1. You’re a beginner to this stuff so don’t opt for the 8-man canvas mansion with bar and flushing toilet. Keep things small and simple with this tent for two from Karana. B2,100 from Equinox.

2. Don’t forget your Spork. That’s a spoon-cum-fork-cum-knife to you and me, and it comes in several colors (B100 each) or even a glow-in-the-dark option (B450). From Outdoor Unlimited.

3. Need to photograph yourself to prove you’re really out there roughing it alone? Get this kooky mini camera stand from Quirk. B599 from Gadgetrend.

4. You probably don’t know this but it gets light really early in the morning outside. Get your full beauty sleep with these eye shades. B79 each from Zeen Zone.

5. Strap on this khaki backpack for a rugged outdoor look. B1,290 from Muji

6. It can get hot out in the real world, so keep this cute little fan on hand. B150 from Zeen Zone.

7. If you want to make sure you keep hydrated, the filter on the Nano pH Filter water bottle (B2,100) makes tap water drinkable. But if you’re lost in the jungle then opt for this Life Straw (B790), which lets you suck water directly from rivers or ponds with its special filter. Both from Equinox.

8. Keep all your pre-packed sandwiches safe in this small set of lunch boxes (B900/set) in pretty colors, too. All from Pro Cam-Fis.

9. If you can’t do it with your teeth then a bottle opener is always needed. Get this colorful parrot to fit your natural surroundings. B295 from Zeen Zone.

10. Travel a little lighter by portioning your toiletry amenities into these small vials. B135 from Zeen Zone.

11. Power and the sockets needed to charge up all your precious gadgets are at a minimum out here which is where this charger hub from Blue Lounge comes in handy. Small B2,990, large B4,500 from Gadgetrend.

12. Let there be light in the darkness and no batteries required with a mini LED crank torch & lamp by Karana. B399 from Equinox

Essentials

Equinox, Gadgetrend, Pro Cam-Fis. Amarin Outdoor Unlimited, Amarin Plaza, 2/F, 02-256-9118. BTS Chit Lom. www.amarinplaza.com
Muji. 3/F, Central Chidlom, Ploenchit Rd., 02-793-7777. BTS Chit Lom.
Zeen Zone. 7/F, Central Chidlom, Ploenchit Rd., 02-793-7777. BTS Chit Lom

Toyota Prius

Buzz: Thailand makes its own Toyota Camry Hybrid but tree-huggers are still holding their breath for the arrival of Toyota’s very original hybrid car, the Prius. Officially launched last month, this is the third generation of the Prius, which comes with a bigger engine (1.8-liter instead of 1.6) and a more aerodynamic design.
Type: 5-door sedan
Highlight: The best Toyota hybrid car so far is pretty sporty despite its green street cred.
Best for: Eco-friendly drivers who put in enough kilometers to justify the higher price but smaller fuel consumption.
Price: B1,190,000-1,270,000

Volvo S60

Buzz: The 2011 version of Volvo S60 actually first appeared during the October fashion shows. The point? This car offers modern European elegance and aims to compete with BMW and Mercedes.
Type: 4-door sedan
Highlight: The pedestrian detection with auto break system that stops the car automatically. Too bad it failed during a demonstration in Sweden early this year and the video went viral.
Best for: Executives typing on their BB while driving.
Price: B2,990,000

Chery A1

Buzz: If price is your first priority and you don’t mind driving a Chinese car, Chery is the cheapest of the bunch and actually sports a rather cute look for a small city car.
Type: 5-door hatchback
Highlight: At this price, don’t expect any highlights other than the price tag.
Best for: A couple or family needing a second car.
Price: from B398,000

Chevrolet Cruze

Buzz: First launched in the USA early this year, the Cruze will be replacing Optra in Chevrolet’s compact-sedan car category. The engine is more economical to fit America’s depressed economy but the bold exterior and sporty interior fittings should lift your mood.
Type: 4-door sedan
Highlight: The interior is pretty luxurious for this category
Best for: Those who want an American car but know that a compact Japanese car is the reasonable thing to get.
Price: B729,000-1,149,000

Citroen DS3

Buzz: A year after its introduction in Europe, the DS3 finally drives into. The car is segmented in the same class as Mini One so you can expect sporty designs and flashy colors that come with a sport 1.6cc engine.
Type: 3-door hatchback
Highlight: The French design is pretty exotic here—although in France, Citroen is closer to Chery than to Mini.
Best for: Hipsters who think even the Fiat is too mainstream.
Price: B1,490,000

Minor Revamps

Ford Focus

After introducing the all-new Fiesta, Ford performs a minor revamp of their long-running Focus. B809,000-1,169,000

Honda Accord

We’re still waiting for the new all-new Accord that just launched in the USA but this tweak does offer better fuel efficiency for those who just can’t wait. B1,265,000-2,940,000

Essentials

The 27th Thailand International Motor Expo runs through Dec 12 at IMPACT Challenger 2, Muang Thong Thani.

