Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the Singapore Cricket Club (SCC) on Tuesday, 22 October 2019, with a pre-cocktail reception and exquisite four-course lunch paired with wine as Celebrity Chef Paul Askew demonstrates how to prepare two of the dishes.
A pioneer of excellent modern British cuisine, Chef Askew is a stalwart of Liverpool’s burgeoning culinary scene and one of the UK’s most popular chefs. He spent part of his childhood in Singapore and it is here that his fascination with good quality food and ingredients begun after being exposed to different cultures and foods. Guests can look forward to a delightful lunch that will titillate your palate.
This event is part of the SCC’s fortnight of events that will be A Fiesta of Heritage and New Beginnings that commemorates the Singapore Bicentennial.
SCC Family Day & Open House
It’s Family Fun galore on Sunday at Singapore Cricket Club and Padang field on 20 October 2019! Bring your kids down to this free event with pony rides, bouncy castles, life-sized board games, bubble soccer and more! There will also be F&B stalls for you to purchase food, snacks and drinks.
In addition, SCC is opening its Clubhouse up to the public for special-access club tours which you can pre-register for here: tinyurl.com/SCCOpenHouse2019
Happening 11am – 4pm, the SCC Family Day & Open House is open to all, and parking is on a first-come-first-serve basis (alternative parking locations at National Gallery, Parliament House and The Adelphi)
This event is part of the SCC’s fortnight of events that will be A Fiesta of Heritage and New Beginnings that commemorates the Singapore Bicentennial.
Singapore Cricket Club
Connaught Drive
Singapore 179681 scc.org.sg
ANZA Action’s adopted charities support many groups such as the elderly, disadvantaged women, cancer patients, youth and children. Their work includes:
Empowering women
Dress for Success enables women to achieve financial independence by providing them with career and interview coaching, and suitable work clothes. ANZA members have volunteered as stylists, career coaches and boutique support, as well as providing clothes when the boutique needs donations. singapore.dressforsuccess.org
Dress for Success currently needs a volunteer graphic designer, and two new Board Members to support the organisation with finance skills and fundraising expertise.
The New2U Thrift Shop is part of the Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations which works towards equality for women in Singapore. ANZA members volunteer in the shop, and you can donate good condition clothes, toys, and crockery. scwo.org.sg
The New2U Thrift Shop is holding a bazaar on 23 – 24 November, 10am to 4pm, 96 Waterloo St.
Aidha empowers Foreign Domestic Workers and low-income women to achieve financial independence through education. ANZA volunteers act as mentors, teaching the Aidha curriculum to students on Sundays. aidha.org
“The students’ joy and sense of achievement during graduation is so special, and the rewards of being part of this are beyond words,” says Cathy Heeley, ANZA volunteer.
Assisting the older generation
The Salvation Army provides social services to Singaporeans in need. ANZA members have been supporting the Food Ration Programme and Elderly Drop-in Programme for over 10 years. salvationarmy.org/singapore
“Our volunteers support the Salvation Army with their time and enthusiasm, and in return they interact with an often unseen side of Singapore. They get the biggest smiles and ‘thank yous’ from the uncles and aunties during food delivery,” says ANZA volunteer, Virginia Soh.
Cycling Without Age (CWA) has a vision for a world in which no senior faces isolation, and where they can ‘feel the wind in their hair’. Since its launch in 2015 CWA Singapore has grown to 600 volunteers and has given more than 10,000 seniors free trishaw rides. ANZA volunteers have been part of this history. cyclingwithoutage.sg
Youth, children and families
Babes assists pregnant teenagers with information and support. Their vision is for an inclusive society, where pregnant teenagers needing support will not feel estranged or marginalised. Babes is one of the recipients of the generous donations that ANZA members make at events. babes.org.sg
“For more than two years, ANZA has been a constant in our partnership and fundraising journey. The donated funds have enabled us to conduct skills-based workshops and provide transport allowances to our beneficiaries who were in need,” says Anu Cherian, Community Partnership Executive, Babes.
