May 2018 Issue - Scoot In-Flight Magazine

take me 

with you 

ISSUE 35 

MAY 2018 

flyscoot.com 

YOUR LIFESTYLE MANUAL WITH A SPLASH OF SCOOTITUDE ISSUE 35 MAY 2018 

POCKET GUIDE: A guide to Manila’s ubiquitous street food Zip through China cities 

aboard its rail transport system Hallmarked handicrafts from Chennai Cracking a cold one 

in Sapporo’s famous beer museum

人 

“We insist on serving only 

FRESH PORK” 

Mr Chua Chwee Whatt (Founder) 

Founder Bak Kut Teh insists on using only fresh and quality ingredients. 

Its dedication to providing the best Bak Kut Teh has brought them many 

returning 

40 

customers including numerous international artistes. It has 

established itself as one of the leading Bak Kut Teh restaurants in Singapore. 

over 

YEARS. 

Y 

347 Balesser Road 

Singapore 329777 

Operaang Hours: 

12pm - 2.30pm | 6pm - 2am 

(Closed on Tuesday) 

Hotline: +65 6352 6192 

500 Jalan Sultan 

Hotel Boss #01-09 



9am - 5am 

Hotline: +65 6816 2582 

530 North Bridge Road 

#01-01 



11am - 11pm 

Hotline: +65 6255 3889 

Jurong Point Shopping Centre 

1 Jurong West Central 2 

#03-105 



10am - 10pm 

New! 

Market Square @ 

Downtown East 

E!Avenue, #01-310 

1 Pasir Ris Close 


Hotline: +65 6344 2588 

Mall Puri Indah 

2nd Floor Unit #240 

Korta Jakarta Barat 11610 

Indonesia 

Hotline: +62 21 5822580 

Living World Lt. Dasar 

Jalan Alam Sutera 

Boulevard No 21 

Barten 15325 

Indonesia 

Hotline: +62 21 29239455

CONTENTS 

MAY 2018 

21 

STEPPING INTO 

TOMORROW 

32 

COASTAL 

BLOCKBUSTERS 

FRESH 

06 

CALENDAR 

Pen down these must-see events 

happening around our network 

10 

YOUR HACKS 

Hotel-manager approved tricks to 

get the most out of your stay 

13 

FEATURE STORY 

Writers from Athens and 

Singapore swap itineraries 

COVER STORY 

21 

STEPPING INTO TOMORROW 

Utopia-like Asian cities define the 

future of urban living 

LANDING IN 

27 

A RUSTIC IMMERSION 

Scratching the arcadian surface of 

Kuantan 

32 

COASTAL BLOCKBUSTERS 

Scenic filming spots in Gold Coast that 

are far from make-believe 

37 

PARASOL COUNTY 

Oil-paper umbrellas have become the 

symbol of Kaohsiung’s cultural tenacityy 

37 

PARASOL 

COUNTY 

SCOOT 1 MAY 2018

OUR TEAM 

EDITORIAL 

Associate editor 

Ara Luna-Reston 

Writers 

Akanksha Nair, Bryan Yeong 

Contributors 

Andrew Ancheta, Elena Sergeeva, 

Jaypee Licudan, Kevin Tsai, 

Michelle Dompor-Roldan, Melissa 

Lorraine, Raewyn Koh 

Art director 

Cally Han 

RUNWAY REPORT 

51 

ON THE 

GROUND 

MANAGEMENT 

Managing director 

Dennis Pua 

Publisher 

Ben Poon 

Business development manager 

Marina Chong 

(marina@regentmedia.sg) 

Admin and marketing executive 

Sheila Devi 

ADVERTISING 

Spafax Singapore, Tel: +65 6531 2682 / 

Fax: +65 6395 8211 / 

Email: mediaenquiry@spafax.com 

62 

TRAVEL 

JOURNAL 

POCKET GUIDE 

42 

GOURMET GLOBETROTTER 

A guide to Manila’s ubiquitous snacks 

from the streets 

50 

ON THE GROUND 

Zip through seven cities in China 

aboard various modes of rail transport 

57 

SHOPPING CART 

Hallmarked handicrafts from Chennai 

that make notable mementoes 

62 

TRAVEL JOURNAL 

Cracking a cold one in Japan’s oldest 

ale-brewing museum in Sapporo 

69 

HOT OFF THE PRESS 

Latest news from the Scoot family 

72 

SCOOT PERSONALITY 

Get to know Scoot’s newest pilot-in 

command 

74 

SCOOT EXTRA 

Travel tips when you fly with Scoot 

76 

SCOOT CAFÉ AND SHOPPING 

Scrumptious treats and the latest retail finds 

on board 

77 

FLEET INFORMATION 

Know more about our modern and fuelefficient 

aircraft in the skies 

80 

SCOOT SAFETY 

How to fly safely and comfortably 

Business director 

Agnes Law 

Media sales director 

Kaz Lim 

Production manager 

Sandy Fong 

PRINTER 

KHL Printing Co Pte Ltd (197801823M) 

20 Bedok South Road, 


Tel: 65/6446-6888 Fax: 65/6449-9945 

www.regentmedia.sg 

MCI(P)128/08/2017 

© Regent Media. All material in Scoot is strictly 

copyright and all rights are reserved. Editorial 

material and opinions expressed in Scoot do not 

necessarily reflect the views of Scoot or the 

publisher. The airline and the publisher do not 

accept responsibility for the advertising content. 

Products and services mentioned are subject to 

change without prior notice. Material in this 

publication may not be reproduced in any form 

without permission. Scoot and the publisher 

accept no responsibility for unsolicited 

manuscripts,transparencies or other material. 


largest free-form pool in penang

WELCOME 

LEE LIK HSIN 

CEO, Scoot 

Hello, and 

Welcome Aboard! 

In this issue of Scoot magazine, we are 

featuring utopia-like attractions. Join us 

on a journey through Scoot’s network 

and learn how technology is shaping 

these space-age destinations. Also, 

travel smart with some of the most 

innovative gizmos of today! 

If you’re planning your next trip, get 

15% off your next flight with us when 

you sign up to become a Scoot Insider 

on the Scoot website! Other perks 

include exclusive member promotions 

and updates, birthday discounts, and 

faster bookings with personalised 

profile and payment information, as 

well as access to your booking history. 

Here at Scoot, we are not only 

focused on launching new destinations 

– we also look at continuously 

developing and innovating so that our 

products and services provide travellers 

with more choices, greater 

convenience, and fantastic value deals 

all year round. With our recent 

partnership with Flexiroam, every 

Scoot ticket purchased on flyscoot.com 

or the Scoot mobile app entitles guests 

to a complimentary Flexiroam X 

microchip with 100MB of international 

roaming data*. What a steal! 

On the digital innovation front, our 

suite of mobile payment methods has 

been expanding to accommodate our 

growing global presence. WeChat users 

are now able to search and book Scoot 

flights and complete their purchase 

with WeChat Pay (CNY) via Scoot’s 

official WeChat account in China. 

Featuring faster loading speeds and 

more seamless user experience, guests 

can book, pay for, and review their 

entire journey with us on the same 

WeChat platform – even adding meal, 

baggage, and seat selection options to 

their flights. 

Our recent edition of the Scoot Café 

menu is still fresh from the oven (in your 

seat pocket), so you should check out 

our new tasty meals, such as the 

Chicken Tikka Masala with Jeera 

Pulao and Golden Fried Chicken with 

Rice to keep that tummy from 

rumbling! We are also offering a special 

crispy treat this season – Flavours of 

the East’s Hainanese Chicken Rice 

Flavoured Potato Chips are available 

for purchase for a limited time only. 

Inspired by one of Singapore’s most 

quintessential dishes, pick up this 

quirky snack onboard while stocks last! 

*Shipping charges apply. 

Stay connected with Scoot! 

flyscoot flyscoot flyscoot insidescoot 


FRESH 

Hip events happening around Scoot’s routes 

Hotel manager-approved tips on getting the most out 

of your stay Travel Exchange: Tales from two cities 

P7 

40TH 

BALI ARTS 

FESTIVAL

CALENDAR 

WORDS BRYAN YEONG 

PHOTO DREAMSTIME 

MAY JUNE 

10-20 MAY 

EUROPEAN UNION FILM 

FESTIVAL 

Singapore: Catch all 20 films that 

showcase the best of contemporary 

European cinema in Singapore’s 

longest running foreign film festival. 

Now on its 28th edition, the festival will 

open with Fly Away Home, a film set in 

1945 Vienna where the powder keg of 

war and the Russian occupation are 

seen through the innocent eyes of 

nine-year-old Christine. Screened at 

National Gallery Singapore, tickets for 

public sessions are available online at 

only S$12 each, inclusive of booking 

fee. 

euff.sg 

16-27 MAY 

SAPPORO LILAC FESTIVAL 

Sapporo, Japan: Usher in summer in 

Japan by admiring the blooms at 

Odori Park and feasting your eyes on 

an explosion of pretty purple. The lilac 

has been deemed the official tree of 

Sapporo since 1964, and with over 400 

of them at the park, there’s no better 

venue for this celebration. Come to 

see the flowers, but stay for the music 

festival, tea ceremonies and good 

vibes. Admission is free. 

lilac.sapporo-fes.com 

26-27 MAY & 2-3 JUNE 

DBS MARINA REGATTA 

Singapore: Adrenaline junkies, be 

prepared to get an extra kick at 

Singapore’s most prominent water 

sports festival. Tackle Southeast Asia’s 

largest land and water obstacle 

course, the Battle Bay Extreme, or 

head over to the open-area DBS 

Creators’ Market which will house 

wellness activities, a communal 

kitchen, and a bazaar where healthy 

snacks and drinks can be enjoyed. 

dbsmarinaregatta.com 

7-10 JUN 

TEA WORLD FESTIVAL 2018 

Seoul, South Korea: Held over four 

event-filled days in June, the Tea World 

Festival at the Coex Convention & 

Exhibition Center will boast an array of tea 

varieties from all over the world. Not only 

will you get to tantalise taste buds with tea 

samples, you’ll also get to enjoy 

performances, learn about how tea can be 

made into health products, and have the 

option to take home tea-related items and 

state-of-the-art equipment. 

teanews.com/en.page.root.php 

15-16 JUN 

ULTRA SINGAPORE 

Singapore: Get ready to put your hands 

up for Ultra Music Festival’s third 

Singapore edition! Gather your best 

buds and join in the fist-pumping action 

at Ultra Park at Bayfront Avenue, where 

you’ll spend two days immersed in the 

world’s best EDM experience. Previous 

instalments have seen heavyweight 

turntablists like Skrillex, Hardwell, and 

Kygo helm the decks, so expect nothing 

short of another stellar line-up this year. 

ultrasingapore.com 

16 JUN-14 JUL 

40TH BALI ARTS FESTIVAL 

Bali, Indonesia: Besides its resort life 

and water sports options, Bali is also 

host to a brimming arts and culture 

scene – displayed even more 

prominently over a month for the Bali 

Arts Festival. The 40th annual islandwide 

celebration will entail highlights 

such as various exhibitions, dance 

troupe performances, and stalls serving 

up delicious Balinese fare. To witness 

Bali in a unique light, there’s no better 

time to visit than during this month. 

bali-indonesia.com/magazine/bali-arts-festival

FRONT DESK SECRETS 

Want the most out of your hotel stay experience? Take some 

advice from those in the best positions to provide it – your 

friendly front office managers 

WORDS 

ARA LUNA-RESTON 

N 

othing spells perfection like finally sinking down into a heavenly heap of pillows after a 

red-eye flight. But more than just a comfortable bed and shower, hotels offer a plethora of 

other amenities and services that promise to make your stay more comfortable – if only 

you know how to ask. Front Office Manager of Andaz Singapore, Matthew Bartholomeusz, spills 

the beans on how to get the most out of your hotel stay. 

PHOTOS ANDAZ SINGAPORE; 123RF 


YOUR HACKS 

ASK THE FRONT DESK 

TO MAKE RESTAURANT 

RESERVATIONS FOR YOU 

More often than not, front desk 

officers are in the know when it 

comes to the top dining places 

around town. They’re usually in 

contact with restaurateurs, 

meaning they can help you snag 

the best table or slot you into a 

usually fully booked restaurant by 

merely putting in a good word for 

you. Aside from restaurants, they 

also know which establishments 

sell budget-friendly tourist 

attraction tickets, as well as where 

the best spas are. 

SIGN UP FOR 

MEMBERSHIP 

PROGRAMMES 

Playing favourites pays off – 

especially when it comes to 

subscribing to hotel chains’ loyalty 

programmes. Most membership 

programmes are free, plus they 

reward loyal patrons generously. 

You’ll also get to maximise your 

stay while earning perks for future 

travel. Other loyalty perks include 

free hotel stays, complimentary 

accommodation upgrades, and 

more. Collecting enough points to 

redeem premium member benefits 

may take time, but reaping the 

rewards when you attain elite status 

makes the wait worth it. 

“Whether you’re dealing 

with the front office 

manager or a humble 

housekeeper, being nice 

towards the hotel staff 

makes a positive 

difference.” 

- Matthew Bartholomeusz 

Front Office Manager 

Andaz Singapore 

BUILD RAPPORT WITH 

HOTEL MANAGERS 

Striking up a light-hearted conversation 

and addressing them by their first name 

are just some of the fail-proof ways you 

could do to create an amicable 

relationship with hotel supervisors 

during your holiday. The stronger the 

rapport you have with them, the higher 

your chances of getting VIP treatment. 