Go ahead, call us cheesy, unoriginal saps if you will, but some of our happiest moments involve Christmas dinners at home, with all the trimmings and all of the family. So what if you didn’t do all that growing up, it’s never too late to start. So avoid the maddening crowds and just stay in. Embrace the season, turn your AC units on full blast and cheat like we do. These are some of the best places to pick up a bird this year, so you can enjoy all the benefits and none of the hassle.

Café Noël
2/F Fairmont Singapore, 80 Bras Basah Rd., 6339-7777.
With the focus clearly on local flavors, true blue Singaporeans will adore turkey “la Peranakan” ($280)—a whole boneless bird filled with spiced-buah keluak pork and chestnuts, sauced with natural turkey jus infused with kaffir lime leaves. Take a “flight of fancy” with a whopping 5 kg deconstructed interpretation ($480); there’s black truffle-scented leg confit, herb-crusted roulade of Iberico ham and turkey breast, roasted leg stuffed with marron glace puree and slow-cooked turkey breast hiding champagne duxelles. Or dare to be different with a three kilo “goose of the Orient” ($480)—a boneless, oven-baked goose treasure trove of glutinous rice, truffles, conpoy, dried dates and figs, finished with a black truffle reduction. Grab one of these beauts now through Dec 26.

The Deli
G/F Goodwood Park Hotel, 22 Scotts Rd., 6730-1786.
It’s always refreshing when chefs attempt to reinvent classics, especially so when they do it well. For a different take on turkey, try the baked boneless turkey stuffed with thick and springy Shanghai noodles that have been wok-fried with strips of tender pork and cabbage ($128). Or opt for the Hainanese rendition that’s been poached in a chicken broth infused with garlic, ginger, pandan leaves and spring onions ($188) and served with 12 fragrant Hainanese-style chicken rice
balls. Porcine pleasures await in the form of BBQ Sichuan pork shoulder skewers ($48 for a dozen) and Canadian pork belly confit ($108) that’s been marinaded for eight hours, then baked for 16 and finally seared with thyme, rosemary and garlic, served with sweet braised cabbage. We reckon the local Christmas combo ($260) of Hainanese turkey, Sichuan BBQ pork skewers, D24 durian log cake and a “create your own gingerbread Christmas tree” is a fab deal (from now through Dec 26).

Stellar at 1-Altitude
62/F One Raffles Place, OUB Centre, 1 Raffles Place, 6438-0410.
With the 1-Rochester Group having brought us Roast, Coast and 1 Caramel, you can be sure that the offerings will be delish. And with executive chef Christopher Millar holding tightly onto the reins, you can happily pretend these classics are your own labors of love. We promise we won’t tell, so long as you grease our empty palms a little. Don’t leave without a roast turkey with cranberry and pear relish ($120), honey and whole grain mustard-glazed ham on the bone ($240) and herb and horseradish-crusted roast prime rib ($450 for six kg). Or if you’d prefer something a wee bit smaller, how about roast baby chickens wrapped in prosciutto and stuffed with figs ($18 each, min. order of six)? They’re available from now through Dec 24, so grab yourself a bird that you can proudly bring home to meet the rents.

Yule Market
Get into the spirit of things with The Pantry’s Yule Market at Loewen Gardens (75E Loewen Rd., 6474-0441) on Dec 11. There will be everything from mulled wine to Christmas puddings and cakes, fresh vegetables and chutneys and wines and beers from 8.30am-2pm.

Samsung NX100

• Its body has the perfect shape and size to fit snugly in your hand. The Sony is designed for the hand of a six-year-old.
• All the manual knobs and controls of a serious camera. The Sony offering is more like a cheap compact’s.
• An intuitive interface that makes good use of the aforementioned controls. The NEX-5 interface is the most poorly designed we’ve seen in ages.\

$949 from Best Denki, #05-01/05 Takashimaya Shopping Centre, 391 Orchard Rd., 6835-2855.
 

