- Haute Habits -

Ibu Mangku Chicken Rice, Ubud, Bali

2009-06-02T10:35:00.000+08:00

You know you've come across something good when local crowd is swarming an eatery.

This local warung (hawker) has served traditional Balinese chicken rice for as long as the locals can remember.

They only serve one dish, THE chicken rice, accompanied by a variety of freshly squeezed juices.

The meal is hearty, plentiful, healthy (chicken and vegetables are organic - as many locals grow and produce locally).

It consists of three chicken dish (one curried, one fried and one on a lemongrass stick) with sides of local salad. The chilli (staple to many Indonesian food) is fried to crispiness and very tasty.

Ambience is very local and we only saw about one or two other tourists around, thus I declare this place fabulous and (almost) tourist-free.

The meal for two here cost about no more than S$5.50 altogether. Good for the stomach and healthy for the wallet.

Typical local spot - no obvious address, which makes part of the charm.
Why is it Haute? It's only 5 minutes drive from the gorgeous Four Seasons Ubud resort ;) (Meaning, spend more on your honeymoon resort but not on your meals)

Nasi Ayam Kedewatan Ibu Mangku

Kedewatan, Ubud

Bali

Pacific Coffee @ red dot Traffic, Singapore

2009-05-24T15:00:00.001+08:00

If you work around the Tanjong Pagar and Raffles Place area, you would have at least spotted this great red colonial building which used to be the former Singapore traffic Police Headquarters, just two minutes walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT station.

The Red Dot Design musuem is now a landmark to showcase the various innovation in this little island. Whilst the musuem is an anchor tenant, the red dot Traffic houses some creative companies, including advertising agencies and design studios.

Nestled within these red walls is a Pacific Coffee pitstop, and one of Singapore's best hidden secret hideouts! But it's really too good not to share this with everyone.

The Pacific Coffee brand has gained much popularity in both Hong Kong and China, with most branches strategically situated at Central Business Districts such as Raffles Link, Raffles Place, Citibank Plaza, Bank of China Tower and IFC Mall. The weekday crowd is hardly ever underdressed to say the least ;)

Comparing to the lights of the more commercialised Starbucks and Coffee Bean, this place offers ultra comfy couches (those that allows you return into a fetial position while reading your book), as well as a library of magazines. We're talking about Travel + Leisure, BusinessWeek, Cubes and many more selections!

And if you need to spend the weekend working on 'that' piece of assignment, here's the place which will give you way more inspiration than that 3-by-3 cubicle of yours. Fresher environment, faster thinking, smarter working ;)

Pacific Coffee
red dot Traffic
28, Maxwell Road
Singapore
Tel: 6327 4835

How to throw a (Haute) Dinner Party?

2009-05-20T22:10:00.007+08:00

Ever felt that you've been challenged by the mid-week syndrome and just wished for the weekend to come sooner rather than later? And when the weekend came, you either have became an item with the bed, or whined about there is absolutely nothing to do... because its too hot, too crowded, too jammed and too lazy to get out of the house.

And if you don't want to, that's perfectly fine. We suggest you throw the perfect dinner party for a couple of your friends and relatives ;) But here's a couple of tips on how to spruce the things up to make it into one haute party without wrecking up the bills.

First tip. Set the theme. Dim lighting, candle lights and jazzy house tunes would go extremely well with a dinner party. Most importantly, set the dining table and get everyone seated around the dining table. We suggest that you go paperless and stick with the proper cutlery, drinking glasses and porcelain plates. Paper plates encourages people to roam around the freakin' house, and you'll end up having a bunch of them munching away to the sights and sounds of American Idol.

Second tip. Add small touches that matches the theme of your dinner party. Although small touches are unnecessary, your family and friends will appreciate the fact that you have put in alota initiative in hosting this dinner party. Behind the scenes, you can choose to outsource the nitty-gritty bits to your younger sister or your mother-in-law. (Floral printed paper napkins were from IKEA and hardly cost anything)

Tip no. 3. Aggravate the tastebuds! Appetizers are usually a great way to do the job and we suggest something special which you won't be able to get from your local supermarkets. We chose Muji's wacky Japanese tidbits - although a tad bit expensive (S$2-3 per pack), it certainly got some tai-tais on the route to diabetes.

We can't emphasize any further just how important presentation is. Your mother's Chinaware should come in handy at dinner parties like this. Just don't take those which are as old as you.

