For the Spring shopping season, we advise you to ditch your expensive farang friends—you know, Vivienne, Marc, Christian and Chloe. Bangkok may not be an international fashion hub, but we still have enough talented local designers to dress you up in outfits that echo the trends in Shanghai, Milan, New York, Paris and London—and for much, much less.

Shanghai Splashes

Yaowarat Neon Chic is the local equivalent of the hot look in Shanghai right now—more colors, more patterns—which has been perfected by Shanghai Tang.

For Her: Her canvas-inspired dress from The Garten (B2,580) matches nicely with this pair of green ballet flats from ASAP (B1,950).

For Him: His dark outfit by Channel One (shirt, B890) and Inspired By Inner Complexity (pants, B2,690) is simple yet with embroided highlights on the back.
For all the a-tis out there who are looking for something cool for your night out, this multi-colored shirt from Grand G (B990) is for you. You can also give it a boost with pale denim jacket from Inspired By Inner Complexity (B3,680).

Daring Milan

Milan is almost synonymous with the word style, and this Summer, style translates into daring bold colors—primaries like red, yellow and blue. For inspiration, see brands such as Prada and Gucci.

For Her: The bright red bow on this shirtdress from Monoya (B690) will bring you all the attention you desire.

If you are not quite that bold and daring, pair this red patterned top from Senada (B2,150) with something a little lighter like this pale pink denim skirt from CPS (B1,290).

For Him: He is better off going for subtlety. Heavy brown straight-line patterned shirts from Grand G (B890) and simple denim from Be 70’s (B1,890) work magic to bring across a classy yet casual look.

Breezy Blue Big Apple

New Yorkers are always on the move, so they need comfortable clothes as opposed to tight-fitting or tailored. Look to DKNY and Marc Jacobs for jeans and loose-fitting items; summer colors include beige and grayish blue.

For Her: A gray sleeveless number from Senada (B3,250) for daytime. At night, roam the city in a blue velvet dress by Senada (B5,900).

For Him: Below, contrasting white (B1,590) on black jeans (B2,490) from CPS. On the cover, matching tones (shirt from ASAP, B2,490; jacket from CPS, B2,290) for a sophisticated urban look.

Glamorous Paris

In the city of glam and haute couture, shimmers, glitters, and sequins are all the rage. If you’re not ready to walk the sois of Bangkok in your futuristic Jean Paul Gaultier ensemble, the easiest way to highlight your inner Parisian is to just blend in some of the glittery pieces with simple colors.

For Her: At right, this dress by Munchu’s (B7,500+) keeps things under control with a white body highlighted by sparkly braided straps.
On top, a Duet turtle neck mini dress (B3,290) twinkles just right.

For Him: Contrasting blue black velvet ASAP jacket (B5,600) and white shirt by Duet (B1,950) and jeans by CPS (B2,290).

Classic Chic London

London is all about the classic, sophisticated look courtesy of Stella McCartney and Alexander McQueen: think tailored (or at least tailored look-alike) and monotones and browns. Tone down your snobbish style with buttons and bows. 

For Her: The Sretsis ensemble (top, B6,500; bottom, B4,950) makes classic chic a little more playful. Add the leather tote from CPS (B2,990) to complete the look.

Side, blouse by Munchu’s (B4,000+) is very khun noo, so balance it with masculine shorts from Senada (B2,190).

For Him: This elegant combination of earth tones and white show that casual does not mean sloppy—white jacket by Channel One (B2,590), shirt from Grand G (B890) and pants by Inspired By Inner Complexity (B2,690). 

Opening This Summer: Adjust your look as the seasons change

Wide legged jeans
That’s right: wide. Mind you, baggy and wide are not synonymous. Wide but straight and not too loose.

Platform Shoes
Platform shoes are much easier to walk in than noise-making stilettos while still adding extra height. Don’t go too high, though, as you are not working the poles.

Metallic/Futuristic
Shimmers and glitters shine in the sun and help you get the attention you crave. Mix and match with simple base colors to balance out the bling.

Mini dresses
Mini dresses are comfy, cute and help bring out your girly side, plus you can convert them into long tops with a pair of slim pants.

Floral prints
Bloom up your outfit for the urban beach look. Beware though, too many flowers can be a disaster—one focal floral piece per outfit, please.

Headgear
Scarves, hats and sunglasses can brighten up a boring outfit in a snap.

Show your legs
If you’ve got it, flaunt it—but only if you’ve really got it. That means legs but not cellulite or flabby ass cheeks. If you have big thighs, showing only your lower legs will do.

Nude Makeup
You don’t want your face stealing the spotlight from your summer outfit. Au naturale is the way to go. Reserve the bold red lips for the fall and winter when everything is dark and gloomy.

Fashion Police: Don’t let us catch you making these mistakes

Hip Hop ain’t no HAUTE
We’re in Bangkok: you don’t need sweaters and blings, and you definitely don’t need the pants anymore if you’re gonna wear them that low.

Slut Couture
It’s “show your legs,” not your ass. Unless it’s making you money, if you’re going to wear something short, don’t pair it with a revealing top or super high stilettos.

Under not Outer
For low-rise pants, you should wear even lower rise underwear. See the word “under”?

Branded Bimbos
It’s good to glam up your B299 dress from JJ with an Hermes bag. But if your sunglasses are Armani, your top Burberry, your pants D+G, and your bag LV, that’s just too much. You may have money, but showing it off like this just makes you look cheap.

Khaosan Chic
OK for backpackers who don’t know any better but reserve those torn up military shorts, raggy tops and flip flops for the beach or short trips to your neighborhood 7-Eleven.

