SEASON'S GREETINGS Luxury yacht staycations and charters for travel buffs Festive feasts, wine pairings and travel-inspired gifts - ONE 15 ...
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N O V/ D E C
2020
A P U B L I C AT I O N O F
ONE°15MARINA
SENTOSA COVE
SINGAPORE
SEASON’S GREETINGS
Luxury yacht staycations and charters for travel buffs
+
Festive feasts, wine pairings and travel-inspired gifts
ALL ABOARD
DECK THE
HALLS
commitment to environmental conservation and
preserving marine biodiversity.
ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove was one of
the first hotels in Singapore to reopen during
Phase 2 of the Circuit Breaker, and through it all,
we have managed to keep the Club a safe space for
our Members and guests by diligently complying
with all the precautionary
THE CLUB IS safety measures.
While safety measures remain
DETERMINED in place, the Club is determined
2
TO NOT ALLOW to not allow them to dampen the
THE SAFETY spirit of the Yuletide season. The
festive offerings at LATITUDE
MEASURES Bistro are a testament to
TO DAMPEN that—from the Christmas Eve
THE SPIRIT OF buffet dinner, to Christmas Day
brunch, and more. In this issue
THE YULETIDE of Longitude, we explore the
SEASON. unique history behind some of
the season’s classics available
at LATITUDE Bistro, such as traditional roast
turkey, honey glazed ham, roasted beef sirloin and
log cakes, plus tips for wine pairings (page 18).
ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove also has a
variety of special holiday events for the little ones.
I
Feed your travel bug with an escapade to
t’s the end of a year again, and looking back, this year has Singapore’s leisure island, Sentosa, for a hotel
seen us all grappling with a global pandemic and a series staycation or a sea-cation. ONE15 Luxury
of unprecedented events. At ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Yachting, the Club’s yacht chartering company, has
Cove, we are pleased to have still managed to rack up several also kick-started sea-cations, if you would like to
important milestones. explore a holiday on water (page 14).
For one, our marina reconfiguration, along with upgraded facilities The year’s challenges have taught us resilience
to accommodate a larger crowd of boating enthusiasts, is almost and strengthened our will to carry on. Let us end
complete. ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove was also awarded 2020 on that uplifted note and look forward to a
the Traveller’s Choice 2020 award by TripAdvisor. We celebrate prosperous 2021.
our 13th anniversary this year, and the award comes in as an
acknowledgement and pertinent reminder for us to continue in our Jonathan Sit
efforts to provide the best experiences for our Members as well as our Acting General Manager
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020
CONTENTS N O V/ D E C
2020
14
01 14
GM’S MESSAGE ON WATER
From the desk of Luxury yachting sea-cations
Jonathan Sit, Acting are a perfect way to indulge
General Manager, ONE°15 your love of travel and
Marina Sentosa Cove. adventure.
04 18
TEAM & FINE FOOD
CONTACTS Add a dose of history, along
Connect with us! with sumptuous wine pairings,
Send us your feedback or to your festive table at
explore partnership and LATITUDE Bistro.
networking opportunities.
2 24
05
LUSH ESCAPES
FUN FACTS Christmas traditions from
Quaint Christmas traditions of around the world to explore on
seafarers—at sea and on shore. your next year-end holiday.
06
ESSENTIALS
Gift your special someone the
joy of wanderlust with these
travel-inspired products.
10
FOCUS
The world is an oyster of
opportunities and possibilities
for serial entrepreneur
Masoud Bassiri.
12
24
FOCUS
Sylvia Ng of ONE15 Luxury
Yachting is commited to
creating memorable
yachting experiences.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020
34 44
CLUB PERKS NOTICES
ONE°15 MARINA
Dining, sports and The latest news and SENTOSA COVE, SINGAPORE
wellness promotions developments at ONE°15 #01-01, 11 Cove Drive, Sentosa Cove,
Singapore 098497
for Members. Marina Sentosa Cove. T 6305 6988
F 6376 0888
W www.one15marina.com
39 46 instagram.com/one15marina
linkedin.com/company/one15-marina
RSVP SAILING facebook.com/one15marina
twitter.com/one15marina
Exciting upcoming Club events CALENDAR
to add to your calendar. Upcoming boating events
from around the world.
42
48
HAPPENINGS
The Club marked its 13th year THE WORLD TATLER ASIA (SINGAPORE) PTE LTD 3
with an eco-themed treasure AT YOUR 34 Bukit Pasoh Road,
Singapore 089848
hunt for kids, trivia games, FINGERTIPS T 6323 1606
showcase of its coral garden Live it up at the best marinas, F 6323 1692
E sginfo@tatlerasia.com
journey, coral-themed reusable yacht, golf and city clubs
bag and a staycation giveaway. around the globe. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kissa Castaneda
PROJECT EDITOR Sandhya Mahadevan
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Charlene Lee
CONTRIBUTORS Wei K, Ryan Reuben,
Joanne Vincent, Cara Yap
IMAGES Benny Loh, Shutterstock,
Unsplash, 123rf.com
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Grace Lim
TRAFFIC EXECUTIVE Jane Lau
TIMES PRINTERS PTE LTD
16 Tuas Ave 5, Singapore 639340
T 6311 2888
All rights reserved, copyright © 2018
Edipresse Media Singapore Limited
MCI (P) 023/08/2020
34
COVER IMAGE
Ray Kohar, Kristel Hayes/Unsplash
Information is correct at time of print and subject to change without prior notice.
TERMS & CONDITIONS: All published rates are applicable to members only. All prices are in Singapore dollars and subject to prevailing GST. All rates for members’ guests and foreign visiting
yachts are subject to an additional 10 per cent service charge. Promotional rates are applicable for the duration indicated, and are not valid for the eve of PH/PH/blackout dates, unless stated
otherwise. ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, Singapore, reserves the right to revise the rates and vary, delete or add to the terms and conditions at its own discretion and without prior notice.
ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, Singapore, reserves the right to cancel any activity should the sign-up for the event fall below the required minimum group size. Guests must be accompanied
by members to participate in all activities and during use of Club facilities. Payment of all F&B expenses and activity fees will be made through members’ account, including expenses and
activity fees incurred by members’ guests. Presiding terms of use apply to all promotions. Please refer to www.one15marina.com for more details. ^ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, Singapore,
assumes no liability or responsibility for the acts or defaults of service providers or defects in the goods or services offered in all events/activities/trainings conducted. Any dispute about the
quality or service standard must be resolved directly with the third party service provider, ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, Singapore, will not be responsible for any injury, loss or damage
suffered as a result of events/activities/trainings. All information is correct at time of printing and subject to change without prior notice. Photos used are for illustration purposes only.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020
SAILING
TEAM & CONTACTS
CALENDER
CHAIRMAN MANAGEMENT TEAM DIRECTORY
Arthur Tay
ACTING GENERAL MANAGER MEMBERSHIP FITNESS & SPA
BOARD OF ADVISORS Jonathan Sit 9am – 6pm (Daily) Fitness Centre
Prof Chou Loke Ming jonathan.sit@one15marina.com 6305 6988 7am–10pm (daily)
Richard Eu Yee Ming membership.sc@one15marina.com 6305 6981
Leong Wai Leng DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER gym.sc@one15marina.com
Daniel Lim Sabrina Shi MARINA
Low Teo Ping sabrina.shi@one15marina.com 9am–6pm (daily) Spa Rael
Tan Sri (Dr) Francis Yeoh 6305 6991 11am–8pm (Mon–Fri)
Dr Stephen Riady HEAD OF F&B AND EXECUTIVE CHEF cr.sc@one15marina.com 10am–8pm (Sat, Sun & PH)
Desmond Goh 6271 1270
ONE°15 AMBASSADOR desmond.goh@one15marina.com ACCOMMODATION
Joseph Schooling 24 hours (daily) RECREATION
DIRECTOR, 6305 6988 Recreation Centre
FLAG OFFICERS CATERING SALES frontdesk.sc@one15marina.com 9am–7pm (daily)
CAPTAIN OF POWERBOAT Joni Lim 6305 6980
David Loh joni.lim@one15marina.com DINING recreation.sc@one15marina.com
WOKº15 Kitchen
CAPTAIN OF ECO-INITIATIVES DIRECTOR, 11.30am–2.30pm (Tue–Sat) Infinity and Children’s Pools
Galen Tan MEMBERSHIP 11am–2.30pm (Sun/PH) 7am–9pm (daily)+
Teresa Chu 6pm–10pm (Tue–Sun) Tennis Courts*
CAPTAIN OF JETSKI teresa.chu@one15marina.com *Closed on Mondays, 7am–10pm (daily)+
Andrew Chua except Public Holidays Arcade Room
DIRECTOR, MARINA Last order at 2.15pm for lunch 9am–9pm (daily)
DISCIPLINARY James Roy and 9.45pm for dinner
COMMITTEE james.roy@one15marina.com 6305 6998 CORPORATE/PRIVATE FUNCTIONS
Edmund Lee wok15.sc@one15marina.com 9am–6pm (Mon–Fri)
Lionel Tan SENIOR MANAGER, 6305 6990
Keith Magnus HUMAN RESOURCE LATITUDE Bistro catering.sc@one15marina.com
4 Evelyn Teo 7am–10pm (Sun–Thu & PH),
evelyn.teo@one15marina.com last order 9.15pm ONE°15 LIFE
7am–11pm (Fri–Sat & Eve of PH), Explore the high seas in
SENIOR MANAGER, FINANCE last order 10.15pm style with ONE°15 Life, Singapore’s
Wendy Toh 6305 6982 premier luxury yacht charter service.
wendy.toh@one15marina.com bistro.sc@one15marina.com 6305 9676
6271 9433
SENIOR MANAGER, Bar Nebula sales@one15life.com
ONE15 LUXURY YACHTING (Temporarily closed) www.one15life.com
Sylvia Ng
sylvia.ng@one15luxuryyachting.com Pool Bar ONE15 MANAGEMENT AND
11am–7pm (Mon–Fri & Eve of PH) TECHNICAL SERVICES
MANAGER, ADVERTISING AND 10am–8pm (Sat, Sun & PH) The company of choice for your marina
PARTNERSHIPS and club management and development
Esther Ang innerCove needs. ONE15 Management and
esther.ang@one15marina.com 8am–10pm (daily) Technical Services aims to create
vibrant and service- oriented leisure
MANAGER, SECURITY Boaters’ Bar destinations in Asia with long-term
Azhar Bin Hamid (Temporarily closed) commercial viability.
azhar.hamid@one15marina.com 6278 8555
HELIOS93 (Lobby Bar) 6273 3555
8am–9pm (daily) contactus@one15management.com
www.sutlenterprise.com
24-HOUR
EMERGENCY
CONTACTS
Security: +65 6305 6995
Marina: +65 9071 7604
*Charges apply
+ Guest fees apply
LONGITUDE JULY-AUGUST
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
2020 2020
FUN FACTS
1
It is common practice for
seaside communities to
have ship or boat parades
for Christmas. The ONE15
Christmas Boat Light Parade™
is an ode to that tradition.
Ship A Holly!
FIVE QUAINT CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS RELATED
TO THE SEA AND SEAFARERS
2
Sailors have a long tradition
3
On board the Royal
of entertaining themselves Navy during the First World
with song. Much before the War, Christmas was celebrated
Christmas carols we know with a religious service on the ship,
after which the Captain and the
4
came about, songs related to officers would visit the messes in Nikolaos, the patron saint of Greece,
the story of Christmas such the lower decks. It is tradition is known as the protector of sailors
as “The First Noël,” “The Holly for them to take a seat and and seamen. It is tradition in Grecian
sample every dish at islands to set out small fishing boats
and the Ivy,” and “I Saw Three each of them. decorated with lights on Christmas
Ships” were contemporary with in his honour. He is traditionally also
18th-century pirates. represented in brine-soaked clothes and
face covered with perspiration as he has
5
been fighting storms to save ships and
sailors from drowning.
IT IS CONSIDERED BAD LUCK TO SET
SAIL ON A FRIDAY, AS IT ALLUDES TO THE
CRUCIFIXION OF JESUS, WHEREAS IT IS
GOOD LUCK TO BEGIN ON A SUNDAY,
THE DAY OF THE RESURRECTION.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020
ESSENTIALS
Global
Sojourns
LUXE GIFTS AND FABULOUS ADDITIONS
THAT SATISFY YOUR WANDERLUST
BY BRINGING THE WORLD RIGHT
INTO YOUR HOME.
BY WEI K
Mediterranean
Medley
Imagine picturesque ports, pink skies,
deep blue waters and freshly caught
seafood. This allure and laid-back
glamour of the Mediterranean is what
6 Chanel’s Cruise 2020 collection aims
to embody with exuberant colours and
effortless cuts. From the versatile maxi
skirts—that double up as strapless
midi dresses—and embroidered
bandeau tops, to classic sequinned
cardigans and sheer rompers, there’s
everything to put you in the mood of
a romantic escapade. Chanel’s Cruise
Viva O Brasil 2020 collection is available at all
These sparkling showstoppers Chanel boutiques; chanel.com
from Dior’s Tie & DIOR fine
jewellery collection immerse
you in the spirit of a Brazilian
Carnival. Vibrant gems—think
pink sapphires, pistachio-hued La Dolce Vita
cultured pearls and glittering Escape to an Italian summer with
tsarvorites—mesh the joyful Tod’s Capri Lifestyle capsule
colours of tie-dye with brilliant collection. Think structured
artistry. Organic lines mirror the handbags in deep greens and blues
humble artform’s unpredictable that recall rolling hills and pristine
patterns, while interspersed sea views, leather-trimmed raffia
rows of diamonds and shopping bags and majolica-
mismatched gem sizes and cuts motifed espadrilles. For the men,
add texture as well as accentuate classic Gommino loafers redone
the festive colours and curves of with espadrille-inspired soles
each piece. Dior’s fine jewellery scream lazy Italian afternoons. Tod’s
range is available at #02-12/13 Capri Lifestyle collection is available
ION Orchard; dior.com. at all Tod’s boutiques; tods.com
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020
Seoul Dreaming
There’s a certain magic about the
Korean capital—how it packs
its idiosyncrasies and fast-paced
excitement alongside culture,
history and tradition. Le Labo’s
new City Exclusive fragrance
Citron 28 captures this daring
yet conservative side of Seoul in a
spritz. Top notes of lemon, ginger Sound Central
and jasmine represent the city’s Bang & Olufsen’s Beosound
energy while musk and cedar call Balance home sound system sits
to mind its gardens and temples. like a piece of art, but packs a
Le Labo Citron 28 is available at strong bass kick and surround
#B1-31 Takashimaya Shopping sound with seven speakers. It
Centre; lelabofragrances.com also has an internal microphone,
which will analyse the room that
its placed in to create a customised
audio map for an immersive
Into The Woods listening experience, and two
If a rustic wooden cabin up in the opposing woofers that help cancel
Canadian Rockies is your fantasy, out vibrations. So you can imagine
Brunello Cucinelli’s new homeware you are in Berlin’s Berghain
range can help recreate that without keeping your neighbours
ambience right here in Singapore. up. Bang & Olufsen’s Beosound 7
Think wood furniture and game Balance is available at #01-05
sets that retain a natural woody Grand Hyatt; bang-olufsen.com.
