The city’s fascination with old spaces is evident with more and more F&B places and boutiques opening in conservation areas like Tiong Bahru, Chinatown, Haji Lane, Little India and most recently, Jalan Besar, over the past two years. While most are arbitrary and forgettable with minimal conceptual design input, a handful like lifestyle café-brewery Chye Seng Huat Hardware and modish bar-restaurant-retail space Broadcast HQ stand out for their bold creative concepts which merge elements from the past and present to create authentic, original spaces that are in step with the times, reflecting the city’s current urban blueprint and milieu.
What it was: A former hardware store, established in 1950.
What it is now: The city’s grooviest new cafe located near famous Jalan Besar, opened in August. Preserving its original Art Deco façade with iron grilles and a giant side iron gate which is also its current main entrance, it is truly an archetypal representation of restoration in the modern age. Café founder Leon Foo even worked with the original owner of the space to come up with the final name of the venue (“Chye Seng Huat” means “to flourish” in Mandarin), and created new signboards based on original 1950s design templates. “It was essential that we kept to the original spirit of this historical area, which is not only home to numerous existing hardware stores now, but also old Chinese nightclubs, hawker centers and most recently, new architectural and design firms that have set up offices in the area,” says Foo. Step inside and you’ll be greeted by a hip new café concept—the city’s first 360-degree coffee bar and a thoroughly modern space which serves some of the best coffees in town.
The Big Picture: “We wanted to keep the design elements simple and honest, evoking the vibe of the original space,” says designer Elita Ong. “Throughout, you will notice lots of metal, brass and wood elements used for various fixtures and furniture. For example, tables were designed in such a way to showcase their original metal bases, while basic plywood tabletops play up the whole idea of ‘authenticity’ and ‘naturalism’. As this was a former hardware store, we also wanted to keep the material palette masculine.”
Old-meets-New: “The cream-colored walls and original iron gates were handed over to us as they were so we didn’t have to do much to them,” says Ong. “What was more challenging was to merge the spirit of the original space with Leon’s idea of incorporating a whole lifestyle coffee concept here. So we’ve decided to build different rooms and areas at the courtyard and on the second floor to hold workshops, coffee-tasting sessions and a giant roaster using lots of metal fixtures and wood too. Inside the main café area, the floor was also kept in its original epoxy-layered condition while the main island bar which holds two main counters and coffee machines was more contemporary in tone as it was designed to look like a giant teardrop.”
What it was: An OCBC branch which operated since 1938 and ceased operations in 2001.
What it is now: A hip and contemporary bistro and bar located in Chinatown. Owners Ross Glasscoe and Godwin Pereira, the latter who also holds DJ duties at the space, chose the venue for “its historical significance,” says Pereira. “Being located in a conservation shophouse means that we have a lot of responsibilities on our hands … because we have lots of preservation issues to adhere to.” (see Pipe Dreams, left) Like most conserved spaces, the exterior of the venue remains unaltered (Glasscoe and Pereira even maintained the bank’s original iron vault door at the entrance). Upstairs is where the main bar area is located (“We wanted to create a secret hideaway concept of sorts here”) while downstairs is home to the bistro, serving contemporary Western dishes for both lunch and dinner.
The Big Picture: “We initially engaged design firm Upstairs to help us conceptualize the look of the place, which we knew was ‘industrial’”, says Pereira. “We gave them a mainframe on how to dress it up but we also wanted to set some parameters when it comes to budgeting. Budget was certainly tight for this project, as we didn’t believe in spending a bomb like the major clubs so we took matters in our own hands. We also wanted to preserve the building’s original elements as far as we could. Basically with a venue like this, the design and fittings will never be complete as we wanted a raw and unfinished look to begin with.”
Old-meets-New: “We stripped down the walls’ plaster layers to reveal the original brick fittings inside at the bar area,” says Pereira. “We wanted to show off the history of the building but at the same time add a modern touch to the space. So we installed Chengal wood flooring upstairs and plush sofas that boasted a mod Chesterfield vibe to create a more luxurious vibe. We kept the original concrete floors downstairs and added some small touches like imported Malaysian tiles to demarcate certain areas and to break the monotony of the ground floor space. Lighting throughout was also kept warm, simple and basic.”
What they were: The former, an old trading company built in the ’20s and formerly Post Museum (2008-2011). The latter, an old HDB flat from the ’50s.
