Travel Guide Of Majestic Fast Ferry iSSUE 6 Batam Island COUNTRY CLUB Meyer Motors A modern specialty car dealership for luxury vehicles, which also provides premium car rental 6 Mandai Bird Paradise 34 Explore 8 large walkthrought aviaries
04 MAJESTIC FAST FERRY Welcome aboard CONTENT-2 05 06 Ferry Itinerary Daily route map & schedules Meyer Motors A modern specialty car dealership for luxury vehicles, which also provides premium car rental 08 Coming back with exceptional courses, state-of-the-art facilities as well as friendly and professional service, BICC offers a serene escape for all players of all levels. Surrounded by the beauty and uniqueness of Batam Island, this haven beckons golfers to experience the timeless pursuit of the perfect swing. For More Information wn asTering Bay Golf and mIsland Country Club (BICC) rs to immerse themselves nctuary of golfing. BATAM ISLAND COUNTRY CLUB A true golfer’s haven 10 14 15 Nusa Indah Travel Discover the best of RWS Ranoh Island Discover the paradise of tranquility Dr’s Clinique Unlock the secret of 10K beauty 16 SINGAPORE TRAVELOGUE The feast for taste in Singapore 24 16 18 20 All Fired Up On a mission to serve and savour good beef Rise And Shine Delicacies brunch and dessert DFS Duty Free One-stop duty free destination 22 A Taste Of Singapore The well-loved local favourites
CONTENT-2 CONTENT 25 Singtel The best tourist SIM In Singapore JEWEL CHANGI AIRPORT Where the world meets Singapore and Singapore meets the world 42 Southern Comfort Highest quality comfort food and specialty coffee 34 MANDAI BIRD PARADISE Explore 8 large walkthrough aviaries 38 36 Halim Hotel In Bintan A blissful stay in Bintan’s capital Artotel Hotel Artistic nest For Batam’s guests 40 Veranta Cafe A breathtaking escape by the water 25 SINGAPORE FESTIVAL The feast for joyful in Singapore 26 28 30 32 Celebration Of Lights Deepavali Hair-Raising Chills Halloween Jolly Good Times Christmas Christmas In The Tropics Christmas wonderland 54 55 Weturf The art of rug tufting Feedback And Advertise Share your thoughts 42 BATAM TRAVELOGUE The feast for taste in Batam 45 44 THK Tour And Travel Time to explore more fun journey Go-Ferry Insurance Travel light, travel right 46 48 A Taste Of Tradition Local taste with amazing girlled delights Flavours Of The Sea Being close to the sea 52 50 53 Counter Details All counter details of Majestic Fast Ferry PT Cahaya Samudra Shipyard Setting sail for success The Royal Fleet Of Majestic Ferry Our vessel types and details CONTENT-3
WELCOME-4 We are delighted to share the long-awaited news that the time has finally come for the entire Majestic Fast Ferry fleet to gracefully navigate the waters once again. Your unwavering trust and loyalty have been a wellspring of inspiration for us throughout the years. In our unwavering dedication to your comfort and convenience during your voyages between Singapore and Indonesia, we are committed to elevating the standard. As we embark on another year filled with thrilling adventures, we are thrilled to unveil a range of new enhancements that will elevate your travel experience with us. The Majestic Fast Ferry City Check-In is now conveniently located within the Grand Batam Mall. This dedicated space allows you to effortlessly gather your boarding passes, secure tickets, and reserve seats at your own pace. Moreover, those who have purchased tickets from our website can seamlessly print their own boarding passes and proceed directly to the departure hall on the day of their voyage. These enhancements are aimed at streamlining your boarding process and granting you greater flexibility in planning your journeys. In addition, we have formed a partnership with the esteemed Meyer luxe car rental service, ensuring swift and seamless transportation to captivating destinations. This collaboration is thoughtfully crafted to ensure a seamless travel experience, from the moment you step aboard our vessels to your exploration of the enchanting locations upon your arrival. To express our profound gratitude for your continuous support, we are ceaselessly exploring novel ways to extend our appreciation to you and all our esteemed patrons. Our anticipation for the upcoming year of travel and discovery is boundless, and we invite you to be an integral part of it. We encourage you to chart your travel course in advance and embark on a Majestic Fast Ferry voyage, ensuring you’re not deprived of the captivating surprises that await you. With heartfelt thanks for being a cherished part of our journey, we eagerly await the pleasure of welcoming you on board in the near future. May the winds carry us toward uncharted horizons and unforgettable memories in the forthcoming year. Happy travels with Majestic Fast Ferry! MANAGEMENT OF MAJESTIC FAST FERRY WELOCOME ABOARD!