Ronald McDonald House Charity (RMHC) improves the health and wellbeing of children in Singapore. Our committed ANZA volunteers support the work of the charity at the National University Hospital, where they assist in the operation of the family room and support families whose children are being treated in the hospital. There are many ways to support RMHC, from volunteering to donating snack packs for young outpatients. rmhc.org.sg
Children’s Aid Society and Melrose Home provides services to families and children, including residential care for vulnerable children. ANZA supports them with volunteers and donations from our fundraising events. Having had a long relationship with Secret Men’s Business, Melrose Home is now also working with the Stitches Group who provide workshops and will support residents to sew bags and tissue packet covers for sale at the Society’s 117th anniversary gala dinner. childrensaidsociety.org.sg
Supporting diversity and opportunities for everyone
Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) runs a riding therapy programme for people with disabilities. ANZA members volunteer as side walkers or horse leaders, and help out in the stables. rdasingapore.org “Riding therapy provides enormous benefits to a person with disabilities. It is a joy to see the improvements children make during the 10 week programme, as well as the special connection between the horses and riders,” says Deborah Gillies, ANZA volunteer.
IC2 Prephouse empowers those with visual impairments to live independently, and provides support for young people to remain in school. This year, six ANZA volunteers assisted IC2 Prephouse and their beneficiaries with a trip to Gardens by the Bay, where they visited the Flower Dome and completed a fun amazing race activity. ic2.com.sg
Through their hawker centre, Dignity Kitchen, and bookshop, Dignity Mama, Project Dignity creates opportunities for unemployed adults with special needs to train in a vocation and gain employment. Project Dignity encourages ANZA members to experience their hawker centre in Serangoon, or order their catering online. projectdignity.sg
Supporting those with cancer
The Singapore Cancer Society’s mission is to ‘minimise cancer and maximise lives’. ANZA volunteers have supported their work in the community, and this year the ANZA Biggest Morning Tea raised nearly $5,000 for the Singapore Cancer Society, which will go a long way to supporting their important work in the community. singaporecancersociety.org.sg
Want to get involved? Contact suzanna@anzaaction.org.sg or check the ANZA Action Facebook for opportunities. facebook.com/groups/755798497783855/
27 SEPT – 13 OCT
Urinetown
Drama Centre Theatre
Singapore’s own Pandemonium Theatre Company brings the award-winning Broadway smash to local audiences. Urinetown gleefully takes the piss out of politicians, populism, people power, capitalism, corporate corruption, and musicals themselves! Tickets from $40, Sistic.
3 OCT – 17 NOV
Voilah! France Singapore Festival
The Voilah! Festival celebrates French culture and Franco – Singapore connections. It features 50 programmes and events over six weeks, including performances, exhibitions and presentations, in various locations across Singapore. voilah.sg
10 – 12 OCT
The Great Wine & Dine Festival 2019
Resorts World Sentosa
Resorts World Sentosa hosts a showcase of over 400 international wines, and a special Japanese zone featuring craft sake breweries. Sign up for masterclasses on topics like Tuscan wines, pinot noir, craft sake, Spanish varietals, and the difference between new and old-world wines. Tickets from $60, at thegreatfestival.sg
20 – 26 OCT
M1 Nations Cup Netball,
OCBC Arena, Singapore Sports Hub
Catch the Singaporean national netball team on their home turf, competing with teams from Ireland, Namibia, Papua New Guinea, Botswana and the Cook Islands. Tickets from $10, apactix.com and Singapore Indoor Stadium box office.
