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Where to celebrate Singapore’s F1 Race Weekend 2024

The 2024 Formula One World Championship comes to Singapore on 20 – 22 September. As always, the street circuit sporting event will take place against the scenic backdrop of Marina Bay, and there’s a whole host of celebrations and activities taking place to mark the occasion.

Whether you want to party hard with friends or just chill with your family while soaking up the electric atmosphere, here’s where to head during Singapore’s Formula One Race Weekend this year. Enjoy!

LeVeL33

LeVeL33, home to the world’s highest urban micro-brewery, will be pulling out all the (pit) stops from 5pm come 20 September. Their à la carte menu will be available, and guests can choose between indoor dining room with a minimum spend of $158++ per guest, or opt for a spot on the terrace, boasting panoramic views of the Marina Bay F1 circuit for $258++ per guest. Going large? Groups of four to 20 can opt for the Formula 1 Indulgence Menu ($168++ per guest), featuring fresh, sustainable produce from Australia. There’s a big screen broadcast of the race, so this is a winner for true racing fans!

Marina Bay Financial Tower 1, 8 Marina Blvd, #33 – 01 Tower 1, S018981. Log on here for more

Madison’s at Pullman Singapore Hill Street

The F1 Brunch at Madison’s, located within Pullman Singapore Hill Street, takes place on Sunday, 22 September 2024,  12pm -3pm. Dive into the likes of Bratwurst Sausages, Maclaren Fish & Chips, Reuben! Reuben! Sandwiches and Mads Fried Chicken with Waffles. Adding to the celebrations are the Grand Prix Delights which include race-themed treats such as F1 Champagne Blue Popping Candy, F1 Praline, and F1 Helmet Cookies, and there’s also a cute display of car models for those who car obsessed. Boozy packages are available.

1 Hill Street, Pullman Singapore, 179949. Make a reservation here

CÉ LA VI

Craving an all-nighter? CÉ LA VI revs up decks with Speed of Sound – 37 hours of non-stop sonic entertainment starting from noon on Saturday, 21 September till 8am the next day, and 12 pm Sunday, 22 September 2024, till late. Join the throngs for DJ performances, including British DJ and Grammy-nominated Producer, Nic Fanciulli, and CÉ LA VI’s long-time veteran DJs, while catching the Formula One action close-up from the sizable screens. The Race Weekend at CÉ LA VI brunch ($188++ pp) will take place from 12pm – 3pm on Saturday, 21 September.

Bayfront Avenue Marina Bay Sands, Hotel, Tower 3, 018971. Log on here to discover all the options at CÉ LA VI available. Book the Race Weekend brunch here.

The Roof Garden at Marina Square

If your kids love racing cars and want to get in on the action, there are many spots in SIngapore that are child-friendly (although they may not be crowd-friendly!). The Roof Garden at Marina Square is a great place to catch the action as its flanked by the F1 race track. Head to the third level  its roof garden early to bag a space. Esplanade Roof Terrace and Helix Bridge (Gate 8 on the map above) also have good viewing potential.
Note: Esplanade and Marina Square sit within the F1 circuit, so during the F1 period, it will only be open to racegoers. 

The Roof Garden at Marina Square, Level 3, 6 Raffles Boulevard, 039594. Click here for details

Smoke & Mirrors

Smoke & Mirrors is a treat whatever the time of year, but it really comes into its own during F1. Located at National Gallery Singapore, this rooftop bar showcases  the race cars whizzing along St. Andrew’s Road and near turn 10. The bar has a great selection of cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere making it a winner for this iconic event in SG’s calendar.

#06-01, National Gallery Singapore, 1 St. Andrew’s Road, 178957. smokeandmirrors.com.sg

The Ritz-Carlton, Milennia Singapore

Get into prime position for track turns 19 and 20 at The Ritz-Carlton, Milennia Singapore. Staying here will grant you a panoramic view of the city’s skyline – either from your room or from your table at Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant Summer Pavilion or the buffet spread at The Colony.