scent, uniquely mismatched hand-
crafted ceramic dinnerware, linen
place mats, aged steel and wooden
utensils, and ebano-scented
ceramic candles, and more. Brunello Anchors Away
Cucinelli’s home range is available What you get when a fine
at all Brunello Cucinelli boutiques; watchmaker such as IWC
shop.brunellocucinelli.com. collaborates with a luxury men’s
lifestyle brand such as Orlebar
Brown: the Portugieser Yacht
Club Chronograph Edition
“Orlebar Brown” timepiece. It
features Orlebar Brown’s signature
red and white accents set against a
handsome navy dial with a textile-
inlaid rubber strap—function
and form. Its water resistance
of 6 bar and a 68-hour power
reserve make it as perfect a
companion on an action-
packed adventure in open
waters as a relaxing day spent
poolside. IWC’s Portugieser Yacht
Club Chronograph Edition “Orlebar
Brown” is available at all IWC
boutiques; iwc.com.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020
LUXE LIFE FESTIVE MOOD Our guide to the most delectable Christmas feasts and luxurious yacht staycations offered by the Club, and magical holiday destinations and inspiring stories to countdown to the new year with. Christmas is one of the best times to visit Barcelona as the city’s many attractions, including Parc GÜell, light up and turn festive.
LUXE LIFE FOCUS
PASSION
PURSUITS
FRESH NEW CHALLENGES, THE THRILL OF
INNOVATION AND CONSTANT CREATIVITY
ARE THINGS THAT SERIAL ENTREPRENEUR
MASOUD BASSIRI THRIVES ON.
TEXT SANDHYA MAHADEVAN PHOTOGRAPHY BENNY LOH
STYLING CHARLENE LEE
10
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020“Y
ou have to have that fire BRANCHING OUT
in the belly. That fire is an Singapore was also ripe grounds for Bassiri to start his entrepreneurial
energy and the source of it journey. “I came to Singapore in 1991. So, quite a bit of the
is passion—passion about infrastructure you see today was not there at that time. But it struck
anything that you want to me as a very well-positioned country with good resources, regional
become an entrepreneur for.” That’s Masoud Bassiri’s opportunities and engineering talent (some of whom he still works
advice to budding entrepreneurs—as well as his with in different capacities),” he says.
guiding mantra through life. Today, Bassiri is what one would call a serial entrepreneur, having a
That fire in the belly for him was always a deep foot in a variety of industries, including healthcare under Jasper Capital,
desire to innovate and find creative solutions to which he co-owns with friends. In August this year, the company,
problems and issues—fuelled by a curious mind from in partnership with New Jersey-based Angel Medical Systems Inc.,
a young age. “Ever since I was six or seven years old, launched a one-of-a-kind implantable cardiac monitoring device called
I used to take apart every appliance in the house, Guardian® system. The device has the ability to detect a
and put them back together,” Bassiri recalls with a heart attack as early as two minutes from its formation,
mischievous glee at how it used to upset his mother as “YOU KNOW, as well as any symptoms of it by initiating alarms
the appliances were mostly new. I’M 57 YEARS whenever it finds any anomalies in heart function.
He attributes a lot of his zeal to his industrial- Four patients in Singapore were the first in the
engineer grandfather, who used to take Bassiri and
OLD. SO world to successfully receive the implants—renowned
his sister along to exhibitions and expositions— IT’S NOT cardiologist Dato Dr Leslie Lam and a team at
thereby “industrialising” them in their minds when ALL ABOUT Farrer Hospital performed the medical procedures.
they were just 10 to 12 years of age. From a purely technical world and profit-based
PROFITS viewpoint to ventures tuned towards saving lives was
SETTING GOALS ANYMORE almost a natural progression for Bassiri. “You know, I’m
Raised in the state of Indiana, USA, Bassiri
graduated in software engineering from Purdue
AND HOW 57 years old. So it’s not all about profits anymore and
how to make returns on investment,” he admits. “Now
11
University and began his career writing code for TO MAKE it’s more like, while we’re making money, can we make
operating systems, which were, back then, just RETURNS ON a difference?”
brilliant ideas that were getting jump-started. Then, In the same vein, there’s a change in direction
the telecommunications industry came calling. His INVESTMENT. post-COVID-19 from a predominantly lifestyle focus
stint with Motorola—and incidentally, what brought NOW IT’S LIKE, as well. “It used to be about enhancing the quality
him to Singapore in 1991—made him part of a team
that did the coding for the first and early generation
WHILE WE’RE of life, but now my venture focus circles around life’s
neccesities,” adds Bassiri.
of mobile phones, which set the ball rolling for a MAKING When it comes to his personal life, that “necessity”
string of patents that Bassiri has to his name today. MONEY, CAN involves taking time to enjoy the good things in life.
