ISSUE 153

APR 2020

AirAsia Inflight Magazine

ROASTS,
RAILS
& RIFFS
Hanoi’s Atmospheric Spaces, Vietnam
Navigator Issue 153
APR 2020

54

4 The Post Better Tomorrow Money Maker Touchdown Wanderlust – Asia

Guests write in about Journey to

14  22 Tomorrow’s 28 Raja Ampat, 54 Beyond the Break
their favourite stories Sustainability Township Indonesia  irAsia Surf
A
and win cool prizes. AirAsia champions Toyota’s prototype From magnificent Ambassadors Connor
initiatives to manage city project features seascapes to flavourful O’Leary and Felicity
The View the company’s autonomous vehicles cuisine, the Raja Ampat Palmateer ride rad
6 Tell Tales economic, and smart homes. archipelago has it all. waves in Asia and
Some nightmares environmental and soak up local culture.
social impact. Future Forward Get a Room
occur when you’re
Super Tech
26  30 Inspired Spaces Wanderlust – Australia
wide awake.
Quick Bites These real-life These KL stays Werribee
62 
Size Matters Taste of Tradition
20  innovations are celebrate the heritage Wanderings
8 We are Big  hese mouthwatering
T inspired by iconic on- of one of Asia’s Werribee, a quaint
Check out great South Asian flavours screen superheroes. busiest cities. suburb near
deals from BIG. reflect the region’s New Melbourne, Victoria,
Hit List offers heritage haunts,
Year food traditions.
Make a Difference 36 Striking Out Solo natural beauty and a
10 Destination: Good Check out awesome cool F&B scene.

AirAsia Foundation destinations that Travel Log
shines the light on are perfect for
solo adventures. Shades of
68 
its social enterprise Autumn
grantees and their life-
Aperture  melia Ng recounts
A
changing initiatives.
44 World in Frame her autumn sojourn in
Promotion A phenomenal image Hokkaido, Japan.
The Client List
12  can capture so much
about a place. 70 Route Map
Check out the latest
promotions, products
Wanderlust – Vietnam
and services offered by
our advertisers. Roasts, Rails
46 
& Riffs
Hanoi’s artsy cafés are
full of soul and offer
genuine Vietnamese
hospitality.

26
 Issue 153
APR 2020

Publisher Advertising On the Cover

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 THE POST
RED FORT WANDERLUST / Japan TOUCHDOWN
Ikebana favours subtlety in

Maldives
design over more bold flower
Growing A-Pop True-Blue Wellness arrangments that feature an
Budget & Blowout Guide

Soul of
explosion of colours.

AirAsia and Universal Music Group (UMG) announced last Treat yourself, or save your Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)? Our guide can help you decide.
December the launch of RedRecords, the innovative new
label that will focus on signing, developing and breaking new With its picturesque sights, exhilarating activities and endless fun in the sun to
Asian artists, and elevating A-Pop (Asian pop music) globally. suit every traveller, Maldives is a dream destination. Save Spend
RedRecords aims to form a clear and unique sound that reflects

A Whale of
the diverse and rich musical culture of Southeast Asia and the

Beauty
Known as the Old Friday Mosque, UKULHAS island is a great choice
wider continent. The label, based in Kuala Lumpur and Los HUKURU MISKIIY in Male, Maldives’ for house reef snorkelling at North

a Time!
Angeles, will combine UMG’s industry-leading track record in capital, was built in 1656 and is the Ari Atoll. The clear waters are home
artist development with AirAsia’s regional and global marketing We sit together in a studio nation’s oldest mosque. It features to a plethora of sea life such as
stunning coral stone exteriors etched butterfly fish, parrotfish, turtles,
strength to expand A-Pop’s influence beyond national borders inside her Kyoto home. While

DO
3
with Islamic calligraphy, and interiors zebra sharks, moray eels, manta rays
and languages to reach audiences worldwide. In addition to artist many Japanese houses now resplendent with intricate woodwork and starfish. Various guesthouses
development and A&R, RedRecords will provide distribution and AirAsia received two Blue Ribbon display more Westernised designs, and inlays. Modest dress must be here offer snorkelling packages.
marketing, as well as management and agency services. Also certifications from Ministry of Health Kimiko’s is very traditional in its observed to enter the mosque.
announced was the first signing for RedRecords − Thai singer, Malaysia last November − in recognition appearance. Tatami mats cover the PAY From MVR1,000 (approx. USD65) per pax,
PAY Free including equipment
songwriter, influencer, model and actor, Jannine Weigel. of the company’s efforts to encourage floors, Japanese calligraphy scrolls
and empower its Allstars and guests in decorate the walls and minimalist
1. FROM LEFT Hassan
Choudhury, Head of creating a smoke-free environment and to wooden shelves are filled with Dine like a local at IBERRY CAFÉ, A once in a lifetime luxury dining
Music for AirAsia Group quit smoking. The Blue Ribbon Campaign, ceramic ornaments. Natural light situated at Iberry Inn in Hulhumale. opportunity at 5m below sea level awaits
& CEO of RedRecords; This small eatery is famous for its fast at ITHAA UNDERSEA RESTAURANT at
officially introduced in 2012 by World filters through the rice paper and friendly service, and delicious Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. Enjoy
Calvin Wong, CEO
Southeast Asia & Health Organisation (WHO), recognises Still flourishing in Japan is an art form that segments of the sliding doors that local dishes like fish curry, shrimp panoramic views of coral gardens and

EAT
Senior Vice President, the contribution of individuals, groups has been revered for more than a millennia, separate each room. fried rice and garudhiya, a fragrant marine life while feasting on caviar,
Asia − Universal Music
Group; Tony Fernandes;
and organisations to the Framework and which has deep links to Buddhism, the “I like old things and traditions,” fish soup. lobster, and wagyu tenderloin.

Jannine Weigel, Convention on Tobacco Control. The two Shinto religion, and philosophy. Kimiko tells me, while using her
RedRecords first certifications awarded to AirAsia are: the hands to smooth the surface of PAY From MVR3,700 (approx. USD240) per pax
signing artist; Datuk Blue Ribbon Outstanding Achievement WORDS Ronan O’Connell IMAGES Getty her pink kimono gown. This helps 4 PAY From MVR50 (approx. USD3) for a four-course meal
Kamarudin Meranun,
Executive Chairman Award − presented to Tony Fernandes as explain why she is so passionate
of AirAsia Group; an individual spearheading a smoke-free about ikebana and why she feels so Whale sharks are the largest fish
Kenny Ong, Managing environment in the company; and the Blue Located at the Maldivian capital’s For unique and classy mementos,
at home here in Gion, one of the in the world, and can grow up
Director of Universal northern waterfront, MALE LOCAL ISLAND BAZAAR in the Fareedhee
1 Music Malaysia; and Ribbon Beyond Certification − awarded to most classic neighbourhoods in to 12m long. These gentle giants
01 02 02 MARKET features a wide array of Magu area of Male is a must-visit. 02
Nadda Buranasiri, RedQ as a 100 per cent smoke-free building. Japan’s most historic city. 1 prefer warm, tropical waters stalls selling handicrafts and souvenirs Selling quality lifestyle products,
20 20 20 20

SHOP
CEO of AirAsia X AirAsia’s anti-smoking efforts include and Maldives is one of the few such as wooden miniatures of boats home décor items, intricate jewellery,
"Having worked for both these incredible Group, flanked by
the immediate cessation of onboard, and fishes, packaged sweetmeats, and souvenirs like handmade fridge
cabin crew, at the Rooted in Spirituality Kyoto is the Nestled in the Indian Ocean, the became an accessible port of 1. Madives is ideal for places on the planet where they
companies, I aim to bring the creative RedRecords launch website and duty free cigarette sales, and cradle of ikebana. It was here that Republic of Maldives is famed for call. Merchants from India, every type of traveller
can be spotted anytime of the decorative items made of seashells, magnets, the boutique specialises in
forces of both teams together in order to 2. Aireen Omar, the implementation of a company-wide ikebana bloomed in the seventh its natural beauty, azure waters the Arabian Peninsula, Persia,
2. The islands have
year, particularly in South Ari
and a variety of local snacks. promoting the work of local artisans
long been known as a and designers.
help develop the undoubted music talent President (RedBeat
Ventures) of AirAsia smoke- and vape-free environment across century, shortly after the art form and pristine beaches. Consisting Southeast Asia, and beyond, romantic destination Atoll Marine Protected Area
that lies here in Asia.” ~ Hassan Choudhury, Head of Group (centre, holding its Asia-Pacific network. The company has was brought to Japan by Buddhist of 1,200 islands that form clusters fell in love with the islands, 3. Honkys is just one of
− a sustainability initiative by PAY From MVR15 (approx. USD1) PAY From MVR90 (approx. USD6)
a multitude of popular
Music for AirAsia Group & CEO of RedRecords poster), with AirAsia also set up wellness assistance programmes missionaries from China, where called atolls, Maldives is the and decided to stay and call the the Maldivian government to

K
Allstars and SMK surf spots in Maldives.
Bentong student to support Allstars to give up smoking. imiko Yamamoto's hands flower arranging had already lowest-lying country on Earth − archipelago home. 4. Snorkelling with protect whale sharks. This 42
whale sharks is On Fulidhoo island, THUNDI GUEST Promising holiday fun for everyone,
participants of the Hour move ever so slowly. been a sophisticated pursuit its highest natural point stands at Today, it’s easy to see square kilometre protected area,
Coding Young Minds of Code programme.
She is shifting the stem for hundreds of years. These less than 2.4m (approx. 8ft) above why visitors to Maldives are
possible all year
round – remember, extending over 1km seaward,
HOUSE is perfect for a relaxing and
budget-friendly stay. Refurbished in
KANDIMA MALDIVES is located
on Dhaalu Atoll, a natural lagoon
3. Tony Fernandes
(centre, right) Night at the Cinema of a flower, making missionaries, who also introduced sea level. immediately enchanted. With no touching! runs from the Rangali Island 2018, this beachfront property near surrounded by lush greenery.

STAY
AirAsia, in partnership with Malaysia Digital Economy receives the Blue adjustments so minute, they border Buddhism to Japan, showed Historically, as trading routes its tropical paradise setting and reef crest at its northwestern the famous Fulidhoo Caves dive Home to the largest swimming
Ribbon Outstanding site features comfortable rooms, pool in Maldives, 10 restaurants, a
Corporation (MDEC), hosted 30 students (predominantly from on being indistinguishable to my Japanese people the formal rituals opened up over time, Maldives welcoming atmosphere that edge to Dhigurah Island in its
Achievement Award 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi, spa, a kids club and an on-site art
lower income group households) of SMK Bentong secondary from YB Datuk Seri untrained eye. With her mind she for offering flowers to Buddha. exudes warmth and hospitality, northeastern tip. The best dive and activities such as canoeing and studio, the resort also boasts stylish
school in Pahang state for a special Hour of Code programme Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, is measuring not in centimetres Japanese priests then evolved Maldives promises the island sites to see whale sharks are snorkelling. accommodations.
at RedQ last November. The programme was aimed at inspiring Minister of Health,
but in millimetres. Precision is this practice, particularly at Kyoto’s experience of a lifetime. around Sun Island and at the
Malaysia. 4. FROM LEFT PAY From MVR850 (approx. USD55) PAY From MVR4,600 (approx. USD300)
the students and instilling in them a positive attitude that Athena Pang, Corporate paramount. Following guidelines Rokkakudo temple, which is Although reputed to be a reefs off Rangali Island. Divers
anything is possible if they put their mind to it. The event also Sales Manager, AirAsia; laid down more than 1,000 years widely considered the birthplace of luxe destination designed for need only descend to a depth of
helped the students get a feel for the abundance of technology Tan Siew Lee, Head of
ago, Kimiko is trying to achieve ikebana. At this Buddhist temple, honeymooners and couples, in between five and 10 metres to
Sales & Distribution for NOTE All prices listed here are approximate values at the time of print.

Images: Getty, 123RF, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

career opportunities at AirAsia. During Hour of Code, the AirAsia Group; Jason something extraordinary. She is only 2km from Kimiko’s home, truth, the islands have something see these majestic creatures up-
young RedQ visitors experienced numerous fun and engaging Phua, Head of Sales, attempting to recreate nature. priests began designing their floral for everyone − from budget to close. visitmaldives.com
Visa Malaysia; and
educational activities such as a Star Wars coding game, and
learning new skills on coding, computer science, aviation and
Choo Heng Horng,
Director of Travel
4 The Kyoto woman is an
experienced practitioner and
lavish stay options, and caters to
solo travellers and vacationers The Island Life
social media. Partnership, Visa AirAsia Corporate Sales held its first teacher of ikebana, the ancient 2 with family and friends. Explore some of the world’s best islands, only in Maldives.
Malaysia, at the Corporate Appreciation Movie Night at Japanese art form of flower Discover a mesmerising
inaugural Corporate Biyadhoo Situated Kanuhura This whale- Fonimagoodhoo
Appreciation TGV Luxe cinema in Selangor, Malaysia, arranging. She has been an ikebana marine world through scuba in South Male Atoll, shaped island is a remote Commonly known
Movie Night. last November. Aimed at rewarding and artist for more than a decade and diving and snorkelling, swim Biyadhoo island’s world- haven nestled in Lhaviyani as Reethi Beach, this
strengthening long-term relationships for the last five years, has run flower with dolphins, feast on gourmet class house reef offers Atoll, 35 minutes from island in Baa Atoll offers

WORDS: KEETA BRENNAN

with organisations that have supported arranging workshops for tourists. meals underwater, stroll along snorkelling alongside reef Male via seaplane. This many fun and exciting
sharks and turtles. Popular diver’s paradise boasts activities like snorkelling, GETTING
AirAsia’s MyCorporate travel programme, “Don’t be nervous,” Kimiko says white sandy beaches, and soak in dive spots include Manta over 41 sites. Other sailing, kitesurfing and THERE
the event brought together corporate to me, as I prepare to tackle the the chilled-out island vibes. With Point with its schools of highlights at Kanuhura waterskiing. Dolphins AirAsia flies to
clients from over 20 distinguished daunting task of mimicking the all this and more, it’s no wonder manta rays, and Maaya include idyllic white are commonly spotted Maldives from
multinational and large corporations in works of Mother Nature. “Use your Maldives is high on the list of Dolphins can be spotted in the
Thila, home to whitetip sand beaches and calm, in the waters around Kuala Lumpur and
and guitar sharks. aquamarine waters. Fonimagoodhoo too. Bangkok. airasia.com
2 Malaysia for an enjoyable movie night. instinct; aim for beauty.” 3 dream escapes. waters off Fonimagoodhoo.

