Barossa Restaurant & Bar
This laid-back waterfront hangout serves up hearty Australian cuisine; expect dishes like roasted Tasmanian rack of lamb.  Wash your meal down the quintessentially Aussie way, with the diverse range of Australian boutique wines, draught beers and cocktails on offer.

Merchants Wine Cellar & Store
While it’s not exactly an Aussie bar, this boutique wine cellar offers almost 200 artisan wines from various regions across Australia, including Clare Valley, Adelaide Hills, Geelong and Margaret River. The place also serves up delicious bistro fare, like slow roasted pork belly, that pairs perfectly with a glass of vino.

Prince of Wales
Despite its location in Little India and being named after a Welsh prince, this backpacker hostel cum bar is as Aussie as it gets. There are plenty of Australian-style counter meals, like chicken parmigiana, to choose from, as well as a selection of Aussie beers, such as Grand Ridge Gippsland Gold.

The Rain in Spain
You’d think Dempsey art newcomer Barnadas Huang would lose steam after their grand debut of diverse contemporary European art last year, but in fact the current exhibition Blazing City (through Mar 1) is just as impressive, if not more so. Spanish painter Ulpiano Carrasco transforms Singapore’s cityscapes from hygienic blandness and well-engineered precision into bursts of lurid color and light.

Comings and Goings
This year’s Mosaic Music Festival (Mar 7-16) at the Esplanade is the tenth and also the last. Yeah, it’s hard for us to forget high points like Aphex Twin and Grimes too, but dry your eyes—there’s still lots to catch at this year’s edition. We’re super excited about alt-folkster Neko Case and genre-bender Olafur Arnolds who has opened for Sigur Ros. Another don’t-miss fest is the inaugural Singapore Rock Festival, with heavies like Rob Zombie and Korn.

Art for Living
If you liked Archifest, don’t miss the upcoming SingaPlural (Mar 12-16). The islandwide event celebrates design—especially homegrown—through a host of installations, exhibitions and talks by top names like Tim Power and Claudio Colucci. With all genres represented, from urban planning to fashion, we’re expecting to see our favorite people in the local design scene getting some well-deserved attention.

Hangar 24 Orange Wheat
The juiciest and lightest of the lot, this sunny beer is made with Californian oranges, pureed whole and added to the brew. It delivers a tangy hit of citrus while remaining airy, so it’s perfect for washing down greasy snacks.
$6.90 at Thirsty - The Beer Shop

Baird Rising Sun Pale Ale
Japanese brewer Baird puts out some really exceptional beers, and this is one of our favorites. It’s an American-style pale ale that’s citrusy without being overwhelming, with little hints of honey to counter the hops. The orange-amber color makes it extra festive, too.
$16 from Taphouse

Mikkeller …Zest Please!
It’s not just blonde beers who have all the fun. Brewed with orange zest by the ever-dependable Mikkeller, this is a dark, malty, chocolatey porter with a pleasant citrus kick. Think liquid jaffa cakes—great for dessert.
$13.50 from 99 Bottles

2 Better Than 1
We’re not sure about the name—sounds like a rejected Spice Girls tune—but this treatment is all about floral sweetness. Rose, orange blossom and jasmine oils are blended together for a massage that focuses on what they claim are your sexy chakras.
$600 for 120 minutes at Away Spa, W Singapore Sentosa Cove

A Chocolatier Affair
Chocolate and roses may be the cheesiest combo ever, but who cares? You’re going to smell good enough to eat after Japanese spa Ikeda is done with you. They start with a white chocolate body scrub, put you in a hot and steamy red rose bath, then top it off with a dark chocolate deep tissue and regular massage; all in a VIP couple suite. Available February 1-28.
$388 for 120 minutes at Ikeda Spa

Best of Friends
For those who don’t need a partner to make them happy on Valentine’s Day, this package for BFFs includes matching facials and Damai’s signature orchid essence massages. They’ll also throw in a wholesome lunch at Oasis by the Grand Hyatt pool. Not too shabby.
$750 for 180 minutes at Damai Spa

Senja Sunyi Couple’s Ritual
For something a touch more tropical, this package starts with a peony and plum blossom scrub, a Senja Sunyi massage—a blend of Chinese and Javanese massage styles—and an energizing kaffir lime bath. Afterwards, kick back and take in the view with afternoon tea at The Knolls at Capella.
$688 for 150 minutes at Auriga Spa

Spa by Night
Take your pick from aroma oil massage, Swedish massage or a cucumber body scrub at Spa Botanica, then spend the rest of the day frolicking around the Spa Garden, which has lots of little pools, waterfalls, labyrinths and a tea garden to play in, before a four-course dinner at The Garden restaurant. Available Feb 13-15.
$556 for 60 minutes at Spa Botanica

Suite Romance
If you really want to splurge, this is it. In a private couple’s suite, you start off with a soothing foot treat, followed by a soak in the tub and vanilla and honey sugar scrub. Finally, there’s a full body massage with blended frankincense, mandarin and ginger essential oils. We like the combination of sugar and spice.
$1,020 for 160 minutes at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental

