OCT–DEC 2015

A WALK FOR TWO SPEED YOUR GUIDE TO DATING COOL PLACES IN LOVE IN FOUR SERANGOON MINUTES? 08 RESEARCH YOUR SHOWS IT’S CHEATING POSSIBLE HEART 04 THREE LADIES SEEK RELATIONSHIP ADVICE 21

WIN! 10 goodie bags from BRAND’S® are up for grabs! TAKE THE QUIZ ON 03 03 Readers’ Quiz CONTENTS Stand to win a BRAND’S® goodie bag OCT–DEC 2015 worth S$99.10! 08

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06 04 12 16 Heart Truths Mass Appeal The Makeover What does science tell us about We plough through mass media— Besides providing a pair of singletons romance and relationships? This issue, books, comics, fi lm, music—and a new wardrobe, Duet’s exclusive Duet zooms in on speed dating. report on those that off er lessons on makeover session off ers them a chance relationships. to go on a dinner date—with each other! 06 21 IMHO Dating agency GaiGai’s Assistant Ask the Expert Professor Jean Liu says that there’s Folks facing road bumps on the road to no need to feel kancheong at speed love write in for advice from SDNTrust- dating sessions. accredited dating agencies. 08 14 22 In Your ’Hood Meet... It’s a Date This northeastern pocket is a great ...recently married couple Xin Wan and From this list of interesting things to try, setting to have a day out with pals or a Ka Kui, and CruCycle’s Beatrice Ding. learn, know, and visit, you can fi ll your stroll towards the sunset with your lover. diary for the next three months. Cover models Jeremiah See and Christina Ng, both 27, chat with Duet about how they got together (yes, they are a real-life couple):

J: Our dogs brought us together.

C: I’m a dog lover. One day, I was Cover tutoring Jeremiah’s younger brother, On Jeremiah: Blue Joel, when he mentioned something shirt from Forever 21; dark blue pants from about a video of a dancing dog. H&M. Turns out the dog was brought On Christina: Biker home by his older brother, Jeremiah. jacket, top, silver When I expressed interest to watch necklace from the video, Joel said that it was with Forever 21. Jeremiah. After the tuition session, This Page I was on my way home when I got a On Jeremiah: Short- text that said, “Hi. I’m Jeremiah. Do sleeved shirt, grey you want to watch the video?” I later slip-ons from Forever learned from Joel that Jeremiah had 21; maroon pants from New Look. asked him for my number, claiming that he needed to ask me “some On Christina: White stuff .” top, houndstooth- checked midi-skirt, crystal necklace, J: Some stuff ? She seduced me, lah! black heels from Forever 21. PROLOGUE

Prepping to photograph the cover models.

Social Development Network www.sdn.sg

Managers Rosezita Tan, Cynthia Lee Senior Executive Melvin Lee

Novus Media Solutions Pte Ltd www.novusasia.com

Editorial Head, Consumer Content Luke Clark Duet hits the Managing Editor Chua Kim Beng Lead Writer Sarah Liu Contributors Andy Sim, Tham Yong Xian, ‘refresh’ button Brendon Lim, Joel Tan Art Art Director Cherlin Chan THANK YOU FOR PICKING UP regarding love and relationships by the brand-new Duet! experts such as psychologists. In Support Creative Services Manager Kwan Gek Lian I announced in the last issue that ‘IMHO’, we record the responses of Traffic & Production Manager Pearlyn Kwan the publication was getting a makeover, people on the street on one of these and the result is this attractive magazine findings. ‘In Your ’Hood’, as the title Management that you’re holding in your hands. We’re suggests, is area-by-area guide for you CEO Simon Cholmeley pretty confident that you’re going to and that special someone to explore— CFO Marie Lyte enjoy the refreshed look, with new fonts, we’ve kept an eye out for suitable colours, and layouts. We’re also rather paktor spots! For editorial feedback, contact Novus Media Solutions. For general enquiries, call SDN’s hotline at 6838 3988. All returned proud of our new masthead. Do you see We’ve also retained certain mail should be directed to Novus Media Solutions Pte Ltd. two people interacting with each other? sections that were popular, such as For advertising queries, please e-mail Simon Cholmeley at That’s what Duet is all about. ‘The Makeover’ (the couple will now [email protected]. So beyond the cosmetic, what’s new? be sent on a real date!), and interviews Duet is published and distributed for SDN by Novus Media We’ve done away with the long with a married couple and a singleton. Solutions Pte Ltd at 20 Maxwell Road, #12-01 Maxwell House, cover story and added shorter, punchier ‘Reel To Real’ is now ‘Mass Appeal’— Singapore 069113 reads that better complement your busy we’ve expanded the movie section to Copyright is held by the publishers. All rights reserved. lifestyles. ‘Heart Truths’ is where we include other mass media, from books Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Printed in Singapore by Times Printers: report the latest discoveries and findings and comics to theatre and TV. www.timesprinters.com. We know Singaporeans love a good deal, so we’ve continued to Special thanks to: Sunday Market , Epigram Books, work with vendors to offer you great J.Artisans Leather Works discounts in the back page, now called ‘Deals’. And since the last issue, we’ve gotten popular brands to sponsor prizes for ‘Readers’ Quiz’. Last issue, it was The Body Shop. This issue, we’ve got Brand’s on board. I really hope that the new Duet grows to become an indispensable companion as you journey through life in the Lion City. And I certainly hope it The makeup artist adding leads to you finding a life companion! Visit www.duetsg.com her magic touch. Rosezita Tan , Manager for exclusive content, quizzes & more!

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1 What’s the name of the protagonist in Adrian Teo and Ken Foo’s comic book series, Date King? A) Ah Ong B) Mervin ‘D8’ King C) Ah King

2 What will patrons be greeted by at the entrance of Upper Serangoon Shopping Centre? A) The smell of stale tobacco B) A carved wooden signboard C) Two stone lions

3 Where does Jeremiah See, founder of J.Artisans Leather Works, currently conduct his workshops? A) Serangoon Road B) Lim Tua Tow Road C) Jalan Riang

4 Duet’s makeover experience involves participants in a wardrobe change, and a dinner date with each other. True or False? A) True B) False

5 Which actor played Robbie Turner in the 2007 movie, Atonement? In addition, every participant will receive a unique A) Ryan Gosling code via e-mail, SMS or mail that can be used to B) James McAvoy redeem S$10 worth of products from BRAND’S® C) Ethan Hawke online store at https://store.brandsworld.com.sg/

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QUIZ RESULTS (JUL–SEP 2015)

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OCT–DEC 2015 / DUET 03 HEART TRUTHS

SPEED DATING WORKS! Making a connection in four minutes is possible. Learn the techniques here.

