VERTEBRAE floor lamp
Price upon application from Vanilla Home
The subtle, hand-painted accents of burnished silver will lend a touch of class to any space.

Brave New World Lamp (see main pic)
by Moooi, $6,785 from Space
It looks complicated but this Meccano inspired oakwood piece is simply genius.

ROSSO 24-Arms Chandelier
Price upon application from Vanilla Home
Made of hand-blown glass and furnished with 24x10-watt halogen bulbs, this red chandelier is one hell of a stunner.

Rabbit lamp
by Moooi, $990 from Space
Usher in the year of the rabbit with this cute polyester piece.

Vintage table lamp
$300 from Like That One
Someone’s trash can indeed be another’s treasure. Take home this unusual piece discovered by owner Belle’s mother in the US, which is made up of a lacquered steel base and toile shade.

FILLSTA table lamp,
$39 from Ikea
This festive looking contraption made from polycarbonate plastic adds color to any room.

Bangkok Triathlon Club

If you’re seriously considering participating in a major athletic event such as a triathlon (that’s swimming, biking and running rolled into one race), chances are you don’t know anyone else as deranged as you to train with. That’s where the Bangkok Triathlon Club, or “TriNerds”, comes in. And don’t worry if you’ve never done a triathlon before. The group started when a bunch of beginners signed up to do the Laguna Phuket Triathlon in 2004, but found no one to answer their many questions on how to train. Many members are now seasoned Ironmen and Ironwomen, but many are beginning to train for their first triathlon. Some just show up for the running training or swimming training if you have no intention of doing a full triathlon event. Outside of training, regulars meet up for dinner and drinks every few weeks, as coordinated by the organizer.
Join “TriNerds” on Facebook or visit bangkoktriclub.com and sign up to their mailing list for notifications on when and where people are meeting up to bike, run or swim. It’s as simple as that. Additionally, the website offers other resources, such as a list of places where you can train properly, the contact information of trainers and a list of sports doctors.

Q&A: Lookpetch “Beer” Nielson, 33, business development manager

BK: How did you get into this crazy hobby?
Beer: I started out running four years ago. I was always into sports, but I never enjoyed all this training. I actually gave up drinking five years ago so I took up running, and running got boring, so I took up triathlon training.
BK: Did you have any goals?
Beer: Back then I was smoking, too. When I started out, I had no goals. My first goal when I started running was to do a 10K run. Then I said let’s go for a half-marathon, let’s go for a marathon, and I thought, “That wasn’t too bad.”
BK: How did you come to join the TriNerds?
Beer: I’d been going to running events and triathlons, and it’s not a big group of people that show up to the same races, so you start remembering their faces. That’s how I met the organizer.
BK: So how does the group work?
Beer: We have a googlegroup, and people send emails about places and times they will train, to see if anyone’s interested too, like a run on Saturday morning, or going for a long bike ride on Sunday.
BK: Why don’t you train alone?
Beer: Lots of people train alone, but it’s not my thing. You should have fun and talk to other people. For me, the first real challenge is getting out of bed, so it helps to know someone’s expecting you. Some people even call you up if you’re late.
BK: What would you say to someone who was interested in getting involved?
Beer: It’s a nice social network of people who are into training and triathlon stuff. It’s for people who have a similar passion and want to meet new people. It’s also a good forum if you want to sell your old bike, for example—not commercial, just helping friends in a community. Every couple of months, we get together to talk and hang out too.

Queen’s Park Skateboarding Group

If you’ve ever taken a walk around Benjasiri Park in the afternoon, you’ll have probably seen the skateboarders practicing their tricks. They may look like confident and intimidating professionals, but really they’re a diverse and open group of 40-50 regulars, many of whom show up after work several times a week. While this isn’t an official club in the traditional sense with meetings and events, the group is large and meets daily, so it’s a lot easier to fit into your schedule. And if you start now, you may even be able to feature in the skate video they’re currently working on.
You’ll need your own board, of course, but other than that, there are no fees or obligations. Regulars get together at the skating area at the very back of Benjasiri Park (next to Emporium, Sukhumvit Rd.) from 5-9pm every day. Just show up.

Q&A: Janchai Montrelerdrasme,23, freelance videographer

BK: Why did you start coming here?
Janchai: The group has been around for more than 10 years or so. I mean, really skating groups are everywhere. I used to skate near MBK, but since this place is closer to my house, I switched about eight years ago. Because I’m a freelancer, I can do my work when I want, so I come five or six times a week.
BK: What do you like about it?
Janchai: I just love skating, and the feeling of landing a new trick is awesome. It’s not easy: some tricks take months. And it’s unlimited—you can never know it all.
BK: What’s this video you’re working on?
Janchai: Queen’s Park is where we come to skate and learn new tricks, but to skate for real, we go out to different places, like universities, and video ourselves skating at real spots like handrails and staircases. I put together a video of us a couple of years ago, called Loosen. We sold it at Siam and put it online.
BK: What’s the vibe like? Isn’t it just for school kids?
Janchai: There are a lot of young kids, like middle schoolers, but we do have people in their 20s and 30s, who are professionals. I think it’s really friendly and anyone can come and skate. There are lots of international people, so most speak English or Thai. Whenever anyone comes in, everyone says hi or sawadee.
BK: What if you’re a total amateur?
Janchai: The skill level here is pretty high, compared to other places where skaters hang out. But I really suggest coming and just asking people nicely for tips. You’ll learn a lot faster than if you practice at home by yourself. Everyone is nice and open to teaching.
BK: Do you guys hang out after skating?
Janchai: It depends on the group. Queen’s Park is such a big group, so we have our smaller groups that hang out afterwards.