UPGRADE YOUR ROOM 

DURING CHECK-IN 

Free room upgrades are given to 

guests for various reasons, but should 

you decide to shell out moolah for a 

little luxury, do it upon check-in. Front 

desk officers are more willing to throw 

in a couple of add-ons especially when 

they are trying to upsell guests into a 

higher room type. In some cases, hotels 

may be inclined to upgrade guests to a 

significantly better room for a minimal 

charge, especially if the rooms in 

question are unbooked. 

PLAY NICE 

Greek fabulist Aesop famously once 

said, “No act of kindness, no matter 

how small, is ever wasted.” Genuine 

friendliness encourages the hotel staff 

to go the extra mile to accommodate 

guests’ requests. “Working in the hotel 

industry is a tough yet fulfilling job,” 

stresses Bartholomeusz. “Whether 

you’re dealing with the front office 

manager or a humble housekeeper, 

being nice towards the hotel staff 

makes a positive difference for both 

parties and ultimately creates a 

harmonious environment for all.” 


FEATURE STORY 

TALES FROM TWO CITIES 

ATHENS 

SINGAPORE 

In Scoot’s “Tales From Two Cities”, we ask two writers from 

across the globe to craft a travel itinerary for each other, 

based on their insights as natives. This month, writers from 

Athens and Singapore switch itineraries for a local 

experience like no other 

WORDS & PHOTOS 

BRYAN YEONG & ELENA SERGEEVA 


Legend: Tips. Accomodation. 

DIVERSE ENCOUNTERS 

Hailed as the most expensive city in the world, Singapore surprisingly 

boasts free and exciting things to do. Thanks to an exceptionally 

detailed itinerary, efficient transport system, and the help of kind locals, I 

got to explore the Little Red Dot’s alluring culture and stunning 

modernity, while experiencing the vibrancy of its naturistic side. 

EXCHANGE TRAVELLER 

PROFILE 

Elena Sergeeva 

Age: 34 

Occupation: Travel Blogger 

Home Country: Greece 

THE GOAL 

To savour Singapore’s array of 

culinary delights, as well as see its 

futuristic megapolis and majestic 

gardens first-hand. 

THE ITINERARY 

Day 1 

• Head to Gardens by the Bay, a 

101-hectare nature park. 

• Check out Marina Bay Sands’ 

luxury buildings and retail 

offerings. 

• Marvel at Spectra, a free-topublic 

outdoor light and water 

show. 

Day 2 

• Explore Chinatown and the 

Indian temples nearby. 

• Sample the signature Chicken 

Rice dish at Maxwell Hawker 

Centre. 

SERENITY IN A MODERN 

METROPOLIS 

On my first day in Singapore, I 

headed to the thousands of plant 

species at Gardens by the Bay, and 

was instantly in awe at how the 

towering buildings and natural 

attractions coexist harmoniously. The 

Cloud Forest was adorned with 

magical floral displays, high-rise 

evergreen trees, and an impressive 

waterfall – all fantastic testaments to 

Singapore’s “garden city” identity. 

Before sunset, I strolled towards 

the Supertree Grove to get a bird’s 

eye view from the 22-metre-high 

bridge of the OCBC Skyway, where I 

District. In my mind, this formed 

a vivid and charming impression 

of Singapore’s harmonious 

balance; an equilibrium 

between city and nature that 

exists in this modern metropolis. 

On my third day, I trooped to 

the National Orchid Garden -– 

Singapore’s first and only 

UNESCO World Heritage Site. I 

was captivated by the exotic 

collection of orchids on display. 

The VIP Orchid Garden 

showcases outstanding hybrids 

that represent closer ties 

between the country and other 

nations. 

Day 3 

• Stop by National Orchid 

Garden, a UNESCO World 

Heritage Site. 

• Walk along Esplanade Theatre 

strip, passing by the iconic 

Merlion Park. 

ABOVE: 

Kampong 

Glam Area 

witnessed the dazzling Garden 

Rhapsody light and sound show. Then, 

I headed to Marina Bay Sands to 

watch Spectra, another visuallypleasing 

outdoor light and water show 

that is not to be missed. 

The city’s abundant expansive 

parks, promenades, and bike lanes 

all add up to the numerous 

recreational possibilities. Another 

factor that astonished me about the 

city was the sound of birds singing 

as I made my way through the 

skyscrapers of the Central Business 


FEATURE STORY 

LUXURY URBAN RETREAT 

Featuring elegant serviced 

apartments set in the Central 

Business District, Oakwood 

Premier OUE Singapore offers 

easy access to Singapore’s 

main attractions and cultural 

districts. Their luxurious 

one-bedroom apartments (the 

one I stayed at) provide a 

homely feeling, with spaces 

that are decked with top 

amenities including a mobile 

phone with a customised 

Oakwood application to help 

guests conveniently navigate 

around Singapore. Other 

facilities include an infinity 

pool, fitness centre, bar, and 

meeting room. 

oakwoodasia.com 

ABOVE: 

OCBC Skyway 

CIRCLE: 

Satay by the Bay 

LEFT: 

Sri Mariamman 

Temple 

TASTING THE LITTLE RED DOT 

As frequent travellers may 

already know, one of the best 

ways to get accustomed to a 

destination’s culture is through 

its food. My itinerary made sure 

that I indulged in the best 

culinary experiences Singapore 

has to offer. For Singaporeans, 

eating mouth-watering cuisine is 

a favourite pastime. I also 

noticed that locals tend to 

patiently queue up for good 

food no matter how long the 

lines are (which I followed suit by 

diligently lining up for 20 

minutes to try the Tian Tian 

Chicken Rice at Maxwell Hawker 

Centre). 

For breakfast, I went to Ya Kun 

Kaya Toast to try the 

quintessential kaya toast – a 

popular snack of charcoaltoasted 

bread spread with 

butter and kaya (a jam made 

from palm sugar, coconut milk, 

and pandan), served with two 

runny soft-boiled eggs. Also, I 

highly recommend not leaving 

Singapore without sampling a 

serving of satay, an Indonesian 

dish of grilled meat (usually 

chicken, beef, or mutton) served 

with peanut sauce. 

SEE YOU LATER 

As I flew out of Singapore and 

watched the hundreds of 

docked ships twinkle in the 

night, I was grateful for this 

revelatory journey. Indeed, the 

country is filled with warmhearted 

people who possess 

passion and respect for their 

history, culture, and natural 

environment. 


BEYOND IMAGINATIONS 

Like the majority of fellow Singaporeans, my familiarity of anything 

Greek-related extended as far as what I had seen on the big screen – 

Hercules, Clash of the Titans, and well, the Percy Jackson series. As 

this was my first visit, I wanted to see the capital city through fresh 

eyes. Stepping out of the airport, I was embraced by the cool breeze 

of Spring, an overwhelming anticipation in my heart as I set off to 

discover the mystical city of Athens. 

EXCHANGE TRAVELLER 

PROFILE 

Name: Bryan Yeong 

Age: 26 

Occupation: Writer 

Home Country: Singapore 

THE GOAL 

To soak in two perspectives of Greek 

culture – the majestic mythology of 

the Acropolis of Athens, as well as the 

laid-back atmosphere of the seaside 

town of Vouliagmeni. 

TRAVELLING BACK IN TIME 

My priority of the day – as for any 

first-time visitor – was to explore 

the historic area of the Acropolis of 

Athens, but I couldn’t help taking a 

quick detour to check out the 

Panathenaic Stadium first. A 

sizeable crowd had already 

gathered outside its entrance, and 

it was astounding to be up close to a 

stadium made entirely from marble 

– Greece’s most famous material – 

and where the first ever modern 

Olympic games was held. It had 

barely been two hours since I landed 

in Athens, but here I was, already 

having my first brush with captivating 

ancient history. 

Raring for more, I travelled 

across the streets towards the 

Acropolis of Athens. Despite 

being atop a hill, the climb up is 

hardly tiresome. I strolled carefully 

through its sacred grounds, not 

wanting to miss a thing. Quickly 

spotting the queue that likely 

never ends outside the entrance to 

Acropolis and the South Slope, I 

happily paid the fee in exchange 

for the visually rewarding treat 

within. The spectacular walk inside 

had me witnessing significant 

archaeological wonders such as 

the Theatre of Dionysus, Old 

Temple of Athena, and of course 

the Parthenon – the latter of which 

THE ITINERARY 

Day 1 

• Head to the Acropolis of 

Athens citadel area to get 

accustomed with the 

archaeological and historical 

sites, and also visit the 

Acropolis Museum. 

• Walk through the bustling 

Monastiraki district and sample 

Greek cuisine. 

Day 2 

• Take a scenic coastal drive 

around Vouliagmeni and the 

Athenian Riviera. 

• Witness a breathtaking 

sunset from the Temple of 

Poseidon. 

• Traverse around the Glyfada 

neighbourhood for a taste of 

the local scene. 

THIS IMAGE: 

Temple of Poseidon 

OPPOSITE CIRCLE: 

Lukumades 

OPPOSITE RIGHT: 

View from Athens 

View Loft 


FEATURE STORY 

souvlaki (skewered meat wrapped in a 

pita bread). For a sweet post-meal 

snack, I popped by Lukumades at 

Aiolou Street for their fried dough 

balls drizzled in various sauces – a 

favourite among locals. What better 

way to cap off my visit than dinner at 

SAH (sah.gr), a Mediterranean-Greek 

restaurant bar that thrills with an 

extensive menu, irresistible aesthetics, 

and live music on select nights. 

WHIZZING THROUGH WONDERS 

For a seamless way around Athens, Taxi Transfer 

Athens offers a private and fuss-free method of 

seeing the best of what the city has to offer. Other 

than airport transfers, specific taxi tours are also 

available, with options to visit locations ranging 

from the city centre to further sites like Delphi and 

Ancient Olympia. I was promptly picked up for my 

half-day tour to the Temple of Poseidon, as the 

driver Manolis pointed out interesting facts about 

different locales along the way, before concluding 

the day with a glorious sunset by Cape Sounio. 

taxitransferathens.gr 

glistened under the sun, emitting a golden 

glow from various angles. Continuing my 

history lesson in Greek mythology at the 

Acropolis Museum just across from the 

attraction, I marvelled at the artefacts and 

relics that shed further light on Greece’s 

illustrious past. 

On my second day in Athens, I found 

myself in the seaside area of 

Vouliagmeni. Thanks to a reliable taxi 

service, I was able to capture sights of 

Lake Vouliagmeni, an all-natural lake 

where crowds ranging from families to 

couples visit to swim alongside fishes 

and towering views of the adjacent 

cliffs. At the ardent recommendation of 

the locals, I headed to Cape Sounion to 

catch the spectacular sunset atop the 

Temple of Poseidon. Aptly named after 

the God of the Sea, the viewpoint is 

located at the southernmost tip of 

Athens overlooking vast blue waters. 

GREEK GRUB OUT 

After cruising down the busy footpaths of 

the Pláka neighbourhood, I made a pit 

stop at one of the many Greek eateries 

that serve up drool-worthy plates of gyros 

(grilled meat served with flatbread) and 

BIDDING ADIEU (FOR NOW) 

While my visit to Athens was 

considerably brief, it was nonetheless 

fond, and left a lasting impression on 

me. From the grandeur of the many 

sites I laid eyes upon, to the warm 

disposition of the locals that assisted 

every enquiry I had, I was completely 

won over by the city’s completely 

unique, yet welcoming presence. 

For a city whose allure can be heavily 

attributed to its days of yore, its 

beautiful past is the main reason why 

Athens will always have a place in my 

future – I fully intend to return some day. 

ALTERNATIVE ATHENS 

ACCOMMODATION 

Athens View Lofts 

Instead of conventional hotels, opt for one of six 

high-rise apartments that offer grand views of 

the Acropolis within your skyline at Athens View 

Lofts. Checking in to Athens View Loft 03, I was 

immediately mesmerised by the cosiness of the 

monochromatic interior and the luxurious 

balcony that tempts you to stay outdoors with its 

charming views of the Acropolis. Within walking 

distance from main attractions such as the Placa 

and Syntagma square, and fully equipped with 

spacious balconies and breakfast essentials, 

Athens View Lofts genuinely provide a home 

away from home. 

athensviewlofts.gr 

Somewhere Hotel 

Scenic sights and subtle elegance greeted me 

upon check-in at Somewhere Hotel, situated in 

the seaside town of Vouliagmeni. The boutique 

hotel is brand new at barely two years old, but 

promises to spoil guests like a timeless classic. 

Take a dip in the outdoor pool by the lush, 

sprawling lawn or work up a sweat in their 

indoor gym, before enjoying the ocean views 

from the comfort of your room. 

somewhere-hotels.com/vouliagmeni 


ADVERTORIAL 

Steps away…yet right 

in the city’s heartbeat 

Hotel G Singapore, in the vibrant Singapore Arts District, 

is ideally positioned for its guests to explore a different side 

to the glittery Singapore that is top of mind. 

STEPPING THROUGH THE FRONT 

doors of the hotel, your eyes are 

immediately drawn to Ginett Restaurant & 

Wine Bar, a French establishment with a big 

bar counter crowned by many wine glasses 

surrounded by small, intimate tables. 

Go up a level to check-in – the 

whimsical feel of the reception area 

featuring a mural of coat stands, soft 

lighting, soothing earth tones, and trailing 

plants is bound to bring a smile to your 

face, and give you reassurance that this is 

not another cookie-cutter hotel. 

There are three room types at Hotel G: 

Good, Great, Greater, named to reflect 

their sizes ranging from 11-13 sqm to 

27 sqm. Families can book two Good 

rooms – a single and a queen-size double 

– sharing a common main door that leads 

to separate entrances. While the 

aesthetics of the hotel may be vintageinspired, 

the hotel offers modern 

conveniences for today’s travellers. 