Want to try your hand at cooking? Whether you aspire to be a chef or simply want to impress your date, Bangkok has something on offer.

Blue Elephant

The chef: Led by founding partner/director Nooror Somany Steppe, a team of professional chefs steps forward to teach and share their first-hand experience.
The class: There are morning (8:45am-12:30pm) and afternoon (1-5pm) courses on offer Mon-Sat. But we highly recommend you wake up early and join the morning class since you get to join the chef in a trip to the Bang Rak market, where you are shown how to pick fresh ingredients. At the theory class, the chef demonstrates how to cook the dishes of the day and hand out the recipe booklet. Then it’s time to put on an apron and make your own 4-course meal to be eaten after class. Here, each student has their own table, stove and wok.
Best for: Well-heeled tourists who want to learn a few Thai recipes before heading back home and explore the local way of life without having to really slum it.
The price: B2,800, inclusive of an apron, a certificate and a basket of herbal teas. There’s also a full-day vegetarian course on offer at B6,000.
Blue Elephant, 233 South Sathorn Rd., 02-673-9353/-8. BTS Surasak. [email protected], www.blueelephant.com.

Chef’s Club

The chef: Most of the classes are led by Chef’s Club head chef, Chef Ing. There’s also a team of chefs who are experts in different cuisines to assist her.
The class: Limited to eight people, the class is small and casual. The airy kitchen features a U-shaped counter, enabling every participant to get a good glimpse of what the chef is doing. The menu changes daily from Japanese and French to Thai and desserts.
Best for: Shopaholics who want to learn a few recipes.
The price: Ranges from B1,800-2,500 depending on the menu.
Chef’s Club, 4/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-129-4558, BTS Siam. [email protected].

La Gritta

The chef: Chef Alessio Loddo has hosted this cooking class for almost a year, but his contract is going to expire at the end of this month. This might be your last chance to learn from him.
The class: It’s often held on the last Wednesday of each month, 9:30-11:30am, but the schedule can be changed at the chef’s convenience. It would be wise to call and check in the middle of a month. This popular class is usually bustling with 18-20 students. It begins with a demonstration, then the budding chefs are divided into three groups of six. Bowls of ingredients, knives and cutting boards are provided for each group. However, there’s only one stove at the chef’s table, which means it takes a while for each group to take turns cooking.
Best for: Guys who want to make moves on the cute Japanese ladies who dominate the class.
The price: B1,450, inclusive of apron, certificate and lunch buffet.
La Gritta, Sukhumvit Soi 19, 02-255-7350, [email protected].

Mandara Academy

The chef: The cooking class is hosted by various spa cuisine experts, with Chef Apple at the helm. She not only teaches you how to cook but also explains the effects each ingredient has upon your body and shares tips for cooking balanced meals.
The class: The course is on offer daily, 9:30am-1pm. Before getting your hands dirty, you get to indulge in a 60-minute Bali Floral Oil Massage at Mandara Spa. Chef Apple is enthusiastic and chatty throughout the class as she leads the students through a hands-on, step-by-step cooking lesson. Recipes are healthy and easy enough to be done at home. Classes are small, from 1-6 people.
Best for: Health-conscious, weight-watching ladies.
The price: B6,000, inclusive of an apron, a certificate and a recipe booklet.
Mandara Academy, Bangkok Marriott Resort & Spa, 257 Charoennakorn Rd., 02-476-0022 ext. 1416, www.marriottdining.com.

Rossini’s

The chef: Chef Gaetano Palumbo, who just donned his chef’s hat at Rossini’s last October, shares the tricks of his trade to cook down-to-earth, “full-flavored” Sicilian cuisine.
The class: The cooking area has moved from its original spot in the working Rossini’s kitchen to a corner on the left side of the restaurant with only one cooking booth. The class is held on every Friday, 10:30am-1:30pm. However, it’s more like joining a chef’s table than a cooking class since you get to watch the chef (and maybe two volunteers from a group) closely as he prepares a 4-course meal. On the good side, Chef Gaetano is tireless in sharing everything from how to open a caper can to the proper way to peel tomatoes.
Best for: Those who prefer to stagger away full of facts and food, without actually cooking.
The price: B1,590, inclusive of an apron, a certificate and a 4-course lunch of the recipes you learn prepared professionally.
Rossini’s, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, 250 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-649-8364. BTS Asok.

Tsu & Nami

The chef: Having worked in Tokyo, New York and Los Angeles, Chef Aki can explain traditional Japanese cooking well and in fluent English.
The class: Packed with the expats, the class is held from 8:50am-1:30pm on the first Saturday of each month. Students have to move around to learn how to cook main courses at Tsu, appetizers in a hot kitchen, sake cocktails at the sake bar and teppanyaki at Nami. The upcoming classes are on Apr 7 and Mar 5. Limited to 12 students, the seats usually are booked very quickly, so call ahead well in advance.
Best for: Those planning a sushi party and who don’t mind getting their hands sticky while learning how to make rolls.
The price: B1,900, inclusive of an apron, a certificate, a souvenir bag,
a picture with Chef Aki and lunch at Nami.
Tsu & Nami, JW Marriott, 4 Sukhumvit Soi 2, 02-656-7709.

Dopod C800

The Story: Designed to be handy, this pocket PC is an improved version of Dopod 838 and 30 percent smaller. Runs on Windows Mobile 5.0 OS, and has many features for personal data organization: calendar showing appointments by day, week, month and year, as well as a sync function with your PC.

The Good: Touch screen automatically changes to horizontal view when sliding out the keyboard. Wifi and Bluetooth enabled. The only phone with a cute little blue light that shows when caps lock is on.