By Brendon Lim

BELIEVE US, IT WORKS. we connect with others. be to talk about them to make Besides widening your social Participants recorded their sparks fl y. circle in a short amount of time, dates, and when this material On the other hand, dates with you aren’t forced to hang out was transcribed and analysed, it a lot of prompting and extensive with people you don’t have was clear that women preferred questioning from either party chemistry with for more than a few men who were appreciative and tended not to work out. It’s usually minutes. Yet, many people tend sympathetic. “That’s awesome,” a sign of the lack of chemistry—the to give speed dating the brush-off “That must be tough on you,” ladies are asking questions to try to because the very idea of fi nding and other such encouraging keep the conversation going. some who clicks with you almost phrases were a big hit. The female After every speed date, instantaneously is simply ludicrous. participants also enjoyed having participants had to fi ll out a These folks should take heed of their sentences fi nished by the scorecard, which asked if they a study, published in the American guys. would be willing to go on a real Journal of Sociology, by researchers Other factors include varying date with their partner. If both at Stanford. While looking into speech intonations, sharing of answered “yes”, a real date was how meaningful bonds are formed, personal anecdotes, and—the most set up. Couples who spent more Professors Dan McFarland and eff ective factor yet—making the time deciding to go on a real date Dan Jurafsky wondered why ladies the focal point. Engaging the reported a bonding experience, speed dating works for some but females in conversation seemed further suggesting that eff ective not for others. This led them to to resonate well with them. Prof communication can enhance conduct an experiment on nearly McFarland attributes this to the feelings. 1,000 speed dating sessions—each fact that this situation is one where Now that you know what to lasting four minutes—from which women are the empowered; say and how to say it, we suggest they learnt that what we say and because the women make the signing up for a speed dating event how we say them aff ects how well decisions, the sensible move would ASAP!

04 DUET / OCT–DEC 2015 12 STEPS to Long-Lasting Relationships Questionnaire Living by these dozen factors will go a long way to an Extraordinaire enduring and meaningful relationship. This survey lets you know the subject more intimately by the end of the session!

HOW DO COUPLES STAY 3 Difficulty concentrating on together for much longer than a decade? other things when thinking What’s the secret to their longevity? about your partner WOULDN’T IT BE NICE TO Stony Brook University psychologist It means your partner takes up a find someone you can connect K Daniel O’Leary and his research team lot of your brain space, which is a with? The conventional route often set out to answer these questions, and good thing! involves a couple of false starts. the results were surprising. 4 Enjoying novel and But what if all you had to do to The study was done on couples challenging activities determine whether the object of who have been together for at least 10 Taking on challenges with your your affection is The One is to years, and looked into what kept them spouse can improve your love conduct a Q&A? married and in love for so long. The for him/her. There is a set of 36 questions couples were asked behaviour-based of increasing vulnerability that 5 Spending time together have been crafted by psychologist questions so as to reduce bias. The This strengthens your emotional Professor Arthur Aron, from the findings, published on the social and bonds with each other. personality journal Social Psychological Interpersonal Relationships Lab of and Personality Science, revealed 12 6 Expressing affection the State University of New York, main factors: Let him/her know, in one way or that gives you and your potential another, that you love him/her. Plus One insights into each other. 1 Thinking positively about your 7 Being turned on by your The test starts casually, with softball partner partner questions such as, “Would you like By constantly thinking about the Attraction is as much physical as to be famous? In what way?” But things that make your partner it is mental and emotional. they quickly become more intimate: awesome, you won’t be irritated 8 Engaging in sexual intercourse “When did you last cry in front of by the negatives. Regular sex builds and maintains another person? By yourself?” 2 Thinking about your partner feelings of love. The point of these questions is to when apart 9 Feeling generally happy foster feelings of closeness with the Not every second, of course. But Emotional distress has been person you’re doing this test with. he/she should at least cross your known to cause relationship As the opposite party’s replies allow mind at some point. issues, so try to stay happy. you to compare attitudes towards different areas of life, it’s a good 10 Wanting to know where your gauge of compatibility. partner is at all times Your brain is probably telling This indicates that you’re you to take this questionnaire with constantly thinking about him/ a pinch of salt, but note that, of the her. first batch of people who took the 11 Obsessively thinking about survey (they were students in Prof your partner Aron’s psychology course), two See 10. people paired up and got married, 12 Having a strong passion for while others reported high ratings in life levels of closeness. People who are enthusiastic about living their lives are known Try it yourself: http://www. urbanconnections.co.uk/2011/12/36-questions- to carry that zeal into their to-make-him-fall-in-love/ relationships.

OCT–DEC 2015 / DUET 05 IMHO FAST LOVE “There’s no need to feel kancheong when it comes to speed dating. Heed the advice of Assistant Professor Jean Liu and you should make an impression.”

By Andy Sim

AFTER ALL, NOT ONLY IS SHE an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Yale-NUS College, but her doctoral thesis was on why people fall in love. Furthermore, she has plenty of experience when it comes to speed dating, since she is the research advisor of GaiGai, a new offline dating agency headquartered here. Gai Gai “provides modern matching services” and focuses on “casual settings, great company, and low prices that make effective dating affordable to everyone,” particularly singles. It has strong links to recognisable names in the lifestyle and hospitality sectors, so members are always well pampered. Naysayers will insist that the short span of time allowed for interaction at

X V POP

WHAT DO YOUNG ADULTS THINK OF SPEED DATING? “Everyone should probably try it once. I “Speed dating over blind dates—I prefer to DUET HITS THE believe in carpe diem, and speed dating is a sample the goods before deciding! Speed STREETS TO novel way of making new friends. It might dating also enables me to determine if FIND OUT! be uncomfortable, but it wouldn’t be boring, I am comfortable with someone before plus you’d definitely come home with a fun embarking on solo dates in future.” story or two.” — DANIEL, 27 — GINA, 26