1. Olympus Pen E-P5

2. Sony Alpha 7

3. Nikon DF

4. Fujifilm FinePix X100s 

5. Leica M240

6. Panasonic - Lumix DMC-GM1

1. Potion Bar 

2. Rana. Yoga

3. Dot Art + Suite

4. Ocean Urban Lounge and Boutique Resort

5. Coffeas Coffee Lab & Pub

More Top Spots

6. What If The Green Connect, Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-662-8048. 

7. Simple 235/5 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-662-2510. 

8. Ceresia 593/29-41 Sukhumvit Soi 33/1, 086-843-8235.

9. Cherubin 5/2-3 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-260-9800.

10. Mousse & Meringue 245 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-261-4830.

11. The Lab 2&3/F, RSU Tower, Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-662-1618. (See Cover Story, page 6)

12. Appia 20/4 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-261-2056.

 

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Beach, Please

If you want to squeeze in a really quick getaway from the big city during your trip, Pattaya is your best bet—it’s only about 90 minutes away from Suvarnabhumi Airport via a private transfer service (from THB 3,150, or $120). The city center isn’t as sleazy as it used to be, thanks to gleaming malls like CentralFestival (right next to the Hilton), decent bars like German brewpub Hopf Brew House (13/1 Beach Road) and events like the annual Pattaya International Music Festival (Mar 21-23) along the beach.

Also worth hunting out are scenic places farther afield, like Silverlake Vineyard and luxe polo resort Polo Escape, where Asian tycoons are rumored to hang out when they want some peace and quiet.

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Essentials

Getting there
Thai Airways has around five flights a day to Bangkok, starting from $370.

CHILL CHOICES BY TWO  POPETORN SOONTHORNYANAKIJ

Al Fresco Supper

Before being amazed by the light and sound show at the spectacular Supertree Grove, head to the top of these striking man-made "trees" to sip perfectly-mixed cocktails and enjoy creative bites at SuperTree by IndoChine (18 Marina Gardens Drive, Gardens by the Bay, (65) 6694-8489, open Sun-Thu 10am-noon (Drinks), noon-1am (Meals and drinks). Fri-Sat 10am-noon (Drinks), noon-2am (Meals and drink). Run by Asia’s top restaurant group IndoChine, this stunning venue offers an experience like no other, blessed as it is with a location at the top of the highest Supertree, some 50 meters above the ground. Snack on delicious finger food like crispy lychee with Kurobuta pork loin or terrine of chicken with walnuts and jamon iberico while enjoying sweeping views of the Marina Bay skyline and the spectacular architecture of Marina Bay Sands—either from the comfort of the indoor section, or at the al fresco bar.

Sipping on Top of the World

If you’re after something even more elevated, 1-Altitude (61-63/F, 1 Raffles Place, open Mon-Thu 6pm-2am, Fri-Sat 6pm-4am, Sun 6pm-1am, www.1-altitude.com) is an absolute must-visit. Set on the top of 1 Raffles Place building, it is currently the world’s highest al fresco bar. At a height of 282 meters, its 360-degree panoramic views of Singapore impress with breathtaking cityscapes at every turn. For drinks, you can expect a long list of creative cocktails (try the Altitude Affair!), as well as a premium wine list designed to perfectly match a menu of favorites ranging from a succulent seafood platter to spicy Thai chicken or prawn dip with crispy rice crackers. 1-Altitude’s sister venue, Stella, is another top choice for dinner, voted Best Restaurant to Impress in I-S Magazine’s Reader's Choice Awards. Make sure to arrive before sunset to witness the sky taking on a host of magical colors as Singapore dramatic skyline turns on the lights.

Primo Vino

Chilling often means a casual atmosphere and a great wine list. That's exactly what Napoleon Food and Wine Bar (206 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore, (65)6221-9282. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-midnight, Sat 6pm-midnight) serves up, stirring up quite the buzz since it opened its doors last year. The enomatic wine dispensing machines is our favorite part, as it allows you to sample an impressive selection of 32 different European wines by the glass. On the food front, expect Southern European delicacies such as warm spinach salad with crispy bacon, lamb shank parma tier and braised chicken leg in red wine, carrot puree and vegetable. The desserts here just as elegant and delicious—the lemon tart with lime sorbet is simply to die for! Ordering is actually part of the entertainment, too, as you are given an iPad Mini to explore the menu before the attentive staff step in to serve you as soon as you push the order button. You don’t need to worry about blowing your budget, either, as Napoleon is renowned for its great value for money, with wines by the glass starting at just $8. What's more, as it’s situated on the hottest dining street in Singapore, Telok Ayer, you have the perfect chance to walk around the old town to absorb the beautiful architecture before enjoying the best food experience in town.

Beach Party

If you’re headed to Sentosa, set aside some time to take a stroll along Tanjong Beach Walk, which is home to the retro-luxe Tanjong Beach Club (120 Tanjong Beach Walk, (65) 6270-1355, open Tue-Fri 11am-11pm; Sat-Sun 10am-midnight. www.tanjongbeachclub.com). Modeled after a 1950s beach resort, the club comes replete with a pool overlooking panoramic views, two bars, a restaurant and plenty of chill-out spaces. Here you’ll find a range of cool cocktails like the Tanjong Martini, a refreshing yet heady concoction of vodka, lychee, lemongrass syrup and apple juice, the dark rum and apricot brandy-laden Tanjong Punch, as well as the Red Sangria. Their food list is just as irresistible. The aromatic Tanjong Nurger or Half Spring Chicken show their just as comfortable with turf as with surf (do try the oysters from the Arctic Sea). The club is also home to one of the hottest beach parties in town, where swimmers frolick in the pool to waves of dance music, ranging from disco to house, from the likes of DJs Has, KFC, Hook and more. Plan ahead if you want to enjoy the fun to the max as Tanjong Beach Club also hosts full moon events, too. With Tanjong, Sentosa has really go its sexy back.