In many ways, his early career ventures helped Today, Bassiri and his wife are also savouring the island
uncover Bassiri’s innate nature to always think out WE MAKE A life at Sentosa Cove—since their three grown-up
of the box. Soon, Bassiri found himself saying “yes” DIFFERENCE?” children are well on their way to charting successful
to a role in the American telecom giant’s regional careers themselves.
base in Singapore as head of its technical and An avid golfer, Bassiri spent a good part of Circuit Breaker
systems division. indulging some of his other favourite pastimes as well—watching
It was a bold call, considering Singapore was movies, savouring good wine and grilling up a storm on his balcony
completely foreign to him—it wasn’t even on his radar with a view of the yachts in the marina.
at that time. But that apart, to say Bassiri’s immersion “The lifestyle at Sentosa has very unique features. First of all, you
into Singapore was unlike most would not be an have a resort lifestyle. Second, commute to the central business district
overstatement. Bassiri moved to Nortel Networks, is just two lights, ” he enthuses. And, as one would expect to hear from
becoming part of a team that was responsible for a self-professed foodie, he throws in a bit of trivia—“most people don’t
Singapore’s first digital network—and first-time realise that from VivoCity inwards into Sentosa, there are about 400
systems of that calibre in the world—as well as the restaurants within to choose from.”
installation of a full mobile network in Singapore. So, “I think a lot about different ideas,” says Bassiri in closing, adding
if ever you need a lifeline in a quiz competition on that to his list of favourite pastimes. And that’s proof enough that he is
Singapore’s telecommunications systems, you know nowhere close to retiring to domestic bliss—an upcoming venture and
whom to call. equally remarkable future launch should prove that.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020LUXE LIFE FOCUS
SEVEN-YEAR SWITCH
“I HAVE A The opportunity to learn new
GOOD TEAM. things and overcome new
challenges have always been a
THEY ARE draw for the spirited 42-year-old,
TIDAL YOUNG AND
VERY WILLING
and motivated her to leave a job
she had held for seven years.
Sylvia spent the first few
CHANGE
TO LEARN. IN months here learning about the
FACT, WE ARE charter-yacht industry with her
young (in experience) three-
ALL LEARNING member team.
TOGETHER.” “There was a lot of learning
to do. For instance, many of the
PERSONABLE, SINCERE AND WITH A basic rules that are taken for granted in the trade, we
READY SMILE, SYLVIA NG BELIEVES IN have had to learn from scratch,” explains Sylvia. “It
MEETING CHALLENGES HEAD-ON. also took us some time to learn exactly what each
TEXT SANDHYA MAHADEVAN PHOTOGRAPHY BENNY LOH STYLING CHARLENE LEE yacht can offer, because every boat’s pricing tier and
I
offerings, as well as capabilities are different. So we
t’s a beautiful day, and the sight of the yachts at ONE°15 actually have something like a menu for each yacht,
12 Marina Sentosa Cove, glistening in the drizzle, makes detailing their type, size and how much they charge
it even more so. At the time that I was meeting Sylvia for actual services.”
Ng, Senior Manager of ONE15 Luxury Yachting and That’s easily 40 different products (read yachts)—
ONE15 Life, Singapore had just broken out of its Circuit with 40 different product specifications—she and
Breaker—which meant that charter-yachts were getting back to her team are expertly negotiating with.
business as usual, albeit with safety measures in place. That was reason But, despite staying on top of things and tying
enough to bring a big smile to Sylvia’s already cheerful face. all loose ends, unforeseen mistakes and last-minute
Sylvia is the person to add to your contacts in the Club if you want cancellations and postponements happen, and Sylvia
to charter a yacht to go around Singapore’s Southern Islands. She and has to often use her people skills to clear the air.
her team are in charge of connecting the charter offers of independent This is where her years of experience in accruing
yacht owners with your—read clients’—needs and wishes. The division sponsorships come in handy, she says. “It has helped
also recently launched luxury yacht staycation packages (more on that me read people better,” she says. “You come to realise
on page 14). that not one method fits all and learn to adapt to
Reaching that magical balance of a happy charter operator and each individual person you work with.”
satisfied customer, however, takes intense coordination and endless Although new to this industry, Sylvia channels
messages back and forth. “We are on our WhatsApp all the time, the wealth of her past experience into the job. She
because we have over 20 different chat groups with all the different takes it upon herself to mentor and train her team to
boats. I can’t afford to lose data.” jokes Sylvia. be better communicators and sales professionals. “I
Now that she has been on the job for over a year, Sylvia is able to have a good team. They are young and very willing to
make light of it. But when the marketing professional started out, she learn. In fact, we are all learning together,” she says.
was moving into completely uncharted territory from a different kind And in the process, the team has managed to
of role at the Gardens by the Bay (GBTB). establish good friendships with the boaters—some
“I was one of the pioneer teams—I actually started two days before of them even bring them Christmas presents.
GBTB opened, so I’ve seen it when it was actually completely empty,”
she enthuses. But Sylvia’s responsibility there was to find sponsors to WORK-LIFE BALANCE
support the daily operation and maintenance of GBTB, as well as its After such high-intensity action every day at work,
various initiatives. So venturing from that to an incentive-based job at Sylvia enjoys winding down with a glass of wine
the Club was a major shift—like “from land to water”, she recalls. with her musician husband. Another thing she
finds equally therapeutic is cooking. There’s also the
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 202013
immediate gratification of seeing her foodie teenage The family also spends every Christmas Eve at a
son tucking in her food. staycation, and indulge in a buffet lunch—with
But when it comes down to a traditional family free flow of wine, of course—to celebrate the end
meal on Christmas, nothing brings out the holiday of the year.
spirit at home than steak with Mac & Cheese, she “One of the things we would do over lunch is
says. Although Christmas was a not a tradition that share with one another our highs and lows of the
Sylvia followed growing up—as her parents are non- year, and what we wish to achieve in the coming
Christians—now that she has her own family, they year,” she adds.
started a tradition of their own. That said, living in the moment is equally
That tradition begins with a Christmas tree that important to Sylvia. “I’m not a planner. I live day
Sylvia gets to unleash her “inner artist” decorating. by day. And I try to live every day with no regrets.”
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020LUXE LIFE ON WATER
14
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020OFFSHORE
VACAYS
AMONG THE THINGS THAT SEEM TO BE EVOLVING IN
THE NEW-NORMAL IN SINGAPORE, SPENDING A NIGHT
OUT AT SEA ON A LUXURIOUS YACHT CARRIES ALL
THE ALLURE OF AN ISLAND VACATION.
TEXT SANDHYA MAHADEVAN
W
hen you think of the dedicated captain and crew at your disposal. 15
things Singaporeans CLEAN WATERS All meals are prepared, as per dietary
love, food comes to restrictions specified, and served on-board.
mind. The country’s For your entertainment pleasure are
ONEº15 Marina Sentosa Cove is a
love for food is only strong advocate of sustainability, amenities such as kayaks, karaoke, cabins, a
equalled by the plethora of choices available eco-awareness and protection piano and barbecue grill—and a mahjong
of the marine and its waters.
on the island. But a study done in 2018 by Guests are requested to be
table, if you have opted for a sea-cation
online travel shopping company Expedia, equally watchful about bringing aboard Eagle Wings. Guests can add
added one more to that list: staycations. environment-unfriendly items on jetskis, towable water toys, seabobs and
on board such as balloons—
Local hotel bookings by Singaporeans on which could subsequently end fishing rods to their package if they like.