08:15 10:30 15:15 18:00 06:15 08:25 12:00 15:30 Tanah Merah to Batam Center Batam Center to Tanah Merah Singapore time Indonesia time Tanah Merah - Batam Center 08:45 09:45 12:45 17:40 20:40 06:00 09:00 13:10 16:20 18:00 HarbourFront to Sekupang Sekupang to HarbourFront Singapore time Indonesia time HarbourFront - Sekupang 08:10 09:50 10:40 11:45 13:50 14:40 16:20 17:50 18:50 19:20 20:10 21:20 06:00 07:10 08:20 09:30 10:20 11:30 12:20 14:30 16:00 17:30 18:30 20:00 HarbourFront to Batam Center Batam Center to HarbourFront HarbourFront - Batam Center Singapore time Indonesia time Singapore time Indonesia time 11:30 17:50 07:30 13:00 Tanah Merah to Tanjung Pinang Tanjung Pinang to Tanah Merah Tanah Merah - Tanjung Pinang Daily ferry schedule for Singapore & Indonesia effective from 01 Mar 2023 SCAN & BOOK NEW TIMING 08:15 10:30 15:15 18:00 06:15 08:25 12:00 15:30 Tanah Merah to Batam Center Batam Center to Tanah Merah Singapore time Indonesia time Tanah Merah - Batam Center 08:45 09:45 12:45 17:40 20:40 06:00 09:00 13:10 16:20 18:00 HarbourFront to Sekupang Sekupang to HarbourFront Singapore time Indonesia time HarbourFront - Sekupang 08:10 09:50 10:40 11:45 13:50 14:40 16:20 17:50 18:50 19:20 20:10 21:20 06:00 07:10 08:20 09:30 10:20 11:30 12:20 14:30 16:00 17:30 18:30 20:00 HarbourFront to Batam Center Batam Center to HarbourFront HarbourFront - Batam Center Singapore time Indonesia time Singapore time Indonesia time 11:30 17:50 07:30 13:00 Tanah Merah to Tanjung Pinang Tanjung Pinang to Tanah Merah Tanah Merah - Tanjung Pinang Daily ferry schedule for Singapore & Indonesia effective from 01 Mar 2023 For a Ticket booked through Phone Reservation and Email Reservation, the Passenger must come to the check-in counter at least 60 minutes before departure timing to make payment and to check-in and collect boarding pass. The Ferry Service and the departure schedule are valid at the time of publication, subject to change at any time without prior notice. Other T&C apply. Visit www.majesticfastferry.com.sg for more details. (+65) 6278 9688 [email protected] SGP HarbourFront (+65) 6289 5535 [email protected] SGP Tanah Merah (+62) 778 479 999 / 472 191 [email protected] IDN Batam Center (+62) 778 489 3101 [email protected] IDN Grand Batam Mall (+62) 778 323 377 / 326 181 [email protected] IDN Sekupang (+62) 771 450 0199 [email protected] IDN Tanjung Pinang SCAN & BOOK Majestic Fast Ferry has opened up its city check-in counter at GRAND BATAM MALL 2nd Floor ST02 (near GRAPARI TELKOMSEL) We provide services for booking, check-in, collecting boarding passes and purchasing our ferry tickets. CITY CHECK-IN @GRAND BATAM MALL NEW TIMING Changi Airport Hang Nadim Airport Raja Haji Fisabilillah Airport Batam Singapore Bintan Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal HarbourFront Centre Ferry Terminal Batam Center Ferry Terminal Tanjung Pinang Ferry Terminal Sekupang Ferry Terminal MAJESTIC FAST FERRY ROUTE MAP SCHEDULE-5
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Previously known asTering Bay Golf and Country Club, Batam Island Country Club (BICC) invites true golfers to immerse themselves in the sanctuary of golfing.
Coming back with exceptional courses, state-of-the-art facilities as well as friendly and professional service, BICC offers a serene escape for all players of all levels. Surrounded by the beauty and uniqueness of Batam Island, this haven beckons golfers to experience the timeless pursuit of the perfect swing. For More Information BT COUNTRY CLUB-9
DISCOVER THE PARADISE OF TRANQUILITY Ranoh Escape to the breath-taking beauty of Ranoh Island, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Batam. Nestled in the Riau Archipelago of Indonesia, just a short distance from the bustling city of Batam, lies a hidden gem waiting to be explored: Ranoh Island. This pristine paradise boasts natural beauty, with powdery white beaches, azure waters, and untouched lush greenery. Away from the crowds and surrounded by serenity, Ranoh Island offers an idyllic escape for travellers seeking a tropical retreat like no other. Embark on an unforgettable journey as you immerse yourself in the captivating allure of Ranoh Island’s unspoiled beauty, where serenity meets paradise. Island RANOH-10
Unspoiled beaches and crystalclear waters One of the highlights of Ranoh Island is its picture-perfect beaches that seem straight out of a postcard. The island boasts several stunning stretches of white sand, gently kissed by the clear waters of the South China Sea. Visitors can spend their days basking in the sun, building sandcastles, or taking leisurely walks along the shoreline. The calm and pristine waters surrounding the island are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, canoeing and diving. Dive beneath the surface, and you’ll find a vibrant marine ecosystem, teeming with colourful coral reefs and a diverse array of marine life, including tropical fish, turtles, and even rays. Snorkelling enthusiasts can explore the underwater world just a few steps away from the shore, making Ranoh Island a true haven for nature lovers. For thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts, Ranoh Island has an abundance of activities to offer. From kayaking and paddleboarding to jet skiing and banana boat rides, there is no shortage of water sports to keep you entertained. Explore the island’s hidden coves and secret lagoons by kayak, or embark on a thrilling jet ski ride along the coastline. For a more serene experience, hop on a traditional boat and go island hopping, discovering neighbouring islands and their unique charms. Whether you prefer exhilarating adventures or gentle explorations, Ranoh Island caters to every taste, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all. Untouched natural landscapes Beyond its stunning beaches, Ranoh Island is a sanctuary of untouched natural beauty. The island is home to lush tropical forests, where rare flora and fauna thrive undisturbed. Take a trek through the dense foliage, and you’ll be rewarded with unique vistas, the soothing sounds of nature, and encounters with unique wildlife. Keep an eye out for the RANOH-11
