With the Vegetarian Festival underway, there’s no better time to cut meat from your diet and go for fake bacon and mock chicken! With a large selection of tasty meatless fare on offer, there’s no excuse not to take the veg pledge.

KOKO

The place: KOKO is far from chic, yet it is always packed with the trendy crowds of Siam Square. The tables are so close to each other that you can hear other people’s conversations.

Selection and prices: Actually, KOKO serves up both normal and vegetarian food . But during the Vegetarian Festival the eatery switches to pure vegetarian with no MSG and excess oil. The prices range from B60-B130.

Must-haves: Sun-dried beef (B100), which is actually made from mushroom, is the star. Spicy sausage salad (B100) and kraprao hed (spicy stir-fried mushroom with basil leaves, B120) are also worth trying. Come prepared with time and patience, since the service tends to be slow and the waiters often mix up orders.

Where and when: 262/2 Siam Square Soi 3, 02-658-4094. Open daily 11am-9pm.

Tamarind Café

The place: Tamarind Café offers a top-notch ambiance. The bright gallery-like dining area is spruced up with the art works from rotating artists, and a spiral staircase leading up to the al fresco rooftop terrace.

Selection and prices: Its “new world vegetarian” menu offers a harmonious balance of different cuisines from Thai to Mexican. Every dish is presented as if it were a piece of art: The food comes in tiny portions and is a bit pricy (ranging from B90-B300), but you get what you pay for. The staff speaks English fluently as the majority of diners are foreign.

Must-haves: As a special for the Vegetarian Festival, Tamarind Café whips up a selection of new dishes such as Siberian Pelmen (stuffed ravioli served with sauce) and Provence crumble of tomato and eggplants. Also, the tried-and-true favorites like wild mushroom steak will never disappoint.

Where and when: 27 Sukhumvit Soi 20, 02-663-7421, 02-663-4261. Open Mon-Fri 11am-midnight, Sat-Sun 9am-midnight.

Glow

The place: Glow shines with its simple Zen décor. Sleek and clean-cut, this 48-seat eatery is decorated only with potted plants standing in a straight line.
Selection and prices: It’s all about organic food at Glow. The menu includes anything from organic wines to organic vegetarian dishes such as Garden Green salad with ginger miso dressing (B280). As a rule of thumb, Glow doesn’t fry anything, so everything you get here is poached, steamed or grilled.

Must-haves: Forget the food—Glow’s drinks are what you should stop by for. There is a vast selection of freshly blended juices, with Blood of the Earth (apple, ginger, celery and beetroot) and Pink Delight (watermelon, ginger) as definite highlights.

Where and when: 2/F, The Metropolitan, South Sathorn Rd., 02-625-3333. Open daily 10am-9pm.

Kwan-Imm-Jae

The place: Kwan-Imm Jae's unfussy décor is accented with Chinese touches, such as red paper lanterns and a Kwan-Imm statue adorning the dining area.
Selection and prices: Vegetarian owner Boonmi has wowed vegan diners and fooled meat lovers with dishes like fried goose meat (B120), deep-fried fish topped with chili sauce (B100) and tom yum noodles (B50).

Must-haves: Bestsellers include braised goose meat with Chinese kale (B120), braised mutton soup (B90) and DIY suki. Also definitely worth trying is larb ped (spicy minced duck salad, B60), which packs quite a punch.
Where and when: 6/12 Sukhumvit Soi 24/1, 02-259-6466, 02-259-4531. Open daily 11am-2pm, 5:30-11pm.

Im Boon

The place: This family-run restaurant only has 18 seats, often occupied by office workers. Don’t expect fancy décor or you’ll be disappointed.
Selection and prices: While it’s not the most stylish place in town, you can count on Im Boon’s food. The menu boasts over 70 meatless dishes such as tord mun (deep-fried spicy fish cakes, B50) and pork satay (B70). Vegen ice cream is on offer to wash down the meal.

Must-haves: The gruff owner, who is also the cook, would tell you to “just order” since everything on the menu is delicious, and you can trust her on that. Try khao pad nam lieb (fried rice with Chinese salty olives, mock chicken and mixed veggie, B32) and mushroom balls (B35), which are so pleasant you can hardly tell they are vegetarian.

Where and when: Chula Soi 11, Rama 4 Rd., 02-215-4296. Open Tue-Sun 9am-7pm.