Expedia.com.sg showed an increase of 40 up in the water, as well as reduce They can also customise their experiences
single-use plastic usage as much
per cent from before. The reason for this as possible. The marina has a based on personal interests and incorporate
being that staycations offer a quick getaway strict rule against confetti, as a fishing expedition, for instance, into
party poppers and the like can fall
from the norm without the hassle of airline into the water—and stain in the
their itinerary.
bookings, jet lag and having to pack within boat as well.
airline restrictions. The number becomes OFFSHORE ADVENTURE
even more relevant in the current climate Yacht charters, which were at a lull during
with border closings and global travel restrictions that Feed your the Government Circuit Breaker, picked up soon
wanderlust after the country moved to Phase 2 on 19 June with
seem like will take some time to ease off.
and satiate
What if you could have the pleasure of a getaway your thirst for safety regulations and restrictions to the number
away from home and routine, and spend a night adventure with a of people on board—limited to five people. So,
staycation aboard
with nature, sailing the high seas? That’s what you luxury yachts enhancing the wanderlust experience at sea by
get from ONE15 Luxury Yachting’s sea-cation and powered offering luxury staycations seemed like a natural
catamarans such
packages. They have all the bells and whistles, as Eagle Wings I.
progression, which was rolled out by certain boaters
and allure of an adventurous holiday, exploring as part of their recovery plan, says Sylvia Ng, Senior
the Southern islands—and Northern islands—of Manager of ONE15 Luxury Yachting.
Singapore depending on the option you choose. “Yachting vacations are relatively new in
You could spend a day—from 2pm to 10am the Singapore, although they have been very popular
following day—on board a swanky yacht with a in Europe, especially in the Mediterranean area
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020LUXE LIFE ON WATER
and North America for decades,” says Sylvia, adding that they
“IT IS LIKE AN ALL- tend to become holidays packaged with cultural immersion and
IN-ONE HOLIDAY nightlife among other things for vacationers as they dock in different
WITHOUT HAVING TO destinations. “Locally, a few yachting companies have been providing
yachting holidays to nearby destinations such as Batam, Tioman,
LEAVE THE COUNTRY,” Anambas and the like in recent years. But COVID-19 has spurred
—Sylvia Ng, Senior Manager, companies to revisit and refine the concept of a local yachting holiday
ONE15 Luxury Yachting or sea-cation within Singapore waters.”
So the draw for most Singaporeans is the novelty of the
experience and the ease with which they can incorporate many
elements in one holiday—think overnight stay on water, exploring
Singapore’s many islands, indulging in water sports activities, and
least but not the least, resting and relaxing in luxurious settings.
“It is like an all-in-one holiday without having to leave the country,”
adds Sylvia.
Truth be told, few things can beat the feeling of waking up to
the sounds of waves and enjoying a breakfast—cooked and served
on board by a dedicated crew—with the morning breeze blowing on
your face.
16
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020(Clockwise from
bottom left)
Whether sailing
the high seas
aboard Eagle
Wings, winding
down while gazing
at the horizon
aboard the
40-ft catamaran
Ximula, lounging
in style or
indulging in sea
adventures—
ONE15 Luxury
Yachting’s
sea-cation
packages offer
all the benefits
of a rejuvenating 17
holiday and more.
ISLAND HOPPING
For those wanting to go all out on a cruise on WHY SEA-CATIONS?
Singapore waters, there are two-day, one-night; as
well as three-day, two-night options to choose from.
THEY ARE SAFE, ESPECIALLY IN THE
Combining the best of Singapore’s waters, CURRENT CLIMATE.
guests who choose either of the sea-cations will Being on your own private yacht and away from the
explore popular islands such as Pulau Ubin, crowd means that there is less contact with others
and hence less chance of contamination or infection.
Lazarus Island and Sisters’ Islands, and take in the Besides the usual safety briefing for guests and safety
sunset at Marina Bay, before anchoring at St. John’s equipment such as life vests, the expert crew pay close
attention to the disinfecting and cleaning of surfaces
Bay for the night. Longer itineraries also throw daily and follow all safe distancing methods. They also
in Pulau Semakau—Singapore’s first and only double up as guides to ensure guests are well looked
after and safe in all activities.
offshore landfill island—and Pulau Hantu.
Guests who choose the longer itineraries get the THEY ARE FAMILY-ORIENTED.
unique opportunity to explore the flora and fauna Sea-cations are a great opportunity for family
bonding, because everyone either stays on board the
of Seletar Island in the northern coast of Singapore yacht or takes part in all activities together—as no
as well. one can venture out on their own when out at sea.
With so much to offer, Sylvia anticipates that THEY ARE FUN AND EDUCATIONAL.
yacht staycations are here to stay—beyond the Whether you are a history buff or an amateur
photographer, such sea-cations offer unique insight
realm of the current necessity. “Just like how hotel into the stories or folklore behind Singapore’s islands
staycations are evergreen, I think a luxury sea-cation as well as unusual perspectives to capture its beauty
will gain traction over time and amass popularity,” on camera.
she adds.
For more information on ONE15 Luxury Yachting’s sea-cation promotions, as well as how you can plan
and customise yours, visit one15luxuryyachting.com or contact sales@one15luxuryyachting.com.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020LUXE LIFE FINE FOOD
TOAST TO
18
TRADITION
WE EXPLORE THE ORIGINS AND HERITAGE OF THE MOST BELOVED
AND ICONIC DISHES TO GRACE THE YULETIDE DINNER TABLE.
TEXT RYAN REUBEN
T
he time for holiday feasting is almost Many of these classic dishes have a storied history.
upon us, with a flurry of family While some can be traced back to pre-Christian times,
gatherings, company dinners and it is really during the Victorian era that Christmas as
festive parties set to serve up all we know it began to take shape. In particular, it was
manner of delectable fare. Food has English author Charles Dickens who popularised the
long been central to Christmas, bringing together notion of the quintessential Christmas dinner, complete
indulgence, symbolism and tradition in a happy with a roasted bird and a pudding on the table.
alchemy. After all, what would the season be without We dive into the interesting history of our
the ubiquitous roast turkey served with wonderfully favourite traditional Christmas fare—all of which
tart cranberry sauce and all the trimmings, sticky you can enjoy at LATITUDE Bistro at ONE°15
sweet honey-glazed ham, and a deliciously rich Marina Sentosa Cove this Christmas, paired
log cake? with their best wines.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 202019 LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020
LUXE LIFE FINE FOOD
Traditional
Roast Turkey
One would be hard pressed
to find a centrepiece for the
Yuletide dinner table that
can replace this iconic dish.
Essentially, Christmas would
not be Christmas without
the traditional roast turkey
and its many delectable
accompaniments. However, as
representative of the season as it
has become, it was only around
the 19th century that turkey
became a seasonal staple.
Spanish voyagers first brought
turkeys from the Americas to
Europe in the 1520s. Turkeys
were cheaper to raise than other
birds; hatched in the springtime,
they grew to sizeable proportions
just in time for Thanksgiving and
Christmas. They were also viewed
20 as “grand” and a novelty, and
started to command a place at
banquets and festive gatherings.
A 16th-century English poem
describes a Christmas feast
containing “beef, mutton, and
pork, shred pies of the best; pig,
veal, goose and capon, and turkey
well drest”.
The consumption of turkey
really took off in the Victorian
era, with the arrival of the
railways. The bird became more
accessible, and prices fell, helped
along by increased production
methods and refrigeration. Today,
dining on the bird has become
a tradition as entrenched in the FESTIVE PAIRINGS FUN FACT
season as Santa Claus.