12 FOLLOW US ON 64 FOLLOW US ON 65 48 FOLLOW US ON 49

1st Prize 2nd Prize 3rd Prize

Sze Loong Steve Ngeow Imran Danial Krish Mharc Dela Vega

Kudos to AirAsia for being awarded two Never would I have imagined that An article on the Maldives (Touchdown,
Blue Ribbon certifications from Malaysia’s something as simple as flower Feb 2020) illustrated with beautiful
Ministry of Health (Red Fort, January arranging could be so immersed in photos caught my attention. I always
2020). The airline deserves credit for spirituality. But that’s precisely what I thought that a trip to the Maldives
striving to encourage and empower its learnt from the article Soul of Beauty would cost a fortune, but the article
Allstars (staff) and guests to go smoke-free, (Feb 2020) on ikebana – the Japanese made me realise that the island nation
and to live healthier and happier lives. art form of flower arranging, which was more than the epitome of luxury
AirAsia’s anti-smoking stance, which evolved from a ritual of offering flowers travel that people perceive it to be. It
includes the cessation of onboard duty to Buddha. The practice embodies the is possible to experience the Maldives
free cigarette sales and implementation of Japanese concept of wabi-sabi – the even if you don’t have a big budget.
a company-wide smoke- and vape- free beauty of impermanence – and the You just have to be diligent and do
environment, helps curb unhealthy habits worship of nature central to Buddhism some research. Fortunately, the article
and promote healthy lifestyle choices. and Shinto, Japan’s main religions. We included a helpful Budget & Blowout
AirAsia’s anti-smoking model should be often forget to appreciate the beauty of Guide, which listed Save/Splurge
adopted by other organisations in view of life. This article piqued my interest in options for dining, shopping, activities
the health benefits that come with having ikebana, which I have been fortunate and accommodation. Maldives is truly
a smoke-free environment. enough to see for myself in Tokyo. everyone’s dream destination.
04
20

A 2D/1N Stay in The Chow Kit’s King Den Room A 2D/1N Stay in TUNE klia2’s Double Room A 2D/1N Stay in MoMo’s KL’s Crashpad Room
with breakfast for two, worth MYR300 with breakfast for two, worth MYR290 with breakfast for two, worth MYR150
(approx. USD75) (approx. USD70) (approx. USD40)

Located in the heart of old Kuala Lumpur, The TUNE klia2 is for the discerning traveller in A social hotel with micro rooms and major
Chow Kit is a traveller’s sanctuary for rest, search of a stylish, budget-friendly hotel personality, MoMo’s KL is home to MoMosita
exploration and inspiration. Dine on reimagined located just steps from klia2. It offers a range Taco Bar and The Playground – a dynamic
Malaysian dishes at The Chow Kit Kitchen & Bar of comfortable and affordable rooms, 24-hour space that replaces the traditional lobby and
or go on a walking tour to discover Chow Kit’s dining, a full-service bar, co-working spaces, plays host to a constant line up of exciting
hidden gems. thechowkit.com and meeting rooms. tunehotels.com events, parties and pop-ups. stayatmomos.com

Like what you read in travel360? Share your thoughts with us! To show you how much we appreciate your feedback, we’ll give the best Letter of the Month and two other published
letters attractive prizes. Email your feedback in English to [email protected]. travel360 reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and length; only letters regarding articles
published in travel360 will stand to win a prize.

Snap, Tag & Share

Snap your best travel shots and tag us @formatasia on Instagram for the chance to be featured right here.

@nickyalmasy Hong @winwin.situations Delicious @kanseakhong RX-0 @dils Panoramic view of

Kong trams #hktramways beef and chicken satay, Unicorn Gundam Surfers Paradise, Queensland,
#streetphotography Bentong, Pahang, Malaysia Statue, Tokyo #odaiba Australia #goldcoast
#hongkong #bentong #yumm #foodie #gundambase #robots #rooftop #dilstravels

4
Start your Melbourne journey in Werribee and
Surrounds, a short 20 minute drive from the airport
and on the way to the Great Ocean Road.
Wander through 5,000 roses at the Victoria State
Rose Garden, meet amazing animals at Werribee
Open Range Zoo or feast your senses on the finest
wines and cuisine.
Enjoy Melbourne’s own ‘Downton Abbey’ –
Werribee Park Mansion and indulge with a luxury
night stay and spa at the adjoining Lancemore VisitWerribeeandSurrounds
Mansion Hotel Werribee Park. visitwerribee.com
 THE VIEW

Tell Tales
The editorial team and friends take a look at some nightmares that they experienced while they were wide awake.

I wouldn’t go as far as saying that I have Unruly kids

agoraphobia, but I do get easily agitated definitely makes
when I have to navigate busy public spaces. Top Two on my
So, I surprised myself recently when I ultimate nightmares
agreed to visit a public onsen (hot spring) list. A close contender −
in Japan. Not only do you have to brush drivers who don’t move
shoulders with loads of people in a confined when traffic lights turn green
space, but you also have to do it in your
because they’re busy fiddling
birthday suit! You know those nightmares
in which you find yourself naked in
with their phone. Obviously,
front of strangers? Well, it was exactly I spend too much time in
like that, but 10,000 times worse. I nightmare-land.
ended up hiding in one corner of
the bathhouse with my eyes shut Shamini Rajah
tight, afraid I’d catch a glimpse Sub Editor, travel360
of shrivelled bathers – they were
obviously having a swimmingly good
time, oblivious to my tribulation.

Ari Vanuaranu
Content Development, formatasia.com

04 A world without pizza – that’s a

terrifying idea just to think about.
20 Imagine if Raffaele Esposito,
widely regarded as the father of
modern pizza, woke up one day
and decided to give up making
his pan-tastic, cheesy goodness?
Cheat days would be sad and
and food bingeing would be
exceptionally healthy.

Adrian Balachandran My aunt once left her toddler

Sub Editor, travel360 under my charge while she was out
running errands. “Easy-peasy, how
hard can it be?” or so I thought
At a team building event in a when entrusted with the sleeping
previous job, we played a game baby boy. Exactly 13 seconds
where we had to use whatever was later, the little fellow awoke and
available around us to make a line. began bawling nonstop (what a
The group with the longest line set of pipes he had!). I immediately
would be crowned champs. As the picked him up and took him
teams ran out of items to build the out to the balcony, rocking him
line (and I’m assuming in the rush as I went, hoping that he’d stop
of competition) a few of my male shrieking, but the nightmare
colleagues from Australia – some continued for the next 10 hours
who may have witnessed at least (ok, I’m exaggerating, it was just
two World Wars – started stripping 15 minutes). My aunt eventually
down to their underwear, frantically returned and saved the day. TL;DR
placing their pants and shirts as – I love soft and cuddly babies, but
part of the line. It was good fun, I’d love them even more if there’s a
but I’m positive whatever the prize parent nearby I could pawn them
was, it was not worth the temporary off to when they start crying.
blindness I experienced.
Samantha Lei Nee Khor
Kerry-Ann Augustin Assistant Manager,
Senior Writer, travel360 Content Development, formatasia.com

6
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8
 MAKE A DIFFERENCE

The AirAsia Foundation team talks shop about the

people they meet and the ideas they come across
as they travel Asean on their mission to support the
growth of social entrepreneurship.

What’s
‘Destination:
Good Vibes
GOOD’? Yap Mun Ching shares insightful
experiences from her many
A movement to travels around the region.
encourage people
to shop and travel
sustainably

AirAsia
Foundation
is an ASEAN
accredited
civil society
organisation.
1 2

Enabling the Differently Abled I am one of those people to whom

words matter, so in writing this
One thing we learnt from their 15 stalls around Manila issue, my first consideration was
working with socially responsible are hearing-impaired staff, with getting the terminology right.
organisations is that examining the whom you can communicate Happily, I found the answer while
quality of a product, or value of a using a basic sign language chart judging a Gerakan Kreabilitas
service, is as important as ensuring provided. elaitph (Creative Abilities Movement)
04 that the people behind them are Malaysia’s Studio DL by Contact Us! pitch event organised by Balinese
20 treated with fairness and respect. renowned Malaysian photographer social enterprise Ketemu Project
This is why we celebrate and David Lok teaches photography last year.
support businesses who give to visually impaired individuals, At the event, Ketemu brought
differently abled individuals the giving them an avenue for self- together 30 makers and designers
opportunity to actively participate expression and an additional to innovate new product ideas.
in society through employment. livelihood. Have your portraits During the judging process, I
Here are some organisations across taken or events covered by Yap Mun Ching, discovered that rather than the
the region worth checking out. their team and discover how Executive Director of more common term of PWD,
Singapore’s CaptionCube, photography can be solely guided AirAsia Foundation, is or ‘persons with disability’, the
provides captioning, subtitling, by emotion, intuition and other always on the lookout participants referred to themselves
for exciting new social
transcribing and translation services. senses. studiodleducation.com enterprises. Write in as ‘difabel’ − the Indonesian
Their team of language talents Cambodia’s Watthan Artisans to foundation@ contraction for ‘differently abled’.
includes differently abled persons is a cooperative of artisans formed airasia.com It was the first time I heard the
who can work remotely and have by former students of Maryknoll- term and I loved it!
flexible arrangements to eliminate Wat Than Skills Training Centre for Difabel carried no judgement
accessibility barriers. captioncube.com Landmine and Polio Disabled. They and implicitly created the
Philippines’ Elait offers artisanal make fashion and home accessories understanding that everyone
rolled ice-cream made from local that are sold in Phnom Penh and has different strengths. It
ingredients. Behind the counters of Siem Reap. watthanartisans.com reminded us that while some of
us may experience fewer physical

Regal Collection
impediments in our lives, those
overcoming these challenges gain
in other ways. In this case, their
One of our highlights at Ketemu’s Gerakan Kreabilitas pitch gifts of creativity and empathy.
event was meeting I Ketut Suendra, one of Bali’s Kamasan
artists. Kamasan is a classical painting style that historically
decorated royal courts on the island, and is today applied 1. Sensory photographer Jamaliah Mohd
to paintings depicting characters and imagery from Hindu Yasin has a knack for breaking the ice during
mythology. Three pieces of Pak Suendra’s limited edition her portraiture sessions. 2. Budi Agung
Kuswara, Ketemu Project Founder (left); and
Kamasan wallets are now available at Destination: GOOD. difabel artist I Wayan Suta, during a Q&A
Find us at REXKL, 80 Jalan session at the Gerakan Kreabilitas pitch event
Sultan, Kuala Lumpur; 3. Each unique Kamasan wallet is made of
BROUGHT TO YOU IN canvas polished with seashells and measures
or visit destinationgood.com PARTNERSHIP WITH 22cm (W, open) by 9cm (H), retailing at
3 MINCONSULT MYR150 (approx. USD35).

10
 PROMOTION

The Client List

Check out the latest promotions, products and services offered by our advertisers and partners this month.

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12
 BETTER TOMORROW

Journey to Sustainability
AirAsia champions holistic initiatives to manage the company’s economic, environmental and
social impact. Here, the Sustainability team explains how and why they do this.

Waste Not, Want Not

To ensure that future
112 What a Waste!

generations do not drown in

tonnes of waste
was recycled in
waste, we must act now! What can
2019 through
we do? the AirAsia
First, Reduce wastage. Each On Board
time we dispose of something, Cabin Waste
it does not really disappear. Recycling
The waste ends up somewhere, Programme
contributing to environmental − this is
pollution. Decomposition equivalent to
of waste in landfills releases the weight of 12
A320 aircraft!
greenhouse gases like methane,
which is 28 times more potent
than carbon dioxide!
Second, as much as possible,
Reuse. Instead of having 3
takeaways in disposable single-
use plastics, bring your own Over one-third of food produced
reusable containers. When globally goes to waste − that’s
grocery shopping, bring along about USD1 trillion worth of
your own reusable bags. Stop edibles down the tubes annually!
04 1 buying plastic water bottles and Every time we waste food, we
20 switch to a refillable one. also waste the energy, water and
It’s April and it’s Earth month, so Third, Segregate & Recycle other resources used to produce
let’s talk about the impact of waste waste. This is important to ensure the food. So, buy only what you
on our planet. that we send as little waste as need. And if you have excess
With a global population of possible to landfills. At AirAsia, our food, steer it clear from landfills
almost eight billion at present, On Board Cabin Waste Recycling 1. Cabin crew collect − donate to food banks!
waste generation is growing at Programme ensures that waste is recyclables in green
trash bags during flight.
an alarming rate. The World Bank segregated at source (Yes, in the 2. AirAsia Legal and ICT
estimates that annual global waste air!), and once on the ground, the teams handle logistics
at RedQ for delivery of
Targeting Zero
will reach 3.4 billion tonnes by collected recyclables are sent for
computers to SJK(T)
2050 (from currently two billion recycling. This initiative is ongoing Teluk Merbau. 3. Reduce
tonnes) − more than double the on flights from seven of our hubs, wastage − shop for and
consume food sensibly.
world’s population growth in the and will be progressively extended 4. Allstars enjoy
same period. across our entire operations. bargains at the Allstars
Flea Market. One
person’s junk is indeed
HAVE IDEAS? Write in to [email protected] another’s treasure!

Byte the Bullet Reduce & Reuse was the order

4

Fact: technological advancement multiplies of the first-ever Allstars Flea

e-waste (electronic waste). As a countermeasure, Market at RedQ (AirAsia’s
at RedQ, dedicated bins have been strategically Malaysian headquarters) in
placed to encourage Allstars to safely discard January. Used items like clothes,
their e-waste, which is then recycled by books and shoes now have
licensed vendors. Further, in support of the new homes − their extended
Malaysian government’s Shared Prosperity life cycle mitigates the present
Vision 2030 − sustainable development of the burden on landfills. Also, our
country with fair economic distribution and self-imposed ban on usage of
equitable growth all-round − AirAsia recently single-use plastics, and plastic
contributed 25 desktop computers still in good equipment and décor, in the
working condition to SJK(T) Teluk Merbau flea market setup made it a truly
primary school in Selangor. 2 zero-waste event!

