas Champagne Brunch ($178,
$198 or $218 depending on choice of
drinks). The delectable spread includes
Freshly Shucked Oysters, Alaskan King
Crab and exquisite canapés such as Foie
Gras with Sauternes Jelly and Toasted
Brioche Espuma. Available on 25 and
26 December. The St. Regis Singapore, 29
Tanglin Road. Tel: 6506 6860
The Song of
India
Champagne
Afternoon
Tea, Colony
10 at Claymore Brasserie Les
Saveurs

13. 3 2 e p i c u r e a s i a . c o m
epicure news
Pacific Marketplace’s handcrafted
festive delights from its takeaway menu
encompass savoury specials such as
Roasted Turkey with Cornbread and
Sausage Stuffing, and the limited edition
Smoked Juniper Berry Ham, an original
recipe by master butcher Leonhard
Weber. Level 1, Pan Pacific Singapore, 7
Raffles Boulevard. Tel: 6826 8240
Avoid the post-Christmas food coma
with Mandarin Orchard Singapore’s
healthy creations such as the Baked
Norwegian Salmon Fillet ($125). But if
you still prefer something more lavish,
choose from rich treats such as Premium
Honey Glazed Gammon Ham ($298
boneless; $388 bone-in). Available till 31
December. Lobby level, 333 Orchard Road.
Tel: 6831 6272
Merrymeat
andblessedbe
These expertly prepared roasts make home
entertaining a cinch.
Making a comeback this year at Spice
Brasserie is the highly sought-after
Festive Takeaway Platter ($98), filled
with sliced and ready-to-serve Yuletide
favourites like Roast Turkey Slices, Pork
Liver with Chestnut Stuffing and Classic
Cranberry Sauce, and Cumberland
Sausage and Salt-crusted Sirloin Beef
with Au Jus Dip. Available from 4 to 30
December. PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road,
181 Kitchener Road. Tel: 6428 3000
Express your love for family and friends
with the decadent spread from Singapore
Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel. Crowd-
pleasing highlights include Traditional
Roasted Turkey with Chestnut and Foie
Gras Stuffing (10kg, $288; 5kg, $172);
Rosemary Roasted Lamb Leg (Bone-
in) with Mint-Flavoured Demi-Glaze
($164); Roasted Duck with Braised Red
Cabbage & Potato Dumplings ($128);
and Slow-roasted Beef Striploin with
Port Wine Sauce & Horseradish Cream
($145). Available till 25 December.
320 Orchard Road. Tel: 6831 4708
Saccharine and savoury flavours meld
harmoniously in The Marmalade Pantry
(Novena)’s Yuletide goodies, which
include Maple Honey Baked Boneless
Gammon Ham and Chardonnay Braised
Turkey. Available till 21 December.
8 Sinaran Drive. Tel: 6664 0348
Singapore
Marriott Tang
Plaza Hotel
Mandarin
Orchard
Singapore
Pacific Marketplace

14. 3 6 e p i c u r e a s i a . c o m
epicure news
Carlton Hotel Singapore’s wide range
of Yuletide goodies will fill your hearts
with warmth and sweetness. Get a
saccharine fix with their Chocolate
Kumquat Log Cake ($58 for 1kg),
which combines rich chocolate mousse
and red berries royaltine with citrusy
orange Cointrean brûlée and strawberry
almond paste. 76 Bras Basah Road. Tel: 6349
1292
If you’re looking for an eye-catching
edible centrepiece, look no further than
Naked Cakes’ Christmas Tree Cake
Pop Tower ($98). It comprises about 90
balls or cake pops individually hand-
moulded and dipped in the finest Italian
chocolate. www.nakedcakes.com.sg
Eat well, live well and gift well with
thoughtful gifts from SuperNature.
Theseasonofgiving
Sweets and treats to brighten your Christmas.
SuperNature
Check out the hamper aptly named
‘The Divine Start’ ($140) – it rouses the
senses with organic juice and tea, and
arms its owner with teatime essentials
such as shortbread, raw walnut butter,
and Seggiano Organic Wildflower
Honey. #B1-05/09, Forum The Shopping Mall.
Tel: 6304 1336
Tools of the Trade (ToTT) has
everything to throw a great home party
for your kitchen-savvy friends. The
premium Cole & Mason Kew 2-in-1
Electronic Salt and Pepper Mill (now
$62.80, U.P. $84.90) features a chrome-
plated body with an acrylic chamber for
both salt and pepper, and makes for a
great gift to spice up Christmas. #01-01A
Sime Darby Centre. Tel: 6219 7077
Instead of overly sugary Christmas
delights, Hédiard’s newest range,
Illuminations de Noël Hédiard,
brings a subtle blend of spices to
the French café’s artisanal recipes.
Ginger, cinnamon, and cloves lend
robust flavours to the collection, which
comprises a range of 10 treats such as
tea, jam, and sweets. 123-125 Tanglin Road.
Tel: 6333 6683
Carlton Hotel Singapore