Sony NEX-5

• Compatibility with a wide range of lenses from Sony and Minolta. Samsung’s range is very limited.
• Comes with a fiddly external flash you have to screw in. The Samsung doesn’t even have a flash but it does have a standard flash bracket if you want to add one.
• Better low-light shooting capacity thanks to its optical stabilizer and slightly higher max ISO, plus better white balance.

$1,199 from Sony Style, #04-36/37/38 Paragon, 290 Orchard Rd., 6738-7970.

Verdict: The Sony comes out on top in just about every department except handling. Unfortunately, these marginal wins can’t make up for its catastrophic controls: Think Ferrari engine in a Yaris. The Samsung, on the other hand, retains all the controls of a classic camera, so that enthusiasts will get big single-lens reflex sensations (and results) without the bulk. Throw in a 30mm f/2 lens and the Samsung NX100 could be the coolest mirrorless camera since the Leica.

December’s great (what’s not to love about festive feasts, week-long partying and year-end sales) except for one thing—the rain. There’s only so much cuddling you can do (especially when we don’t have fireplaces in Singapore) so why not check out some of the alternative sports action on offer. We round up the best places to work up a sweat without getting drenched.

Combat Skirmish Singapore
What it is: Launched in 2005, combat skirmish is a cross between indoor laser tag and paintball. You’ll be scurrying about dodging laser “bullets” and won’t feel any pain when someone shoots you “dead”—a bit like going to war in the cyber universe. Because the game uses mostly infra-red technology, you can opt to play it elsewhere, like in the deep cresses of the jungle or even in your own backyard. We recommend making an office team-building effort out of it. There are attractive corporate packages available and it’ll be a good excuse to gun down your colleagues.
Great for: Fans of wireless LAN games like Counterstrike or Battlefield 1942.
How much: $30-33 per person for two missions (approximately one hour.
Where: Hong Leong Shopping Centre, 164 West Coast Way, 6779-1031. These guys are mobile so give them a call before you head over.

iFly Singapore
What it is: Set to open this month, iFly is the world’s largest skydiving simulator, offering professional training and on-site guidance from certified instructors, free rental of actual skydiving gear and a bona fide flying experience at one-tenth of the cost of a tandem jump. It also overlooks the vast South China Sea, making the experience seem even more authentic. We especially like that this 25 million dollar venue even facilitates four or eight-way formation skydiving—go team!
Great for: Its professional, state-of-the-art technology ensures a high degree of safety and accommodates all types of fliers, from first-timers to military personnel. Basically, if you yearn to feel like a superhero, you should give this one a shot.
How much: Price not yet available. Use the online enquiry form to ask about packages.
Where: 43 Siloso Beach Walk, www.iflysingapore.com.

Max Swing Indoor Golf
What it is: Don’t let the façade fool you. Beyond the small reception is a virtual world of professional golf. It houses the PGA Golf Simulator, the only one of its kind in Singapore, which is known for its unmatched accuracy, life-like 3D graphics and amazing ability to accurately replicate ball flight. In-house PGA coaches Alan Murray and Garry Overy are also on-hand to help you perfect your swing.
Great for: Great for when you want to hit the golf course but can’t risk being struck by lightning.
How much: $40-80 for a one-hour session.
Where: #04-29/30 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Rd., 6509-0200,
www.maxswing.com.sg.

Snow City
What it is: The rain might take the heat out of the air but nothing beats the winter cold! Snow City consists of an exhilarating 60-meter, three-storey high slope, hot chocolate and ice bars, a polar bear gallery as well as a real log cabin. At the first indoor snow facility in Singapore, you can go skiing, snow tubing, sledding and snowboarding—awesome exercise for those for whom a trip to Hokkaido is a bit of a stretch.
Great for: Anyone who’s been dying for a bit of snow at Christmas.
How much: $16-27 for one to two hours of piste time, including the use of boots and jackets.
Where: 21 Jurong Town Hall Rd., 6560-2306, www.snowcity.com.sg.

Flight Experience
What it is: This state-of-the-art flight simulator modeled after the Boeing 737 enables you to slip into pilot mode, from the moment you plant your feet on the rudder pedals right to your descent into whichever landmark you choose to fly to (they’ve even got the London Bridge and the Sydney Opera House!). Of course, you’ll get a briefing from a flying instructor in advance but you’ll need to maintain a cool head when you’re airborne because you’ll be managing fully-functioning avionics and computers in a replica cockpit with 180-degree wraparound visuals—making this quite possibly the coolest wet weather activity we’ve discovered so far.
Great for: Aviation enthusiasts and even genuine top gun pilots in training—it’s that pro.
How much: Up to $395 for a 90-minute flight. Check out their online booking system, which only adds to the sense that this is a real flight you’re signing up for.
Where: #02-06 Singapore Flyer, 30 Raffles Ave., 6339-2737.