Bangkok Network of Women

They may have women in their name, but the Bangkok Network of Women has never been closed to men. In fact, the inclusion of men will be a major aim for the group in 2011. Initially started in 2003 as an offshoot networking group, it now consists of around 2,600 mostly female professionals from all over Asia and beyond, in fields ranging from marketing to Ayurvedic therapy. The monthly hangouts are diverse and include networking nights, seminars on professional topics, FCCT talks, social nights for charity, garage sales, meditation retreats and more, so there’s something for everyone, even if you aren’t into professional schmoozing.
Regular membership is B1,200 per year. Find out more at www.bnow.org. Aside from special events, BNOW does a luncheon for small business owners the first Thursday of every month (except Jan 2011), held at the Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand. B500 for members.

Q&A Kittima Sethi, 40, freelance writer

BK: How did you become involved with BNOW?
Kittima: I used to do PR and when I sent out press releases to different places, BNOW was the only one to feedback, which was impressive. I met the founder through a mutual friend and we hit it off.
BK: What sorts of BNOW events do you attend?
Kittima: There was one talk about social marketing and how to grow your website. I thought I knew a lot, being in PR, but the speaker was a big eye opener for me. I also attended the retreat early in March called REVA, which combined elements of Ayurveda and meditation.
BK: Who is a good candidate for BNOW membership?
Kittima: Anyone who is interested in connecting with professional women, who would like to grow their business connections. A lot of events have a lot of men attending the events as well. At some events I saw more men than women!  I told the founder she might have to change the name!
BK: What are the business luncheons?
Kittima: It’s not just an exchange of business cards. Everyone gets to speak for a minute about their enterprise and what kinds of professionals
they’re looking to connect with. By the end of the lunch, people go up to each other with helpful tips and contacts.
BK: Would you say BNOW is mostly for expats?
Kittima: There are a lot of expats, yes, and the events are in English, but I think Thai people can definitely benefit if they’re looking to expand their business.
 

Bangkok Women’s Football

If you’re that rare type of Bangkok girl who loved PE class back in high school, chances are there are very few other women who’ll kick a ball around with you—and the men’s leagues are too cliched and too rough. Why not join Bangkok Women’s Soccer? Initially started in 2008, the group has gained a great deal of momentum this year, with weekly meet-ups at the Arsenal Soccer School in Phra Khanong and a more or less consistent group of both Thai and expat professional women, mostly in their 20s and 30s, showing up for a casual game after work. The fields may be Astroturf, but on the bright side, that means you don’t need special soccer boots to play. Any old sneakers will do. That and you do have an open sky overhead. Members are from diverse backgrounds, ages, professions and, best of all, skill levels, so feel free to shriek and curl up if someone kicks the ball at you. The spirit is very non-competitive and the shouting is all of an encouraging sort. Newcomers are welcomed, and both English and Thai are spoken, so don’t worry about showing up alone. Sometimes, dinner and drinks will take place after the game.
The group meets every Thursday at 7pm at Arsenal Academy (17/1 Pridibanomgyong Soi 21, Sukhumvit 71). Find them on Facebook (“Bangkok Women’s Football”) to receive invitations to weekly games and to RSVP. They usually need a headcount to ensure use of a pitch. Membership is free, but expect to pay B120-150 each time to cover the cost of using the pitch. Lockers and a women’s changing room are available, too.

Q&A: Peunjai “Hen” Potepanao, event coordinator

BK: Why did you want to join this group?
Hen: Because it’s hard to find enough ladies to play soccer every week, and these girls are very committed. It’s a good way to keep fit. And it’s a mixed ability group. We don’t care if you are not good. You can just run around after the ball and meet some friends.
BK: Have you made any new friends?
Hen: Yes, and I’ve gotten some of my friends to join. I just asked around after some girls who like to exercise.
BK: Did you come alone your first time?
Hen: Yes. I saw them playing when I worked at Arsenal, so I asked if I could join. I was shy because I hadn’t kicked a ball for a long time, and when I first played I missed the ball so much. But they are very friendly, and they kept talking to me and keeping me motivated.
BK: Do you go out afterwards?
Hen: Sometimes. We have plans to go out before we break for long holidays.
BK: With your job, do you come to soccer regularly?
Hen: Yes, because I make it a priority. I fix it in my schedule, almost every week.
BK: What would you say to someone who is on the fence about joining?
Hen: Don’t be shy! We can practice before getting started. Some of us come fifteen minutes early and do some practice dribbling.

Velayenn Fixed Gear Bike Group

With an increasing number of regular fixed-gear bicyclists in our fair city, it’s probably crossed your mind to give it a try yourself. But apart from the hip-factor, the appeal of fixed gear bikes has created little communities of creative young profesionals. Wararat “Wi” Puapairos and Rathapol “Aon” Treerath are two of the three owners of the bicycle shop Velayenn, a kind of gathering-point for other fixed-gear enthusiasts who come to chat, tune their bikes and order food from Sugarlust right next door. They also meet up once a week and take off on rides at night, to avoid the worst of the traffic and the heat. These guys are mostly designers, musicians, artists and freelancers and although the group is largely male-dominated, more women are taking up fixed gear biking as well—so don’t be shy ladies.
This is an unofficial gatheting of friends and acquaintances, so there are no membership fees or any obligations (except to have your own bike and gear, of course). Swing by Velayenn (59/27 Sukhumvit 26, 080-900-2610) to get a feel for the place and to introduce yourself. Night rides take place every Monday from 9pm-1am and start at the shop. Post-ride hunger pangs are abated and socializing happens afterwards at Sugarlust.

