We thought we’d save everyone time and the hassle by uncovering some of the funds, grants and scholarships out there for the taking. In all cases, to be eligible you must be a Singaporean, Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) or a Singapore registered organization. For the full, unedited version of this list, visit our website www.asia-city.com.

The Arts | Design | Architecture | Film
IT | Media | SMEs | Tourism

THE ARTS

Get up to $50,000 to create a masterpiece for the stage. $$$

What It’s Called: Project Grant.
Who Offers It: National Arts Council (NAC).
What You Get: Up to $50,000 per financial year, the sum total of its Project Grants and SIA-NAC Travel Grants.
Who is Eligible: Practicing artists and non-profit arts groups who wish to organize specific arts projects or events, including individuals who are recognized by their peers as practicing artists or arts administrators; non-profit registered organizations. The only exception to the above is made for local publishing houses applying under the Publisher’s Grant Scheme.
How They Assess: Artistic merit of the proposal; track record of achieving artistic excellence; commitment to sustaining and advancing the art form in the Singapore arts scene; caliber of artists and personnel involved; demonstration of good planning, sound budgeting and effective use of resources.
Requirements: Application form and relevant budget form (visual Arts Burget Form, Conference Budget Form).
Closing Deadline: At least two months before start of project.
Contact Number/Website: 6746-4622, Eliza Tan 6837-9859, Alan Oei 6837-8465, www.nac.gov.sg/vis/vis02.asp.

Live the life of a bohemian art student in Japan. $$$$

What It’s Called: Takashimaya-NAC Scholarship.
Who Offers It: NAC.
What You Get: Tuition fees, living allowance, return airfare, book and warm clothing allowances up to a maximum of $100,000. Also includes a one-year Japanese language course prior to the commencement of the diploma course.
Who is Eligible: An outstanding student who wishes to pursue a Diploma programme in the applied or media arts disciplines in Japan. Applicants must be aged between 18 and 30 years and should have obtained a GCE ‘A’ Level certificate or a diploma qualification in an appropriate field.
How They Assess: Applicant’s artistic achievement; track record of arts activities and relevant experience; applicant’s creative potential and commitment to contributing towards the development of the arts in Singapore; benefits and value of the arts training to the applicant and to the development of the arts in Singapore.
Requirements: Application form, registration with NAC, supporting materials, including letter of reference.
Closing Deadline: Jul 15 each year.
Contact Number/Website: Anthea Neo 6837-9513, Avin Lee 6837-9857, www.nac.gov.sg/vis/vis03.asp.
Need To Know: Successful candidates are required to fulfill a two-year service commitment within a five-year period, in any work on a full-time basis in connection with the arts in Singapore after the completion of their course.

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DESIGN

Become the next Philippe Starck by studying design overseas. $$$

What It’s Called: DesignSingapore Overseas Scholarship.
Who Offers It: DesignSingapore.
What You Get: Tuition fees of up to $40,000 per year, subject to a maximum of $100,000 for study in industrial design, visual communications, multimedia design, fashion, architecture, interior design, landscape design, urban design, or design management from DesignSingapore Council.
Who is Eligible: Applicants must have already gained admission in an institution for full-time undergraduate or postgraduate studies in an appropriate field. Proof of acceptance from the institution must be submitted with the application.
How They Assess: Applicant’s creative and academic potential; potential to be a leader in the design community; applicant’s achievements, track record and relevant experience; passion for design; benefit and value of the studies to the applicant and to the development of the design industry in Singapore.
Requirements: Application form along with other supporting and supplementary documents.
Closing Deadline: Apr 30 each year.
Contact Number/Website: 6837-9686, www.designsingapore.org/Default.asp?Page=180.
Need To Know: Upon returning from their studies, scholars are required to work in Singapore in a design-related field for two years. Scholars need not start their service commitment immediately upon graduation, but can choose to do so over a five-year period.

Invite the world’s design mavericks to judge your very own national design competition. $$$

What It’s Called: Inter-design Development Scheme.
Who Offers It: DesignSingapore.
What You Get: Every dollar in the form of cash raised by the applicant from corporate/industry sponsors will be matched by the DesignSingapore Council up to a maximum of $50,000 per project. Conceptual support is also included.
Who is Eligible: All Singapore-registered or incorporated design or design-related industry support organizations, trade and industry associations, education institutions and companies. Projects to be supported include design platforms such as festivals, conferences, forums, workshops, seminars, exhibitions, competitions, awards and publications. These platforms should be conducted in Singapore.
How They Assess: Whether or not the projects are new initiatives; cross-disciplinary and/or promote cross-organization collaboration; contribute to development of talents for the design cluster, development of design/design-driven products and services, and enhancing Singapore’s profile as an international center for design creativity.
Requirements: Project proposal via Annex A form.
Closing Deadline: Apr 15, Jul 15 and Oct 15 each year.
Contact Number/Website: 6837-9686, Aaron Hung 6837-9346, www.designsingapore.org/Default.asp?Page=163.
Need To Know: The project must commence within three months upon receipt of the Letter of Offer from DesignSingapore Council. Projects should be completed within one financial year.

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ARCHITECTURE

Uncover your neighborhood’s architectural heritage by publishing a book. $$$

What It’s Called: A+UDE Promotion Programme.
Who Offers It: Urban Redevelopment Authority.
What You Get: Funding for up to 50 percent of the projected expenditure cost.
Who is Eligible: Private organizations, individuals or groups who with outreach activities in the areas of architecture and urban design. Events can include: A one-off activity open to the public, like exhibitions, tours, lectures, conferences, workshops and forums; a one-off publication of a book, catalogue or brochure, like research reports, monographs, critical analyses, photographic collections and architectural/place guides; a multi-media production for television, film and video media; historical/archival research, theoretical expositions, research by design and site investigations; or design competitions encouraging wide participation and awareness.
How They Assess: The activity should be innovative so as to complement or advance existing theory and practice; of robust intellectual content so as to generate and deepen discourse on selected issues of architecture and urban design; able to cultivate and profile Singaporean works, places or personalities and fuel the growth of the local professional communities. It should demonstrate a strong marketing strategy and commitment to making the work accessible to a wide range of audiences with appropriate publicity and participation channels to stimulate public interest and discourse.
Requirements: Application and budget forms with evidence of co-sponsorship.
Closing Deadline: Jul 14 and Jan each year.
Contact Number/Website: Yap Lay Bee 6321-8179, Phua Beng Kiat 6321-8262, www.ura.gov.sg/cudd/a%2bud/index_flash.htm.