island’s native inhabitants, such as macaques and colourful birds. The island’s untouched landscapes make it a paradise for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers, providing countless opportunities for capturing the beauty of its diverse ecosystems. Secluded luxury and serenity Unlike many popular tourist destinations, Ranoh Island has managed to retain its tranquillity and exclusivity. With limited accommodation options available, visitors can enjoy a more intimate and secluded experience. Luxurious beachfront resorts and eco-friendly villas offer a blend of comfort and authenticity, with stunning views of the surrounding natural wonders. Immerse yourself in the island’s laidback atmosphere, savouring moments of pure relaxation, and indulging in rejuvenating spa treatments. Ranoh Island provides a sanctuary away from the hectic pace of modern life, where you can unwind, recharge, and find solace in nature’s embrace. Cultural experience While Ranoh Island is primarily known for its natural wonders, it also offers glimpses into the vibrant Indonesian culture. Engage with the friendly locals and learn about their traditions and way of RANOH-12
RANOH-13 life. Indulge in the delectable local cuisine, with an array of fresh seafood dishes, spicy sambals, and traditional Indonesian delicacies. Join a cooking class and discover the secrets behind authentic Indonesian recipes, or immerse yourself in traditional music and dance performances. Ranoh Island presents an opportunity to embrace the rich cultural heritage of Indonesia and create lasting memories. True paradise Ranoh Island is a true tropical paradise that surpasses all expectations. With its unspoiled beaches, crystalclear waters, untouched natural landscapes, and a sense of tranquillity that is increasingly rare to find, this island gem offers a remarkable getaway for travellers seeking serenity and adventure. Whether you’re longing to laze on pristine shores, explore vibrant coral reefs, embark on thrilling water sports, or immerse yourself in local culture, Ranoh Island has something to captivate every traveller’s heart. Plan your visit to Ranoh Island now and unlock the wonders of this idyllic oasis, where beauty, serenity, and adventure intertwine in perfect harmony. For inquiries and reservations, visit Ranohisland.com
Universal Studio Singapore Sesame Street Adventure Cove Waterpark S.E.A. Aquarium Discover the best of Resort World Sentosa & Universal Studio Singapore +62 812-6883-1110 Komplek Pertokoan Coastarina Blok A No.1 Batam Kepulauan Riau, Indonesia [email protected] www.nusaindahtourtravel.com NUSA INDAH-14
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ALL FIRED UP CHARR’D 324F Changi Road Singapore 419799 ON A MISSION TO SERVE AND SAVOUR GOOD BEEF, CHARR’D PRESENTS A CASUAL FINE DINING EXPERIENCE THAT IS AS UNIQUE AS IT IS MOUTH-WATERING. Operating hours 11am to 10pm; Closed on Mondays SINGAPORE TRAVELOGUE SINGAPORE-16
Charr’d is the place to go for beef and steak lovers alike. Located at Changi Road, Charr’d is Singapore’s first halal restaurant to fire up the prized A5 Kuroge Wagyu beef from Japan’s Mie Prefecture. It is the only restaurant in Singapore to buy and import whole A5 Wagyu Kuroge cows from Japan for the freshest and most sustainable source. To the uninitiated, the Kuroge beef is the pinnacle of Japanese beef, bred and produced from Japan’s rich and natural environment of Mie Prefecture, the same home of the globally renowned Matsusaka beef. This Wagyu stands out from the rest for its fat, which is the source of the beef’s flavour. It tastes best when it is rendered just optimally to a delicate fat-melting point to melt on the tongue. Charr’d fires up its grill with three types of Kuroge A5 Wagyu. TheA5 Ribeye ($48) brings to the table 100 grams of A5 Japanese Wagyu ribeye, grilled with little more than a seasoning of flaky salt to your choice of doneness. Similarly, the A5 Sirloin ($38) grills 100 grams of Japanese Wagyu sirloin while the A5 Tenderloin($58 )serves up 100 grams of A5 Japanese Wagyu tenderloin steak. Taste them as standalone steaks for full satisfaction, or all of them on a Heavenly Meat Board ($198) that serves 3-4 pax with a medley of the select cuts in one seating, complemented with a choice of two sauces. An alternative is the Butcher’s Secret ($28) that gives 200 grams of Australian grain-fed hangar steak. And if steak isn’t your flavour of the day, the Charr’d Lamb Rack($38) grills up 200 grams of Australian lamb rack and serves it with a house mint sauce. Fish options are also included with the Charr’d Salmon($22) of 200 grams of Norwegian salmon drizzled with a house-made bearnaise sauce. While the mains are indeed enticing, kick off your meal with starters that are equally