You can also choose to cook up some savory appetizers. We prepared some Hawaiian Chicken tapas. Extremely easy... slice the baguette to bite-size, place some chicken ham and sweetened pineapples on the individual slices. Then top it with mozzarella cheese and season with black pepper and sea salt. Chuck it into the oven for 5 minutes before serving. Simple?!

When it comes to the main dishes, do plan your food list and shop a few days in advance. You can choose to cheat by cooking some and catering some. Muahaha. Try to think of some favourite local dishes that your dinner guest will enjoy. You can't go wrong with satays and yeong tau fus. A roast lamb from EuroDeli nicely does it as well ;)

Last but not least, the perfect party requires a perfect host. Greet everyone like you've not seen them in donkey years. Catch up on the good times and most importantly, have some crazy fun!

Villa Amala, Ubud, Bali

2009-05-18T00:00:00.002+08:00

This week, we bring you to another part of Bali. Welcome to Villa Amala located in the province of Tegallalang, Ubud. Unlike the Seminyak area which target mainly chic and Western travellers, Ubud is a more popular destination for those who would like to be more in touch with nature.

As you can see, Villa Amala is smacked in the midst of nearby padi fields and overlooks the river Wos. The villa is an hour’s ride from Bali’s Ngurah Rai airport, which is a price we had to pay for this tremendous and serene getaway. Speaking of which, our transport was provided along with the accomodation package.

With five ensuite guestrooms, Villa Amala can accommodate up to 10 people pretty comfortably. Definitely suitable for 4-5 couples looking to spend some quality time away soaking up the sun and forgetting about their deskbound jobs (at least for the weekend!). Speaking of which, the villa boasts a 20m lap pool where guests can take a leisurely dip...

...or just enjoying the surronding greeneries sprawling over the deck chair ;) Here, we also managed to experience what it is like to harvest these fields. You'll think twice about complaining about your job!

One of the highlights of this villa is the open dining area, which again, overlooks the padi fields. The in-house chef has mastered both local and western cuisine. All we needed to do is to discuss with the chef on the type of dishes we wanted and they'll speed off to do their grocery shopping. Best of all, we only have to pay for the cost of the groceries (plus a small tip of cos!).

As you make your way to the back of the villa, you will notice a small passage way that would eventually lead you to a quiet and cosy hut.

There is also a large daybed overlooking the lap pool for you to enjoy your evening read or even a massage...

...and perhaps enjoy the sunset that Bali has to offer!

Like what you're seeing? You can place your reservations at Villa Amala, Bali

Has the crisis changed you?

2009-05-13T01:00:00.007+08:00

Frugality and safety are in; bling and plastic are out. The economic meltdown has sparked a major shift in our financial values. And one that's likely to last.

A new set of values is emerging from the ashes of 600,000 layoffs a month, a lost decade in stocks, and the worst housing crash ever. These values may ring familiar to anyone who lived through the Great Depression. But for most of us it amounts to a large-scale makeover of the way we think about money and life.

We're not just cutting our bills, we're rejecting materialism. We're placing safety and intrinsic rewards like relationships and personal growth ahead of profit. We're embracing family and community and asking how we can help others, not just ourselves.

And why our new values will last?

Some argue that when the economy recovers, our new embrace of thrift, nesting, and altruism will end along with our fears of Armageddon. Certainly, we will borrow and spend again. But it won't be the same as in the pre-crisis era.

Psychologists note that trauma often leads to a shift in behavior - the worse the trauma, the more lasting the change. For example, a near-death experience typically leads people to permanently shift their focus from material success to intrinsic rewards like good relationships and personal growth. You don't see that after, say, a root canal.

No doubt some folks will relapse into their old bad habits once the economy gets rolling again. But you can keep your baser financial instincts in check by reminding yourself of how painful it was when you were maxed out on your credit cards or lost your job with no cash cushion.

Above all, commit yourself to living within your means.

That's a haute habit by itself ;)

Source: CNN

The Power of Association

2009-05-12T12:00:00.004+08:00

If there was one thing that caught our eyes on the Straits Times was this Subaru advert. Let me point you to the proportion of colours they use. Lots of white on the background. Black for the description. Yellow and blue for the corporate colours. And...the mother of all red for the pricetag.

And why did it catch our eyes again?

Because it looks like a freaking IKEA advert! Anyone who religiously does corporate charity to the Swedish conglomerate will take a second glance of the Subaru advert. (Numerically, that would be half of Singapore's and Malaysia's population)

Our verdict on the advert:
Conventionally boring. Zero creativity. But works effortlessly.