What they are now: The city’s coolest restaurant-bar-retail concept store and a contemporary European restaurant-bar with a distinctive old world charm.The creative team behind both venues—owner Cynthia Chua and creative director Jerry De Souza—are adept at transforming old spaces into thoroughly hip and relevant conceptual venues (the duo was the first to make Tiong Bahru hip again when they opened 40 Hands back in 2010, and most recently Tiong Bahru Bakery in the neighborhood). But it’s their quirky and irreverent approach to two of their latest spots, contemporary European restaurant Open Door Policy, also in Tiong Bahru, and restaurant-bar-retail shop Broadcast HQ in Little India, that are most inspired. Both venues are completely different conceptually: Open Door Policy was based on a small church in Lisbon that the duo had visited together during a holiday, while Broadcast HQ was an amalgamation of different ideas—an opium den for a private bar space on the second level, an industrial art loft at the main dining space downstairs and a dome-shaped dining area at the back of the restaurant inspired by the movie Narnia.
The Big Picture: “For Open Door Policy, we basically had to play with existing construction materials like bricks, tiles and steels, and rework these to make them look unique as their look had to be very specific,” says De Souza. “So a lot of time was spent conceptualizing the look and feel for each of the fixtures as I wanted the space to boast an old-world European setting and at the same time maintain some of its old elements like the giant iron door behind the restaurant, which we kept. For Broadcast HQ, the space itself was already beautiful and had lots of character, so I had the choice of making it a bit more playful for its interiors as there were so many rooms to play with.”
Old-meets-New: “All the dining tables and chairs, including the steel chairs, were imported from Germany and the US as we wanted an old-school European air for Open Door Policy, while floors were also kept untreated,” says De Souza. “A lot of work was involved in making sure that the new brick tiles we used for the walls looked untreated and unpolished. I also single-handedly reworked various steel elements into lighting fixtures by twisting and coating them with gold lacquer, to give a more contemporary touch to the space. For Broadcast HQ, we decided to keep various elements like the window grilles, brick walls, old floor tiles and broad wood floors throughout, but at the same time inject lots of fun, by mixing and matching elements like lace curtains, sofas made from Lurex (a brand of metallic yarn, made of laminated aluminum foil) fabric, Persian carpets and a handmade chandelier made from 5,000 chains juxtaposed against a contemporary abstract artwork.”
Which new boutique hotel looks like it's still stuck in the '20s?
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Senheisser. 5/F, MBK, Phayathai Rd., 02-620-9000. BTS National Stadium.
Urbanears & Incase. 3/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-690-1000. BTS Siam.
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The buzz: The owners built this restaurant especially for Tawil Pidotung, a Thai chef who they were huge fans of. They also claim to have their own special supplier who delivers particularly fresh fish from Japan.
The décor: Taking its inspiration from the Tsukiji Market, the place houses items like baskets and boxes sourced from there. Other than that, the owners are trying to draw on nature, with a little pond and some small bushes.
The food: As you’d expect, the ingredients are from Tsukiji Market, so you know they’re quality. Try the engawa (flounder’s fin, B120), torched or not, or chu-toro (B280) and hotate (scallop, B110), or opt for the moriwase set (B690). The rolls are also worth a try, like the So Salmon (salmon roll topped with torched salmon belly and crispy tempura flour, B320) and the shrimp tempura (B340). Tip: if you have some ebi sushi, make sure you ask for the soup made from your shrimp heads.
The drinks: Refill tea is B40. They recommend sake (starting from B330) to bring out the flavor in your sushi. Beers are Asahi (draught, B120, and bottled, B170).
The crowd: Half Thai and half Japanese expats, with many friends and acquaintances of the owners dropping by, too.
2/F, No. 88, Soi Paidee Madee (between Thonglor Sois 5 and 9), Bangkok, 02-712-8447. Open Mon-Fri 11am-2pm; 5:30-11pm; Sat-Sun 11am-11pm
The buzz: Owned by a group of friends with divergent but complementary tastes—one likes sushi, one likes beer and another adores vintage décor—Ikki must be doing something right as the place is packed out on a pretty regular basis. Make sure to drop by in November if you want to enjoy their 30% off soft opening deal.
The décor: If you take your décor seriously, then this could be the spot for you. With an atmosphere far removed from the typical wooden Japanese vibe, Ikki Ikki more resembles a wine bar. The setting is vintage meets industrial, with plenty of bricks, old knick-knacks hanging on the walls, a bare floor and hanging light bulbs at the sushi counter.
The food: The focus is squarely on sushi, so expect a brief menu listing a variety of different rolls. Besides the classics, the highly recommended option is the foie gras mango roll (B310). Otherwise, try the popular Matsusaka sushi (B360) or opt for the sushi set (B750/B1,750). There are also US-influenced rolls like dragon roll (B350) and salmon cream cheese roll (B400).
The drinks: We like the beer options here, with bottles of Sapporo (B130), Tsing Tao (B100) and Pure Blond (B120) available. They’re also going to serve draught Sapporo very soon. Wine by the glass ranges from B230-B350. Tea is B45.
The crowd: For now, some Thai families and groups of pretty ladies who are friends of the young owners.