Zgi Café

The place: Decked out in red and black, this two-month-old café features both air-conditioned and outdoor areas. The glass windows offer a view of the bustling soi downstairs, which makes it a good place to chill and indulge in a little people watching.

Selection and prices: Zgi Café churns out “eggless, meatless and gelatin free” meals. Imported frozen pizzas and organic meals make the busy life of an urban vegan a lot easier. Prefer something fresh? Zgi Café also provides homemade pastries and wraps.

Must-haves: Kraftkorn Wrap (Italian sausage, mustard and pesto sauce, B95) and Cheese Chili Wrap (spicy wrap with smoked ham and salad, B95) are recommended. For a light meal, pair a sesame bagel (B25) with your favorite cream cheese (B15).

Where and when: 2/F, Asa Garden, Sukhumvit Soi 24, 02-258-9682. Open Mon 11am-10pm, Tue-Sun 7am-10pm.

In the age of platinum package cable TV, high-speed internet, video games and iPods, it can be hard for most of us to stay interested in something for long—you might even be skipping parts of this article now just to get to the main point. Our senses are constantly bombarded with things to do, see, hear and react to. So we’ve grown accustomed to doing it all and doing it all at once. No wonder one-stop spots like J-Avenue where you can eat, go shopping, buy groceries, go bowling and get your nails done are so popular. But long before J-Avenue and Playground!, small independent businesses have been playing the multi-service card by providing more than one in-store service. These places have made it possible to enjoy a meal, get your hair and nails done and leave with something cool to wear or hang on your walls—without having to set foot outside even once. If that sounds like some time well spent, check out the places below.

It’s Happened To Be A Closet de Nero (32 Khao San Rd., Phranakorn, 02-629-5271/-2. Open Tue-Sun, 1–11pm). If you haven’t heard of this weirdly named shop yet, you’re missing out on one of Bangkok’s most unique and stylish boutiques. Having first opened in Siam Square, IHTBAC has now opened a second store in Khao San that is bigger and better. The new shop is set in a converted colonial style house tucked away within the vicinity of Tom Yum Koong Restaurant and True Shop. Stepping into this shop is like stepping into a different world filled with vintage furniture, precious knickknack, stacks of art books and fashion magazines and, of course, racks crammed full of eclectic, brightly colored tops, skirts and dresses. Though on the pricey side, the clothes are absolutely unique, with new designs added daily by prolific designer/owner “Jeah” Siriwan Tharananithikul. Besides clothes, IHTBAC also offers food: The mini restaurant serves tantalizing pastries and baked desserts, as well as Italian main dishes made in the store’s fully equipped display kitchen. Seating is available throughout the shop—just seek out your favorite corner, plop down and soak up the atmosphere. IHTBAC also triples as a beauty salon, offering hair, manicure and massage services. However, space is limited to one person at a time, so calling ahead for a reservation is a definite must. “It is not unusual for customers to spend a whole day in here, pampering themselves and taking advantage of what we have to offer,” says “Noon” Chantamol Laypradit, IHTBAC’s interior designer. “We even provide valet parking for our customers if they don’t want to look for a parking space themselves.”

Abstract Creations (125/21 Sukhumvit Soi 55 [just before Soi 7], 02-392-3330, 02-382-3330, 01-827-6922. Open Mon-Sat 9am-8pm) is a funky, brightly colored salon owned by multi-talented hair stylist Johnny Lim, who has been providing customized cuts and more for over six years. Walking in, you’ll find the Saluté juice café on the first floor, serving healthy fruit shakes and smoothies made from organic and pesticide-free fruit and vegetables. Light sandwiches and salads are available, as well as internet services, providing an ideal place for customers to sit back and relax while waiting to get their hair done. Upstairs you’ll find Johnny’s salon, where he offers numerous services such as hair and scalp treatments, hair coloring, perms and straightening. Originally hailing from Canada, Johnny trained as a hair stylist before moving to Bangkok in the 90’s. His approach to cutting hair is to design a style that is uniquely fitted to every person individually. That’s why you’ll usually have to make an appointment with the maestro: He takes his time to carefully detect which style will suit which customer. The walls of the salon and café double as a gallery for Johnny’s other creative interests: fashion photography and wood design. Johnny selects rosewood, ebony and teak from Laos and designs pieces, while local artisans craft them for him. His unique creations are on sale in the shop.