Now, this is the power of ASSOCIATION. Two thumbs up for the lazy bastard who gave (much) thought into this ;)

Grocer & Grind, Seminyak, Bali

2009-05-10T22:12:00.005+08:00

The spot is a typical brunch hang-out for the local Bali expats. They serve excellent coffee and nourishing Western foods to start your day (mind you, everyday in Seminyak is a long weekend).

Very few cafes and bistros in this part of the world do latte art this well..

Not only it accomodates food, it serves as the local provision shop, filled with western brands. Got the craving for that Hershey's chocolate in the afternoon? Come and drop by.

Fans of Jones the Grocer in Singapore would probably feel a similar vibe towards this place.

Brunch for two at this place only sets you back around S$12-S$15.

Grocer & Grind

Bistro and gourmet delicatessen

Jl. Kayu Jati no. 3X Petintenget Beach, Seminyak

Bali

+62 361 730418

Marina @ Keppel Bay, Singapore

2009-05-08T10:00:00.003+08:00

We welcome you to one of Singapore's best hidden secrets to date yet!

Boat Asia 2009, Singapore

2009-05-08T09:00:00.001+08:00

If you think that the Marina is too captivating, we bring you some pictures from the recent Boat Asia 2009 event, featuring some of the latest luxury boats, yachts and everything that floats along with it!

This was definitely THE place for boating enthusiasts. Some admired, some went on to purchase, and some just finally found another boat-junkie to share their passion with.

However, this event was very much aimed at getting the general public to appreciate the waterfront lifestyle, simply chilling with family and friends on a yacht over the long weekend (minus the sea-sickness of course). Definitely something that's picking up in Singapore.

And that is exactly what we did. We got on one of them and it feels damn good! Yes, even though it was idle and not exactly sitting on water.

So imagine, how it would be like if you were ;) Among those which were displayed, we picked this! Has that "on-top-of-the-world" Range Rover feel behind the wheel. Woot!

Any takers yet?!

Mini Convertible @ Mini Habitat, Singapore

2009-05-06T22:00:00.001+08:00

Last weekend, we managed to take a spin in the spankin' new Mini Cooper Convertible!

The ones in Singapore comes in two variants, the Cooper and the Cooper S. Whilst the latter comes with a turbocharge that churns out 175bhp, we opted for the Cooper - just because we want something with a lil more poise (and with our hair still intact at the end of the test drive).

Time it takes to get its top off... 15 seconds, with a touch of a button ;)

The Mini Cabriolet also comes with a 'Always Open Timer' which keeps track of exactly how long you have spent with you top down. Redundant but it does remind you why you bought a convertible in the first place.

So here's our verdict, whilst the Mini Cabrio was another chic machine, we would give it a pass. The drive is fun-inducing, but less compared to the hatchback models, and back seats are way too straight for long journeys. Also, you would need to fork out S$127,800 for the Cooper Cabrio and S$147,800 for the Cooper S Cabrio. That is a S$20,000 premium on top of the hatchback models!

Nevertheless, if you want something that turn heads, this is the only convertible out in the market which can successfully do it everytime! (from our experience hehe)

Gourmet Garage, Kemang, Jakarta

2009-05-04T09:37:00.026+08:00

The place is wonderful mix of deli and easy casual dining. It's where locals and expats alike have their brunches and lunches when they're around Kemang area.

Their deli (or mini supermarket) offers a wide range of overseas goodies and they provide a decent ice-creamery on ground floor.

Head to second floor, that's where you'll find the dining area where they have two different specialties.
Saba caters fusion Western food while Hiro boasts some of the freshest Japanese food in town.

In one section of their dining area, they display some cute chinas from Jenggala, a local china company that has their own store in Cathay, Singapore as well.

A sample from Saba - their famous Wagyu Burger (where is the standard minced beef??). Fries were crispy with the right amount of seasoning, while the burger meat was (of course) juicy and tender.

While from Hiro, I tasted their grilled Silver Cod fish (or Gindara) with teriyaki sauce. This could be one of the tastiest Japanese fish dish I've ever tasted. The Japs could've disagreed to so much seasoning, but I gotta say, the meat was so tender and the sauce went right through the fish, it was soooo good.

Waited 15 minutes for this dish. Cleaned it up in 5.