Q&A: Wararat “Wi” Puapairos and Rathapol “Aon” Treerath

BK: Where do you usually ride?
Wi: We usually bike down Sukhumvit Road to Siam and out to Ratchadamnoen and Lan Praroob. Our group consists of 4-5 people but sometimes new people come and tag along. We meet other groups at Lan Praroob.
BK: Where do fixed gear bikers usually hang out?
Wi: The meeting point is usually Lan Praroob and Lan Pol Muang. And also Yaowarat. But their purpose is to eat! They bike around and stop at all these different food stalls.
BK: What do you get from biking?
Aon: You get to relieve stress and practice focusing. There’s no time to think of anything else because you have to concentrate on dodging holes or buses so you don’t die.
Wi: I get to meet people I never would have met if I didn’t do this. You get to talk to them, to exchange different life stories, and it’s very enriching.
BK: Anything else?
Aon: Most importantly, it destroys self-doubt. People are stunned when I tell them that I have biked from a faraway place. It feels great to make it across a great distance that you never thought you could cover. Once you do it, you feel you can go anywhere. People should try new things more.
BK: What are some advantages of riding in groups?
Wi: Safety. You don’t get mugged when you go in groups.
Aon: Cars will see you clearly. They’ll see a big blob of people as opposed to one tiny biker that the bus could squish flat easily.
BK: What suggestions do you have for newcomers?
Wi: The best place to start is the internet. Start talking to someone who rides. Friends of friends or anyone. Or go take a peek at Lan Praroob to see what sort of bike you would like.

The (Real) Social Network (2)

BK Asks: What group or community do you wish existed?

A GROUP APART: Bon Marche Lin Ping Fan Club

BK Asks: What’s the weirdest way you’ve made a friend?

HOW TO Keep Your (Un)Official Club Running Smoothly

Club Listings

A GROUP APART: The Dan D2B Fan Club

Canon S95

This is a new best friend for Canon’s DSLR geeks who want to go light. Like the previous S90, the S95 shoots RAW (a format favored by pros) and has a great lens (fast and with a convenient 28-105mm [3.8x] zoom range). What the new edition brings is great low-light capabilities. B15,900

Fujifilm 300EXR

Nature-lovers shooting distant critters and wide panoramic shots are in for a treat. The 300EXR features a very wide 24mm angle lens with a 15x optical zoom. With the panoramic function built-in you can stitch pictures together for full 360-degree views. B11,990

Panasonic Lumix FX75

The FX75 aims to be a small and stylish compact camera for every occasion. Its slim, colorful design packs a touchscreen LCD and a 24mm lens for those group shots in cramped spaces. Added bonuses: 5x optical zoom and HD video recording. B12,990

Ricoh CX4

Building on the CX3, the CX4 still features an impressive 28-300mm (10.7x zoom) and 1cm macro shot. Also, there are fun features to play with, just like on your iPhone: color adjustment, vignette and miniature (for that the “tilt-shift” look). B13,990

Samsung EX1

Another compact with pro features, the Samsung EX1 features a wide 24mm Schneider lens and a large 1/1.7” sensor for DSLR-like image quality in low-light conditions. As for looks, we like the rugged style of its metal case. B15,900.

Colonic Hydrotherapy

Why you need to do it: You just ate your way through the holidays: oysters, turkey, cake, foie gras, roast, more cake…
The claim: Over the years, waste accumulates on the inside surface of your colon, making your digestive system less efficient.
What it’s like: 15 gallons of purified water will be pressured gently into your colon through a small tube to dislodge the accumulated waste. You then head to the toilets (no running needed) and let it all come out.
Where: Colonic detoxification is now almost as common as going for a foot massage. Book yourself a 45-min Colon Hydrotherapy for B2,650 at Rasayana Retreat (57 Soi Prommitr, Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-662-4803. www.rasayanaretreat.com).
The natural way: Most doctors say colonics are useless and could even weaken your digestive system if done too often. Instead, eat plenty of fiber and not too much fat or meat. You can also find cleansing recipes online but we don’t recommend to go hard on those either.

Lymphatic Drainage

Why you need it: If you’ve been working way too hard at the office, had few opportunities to move around, and feel like you easily run out of energy.
The claim: Unlike the heart that has its own circulating pump, the lymph fluid moves through vessels every time we move. The Lymphatic Drainage massage wakes up this lymph system and lets it do its work: transporting immune cells around the body and carrying away fat.
What it’s like: A massage.
Where: Go to TRIA Integrative Wellness (998 Rimklongsamsen Road, Bangkapi, 02-660-2602. www.triaintegrativewellness.com) for their Manual Lymphatic Drainage treatment at B2,200.
The natural way: Eat beetroot 2-3 times a week and exercise.

Liver Detoxification

Why you need it: You’ve had ten too many over the New Year’s.
The claim: Gallstones accumulate in your liver, holding toxins, fat, and sludge that prevent your liver from functioning properly and causing general illness.
What it’s like: After around 20 sessions of colonic detox, you will be given a set of ingredients like grapefruit and epsom salt to mix yourself a drink before going to sleep. The next morning, the stones will be flushed out together with your feces on your first toilet visit.
Where: Visit Hydro Health (494, 4/F, Erawan, Ploenchit, 02-250-7800. www.hydrohealth.co.th) for their Liver Flush treatment package. 24 sessions costs you B62,000.
The natural way: Drink fresh lime juice mixed with warm water every morning and stop drinking so much. Avoid fatty foods, too.

Skin Detoxification

Why you need it: Baking in the sun during that weekend in Chiang Mai and hanging out at beer parks with all that Bangkok pollution has taken a toll on your normlly flawless skin.
The claim: Simply washing with water and soap leaves some chemicals and toxins behind. A detox will improve your skin’s immune system and overall glow.
What it’s like: It’s not unlike a scrub, which has the added bonus of stimulating your lymphatic system.
Where: Go to S Medical Spa (2/2 Bhakdi Building, Wireless Rd., Lumpini, 02-253-1010. www.smedspa.com) and ask for their five-star Golden Silk Scrub treatment (B2,351) or a Half-Day Purification (B6,000).
The natural way: Mix pure tamarind juice with turmeric powder and a little bit of water. Make sure the ingredients are not too watery, then apply the mixture onto your skin and start scrubbing gently with a loofah. After 15 minutes, apply plain yogurt onto your skin and give yourself a little massage. Leave for 10 minutes then take a cold shower.