7 Raffles Avenue, 039799. Click here for more

Marriot Bonvoy Hotel Deals

If you’re planning a wild one this F1 weekend, you might want to consider a staycation so you can really make the most of it. Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of hotels in Singapore has rolled out a collection of stay packages. The Westin Singapore’s Heavenly Bed is ideal for those who need to keep energy levels up with it’s excellent attention to sleep detail and wellness perks such as gear lending, guided runs, yoga, and super-cool rooftop pool. There’s also discounts on family stays at various properties around the island.

Click this link to check out the special deals

MO BAR

Enjoy refined drinking and dining while catching all the action at Turn 15 on the Formula One tracks from the floor-to-ceiling windows MO BAR Singapore. This F1 race weekend will host a selection of free-flow culinary delights such as Kurobuta Pork Burger, Seafood on Ice sharing platters and Tandoori offerings alongside three dessert options. There’s also Night with Patron package available from Friday, 20 Sept – Sunday 22 September, from 7pm – 10 pm. Various beverage packages include free-flow mixes including Bombay Sapphire Premium Cru, house red and white wine, Champagne, and beer. Non-alcoholic beverages are also available.

Mandarin Oriental, Singapore, 5 Raffles Avenue, 039797. To make a reservation email mosin-mobar@mohg.com

Dragonfly Singapore

For something a little different this F1, head to Dragonfly in Vibe Hotel where several nights welcome a fun Burlesque Spectacle featuring live boa-feathered burlesque dancers and guest performers. Catch resident singer Australian-born Myra V on Wednesday, 18 September, 8pm – 11pm; and a bartender takeover by US mixologist Andrei Inchim on Thursday, 19 September, backed by tunes from DJ Val; and again on Saturday, 21 September, supported by French-duo DJ team DJ Kunda.

24 Mount Elizabeth, #01-05 Vibe Hotel, 228518. Check out the FB page here 

LAP 62, HighHouse and NOVA

Derived from the number of laps in Formula 1, LAP 62 invites guests to enjoy the race from 62 floors up. From 20 – 22 September 2024 there’ll be a cool programme of top DJs, gourmet food, and Formula 1 -related activities to add to the thrill of the race. Live screenings will be broadcasted across the two floors of HighHouse so you’ll be able to catch  the action as you party.

Tickets are available at https://events.humanitix.com/lap62.

What’s your ANZA Spirit Activity?

Whether you’re an expat in Singapore, or a local looking to meet new friends and expand your social network, ANZA has it all! With 76 years on the red dot under our belt, we’ve grown to understand how to enrich people’s lives through the power of community and connection. “As a well-established association, we understand the importance of strong relationships and the bonds that can be formed through activities,” explains ANZA General Manager, Kerry Low.

Indeed, research shows that positive social connectedness can promote better sleep, reduce stress, and increase our ability to recover from anxiety and depression. Being part of a community also offers opportunities for self-development and support.

“Being a not-for-profit association, we rely heavily on our volunteers to bring people together,” continues Kerry. “Members generously offer their time, skills and resources to give back. This can be through working as a parent volunteer for our children’s sports groups, helping out with ANZA Action, or arranging activities through our WhatsApp groups. ANZA would not exist without the dedication of our community – thank you!”

Today ANZA facilitates belonging and connection through endless sports and interest offerings for all ages, but with so many diverse activities on tap, it can be hard to know where to begin. We say sign up and try them all, but read on for an idea of where to start.

Conclusions: Your ANZA Spirit Activity is …

A – You are: Sporty Kid

ANZA Soccer’s unofficial journey started in 1976 and has been going strong since. With an emphasis on affordable, fun and competitive soccer, it’s available to those aged 3 – 18 through Saturday club games, mid-week training, and professional summer camps. Ball skills are also the name of the game for ANZA Netball which kicks off Term 2 this month and promises training and tournaments. Meanwhile, for kids who love water, skip your Sunday morning lie-in for Sentosa where children aged 5 -13 meet for ANZA Nippers to learn safety at the beach. Note: Sausage Sizzles are included!

B – You are: A Toddler

Got a little one in your life? Join our new ANZA Tiny Tots Nature Play group. We bring together families with active toddlers aged 6 months+ for outdoorsy playdates across SG. Meet-up locations vary and happen on Saturday or Sunday mornings from 9.30am – 11.30am. Not only is this group a great way to get kids out in the wild, but it’s also ideal for parents to meet like-minded types to discuss sleep schedules/wine consumption/tantrums (of all family members).