The Bad: Navigate buttons are chromium, so they’re easily bruised if you’re not careful. So-so camera: though you can adjust white balance, contrast and picture sharpness, the 2.0 megapixel CMOS camera has a fixed focus (no autofocus) and no flash. No built-in FM radio, no infrared and doesn’t support 3G technology (that enables you to access your email, instant messenger programs and start video conferences).

The Price: B30,900.

O2 Xda Zinc

The Story: The latest pocket PC from O2 comes with its sliding Qwerty keyboard specially designed for SMS addicts. It keeps you updated all the time with wireless LAN, Bluetooth and infrared capabilities. Using a 520 MHz Intel processor, it may not be the fastest, but it can still cope with graphic-heavy games.

The Good: The highlight of this one would be 3G technology that suits people who travel often and have a chance to use video conferencing. Most programs attached are O2 standard programs: O2 Auto Configurator enables automatic connection so that you don’t have to set GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) by yourself, O2 Phone Plus makes smart dialing and can block unwanted calls easily. It also comes with a Thai language CD so you can do it all in the mother tongue. Camera has
2-megapixel resolution.

The Bad: Compared to Dopod, the Xda Zinc is slightly thicker and a bit heavier, but it looks more classic with its dark grey body. It’s made of plastic and a bit too light and doesn’t seem as sturdy as the others.

The Price: B29,900

HP iPAQ hw6515

The Story: Best for those who always get lost on the road: its GPS (Global Positioning System) technology promises to guide you to wherever you want to be. Just open their SmartNav program, locate where you are, select your destination, then the program will show you the shortest route. It comes with a plastic cover to protect the screen, so you don’t have to worry about stains or scratches.

The Good: Unlike the Dopod and O2 devices, the HP’s keyboard does not slide out; however, it comes equipped with a special button that works like a mouse’s right click and makes the keyboard easy to use. Also, a Smart Dictionary is provided that is really helpful when you’re writing SMS in Thai. Two SD slots.

The Bad: The phone is almost perfect if you don’t mind the distorted screen shape, which is quite strange compared to other pocket PCs. No wifi support here and you can’t use an MP3 file as a calling melody. Photos from the camera are fine, but only 1.3-megapixel resolution. No 3G support. Also uses Windows Mobile 2003 OS, which is a bit outdated—others are now on Windows Mobile 5.

The Price: B19,900

Time, as Einstein said, is relative. The week crawls by, taking an eternity, and the momentous arrival of the weekend fills most hearts with mad euphoria, only for the two days to fly.

While there’s nothing you can do about that, you can do something more inventive with your weekends other than just lazing around, shopping, watching a movie and eating (yawn). That’s why we, the ever-resourceful I-S team, have come up with loads of things to do over the weekend that, get this—cost less than $50.

All you have to do is read on for a power-packed weekend of fun and unexpected thrills, which won’t burn a hole in your pocket, if at all.

In The Still Of The Night

If you’re a nightowl

$5-10—Flex your musical muscles at Actor’s Bar (13A South Bridge Rd., 6533-2436), where for just the price of the drinks, you can sing and jam on instruments with fellow customers all night long from 6pm. However, unless you’re Singapore Idol material, we suggest you practice at home first to avoid embarrassment and ear-bleeds. Drinks are priced from only $5, and professional musicians do come in to jam later.

$9-15—Go back to gaming basics by checking out the large variety of non-electronic, board games at Settler’s Café (branches at 39 North Canal Rd., 6535-0435, #02-98, 15 Holland Dr., 6464-0178, 107 East Coast Rd., 6345-0071). Amuse yourselves with familiar childhood favorites such as Monopoly and Cluedo, along with new-fangled games like Cranium and Dragon Delta. With packages of $9 per person or $48 for groups of up to six people for two hours of games and abundant drinks and snacks, it’s proof that gaming can still be great fun when it’s unplugged.

$10-30—Go bar hopping at fine establishments that offer cheap rates for good drinks and—no cover charge. Like the hip Heat Ultralounge (2/F, Royal Plaza on Scotts, 25 Scotts Rd., 6589-7722), where martinis, mojitos and capirinhas go for $9.90 each with free bar snacks during their special “Heat Hours” from 5-7pm, and the chilled out Blu Jaz Too (11 Bali Lane, 6292-3800), which charges a mere $38 per bottle for wines and $8-20 for beers amid their weekend mix of house and jazz music. Or drink yourself silly at Vino Vino Dining & Wine Lounge (#01-56 UE Square, 207 River Valley Rd., 6737-7220) and WineBOS (47 North Canal Rd., 6538-7886), with their free flow of wines at 6-8pm going for only $12.

$12—Be entranced with the charms of Middle Eastern decadence at Café le Caire @Al Majlis (39 Arab St., 6292-0979), where Shisha smoking is practiced. Authority-fearing Singaporeans can rest assured: We can assure you that it’s absolutely legal, as it only involves inhaling tobacco smoke in a variety of fruity flavors through water pipes. Just $12.60 a serving that could last you till the café closes at 5.30am.

$10-48—Get a room in karaoke outlets if you like some privacy, such as Partyworld KTV (273 South Bridge Rd., 6223-3187) with rates as low as $20-28, or K-Ster Inc Karaoke (#04-01-22 Lucky Chinatown, 211 New Bridge Rd, 6222-2255) where $21 can get you five hours or more of warbling from 7pm-4am. At Ten Dollars Club (31-35 Smith St., 6225-1231), as its name suggests, charges only $10 a session for at least three people for three hours.