Hair Detoxification

Who needs it: You’ve been out in the sun and sea, and coating your tresses in products for fancy hairdos for New Year parties. Now your hair is a sad mess.
The claim: Every time you apply creams, shampoos and conditioners to your hair—not to mention perming and coloring—you’re causing a toxic buildup of chemicals.
What it’s like: Getting your hair washed out several times with hair detox products imported from Germany. The treatment finishes with some creams and leaves your hair with a touch of silk.
Where: Head to Salon de Bkk (2/F, Emporium, 02-664-8880. www.salondebkk.com) and ask for their hair detox program, starting B3,000.
The natural way: Mix plain yogurt and little amount of olive oil together, then apply the mixture onto your hair. Give it a little massage and leave for 30 minutes or more for absorbtion. Wash it off by doing your normal shampooing routine.

After the haze of boozing, partying and feasting has subsided a little, we often find ourselves wishing we hadn’t eaten quite as much as we did (although it always seems like a good idea at the time). This year, we decided to seek out a few wholesome alternatives to get us back on track. We can’t promise that they’ll help you detox or lose weight (we reckon it’s going to take a lot more than that), but these places should at least help you in the right direction.

The Diet Butler
#02-07, 10 Winstedt Rd., 6733-3250.
The brainchild of Owen Chong, this tidy little café opened late last year. Owen champions the philosophy that healthy food can still be tasty, and their menu certainly affirms that. They even have a nutrition consultant, Derrick Ong, on board. Of their salads, the blue cheese, pear and walnut ($9) and mango, sautéed shrimp and cherry tomatoes with couscous ($12) get our vote. The carrot, potato and leek soup ($6) is also a satisfying belly-warmer. For those desiring something more substantial, the oven roasted pork loin with turnips and pineapples in homemade apple sauce ($12), grilled dory with herb and lime butter (also $12) and risotto with basil, spinach, and scallops ($18) make for a filling meal that doesn’t leave you feeling uncomfortably full after. As an added bonus, they also do deliveries (for a nominal fee), so you can get their grub sent right to your doorstep.

The Green Bar
#01-16/17 Hitachi Towers, 16 Collyer Quay, 6493-6948. 
When we first discovered The Green Bar, we knew they’d be a success with their truly scrumptious salads and convenient location in the CBD. While salads aren’t the only option when you want to eat healthy, this place does a great job of convincing you to look no further. Owner Ca-ryn Lim ensures that your greens are cold, crisp and fresh, with a generous serving of toppings and dressed to impress. One of their more recent additions, Wicked Strawberry ($12.90), has really taken our fancy, loaded with heaps of strawberries, roast chicken and blue cheese. We stand by Tandoor Tandoor ($10.90)—a heaped bowl of super fresh leaves decorated with juicy chunks of tandoori chicken, cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, roasted potatoes and a divine honey yogurt dressing.

Heart Bistro
#B1-08/09/10C Palais Renaissance, 390 Orchard Rd., 6737-2148.
This is a restaurant for health-conscious individuals who want scrumptious food that doesn’t compromise on taste. The fact that it’s an international menu with Asian influences is refreshing, displayed in dishes such as pickled tea leaves with ripened tomatoes and mung beans ($12), poached seafood in a light spicy lemongrass broth with buckwheat soba ($24) and roasted black cod with wild mushrooms, aged balsamic and apple grape coulis ($28). Other standouts include marinated sashimi poke ($14), sesame-crusted Chilean sea bass with crab bisque ($28) and braised beef cheek ($34). Their range of freshly-squeezed juices (all $7) come in interesting combinations, such as Botox (watermelon, red grapes and mint) Calm-Me-Down (papaya, pineapple and orange) and Detox (red grapes, apples and Chinese pear).

Onaka @ Body With Soul
44 Rochester Park, 6778-0246.
Tucked away in Rochester Park, this laidback café is a great find for health-conscious folks. Onaka, short for Optimum Nutrition and Kitchen Arts, emphasizes the achievement of optimal health through nutrition. We’re still not entirely sold on all that, but we do enjoy their dairy-free smoothies. We recommend the yummy Omega Avocado ($6.50) and antioxidant summer berries power smoothie (also $6.50), a truly gratifying blend of mixed berries, bananas, organic rice milk and seed mix. Or pick from their range of vegetable juices (from $5) such as Morning After (apple, celery and ginger) and Green Peace (green apple, cabbage and celery). Of course, you can’t just rely on a liquid diet. Their low GI (glycemic index) grilled tofu salad ($9.50) is an incredibly substantial option, and tasty to boot. If you’re not in the mood for a salad, the Carribean burger ($9.50) consists of chipotle ketchup and a black bean and brown rice vegetable patty sandwiched between a multigrain bun, served with garbanzo bean mash. They also deliver, so no more excuses.

PiNK Dining & Bar
4 Craig Rd., 6222-5007.
Brought to you by the folks behind PiNK Nutrideli (a food and juice bar for gym-goers in the CBD), this is a more formal eatery that’s governed by the same health-conscious philosophy as that of their original eatery. We recommend Vietnamese rolls ($3.95), with fresh prawns and chilled crunchy carrots and lettuce, and particularly the oven baked white dory ($12.90), salad and rice included. The entire dish’s caloric count comes in at a mere 394. The brown rice is a dream, interspersed with briny olive bits; we could eat mountains of the stuff. The roasted chicken with shrooms and pepper sauce ($9.90) is also a winner. For those with a sweet tooth and a staunch refusal to give up desserts, they even have several low-fat and low-sugar choices such as a butterless & flourless brownie ($4.95). And if you feel even a twinge of guilt, you can hang about for a spot of salsa dancing every Monday and Wednesday night.