15. 4 2 e p i c u r e a s i a . c o m
epicure news
10 minutes with
Yuni Hadi
executive director,
Singapore International
Film Festival (SGIFF)
SGIFF returned after a three-year break last
year, and was a resounding success. What
can we expect from this year’s edition (26
November to 6 December)?
This year we will be showcasing two iconic films
that paved the way for a revival of Singapore
cinema in the 1990s: Eric Khoo’s Mee Pok Man
and Yonfan’s Bugis Street Redux. Both films mark
their 20th anniversaries this year. Something
new we are implementing is the Audience Choice
Awards to give festival-goers a voice. A series
of talks, classes and programmes has also been
arranged to offer audiences a more intimate,
multi-dimensional experience.
Which are the films to look out for this year?
Cemetery of Splendour by Palme d’Or awardee Apichatpong
Weeraseethakul, who will deliver a masterclass this year. Also look out
for How to Win at Checkers (Every Time).
How has SGIFF evolved over the years?
Pride and interest in independent Singapore cinema has burgeoned.
SGIFF has grown hand in hand with the local and regional film
community by providing the platform for filmmakers to reach out and
nurture the next generation of film lovers. Our
Southeast Asian Film Lab and Youth Jury &
Critics Programme were introduced to the festival
in the hope of opening new doors for emerging
filmmakers and young film writers.
What are some of the most memorable
moments you’ve had with the SGIFF?
I always talk about the people — filmmakers,
actors, curators and producers — whom I meet
during SGIFF. Sometimes we become friends for
life. It’s beautiful how film can connect people
from such disparate backgrounds.
Which, if any, are some of your favourite films
that heavily feature food?
One of our short film jury members, Sheila
Timothy, produced a film called Tabula Rasa, a
drama that centres around the slow cooking of
traditional Indonesian cuisine. Watching it will
make you hungry because it’s so sensually shot.
Mee Pok Man is great because it really captures
the casual everyday coffeeshop culture.
What are some of your favourite dishes and haunts for food?
One of my favourite joints is Eng Seng Restaurant at Joo Chiat for their
pepper crabs. There’s always a queue at 5pm for dinner! Fat Man’s
Satay at Old Airport Road hawker centre is also great, as is Ya Kun Kaya
toast with teh si; and I am always on the lookout for good popiah. But
the thing my husband and I do most is cook steak at home. We do it old
fashioned-style with charcoal over an old clay base.
Laurent Halasz’s
new book, Fig &
Olive: Cuisine
of the French
Riviera, is an
exploration of
Mediterranean
food, in which he
shares his passion
for the cuisine of the south of France,
plus his tips, from selecting the best
tomato or melon to pairing the right olive
oils with each dish. Its pages are adorned
with gorgeous photographs of more than
60 recipes, as well as of the spectacular
landscape surrounding his native
Mougins, which inspired his culinary
journey. Published by Assouline Publishing.
Available at www.amazon.com. US35.30
Sam Stern’s new
book Too Good to
Share is a collection
of 130 delicious
recipes where two
different dishes can
be made out of just
one core ingredient.
For example, a
pack of prawns can be used to make
Sam’s Quick Prawn Curry, followed by
Griddled prawns with lemon & bean
salad the following day. A great resource
for environmentally conscious cooks
who want to reduce waste. Published by
Quadrille Publishing Ltd. Available at
www.amazon.com. US$15.40 (S$21.80)
CCCP Cook Book:
True Stories of
Soviet Cuisine offers
a rare glimpse into
the period when
communism took
root in the USSR
(CCCP). Creativity
flourishes when faced
with tight constraints
and the stories and recipes contained
here reflect those turbulent times. From
basic subsistence meals consumed by the
average citizen to dishes in extravagant
banquets held by the political elite, each
recipe is introduced with a historical
story or anecdote from the period.
Published by Fuel Publishing. Available at
www.amazon.com. US$22
Reading List