When asked if he was planning on expanding even more in the future, he replied, “I like to create things when I’m free; that’s how I work. If I’m idle I get bored, but when I’m doing something, I always get new ideas.”

Too bad! By the time you read this there may still be a few standing guard at key intersections, but for the most part the boys in green are gone. Gone are the tight camos, the heavy black boots, the belts, buckles and medals. Now that the party’s over, it’s time to slip into some infantry fashion of our own.

It all starts with a jacket, a green one, of course. Wear this, drive a Humvee, and no one will doubt you are a real rebel. B2,800 at Pasadena Store.

No uniform is complete without something on your pretty head. Military cap (B220) from Seven Sis.

If your drill inspector doesn’t look too closely, he might not notice your camos sport a flower-print. If he does, just take them off. B1,850 at Sasch.

Sometimes, you need a simple strategy to survive the urban jungle. Try this polo shirt from Nude Guy (B299).

Don’t let people walk all over you—that’s your job. Do it in style with Dr. Martens’ legendary boots. The “Earth Box” (B5,200) is just the right color.

I, Mr. Know-It-All, am on the ball about anything and everything, and that includes everything and anything about the drinking scene here. Let me take you through my inimitable list of must-go drinking destinations, from the best venues to drink cocktails, champagne and martinis, down to the coolest spots and best happy hours to lim (read: drink) beer too! Slurp!

Cocky Cocktails

New party places are always welcomed, especially if they serve yummy cocktails (always a plus point). And you know, to uphold my reputation as the know-all in well, everything, I just have to hang out and be seen at the latest hot spots. The Hacienda (13A Dempsey Rd. 6476-2922), a sophisticated outdoor alfresco bar, boasts a wide array of freshly squeezed juice-based cocktails. Expect no syrup or chemicals, man. I love all this natural goodness that lessens the guilt of imbibing without lessening the fun.

And if you want to get all romantic with your girl, guy or anything in between, hang out at the intimate Alley Bar (2 Emerald Hill, Peranakan Place, 180 Orchard Rd., 6732-6966). This bar has an old-world appeal and is endowed with awesome margaritas which are ultra-smooth and blended to perfection. Try the strawberry margarita—it’s bound to get your head spinning. Another hit here is the “Café Del Mar,” which comes in colorful layers, and is made up of cointreau, midori, peach schnapps, pineapple and cranberry. It’s sweet and delicious, an apt drink while you sugar talk your date.

Café Iguana (#01-03 Riverside Pt., 30 Merchant Rd., 6236-1275) is also loved for its margaritas, and you can choose from flavors that range from lime to mango, blueberry to peach. Try it on the rocks, or frozen. I like the series of frozen “House Margaritas” better, because they are more invigorating. Get them at half price during happy hours, which are from 6pm to 9pm from Mondays to Fridays, and noon to 9pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Head down to the Balcony (#01-K5/02-03, The Heeren, 260 Orchard Rd., 6235-2325) if you prefer a Mediterranean setting to people-watch. This place is also blessed with wicked margaritas, but I advise you and your date to watch out for its jelly drinks that will keep you on a high!

But if your partner is a bore and appears spaced out most of the time (and you’re sure it’s not the drinks), ditch him or her and focus your attention on The Butter Factory’s (#01-03 Riverside 48, 48 Robertson Quay, 6333-8243) cocktails instead. “The Japanese Slippers” is a citrus cocktail with a melon taste, while the fizzy “Butter Factory Ice Tea” is bitter at first, but has a coffee and orangey aftertaste. The creamy “Peanut Butter and Jelly” shooter here is worth a shot too. Wonderful, wonderful...

Le Lounge (2/F, Crazy Horse Paris, #01-01 Blk. B Clarke Quay, River Valley Rd., 6336-1800) has some signature cocktails such as “Vestal’s Desire,” “But I’m a Good Girl” and “Bitchy Me.” If you want something light, these will do. And, oh yes, if the drinks don’t turn you on, I’m very sure the leggy Crazy Horse girls who sometimes chill out at this lavish hangout will!