Super Secret Weapon
To start your day on exactly the right note, we recommend LINS Smoodees’ blended drinks, particularly Popeye and Peter Pan (made from 30-60gm and 60-90gm of greens respectively). These dairy-free smoothies are blended with organic leafy vegetables, fruits and filtered alkaline water, and can be delivered to your home or office every morning (from $7.90). Call 9007-8233 or log on to linssmoodees.com for details.

Admiralty Park Riverside Rd., 1800-471-7300.

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve 177 Hindhede Dr., 6471-7361.

Dairy Farm Nature Park 100 Dairy Farm Rd., 1800-471-7300.

Punggol Park Junction of Hougang Ave. 8 & 10, 1800-471-7300.

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve 301 Neo Tiew Crescent, 6794-1401.

Zhenghua Park Bounded by Bukit Timah Expressway (BKE), the BKE slip road to Kranji Expressway (KJE) and Dairy Farm Rd., 1800-471-7300.

Throw a stone in any direction these days and it’s bound to hit someone holding a smart-phone—they’re a dime a dozen and for good reason. In fact, some of this year’s developments have made carrying around a computer (even a light-as-a-feather netbook) practically obsolete. Here are five of the sexiest and most desirable on the market.

1. Motorola Defy (BEST VALUE)
At a glance
OS: Android 2.1
Processor: 800MHz 
Screen: 3.7-inch, 480 x 854 TFT capacitive touch screen
Camera: 5 megapixel, autofocus with LED flash
When American communications giant Motorola unveiled the Milestone (or the Droid in the US), the digerati gave it the thumbs up as a worthy rival to the iPhone. Since then, the maker has been rolling out an army of Android-powered phones such as the BackFlip, FlipOut, Charm and the newly-arrived Defy. Touted as one of the toughest smartphones ever built, Defy boasts a Corning Gorilla glass scratchproof 3.7” screen as well as a water and dust resistant body, all designed to withstand the rigors of everyday life. Although its Android 2.1 is a slight disappointment, Motorola has made up for it by bundling Swype as well as advanced MOTOBLUR for easy setup and access to social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter in the interface. The cool Swype function is a new way to type text on the phone. All you need to do is swipe across the letters to form your words, and once you get the hang of it you can enter text very, very fast indeed. $528

2. Nokia N8 (BEST FOR PICS)
At a glance
OS: Symbian 3
Processor: 680MHZ wth 3D graphics accelerator
Screen: 3.5-inch, 640x360 AMOLED capacitive touch screen
Camera: 12 megapixels, autofocus, xenon Flash
Mobile phone powerhouse Nokia seems to be getting back on track in the smart-phone game with its latest flagship, the N8. A sleek and stylish device, it boasts the recently launched Symbian 3 OS and features access to several webTV networks. The 12-meg sensor, Carl Zeiss lens, mechanical shutter and xenon flash make it easily the best camera of the lot. Not to mention the super fast web browser, which includes Flash video playback. Our only gripe is that there’s no QWERTY keyboard in portrait mode. Other than that, the N8 is a valiant effort from the Finnish phone-maker and definitely its best high-end smart-phone to date. $785

3. LG Optimus 7
At a glance
OS: Windows Phone 7
Processor: 1GHz
Screen: 3.8-inch, 800x480 WVGA LCD capacitive touchscreen
Camera: 5 megapixels
It may not have an AMOLED screen or QWERTY keyboard but LG’s newly-arrived Optimus 7, powered by the born-again Windows Phone 7, makes it a worthy contender against iOS and Android phones. Boasting a 3.8-inch LCD touch screen, one of the biggest so far, the 1GHz is one super responsive handset. What we like most about the Optimus 7 are its in-built apps such as ScanSearch, an augmented-reality app that lets you view real-time information as you’re shopping, dining, or just walking around a new neighborhood. There’s also voice-to-text, which adds a voice control interface to functions like updating Facebook and Twitter or composing emails. All of these new apps are available as “Live Tiles” on Windows Phone 7. Gaming geeks will love the Xbox Live integration that lets this phone transform into a formidable gaming platform with titles such as The Sims 3, Bejeweled, Flight Control and many more to come. $888

4. Blackberry Torch 9800 (BEST FOR TEXT)
At a glance
OS: BlackBerry OS6
Processor: 624MHz
Screen: 3.2-inch, 480x360 capacitive touch screen
Camera: 5 megapixels, autofocus, LED flash
Globetrotting execs’ hearts were all aflutter when Research in Motion unveiled its latest baby, the Torch. Combining its always on-point QWERTY keyboards with a generous touch-screen sitting up top, the Torch is one of the coolest slider phones. Although the silhouette is a bit chunkier than the classic BB, the Torch is amply equipped to both satisfy loyalists and win new fans. The new Blackberry OS6 offers some necessary and welcome additions, including a better webkit-powered browser, an enhanced multimedia experience and an improved user interface, as well as a 5-megapixel camera with autofocus, 2X zoom, and an LED flash. The 3.2-inch touch screen is quick and responsive and its accelerometer is one of the better ones we’ve tested. And what’s a BB without the push email? The Torch can sync with your company’s BlackBerry Enterprise Server (BES), with support for Microsoft Exchange, IBM Lotus Domino, or Novell GroupWise, to deliver corporate email in real time.
$598 (with two-year contract from Starhub)

5. Apple iPhone 4 (I-S PICK)
At a glance
OS: iOS 4
Processor: 1GHz
Screen: 3.5-inch, 960x640, capacitive touch screen
Camera: 5 megapixels
With the iPhone 4, Steve Jobs and Co. show us once again why they’re the market leaders. The iPhone 4 is the biggest update since the 3G—notably with the new iOS 4. The engineers and industrial designers back at Cupertino worked overtime to bring us a sleek and tough gadget that boasts a slate of new and improved features such as FaceTime, Multitasking and two cameras (one front-facing VGA and a five megapixel shooter on the back). Like its predecessor, the iPhone 4 has a 3.5-inch display. But the new phone’s screen doubles the resolution to 960-by-640-pixel IPS. At 326 pixels per inch, this is the highest resolution available on a phone to date. We hate being so predictable, but the iPhone 4’s combination of gorgeous new hardware, that amazing display, upgraded cameras, and major improvements to the operating system make it, for now at least, the handset to beat, and a must-have for anyone still using the 3G (even those on the 3GS have some thinking to do).
$888 (16GB); $1,048 (32GB)

Essentials
With the exception of the Blackberry Torch (only available through Starhub), all of these phones can be purchased from any of the retailers below.