2/F, Nihonmachi, Sukhumvit Soi 26, Bangkok, 081-932-5757. Open daily 4:30-11:30pm
The buzz: Tucked in Arena 10, the main talking point about Sushi Otaru is its Chef Shinji Nakamine, two-time winner of Japanese show TV Champion (1988 and 1989), who claims that many sushi places in Bangkok are inauthentic. He promises to serve original recipes he’s learned through his 20 years of experience. The chef is also studying up on Thai fish, so chances are you’ll soon be tasting some fresh, local variations on sushi classics.
The décor: Besides the typical dark-colored wooden furniture and dark stone interior, the ceiling takes its inspiration from fish bones. Take your pick of the private rooms or enjoy the main dining room, which will soon have a central garden. If you spot Chef Shinji, we recommend taking a seat at the counter to watch him skillfully slice with his special Japanese knife.
The food: Most of the ingredients are from Hokkaido. Of course, you should start with fish like the nikiri matsu (sushi set, B1,350) or choose your own sushi like otoro (B490), salmon (B140) or the Matsusaka beef (B450). Otherwise, munch on a beef tataki roll (B550) or dragon roll (eel, avocado and cream cheese, B330). There are also other dishes like avocado tempura (B280), anago (grilled Japanese eel, B350), shabu (B700-B3,000) and katsu don (B250). End your meal with a sweet strawberry daifuku (B120).
The drinks: Refill tea is B60. The classic Kubota Senju sake is B2,800 (720 ml). Beers are Sapporo (B240), Singha and Asahi (each B120).
The crowd: Office workers and Thonglorites.
3/F Arena 10, 177/2 Thonglor Soi 10, Bangkok, 02-392-7737. Open daily 11:30am-2:30pm and 5:30pm-10:30pm
The buzz: Located near the popular Sushi Masa, this new sushi restaurant is owned by a group of chefs who have each been in the business for more than 15 years. Those looking for some entertainment take note, the place offers hibachi (teppanyaki) demonstrations, too.
The décor: Pretty simple. Kaizen has probably the most typical Japanese vibe of all the restaurants here. Think light toned wooden furnishing and a dominant sushi counter.
The food: Sushi sets range from B280-B1,800, with the Kaizen Onsen Sashimi Set (B2,500) particularly popular, while you can also opt for Matsusaka beef, uni (sea urchin) or foie gras. Their rolls are also a hit; try the Sexy Roll (tuna and salmon maki topped with tempura flour, B250), the foie gras maki (B420) or Snowman Roll (flounder’s fin and crabmeat, B350). Hibachi set lunches range from B180-B380. For something more showy, try the wagyu with seafood (B980).
The drinks: Refill tea is B25. Sake starts from B350 and draught Asahi is B59.
The crowd: Office workers at lunch and families on weekends, as well as groups of college students drawn by the very reasonable prices.
L Building, 308 Phayathai Rd., Bangkok, 02-215-2972. BTS Ratchatewi. Open daily 11am-11pm
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Back for its third edition in Singapore, the Asian Masters 2012 is one of this year's biggest gastronomic events, featuring intimate meals with celebrities like Chef André Chiang, meat and wine pairings, as well as master workshops with top local chefs, including Chef Daniel Sia of The Disgruntled Chef the Marmalade Group's Chef Robin Ho. November 1-30
Dine with class throughout the week-long Chefs with Altitude, which presents celebrated chefs such as David Toutain and Adam Byatt. The opening party also brings the award-winning circus-themed club from London, Cirque Du Soir, to town. November 3-11
Asia’s premier multilingual literary event the Singapore Writers Festival, showcases exceptional local writing talent through a range of free and ticketed events such as lectures, meet-the-author sessions, workshops and master classes at the Bras Basah-Bugis District. November 2-11
The latest concert venue to open up will launch in style with this year's HITMAN: David Foster & Friends concert, featuring Babyface, Chaka Khan and for the first time in Singapore, Dirty Loops and Fernando Varela. November 2-3
Jonathan Atherton, Kumar, Vir Das and more of the region's best gag masters, lead the Kings & Queens of Comedy Asia 3. November 2-3
To mark its third year anniversary, Midnight Shift collaborates with Zouk to present a riot of cutting-edge acts such as djB, Syndicate's Max Lane and Kiat, as well as New Zealand's Issac Aesili in a rockin' party.
The Affordable Art Fair returns this year with galleries from all over the world offering an extensive range of contemporary art like prints and paintings, priced from $100-$10,000. November 15-18
Saturday Service: The Right Angle Series is a style showcase featuring bespoke suites and iconic Les Ateliers Ruby helmets. Barber and shaving parlor Hounds of the Baskervilles will also be there to offer a spot of grooming, while Tokyo-based model and DJ Van Cliffe. D takes over the decks. November 17
No such thing as the Monday blues at the Boutiques at House @ Dempsey, when there is such a great variety of home decor, fashion, antique and even kids' fashion items on sale. November 19
If you're a post-rock fan, definitely make a date for famous Icelandic band Sigur Rós as they showcase their latest work Valtari, in Singapore. November 23
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That’s right, we’re 17 this year and what better way to celebrate this momentous occasion than to join us in a series of I-S Xperiences and get to know us (and our partners) even better. We’ve worked hard to secure for our readers all these cool dos that best represent what we’re all about: from exciting getaways and funky workouts to learning how to be a DJ and sampling the best food in town (read the entire story for the full list). Your Xperience starts now.