The “Singapore Sling” at The Long Bar (#02-01 Raffles Hotel, 1 Beach Rd., 6431-6156) has got to be one of the best I’ve ever tasted. And several places have new poisons in store too. Introbar (1/F, Equinox Complex, Swissôtel The Stamford, 2 Stamford Rd.,6431-6176) for example, has just come up with some deadly—but very pleasing—punches. Ingredients include Barcardi rum, cinnamon, banana, lemon and dry chilies. There’s the “California Punch,” “Hawaiian Punch,” “Cape Codder” and “Bay Breeze Punch.” New vodka cocktails such as “Crimson” can be found at City Space (70/F, Equinox Complex, Swissôtel The Stamford, 2 Stamford Rd., 6431-5671). And the latest news I’ve heard? Axis Bar and Lounge (4/F, The Oriental Singapore, Marina Sq., 5 Raffles Ave., 6885-3098) is launching a promotion featuring several new cocktails on Oct 16. They come with complimentary unlimited tapas from 5-8pm daily.

Shaken, Or Stirred?

There’s no better way to get a girl’s attention than to pose pretty with a martini. OK, that’s what James Bond seems to say in his movies anyway. I recommend trying your luck at the Bar at Morton’s (4/F, The Oriental, Marina Sq., 5 Raffles Ave., 6885-3740). The place is known for its Mortini nights (Mon-Fri, 5-7pm) when martinis are available at $9.95 and come with complimentary steak sandwiches. If you can’t pick anyone up by posing pretty, hey, at least the drinks and food will bowl you over.

But, in case you do manage to pick someone up (I can give you better tips than James Bond on that, but that’s another story altogether), head down to the Martini Bar at Mezza9 (Grand Hyatt Regency Singapore, 10 Scotts Rd., 6416-7788) next for an even more exhilarating time. This place has a very wide assortment of martinis and with names such as “Dirty,” “Rendezvous” and “Hot and Sexy,” rest assured of a very exciting and, well, hot, night ahead.

Post Bar (The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, 1 Fullerton Sq., 6887-8135), which now comes with a trendy alfresco area, has a range of shaken martinis. Check out the “White Cosmopolitan,” a spin-off from the traditional red “Cosmopolitan” martini. It is aromatic and smooth, so I’m not surprised at its growing popularity. Don’t miss the killer mojito while you are here too.

For a cool and minty martini, try the “Mintini” at Ink Club Bar (Raffles The Plaza, 80 Bras Basah Rd., 6431-6156).This drink is made from premium vodka, and is only available for the month of October. The signature drink “Ink Perfection,” is delectable too.

I love Insomnia (#01-21/22/23 Chijmes, 30 Victoria St., 6338-6883) for its sumptuous “White Chocolate Martini.” Made with Jago Vanilla Cream Liquer, and with delicious white chocolate grated onto the top of the drink, it’s smooth and luscious. New salsa bar Fuego (#01-01 5 Gemmill Lane, 6327-1998) has some sinful martinis as well, with “Red Apple Martini” being the most popular. It’s zesty and aromatic, ideal as a after-work drink. Hop on to No. 5 (5 Emerald Hill, 6732-0818) after that, as its signature martinis are a great way to cap off an evening.

Pull Me a Pint!

Listen, if you have been hanging out with the uncles at the kopitiams for too long, and yearn for something more thrilling, follow me to the Archipelago Brewery Company (79 Circular Rd., 6327-8408). This pub features three novel craft beers which are infused with exotic spices such as ginger, assam, lemon grass, herbs and mandarin orange peel. The “Archipelago Traveller’s Wheat” is easy on the stomach, while the “Archipelago Straits Pale” is crisp and round-bodied. For a creamy drink, take a swig of the “Archipelago Traders Brown Ale.” These thirst-quenchers are especially made to pair up with Asian food.

Brewerkz (#01-05/06 Riverside Pt., 30 Merchant Rd., 6438-7438) has a fairly comprehensive beer selection. Ales, lagers, stouts and more are also available. From the “Maredsous Blond” to the “Chimay Blanche,” the “Duvel” to the “Trois Pistoles,” bottled beers from distinctive breweries from different parts of the world can be found. Oh wait, the waitresses here are cute too (oh, and that’s another story)!

When I am in the mood for authentic German beers, I head right to Paulaner Brauhaus (#01-01 Millenia Walk, 9 Raffles Blvd., 6883-2572). This three-story place with laid-back vibes has an in-house microbrewery. And I absolutely dig its fresh and flavorful “Munich Lager” and “Munich Dark.”