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FILM

Launch your career as the next Ang Lee by turning your ideas into film. $$$$

What It’s Called: Film Incubator Program.
Who Offers It: Singapore Film Commission (SFC).
What You Get: $50,000 cash, $50,000 facilities and consultancy. Each year, a maximum of five emerging filmmakers will be selected to turn their scripts into a feature film.
Who is Eligible: Completed scripts for feature film projects of between 75 to 90 minutes; half of creative team must be citizens or PR; preference given to teams without prior feature film projects; preference given to teams demonstrating majority Singaporean and/or Asian technical, artistic and creative content.
How They Assess: Two different stages–Development and Execution. Development: applications assessed by an international script-reading panel as well as by representatives from Media Hive and SFC. Short-listed projects will be developed and led by an experienced industry practitioner (consultant producer), who will go through with the filmmakers the various areas of story development, production planning, directing, casting and marketing planning. Execution: Filmmakers will go through the actual pre-production, principal photography and post-production of the feature film up till the presentation of the final product. The consultant producer will be available for advice and guidance throughout the entire development and production process.
Requirements: Script synopsis, shooting script, production budget, production schedule, cast list, resumes of key cast and crew, post-production schedule, location breakdown and clearances, writer agreements and release, among other things.
Closing Deadline: Throughout the year. The FIP is administered by the Digital Media Academy and an application fee of $50 is required.
Contact Number/Website: 6223 4420, www.sfc.org.sg/funding/funding.shtm.

Travel the World Screening Your Celluloid. $$

What It’s Called: Overseas Travel Grant.
Who Offers It: SFC.
What You Get: Up to 100 percent of the two-way economy class travel costs to attend international film festivals/competitions from SFC. One applicant per film title per overseas event, max. of four overseas events per film title. Up to 100 percent for the following qualifying costs incurred for a single event: production of video/film materials and/or publicity materials for participation at an international film festival/competition, where the cost exceeds $150; freighting of film prints to an international film festival/competition upon selection by the festival/competition organizer, where the cost exceeds $150.
Who is Eligible: All Singapore-based filmmakers who are Singapore citizens or PR involved in creating the selected film.
How They Assess: Objectives of the intended travel and/or production of materials; artistic quality and standing of the film and applicant; merit and prestige of the proposed festival/competition; benefits to the applicant and to Singapore film industry as a whole.
Requirements: Completed application form and CV; invitation letter from festival/competition organizer; information on proposed festival/competition; an estimated cost breakdown for the production of video/film materials and/or publicity materials.
Closing Deadline: One month before start of film festival/competition.
Contact Number/Website: 6837-9943/9944, www.sfc.org.sg/funding/funding.shtm.

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IT

Walk and breathe the hallowed air of Silicon Valley. $$$

What It’s Called: National InfoComm Scholarship.
Who Offers It: Infocomm Development Authority.
What You Get: Full scholarship/bond, including annual allowance, return airfare, warm clothing allowance, medical insurance and visa fees, as well as partial scholarships.
Who is Eligible: Full-undergraduate studies: Outstanding ‘A’ level or polytechnic results, good co-curricular activities record. Partial-undergraduate studies: Male applicants must have completed NS, undergraduate pursuing an infocomm-related degree in computer science, computer engineering, information systems, electronic and electrical engineering, or a hybrid combination of information technology and another non-infocomm subject at NTU, NUS or SMU and advancing to your final year of studies in academic year 2006/07, outstanding semester results, good co-curricular activities record.
Requirements: Five years with participating company or as an infocomm professional for overseas scholarship; three years with participating company or as an infocomm professional for local scholarship, one year with participating company or as an infocomm professional for partial scholarship.
Closing Deadline: Apr 7 each year.
Contact Number/Website: 6211-0920, www.ida.gov.sg.

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MEDIA

Spend the summer in school hobnobbing with industry mavericks. $$

What It’s Called: Capability Development Scheme.
Who Offers It: Media Development Authority (MDA).
What You Get: Sponsorship up to 50 percent of qualifying expenses, maximum of $15,000. Qualifying expenses: course fees, return economy airfare, accommodation, subsistence allowance.
Who is Eligible: Open to all Singapore-based media companies and recognized talents with at least six years of media-related working experience but without the support from a Singapore-based media company.
How They Assess: Course must not have commenced at time of application; trainee’s professional achievements, track record and relevant experience; benefit and value of course to the trainee, recipient company and the development of the media industry in Singapore.
Requirements: Application and CV, portfolio, information on proposed program, budget for the duration of the program, proof of admission into a course or letter of acceptance to an attachment program.
Closing Deadline: One month before start of course.
Contact Number/Website: Rohaya Yusoff 6837-9786, www.mda.gov.sg.

Be the master of the next generation Lara Croft. $$$$

What It’s Called: Digital Content Development Scheme.
Who Offers It: MDA.
What You Get: Up to 50 percent of the total qualifying cost of the project maximum of $150,000 from MDA. Qualifying expenses: manpower cost, hardware and software, intellectual property rights.
Who is Eligible: To seed the development of original and innovative ideas and concepts into real content products. These include pilot episodes for original animation, technical demo for game series and interactive media projects. Projects should be related to animation and visual effects, computer gaming or interactive digital media content. Content product should be original and exportable to international markets. Projects must not have commenced at the time of application.
Requirements: Application form and company’s proposal plus supporting documents like storyline, treatment, synopsis of series, draft script of first episode, character/game bible, artwork or visuals, production budget, production schedule, experience, track record, management, shareholdings and ROC of company, biographies of above-the-line team, among other things.
Closing Deadline: Two month before start of project.
Contact Number/Website: Games: Shannon Low/Philip Tan 6837-9755/9927. Animations: Ervin Ann 6837-9342, www.mda.gov.sg.

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SMEs

Launch your career as a tycoon with a $1 million investment. $$$$$

What It’s Called: Growth Financing Scheme.
Who Offers It: Economic Development Board (EDB).
What You Get: Potentially, every $2 raised by the growth company from third party investors will be matched by $1 from EDB, subject to a maximum of $1,000,000 under both the SEEDS and Growth Financing Programmes. Minimum investment from third-party investors is $500,000. Both EDB and the third-party investors will take equity stakes in the company in proportion to their investments
Who is Eligible: Qualifying companies: Those engaged in the development of new or better products, processes and applications in manufacturing and services sectors; innovation can be in technology and/or business models; where product development has been completed with early customer and revenue results. Qualifying third party investor(s): Either corporate or individual(s), preferably professional investment entities with track record in venture financing; Investor(s) must not have prior interests in the growth company; at least one corporate investor must be a legal entity with a min. paid-up capital of $500,000. Qualifying business activities: Substantial innovative or intellectual content; high potential for international market.
Requirements: Application form with supporting documents and one softcopy of this form in the original Microsoft Excel file format.
Contact Number/Website: 6832-6832, www.edb.gov.sg.