25 – 27 OCT
Moonlight Cinema
Gardens by the Bay
In conjunction with the Singapore International Film Festival in November, Gardens by the Bay will host the free outdoor Moonlight Cinema. This year’s theme is the dreams of youth. Films include cult fave Empire Records, French film The Chorus, and award-winning Indian musical drama Secret Superstar. Tickets are free, register at sgiff.com/moonlightcinema
26 OCT
After Dark
Asian Civilisations Museum
Just in time for Halloween, the ACM presents their popular annual Halloween special. Get spooked by chilling performances, hear haunting tales by local storytellers, or make
your own supernatural souvenir at this free event, from 7 to 11pm.
acm.org.sg
27 OCT
Deepavali
Little India
Also known as the ‘festival of lights’, Deepavali is when Hindu families light up their homes, exchange gifts and perform prayers to Hindu deities. Experience the festivities at Little India’s Deepavali Festival Village; Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest Hindu temples; and the ‘silver chariot’ procession from Little India to Sri Mariamman Temple in Chinatown. smt.org.sg, srivkt.org
30 Oct
Backstreet Boys
Singapore Indoor Stadium
Backstreet’s back alright as the Backstreet Boys hit the little red dot for one night only. Join the fab five for a singalong of all their 90s and 2000s hits like ‘As Long as You Love Me’ and ‘Quit Playing Games With My Heart’ at Singapore Indoor Stadium. Tickets from $168 at stubhub.sg
3 Nov
Great Eastern Women’s Run
National Stadium
Join Asia’s largest all-women’s run, with a ceremonial finish at the iconic National Stadium. It features 21.1km, 10km, and 5km distances for adults, plus a 2km ‘Mummy and Me’ for girls 7-12 and their mums, and the ‘Princess Dash’ for girls 3-6. Entry from $49, register at greateasternlife.com/greateasternwomensrun
To be honest, I wasn’t sure if I’d even make it to Kamalaya, a Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa resort located on Koh Samui’s peaceful south coast. Recently diagnosed with a painful spinal condition, I’ve been finding it a challenge to walk around the block, let alone bend myself into yoga poses or rise at dawn for a fitness class. Prior to arrival, I hurriedly checked the program box, ‘Relax & Renew’, thinking that their ‘newcomers to wellness’ program would be the gentlest entry point for my five-night stay.
Arrivals hall
After a short, direct flight from Singapore, I’m met at the airport, handed a cold towel and driven the 40 minutes out to the resort, accompanied by the sound of peaceful birdsong on the car stereo. Right away, I feel calmer. Speeding past busy tourist areas and markets, I arrive in the evening at the resort, nestled on a hillside in a lush Thai jungle. I’ll have to leave exploring for the morning. I’ve already had a Venti Starbucks coffee, waffle bikkies and an airline curry for dinner, so I knock back a super heathy purple welcome drink made with butterfly pea, coconut water and a squeeze of lime, and head for my luxurious digs – a spacious villa I suspect might be overlooking the ocean by the sound of waves that send me straight to sleep.
Rise and shine
Waking to burbling frogs, I raise the blinds and exhale. Kamalaya boasts its own white sand beach, pretty granite boulders rising from the blue sea, banyan trees, ponds topped with pink lotus flowers, swaying palms and serene swimming pools. A couple of friendly butterflies flap gently across my path as I make my way up the steep hill for breakfast. Quite simply, it’s paradise.
The buffet at the main alfresco restaurant, Soma, is unlike anything I’ve ever seen; an explosion of colour and healing, healthy foods. There’s no greasy bacon or hash browns here. I grab a plate of fresh tropical fruits, and a couple of shots (kale, turmeric and a green concoction made out of a leafy herb called gotu kola are soon to become my go-tos) Although some guests are on a ‘detox’ or ‘ideal weight’ menu, in general Kamalaya’s approach to nutrition ditches extreme dieting and promotes eating foods that nourish the mind, body and spirit. Their menu is extensive, seasonal, and features a variety of a la carte ‘healthy’ Thai classics, plant-based dishes, fish and some lean meats. Breakfast includes buckwheat and pumpkin pancakes, poached eggs, a sprawling salad bar, soups, nuts and seeds, and even gluten free breads, cakes and croissants. Although this is the ideal place to kick a habit, I’m not ready to give up my decades’ long morning caffeine fix. I order a latte, enjoy a delicious bowl of bircher muesli and make my way to the wellness centre.