Groove Is In The Art

If you’re an arts lover

Free—Express your anti-establishment sentiments and make a great piece of art at the Youth Park (8 Grange Rd). Just buy a can of spray paint and go spray-zy over the walls built there for this purpose. The sky’s the limit and the more colorful, the better.

Free—Hop from art gallery to gallery. Some cool, offbeat galleries to check out are Utterly Art (229A South Bridge Rd., 6226-2605), which is well-known for its quirky, downright weird but always fun works from artists as varied as Andres Barrioqunito and Michael Cacnio. The Substation (45 Armenian St., 6337-7535) is chockfull of experimental, modern works that range from photography, installation art to oil paintings.

$50—Bring out your talent for pottery with Boon’s Pottery (#B1-02 Tanglin Place, 91 Tanglin Rd., 6836-3978). Classes are available at $50 per person for a three-hour session with materials and firing.

Treasure Trove

If you’re a bargain hunter

$2—Should you ever need to buy a plastic container, a biscuit cutter and a trowel all at the same place, pop by Japanese store Daiso (#03-06/06A/06B VivoCity, 1 HarbourFront Walk, 6376-8065), a wonderland that houses anything and everything you need. The quality is fab and the designs gorgeous—and everything costs $2. Enough said.

$2-20—Second-hand bookshops give a great deal. Pop by Books Galore (#05-107 Far East Plaza, 14 Scotts Rd., 6732-8773), and be boggled by the wide range of books that you can rent or buy. The books are not arranged in order, but that’s the beauty of it—you never know what you’ll find. They cost anything from $2 to $18. Another place to check out is Sunny Bookshop (#03-58/59 Far East Plaza, 14 Scotts Rd., 6733-1583). Books here are usually below $50, but new titles cost more. Their books come mintily wrapped; treat them well and get your money back when you return them. The guys who work here have good knowledge of their books which really helps.

$5-30—Rummage for used clothes, shoes and handbags at the Salvation Army Thrift Store (309 Upper Serangoon Rd., 6288-5438). We found Timberland shoes, Hush Puppies, Polo, Scholl and even a pair of Guess jeans all going for $30. If that’s still not enough for you, cash in on Cash Converters (#01-674 Blk 192, Toa Payoh Lor. 4, 6354-3380). You can’t bargain much, but the quality of the goods is better, with nice antiques sometimes. You can find old CDs ($5), home appliances ($12), plates and cups ($2), bicycles ($30), paintings ($2-50), crystal and rock carvings ($25), crystalware (below $50)... well, everything.

$25-45—For one-of-a-kind vintage clothing and accessories, check out Dustbunny Vintage (#04-18F Blk 79 Chay Yan St., 9691-9305). Featured items include box bags ($48), costume jewelry ($25-$45), shell necklaces ($45) and shoes ($45). And for a selection of sale items from Europe, US and Australia, go to Chain Chain Fashion (#02-01 Textile Centre, 200 Jalan Sultan, 6298-4911) to find all of last season’s collections on sale. We found really nice items like an Agn`es b-looking long-sleeved blouse ($45), pleated skirts ($40) and a lovely spaghetti-strap top ($25).

$10-50—Head on down to Little India’s Mustafa Centre (145 Syed Alwi Rd., 6295-5855) and find the best deals all year, 24 hours a day. Items we found worth noting were picnic baskets ($25.90), bean bags ($38.90), candle holders ($46), carpets ($45), “Japanese” sarees ($50), make-up kits (from $19 to $44) and 1.0 GB San Disk thumb drive ($34). But if you want to part with only $10, head to Wonderful Gifts and Costume Jewellery (87 Serangoon Rd., 6294-8996) and have a field day picking any three items for just $10.

Hit The Road

If you’re a frequent traveler

Free-$50—Take a jaunt across the causeway to Johor Bahru. It may be slightly provincial, but there is cheap shopping galore at shopping centers like City Square (108 Jln Wong Ah Fook, Johor Bahru, Malaysia), only a short walk from the Immigration and Customs Complex. Let’s not forget the favorable exchange rate for Malaysian ringgit too. How much you spend here is really up to you.

$4-11—Get away from the concrete jungle. Pulau Ubin is only $2 by bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, or $1 if you swathe yourself in orange robes and pass yourself off as a monk. Once there, rent a bike for only $3 a day, hitch a cab, or walk. Trips to Kusu Island and St. John’s Island cost only $11 return from Marina South Pier. Soak in the island air and marvel at the lack of crowds there.

Chomp It Up

If you’re a foodie

$0.70-6—Kopi freaks should really stake out Tanjong Pagar Railway Station—KTM (30 Keppel Rd., 6222-5165) for some excellent (not to mention cheap) kopi, as well as great Malay food. Prata maniacs should just set foot in the whole Jalan Kayu stretch, famously known for a bunch of prata shops sell all types of prata. Kosong, egg-filled, curry—you name it, they have it.

$5-30—Watch the world go by—go alfresco. A nice nook to visit is eM by the River (#01-05 The Gallery Hotel, 1 Nanson Rd., 6836-9691. There are tons of drinks (beers, shooters and the like) here and also sandwiches, salads, desserts and dips to try.

$4-50—Hunt down the best seafood—in Jurong. 66 Leisure Beer Garden (Jurong Reptile Park, 241 Jalan Ahmad Ibrahim, 6265-3130) is where you can fish for huge live prawns from a few prawn ponds. After a successful catch, pop them on a grill for a mouthwatering meal. It costs $13 per hour and $25 for three hours (depending on how good or bad you are at fishing). If you want to stuff yourself with more scrumptious seafood, head down to the nearby 81 Fishhead Steamboat (Jurong Reptile Park, 241 Jalan Ahmad Ibrahim, 6265-3130) where you make specific requests on how you’d like your seafood to be cooked. You can also check out a wide variety of fantastic seafood dishes while there. Butter crabs, anyone? Prices range from $4-50.