Visit these bowling alleys for a more laidback vibe:

1. Cathay Bowl #02-01 Eastside, 1018 East Coast Parkway, 6444-0118.
2. Classic Bowl #06-01, 100 Jalan Sultan, 6291-6508.
3. Orchid Bowl at E! Hub #01-111 Downtown East, 1 Pasir Ris Close, 6583-1622.
4. Plaza Bowl #08-11 Textile Centre, 200 Jalan Sultan, 6292-4821.
5. Silver Bowl #07-01 Katong Shopping Centre, 6345-4738.
6. Superbowl Marina South 15 Marina Grove, 6221-1010.

FitFlop
Featuring new Crystallized-Swarovski Elements for some added glamour, the Rock Chic is also equipped with a Mircowobbleboard; technology designed to increase muscle activation and reduce shock with every step.
$399.90 at 2/F, Isetan, Wisma Atria, 435 Orchard Rd., 6733-7777.

nuabs
Their latest line of sandals combines street chic with durability thanks to top grain cow hide uppers and water buffalo hide insoles. They’re eco-conscious too, made from 70 percent recycled tyre rubber.
$95.80 at Red Wing Shoe Shop, #02-070 Suntec City Mall, 5 Temasek Blvd., 6337-0088.

Terra Plana
Called the naked shoe for naked people, Dopie from Terra Plana epitomizes the perfect balance of durability and flexibility with a rubber construction that minimizes weight. The single shape sole folds up to protect the toes and includes a single non-abrasive strap for an extremely comfortable fit.
$59.90 at Terra Plana, #02-04 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Rd., 6836-5348.

Sue Comma Bonnie
This eye catching sandal boasts flexible soles and a tri-strap designed with punkish metallic trimmings. If you’re looking for something a little different, this certainly fits the bill.
$490 at On Pedder, #02-12 Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd., 6835-1307.

Deck Towels
What’s a day (or night) at the beach without some towels? Deck Towels’ middle weight linen offering (from $89) doesn’t let sand or odors stick unlike ordinary cotton towels and they are both fast-drying and more absorbent. The best part is that they get softer after every use.
Available at Know it Nothing, 51 Haji Lane, 6392-5475.

DKNY Jeans
The offshoot of Donna Karen’s luxe brand, DKNY Jeans brings a New Yorker street vibe with its sensibility and attitude. But if you’re looking for something suitable for the beach, check out the brand’s Fall/Winter 2010 collection and you might find some hidden gems among its heavier collections. For the ladies, combine your lacy bikinis with a printed floral ruffle skirt ($190) or go sexier with just the printed floral dress ($230). For the guys, the brand’s range of snug cotton T-shirts ($95) are extremely comfortable for dancing the night away.
Available at DKNY Jeans, #01-05/06 Forum, 583 Orchard Rd., 6732-9727.

Gap
Redefining everyday wear, Gap’s stable of tops, pants and dresses are a mainstay in many wardrobes. The brand is known for combining comfort and style whether for work or the great outdoors. Ladies will love the Lorie animal print dress ($79) to bring out that primal party beast in you, while guys should take note of the sturdy and comfortable short sleeve utility shirt ($75), giving them some extra ruggedness in the beach-wear department.
Available at #01-18/23, Wisma Atria, 435 Orchard Rd., 6732-0438.

Rittenhouse
The Australian brand is known for their basic and comfortable line centered around impeccable tailoring and simplistic designs. The “Ink Love” T-shirt dress ($299) with its hand-printed design and classic crew neck is made of ultrafine sheer cotton jersey and is perfect for when things start hotting up.
Available at Inhabit the other store, #02-16 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Rd., 6836-8441.

Sifr Essentials
Singapore menswear label Sifr’s basic line is garnering much-deserved attention. Weighing a mere 110 grams and made of the industry finest pima cotton, their T-shirts ($39, three for $99) are perfect for the beach. Put these on and it’s like you’re wearing nothing at all—trust us, we’ve tried. If you are going for the Cuban-esque look, their 70s throwback button shirt ($139) made of 100 percent Japanese cotton broadcloth and single needle stitching provides a lightweight alternative to the basic tee.
Available at Rockstar: by soon lee, #03-08 Orchard Cineleisure, 8 Grange Rd., 6836-8201 and Know it Nothing, 51 Haji Lane, 6392-5475.