C – You are: Curious Kylie

An expat life means there’s always new things to see and discover. If history and mystery take your fancy, sign up to ANZA Tours who will whisk you into a world of storytelling with their jaunts into the past, present and future. For more exploration, our walking group, ANZA-Kill-O-Metres, head out every Monday morning around SG’s parks, heartlands, central areas and countryside. Casual Coffee is ideal for those interested in meeting people and sharing tips about living on the island, and ANZA Scouts is excellent for curious children to make friends, head on adventures, and master skills for life.

D – You are: The Hobbyist

You don’t need fitness gear to enjoy ANZA! For those who prefer their downtime a little less sweaty, you’re in luck. Vocal chords are the key part of the body getting a workout at ANZA Singing as the group sing pop, rock, old favourites, and more. ANZA Stitches gets crafty types together to work on personal arty projects, and ANZA Book Club encourages everyone to step away from a screen with regular meet-ups to discuss various reads. Meanwhile, ANZA Mahjong hosts sessions several times a week for players of all levels to learn the rules of the game, enjoy some lateral thinking, and discover more about this huge cultural pastime.

E – You are: Team Player

If you like getting active with the support of others, ANZA hosts plenty of sports groups where collaboration is essential. ANZA Cricket welcomes all levels to play league matches, practice NETs, and enjoy a beer as much as batting. Meanwhile, new groups pickleball and padel bring people to the courts for workouts that are friendly, fun, fast-paced, boost agility and sharpen brain cells. ANZA Padel in particular is excellent for all ages and you get to meet a wide range of like-minded people from all walks as life as you have a knock about.

F – You are: Lonesome Logan

While Lonesome Logan likes the company of others, chances are you’re just as happy taking on solitary pursuits in a bid to up your skills and confidence. ANZA Cycling is a wonderful group for those looking to improve fitness while making new friends. With rides every day of the week for all abilities, there’s no excuse not to get on that saddle. Easy Riders is for those looking for more relaxing rides where you get to soak up the scenery as you go. In addition, ANZA Golf make a birdie on the reg, and ANZA Watersports, which offers kayaking, SUP and sailing is ideal for solitary seekers who thrive out on the water.

G – You are: Party Princess

For one Wednesday night every month, there’s no place to be but ANZA’s Ladies Night! These iconic evenings are held at Singapore’s most popular venues and offer discounted food and drinks, lots of fun, support from the sisterhood, and optional dancing. Everyone is welcome, and whether you rock up alone or with friends, the ANZA team are always there to look after you. Party Princess will also love our Set Lunch group, where we enjoy dining as a group at some of the island’s top restaurants. Because we’re an inclusive community, we let the blokes join the Set Lunch (and occassional Ladies Nights) too.

H – You are: ANZA Man!

Everyone has a secret to keep and ANZA’s Secret Men’s Business (SMB) have the biggest of all – to disguise what the heck happens in this exclusive group! For years, expat wives and partners in Singapore have tried to uncover the mystery to no avail. What we do know is that SMB primarily consists of male trailing spouses of all ages, backgrounds and stages of life looking for a round of golf, a bit of man-chat, or a couple of beers. “Settling into a new country can be difficult if you don’t know many people, especially for trailing spouses, so this is one avenue to help you in this area,” says organiser Mike Sabey.

Find out more about ANZA’s activities and groups on our website at anza.org.sg

The Joy of Dual Language Learning

  •  Sponsored Content 

Mandarin has always been an important part of the curriculum at Dulwich College (Singapore) since we first opened our doors a decade ago. Being a truly international school with over 60 nationalities represented, the full spectrum of linguistic ability in Mandarin is found within our student body. Our students range from complete beginners to those with fully age-appropriate native-language literacy skills. At Dulwich College (Singapore), we have structured our curriculum to meet the learning needs of every student.

At the Kindergarten level, (DUCKS), we have adopted a Dual Language approach based on the idea that children learn best when they are exposed to two languages in meaningful, natural ways. The core principle behind this programme is additive bilingualism – we believe that learning two languages from a young age gives children both linguistic and cognitive advantages, helping children develop socially and intellectually.