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available 

throughout the hotel, and with a communal 

working nook at Ginett Restaurant & Wine 

Bar, you can catch up with family and 

friends, update your social media and 

connect to the world. While on the hotel’s 

Wi-Fi, guests can use the Press Reader 

app on their own devices to access over 

6,000 magazines in 60 languages. Carry 

the portable Handy X phone available in 

every room when you go out and you’ll be 

able to make and receive complimentary 

calls on the go as well as access the 

internet on the move. 

Explore the district: just a stone’s 

throw away is National Design Centre, 

home to Keepers, a local designers 

collective; within walking distance is the 

Bugis Street Market with over 800 tiny 

stores selling drinks, snacks, trinkets, 

souvenirs, clothes and accessories. For a 

dose of history, art and culture, the 

Singapore Art Museum, National Museum 

of Singapore, as well as Kampong Glam – 

known as the Arab quarter of Singapore 

– are all worth a wander. The hotel has five 

MRT stations nearby – Bencoolen, Bugis, 

Bras Basah, Rochor and Dhoby Ghaut – 

that put the city centre and the rest of the 

island state within easy reach. 

After a day’s sightseeing, the cool, 

vintage style of Hotel G immediately 

soothes the spirit and allows the day’s cares 

to drop away. Have an aperitif at Ginett 

Restaurant & Wine Bar helmed by chef 

Sylvain Royer before heading out to 

explore the city’s local cuisine – cold cuts, 

cheese and bar bites accompanied by 

wines from the well-thought-out wine list 

will set the tone for the evening. Stay in for 

dinner – check out the daily specials – but 

be sure to book as it can get busy. The 

all-day restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, 

dinner, and weekend brunch. 

25 Degrees Burgers & Liquor Bar is Hotel 

G’s other dining spot. A branch of the 

celebrity-favourite hang-out in Los Angeles, 

expect juicy gourmet burgers made from 

100 per cent Angus beef or tuna. The 

interior is stylish and casual with booth seats 

and communal tables. The milkshakes are a 

must-order, or up the ante and let the good 

times roll early with cocktails. The music 

goes up as dusk falls. Make a night of it, 

after all, it’s open till 3am. 

200 Middle Road, 

www.hotelgsingapore.com 


At Wild Wild Wet, children of all ages can slide and swing in splashy style at Professor’s Playground, 

or have a sloshing good time with soft play equipment at Yippee!. The braver ones can also 

have a go at the exhilarating pint-sized versions of the new big rides such as Royal Flush and 

Kraken Racers in the Kidz Zone. Enjoy a fun-tastic experience with your tiniest members of the family! 

Redeem FREE Child Day Pass 

Worth up to $24 with purchase of 2 Adult Day Passes! 

Terms & Conditions apply. Valid till 31 May 2018, excluding Gazetted Public Holidays. 

www.wildwildwet.com

COVER STORY 

STEPPING INTO 

TOMORROW 

This is ground control: strap on your moonboots 

and prepare to leave today and enter the future 

at these space-age destinations 

WORDS 

ARA LUNA-RESTON & RAEWYN KOH 

PHOTO 123RF 

In the zany sci-fi classic flick Back to the Future II, 

teenager Marty McFly and genius inventor Emmett 

“Doc” Brown transport themselves from the 

present year of 1985 to futuristic 2015 aboard a 

time-travelling DeLorean. Back then, the film received 

a positive reception in the box office because people 

were incredibly drawn to the novel concept of flying 

cars, hands-free video games, and power-lacing 

sneakers. While soaring automobiles are yet to hit the 

mass market to be utilised by mainstream consumers, 

there are certain destinations that look straight out of 

a fictional utopian setting. Hulking skyscrapers, robot 

customer service reps, awe-inspiring evergreens – 

peer into the future by visiting these forward-thinking 

attractions that could define the urban living of 

tomorrow.

GARDENS BY THE BAY 

SINGAPORE 

The mechanical forest of Supertrees at Gardens 

by the Bay isn’t just visually stunning; it’s a grove 

that contains more than 162,900 plants 

comprising more than 200 species. The 

Supertrees have environmentally sustainable 

functions, like photovoltaic cells to harvest solar 

energy to light the trees up at night, and some 

are also integrated with Cooled Conservatories 

which serve as air exhaust receptacles. Aside 

from being a vital player in the environment’s 

health, the Supertrees provide a valuable space 

for locals to enjoy – something that the country’s 

government is keen to foster. Don’t miss out the 

free-to-public Garden Rhapsody show daily from 

7:45 to 8:45 p.m. where lights on the canopy of 

the Supertrees dance to the rhythm of the music. 

INTERNATIONAL TECH PARK 

BENGALURU, INDIA 

Dubbed the Silicon Valley of India, Bengaluru’s 

International Tech Park (ITPB) is borne out of 

collaborative initiatives between the 

Singaporean and Indian governments. The 

park’s purpose is to address the need for 

state-of-the-art facilities, as well as house the 

country’s burgeoning Information and 

Technology industry. With a work-live-play 

philosophy in mind, the concept of ITPB offers 

a multi-tenant office and production space 

together with recreation and living facilities 

within the community’s environment. 

Every design phase of ITPB is driven by 

eco-friendly initiatives, including the allotment 

of over 14 acres of green space across the 

compound. The park also contains more than 

30 indigenous and exotic plant species, 

irrigated by recycled grey water – a conscious 

effort to maintain healthy environs in a 

technology-laden area. 

PHOTOS 123RF 


COVER STORY 

PHOTOS 123RF 

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF 

EMERGING SCIENCE AND 

INNOVATION 

TOKYO, JAPAN 

Find out what’s in store for the world of 

the future at this interactive museum in 

Odaiba, Tokyo. Explore innovations 

that will transform how we live, and 

learn amazing discoveries of the earth 

through observation data collected 

using advanced technology. 

Approaching the National Museum of 

Emerging Science and Innovation by 

monorail is like entering the set of Star 

Trek. Here, children are free to play 

around with facial-recognition 

technology, remote surgery, and plastics 

that can conduct electricity. Moreover, 

they can gawk all they want at robots of 

multiple shapes and sizes. Most displays 

are in Japanese, English, Korean, and 

Chinese. Be sure to also meet ASIMO, 

Honda’s robotic humanoid, who 

“performs” at daily shows. 

PETRONAS TOWERS 

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA 

Hailed as one of the tallest buildings in 

the world, the famous glass and steel 

Petronas Towers look like they were 

plucked out of Cloud City, a futuristic 

megalopolis from the Star Wars movie 

franchise. Twenty years have passed 

since these shimmering stainless-steelclad 

towers have been completed, yet 

this iconic landmark continues to be the 

epitome of Malaysia’s ultra-modern 

infrastructure design. 

The 88-storey Petronas Towers were 

designed by Argentinian architect 

César Pelli, with each of the towers 

representing the five pillars of Islam. 

Also, their floors are based on an 

eight-sided star that echoes arabesque 

patterns – a fundamental element of 

Islamic art. 

HUAQIANGBEI DISTRICT 

SHENZHEN, CHINA 

Chances are, a quick check on any of 

your gadgets will show a brandished 

‘Made in China’ label. But where in 

China? The most likely answer is 

Shenzhen, the gadget capital of the 

world. Many of the world’s top electronic 

brands have its factories headquartered 

there, with Huaqiangbei District as the 

go-to place to scout for the newest in 

consumer technology. 

The epicentre of electronics is SEG 

Electronics Plaza, a mega-labyrinth for 

smartphones, cameras, wearable tech, 

and novelty goods like virtual reality 

goggles and 3D printers. Not futuristic 

enough? Head down to Chegong Miao 

Metro Station on Friday nights. The 

surrounding malls turn into mini trade 

shows for electronics, where many of the 

electronics R&D professionals share 

their latest projects. 


COVER STORY 

TOOLS OF THE FUTURE 

Keep up with the future and travel smart with these innovative gizmos of today. 

My UV Patch 

In a bid to encourage good 

skincare habits, La Roche- 

Posay’s My UV Patch provides 

an easy way to monitor UV 

exposure. A quick scan with 

the patch’s app will be able to 

determine how much UV is 

directly hitting the skin. When 

used with sunscreen lotion, 

the app can even decide 

when one should re-apply. 

laroche-posay.com 

FOR 

FUNCTIONAL 

WEAR 

BAUBAX Travel Jacket 2.0 

Tagged as the “Swiss Army Knife of 

Jackets”, the second iteration of the 

BAUBAX Travel Jacket has 25 different 

features that add to the convenience of 

travel. There’re specific pockets for 

everything you need to access, as well as 

a built-in inflatable neck pillow and eye 

mask, and additional foldable footrest 

and blanket to make long-haul journeys 

extremely comfortable. 

baubax.com 

SignalVault 

Keep your cards safe 

with SignalVault, a 

credit and debit card 

protector that prevents RFID scanning of 

information. Using e-field technology, the card 

fits in any wallet and effectively makes 

information invisible to RFID scanning. 

No batteries required! 

signal-vault.com 

FOR 

EXTRA 

SAFETY 

eGeeTouch 

A big hassle 

when travelling 

is the constant fiddling with 

luggage locks; eGeeTouch’s 

smart locks are hassle-free, 

and unlock with a simple tap 

of an NFC-paired 

smartphone. The intelligent 

electronic locks are designed 

for travellers who have to be 

away from their luggage for extended periods of 

time. As an added security measure, the lock also 

acts as a tracking device. 

egeetouch.com 

FOR 

CAPTURING 

MOMENTS 

DJI Osmo Mobile 2 

Put an end to shaky home videos with 

DJI Osmo Mobile 2, a stabiliser that 

works with just about any smartphone. 

The three-axis gimbal system helps 

stabilise camera movements while 

filming, in order to produce smoothly 

shot videos and panoramas. The stabiliser 

can be used with its app that comes with 

features like active track controls for 

targeted subjects and motion time lapse. 

dji.com/osmo 

Fujifilm instax SHARE 

Turn digital photos into instant 

souvenirs with instax SHARE, a 

portable printer that prints photos 

from smartphones onto Fujifilm’s 

instant film without any compromise 

in image quality. The printer also 

comes with an app that provides fun 

filters and even prints real-time 

information like date, time, location, 

temperature, and humidity. 

instax.com/share 

FOR 

APP-LOVERS 

Memrise 

Quickly acquaint yourself with the 

locals by speaking their native 

language. The Memrise app has 

over 200 available languages, and 

even includes cultural lessons for 

various destinations. The app also 

makes use of over 20,000 native 

speaker videos and smart chatbots 

to help learners swiftly pick up 

useful phrases for conversations 

and nuances in grammar. 

memrise.com 

Night Sky 

Point your iPhone, iPad, or Apple 

Watch towards the night sky to 

instantly identify stars, planets, 

constellations, and satellites with 

the Night Sky app. For 

smartphones with augmented 

reality, the experience gets even 

more immersive and educational 

as the app allows a walkthrough 

of the entire solar system through 

time and space. 

Available on Apple’s App Store 


EXCELLENCE 

FOR EVERY ACHIEVER. 

MDIS. Your Trusted Choice For Success. 

MARK LEONG 

MDIS Student 

Winner of the largest MBA programmes award 2017 

Master of Business Administration 

Master of Business Administration (Supply Chain Management) 

Best in the North East of 

England for Satisfaction 

with Teaching including 

Management and Marketing 

(The Guardian University Guide 

2017) 

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Accounting and Financial 

Management (Top-up) 

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Business and Marketing (Top-up) 

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Business Management (Top-up) 

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Business and Management (Top-up) 

Awarded by the University of Sunderland, UK 

Master of Business Administration (International Marketing) 

Master of Business Administration (Banking and Finance) 

Top 15 UK University for 

Teaching Quality (The Times 

and Sunday Times League 

Table 2017) 

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Accounting and Finance # 

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Banking and Finance # 

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Business Studies and Finance 

# 

Accredited by ACCA 

Awarded by Bangor University, UK 

Ranked in the World’s Top 

100 Universities under 50 

years old by The Times Higher 

Education Young University 

Rankings 2017 

* 2017 National Student Survey (NSS), UK 

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Business and Human Resource 

Management (Top-up) 

Awarded by the University of Portsmouth, UK 

Contact us, or visit our website for more information about our programmes. 

Think Success. Think MDIS. 

6247 9111 / 6372 1000 etc@mdis.edu.sg www.mdis.edu.sg 

Management Development 

Institute of Singapore 

Reg. No. 201001793H 

20 May 2014 to 19 May 2018 

Management Development 

Institute of Singapore

KUANTAN 

A RUSTIC 

IMMERSION 

A day-long excursion to Kuantan is all you 

need to scratch the arcadian surface of 

Pahang’s state capital 

WORDS 

MICHELLE DOMPOR-ROLDAN 


Despite its rapid development signalled by the 

rise of modern establishments, Kuantan 

remains to be an idyllic coastal town imbued 

with rich Malay tradition. Much of its character is 

evident in the many attractions within and 

surrounding the city centre. So for those planning to 

explore Pahang’s capital, here is a suggested 

itinerary for you to gain a deeper understanding of 

its laid-back lifestyle.

7.05 AM 

8 AM 

POWER UP AT 

RESTORAN HOI YIN 

Taste the famous Curry 

Mee of this hole-in-a-wall 

just a few minutes’ walk 

from the beach. Their 

noodle dish has the right 

amount of spice and 

plentiful servings of 

chicken, cockles, fish 

cakes, and bean sprouts. 

Prices are reasonable, too. 

Make sure to come early 

as they sell out fast. 