However, if Australian beers are more your thing, hit Prince of Wales in Little India (101 Dunlop St., 6299-0130). Besides being known as a live music joint, this cozy pub has bottles by The Cascade Brewery Company, Boag’s Brewery (J. Boag & Son) and more. These are available at $4 to $7 during happy hours which last from 9am to 9pm! This bar is the only importer of the Gippsland Gold beer of the Grand Ridge Brewery in Singapore as well. Ingredients for an intoxicating day and night are in place here, matey!

I go to Vintage (#03-17/18 Cuppage Plaza, 5 Koek Rd., 6733-0278) when I am short of cash, and want to enjoy cheap beers. Beers are going for just $6 a mug on weekdays. Other favorite watering holes of mine are Harry’s Bar (28 Boat Quay, 6538-4029) for its inviting ambience and Ice Cold Beer (9 Emerald Hill Rd., 6735-9929), where two bottles of Carlsberg or Yebisu can be had at $12, and three bottles of Asahi at $20! The inviting ambiences at these places are always a draw with people from all walks of life, including me.

Rock Hard

When I get hard-up for some hard liquor on the rocks, Q Bar (#01-04 The Annex @ The Old Parliament House, 1 Old Parliament Lane, 6336-3386) never disappoints. With 111 vodkas neatly stocked in its freezers, this place has the largest selection of premium vodkas in Singapore! Rare and top-flight labels from all over the world, such as the Diva Gem Filtered from Scotland, Van Gogh from Holland and the Wyborowa Single Estate from Poland, are housed here. Some flavors are even exclusive to the bar. I tell you, this stylish place is heavenly.

Japanese whisky bar Coffee Bar K (#01-076 UE Square, 205 River Valley Rd., 6720-5040) is the place to hit if you are looking for an extensive drinks list. Opened in March, it’s very sophisticated (with prices to match) and has about 400 whiskies primarily from Scotland and Japan for your picking.

And do check out The Whisky Store (2/F, 3/F, 56 Cairnhill Rd., 6732-3452). This quiet place debuted two months ago, with clean-cut furnishings and an air of intimacy. Its owners Khoon Hui and Joyce are very approachable, and I must admit, they know (nearly) as much about the honey-brown liquid as me. If you are new to whisky, they will be more than happy to tell you about it. Over 80 different kinds of whiskies (some rare) are served here, with around 70 single malts. New whiskies are added to the drinks menu every month, and there are unique whisky cocktails using ingredients such as the English breakfast tea to tantalize your palate.

If you like a more boisterous nightspot to enjoy your whisky, Balaclava (#01-01B Suntec City Mall, 1 Raffles Bldvd., 6339-1600) is da place to be. Its whisky selection is not as extensive as Coffee K Bar or The Whisky Store, but it’s still respectable. Bob your head to rocking live music and down the poison of your choice.

Indie bar Home (#B1-01/06 20 Upper Circular Rd., 6538-2928) has some very powerful absinthe for the gutsy. The absinthe green (70 percent volume) is available at $22 per shot, while the absinthe black (85 percent volume) is priced at $28 per shot. Just don’t blame the haze for your blurry vision after that.

Red or White?

You know, when you are up for some bubbly fun (besides foam parties I mean), iL Lido (Sentosa Golf Club, 27 Bukit Manis Rd., 6866-1977) is a cool spot to go to. This classy restaurant cum bar has an amazing menu of 100 champagnes and sparkling wines. Take your pick from prestigious labels such as the Billecart Salmon and the Louis Roederer Cristal, or indulge in rare vintages such as the Krug 1981 Collection and the A Dom Perignon Oenoteque. Some champagne selections are exclusive to iL Lido—so what are you waiting for?

Girls lurve Mad Flemmings (33 Boat Quay, 6533-1169) on Fridays because they enjoy free flow of champagne from 8-11pm. If you are into champagne, a bottle of Mumm’s is available at Suba (#01-75 Millenia Walk, 9 Raffles Blvd., 6333-0822) at only $99 on Fridays. Mumm’s is also sold by the glass at J Bar (9/F, M Hotel, 81 Anson Rd., 6421-6233) for only $18 till Dec 30. Sip a bottle of Moet & Chandon or Brut at $90 at Velvet Underground (17 Jiak Kiat St., 6738-2988) on Wednesday. Also good for champagne is Ministry of Sound (#01-02 Blk. C Clarke Quay, River Valley Rd., 6235-2292), where brands such as Taittinger, Veurve Cliquot and Dom Perignon can be had.