Wellness consultation
Every guest at Kamalaya begins their stay with a wellness consultation. A nurse gives me a once over and performs a ‘body bio impedance analysis’, which measures my fat-to-lean-muscle ratio (not great) and my cellular health (pretty good). Then I meet with Emily Sarkies, a lovely, positive Australian naturopath, who puts me instantly at ease as we chat about my goals during my stay. They’re fairly modest: to kickstart a healthier lifestyle, and protect and strengthen my still fragile spine. I’m nervous and a little defensive, but she’s completely supportive, non-judgemental and wise. I’m in good hands.
After consulting the onsite physio team as to whether I could switch to the new ‘Structural Revival’ program, which is designed to realign the body, reduce tension, and rehabilitate injuries, I’m advised to stick with my original choice, which includes a slew of wellness therapies, alongside daily rotating activities.
As well as individualised programs, Kamalaya offers a holistic activity schedule which includes aqua-aerobics, cooking classes, meditation, tea sharing, wellness workshops, stretching, yoga and even some offsite tours to temples and other local areas of interest. Some guests head off for a sunset sail and snorkel one evening and spot a rare blue stingray. Although I’m usually one for excursions, I opt to stay within the bubble of the resort, trying to focus on relaxing and renewing.
Treatment time
Kamalaya takes cues from both Eastern and Western healing therapies which transcend the standard spa experience. Their world class team includes skilled massage therapists, doctors, physios, acupuncturists, nutrition experts, personal trainers, yogis, gurus and mentors.
Every program includes heavenly daily treatments in the tranquil open-air wellness centre. I kick things off with a Lotus Blossom Scrub & Wrap, followed by a 90-minute Vital Essence Oil Massage. The therapists are some of the best I’ve ever encountered; intuitive, caring and discreet. I also try traditional Asian hand and foot massage, Indian head massage, far infared sauna (30 minutes in a wooden hot box) and an unusual Chi Nei Tsang massage of the stomach and internal organs. It’s the only treatment I find challenging (most guests do at first). The rest leave me in a state of deep relaxation.
There’s plenty of ways to stay well here – I also visit the state-of-the-art gym, Pilates reformer studio, yoga pavilion overlooking the water, two swimming pools, hot pools, steam rooms, and even a monk’s cave. I tentatively step inside the small, spiritual space early one morning, lighting an incense stick and setting an intention for the day. I’m starting to find my bliss.
The people you meet
Perhaps the biggest surprise is how many fellow wellness warriors I connect with. I’m an introvert at heart, but at the long communal table, I share my meals with a group of fascinating people from all over the planet. Swapping stories over beautifully presented plates, tea and healthy mocktails is a joy – no wonder some guests return to Kamalaya for many years, each time gathering more friends and ideas for reinventing their lives.
As I check out on my final day, I’ve miraculously swapped my morning coffee for mulberry tea, my back is in good shape, and I feel energised and ready for a busy period ahead. I’m farewelled by a new friend from Bhutan, who presses her contact details into my hand and waves me off. As I leave this magical place and head back to the urban jungle of Singapore, I can only hope I’m lucky enough to return one day.
When did you first move to Singapore?
I moved to Singapore 15 years ago with my job. At the time I was working for an analyst firm. I’d planned to come for two years but loved it so much I didn’t leave! Singapore is home now.
What has been your journey to health and wellness?
I was always focused on staying healthy when working in the corporate world; one of these crazy people waking up at 5am to go to the hotel gym and taking protein bars into meetings. I got more serious when I decided to change my career and follow my passion to try and make an impact on the world around health and fitness. I started winning races and ended up representing Singapore at two Spartan World Championships. Things snowballed with sponsorships, and today life is crazy competing in things all over the world and running a business full time. Currently I’m training for 100km ultramarathon and will finish my season with the Great Eastern Women’s Run on the 3 November.
What does wellness mean to you now?
I make sure I’m looking after myself as a whole. Not just physically training hard, but eating right, getting enough sleep and managing stress. It’s all about finding that balance.
What’s one wellness activity you swear by?