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TOURISM

Bring in your favorite international brand and become the next Melwani. $$$$

What It’s Called: Investment Allowance Scheme for Flagship Concepts.
Who Offers It: Singapore Tourism Board.
What You Get: The Investment Allowance (IA) scheme under the Economic Expansion Incentives (Relief from Income Tax) Act is a further capital allowance of 30 percent on qualifying equipment costs incurred within a set period and reduces tax liability.
Who is Eligible: Retail, F&B and flagship entertainment concepts.
How They Assess: To qualify for the scheme, new flagship projects must be first of their kind in Southeast Asia and have wide international appeal, catering to both local and international visitors in general. Such projects should enhance Singapore’s attractiveness as a tourist destination. The scheme is open to domestic flagship concepts as well.
Requirements: Contact officer-in-charge at STB and discuss details of the proposed project, after approval of which, an application form will be prescribed by them.
Closing Deadline: At least two months before start of project.
Contact Number/Website: 6736-6622, Elizabeth Chong, Sector Planning 6831-3546, http://app.stb.com.sg/asp/ina/ina055.asp.
Need To Know: Qualifying projects must be completed within two years from the date of approval of application.

Gather your inspirations and host a convention. $$

What It’s Called: Convene-in-Singapore.
Who Offers It: NAC with Singapore Exhibition & Convention Bureau.
What You Get: Up to a $5,000 per project, depending on the nature and scope of the project as well as the availability of funds.
Who is Eligible: Organizations, societies and clubs who want to organize an international arts conference, convention, meeting or event in Singapore which will promote the city as an ideal meeting place and arts hub. Singapore-registered organizations, clubs and societies engaged in propagation of the arts and which have successfully won a bid to host an international arts meeting or conference in Singapore.
How They Assess: Significance of the event being held in Singapore; commitment to sustaining and advancing the arts in Singapore; profile, quality and size of convention; demonstration of good planning, sound budgeting and effective use of resources.
Requirements: Application form.
Closing Deadline: At least two months before the event.
Contact Number/Website: Adrian Cheong 6837-9576, Dinah Ng 6837-9577, Doris Fernandez 6831-3685, www.nac.gov.sg/sch/sch08.asp

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Happy. That’s my motto in life. If you’re not happy, don’t do it. To be honest, there are a lot of people out there with talent but there’s a lot of hard work that goes into it.

Ever since I was a little boy, anything I saw on TV that was kind of flashy—that’s what I wanted to be. All I knew was that I wasn’t going to be a pen pusher. I was never really academically clever in school—I had a short attention span. And I knew I was going to be something like this, but I didn’t know what.

Having a little girl. She’s my biggest achievement.

I like people who are polite. It’s not that hard to be nice. I can’t stand ignorant people, who look you up and down before they reply. There are lots of celebrities like that, but I’m not going to mention names.

Will Smith. He’s achieved so much. He’s gone from Fresh Prince to superstardom, man. I look at him as an inspiration to me. He’s in a country where there are a lot of opportunities, especially for black people. Over in areas such as Europe … it’s the truth but they don’t like to talk about it.

My cause is to help people. I didn’t get here by myself—I had a lot of help. That’s what life is about—some are going to be rich, some are going to be poor. Luckily for me, I’m rich. But I come from a poor background, so I appreciate what I’ve got and I’m forever giving it away too. I invest in kids from the streets.

I’ve just finished Angels & Demons. I’ve only read two books, and they’re both by Dan Brown. They’re different. Both books have the same character, but it took ages for me to get into Angels & Demons. I liked the whole concept of angels and demons and antimatter. But then Da Vinci Code was exciting from start to finish, so I’ll probably go with Da Vinci Code.

My favorite items are my tracksuits. They’re easy at the airport because they don’t beep.

I used to believe I’d be a professional footballer. I wonder if I could see a physiotherapist or a doctor, and he could fix my injury, then I could play again. But I wouldn’t give all this up. Because people have said that my music changes their lives. And that’s a kind of power football will never have.

Luxury living is the in thing these days, and it’s not just the nouveau rich who choose to live it up. With high fashion boutiques, exclusive residential addresses, facelifts and club memberships available to just about anyone who has cash to spare, anyone, it seems, can lead the high life. From prestigious travel destinations to stylish sports cars to the latest bling in town, here’s our guide to living it up, baby.

The New Address | Members Only | Dress to Impress
Luxury Getaways | Wine and Dine | Face Off | The Good Life

The New Address

Get yourself a new home at the Sentosa Cove (Call 6270-0200 to make an appointment), Singapore’s most expensive and exclusive residential site. Located on Sentosa, 90 percent of the plots of land has been sold, with prices up to $2m for seafront units. What sets this address apart is a mega-yacht marina complete with boating facilities, so that residents with a private yacht can berth them literally in their very own backyards. Not since Australia’s waterfront homes with views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge has another seafront residential area been so popular and coveted.

With a new home bought, those who want to indulge a little further should snag themselves an artwork from Opera Gallery (#02-12H, Ngee Ann City, Takashimaya Shopping Centre, 391 Orchard Road, 6735-2618). Home to some of the most expensive art pieces from all over the world, the outlet carries masterpieces by the likes of Warhol, Chagall and Picasso. But if you really want to live it up, the US$4.5m Modigliani piece Sapho is the one to get, as it is the most expensive painting selling in Singapore right now.

But what’s a real home without the right set of wheels in the driveway? The world’s fastest (and one of the most expensive) cars, the Koenigsegg, is available for sale here for almost $2.1m (call 9875-9875 for appointment and enquiries). The Swede import is not only speedy, but it’s super stylish to boot, boasting a two-seat mid-engine construction with a removable hardtop.

However, if motorbikes are more your thing, the striking and expensive Ducatti 999R (call Minerva Motors at 6298-4777 for appointment and enquiries) is the best out there—never mind that only one Ducatti has ever been sold in Singapore so far. Priced at over $70k, this superbike is a certified showstopper, and comes with a highly progressive design, including the striking black and red frames and wheels.

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Members Only

Snag yourself an exclusive club membership and mingle with the who’s who of high society. The Sentosa Golf Club (27 Bukit Manis Road, Sentosa, 6275-0022) counts Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi and Thailand’s Thaksin Shinawatra as members, and is the club to get yourself into. Membership is highly revered, and is mostly by invitation only. But the club intends to increase its cackle of elites to 2,500 members from their present 1,500, so just give them a buzz if you have $121k to spare, the price of a year’s membership.

You can also try your luck at The Tower Club (9 Raffles Place Penthouse, Republic Plaza Tower 1, 6737-3388), as a five-year term membership is relatively affordable at just $10k. The highly esteemed board of governors includes President S. R. Nathan and Ambassador-at-Large Prof. Tommy Koh. This clandestine business club extends itself by recommendation and invitation only, so members are privileged with the power to preordain their social sets. Find out if your boss is a member, and get chummy with him or her—now.

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Dress to Impress

Hardcore fashionistas who have always dreamed of looking like a tai-tai, look no further. First stop: Luxury fashion store Hermes (#01-02A Liat Towers, 541 Orchard Rd., 6738-9807), where you can splurge on a much-coveted Birkin bag. This baby is individually handmade with over 2,600 hand stitches, and takes at least 23 hours to produce. First created for legendary French actress Jane Birkin in 1984 (hence its name), this is still the bag to be seen with. The starting price is $8.8k, and it goes up to nearly $20k. Waiting time: two years.