Some of the Jap expats have told that Gourmet Garage's fish and oyster selection is one of the freshest in town. That's enough proof to get your sashimi here.

While for the sides, we got their Bruschetta trio of guacamole, tomato and roasted mushroom. Each one got two thumbs up. Delicious and fresh for the toppings and just enough crispiness on the French bread.

Entrees S$3 to S$ 10

Mains S$5 to S$ 30

Desserts S$5 to S$15

(See? It caters to all budgets!)

Gourmet Garage

Kemang Raya Kav 66-68

Jakarta Selatan

+62 21 7190875

Cafe Bali, Seminyak, Bali

2009-04-28T20:52:00.024+08:00

This is where chic, quaint, trendy and fabulous all rolled into one.

Located in the happening area of Seminyak in Bali, the cafe boasts casual Western, Dutch and French foods.
It's definitely a place to be seen as many of the diners here are gorgeous and freshly tanned Europeans and Aussies.

The mainly white interior is colonial-chic and something to enjoy on as you dine....

A friend and I went there for an evening dessert. But the cafe serves brunch right through to dinner.

The fresh fruit salad, juice and the oh-so-heavenly-melt-in-your-mouth chocolate moelleux (molten chocolate cake) only cost us S$12 altogether... (insert gasps, oohs and aahs here).

Totally heart the place, food and crowd. A must when you come to Seminyak, Bali.

Cafe Bali

Jl. Laksamana (Oberoi)

Seminyak

Bali

PS: Dress casual chic. It's an (effortless) competition to look good here.

Audi Kaleidoscopic event

2009-04-26T12:30:00.000+08:00

We made a trip down to the Audi showroom at Leng Kee Road, Singapore for their Kaleidoscopic event.

We also got a tip-off that the Audi A3 Cabrio will be launching in May during the Audi Fashion Festival ;)

Audi Q5 Test Drive

2009-04-25T12:00:00.000+08:00

More pictures from the test drive ;)
And we also found the Q5 secret hideout!

Audi Q5 Launch @ Marina, Keppel Bay

2009-04-25T01:00:00.002+08:00

Audi's marketing team was extremely innovative in launching its new SUV in conjunction with the Boat Asia 2009 event.

We had a chance to test drive the two variants which were launched, the 2.0TFSI Quattro and the 3.2FSI Quattro, on a specially designed one-hour route in Singapore - with even a pit-stop at Laurent Bernard Chocolatier for a chocolate appreciation session! Here are some pics from the event ;)

Waterville, Lake Edge

2009-04-24T08:00:00.002+08:00

Waterville is one of YTL's latest development smacked within a gated community at Lake Edge, Puchong. Close to the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the residences feature semi-detached homes with a private lap pool.

These homes features 3,800 sqf of built-up space with four bedrooms and a maid’s room – all on a standard lot size of 40 ft by 85 ft. And if that's not enough, the development comes with a 12-acre lake featured within the community~

Breaking away from conventional design, the houses feature floor to ceiling windows which means more natural lighting and smaller digits on that electricity bill of yours ;)

Right outside the living room is your private pool... although we must warn you that the monthly maintenance of a pool that size would easily set you back by RM500 every month!

But if you're into early morning swims or perhaps if you just enjoy lounging by the poolside, the pool may seem to be a good investment...

Waterville also comes with a luxurious rooftop bathroom which includes designer fittings and an outdoor shower (perhaps not the best practice, but the concept still sells itself!)

Fancy a sky garden as well? It's just right outside the master bathroom...

There are about 50 Waterville units, priced from RM1.59 million each, and are currently in the advanced stage of construction.

To find out more, visit Waterville from YTL Land.

All photos courtesy of Waterville.

Lamborghini Academy

2009-04-21T07:00:00.000+08:00

We were figuring out how on earth do you drive one of these machines?! Horsepowers is one thing (we see that the speedometer reads 340km/h), parallel parking is another (thanks to the rear windscreen which is almost non-existent).

But that is secondary. If you have EUR3,900 to spare (no, your eyesight is perfectly fine) and if you want to get behind the wheels of a Lamborghini, now you can! Open to super-car enthusiasts and Lamborghini owners, Lamborghini Academy is holding a number of training events throughout this year.

The recent Lamborghini Winter Academy gave participants a chance to test the car's road-holding abilities under extreme conditions.

Also, providing an opportunity to freeze themselves silly at Cortina dAmpezzo in Italy. Nevertheless, a great breakaway from the heat and humidity that South East Asia is well known for.