No. 31, Jalan Teluk Cempedak. Open 

daily 7 AM to 2:30 PM, closed on 

alternate Mondays. 

REFILL AT 

SARA THAI KITCHEN 

A Kuantan trip isn’t complete without 

sampling its fresh seafood. With that 

said, stopping by Sara Thai Kitchen is a 

must. This Malay-Thai restaurant is 

among the go-to places for the finest 

seafood dishes in this coastal city. 

Expect a tummy-filling experience 

with its tom yam, nasi goreng, steamed 

fish, and pulut mangga. The best part? 

Even with generous portions, prices are 

friendly on the pocket. It’s no wonder 

why many people frequent this spot to 

cure their hunger pangs. 

66, Jalan Teluk Sisek. Open daily from 1 to 11 PM. 

1 PM 

CATCH THE SUNRISE AT 

TELUK CEMPEDAK 

Considered Malaysia’s most 

beautiful beach, Teluk 

Cempedak features a white 

sand coast with a rocky jetty 

facing the South China Sea. It’s 

the perfect site to catch 

daybreak; see the rays shine on 

the rows of pine trees and 

casuarinas lining up the shore. 

The waters of this enclosed 

bay are ideal for swimming, 

surfing, and jet-skiing. There’s 

also a platform on the left side 

leading to Missionary Bay, a 

secondary shoreline. Beware, 

though: the resident monkeys 

can get aggressive especially 

when they see food. 

Pantai Teluk Cempedak. Open 24 hours. 

ENTER THE DRAGON 

AT LAO ZI TEMPLE 

In a literal sense, yes, as 

the trail leading to the 

temple grounds begins at 

the dragon’s tail and ends at 

its mouth. This 823-metre 

path, called the Golden Dragon, is listed in the 

Malaysia Book of Records as the Longest Dragon 

Statue in the country. 

The walls of the meandering tunnel feature 

paintings and Taoists verses. Foot reflexology 

stones along the walkway help restore balance in 

the body, the natural way. 

Reaching the dragon’s mouth, guests are 

greeted by the statues of the 12 Chinese zodiac 

signs, the seven-metre image of Lao Zi, and the 

temple built in honour of the founder of Taoism. 

Interestingly, there are also life-size images of 

dinosaurs, created to attract a younger audience. 

Lot 362, KM12, Taman Impian Ku, Darul Makmur, Jalan Sungai Lembing. 

Open daily 8 AM to 7 PM. 

2:30 PM 


KUANTAN 

GRAB SOME GRUB AT KEROPOK 

LEKOR GHANI BLACK 

Still about food: drop by Keropok Lekor 

Ghani Black and discover how the 

Malaysian fish cracker snack is made. While 

there are many other keropok lekor (fish 

cracker) shops in Kuantan, locals believe 

that Ghani Black has the tastiest ones. 

Kampung Peramu Hulu. Open daily from 11 AM to 4 PM. 

TAKE FIVE AT TAMAN ESPLANADE 

Take a break from adventure at this popular 

park situated near the Kuantan Municipal 

Council. Ride a bike along the palm 

tree-lined boardwalk facing Kuantan 

River. Let the children run around the 

playground. Go fly-fishing around late 

afternoon. Watch the boats pass 

by the waterway. Or simply 

recharge before resuming 

the trip. 

Jalan Tanah Putih. Open 24 hours. 

7 PM 

END THE DAY AT 

THE NIGHT MARKET 

Many pasar malam (night markets) 

abound in the different parts of 

Kuantan. Operations vary depending 

on the day of the week. Those in 

Taman Gelora, Indera Mahkota, and 

Kuantan Garden are open on 

weekends. 

A pasar malam sells traditional 

food like laksa, nasi dagang, buah 

melaka, and glutinous rice cakes. 

Some stalls peddle fresh produce, as 

well as bargain clothes and trinkets 

that can serve as souvenirs from your 

Kuantan immersion. 

Multiple locations. Open 5 PM onwards. 

VISIT THE MASJID SULTAN AHMAD SHAH 

Ask any tour guide to prepare a Kuantan itinerary 

and Masjid Sultan Ahmad Shah will be on the list. 

Besides being located in the central business district, 

its Ottoman-Moorish architectural style is quite 

remarkable. 

Named after Pahang’s first ruler, the state mosque 

features a sizeable half-round dome surrounded by 

four smaller domes and four rocket-shaped minarets. 

Blue-and-white-marble colours and geometric 

patterns adorn the façade and interiors. Stained 

glass windows and Quranic engravings make the 

structure all the more impressive. 

As Masjid Sultan Ahmad Shah is a place of 

worship—it can accommodate up to 8,000 persons 

during congregational prayer—non-Muslims should 

observe the proper dress code. 

Jalan Mahkota, Kompleks Pentadbiran Kerajaan Negeri Pahang. Open to 

tourists daily 10 AM to 12 PM, 3 to 4 PM, and 5:30 to 6 PM except for Fridays. 

PHOTOS 123RF; FLICKR © AVLXYZ; HUNGRYONION.ORG; FLICKR © AVLXYZ 


KUANTAN 

Legend: Accommodation. Affordable. Mid-priced. High-end. 

CHOICE STAYS 

There’s always an 

accommodation in Kuantan 

that suits anyone’s budget. 

KB50 Guesthouse 

Rooms come with a flat-screen 

TV, hot and cold shower, and 

free Wi-Fi. 

A4358, Lorong Kubang 

Buaya 50; +60 12-491 0077 

Vistana Kuantan City 

Centre 

Cosy spaces include free 

Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and 

private bathroom. Enjoy other 

facilities and services like the 

outdoor pool, café, room 

service, and car rental. 

Jalan Teluk Sisek; +60 9-517 

8000 

The Zenith Hotel Kuantan 

Rooms and suites feature a 

mini-bar and free Wi-Fi. 

Premium services and 

amenities boast a spa, gym, 

business centre, dining 

options, room service, 

concierge, and an infinity pool. 

Jalan Putra Square 6, Putra 

Square; +60 9-565 9595 

GETTING IN AND AROUND 

By plane 

The Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah 

Airport is located 15 kilometres 

southwest of Kuantan. It services 

daily direct flights from Kuala 

Lumpur, Penang, and Singapore. 

By bus 

The RapidKuantan bus system 

has two terminals with several 

stops that include tourist spots. 

Metred taxis are also an option 

but note that drivers may charge 

more depending on traffic 

conditions. 

“Considered Malaysia’s 

most beautiful beach, 

Teluk Cempedak features a 

white sand coast with a 

rocky jetty facing the 

South China Sea. It’s the 

perfect site to catch 

daybreak.” 

Scoot flies to 

Kuantan three 

times a week. 

Book your flights 

at flyscoot.com 

PHOTO FLICKR © SEE SHINN 


ADVERTORIAL 

Ramada Resort Phillip Island 

Ramada Encore Busan Haeundae 

Ramada Bali Sunset Road Kuta 

Say hello to 

local experiences 

Explore the highlights of South-East Asia, 

South Korea and Australia 

with Ramada hotels and resorts. 

EXPLORE SOUTH-EAST ASIA’S MOST 

EXCITING DESTINATIONS 

Great food and heritage await in Malacca, 

Malaysia. Check into the centrally located 

Ramada Plaza Melaka and access the 

historical port town’s delights where you 

can go on a walking tour, hunt down the 

best chendol in town or just soak in the 

charm of the city. Retreat at the end of 

each day to the Ramada Plaza Melaka 

where warm hospitality and modern 

rooms with spectacular views of the Straits 

of Malacca and the old town make for a 

memorable stay. 

Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam 

Riverside with its 220m stretch of frontage 

on the Chao Phraya river is a true oasis 

from the hustle and bustle of the Thai 

capital. Offering a choice of Traditional 

Thai style or Modern Comfort rooms, the 

hotel puts you within exploring range of 

the royal architecture in the area and 

the Asiatique night market. From here, 

you can book a Thai cooking class, or 

explore the river by boat and visit a lively 

floating market. 

Get in a vacation state of mind at 

Ramada Bali Sunset Road Kuta. Bali’s 

famous Kuta beach is just a short drive 

away where you can soak up the sun or pick 

up surfing lessons. Return in the evening to 

enjoy stunning sunsets from Ramada Bali 

Sunset Road’s rooftop pool bar. 

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN SOUTH 

KOREA’S LOCAL CHARM 

The port city of Busan, South Korea is well 

known for its beaches and seafood. The 

centrally located Ramada Encore Busan 

Haeundae offers stylish and comfortable 

rooms, ensuring a restful stay after 

exploring the city’s must-visit attractions 

such as Beomeosa Temple, Jagalchi Fish 

Market and Gamcheon Culture Village. 

EXPERIENCE AUSTRALIA’S 

NATURAL WONDERS 

One of Australia’s most popular 

attractions is the Penguin Parade on 

Phillip Island: the nightly march of little 

penguins out of the sea to their burrows 

on land. The sprawling family-friendly 

Ramada Resort Phillip Island is ideally 

situated to meet these locals as well as 

other residents like koalas and fur seals. 

Stay in the resort’s spacious self-contained 

cottages, and enjoy on-site amenities 

including a restaurant, barbecue area and 

children’s playground. 

Have the best of both worlds at your 

doorstep when you stay at Ramada Resort 

Port Douglas. Get up close and personal 

with the locals: from corals and turtles, to 

ringtail possums and cassowaries. The 

idyllic resort offers luxurious facilities 

including a lagoon-style pool with waterfall 

and swim-up bar as well as a day spa. 

Whether it’s an urban escape, a beach 

holiday, an adventurous getaway or all of 

the above, there’s bound to be a Ramada 

hotel or resort nearby. 

Stay Twice & Earn a Free Night* at any 

of our 8,000+ hotels worldwide. 

Book your stay now at wyndhamhotels.com and 

register for the offer at wyndhamrewards.com. 

* Conditions apply 


COASTAL 

BLOCKBUSTERS 

The Gold Coast is enjoying a hefty slice of the billion-dollar movie industry pie 

– and rightfully so, thanks to its stellar scenic spots worthy of any film buff’s 

adoration 

WORDS 



GOLD COAST 

SET 

LOCATION 

BILINGA 

Situated right by Gold Coast Airport, staying in the Bilinga area 

means you can hop straight off a flight and into pristine waters 

without trouble. And just around the bend of this quaint 

beachside suburb is a stretch of world-famous beaches in 

Coolangatta including Kirra, Greenmount, and Snapper Rocks. 

The north-facing orientation of Bilinga Beach also boasts 

smaller and safer surf conditions than its neighbouring shores 

– perfect for newbie wave-riders to test out the rolling waters. 

In The Shallows, American actress 

Blake Lively stars as a surfer who 

gets stranded 200 yards from shore, 

and uses quick wits and sheer 

determination to survive a shark 

attack. The movie’s plot is set in 

Mexico, but most of the beach shots 

were actually filmed in Bilinga. 

MAKING THE 

SCENE 

PHOTOS GOLD COAST MEDIA CENTRE 

One glance at the startling 

sun-and-sand beauty of the Gold 

Coast and it is immediately 

evident why so many Aussies name it 

their favourite summer destination. 

While most would fly here to dive into 

its stunning beaches, or maybe chill 

by the Burleigh’s suburban scene, 

others – specifically film aficionados 

– head to this sun-drenched coast for 

its reputation as a big-time screen 

production hotspot instead. 

The Gold Coast has now joined 

major cities around the world – 

including Los Angeles, New York, and 

London – as a major movie location 

hub. With production companies 

choosing the Coast’s sites to shoot 

movies, film locations tours are now 

made available to provide a new 

avenue for tourists to explore its 

hidden gems. So settle in, bust out 

the popcorn, and prepare your senses 

for a cinematic journey to the Gold 

Coast’s unique natural landscapes 

that are far from being make-believe. 

SET 

LOCATION 

MOUNT TAMBORINE 

With its verdant rainforests and lush walking trails, it’s easy to say 

that Tamborine Mountain is in tune with nature-loving folk. There 

are 12 hiking tracks in total, with each one stretching 

approximately three kilometres long. So if you like strolling among 

chirping birds, wildflowers, and towering trees – this one’s for you. 

Several wineries, a brewery, and even a distillery, are up on the 

mountain which is dotted with award-winning restaurants and 

quintessential art galleries with sweeping coastal views. 

Most of the outdoor scenes of Kong: 

Skull Island were shot in Queensland, 

specifically Mount Tamborine. The film 

is about battling with a giant ape and 

vicious monsters and is headlined by 

the likes of British actor Tom Hiddleston 

and Oscar winner Brie Larson. 

MAKING THE 

SCENE 


SET 

LOCATION 

MAKING THE 

SCENE 

THE SPIT 

The obvious advantage of surfing in The 

Spit is that there are numerous access 

points for surfers to be able to find a 

beach break with very few other surfers 

in the water. Also named The Southport 

Spit, this well-kept surfing hideaway 

provides ample space for surfers to ride 

the waves in peace. The Spit is the 

perfect spot for calming views, 

undisturbed beach time, and a 

take-it-easy style of living. 

Lovingly dubbed by cast and 

crew of Pirates of the Caribbean: 

Dead Men Tell No Tales as ‘the 

Bondi Cigar,’ a version of the 

hulk ship (known as The Dying 

Gull) was built on a ramp at The 

Spit. The 2017 swashbuckler film 

is led by Golden Globe award 

winner Johnny Depp, and also 

starred by well-respected 

Australian actor Geoffrey Rush. 

SET 

LOCATION 

OXENFORD QUARRY 

It’s quite hard to believe that this 

rather nondescript hinterland is home 

to a handful of premier movie-making 

facilities in the Land Down Under. 