Yumumu
Designed by Singaporean Yu Yilin, Yu,mu,mu is Mandarin for “rain, wood, water” and her collection draws from these natural elements. Each item is available in limited numbers only: Combine the slit vest ($165) or the knit tube ($69) with the brand’s tailored shorts ($99) and turn heads while you frolic down the beach.Available at #P2-30B Parco NextNext, Millenia Walk,
9 Raffles Blvd., 9825-2234.

There are precisely four weeks left of 2010. To start the new year looking and feeling great, you’re going to need to start now. Our twenty eight day regime will rid you of those bags under your eyes, that flab under your arms and the accumulated malaise of the last 11 months. The countdown begins now!

Body Beautiful
This first week is all about training your body so that when obstacles get thrown your way, you won’t be surprised (well, at least not physically).

1. Spring clean your system
If you want to start the year on a clean slate, you’ll need to first rid your body of impurities from the inside out. Try the colon hydrotherapy treatment at Clinic 10 (#09-31 Novena Medical Center, 10 Sinaran Dr., 6336-0504, clinic10.webs.com), which employs enemas to inject water (often mixed with herbal nutrients) into the colon to rinse the body of nasty stuff like toxins, fecal debris and inorganic matter. If having water pumped into your rectum isn’t for you, go the non-invasive route and visit Fabulous Group’s Quantum Detox Foot Spa (#05-03 Orchard Cineleisure, 8 Grange Rd., 6735-5335) which uses water rich in ionized minerals to draw toxins out of the body.

2. Quit smoking
If you’re going to be puffing on “cancer sticks” your whole life, you’re never going to be fully rid of poisons, no matter how many times you stick a tube up your ass. According to the Health Promotion Board, cigarettes contain over 4,000 chemicals including toxic substances that are often found in stuff like rat poison, insecticide and floor cleaners. Do yourself a favor and give the National Quitline Center (1800-438-2000) a call, or make an appointment with the pharmacist at some of Singapore’s listed quit centers like Guardian Health & Beauty (#B1-18/19 Great World City, Patient Care Center, 6235-4037).

3. Work it out
There’s no other way to say it—if you want a hot bod, you’ve got to work for it. Hit one of the city’s newest gym establishments Pure Fitness (3/F Knightsbridge, 270 Orchard Rd., 6100-3813) and work on all your vital areas in their strength training, boxing and free weights zones. If you suffer from a short attention span (or if you just want to be entertained 24/7), get on their cardio equipment equipped with DVD entertainment systems, cable television and personal screens.

4. Practice hot yoga
Yoga on its own is awesome but hot yoga is something else. Not only do the intricate 26 or so poses help promote flexibility and muscle tone, hot yoga also results in excessive sweating, making it a useful means of detoxification. Don’t believe us? Try a class ($43) at Bikram Yoga City Hall (#02-14 Raffles City Shopping Centre, 252 North Bridge Rd., 6339-6639) or go all out with a one-week unlimited pass for beginners ($100).

5. Learn the art of self defense
Firm shoulders, a slim waist and toned legs are all very nice but we highly recommend you train them up for street fighting just in case (you never know with all the slashing cases happening these days). Mixed martial arts has been deemed the most effective in a real life, no-rules situation so go get some expert guidance from the experienced trainers at Evolve MMA (#01-01 Far East Square, 26 China St., 6536-4525), Asia’s biggest martial arts training academy.

6. Jive your way to fitness
We all know dancing can improve stamina and tone up your arms and legs, but to impress at your office Christmas party you’re going to have to bust out all the right moves. If street dancing is your thing, look no further than Recognize! Studios (#05-31 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Rd., 6509-0650) which provides hip hop, B-boying, popping and locking classes ($15-25 per class). If you’re into old classics, consult the lesson schedule at Jitterbugs Swingapore (#B1-08 The Cathay, 2 Handy Rd., 6887-0383) for Lindy Hop, ballet, merengue and four different types of jazz classes.