14
 PRESCRIPTION

Managing Midlife
Hormone levels, a sense of dissatisfaction with life and overwhelming
responsibilities are just a few indicators of a midlife crisis.

the population. With this growing

ageing population, midlife crises
will become increasingly common
among ageing men.
Consultant urologist Dato’ Dr
Tan Hui Meng notes that many
men prefer to adopt the “enjoy
now, suffer later” approach to
life. He refers to a 2005 American
study titled Healthy Lifestyle
Characteristics Among Adults in
the United States, which showed
that only 3 per cent of 153,805
men who participated in the study
adopted all four healthy lifestyle
characteristics: not smoking,
maintaining healthy weight,
exercising regularly and eating
at least five servings of fruits and
vegetables a day.
He says, “Despite having the
knowledge of preventative health,
men continue to lead unhealthy
04 lifestyles.” He emphasises that
20 there is no shortcut to maintaining
good health. Besides taking care of
one’s physical health, steps should
also be taken to ensure mental
well-being.
1 When one experiences a midlife
crisis, he exhibits behaviours and

A
s men grow older, they the future. While emotions such as relationship
start to notice differ- this transition and career dissatisfaction,
ences in their physical, does not have obsession with his appearance
emotional and mental to involve and emotional distress. As such,
states. Some people may regard calamity, it turns seeking help from his spouse,
this as a normal part of ageing, but into a crisis for trusted friends, therapist or
Dr Tan Hui Meng
it may trigger the start of a midlife some people. psychiatrist/psychologist can help
crisis for others. For men, ageing is also a a lot in improving his emotional
Dr Lynn Margolies, a time when bodily functions and mental well-being.
psychologist and former Harvard start to change. This can lead
Medical School faculty member to symptoms such as lethargy, It Could Be A Medical Thing Despite
and fellow, defines midlife as weight gain, sleeping problems, efforts to live healthily, some men
a time when we are no longer low libido and irritability. This may still experience persistent
parented or mentored, but overlap of transitioning through ageing symptoms. Dr Tan explains
are the ones who shoulder all the midlife phase in addition to that sometimes, it is not a physical
responsibility. She says, “In physical ageing symptoms can issue, but a hormonal one. As men
this period of time, we face the cause some men to experience grow older, their testosterone
burden of taking care of both mental health issues, such as levels drop gradually. However,
our children and parents. We depression and anxiety. if your testosterone levels are
are also faced with the loss of too low, it may cause ageing
our youth and past roles and Be Responsible for Your Health symptoms earlier on in life.
opportunities.” Last year, University Malaya’s Low testosterone can
She adds that midlife Social Wellbeing Research compromise your quality of
transition is often associated Centre shared that the number of life, including causing sexual
with a shift in our sense of time, Malaysians aged 60 and above is dysfunction, osteoporosis,
leading us to reflect on our lives, expected to rise to 6.3 million in increased chance of diabetes,
decisions we have made, and 2040, which will be 20 per cent of metabolic syndrome, increased

16
 Changes in
the Ageing
Male Body
Andropause is also
called late-onset
hypogonadism
(LOH). The terms
’male menopause‘
and ’andropause‘
Dr Rajeentheran
Suntheralingam
are misleading,
as they imply
the sudden change in hormone
levels that women experience in
menopause. In men, however,
2 there is a gradual change both in
symptoms and hormonal milieu.
risk of cardiovascular disease levels are low. With advances When the androgen decline
and central nervous system in technology, men can associated with advancing age
problems, which include now receive testosterone causes detrimental physiological
depression, poor cognition, supplements to boost their and mental effects, the syndrome 04
irritability and memory levels. With that, they can is known as symptomatic LOH. 20
deterioration. maintain a higher quality of life General screening of asymptomatic
“These symptoms can for a longer period of time. people or men above a certain
affect a man’s life, especially Dr Tan also urges men age for testosterone levels is not
when it comes to work, above the age of 50 who are feasible and should not be used to
social relationships and his at risk of prostate cancer to detect LOH cases.
relationship with his spouse. undergo regular prostate cancer LOH may often be
Therefore, men between 30 screening. It is the most underdiagnosed and often
and 50 years old are advised to common cancer among untreated, but recently, there have
undergo hormone-level testing men in Malaysia, as well as been concerns of over-diagnosis
along with regular health check- the second deadliest form of and unnecessary treatment of
ups,” Dr Tan says. cancer. Men must rise and take this condition with testosterone
He notes it is not the end of responsibility of their health, replacement. Since these symptoms
the world if your testosterone especially in their midlife. may have origins other than LOH,
exclusion of other disease entities
1. Understanding
your health and body and subnormal testosterone levels
can help you better are considered prerequisites for the
navigate the changes diagnosis and possible treatment
associated with
ageing. 2. Lifestyle of LOH.
changes could help In summary, symptomatic
you manage your LOH must be due to symptoms
midlife crisis and age
well. 3. Seek advice related to LOH and not the
from a medical ageing process alone. This
doctor if you notice syndrome is not classic primary
persistent aging
symptoms that affect (testicular failure) or secondary
your quality of life. (pituitary or hypothalamic failure)
hypogonadism because it may have
elements of both presentations.
– By Dr Rajeentheran
Suntheralingam, consultant
urologist at KPJ Damansara
Specialist Hospital
For more information, visit
3 www.kpjdamansara.com.

17
 PRESCRIPTION

A Fluttering
Heart isn’t Normal 1

Your heart might “A patient with atrial fibrillation 1. Health screenings while the pulse for atrial flutter can
start racing or atrial flutter may experience could help your either be regular or irregular.
physician detect
when you get 120 to 160 heartbeats per minute cardiac problems Dr Choy says atrial fibrillation and
excited or see at rest, which is highly abnormal. like atrial fibrillation atrial flutter would usually not cause
your significant Both diseases are constantly and atrial flutter. sudden death, unlike a heart attack,
2. Exercise can
Dr Choy
other, but if underdiagnosed as patients only help to reduce the but both conditions will weaken
Chun Ngok you feel your discover them upon recovering risk of having your heart because of over-usage of
heart constantly from a complication, like a heart atrial fibrillation. the heart muscles. He illustrates this
fluttering for no apparent reason, attack,” says Dr Choy. as your heart being on overdrive for
you need to get it checked. Dr Choy also adds that a prolonged period of time.
Dr Choy Chun Ngok, both diseases share the same Among the risk factors that can
04 consultant cardiologist at symptoms: palpitations, fatigue trigger both atrial fibrillation and
20 Subang Jaya Medical Centre, and shortness of breath. atrial flutter are hypertension,
says a constantly fluttering heart However, the only difference excessive consumption of alcohol,
can be due to one of two often between the two is the regularity drug use and recent heart surgery.
underdiagnosed heart diseases – of the pulse as the pulse for atrial However, there are some cases
atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter. fibrillation is always irregular where patients who lead healthy
lifestyles develop atrial fibrillation
or atrial flutter. These cases could
be due to hereditary heart diseases
or other conditions that were
previously unknown to the patient,
like an abnormal heart valve.
To treat these diseases, blood-
thinning medication called
anticoagulants are usually
prescribed. However, if the
conditions persist, an invasive
procedure is sometimes an option.
This surgery is called ablation
and uses radiofrequency energy
or a freezing balloon called a
cryoballoon to break down the
area of the heart that is causing the
abnormal heart rhythm.
Dr Choy stresses that while these
diseases are difficult to prevent in
the first place, the risk of developing
them can be reduced with adoption
of a healthy lifestyle. He advises,
“Always exercise, practise a healthy
diet and avoid consuming excessive
amounts of alcohol. A fluttering heart
doesn’t always mean you’re in love.”
For more information, call
2 +603-5639 1212.

18
 QUICK BITES

Taste of Tradition
This month, South Asian communities around the world ring in their New Year
with a range of auspicious eats, filled with flavour and symbolism.

Sweet
Beginnings
Commonly celebrated as a Sikh
harvest festival, Vaisakhi − which
commemorates the founding of
the Khalsa (Sikh brotherhood) −
abounds with sweet offerings.
Check out these favourites.

1. Vishu Sadhya
For many South Asians, the salty and bitter flavours, which 2. Ladoos are one
04 months of March and April bring symbolise joy and pain, triumph of the sweet treats
20 enjoyed by South
the freshness of spring, signifying and defeat, as well as the good and Asian communities Dodha Barfi Decadent and
the renewal of life. The season – bad in life. during their New Year chewy, this Punjabi special
celebrations.
which also coincides with the New fudge is a combination of
Year in Hindu, Buddhist and Sikh Vishu Sadhya Vishu, the New Year broken wheat, milk, sugar,
calendars – is one of celebration. of the Malayalee community, is ghee, cashew and almonds.
Here are some must-have dishes celebrated in India, Malaysia and
from different celebrations across Singapore with the Vishu Sadhya –
the region. an elaborate banana leaf feast that
has more than a dozen vegetarian

Source: india.com, walkthroughindia.com, food.ndtv.com, The Malaysian Malayalee

Mango Pachadi For the Tamil side dishes served with parboiled
communities in India, Sri Lanka, rice. But at the heart of every
Malaysia and Singapore, Puthandu Vishu celebration is: Vishu kanji,
– the festival that marks the a porridge-like rice dish cooked
first day of their calendar – is with coconut milk and spices;
celebrated with a vegetarian feast thoran, vegetables cooked with Kheer In Punjab, India,
that includes traditional favourites. grated coconut; and Vishu katta – this creamy, refreshing

Association, Britannica, italymagazine.com Images: 123RF, Getty

A popular New Year dish in many rice cake made with coconut dessert is made with ghee,
parts of South India is mango and jaggery. rice, sugar, cardamom,

Old Time
pachadi. The dish is made with raisins, saffron, almonds,
unripe mangoes, jaggery, red Hath Maluwa Aluth Avurudda – pistachios and milk.
chillies, turmeric, salt and either the Sinhalese New Year – sees
betel leaves or neem flowers − the special preparation of hath
representing sour, sweet, spicy, maluwa. The punchy, flavourful
curry is packed with seven types
of vegetables such as pumpkin,
eggplant and ash plantain, as well
2
as cashews and jackfruit seeds.
WORDS: KERRY-ANN AUGUSTIN

New Years in South

While the ingredients may vary
Asian and Southeast
in different parts of Sri Lanka, Asian cultures are
the foundation of the number based on ancient Mango Lassi Made out of
seven (hath) remains the same lunisolar calendars sweet mango, fresh curd,
– one of the earliest
– attributed to the Goddess of cold milk and powdered
calendars, believed
Fertility, who is believed to have to be invented in the sugar, this cooling, creamy
been born seven times. 3rd millennium BCE. drink is perfect on hot days.

20
 MONEY MAKER

Tomorrow’s Township
Autonomous vehicles and smart homes are at the heart of Toyota’s promising prototype city project.

4.5
million USD
Smart Faculties

is the most
expensive eBay
purchase of
2019 – a 20th
Annual Power
Lunch with
Warren Buffett
to benefit US
charity GLIDE. Chinese ICT solutions provider,
Huawei has helped create a
smarter campus for Xiamen
University Malaysia using its
AirEngine Wi-Fi 6 solution,
which is powered by 5G
technology. Huawei has not
Japanese automotive giant Toyota electric vehicle will be utilised for only equipped the university
plans to construct a new prototype transportation and deliveries, as Pan Pacific with high-speed network
development called Woven City. well as for mobile retail. Expansion coverage, but has also deployed
The 51hectare futuristic city will The city’s master plan features a Smart Modular Data Centre
be built at the base of Mt. Fuji in three sectors that make up a fully- to handle various applications,
04 Tokyo, and used to build and test connected ‘living laboratory’. as well as 24/7 virtual labs on
20 core technologies such as self- Woven City will also be a campus. The MoU between
driving cars, robotics, personal development ground for future Huawei and Xiamen University
mobility, smart homes and digital infrastructure systems that was established in 2015 to co-
artificial intelligence. utilise advanced data networks develop a future-oriented, ICT-
While the project’s timeline and sensors. enabled campus in Malaysia.
The Pan Pacific
is still being ironed out, Toyota The Woven City plan Hotels Group
intends to begin development in also comprises a park-like (PPHG) is
2021. However, the automaker promenade for pedestrians with expanding its
footprint across
Green Leaders
aims to make the city fully- smart homes equipped with
Asia by launching

Source: japantoday.com, ebay.com, businesstimes.com, Nasdaq.com, eco-business.com,

sustainable, featuring solar power the latest in sensor-based AI several new
and hydrogen fuel cells, as well to run tasks like automatically properties in
as buildings constructed from restocking the refrigerator and Thailand, Vietnam,
carbon neutral wood. monitoring the health of its Indonesia and
Malaysia; PPHG
According to Toyota’s occupants. The automaker has will debut its first
president Akio Toyoda, targeted approximately 2,000 Parkroyal Hotels &
transportation in Woven City people made up of Toyota Resorts property
in Dalian, China, in

digitalnewsasia.com, cnbc.com, asianikkei.com Images: 123RF

will comprise fully autonomous, employees and their families,
Q4 2020.
zero-emission vehicles, such industry partners, retailers and
as the Toyota e-Palette. The visiting scientists to reside in
modular and multifunctional Woven City.

Eastern Thai
Singapore is on track to becoming
the first country in the world to

Investment
only use sustainable palm oil.
The initiative, kick-started by
NGO People’s Movement to Stop
Haze (PM Haze) in December,
WORDS: RICHARD AUGUSTIN

According to Thailand’s Board of Investment encourages consumers and

(BOI), investment applications for projects reached businesses to switch to green
USD25.07 billion in 2019, amounting to a total of and ethically-produced
1,624 submissions. Of this amount, USD14.7 billion palm oil by 2023, in hopes of
was directed towards the nation’s Eastern Economic drastically reducing the negative
Corridor, centred on growing high-tech industries environmental impact of slash-
such as robotics and aviation. and-burn deforestation practices.

22
 FUTURE FORWARD

Super Tech
Amazing superhuman powers are no longer only fantastical. Check out these marvellous
innovations, inspired by some of the world’s best-loved on-screen superheroes.

superhero using camouflage

– though not in the same
magical context as Harry Potter’s
invisibility cloak. Researchers
from the University of Tokyo in
Japan, led by Prof Dr Susumu
Tachi, have created a similar effect
using cameras and a cloth with a
built-in display function. When
activated, the camera projects
what it captures behind the person
draped in the cloth onto the fabric,
causing the wearer of the ‘cloak’
to blend into the background −
giving the illusion of invisibility.
Of course, no superhero line-
up is complete without X-Men. In
true X-Men fashion, the Defence
Advanced Research Projects
Agency, or DARPA, under the
US government, has a project
whereby the minds of soldiers
in the field can be controlled
04 via a helmet − akin to Professor
20 X’s head gear, which he uses to
Ever-increasing inventions based similar flexibility but stronger on a amplify his mind powers. On
on superhero technology − the likes comparison of density ratio! an actual battlefield, the DARPA
of Iron Man’s suit and Spiderman’s Naturally, spider silk is the
web − are becoming more inspiration behind high tensile
commonplace in our world today. steel, widely used today in
Adam Savage, the popular construction and producing
former co-host of Discovery machinery. High tensile steel wires,
Channel’s MythBusters, took flight, when braided, can sustain objects
literally, in 2019 with a replica of many times heavier than their own
the Iron Man Mark II suit. weight, just like spider silk.
On his new show Savage Builds, There’s no disputing the
Savage 3D printed the Marvel importance of Harry Potter’s
Studios-inspired armour using invisibility cloak in the final face-
titanium. With the help of several off with Voldemort.
miniature jets fitted to his outfit, Designed to conceal its wearer,
Savage hovered about 5m above the invisibility cloak protects the
ground, mimicking superhero 2
Tony Stark in the Iron Man films.
Spiderman fans would delight project enables a commander to
in the fact that real-life spider direct the minds of his troops to
silk, from which spiderwebs disregard physical setbacks and
are made of, is already in use. It heighten their fight responses.
is among the world’s toughest The 2020s promise wondrous
organic materials, stronger than superhero technology that
steel on a per-weight basis, with 1 previously only appeared on the
Images: Getty, techeblog.com

silver screen. We are now on the

cusp of turning movie magic into
ALLSTAR TAKE “Can’t wait to see the tech from movies become real-life creations.
WORDS: RIL RAHMAN

a reality – enabling us to explore new possibilities to make life

better. My personal favourite is the Iron Man suit − I would love
to fly about in one and say "I’m Iron Man"!” ~ Manoj Kumar, 1. Braided high tensile steel wires
Creative Designer, Branding, India 2. Adam Savage flies in his self-made
Iron Man suit.