Our goal is that children who start with us in Pre-Nursery and continue through DUCKS will become proficient in understanding and speaking both English and Mandarin by the end of Year 2. This will allow them to use both languages comfortably in social and academic settings.

Meaningful communication

Each class has both an English-speaking teacher and a Mandarin-speaking teacher, who work closely together. During play and other activities, the teachers use both English and Mandarin to provide the children with language they can learn and understand in real, everyday situations – engaging in both languages with equal ease.

In the Early Years, we focus on listening and speaking the two languages. As children progress into Key Stage 1, the curriculum is planned and taught collaboratively by the class teachers and Mandarin teachers. The Mandarin teachers identify key language and real-life scenarios for the children to practice and converse. Children also have dedicated Mandarin lessons each week to further develop their skills.

Throughout, the emphasis is on natural, meaningful communication, not just strict accuracy. We want children to feel comfortable using both languages without pressure. When they do start speaking Mandarin, the teachers engage with them in a supportive manner, modelling correct language usage.

As oral skills improve, we also focus on literacy. We read high-quality books in both languages, chosen for their relevance and interest. Reading and writing Mandarin characters is then taught separately in addition to the general Dual Language activities.

“Learning two languages gives children linguistic and cognitive advantages”

Explore ourDual Language Environment at DUCKS Discovery Days

Dulwich College (Singapore) is opening its doors for you and your child to experience DUCKS. We invite parents with children aged 2 – 5 years old to immerse themselves in our inspiring learning environments, guided by our professional Early Years practitioners. Meanwhile, parents will have the opportunity to meet our professional team, observe our Dual Language learning in action, and witness what makes DUCKS special. Come and discover how our approach offers a joyful and purposeful introduction to education.

Email us at admissions.singapore@dulwich.org to register your interest in our upcoming DUCKS Discovery Days:

  •   Thursday, 3 October 2024: 1.30pm-2.30pm
  •   Thursday, 21 November 2024: 1.30pm-2.30pm
  •   Thursday, 28 November 2024: 1.30pm-2.30pm
  •   Thursday, 5 December 2024: 1.30pm-2.30pm

71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, Singapore, 658966
+65 6890 1003 
 admissions.singapore@dulwich.org
 www.singapore.dulwich.org

Hotspots: Burma Social Siglap

Lunch is on! Where are we heading?
To the second outlet of Burma Social which has recently opened in sunny Siglap.

Siglap?
Yep. ANZA’s going to call it – Siglap on Singapore’s East Coast is super up-and-coming and a lovely alternative to the usual offerings more in the centre of town. Take the new Marine Terrace (TE) MRT line, jump on bus 13 or 16 for five stops, and you’ll arrive straight outside the venue.

What is Burmese food exactly?
Burmese cuisine is a fabulous fusion of flavours influenced by neighbouring countries including China, Thailand, India, Bangladesh, and Laos, yet it maintains its own distinct identity. Key characteristics include the use of fresh herbs, bold spices, and a balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements. Essential ingredients often include fermented tea leaves, tamarind, fish sauce, and a variety of aromatic spices.

Sounds fun …
Just like its flagship store on Tras Street, this second Siglap spot catapults diners into an immersion of the culture and heritage of the Burmese people. Traditional Burmese recipes are given a tasty spin with modern infusions, and we’re here to sample dishes from the location’s two new business lunch sets (four and six-course menus at $38 and $68 respectively).

Tell us more!
Well, there are generous options for starters! Come hungry for the À La Carte menu which kicks off on a hight with Dim Sum, Bao Buns, Duck Croquette with Truffle Mayo, Burmese Falafel, and Stir-Fried Tofu with Hoisin Sauce.

What if I’m really hungry?
There’s so much to choose from. We loved the Lamb Massaman Curry with Jasmine Rice -melt-in-your-mouth tender lamb slices offering a full spectrum of punchy and satisfying flavours. The Steamed Sea Bass with Black Bean Sauce is a tasty option with the fish gently steamed to retain its tender, flaky texture. The black bean sauce, made from fermented black beans, garlic and ginger adds a savoury, slightly tangy contrast. Thumbs up also goes to the Shan Kow Suey, a traditional Burmese dish of chicken simmered in a fragrant and mildly spicy creamy curry sauce of coconut milk and ground peanuts.