• M1 Shop, #B1-28/29 Paragon, 290 Orchard Rd., 1623
• Singtel Hello, #B2-12 Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd., 6235-1688
• Starhub Shop, #01-36 Plaza Singapura, 68 Orchard Rd., 6873-2828

1. Art Stage Singapore
One of the most highly-anticipated art exhibitions this year (yes, even more so than the Singapore Biennale), Art Stage Singapore at the Marina Bay Sands (Jan 12-16) promises glamour, style and all the jazz missing in the local art scene to date, featuring works by art icons like Ai Weiwei, Andy Warhol, David LaChapelle, Takashi Murakami and Cai Guoqiang. Terry Ong gets the scoop from fair director Lorenzo Rudolf, who previously helmed Art Basel Miami Beach.

You’ve done some pretty big shows in the past—how does that prepare you for something like Art Stage?
During my tenure for Art Basel, the fair had transformed from what had been a normal trade show into the template of what art fairs are today—which include sponsorships, special marketing initiatives targeted at VIPs and of course lots of glitz and glamour with social events built around the fair. With globalization, the art world has become part of a lifestyle. Art Stage Singapore is a forward continuation of my work in Basel. Our goal is to build up Art Stage in the next five years to be the leading art fair in Asia and one of the most important events worldwide. It will be a show which puts the art in a context. The main criteria will not only be trends and easy saleability. Art Stage Singapore shows the art in an Asia Pacific context, by presenting interesting and stunning artistic positions and galleries from all over the region and supporting the best Asia Pacific emerging galleries.

So it’s about visibility and engagement…
It will be Asia’s meeting point and get-together of the art world. In Europe and America, most of the top collectors know each other. Whereas in Asia, the collectors only know about each other and look for opportunities to meet and to exchange. With the support of the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and the Singapore Economic Development Board (SECB), we have built up a special matchmaking program bringing to Singapore the Asian collectors. Many of the top Asian collectors are also involved in the big museum exhibition—as well as collectors and art lovers from the West, Asian and international curators and professionals, Asian and international media, as well as potential wealthy Asian buyers. This matchmaking program is supported by an exclusive VIP program that we have in place. In fact, this is the first time leading agencies like STB and SECB have come together to create a special task force in support of a major project with one future goal: A contemporary art week comparable to Formula One!

2. Men’s Fashion Week

In what promises to be one of the most inspiring runway shows in town, the inaugural Men’s Fashion Week taking place Mar 30-Apr 3, spearheaded by entrepreneur Dr. Frank Cintamani (who is also the group publisher of Beaumont Publishing and head of global philanthropy at charity organization Celton) is a welcome addition to the predominantly women-centric fashion shows in town. Terry Ong chats with the man in charge.

Why Men’s Fashion Week?
I think the scene is ripe for this. I’ve noticed that there’s a massive gap in terms of what the fashion scene here has to offer for men although, in terms of fashion expenditures, we’ve been spending a lot! There’re also been a slew of new men’s labels which are opening on our shores like Dior Homme ... and the city certainly has all the infrastructure in place. But at the same time, it’s not just about fashion as Men’s Fashion Week will also highlight other lifestyle aspects such as watches, automobiles, accessories and grooming.

What can we expect?
I love fashion and I’ve always travelled the globe to catch seasonal shows in Paris and Milan. It is so ridiculous that Asia doesn’t have a leading fashion festival yet to call its own, especially a male-centric one—did you know that we’ll be the only city in the world to have a dedicated men’s fashion week after Paris and Milan? So on a personal basis, I would like to have some major labels in the shows. But at the same time, as we’re a part of Asia, I’d also like to showcase some Asian labels including those from Thailand and Japan as well as upcoming local designers.

How confident are you that the festival will take off?
To quote a line from the film Field of Dreams starring Kevin Costner about a son who was summoned by the ghost of his father to build a baseball field from scratch: “If you build it; they will come.”

3. Martin No. 38
From the team that brought us restaurants Kha and Graze comes new boutique fitness center and restaurant Martin No. 38, expected to open in February at 38 Martin Road (off River Valley Road). This two-in-one joint—part of an exclusive loft-style residential development—offers modern New Zealand cuisine by chef Jason Dell under the Graze umbrella as well as state-of-the-art gym equipment perfect for busy professionals—a bit like what Madonna’s doing with her new gym Hard Candy in Mexico.

4. Pangaea
Looking to rub shoulders with famous celebrities, industry moguls and the who’s who of the entertainment industry? Then welcome to Pangaea. Having hosted the likes of Cameron Diaz, Kate Moss and Giselle Bundchen elsewhere in the world, the American clubbing concept has Singapore partygoers abuzz with ancticipation. Slated to open as early as April and no later than June, it will take up the first floor of the Crystal Pavillion at Marina Bay Sands. Zul Andra talks to group principal and founder Michael Ault about his latest venture.