Cheap Treats

If you’re a health enthusiast

Free-$30—If you’re broke but desperately need a massage, just pop by any OTO Bodycare store (#04-08A Plaza Singapura, 68 Orchard Rd., 6337-5616) and pretend to be massively interested in their Cyber-Lux massage chair. Sit down, have a trial massage then get up and say you’ll think about it. Or if you’re not thick-skinned enough to do that, go to De Beaute And Slimming (#B1-00/10 Singapore Shopping Centre, 190 Clemenceau Ave., 6334-1133) for a 30-min massage for the whole back that starts with the neck that costs only $28.

$20—Take a trip to the Asian Golf Academy (601 Sin Ming Ave., 6453-6653) for a golf experience without the hefty club membership. It costs $3 for 50 balls (with a $5 non-refundable deposit), and at least $15 with a smart card.

$20-25—Discover any innate dancing abilities you might have with Dance Arts Singapore (#05-39 Funan Digitalife Mall, 109 North Bridge Rd., 6338-2124). Join the adults’ ballet class for only $20 for a single one-hour session. A 1.5-hour single session costs $25.

$40—Go for a cheap mani-pedi session at White Lotus Palace (36B Boat Quay, 6536-0772). At $40 per session, you’ll also receive a French manicure for free.

Thrills And Spills

If you are a thrill-seeker

Free—Love being scared? Ghoulish Trails will take you to some of the most haunted places in Singapore. Look up www.spi.com.sg to find out more details of when they are held. If you dare.

Free—Le Parkour is an art and a discipline where the traceur (the participant of this sport) attempts to pass obstacles in the fastest, most direct and most efficient way possible. Practiced in urban areas, you will never look at an HDB estate in the same way again. Check out the Singapore forum www.le-parkour.sg to find out more about this physical art form and how to start. Trust us—it’s a lot more thrilling than it sounds here.

$3-20—Spend a day at the horse races at Singapore Turf Club (Singapore Racecourse, 1 Turf Club Ave., 6879-1000) for the price of an entrance fee. Check out www.turfclub.com.sg for weekly race fixtures. The next big race, the Chairman’s Trophy, happens on Mar 23.

$8-40—Nothing is as wet and fun as wakeboarding. At Ski360° (East Coast Lagoon, No. 1206A East Coast Parkway, 6442-7318) an overhead cable substitutes for a boat. Adrenalin junkies—the cable moves at up to 58kph, and costs only $40 per hour or $8 per round.

$55—If underwater shenanigans is your thing, try scuba diving. Check out Gill Divers (87B Tanjong Pagar Rd., 6734-9373) where their Discover Scuba course is $55 nett per person. OK, so this is only an introductory session in a swimming pool but you gotta learn the basic stuff before you can swim with the sharks, right?

$56—For those needing adrenaline-pumping fun, try paintballing at Tag Paintball (Orchid Country Club, 1 Orchid Club Rd., 6324-0038). Entrance fee is at $15 for 9am-5pm and $20 for 5pm-midnight, with a minimum purchase of 1,000 paintballs at $250—spilt this cost between at least six of your mates. Make your bookings at least two days in advance.

Take Notes

If you're a music junkie

$15—Go hunt for used CDs and vinyls at specialist music shops like Roxy (#02-15, 5 Coleman St., 6337-7783), Simply Music (#03-12 The Adelphi, 1 Coleman St. , 6336-2938) and Straits Records ( 43 Haji Lane , 9431-1572). For as little as $15, we’ve discovered out-of-print vinyls from Transvision Vamp, Pet Shop Boys, Kim Wilde, Madonna, Joy Division and many more. You’ll never know what else you can find here.

$18-48—Support local acts like Electrico, who will play at the University Cultural Centre, NUS on Mar 2, 7:30pm for $18-48. Expect to hear hits from their last two hit albums, as well as some covers. Other acts like Bushmen (Mar 2, 6:45pm) and Heritage (Mar 3, 6:45pm) also perform at the University Cultural Centre theater foyer for free as part of the NUS Arts Festival.

Free-$58—Check out great music performances at the Mosaic Music Festival at the Esplanade for as low as well, nothing. If you like rock, look no further than Korean five-piece rockers Rock Tigers (Mar 10, 10pm). But if you have $38 to spare, we recommend folk-jazz crooner and guitarist, Terry Callier (Mar 10, 10pm), who will deliver ferocious numbers from his albums Lifeline and African Violet. And for $58, troubadour Jose Gonzales (Mar 11, 11pm) and his forlorn voice is a must. Log onto www.mosaicmusicfestival.com.

We asked 4 individuals how they would spend their $50 or less for the weekend.