I’m a much nicer person when I have exercised as that’s my time to destress – some people meditate, I run! Also, two important things which people dismiss far too easily – getting enough sleep (at least eight hours) and drinking enough water (I always encourage anyone in Singapore to drink three litres a day with the humidity). Sleep and hydration can make a huge difference to how you function.
What’s your advice for those wanting to be fit, but can’t afford an expensive gym membership?
Gone are the days of having to join an expensive gym to exercise. There are so many free or low-cost activities on offer from the likes of ActiveSG to SportsHub.
What’s your typical day of eating?
I eat the same thing almost every day! Breakfast is coffee, eggs and salad, a protein bar as a snack, steamed vegetables and some turkey for lunch and then late afternoon I might have some cottage cheese and vegetables. Weekends I am more relaxed and indulge a bit more. I also try and stick to a mostly vegetarian diet as red meat doesn’t work for me with my rheumatoid arthritis.
How do you encourage movement in kids?
Kids follow by example. As a mum to a 10-year-old daughter she thinks it’s normal that families exercise as that’s what she’s always seen us doing. We also try and look for events to do together and make family time on weekends activity based – it just needs to be fun for kids and they’ll want to do it.
How do you use your large social media reach to influence healthy living?
For me it’s about being real with my followers – letting them know everyone has good and bad days, being open and consistent with my messages, not taking myself too seriously and trying to inspire others to make that one small change that could be the difference to their life.
What are you most looking forward to with the Great Eastern Women’s Run?
I can’t wait to have so many amazing females coming together to run, be healthy and have fun. I also can’t wait to do it with my daughter so she can witness again what a positive impact a fitness community has.
Tips for a healthy lifestyle in Singapore?
There are two simple steps that will set you up for much greater long-term success.
1. Find a friend or join a like-minded community around health and fitness. This will keep you accountable, provide social interaction and make it more fun! There are so many great communities in Singapore from Spartan Race groups, gyms like F45, running or trail walking clubs or options like a Classpass where you can try lots of different activities.
2. Start with small changes or goals. Don’t train for a marathon week one, and don’t try and completely change your diet – small wins are easier and before you know it, it’s become a healthy habit and part of your life.
Great Eastern Women’s Run 2019
Run with Natalie on Sunday 3 November at The Singapore Sports Hub. Race categories offered this year include the 21.1km, 10km, 5km, the 2km ‘Mummy + Me’ run for mothers and daughters aged 7 to 12 and the popular ‘Princess Dash’ for girls aged 3 to 6. Register now at greateasternlife.com/greateasternwomensrun
Not many people look forward to an international move, especially if you’re the one making it all happen – from the nitty gritty of utilities and internet connection, to new schools for the kids and renting or selling your current home. It’s a juggling act, but with some insider tips you can maintain your sanity and inner chi during your relocation. The process of shipping your household goods and personal belongings to your next destination can be simple and straightforward if you plan ahead. Here are ten tips from the team at SIR MOVE SERVICES SINGAPORE & MALAYSIA for a stress-free move.
Only work with professional movers who are experienced and qualified by a reputable organisation.
Get up to three international moving quotes. This allows you to make accurate comparisons based on your minimum requirements.
Ask the following questions prior to confirming your survey appointment:
Is your company a FIDI/FAIM accredited mover? For qualified removal companies to be part of FIDI they need to prove that they are compliant with the strict requirements which are regularly assessed by independent auditors.
Are you a full-service mover? Reputable international movers will provide transportation, packers, materials and a packing crew with an English supervisor trained in international packing standards.
Will you handle my shipment door-to-door? Reliable moving companies will support you from your current origin to your final destination.
Know your exact requirements, such as pet moving, storage and insurance. If a single moving company can provide you with all the services, it will make it easier to have one point of contact.
Prepare yourself for the survey, organising your list of questions. There are no silly questions, and this is the best time to get clarity on the complete moving process.
Get detailed. For expensive, precious, fragile or bulky items you may want to ask the representative to explain the protection and packing options and procedures.