What’s unmissable?
Don’t leave without trying the Laphet Thoke – Tea Leaf Salad. This is the quintessential Burmese dish of fermented tea leaves mixed with green tomato, crunchy cabbage, Burmese nuts, and Brussels sprouts, all enhanced with a zesty spritz of lemon juice.

Is the décor as impressive as the dishes?
Entry to Burma Social Siglap comes with a smash of colours, smells, and luxurious aesthetics that reflect the vibrant culture of Burma itself. Pulling out all the stops, it creates a cosy and eclectic space presenting part art market bazaar, part temple, part fine dining establishment, and part hip bar. The space is adorned with traditional Burmese art and decor, intricate patterns and textiles, booth-style seats and bright scatter cushions.

Best seat in the house?
For romance or a relaxed night with the girls, park up in the stylish seating area just inside the door which is perfect for lounging. Alternatively, if you want to be in the heart of the action, prop up at the eye-catching bar which would not look out of place as a stand-alone spot in its own right. Opulent shades and pops of gold surround the endless winking bottles lining the space where the staff shake and stir a diverse selection of cocktails.

Oooh, tell us more!
Go fruity with Ginger Seduction, a refreshing mash-up of spiced rum, fresh lime & calamansi, Thai palm sugar, house ginger juice, and bitters. For more of a sour hit, The Great Salted Plum gets Mr. Boston Gin, salted plum, umeshu, fresh mandarin orange juice, fresh lemon, and egg white together.

907 East Coast Road, 459107

@burmasocial

Chill, Chat, Connect Tuesday 1 October

Whether you’re new to Singapore or a long-time resident, join us at ANZA’s next Chill, Chat, Connect event at Singapore Cricket Club, Tuesday 1 October, 7pm.

We look forward to welcoming you to make connections, learn about life in Singapore, and engage in great conversations.

These special events, hosted by ANZA three times throughout the year, are a fantastic opportunity to network, make new friends, learn about life on the island, and simply unwind in great company. Whether you’re new to the ANZA community or just looking to expand your social circle, everyone is welcome!

There will be a special treat during the event with a short performance by the ANZA Singing Group, accompanied by two talented violinists. Let the harmonious blend of voices and strings add a touch of magic to your evening.

Enjoy free-flow drinks and delicious bites in the Padang Room, offering gorgeous views of the iconic Padang and city skyline. There’s also the chance to win a Magnum of bubbles, thanks to our generous premier event sponsors, Select Investors. Look for the link to enter in your registration confirmation email, or you can register on the day.

Come along with friends, family, or just fly solo. The friendly ANZA team will be there to greet you with a smiling face and ensure you always have someone to hang out with.

Mark your calendars for 1 October at 7pm. We can’t wait to see you there!

ANZA new members: Complimentary

ANZA members: $30

Non-members: $50

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What’s on in Singapore this September & October

Hopelessly Devoted

In August 2022, the world mourned the loss of icon and artist, Australian luminary Dame Olivia Newton-John AC DBE. With 100 million records sold worldwide, her musical legacy is global, and we have the chance to enjoy it here in Singapore with a tribute concert, Hopelessly Devoted: A Celebration of Olivia Newton-John. Taking place on 12 October at Marina Bay Sands, the concert will feature some of Australia’s brightest musical talents performing her greatest hits (“Physical” and “Xanadu” for the win!) to the sounds of Singapore’s very own Base Philharmonic Orchestra. The night will be hosted by Olivia’s niece, Tottie Goldsmith.

 10 Bayfront Ave, 018956 
marinabaysands.com

Chill, Chat, Connect

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, 1 October and ANZA’s next Chill, Chat, Connect session at Singapore Cricket Club. This event is hosted by ANZA three times throughout the year and is a great opportunity for ANZA members and non-members to network, make new friends, learn about life on the island, and just chill out in great company.

Enjoy free-flow drinks and nibbles in the Padang Room. There’s also the chance to win a Magnum of bubbles, thanks to our generous premier event sponsors, Select Investors. Come along with friends, family, or just fly solo. The friendly ANZA team will be there to greet you with a smiling face and ensure you always have someone to hang out with.

