Dear Mr. KIA,
I used to be quite the looker in my younger days but after years in a desk-bound job and far too many fast-food meals, I’ve become a little rotund. I’ve tried dieting and exercising, but it’s just not something I can commit to right now. I’m sick of old, oversized T-shirts! Where can I find clothes that will help me feel sexy again? —Big in Bishan
Dear Big in Bishan,
Yours truly can attest to experience in the battle of the bulge, and it’s a wise decision to seek out clothes that can make you feel good about yourself while you plan for the day that you decide to take action. BIGnBEAUTIFUL (#02-01, 23 New Bridge Rd., 6536-9400) is one place you can check out. They’ve got accessories, tops, bottoms, dresses, officewear and (ooh la la) lingerie. They’ve got a guy’s range too. Another place to visit is Kaylene by Lavender Closet (#04-16 Far East Plaza, 14 Scotts Rd., 9477-7028) which specialize in size 14-22 dresses from the UK.
Dear Mr. KIA,
I’ve always had dreams of having one of those Zen gardens where I can just relax and listen to the sound of running water. Problem is, I can’t afford to hire a professional, and in any case, my garden is so small that I’m afraid whoever I engage might die of laughter. Where can I learn more about gardening? —Green Man
Dear Green Man,
It’s good to hear that there are people out there still interested in grass and such (especially considering that our de facto national football stadium is laid with artificial turf!). Well, to get the lowdown on gardening, where better to go than the biggest garden of them all. The Singapore Botanic Gardens (1 Cluny Rd., 6471-9961) organizes a number of workshops from basic to advanced home gardening, as well as specialized courses in growing orchids, bonsais, herbs, spices and container/terrarium gardens. They cost between $50 and $100, which last from three to eight hours. Once you’ve got your piece of heaven up and running, you might like to join the Singapore Gardening Society where you’ll meet like-minded folk, go for monthly talks, workshops and home visits, and receive a monthly newsletter. Membership costs $30 annually with a $20 entrance fee. And for all the trimmings, hoses and digging tools you need, visit Gardening Culture.