Late Night Sweets

After some late-night sweet treats? You’re in luck. Singapore is home to the aptly-named 2am : dessertbar (Holland Village, 21A Lorong Liput, (65) 6291-9727, open Mon-Sat 6pm-2am. www.2amdessertbar.com), which gets packed out after dinner. Here they serve up scumptious desserts that you can’t find anywhere else, all of which can be enjoyed with special wine pairings. You might feel a bit guilty tucking into these truly beautiful desserts, though, due to the artistry of Singaporean celebrity chef and owner Janice Wong. Her innovative creations often feature unusual ingredients that she incorporates in surprising ways. Try the Kayambe H2O and Basil White Chocolate, with passion fruit puff, coconut sorbet and sea grapes. What’s more, you can nibble on your favorite treats while lying on the long white beds, the best spots in the place. 

“My trip was so chill.  When the evening comes, Singapore is so vibrant, with a really colorful nightlife. I really love exploring the old Chinatown as it’s full of charming old buildings that have been transformed into hip cafés and bars. One great place to hang out there is Napoleon Food and Wine Bar which is a super laidback spot given the fine dining food and has a superb wine list.”

“If you’re looking for an al fresco place to live it up at night, 1-Altitude and SuperTree by IndoChine are my faves. Catch a cool breeze during sunset at IndoChine before heading to sip drinks and enjoy the 360-degree views at 1-Altitude, the highest al fresco bar in the world. The view up there is unbeatable.” 

“One of my guilty pleasures is eating desserts at night and I’m pretty amazed that there is a bar like 2am : dessertbar that serves sweets until really early in the morning. Superb!” 

This sponsored section was brought to you by Singapore Tourism Board

RAJA AMPAT, INDONESIA

If you’re done with diving in Thailand.

Travel magazines hype Raja Ampat as “the world’s last paradise,” and it’s something of a whispered secret among dive aficionados. The string of mountainous and rainforest covered islands are fringed by pristine white sand, merging into azure waters, with coral reef lying below the surface. The archipelago has one of the world’s richest marine habitats, while forests are teeming with wildlife. This natural phenomenon of land and sea biodiversity is what brings people here as they explore by boat and underwater and trek through rainforest to seek out the islands’ caves and waterfalls.

Discover

Premier Liveaboard Diving

Choose from packages of nine to 13 nights, with prices dependent on the type of boat (from $265 per night). An all-inclusive trip on Damai, which acommodates 8-10 people, costs $550 per night, inclusive of spa treatments, unlimited diving, and park fees, as well as food and drink. www.rajaampat.liveaboarddiving.net

Lightfoot Travel Liveaboard Cruises

For luxury sailing around the islands, with the expertise of an expedition leader, crew and divemaster, Lightfoot Travel has a range of exclusive yachts and phinisi ships that can be chartered for liveaboard trips. Charter of Tiger Blue (pictured on cover) for up to 10 guests, including all food, tours and watersports costs USD4,400 ($5,595) per night. www.lightfoottravel.com

Stay

Misool Eco Resort

Striking a balance between luxury and conservation, Misool is located in remote southern Raja Ampat, surrounded by uninhabited islands, inside a 1,220 sq. km. No-Take zone and 46,000 sq. km. Shark and Manta Sanctuary. The resort’s villas offer seclusion, alongside white sand, and coral-rich water. The beachside restaurant serves up fresh organic fare, with a terrace for sunset cocktails, while the dive center overlooks the water, with its own jetty for dive boats. Packages of seven nights start from €2,090 ($3,557). Batbitim Island, 629 5132-2613, www.misoolecoresort.com

Getting there

Fly from Singapore to Sorong with Garuda Indonesia (www.garuda-indonesia.com) for around $984.

When to Go

The best time to go is during the dry season, which is the peak diving season, running from October to April.

CHENGDU, CHINA

If you’ve had your fill of city breaks in Shanghai and Beijing.

As one of China’s most populous cities Chengdu isn’t exactly a hidden gem. Still, it’s often overlooked for its bigger siblings Shanghai and Beijing. Offering a juxtaposition of old world charm and modern metropolis, the city has more green space than its counterparts, and is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, exceptionally spicy food, emerging contemporary arts scene and—the big draw—the chance to snuggle up to pandas. Kelly Gillease of tour specialist Viator tells us: “The vivid colors help paint the picture of amazing experiences here: black and white of giant pandas; red of the Sichuan chili; blue of the hot spring; green of the tea leaves; silver of Qingcheng Mountain; and gold of the Leshan Buddha.”