Opt for a rich red such as Domaine As recognisable as turkey has
Chanson Le Bourgogne or Il become on the Christmas dinner
Molino di Grace Chianti Classico table, before the 16th century,
to complement the low-fat, white people’s meat of choice for
meat of the bird. Ripe black cherries, Christmas was goose, boar’s head
liquorice and spices give the former and even peacock.
a complex texture with a long finish,
while the Italian vintage boasts
bright berry and fruity highlights
with silky tannins. The Croix du
Marquis Cabernet Sauvignon,
with its fruity notes and soft
tannins, is another good option.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020BECAUSE OF Honey Glazed delicacy at Germanic and Norse
Boneless Ham pagan feasts. One such Germanic
CHRISTMAS HAM’S Who can resist a slow-cooked festival, Yuletide—a 12-day,
Christmas ham, the glistening midwinter feast associated with
FLAVOUR PROFILE, pink meat bathed in rich golden the winter solstice—later evolved
honey that imparts a whole to become synonymous with
ONE WOULD DO other dimension of flavour? This Christian Christmas celebrations
sweet-salty staple of the holiday when pagans were converted to
WELL TO CHOOSE meal has become customary for Christianity. The tradition of
Christmas, and traces its origins eating ham came along with it,
A VINTAGE WITH back over 2,000 years to ancient and the dish became linked to
pagan rituals. St Stephen, whose feast day is on
A CERTAIN Also known as the Yule ham, 26 December.
this dish stemmed from the In modern times, the holiday
SWEETNESS. pre-Christian Norse tradition of ham has undergone a variety of
slaughtering a boar and serving tweaks: some people add
it in honour of Freyr, the God ginger beer to the marinade for
of fertility, the harvest, and a bit of fizz, while others up
boars. Wild pigs were a popular the sugary quotient with cherries
and pineapples. Regardless,
all result in a delectable cut of
meat, and an entrée worthy of a
festive feast.
21
FESTIVE PAIRINGS
Because of Christmas ham’s flavour
profile, one would do well to choose
a vintage with a certain sweetness.
Consider these whites: Italy’s
Piccini Pinot Grigo delle Venezie
is a good option with its flowery
bouquet and notes of apple and
peach, while the medium-bodied
Jules Taylor Chardonnay from New
Zealand impresses with its palate of
currants, citrus fruit, flint and herbs,
and creamy finish.
FUN FACT
Ham goes especially well with rock
melon and honeydew. Unsaturated
fats that break down during the
meat’s ageing process release
chemicals with aromas similar
to melons.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020LUXE LIFE FINE FOOD
Roasted
Beef Sirloin
While turkey has become the FESTIVE PAIRINGS FUN FACT
de facto protein of choice for
A full-bodied Pinot Noir goes well Beef consumption started to take
many Christmas diners, it was with various beef dishes. The Better off in the UK around the late 14th
not the main Christmas meal Half Pinot Noir from New Zealand century. The salaries of the King’s
until the 1960s in the UK. boasts vibrant notes of raspberry royal guards were even paid in part
Instead, a traditional English and plum, with cranberry aromas as chunks of beef, so they enjoyed
that lead to subtle hints of chocolate. roast beef every single Sunday—
Yuletide feast comprised roast Similarly, the Jules Taylor Pinot Noir which is why they are called
beef, accompanied by plum sports an intense aroma of ripe “Beefeaters”.
pudding, strong ale, ice cream, plums and mulberries balanced by
and tiny biscuits to dip in punch. savoury and spicy notes. Lovers of
French wine might like to imbibe the
In essence, red meat, dried-fruit Chateau La Tour de Mons Margaux:
pudding and a good brew were a refined yet profound vintage rich
the culinary triumvirate of the with the flavours of black currant,
Yuletide dinner everywhere in the violets, orange peel and black tea.
UK in the 19th century.
Roast beef likely vanished
from Christmas menus to a large
extent over the years because
of increasing affluence, when it
became less of a treat and more of
a regular weekly meal for
22 many people.
Regardless, besides being
the very embodiment of the
traditional English Sunday
roast, an expertly cooked cut of
beef is certainly delicious and
eye-catching enough to hold its
own at the holiday dinner table.
Served alongside roasted veggies
and a tasty gravy, this classic
British dish is a succulent
holiday standout with its
caramelised meat sugars and
oozing pink juices.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020Log Cake
What better way to round off a
decadent Christmas feast than
with a generous slice of rich
log cake? Also known as bûche
de Noël in France, the log cake
or Yule Log is an apt visual
representation of the season: this
rolled sponge dessert is frosted
with chocolate buttercream to
resemble the bark of a tree and 23
decorated with marzipan sprigs
of holly, meringue toadstools, and
other edible embellishments.
Served during the holidays
since the 19th century, originally
in France and Belgium, the
log cake traces its origins to
pre-medieval times. In the Iron
Age, Celtic Brits and Gaelic
Europeans would mark the
winter solstice by burning massive
logs decorated with holly, pine
LONGITUDE TIP FESTIVE PAIRINGS cones or ivy in their homes. This
Order your goodies online! The festive food and wines Match your after-dinner sweet treat was also meant to welcome the
mentioned in the article are all available at LATITUDE with a glass of chilled semi-dry new spring and purge the air of
Bistro. Selected wines are also available on the e-shop wine. Sip on Dr. Loosen Wehlener the previous year’s events.
Sonnenuhr Riesling Kabinett for a
with a 1-for-1 promotion, going at only $50+ for two.
delicate fruitiness and crisp finish.
This practice continued even
Visit bit.ly/one15xmas after Christianity made inroads
FUN FACT across Europe. Eventually,
however, homes and hearths
The Yule log was meant to burn for
the entire 12 days of Christmas to
became smaller, and torching
herald the birth of the new sun, and giant logs became impractical.
it was considered a bad omen if the In the 19th century, some bright
fire went out before the last day. spark then decided to bake a cake
in their hearth in the shape of a
log instead of burning a real one,
and a legendary holiday sweet
treat was born.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020LUXE LIFE LUSH ESCAPES
SEASON'S
MUSINGS
STOKE YOUR WANDERLUST IN PREPARATION FOR YOUR NEXT WINTRY HOLIDAY
BY EXPLORING CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS AROUND THE WORLD.
TEXT CARA YAP
24
LONGITUDE JANUARY-FEBRUARY
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER2020
202025
Christmas in Stockholm is like
being in a winter wonderland.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020LUXE LIFE LUSH ESCAPES
26
Reykjavik, Iceland
The festive season in Iceland bucks commercialism with its
Jolabokaflod (roughly translates to “Christmas book flood”) tradition,
whereby a preponderance of books are published between the months
of September and November. Local bibliophiles typically exchange
tomes over the holiday season, and in true wholesome fashion,
Christmas night unfolds over literature and hot chocolate. Children
place a shoe at their window for the 13 puckish Yule Lads of local
folklore to fill with either sweets or rotting potatoes—depending on
their behaviour. If you’re not off chasing the Northern Lights over
the year-end holidays, try to spot the 13 hologram Santa Clauses
hidden around the city. The region is, after all, said to be the birthplace
of Father Christmas. For a jolly atmosphere, head to Hafnarfjörður
Christmas Village for performances, street food and handicrafts—or
comb Hlemmur Mathöll Food Hall for more multi-cultural eats.