Click the link here to register

Mid-Autumn Festival

Courtesy of NParks


Singapore’s Mid-Autumn Festival falls on 17 September, which gives us all a reason to dive into delicious mooncakes! Look out for deals  and local children walking through their neighbourhood after dark with lanterns.

Festival by the coast

Courtesy of Ombak Festival

The Southeastern Johor coastline will come alive from 13-15 September 2024, with the Ombak Festival. This three-day event along Desaru coast will showcase an eclectic mix of live music including Grace Jones, Nile Rodgers, The Cardigans, and Macy Gray, alongside local favourites. There’ll also be cool art installations and sculptures celebrating the region’s rich artistic heritage, two bustling marketplaces at Festival Village, and an explosion of Malaysian and international flavours as top chefs and mixologists craft culinary delights. Kitchen takeovers will take place across the coast’s most prominent hotels so look out for special menus and promotions. Don’t miss this party where music, art, food and family come together.
ombakfestival.com

Let there be light


The world’s largest illumination event makes its debut in Singapore on 13 September. illumi combines light, sound, and multimedia installations to create nine larger-than-life unique worlds ripe for exploration at Bayfront Event Space. Be enchanted by 20 million LED lights, the world’s tallest Tree of Lights (the equivalent to five stacked Merlions!), and more.
13 September – 8 December
Bayfront Event Space, 12A Bayfront Avenue, 018970
pelago.com

Outta This World

Budding astronauts – behold! Debuting this October at Singapore Science Centre is the awe-inspiring Space Explorers: THE INFINITE and it promises to take you into the galaxy. Through the power of VR, you’ll be beamed 400 kilometres above Earth into the International Space Station to admire mind-blowing views and feel the immensity of space. You’ll experience never-seen-before 360-degree videos, amazing views of Earth, and gain insider intel into the daily lives of astronauts. Hold on tight!
12 October – 24 March, 2025.
15 Science Centre Road, 609081
science.edu.sg

Meet ANZA’s new President – Toph Brown!

Around ten years ago, I had the pleasure of presenting the annual update for ANZA’s Scout Group at the ANZA Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the first time. As we all know, doing anything for the first time is exciting, inspiring, and terrifying in equal parts. What would the audience expect? How could I best connect? Had I over-prepared or under prepared?

The presentations took up a significant part of the meeting. Those who went before me – ANZA Athletics, Soccer, Netball, Tours, Mahjong, Secret Men’s Business – I had read about these in ANZA magazine, but now they came to life.

We got to ANZA Cycling: not quite the largest group, but close. The Cycling President, striking with her dyed hair, stood up and delivered a rip-roaring presentation. It was informative, exhilarating, and above all funny, drawing the entire quorum in.

After Megan’s presentation, I relaxed. I could do this: lean in and engage with the audience. They wanted us all to succeed. Afterwards, I felt pretty sure I’d pulled it off. After all, what could be more community-minded than talking about a group of young people running around and setting fire to things.

The point of this story is twofold. We have been fortunate to have Megan Kinder as President, and I am honoured to follow her. Even before she was ANZA President, Megan was spirited. Everyone who has met her at events can attest to her deep commitment to ANZA and our community. We all wish her good fortune for the next stage.

Secondly, ANZA is a true community. Attending the AGMs opened my eyes to the breadth of activities and interest groups we bring together, and the joy our members get from them. Why not give another group a try? Kill a meter, sing your lungs out, boot some campers. It’s all there.

To conclude, I am humbled to be the next ANZA President and I am deeply inspired … but that’s a story for another time.

Toph

 

ANZA Magazine September – October 2024 is out now!

ANZA Ladies Night @ Rumpoles Wednesday 18 September

 

Come along to ANZA’s September Ladies Night at Rumpoles for discounted drinks, snacks, and chats!

ANZA’s September Ladies Night already?! This month we’re inviting you to relax and unwind with a Singapore-inspired craft cocktail in the cosy atmosphere of Rumpoles Bar, at Hotel Jen Tanglin.