06 DUET / OCT–DEC 2015 A SUBSIDIARY OF PAKTOR, GAIGAI OFFERS MODERN MATCHING SERVICES THROUGH REASONABLY PRICED EVENTS AND PERSONALISED ONE-TO-ONE SERVICES. VISIT LETSGAIGAI.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Asst Prof Jean Liu

speed dating events makes it impossible Do looks matter? “There’s to judge whether someone is a suitable a stereotype that men look for life companion, but Asst Prof Liu beautiful women. It’s hard to deny disagrees. “It’s an effi cient way to meet that physical attractiveness plays a potential partners. A large body of role; this is true for women as well,” research suggests that people do make reveals Asst Prof Liu. “Decisions sound judgements about others in mere about whether someone is physically minutes, and they are almost as accurate attractive relates in part to how as those made over hours or days. healthy the person looks, so that’s Psychologists call this phenomenon ‘thin reason to sleep well and maintain a slicing’,” she explains. healthy lifestyle.” So why are people still anxious about As a parting shot, Asst Prof Liu, attending speed dating events? who still conducts research on the “My guess is that many people psychological and biological basis of have not tried it, or they may feel love, provides us with the answer to apprehensive when meeting new the million-dollar question, How do people,” asserts Asst Prof Liu. She we leave a good impression? “Show encourages singles to give it a chance, genuine interest in the person you are since such events are great fun, citing talking to. Look into their eyes during GaiGai’s well-attended sessions as the conversation and listen actively examples. “If you’re looking for love, to what they’re saying. You have a speed dating allows you to get into the few minutes with each participant, so game more quickly,” she adds. make your time count,” she advises.

“Never been to one, but I’m open to it. We “It’s so laborious, and everything happens “I have friends who’ve broadened their spend most of our time in the offi ce and, so quickly during these sessions; there isn’t social circle in this manner, but I don’t beyond that, we are usually in the company enough time to establish a connection. think it’s for me. However, I might consider of friends and family. Speed dating enables I doubt I will follow up with any of the speed dating when I am feeling more us to meet people in a short space of time participants even if I did go for a speed sociable and experimental, or if I am simply and in sizable numbers.” — JASON, 29 dating event.” — ERICA, 24 bored.” — YX, 24

OCT–DEC 2015 / DUET 07 IN YOUR ‘HOOD SERANGOON Whether you’re adventurous or a foodie (or an adventurous foodie), whether you crave nostalgia or wish to be somewhere serene, Serangoon is an understated part of the Little Red Dot that has something for everyone.

By Sarah Liu

SERANGOON ISN’T UNHEARD has done your legwork for you and the latter, sounds of nature along the of, but no one really knows where it is. unearthed gems that you and your recently revamped Punggol Serangoon In fact, people frequently confuse it friends can enjoy. Reservoir. With perseverance, the as a district subsumed under Hougang romantic waterfront park connector or Ang Mo Kio, or part of Serangoon For the adventurous will lead you and your companions to Road in Little India—that only adds to its They’re slightly out of the way from a much forgotten part of Singapore: mystery and charm. the MRT, but Woodleigh Park and Serangoon Island, aka Coney Island. But let’s get it right: Serangoon is Serangoon Park Connector are the demarcated by Seletar Hills, Serangoon places to visit if you’re looking for For the foodies North, Serangoon Gardens, and trekking routes off the beaten path Serangoon is a treasure trove for the Serangoon Central. It’s definitely not that’s Instagrammable. Not only will you famished and the greedy. From up-and- defined by Nex, a shopping mall that be rewarded with a fulfilling workout, coming hipster cafés and restaurants on seems to dominate discussions about you’ll also appreciate, in the former, Jalan Riang and Yio Chu Kang Road to the district. the beauty of colonial-style houses good ol’ hawker fare in Chomp Chomp If you’re not from this ’hood, Duet sheltered by lush greenery; and, in (a landmark in Serangoon Gardens),

08 DUET / OCT–DEC 2015 Photo Credit: URA Photo Credit:

this area is not short of delightful nosh, catering to different palates and occasions. For a meaningful dining experience, though, check out Dignity Kitchen, located on Serangoon Avenue 3. Staffed by the mentally and physically challenged, it’s Singapore’s first social- enterprise food court.

For the ‘zen’ Compared to the CBD, pockets of Serangoon are so unhurried that it feels like another world. Tucked in Chuan Hoe Avenue is the tranquil Japanese Cemetery Park, which is open to the public. Calm your mind by taking a meditative stroll to and around this sanctuary. If you’re closer to Upper

Serangoon Road, pay a visit to The myVillage Photo Credit: Helping Hand, a halfway house for former drug addicts that sells beautiful and durable teak furniture; or pay respects at the Tou Mu Kung temple, which was gazetted as a national monument in 2005.

For the nostalgic While there are relics that tap into A. Serene centre: For our bygone memories, evoking a real a shot of tranquility, sense of nostalgia, there are also new take a gambol through establishments seeking to preserve the Japanese Cemetery tradition. In Serangoon, you get both Park. worlds. At Upper Serangoon Shopping B. It takes a village: Centre, for example, you will be greeted Outdoor seating of a by two traditional, Chinese-style stone café at myVillage. lions instead of the glitz of Orchard Road—a reminder of a much simpler C. Musical time. On the other hand, with its memorabilia: Kombi Rocks is a retro-style vintage façade, Kombi Rocks retains eatery with plenty of the Teochew-Thai fare that previous keepsakes related to occupant Koon Kee Restaurant served. pop music.

OCT–DEC 2015 / DUET 09 A WALK FOR TWO

Spend some time trekking with your partner on this trail and you’ll encounter plenty of moments steeped in gastronomy, nature, and handicraft. myVILLAGE

POW SING 1 2 RESTAURANT 1

CTE

Ang Mo Kio Ave 1

POW SING RESTAURANT JAPANESE CEMETERY PARK

Lor Chuan

You can’t miss this 31-year-old Hainanese It’s actually not that morbid! Frequented restaurant: it has a bold-red signboard that’s by Japanese students on fi eld trips, this lit by neon lights. Known for its Nonya and serene cemetery is well known for its diverse zichar dishes, Pow Sing may seem ordinary fl ora and fauna. Need to juice up for the at fi rst, until you realise that aff ordable trek? Make a pit stop at The Coff ee Daily traditional restaurants have become a rarity for a cuppa along the way—hand-in-hand, WIMBLY LU in the area. Makes for a great date! of course! CHOCOLATE

Address: 65 Serangoon Garden Way, S(555961) Address: 825B Chuan Hoe Avenue, S(549853) 5 Website: www.facebook.com/pages/Pow-Sing- Website: www.facebook.com/pages/Japanese- Restaurant/ Cemetery-Park/

3 This Sunday Market, located off Upper Serangoon Road, houses unique reinterpretations of Asian dishes such as the beef rendang lasagne, and roast duck with garlic hoisin pancakes. Got a sweet tooth? These folks serve a mean churros JEREMIAH SEE, FOUNDER OF with a twist: these dough fritters are made J.ARTISANS LEATHER WORKS, of sweet potato, topped with vanilla ice GIVES DUET THREE REASONS cream, and a gula melaka cream glaze. WHY HE CHOSE TO LOCATE HIS Highly recommended for chilling out with BUSINESS IN SERANGOON, AND WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT. that special someone.