How will Pangaea change Singapore’s nightlife culture?
To be honest, anytime you have an industry where somebody comes in that does things very differently, one of two things can happen: It can either be embraced and usually duplicated; or it won’t be embraced and the concept morphes toward conformity. We have been in a lot of other markets and we’ve often been in places where people said that we wouldn’t last very long. But people have really embraced Pangaea; to the point where it has become a legendary brand.

In what way is Pangaea different?
Pangaea Singapore will be a very different experience from anything we ever had in the US, London or even anywhere else; and I think it will be very different from everything here. It’s just that our psychology and philosophy are completely different. We want to foster a completely different atmosphere because that’s where our orientation is, towards excitement, service and comfort. You are not just some person in my club, we are in your club; this isn’t just your table, this is your fantasy living room.

Can you elaborate on the “Pangaea experience”?
Nights are choreographed much in the way that a show would be thought of, except that the show is you. So it is our job to get you into it. We are going to start you off in a sort of cocktail circuit and bouncing around meeting people from table to table; and as we slowly reel you in with more alcohol, staff will get to know you and as you meet more people around you, you will start to feel more comfortable and slowly forget your daily stresses. After which we will ramp it up ... but we don’t do it by just turning the music up because that’s what most of the clubs do. The whole staff is part of that orchestration which also means that it is going to be a complicated training challenge.

5. The General Election
Unless something unforeseen happens, the next 12 months will surely witness a General Election (GE). The main bugbear with GEs in recent years has been large sections of the population not getting to vote because of electoral walkovers (the majority of constituencies are Group Representation Constituencies (GRC) contested by teams; the opposition, because of their smaller resources, tend not stand in most GRCs). Other issues expected to be at the fore this time around are the rise of inflation, wage stagnation and an influx of foreigners, among a host of others. Secretary-General of the Singapore Democratic Party Dr. Chee Soon Juan previews the GE and assesses the opposition’s chances with Ramesh William.

Do you foresee an election being called in the first or second half of this year?
We suspect that the next GE will be held in the first half of 2011. When the elections are held is not as significant as when the electoral boundaries are announced and the amount of time given for the campaign period. The ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) always announces the boundaries very late and makes the campaign period extremely short (nine days), making it very difficult for the opposition to conduct a proper campaign.

What are some of the challenges facing your party as it prepares for the next GE?
The biggest obstacle we face is the continued censorship of the mass media. Singapore Press Holdings and MediaCorp are controlled by the PAP and this makes disseminating our news and views very difficult. We urge Singaporeans to visit our website (yoursdp.org) so that we don’t have to depend on the mass media for news and they can read for themselves our alternative proposals for Singapore.

What’s the feedback you’ve been getting from residents on the ground in the various constituencies that you intend to contest in?
Singaporeans are very angry and frustrated by PAP policies especially the economic ones that push up the cost of living while suppressing wages. People are also disenchanted with an immigration policy that indiscriminately takes in foreigners who compete unfairly with Singaporeans for jobs. As a result, they welcome us warmly when they see us during our walkabouts and house visits.

And finally, in your opinion, what is the most pressing issue faced by Singaporeans today?
As mentioned above, the runaway cost of living coupled by the stagnation of the real income is the biggest issue among Singaporeans. The flood of foreign workers is another pressing issue that the electorate faces today. The third issue is the HDB flat prices which have become too expensive for young couples to afford.

6. Laneway Festival

The names read like a hipster’s wet dream: Deerhunter, The Temper Trap, Foals, Beach House, Yeasayer … all of whom will be performing at the inaugural Laneway Festival come Jan 29. Since it began in a small laneway in inner-city Melbourne in 2004, the St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival has grown to be a highlight event for music lovers around Australia. The festival prides itself on its “diverse, forward-thinking line-ups full of vital, surprising bands” as well as consistently delivering “boundary-pushing acts.” Zaki Jufri spoke to co-founder Danny Rogers about what’s in store.

What’s the musical concept for the Singapore edition of Laneway?
I’m confident to say that every one of the bands we have lined up is an incredible live act, each with their own unique sound. Most of them have built a loyal following all over the world. I would look at Laneway as a high end meal at a five-star restaurant. The acts are really high quality and I’m sure that there will be appreciative people out there who will go “wow.”

How did you guys manage to secure so many artistes for this festival?
Fans will be happy to know that all these artistes really wanted to come to Singapore. When we first started talking about the Singapore date, the artistes specifically said that they will only perform at the Australian Laneway if they get to play at the Singapore one as well. Singapore is highly regarded and a much-sought after place to perform in the artiste community especially those from the US and Australia, so for them to find out that Singapore is on the Laneway calendar … naturally they will jump at it.

2011 is looking like a great year for concerts in Singapore. We have lots of big acts coming through, including Iron Maiden, Eric Clapton, Deftones, Santana and The National just in the first quarter of the year. Any thoughts on this?
There are a lot of big events in the market in Australasia at this time of year. Singapore is right smack in the middle of the Japan-HK-Australia circuit so it’s convenient for artistes to fly around. There’s also a big cultural shift as a lot of artistes now know the importance of the Asian market and building a fan base especially in Singapore. And lastly, there are now really good promoters out there who will pay for putting on shows in this region. It’s possible that this will have a negative impact for artistes as sales will go down because there’s just too much volume. I guess the cream will just have to rise to the top.

7. Avalon
Come mid 2011, Hollywood celebrities’ club of choice Avalon will open its doors in Singapore, its first international outlet after Hollywood. The club will occupy the second level of the floating Crystal Pavilion at the Marina Bay Sands, and feature a cutting edge sound and audio system by critically acclaimed John Lyons Systems. And if last year’s two-day Avalon Go! music festival (which featured the likes of Steve Aoki, Above & Beyond and The Chemical Brothers) was anything to go by, the club’s founder Steve Adelman is happy bouncing between radio-loving kids and more discerning club-goers. “Travelling in Asia showed how Singapore really had an appetite for development and new, creative ideas,” he says. “It actually became a no brainer when the opportunity to get involved with the Marina Bay Sands presented itself.”