PLAY:
Unwind over choice drops in the Members-only lounge at Kjarval (kjarval.
com/), overlooking Reykjavik’s main square. Its well-balanced, Scandinavian
interiors ooze hygge—a quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020Vancouver, Canada
Canadians, like many North Americans, typically
celebrate Christmas with extravagant displays
of light and sound, so you won’t be short of a
sensory treat when visiting over the festive season.
Decorations take centrestage, with the exteriors
of homes and businesses illuminated by elaborate
light installations depicting snowmen and reindeer.
While the verdict is still not out on whether large-
scale events such as the Santa Claus Parade will
take place this year, photo opportunities abound
at Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge
Park. Shimmering across a bridge suspended over
river and rainforest, the mesmerising winter lights
festival will feature live music performances, a
light tunnel, and children’s activities. Outdoorsy
locals also enjoy winter sports such as ice-skating,
skiing and snow-sliding at Grouse Mountain over
the holidays, when the area is transformed into a
wintry wonderland of ruddy joys.
STAY:
Densely packed Vancouver city is known for its diverse,
gleaming skyline. Get front row seats to it when you
stay in the sumptuous 650sqft King City View Suite
at Auberge Vancouver Hotel. It’s part of Terminal City 27
Club (tcclub.com), a hub for urbanites with many
restaurants and a sky-lit indoor pool.
(From bottom
left): December is
said to be a good
time to view the
Northern Lights.
Ice-skating
is among the
various activities
for families at
Hafnarfjörður
Christmas
Village.
Canyon Lights
at Vancouver’s
Capilano
Suspension
Bridge Park is
a spectacle not
to be missed.
Snow-dusted
Grouse Mountain.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020LUXE LIFE LUSH ESCAPES
28
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Christmas celebrations have been in Scotland only since the late
(From above)
1950s, until when they were prohibited—since 1640—following the Kids will make
country’s split from the Catholic church decades earlier. Scots began a beeline for the
array of local
to adopt tinsel-tinted Christmas traditions such as festooning trees sweet treats
with ornaments and feasting on roasted turkey and pudding only at Edinburgh
Christmas
after this ban was lifted. They also adapted their own customs, which Market.
include burning the twig of the rowen tree at Christmas to dissipate Stockholm’s
negative feelings among loved ones. A highlight of the season is the Stortorget
Christmas
Edinburgh Christmas Market (16 Nov to 4 Jan) at East Princes Street Market has a
Gardens, where a cornucopia of pleasures—from carnival rides, to particularly
whimsical charm.
sausages and potatoes doused in Comte cheese—await. The carousing Rousing choir
continues into the new year, where locals mark Hogmanay (the last performances
are a familiar
day of the year) with days of revelry. This includes traditional Scottish sight—and
music at Edinburgh Castle, a massive fireworks display and the Loony sound—on Lucia.
Dook on 1 January, which sees individuals in zany costumes making a
splash in the icy waters of the Firth of Forth at South Queensferry.
STAY:
For the best of Scottish luxury—complete with plush drapery, tartan
motifs and floor-to-ceiling French windows presiding over a well-manicured
garden—stay at The Royal Scots Club (royalscotsclub.com).
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020Stockholm, Sweden
In Sweden, Jul (Christmas) is amply bundled with
the warmth of familiarity—twinkling Christmas
Markets set against a breathy backdrop of carolling,
and the indignant squawk of a famous cartoon
duck. As if that is not whimsical enough, Swedish
families huddle together to watch a vintage Disney
special featuring Donald Duck and his friends—a
special Christmas screening on national television
since 1959. Another revered tradition that stretches
further back—some 400 years—is Lucia, where
candle-toting girls in flowing white gowns sing
in honour of Saint Lucia on 13 December. You
can catch such impromptu performances in
Drottninggatan, as well as a rousing Christmas
concert held at 13th-century church Storkyrkan.
Soul nourished, proceed to sample smoked
sausages, elk meat and mulled wine at the
Stortorget Christmas Market in the old town.
PLAY:
Have a god jul (merry Christmas) over seasonally
inspired drinks at the cocktail bar within Private 29
Members’ Club Alma (thisisalma.com).
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020LUXE LIFE LUSH ESCAPES
30
Manila, Philippines
Christmas traditions in the Philippines display a fascinating intersection
between native and western practices. While western mainstays such
as mass, carols and Christmas trees have a resounding presence in the
former Spanish colony over the Christmas period, Filippinos have
also adapted their own colourful customs, including a midnight feast
that spills over into the morning. Noche Buena is a large open-house
Christmas night celebration where friends, families and neighbours
make merry over a smorgasbord of delicacies including lechon (roasted
LONGITUDE TIP pig) and sticky rice cakes. This warm, convivial setting is typically framed
by a medley of bright colours, as families decorate their homes with
Members of ONE°15 Marina can enjoy benefits at all membership kaleidoscopic star-shaped bamboo lanterns known as parol. Initially used
privileges partners indicated in the article. To find out more, to light the way to mass, they symbolise the star of Bethlehem that is
visit one15marina.com/privilege-category/all/ said to have guided the three wise men to Jesus’ cradle. If you want to
Members also enjoy access to reciprocal clubs around the world. soak up the festive atmosphere in Metro Manila over the holidays, head
To visit International Associate Clubs, obtain an IAC card and letter to Ayala Triangle Gardens for its neon-lit festival that’s popular among
of introduction from our front desk by contacting +65 6305 6988 or friendly locals. Or pop by any mall and hum along with Filipinos to
frontdesk.sc@one15marina.com. popular Christmas tunes by local musical icon Jose Mari Chan.
PLAY:
Indulge in a sumptuous Christmas meal featuring Peking duck,
followed by a spa session at Tower Club Manila (towerclub.com.ph/).
The exclusive business club situated close to major malls and hotels boasts
a Cantonese restaurant, bar, fitness centre and spa—along with private
dining and meeting spaces.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020Barcelona, Spain
While the mention of Santa Claus may elicit
glee in children across the western world,
young Spaniards reserve their excitement for
Reyes Magos (the three kings), said to be the
purveyors of gifts. Locals pay homage to the
biblical wise men, whom Christians believe,
visited the infant Jesus bearing gifts, through
fizzy parades held on 5 January. This two-day
long fiesta is enlivened by costumed participants
perched on floats, who shower revellers with 31
sweets in a nod to the wise men’s munificence.
Throughout the Christmas period, the trio can
also be spotted amid intricate nativity tableaus
adorning Catalan town squares. These hum
and ring with festive markets, with the most
famous being Fira de Santa Llucia. Set in the STAY:
shadow of a Gothic cathedral, it’s where you Soak up history in the opulent, Baroque halls of Circulo
can bag unique souvenirs such as friction drums Ecuestre (circuloecuestre.es), a private equestrian club
and nosh on escudella—a traditional meat and that dates back to 1856. Rest in the comfort of its cosy,
vegetable stew. sound-proofed rooms and suites.