Sandwiched between Brisbane and 

the Gold Coast, Oxenford houses 

eight sound stages, three water tanks, 

ten production offices, top-notch 

editing suites, and other world-class 

film production equipment. Indeed, 

this quiet suburb is slowly etching its 

mark as a world-class film location. 

MAKING THE 

SCENE 

Marvel blockbuster 

Thor: Ragnarok 

features sequences 

filmed on the 

outdoor sets at the 

Oxenford lot, 

including a battleready 

Loki (played by 

Tom Hiddleston) 

throwing knives and 

donning his horned 

headdress. 


GOLD COAST 

NOW SHOWING 

See how Aussies make movies by 

catching Breath, a homegrown flick 

which stars an all-local cast including 

Hollywood actor Simon Baker. This 

coming-of-age film’s plot revolves 

around a pair of teenage surf 

enthusiasts who are mentored by a 

big-wave veteran. Showing all over 

Australia, watch Breath in local movie 

theatres starting on 3 May. 

STAPYLTON 

Marked by the Albert River and the Pacific Motorway, the 

quiet locality of Stapylton is a mishmash of light farming, 

acreage, and industrial properties. Australia’s first green 

waste-to-energy power plant was also erected here, as well 

as several quarries, and the Stapylton Landfill and Recycling 

Centre stand proud as some of Gold Coast’s important 

infrastructures. Stapylton also hosts the ten-acre Yatala 

drive-in theatre where two large screens play the latest flicks. 

SET 

LOCATION 

PHOTOS FLICKR © ED DUNEN; GOLD COAST MEDIA CENTRE 

ROBINA 

Much has been said about the Coast’s 

outskirts, but little is known of newer locales 

mushrooming in the city such as Robina. This 

master-planned community features some of 

the most stellar shopping and recreation 

spaces in the state including the Robina Town 

Centre and Bond University – both built around 

expansive lakes which are nods to Gold Coast’s 

laid-back lifestyle. Robina also possesses a 

railway station that links directly to Brisbane. 

SET 

LOCATION 

MAKING THE 

SCENE 

Starring semi-retired 

professional American wrestler 

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, 

San Andreas is a disaster film 

which centres on an earthquake 

caused by the San Andreas 

Fault. The movie’s opening 

scenes involving a mountainside 

car crash was filmed on the 

outskirts of Stapylton. 

Daybreakers, a creative action-horror flick from 

Brisbane’s Spierig brothers, is set in the United 

States but in reality, some scenes were shot at 

Robina Train Station. Released in 2009, the film’s 

protagonist is American actor Ethan Hawke who 

plays a vampire haematologist. 

MAKING THE 

SCENE 

Scoot flies to the 

Gold Coast five 

times a week. 




KAOHSIUNG 

PARASOL 

COUNTY 

PHOTO FLICKR ©JAMES*C 

Once a thriving industry that withstood modern 

manufacturing, the primitive oil-paper umbrella of the 

Hakka people in Kaohsiung has endured to become a 

symbol of their cultural tenacity 

WORDS 

KEVIN TSAI

KAOHSIUNG 

Nestled away at the foot of the 

southern hills is Taiwan’s 

second largest ethnic group 

and a tight-knit community called 

the Hakka. In the quiet and bucolic 

walled town of Meinong, visitors to 

Kaohsiung can still find the 

traditional red-brick buildings and 

courtyards on the main 

thoroughfare of Yongan Street. But 

the main attraction on this part of 

the countryside is a decades-old 

handicraft that still holds as much 

cultural relevance today as it did 

nearly a hundred years ago. 

Oil-paper umbrellas are 

what Meinong is most 

famous for, and it is a 

beloved custom of 

the Hakka people. 

Originally from 

Southern China, 

the Hakkas 

moved to the 

Meinong District in 

the late 1600s. 

Unlike other 

subgroups of the 

Chinese people, Hakkas are 

not named after a geographical 

location, but rather refers to those 

who speak the Hakka language. 

But it wasn’t until 1924 when 

Taiwan was still under the rule of 

Japan that oil-paper umbrellamaking 

was introduced to the 

Hakkas. 

At its peak, there were over 20 

oil-paper umbrella factories in 

Meinong. However, production 

drastically declined when modern 

mechanical nylon umbrellas 

became widespread in the 1960s. 

HAKKA BITES 

Ban tiao – a boiled or 

stir-fried flat rice 

noodle dish – is a 

must-try when in 

Kaohsiung. It’s also 

best paired with a cup 

of lei cha, a creamy tea 

made from locally 

produced hand-ground 

nuts and seeds. 

“Oil-paper umbrellas are what Meinong 

is most famous for, and it is a beloved 

custom by the Hakka people.” 

Luckily, the craft was featured in a 

documentary by a famous British 

public service broadcasting 

company, and on a 1980s 

Taiwanese drama titled Stars 

Know My Heart, helping it gain 

instant international recognition. 

With the show also airing in 

Japan, it gained prominence and 

sparked an interest among the 

Japanese viewers which led to a 

surge in demand and exports. 

ABOVE: 

Finished oil-paper 

umbrellas for sale 

are laid out neatly 

CIRCLE: 

A female oil-paper 

umbrella maker 

works diligently on 

the fine details 

PHOTOS FLICKR © CHIEHWEN SHEN; DREAMSTIME 


SHOP ONLINE WWW.UNIVERSALTRAVELLER.COM

Legend: Visit. Food. 

MORE THAN UMBRELLAS IN 

MEINONG 

A bike-friendly town, Meinong 

District’s other artistic spots are just a 

short pedal away. 

Meinong Hakka Culture Museum 

49-3 Minzu Road 

Meinong District 

Kaohsiung 

Jinxing Traditional Tailor Shop 

177 Yong’an Road 

Meinong Township 

Kaohsiung 

Meinong Prosperity Paper 

Umbrella Store 

362-1 Jhongshan Road 

Meinong Township 

Kaohsiung 


KAOHSIUNG 

STEEPED IN OIL 

The creation of this delicate work of 

art is no easy feat. First, the bamboo 

used as the frame of the umbrella is 

soaked in water for a month to 

remove the sugar content, thus 

preventing rotting and bug 

infestation. Secondly, it is dried in 

the sun for as long as one whole year 

before being ready to be cut into 

strips. Holes are bored into the strips 

where strings made of cotton are 

inserted. The bamboo scaffold is 

then topped and glued with a round 

piece of rice paper. Traditional 

Chinese designs such as flower 

blossoms are painted onto the 

umbrella and left to dry again. Lastly, 

they are dipped in persimmon oil 

PHOTOs FLICKR © TAIWAN TOURISM BUREAU; 123RF 

EMBEDDED IN 

TRADITION 

The oil-paper umbrella has made 

its way to be a significant part of 

Hakka culture. In fact, there is a 

Hakka tradition of parents giving 

their children an umbrella on their 

wedding day, as well as a dowry 

from the bride’s parents to the 

husband’s. 

The circular shape from a 

top-down view of an oil-paper 

umbrella symbolises the elements 

of a happy marriage – 

completeness, unity, and 

togetherness. As a bride leaves 

her house on the way to her 

wedding, her father, the 

bridesmaid or the matchmaker 

accompanies her with an open 

umbrella. While the umbrella 

primarily functions to protect its 

ABOVE: 

Women dressed in 

traditional Hakka 

costumes perform 

a dance with their 

umbrellas 

LEFT: 

An oil-paper 

umbrella seller 

gives her product 

a twirl 

“ While the umbrella primarily 

functions to protect its user from 

physical elements, it is also believed to 

act as a barrier against evil spirits.” 

user from physical elements, it is 

also believed to act as a barrier 

against evil spirits. Furthermore, 

the Hakka word for ‘paper’ sounds 

similar to that for ‘son’, while the 

Chinese character for umbrella 

contains five ‘human’ characters, 

implying a wish for many children 

and grandchildren to come. 

It is important to note that in 

mainstream Chinese culture, 

gifting a newlywed couple with an 

umbrella is considered 

unacceptable because the 

Mandarin pronunciation of the 

character umbrella sounds the 

same as the one for ‘to separate’. 

In other Hakka traditions, an 

umbrella is given by parents to 

their son when he reaches 16 years 

of age as a coming of age ritual, as 

well as being used as a prop for 

traditional dance ceremonies. 

three times to gain its varnished and 

waterproof quality before being put 

up for sale. 

Despite the foreseeable advent of 

worldwide progress and innovation, 

not everything can have a necessarily 

better alternative. There will never be 

a substitute for a handwritten letter, a 

good old-fashioned and reliable 

wristwatch, or, in the case of the Hakka 

people, a traditional handmade 

parasol as a representation of their 

unwavering spirit. 

Scoot flies to 

Kaohsiung three 

times a week. 




POCKET GUIDE 

A guide to Manila’s ubiquitous street food 

Zip through China cities aboard its rail transport system 

Hallmarked handicrafts from Chennai 

Cracking a cold one in Sapporo’s famous beer museum 

P44 

FEASTS 

FROM THE 

STREETS 

PHOTO DREAMSTIME


FEASTS 

FROM THE STREETS 

Manila’s distinctive Filipino street food is 

definitely worth a try and you only need a 

few Pesos to indulge your taste buds 

WORDS 


Mosey around the buzzy 

Manila thoroughfares, 

and you’re bound to 

discover that the city’s pulsating 

heart is pumped alive by humble 

vendors peddling a plethora of 

local nibbles. You see, delving 

into the city's street food scene 

is a distinctive experience that 

one could find difficult to put a 

finger on. It could be the act of 

chowing down quick comfort 

bites by the roadside while the 

blare of incessant car honks 

serves as your ambient music. 

Or perhaps it’s making casual 

conversations over fish balls with 

fellow foodies as public utility 

vehicles whizz past in the 

background. Whether you’re a 

daredevil when it comes to 

trying out idiosyncratic cuisine 

or a hesitant glutton, this 

specially curated list will leave 

you starved for Manila’s beloved 

street munchies. 

PHOTO 123RF 


TURON 

1 A favoured post-school 

merienda (afternoon snack) 

by a majority of young 

students, turon consists of 

thinly sliced bananas that 

are sprinkled with brown 

sugar and rolled into a 

spring roll wrapper before 

being deep-fried. 

Crunching into a freshly 

made turon gives a 

particular kind of 

gastronomic satisfaction 

that only homegrown 

residents would understand. 

10 Pesos per piece 

FISH BALLS 

2 Typically found swimming 

in a deep-frying pan of 

boiling oil, fish balls are 

round treats made from 

cuttlefish or pollock. 

Vendors will usually fish out 

the cooked balls using a 

metal strainer, or skewer 

them out with a thin 

bamboo stick. You can also 

choose from one of the 

three flavourful dipping 

sauces: spicy, sweet, or 

sweet and sour. 

1.50 to 2 Pesos per ball 

BANANA CUE 

3 Another merienda 

favourite among youngsters, 

banana cues are deep-fried 

saba bananas that are 

coated with caramelised 

sugar, and then skewered on 

a long wooden stick. Stroll 

outside any elementary 

school on a weekday 

afternoon, and chances of 

spotting a banana cue stand 

stationed outside are high. 

10 Pesos per stick 

3 

KWEK-KWEK 

4 Soft on the inside and 

crispy on the outside, 

kwek-kwek is deep-fried 

quail eggs that are 

generously coated with 

orange batter. Scarf down 

these tiny, addictive 

snacks while they’re 

crunchy. Pair it with the 

spicy vinegar dipping 

sauce to balance out the 

oiliness, and you’re sure to 

be reaching out for more. 

10 to 12 Pesos per set of 3 

1 

2 

4 



BETAMAX 

In most countries, blood from 

butchered animals is often 

discarded – but not in this case. 

Resembling the form of an 

obsolete recording format from 

the 90s of the same name, 

betamax is basically solidified 

chicken blood, which has been 

cubed and skewered before 

being grilled. Surprisingly, it 

doesn’t taste anything like 

blood. 


BINATOG 

Roving binatog vendors who 

are steadily pedalling their 

bicycles are typically spotted 

during after-lunch hours, 

clanging their little bell to 

signal their approach. A filling 

merienda on its own, binatog 

are white corn kernels and 

niyog stored in plastic pails. 

Sprinkle this coconut-based 

snack with a light dust of 

refined sugar or salt to taste. 

10 Pesos per serving 

5 

PHOTOS FLICKR © LAINE TREES; FLICKR © LALAPOOCH; DREAMSTIME; 123RF 

ADIDAS 

5 A name playfully derived 

from the famous German shoe 

brand, adidas intends no 

copyright infringement – only 

hunger-busting joy. Deliciously 

marinated over a hot charcoal 

grill, these soft tendons of 

barbecued chicken feet are a 

real treat, especially if you 

enjoy chewing out the small 

bones. 


BALUT 

6 The key to balut-consuming 

enjoyment is to not overthink 

it. To eat: crack the top part of 

the egg to make a small 

opening, season with salt or 

vinegar, slurp the broth inside, 

and then peel away the rest of 

the shell to reveal the contents 

for consumption. There are 

fried variations of this delicacy 

but it’s still best to relish balut 

on its own. 

12 to 15 Pesos per egg 

6 

DIRTY ICE CREAM 

7 Far from being an unclean frozen dessert, the 

‘dirty’ in dirty ice cream differentiates it from the 

store-bought or ‘clean’ versions. Peddled by a 

sorbetero (local ice cream vendor) in the streets, 

this homemade frosted is usually served in either 

a sugar cone or bread bun. 

