Photo-credit: Amazon

Shortlisted for Best Fiction Title for Singapore Book Awards 2016

Shortlisted for Best Book Cover Design for Singapore Book Awards 2016

Author: Ming Cher

Year: October 2016

Buy it here: Amazon

Summary:
In the fight for independence, one young woman seeks freedom for herself. Born an orphan with an unlucky blemish under her eye, Big Mole is stuck running an ornamental fish shop with her roguish boyfriend Hong. When their friend is killed in cold blood on his first day as a secret society gangster, Hong forms a band of brothers and swears ruthless revenge. Big Mole finds herself reeled into a brutal mass murder and dangerous affection for ex-spider boy Kwang, with the colonial police and local investigators hot on their heels.

This thrilling sequel to the seminal Spider Boys marks Ming Cher’s long-awaited return after two decades. Crackling with the seedy spirit of late 1950’s Singapore, rife with possibilities, Big Mole will transport and invigorate you as, with the tenacity of an exotic fighting fish, one blemish turns to beauty spot.

Heartfelt and sexy, the stories of Amanda Lee Koe encompass a skewed world fraught with prestige anxiety, moral relativism, sexual frankness, and the improbable necessity of human connection. Told in strikingly original prose, these are fictions that plough, relentlessly, the possibilities of understanding Singapore and her denizens discursively, off-centre. Ministry of Moral Panic is an extraordinary debut collection and the introduction of a revelatory new voice.

Book description credit: Amazon

Photo-credit: Amazon

Winner of Best Fiction Title for Singapore Book Awards 2016

Winner of the Singapore Literature Prize for Fiction 2014

Longlisted for the Frank O’Connor International Short Story Award 2014

Author: Amanda Lee Koe

Year: January 2014

Buy it here: Amazon, Book Depository

Summary:
Meet an over-the-hill Pop Yé-yé singer with a faulty heart, two conservative middle-aged women holding hands in the Galápagos, and the proprietor of a Laundromat with a penchant for Cantonese songs of heartbreak. Rehash national icons: the truth about racial riot fodder-girl Maria Hertogh living out her days as a chambermaid in Lake Tahoe, a mirage of the Merlion as a ladyboy working Orchard Towers, and a high-stakes fantasy starring the still-suave lead of the 1990s TV hit serial The Unbeatables.

Heartfelt and sexy, the stories of Amanda Lee Koe encompass a skewed world fraught with prestige anxiety, moral relativism, sexual frankness, and the improbable necessity of human connection. Told in strikingly original prose, these are fictions that plough, relentlessly, the possibilities of understanding Singapore and her denizens discursively, off-centre. Ministry of Moral Panic is an extraordinary debut collection and the introduction of a revelatory new voice.

Book description credit: Amazon

Photo-credit: Amazon

"A dizzily shopaholic comedy. . . . Wickedly delectable. . . . Offers refreshing nouveau voyeurism to readers who long ago burned out on American and English aspirational fantasies. . . . Hilarious."

-Janet Maslin, The New York Times

"There's rich, there's filthy rich, and then there's crazy rich. . . . A Pride and Prejudice-like send-up.

-People

Author: Kevin Kwan

Year: August 2014

Buy it here: Amazon, Book Depository

Summary:

A hilarious and heartwarming New York Times bestselling novel--now a major motion picture!

When New Yorker Rachel Chu agrees to spend the summer in Singapore with her boyfriend, Nicholas Young, she envisions a humble family home and quality time with the man she hopes to marry. But Nick has failed to give his girlfriend a few key details. One, that his childhood home looks like a palace; two, that he grew up riding in more private planes than cars; and three, that he just happens to be the country's most eligible bachelor. On Nick's arm, Rachel may as well have a target on her back the second she steps off the plane, and soon, her relaxed vacation turns into an obstacle course of old money, new money, nosy relatives, and scheming social climbers.

Book description credit: Book depository

Photo credit: Book Depository

“Last year Kevin Kwan introduced summer fun readers to a cast of characters entirely foreign but somehow familiar…In China Rich Girlfriend, he continues that story but throws into the mix the recently acquired fortunes of China that take to easy street like it’s a superhighway… They offer a taste of Asian opulence served with skewering humor. Delectable wretched excess.”

–New York Daily News

Author: Kevin Kwan

Year: May 2016

Buy it here: Amazon, Book Depository

Summary:

Book Two of the Crazy Rich Asians Trilogy.

It's the eve of Rachel Chu's wedding, and she should be over the moon. She has a flawless Asscher-cut diamond, a wedding dress she loves, and a fiancé willing to thwart his meddling relatives and give up one of the biggest fortunes in Asia in order to marry her. Still, Rachel mourns the fact that her birthfather, a man she never knew, won't be there to walk her down the aisle. Then a chance accident reveals his identity. Suddenly, Rachel is drawn into a dizzying world of Shanghai splendor, a world where people attend church in a penthouse, where exotic cars race down the boulevard, and where people aren't just crazy rich ... they're China rich.