Discover

Viator full day tour: Panda Breeding Center and Sanxingdui Museum

This tour combines the opportunity to see the pandas up close at Chengdu Panda Breeding and Research Center with an insight into Chinese culture at the Bronze Age archaeological site, Sanxingdui Museum. The tour costs USD117 ($148) per person. www.viator.com

China Exploration Three-Day Epicure Tour of Sichuan Food

For a real taste of Chengdu’s spicy cuisine, take part in this three-day introduction to local specialties like Shujiuxiang hot pot, Xiba bean curd and roasted rabbit’s head, while visiting food markets, temples, the famed Panda Garden and Leshan Giant Buddha. The tour costs USD273 ($347) not including accommodation. www.chinaexploration.com

Stay

Shangri la Chengdu

Located in central and historic Swell Fun—the world’s oldest wine lane, featuring wineries from past dynasties—this hotel overlooks Jinjiang River from its location next to Hejiang Pavilion, reflecting Chengdu’s fusion of colorful history with modern style. The property features four restaurants, a bar with live music, and a spa offering Chinese wellbeing treatments, as well as a pool, sauna and tennis court. Room rates start at CNY1,129 ($236). 9 Binjiang East Road, Jinjiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, 86 28 8888-9999, www.shangri-la.com/chengdu/shangrila

Getting There

Flights with Cathay Pacific (www.cathaypacific.com) cost around $500, while flights with China Southern (www.csair.com) cost around $540; most of which travel via Guangzhou.

When to Go

Spring is warm, followed by a short hot and humid summer, cool and rainy autumn, then a cold and foggy winter. The summer months can be stiflingly hot.

SHIKOKU, JAPAN

If you’re obsessed with Japan but maxed out on Tokyo.

As popular as Japan is in Singapore, not many make it to the smallest of the country’s four major islands, Shikoku. Between the mountains and lush green valleys lie waterfalls, vine bridges and temples, including the 88 Sacred Temples of Shikoku, a 1,400km Buddhist pilgrimage still undertaken today. In fact, Shigeo Konishi of Tourism Shikoku tells us: “The reason to visit this year has to be the 1200th anniversary of the creation of the pilgrimage in Shikoku.” The island is also known for its hand-made ‘sanuki udon’ noodles, locally grown fruit and fresh seafood, while also retaining many of its traditions.

Discover

Japan Roads – Shikoku Tour

This tour takes you around historic Himeji and Kurashiki, and cultural Takamatsu, before travelling to see the natural beauty and soak in the hot springs of the Iya Valley and Takamatsu. This seven-day tour costs USD2,210 ($2,780) per person.  www.japanroads.com

Awa Odori Festival

During Obon, the festival of the dead when spirits are welcomed back to their ancestral homes, Tokushima is taken over by Japan’s biggest dance festival Awa Odori (dance of the fools). Mid-August each year, musicians and dancers parade through the streets, encouraging festival revellers to join the fun. Visitors need to book ahead for hotels. For more info head to www.jnto.go.jp/eng/location/spot/ festival/awaodori

Stay

Hotel Kazurabashi

In its prime location in Iya Valley, this hotel is close to waterfalls and the island’s famous vine bridge. The traditional Japanese hotel incorporates natural open-air hot spring baths, accessed by cable-car, and is noted for its exceptional cuisine. Time can be spent hiking, white water rafting and relaxing in the famed hot springs. Room rates start from JPY16,000 ($193), dependent on season. Miyoshi, Tokushima Nishiiyayama 33-1, 08 8387-2171, www.kazurabashi.co.jp

Getting There

Japan Airlines (www.jal.com) and ANA (www.ana.co.jp) have flights from Singapore to Tokushima for around $935.

When to Go

Shikoku has snow in winter and high temperatures in summer. The rainy season is from early June to mid-July. Aside from the festival period, autumn and spring are the most popular times to visit.

BAGAN, MYANMAR

If you liked exploring the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat.

The number of tourists finding their way to Myanmar has been rising steadily, with more convenient travel options and luxurious places to stay, but the country still manages to retains its unique identity. Robert Carmack and Morrison Polkinghorne of Globetrotting Gourmet tell us: “Myanmar is Asia’s last frontier. Here, you experience a lifestyle of yesteryear, but most of all, Myanmar is a top destination because of its people—surely the friendliest and most gentle souls in the world.” Bagan is one of the country’s must-see spots—a vast landscape dotted with over 2000 ruins of pagodas, temples and monasteries. Explore by bicycle, stopping to climb the worn stone steps of the ancient temples.

Discover

Globetrotting Gourmet – Burma Up Country Tour

From Yangon you’ll journey to cultural hot spots like Inle Lake and Mount Popa in addition to Bagan itself, sampling regional cuisine while exploring villages, temples and monasteries, watching cooking demonstrations and seeking out traditional handicrafts. The tour takes place April 13- 23 for USD 5,795 ($7,264). www.globetrottinggourmet.com

Balloons Over Bagan

The most memorable way to see Bagan’s ancient ruins has to be by hot air balloon. In the early morning light with mist rising over the temple ruins, the balloons drift over the iconic landscape, before landing where you’re met with fruit, pastries and Champagne. Until March 31, flights cost USD 320 ($401) per person. www.easternsafaris.com

Stay

Aureum Palace

This luxury resort and spa is located among Bagan’s ancient temples, making it an ideal base for easy exploration. Villas are set inside the property’s landscaped tropical gardens, some with private pools, others that replicate the temples themselves; all sleekly designed with distinct Burmese features. There’s also an art gallery, pool and spa, for when you’re not out exploring. Rooms are from USD299 ($379). Min Nanthu, Nyaung U, Mandalay, 9 5616- 0046, www.aureumpalacehotel.com

Getting there

Return flights to Yangon cost $244 with Tigerair (www.tigerair.com) or $270 with Myanmar Airways International (www. maiair.com). Yangon to Nyaung-U (near Bagan) flights can be booked with Air Mandalay (www.airmandalay.com), cost dependent on the season. Alternatively, take an overnight train—more information can be found at the train travel site Seat 61 (www.seat61.com).