“Secret beach bumming, full day inane telly watching, lightweight flea-marketing, new makan hunting, and Sunday chin-wagging with good friends and sundowner one-for-one drinks at Wala Wala.”—Genevieve Loh, marketing executive

“Only good for Sundays: Go rollerblading in the morning at East Coast Park for two hours for $6. Then head down to China Square Central to hunt down my ideal Todd McFarlane action figure worth $25-30, after which I take a bus to Little India to enjoy a light lunch at New Woodlands Restaurant for just $5, inclusive of paper dosai, rasam and coffee. If I have $10 left, I’d take a walk down to Mustafa Shopping Centre and buy a pack of almonds for that healthy office snack.”—Melanie Oliveiro, radio producer-presenter

“When I feel like slumming over the weekend, I’d go and chill out at Bussorah Street where I’d read a book over iced latte at Sleepy Sam’s, adjourn for satay and tahu goreng at the Malay cafe four doors away, and finish with teh tarik in that famous corner stall at the intersection of Bussorah Street and Baghdad Street. If there is anything left over from the $50, I’d pick up some cheap, funky memorabilia from antique house Grandfather’s Shop, like a paper kite or glass marbles.”—Dr. K. K. Seet, lecturer and theater critic

“Watching TV at my boyfriend’s house might sound mundane, but it’s like a random ritual that I carry out because I don’t have TV at home, so watching TV becomes like a festival. For cheap eats, I’d go for the $5 kebab at Sultan Kebab in Peace Centre, which is really nice.”—Foo Aiwei, artist

Put this on if you...
you don’t feel like talking. $65 from Eclecticism.

Put this on if you...feel a little emo. $64.90 from Urban Junkie.

Put this on if you...
want to declare that you’re a Daft Punk groupie. $35 from HDLN.

Put this on if you...
if you’re feeling a little schizo. $169 from Blackjack and Front Row.

Put this on if you...
are a material girl (or boy). $49.90 from NewUrbanMale.com.

Put this on if you...
want to keep it real. $64.90 from Urban Junkie.

Put this on if you...
think you’re a nonchalant rock god. $95 from Front Row.

Put this on if you...
feel like spreading some good vibes. $49.90 from Sidewalk 10.

Put this on if you...
are in the mood for some night games. $159 from Inhabit.

Put this on if you...
if you want your broken heart mended. $45 from Oppt Shop.

Address Book

• Blackjack, #01-10 Forum The Shopping Mall, 583 Orchard Rd., 6735-0975.
• Eclecticism, #03-22/23 Mandarin Gallery, 330 Orchard Rd., 6735-7290.
• Front Row, 5 Ann Siang Rd., 6224-5502.
• HDLN, #04-139 Far East Plaza, 14 Scotts Rd., 6333-8466.
• Inhabit, #B1-03 Palais Renaissance, 390 Orchard Rd., 6235-6995.
• NewUrbanMale.com, #04-08/K4 The Heeren, 260 Orchard Rd., 6884-4005.
• Oppt Shop, #04-36 The Heeren, , 260 Orchard Rd., 6733-9406.
• Sidewalk 10, #03-84 Far East Plaza, 14 Scotts Rd.
• Urban Junkie, #02-110 Far East Plaza, 14 Scotts Rd., 6732-8839.

With user-friendly technology, everyone and their mothers think they can easily spin to a crowd or create the next big blockbuster. While the capabilities are readily available, picking the right gadgets and software to get you on the road to fame and acclaim is a different story altogether.

We spoke to an upcoming DJ and filmmaker to get the lowdown on the tools of the trade that have worked well for them.

The DJ

Johnson Ong, 30, Managing Director of Projects at Big Kid Productions & Communications.
Spinning for around a year at corporate and private events.

PreSonus Firebox Multi-Channel Sound Card
This splits the audio signals, allowing one track to be played through your headphones and another through the main speaker.
The Details: $490, Steinberg Media Technologies Asia (#02-06 Redhill Forum, 16 Jalan Kilang Timor, 6274-3577).

Native Instruments Traktor 3
Helps you synch and match the beats of your MP3s right off your laptops.
What Johnson Says: “It’s extensive software that’s great for anyone new to DJing. It’s so easy to use that you can synch the incoming and outgoing tracks at a click of the mouse.”
The Details: $430, Team 108 Technical Services (6/F, 33 Tannery Lane, 6748-9333).

Sennheiser HD 205 Headphones
These help you to monitor the incoming track as yoou prepare to mix.
What Johnson Says: “It’s perfect for DJing, because it’s got a swivel that allows me to comfortably listen to just one side of the headphones for the next song without cramming my neck, while keeping track of the song that’s still playing.”
The Details: $109, Best Denki (#09-06 Great World City, Kim Seng Promenade, 6319-9922).

NuMark iDJ
Similar to old school turntables, this is used to mix tracks but with two iPods instead of vinyls. However, it can be used independently of the iPods and with the Traktor 3 instead as a basic mixer console.
What Johnson Says: “I prefer using it with [Traktor 3], as the software is more flexible than the console in terms of functions like manipulating tempo and looping. Also these days, DJs need to put on a show, so operating from a console like the NuMark, as opposed to a simple laptop, just looks better!”
The Details: $450, Sinamax Electronics (#B1-24 Parklane Shopping Centre, 35 Selegie Rd., 6338-8657).

The Filmmaker

Kelvin Sng, 32, film instructor.
Has been making short films for around six years and is currently working on his first feature film.

Panasonic GS60
Kelvin uses a Panasonic NV-DS15, but since this model is rather old and a pain to find, the Panasonic GS60 will serve your cinematic needs just as well. A simple digital video camera, its features are basic, but perfect for budding filmmakers.
The Details: $499, Courts (#05-38/39 Funan DigitaLife Mall, 109 North Bridge Rd., 6338-6500)

Celtx Script Writing Software
A software that simplifies scriptwriting, Celtx is a step-by-step program designed to make getting ideas down as easy as possible for anyone unfamiliar with a script format. Options for storyboarding are also available.
What Kelvin Says: “This software makes it so easy. It’s probably the best place to start for beginners.”
The Details: Free to download from www.celtx.com

Ulead VideoStudio
This software is designed to ease the editing process. Like Celtx, it’s a step by step process that’s foolproof. While Kelvin is using version six of the software, the most recent edition is the Ulead VideoStudio 10 Plus.
What Kelvin Says: “A lot of schools are using this software, because it takes the students through the stages.”
The Details: $199, Challenger Superstore (#06-100 Funan DigitaLife Mall, 109 North Bridge Rd., 6413-0121).