SUNDAY MARKET Address: 22 Lim Tua Tow Road, S(547772) Website: www.sundaymarket.sg

10 DUET / OCT–DEC 2015 4 SERANGOON

Ang Mo Kio Ave 3

J. ARTISANS LEATHER WORKS

Hougang Ave 2

Leather crafting, anyone? Jeremiah See Yio Chu Kang Rd helms J.Artisans, and personally conducts JAPANESE the workshops (Fri–Sun; various times), CEMETERY where you get to create cardholders, ID tags, Sera PARK ngoon notebooks and wallets. You know what they Ga rde say about people who take part in the same n W 2 ays activity—they become closer! So sign up now. THE COFFEE DAILY

KOMBI ROCKS DINER Address: 12 Lim Tua Tow Road, S(547735) Website: j-artisans.com/workshop/

5 4 3 J. ARTISANS SUNDAY LEATHER MARKET WORKS

Upper Serangoon Rd Wimbly Lu Chocolates Lu Wimbly Photo Credit:

Lor Ah Soo SERANGOON MRT WIMBLY LU CHOCOLATES

Everyone’s got a weakness. If yours is SONG KEE FISHBALL NOODLES chocolate, this café is is going to be your new hangout. From waffl es, molten lava cake, and marshmallow pie to unusual dishes such as tofu cake, Wimbly serves them all! So, yes, you’ll end this walk thinking that you didn’t burn any calorie at all.

Address: 15-2 Jalan Riang, S(358987) Website: www.wimblylu.com

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD TRADITIONAL & LEARN SOMETHING NEW My foodie friends and I CREATIVE VIBES Partly why I started enjoy eating—sometimes It feels traditional yet J.Artisans is because 1 too much! Serangoon 2 creative, and our craftwork 3 dinners and movies felt never bores us, not when fi ts in here perfectly. I could routine to my fi ancée and there’s Sunday Cafe, 717 spend all day chilling with me. If you feel the same, Trading’s durians, and my customers and friends, which learn something new, such personal favourite, Song brings me more meaning as leather crafting—it can Kee Fishball Noodles! than just a workshop session. really spice things up!

OCT–DEC 2015 / DUET 11 MASS APPEAL

BOOKS By Joel Tan The Adventures of Holden Heng by Robert Yeo

LOVE ISN’T EASY. AT LEAST dating, egged on by his wingman courtship isn’t. Like dancing or best friend, Ray. cooking, courtship is in many ways Holden first meets Eurasian a skill that you pick up along the hottie Nanette, who only wants way. But it’s also something that to get physical with him, and isn’t people have handed down from dating material. So he moves generation to generation. quickly on to worldly Kim, a So says Singapore novelist, poet strong-willed and modern New and playwright Robert Yeo, 75, Yorker. This, unfortunately, doesn’t whose 1986 novel, The Adventures go so well, either, because Holden’s of Holden Heng, documents the old-fashioned views of women lead pain and pleasure of a young man’s to Kim dismissing him as a male coming of age as he learns to court chauvinist pig. women. Throughout the novel, Holden vacillates between sexy Nanette, What it’s about sophisticated Kim, and girl-next- Holden Heng is a smart-talking, door Siew Fung. Although he intelligent and lonely singleton with and Kim eventually go steady, it an English degree who’s terrible doesn’t last long. Single again, with women. Holden learns that Siew Fung has The novel begins with a cloistered herself in a convent. As thwarted marriage proposal to his he pays her one final visit, Holden on-again-off-again girlfriend Siew reflects on all he has learnt in the Fung at MacRitchie Reservoir. past months about himself and Sadly, Siew Fung thinks it’s a joke that elusive thing called ‘love.’ and brushes him off, and they break Get it: The Adventures of Holden Heng up permanently soon after. This is available at all good bookstores and online

Image courtesy of Epigram Books courtesy of Epigram Image begins Holden’s spiral into serial at epigrambooks.sg/

3 LESSONS IN LOVE, ACCORDING TO ROBERT YEO 1 2 3 REJECTION IS GOOD LOVER-BOYS MUST WHY SO SERIOUS? FOR THE SOUL BECOME LOVER-MEN Holden’s problem, Yeo suggests, is “Unrequited love isn’t necessarily “The novel is a coming-of-age story,” that he takes dating too seriously. so bad,” insists Yeo. “It makes you explains Yeo, pointing to how Holden “It’s not life or death; no need for stronger.” There are always lessons learns more about himself and melodrama!” Yeo chides. “Just to learn, even from life’s down women through his misadventures. have a good time.” Indeed, when cycle. With Holden, Yeo shares, Holden learns about the importance Holden stops focusing on marriage, the thing he gains at the end of his of treating a partner with respect, he has a grand time meeting new unsuccessful courting of the three of knowing what he wants from a people and embracing new ways of women in the novel is strength. relationship, and of doing things not looking at the world. Yeo himself “Thanks for the memories. I’m still just to please others. His failures only settled down at the age of 34 here. I’ve still got things to learn,” made him more mature, and towards after years of dating. Perhaps he says Yeo, summarising the novel’s the end, more appealing to Siew was putting into action the adage, takeaway message. Fung. Tough luck that it’s too late! “Write what you know.”

12 DUET / OCT–DEC 2015 COMICS By Sarah Liu MOVIES By Chua Kim Beng

Terrifi c Twosomes Here are Duet’s fi ve favourite on-screen couples picked from the most romantic movies released between 2001 and 2010.

JESSE (ETHAN HAWKE) & CELINE (JULIE DELPY) IN BEFORE SUNSET (2004)

Image courtesy of Epigram Books courtesy of Epigram Image So much rapport between the two leads! Two people get to Date King 1: Singapore Dating know each other all over again after by Adrian Teo and Ken Foo meeting by chance a decade after their fi rst meet cute.