7. Wax the surface
You know what they say about big projects—it’s all about the presentation. The award-winning Pink Parlour (#03-19/20/22 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Rd., 6100-8266) provides waxing services for your back, arms, legs, chest, bikini area and even the dodgier spots like your butt and upper lip (approximately $12-68 per session). Polish it off with a detoxifying Dead Sea salt scrub ($48 for 20 minutes) or their Smoothie Back Dermabrasion treatment ($88 for 45 minutes) and you’re all set for the next phase of your makeover.

8. Repair and Relax
If you’ve been following our advice in week one closely, you should be feeling slightly better already. Otherwise, well, there’s still time. This week, we concentrate on curing you from the inside out.

9. Opt for traditional healing methods
If you’re aching from all that running on the treadmill or, more likely, from yet another party the night before, chances are you’ll want to run out to the local pharmacy for your usual remedies. Why not try some traditional healing methods instead? They’re mostly organic (minimal or zero use of chemicals) and many claim they work. Acupuncture has been known to relieve aches and pains and cure illnesses such as asthma, heartburn and even infertility. To learn more and book yourself a session ($35-40), call Fong Acupuncture and Medical Hall (#01-270, Blk. 479 Jurong West St. 41, 6563-8619).

10. Vibrate it off
We know that you might not have found the time (or motivation) to hit the gym last week. Well, it’s time to wake up and smell the coffee as you now have only three weeks left to lose those pounds. So, unless you plan on spending every waking hour at the gym, here’s a little quick fix secret: The Power Plate, a vibrating platform from the US that recreates the effects of an hour-long workout but only takes 15 minutes. Go for the complimentary trial session at Power Work Studio (Frankel Estate, 695C East Coast Rd., 6445-0156).

11. Overhaul your face
We’re not usually advocates of plastic surgery but we see nothing wrong in making little tweaks here and there if it boasts your confidence. Check out the impressive range of treatments and services at The Sloane Clinic (#03-18 ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, 6509-8108), including the Skinsaver programs designed to target and diminish facial skin problems effectively and in time for your next big event (like a Christmas high school reunion for example). Worried about jiggly jowls? Try their SuperLift Program ($3,400 for six sessions) or the Tone & Lift Program ($3,000 for six sessions).

12. Get a full body rubdown
We can’t stress enough the awesome benefits of a luxurious, long massage. A good masseuse really can pummel away persistent aches, warm your muscles, rejuvenate your skin and ease you into the kind of fitful sleep only babies seem to enjoy these days. Reward yourself with a session at one of the city’s leading massage destinations Estheva Day Spa (#03-25 ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, 6509-3900). Try their award-winning Aviva and Chakra Stone massages ($185 before GST).

13. Suck out excess fat
We don’t mean to be crude but if you’ve been running (cycling, punching or stretching) like hell but your love handles are still happily swinging away then it’s time for some emergency action. If liposuction makes you queasy, go for the second best option: CoolSculpting by Zeltiq. This quick slimming procedure is fast gaining popularity with the discerning crowd, having been featured on TV programs like The Doctor and The Rachael Ray Show. The whole process involves sucking your targeted area using a vacuum and freezing your fat into oblivion. It lasts an hour and costs $1,500 per treatment. Call Medical Aesthetics (#02-12 Cluny Court, 501 Bukit Timah Rd., 6462-2559).

14. Get a full body checkup
When we say full body checkup, we don’t mean a few minutes at the doctor’s getting your stomach prodded. We mean a complete assessment to make sure that all systems are go. Homegrown integrated wellness center Verita Advanced Wellness (308 Tanglin Road, Phoenix Park, 6737-2377) conducts all sorts of assessments, including the Esteck, which uses a non-invasive electrical scan to suss out information on your overall functional health. It takes no longer than six minutes and results are immediately available on screen in 3D.

15. Reverse psychology
While you’re busy repairing your physical health, don’t forget to do something about your mind. It won’t do to go mental just as you’re about to ring in the New Year (or at all, come to think of it). As the old adage goes, “Laughter is the best medicine” so treat yourself to a night of loud guffawing at one of The Comedy Pimp’s (www.thecomedypimpsingapore.com) standup gigs held every month or try something different altogether with Laughter Yoga (www.laughteryoga.org or call Zareena Bana of the Joo Chiat East Coast Laughter Yoga Club at 9786-7451).

the glam slam
Fitness fixes take time, but there are some simple shortcuts to wowing the crowds.

16. Trim it down
The whole point of this exercise is to fashion a whole new you and one way to do that is by getting your hair cut. And we don’t mean just any haircut; we mean something that really turns heads and gets people talking. One of the newest salons to hit the local hair circuit is Essensuals Hairdressing (#B1-20 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Rd., 6884-4218), which translates catwalk trends into hot wearable styles for real people.