26
 GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) was created
by Steve Wilhite of CompuServe in 1987, and
has since become the darling of the Internet to
show movement without video files.

Tip of the
Month
Watch videos anytime,
Cool & Compact
Compact and convenient are the
PLANET OF
THE APPS
Make the most of your
anywhere – even when you buzzwords for our gizmo pick this month. smartphone sensors
have no Internet access! to work these helpful
(and fun!) toolkit apps.

Canon SELPHY Square QX10 Printing

your digital images is a breeze with
the mobile SELPHY Square photo
printer. Simply launch the SELPHY
Photo Layout 2.0 app (which
No Internet, No also allows photo-editing) on Smart Tools With
Problem Download your compatible Android or six feature sets on
the Smart Tools app
an offline copy of a iOS device, and print your offering a total of 15
YouTube video − simply snapshots on photo sticker tools such as angle and
open the video on the paper in various sizes in just slope measures, metal
YouTube app, click the 43s per image. canon.com detector and magnifier,
even amateur DIY
download button and buffs can do a great
select the quality. Once home improvement job
done, you can watch without additional tools.
the video even without OS: Android
Price: Free
Internet connection. Oculus Go Want to experience virtual reality (VR)
− wirelessly? Check out the Oculus Go. The VR
Delayed Telecast If you headset is an all-in-one unit that works sans
want to watch a video smartphone or PC to deliver superb VR
in your recommended experiences. Just wear it, pick a
list at a later time, just unique in-built experience and
click on the three dots dive into the astounding world Smart Tools − Handy
button next to the video of VR. oculus.com Carpenter Box This app 04
title (on smartphone features 40 carpentry 20
and metering tools, as
or desktop) and select well as other interesting
‘Save to Watch Later’. functions like heart rate
monitor, night vision,
Background Action All and even pitch tuner,
speed gun and dog
you need to do is open whistle! The handy tool
YouTube in Chrome, kit app is certainly a
and make sure the must-have for builders
Desktop Site box is OtterBox Drybox 3250 Series of any level.
OS: Android
ticked in the three dots Built to protect electronic Price: Free
menu. Then, open your gadgets, the waterproof
choice video on your OtterBox Drybox 3250 Series
smartphone and press easily fits a large smartphone
the home button to play (like Huawei Mate 30). It is
it in the background. waterproof up to a depth
of 90ft (approx. 27m) for 30
minutes, and its polycarbonate Makita Mobile Tools
construction keeps it resistant From the makers of
world-class power
to bumps and scratches. tools comes the
otterbox.com Makita Mobile Tools
app − designed for
convenience to aid
tradesmen in their
daily tasks. Among the
app’s multiple features
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip The new foldable are distance measure,
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip packs the latest sound level meter and
levelling instrument.
smartphone technology in a device about the OS: iOS/Android
size of a rectangular powder compact Price: Free
Images: Tech Dopp Kit

(when folded). It features the

Qualcomm snapdragon 855+ for
power performance, dual cameras
that add snap in your snapshots and
speedy 4G connectivity. samsung.com

27
 TOUCHDOWN

Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Discover the true meaning of pure, unadulterated natural beauty in Raja Ampat,
where underwater marvels and stunning landscapes combine to leave a lasting impression.

Passage
of Wonder

04
20 1 4

Heralded as an aquatic paradise, The name Raja Ampat (Four 1. Wayag Island As a diving and snorkelling
2. Raggiana bird of
the Raja Ampat archipelago, Kings) comes from the legend paradise 3. Divers
haven, Raja Ampat has a
located in the West Papua province of a woman who found seven can look out for plethora of great sites, but
of Indonesia, is home to some of magical eggs, with four of them manatees in the among its most popular
waters of Raja Ampat.
the world’s most biodiverse coral hatching kings who ruled the 4. Mangrove forest
is The Passage, a channel
reefs. This archipelago of some archipelago’s main islands. at Mangrove Ridge, roughly 25m in width that
1,500 islands has four main islands Raja Ampat has now become Yanggefo Island runs between the islands of
− namely Misool, Salawati, Batanta increasingly accessible, the Waigeo and Gam. With fjord-
and Waigeo. unspoilt beauty of its waters like characteristics, the site
and tropical paradise setting is popular due to its variety
have made its islands a must- of seascapes − from shallow
visit destination. waters below mangrove forests
Although Raja Ampat offers the where the sunbeams can be
ultimate underwater experience seen breaking through the
for sea-lovers, its other offerings waters to illuminate the corals
are nothing short of spectacular. below, to underwater ridges
Sip cocktails and admire the that are home to macro marine
dazzling sunset on Pef Island. life such as nudibranchs,
Dive with manta rays and even sponges, bright orange sea fans
spot the occasional dugong at and pygmy seahorses. Another
2 Manta Ridge, located between highlight here is Citrus
the Islands of Mansuar and Ridge – one of Raja Ampat’s
Airborei. Frolic on the pristine most stunning coral gardens.
sands of Pasir Timbul in West indonesia.travel
Papua province and while here,
mingle with friendly locals
WORDS: KEETA BRENNAN

Images: 123RF, Getty

and observe various species of

cenderawasih (bird of paradise)
in Sawinggrai Village.
The magic of Raja Ampat is
enchanting, and there is no place
3 on Earth quite like it.

28
 Raja Ampat is located in the Coral Triangle
− a marine area in the western Pacific Ocean
that is home to over 600 different reef-
building corals and 2,000 species of fish.

Budget & Blowout Guide

Treat yourself, or save your Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Our guide can help you decide.

Save Spend
To experience Raja Ampat’s Discover the best of Raja Ampat’s
stunning natural vistas, hike up marine life with an all-inclusive dive
to PIAYNEMO VIEWPOINT on package from PAPUA EXPLORERS DIVE
Piaynemo (Penemu) Island. From RESORT on Gam Island. This eco-resort
the island’s dock, a series of roughly features a five-star PADI dive centre,

DO
300 steps leads up through the and is located close to most of Raja
forest to reveal breathtaking views of Ampat’s best diving spots such as Manta
karst formations and clear waters in Point, Cape Kri and Blue Magic.
brilliant turquoise hues.
PAY From IDR33,000,000 (approx. USD2,400)
PAY Free per pax for a seven-day dive package.

For a delicious and affordable A mix of authentic Papuan and

meal, BAKSO PAKDE BEJO located Indonesian cuisine is on full display
in Sorong, West Papua province, at Sorong’s KITONG PAPUA. Menu
should not be missed. A must-try highlights include Udang Cabe
here is bakso, which consists of Garam, prawns in a salty and spicy
meatballs served with noodles in
a bone broth, complemented by
EAT sauce; and fish gulai, or yellow stew,
which is eaten with papeda, a sago-
crackers, spring onions and a side of based starch porridge.
homemade spicy chilli sauce.

PAY From IDR30,000 (approx. USD2) PAY From IDR70,000 (approx. USD5)

Support the local community and A range of Papuan batik products are
take home a unique souvenir at available at ANEKA BATIK PAPUA in
ARBOREK TOURISM VILLAGE on Sorong. Papuan batik differs from 04
Arborek Island. The village is known batik in other parts of Indonesia in
20
SHOP

for its woven handicrafts, made its design, and often features the
from naturally dyed pandan leaves. cenderawasih as a motif. The boutique
Produced exclusively by women of carries Papuan batik items like shirts,
the village, the most popular items fabric and bags.
are beach hats and string bags.

PAY From IDR200,000 (approx. USD14) PAY From IDR350,000 (approx. USD25)

On the northern shore of Mansuar Island, Experience paradise on Earth at COVE

MARKO HOMESTAY offers budget-friendly ECO RESORT on the private island of
accommodation with basic amenities Yeben. This all-inclusive resort with
and wondrous ocean views across the beach-front cottages has amenities
STAY

Dampier Strait and an excellent house reef. such as a world-class restaurant and a
The homestay has four private on-water fully-equipped dive centre, and features
bungalows, and one private bungalow on activities like snorkelling, kayaking, nature
land, all with shared bathroom facilities. walks and island-hopping.

PAY IDR480,000 (approx. USD35) per night PAY From IDR18,000,000 (approx. USD1,300)
per pax including three meals daily per pax for a 6D/5N package

NOTE All prices listed here are approximate values at the time of print.

Paddle Your Own Canoe

Kayaking is one of the best ways to explore Raja Ampat − here are three ways to do it.

Kayak4Conservation Millekul Adventures The Freestyle For seasoned

Supporting the local company offers paddling paddlers, bringing along
economy through excursions around a kayak on a trip to Raja
sustainable kayaking Misool Island: four-day Ampat is a good choice.
activities, the company − exploration trips − perfect The archipelago offers a
which offers kayak tour for beginners; longer tours wide variety of islets, bays
packages ranging from eight lasting up to three weeks and peninsulas to explore.
to 14 days − works with local − for advanced paddlers. A top pick is Kabui Bay,
guides and family-owned The trips are all-inclusive, off the islands of Gam and
guesthouses from various with Misool homestay Waigeo, with its forested
Raja Ampat communities. accommodation. backdrop and azure waters.

29
 GET A ROOM

Inspired Spaces
Set within the bustling heart of Kuala Lumpur (KL), Malaysia, these eclectic dens
offer immersive stays that celebrate the heritage of one of Asia’s busiest cities.

The suite, which showcases a

custom made headboard, tasselled
brass and milk glass bedside
lamps, and a brocade loveseat, is
contemporary in aesthetic, yet
recalls the romance of another era.
Attention to detail is a big part
of the hotel’s design. The Chow
Kit collaborates with a host of
designers, artists and artisans to
create everything from bespoke in-
room compendiums and menus
(handcrafted by The Alphabet
Press) to tableware (made by local
studio Bendang Artisan).
Decorating the walls of my
room are the works of artist Liew
Sze Lin whose unique mix-
medium collages utilise torn
pieces of fabric and cardboard to
convey stories.
The glamorous interiors and
04 creative art are not confined to the
20 Towkay-Soh Suite. All rooms and
suites are tastefully decorated and
spotlight unique art pieces. Other
stay options include entry-level
The Chow Kit Ying was inspired by traditional The Den rooms reminiscent of the
Chinese watercolours, but crafted gambling dens of yore, the Little
The Ormond Group’s inaugural with Western mediums and Towkay Suite with twin beds for
offering – The Chow Kit – shakes perspectives. The contemplative little bosses, and the Towkay Suite.
the dust off one of Kuala Lumpur’s piece has a calming effect – a Also within this charming
most underrated enclaves. The wonderful distraction from the property are meeting spaces for
113-key property is the newest constant buzz of the city. business or pleasure. My favourite
kid on the block in Chow Kit – a I don’t, however, have to of these is The Library, a wood-
colourful, historic neighbourhood worry about the din of traffic panelled jewel box of a space that
named after turn-of-the-20th in my comfortable Towkay- features specially commissioned
century tin tycoon Loke Chow Kit, Soh Suite, which boasts
and listed in the New York Times’ triple-glazed floor-to-ceiling
52 Places to Go in 2020. windows. Here, I feel like a
As the first property under the boss, and rightly so. Towkay-
brand’s stable to open its doors, The soh literally means ‘the boss
Chow Kit certainly sets the bar high. lady’ in Hokkien – a Chinese
Conceptualised by award-winning dialect spoken by immigrants
Brooklyn-based design collective from China who settled here in
Studio Tack, the design-led hotel the 1800s, and one of the main
features opulent interiors inspired dialects of Malaysia’s Chinese
by the locale and its history. community today.
An eclectic collection of artworks Measuring 38sqm, the suite –
WORDS: CHITRA SANTHINATHAN

curated by art consultant Liza Ho the property’s largest – is cosy,

complements the sleek design. but it has everything a lady boss
In the lobby, my eyes are could possibly need. Luxuries
drawn to Flow – an expressive include a sumptuous king-sized
charcoal and acrylic painting bed, living area, smart TV, and an
of a misty mountain landscape. ensuite kitted out with bespoke
The commissioned piece by KL- organic small-batch toiletries by
based visual artist Chong Siew Jeanie Botanicals.

30
Must Try!

Kit neighbourhood. The Library

doubles as a private dining room
with a 12-seat table where guests
can enjoy the culinary creations of
The Chow Kit Kitchen & Bar away
The Chow Kitchen & Bar from prying eyes.
serves up tasty tipples KL is a street food haven, but
like The Chow Kit – a with exquisite eats at The Chow
lip-smacking combo of Kitchen & Bar, guests need not
Matusalem Platino rum, wander far. Led by award-winning
Aperol, lemon juice, restaurateurs Christian Bauer and
housemade lemongrass Eddie Chew of the city’s much
liquor and maple syrup. lauded Troika Sky Dining, the
hotel’s sole F&B venue showcases
familiar Asian and Western flavours
wallpaper crafted in Thai silk by with a modern twist.
artist Josun Huakhuak. Standouts from the menu
Interestingly, the wall covering include The Chow Kit Fish &
is hand-painted with little details Chips – whole fish marinated in
– such as a portrait of Loke Chow tandoori spices, batter fried to
Kit in top hat and phrases in local golden perfection, and served with
dialects – that celebrate the Chow hand-cut potato chips and tangy

tartar sauce; Barramundi with 04

Rasam – barramundi fillet grilled 20
in banana leaf and complemented
with a tamarind sauce that takes
inspiration from rasam (South
citizenM
Indian soup made with tamarind,
Kuala Lumpur
Bukit Bintang tomatoes and spices); and Grilled
Chicken Breast – succulent
chicken breast marinated in
chermoula (a spice mix with
cumin, coriander and lemon
juice) paste and grilled.
The wholesome selections,
which include inventive salads
This stylish inspired by local ingredients such
hideaway boasts as tapai (fermented rice), burst
210 snug suites that with flavour. Hats off to the chef!
feature the hotel’s
MoodPad − a
Guests are encouraged to
remote control that explore the local neighbourhood
operates lighting, too. On the Chow Kit Walking
temperature, Tour (approx. USD24), guides
music and more.
canteenM plates
Manjeet and Fuad lead guests on
up local and an insightful trail of local sights
international and landmarks including Chow
fare; other hotel Kit’s iconic bustling wet market –
amenities include
free Wi-FI and three
a fitting way to celebrate a stay at
co-working spaces. The Chow Kit.
The Chow Kit surpasses
128 Jalan Pudu, expectations with its impeccable
Bukit Bintang,
55100 Kuala Lumpur
design and F&B offerings, and
experience-driven stays. But don’t
just take my word for it.