delicious, such as the A5 Wagyu Cubes ($19) served with shimeji mushrooms, baby spinach and a light sprinkle of flaky salt, as well as Salmon Cube Taré ($14) of charred salmon belly nuggets glazed with yakiniku no tare and served with snow pea shoots, caramelised onions, and a house bearnaise sauce. The perfect complements to your meal are potato sides like Truffle Fries ($13) and Mentaiko Jojos ($12). Balance the flavours out with some vegetable sides, such as the Charr’d Broccoli ($12) and Cream’d Moonlight Spinach ($13). For a sweet end, the House Croffles ($13) make for satisfying bites of waffle-pressed croissant topped with dark chocolate gelato, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, and a cherry on top, while the House Brownie ($12) will satiate all chocolate cravings with a dark chocolate brownie baked with sea salt and walnuts, crowned with Charr’d burnt cheesecake gelato, chocolate syrup, whipped cream and a cherry. In a casual space of smoky black ceilings and dark wood furniture, Charr’d fires up to life by neon red and orange light, reenacting the inner furnace of its grill ovens. This first fun, fiery introduction to its menu sets the pace for a perfect night out of Charr’d’s best steaks, burgers and side bites. Unwind and chill in an unpretentious space serving up only good cut meats, quality dishes and no-frill sides for an alternative way of enjoying meats and more. Grab a mocktail, a few friends and have dessert after dinner. Charr’d is here so you can chill out. SINGAPORE-17
R i s e A n d Shine Signifying a new dawn, Le Matin Patisserie is founded and helmed by Singaporean chefowner Mohamed Al-Matin in 2020. Located in the heart of Singapore, inside the ION Orchard shopping mall, the menu at Le Matin comprises Chef Al-Matin’s authentic French pastries, desserts and hot mains. Some must-try pastries include the Almond Croissant ($7.50), a flaky double-baked delight filled with roasted almonds in a bed of vanilla cream and topped with more crunchy slivered almonds as well as the Kouign Amann ($7.50), Chef Al-Matin’s signature bake of flaky pastry layered generously with butter, caramelised sugar, vanilla and hints of molasses. The Pistachio & Rose Escargot ($8) remains a sweet surprise with its snail-shape croissant vessel holding nutty pistachio custard and rose-scented cranberries, finished off with a topping of chopped pistachio and dried rose petals. Another popular best-seller is the Smoked Cruffin ($10), Le Matin’s sourdough croissant baked in the shape of a muffin then filled with applewood smoked vanilla custard and topped with charred eucalyptus meringue. Some popular savoury pastries include the Escargot Escargot ($13), a traditional croissant but shaped like a snail to hint at its delicious French escargot stuffing inside, further fragranced with mushroom ricotta Newly opened Le Matin Patisserie is bringing French delicacies for brunch and dessert in ION Orchard LE MATIN ION Orchard #B2-49 2 Orchard Turn Singapore 238801 Operating hours Daily 10am to 10pm SINGAPORE-18 SINGAPORE TRAVELOGUE
SINGAPORE-19 curd. It is coated with garlic crumb and doused in garlic butter before baking and finished with a swirl of parsley chimichurri right before serving. Check out on display a modern take on a classic – the Ox Tongue & Bresaola Croque Monsieur ($21) uses sourdough brioche to carefully stack and layer Gruyere bechamel, sliced ox tongue and wagyu bresaola with pickled roses, four cheeses of mozzarella, parmesan, comte and gruyere, tomato relish and horseradish mayo for a new-age croque monsieur. While these are great for take away, get your mornings off to a good start with some decadent brunch items you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. The Wagyu Brioche Feuilletée ($45) presents a brioche feuilletée with a prized marbled wagyu ribeye of MBS5+, cooked to tender bites in smoked duck fat, sweetened with onion marmalade and fragranced with brown butter leek, crispy shiso fritters, yuzu salt and black garlic aioli. The Chutoro Brioche Feuilletée ($38) is a seafood alternative with sweet shoyu-cured chutoro fatty tuna enriched with sea urchin butter and texturised with edamame mash, yuzu wasabi mayo and pickled red onions. A simpler but no less decadent option is the Black Truffle Scrambled Eggs Croissant ($36) presenting a round croissant of a burger stacked with black truffle aioli and truffle paste, fluffy and buttery scrambled eggs with 8g of sliced black truffles. Wrap up your meal on a sweet note with French desserts and sweets aplenty, like the Fromagede vos Reves ($21), a medley of sweets with all-cheese bases including brillat savarin mousse, reblochon creameux and comte sponge, touched up with milk crumble glaze and served with aside of creme fraiche ice cream. Indulge in the Amazake Soft Serve served in four different variations. The rich yoghurt-like sweet-andsour soft serve, made of fermented rice, is available with a Croissant Cone ($12), in a Takeaway Cup ($7) and as an Affogato ($11) all day long. On Wednesday to Sunday from 6pm to 9pm, it ups the indulgence as an extra delight with Brown Butter Waffles ($20). Frequently sported with long queues of people eagerly trying to get a taste of Al-Matin’s famed bakes, the patisserie serves its famed pastries all day for dine-in and takeaway, while brunch and desserts are available for dine-in only from Wednesday to Sunday, 11am to 3pm for brunch and 6pm to 10pm for desserts.