Pretend that you’re off to the destination of your dreams as 16 readers get to hop on board the Flight Experience™ and play captain in this multi-sensory flight simulator in April 2013. Its 180-degree wraparound curved screen replicates the real thing, and displays views of various destinations and airports around the world. The rest, as they say, is up to your imagination.
Learn to beat match, sample and loop dance tunes with a two-and-a-half-hour DJ-ing course at Broadcast HQ. Resident DJ George Grover will be on hand to teach 25 readers how to create a successful mix, utilizing all the software needed for a smashing set as well as guide them through building a hot set list in December.
Join our Travel Editor on a thrilling trip to the Philippines, courtesy of Cebu Pacific Air. Will it be Iloilo for the fascinating Dinagyang Festival in January or another of their exciting destinations? There’s only one way to find out—and that’s to apply. Two couples (or pairs of friends) can take part, and we’ll also arrange accommodation and some exciting activities on the ground.
Six readers will get a chance to fly to Phuket via Tigerair on a 3D/2N trip. What better way to escape the city than a quickie beach getaway in an island resort that will have you recharged in no time?
This one’s great after a lousy day at work. Get yourself down to the boxing and conditioning training session at Pure Fitness Asia Square where 30 readers will pick up tips on conditioning their body and learn boxing techniques, before getting into the ring and slugging it out in December. Think of it as your very own Fight Club.
The 90-minute Tiger Brewery Tour by Asia Pacific Breweries in March 2013 enables 20 readers to discover the history of the beer, how it’s made, and its packaging process in the newly-introduced Packaging Gallery, fittingly housed within a 18-meter-long Tiger Beer bottle. And finally, enjoy a couple of beers at the Tiger Tavern. Life is good.
Get a taste of local heritage (literally) with the Joo Chiat / Katong Food Walk, organized by Betel Box. The four-hour tour in February 2013 will let 20 readers try over 20 local dishes as they traverse the historic neighborhood within a 5-kilometer radius on foot. You’ll need the exercise, baby, with all that eating.
Betel Box Singapore Backpackers Hostel, 200 Joo Chiat Rd., 6247-7340, www.betelbox.com.
If it’s good enough for Donnie Yen, it’s good enough for us. Not quite an out-of-body experience (but close), iFly Singapore, the world’s largest indoor skydiving stimulator, will have you floating above the ground thanks to a 300km/h jet air. Eight readers will be treated to food and beverages at the SkyLoft after takeoff in May 2013.
Mealtimes become a grand affair once you’ve learnt the art of table setting at the Black Opal, one of the best dining establishments at The Jewel Box. Adrian Wong, F&B Director of the Mount Faber Leisure Group, and Executive Chef Derrick Ang, will show 16 readers what goes into an exquisite table setting, followed by a hands-on session of dessert styling using chocolates, fruits and sugar in March 2013. The icing on the cake? You get to take home your very own creations.
Eight readers will get to zip along Siloso or Palawan Beach at Sentosa on a Segway® Personal Transporter and see the island in a whole new light through the 60-minute Premium Guided Eco Adventure in May 2013. Event will be held at Gogreen Segway® Eco Adventure.
One for the patient ones. The art of Chinese tea appreciation is taken to new heights by the team at Si Chuan Dou Hua in January 2013. Executive Tea Connoisseur of Tian Fu Tea Room, He Zheng Hong, will go through the various categories of Chinese tea, and how to select the best tea with 20 readers. Following that is a food and tea pairing session where you toss yusheng and sample seven types of handcrafted dim sum while enjoying two varieties of premium Chinese tea.
Make like a Californian surfer at Wave House Sentosa, where at least 30,000 gallons of water are used to produce waveforms for its exciting flow-riding facilities. Twenty readers will ride the waves and carve turns as they navigate the waters on surfboards in February 2013. After all that hard work, chill out at the after-party with free-flow food and drinks, and bask in the sun.
Six readers will get to join the cool crowd at the three-in-one concept store Pact in January 2013. Sample yummy small plates courtesy of the guys from Kilo, shop for trendy clothes at K.I.N (Know It Nothing), and get a brand new hairdo from Kizuki + LIM. These guys will spruce you up top to toe.