When to go

November to February is dry, then the peak season of March to May, is very hot, after which June to October becomes wet.

QUANG BINH, VIETNAM

As impressive as Halong Bay, minus the crowds.

Experience the world’s largest cave systems tunnelling through ancient mountains by venturing into the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Phong Nha Ke-Bang National Park of Quang Binh Province. Son Doong, the world’s largest cave, was only recently discovered and for the first time is open to tourists. Luke Ford, Director of Oxalis Adventure Tours, tells us: “Son Doong is quite possibly the most beautiful untouched paradise on Earth. It is spectacular.” Just 220 tourists permits were granted to Oxalis, the only operator to run tours here. This first phase is booked out, but you can still visit the province’s breath-taking cave formations of Hang En and Tu Lan, both reached by trekking across pristine jungle and river valleys.

Discover

Oxalis, Tu Lan Cave System

From Phong Nha, Oxalis offer one to four day tours. The Tu Lan Three-Day Exploration tour involves trekking across 10km of jungle and limestone path, before exploring the caves themselves to witness their spectacular formations, underground rivers and waterfalls. By night you’ll share BBQ dinners and camp under the stars. The tour costs USD325 ($410) per person, including all safety and camping gear. www.oxalis.com.vn

Oxalis, Hang En Ultimate Two-Day Adventure

After leaving Phong Nha, the guides lead the way through jungle, across rivers and streams, and to remote villages, before arriving at the majestic Hang En Cave. A highlight of the tour is spending the night camping in the cave. The tour costs USD275 ($347), including equipment, departing on Saturdays.

Stay

Before starting out on your adventure or as a reward La Residence Hue Hotel & Spa is a luxurious French Colonial design hotel on the banks of The Perfume River. This art deco property features a saltwater pool, spa and tennis courts, plus guests can book tours and cooking classes, as well as culinary experiences like a picnic lunch among the pine trees of Thien An Hill. The hotel houses the opulent Le Gouverneur bar and La Parfum fine dining restaurant. Room only rates start from USD176 ($222). 5 Le Loi, Vinh Ninh, Hue, Thia Thien, 845 4383-7475, www.la-residence-hue.com

Getting There

Flights from Singapore to Hué are available for around $375 with Vietnam Airlines (www.vietnamairlines.com). From Hué you can take a bus or train to Dong Hoi, then another bus to Phong Nha.

When to Go

March to November is the ideal time to visit when the temperature is most comfortable. The heat rises significantly from May to September, after which October to February is the rainy season. October to November has very heavy rain, so is best avoided.

Jakarta, Indonesia

Top festivals to look forward to this year

OK Video

When/Where: TBA

What: Biennial video art festival hosted by the Ruang Rupa collective established in 2003. Each year, the festival is based on a different theme and invites locals and international artists to share their thoughts through the format of video art.

Art Jog

When/Where: Jun 7-22, 

Taman Budaya Yogyakarta

What: Contemporary art fair with art talks and exhibitions from both young and established Indonesian artists.   

Java Jazz Festival

When/Where: Feb 28-Mar 2, Jakarta International Expo.

What: One of the world’s largest jazz events. This year, the three-day event will welcome big-names such as Jamie Cullum, India Arie, Natalie Cole, Earth Wind and Fire Experience and Sadao Watanabe. 

Top places to visit

Galleries  Recommended by Anggung Suherman

Komunitas Salihara

Jalan Salihara, No. 16, Pasar Minggu. (+62) 021-789-1202. www.facebook.com/salihara.org  

This community of art enthusiasts bundles together a theater, gallery and café. It’s home to Jakarta’s first black box stage, which has a capacity of 252 people and can be adapted for open-air use. The gallery space is structured in an oval shape aiming to give viewers a borderless experience, offering a range of local and international contemporary art.  

Ruang Rupa

Jalan Tebet Timur Dalam Raya, No.6, Jakarta Selatan. (+62) 021-830-4220. www.ruangrupa.org 

This non-profit organization was established in the early 2000s with an aim to help support the local art scene. Their many projects include Art Lab, which offers collaborative spaces for artists, RURU Gallery, an exhibition space for young artists, an annual writing workshop (Jarakpandang.net), student art event Jakarta 32°c and OK.

Galeri Nasional

Jalan Merdeka Timur No.14. 

Established in 1999, The National Gallery of Indonesia serves as one of the country’s preeminent cultural institutions, today exhibiting over 1,770 artworks by notable local and international artists.

Restaurants  Recommended by Martin Archer (founder of asia-bars.com)

SKYE

56/F Menara BCA, Jalan M.H Thamrin No. 1. (+62) 021-2358-6996. www.ismayagroup.com/skye

One of the most popular rooftop venues in Jakarta, it offers a variety of cuisines including Japanese, Latin American and Middle Eastern with a laidback lounge and poolside seating that provides a sweeping panoramic view.  

Union Brasserie, Bakery & Bar

G/F, Plaza Senayan Courtyard, Jalan Asia Africa No.8. (+62) 021-5790-5861. 

This chic streetside all-day café and bar serves up European and Asian-style dishes amid an energetic bistro atmosphere. Come nighttime, the place is equally famous for its creative cocktails, which take their cues from the cuisine. 