1012, Jalan Sultan Ismail,

Chow Kit, Kuala Lumpur

31
 GET A ROOM

Must Try!

Guest at MoMo’s (and

sister property The
Chow Kit) enjoy perks
at local businesses.
These include discounts
on pastries at Kek&Co.
and tableware at
Bendang Artisan.

MoMo’s Kuala Lumpur trendy social hotel with 99 micro-

rooms. The hotel’s minimalist
KL is a fascinating city, and one theme is the brainchild of
I’m proud to call home. It’s a Sydney-based interior design firm
proud symbol of Malaysia’s rich Akin Atelier that has reimagined
multiculturalism, heritage and urban accomodation. The uber
04 cuisine. However, it’s been a while chic rooms include Bunkies
20 since I really explored the city. (11sqm to 12sqm), Crashpad
Oftentimes, locals need a reminder to (12sqm to 14.5sqm) and Crashpad
explore their own backyards. To soak for 2 (16sqm).
up KL’s vibrant energy, I head to the My snug Crashpad for 2
Chow Kit neighbourhood. And where showcases a tatami-style concept
better to sample the best of KL than with a raised wooden platform for
at one of the city’s latest snuggeries – sleeping, complete with storage
MoMo’s Kuala Lumpur – launched by spaces beneath. A vintage string
the Ormond Group in 2019. chair – similar to those that used
Located along Jalan Tunku Abdul to be popular here in the 1970s and
Rahman, MoMo’s Kuala Lumpur is a 80s – is perfect to sink into while Kitez Hotel
enjoying the 43-inch smart TV.
& Bunkz pulsating vibes firsthand at
My pad’s ensuite bathroom is Offday MoMo-tel – a buzzing
decked out in white and matte R&B party featuring local
grey tiles, along with sleek black artistes Ash and Eaxon.
taps and shower. All rooms at MoMosita, the hotel’s self-
MoMo’s come with bespoke service taqueria, is another cool
organic toiletries from Jeanie hangout spot – one created
Botanicals – a local beauty and by KL’s serial restaurateurs
This hotel, located
wellness brand. Christian Bauer and Eddie
in Kuala Lumpur’s
MoMo’s exudes a youthful and Chinatown, offers Chew. Must-tries here are Home
vibrant personality, epitomised 18 artistically Style Beef Taco with grilled ox
by The Playground – the designed rooms, as tongue, adobo salsa and beef
well as a lobby café,
property’s versatile lobby cum crackling and churros (crispy
rooftop bar and
event space that hosts everything business-friendly fried-dough pastry).
from stand-up comedy shows facilities − perfect MoMo’s Kuala Lumpur is
WORDS: ADRIAN BALACHANDRAN

and art exhibitions, to poetry for leisure and perfect for travellers who, like
business travellers.
evenings and karaoke nights. me, enjoy exploring the local arts
The property also
As MoMo’s champions local art, features a social hub and music scene; there’s plenty
the space is characterised by a complete with a to pique the senses both inside
large mural known as Junglebird, pool table for R&R. the hotel and out on the streets.
created by Malaysian artist Nee
No. 37-1, Jalan
Wong. The Playground is a hive Petaling, 50000 316, Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Chow Kit,
of activity and I experience the Kuala Lumpur Kuala Lumpur

32
 GET A ROOM

Must Try!

Opt for the Staycation

package to enjoy a
two-hour Customised
Four Points Chinatown
Discovery Tour that
peels back the layers of
this heritage enclave.
Be sure to ask your
guide to point you in the
direction of Chinatown’s
hidden bars too!

Four Points By Loka Made depicting the livelihoods Lumpur, was instrumental
Sheraton Chinatown of the Chinatown community. in transforming the sleepy
And, at Jann, the bar gleams settlement into a booming
As I sip my Kapitan Yap – a with tiles of jade – a Chinese mining town, and rebuilding it
04 whiskey sour-like blend infused symbol of immortality. But, I time and again amid the strife of
20 with the musky fruitiness of digress – like the other potions on floods, fires and civil war.
jackfruit – the bartender spills the Jann’s Concoctions of Chinatown Jann’s menu is the brainchild
story behind the cocktail, all the menu that pay homage to the of mixologist Lawson See who
while juggling jiggers and pouring people and trades of this enclave, roamed Chinatown in search
inventive concoctions into cute the fruity boldness of Kapitan Yap of inspiration. He found this in
Chinese teacups. I’m at Jann, a was inspired by the resilience spades. Try Bak Kwa, a zingy
chinoiserie-styled bar in the newly of controversial 19th century mezcal, pandan and lemon potion
opened Four Points by Sheraton figure Yap Ah Loy who hailed served with a skewer of halal
Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown that from southern China, and as the bak kwa – a nod to local jerky
celebrates the heritage of the third Chinese Kapitan of Kuala vendor Oloiya, once a purveyor
historic enclave where, lured by of orange juice. Or, my favourite,
the tin mining industry, early Kloé Hotel Tau Foo Fah – a bittersweet dark
settlers from China made their rum cocktail with silky soybean
home in the 1800s. pudding sourced from vendors
This is done in clever ways – in Chinatown.
from its brilliant local cuisine to At Quan’s Kitchen, the offerings
Oriental flourishes like fish-scale are worthy of the neighbourhood.
tiles, lattice work and antique Stand-outs include kon loh
porcelain vases and local elements noodles, the coffee shop staple
woven into its contemporary given a luxe feel with dry rubbed
The boutique
canvas of burnt brick walls, floor to property houses crispy duck confit and duck
ceiling glass windows and wrought 80 chic rooms crackling in place of lard; as well
iron pendant lights. Throughout and five artist as wok-fried Hokkien mee and
lofts; each unique
the property, snapshots present street side steamboat favourite lok
artist loft comes
a collage of Chinatown – from with art supplies, lok, available at the Joy Lok Club
terracotta temple friezes to and showcases Sunday Brunch Buffet. It’s rare
mundane objects like a peeling interesting art to find a place so in tune with its
WORDS: BEVERLY RODRIGUES

works. Dine at the

door rendered extraordinary by the surroundings but the property’s
cosy Lucky Coffee
lens of the photographer. Bar or enjoy light inspired design manages to evoke
Each of the 318 uber-comfy reads at the Living nostalgia of times past while very
contemporary guest rooms (from Room social space. much celebrating the Chinatown
the 28sqm Deluxe King to the 70sqm of today.
227 Jalan Bukit
Premier Suite) features expansive Bintang, 55100
city views and wall art by local artist Kuala Lumpur No 2, Jalan Balai Polis, Kuala Lumpur 50000 

34
 HIT LIST

Striking Out Solo

Escape the mundane on a solo adventure at these spellbinding destinations, and enjoy
some quiet ‘me’ time or forge friendships with like-minded travellers along the way.

Walk with
Gentle
Giants
Discover Elephant
Nature Park − one of
the few places in the
world where lovers of
these gentle giants can
interact with them up-
close, in an ethical way.

04
20
This award-winning
elephant rescue and
rehabilitation sanctuary,
located in Mueang
Chiang Mai District,
was established in the
1990s to free elephants
from captivity.

The sanctuary offers

ethical interactions with
elephants. Visitors can
bathe, feed, and walk
alongside elephants in
their natural habitat;
riding them is strictly
prohibited.

The sanctuary has

rescued dozens of
elephants from circus
shows, forced breeding
programmes, street
begging, and the
logging industry.
1
Aside from elephant
Thailand rehabilitation, the
and among them is Wat Chedi night, visit the bustling Chiang sanctuary also
Chiang Mai Luang, dating back to the 14th Mai Night Bazaar that spans focuses on rainforest
restoration and
Solo travellers will find culture century. Visitors can engage Chang Khlan and Loi Kroh
cultural preservation
and spirituality in Chiang Mai, with monks here for blessings Roads to shop for authentic by providing local
Northern Thailand’s largest and learn about Buddhism. handicrafts such as wood communities with
WORDS: KEETA BRENNAN

Images: Getty, 123RF

city. Once the capital of the Another perfect place to explore carvings and paintings employment and
partnerships.
Lanna Kingdom until the 16th is Doi Suthep mountain, which by local artists, and feast on
century, the city has retained its overlooks the city. Nestled tasty snacks like kow kah
heritage and charm. Within the within this lush setting is moo (slow-cooked pork rice)
Old City, hundreds of Buddhist Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a and sai oua (spiced sausage).
temples dot the landscape spectacular Buddhist temple. At tourismthailand.org

36
Indonesia
experiences. For social media bar that doubles as a vintage
Gili Islands enthusiasts, The Exile resort apparel store. On Gili Air, visitors
Solo holiday-makers looking on Gili Trawangan provides can rent glass-bottomed kayaks
for an island vacation should plenty of Insta-worthy photo at Gili Air Lagoon Resort and
look no further than the Gili opportunities, from backdrops paddle over the azure waters
Islands, a group of three featuring rustic thatched-roof while marvelling at the sea
small islands situated off the bungalows to a hammock and life below. The smallest of the
coast of northwest Lombok. swing suspended over clear three islands, Gili Meno has
Each of the islands − namely ocean waters. It’s also home to pristine beaches and Asin Lake,
Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and beachfront restaurants and bars, a saltwater lake surrounded by
Gili Meno − offers unique such as the funky Casa Vintage mangrove forests. indonesia.travel

Car-free
Zone

The Gili Islands'

laws forbid
the use of
automobiles
on the islands. 04
To get around, 20
travellers can
rent bicycles, or
hop on a cidomo
(horse carriage).

Malaysia

Melaka
History and heritage buffs travelling
solo will be mesmerised by Melaka state
in the country’s southern region. The
state’s capital, Melaka City, is listed as
a UNESCO World Heritage site, due
to its illustrious past. The city rose to
prominence in the 15th century as an
international port of trade owing to its
location along the Straits of Malacca.
Today, the city is a melting pot of
traditions, with gems such as the Baba
& Nyonya Heritage Museum on Jalan
Tun Tan Cheng Lock. The museum is
dedicated to the Peranakan people −
ethnic Chinese traders who settled in
ancient Melaka and assimilated to the
local culture − and it showcases their
unique history and customs. The city
also contains relics of its colonial past
such as: Porta de Santiago, the last
surviving ruin of the A’Famosa fortress
that was built by the Portuguese in the
16th century; and The Stadthuys − a red
administrative building erected by Dutch 1. Wat Chedi Luang
2 forces in the 17th century. malaysia.travel 2. Fortress A’Famosa

37
 HIT LIST

Japan
the city’s most revered temples; options, Shijo-dori in central
Kyoto and its Bamboo Grove, a Kyoto features big name brands
With old-world charm, modern pathway lined with towering, and local boutiques selling
infrastructure and stunning densely-packed bamboo trees everything from designer
natural scenery, Kyoto, in that enchant visitors with an handbags to handmade
Japan’s Kansai region, offers otherworldly feel. Another kimonos. Those looking for
solo tourists wondrous sights highlight is Gion, Kyoto’s famed tranquillity can also spend an
and sounds in a friendly and geisha district. This picturesque afternoon in Kyoto Gyoen, a

Mammoth
safe environment. A top pick pedestrian-only area features lush green park surrounding the
for scenic attractions is the traditional wooden architecture, former Kyoto Imperial Palace,
Arashiyama district. Here, a
must-visit is Tenryuji, one of
shops, restaurants and
teahouses. For modern retail
filled with grottos and quiet
nooks. japan.travel Moth

The Hercules
Moth, Australia’s
largest moth,
is native to
Tropical North
Queensland.
They only live for
10 to 14 days, and
female moths
04 have a wingspan
20 that measure up
to 27cm.

Laos

Luang Prabang

This northern Laos city

has retained much of
its traditional way of
life, proudly wearing
its UNESCO World
Heritage badge. Major
draws here include a
sunset cruise down the
scenic Mekong River;
and Wat Xieng Thong, a
16th century Buddhist
temple that houses a
rare reclining Buddha.
tourismlaos.org
Images: Getty, 123RF

1. The Cathedral Fig tree

1 in the Atherton Tablelands

38
 HIT LIST

New Zealand

Queenstown

Breathtaking natural
scenery and thrilling
adventures await in
this South Island town
situated on the shores
of Lake Wakatipu, the
country’s third-largest
lake. Attractions
here include bungee
jumping off the
Kawarau Gorge
suspension bridge;
Fiordland National
Park, home to the
well-known Milford
Sound; and jet-
boating on Dart River.
queenstownnz.co.nz

Fine
04
Flavours
20

Kyoto is revered
by gourmands
the world over
for Kaiseki haute
cuisine. The
multi-course fine
dining experience
combines the
best of local
seasonal produce
with expert
Japanese culinary
techniques.
Japan
the city’s most revered temples; options, Shijo-dori in central
Kyoto and its Bamboo Grove, a Kyoto features big name brands
With old-world charm, modern pathway lined with towering, and local boutiques selling
infrastructure and stunning densely-packed bamboo trees everything from designer
natural scenery, Kyoto, in that enchant visitors with an handbags to handmade
Japan’s Kansai region, offers otherworldly feel. Another kimonos. Those looking for
solo tourists wondrous sights highlight is Gion, Kyoto’s famed tranquillity can also spend an
and sounds in a friendly and geisha district. This picturesque afternoon in Kyoto Gyoen, a
safe environment. A top pick pedestrian-only area features lush green park surrounding the
for scenic attractions is the traditional wooden architecture, former Kyoto Imperial Palace,
Arashiyama district. Here, a shops, restaurants and filled with grottos and quiet
must-visit is Tenryuji, one of teahouses. For modern retail nooks. japan.travel

40
 Travel company Klook’s 2019 Solo Travel survey
shows: 76 per cent of 21,000 global respondents
− regardless of gender, age and nationality −
HIT LIST have tried solo travel, or are considering it.