(RYAN GOSLING) NOAH CALHOUN & (RACHEL MCADAMS) ALLIE THIS COLLABORATION BY on campus, and The Mommy’s CALHOUN IN THE NOTEBOOK (2004) author Adrian Teo and illustrator Boy, whom ladies should avoid at Talk about grand gestures. He restores Ken Foo unveils the mysteries all costs, or risk competing against an entire house for her! With his own hands! of the paktor scene on the Little The Mother! Red Dot through the eyes of the Perhaps the moral of the story ROBBIE TURNER (JAMES MCAVOY) & protagonist, Ah King, a too-normal is that you need to know which CECILIA TALLIS (KEIRA KNIGHTLEY) Singaporean guy desperate for ‘types’ suit you before plunging IN ATONEMENT (2007) love. into a potentially disastrous He still pines for her even amid the ravages of World War II, even after being Armed with only an average relationship. accused of committing something awful personality, short limbs, and a Get it: Date King 1 & 2 are available at all by her younger sister. clueless, straight-talking attitude, good bookstores and online at epigrambooks.sg/ Ah King recounts every date TOM (JOSEPH GORDON-LEVITT) he’s ever experienced. You’ll hear & SUMMER (ZOOEY DESCHANEL) about the hits and misses at speed IN (500) DAYS OF dating sessions. You’ll also hear his SUMMER (2009) They are both strategies in approaching the many not afraid to be types of girls he’s gone out with, themselves, such as the Tomboy Girl who will leading to lots “kick your ass in billiards” and the of ups and Banker Girl who “may require dates downs, but the to be held in… cool bars playing chemistry is undeniable. soft French music.” While the comic is obviously DR PAUL FLANNER tongue-in-cheek, it also off ers a (RICHARD GERE) & serious lesson for both the guys ADRIENNE WILLIS (DIANE LANE) IN and the gals. By identifying the NIGHTS IN RODANTHE (2008) It’s not all about sweet young things— archetypes of Singaporean men, this movie is proof that more mature Ah King dishes out warnings for the folks can fi nd true love, too! ladies against no-go men such as The Dragon Boater, the alpha jock

OCT–DEC 2015 / DUET 13 MEET...

Work in progress The newlyweds are still getting used Ma Ka Kui & to living with each other, as “we were brought up differently,” reveals Xin Wan. In her family, everyone washed his or her own plates after a meal, but in his home, his mother did all the washing up. She is Lim Xin Wan also irritated by his habit of ringing the doorbell even though he has a set of There’s something to be said for being patient and persistent, keys, and the way he’d let his alarm clock ladies—it could land you a life partner! Still, married life for go on and on. Xin Wan and her hubby, Ka Kui, is a work in progress. “The good thing is that we always talk things out. I can complain about By Chua Kim Beng his bad habits,” she says. “Of course, I have bad habits, too, and he’s frank with me about them.” Adds Ka Kui, “We overcome problems by respecting each other. We give space to each other to least try so that I can face myself in the do things our own way sometimes; at mirror.” other times we compromise and give in “I got wooed by my wife,” Ka Kui to the other person.” is quick to add. “One day, she told me And they really are pretty open that she liked me. I was so shocked to each other. “Sexual fetishes, bank that I turned her down.” Still, Xin Wan savings, investment plans—we can tell continued to show concern for him. He each other anything!” admits Xin Wan. was particularly touched when she sent him text messages after a rare tremor Word of advice occurred near her home. Ka Kui advises singletons out there to be honest: “Don’t pretend to be “I didn’t want to someone else.” Xin Wan, whose parents often quarrel, knew that getting married have regrets. I wasn’t all rainbows and unicorns. “We bickered before marriage, so why would WHEN LIM XIN WAN, 25, AND thought I should at I think that we wouldn’t after? However, Ma Ka Kui, 27, first laid eyes on each we are a happy couple most of the time other, they were undergrads in NTU least try so that I because we always talk things out.” attending an orientation camp. Coincidentally, they were secret can face myself.” partners for the event—perhaps a sign that they were meant to be together! Barriers to marriage THEIR RELATIONSHIP Ka Kui and Xin Wan were soon HISTORY IN A NUTSHELL First impressions engaged. “Her persistence touched me. However, their first impressions of each Despite knowing each other for only Jul 2009 other were rather lopsided. two months, we bought rings at Couple FIRST MEETING: At an orientation Ka Kui was a little put off by Xin Lab and engraved them with our names camp organised by Nanyang Technological University’s School Wan’s large hands. Her then spotty and the date we got together,” Ka Kui of Physical and Mathematical face did not help, either. On the other recalls. Sciences. hand, Xin Wan quickly developed a The couple has since gotten crush on Ka Kui. “It actually started out married—on National Day this year, in as an infatuation,” she admits. “I admire fact! Aug 2009 people who can speak both English But Xin Wan admits that there were FIRST DATE: at Pizza Hut in Marina Square. and Mandarin fluently.” She adds that some obstacles to wedded bliss, not she was also attracted to his self- least of which was a language barrier. confidence. “I am ‘deaf’ and ‘mute’ whenever I visit Sep 2009 Because everyone was assigned two his folks because I can’t engage in ENGAGEMENT: with rings bought secret partners, things took a disastrous conversation with his parents, who speak at Couple Lab. turn when Ka Kui opted to spend time only Cantonese,” she explains. “I felt like with the other person. Good thing that such an outsider each time I went there Aug 2015 didn’t lead anywhere, and that Xin Wan for dinner.” But she was reassured when WEDDING: National Day didn’t give up on him: “I didn’t want Ka Kui promised that they would have to have regrets. I thought I should at their own place.

14 DUET / OCT–DEC 2015 MEET...

BEATRICE DING

This fitness extraordinaire and co-owner of spinning studio CruCycle tells Duet her views on fitness, love, and what makes a relationship work.

By Tham Yong Xian

How do you keep fit when you aren’t busy running CruCycle? Apart from running the business, I’m actually an instructor at CruCycle as well. I used to teach every day, and each class was tailored to include core, arms and even yoga, so it’s a full body workout! I also love doing hot yoga and outdoor activities such as hiking, but because I’ve been so busy with CruCycle, I haven’t had time to do much else, sadly.