Interested already?

Find out more at Lamborghini Academy. Ruthless women drivers may want to read the terms and conditions carefully ;p

Audi & BMW Billboard Wars!

2009-04-20T08:30:00.004+08:00

Whilst adverts like this are banned in this part of the world (because we all live in a "diplomatic" community, governed by rules aplenty)... here are two Germans in sunny California pulling a Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie.

Audi's A4 advert first made it up on the billboard, which was soon retorted by BMW's M3 "Checkmate" reply.

Funnily, Audi USA then resorted to consulting its fans through its Facebook for THE ultimate comeback. Here's one which we thought was pure obnoxious.

The Audi R8

2009-04-20T08:00:00.001+08:00

While we let BMW battle it out with Audi, here are some aesthetics reasons why the Audi R8 is perhaps the rightful KING.

But honestly, with the economy jumping off the cliff now, is this what the world needs right now? Well, a lil inspiration won't kill for a Monday right?!

We did warn you that it was for inspirational purposes only.

But if you have spare cash from last year's bull run, here's the place to head to:
Premium Automobiles
9 Leng Kee Road
159090, Singapore
Tel: +65 6566 1111

PS. Cafe, Palais Renaissance, Singapore

2009-04-19T12:00:00.001+08:00

Price: S$30-35 per person

PS.Cafe at Palais
Level 2, Palais S.C.
390 Orchard Road
Singapore
Reservations: +65 9834 8232

Jazz by the Beach, Cool Deck, Sentosa

2009-04-18T20:00:00.000+08:00

For those people out there who's big on jazz, here's something you wouldn't wanna miss!

Take the shuttle to the last station on the Siloso Beach trail and you'll find yourself Cool Deck, a cosy Carribean-like hut which houses a bar and an alfresco dining area.

This is one part of Singapore which allows you to enjoy three things. Jazzy tunes, sea breezes and a laid back dining environment.

Personality Test: Just How Haute Are You?

2009-04-17T00:00:00.016+08:00

Thank God it’s Friday!

A personality test to kickstart the weekend!
Scorecard: (a)=1point (b)=2points (c)=3points
Come on, you can do some mental maths. Here goes.

1. You are pretty much thrashed out from your daily work grind, and taking a vacation is probably on your to-do list. You would most likely buy air tickets to:
(a) Scotland, because nothing excites you more than cows, sheep, men in Burberry skirts – all gazing on the grass like what they do in Tamil movies
(b) Bali, because you love the feel of your almost naked body being sprawled on the beach, with 2 succulent coconuts within arms reach
(c) New York, because you love the buzz of metropolitan city life, the adrenaline rush along Wall St. and the lush greeneries along Fifth avenue. Just like how Sarah Jessica Parker does it.

2. You have just arrived home from work and u reach towards the handle of your fridge. What would you find?
(a) A stash of instant microwavable frozen food which you bought in bulk from Carrefour
(b) Fresh meat and vegetables from the neighbourhood grocer
(c) The phone number of a swanky restaurant that does take-away that comes in garnish that you’d probably not eat anyways

3. You're one of the "LOST" survivors (yes, I'm talking about that sadistic TV series). You are searchin’ for things which have survived the plane crash - the first thing you are searching for is:
(a) Airplane food la - life's necessity rite?!
(b) Your luggage which contains your beach shorts, shades & your entire Biotherm facial range. Cos it's important to look HOT when you are being rescued from your misery
(c) That bottle of Moet Chandon along the first class aisle - you're not gonna survive anyway so might as well be sinful before you meet your Creator

4. You were given $2000 to spend on a new mobile phone, cos’ you jus drowned yours in one of the most aromatic toilet bowl and you’re not about to fish it out with your bare hands! You will most probably get the:
(a) Nokia's most basic model – cos’ you don't believe in spending on technology, a phone is still a phone
(b) Blackberry Bold – cos’ meetings are overflowing and post-its just won't do. Plus, it’s sleek and has a touch of fuck-you eccentricity
(c) Apple iPhone – which isn’t exactly a phone, but you want it because it’s got every single programme that is downloadable from iTunes. Who cares about the price, it has that cool factor that can cure your inferiority complex