10 to 15 Pesos per cone 

7 


ON THE GROUND 

RIDING THE 

DRAGON’S RAILS 

Journey around China’s city sights with old-fashioned, efficient 

ease via high-speed bullet trains and 26-hour sleepers 

WORDS 

ANDREW ANCHETA 

Rail transport is the weary 

holidaymakers’ antidote to 

horrendous traffic jams and stringent 

airport checks. Instead of getting stripsearched 

for prohibited items, you can relax 

in a spacious compartment with fully stocked 

carriage indulgences. Long journeys become 

social events, especially once the Tsingtao 

beer starts to flow. Friendly strangers share 

snacks and gossip, play card games, or simply 

relax while cities zoom past you. Thanks to 

the government’s enormous investments to 

their railway infrastructure, seeing China’s 

gems by train is now faster and more 

affordable than ever. So go forth for a Middle 

Kingdom railway tour aboard the country’s 

remarkable train system. 



ON THE GROUND 

SHENZHEN TO XI’AN 

Take the 9.5-hour gaotie 

from Shenzhen to Xi’an, 

unless you have 30 hours 

for the kuai train. 

SHENZHEN 

Hong Kong's closest neighbour 

may be an industrial centre, but 

don't mistake this glittering 

metropolis for a factory town. A 

hotbed for everything chic, 

Shenzhen is abundant with hip bars, 

live music, and sleek art districts. 

Technophiles will find themselves at 

home at the SEG electronics 

market, which sells everything from 

discount brand names to 

refurbished mobile phones. 

Spend a laid-back afternoon at the 

Loft Creative Culture Park, a 

neighbourhood dappled with 

trees, feline cafes, and quirky art 

galleries. 

XI'AN 

Formerly known as Chang'an, Shaanxi Province's 

capital of Xi'an is like a time machine to the Tang 

Dynasty — complete with medieval masonry, 

Taoist temples, and intricate architecture. The 

City Wall also has superb views of the old town 

with bike rentals within the locale available for 

those who seek adventure on their own. 

Stop by the old Muslim 

quarter near the Bell 

Tower for hand-pulled 

noodles or traditional 

lamb-and-bread soup. 

The kuai train to Nanjing 

would take 16 hours. If 

you’re in a hurry, simply 

take the five-hour gaotie 

train ride. 

XI’AN TO NANJING 


Legend: Facts. See. Eat. Tips. 

Take a ten-hour gaotie to 

Harbin. A kuai train takes 

thirty hours. 

NANJING-HARBIN 

NANJING 

Located at the edge of 

Siberia, this northernmost 

China city is best known for its 

annual ice and snow festivals. 

Every winter, world-class 

sculptors fly in to create 

lifelike snow sculptures that 

are vividly illuminated by 

multicolour neon lights. It’s a 

marvellous sight to behold, 

even for those who go here 

every year. 

Beijing gets all the credit, but Nanjing 

is also a star in many ways. 

Aesthetically, Nanjing has a foot in 

two worlds: it combines the antique 

charms of the old world with the 

aggressive modernisation of the new, 

as well as enough greenery to make 

you forget that you’re in a city. 

Xuanwu Lake – a scenic fifteenthcentury 

waterway encircled by 

temples and pagodas – is worth the 

trip by itself. For more extended 

adventures, the mountain tomb of 

Sun Yat-sen is a short hike from the 

city centre. 

The 1912 Bar Street is 

a popular local spot 

for late night food 

and drinks. Come 

morning, sate 

grumbling bellies at 

the old market in 

Laomendong, which 

specialises in fried 

soup dumplings and 

other calorific 

comfort foods. 

At 14 hours, a kuai train is 

bearable, but a bit tiring. 

You’re much better off 

spending six hours on 

the gaotie. 

HARBIN-TIANJIN 

Harbin is suffused with 

Russian and Mongolian 

influences, which is a blessing 

because nothing holds off 

subzero temperatures like a 

shot of vodka and a serving 

of Mongolian hotpot. 

HARBIN 

PHOTOS 699PIC 

NEED FOR SPEED 

China has three kinds of long-distance trains: kuai (fast), dong (really fast), and gaotie, which is a step or two below warp speed. Most passenger trains are either in the kuai or dong 

category, with the gaotie network still limited to high-traffic hubs. If you’re in a hurry and your destination is quite far, flying is still the fastest mode of transportation. For journeys under 

five hours, there’s a good chance that the gaotie will arrive faster than a plane, especially if you account for security checks, baggage claim, and weather delays. 


ON THE GROUND 

TIANJIN 

Take a five-hour gaotie 

train to Dalian, but the 

12-hour kuai train will do 

in a pinch. 

TIANJIN TO DALIAN 

Situated less than half an hour away from Beijing, 

Tianjin is one the country’s most underrated 

destinations. With its bustling and welldeveloped 

business districts, Tianjin has all the 

amenities of its more famous twin but with less 

pollution, forgiving traffic flow, and friendlier 

market prices. Take a crowd-free trip to the Great 

Wall or spend an afternoon wandering the 

European Concessions, whose mansions have a 

colonial elegance on par with those in Shanghai. 

Save at least one 

evening for strolling 

down The Waterfront, 

a brilliant nightscape 

lined with elegant 

restaurants and 

high-end cocktail bars. 

Dalian frequently ranks among 

China's most livable cities 

because of its bright skies and 

clean parks. A multi-ethnic 

melting pot with large 

communities of Japanese, 

Korean, and European 

migrants, Dalian’s seaport city 

also possesses enough culinary 

cross-fertilisation to keep Asian 

palates happy. 

Stop at any streetside stall in 

the Zhongshan district for 

inexpensive skewers and fresh 

seafood. Or if your taste buds 

are craving for Western 

flavours, head to Brooklyn Bar, 

a New York-style 

pizza parlour. 

DALIAN 

TAKE A SEAT 

Chinese trains have four kinds of tickets: 

hard seats, soft seats, sleepers, and 

standing. Standing is fine for short trips, 

especially if you can grab a table. If you’re 

going to ride longer than 12 hours, a bunk is 

your best bet if you wish to catch a snooze in 

between commutes. 

PHOTOS 699PIC 


SHOPPING CART 

HALLMARKED 

HANDICRAFTS 

Crafty goods from Chennai are proud products of 

dexterous skill, hints of kitsch, and heaps of history 

WORDS 

AKANKSHA NAIR 

A 

visit to Chennai warrants intangible 

take-backs; eating hearty Indian fare, 

interacting with friendly locals, and 

leisurely walking along its bustling streets are 

just some of the remarkable experiences one 

could have when here. Bathed in vivid colours 

and mesmerising culture, it’s no wonder that 

the city’s rich heritage is the reason why 

Chennai is one of India’s most modern and 

developed towns. 

Chennai is also notorious for its 

hand-made artisanal items. Honed by 

skilled craftspeople with an acute eye for 

detail, the city’s collection of handicrafts 

range from everyday products to 

highly-valued collector’s items. Here’s a 

handy guide to some of the Chennai's 

most prized and unique memorabilia and 

where to find them. 

PHOTO SHUTTERSTOCK 


Legend: Location. Tips. 

PALM-LEAF CRAFTS 

There’s no better way to stash away the itsy-bitsy 

items sprawled on your bedside table than to 

compartmentalise them into bright and artsy 

palm-leaf baskets. In particular, the craftswomen in 

Pulicat specialise in the art of weaving together dried 

palm fronds into products, ranging from baskets to 

mobile phone covers. The dried leaves can even be 

dyed into different colours, making for attractive 

souvenirs for you to take home. 

WHERE TO GET IT: AARDE Craft, a nongovernmental 

organisation which sells arts and crafts 

by Pulicat craftswomen. 

35/18, Pushpa Nagar Main Road, Nungambakkam 

facebook.com/aardecraft/ 

DID YOU KNOW? 

Every part of a palm tree is 

valuable and has varied 

uses. From the coir to the 

fruit, this is one of the most 

useful trees around! 

DID YOU KNOW? 

In several south Indian 

wedding traditions, 

korai grass mats are 

gifted to newlyweds as 

part of their trousseau – 

with the couple’s names 

and their wedding dates 

weaved into it – to mark 

the special occasion. 

KORAI GRASS MATS 

Handcrafted with focused attention, each korai (reed 

plant) grass mat can lend unique character to your living 

spaces. Originating from a small village in the Tirunelveli 

district of Tamil Nadu, the art of weaving these mats has 

been a long-standing practice. The intricate skill involved 

in interlacing and blending the designs is evident in the 

finished product – chic striped mats that are steeped in 

India’s craft tradition while holding great international 

appeal. In southern India’s tropical climate, sleeping on 

these mats laid out on a floor would help keep people 

fresh and comfortable at night. You could even replace 

your plastic yoga mat with this eco-friendly option – a 

leap in the direction of reducing one’s carbon footprint. 

WHERE TO GET IT: Order a customised pattamadai pai 

(local name for korai grass mat) at Korai Mats, a famous 

manufacturer and seller in Chennai. 

facebook.com/korai.mats 

PHOTOS 123RF 


SHOPPING CART 

DID YOU KNOW? 

To indicate its authenticity, 

the Government of India 

mandated manufacturers 

to label original 

Kanchipuram silk with a 

Silk Mark or Handloom 

Mark tag. 

KANCHIPURAM SILK 

The bright and shiny Kanchipuram saree (silk) has been 

synonymous with women’s fashion in Chennai. Woven from 

pure mulberry silk thread sourced from the south of India, and 

embroidered with zari (22K gold-plated silver threads) 

sourced from Gujarat, this stunning garment makes a 

statement in more ways than one. The body and the 

intricately designed border are woven separately and then 

firmly interlocked together. Any cloth tears to the body will 

not affect its attachment to the border – a feature which 

distinguishes this saree from all others. 

WHERE TO GET IT: Feel like Indian royalty by purchasing this 

elaborately crafted traditional garment at Thyagaraya Nagar 

(or simply T Nagar). This shopping district offers a wide 

variety of saree retailers, including popular ones like Nalli 

Silks and Pothys. 

THE ARTIST PROJECT 

Get to know the artists 

behind the gorgeous 

handiwork you purchase! 

We dug out this gem of an 

initiative by Abhinaya 

Rangarajan based out of 

Chennai, highlighting the 

artisans behind the 

products. 

theartistprojecttap 

theartistprojectinsta 

PHOTOS SHUTTERSTOCK; 123RF 

TANJORE PAINTINGS 

More than a keepsake, a Tanjore painting is an investment. This 

unique art form comprises of panel paintings done on wooden 

planks and cloth-based canvasses, distinguishable by its 

renowned gold coating. It can also contain intricate designs inlaid 

with shards of glass or rare gems, as well as depictions of Hindu 

gods and goddesses. The origin of the painting style has been 

traced back to the Maratha court of Thanjavur, now a city in the 

state of Tamil Nadu, located six hours from Chennai. 

WHERE TO GET IT: Head to CHAYA - Tanjore Art & More, a retailer 

for original Tanjore paintings among other decorative items. You 

can even order a customised Tanjore Painting and have them ship 

it to you anywhere in the world! 

CHAYA, Ground floor, Usman Court, 63 Eldams Road, Alwarpet, Chennai 600018 

chayatanjore.com 

DID YOU KNOW? 

Tanjore paintings are 

completely handmade 

and utilise no machinery. 

They can last as long 

as 80-100 years, 

thanks to the 22K 

gold foil used in 

the artwork. 


SHOPPING CART 

TEMPLE JEWELLERY 

Falling under a niche category of gems, 

temple jewellery in India derives its name 

from ornaments used to adorn Hindu deities. 

The generic article of temple jewellery is 

identified by its chunky pendants and beaded 

chains, as well as uncut precious stones. 

Designed with elements of intricate filigree, 

they may also include tiny figurines of notable 

Hindu gods and goddesses. South India 

boasts a vibrant and enthusiastic temple 

culture, and temple jewellery tends to form a 

valuable part of its cultural heritage. It is also 

heavily used by Indian classical dancers for 

their public performances. Even outside its 

ethnic appeal, the laborious skill involved in 

crafting temple jewellery makes each one a 

valuable piece of art. 

DID YOU KNOW? 

Authentic temple 

jewellery is often crafted 

from gold bars and is 

intricately designed from 

pure gold. 

WHERE TO GET IT: Sukra Jewellers boasts a 

wide variety of options in temple jewellery. 

2, North Mada Street, Mylapore 

sukra.com 

SHOP WHOLESALE 

Looking for an authentic 

local experience? Dive 

straight into the local 

shopper’s paradise by 

heading to Parry’s Corner, a 

shopping district where 

various wholesale products 

can be found. Known as one 

of the oldest shopping areas 

in Chennai, this marketplace 

boasts famous streets known 

for product-specific items. 

For instance, you can head to 

Perumal Mudali Street for 

bangles, Godown Street for 

textiles, and Bunder Street for 

stationery items. 