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A TASTE OF SINGAPORE Originally prepared as a homely dish by founder Mr Tay King Huak, White Restaurant’s signature Original Sembawang White Beehoon has since become a uniquely Singaporean dish well-loved by both local and overseas gastronomes. The homegrown brand had humble beginnings in 1999, operating from a small hawker stall in Chong Pang Market before moving to Jalan Tampang in 2000 when the market closed. The immense popularity of their signature dish made customers refer to them fondly as the “Sembawang White Bee Hoon Restaurant” instead of the official name of You Huak Restaurant. As its reputation grew, so did the number of outlets. In 2013, the restaurant officially rebranded to the “White Restaurant” we know today, having amply earned for itself the revered reputation of its namesake dish. White Restaurant’s coveted Original White Beehoon (from $7.90) dish is a must-try for anyone dining there. The inimitable broth in this signature dish is simmered for more than 8 hours with a combination of chicken Have a taste of some of the well-loved local favourites in Singapore at White Restaurant SINGAPORE-22
feet and bones to extract the sweetness and nutrients. To achieve the charred and smokey fragrance or ‘wok hei’ that all Singaporeans love, this tasty broth is then used to stir-fry the beehoon plate by plate under careful controlled temperature, timing and the right amount of broth. In addition to its coveted White Beehoon dish, the restaurant also serves up other delectable dishes that are also full of wok hei, demonstrating its culinary prowess throughout its menu. Other bestsellers include its Signature Meat & Seafood Roll, Signature Fried Wings, Salted Egg Sotong, Sambal Sweet Potato Leaves and more. Bring a piece of White Restaurant back with you with its Ready-to-Cook (RTC) signature dishes and sauces to add flavour to your table. Conveniently packed in individual frozen vacuum packs, all you need to do is to thaw and cook! Take home these crowd-favourite dishes and recreate them at the comfort of your home – Meat & Seafood Roll, Fried Chicken Mid Wings, Dried Shrimp Chilli Paste, White Beehoon Chilli Sauce and Premium Collagen Broth. Brewed locally on our little red dot with quality ingredients such as shark cartilage, chicken feet, pork and chicken meat, White Restaurant’s premium collagen broth is thick, creamy and rich in flavour. Made healthier with the addition of Alchemy Fibre that is high in dietary fibre and prebiotics, it is suitable for people of all ages. Perfect as a steamboat base or as a flavourful broth used for cooking of dishes, to be stored frozen with a shelf life of 6 months. There are 8 White Restaurant outlets across Singapore, with the newest outlet opened in VivoCity. Watch out for frequent festive promotions and dishes! WHITE RESTAURANT 1 HarbourFront Walk, #02-121/122 VivoCity, Singapore 098585 Operating hours Daily 11am to 10pm SINGAPORE TRAVELOGUE SINGAPORE-23
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Celebration of lights Deepavali is one of the major cultural festivals in Singapore, where Hindu families celebrate the triumph of good over evil s one of the major cultural festivals in Singapore, Deepavali (also known as “Diwali” or the “Festival of Lights”) is a celebration that symbolises the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. This celebration typically falls in mid-October to mid-November and is based on the Hindu calendar, which tracks the moon cycle. This year, the celebration falls on 12 November 2023 (Sunday) Deepavali is a celebration that unites people from every nook and corner of the world, regardless of religion and caste. During this day, thousands of Hindu families in the city — and across the world—transform their homes into beacons of light, exchange gifts, share feasts and perform pooja (prayers). There are various legends surrounding this vibrant festival. One of the most popular ones is the story of the return of Lord Rama and his wife to their North Indian Kingdom after a 14- year exile. The people joyously welcomed him with thousands of lamps. Similar to how lamps were lit for Lord Rama’s return, diyas (oil lamps made of clay) are placed around homes during the festivities. Families also spring clean their homes to prepare for the occasion. Doorways and entrances are also often decorated with rangoli – a traditional form of floor art which consists of beautiful patterns usually made out of flour, sand, flower petals or rice. These special decorations are to welcome Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, into the home. Apart from prepping their houses for the festival, Hindu families can also be seen thronging Little India (as well as across the country) days before the festival to gear up at bazaars and to snap photos of the stunning lights and decorations along the streets. While Deepavali is typically celebrated for five days, the monumental installations, Instagram-worthy set ups and colourful festive lights will stand for about a month after Deepavali, giving locals and A DEEPAVALI-26
visitors a like plenty of time to be a part of the celebration. Walk along Little India and take in the several scents of floral garlands and incense while browsing stalls participating in the annual Deepavali Festival Village. These stores will sport shiny gold jewellery, traditional snacks, colourful embroidered sari (traditional wear) and ornamental decorations. From days leading up to the celebration, bask under the stars and enjoy musical and dance performance, or get an intricate henna tattoo done. Take a break from all the bustling celebratory fun by parking yourself at any of the neighbourhood’s many coffee shops with a mug of teh tarik (pulled milk tea) or some masala chai (black tea and spices). In 2022, the Indian Heritage Centre’s (IHC) hosted a Deepavali Open House that welcomed everyone to celebrate the occasion with an exciting array of programmes. In a first for IHC, visitors were able to enjoy the annual Little India Deepavali street light-up and decorations on the Deepavali Big Bus Tour, which ran over the Open House weekends. Hopefully, this will become a new yearly tradition and we will see another open house this year. Other Deepavali-themed programmes to enjoy at Little India include craft workshops, cooking-demos, heritage trails and evening trishaw rides. DEEPAVALI-27 DEEPAVALI-27