5. It's an emergency and your friend needs to get whole of you during the weekend. Your battery's flat! They will most probably find you at:
(a) The gym - cos you're so overly and utterly obsessed with sculpting your body in effort to look like a Greek God, so that you can wear that piece of thong you bought at the recent Isetan sale. After all, you’ve paid a bomb for that gym membership, might as well use it
(b) A jazz bar or a coffee joint – since you like to take the weekend at slower strides, sipping a cuppa latte and catching up with your buddies
(c) The latest Club in town – cos’ you’ll sweep the dance floor clean, just because you have an ass like Ricky Martin's and the moves of Jessica Alba's. Speaking of which, your Porsche is kinda blocking the front entrance

6. The all time classic one: Your mother and better half fell into the ocean whilst fighting over that last piece of rock oyster over the buffet table along the deck of a cruise ship. Who would you save first?
(a) Your mother – cos’ she freaking gave birth to you and made you the product of the winning sperm! And your Dad would probably drown you if you didn't!
(b) Both - but you probably figured that you would be the first to sink, when they start climbing over you like a heaven sent wooden plank. So, you being a smarty pants, would just throw 3 floats and a bottle of champagne before you jump in to safe them. Btw, the champagne bottle is for you to knock them out till you get rescued to avoid further bitch-fights
(c) Your better half – cos’ you never believed in infidelity and without him/her, your next best friend is either your right hand or a vibrator. Plus, why would you allow that $50k Tiffany&Co. wedding ring sink into the deep deep ocean. Save the better half, save the ring.

Results time!

0-6 points: You are one prudent and practical being. You work hard, save hard and invest even harder, just so that you can retire much earlier than half of the world’s population that is currently living day-to-day. Who ever said that you require moolah to enjoy life’s finest?!

7-12 points: You have haute habits in you. As much as you work hard, you intend to reward yourself by enjoying good food and exploring great escapes - all within your means. We welcome you to the club!

13-18 points: Paris Hilton is your best friend and you are probably featured a number of times on the same issue of Tatler. You have “materialistic” printed on your forehead, which is in addition to the various LV monograms which are accessorising different parts of your body. But we at Haute Habits acknowledge positivity in almost everything. Do contact us if you feel charitable.

Audi is a growing premium brand in Singapore!

2009-04-14T10:00:00.000+08:00

In Singapore, Audi has been the fastest growing premium brand with more than 35 percent growth for the past three years. So what's next?

Audi Singapore will be forging ahead with new models in 2009. Among those that will arrive are the Audi Q5, the Audi A3 Cabriolet and A5 Cabriolet, Audi S3 Sportback, and the heart-stopping Audi R8 V10.

Source: Audi Singapore

BMWs, Too Fast, Too Furious

2009-04-13T11:00:00.003+08:00

This week, we take coverage on a BMW Forum gathering at the McDonald's Drive-In close to Mountbatten Road, Singapore. Here's what you need to do...

Definitely an after-effect of watching replays of the Fast & Furious series. Meanwhile, enjoy the sights!

The BMW M3

2009-04-13T10:00:00.000+08:00

The Ahimsa - a Bali villa

2009-04-10T14:56:00.001+08:00

So, I'm a fan of boutique-anything. However, yours truly here must carefully check her dear budget, because as you know, boutique-anything can cost from "expensive" to "freakin'-out-of-reach".

I am a big fan of Bali, especially the Seminyak area. So when I go there I always hunt for villas with good bargains.

Just recently, i stayed at The Ahimsa villas with a few girlfriends. Thus, dividing the cost between us four, which made it a bargain per person.

Presenting the entrance to our mini mansion..

The dining room and the living room..

They have 1-4 bedroom villas. Each can spaciously accomodate 2 people. The beds are cozy and the room overlooks your own patch of greens.

Outdoor bathroom. I've checked around, no worries, there's no CCTV here.

The lovely breakfast ladies always ready for us every morning..

Cosy bedrooms, living room and cooking quarter PLUS they cooked us an array of breakfast. Add to that, a private pool just enough to chill with your own posse.

Villa?

Checked!

Now we're ready for an adventure..

The Ahimsa
In three different locations. So take your pick!

Mimolette this Easter?

2009-04-09T10:00:00.007+08:00

Welcome to the loveliness that's Mimolette.

Location-wise, you just can't beat the quietness and the greens, combined with the "oh-so-equestrian-of-you" feel from The Saddle Club.

The restaurant serves New American mixed with traditional French menus. In laymen terms, they serve beautiful brunch staples such as french toasts and hotcakes to lunch menus like burgers (with wagyu of course!) and the famous corned beef hash.