17. Revise your skincare regime
At some point, all of us are going to grow out of our Garnier face wash—be sure to know when this happens or you’ll risk breaking out the morning after a mad countdown party. We asked celebrity hair and makeup expert Andrea Claire for some tips on revisiting your skincare regime:

1. Skin can break out every 28 days. Don’t mistake hormonal breakouts for the need to change your regimen.
2. Look for skincare for your skin type. If you’re not sure if you have oily skin, take a few pieces of tissue and press them against your face in the morning. See if they stick.
3. Use the complete set of skincare from one product line as they are developed to complement each other.
4. If you react to products easily, look for sample sizes. Fourteen days is a good amount of time to try a new product and see if it works for you.
5. Some skin conditions look worse before getting better so consult the manufacturer or a dermatologist for signs the product is or isn’t working.

18. Tame your brows
Nice eyebrows can really pull your look together so be sure to get yours done only by the experts at Browhaus (#01-004 Suntec City Mall, 3 Temasek Blvd., 6333-5875). We love their Brow Resurrection ($900-1200) treatment, a semi-permanent procedure that enhances half-assed eyebrows, making them look fuller and more balanced. If you’re looking at fixing a little more than just your eyebrows, you can also try the Eye Define (semi-permanent eye liner, anyone?) or Lash in Bloom (quickie extensions that go on forever).

19. Get youthful skin
Most beauty products offer anti-ageing solutions over a minimum usage period. People who want more immediate effects usually turn to cosmetic surgery. If you can’t afford to go under the knife, check into Cristalle de Paris (56 Temple St., 6221-4288) for its non-invasive plant-based treatments like the Lemieon 8° Enhanced In-Classic (price upon application). Besides being one of the most relaxing facials we’ve ever tried, it also lifts and tightens sagging skin to make you look just that little bit younger in time for the New Year.

20. Wear a Hollywood Smile
Never been kissed? Maybe it’s time you pull in some reinforcements from the good people of Smile Inc Dental Surgeons (#02-124/126 Suntec City Mall, 3 Temasek Blvd., 6733-1802), who can lift and shape your smile, whiten teeth and apply laminates—whatever works so you can get that winning grin (and maybe score a smooch or two when the clock strikes midnight). There are also general dentistry services here in case you need to extract that annoying wisdom tooth (ouch!).

21. Dress up your digits
Don’t think you can get away with neglecting your nails because they hardly get noticed—they do. A chipped toenail will make a pair of the latest Prada strappy sandals look shoddy and nobody wants to shake a hand connected to chewed-to-death nails. Get them done at Vedure Nail Spa (MediBoutique, #04-06 Wheelock Place, 501 Orchard Rd., 6732-6448). If you’re feeling adventurous, try their Minx Nails manicure ($80) and pedicure ($120), which involve adhesive nail stick-ons with quirky (and sometimes downright bizarre) designs.

22. Get a makeover
We personally think that the best way to get ready for a party is to hire someone to worry about all the beauty aspects for you. Flashy makeover spot The Studio (22 Amoy St., 6221-3717) is Sweden’s largest makeover studio company, with expansive professional makeup and photography services to psych you up for your big night out. Their “Model for a Day” package ($88) consists of makeup and hairstyling for up to four people, and you are entitled to one 4R print and two soft copies of your favorite pictures.

in the habit
With hair and makeup sorted, and perhaps even a few pounds lost already, it’s time to make sure you establish some good habits to see you through 2011.

23. Watch what you eat
You can kill two birds with one stone at Updog Yoga Studio (#02-05A Playground @ Big Splash, 902 East Coast Parkway, 6440-0282) which is especially great for all you busy people out there. After your hot Hatha yoga class, enquire about the detox and nutrition programs by co-owner and renowned chef Emmanuel Stroobant, who will customize healthy meals to go with your exercise regimen. Craving “junk”? Hit new fast food establishment VeganBurg (44 Jalan Eunos, 68440-6868) for their delicious and healthy burger menu, or better yet …

24… take a healthy cooking class!
An Apple a Day (#08-00 Tan Ea Kiam Bldg., 15 Philip St., 9154-9410, anappleaday.com.sg) combines gourmet cooking with natural therapies, conducting cooking classes (starts at $550) and even personal chef services ($650 per four to six hour session with 20 individual meal servings) in the comfort of your own home.