What qualities attract you in a partner? Intellect and open-mindedness are very important to me. And I don’t mean someone who is book-smart—I’d like a partner I can bounce ideas off and give me a fresh perspective on things. It’d be great if he were adventurous, too, since I’m quite outdoorsy and love to be out and about. Most importantly, though, he’s got to have a good sense of humour. I’d never be able to date a boring guy. I like to laugh a lot!

What do you think makes a relationship successful? You know, a lot of people try to look for partners similar to themselves because they think they’ll click better. But I personally think that opposites attract, and opposites work. Of course, your personalities can’t clash, but it’s all about the complementary yin and yang. For example, I’m a very active person, and my schedule is constantly packed with one thing after another—I always have to be doing something! On the other hand, the guys I usually date are more laidback, which is great because it helps balance me out, and reminds me to take a breather once in a while.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? I see myself travelling a lot, opening CruCycle outlets around Asia, or maybe in New York or Los Angeles. Relationship-wise, I would like to be in a serious, long-term relationship with someone who knows me inside-out, and is supportive of my career goals and dreams.

CruCycle FIRST MEET WAS OPENED IN TIMERS BANDIT SEPTEMBER CAN GET A THE HUSKY, DISCOUNTED CruCycle’s MASCOT, 2-CLASS PACK WHEN YOU GO 2014 FOR ONLY $50 FOR A CLASS!

*Located at 68 Duxton Road, CruCycle is open seven days a week. Book a bike with CruCycle at www.crucycle.com

OCT–DEC 2015 / DUET 15 THE MAKEOVER

KEEP IT CASUAL

Duet’s makeover provides a pair of sartorially challenged singletons with quite an experience: besides getting to dress up in a style they had never considered, they get to go on a date—with each other! Our wardrobe this issue: casual wear.

Written by Sarah Liu Art Direction by Cherlin Chan Styling, Makeup/Hair, Photography by APixels Photography Pte Ltd #1 WEAR IT YOUR WAY There are no rules with casual wear, only attitude. For Barry, that’s imbued in the blazer-jeans getup paired with plimsolls; for Chen Yee, it’s present in her 1960s-inspired print shirt and funky neon sneakers.

On Barry: Blue blazer and T-shirt from Zalora; denim jeans from New Look; camouflage shoes from Forever 21.

On Chen Yee: Printed shirt from H&M; denim shorts from Zalora; crystal necklaces and bangles from Forever 21; shoes are stylist’s own.

Barry Ho, 35, Lee Chen Yee, 31, Estate Manager Brand Manager I enjoy swimming, reading, and going I market toys for a living. I am junkie to the gym. On weekends, I chill out at for Korean and American dramas. nice bistros that serve a wide selection I also try to go to the gym, lah. of food. Sometimes I go for events Travelling is second nature. organised by SDN’s accredited dating I’m not attached. Maybe I’ve agencies; I like those that provide developed certain routines in life, so I post-event feedback. prefer meeting people my friends have I think people see me as friendly, recommended—because my friends generous, and outgoing. I’m not would have done all the fi ltering! seeing anyone at the moment. I look I’m still fi guring out what I’m for ladies who are genuine, caring, and looking for in a relationship, but family-oriented. We need not have the commitment is very important. If same hobbies, but we can try to learn you’re going to be with someone for from each other. I hope to get married the rest of your life, you need to stay in the near future. I think marriage is committed to the person—that’s love! important. I’m Asian and it’s in our I think I’ll eventually get hitched—I just culture to settle down. don’t know when!

OCT–DEC 2015 / DUET 17 #2 DENIM DAYS Throw on a denim or chambray shirt over your T-shirt or blouse to jazz up your outfit in the way that only denim can.

On Barry: Blue shirt, red-&-white striped T-shirt, navy blue printed Bermudas from Zalora; grey slip-ons from Forever 21.

On Chen Yee: Denim top, tie-dyed blouse, crochet shorts, blue necklace, blue flat slip-ons from Forever 21; bangles from New Look; bag from Desigual. 18 DUET / OCT–DEC 2015 #3 SMART CASUAL Smart casual is ‘informal’ made cleaner and neater. Going monochrome is one way to do it. Another is to switch out the too-casual shorts into Sunday capris, drawing attention to the torso.

Blue double- breasted blazer White top and inner from Zalora black skip dress from Forever 21

Silver Bangles from White Forever 21 T-shirt from Zalora

Black suede shoes Khaki pants from from Forever 21 New Look Clutch bag from Forever 21

Camoufl age shoes from Forever 21

BEFORE THE MAKEOVER...

OCT–DEC 2015 / DUET 19 Barry and Chen Yee go on a date

HE SAYS SHE SAYS Violet Herbs Modern European Restaurant

How was the makeover How was the makeover experience? experience? I’d do it again if I could, and I’d dress It was fun! It was quite an experience Barry and Chen Yee enjoyed a four- in the styles that they suggested, to experiment with a different course set dinner, courtesy of this depending on the occasion. wardrobe. It’s pretty achievable to restaurant. What makes Violet Herbs feel sport this style on a daily basis, and I spacious is the skylight above the ground What’s your first impression of may dress in their suggested outfits floor, and the expansive windows on the her? in the future! first floor, both allowing natural light Elegant and demure. to infuse the interior. A purple colour What’s your first impression of scheme dominates the lower level, while the upper level is dressed in beige. Both Did your impression of her him? can take up to 28 diners, while the upper change after the makeover? Stern. level boasts a private room that can seat Yes, she looked groovier. 14 guests. Did your impression change Helming the kitchen is 34-year-old What’s one criterion you look after the makeover? Edward Hoe. With almost 20 years’ for in a date, and did she fulfil He became less stern! experience, he has honed his skill in places such as Restaurant Ember, it? Keystone Restaurant, and the American Chemistry with the other party. She What’s one criterion you look Club. Violet Herbs is his first venture as did, somewhat. for, and did your date fulfil it? Chef-Owner. I need to be able to feel a sense of “My aim is to impress all guests with Name one surprising thing you chemistry within the first few dates. the winning combination of exquisitely . But, sorry, I couldn’t quite feel it with and expertly prepared plates, and learned about her competitive prices, which will encourage Her wanderlust. She has visited Barry. guests to return regularly to savour more many countries. menu offerings,” he shares. Name one surprising thing you What’s one thing you found learned about him. Address: 81 Tras Street, S(079020) attractive about her? His interest in fashion. Reservation Hotline: 6221 3988 She looked stunning in a black Website: www.violetherbs.com.sg outfit! What’s one thing you found attractive about him? How date-friendly was the His height. restaurant? The food was tasty, and the How date-friendly was the ambience was classy and conducive restaurant? SIGN UP for conversation. I’ll definitely return The food was amazing and value- with friends and family. for-money. It’s also a pleasant and NOW! welcoming place for dates. Would you go on a second date with her? Why or why not? Would you go on a second date Yes, I’d go on a second date with with him? Why or why not? If you’re single and interested in Duet’s Chen Yee. We have some common No. He’s not quite my cup of tea. unique makeover and dating experience, interests, and I’d like to get to know e-mail your recent photograph and contact her better. details to [email protected] with the subject ‘Duet Makeover’.