The “trick-or-treat” customs may not be prevalent in Singapore, but the country still celebrates this spooky festival in its own way. Come endSeptember, Singapore’s largest Halloween event will take place at the Resorts World Sentosa (RWS). Universal Studios Singapore’s (USS) Halloween Horror Nights (HHN) will return this year for its 11th edition after coming back with a bang last year, following a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic. Experience never-before-seen haunted houses, scare zones, laser tag, a dining experience and behind-the-scenes tour, as fans put their courage to the test at Singapore’s largest and awardwinning scare event. Every year, USS promises new hair-raising games, haunted houses and scare zones based on a specific theme. Last year was the most elaborate HHN event yet. The scariest haunted house was themed Killustrator: The Final Chapter, as it paid tribute to some of the scariest characters from past HNN events. Even the set and props have been meticulously recreated with a twist to ensure a proper fright night. The haunted houses and scare zones were crowd favourites, with characters such as Miss Pon, mutated zombies, and demented clowns waiting to drop a scare on you. Just like you, the Killustrator is a member of the HHN fandom but his passion with the villains of past haunted houses drives this crazed manga artist to create the ultimate sinister haunted house. As you scream your way through the house, you’ll spot familiar themes such from previous years’ HNN as the clown house and The MRT, inspired by True Singapore Ghost Stories. HALLOWEEN-28
The beauty of HNN is that it also taps into local culture and folklore to give visitors a more engaging and relatable experience. The scariest scare zone was at The Hunt for Pontianak, bringing this Asian nightmare to life. Set in the jungles of the Jurassic Park zone, the experience is fully outdoors as you go on a quest to find and trap the vicious pontianak. But beware, make sure to watch you back, we hear that she likes to lurk behind. There was also an interactive laser tag game last year, a great activity for families and groups of friends. The Escape the Breakout combines a laser tag game and escape room puzzle to bring you through a 10-minute adrenaline-filled run through a prison facility. A physical and mental challenge, this activity requires you to not only solve clues to get to the next room, but also stay alert to fend off prisoners who have broken out of their cells. While there are no strict age restrictions for HNN, it is typically recommended for children above the age of 13. The event will typically run from late September till early November. Even if you are a regular at USS or HNN, rest assured that the novelty factor from the completely different themed haunted houses and scare zones every year will keep you coming back for more. Each year, USS makes the effort to incorporate the latest technology and scare tactics to give you the best spooky experience. The actors have also been professionally trained to provide you the ultimate scare.
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CHRISTMAS-31 Every year, the streets of Orchard Road will be magically transformed into a glistening light display for people of all religion and race to enjoy the artful lights. Last year, the Great Christmas Village and celebrations were in full-force, as the country emerged from the pandemic. The celebrations began at Tanglin Road with a spectacular teal and white arch greeting visitors as they arrived. An eyecatching Ferris wheel and starry design offered the first glimpse of a carnival spirit along the 3.1km of lights. The focal point of the light-up was located at the junction of Orchard Road and Scotts Road – a mesmerising main arch, with ornate Christmas trees decorated with reindeer and baubles on each side of the road to delight motorists and pedestrians as they cruised along the precinct. In 2022, saw 104 trees lit up with energy-saving LED white lights to enhance the festive experience. Interactive set pieces were also strewn across the Orchard Road, allowing visitors to capture picture perfect moments with family and friends. The lights, sponsored by Hitachi Asia, stay for months after the Christmas, as these same lights will take on pink hues after the Christmas season to usher in the Lunar New Year and Valentine’s day. The lights kickstart as early as mid-November and are up till past the new year. This is one display set you do not want to miss. Apart from catching the light displays and taking photos along Orchard Road, join in the festive fun at the Great Christmas Village, which features funfilled amusement rides and activities perfect for capturing images of festive memories, live festive music, and tantalising F&B options. Last year, visitors were able to register for art workshops, where they learned fun new skills, such as alcohol ink painting, tapestry weaving, clay modelling and crafting. The main stage in the Great Christmas Village also comes alive on Friday to Sunday evenings, as local artists and performers grace the stage with their performances. The Great Christmas Village features different interactive and experiential activities, but every year seems to break its own record. In 2022, Orchard Road introduced the first dual-façade outdoor projection show. For the first time ever, the façade of the Mandarin Gallery facing Somerset was activated with multimedia 3D projection, delighting pedestrians all around. The façade facing Ngee Ann City was also home to a 10-minute multimedia 3D projection show with augmented reality (AR) features that took place every night. This was also where the countdown clock for Christmas Day and the New Year’s Eve celebration took place. Spectators were treated to a specially curated Christmas show that offered a visual spectacle of past light-ups, a multi-tiered rotating carousel with galloping horses, a vibrant spinning Ferris wheel, arcade games, and a stunning firework display in AR. Don’t forget that Orchard Road is still the shopping district in Singapore. Apart from all the fun happenings, expect Christmas and year-end promotions at the retail stores, F&B outlets and hotels along Orchard Road.