Blowfish

G/F, City Plaza at Wisma Mulia, Jalan Jend. Gotot Subroto No. 42. (+62) 021-5297-1234. www.facebook.com/blowfishjakarta

Contemporary Japanese bar and restaurant that’s also a big player in the nightlife scene, welcoming big names DJ from all over the world like Breakbot, Major Lazer, Laidback Luke and our DJ Ono.         

Café Modo

Jalan Kemang Raya No. 72 i, Jakarta Selatan. (+62) 021-719-5701. www.facebook.com/CafeMondoJkt   

“Café Modo is this very cool basement club with a record store on the third floor,” says Maft Sai. Put simply, the three-story wooden shophouse is like an Indonesian version of WTF Bangkok and offers Asian fusion dishes, cocktails and retro pop tunes. Some of their regular events include Large Up! (reggae, dub and ska night every Wednesday), Hit Machine (monthly event featuring special guest DJs) and Orkes Dorong Mondo (monthly event under different themes, from old Indonesian tunes to Asian beat, garage and rare grooves).

The Jaya Pub

Jalan MH. Thamrin Kav. 1-2, Jakarta. (+62) 021-319-25633.  

“This place looks just like The Rock Pub in Ratchathewi but plays traditional Indonesian music called ‘dangdut’—pretty much the luk thoong of Indo,” says Maft Sai. Opened since 1975, The Jaya Pub is one of the longest standing bars and restaurants in Jakarta. Expect local-international dishes, long happy hours and daily live bands performing not just traditional tunes, but blues and international covers.

Back in March 2012, local independent music collective Delicate brought Indonesian electro duo Bottlesmoker to perform in Bangkok. Now we chat to Anggung Suherman, one half of the duo, who is also a volunteer at Common Room Networks Foundation and Managing Editor at the Indonesian creative/culture magazine Suave.  

What’s the best thing about living in Jakarta?

Party, party, party…and shopping. Jakarta has a great nightlife scene, especially for those after DJs every night of the week. Mainstream electro is everywhere, with lots of clubs to go dancing and get wasted. Art is also quite big in Jakarta, with many artists living here and putting on exhibitions. Because Jakarta is the capital, it hosts lots of international festivals, meaning local artists get to meet artists from other countries. For me, though, Jakarta is not really a great place for making art, but good for selling and exhibiting art. Music is where it’s at for Jakarta, with so much variety, from electro dance to punk. Some 90%-95% of Indonesia’s popular bands are from here, all the national media is here, so the media industry in Jakarta is really big. 

"Music is where it's at for Jakarta, with so much variety, from electro to punk."

How have things evolved over the past five years?

I think the internet has flooded us with information, so there are many references for people to make something new or different. Foreign artists coming to Indonesia have also given us fresh ideas.

What do you think will be the big trend this year? 

I think there will be more concerts from international artists this year, which might actually make things more difficult for local artists. Personally, I hope more local artists get the attention of public—there are a lot of great musicians here.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Top festivals to look forward to this year  

ASEAN Festival II

When/Where: May (TBC).

What: The festival started last year as a spin-off of the annual CAMA festival that has been running since 2005. Whereas CAMA is fully international in the sense that acts can come from anywhere in the world, this one aims to show and support music and youth culture from Southeast Asia. “Last year showcased acts from six of the 10 ASEAN countries and we'd like to do everything we can to make sure all countries are represented as soon as possible,” says Co-organizer Giles Cooper (See Q&A, this page). “Anyone know any good acts from Brunei?”  

Hanoi Sound Stuff

When/Where: Apr (TBC)

What: Founded by Vietnamese electronic artist and event organizer Doan Tri Minh back in 2008, the very first edition of Hanoi Sound Stuff aimed to be a space for local and international artists to exchange electronic music. The festival has expanded every year, with last year’s event also featuring visual works alongside experimental sounds, music classes and art talks in collaboration with the Goethe Institute.

Hanoi New Music Festival

When/Where: Dates TBC, DomDom Art Hub and Space

What: Premiered in November and December of last year, this festival also puts the emphasis on experimental music. Founded by composer Kim Ngoc, it aims be a platform for young musicians and also facilitate exchange with guests musicians from Sweden, Denmark, UK, Italy and more. Set in a gallery and outdoor space, the festival lineup spans solo and group physical performance, sound and visual performance and live experimental bands. 

Top places to visit in Hanoi

Art Spaces Recommended by Douglas Pyper

DomDom 

www.facebook.com/domdom.vietnam

This hub for experimental art and music in Hanoi was founded in 2012 and provides training programs on everything from journalism to music. On top of training facilities, the space is equipped with a stage and gallery, which made it the ideal host for last year’s Hanoi New Music Festival.     

Manzi

14 Phan Huy Ich Street. Open daily: 9am-midnight. 

Set in a charming 20th century French villa, Manzi is a café by day and bar by night. With its very comfortable, easy-going atmosphere, it’s a great place to dine and drink. What’s more, another section of the house is dedicated totally to art: exhibitions, video installations, movie screenings and art talks.     

Tadioto

2/F Building A, 9 Tran Thanh Tong, (+84)-4-6680-9124. www.tadioto.com

Tadioto occupies the second floor of a formerly abandoned building, with only minor redecorations to freshen things up. There’s a space to enjoy coffee, tea and alcohol, with another area for performances and exhibitions.