If you can’t wait that long, the gorgeous Fendi (#01-32 Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd., 6887-5981) bags are the next best thing. This season, the B Fendi bags, which come with a multitude of breathtaking covers such as butter-soft calfskin and gleaming patent leather, are simply a must-have for aspiring tai-tais, and they’re gorgeous to boot. The damage: Over $33k for selected models.

Shoe sluts must get their feet into the $1.5k Alaia shoes from On Pedder (#02-12 Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Road, 6835-1307). These are the season’s most luxurious and trendiest heels, and are available for the first time in Singapore. Proclaimed by fashion high priestess Suzy Menkes of the International Herald Tribune as fashion’s latest must-have, Alaia shoes come with delicate intertwining straps and killer vertical heels. Trendsetter Sarah Jessica Parker (TV’s Sex and the City) has been spotted with many pairs, and they are set to replace Manolo Blahnik as the shoe that befits any fashion queen.

Further bling out your inner Paris Hilton and 50 Cent with Cartier’s (#01-33 Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd., 6734-2427) range of yellow gold plated panther necklaces and pendants. The range, which boasts 18-carat gold, beautiful black lacquer markings and onyx muzzles, is a must have for any self-respecting golddigger, considering that most of the pieces cost over $50k.

Those who want to take it a little further can invest in a customized watch from Audemars Piguet (#17-00 Liat Towers, 541 Orchard Rd., 6238-6678), which can fetch as much as $3m. Each timepiece can be made according to the customer’s needs—from the dials to the movements to the crown—and attracts business types as avid fans.

Complete your luxe ensemble with the highly refined and sought after Vertu (#01-36 The Paragon, 290 Orchard Rd., 6723-2288) handphones. The sleek Signature phone, which comes with 69.25 carats of pure scratch resistant sapphire crystal, starts at a cool $7.9k. Local celebrities such as actress Kym Ng have been spotted with one, and it’s about time you are too, if you want to make it to the high life.

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Luxury Getaways

Quite naturally, all that shopping would require you to take a much deserved luxury holiday. Landlubbers with queasy bellies can still enjoy a cruise with Crystal Cruises ([email protected], www.crystalcruises.com), especially since it’s a six-star cruise line which offers pure luxury on the high seas. These cruises take you to ports around the world, though predominately to those in Europe. What’s US$8-10k for a two-week cruise (excluding airfare to/from the port destinations), when you can have 24-hour butler service, champagne and fine wines in all the suites and the chance to hobnob with the rich and famous from the world over?

If cruising with hundreds is just not your style, how about hiring a private yacht for your exclusive use? A 3D/4N long weekend sail to Pulau Tioman on board Rising Tide, an 85-foot rigged schooner, will set you back $11k for eight persons. Dive, snorkel, wakeboard or just laze about in the sun. You’ll enjoy three meals cooked right on board, and comfy air-conditioned cabins and bathrooms.

Or fly to Bangkok or London on a private jet. Pacific Flight Services Ltd. (ST Aerospace Engineering Building, Seletar West Camp, Seletar Airport, 6481-3756) can fly you to over 200 destinations, and charges $3.6-3.8k for every hour you’re on-board the plane.

Perhaps a secluded private island is more your thing. At Pulau Pangkil ([email protected], www.pangkil.com), you can rent the whole island for a mere $11.8k for a 3D/2N weekend for 30 people. You don’t have to play Robinson Crusoe on this island located just off the coast of Pulau Bintan. This is executive camping at its best, with butlers and maids at your beck and call yet not losing that rustic outback feel. There are nine elegant driftwood bungalows, all just a few paces from the beach. Don’t expect air-conditioned rooms here though. The natural sea breeze and the hypnotic sounds of the waves nearby are enough to lull you to sleep on the four-poster beds.

Amanpulo of the ultra über Aman Resorts (6887-3337, [email protected], www.amanresorts.com), has just the thing for couples looking for a romantic holiday, no holds barred. At US$5,595+++, expect to be indulged for five nights on private Pamalican island, an hour’s flight from Manila. Staying in the Beach Casita, you’ll be indulged with a welcome champagne, three meals a day, a sunset cruise with cocktails and canapés, and a beach BBQ with a massage thrown in. The highlight of this lovers’ trip is the “blessing” on the beach at sunset.

Not ritzy enough for delicate sun-sensitive tai-tais? At Banyan Tree Seychelles (6849-5800, www.banyantree.com), the two-bedroom Presidential Villa, which goes for $7-7.4k per night, offers “the ultimate in luxury, exclusivity and privacy.” The price includes your very own private cove, a free-form infinity pool carved into granite boulders, an outdoor jet pool and shower, a large sun deck, and living pavilion with a kitchen and guest bathroom.

Bhutan is a unique holiday destination to name-drop at your next high society do, especially if you stayed at the Uma Paro (+975-232-6254, [email protected], www.uma.como.bz). At US$13,716 for a Himalayan Explorer seven-night package, you’d have much to brag about. The package includes accommodation with full board, custom designed activities, a COMO Shambhala massage and other administrative costs. Uma Paro is set in the forested hilltop with only 20 rooms and nine villas on the 38-acre estate. And in keeping with the meditative, wellness focus of the property, dishes served are wholesome and nourishing, relying on organic produce grown in the surrounding valleys.

But if don’t plan to travel far, check in at the Presidential Suite at The Fullerton Hotel (1 Fullerton Square, 6877-8077). Priced at $5,880+++ per night, the space comprises a living room, dining room, entertainment area with a Baby Grand piano, kitchen, a magnificent glass enclosed air-conditioned verandah, and round-the-clock butler service.

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Wining and Dining

Every suave dinner party must have wine. But pull out all stops, or in this case corks, and bring out the jaw-dropping $8,000 bottle of Domaine de la Romanee Conti from Burgundy. You can lay your hands on this rare and much sought-after wine at Bacchus Boathouse ( #03-01 The Boathouse, 3 Fullerton Rd., 6538-9038).

Living the high life must include knowing (or at least appreciating) your food and wine. What better way than to join a group of connoisseurs from the Slow Food Convivium Society (www.slowfood.org.sg)? Their monthly gourmet five-hour lunches are a steal at only $120 per person, considering this includes free flow of wine and champagne.

Planning a private party? Let the experts glam it up for you. Sit back and look pretty as Wendy and Adeline from LE (6736-1782, [email protected], www.le.com.sg) conceptualize and execute the itsy bitsy details that go into making your party the talk of the town.

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Face Off

What better way to indulge yourself than a little nip-tuck and a facelift whenever necessary? Famous plastic surgeons Dr. Woffles Wu and Dr. Marco Faria-Correa spill some of their most popular services.

What are the most expensive operations you perform?
$25k for a full face and neck lift, and a facelift for $15k.