Clarify all costs. There are always additional costs for special handling, so get in front of it and take control of your moving budget.
If budget is not your deciding factor, do consider the company’s years of experience, the management and other reliable sources.
Always compare the Inclusions and Exclusions. It will differ from one company to another.
Make sure everything discussed is included in the final quotation.
For more tips and assistance with your next moving adventure contact SIR MOVE SERVICES SINGAPORE & MALAYSIA. Visit www.sirmove.com or email talk2us@sirmove.com
The Urban Farm
#07
Don’t miss visiting this 500ft green space, overlooking the space age city below. Wander through 30 varieties of vegetables, herbs and edible flowers, two types of mushroom, and fish aquaculture tanks! As well as producing fresh, tasty and nutritious food, the farm teaches and supports local farmers and is a model for managing food waste and achieving greater food resilience in Singapore. The leafy garden is also a lovely respite – take time to kick your feet up on a swing or hang out at one of the tables or nooks.
NOKA by Open Farm Community
#07-38
Noka (farmhouse in Japanese) is the sister restaurant to Dempsey’s Open Farm Community, and connected to Funan’s Urban Farm in partnership with Edible Garden City. Head Chef Seki Takuma has organic produce at his fingertips, including oyster mushrooms, microgreens, basil, Mexican tarragon, butterfly pea flowers, and more. Tuck into salads, sushi, and treats like black sesame crème brulee or green tea gelato. “Little Farmers” are catered for with kids’ sushi or fish and chips.
The Green Collective SG
#02-18
More than 35 homegrown eco brands have teamed up to launch this multi-brand collective of sustainable, eco and socially conscious products. Pick up planet-friendly beeswax wraps, natural cleaning products, stainless steel or bamboo straws, woven baskets, swimwear, fashion, jewellery, and more. Or participate in regular workshops ranging from making soaps, DIY lip balm, composting, plant swap and upcycling.
Climb Central
#B2-19/21
Experience the highest climbing gym in the civic district, which juts through several floors of the mall. More than 200 outdoor-inspired climbs are on offer, with all levels catered for. Choose to scale the high walls, tackle high intensity short climbs in a dedicated boulder unit, or take it easy on the beginner area. No prior experience is needed, and kids are welcome over the age of five.
PPP Coffee
#02-19
The coffee masters behind Chye Seng Huat Hardware have set up this buzzy, New York style coffee bar, which offers unique coffee offerings, an artisanal toast bar, and an experiential brew bar for customers to have a go at brewing and interacting with coffee apparatus. The café is also an employee’s-only initiative, which means long term staff will share in the profits.
Bike Path
From 7am-10am, you can ride a bike through Funan’s 200-metre indoor cycling track, whizzing past stores and eateries. A motion detector camera lights up LED light strips on the path whenever there’s movement. There are some rules in place – a 10km speed limit applies and after 10am you’ll have to dismount and walk your bike through the mall. Funan is designed with cyclists in mind – there are bike bays, electric bike charging stations, a bike friendly lift, a pump and repair zone, and showers for cyclists. A nod to a car-lite future.
WeWork
Looking for a space to co-work and create? WeWork has set up camp over two floors at Funan. Get your next bright idea lounging in art-filled lounges, unique conference rooms, and sleek private offices. There’s a brainstorming room with writeable walls and stand-up-friendly furniture, plus showers, fruit water, and freshly roasted coffee.
Ark Futsal
#07
Fancy a kick in the clouds? The ARK is a fully automated rooftop football pitch, nestled among Funan’s leafy Urban Farm zone. Invite some mates for a kickabout session, organise teambuilding with workmates, or throw a birthday party with a difference. Book ahead online at theark.sg.
Wild Rice Theatres
#04-08
Singaporean theatre group WILD RICE finally has its very own theatre at Funan.
The Ngee Ann Kongsi Theatre is a 358-seat venue featuring Singapore’s first thrust stage, inspired by the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Swan Theatre in Stratford-Upon-Avon. For their Grand Opening Season, WR will circle back to the first play they ever staged; Stella Kon’s classic Emily of Emerald Hill, opening on 4 September.