Go back to your roots with a two-day experiential tour and one-night stay at D’Kranji Farm Resort in April 2013. Six readers will learn how to grow and cook their own crops just like they do back in the good ol’ days, plus enjoy a barbecue and specially catered meals during the whole stay. Readers will also walk on the wild side during a visit to the Sungei Buloh marshland.
Held in the Lawn @ Paddle Lodge space at MacRitchie Reservoir, Green Yoga @ MacRitchie aims to give 30 readers a different kind of yoga experience by engaging them more with the environment. Led by instructor Suraya Sam, the outdoor yoga activity in July 2013 combines a variety of movements and asanas with an emphasis on the mind-body connection.
Green Yoga, 232A Upper Thomson Rd., 6552-1153, www.greenyoga.com.sg.
Calling all fans of everything raw (12 of you to be exact). ToTT’s resident chef Eric Low will be on hand to demonstrate the art of sushi appreciation in November as well as ways to prepare the rice and rolling techniques, so you can create your very own futomaki, California roll and tempura roll. All together now: itadakimasu!
Play model for a day in an exclusive photography session with Zalora Singapore. Six readers will have the chance to self-style themselves with the assistance of an in-house team comprising a personal stylist, make-up artist and photographer who will make you look like a million bucks in November. And the photos will appear in the website’s social media pages. Who can say no to that?
The team from Sky Pilates will show you effective Pilates moves in two intensive sessions totaling three hours in June 2013. The studio’s Gyrokinesis exercises allow 16 readers to work their entire body through seven natural elements of spinal movement: forward, backward, left side, right side, left twist, right twist and circular (phew!); perfect for those looking to strengthen their core muscles.
Fifteen readers will discover how the wonderful pastries from artisanal patisserie Dolcetto by Basilico are made in this mini master class by chef Lorenzo Sollecito in June 2013. Learn about the different ingredients and processes that are required in creating authentic Italian specialities like the home-baked pane, Venetian macarons, torte and crostate, before going on a tour of the establishment and getting to take away some of the various breads and pastries. Hungry yet?
Dolcetto by Basilico, Lobby Level Regent Singapore, 1 Cuscaden Rd., 6720-8000, www.regenthotels.com/EN/Singapore/Cuisine/Dolcetto-by-Basilico.
With an A-list cast that includes Bill Murray and Laura Linney, Roger Michell’s (Four Weddings and a Funeral) latest comedy-drama Hyde Park on Hudson is a masterful film about Franklin D. Roosevelt and his love affair with a distant cousin during a weekend holiday. Watch the film with the comforts of Shaw’s Premiere Screen hall located at nex, which has 48 deluxe leather seats and premium dine-in services in February 2013.
Shaw Theatres nex, #04-64 nex, 23 Serangoon Central, 6235-2077, www.shaw.sg/premiere.
Last but certainly not least, five readers will get their hands on a limited edition I-S x OuterEdit T-shirt (the design graces this issue’s cover too, natch). Emerging local graphic designer HAO came up with the futuristic pattern based on the themes of “Celebration” and “Geometry, Space & Time”. We’ve just turned 17 after all. How apt.
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With some 30 million reviews and an average of 78 million unique visitors per month, Yelp is a bigwig in the world of online reviews. Following its launch here on September 14, we revisit the topic of amateur food reviewing, after the food critic cover story we did in April (See is.gd/foodcriticsinsingapore).
Singapore is Yelp’s first Asian market and with good reason. We have an ample pool of potential reviewers for Yelp to draw on. After all, the site’s target demographic is a young, well-educated, high-earning lot (See Quick Facts).
Miriam Warren, Vice President of New Markets, Yelp Inc., explains, “Singapore is home to a vibrant and well-connected melting pot of cultures. It also boasts the world’s third highest per capita income, more than five million people, and English as the common language; considerations that present an attractive market expansion opportunity.”
Yelp presents a full spectrum of lifestyle categories. “Yelp helps people find cool places to live life, from bookstores to dog groomers, from dentists to dry cleaners,” says Warren. In fact, shopping is the largest category of reviewed businesses on Yelp (23 percent) with restaurants a close second at 21 percent, followed by home services (11 percent).
It’s also more socially driven than sites like Street Directory with its in-depth user profiles, where members share photos, interests and even personal details (like their secret crushes) online. So there’s a strong sense of community.
Yelp caters to a different market of users than Singapore-based companies. New establishments on HungryGoWhere include fresh local places while Yelp’s list of new businesses is tourist-centric, and even includes Maxwell Food Center (how that counts as new is beyond us).
Articles too seem to be by and for foreigners. Users post articles like “A Weekend in Singapore: touristy things that tourists do” and the Talk pages are similarly slanted.
Restaurant owners seem cautiously optimistic. Antoine Rouland, founder and co-owner of French bistro and wine bar O Batignolles, says, “I think Yelp will help increase the exposure and visibility of restaurants with the added online presence.”