What are the most popular procedures?
Double eyelids and eyebag surgery, which cost about $3.5-5k. Botox and fillers are also popular among tai-tais and socialites. I also do about two major liposuctions a week.

Who are your clients?
Celebrities, tai-tais, entrepreneurs, corporate bigwigs and prime ministers.

How often do your regulars see you in a year?
About four to five times.

Why is plastic surgery so important today?
Because it is human nature to want to look good. It’s an age-old desire.

What is your price range like?
The cheapest is $500 for a botox injection, mole removal or scar removal. A nose job costs around $5-6k, and a nose implant about $8k. Extreme makeovers can cost as much as $18-20k.

Who are some of your main clients?
Most of them are quite high status people: Professionals, entrepreneurs, celebrities and rich tai-tais. I not only see locals but also many visitors. They recommend me to their friends by word of mouth.

What are the most popular procedures?
It depends on the age. For instance, liposuction is most frequently requested by men and women from all age groups, while older women prefer breast lifts and implants. The men prefer to work on double eyelids, eye bags and nose jobs because they want to look young. This is especially so with politicians, artistes and celebrities.

Why is plastic surgery so important today?
It makes you feel good. It is a very personal thing: Go for it if you are unhappy. Beauty is a very strong concept here. Tai-tais need to please their husbands. It is also a sign of power.

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The Good Life

High flyers in the industry show us how to live it up.

Michelle Nicholas, Director of beauty and spa boudoir Adriana

“My idea of living it up is to have a massage at least three times a week and a weekly indulgent facial to stay youthful; taking short holidays to nearby destinations at least once in three to four months to unwind; indulging in vintage wines at private tastings and chilling out in a good ambience with music; shopping in Hong Kong, China, Europe, Australia, the US and never getting bored looking for flattering and everlasting fashion cuts and statement pieces from local designers and brands such as Chanel; enjoying the finer gourmet dining in some of my favorite haunts including Sebastiens, The Canteen, Les Amis, Au Jardin, Shiro, Garibaldi’s and Morton’s; and driving in a BMW Z4 3-liter with a six speed manual gearbox, although that hasn’t really happened yet. (Laughs). But my real ticket to indulgence is to fly to Paris, Monte Carlo, Milan, Zermatt—been there, done that, but I will do it over and over again!”

Henne Mercer, managing director of TONI&Guy

“Travel is my ultimate indulgence, and I always have a long list of must-see places that I am planning to try and fit in trips to. However, apart from chilling out with my family on holidays, we treat ourselves to crazy “girls’ weekends” for shopping and pampering in places like Bangkok and Bali. I love discovering local designers in these places and buying fantastic clothes, accessories and jewelry. One of my favorite getaways is Bali, a place and people that is always inspirational, serene and truly beautiful. My recent trip with my husband, David, my daughter, India, and my parents was indulgent in every sense. We stayed in a huge villa set in gardens with a pool in the heart of trendy Seminyak. We ate at amazing restaurants, had divine massages, sunbathed by the pool and explored unknown parts of the Bali countryside.”

Madeleine Ho, marketing director of Hermes

“My greatest indulgence is really clothes and food. I’m into functional art, and what’s more functional than clothes and food, two things that we all need daily. I have given up collecting paintings, sculptures and books as they have become nothing more than clutter to me. I usually do most of my shopping when I’m in Paris for work, twice a year. This is usually at the very tail end of the seasonal markdowns, which also coincides with the beginning of each season, so I get the best of both worlds. As I only have one afternoon to shop, I usually land up at places like Galeries Lafayette and Printemps. Favorite buys this year from Singapore and Paris: White Ann Demuelemeester skirt from Printemps, hairy Martin Margiela vest from Club 21, Tina Borg ruched shirt dress from Felt, Victorian lace top from Kenzo and the most gorgeous lambskin laced up platform heels from Hermes. Apart from fashion, I also stock up on beauty products, lingerie and food.”

Melvyn Goh, managing director of Eurosports Auto and Lamborghini car enthusiast

“I love Lamborghini for its extremism and exclusivity. As Lamborghini keeps pushing the boundaries of performance, it is a symbol of ‘nothing is impossible.’ It is also an appropriate symbol of success for its owners. I drive a Model Year 2005 Gallardo Coupe, which features 500 horsepower from a V10 engine. Shortly, I will be upgrading to the Model Year 2006, which has an additional 20 horsepower and even more extreme performance. The model year 2006 Gallardo Coupe is currently available at $798k, excluding COE. In terms of modifications, Lamborghini is a car that you customize in the factory with a wide range of options. Each Lamborghini is custom tailored to the owners’ specifications, down to the color of the stitching in the leather seats. Lamborghini also offers a wide range of accessories, clothing and leatherware for its owners. This ranges from pencils to wallets, document folders, attache cases and luggage sets. Certainly, a Lamborghini is an indulgence. It is also a lifestyle, as it is about declaring who you are and reveling in the extreme nature of a Lamborghini. Lamborghinis are specifically designed as extreme sports cars that one can use daily. To own one is to declare to the world that ‘I have truly arrived.’”

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Did you actually believe you could become a professional comic book illustrator when you were younger?
It did seem like a bit of a pipe dream, but maybe that’s because the avenues leading to it were so unclear here in Singapore.

Who are your favorite comic book superheroes?
Spiderman and Judge Dredd. If they fought, it’d be a draw.

We’ve all heard this riddle before, but let’s hear a comic book artist’s version of it—why do superheroes wear their undies outside?
I’m guessing it’s something really boring like the fact that it provides a color change in the overall look of the costumes.

Would you wear your undies outside?
If I was big into hip hop, I’d probably be flashing them left, right and center.

Would you encourage kids to doodle in their school textbooks?
Yes. How interesting can the lessons be?

How about their exam question papers?
I actually did that once in a written test for the boy scouts—and ended up doing a lot of pushups.

Name us one mainstream comic you find brilliant.
Calvin and Hobbes. Gorgeous art, funny gags. He [Calvin and Hobbes creator Bill Watterson] quit while he was ahead, and refused to merchandise his creations.

Do you ever dress up for Halloween?
Sadly, no. Just a lot of running around with cowboy hats and helmets in my own living room.

Do you think comic books can tell a moral lesson?
Anything can tell a moral lesson, except Channel 5 and 8 dramas.

Do you draw your books by hand or computer?
I draw by hand and often color by computer.

On average, how long does one comic book take to complete?
Depending on the comic, anything from a month to who knows what.

Would you advise aspiring comic book illustrators to stay in Singapore, or seek greener creative pastures overseas?
Going overseas certainly allows for easier networking through conventions and artistic communities. On the other hand, staying and striving to improve the scene here might also be worthwhile. It’s a tough call.

If there was one thing you could do to improve the Singapore comic book scene, what would it be?
Hopefully comic creators could strive to find their own independent voices rather than aping mainstream styles and content from the US and Japan.