PHOTOS 123RF 


Indulge in authentic 

assam laksa at these 

local destinations 

Popular JB asam laksa 

now in Singapore, MAlaysia & INDONESIA 

D ' Laksa Malaysia D ' Laksa Malaysia www.dlaksa.com 

SINGAPORE 

MALAYSIA 

JOHOR BAHRU 

MELAKA 

KUALA LUMPUR 

PENANG 

INDONESIA 

BATAM 

• Hougang Mall 

• COMPASS ONE 

• KSL City Mall 

• Sutera Mall 

• AEON Bukit indah 

• Aeon bandar dato onn 

• Aeon permas jaya 

• Dataran Pahlawan 

• My TOWN Mall, Cheras 

• AEON BANDAR UTAMA 

• Aeon MID valley 

• Aeon BANDAR puchong 

• AEON taman maluri 

• aeon shah alam 

• Aeon 

Queensbay 

• Nagoya hill 

food streeT

CRACKING 

A COLD ONE 

Housed in a 128-year-old building, Japan’s only 

beer museum in Sapporo remains an ale-brewing 

powerhouse with an archival kick 

WORDS & PHOTOS 

JAYPEE LICUDAN 


SCOOT 63 MAY 2018 

TRAVEL JOURNAL



Stark-white snow, 

sacchariferous desserts, 

good-for-the-soul miso 

ramen, and highly-regarded ale 

are what make Hokkaido’s unique 

cultural identity stand out among 

the rest of the cities in Japan. I 

usually opt out of visiting 

museums in my travels but as a 

lager-lover, I couldn’t let myself 

pass a stop at the famous 

Sapporo Beer Museum. 

Hopping off the Sapporo 

subway, a red-brick establishment 

bearing the familiar star logo 

greets me as I make my way 

through the entrance. Oak barrels 

are lined up by the museum’s 

entryway as if welcoming me to a 

Japanese-style Oktoberfest. 

Inside, I’m transported back to 

1876 when Sapporo’s first brew was 

introduced; old architecture is 

evidently well-preserved despite 

being equipped with modern 

facilities. 

The staff's friendly reception of 

guests makes each visitor feel right 

at home. Admission is free for all, 

and a self-guided tour on the 

second floor is available for those 

who wish to explore the building at 

a leisurely pace. Every section of 

the museum details the progress 

and challenges of brewing the 

town’s first beer, as well as how the 

city of Sapporo progressed along 

with beer production. 

Exhibits are arranged in 

chronological order, and each 

section is numbered in sequence. 

One doesn’t have to be a beer 

drinker to appreciate the 

museum, as it showcases not just 

beer production, but also the 

fascinating backstory on how 

Sapporo came about as a city. I 

learn that Kaitakushi, one of the 

first beers ever distilled, was the 

official name of the old Hokkaido 



Development Commission which 

was primarily responsible for the 

development of the city and its 

beer. Interestingly, Kaitakushi also 

represents the famous red star logo 

of the brand. 

One may be surprised to 

discover that the first beer bottles 

used were wine bottles purchased 

from overseas suppliers. These are 

displayed in an enclosure where 

the evolution of the logo is also 

showcased on the museum walls, 

art gallery-style. 

Heading to the innermost part of 

the building, I check out the last 

section of the exhibits where an 

elegant tasting room is located. 

Everyone is welcome to chug down 

a cold one here, with a selection of 

best-selling beers and nonalcoholic 

drinks to choose from. I’m 

also told that for just 600 Yen, I can 

guzzle a glass of Sapporo Classic 

(available exclusively at this 

museum), Kaitakushi (a Sapporo 

original recipe), or the chart-buster 

Black Label. On hindsight, tasting 

authentic Sapporo beer, getting 

accustomed to its history, and 

interacting with chatty bartenders 

are experiences I wouldn't have 

read about in a guidebook. 


Special Promotion! 

30% discount off all services when you 

flash a photo of this advertisement*. 

Urban oasis in Chinatown. Open till late. 

For Him. For Her. For You. 

“very well set up for luxury spa treatments” - Donna, France 

“offers a very good massage service” - Mary, Singapore 

Massages: Express Neck + Back, Full body, Couple, Sports, Pre/Post-natal 

Beauty Treatments: Body Wraps, Scrubs, RF Facials, Waxing, IPL, mani/pedicure 

Others: Couple rooms, Infra-red Sauna, Couple jacuzzi, Celebrations, and more 

RECOMMENDED 

ON 

Top 10 Spas and Wellness 

Centres in Singapore 

Best Muuy Massage, 

Pre-Natal Massage 

Singapore 

RED LINE 

Sightseeing 

BROWN LINE 

Chinatown 

61 166 197 

A Fond Boutique Spa Pte Ltd 

263 Souu Bridge Road Singapore 058812 +65 6836 0676 email@afondspa.com 

*Discount applicable to non-promotional items only. Blackout dates apply. Inquire for more details.

RUNWAY REPORT 

Latest news from the Scoot family 

ONLINE BOOKINGS MADE EVEN EASIER 

The Scoot WeChat Mini Booking Site is 

designed from the ground up to make 

your travel experience as enjoyable as 

possible. It accompanies you 

throughout your journey, from 

preparing for your flight to landing at 

your destination. 

Scan and be more than just a friend 

with us on WeChat. We will let you in 

on the latest information, upcoming 

sales, exciting events, and route 

launches. What’s new and the best part 

of it all? You can now purchase with 

WeChat Pay. 

CONNECT WITH US 

We identified not one, but three ways for you to be 

our friend. So take us with you via Scoot’s WeChat 

Booking Site! 

HOW TO BOOK FLIGHTS VIA 

SCOOT’S WECHAT 

OFFICIAL ACCOUNT: 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

Follow and locate flyscootcn on WeChat. 

Tap 机票预订 on the navigation bar of 

Scoot’s Official Account. 

Select preferred flight dates and 

destinations. 

Enter passenger details and proceed to 

the payment page. 

Enter your WeChat wallet password. 

Complete payment. 

Notes 

• Payment is available only in CNY (China RMB). 

• Only accounts linked to authenticated China IDs can make payments. 

Visit us at www.flyscoot.com!

RUNWAY REPORT 

酷航微信预定 , 

给您更轻松便捷的预订体验 

为了让您拥有更轻松便捷的体验 , 

我们全新上线酷航官方微信预订页 

面 , 它将伴随您的整个旅程 , 从计 

划旅程预订航班到抵达您的目的 

地 , 一切都变得更方便。马上扫描 

二维码关注我们的微信公众号 , 您 

不但可以了解最新的促销信息 , 酷 

航最新航点及精彩活动 , 更重要的 

是 , 您现在可以通过我们全新的微 

信预订直接预订酷航机票 , 并支持 

通过微信支付付款 ! 

关注我们 

事不宜迟 , 您可以通过以下三种方式关注酷航官方微信公众号。 

如何通过在酷航公众号 

中预订机票 ? 

1 

关注酷航微信公众号 

2 

在导航栏中点击机票预订 , 打开酷航微 

信预订页面 

3 

选择目的地及相应航班时间 

4 

输入乘客信息并前往至付款页面 

5 

选择支付通道并输入您的微信支付密码 

6 

支付完成并出票 

备注 

• 通过微信支付付款仅支持以人民币结算支付 

• 微信支付仅支持已绑定并认证了中华人民共和国身份证的用户 

更多详情 , 请查看官网 www.flyscoot.com 


FREE Bugis Street 

Tourist Goodie Bag! 

Obtainable at Singapore Souvenir Centre | Level 1 

Redemption Hours: 10am - 7pm 

Terms & Conditions Apply* 

* Snap a picture of this ad to redeem! 

* Not Applicable for Singapore Passport Holders 

Over 600 Shops! 

Fashion, Souvenirs, Food and MORE! 

MUST VISIT Attraction! 

Bugis Street is Singapore’s largest street shopping location with over 600 concept stores. With 

a vast and dynamic product mix, Bugis Street is well known for its wide selection, competitive 

prices and quality merchandise that cater to anyone and everyone.

SCOOT 

PERSONALITY 

Who’s that cool fellow 

grinning in the middle? 

That’s Sharky Lee Shee 

Wei, Scoot’s A320 

Captain. In this issue, we 

feature our newest (and 

grooviest) flight captain 

to join our roster! 

TELL US SOMETHING INTERESTING ABOUT 

YOURSELF. 

I love flying, travelling, adventures, food, music, and 

riding motorcycles. Also, I ride my Can-Am Spyder and 

Ducati for leisure during off days, and will never turn 

down motorcycle chats! I miss flying my adrenalinepumping 

800knots-9G-turning F-16, so motorcycle 

riding is my nostalgic therapy. I also love travelling with 

Scoot’s staff travel benefits, wandering the streets for 

hours and trying all the local food around. 

WHEN DID YOU JOIN SCOOT AND WHAT WERE 

YOU DOING BEFORE JOINING SCOOT? 

I joined Tigerair in 2013, and I’m proud to be part of 

the Scoot family now after the Scoot-Tigerair merger! 

Before joining Scoot, I was a Lieutenant Colonel in the 

Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) for 25 years. 

During my time in RSAF, I mostly flew the F-16 fighter 

aircraft, and ’lm also a certified Fixed Wing 

Experimental Test Pilot (trained at the Empire Test 

Pilots’ School in 2002). 

Besides fighter 

operations, I was 

lucky enough to be 

given the opportunity 

to engage in aircraft 

certifications, 

evaluations and flight tests in RSAF for five years. To 

date, I have piloted more than 45 different aircraft 

types, including fighters, helicopters, transport planes, 

gliders, business jets, and World War II trainers. Some 

of my favourites are the Rafale, Typhoon, Harrier, Super 

Yak-52, and DC-3 Dakota. 

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO JOIN THE SCOOT 

FAMILY? 

The biggest attraction to me is the roster. The roster 

pattern allows us to have predictable off days and an 

enjoyable lifestyle, while still being able to clock 80-90 

hours a month. It is a simple but very effective solution 

to maintaining a highly productive flying crew, while still 

providing an enviable lifestyle. 

Got Scootitude? Be different and join us at Scoot! 

facebook.com/GotScootitude linkedin.com/company/scoot flyscoot.com/career 


RUNWAY REPORT 

HOW IS YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH SCOOT 

SO FAR? 

Incredibly positive! My colleagues on the 

A320 fleet are very lovely, and the Captains are 

all very approachable and fun-loving. Flying 

tempos can be high at times, but because of 

the well-balanced roster, we can maintain 

high-flying tempos and professionalism. 

HOW IS THE CULTURE LIKE IN SCOOT 

COMPARED TO YOUR PREVIOUS 

CAREER? 

The RSAF culture is built around 

professionalism, team spirit, strong 

leadership, and care for soldiers. Scoot’s 

culture – while still placing a strong focus on 

flight safety, timeliness, and a pleasant 

experience for our passengers – is slightly 

more relaxed. 

In Scoot, team spirit and chemistry are evident 

between the Flight Crew and Cabin Crew. We 

call each other by the first name, and at the 

end of every flight, we thank each other for the 

excellent teamwork displayed during the trip. 

We also wait for one another to be 

ready before walking out of the arrival hall as 

one team. When we exercise our staff travel 

benefits and fly as a passenger, it is common 

for us to treat the working crew with some 

local snacks. Whether it’s a box 

of Indonesian kueh lapis or Krispy Kreme 

doughnuts, such gestures are viewed as a 

form of appreciation and recognition to our 

colleagues. I really like this cohesive and 

genuine team culture in Scoot. 

HOW HAS SCOOT PROVIDED YOU WITH CAREER 

PROGRESSION OPPORTUNITIES? 

I recently attained my captaincy in February 2018, so you can say I 

am a very happy man! Scoot is transparent in its command upgrade 

process. Everyone has an opportunity for career progression, 

subject to market fluctuations and personal performance, of course. 

Join Sharky and the rest of the 

extended family at Scoot! 

Got Scootitude? Be different and join us at Scoot! 

facebook.com/GotScootitude linkedin.com/company/scoot flyscoot.com/career 


THE 

SCOOT 

EXTRA! 

Travel tips when you fly with Scoot 

PASSPORT 

GET A LEG UP 

Whether you’re tall or small, you deserve to sprawl! Whether on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner or the Airbus A320- 

family aircraft, we offer you various seating options according to your needs. 

Here’s a quick glance at the seating options available – simply approach our friendly Scootees if you wish to 

upgrade your arrangement on board after take-off! 

AIRBUS 

A320/A319 

STANDARD 

SEATS 

FRONT 

SEATS 

STRETCH 

SEATS 

Seat pitch 

28.5” 

28.5” 

38.4” 

Tips 

Reserve your preferred seats when 

you book your flights 

These seats are situated at Rows 2 to 

4, allowing you to disembark first 

when you arrive at your destination. 

These seats are front-row seats and 

seats situated at the emergency exits, 

giving you maximum leg space. 

On-board upgrade 

prices** 

Not available for on board upgrade, be sure to 

pre-select these seats on your next flight! 

SGD40 - 80 

BOEING 787 

DREAMLINER 

STANDARD 

SEATS 

SUPER 

SEATS 

STRETCH 

SEATS 

SCOOTBIZ 

more knee room 

more knee room 

30 % than Standard 50 % than Standard 

seats 

seats 2X 

the knee 

room of 

Standard seats 

Seat pitch 

30-31” 33-34” 

at least 34” 

38” 

Fully adjustable 

headrest 

(only in ScootinSilence quiet zone) 

(with adjustable leg rests) 

TIPS 

Reserve your preferred 

seats when you book your 

flights 

Available on 787-9 aircraft 

only 

These are front-row seats, 

so you’ll have no one in 

front of you! 

Enjoy a meal*, ScooTV and 

in-seat power access when 

you upgrade on board! 

On-board upgrade 

prices** 

SGD20 - 60 

(ScootinSilence quiet zone) 

SGD20 - 90 SGD40 - 140 SGD80 - 200 

*Applies only to guests who do not already have pre-purchased meals. **Prices are accurate as at 1 May 2018. ***Prices are subject to change 


RUNWAY REPORT 

SCOOTV STREAMING INFLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT 

It’s time to catch that movie that you’ve always wanted to watch! ScooTV, our streaming 

in-flight entertainment service on our Boeing 787 Dreamliners, will bring you the magic of the 

silver screen onto your very own laptop, tablet or mobile phone. 

WHY SCOOTV? 