Jeremy Nguee, chef-owner of fusion eatery Preparazzi, feels, “Many Singaporeans still rely on Google to look for things. If they need an opinion, they’ll just use Facebook. But it might eventually succeed if good reviews and services get listed.”
If you ask us, HungryGoWhere and other Singapore sites are for the locals. But Yelp already has a strong international following. Though its Singapore reviews read like something out of Fodors or TripAdvisor, Yelp seems to know its market of expats and tourists. So will Yelp succeed? Our guess is that it will—in a niche market. But if we’re searching for the best lor mee or sambal stingray, we’ll be looking elsewhere.
Nothing But a Number?Last month, a paper in The Economic Journal found that a half-star difference in a Yelp rating could drastically change the number of reservations made at a restaurant on a given day. This was true even for eateries with close scores (say 3.24 and 3.26), as the numbers were rounded into half-star categories like 3.0 and 3.5.
2004
founded in San Francisco
78
million visitors monthly
30
million reviews as of June
42%
of US users are aged 18-24
65%
of US users have at least a college degree
36%
of US users earn upwards of US$150,000 (S$183,540) a year
US$1.5
billion in value at its IPO in March
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There’s nothing like a latex catsuit (B10,500) or a corset (B2,500) to spice things up in the bedroom. These and more products are available from 1.) Planet Latex (www.planet-latex.com). The showroom is in Chiang Mai, but you can also order online or reach them at 081-892-7959.
First of all, we hope you’re using them! The stuff you pick up at 7-Eleven or Boots is fine. For some variety, though, try 2.) www.condomthai.com. From super-thin (0.03mm) Japanese condoms (B80 each) to 3.) Play O “Orgasmic Gel for Women” (B495), this website is packed with some sexy surprises.
Of course, size doesn’t matter. You look great. Really. Now if you simply must get that penis augmentation (B65,000) or boob job (B60,000), we recommend you do it at a reputable clinic like Yanhee (54 Charansanitwong Rd., 02-879-0300. www.yanhee.co.th).
The best encouragement to continue playing it safe is to know your status. Get tested today at free HIV testing clinics, Anonymous Clinic (Thai Red Cross Society, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-256-4107/9 ext.109, 209. www.trcarc.org) and The Silom Clinic (3/F, Bangkok Christian Hospital, Silom Rd., 02-634-2917. Open Tue-Sat 4-10pm. www.silomclinic.in.thwww.silomclinic.in.th).
The Love Body (B4,990) is a life-size brunette blow-up doll available from www.toy-dd.net, with some sexy black lingerie thrown in for free.
Although Bangkok lacks Victoria’s Secret, the affordable X-Sizes Outlet (Sukhumvit Soi 22, opposite Imperial Queen's Park Hotel, 02-611-8029. Open Mon-Sat 11:30am-10pm) is here to save the day. This shop boasts a wide range of sexy undergarments, from G-strings to corsets. And we haven’t forgotten you gents, This Shop For Men (2/F, Terminal 21, Sukhumvit Soi 19, 02-254-9470. BTS Asoke. Open daily 11am-9pm) does men’s underwear in almost every shade (pink, purple and green) and form (thongs and briefs from brands like Toot and Good Men Wear). Work up the guts to wear them, and you’ll be sure to impress your lady or guy.
For female professionals (of the office kind), pole dancing is a great way to de-stress, get fit and perhaps take your bedroom skills up a notch. Give this noble art a whirl at Rumpuree Dance Studio (5/F, Amarin Plaza, Ploenchit Rd., 08-1430-6684. BTS Chit Lom. www.rumpuree.com). A one-hour class costs B500, but if you are considering a career change, we recommend the eight-hour pole class package, priced at B3,200.
You’d be surprised just how much some good old role-playing can spice up your sex life. The outfit? Try the air-hostess uniform (B650) from Raksexy (www.raksexy.com), or go for the classic French maid costume (B450) at Sexy Girl Shop (www.sexygirlshop.com). If they don’t do it for you, other options include kimonos, nurse’s uniforms, Santa-themed lingerie, cowgirl and PVC leatherwear.
4.) Tenga makes cans filled with mushy latex and goo that can simulate just about any human orifice—only wetter, tighter and with more tickly things inside. As if that wasn’t exciting enough, they regularly take things up a notch with their latest releases. Say hello to your new best friend: Tenga’s Soft Tube Cup B490, a palm-sized device filled with silicone and gel to help you achieve a happy ending; just open the film, stick it in and enjoy, make sure you don’t ejaculate in it if you’re not planning to buy a new one. Order online from www.tenga.co.th, 089-968-6778.