Why bikes and not cars?
Cars have less kick than bikes do because even though they have matching speeds, cars have a slower pick-up. It would take a car seven to eight seconds to achieve optimum speed, but a good race bike takes only three seconds. Lately, I tried cars again in Sepang. And they’re still too slow!

Would you say you’re macho?
I don’t really think “macho” is the word, because for me danger is an accepted part of the sport. I accept that I can get hurt when I race. I accept that I can die on the track. Of course at the end of the day you need guts. If you have fear, this sport is not for you.

Are you afraid of big burly Harley riders?
Why should I be? I first rode a Harley two years ago, after 26 years of riding sports bikes. And that’s when I realized why people ride Harleys—it’s a totally different aspect of riding. It’s a lifestyle. Ninety-nine percent of Harley riders just want to cruise around and have fun. I see myself riding a Harley in 10 years when I’m 60. My friends and I like to tease our Harley friends—they can go fast but they can’t stop in time!

If there’s one thing you’d like to say to car drivers, what would it be?
Improve your driving! Frankly, I think most of our drivers are not competent. I think what they learn while they’re getting their licenses is not sufficient for their day-to-day driving. I sit in taxis and I don’t know how they drive! They’re always braking, and they can’t change their gears properly! How you conduct yourself on the road is important to me, because I train my riders to be fast and smooth.

Would you EVER spray your bike pink?
No! I had a black and pink helmet once, and the guys used to laugh at me. The thing is if you’re wearing a black suit, it’s okay. But black is my jinx color. Every time I wear all black I crash!

What do you think of the ah bengs who mount speakers on their bikes and play loud techno music while they ride?
I don’t have anything against that, but I don’t understand it. Riding itself is so much fun. Music is a distraction because you have the wind factor. Music mixed with wind becomes noise. If I want music, I wouldn’t want the wind blowing around.

Why did you decide to be a criminologist?
After receiving my Bachelor’s in Criminology, I realized that lawyers who defend do not always understand the real reasons behind their clients’ actions. My criminology professor inspired my interest in pursuing a greater understanding of why people commit crime at the macro level.

Are criminologists profilers?
Some aspects of criminology do involve profiling, especially criminal psychology. Criminology is not all about CSI. It’s about the study of crime and criminals.

What is your weirdest case to date?
Several houses in a suburban residential area were burgled with the same MO—no sign of a break-in. But each house had a small window in the bathroom, so small that none of us could figure out how any grown person could fit through. Finally, when the
gypsy gang was busted, we discovered that the burglars were training and using a three-year-old to slip through those windows so that he could open the main doors for the others.

Name one thing about crime or criminals that members of the public least know about.
I used to hand out a group of photos to my criminology class and ask my students to identify the “real criminals” because criminals do not necessarily look like Mr. Freeze from Batman. Another message I like to stress is that crime is defined by law. A low crime rate may not mean less crime. In some countries, citizens may be reluctant to report crime and so a low crime rate gives a false sense of security. This is especially true for property and personal offenses such as theft and rape.

Who is your favorite CSI investigator?
Lieutenant Horatio Caine. He is a three-dimensional thinker. His “think out of the box” approach and professional instincts are easily identified with by criminologists.

Are chicks intrigued by your profession?
The truth is I used to have problems finding a date. As a Certified Fraud Examiner, I often involuntarily assess a person’s credibility during a conversation. Many people feel threatened by this. It’s an occupational hazard.

If I vanished off the face of this earth right after this interview, what would you do to find me?
Call the police.

It’s an all too familiar scenario in Singapore. It rains suddenly, you can’t get a cab and the thought of braving public transport is just too much. So what can you do besides wander around malls in a daze or sip endless lattes? Lots actually, from ducking into a museum to getting an instant makeover to shooting a round of pool. Here are some cool ways to stay dry.

Orchard Road/City Hall | Chinatown | Bugis/Arab Street
Holland Village | East Coast | Stuck at Home

ORCHARD ROAD/CITY HALL

Museums

Asian Civilisations Museum. 1 Empress Place, 6332-7798, admission $5 (adult), $2.50 (concession); and 39 Armenian St., 6332-3015, admission $3 (adult), $1.50 (concession). Free on Fri after 7pm. Open Tue-Thu, Sat-Sun 9am-7pm; Fri 9am-9pm; Mon 1-7pm. Between the two wings of the ACM, the cultures of the various ethnic groups in Singapore are covered. Empress Place houses galleries on China, Southeast Asia, South Asia and West Asia, while Armenian Street is dedicated to Peranakan culture. Through Apr 9, check out the stunning Power Dressing exhibition at Empress Place on courtly, priestly and military textiles.

Civil Defence Heritage Gallery. Central Fire Station, 62 Hill St., 6332-2996. Open Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. Free. In spite of this gallery’s fuddyduddy name, it is actually quite interesting—and it gives you a chance to take a look inside the architecturally lovely Central Fire Station. On the first floor is a museum that depicts the early days of fire fighting in Singapore, from the late 1800s, and on the second floor are displays that showcase the modern day. On Saturday mornings slide down the 4-storey fireman’s pole.

Singapore Art Museum. 71 Bras Basah Rd., 6332-3222. Open Sat-Thu daily 10am-7pm; Fri 10am-9pm. Admission $3 (adult), $1.50 (concession). Free on Fri after 6pm. You know what’s on offer here—cutting-edge modern and contemporary Southeast Asian art. Stroll through the galleries and enjoy both permanent and seasonal exhibitions. Look out for talks, demonstrations, workshops, performances and holiday specials. Through Feb 7, the art of Literature Nobel Prize winner Gao XingJian is on display, and includes never-before-seen works.

The Singapore Mint. #01-07 Starhub Centre, 51 Cuppage Rd., 6339-0886. Open Mon-Sat 11:30am-2pm, 3-7pm; Sun and public holiday 12:30-2pm, 3-5pm. Free. Coins and notes minted over the years are on display and make good gifts or collectibles. Limited edition coins are also available for collectors.

Singapore Philatelic Museum. 23B Coleman St., 6337-3888. Open Mon 1-7pm; Tue-Sun 9am-7pm. Admission $3 (adult), $2 (children below 12). You don’t have to be a stamp collector to appreciate this boutique museum. Permanent exhibitions show Singapore’s philatelic and postal heritage from when it was a Straits Settlement, while seasonal exhibitions feature unique local and international collections.

Good Causes

Network of Asian Women. #02-12 Stamford House, 39 Stamford Rd., 6734-1037. Mon-Fri noon-5pm. Pop into this place and support a good cause. This Japanese-run charity sells crafts from our neighbors in Bangladesh and Thailand, and includes works by survivors of the Asian Tsunami. Proceeds go to the Duang Prateep Foundation in Bangkok, whose mission is to help slum dwellers all over Thailand.

The Substation. 45 Armenian St., 6337-7535. Open daily 11am–9pm. This space dedicated to the arts is so underrated it deserves a medal just for surviving. January to June will see this venue host an assortment of classes, including kids’ yoga, digital photography and contemporary dance. In February, the Singapore Fringe Festival will offer theater, dance, music, art, photography and video. Give this space a chance.