Restaurants  Recommended by Giles Cooper and Maft Sai

Highway 4

101 Tran Thai Tong, Cau Giay. (+84) 7305-5665 www.highway4.com 

The longstanding Highway 4 just recently moved to a new building which takes the rustic route thanks to its red bricks, bare cement and light brown wooden furniture. The focus is still on traditional Vietnamese cuisine and a drinks list that includes concoctions made with a local rice spirit called Son Tinh. 

Quan An Ngon 

18 Phan Boi Chau Street, Hoan Kiem. (+84) 3942-8162/63. http://ngonhanoi.com.vn 

Set in a teak house, this restaurant offers up home-style Vietnamese dishes in keeping with the vibe of the street they’re located on, which is famous for its street stalls selling pho. 

La Badiane

10 Nam Ngu Street, Hoan Kiem. +84 (4) 3942-4509. www.labadiane-hanoi.com 

Focusing on international gastronomy and fusion food. Set in an old white colonial-inspired building, surrounded by lots of trees, the place offers both indoor and outdoor seating, and is all about wine pairings and cocktails. 

CAMA-ATK

Founded by the CAMA group when they launched their CAMA festival back in 2005, this one-room bar is the epicenter of independent music in Hanoi. To give you some idea: this is the place where crate-digging DJ The Dude of Stratosphere played before heading to Moose earlier this month, while rapper Heems performs here on Jan 24 before joining Popscene in Bangkok (Jan 25). Of course, the place also serves up killer cocktails.    

Hanoi Rock City

If CAMA-ATK is the Vietnamese version of WTF or Moose Bangkok, Hanoi Rock City would be Cosmic Café or Harmonica, host to regular lineups of up-and-coming local artists. Owner Phu Pham founded the place back in 2010 in order to support independent artists and establish one of the best places to catch live gigs in the country.  

Chez Xuan 

This outdoor bar in a garden setting is good for a spot of pre-gaming. The standalone house is decked out with heaps of Chinese-Vietnamese decorations, while the food spans South East Asia. http://chezxuan.com          

Last year, Hanoi hosted the very first ASEAN Music Festival, featuring performances by bands from Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. With a second edition in the works for this May, we talk to two of the event’s in-the-know organizers, Giles Cooper and Douglas Pyper of CAMA Vietnam (www.camavietnam.org).   

What’s the art, music and nightlife scene like in Hanoi now?

Giles: There's a hell of a lot more going on here these days than when CAMA got started. The local scene, by and for Vietnamese, has really exploded over the last couple of years but it's still a challenging environment to operate in.

Douglas: It’s still very limited. Particularly now, the scene feels very one step forward, two steps back. Last year, a disused pharmaceutical factory in the center of the city became available for rent at reasonable rates, and young, creative people began to move in. Known as Zone 9, the space became home to the usual array of bars, cafes and restaurants, but also art galleries, workshops, and music venues. But unfortunately, the space was closed down by the government last month, and the renters all lost their investment.  

"The local scene by and for Vietnamese has really exploded."

What do you think will be the big trend this year? 

Giles: Steve Aoki played a show in Hanoi at the end of last year that was well attended and I can see 2014 throwing up more and more of that type of big-name action, assuming sponsors are willing to come on board to fund such shows.  Personally speaking, that sort of thing doesn't interest me at all and I'd like to see more grassroots development of Vietnamese youth getting out and about on a regular basis to enjoy more esoteric offerings from local and international indie acts.

Douglas: It’s extremely hard to say at this point, as the city has lost so many venues in such a short space of time. One trend I expect to see continuing to develop is an increase in small-scale acoustic venues featuring solo singer-songwriters/performers. I think we’ll generally see small venues and cafes looking to put on, informal performances as competition for customers heat up and demand for this kind of entertainment increases.

What's the best thing about living in Hanoi?

Giles: It's hard to look past a report that came out just this week declaring Vietnam to have the cheapest beer in the world (bia hoi).  But, if I had to, I'd say it's the “can do” energy of the place: beg forgiveness if necessary, don't ask permission.   

Manila, Philippines

Top festivals to look forward to this year

Fete de la WSK

When/Where: November (Dates/Venue TBA)

What: Organized by SABAW Media Art Kitchen, Fete de la WSK is the Philippines’ only international festival of arts and new media. The festival promotes the country’s rising artists, with exhibitions spanning installations, video, film and experimental music both from local and international artists.  

International Silent Film Festival

When/Where: August/ Shang Cineplex Mandaluyong 

What: Claiming to be Asia’s only silent film festival, this is a collaboration between the Japan Foundation, Goethe-Institute, Instituto Cervantes Manila and several foreign embassies. Films screened come from as far afield as Germany, Italy and Japan.    

Manila Music Festival

When/Where: May (Dates/Venue TBA)

What: This is not unlike a smaller version of our Big Mountain Music Festival. Founded in 2012, putting the focus fairly and squarely on local artists with a few international ring-ins. There’s also a separate stage for more experimental electronic sounds. 

Top places to visit

Art Spaces Reccomended by Theculturetrip.com

Pablo Gallery 

Cubao X Branch: Shop 7 Cubao X, Gen. Romulo St., Araneta Center, Quezon City.  (+63 2) 440-8807. 