25. Hire a personal trainer
Here at I-S, we understand more than anything how hard it is to break bad habits and commit to new ones. To help you effect real change, we recommend that you hire a personal trainer or nutritionist (or both if you can find/afford them) to help you plan your exercise regime and diet plan for next year. Most gyms provide personal training services (for a fee of course) but if you want us to drop names, we say fitness instructor and nutritionist Ladislav Demko from Willow Stream Day Spa (8/F Fairmont Singapore, 80 Bras Basah Rd., 6339-7777) is a great bet. We also recommend Pro-Fit (#02-01/02 Phoenix Park, 316 Tanglin Rd., 6887-3574) for access to a pool of professional trainers whose attention is solely focused on you (they don’t even believe in buddy training).

26. Do an inventory of your grooming essentials
We know you hoarders—you will never throw a perfectly good (or looks like it’s good) tube of cream even if it’s been there since before you hit puberty. But there are some products that could make you sick if used after their use-by date. For more information on when you should start throwing out your beauty cabinet essentials plus tips on how to make them last longer, log on to http://is.asia-city.com/health/article/shelf.

27. Lend a hand
No, we’re not joking. One of the best ways to feel good is to do good. We believe in karma and how continuously giving will be repaid to you ten-fold. Start at the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Center (#04-88 The Central, 6 Eu Tong Sen St., 6550-9595), where you can register with their SG Cares team of volunteers to entertain and contribute to less fortunate children and the elderly. There’s an online calendar on their website (www.sgcares.org) so you can plan ahead—no excuses.

28. Get a life…coach
Want to relight your passion and translate it into success? Get acquainted with consultant Christina Teo of My Journey of Passion (www.myjourneyofpassion.com), a company that trains individuals in personal branding and setting career goals as well as leadership and negotiation skills. Workshops are usually conducted on a one-to-one basis and you can register on her website.

29. Believe in yourself!
Repeat after us: “I look fab!”

Launched in 2008, the Singapore Toy, Games and Comic Convention 2010 is a full blown extravaganza featuring some of the biggest names in the industry. Expecting over 45,000 attendees this year, the convention will host a diverse array of activities including artist showcases and demonstrations, autograph sessions, conferences, competitions and even tournaments. We pick out some of highlights of the show during this three-day event.

Special Guests
Twenty-two international and regional illustrators, designers, painters and writers will be converging for a variety of conferences focusing on different aspects of the industries, plus the token autograph sessions and artists showcases throughout the event. Guests of Honor, Marvel Comics’ writer Matt Fraction and cartographer Salvador Larroca, will share their expertise on the industry, alongside the guys who made Marvel what it is today, namely Leinil Yu, Giuseppe Camuncoli, Esad Ribic, Harvey Tolibao and Alex Maleev; plus The Simpsons’ cartoonist Phil Ortiz—this is definitely a star-studded affair.

Talent Scouting
It is a rarity for a high profile member of the comic industry to head to Asia with the goal of finding new talents and even rarer for them to step into Singapore with the same intent. But come convention day, Marvel Senior Vice President, Creator & Content Development and international talent scout C.B. Cebulski will be doing just that. And with the Artiste Alley component showcasing some of the most talented emerging and established artists in Asia today, some of them might actually get their biggest break here.

Artiste Alley
Hosting 30 talented artistes from Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand and Malaysia, the Artiste Alley will showcase portfolios and live demonstrations from the likes of Singapore’s top graffiti artist Artkore, famed Filipino illustrators Asuka and Bjornik and toy maker Thunderpanda.

Conferences
Multiple conferences on varying topics will be paneled by special guests. Highlights include “Writing outside of comics: How do you hone your creative writing skills?” paneled by Gail Simone, Ivan Brandon and C.B Cebulski, and “Traditional form of comic illustration: What are the basics of comic illustration?” by Phil Yeh and Phil Ortiz.

Special Screenings
A number of special screenings will be happening throughout the convention for fans. Cartoon Network’s animated television series Generator Rex, based on Image Comics’ M. Rex, will showcase its Asian premiere. Fans of animated Japanese cartoon Nurarihyon no Mago will be ecstatic to know that its 2011 first volume episode will also be premiering during the convention.

Singapore Toys, Games and Comic Convention 2010 is on Dec 10-12 at Suntec Singapore, Hall 401 and 402, 1 Raffles Blvd., 6337-2888. $10-12 from Gatecrash, three-day pass.