Rooftop
Head to level ‘R’ for stunning rooftop views of the Marina Bay area on one side, and leafy Fort Canning on the other. There are barbecue pits, a large table, lots of seating and fairy lights at night. A hidden gem!
Planning for the worst is important when deciding to travel far from home. If you already have travel insurance or an international medical health insurance plan, then you may want to consider adding on emergency medical evacuation cover as an insurance rider, if you haven’t already done so. Pacific Prime Singapore has created this short guide, which describes what emergency medical evacuation cover is and what the receiving benefits are when covered.
What is emergency medical evacuation?
An emergency medical evacuation (EME) is the emergency transfer, usually by some form of air or land transportation, to the closest medical facility. Modes of transport primarily include private air ambulance, road ambulance, or commercial plane. This is usually for patients who have sustained serious trauma through an accident, or are being transferred from an inadequate medical facility to one which can provide more specialist treatment.
The benefits of securing emergency medical evacuation cover
Emergency medical evacuation – Covers medical evacuation expenses to the nearest facility for essential treatment, or to the insured’s home country for further treatment.
Repatriation of mortal remains – Covers all necessary expenses incurred for the preparation and return of a person’s remains to their home country. Natural disaster -overs expenses incurred due to switching accommodation as a result of evacuation from a forecasted natural disaster or after a natural disaster.
Political evacuation – In the event of political or military instability in your country of residence emergency medical evacuation benefit covers all defined expenses for transport to a safe location.
Emergency travel assistance services – Coverage includes a 24/7 line of contact with trained personnel who can organize an emergency medical evacuation to the best and most suitable medical facility.
Emergency reunion – Some plans may also cover the cost of bringing a family member to the medical facility where their loved one is receiving treatment.
Usually, an emergency medical evacuation plan is added to either a travel insurance plan or a global health insurance plan. Talk to the experienced insurance experts at Pacific Prime Singapore to receive health insurance quotations and a professional plan comparison based on your budget and needs.
So SPA 30 Allanbrooke Rd, Sentosa, 099983 sofitel-singapore-sentosa.com/spa-fitness/so-spa
The vibe:
Serene but social, this large spa attracts gaggles of girlfriends and weary travellers. Located in a quiet corner of Sentosa, next to Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa, So SPA is housed in a restored heritage-listed 19th century building. You won’t feel crowded, the spa sprawls over 6,000 sqm of lush rainforest, with female and unisex areas, two pools, and a café.
The Treatment:
Sentosa Massage (60 minutes $180)
On a Saturday, I arrive at the spa a little early and take a seat in the lobby to fill in a health form and sip a welcome ginger tea. My restorative hour-long massage starts with a foot bath, then I select eucalyptus and mint oil for my treatment, hoping to quell a lingering headache. Using a combination of east and west techniques, my therapist performs an excellent, deeply relaxing full body massage. Heated pads on my lower back while she massages my feet and legs are a nice touch. When the treatment is finished, my headache has disappeared.
Added extras:
Before or after your treatment, lounge around the waterfall float pool or main lap pool area, grab a healthy bite at The Garden restaurant or douse yourself liberally in clay mud in one of the two mud pools.
Spa Pods at Six Senses Maxwell
Spa Pods at Six Senses Maxwell 2 Cook Street, 078857 sixsenses.com/hotels/maxwell/spa
The vibe:
Spa Pods at Six Senses Maxwell features five new spa pods and two relaxation rooms, located within the stunning heritage hotel. Designed to be an urban sanctuary in the heart of Singapore’s city centre, the spa pods feature innovative wellness experiences. Though not a traditional spa set-up, each pod is lavishly appointed, and has its own ensuite.
The Treatment:
Locally Inspired Wellness Retreat (2 hrs 15 mins, $300).