Wine is no longer just for expats—these days everyone is into a good drop. And to satisfy the growing market for those wanting to know more about their vino vino, several restaurants round town are holding regular wine dinners starring guest wine makers and speakers. Here’s how you can get in on the action.

LE PONT DE VIE

Where: 42 Waterloo St., 6238-8682.
When: This is a new restaurant already has two wine dinners under its belt. Since they are so young, they’re not sure how often they’ll hold wine dinners, so join the mailing list for more info.
Why you should go: As you would expect from a French restaurant, the wine list is populated with vintages from the most prestigious names in wine-making, and expect their wine dinners to be a celebration of French wine. Last year they hosted a Bordeaux wine dinner with Monsieur Lemaitre from Cadillac Leda. All is not just old world here though—the wines featured in the last wine dinner in Jan hailed from the Wyndham Estate, the home of Australian Shiraz. With the food on the five course menu tailor-made for the wine and a small and intimate location, wine-dinner maniacs can rejoice.
Price: Around $100.
How to find out more: Look up the website at www.lepontdevie.com.sg or join the mailing list by sending an email to [email protected].

FRIENDS AT CHOMP CHOMP

Where: #01-01A Serangoon Garden Village, Maju Ave., 6289-2600.
When: Around once a month. Private wine dinners are also available on request.
Why you should go: The food at wine dinners here is all about the wine. Crafted specifically to complement and bring out the varied and intricate flavors of the individual wines, the food is prepared to be clean and subtle in taste. This love and enthusiasm for wine can also be seen in the truly varied natures of wines that are on show at the wine dinners here. At Friends, wine connoisseurs can expect more interesting vintages to be featured to delight and challenge their palates. Past wine dinners have included anything from a vertical tasting of Leasingham wine of differing vintages, to an organic wine dinner featuring Rosnay of Australia, to a Lanson champagne dinner.
Price: $79.90 to $89.90 for a five- to seven-course dinner.
How to find out more: Email [email protected] to get on their mailing list.

FLUTES AT THE FORT

Where: 21 Lewin Terrace, Fort Canning Park, 6338-8770.
When: Around four to five times a year.
Why you should go: As you can expect from a place whose menu boasts a fine selection of Modern Australian dishes, the wines featured at the wine dinners here hail mainly from the new world, especially from Down Under. Such established new-world wineries like the Kay Brothers and Torbreck have hosted wine dinners here where the winemaker introduces and explains the wines to the guests. As you would expect, the food is made specifically for the wines featured and all this fine dining and wining is normally done within the cozy part of the restaurant which is the Fire Chief’s retreat.
Price: On average $150 including food and wine.
How to find out more: Check out the website http://www.flutesatthefort.com.sg for more information and to sign on to the mailing list.

MAGMA GERMAN WINE BISTRO

Where: 2-4 Bukit Pasoh Rd., 6221-0634.
When: Once or twice a month. Private wine tasting is available on request.
Why you should go: For a wine tasting dinner Deutschland style, this is the place to go where the owner is German, the chef Austrian (OK, so almost German), and the place represents over 20 wineries from all over Germany. Wine dinners here comprise five to seven courses of excellent German food to accompany six to eight German wines for tasting. Wines chosen for the dinners in the past have been based on regions and grape varieties such as the perennial favorites, the reisling and pinot varieties. Those who choose to further their knowledge of German wines will also be able to enjoy five percent discount on all the wines (about 150 labels) at the shop. This is by far the best place to go if you like your reislings or eisweins.
Price: Normally between $69-79 for a five course dinner.
How to find out more: Check out the website at www.magmatc.com or join the mailing list by sending an email to [email protected].

LA STRADA RISTORANTE

Where: #02-10 Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Rd., 6737-2622.
When: A wine dinner is held every three months where the winemaker is flown over to discuss the featured wines. The restaurant also has an ongoing wine dinner menu.
Why you should go: At the quarterly wine dinners, the winemaker gives guests a first hand account of the wines from the vineyard that is being featured. Past wines that have been on show have hailed from France or Italy. But what makes this restaurant stand out are the other monthly wine dinners on offer. The Resident Sommelier handpicks a glass of wine to specifically accompany each course of the menu degustazione, and is available to discuss with patrons his choice of wine for a particular dish—making this a good way to understand more about how food and wine can work so beautifully together. For those who can not distinguish their Bordeaux from their Burgundy, the ongoing wine dinner is a non-intimidating and great way to start.
Price: Ongoing wine dinner is $135 for five courses and five glasses of wine. The wine dinner held every three months starts from $180.
How to find out more: Check out the website www.lesamis.com.sg to find out more and to sign up to the mailing list.

While the emo scene has become something of a parody of itself, Fall Out Boy (FoB), the band that’s been somewhat synonymous with the genre has been staying strong. With Infinity on High, their latest acclaimed album which has already spawned one massive hit single in “This Ain’t A Scene, It’s An Arms Race,” the boys have affirmed their place as more than just an emo band, and are a musical tour de force not to be taken lightly. So, what better time for them to bring their own brand of smart pop punk to our shores?

Ever since their first commercial release, 2003’s Fall Out Boy’s Evening With Your Girlfriend, the band has progressively made a name for themselves with not just well-written and emotionally resonating songs, but witty lyrics and song titles (take the song “Our Lawyer Made Us Change the Name of This Song So We Wouldn’t Get Sued,” for instance). But it wouldn’t be until their single “Dance Dance,” from 2005’s From Under the Cork Tree, became such a colossal hit that the band would truly invade the public’s consciousness.