Book description credit: Book depository

Photo credit: Book Depository

“Flashy, funny... Delicious, the juicy stuff of classic high-society drama... Rich People Problems is a fun tabloid romp full of over-the-top shenanigans, like a society party brawl that ruins both a Ramon Orlina glass sculpture of the hostess’s breasts and ‘a special pig that had only eaten truffles its entire life and was flown in from Spain...’ A memorable, laugh-out-loud Asian glitz fest that’s a pure pleasure to read.”

 —Steph Cha, USA Today

Author: Kevin Kwan

Year: May 2018

Buy it here: Amazon, Book Depository

Summary:

Book Three of the Crazy Rich Asians Series.

When Nicholas Young hears that his grandmother, Su Yi, is on her deathbed, he rushes to be by her bedside--but he's not alone. The entire Shang-Young clan has convened from all corners of the globe to stake claim on their matriarch's massive fortune. With each family member vying to inherit Tyersall Park--a trophy estate on 64 prime acres in the heart of Singapore--Nicholas's childhood home turns into a hotbed of speculation and sabotage. As her relatives fight over heirlooms, Astrid Leong is at the center of her own storm, desperately in love with her old sweetheart Charlie Wu, but tormented by her ex-husband--a man hell bent on destroying Astrid's reputation and relationship. Meanwhile Kitty Pong, married to China's second richest man, billionaire Jack Bing, still feels second best next to her new step-daughter, famous fashionista Colette Bing.

A sweeping novel that takes us from the elegantly appointed mansions of Manila to the secluded private islands in the Sulu Sea, from a kidnapping at Hong Kong's most elite private school to a surprise marriage proposal at an Indian palace, caught on camera by the telephoto lenses of paparazzi, Kevin Kwan's hilarious, gloriously wicked new novel reveals the long-buried secrets of Asia's most privileged families and their rich people problems

Book description credit: Book depository

Crazy Rich Asian Movie Warner Bros Motion Picture

Specially designed for adventure seekers, this 4-hour expedition is perfect for both novice and experienced kayakers. Based on Palau Ubin, a tiny island which is home to Singapore’s last village or kampongs, as well as the Chek Jawa Wetlands, one of Singapore’s richest ecosystems, this trip is perfect for those wishing to experience Singapore’s nature.

Do not be fooled by the peacefulness of Palau Ubin because the mangroves are abuzz with wildlife! For bird-watching enthusiasts, you will be able to spot species such as the Kingfishers, Eagles, Hornbills, Herons, and Egrets – and that is just to name a few.

Come as you are because equipment and gear will be provided.

Start between 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM or 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM (depends on tide schedule).

Duration: Total of 4-hours with 2.5-hour to 3-hours water time.

Level: Open for Beginners

Activity: The journey begins with a short length of open sea kayaking before entering the mangroves. You will immediately notice a sharp difference between the choppy open sea waves and the tranquil calm waters among the mangroves.

Overview:

• Meet the adventure leader at the Palau Ubin Head Quarters (you are required to make your own way to Palau Ubin by bumboat [local ferry] which takes approximately 15 minutes).

• 40 minutes safety briefing.

• 2.5 to 3hrs Kayaking.

• 40 minutes beach up; rinse off and share your experience with the group.

Note: The itinerary schedule above may differ from participants to participants due to certain factor like kayaking proficiency, tide etc

Price: Expect to pay about US$76 per person (plus credit card charges).

*Exact pricing will be confirmed once we have information about your group size

Price Inclusions:

• Equipment for kayaking

• English-speaking Adventures Leader

• Drinking-Water for the Refill

• Accident insurance coverage during the programme

• Facility for a simple rinse off after the programme

• Lockers to put the valuables behind
  

 

Choose from a short 20 to 30-minute introduction to Chinese tea and the art of the tea ceremony and a longer 1.5 to 2-hours workshop led by a tea master.

In both cases you will enjoy the Imperial tea that Queen Elizabeth II was served in the very same tea house.

These tea appreciation workshops can be booked as a stand alone activity or incorporated into a day tour based around Chinese culture and heritage.

We recommend booking this traditional workshop together with a second workshop at ETTE, where we put a modern twist on tea with a hands on tea blending session and talk about innovative flavour creation.

QUEEN’S TEA WORKSHOP

Duration: 20 to 30-minutes

Workshop Details:

• Short Introduction to traditional Chinese tea brewing and the tea set.

• Demonstration of how to brew tea in the traditional manner.

• Guests enjoy a hands-on tea brewing session.

Tea Selection: Imperial Golden Cassia, a light fermented Oolong tea enjoyed by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II .