Featuring Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and massage, this experience starts with a consultation with a seasoned practitioner from a local TCM clinic, followed by wellness recommendations. After checking my eyes, tongue, blood pressure and pulse, my TCM practitioner advises against eating ‘cooling’ foods like cucumber and watermelon, instead going for ‘warming’ foods like red dates. She also advises starting my day by taking a brisk walk with the sun on my back. That sounds doable.
Following the consultation, I check in for the relaxing wellness retreat, designed to ease stress and tension. After a lemongrass and apple welcome drink and a cool towel, the therapist washes my feet, sounds a singing bowl and performs a 40-minute back, head and shoulder massage incorporating heated balls made from amethyst crystals. The truly wonderful journey continues with an orchid-scented Himalayan salt scrub, a nurturing rose body mask and a lifting facial massage, using a bamboo stick to roll away the years. A rose and jasmine body oil and a moment to myself in the relaxation room with a date, almond and grape snack completes the indulgent experience.
Added extras:
The package includes a wellness lunch at either Yellow Pot Chinese Restaurant or Cook & Tras Social Library, but it’s late on a Friday night and an ANZA work function calls.
Photo: ESPAPhoto: ESPA
ESPA 8 Sentosa Gateway, 098269 rwsentosa.com/espa
The vibe:
Set over an expansive 10,000 sqm of verdant jungle and peaceful lagoons, ESPA is Resorts World Sentosa’s flagship spa in Asia. It’s impressive on every level – including an authentic Turkish hammam, vitality pools, forest onsen-style pools, sleep zones, rock saunas, crystal steam rooms, and more. You’ll never want to leave.
The Treatment:
ESPA Sleep Ritual ($280, a 90-minute treatment to promote restful and rejuvenating sleep)
Who doesn’t need more restful sleep? In Singapore it’s a regular occurrence to be woken up by roaring traffic, construction noise and cracking lighting storms, not to mention work and life stress keeping you wide eyed after lights out. ESPA has designed this sleep treatment for night owls looking for more restorative slumber.
The ritual starts with some basic breathing exercises to unwind, plus colour visualisation (I choose yellow) followed by a deeply relaxing treatment. My therapist combines therapeutic hot stones and warm oil with a soothing full body massage and a tranquilising scalp massage. I may have dozed off a couple of times! Continue the snooze theme with a visit to the 18 purpose-built sleep pods with built-in music.
Added extras:
After my treatment I visit the relaxation room in my robe and slippers, trying a few of the vegetable crisps, fruits and other snacks. Then I make the most of the amazing facilities, soaking in the hot onsen pools, and taking a quick sauna and crystal steam. Peckish? The Tangerine Spa Café offers views of the reflection pool and a Thai-inspired menu that uses a farm to table concept, including herbs picked from the onsite garden.
The vibe:
Banyan Tree Spa is set on the soaring 55th storey of Marina Bay Sands, with breath-taking views from the well-appointed treatment rooms. The spa is discreet and exclusive, catering to in-house guests and locals, with a well-curated menu of holistic treatments, full body massages, calming baths and facials.
The Treatment:
Balinese Massage, (60-minutes, $298 or $270 off peak)
I’m greeted warmly at the reception area and given a cold towel and the drink of the day – Pink Romance, a red cabbage and lime concoction that’s slightly sweet and very refreshing. I tap in my health info on an iPad and am swiftly taken to a treatment room with huge floor to ceiling windows and sweeping ocean views. I’m seated for a foot bath with rose petals, where I choose between the Touch of Love and the Touch of Peace massage oils. I give peace a chance (sorry, couldn’t resist). The massage is a mix of firm, soothing stokes with deep thumb and palm pressure – it’s a little too strong for me, but the therapist tones it down accordingly. There are some lovely touches – including heated pads on the back and stomach, a scalp massage and hot towels to remove the oil at the end.
Added extras:
After the massage, I’m taken for 30 minutes of ‘Calm Time’, in a stunning tea room with 360-degree views of Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay, and the city. Here, my attentive and caring therapist brings me jasmine tea with a touch of honey, mixed nuts, yogurt with sesame seeds, and a small fruit salad with fresh mint. It’s a delightful end to a memorable experience.