Prepare for an evening of cool! Rumpoles Bar exudes the charm of a modern gentleman’s club with its industrial design, dark wood, and leather seating.

Join us from 6:30pm – 9:30pm to enjoy discounted drinks and delicious bites.

What to expect:

  • 1-for-1 Wine, Spirits, and Cocktails starting from $16++
  • Food options starting from $12++

Whether you’re coming alone or with friends, the ANZA team will be there to say hello and make sure you’re comfortable. We can’t wait to welcome you at Rumpoles.

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Bucket list bike rides for ANZA Cycling

Wenwu Temple, Sun Moon Lake

Taiwan – on 2 wheels

In April, a group of 16 ANZA Cycling members embarked on an incredible five day, +300km cycling adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Taiwan. The journey was a test of endurance, with over 6,500m of rewarding (punishing!) elevation gain. Motivating one another every step of the way, they were also supported by a fantastic two-man crew who were the “mobile 7-11 store” for refuelling, bike mechanics, photographers, guides, luggage handlers, cheer squad, and on occasion, broom wagon.

After assembling their bikes in Taipei, the trip kicked off in Yilan, and a continuous 2,200m ascent to Lishan saw the scenery morph from sunny low-lying rice paddies to cool climate mountain forests. The group settled into the climb, regrouping for a lunch of roadside stovetop snacks and to dig out rain jackets. The day ended with a Taiwanese feast at the hotel, where they were spoiled with local hospitality.

At the top of the famous King of the Mountain (KOM) at Wuling Summit

On the second day they took on the final brutal stretch of the legendary KOM ride. At a dizzying 3,300m above sea level, skis seemed more appropriate than bikes. Thirty km into the ride, the ANZA Cyclists ventured into the eerie mist, each undertaking an individual pursuit of the iconic KOM peak. A vehicle-assisted descent, which included four seasons in one day, going from freezing conditions at the summit to warm sunshine, accompanied them to Sun Moon Lake in the evening. An energetic few had enough in the legs to tour around the lake, whilst others chose to debrief over a locally brewed beverage.

The third day provided welcome respite – rolling 70km on a gentle decline back to sea level. On Day 4, the support car driver, Eason, swapped four wheels for two to take the group on a 100km journey through his ‘backyard’ in Yangmingshan National Park for awesome scenery and almost 2,000m of climbing. The fifth and final day saw an eager few explore the vibrant streets of Taipei.

This trip was certainly a bucket list achievement for many ANZA Cyclists, and just the start for those who vowed to return to the beautiful coasts and mountains of this incredible country for further adventures.

Bangkok – A backpacking challenge 

ANZA Cycling member Matt Dalby reports back on a solo ride from BKK – SG.

“In 2023 I joined ANZA Cycling as a newbie, soaking up the extensive training through long rides and weekend trips. These experiences unknowingly set the stage for my monumental challenge earlier this year – a solo, unsupported bikepacking trip from Bangkok to Singapore, spanning over 2,000 kms across 11 days with one rest day.

Facing this alone, meticulous planning was crucial for motivation and success. My route carved a path down Thailand’s east coast, cut across to the southern border, and then hugged Malaysia’s west coast to Georgetown, before the final push to Singapore.

I focused on dividing the journey into daily segments of 170 to 215 kms. While I had a general plan for overnight stays, I opted for flexibility, finalising accommodation as I grew confident in my daily progress.

Overcoming obstacles

Setting off from Bangkok’s bustling Wat Pho, I immediately tackled the challenge of heavy city traffic. This was just the beginning! From navigating through downpours and flooded roads to marvelling at Thailand’s stunning coastal vistas, each day presented new hurdles – wild dogs, muscle pains, and unexpected illness among them.

Travelling light with just three small bags was essential. Off-bike time was spent on maintenance, laundry, and restocking supplies. Overcoming obstacles, whether dodging dogs or dealing with the tropical heat or illness, tested my resolve. I learned how to manage and to remind myself that the situation would improve, and it did.

Crossing into Singapore was a profound moment of triumph. This journey taught me about resilience, the power of meticulous planning, and the importance of emotional balance. It was a testament to pushing beyond perceived limits, and left me inspired to explore further not just on my own but also with the incredible community at ANZA Cycling.”

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