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SOUTHERN COMFORT Anchor Café & Roastery aims to serve the highest quality Southern comfort food and specialty coffee Anchor Café & Roastery has been around for about six years now and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The café is especially well-known for its specialty coffee that is uniquely made from unroasted green coffee beans that have been sourced ethically from farms all over the world. The fresh green coffee beans are then brought fresh to the café to be roasted onsite with their very own roaster to ensure the freshest and highest quality coffee. This also allows the café to “roast to taste”, controlling the flavour profile of the beans. Here, you’ll be able to pick the origins of your beans, be it from local Indonesia or overseas countries, such as Colombia, Ethiopia, Honduras and Uganda. It is obvious that Anchor Café & Roastery takes its coffee very seriously and that is no wonder that you are greeted with an aromatic waft of coffee smell when you enter the café. Apart from the inviting scent, the café has lots of large windows, allowing natural sunlight into the space, giving it a homey and comfortable vibe. At Anchor Café & Roastery, they are all about “family”, such that anyone who walks through the doors of the café is coming into their Anchor Café & Roastery Ruko Dermaga Culinary Paradise Blok RF No.11 Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29462 The café culture in Batam is one that is slowly gaining traction. We are seeing more cafés now opening up and serving amazing coffees, alongside comforting Western style breakfast dishes. BATAM-42
BATAM-43 home and into their family. Anyone and everyone is invited here. Apart from the coffee here, there are several must-try food dishes on the menu. The hearty Mommas Breakfast Platter is a signature here. Similar to a “big breakfast” concept, this dish is served with two fully homestyle pancakes, two eggs sunny side up, skillet potatoes, fresh cut fruit, and grilled turkey ham. And since breakfast is served all-day, have this anytime you like. For a sweeter breakfast dish, the Wild-berry Granola Crunch French Toast is a winner. Think classic French toast made with a thick cut homemade bread, topped with fresh berries compote, crunchy homemade granola, and log-cabin maple syrup. Not only is this dish hearty and comforting, it looks super insta-worthy. Anchor Café & Roastery prides itself in its specialty American Southern food here too. Some favourites include the Meat and Potatoes, which features a savoury pot roast beef simmered all day, such that every bite is tender and bursting with flavour. This is then served with carrots and mashed potatoes on the side. A popular Southern dish that you can find here is the Mac & Cheese. Served in cast iron skillet, the macaroni is served with a creamy blend of parmesan and cheddar cheeses and then topped with crunchy buttered crackers for that extra flavour and texture. Don’t forget to also try the Chicken and Waffles, another truly Southern dish. Three fired chicken tenders are served with whole waffles that is nicely crispy on the outside and soft in the inside. This comes with a side of sweet whipped honey butter and maple syrup. You’re the captain of your own ship and it is up to you if you’d like to have pancakes for breakfast or dessert. The Texas Stack comes with vanilla ice cream, strawberries and blueberries, while the Hot Chocolate features chocolate chip filled batter topped with toasted marshmallows, chocolate chips, and a rich chocolate drizzle. The Café welcomes walk-ins at the café area, but they also have a private room for you to host private parties or business meetings. The private room however needs to be booked in advance and you can easily do so through their website.