Vietnam

Phong Nha
Located in north-central Vietnam,
Phong Nha is a small town that
remains largely untouched by
tourism and is situated in close
proximity to Phong Nha-Ke Bang
National Park, which offers unique
adventures. The park is a UNESCO
World Heritage-listed site, with
karst mountains that are among
the oldest in Asia, dating back
more than 400 million years. These
mountains feature a spectacular
cave system, which includes Hang
Son Doong, one of the largest caves
in the world. With a length of over
8km, and reaching approximately
200m at its highest point, the size
of the cave has allowed it to house
its own ecosystem − made up of
jungles, rivers, sandy beaches and a
variety of flora and fauna, including
rare birds such as the chestnut-
necklaced partridge and the short-
tailed scimitar babbler. Although the
park has over 500 caves, only 30 are
accessible. vietnam.travel

04
20 1. ArtScience Museum

Singapore Maldives
Known for its excellent public
transport, safe streets, and variety of
attractions, it’s no wonder Singapore
ranks high with those travelling
alone. For the nature lover, Gardens
by the Bay near Marina Reservoir
houses three waterfront gardens
and spans about 100 hectares.
Among its highlights is the Flower
Nestled in the Indian
Dome, the world’s largest glass Ocean, the island
greenhouse featuring flowers and is famed for white
plants from five continents. Art beaches and incredible
and technology aficionados will seascapes. Top diving
and snorkelling spots
enjoy the ArtScience Museum at here include South Ari
Marina Bay Sands, which combines Atoll’s Broken Rock,
the best of both worlds. Here, see with its soft corals,
works by renowned artists such as napoleon wrasse and
turtles. Another is
Leonardo Da Vinci, Salvador Dali Banana Reef in North
and Andy Warhol, while exploring Male Atoll, teeming with
exhibitions on big data, particle squirrelfish and oriental
Images: Getty, 123RF, Nicky Almasy

physics and cosmology, among sweetlips, among

others. visitmaldives.com
others. The island also boasts a
thriving entertainment scene with
areas such as Clarke Quay lined with
clubs and bars along its picturesque
riverside, providing the perfect
setting to sample a Singapore Sling,
a gin-based cocktail first created at
Singapore’s Raffles Hotel circa 1915.
1 visitsingapore.com

42
 APERTURE
World
in Frame
Every month, we bring you
phenomenal images from
around the world.

At the juncture where the Ganges

meets the Brahmaputra River
in southwest Bangladesh lies
the Historic Mosque City of
Bagerhat (formerly Khalifatabad)
– established in the 15th century
by Sufi saint and warrior Khan
Jahan Ali by order of Firuz Shah
Tughlaq, Sultan of Delhi. The saint
was charged with taming the
jungle, establishing settlements
and bringing Islam to this once
bleak region, and legend has it
that he was carried to Bagerhat
on the backs of two crocodiles.
In Bagerhat, surrounded by the
impenetrable mangrove swamps
of the Sunderbans, Khan Jahan
Ali erected 360 mosques, along
with palaces, water tanks and
public buildings constructed from
baked brick. This medieval city
contains important structures that
reflect the early development of
Muslim architecture in Bengal,
particularly the Tughlaq style
favoured by Khan Jahan Ali.
Sadly, following the death of Khan
Jahan Ali in 1459, the ancient
city was abandoned, left to be
swallowed by the dense jungle.
It was only in the 1890s that the
site was surveyed, leading to its
restoration, and the reopening
of Khan Jahan Ali’s tomb as a
pilgrimage site. Today, the only
remaining monuments displaying
the distinct Khan Jahan style are
the Shat Gombuj mosque and
Khan Jahan Ali’s tomb – inscribed
as UNESCO world heritage sites
in 1985. The oblong mosque
showcases hemispherical domes,
charchala (hut style) vaults and
four-sided pitched Bengali domes,
while the domed mausoleum of
Khan Jahan Ali features circular
towers, cupolas and a lavishly
inscribed sarcophagus.
WORDS: BEVERLY RODRIGUES
Image: Getty
WANDERLUST / Vietnam

Vu Ngoc Tram enjoys a quiet

moment amidst artworks at Manzi
– a contemporary art space and
café she co-founded with curator
Bill Nguyen. The venue features
and promotes original works of
emerging Vietnamese artists.
Roasts,
Rails
& Riffs
The Vietnamese capital dishes up an array
of cool, artsy cafés full of soulful stories
and genuine Hanoian hospitality.
WORDS Kerry-Ann Augustin PHOTOGRAPHY Chew Win Win

T
he cacophony of honks
and whizzing motorbikes 04
slowly dissipates as I She picked this unassuming spot 20
wander Hanoi’s narrow due to budget constraints, but her
winding alleyways. Hidden in decision turned out to be a blessing
the shadows of leafy boulevards, for bibliophiles like her. More than
century-old French colonial 2,000 books – some in French,
buildings and modern skyscrapers Russian, Vietnamese and English
are a plethora of quirky cafés that – occupy the first floor of the cosy
make the Vietnamese capital an café where Binh regularly organises
exhilarating destination to explore. events including film screenings
Striking out in search of intimate and acoustic music gigs.
venues with unique appeal, I Upstairs, an inviting and
discover gems big on personality. spacious rooftop terrace allows
patrons to take in the tranquil
Bluebirds’ Nest (To Chim Xanh) surroundings. “I just wanted to
“I’ve always been a fan of Charles create a space for other bluebirds
Bukowski,” a soft-spoken Thanh like me, who need a space to escape
Binh Vu says of the German- and express their artistic selves.”
American poet. “And his poem tochimxanh.bluebirdsnest
Bluebird – about a songbird pining
to be free − really resonated with me.” Binh Minh Jazz Club Quyen Văn
Despite feeling stifled in her Minh was 12 when the brutal
bank job, Binh held on till she saved Vietnam (American) war was still
enough money to open the café raging. At a time when Western
of her dreams in 2015. Shaded by music was forbidden in North
trees and nestled between towering Vietnam, Minh would secretly listen
Soviet-era apartments, Bluebird’s to the likes of Charlie Parker and
Nest lies hidden along Dang Dung big band jazz on his small transistor
street, just 10 minutes from Hanoi’s radio. “I’d listen and try to play it bit
Old Quarter. by bit on my clarinet,” he recalls.
For years he yearned to hear,
write and play more jazz, despite
his father’s warnings that he could
end up in prison for it. It wasn’t
till 1989 that Minh started playing

47
 1

04
20 jazz freely – introducing the genre
to his countrymen by playing
Vietnamese folk tunes and classical
music in jazz styles. Determined to
share his love for jazz, he opened
up his first jazz bar in 1997.
Today, Minh is considered one of
Vietnam’s pre-eminent musicians,
traversing the country to teach Giang, the very person who crafted Giang household. On an average,
young musicians the genre he Hanoi’s famed cà phê trung, or egg Café Giang makes 500 cups of
loves. But it’s at Binh Minh Jazz coffee, in 1946. coffee, going through up to 5,000
Club where he feels most at home. Due to the scarcity of milk, egg yolks per day.
“We play jazz standards outside, Giang, then a bartender at the “For us, selling coffee is not a
but here at the club, we are free to Metropole Hanoi hotel, used eggs business; it’s our life. It’s all about
jam and go a little crazy," he shares. as a substitute. “The recipe has upholding the family tradition,”
Jazzheads can enjoy electrifying remained the same for over 70 Khac Son adds proudly.
performances from both local years,” Giang’s grandson Vu Khac cafegiang.vn
and international musicans while Son reveals, noting that apart
sipping on a wide selection of from eggs, sugar, butter, cheese The Hanoi Social Club Prior to the
classic cocktails, spirits and Italian and coffee beans from Da Lat in opening of The Hanoi Social Club
wines. jazzvietnam the highlands of South Central in 2011, there were few places in
Vietnam, the exact blend remains a the city serving a wide brunch
Café Giang Black and white family family secret. spread. “All the ingredients of
portraits decorate the walls of While the original egg coffee a good brunch were available
the humble Café Giang – an is a crowd favourite, Café Giang in Hanoi – free-range eggs,
establishment started by Nguyen has added options for the more sourdough rye, chai tea, chia
adventurous – from macha egg etc − but nobody was bringing it
coffee to chocolate egg coffee, and all together,” explains co-owner
even egg beer! John Sylvan.
As we speak, workers carry big Together with his business
containers brimming with egg yolk, partner Trat Trung Nga, they
ready to be whisked to perfection opened the venue in a stunning
at the modest kitchen filled with 100-year-old colonial house
antique vases and décor from the in Hanoi’s French Quarter.

48
1. Quyen Van Minh is a self-taught saxaphonist whose love for
jazz is celebrated in Binh Minh Jazz Club, a venue he opened in
the late 1990s. 2. The menu at Bluebirds’ Nest features all-natural,
locally sourced ingredients. Must-tries include perilla leaf tea with
watermelon, yoghurt with coffee and chocolate and macha lava
cakes. 3. Cong Ca Phe boasts interiors that exude military chic.
4. The avocado and ricotta on sourdough sandwich at the Hanoi
Social Club is a huge hit with the brunch crowd.

walls of Manzi – a gallery and café

housed in a century-old home in
the French Quarter. Its airy, warm
interiors are perfect for quiet
contemplation. “Most people feel
intimidated by art galleries,” Vu
Ngoc Tram, cultural activist and
co-founder of Manzi reveals. “We 04
wanted this space to be welcoming 20
and accessible for all.”
Tram Vu spearheaded The British
2 Council’s art programmes in Hanoi
for 10 years when she realised she
longed to see more Vietnamese
artists express themselves.
For decades, she reveals,
4
The café’s fare is deliciously Vietnamese artists focused on
diverse – from the likes of vegan commercial or commissioned work,
sandwiches to Moroccan chicken and it was only in recent times
and pork goulash, and a host of that more original pieces started
sweet offerings. coming out of the woodwork –
The café’s freshly baked breads most of which can be viewed at
are made by Joma Bakery, a social Manzi, where art exhibitions, talks,
enterprise that hires people from film screenings and performances
disadvantaged backgrounds, while are regularly held.
in the kitchen, at-risk youth from Manzi’s menu features a string
training centre KOTO work their of local coffees, teas and juices
magic on the dishes. including specials such as the
For both Sylvan and Nga, refreshing coconut and cucumber
who hail from social enterprise juice, or the seasonal yogurt
backgrounds themselves, giving avocado shake, but as Tram Vu
back was a no-brainer. “It’s just shares, the café is a means to fund
an obvious way of helping our the gallery. “We don’t make any
community, as well as making sure money,” she says candidly. “But art
customers get great runny poached is about human reflection and life,
eggs!” To add to its cool factor, and we wanted local audiences to
the café is also a hub for local and appreciate local contemporary art
visiting musicians to showcase for free.” manzihanoi
their craft. TheHanoiSocialClub

Manzi Colourful, contemporary

artworks hang on the plain white

49
The Railway Hanoi stocks up locally
brewed beers, but also has a range of
crafty cocktails like the NEP – a mix
of homemade rice wine, passion fruit
juice and fermented ginger, as well as
Runaway Train – a blend of rice wine,
coconut and coffee. Opposite Page
Housed in a century-old building,
the interior of the Hanoi Social Club
retains much of its original charm and
character, including its encaustic tiles
from France.
 1

04
20 Tadioto Multiple award-winning
journalist Nguyen Qui Duc is the
brains behind Tadioto, a sushi
restaurant and bar. Having fled
Vietnam in 1975 as a teen after the
fall of Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh
City), Duc felt a deep yearning to
2
reconnect with the country that around the world, a host of locally
was etched in his memory. brewed spirits, plus their signature
In 1989, he returned to Vietnam drink: Coc-cocktail – a concotion
as a journalist with American of the tropical fruit called coc
broadcasting outfit NPR. “I fell (ambarella), gin and cointreau.
in love with Hanoi – it is full of Too much mass development,
stories, full of histories. It’s so as Duc notes, is robbing Hanoi
dynamic and energetic, a place of of its charm and character. “I
changing seasons.” Duc settled in wanted to give it the boutique
Hanoi in 2006. feel – something smaller, more
The dark, brooding interiors meaningful, more authentic,”
of Tadioto is where Duc’s design he says of Tadioto, a space
sensibility shows. Edgy local where everyone, from architects
artwork hangs on concrete to journalists, designers and
walls, while vintage furniture, diplomats, gather for good
zinc bar tops and upcycled conversation. “This place is for
furnishings serve as both décor thoughtful conversation and
and conversation starters. Tadioto’s serious drinking. We would have
menu is designed for liquor lovers, less wars if everyone drank more.”
with whiskeys and gins from all tadiotohanoi

The Railway Hanoi “Most locals

consider this area a slum,” Thao
Quach says of the homes that
flank the train tracks along ‘Train
Street’ in the city’s Old Quarter. The
railway line, built by the French in

52
 Retro
Revival
Many new cafés in
Hanoi are reimagining
spaces in existing
colonial structures
with creative,
astounding interiors.
Cong Cà Phê – the
brainchild of young
entrepreneur Nguyen
Ha Linh – has to be
one of the city’s best.
Using raw concrete
surfaces, brick walls,
dim lighting and a
host of red paper
lanterns, Cong Cà
Phê’s designers have
Tailored
managed to evoke the Travel
nostalgia of the Viet
Cong era, luring young Travellers keen on
Vietnamese to the finding more treasures
establishment for fresh in Hanoi can join
takes on Vietnamese Asianway Travel's range
coffee and tea classics. of city tours. Established
Sit in any Cong Cà Phê more than 14 years
outlet (Hanoi alone ago by a group of local
has 32!) and you will travel industry experts,
be mesmerised by the the travel company
remarkable attention offers everything from
to detail: Soviet- authentic cultural and
era books, vintage culinary tours, to family
lighting, scores of and outdoor expeditions,
old photos and retro as well as luxury and
wooden furnishings. romantic escapades
congcaphe.com across Vietnam, Laos,
Myanmar, Cambodia and
Thailand. Specialising in 04
tailor-made itineraries, 20
the Asianway Travel
team can map out your
adventure for you –
curating experiences
according to your
budget, timing and areas
of interest.
asianwaytravel.com 3

1881, snakes through the country, the community. Part of The

running from Sapa in the north to Railway Hanoi’s earnings go to
Ho Chi Minh City in the south. As local community projects, which
Hanoi grew, those who could not include free English lessons for
afford housing began settling along neigbourhood kids.
the line. The café is a definite crowd
In 2017, Thao opened The favourite, not merely for its superb
Railway Hanoi – the very first cocktails, locally crafted beers, food
café along the Old Quarter stretch and train tours, but also for the
of rail. The charming space – wealth of its genuine, community-
adorned with décor ranging from centric Hanoian hospitality.
crossbucks to hats of old train TheRailwayHanoi
drivers − is as colourful, welcoming
1. The Railway Hanoi encourages locals and vibrant as Thao herself. “I saw It’s true that Hanoi is jam-packed
and tourists to participate in community the café as a way to bridge the gap with great spaces brimming with
projects together, including beautifying between the railway community creative menus, designs and
the neighbourhood by painting murals on
the walls of houses along the train tracks. and tourists, and for the inhabitants concepts. But above all, the thing that
2. Café Giang’s egg coffee is a decadent here to make something of makes each venue worth a visit is the
caffeine fix. A thick layer of creamy whisked themselves,” she confides. people whose personal journeys are
egg yolk mix crowns a cup of rich, robust
Vietnamese coffee. 3. Nguyen Qui Duc’s At first, neighbourhood folk at the heart of each establishment.
Tadioto plates Japanese fare and pours opposed Thao’s ideas, as she
top-notch cocktails and local brews. was not from the area, but soon
The eclectic, intimate space has been a
sanctuary for the city’s creative community warmed up to her after seeing her
to gather and exchange ideas. genuine efforts in empowering

53
 WANDERLUST / Asia

Beyond
The Break
From Maldives’ Lohifushi Island to idyllic
Arugam Bay on the fringes of Sri Lanka, Asia
is home to exciting surf spots that have the
power to thrill even seasoned surfers like
AirAsia Surf Ambassadors Connor O’Leary and
04 Felicity Palmateer, while offering opportunities
20 to kick back and soak up local culture for a
truly immersive surf trip.
WORDS Adrian Balachandran
PHOTOGRAPHY Matt Power, JJ Jenkins & Darcy Ward

Since 2018, AirAsia has been the official airline of the

World Surf League (WSL) in Australia. AirAsia works
very closely with the WSL to promote the sport across
its network of 160 destinations – some of which are the
best surf spots on the planet. To this aim, AirAsia Surf
Ambassadors Connor O’Leary and Felicity Palmateer from
Australia recently set off on an adventure-filled tour of
lesser-known surf destinations. Rubbing wet shoulders
with homegrown wave riders and meeting locals going
about their daily lives, they discovered the unique beauty
of each destination, just beyond the surf.