Everyone into wine should know about Wine Connection (#01-06 Robertson Walk, 11 Unity St., 6238-6878) by now. This retail shop cum bar has about 300 labels that span France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Chile, South Africa and more. Affordable as well as premium products can be purchased here, and you can sip a glass of good red wine at just $5!

Another place with a good wine deal is Vino Vino (#01-56 UE Sq., 207 River Valley Rd., 6737-7220). This alfresco wine lounge, with its rustic décor, has free flow of red and white wines from 6-8pm daily at just $12 per person.

If you are into German whites and reds, The Magma German Wine Bistro (2 Bt. Pasoh Rd., 6221-0634) is a must. Here, wines from renowned wineries such as Keller, Stodden, Molitor and Haart can be sampled while you munch on finger-lickin’ German food. Zouk Wine Bar (17 Jiak Kim St., 6738-2988) is a cool place to hang out at before heading to the dance floor as it has a generous selection of wines and house pours, and The Amici Bar & Restaurant (24 Tanjong Pagar Rd., 6557-2090), with 200 labels to pick from, is a safe bet for good wines too. Wine Network (#01-03A Blk. 13, Dempsey Rd., 6479-2280) is a charming place to hit for high quality stuff.

So there you go, a list of good drinking spots from one who’s seen—and drunk—it all. Now all you need is a strong liver, and you’ll on the way to seventh heaven with me.

Bottoms up!

20 Upper Circular Rd., #01-14 The Riverwalk, 6557-0121

A funky addition to the indie scene at The Riverwalk is a store called S.O.U.L.S.—short for “Societe of Undisputed Liberated Souljas.” If this sounds interesting to you, what’s even more intriguing is that the meaning of S.O.U.L.S. is set to change every three months (just imagine the permutations). Located away from the clutter of the Orchard Road stretch, S.O.U.L.S. sets itself apart from the usual fashion line-up at most stores. The labels that it carries can only be found here, and were conceptualized and created by street artists from New York, Hawaii, Canada, Japan and Hong Kong. Just the layout of the store alone merits a browse. Fans of everything street style might want to check this out.

391 Orchard Rd., #B2-04 Ngee Ann City, 6735-9445; #01-28 VivoCity, 1 HarbourFront Walk, 6276-2260.

With a brand-new retail concept, Pull and Bear is set to shake the fashion scene here. A stylish Spanish label that is a cut apart from the rest, Pull and Bear caters to the needs of young fashionistas with the utmost style. Known for its casual, laidback, yet immaculately stylish, good quality and affordable clothing, Pull and Bear has since developed many lines of clothing by popular demand from its avid fans. A huge inspiration for its Fall/Winter collection is rock, which features fashion influences from legendary bands The Who, Iron Maiden and Led Zeppelin. Prices start at $2.50 for accessories, while T-shirts range from $15.90 and jeans from $59.90. This is a good alternative from other high street labels such as Zara and Mango.

Couched in a Legacy

This year, Coach—the leader of modern American accessories—celebrates its 65th anniversary as one of the world’s most loved and revered brands. The anniversary is commemorated with the grand launch of the Legacy Collection—a line of handbags, accessories and footwear that feature intricate details such as brass turnlock hardware and the Signature C fabric, all of which are the company’s trademarks. One bag you should certainly check out is the Legacy Leather Shoulder Bag, a creation crafted from smooth vintage leather and embellished beautifully with rugged brass hardware and a lovely strap. See it for yourself now at #01-34/35, Raffles City, 252 North Bridge Rd., 6837-2188.

Starry Starry Nights

After the surrealism of her Beauty Queen collection in September, Diane von Furstenberg is back to wow with the Starry Nights holiday collection. Be seduced by a mesmerizing collection of trompe l’oeil lace dresses and gowns, Swarovski crystal beaded dresses, wool Bermudas, tuxedo wrap dresses and dreamy frocks adorned with stars—perfect for any party. Visit the store on Level 2, Takashimaya Department Store, 391 Orchard Rd., 6736-3691.