Date Rate: Date Rate:

20 DUET / OCT–DEC 2015 ASK THE EXPERT

LOVE EXPRESS SERVICES WAS ESTABLISHED IN 2007 TO PROVIDE VALUE-FOR-MONEY SOCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR SINGLES. WITH MORE THAN 100 EVENTS A YEAR, ITS POPULARITY IS GROWING AMONG PEOPLE FROM A WIDE RANGE OF PROFESSIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUNDS.

Your Cheating Heart

Is trouble brewing in paradise? Q1: When I borrowed my fi ancée’s Q2: My boyfriend of eight months Write in to Duet and we’ll laptop last week, I saw that he was is getting more and more possessive. consult relationship experts writing a message to another girl to He only ever wants us to spend time from SDNTrust-accredited organise a weekend getaway. I suspect alone, and never wants to go out with a that they’re in a relationship because group of friends. I’ve told him that I’m agencies on your behalf. this is not the fi rst time that they are not happy, and that we should break In this issue, Love Express going away together. My fi ancée never up. But he said that I can’t just end the Services off ers tips on what expresses unhappiness, but I’m worried relationship because, a year ago, he you should do if you suspect that he might be changing his mind found out that he’s terminally ill and has your fi ancée of cheating on about the wedding, which is happening only a few weeks left to live. Because you, or your partner becomes next month. Should I confront him or he shows no sign of illness, I think he’s pretend that I didn’t see the message? making this up to guilt-trip me from increasingly possessive. leaving him. What should I do? A1: Marriage is built on honesty, Advice by Love Express Services openness and trust. This incident is Q3: I’m a student in Singapore, while obviously aff ecting the trust you have my boyfriend is studying abroad. He’s in your future partner, so you should been making many new female friends, confront him, but avoid being overly so I’ve been feeling very insecure since I hostile or emotional. It’s better to do it don’t know who these people are. When now than after the wedding, when the I express this to my boyfriend, he and I situation becomes more complicated. end up fi ghting for days. He will be back Evaluate your readiness for marriage for good in a year, but I’m wondering if using these three key pillars: maturity, I should end things now, as I’m tired out motivation, and a shared destiny. You’ve from our fi ghts. got to prepare yourself for marriage, as it involves sharing many aspects of Log on to: www.duetsg.com for answers to Q2 and Q3! life: emotion, sex, fi nance, religion, etc. You’ve also got to think about whether you’re marrying your fi ancée for the wrong reasons, such as rebellion, escape, Worried about your relationship? Confused loneliness, social pressure, guilt or pity. by mixed signals? Not sure how to woo your My advice? Talk it through with him dream guy or girl? E-mail your questions to before your wedding! [email protected]

OCT–DEC 2015 / DUET 21 IT’S A DATE October 2015

16 October, Friday 17 October, Saturday

EXCURSION TO KLUANG & MOUNT LAMBAK

On this day trip, we’ll provide opportunities for you to sightsee, shop and eat like a local. There’s also a hike halfway up Mount Lambak. THE ROYAL Part of the Special Occasions Dinner series, this Location: Ascott Raffl es Place MAIL gastronomic event, held in a restaurant renowned Time: 7:30pm–10:45pm Location: Johor, Malaysia for its good service, will satisfy the epicure in you. Host: CompleteMe Time: 7:30am–10pm Closing Date: 15 October Host: One Plus One Group Size: 24 Closing Date: 12 October Price: $58 (includes a 3-course dinner) Group Size: 30

Image courtesy of The Royal Mail Restaurant & Bar Restaurant Mail courtesy of The Royal Image Price: $48 (includes transport and lunch)

17 October, Saturday 18 October, Sunday

KAYAK ADVENTURE

Take to the water with other eligible singles and feel the sun on your skin and hear the waves lapping against your kayak.

Location: Central area, to be advised For 10 weeks, acquire the hip hop moves you admire Location: Actfa School of Dance Time: 3pm–6pm HIP HOP GROOVES so much on this course. Get fi t while making friends Time: 4:15pm–5:15pm Host: Lunch Actually with other dance-obsessed people. Dress code: Host: A Dance Date Closing Date: 16 October casual wear and street shoes; no sandals or slippers. Closing Date: 14 October Group Size: 20 Group Size: 40 Price: $75 (includes 1 certifi ed instructor Price: $65 (includes light refreshments for every 10 pax, kayaking equipment, and one drink) and 1 bottled drink)

21 October, Wednesday 24 October, Saturday

SPEED DATING TEA

Spend an afternoon in a cosy café and get to know every single participant through a 1-to-1 rotation. SUNSET Specially for singles between 30 and 42, this dinner Location: Vineyard Location: Hotel @ Orchard DINING @ takes place in Vineyard, a restaurant, nestled within Time: 7:30pm–10pm Time: 2:30pm–5:30pm the verdant HortPark. Host: GaiGai Host: CompleteMe VINEYARD Closing Date: 18 October Closing Date: 23 October Group Size: 24 Group Size: 24 Price: $59 (includes a 3-course dinner) Price: $38 (includes a beverage and

Image courtesy of Vineyard Image light snacks)

22 DUET / OCT–DEC 2015 October November December

24 October, Saturday 25 October, Sunday

ESCAPE GAME SERIES

Escape game involves a team of people interacting to solve a mystery. Cool down over refreshments to get to know your new friends better. PASSION Come along for a leisurely 15km bike ride from Bukit Location: Actfa School of Dance PEDALLERS Merah to the Marina Barrage and back. Along the Time: 7:30am–12:30pm Location: Prinsep Street / Bugis way, there’ll be games, opportunities for making new Host: A Dance Date Time: 2:30pm–6pm friends, and a pit stop at a food centre. Have a light Closing Date: 21 October Host: Love Express breakfast fi rst, and bring along a one-litre bottle of Group Size: 20 Closing Date: 21 October water. Dress code: casual wear or fi tness attire. Price: $48 (includes bicycle rental) Group Size: 24 Price: $49 (includes juice/coff ee/tea)