This place doesn't have to be all feminine, check out the bar ;)

Not only the foods are lovely and hearty, but this place is way charming in late mornings and evenings.

Get yourself away with your lucky bunny from the city's hustle and bustle this Easter weekend and tuck yourself into the Hampton-like Mimolette.

Happy Easter! :)

Price: S$30-S$40 per person

Mimolette
55 Fairway Drive
Singapore 286864
Reservations: 6467 7748

The Mid-Week Syndrome

2009-04-08T11:00:00.011+08:00

Welcome back to this part of the century, when space is truly an issue and claustrophobia has become Asia's new epidemic. And for all you workaholics out there, you know what we are yapping about if you are confined within your lil three-by-three cubicle reading this (concentrate at work, you idiot!). And of course, that piece of thing that you are sitting on rite now, ... swivels ... , because your boss prefers if you were to stay within your workspace. By that, he means that he wants that proposal done yesterday.

Back to Space. The new profound insanity of humans over-copulating, just because buying condoms over the counter can be most embarassing when the lady cashier snickers as she beeps your box-of-three pass the red beam, mountained by a few cartons of toothpaste and hairgel used as decoy. And just because the existence of male-sluts suddenly became overwhelming. Just because...

A massive problem? Ahh.. duh! Because when you think you have escaped from the bumper-2-bumper fiasco along Federal Highway or even AYE, the subway made packed sardines count their blessings. (The Fabulous One likes to think she's THE gourmet sardine, all in the name of Haute thinking). It's just a matter of time before one of us get bitchslapped by women on the subway. Yes, it is crowded. Yes, you are invading my personal space (and you might think otherwise as well, because you think you're hot and shit). No, we don't believe that contact is very inappropriate with strangers. "No touchy!"

Nevertheless, there is hope people! *Spin the Pearly Gates soundtrack y'all!*. Yes there is. We still have toilets, cubicles where we can calmly sit in there and think! We know we think best in there ... like they say, what goes out, must come in. Yes, the one place that brings back the sanity to all working professionals. Ahhh...bliss.... until your dearest colleague decides to dislocate the toilet bowl, and now my sanctuary is slanted towards the left side (he must be right handed ass wiper, ohhh aren't we all?). Sewage is now constantly leaking and it currently smells like concentrated methane in there.
NO ONE FREAKIN' LIGHTS A MATCH or we will all go down together!

Oh space. Or perhaps its just the mid-week syndrome. Whatever it may be for you, Haute Habits will bring you a wider coverage this week for your long Easter weekend. Just so you can chill, relax, be inspired and enjoy life's finest..

What's Uniqlo?

2009-04-08T08:00:00.000+08:00

Haute Habits is all about budget and cool. So we've been anticipating the arrival of high-street Japanese brand Uniqlo, to Singapore's shores.

We've seen the ads in MRT stations, buses, etc etc. And I see hip kids salivating for their stuff. Amidst today's financial turmoil, Uniqlo's sales have been booming!

Expect apparels in bright happy colours. Think of it as though GAP meets Austin Powers. And here's a sneak peak of what they've got installed for you! One more day people!!

This says SOMETHING about the brand, doesn't it?!

Fast & Furious 4

2009-04-06T08:00:00.007+08:00

If you ever see more tarted-up Nissan 350Zs and RX8s speeding pass you along the freeway this week, you'd have guessed which movie has just been RELEASED!

Not surprisingly, it has already broken the box office record and grossing US$72.5 million. Also claiming the award for Best Opening in 2009...leaving "Watchmen" to bite the dust. Sweet.

And while that speedster mood is around... Haute Habits managed to pop the hood of the new Nissan Skyline GT-R R35, the one thing that every Asian rice-boy would like to get his hands on...

Just listen to the GT-R's soundtrack ;) Hear the a slight Transformer remix upon ignition!

Watch this space. More fast cars your way!!

Peirce Reservoir, Singapore

2009-04-05T18:00:00.006+08:00

This weekend, Haute Habits feature a trip down to one of Singapore's reservoir. No, it's not your average reservoir with a shitful of concrete walls. Take a look for yourself!

Disclaimer: While driving to the reservoir, do not wipe out the entire ecosystem.

Canelé Pâtisserie Chocolaterie

2009-04-05T15:30:00.003+08:00

So this is the place to head to if you want a whole VARIETY of baked bread, pastries and chocolates. A picture paints a thousand words...