WSL athlete Felicity Palmateer drops into a

beautiful wave near Gerupuk Bay in South
Lombok, Indonesia. Pro surfers also flock
to Lombok’s Sekotong district between
March and November to hit sweeping
left-hand point breaks such as Desert
Point – a legendary reef point break that
offers mesmerising tube rides that peel for
hundreds of metres. Image: Matt Power

54
55
 1

56
Dogged
Determination
As a second generation pro
surfer, 27-year-old Connor
O’Leary cites his parents,
particularly his mum – former
Japanese surf champ Akemi
O’Leary – as his inspiration.
“As a kid, I always tagged
along with my parents to find
waves and naturally picked up
surfing,” says O’Leary. Hailing
from the beachside suburb of
Cronulla in New South Wales,
Australia, the goofyfooter has
made a name for himself in
WSL tournaments, with one
of the highlights being taking
top spot at 2016’s Qualifying
Series. O’Leary believes his
career is all about constant
refinement. “I was never a
kid that had natural talent for
surfing. My whole career has
been about constantly refining
my skills. I wouldn’t be where I
am today without having that
mentality.” Stoked with passion,
O’Leary is always looking for
the next big swell and to him,
AirAsia’s network of destinations
has plenty. “I love surfing in
Indonesia and Sri Lanka because
of the vast variety of waves.
The waters are warm and the
atmosphere is electric.”
connoroleary

One With
The Water 3

Felicity Palmateer began

surfing in Western Australia at
the age of six and the 28-year-
old Perthie has been on the
global surf scene for almost a
decade. “I would ask my dad
to take me surfing every day.
I entered my first surf event
when I was 12, and I won it!” 1. Putting aside his surfboard, cerulean waters of the Indian
Palmateer has since racked Connor O’Leary joins his Ocean, and each of its 26 atolls is
up numerous accolades, and
newfound friends for a round fringed by towering coconut trees
these days, she longs for big
breaks across the globe. “I surf cricket – Sri Lanka’s favourite and lined with scaevola shrubs.
on WSL’s Big Wave World Tour sport. Summery Arugam Bay, Image: Matt Power
and love the adrenaline rush I located on the east coast of
get while surfing bigger waves.”
Sri Lanka (about 320km from 3. Peanut Farm Beach in Arugam
The ocean is Palmateer’s first
love. “My time in the ocean Colombo), is a hidden paradise Bay is a popular surf spot owing
is my sacred place and it’s dotted with quiet villages and to its brilliant waves, particularly
given so much to me, allowing pearly beaches enclaved by lush right-hand point breaks. The best
me to be nowhere else but
tropical greenery. wave swells here arrive between
present in that very moment.”
The energetic surfer is also a Image: Darcy Ward June and August during Sri
SurfAid Ambassador. “Surfers Lanka’s monsoon season, creating
play a big role in protecting the 2. Palmateer cycles out of Anantara a training ground for beginner
environment, especially the
Veli Maldives Resort in Veligandu, and intermediate surfers to hone
ocean. As a SurfAid ambassador,
I take pride in creating Maldives, with surfboard in hand their skill. For pros like O’Leary,
awareness through the little – all set for a morning romp in however, it’s a playground to
things; I say ‘no’ to single use South Male Atoll. The Maldives is perfect top turns and cutbacks.
plastics and I make it a point
surrounded by the crystal clear Image: Darcy Ward
to participate in at least one
awareness campaign annually
no matter how busy I get.”
flickpalmateer

57
 1

1. Lombok is home to paradisiacal

waterfalls – perfect for rest and
relaxation. At Benang Stokel
Waterfall, near the southern foot
of Mt Rinjani (about an hour from
Kuta town), Palmateer enjoys a
tranquil moment amidst a verdant
forest. The waterfall is known for its
dramatic canyons and two separate
streams cascading from a height of
11m. Image: Matt Power

2. The Maldives has long been a

surfer’s trove and with good reason
– the archipelago, made up of more
than 1,000 coral islands, serves up
swells ranging from 1m to 3m. From
long left-hand breaks like Lohifushi
Island’s Lohi’s to left-and-right-
hand breaks like Thanburudhoo
Island’s Sultans and Honkeys, there
is always an exciting wave to pound
in the Maldives. Image: Matt Power

3. As a passionate conservationist
and humanitarian, Palmateer
is an ambassador for SurfAid,
an organisation that provides
basic medical aid, sanitation and
education to disadvantaged locals
living in Indonesia. Revisiting
Lombok with AirAsia offered
Palmateer the perfect opportunity
to marry both her passions and
meet budding wave riders on the
local surf scene. Image: JJ Jenkins

58
2

59
04
20

60
 As Australia’s
Official Airline
Partner of
Surfing, AirAsia
features the
Surfboards Fly
Free baggage
policy for guests
3
travelling to and
from Australian
Airports (except
i5 and DJ
flights). The
policy applies
to recognised
surfboard bags
up to a maximum
of 15kg. For
T&Cs on the
baggage policy,
visit airasia.com

1. With year-round water

temperatures hovering between 04
27 and 29 degrees Celsius and 20
consistent waves, Lombok is
a great destination to learn
and refine new surfing skills –
something even pros like O’Leary
and Palmateer appreciate. The
steady western swells that roll in
during Lombok’s dry season (May
to September) are best enjoyed
early in the morning.
Image: Matt Power

2. The spectacular 72m high

statue at Lotus Lake in Kaohsiung
honours the deity Xuan Wu.
Located about 130km from surf
spots like Jialeshui, the site is
known for the beautiful Dragon
and Tiger Pagodas and Spring
and Autumn Pavilions that pay
homage to Chinese deities.
Image: Matt Power

3. O’Leary and fellow surfer

Shane Campbell stroll across
Cimu Bridge at Taroko National
Park in Hualien, Kaohsiung’s
neighbouring county. The
136m-long suspension bridge,
dubbed by Taiwanese as Motherly
Devotion Bridge, offers stunning
views of the national park and
lush Hualien river valley below.
Image: Matt Power

61
 WANDERLUST / Australia

Werribee
Wanderings
On a whirlwind 24-hour jaunt, Suzanne
Lazaroo discovers much in Werribee, a
suburb of Victoria just a short drive from the
bustle of Melbourne – from rhinos to roses,
a stately home (haunted, of course) and
wonderful F&B experiences.

WORDS Suzanne Lazaroo IMAGES Visit Werribee & Surrounds

04
20

62
I
t’s 6.30am, and the lions are
roaring. The low, pleasant
rumble is nothing like the
sharper sounds I’ve previously
only heard on TV, but realisation
dawns slowly – as does the day.
Coffee in hand, I’ve crawled
from the comfortable confines of
my lodge to watch the sun rise
over the savannah – and a young
rhino in the distance, happily
annoying her grandmother’s
peaceful breakfast. The savannah
stretches for mile after green mile.
It’s an idyllic scene, but when I
think of the savannah, of rhinos
and lions… Victoria, Australia,
isn’t the first place to come to
mind. Yet, here I am in Werribee,
just 32km (and about 20 minutes
drive time, sans traffic) from the
heart of Melbourne’s CBD, as well
as Avalon Airport. And there are
rhinos right in front of me (also,
a fairy wren on my verandah,
eyeing my coffee).
It’s all part of the Slumber Safari
experience at the Werribee Open
Range Zoo, which includes two
days of zoo entry, sunset drinks
and nibbles, a hearty dinner and
breakfast, and overnighting in
your own timber-floored lodge –
the zoo’s answer to glamping.
In between, I enjoy up-close-
and-personal experiences with
some of the animals. And I mean
close – who knew that wild rhino
hide is so gently bristled? That was
courtesy of patient 11-year-old
Kifaru, who chewed on, oblivious
to the small group of people taking
turns to pat him.
A safari bus tour is also part of
the experience, on which you’ll
get to see giraffes lumbering past
slowly at arm’s length, as well as
the aforementioned rhinos, bison,
ostrich, antelopes and zebras, all
of whom live together in the wide
open spaces. And then, there are the
lions, cheetah, meerkats and Michael
Bublé-loving silverback gorillas.

When the Catholic Church

used Werribee Park Mansion
as a seminary, it added
the new wings on the
side – these are now the
Lancemore Mansion Hotel
Werribee Park, with many of
the rooms overlooking the
parterre garden.

63
 Rambling among the Roses But
soon enough, it’s time to move
from rhinos to roses. Werribee is
also home to the Victoria State Rose
Garden, a free-to-enter park that
is cared for by scores of passionate
volunteers, some of whom will also
be happy to take you on a tour.
In 2003, the Victoria State Rose
Garden received the International
Garden of Excellence award from
the World Federation Of Rose
Societies, marking two firsts – the
first rose garden outside Europe,
and the first cared for by volunteers,
to receive the honour.
In total, over 5,000 roses call the
park home. A bee’s eye view of the
park will range over a profusion of
rosebushes planted in the shape of
a large Tudor Rose, which extends
into two other sections – the
Federation Leaf, and the Rosebud.
The Federation Leaf is dedicated to
roses bred by Australians, while the
Rosebud holds a perfumed garden
of English roses.
If you think a rose by any other
name smells just the same, a visit
to this garden will change your
mind – just look out for the intense, 1
raspberry lemonade fragrance of
04 The Children’s Rose.
20 The park is hemmed in by the
Heritage Border, which includes
many species with historical ties
to the modern rose. This is a park complete, starting from 1873; it is
made for meandering, roaming, ornately structured in the Italianate
much selfie-taking, and yes – style, created to impress and doing
stopping to smell the roses. a spectacular job of it.
Between 1923 and 1973, the
Heritage Hop From here, it’s just Catholic Church took over the
a short walk to the Werribee Park mansion, using it as a seminary.
Mansion, a sprawling, heritage-listed The Church built new wings on
manor house that was once home either side of the original mansion,
to the uber-wealthy Chirnsides. one of which has been turned into
Originally from Scotland, brothers the boutique Lancemore Mansion
Thomas and Andrew Chirnside were Hotel Werribee Park.
pastoralists who settled much of Overlooking the manicured
what is now western Victoria. parterre garden, the hotel has
The mansion lies at the heart of the both Heritage rooms – once the
huge Werribee Park Precinct, which seminarian’s sleeping quarters –
also encompasses the Werribee Open and the more recently added Junior
Range Zoo and the Victoria State Suites and Superior Rooms. Its
Rose Garden, among others. adjoining Day Spa boasts a large
The mansion’s sprawling gardens heated pool and subterranean
are a favourite destination for treatment rooms that cocoon
wedding parties and concerts. The guests in contemplative calm.
building itself took four years to Back in Werribee Park Mansion

64
 1. Residents of the Werribee Open
Range Zoo take a closer look at
the visitors crossing the savannah
on a safari tour. Image: Werribee
Open Range Zoo 2. The Apple – a
decadent white chocolate and
apple mousse, with wild muntries
and beurre noisette crumb – at
Joseph’s Restaurant & Bar,
Lancemore Mansion 3. Visitors can
go kayaking down the Werribee
River – against a backdrop of the
K Road cliffs, known for their deep
salmon glow at sunset. 4. The
Victoria State Rose Garden is full of
blooming treasures, boasting over
5,000 roses and twice as many
selfie opportunities!

04
20

itself, the imposing entrance hall is hearing this story, wondering about
lined with rococo statues leading to awkward family dinners.
a jewel-toned carpet up the much- There are two ways to explore the
photographed main staircase – a mansion: by day, with a friendly
favourite film setting, the latest being and informative tour guide, or by
period mystery-adventure Miss night, with the What Was That?
Fisher and the Crypt of Tears (look Night Theatre Performance. They’re
out for the swordfight!). A wander both highly recommended, because
through the rooms reveals wonderful they reveal very different facets of
details, glimpses into another time – the mansion.
from elaborate chandeliers wrought The brainchild of Alaine Beek,
with cherubs in the breakfast room, What Was That? is an immersive,
a sky blue brocade chaperone chair roaming play, set in 1908 after
for courting couples in the drawing Mary Chirnside’s tragic death.
room, or the original deep green, Maggie, the maid, and butler Mr
gilded dining set laid out in the Duncan take guests through the
dining hall. mansion, recounting vignettes of
The mansion has a fascinating triumphs and tragedies. There are
history – including a back story unexpected happenings around
in which Thomas proposed to his each corner in a performance filled
cousin Mary before he left Scotland, with comedy, and some scares
and she refused. So, when he and – the mansion is supposed to be
younger brother Andrew had haunted, after all. 4
established themselves in Werribee,
Thomas asked Andrew to return to
Scotland and persuade Mary to come
to Australia, saying that the mansion
needed a lady of the house. Andrew
did manage to bring Mary back… as
his wife. I find myself looking around
the dining room a bit differently after

65
 1. The RAAF Museum houses an extensive Air
Force memorabilia collection, telling tales of
Australia’s military aviation; you might even be
able to catch a flying display. 2. Wolf on Watton
dishes up seasonally inspired menus, and its
Grilled Halloumi Burger featuring avocado,
endives, beetroot and preserved lemon aioli is a
brunch favourite. Image: Wolf on Watton 3. The
closest winery to Melbourne’s CBD, Shadowfax
Winery is a top destination for both fine food
and wonderfully well-balanced wines. 4. A day
out on the water at Werribee South Foreshore
can include boating, canoeing, kayaking and jet
skiing, all against the picturesque backdrop of
You Yangs Regional Park across the bay.