16. 1 4 4 e p i c u r e a s i a . c o m e p i c u r e a s i a . c o m 1 4 5
Whether for play or for
work, these exquisite gifts
will help a gentleman
make an impression.
The Bomb Drinks Cabinet stands at more than two metres and is
fashioned from a 1970s Royal Air Force missile. Swing open the gleaming
mirror-polished glass door to reveal three glass shelves that revolve
around a gold-plated rod. At its base, a sliding platform built from
lacquered American walnut conceals a suite of custom-made cocktail
utensils. Price upon request, available at www.fallenfurniture.com
Inspired by nostalgic adventure travel, Globe-Trotter's Safari
Ivory range comes in classic colours of Ivory and Colonial
Brown. Each trunk is beautifully hand-finished with natural
leather corners, handles and straps. From $1,320 for 13" vanity case
to $3,220 for 28" suitcase, available at Cumulus
A homage to the
celebrated film
franchise, the limited
edition Devon Star
Wars timepiece
flaunts a sophisticated
mechanism that uses
glass-reinforced mini
belts to tell the time,
and runs on hybrid
electro-mechanical
power. $40,471, available
at www.devonworks.com
The P5 Wireless
headphone by Bowers
& Wilkins delivers
a powerful bass, so
cranking up bass-
heavy tracks results
in a satisfyingly
visceral experience. Its
rechargeable battery
lasts a marathon 17
hours before a charge
is required. $690
Launched earlier this
year to commemorate
Penhaligon’s 144th
birthday, No. 33 Eau de
Cologne opens with an
aromatic burst of crisp
citrus, armoise and clary
sage alongside a bracing
lavender note. This
smooth cologne’s heart
is bolstered by warming
pepper, ginger, cardamom
and fresh, rosy geranium.
Tobacco, cedar and vetiver
complement the fragrance
with a dry smokiness. $168
(50ml bottle)
Gifts for the
gentleman

17. 1 4 6 e p i c u r e a s i a . c o m
Few gifts will brighten
up a shutterbug’s day
quicker than the Leica
SL. Its 2GB buffer
lets you shoot at up to
11 full-frame photos
per second, while its
24-megapixel full-frame
CMOS sensor has
a maximum ISO of
50,000 for incredibly
sharp images. $11,000
Put a classy spring
in your step with
Tom Ford’s Orford
Runners. It boasts
panels made of canvas,
suede and smooth
leather, as well as logo
letter finishing. $1,200
With a 9cc
Evolution one-piece
carbon tonearm
that allows delicate
audio signals to
pass through free
of interference,
Pro-Ject Audio’s 6
Perspex turntable
is the perfect gift
for aspiring DJs.
$3,200, available at
House of Turntables
Fashioned by
accomplished industrial
designer Marc Newson,
Montblanc's M Fountain
Pen sports a 14K gold nib
that glides gracefully over
paper. $805
Lungolinea by
Calma e Gesso puts
a modern spin on the
ping-pong table. The
transparent crystal
jewel is so distinctive,
it becomes the focal
point no matter
where it's placed.
Price upon request,
www.calmaegesso.com