Travel light, travel right - peace of mind. Go-Ferry Insurance (Company Registration Number 201331905K) Singapore 048583 T +65 6887 8777 E [email protected] www.majesticfastferry.com.sg www.etiqa.com.sg (Company Registration Number 200711821K) 1 Maritime Square #03-41 Harbourfront Centre, S 099253 T +65 6278 9688 E [email protected] This policy is underwritten by Etiqa Insurance Pte. Ltd. (Company Reg. No. 201331905K), a member of Maybank Group.This content is for reference only and is not a contract of insurance. Full details of the policy terms and conditions can be found in the policy contract. This policy is protected under the Policy Owners’ Protection Scheme which is administered by the Singapore Deposit Insurance Corporation (SDIC). Coverage for your policy is automatic and no further action is required from you. For more information on the types of benefits that are covered under the scheme as well as the limits of coverage, where applicable. please contact us or visit the General Insurance Association (GIA) or SDIC websites (www.gia.org.sg or www.sdic.org.sg). The insurance can be purchased at Majestic Fast Ferry's ticketing counter (HFC/TMFT) & website. Emergency Medical Baggage loss and damage Medical Expenses Incurred Overseas Coverage Highlights eTiQa-44
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A TASTE OF TRADITION WHAT’S A VISIT TO BATAM WITHOUT A TASTE OF SOME LOCAL FOOD? IKAN BAKA CIANJUR SERVES UP AMAZING GRILLED DELIGHTS. BATAM-46
Batam is a rather multi-cultural island, with several cuisines to be savoured all over town. But what’s a trip without experiencing some local favourites? Ikan Bakar Cianjur, a restaurant chain in Indonesia by the IBC Group, believes that they are more than just a restaurant, they are preservers of Indonesia’ Culinary Heritage. The brand started in 1989 and today boasts 21 outlet across Indonesia, with one in Batam. The restaurant chain has been a supporter of the Indonesian economy and strives to source as much of its ingredients locally as possible. They even have their own greenhouse at the Pandaan outlet where they grow their own hydroponic vegetables and distribute them across their outlets. “We pride in using fresh local ingredients, put together into delicious, healthy, family friendly meals suitable for lunch or dinner,” said the restaurant group. They are also dedicated to make your comfort their number one priority. This can be seen in their Batam outlet too, which is rather nearby the Batam Centre Ferry Terminal. The interior is clean, spacious and comfortable, perfect for small groups and large gatherings to enjoy. As its namesake, make sure you come here and try the ikan bakar or grilled fish. The signature is the Gurame Bakar or Javanese style flame grilled fresh water carp, which is a traditional dish that is also loved by locals. The carp is grilled perfectly, such that the skin is a nice crisp with a hint of smokiness, while the flesh is soft and chunky. The Gurame fish is also cooked in a variety of styles here at Ikan Bakar Cianjur. While the Gurame Bakar is one of the signatures, the Gurame Tim (steamed Chinese style with light soy sauce and scallions), Gurame Goreng (fried in a signature marination) and Gurame Sop (cooked in clear soup and preserved vegetables) are popular too. The Ayam Bakar or the Javanese style grilled chicken is also another signature here. Grilled in a similar fashion as the fish, the chicken here is just tender to the bite with hints of char and smokiness from the grill. For some greens in your meal, the Rujak Cingur is a must-try local dish. This is an Indonesian style vegetable and fruit salad ala East Javanese served with cingur (sliced boiled beef muzzle), lontong (compressed rice) and a special blend of shrimp paste and peanut dressing. Add some carbs in to your meal with a signature Indonesian dish – Nasi Goreng Pete. This is a unique and fragrant fried rice dish with petai or “stinkbean”. A special delicacy here in Indonesia, the “stinkbean” has a strong and pungent aroma that elevates the entire dish. Don’t forget to end off with dessert or a sweet drink! The crowd favourite is the Es Campur Tempo Doeloe, which is an homage to an Indonesian street food classic. This is a combination of young coconut, jell-o, grass jelly, avocado & fermented cassava, topped with shaved ice and coconut milk. Ikan Bakar Cianjur Batam Jl. Centre Point, Tlk. Tering, Kec. Batam Kota, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29444, Indonesia BATAM-47
FLAVOURS OF THE SEA Everyone is well aware that Batam is an island that is close to the waters, since you can easily take a ferry ride over from Singapore. This means that Batam has access to some of the freshest seafood around. At Kelong Baba Seafood Restaurant, you’ll find not just fresh catch, but also a meal that won’t leave a hole in your wallet. As Kelong Baba likes to say: “makan mewah ga pakai mahal” or “eating fancy doesn’t need to be expensive”. Dig in to some of the signature dishes, such as the Kerapu Hongkong Steam. This classic dish is one that will not go wrong and is easily enjoyed by all. Fresh caught kerapu fish or grouper is simply steamed with soy sauce, ginger slices and spring onions to bring out the flavours of the fish. Another favourite dish is the Udang Goreng Nestum. This dish of fried prawns in cereal is a sweet and savoury one that can be rather addictive. The crispy Nestum cereal bits give an extra crunch and decadent flavour to the overall dish. Cooked with chopped red chillies and generous serving of curry leaves, this dish is bursting with flavours! You’ll easily find yourself reaching out for more crispy ceral bits even after you’ve finished the prawns. Add some spice into your meal with the Sotong Saus Pedas Shangrilla. In this dish, sliced squid is stir fried in a spicy homemade sauce that not only adds a bit of fire, but also a tangy and sweet tinge. This dish is best paired with some rice to enjoy the sauce. Touring Batam with a vegetarian buddy? Fret not, Kelong Baba also has a special vegetarian menu. There is truly something for everyone here. Don’t forget to watch out for their festive specials too during selected festive seasons. Come for the food but stay for the scenery. Being close to the sea, Kelong Baba Seafood Restaurant is a must-go for fresh and affordable seafood BATAM-48
BATAM-49 It is noteworthy to mention that Kelong Baba is indeed a kelong or a floating fish farm, as well as a restaurant. As you walk into the restaurant, you’ll notice tanks of live seafood, where you can even pick and choose your choice of catch. We recommend to enjoy an early dinner here at about 6pm and grab a seat outdoors. A part of the restaurant is outdoors, offering a scenic El fresco dining style, so you can watch the sunset over the waters, while enjoying a hearty meal. The restaurant also has comfortable and bright indoor seating with VIP private rooms available for booking. Kelong Baba Seafood Restaurant Kompleks Green Bay Kav. Kelong Tiban Sekupang, Batam City, Riau Island 29424
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