We were absolutely crushed that the US Food & Drug Administration rejected female Viagra, saying the risks outweigh the benefits. Or is it that the FDA is full of Mormons who can’t take the idea of endless female orgasms? Meanwhile, men with erectile dysfunction can still pop the old purple pill (from B450) or the cheaper generic, 5.) Kamagra, which comes in gel form (B70). Or try to get your hands on the new locally made Sidegra, think safer Viagra which comes at just B45 a pop. Get a prescription from your doctor or check out the pharmacies in and around Soi Patpong or Soi Thaniya. BTS Sala Daeng.
It’s no longer taboo to have a professional tend to your bush. Head to 6.) Reveal Wax Salon (Thonglor Soi 13, 02-712-8209. Open Tue-Sun 10:30am-8:30pm. www.revealwaxsalon.com) for a wax job that can cover (or uncover, rather) any and all of your intimate parts. There are beach trips coming up so we highly recommend the “all off” Brazilian/Boyzilian (from B1,130) for a super smooth touch.
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Psycho Killer Rocks Club Soma . Club Soma present a Halloween party with a psycho killer theme. Expect indie-rock, punk, new wave and Britpop spun by residents and guest DJs from the Sonic Beats crew, as well as a live set by Tabasco. Dresscode: killers, monsters and freaks. Oct 26, 9pm. Sonic, 90 Ekkamai (Between Ekkamai Soi 10 and Big C), 02-382-3395.
Devil’s Blood Night . Fallabella teams up with Casillero del Diablo wine for a devil themed Halloween party with a live set by 25 Hours. Oct 27, 7pm. Falabella, Royal Bangkok Sports Club, 100 Ratchadamri Rd., 02-252-5131. B200. BTS Ratchadamri.
PICK> The amBar Family . This early Halloween party will feature funky house sets spun by DJs Monsieur Markus and Aardy along with special deals on booze, starting from B150. Dress creatively to get a free drink. Oct 27, 8pm. amBar, 8/F, Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, Sukhumvit Soi 15, 02-309-3113. Free entry. BTS Asok.
Creep Show: Halloween Special . Sideshow Kuts BKK warms up for Halloween with a spooky-themed party featuring electro tunes from DJs Kensho, Ted Lianillo and Soulboy, live painting by street artists Matt Diamond and Vinni Kiniki, as well as Halloween games, magic shows and body paint. Dress code: Halloween creep. Oct 27, 10pm. Nest, Rooftop/F, Le Fenix Hotel, 33/33 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 02-2550638/9. Free entry. BTS Nana.
Vampire Circus . Dance to heady electro mixes by DJs Lazykay, Preeda Tony and Brandon Neville at this spooky vampire themed night. Dresscode: bloodsucker. Oct 27, 9:30pm. Playground, M,G/F, Pullman Bangkok Hotel G, 188 Silom Rd., 02-238-1991. Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.
H#Halloween Party . Slim takes on a superstitious theme in this Halloween night together with their hip hop and electronic tunes. Oct 30, 8pm. Slim RCA, B600 for men and B400 for women.
Spooktacular Party . Join BarSu’s ghoulishly glam haunted night for a buy-one-get-one-free deal on standard drinks before 10pm. Oct 27, 7pm. BarSu, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, 250 Sukhumvit Rd., BTS Asoke. 02-649-8888. Free entry. Note that the Halloween theme continues through Oct 31.
Halloween at Muse . A special Halloween concert from Burin Boonwisut, joined by DJs Kolor One and Oattawa spinning hip hop. Tickets are B3,000 for 4 people to get one bottle of Black Label, Red Label or Chandon with free-flow mixers all night. Oct 31, 8pm. Muse, 159/8 Thong Lor Soi 10, 02-715-0998.
Haunted Hospital . Deck yourself out in a sexy medical-related costume to get B600 (1 drink) entry to Bed’s horrific hospital-themed Halloween
party. Oct 31, 7:30pm. Bed Supperclub, Sukhumvit Soi 11, 02-651-3537. B1,000 (1 drink)
Hospital of Dead . The Club turn their dance floor into a haunted hospital with all sorts of creepy décor and visuals along with sets from DJs Marco Wong and Funky Deeper. Oct 31, 9pm. The Club, 123 Khao San Rd., 02-629-2255. B200 (1 drink).
Sound Cream Club . The Sound Cream Club ring in Halloween with tech and progressive house spun by DJs Rabbitdisco, Kongga and TPorh. Oct 31, 10pm. Cafe Democ, Silom Plaza, 491 Silom Rd. Free entry. BTS Chong Nonsi.
Halloween at Q Bar . Don a hero or villain costume to dance to hip hop and electronica spun by DJ Gift OKB at this Halloween night. Oct 31, 9pm. Q Bar, 34 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 02-252-3274.
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Longboards, as the name suggests, are a longer variation of skateboards, which features larger wheels designed for gaining speed on slopes. The most common longboard moves are: Cruising – moving forward, left and right. Freeride – adding tricks or slides when cruising. Downhill – going down hills or slopes at speeds of up to 80km/hr.