A Brand New Nue

This Christmas, give your feet a treat with the Nue Arts Insole Collection and look your glamorous best. The Autumn/Winter collection, with shoes that feature stunningly striking imagery, is here. You’ll fall in love with the extraordinary beauty of nature—and with images of exotic animals and Chinese beauties. With names such as “Merry Metallic,” “Animal Instinct,” “Patented Inventions,” “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” and “Sensual Silhouettes,” we simply can’t resist these shoes. Available at #03-31/32, 290 Orchard Rd., 6836-7677; #03-00 Isetan Scotts, 350 Orchard Rd., 6733-1111.

The waltz, swing, cha-cha and rumba have been around for eons, but we’ve recently seen a new dance trend: Exotic dance. There are a growing number of studios and classes offering exotic dance in town, including lap dance and pole dancing. And it’s not just for the extra adventurous—every day gals are using exotic dance not only to spice up their lives but also as a form of cardio exercise. We ditched our modesty at the door of an exotic dance class and found out what all the fuss is about.

What’s Up

Exotic dance is a form of dance that encourages the dancer to shed his or her inhibitions, and can be performed with or without props (like chairs and poles). The idea is to inspire confidence. Julina Halim, 31, instructor and business director at thebodytalks dance school says, “It’s about bringing out each individual’s personality. Movements are specially designed and choreographed to help a woman exude her confidence and style.”

In Singapore, the majority of the students who sign up for these classes are women and classes are structured with women in mind. According to Firhana Alsagoff, 31, director and instructor of dance studio Groove, exotic dance particularly encourages women to express their sensuality through the moves. “Exotic dance is different from other sensual dances like the tango, as the lady gets to be in control of her body; she’s the one who is in charge and takes the lead.”

But classes are not full of sexual deviants. Joy Leng, founder and artistic director of SensUal Joy Lifestyle Studio categorizes learners of exotic dance into three groups. “People choose to dance for different reasons. Some come to learn something for themselves, as a hobby, and to build self-confidence in performance. Others want to learn a trick or two for their partners, and lap dancing is very popular in these instances. The last group of learners pick up dance moves to show them off on the dance floor.”

Increasing Your Heartrate

Exotic dance is not only about exploring one’s sexuality. For many participants, it provides a great way to shed the kilos as well, as we found when we tried an MTV Exotic routine at SensUal Joy Lifestyle Studio. Working your booty not only gets the heart pumping, but stretches the muscles too. Salim elaborates, “In exotic dance, we start off with exercises that tone the core muscles to get the body warmed up. We then work on body isolation, which engages the smaller, inner muscles that we may not usually engage in our everyday movement. This includes the shoulders, rib cage, upper and lower abdomen and back. All the work you put in is great for increasing flexibility and toning."

For instance pole dancing can be a hard physical workout. Alsagoff explains, “Pole-work requires a high level of discipline. You will find that it’s more than a sensual dance, but a really difficult form of exercise.” “The pole works on the abdomen, chest, the biceps and triceps as you are using your own body weight as resistance,” Salim explains. “It takes a lot of strength and control to be able to execute the movements with grace. You must be able to hoist yourself up in the first place!”

Leng points out that people who do exotic dance typically get “weird looks” from others, who think that they are of a “certain inclination.” But many students chose exotic dance for reasons as routine as variety and a chance to tap into their creative potential. Lori Chew, 26, a business manager who takes lessons at Groove says, “People usually tend to associate exotic dance with something erotic and somewhat sleazy, but it really is something fun and I look at it as something positive and liberating.”

Her fellow classmate Lavin Goh, 39, senior business development manager, adds, “I wanted more diversity in my fitness program besides aerobics and strength building.” Events coordinator Anne Jakobsen, 42, who does a wide variety of sports from ball games to ballet and jazz ballet also states: “Exotic dance is no different because it presents physical and mental challenges. It is also about finding your sexual identity and adding more creativity to your sexual life.”

Boys Toys

Although exotic dance classes are mainly frequented by women at the moment, the men are beginning to take an interest as well. “We do get a fair number of phone calls from guys who are interested in taking classes. There has been much talk about offering exotic dance for men,” Alsagoff points out, “Perhaps we should remove the stereotype that the role to entertain or be sexy is not solely limited to women. Exotic dancing for men is definitely something worth considering.”