Tea Snacks: Tea Egg/Tea Cookie.

Price: USD 14 per person inclusive of souvenir for guests.

SHADES OF TEA WORKSHOP

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

Workshop Details:

• Short history of tea - learn about how tea was discovered and the tea making process during the Tang and Song Dynasty.

• Learn about different types of tea, the process of brewing the different teas and their benefits.

• Chinese tea brewing demonstration for each of the 6 different types of tea.

• Serving of tea snacks.

Tea Selection:

• Dragon Well [Green Tea]

• White Peony [White Tea]

• Imperial Golden Cassia [Oolong Tea]

• Hong Guan Yin [Red Tea]

• Pu’er [Black Tea]

• Jasmine Pearls [Floral Tea]

Tea Snacks: Chapter 7 Cookies and Tea Egg

Price: USD 75 per person inclusive of souvenir for guests

Location: Chinatown District, Singapore

Logistics: Walking distance from MRT train stations; Chinatown (NE 4), Tanjong Pagar (EW 15) and OutramPark (EW 16)

 

Explore the art of tea blending in this 30-minute modern tea workshop.

Tea blending or scenting is defined as the process of putting different teas together to produce a final product. This activity aims to create a well-balanced flavour using teas of different origins and characters. Combining the heritage and tradition of tea with a modern and classic design.

In this workshop you will become a “Tea Chemist” for the day! Each participant will take home their creation.

This workshop can be booked as a stand-alone activity or incorporated into one of our tours. We recommend booking this together with the Traditional Tea Appreciation class to cover both the traditional and modern aspects of tea culture.

Duration: 30-minutes

Activity

• Introduction to ETTE TEA COMPANY & tea blending

• Guided hands-on blending

• Tasting of the individual blended teas

Pricing: USD$280 for up to 10 pax.

For groups of more than 10 surcharge of US$28/person (up to a max of 12 per group). Inclusive ETTE TEA Packet (50g).

Location: Chinatown, Singapore

Logistic: Accessible by public transport and also by our private hire vehicles.

 

Singapore started easing out the circuit breaker restrictions last June 2. People can now start visiting their grandparents living in a different household, exercise outdoor but only in their immediate neighborhood and visit worship places for a maximum of 5 households. While some of the restrictions are lifted, Everyone should continue to wear a mask when doing so. Seniors should continue to stay at home.

Now, that people can go outside and for exercise and other essential things, people can visit the nearest Singapore Parks in their neighborhoods to do their exercise. Thanks to Singapore clean and green campaign, the city has a lot of beautiful parks that people can unwind and relax.

Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage at the Symphony Lake in Botanic Gardens

Just a few more months, we will be able to adapt to the new normal. Thanks to all Singaporeans efforts in facing this Pandemic, the city is now starting to slowly open its economy. The Hello! Singapore Team cannot wait to welcome everyone again and to show you all the ever resilient Lion city.

#thetravellingnomads #intravelist #backpackersintheworld #travel #beautifulseason #tripscout #digitalnomad #sustainabletravel #photographeveryday #amazing #photographyislife #keepexploring #livetoexplore #wandering #travelanddestinations #seetheworld #tlpick #travellingthroughtheworld #postcardsplace #instagood #repost #singapore #sg #adventure #welltraveled #travelstoke #hellosingaporetours #ilovesg #hellosg #singaporetour #sgtravel

The world is fighting a war against an invisible enemy that has stopped the world. COVID-19 is so contagious that it put a stop in all travel and business. Isn’t it great to see people working together as one to fight the virus? People are contributing in their own little ways by staying at home to further prevent the spread of the Virus.

Singapore government has imposed its circuit breaker measures that helped in this prevention. Because of the Singaporeans cooperation on this, the city has started to slowly ease the restrictions in 3 Phases. Now, some businesses have opened and people can now visit their family and friends but of course, with minimal restrictions still.

A picture was taken before COVID19. Elders are advised to stay at home while people can still have some exercise observing social distancing.

We believe that we will all get through this together. We will all be back with our new normal in no time and Hello! Singapore tours team will always be here. Our Singapore tour guides are all excited to once again welcome you to our beloved Little Red Singapore!

#thetravellingnomads #intravelist #backpackersintheworld #yoursingapore #travel #beautifulseason #visitsingapore #thisissingapore #singaporeinsiders #wewillriseagain #wewillgetthroughthis #singaporean #welovesingapore #exploresingapore #meetthelocals #instagood #photooftheday #sg #tourism #travelbug #natgeotravelpic #lonelyplanet #hellosingaporetours #ilovesg #hellosg #streetsofsingapore #singaporetour #visitsingapore

Monique is one of our recent additions to the Hello! Singapore Tours team, joining in the last quarter of 2019. She oversees the administration and bookings of our Singapore business, so you might have encountered her name in one of your email exchanges with us.