Fort Branch: C-11 South of Market, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. (+63 2)400-7905. http://pablogalleries.com  

Set in a two-story shophouse, the first branch (Pablo X) looks a lot like a cute café, but inside it’s filled with oft-challenging rotating exhibitions from rising local artists. The second branch (Pablo Fort) keeps to the same art-friendly vibe but puts more focus on established artists.  

Manila Contemporary

Whitespace 2314, Chino roces Avenue, Pasong Tamo Extension, Makati City.  (+63 2) 576-5024. http://manilacontemporary.com

Located in a proper, very clean white building, this place offers up all of its 360-sq-meters of high-ceilinged space to exhibiting contemporary artworks from young artists from the Philippines as well as other Southeast Asian countries. The main space promises 12 exhibitions a year while the smaller room on the second floor is for popup events.      

Green Papaya Art Projects

41B T. Gener St, Kamuning, Quezon City. www.greenpapayaprojects.org

Sat in the middle of a commercial district, this old two-story shophouse is one of the city’s longest standing independently-run art spaces. It’s not only a place to catch exhibitions, but also art talks, gigs and more creative events from locals and international artists.

Restaurants  Recommended by Martin Archer (founder of asia-bars.com)

Las Flores

Fort Bonifacio. G/F One Mckinley Place, 25th St., Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. (+63 2) 552-2815.

Las Flores serves up modern European/Spanish cuisine with lots of happening brunch, lunch and wine pairing events making the place always lively. Their creative cocktails and extended opening hours make it a tempting place to settle for the night.       

Museum Café

Ayala Museum Complex, Dela Rosa Street, Makati City. (+63 2)757-3000. 

Located on the ground floor of Ayala Museum Complex, the Museum Café, or M Café, serves up traditional Filipino dishes as well as other Asian favorites with an emphasis on modern presentation. With both indoor and outdoor zones, a proper bar and DJ booth on one side, the place is not so much a formal restaurant as a place to chill out. Museum is also known from its brunch events and occasional traditional performances.

Victorino’s Restaurant

11th Jamboree Street corner Scout Rallos, Quezon City. 091-795-30661.

Victorio’s Restaurant is the place to head for home-cooked Ilocano cuisine. This old house-turned-restaurant already offers a real escape from the crowds of Manila’s many, many malls.    

Rocket Room

7th Avenue Corner 30th Street, G/F Bonifacio High Street Central, Fort Bonifacio. (+63 2)621-3222.

Rocket Room is a hip bar and club—sort of Manila’s version of Moose Bangkok. Decked out in a stylish industrial-retro vibe, it serves as a chill café by day and chic party spot post-sunset thanks to the wide selection of wine, beers, cocktails and DJs spinning all week.

B-Side

The Collective, 7274 Malugay St. San Antonio Village. Makati City. www.bsidemanila.com 

Think of it as a slightly bigger version of Café Democ during its ‘00s heyday; B-Side is all about propping up independent/underground acts with occasional international DJs and acts brought in. Best known for its Sunday Irie weekly party that serves up reggae and dub with impressive visuals. “One of the best weekly parties in Manila,” says Bangkok's DJ Maft Sai.

Black Market

Warehouse 5, LA Fuerza Compound 2, Sabio St., Makati. (+63)908-813-5622.

Not as dodgy as the name sounds, Black Market may be set in a redecorated warehouse, but the focus is on up-to-the-minute electronic music. Aside from their weekly parties (Wednesday is hip hop/soul, Friday is bass music and Saturday is techno) Black Market is where big names like DJ Krush and Kode 9 perform when in town. Guess where Heems and Onra performed before coming to Bangkok this weekend?

Three Southeast Asian Indie Acts to Check Out 

Archaster

Country: The Philippines 

Why you’ll like them: Filipino acoustic pop performer Francis Yu, better known as Archaster, is immediately recognizable for his deep charming voice, which is a little reminiscent of Kings of Convenience’s Erlend Øye or Thailand's Thee Chaidej. His previous songs pair melancholic lyrics with dreamy-pop (“Dreamland”) and psychedelic-infused pop (“Letter to Montecarlo” and “Oakwood Avenue”). But what really caught our ear is his latest release, “I Love You More Than Summer Time,” which leaves the sadness behind to be a real breezy summer anthem. www.soundcloud.com/archaster

Afternoon Talk

Country: Indonesia

Why you’ll like them: Ask any self-respecting Thai indie kid and they’ll tell you that 2013 belonged to Part Time Musicians. Well, we’d say this Indonesian three-piece serves up a very similar blend of folk and indie-pop. Our guys might liven things up with more intense guitar sounds and violin, but Afternoon Talk keeps things pretty interesting, too, with some driving percussion and ukulele on tracks like the upbeat “Island” and slightly harder-edged “Hearts,” which is on their latest EP, Contradiction. www.facebook.com/afternoontalk

Lyna Trina

Country: Vietnam

Why you’ll like her: If you like strong female vocals accompanied by sparse guitar or piano (think Rachel Yamagata or Daughter), you’ll find much to admire in this Vietnamese bedroom artist. Lyna Trina caught our attention through her YouTube channel, which shows so much more than a pretty girl doing pop covers (yeah, well, she does play some covers). Her self-produced tracks, like her latest “Without,” are easy on the ear but veer from the sweet to the heart-wrenching. www.soundcloud.com/lynatrina/withoutdemo