Hobbies

Alaric’s Comics and Collectibles. #05-31/31A Funan The DigitaLife Mall, 109 North Bridge Rd., 6333-1262. Open daily from noon. Standing out from the electronic stores in Funan like a rebel with a cause, this store has an extensive range of figurines and miniatures of comic book characters.

The Forum at Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd., has a newly created section of the mall dedicated to art supplies. Check out Creative Hands (#04-20B/C, 6738-1690; open daily 11am-9pm) for a comprehensive range of fine art materials; and Art Friend (#04-20, 6733-8482; open daily 10:30am-9pm) for crafts and hobbies.

Portrait Studio. #02-24 Far East Plaza, 14 Scotts Rd., 6734-1127. Open Mon-Fri noon-8pm; Sat noon-5pm. Get a cute caricature portrait of yourself done on the spot for $15-30. Or one of your sweetheart—girl, boy or pet—whose photo you carry in your wallet.

San3 Bookshop. #02-15 Funan The DigitaLife Mall, 109 North Bridge Rd., 6339-3619. Open daily 10:30am–8:30pm. Literary types just love this used books store. Lose yourself among the likes of Chuck Palahniuk, Milan Kundera and Kazuo Ishiguro.

SpawnAsia. #01-13 Stamford House, Stamford Rd., 6334-3615. Open Tue-Sun from 2pm. Fans of twisted comic series Spawn will know what this store is about. Besides the expected array of Spawn merchandise, this shop also carries Corpse Bride and Wallace and Gromit collectibles. Wicked.

Spellbound. #02-11 Peninsula Plaza, 111 North Bridge Rd., 6337-8860. Open daily 2:30-7pm. Behold the wiccan’s haven. Quite possibly the only one of its kind in town, Spellbound caters to all your spell crafting needs. It looks the part too—its door is always shut and you need to announce your arrival before being let in to its realm of pentacles, wands and crystal balls.

Fun and Games

The Balcony. #01-K5/#02-03 The Heeren, 206 Orchard Rd., 6235-2325. Open daily 24-hours. As its name suggests, this establishment is perched on a balcony. It is a bar and café rolled into one, and is a lovely venue for enjoying a snack or cocktail at any time of the day or night.

Mambo Billiards. #06-48B Lucky Plaza, 304 Orchard Rd., 6732-5189. Open Mon-Thu noon-2am; Fri-Sun and public holiday noon-3am. Shoot some pool at one of the 16 tournament size (nine-foot) tables or play a less demanding game at an eight-foot table, of which they have six. Alternatively, challenge a friend to a game of miniature soccer at the football table. Prices start at $8.80 for two hours for pool tables.

Party World. #B1-00 Crown Prince Hotel, 270 Orchard Rd., 6333-6050. Open daily 11am-6am. Party World is a chain of KTV lounges, and this is their biggest. Mandarin and Cantonese hits are favorites at this karaoke joint. Groups of three to four warblers are usually found holed up in one of the cozy rooms, belting their hearts out.

Quick Fixes

City and Guilds Tamaris School of Hairdressing & Beauty. #01-11 Capitol Building, 11 Stamford Rd., 6339-2918. Open daily 10:30am-8pm. Trainees provide haircuts and styling at a slightly lower price than in full fledged salons. Let them work on you while you wait for the rain to abate and emerge with a brand new look!

Make Up for Ever. #02-06 Stamford House, 39 Stamford Rd., 6333-0678. Open Mon-Sat noon-8pm. Although this place looks like a boutique, it is really a make up academy. Step in and ask about their makeovers—be adventurous, on top of the usual beauty stuff they do special effects and stage make up too.

Soul Searching

Differ World. #02-05 Stamford House, 39 Stamford Rd., 6338-5669. Open Mon-Fri 9am-6pm. If you’re in need of an emotional overhaul, step into this center that offers motivational talks and courses. If there’s one on, there’s no reason why you can’t sign up on the spot. Differ World promises to help you “realize your potential, transform your life and design your destiny.”

Success Shop. #01-40/02-60 Peninsular Plaza, 111 North Bridge Rd., 6338-8829. Open Mon-Sat 10:30am-8:30pm; Sun 11:30am-6:30pm. All manner of motivational books are sold here, from Robert Allen to M Scott Peck of The Road Less Travelled fame. And success comes cheap here—books start at just $9.90.

Sex

U4Ria. #04-53 Peninsula Plaza, 111 North Bridge Rd., 6337-7463. Open Mon-Sat noon-9pm; Sun and public holidays noon-6pm. Spice up your love life indoors while it pours outdoors. This place has rubbery, slippery, feathery, and leathery stuff for him and her—get the drift? Whatever rocks your boat can be found here.

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CHINATOWN

Hobbies

Tea Chapter. 9A Neil Rd., 6226-1175. Open daily 11am-11pm. You won’t find bubble tea at this joint. The art of tea is celebrated here, with Chinese, Korean and Japanese corners for different teas and tea drinking cultures. Have a cuppa and Zen out while you wait for the sun to emerge.

U Toys. #2-11/12 China Square Central, 18 Cross St., 6438-4326. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-8pm; Sat 10am-8pm; Sun 10:30am-6:30pm. Transformers, Star Wars, and other character collectibles are stocked here, including the latest and most limited editions. There’s Blythe for the girls and Bandai for the blokes.

Quick Fixes

Living Space. 17 Hong Kong St., 6534-0340. Open daily 11am-11pm. Take your pick of quick fixes at this five-floor health and fitness center that does not require its customers to be members. There are face and body treatments, aromatherapy and a health bar and bistro too. Men have an entire floor to themselves. Prices start at $45 for a bees’ wax back treatment, and go up to $125 for a 90-minute body massage.

Soul Searching

Whatever. 20 Keong Saik Rd., 6224-0300. Open daily 8am-11pm. Comprising a bookstore, café, lounge and yoga studio, Whatever is a center for New Age spirituality. Check out its books, CDs, classes or just chill in the lounge.

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BUGIS/ARAB STREET

Hobbies

Absolute Comics. #03-13 Parco Bugis Junction, 200 Victoria St., 6333-3193. Open daily 11am-9pm. Stocking imports from the US, Japan and Europe, this store has all kinds of graphic novels, manga, and board games. A good place to park boyfriends while the girls go get an instant makeover downstairs.

National Library. 100 Victoria St., 6332-3255. Open daily 10am-9pm. Apart from coming here for a good browse, you can also join in the literature, art and lifestyle activities the library holds regularly. On Jan 22 and Feb 4 are two discussions on the Chinese literary classic, The Dream of the Red Chamber. The talk on Jan 22 is in Mandarin. And on Jan 14 Adrian Tan, author of The Teenage Textbook, shares his thoughts on humor and the next big thing.