We call it Macaron frenzy. Canelé calls it the MACARON FESTIVAL, with some limited edition ones that you probably shouldn't miss out! The last time we had macarons done to such perfection was at Sofitel Opera @ Hanoi (this colonial-styled French hotel)... where they entice hotel guests with different flavoured macarons on a daily basis. This could be the next BEST thing.

Three outlets, Robertson Quay, Paragon Orchard and Raffles City Shopping Centre. We'd go for the latter, just because the ambience is so much cosier, especially with the comfy sofas and dim lightings (not to say that it's more romantic lah, but if you going to people watch on a lazy afternoon over a cuppa latte, you'd wanna be discreet about it) ;)

Canelé Pâtisserie Chocolaterie
B1-81/82 Raffles City Shopping Centre
252 North Bridge Road

Royal China

2009-04-05T12:00:00.004+08:00

Welcome to Royal China. A chic dim sum place with a Tiffany & Co setting and plus, it's located inside Raffles Hotel, THE Singapore institution.

The four of us (Mr Driven, Ms EPL, Mr Hungry and I) had a fah-bu-lous time chatting away while chomping the dimsums. For those of you who have lived in London, you should know Royal China by now... one at Bayswater and the other at Canary Wharf.

Is it as good as the one in London, well... pretty much there! But best of all, the bill came up to to S$61! (Thanks to yours truly, I had a 15% off courtesy of UOB cards). Which equals to about S$15 per person. Kaaahhh-chinng. Now that's Haute!

Royal China at Raffles
Raffles Hotel, Singapore
Tel: 6338 3363

Alexis Bistro, Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur

2009-04-04T08:00:00.000+08:00

Price: RM30-50 per person (and we managed to fit in a Tiramisu!!)

Alexis Bistro
29 Jalan Telawi 3
Bangsar Baru
59100 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: +603 2284 2880

The Devil Drives a Prada

2009-04-01T21:06:00.009+08:00

April Fool's joke aside, what you are seeing is a special edition the Hyundai Genesis, pimped and blinged by Prada.

And IF you are ever materialistically mad enough to want one of these, you've gotta exercise your hands during the charity auction. Only three distinct versions are up for grabs. Yes, three lucky tai-tais will have the opportunity to flaunt this baybee during their high-tea gathering. Three lucky tai-tais will get to own the biggest Prada in the world.

Not sure why of all carmakers, Hyundai, but we like the idea of going budget during such unfavourable economic conditions. And while we wait patiently for Audi's version to arrive, we can take a look at how Hyundai has taken a piss at our fellow German carmakers.

The Launch of the new Lexus RX350

2009-03-30T00:01:00.001+08:00

Now, that's a marketing tip for you ;)

Mercedes Benz Mixed Tape 25

2009-03-29T23:01:00.004+08:00

For those jazz and indie music lovers out there, here's the deal. The three-pointed star carmaker, Mercedes Benz, has been offering music compilations for a number of years now (codenamed Mixed Tape), featuring fresh discoveries of international artistes.

These guys have recently released the Mixed Tape 25 which is available for download at the Mercedes Benz TV website. Yes, the entire freaking compilation.

Who ever said GREAT music doesn't come FREE? ;)

Saturday Spruce Lunch

2009-03-28T21:59:00.038+08:00

Tucked in the leavy Tanglin neighbourhood, Spruce is the perfect spot for brunch. I see parents bringing their kids and a bunch of trendy 20-30somethings. The area isn't packed (yet) like Dempsey but it doesn't mean a less happening crowd.
The food, which was western, was scrumptiously good. Given that Mr Hungry and I finished our foods until the plates were sparkly clean.
If you like Dempsey, but a bit more quietness for your brunch, then this place is it.They serve three meals a day, thus, open all day (and I think it's better for the lovebirds to come at dinner, so you can charm your date).

So, the most important thing, how was the $$$??Great place + scrumptious meal (2 drinks, 1 side, 2 mains) = S$64We came out full and happy :)

Spruce
320 Tanglin Road
Phoenix Park
Singapore
Tel: 68365528

YTL Residence, Kuala Lumpur

2009-03-26T14:14:00.008+08:00

Here is the ultra-luxe residence of the Malaysian power family from the YTL Group, designed by Paris-based Agence Jouin Manku.

Feelin' your heart's desire already?

Brunch @ BMW, Bukit Kiara Equestrian Club

2009-03-25T15:27:00.000+08:00

Watch this space..

The Virgin Post

2009-03-24T23:02:00.000+08:00