Beyond
Werribee
Walk or kayak along
Werribee River, the
backbone of the area
(its name taken from the
Aboriginal word for ‘spine’
or ‘backbone’). Look out
for the red K Road cliffs,
which glow with tangerine
warmth at sunset. Visit the
Cheetham Wetlands to
view the migratory wading
birds there, the Point Cook
Marine Sanctuary for its
fascinating marine life, or the
You Yangs Regional Park,
a haven for hikers and riders
of both bicycles and horses!
1
While at Point Cook, check
out the military aircraft
at the RAAF Museum,
04 birthplace of the Australian
20 Flying Corps and the Royal
Australian Air Force. At
Werribee South Foreshore,
you can fish, go out on a
kayak or even jet-ski – or Exploring the grounds, you will
simply, bask in the sunshine. come across old bluestone farm
outbuildings, with a community
Make a Date garden project run by the local
Karen refugee community. In a
Coming up on August 2 is valley behind the mansion lies the
the Winter Heritage Fruit
Tree Festival where visitors Werribee Park Heritage Orchard,
can discover the history of which dates from the 1870s.
the Werribee Park Heritage It’s a treasure trove of heirloom
Orchard, join an orchard varieties, particularly apples, pears
tour and even purchase
a rare, heritage fruit tree. and quince.
Later in the year, mark your
calendars for State Rose Fun Feasting Werribee Park is
and Garden Show at the a never-ending feast for the
Victoria State Rose Garden,
on November 7 and 8. Last wanderer. And speaking of feasts…
year’s show saw garden there are wonderful F&B options
pop-ups and guided tours, available, both within and without
live plant care demos and the park precinct.
workshops, children’s
activities, food trucks and Few visitors to Werribee forego
live music. a stop at Shadowfax Winery, the
winery closest to Melbourne’s
CBD. It is known for its award-
2 winning, handcrafted wines that
range from Chardonnay, Pinot
Gris and Shiraz to limited single
vineyard wines – regardless, they
all display winemaker Alister
Timms’ pride in and love for his
region and deft hand at producing
wines with stellar integration,
balance and finesse.

66
 suburb’s CBD. You’ll find loads of
restaurants, many of them Asian.
Wolf on Watton is superb – and like
the other places on this Werribee
jaunt, it is flavoured with legacy.
Brothers James Pearce and
Nathan Salvalaggio opened Wolf
on Watton late last year, but the
building in which it is housed
has been in their family for four
generations. It was the home
of their great-grandfather’s
fruit and vegetable store – also
known for its gelati – and then
their grandmother’s café, the
Trovarellis Coffee House. Now,
the brothers serve up modern
Australian fare, by way of head
chef Jess Allen’s progressive,
seasonal menu. He’s a huge fan of
bright, bold Asian flavours.
As autumn’s changing colours
sweep in, expect richer dishes on
Wolf on Watton’s menu to counter
the cool. Two dishes that won’t
be going anywhere though are
the shredded, slow-cooked beef
ribs, marinated with lemongrass
and tossed with brown rice,
kimchi, pickled cucumber and
3 nam jhim (Thai dipping sauce),
and the sticky slab of pork belly
spiked with chillies, sesame 04
and orange, a Sichuan-spiced 20
‘golden egg’ on the side. Along
with the truffled mushrooms and
In the dining room, head chef the grazing menu of charcuterie
Ben D’Arcy serves a Mediterranean- and boutique cheeses, they’re
inspired menu perfectly poised to perennial favourites at the bustling,
pair with wine. It’s a showcase of welcoming restaurant.
local produce, including herbs and And there you have it, a flying
vegetables coming from only as far visit to a fascinating suburb.
as the kitchen garden. Bookings are Werribee is the kind of place where
essential, and many patrons go for stories lurk around every corner
the rustic-looking wood-fired pizzas – from its fascinating colonial
topped with everything from maple- history and deep connections to
roasted pumpkin with goat’s cheese the conservation of both native and
and spring onions to chili prawns, international flora and fauna, to its
chorizo and roasted tomato. vibrant contemporary everyday,
My pick is the house-made threaded by locals’ tales. It has a
gnocchi with a chunky veal ragu – multi-faceted appeal for travellers,
the gnocchi is pillowy and melting, promising experiences from casual
the ragu boldly, deeply-flavoured. to luxe and hitting all the right
It was made for matching with notes in between.
Shadowfax’s Mataro, one of the
most food-friendly wines I have
ever encountered.
With notes of blueberries and
black olives on the nose and a meaty
palate laced with dark fruits and
savoury notes, the Mataro stands
out at the cellar door set on one side GETTING
of Shadowfax’s dining room – in a THERE
line-up of wines that are all quite AirAsia flies daily
to Melbourne
outstanding in their own right.
(Avalon) from
Moving beyond Werribee Park Kuala Lumpur.
4 itself, head to Watton Street, the airasia.com

67
 TRAVEL LOG

Shades of Autumn
On a solo jaunt to Hokkaido, Japan, Amelia Ng enjoys the resplendence of autumn
and exciting adventures in the cities of Sapporo and Otaru.

about 13 degrees Celsius, it did

not stop me from going out onto
the observation deck to enjoy
360-views of Sapporo by night.
Another memorable
experience was dressing up in
a kimono (traditional Japanese
garment) and catching the tram
to Sapporo’s Fushimi Inari shrine.

04 2
20

1. The writer poses

against a vine-covered
wall in Sapporo.
2. Amelia at Sapporo
Park with the
Sapporo Tower in the
background 3. Otaru
1 canal by night 3

I
’d always wanted to visit Park – a green lung and festival The shrine with its striking red
Hokkaido – Japan’s venue in the heart of the city torii (gate) is a smaller version
northernmost island. Last where I spent many leisurely of the famous Fushimi Inari in
year, my dream finally came hours people-watching – and Kyoto, but fewer tourists here
true when I embarked on a solo Nakajima Park where I made meant that visitors could take
trip to the island that is known for a new furry friend – a friendly their time to pray, meditate and
its breathtaking natural beauty. shiba inu, which is a canine breed enjoy the beautiful grounds at
While Hokkaido is a popular native to Japan. their own pace. I also visited
winter destination famous for its Moving from place to place Hokkaido Shrine – another
powder-like snow – it’s capital on your own can sometimes revered temple – in Maruyama.
Sapporo hosted the 1972 Winter seem daunting, but Japan has an The shrine constructed in 1871
Olympics – the island is gorgeous excellent public transportation is surrounded by cherry blossom
year-round. I was fortunate to system so solo travellers need not trees and is a popular spot during
visit in autumn, when the leaves fret. I travelled on public transport sakura (cherry blossom) season
on the trees were just beginning using trams, buses and trains, for hanami (flower-viewing
to turn, and the foliage was a riot which was very convenient. parties). Here, I offered prayers
of shades from gold to garnet. On my first night in the city, I and made a wish, which later
My journey began in Sapporo visited Mount Moiwa – a popular came true! Close to the shrine is
– the capital of Hokkaido, which sightseeing spot that offers a Maruyama Zoo, which houses
has many beautiful parks. My panoramic view from its summit. over 200 species including polar
favourite spots include Sapporo Although the temperature was bears, red pandas and

68
 TRAVEL LOG
1. Seafood donburi 2. Trams are a great way
to get around Sapporo. 3. Amelia at Sapporo’s Winner of
Fushimi Inari shrine the Month
Wins a 3D/2N complimentary
stay in Sunway Resort Hotel
& Spa’s The Villa, inclusive of

Also
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culture, Melbourne
endemic species such as the will absolutely enjoy. Located in is also home to return during a different season.
Yezo sika deer. The zoo is known a heritage building, this brewery stunning parks like I’m told that spring and winter
for their conservation efforts, and museum celebrates the Melbourne Gardens, are particularly beautiful. In
which offer free
which includes protecting the history of Sapporo Beer. Here, guided tours that Hokkaido, sakura bloom in May
biodiversity and environment of visitors can learn about the make the most of so those who have missed cherry
the Maruyama area. brewing process and sample seasonal highlights. blossom season elsewhere in
Hokkaido is famed for its freshly-brewed varieties. Japan can still see the beauty
picturesque landscapes, no matter Before heading back to Malaysia, of the blooms on the island. In
the season. One such scenic spot I made a trip to Otaru – a port city winter, Hokkaido transforms into
is Hokkaido University’s gorgeous along Ishikari Bay northwest of a snowy wonderland with lots
‘gingko golden street’ – an avenue Sapporo. The city is known for its of activities for the whole family
of gingko trees that turn a stunning glassworks, music box factories, to enjoy including skiing and
hue of gold in autumn. Sapporo’s and beautifully preserved canal the Sapporo Snow Festival – a
Da Lat, Vietnam
Hokkaido University is not only area lined with warehouses that The City of Eternal
week-long festival showcasing
a premier institution of higher now house shops and restaurants. Spring showcases ice sculptures.
learning, it is also one of the most Otaru is also a foodie destination ancient Buddhist With these and so much more
beautiful campuses in Japan with famous for its fresh seafood. A shrines, grand to enjoy, I’ll definitely be back.
French colonial
a walking route open to the public. must-try is seafood donburi (rice villas, and an
Hokkaido – until next time!
Watching the students rush to and bowls) with delicious toppings like ethereal landscape
fro from classes reminded me of salmon, sea urchin roe, and plump of cascading
my university days – how lucky and juicy shrimp. waterfalls, lush pine
forests, tranquil
they are to study amidst such Hokkaido has so much to offer lakes, orchards and
pretty scenery! that a short visit is never enough. flower fields.
Also in Sapporo is the Sapporo Now that I’ve experienced the
Beer Museum, which beer lovers island in autumn, I’m keen to
Images: 123RF

Got an interesting tale about your travels with AirAsia? Email your story (around 700 words) and images (high res min 1MB in size and clearly captioned) to us at travel360@airasia.
com with TRAVEL LOG in the subject line. Published submissions will receive a complimentary stay at a fabulous hotel or resort. travel360 reserves the right to edit the article for
clarity and length or change the value of the prize to another gift of similar value. Prize vouchers cannot be exchanged for cash and the Editorial’s decision is final. Entries must include
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69
 ROUTE MAPS

Amritsar

NEW DELHI

Jaipur

Varanasi
Dhaka
Ahmedabad
Jeddah KOLKATA

Bhubaneswar

C
Hyderabad Visakhapatnam

04
20
BENGALURU Chennai

Tiruchirappalli
Kochi

Colombo

Malé

AirAsia
International
Destinations

Fly to over 160

destinations across
Asia and Asia-Pacific
with Skytrax World’s
Best Low-Cost
Airline, 2009-2019.
AirAsia Hubs

70
 Note: The map is not drawn to scale and does not reflect all territories belonging to the individual
countries. The map does not represent the political opinions or affiliations of travel360 or AirAsia.
It is a neutral depiction of the destinations within the AirAsia network. Map as at April 1, 2020.
注：本地图仅为显示亚洲航空的航线网络，且未按比例绘制，因此无法在地理位置上精准反映出各国家或其隶属地区。
本地图仅对亚航航线网络做出了中立描述，并不代表亚洲航空或travel360的政治立场。地图以2020年4月1日的更新为准。

Sapporo Sapporo

Shenyang Shenyang

Beijing Beijing
Tianjin Tianjin
Seoul Seoul

Busan Busan Tokyo (Narita/Haneda)

Tokyo (Narita/Haneda)
Xi’an Xi’an Osaka NAGOYA NAGOYA
Osaka
Jeju Jeju
Fukuoka Fukuoka

Chengdu Chengdu Shanghai Shanghai

Wuhan Hangzhou
Wuhan Hangzhou
ChongqingChongqing Ningbo Ningbo
Changsha Changsha
Nanchang Nanchang

Okinawa Okinawa
Kunming Kunming Guilin
Guilin
Quanzhou QuanzhouTaipei Taipei
GuangzhouGuangzhou
Shantou Shantou
Nanning Nanning Kaohsiung Kaohsiung
Shenzhen Shenzhen
Mandalay Mandalay Macao Hong
MacaoKongHong Kong Honolulu Honolulu
Luang Luang
Hanoi Hanoi
r Prabang
Chiang Rai Chiang Rai Prabang

CHIANG MAI
CHIANG MAI
Vientiane Vientiane
Yangon Yangon Da Nang Da Nang
Clark Clark
MANILA MANILA 04
BANGKOKBANGKOK
Siem Reap Siem Reap 20
Hua Hin Hua Hin
PATTAYA PATTAYA Nha Trang Nha Trang
Phnom Phnom
Penh Da Lat
Penh Da Lat KALIBO KALIBO
Sihanoukville
Sihanoukville Ho Chi Minh
HoCity
Chi Minh City CEBU CEBU
Phu
Surat ThaniSurat Thani Quoc Can
Phu Tho
Quoc Can Tho
KRABI KRABI
PHUKET PHUKET
LANGKAWILANGKAWI HAT YAI HAT YAI
Banda AcehBanda Aceh Kota BharuKota Bharu KOTA KINABALU
KOTA KINABALU
PENANG PENANG Kuala Terengganu
Kuala Terengganu Bandar SeriBandar
Begawan
Seri Begawan
Ipoh Ipoh
Miri Miri
MEDAN MEDAN KUALA LUMPUR KUALA LUMPUR Bintulu Bintulu
Lake Toba Lake Toba
JOHOR BAHRUJOHOR BAHRU
KUCHING KUCHING
Pekanbaru PekanbaruSingapore Singapore
Pontianak Pontianak
Padang Padang

PalembangPalembangBelitung Belitung

Makassar Makassar
JAKARTA JAKARTA
Semarang Semarang
Bandung Bandung SURABAYASURABAYA Brisbane Brisbane
YogyakartaYogyakarta
Solo Solo Lombok Lombok
BALI BALI Gold CoastGold Coast
Perth Perth

Sydney Sydney
MelbourneMelbourne
(Avalon) (Avalon)

71
 ROUTE MAPS

Sapporo

Srinagar
Sendai

Chandigarh
NAGOYA

NEW DELHI
Jaipur Bagdogra
Guwahati
Imphal
Agartala
Ahmedabad Indore Ranchi
KOLKATA

Bhubaneswar
Chiang Rai
MUMBAI Nan
Pune CHIANG MAI
Hyderabad Visakhapatnam Loei Udon Thani
Phitsanulok Nakhon Phanom
Sakhon Nakhon
04 Khon Kaen Roi Et
Ubon Ratchathani CLARK
20 Goa Buriram MANILA
BANGKOK
BENGALURU Chennai PATTAYA
Caticlan KALIBO
Iloilo Tacloban
Chumphon
Kochi Ranong Surat Thani Puerto Princesa Bacolod CEBU
Tagbilaran
KRABI Nakhon Si Thammarat Cagayan de Oro
PHUKET HAT YAI
Trang Narathiwat Zamboanga Davao
LANGKAWI Kota Bharu KOTA KINABALU Sandakan General Santos
PENANG Alor Setar
Kuala Terengganu Labuan
Ipoh Miri Tawau
MEDAN Kuantan
Bintulu
AirAsia
KUALA LUMPUR
Melaka Sibu
JOHOR BAHRU KUCHING
Domestic Sorong
Destinations Belitung

JAKARTA Semarang
Kertajati
Yogyakarta Solo SURABAYA
Labuan Bajo
BALI Lombok

Fly to over 160

destinations across
Asia and Asia-Pacific
with Skytrax World’s
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72
 Best Attraction
Experience
Singapore Tourism
Awards 2019

World’s Largest
Glass Greenhouse
- Flower Dome
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Records 2015

“Top 10
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where
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Wonder
onder
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