Becoming a voice for the misunderstood and sorrowful everywhere, without resorting to being whiney, FoB’s popularity only grew when they went on tour with other prominent acts like Panic! At The Disco, Taking Back Sunday and Less Than Jake.

With their latest release, the band engaged the help of hip-hop producer Timbaland (who last worked with Justin Timberlake) for a sound that transcends beyond the simple boundaries of musical genres.

Singapore is the boys’ one-and-only Asian destination, so if you like your music catchy, funny and with a surprising level of emotional gravitas, you know you can’t miss this.

Music

Asha. Endowed with powerful vocals, singer-songwriter Asha will blow you away in this gig. Mar 21, 6:45pm. UCC Theatre Foyer. Free.

Broken River & Beyond: Tim O’Dwyer Trio. Aussie band Tim O’Dwyer Trio plays invigorating songs from their album Broken River. Listen out for an absorbing soundscape laced with jazz. Mar 4, 7:30pm. UCC Theatre. $20-25 from Sistic.

Bushmen. For good reggae and catchy hooks, local band Bushmen is a safe bet. Mar 2, 6:45pm. UCC Theatre Foyer. Free.

Electrico: Live In New Wave. Indie, pop, rock. Five-piece local outfit Electrico prepares to deliver funky aural food. Mar 2, 7:30pm. UCC Hall. $18-48 from Sistic.

E.P.I.C.. Citing Pink Floyd, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Hybrid as its influences, five-piece act E.P.I.C. flaunts an eclectic sound. Mar 24, 6:45pm. UCC Theatre Foyer. Free.

Heritage. One of the most respected veteran bands on our shores, Heritage creates music that has both Eastern and Western influences. Mar 3, 6:45pm. UCC Theatre Foyer. Free.

The Observatory. Six-piece local band The Observatory shines on stage with their blend of progressive and innovative sounds. Mar 25, 7:30pm. UCC Theatre. $18 from Sistic.

Press Play 2007 by NUS Electronic Music Lab (EML). Live sounds and recorded electronic music are fused with gripping visuals by members of the NUS Electronic Lab. Mar 16, 8pm. UCC Theatre, Green Room. $10 from Sistic.

Read My Lips: Lunarin. Homegrown talent Lunarin plays a few of their songs and explains the significance behind their lyrics. Mar 8, 7:30pm. UCC Theatre Foyer. Free.

Rockfest by NUS Halls of Residence. Students rock it out with music ranging from grunge to punk, emo to funk in this band showcase. Mar 10, 2pm. UCC Courtyard. Free.

Dance

Hip Hop Nite ’07 by NUS Dance Blast!. Various dance teams fight it out in this intense hip hop competition. Come see who’ll bag the coveted title. Mar 2, 8pm. UCC Courtyard. Free.

Theatre

<< >>. NUS Chinese Drama investigates the notion of space in this play. Get some insight on how people utilize space to different ends. Mar 7, 7:30pm. UCC Theatre. $10 from Sistic.

Communicating Doors by NUS Sheares Hall. Spot some budding talents in this play that delves into time, destiny and relationships. Mar 10-11, 7:30pm. UCC Theatre. $14. Email [email protected] for tickets.

Etc

Read My Lips: X’Ho. X’Ho talks about his songwriting process. Mar 22, 7:30pm. UCC Theatre Foyer. Free.

Smoke Your Way Through!—Turntablism & More. Eminent local DJ KoFlow doles out advice on scratching and mixing in this workshop. Mar 24, 3pm. UCC Dance Studio. $10.

Tempestous Beasts. Scribes talk about inner turmoil, uncontrollable emotions, longing and torment in this reading. Starring Cyril Wong, Alfian Sa’at, Ng Yi-Sheng, Pooja Nansi and Haresh Sharma. Mar 22, 8pm. UCC Theatre Foyer. Free.

Womanity. Writer Catherine Lim, actor Nora Samosir, host Anita Kapoor, playwright Verena Tay and DJ Suzanne Walker entertain with readings and presentations. Mar 8, 8pm. UCC Theatre Foyer. Free.

Chit Chat Pub

Soi Choke Chai 4, 02-618-7179. Open Sat 8pm-1am.
This serious women-who-prefer-women bar is operated by Lesla, a Thai lesbian organization. Come here to network with other lassies, whatever your sexual orientation. There is a monthly event here organised by Lesla with different themes, depending on the occasion. Visit their website for updated info: www.lesla.com.

Hemlock

56 Phra Atit Rd., 02-282-7507. Open Mon-Sat 4pm-midnight.
One of the first hip places that sprang up on this road, Hemlock is very lesbian-friendly, though the crowd is mixed. This bar-cum-restaurant serves Thai dishes at reasonable prices along with jazz music. If you want to make lots of female friends, go there on weekends.

Shela

106/12-13 Soi Lang Suan, near Sarasin Rd., 02-254-6463. Open daily 7pm-1am.
The newest girl-dominated-venue in town, Shela caters to a slightly older crowd than RCA. An all-girl live band plays retro pop music nightly. A good place for celebrity spotting ("Is she...?")

Zeta

29/67-69 Soi Soonvijai, Royal City Avenue, Rama 9 Rd., 02-203-0994, 02-203-0997. Open daily 6pm-1am.
Run by a young, hip crew of ladies, this lesbian haven has already made a name for itself. The bar’s claim to fame is “exclusively for women,” and they are serious about it. You can’t even bring along your gay friends unless you come as a big group. You go, girls.