For the boys who are dying to get it on, couples classes are a good way to get into the groove and stop feeling shy. “Couples classes are offered to those who want to try something new, and they usually go through lap dance routines with us. They have a lot of fun, and there is usually a lot of laughter, but letting go is really the whole point,” says Leng.

So for a change to the mundane workout routine, to explore your hidden desires or just for a few laughs, exotic dance might be the perfect solution. Just leave your inhibitions at the door.

So You Think You Can Dance?

Not getting enough action? Want to impress your latest date? Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to a pole dance sequence—the “spinner”—to free your inner sex bomb.

Step 1: Grab pole at a spot above your head with your right hand. Take four steps around the pole, starting with the inner foot.

Step 2: On the fifth step (that should be on the inner foot), lift your left leg up parallel to the ground and point.

Step 3: Spring up and bring your left arm in and grab the pole with your left hand while hooking your left ankle around the pole simultaneously. Quickly kick your right leg up, parallel to the ground, bent away from the pole.

Step 4: You will start twisting down the pole. Be graceful!

Step 5: Land softly and remember to give your most sexy pout and find those bedroom eyes.

The unconventional art works of young talents have caught our eye in art shows Normally and Displacementary: An Artvsts Exhibition recently. Normally is a collaborative effort by chin., Chang Jinchao, John Fan and fashion label Vice & Vanity, while Displacementary is a exhibition put up by local art collective Artvsts.

Unlike the exhibition’s name, the drawings and installations in Normally deals with everything peculiar, warped, bizarre and ironic. Fan, for example, has created several pictures of running noses which act as metaphors for rigid individuals who are unable to handle unpredictable and unforeseen circumstances. Don’t be surprised to know that his art is influenced by his sinusitis. More whimsical, chin.’s installation involves a table with a grass patch, in her attempt to piece disparate objects together to tease the mind. While the deer motifs by Vice & Vanity are absolutely droll.

Seven street artists LilPinkDevil, Maes2ro, OneTwoDelta, Orkibal, Phuek!, TheKillerGerbil and Zero, who formed the core of Artvsts, are the participants in Displacementary. Each with their own signature style, create captivating art pieces infused with street art sense, converting the otherwise plain gallery walls into funky and vibrant canvas. Check this out if you’re seriously into street and graffiti art.

More and more young artists are producing more interesting works that go against conventions these days. If you are up for some brain food and a visual feast, hit the shows Normally and Displacementary. And beware of the odd artwork that you’ll remember for some time.

All things Korean—from fashion and movies to TV series and fresh-faced pop stars—are all the rage. Capitalizing on this trend, the Pathumwan Princess hotel, which already has one Korean outlet, Kongju, recently expanded its offer of Korean delights with Kayageum.

The restaurant is divided into two main sections, with additional semi-private dining rooms. The front of Kayageum is dedicated to its steamboat buffet, where you will find a variety of the ubiquitous kimchi and kimchi-based specialties. But there are also some rarer items like goo jeol pan (nine assorted appetizers wrapped in a thin wheat crepe) and a barbecue where the chef grills meat for you if you don’t want to do it at your table. This all-you-can-eat orgy is on offer at B550 for lunch and B590 for dinner.

If you prefer a la carte, make your way to the hot pot room: The menu there features a large selection of items to cook in the hot pot. The homemade dumplings with beef and shrimp are highly recommended. There are four kinds of soups to choose from—miso, Korean chili paste, seafood and chicken ginseng. Spicy seafood broth is the top seller. However, do try chicken ginseng, which is so sweet and fragrant because a whole chicken is used for every pot of broth.

We asked Chef Kim Hanna to reveal a few secrets of Korean cuisine.

How did you learn to cook?
I’m not a professionally trained chef. I learned cooking tips and techniques from my grandma.

Why do you think Korean food is so popular?
Thais and Koreans, I think, like the same kind of food. Both are fond of spicy food and use rice as a basis. Some dishes even resemble tom yum or gaeng som.

What are the characteristics of Korean cuisine?
It’s very healthy. Korean cooking focuses on grilling and boiling, which are health-friendly cooking styles. Plus, Koreans apply the concept of yin and yang to the cuisine, so protein, fat, carbohydrates and vitamins are well balanced.

What’s the proper way to eat hot pot?
Just like at MK, you put ingredients into the bubbling broth, wait for them to cook and fish them out. Just don’t put too much dipping sauce into the bowl because it will ruin the sweetness of the soup.