Having worked in a private Aviation company, her administration skills are impeccable. She is also a fun person to be with that will always make you laugh. Since travel has come to a standstill what keeps her busy? Below is a short interview with her.

Monique spending quality time with her family on Mothers day, especially with her son Benjie

Pre-pandemic time, the admin team was busy answering inquiries, managing booking, coordinating with the customers and our tour guides. Now that this pandemic has put travel to a stop and we have more time on our hands, what keeps you busy? 

Monday to Friday I am kept busy by my 7-year old's home school from 8:30 to 15:00; it has been an interesting experience, I have never wished to voluntarily home school but given the opportunity through our circumstances, I have been pleasantly surprised by how much I have enjoyed homeschooling; it was no doubt difficult in the beginning and it was not welcomed at first but I gradually enjoyed seeing how and what my son is learning. 

I have had plenty of time to bake - as I am sure most have - and try out a lot of new recipes, I now know for certain I have not missed my calling, but thankfully improved.

We have been blessed with lots of family time, cleaning, reading, hiking, exercising, and of course, TV!

Even though you manage our Singapore business you are actually based in Hong Kong. Now that Hong Kong is observing social distancing measures, what is the place that you miss visiting the most and why?

I have missed the simple pleasures of taking my son to the park, riding our bicycles to school, and going to church; but in return, we have learned to enjoy other activities, explore different places and learn new skills.  We have hiked a lot more this year than any other year; seeing areas and walking routes never walked before; we have been hiking, scooting, rollerblading, and mastering the skipping rope as a family.  Prior to COVID not one of us made use of a skipping rope, now it is almost a daily activity.

We know that you also suffer from wanderlust. When this Pandemic is finally over, are you planning to go overseas? If so, Where?

Moving to Hong Kong 3 years ago has definitely awakened an interest in areas I never thought of visiting; what a loss this would have been!

First on my list is Singapore, I want to meet (in person) all the guides guiding for Hello! Singapore Tours and I want to experience this beautiful country with my family. Second, on my list is Bali.

What is your realization in the midst of this Pandemic? 

Nothing in life is certain.  

After months of resting, fine-tuning our tours and media platforms we are itching to get back to the work we enjoy, and the country we love to explore with guests from all over the world!  See you soon!

#instagood #repost #singapore #sg #adventure #welltraveled #travelstoke #hellosingaporetours #ilovesg #hellosg #singaporetour #sgtravel #beautifuldestination #singaporelife #covid2020 #pandemic #coviddiary #wewillriseagain #wewillgetthroughthis #togetherwestand #fightcovid #travelagency #touragency #Hellotours #discoversingapore

Pandan cake is a light, fluffy, green-colored sponge cake. Other than Singapore, this dessert is also popular in other Asian countries like that of the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia and especially among the Indo community, due to its historical colonial ties with Indonesia.

You can easily try this whilst you are on your Hello! Singapore tours or if you find yourself craving for that Pandan tasty dessert. We have found an easy to follow recipe that you can do at the comforts of your home.

INGREDIENTS

• 60 g egg yolks

• 25 g castor sugar

• 50 g corn oil

• 50 g young, light green pandan leaves (rinse thoroughly and drain; chop roughly )

• 75 g undiluted fresh coconut milk blend with chopped pandan leaves; press to yield 65 g milk; discard pandan pulp1/8 tsp salt

• 80 g cake flour

• ¼ tsp baking powder sift with cake flour

• 150 g egg whites

• 60 g castor sugar

PROCEDURE

• Measure and prep ingredients as detailed above. Line eight 180 ml molds with parchment paper. Preheat oven to 200°C.

• Whisk egg yolks and 25 g castor sugar till thick and pale. Add corn oil. Whisk till well combined. Add 65 g of green milk and salt. Whisk till evenly mixed. Re-sift sifted cake flour and baking powder into the mixture. Whisk till just evenly mixed. Set aside. Wash whisk thoroughly.

• Whisk egg whites till thick. Gradually add 60 g castor sugar whilst continuing to whisk. Keep whisking till egg whites just reach the firm peak stage.

• Add egg whites to yolk mixture in 3 batches, mixing till almost even after each batch. Scrape down thoroughly. Fold till just evenly mixed. Bang mixing bowl against worktop 3-4 times to get rid of big air bubbles.

• Fill moulds with batter, about 60 g each. Tap molds gently against worktop to level batter. Bake till cakes are golden brown and slightly springy, about 20 minutes. Cakes should crack after the first 10 minutes.

• Transfer cakes to wire rack. Wait till cracks close up, about 5 minutes. Unmould and serve.

voila! you now have your homemade delicious pandan cupcake!

Recipe and video credit to kitchentigress.blogspot