• Binge watch from over 

100 favourite movies and TV 

shows onboard, this 

selection includes 

Hollywood blockbusters, 

Asian tearjerkers, and even 

treats for the young ones! 

All-you-can-watch, for an 

all-in price of US$11. 

• Compatible with all devices, whether you’re 

using a laptop, tablet or mobile phone. Do 

remember to download the ScooTV app, which 

is required to access media content onboard. 

For iOS users, to avoid disappointment, please 

download the ScooTV app from Apple Store 

before you board the plane. For Android users, 

you may download the ScooTV app when you 

connect to the in-flight portal. 

• Complimentary 

on ScootBiz 

– simply request 

for an access card 

from our friendly 

Scootees on board. 

For more information on what is screening now in-flight, pick up the ScooTV Entertainment Guide 

from your seat pocket! 

IN-SEAT POWER 

100% BATTERY, 0% WORRY! 

You can now stay connected and binge-watch on your shows without worrying that your battery’s 

drained. In-seat power is available on Scoot’s Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with standard 110V/60Hz 

charging outlets for you to charge your gadgets during the flight. 

ScootBiz passengers enjoy complimentary access to the in-seat power outlets. Economy passengers 

can access the in-seat power outlets for a small fee, simply approach any of our friendly Scootees! 

ELECTRONIC VISA APPLICATION MADE EASIER! 

Scoot has partnered with Evisa Solutions Pty Ltd to provide eVisa online application services 24/7, 365 

days a year to Scoot passengers travelling to these countries: Australia, India, Malaysia, Myanmar, 

United States, and Vietnam. 

You can now obtain your Visa in 3 simple steps: 

How OeVisa Works 

APPLY ONLINE 

MAKE PAYMENT 

WE WILL SEND YOUR VISA 

Simple fill in the online 

We accept credit card, debit 

Visas to most countries are 

1 2 3 

application form and let 

card and paypal, we’ll receive 

processed within 1-3 business days. 

us do the rest 

payment instantly 

You can track your application 

online or from your mobile 

eVisa can be purchased from Flyscoot.com, as part of your flight booking or you may add-on via Manage My Booking for 

existing bookings. Approval time ranges from 20 minutes up to 36 hours after we receive your application form, and you can 

easily login to your account to retrieve your visa information any time. Want to find out more? Visit evisa.flyscoot.com today. 


RUNWAY REPORT 

SCOOT CAFÉ 

Fresh from the oven, the Scoot Café menu brings you new 

additions to satisfy your hunger 

pangs 30,000ft in the air. 

CRUNCH ON THIS 

Craving for Singapore’s ‘national’ dish? Wait no more and indulge 

in a bag or two of Hainanese Chicken Rice Potato Chips brought 

to you by Flavours of the East. These crispy treats are inspired by 

local tastes and are sure to keep you reaching for more.The 

Hainanese Chicken Rice Potato Chips are available for a limited 

time from 1 May 2018 to 30 June 2018 (while stocks last) from the 

Scoot Café menu! 

SHOPPING IN THE AIR 

Go for some retail therapy onboard as we bring you this month’s trending 

product from our in-flight duty-free shopping guide, Scootalogue! 

JBL GO PORTABLE SPEAKER WITH LANYARD 

- Premium Audio experiences, wherever you go 

JBL offers Lifestyle Audio solutions that best meet 

consumer needs by combining premium audio technology 

with industry-first features for more seamless and 

personalised listening experiences in the home, on the go, 

and for everyday activities. 

With award-winning, self-powered speaker designs that 

bring movies, video games, or music to life, JBL GO by 

HARMAN offers market-leading personal audio solutions. 

HARMAN brands enable you to take your music with you 

all the time. 

Your all-in-one speaker solution, the JBL GO streams 

music via Bluetooth from smartphones and tablets, 

powered by a rechargeable battery with up to five hours of 

playtime. It is also equipped with a convenient noisecancelling 

speakerphone, allowing you to pick up calls 

without turning your speaker off. A built-in strap-hook and 

an additional carrying strap will enable you to bring your 

music everywhere. 

Get the JBL GO 

Portable Speaker 

from our inflight 

duty-free 

catalogue now! 


RUNWAY REPORT 

FLEET INFORMATION 

Scoot currently operates 40 aircraft, comprising of 16 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 

24 Airbus A320-family aircraft. Here’s a look at our fleet and products available on 

each respective fleet: 

BOEING 

787 FLEET 

BOEING 787-9 

BOEING 787-8 

Number Of Aircraft 

6 

10 

Number Of Seats 

SCOOTBIZ: 35 

ECONOMY: 340 

SCOOTBIZ: 21 

ECONOMY: 314 

SCOOTBIZ: 18 

ECONOMY: 311 

(WITH BUNK) 

Length 

62.82M 

56.72M 

Wingspan 

60.12M 

60.12M 

Height 

17.02M 

16.92M 

Typical Cruising 

Speed 

0.85 MACH 

0.85 MACH 

Products Available 

Onboard 

ScootinSilence Stretch 

Super 

Standard In-seat power Wi-Fi ScooTV 

AIRBUS A320-FAMILY FLEET 

Number Of Aircraft 

Number Of Seats 

Length 

Wingspan 

Height 

Typical Cruising 

Speed 

Products Available 

Onboard 

AIRBUS 320-232 

22 

180 

37.57M 

34.10M (35.80M with Sharklets) 

11.76M 

0.78 MACH 

AIRBUS 319-132 

2 

144 

33.84M 

34.10M 

11.76M 

0.78 MACH 

Stretch 

Standard 


GET 

OUTTA 

HERE! 

Find the best deals at 

flyscoot.com and travel 

the world like never before 

Manchester 

Heathrow 

Paris 

Amsterdam 

Dusseldorf 

Stockholm 

Copenhagen 

Berlin 

( Operating from 20 Jun 2018 ) 

Frankfurt 

Munich 

Zurich 

Milan 

Moscow 

Barcelona 

Fiumicino 

Istanbul 

NokScoot (a member of Value Alliance) 

from Bangkok (Don Mueang) 

NOK Air (a member of Value Alliance) 

via Bangkok (Don Mueang) 

Athens 

Chiang Rai 

Tianjin 

Shenyang 

Qingdao 

Nanjing 

Dalian 

Lampang Nan 

Udon Thani 

Phrae 

Mae Sot 

Loei 

Phitsanulok 

Khon Kaen 

Nakhon 

Phanom 

Sakon Nakhon 

Roi Et 

Bangkok 

Buri 

Ram 

Ubon 

Ratchathani 

Dubai 

Taipei 

Ranong 

Trang 

Chumphon 

Surat Thani 

Nakhon Si 

Thammarat 

Jeddah 

Vanilla Air (a member of Value Alliance) 

via Tokyo (Narita), Osaka and Taipei 

Sapporo 

Hakodate 

Cebu Pacific (a member of Value Alliance) 

via Cebu and Manila 

Tuguegarao 

Cauayan 

Okinawa 

Amami 

Legazpi 

Boracay 

Roxas 

Tacloban 

Iloilo Bacolod 

Bohol 

Dumaguete 

Puerto 

Butuan 

Ozamis 

Princesa Dipolog Cagayan de Oro 

Pagadian Ozamiz 

Zamboanga 

Davao 

Cotabato 

General 

Santos 

Jeju Air (a member of Value Alliance) 

via Seoul, Taipei, Osaka and Tokyo (Narita) 

Virgin Australia 

via Melbourne, Sydney, Gold Coast 

and Perth 

Cairns 

Vladivostok 

Busan 

Weihai 

Nagoya 

Fukuoka 

Okinawa 

Kota Kinabalu 

Ayers Rock (Uluru) 

Sunshine Coast 

Brisbane 

Sydney 

Adelaide 

Melbourne Canberra 

Launceston 

Hobart 

Cape Town 

Johannesburg 

LEGEND 

Scoot Base 

Flights operated by Scoot and Singapore Airlines / SilkAir 

Flights operated by NokScoot 

Flights operated by Virgin Australia 

Flights operated by Cebu Pacific 

Flights operated by Scoot 

Flights operated by Singapore Airlines and SilkAir 

Flights operated by NOK Air 

Flights operated by Vanilla Air 

Flights operated by Jeju Air 

Scoot is a member of Value Alliance 


ROUTE MAP 

Harbin 

Amritsar 

New Delhi 

Ahmedabad 

Mumbai 

Bengaluru 

Kochi 

Male (Maldives) 

Lucknow 

Hyderabad 

Chennai 

Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) 

Coimbatore 

Trivandrum 

Kathmandu 

Visakhapatnam 

Colombo 

Kolkata 

Dhaka 

Mandalay 

Luang Prabang 

Chiang Mai 

Yangon 

Bangkok 

Tianjin 

Shenyang 

Dalian 

Seoul 

Qingdao 

Zhengzhou 

Hiroshima 

Xi’an 

Nanjing 

Fukuoka 

Wuxi/Suzhou 

Chengdu 

Shanghai 

Chongqing Wuhan Hangzhou 

Changsha Nanchang 

Ningbo 

(Operating from 2 Jul 2018) 

Nanning 

Hanoi 

Vientiane 

Haikou 

Siem Reap 

Phnom Penh 

Guangzhou Fuzhou 

Kunming Quanzhou Taipei 

Xiamen 

Shenzhen 

Macau Hong Kong Kaohsiung 

Da Nang 

Jinan 

Ho Chi Minh City 

Koh Samui 

Phuket 

Krabi 

Hat Yai 

Langkawi 

Penang 

Ipoh 

Medan 

Kuantan 

Kuala Lumpur 

Kuching 

Pekanbaru Singapore 

Beijing 

Clark 

Manila 

Kota Kinabalu 

Bandar Seri Begawan 

Balikpapan 

Boracay 

Cebu 

Palembang 

Makassar 

Jakarta Semarang 

Bandung 

Surabaya 

Yogyakarta 

Bali Lombok 

Davao 

Manado 

Sapporo 

Nagoya Tokyo (Narita) 

Haneda 

Osaka 

New Zealand 

United States of America 

Darwin 

Cairns 

Auckland 

Christchurch 

Wellington 

New York 

San Francisco 

Los Angeles 

Houston 

Honolulu 

Perth 

Adelaide 

Brisbane 

Gold Coast 

Sydney 

Canberra 

Melbourne 


RUNWAY REPORT 

YOUR SAFETY & COMFORT 

SAFETY FIRST. NO COMPROMISE 

Your safety is our number-one priority, but you have a part to play too. The 

cabin crew’s safety briefing and the safety information card in your seat pocket 

provide crucial details in the unlikely event of an emergency. Always pay 

attention to these details on each flight you take because information can 

vary, such as the location of emergency exits and equipment. If in doubt about 

anything safety-related, ask. Our crew are specially trained to ensure your 

safety at all times. Regardless of the situation, safety must never be 

compromised, so follow the crew’s safety instructions at all times. It is an 

offence to refuse to obey any lawful command of the captain or cabin crew. 

KEEP 

MOVING 

Maintaining good 

blood circulation 

and muscle 

relaxation goes a 

long way towards 

avoiding Deep Vein 

Thrombosis (DVT), 

a painful condition 

that arises when a 

clot obstructs 

blood flow in a vein. 

Though it’s a rare 

occurrence, don’t 

take any chances, 

especially during 

long flights. During 

your flight, move 

your legs and feet 

for a few minutes 

every hour. Stand 

up and stretch your 

arms and chest. 

PORTABLE ELECTRONIC 

DEVICES 

You may use your lightweight portable 

electronic devices (“Flight Safe” mode 

on A320 /”Transmitting” mode on B787) 

unless advised by crew. Personal headphones 

or earphones must be unplugged 

and not in use when the aircraft is taxiing, 

taking off and landing. Laptops may not be 

used and must be properly stowed when 

the aircraft is taking off, landing and on 

the ground. If you’re boarding or disembarking 

the aircraft on the tarmac, you must 

switch off your devices. At any point of the 

flight, the captain or cabin crew may advise 

you to turn off your devices. 

STAY HYDRATED 

Low humidity in the cabin 

can cause your body to 

dehydrate. Drink lots of 

non-alcoholic beverages 

during your flight and apply 

moisturiser liberally to 

combat dryness. Consume alcohol in 

moderation while on board as high altitude 

intensifies its effects. The consumption of 

any alcoholic beverage not purchased from 

the inflight menu is not permitted. 

SCOOT SECURITY POLICY 

Scoot reserves the right to deny boarding to 

passengers who are inappropriate on board or 

on the ground with their comments or behaviour. 

DON’T SMOKE 

Scoot enforces a strict no-smoking policy on 

all its flights, which also prohibits the use of 

e-cigarettes. Please refrain from lighting up in 

the lavatories, as doing so could endanger the 

safety of your fellow guests or disrupt the flight. 

CABIN PRESSURE 

Changes in cabin pressure during 

the flight may cause discomfort in 

the ears. Relieve ear pain by 

swallowing hard, holding your 

nose and gently breathing out 

with your mouth closed. If 

travelling with toddlers or infants, 

give them a sweet or feed them a 

snack when cabin pressure rises, 

particularly during take-off. 

CABIN CLEANLINESS 

Please do not place rubbish or other 

discarded items in your seat pocket or 

on the floor. Trash bins and napkins are 

located in the lavatories. Unless you have 

strict dietary requirements not catered for 

on board our flights, please refrain from 

bringing outside food and beverages into 

the aircraft. We have a delicious array of 

meals and snacks on offer, including 

tempting vegetarian and halal options. 

VISIT FLYSCOOT.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION

May 2018 Issue - Scoot In-Flight Magazine

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?