(From left):
A breathtaking
display of lights,
complete with
smoke effects
and laser shows,
at Ayala Triangle
Gardens is
a Christmas
mainstay in
Manila. Catalans
celebrate the
biblical wise
men through a
lively parade on
5 January. Shop
quirky souvenirs
at the Christmas
Market at Fira de
Santa Llucia.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020CLUB BUZZ PHOTO: MARKOS MANT/UNSPLASH
MEMBERS ONLY The definitive list of all that’s happening in and around ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove. 34 39 The best culinary offers and The most exciting events sports facilities available for and workshops to RSVP Members and their families. to for the year end. The luxury and thrill of a vacation, and rush of adventure— yacht staycations offer the best of both worlds.
CLUB BUZZ CLUB PERKS
34
SPECIALS OF THE MONTH
‘Tis the season to be jolly and the culinary team at both Savour LATITUDE prepare festive treats such as Christmas ham, juicy
LATITUDE Bistro and WOK°15 Kitchen are working hard to create Bistro's holidays turkeys, short ribs and moist log cakes—their holiday
offerings, from
dishes and festive spreads that will impress. LATITUDE Bistro kicks Christmas ham fare will be available for savouring in the month-long
off November with a hearty Claypot Hot and Sour Mee Tai Mak delectable log festive buffet, at the Christmas Eve buffet dinner
cakes throughout
with Minced Beef. Available for lunch and dinner, the noodles are the month of and Christmas Day brunch. For an Asian-inspired
generously doused with an authentic Sichuan hot and spicy broth and December. Christmas, tuck into WOK°15 Kitchen’s Peking
topped with minced beef. Looking for lighter fare? Sit down to the Duck instead. This classic duck dish is served with
Bistro’s Steamboat with BBQ buffet instead and help yourself to a wide Chinese crêpes and assorted condiments.
variety of freshly grilled meats and sashimi as well as seafood such as Throwing a Yuletide bash at home? Make it a
snow crabs on ice. Also through November are Thanksgiving take-away hassle-free one by filling your table with holiday
specials. Think platters of choice grills—including beef ribeye and baby treats from LATITUDE Bistro’s kitchen instead.
back ribs—cheese, and cold cuts of prosciutto parma ham, salami and Choose between a traditional turkey, roast ribeye
beef pastrami, that can take centre place at your family’s dinner table beef or honey-glazed boneless ham for your main
along with traditional cranberry sauce. course and pair it with a selection of delicious log
Come December, the Bistro rings in the holidays with juicy Wagyu cakes. Then, end the night with the one-for-one
Beef Burger with all the works. Think cheddar cheese, bacon, lettuce, Prosecco and French wine offerings. Better yet, this
tomato on a 1/3-pounder patty that’s topped with a sunny side up egg. hassle-free Christmas meal can be delivered right to
There’s plenty to enjoy for Christmas, too, as LATITUDE Bistro will your doorstep.
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020LATITUDE
BISTRO
Claypot Hot and Sour Mee Tai Mak Christmas Goodies
with Minced Beef November, December
November: Lunch and Dinner Looking for gifting ideas? Choose
Mee Tai Mak may be colloquially from assorted log cakes, roasted
known as the “rat tail” noodle, but it’s specialities and decadent wines for
one of the island’s most loved dishes. the perfect Yuletide treat—refer to
Savour these springy noodles with page 47 for the menu. The goodies
minced beef and a thick, authentic are available for order from
Sichuan broth that brings the heat. 1 November 2020.
PRICE: $18+ PRICE: From $28+
$20 for islandwide delivery,
Steamboat with BBQ Buffet free delivery with a minimum
November: Friday and Saturday, order of $60+
Dinner
It’s a comfort food that’s meant to be Wagyu Beef Burger Festive Buffet
enjoyed with a group of friends, and December: Lunch and Dinner MIND THE GAP December: Friday and Saturday,
SAFETY MEASURES TO
LATITUDE Bistro certainly delivers. This all-American delicacy gets the Dinner
KEEP IN MIND WHILE
Sip on hot soup as you nibble on Wagyu treatment in the form of a Have a Christmas dinner to
EATING OUT.
freshly grilled meats, snow crabs and tender 1/3-pounder patty. It’s got all remember with your family and
other seafood on ice, and a healthy the works, too—each serving comes The Club has implemented friends at LATITUDE Bistro with
various measures for the safety
variety of sashimi. with sinful layers of cheddar cheese, of its Members as Singapore platefuls of turkey, Christmas ham
PRICE: $58+ (Adult), $29+ (Child) crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato and a breaks out of the Government- and short ribs. Enjoy Secret Santa
initiated Circuit Breaker in
sunny-side up egg. phases. These include hand
afterwards with multiple servings of 35
Thanksgiving Takeaway PRICE: $24+ sanitisers at various points and log cakes in various flavours.
1 - 30 November well-trained staff. Add to that, PRICE: $68+ (Adult), $34+ (Child)
socially responsible behaviour
Giving thanks and toasting to by all will help ensure we are
tradition and family with a feast— able to get back to normalcy Christmas Eve Buffet
sooner than later.
these are favourite Thanksgiving While social distancing & Christmas Day Brunch
moments. Why not indulge further and maintaining high levels of 24 December, Dinner,
personal hygiene will continue
by ordering in the classic fare? From to be mandatory for some time,
25 December, Brunch
a grilled meat platter, to decadent individuals and families can Leave the cooking to the pros at
cheese and refined cold cut platters, also employ proactive measures LATITUDE Bistro and enjoy a relaxing
of their own by choosing to
there are three types to choose from. dine-in at the restaurants holiday meal instead. This year’s
PRICE: Grilled platter: during off-peak hours whenever indulgent spread will more than
possible. Asking for alfresco
$148+ (Member), $168++ dining or opting to sit in well- satisfy with a succulent Christmas
(non- Member). aired spaces whenever weather ham, turkey and short ribs, and
conditions permit will also go a
Cheese platter: $48+ (Member), long way in keeping infections
house-made log cakes.
$58++ (non- Member). at bay. Happy dining. PRICE: $78 (Adult), $39+ (Child)
Cold cuts platter: $58+ (Member),
$68++ (non- Member).
From top:
WOK°15 KITCHEN
$20 for islandwide delivery, Delectably moist Peking Duck
free delivery with a minimum order log cakes usher in December: Lunch and Dinner
the festive spirit
of $60+ at LATITUDE A well-loved delicacy that can be
Bistro, while traced back to imperial China, the
Asian delicacies
Peking Duck is known for its crispy
take mainstay at
WOK°15 Kitchen. skin and juicy slivers of meat. Watch
as the meat is sliced in front of you
and enjoy each tender morsel with
Chinese crepes and tangy condiments.
PRICE: $48+ for a whole duck
(U.P. $60+)
LONGITUDE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020You can also read