8. ArtScience Museum
The Marina Bay integrated resorts development will finally be complete after the ArtScience Museum opens Feb 17. Hidayah Salamat talks to museum director Tom Zallee about what this stunning piece of architecture has to offer Singapore.

What does the lotus-shaped structure symbolize?
Fondly referred to as “The Welcoming Hand of Singapore” by chairman and chief executive Officer of Las Vegas Sands Corp. Sheldon G. Adelson, the ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands features 10 “fingers” anchored by a unique round base in the middle. The design of each finger reveals different gallery spaces featuring skylights at the “fingertips” that illuminate the dramatically curved interior walls. The building is itself an expression of ArtScience, with its form being an aesthetic result of mathematical laws.

How will the museum contribute to Singapore’s cultural landscape?
Singapore is already fast becoming the exchange capital of the world in finance, culture and knowledge. With the ArtScience Museum, we will deliver an internationally renowned forum for the exchange of the latest creative ideas and theories. It is the first of its kind in the world and its exhibits explore the creativity which fuels art and science. Visitors from all walks of life will have the opportunity to embark on a journey inside the creative process, question nature’s wisdom, unleash their own ideas, and express their imagination. Our goal is to create a museum-going class in Singapore, and a museum that is approachable, welcoming and friendly ... the city’s new great cultural symbol!

Will the museum feature any local works?
We have lined up two years’ worth of programming comprising major exhibitions with local shows layered in. It’s the objective of the museum to foster a creative class in Singapore, and to that end there will be opportunities and activities to work with talent, schools and institutions here and around the region.

9. Changi MotorSport Hub
Come the end of the year, the F1 circuit will not be the only place where you can experience the screeching of tires and the smell of burnt rubber. Construction of the upcoming Changi MotorSport Hub (along Aviation Park Road, right by the water) will be complete and petrol-heads and racing fans will then have another place for some high-octane action. The 3.7 kilometre-long FIA Grade 2 Track also promises to be more than just a venue for professional races and drivers in training. There will be an entertainment complex, a motorsports museum and an exhibition center. Other options include food and beverage outlets, as well as motor-themed retail shops.

10. Asian Masters 2011
This brand spanking new gourmet, culture and lifestyle festival which kicked off on Jan 3 is a fine way to start the year with a bang. (There’ll also be another edition later in the year.) Presented by American Express, the lineup of culinary wizards from around the region includes Otto Weibel, Chung Manh Cuong and Lucas Glanville. Highlights include an Asian barbeque with Bobby Chinn (Jan 27) and Justin Quek’s Asian-inspired dinner (Jan 17-18). Jalean Wong chatted with Francis Poulose (of organizers Sphere Exhibits) to find out more.

What inspired the inaugural Asian Masters?
Asian Masters was conceptualized as a lifestyle platform to feature the rising culinary talents of Asia. The inspiration really came from the many talents that Asia’s increasingly acclaimed restaurants, chefs, personalities and products have individually showcased. In essence, the event aims to bring together the best of Asia and celebrate it holistically—cuisine, lifestyle and culture. And the time is right. The overall F&B scene in Asia has never been more vibrant with cities such as Tokyo making its mark on the global map with the honor of being awarded the most Michelin star-rated restaurants. We have also seen how Asia has led the economic recovery in recent, which has in turn contributed to rising demand for quality F&B offerings such as service, food and dining experience, raising the bar in the overall quality and vibrancy of F&B in Asia.

What was the process behind deciding on the choice and organization of talents and events?
There was a clear intention of evolving Asian Masters into a recurring bi-annual event that would make its mark on the calendar of Singapore’s culinary and lifestyle scenes. As such, there were certainly key talents, personalities and partners that we knew we should approach.

How will the instalment in November vary from this one?
In gearing up towards November, we plan to have more visiting guest chefs and increase the overall lifestyle component such as fashion and the performing arts within the event.

11. H&M
It’s finally here. Scheduled to open in Fall (that’s fashion speak for the months of August and September, darlings), Spanish high street giant H&M will take over the space currently occupied by California Fitness Centre in Orchard Building. If the previous stampedes in Hong Kong and China are anything to go by, expect mass hysteria when the special collaboration pieces with well-known international labels like Lanvin make their debut.

The Subs Bench
OK, so there’s more than 11 ...

Sentosa Boardwalk
Opening on Jan 29, this 700m, $70m footbridge from VivoCity offers an all new way to get to the beach. Boasting themed gardens, F&B options and even a lookout point, it’s certainly a damn sight cheaper than the cablecar.

iFly Singapore
Always wondered what freefalling feels like but never had the chance to try it? iFly Singapore, which will open in Sentosa some time in the first quarter over the year, simulates the skydiving experience through a vertical wind tunnel which recreates a freefall. Plus, it’s cheaper and safer than the real thing.

The Maritime Experiential Museum
The Maritime Experiential Museum scheduled to open mid-year at Resorts World Sentosa charts the 1,100 years of Singapore’s key position on the Maritime Silk Route connecting China with India, the Middle East and Europe. The center piece of the Museum is a 360-degree multimedia theater which will recreate a voyage between Singapore and Arabia in the 9th century.

Wu, Hu
Before the opening of the River Safari in 2012, two cute and cuddly pandas, named Hu Bao and Wu Jie, will arrive in August. These furry ambassadors are on loan from China for 10 years and will probably end up as major attractions at the Singapore Zoo before the safari’s completion.

New Circle Line MRT Stations
With the meteoric rise in COE and fuel prices, we can’t help but be thankful that the additional Circle Line stations set to open this year—including Caldecott (great for MacRitchie), the Botanic Gardens, Holland V, Kent Ridge and Labrador Park—will ensure that places that were previously a right pain in the ass to travel to without a car are a mere train ride away.