Straits Records. 43 Haji Lane, 9385-3211. Open daily from 2pm till late. Singapore’s own record label manages bands like MySquaredCircle and Plain Sunset, as well as regional act Love Me Butch. They also have a hip store specialising in rock music with recordings by the above artists.

Fun and Games

Pretty in Tokyo Neoprints. #03-08 Parco Bugis Junction, 200 Victoria St. Open daily 11:30am–9:30pm. One of the few remaining Neoprints outlets around, this one guarantees a few moments of fun as you stamp your image on cutesy stickers. Judging by the popularity of this shop, Neoprints might just end up sticking around.

Retro Muzique Café. 31A Bali Lane, 6296-5351. Open daily 6:30pm till late. Sink into a comfy chair or sprawl on the carpet and kill time with one of the many board games offered in this super chilled out joint.

Quick Fixes

Ros & Roy Pro Make Up. #02-41 Parco Bugis Junction, 200 Victoria St., 6337-8820. Open daily 11am-9:30pm. On the spot makeover and brow shaping are offered at these counters by the escalators. Instant beauty classes are also available at $80 for a 90-minute crash course.

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HOLLAND VILLAGE

Art Galleries

DLR Gallery. 17C Lorong Liput, 6466-3765. Open Fri-Mon, Wed 3-8pm. Functioning almost like a museum, this gallery showcases works by the art community and invites the public to view them. If you’re stuck in this neighborhood on a rainy Friday night, pop in for its weekly wine and cheese meet-the-artists parties.

Framehub. 46A Lorong Mambong, 6466-1147. Open daily 10am-8pm. Thai religious art and local contemporary art is presented at this gallery that is known for its silk frames.

Fun and Games

Settlers’ Cafe. #02-98 15 Holland Dr., 6464-0178. Open Mon-Thu 2-10pm; Fri 2-11:30pm; Sat noon-11:30pm; Sun and public holiday noon-10pm. Fifty card and board games are on offer here for both big and small groups of players. Take shelter and roll the die.

Quick Fixes

Ambrosia Nectar. 6A Lorong Mambong, 6467-0336. Open Mon-Sat 10am-8pm; Sun 10am-7pm. Metrosexsuals will like this place that offers aromatherapy at $80 an hour as well as reflexology ($30 for 40 minutes), and deep tissue massage ($65 for an hour).

Shen Nong Traditional Physiotherapy Centre. 36A Lorong Mambong, 6462-3372. Open daily 10am-9pm. Step in here for a quick and deep (as in often painful) Chinese massage. Half an hour will cost you $25, 40 minutes $35 and a full hour $45. Or go for acupuncture at $22 per session. No pain, no gain.

Wax Affair. 25 Lorong Liput, 6468-7965. Open Mon-Fri 11am-8pm; Sat 11am-7pm. Women have been coming here for their Brazilians for years. Men are welcome too. Walk in and try your luck. They may have an appointment free.

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EAST COAST

Hobbies

SilverKris Bookshop. #01-187/188 Blk 84 Marine Parade Central. Open Mon, Wed-Fri noon-8pm; Sat and Sun 10:30am-8pm. No, this store has nothing to do with our national airline. It’s much better. One of the neighborhood’s little gems, this used books store has been around for donkey’s years and stocks an excellent range of thrillers, sci-fi, fiction and erotic romance novels. You cannot give this one a miss—whatever the weather.

Fun and Games

Classic Pool. #10-05/07 Parkway Centre, 1 Marine Parade Central, 6345-3877. Open daily 10am-3am. You won’t see this pool hall from the street; it’s discreetly hidden on the tenth floor of a somewhat inconspicuous building. Your landmark is the Golden Arches on the ground floor. When you see Ronald MacDonald, take the elevator up. Classic Pool has about 30 pool tables at your disposal, and you might
end up staying here long after the rain has stopped. Take our cue, um, word, for it.

Internet Pioneer Club. #01-02 Parkway Centre, 1 Marine Parade Central, 6348-6578. Mon-Fri 10:30am-11pm; Sat and Sun 10:30am midnight. Boys don’t need wet weather as a reason to have fun gaming, but it is certainly a good excuse. Come here for a spot of CounterStrike, WarCraft, and other popular online games.

KBOX Karaoke. #01-5000 Blk 87 Marine Parade Central, 6243-3113. Open daily 11am-3am. These guys hardly need an introduction. Each of its 14 outlets span several shop spaces with numerous rooms for your private singing exploits. KBOX in Marine Parade is no exception, and has a good selection of both English and Mandarin tunes.

Quick Fixes

Speed Cuts. #01-503 Blk 87 Marine Parade Central, 6323-2312. Open daily 10am-9pm. Hair remedies here start at a bargain $10 for 10 minutes. Perfect for wet rat tails that need an instant pick me up.

Zhizule Reflexology. #01-03 Parkway Centre, 1 Marine Parade Central, 6344-1336, 6344-7665. Open daily 10am-10pm. Walk right in and get a half hour rub down on your feet or shoulders. Prices start at $25. Om ... that feels good.

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Stuck at Home

ORDER IN. Food delivery goes way beyond pizza these days. At www.cuisinexpress.com.sg, you can order food from a variety of restaurants including Original Sin, Paulaner Brauhaus, California Pizza Kitchen and other reputable establishments. Delivery hours are Mon-Sat 11am-2:30pm, 6:30-10pm; Sun 6:30-10pm. Minimum order of $25. Sakae Sushi delivers an array of sashimi and tempura (6388-8383; daily delivery noon-8pm. $10 delivery charge for orders below $50. Log onto www.sakaesushi.com.sg/delivery.htm); while Cantana dishes up Italian and Mediterranean cuisine (60 Greenleaf Rd., 6467-5413; delivery Mon-Fri 6-10pm, Sat-Sun 11am-10pm; minimum order of $25).

SOLVE A PUZZLE. Sprawl on the floor with a 1,000 piece jigsaw puzzle—it’s hours of fun. Get a puzzle from Jigsaw Puzzle World (#02-052 Suntec City Mall, 1 Raffles Blvd., 6336-9635).

DIAL A DVD. CineNow (www.cinenow.com.sg) is a kioskbased movie rental facility that has kiosks in several HDB estates. From a kiosk you can rent and/or return the latest Hollywood, Bollywood, Chinese, Korean, Japanese or Hindi flicks in VCD or DVD. Or check out www.hollywoodclicks.com, an online DVD movie rental service that will deliver your movie of choice to you in one to two working days.

PLAY A GAME. If you are all by your lonesome self, try online Cluedo (www.cluedofan.com/onlinegame.htm), a one-player version that keeps you guessing. For groups, there’s new DVD game Scene It. This movie trivia game tests your movie knowledge with clever and unexpected questions, and requires a minimum of two players. Or try Buzz: The Music Quiz game show and Spy Toy the ultimate undercover secret agent game, both on DVD by PlayStation2. Alternatively, if you’re really stuck, make up your own version of Whose Line Is It Anyway?, or go for it with a game of Twister.

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