1. Roller Surfer Pro Samurai, B4,500.
2. Landyachtz Switchblade 36, B6,500.
3. Element Mamba Mahalo, B4,800.
4.Globe Chromatic Sea Cruiser, B3,900.
5. Loaded Dervish, B11,000.
Wachirabenchatat Park AKA Suan Rot Fai is a great outdoor spot. The open space and extensive pathways are ideal for running, bike riding, skateboarding and longboarding. There’s also a butterfly park on-site, just in case you get all sensitive. Kamphaengphet Rd. MRT Kamphaengphet
Located in the heart of the city, Lumpini Park’s wide expanse of tree-lined pavement is perfect for practicing your cruising and freeriding. Lumpini Park, Rama 4 Rd., MRT Lumpini.
Although you’ll have to drag yourselves over to the other side of town, Lad Pho Park off Prapradaeng Rd. is well known among the city’s longboarders for its sweeping slopes and ramps. Great for beginners and experienced boarders, alike. Lad Pho Park, Petchaheung Rd. (under Bhumibol 1 Bridge).
Element & Globe. Order online at http://skatezone.lnwshop.com
Ladyanchtz & Loaded. Urethane Longboard, Ladprao Soi 53, 089-4090-740
Roller Surfer. Order online at www.bangkokextreme.com
Check out our interview with Warin Santaputra, founder of the Thailand Longboard community and owner of Urethane Longboard shop shares his insights on the board sport.
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808/15 Soi Thararom 2, Sukhumvit Soi 55, Bangkok, 080-900-2610. Open Tue-Sun 12-10pm
Owned by a group of friends who love their bikes, Velayenn is a hip cycle café that puts a precedence on vintage bikes. Stop in to peruse a few books about fixies, and enjoy a drinks list (developed at the now-closed Sugar Lust Cafe & Bistro) that includes Italian soda (B50) and some coffee (from B50). As for pastries, the owners say they want the super-friendly vibe to extend to food being shared among friends; as such, the main snacks are toast (B20) and homemade donuts (B50).
18 Soi Aree 4 (North), Paholyothin Soi 7, Bangkok, 081-821-9603. Open Tue-Sun 1-10pm
With Aran Bicicletta, the owner found the perfect way to marry his love for fixies (both vintage and modern) with his family’s coffee business. Coffees start at B50, best enjoyed with cakes like dark beer Horlicks (B90) and their brownies (B95). There’s free Wi-Fi so bring along your notebook. This retro house is the ideal space to get some work done—you’ll feel like you’re sitting in a library nook and there’s also a cute beagle to keep you company.
33/306 Chokchai 4, Ladprao 53, Bangkok, 083-808-9061. sealeeurban.com. Open Tue-Sun 11am-8pm
Sure, you can stop by Sealee Urban to buy a fixed gear bicycle (or to pick up some spare parts), but we’d rather drop in for their recommended homemade yogurt (with toppings like strawberry, blueberry and cereal, B30-80). In fact, the owners started out selling yoghurt before falling in love with the fixie culture and expanding to become one of the most popular spots in town for cyclists. Reward yourself after a hard ride with a choc lava cake (B100), while coffees start at B35.
235/21 Sukhumvit Soi 31, Bangkok, 02-662-2866. Open Tue-Sun 11am-10pm
The baby of two owners, one who likes desserts and one obsessed with fixed-gear bicycles, this little café is decorated, rather aptly, with fixies (some are for sale too) and serves sweets such as young coconut cake (B110) and chocolate dark beer cake (B95). Those famished after a punishing ride can order from the brief selection of savory dishes, which includes the popular khao mah kai dao (shredded pork with garlic and rice served with fried egg, B85), spare ribs (B150) and avocado cheeseburger served with salad (B250). Wash it all down with Japanese tea brand, Lupicia, in flavors like strawberry and vanilla, and grapefruit (B125 a pot) or bring your own bottle—there’s no corkage charge so you can sit and sip to your heart’s content in this homey Japanese café-like spot.
Thammasat University (Thaprachan Campus), 2 Prachan Rd., Bangkok, 02-623-6349. www.facebook.com/CafeVelodome. Open daily 8am-8pm
Conceived of as a way to spread bike culture (and green living) in a city where the car is king, the stripped-down, glass-walled Café Velodome has already become a hub for Bangkok’s cycling community. Apart from providing bike racks and pumps, the staff are happy to share their knowledge on the best bike routes, local cycling groups and everything else bicycle-related. Located on the eastern edge of Thammasat University, the café sits facing Sanam Luang, on the corner of Prachan and Na Phra That roads. Drop in for a Choco Velodome (frappe, B90) or espresso affogato (coffee shot over a scoop of ice cream, B65) and a slice of cake (Thai tea and chocolate mousse are popular, B65-90).
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