25 October, Sunday 30 October, Friday

COFFEE APPRECIATION

Get hands-on experience in coff ee making and enjoy that aromatic cup of joe even more, especially in the presence of other caff eine fi ends. IT’S NICE Make the most of the eight minutes you have with Location: Orchard Central Location: Central MEETING each member of the opposite sex at this speed Time: 7pm–9:30pm Time: 2pm–5pm dating dinner. Don’t miss this fun and exciting way Host: Singles Mingle Host: Champagne SG YOU DINNER to share a meal. Closing Date: 27 October Closing Date: 23 October @ HAPPY Group Size: 28 Group Size: 20 PANCAKES Price: $46 (includes 3-course dinner Price: $48 (M) / $58 (NM) (includes and free fl ow drinks) light snacks) CAFÉ

31 October, Saturday 31 October, Saturday

PONG PONG LOVE

Have a striking good time at this fun bowling session. Who knows, more than bowling pins could be falling for you! Location: City Area SHERLOCK Do you like solving mysteries? Join forces with Location: TBA Time: 2pm–5pm HOLMES IN newfound friends to fi nd an escape route out of this Time: 3pm–5:30pm Host: Champagne SG creative concept room. Host: Dating Moments Closing Date: 27 October ACTION Closing Date: 27 October Group Size: 20 Group Size: 24 Price: $43 (M) / $53 (NM) (includes Price: $50 (M) / $55 (NM) drinks, snacks, and shoe rental)

OCT–DEC 2015 / DUET 23 November 2015

7 November, Saturday 8 November, Sunday

NATURE EXPLORERS

Explore various walking trails on the greener sides of Singapore. Have a light breakfast fi rst, and bring along a one-litre bottle of water. Dress code: DAY TOUR Besides the spectacular Mount Ophir Waterfalls, Location: Johore, Malaysia casual wear or fi tness attire. TO MOUNT you’ll also get to see the inner workings of a brown Time: 7:30am–9:30pm rice factory. End the trip with a relaxing massage Host: One Plus One OPHIR WA- Location: TBC and a sumptuous dinner (on your own dime). Closing Date: 2 November Time: 7:30am–10:30am TERFALLS Group Size: 30 Host: A Dance Date & JOHOR Price: $48 (includes transport, lunch, Closing Date: 4 November BAHRU and entrance fees) Group Size: 40 Price: $38

10 November, Tuesday 11 November, Wednesday

DEEPAVALI SPECIAL: ISLAND LIFE @ SISTERS’ ISLAND

Spend the latter half of this public holiday picnicking on the idyllic Following the success of our inaugural Singles Location: F Club, Clarke Quay Sisters’ Island. Do bring enough food SINGLES DAY Day Mega Party last year, the second one has Time: 8pm–10pm to share. MEGA PARTY been planned for this year, and we’re prepared to Host: Lunch Actually welcome up to 1,000 singletons! Closing Date: 10 November Location: Sisters’ Island Group Size: 1,000 Time: 2pm–7pm Price: Early bird special at $35 Host: One Plus One (includes 1 drink (house pours, beer, Closing Date: 4 November juices or soft drinks)) Group Size: 30 Price: $26 (includes boat ride)

12 November, Thursday 14 November, Saturday

CONSOLE WARS

Unleash your inner geek and—who knows?—you could end up with your own Super Mario or Princess Peach!

Location: St Games Café, The Cathay DATING FOR With the help of a visually impaired guide, you will Location: TBA Time: 7:30pm–10pm A GOOD exploit all your senses throughout this unique tour Time: 11:30am–2pm Host: GaiGai and lunch, both of which will be done in complete Host: Dating Moments Closing Date: 9 November CAUSE darkness! What’s more, a worthy cause benefi ts. Closing Date: 10 November Group Size: 24 Group Size: 30 Price: $49 (includes dinner and a 2.5- Price: $50 (M) / $55 (NM) hour console gaming session)

24 DUET / OCT–DEC 2015 October November December

15 November, Sunday 19 November, Thursday

FELINE FUN

If you’re a cat person, turn up at this event to belly-rub furry creatures over sumptuous café fare. The bonus is meeting other cat lovers! ICY Learn to make ice cream without the use of special Location: Beach Rd DELIGHTS! equipment, then take home your cool creation. Time: 2pm–4pm Salted egg yolk fl avour, anyone? Host: Champagne SG Location: The Cat Café, Victoria Street Closing Date: 12 November Time: 7:30pm–10pm Group Size: 16 Host: GaiGai Price: $72 (M) / $82 (NM) (includes Closing Date: 16 November workshop ingredients (2 fl avours), Group Size: 24 materials and free fl ow of ice cream) Price: $49 (includes main course, beverage, and play time with the cats)

21 November, Saturday 21 November, Saturday

URBAN DATING DINNER

Mingle with like-minded people over a delicious meal in a restaurant boasting a lovely ambience. AFTERNOON We bet the amazing aroma emanating from this Location: 19 Lorong Kilat #01-03 NETWORK- bakery is going to make this networking session a Time: 3pm–5pm Location: City Hall smashing success. Join us! Host: Singles Mingle Time: 6:30pm–9:30pm ING @ EAST Closing Date: 18 November Host: Love Express MANHAT- Group Size: 24 Closing Date: 18 November TAN BAKERY Price: $36 (includes free fl ow of coff ee Group Size: 24 CAFÉ / tea, breads and cakes) Price: $49 (includes Western set dinner)

28 November, Saturday 28 November, Saturday

CHRISTIAN MINGLING PARTY

Specially organised for Christian singles, this networking party will be held in a chic downtown hotel.

“YOUR IM- On this 1-to-1 rotation, write down one thing that Location: Hotel @ Tanjong Pagar Location: Orchard PRESSION impresses you most about a person of the opposite Time: 2pm–5:30pm Time: 7pm–9pm sex, and one area that needs improvement. Host: CompleteMe OF ME” MINI Host: Lunch Actually Anonymous comments will be sent to you, so that Closing Date: 27 November Closing Date: 27 November TEA BUFFET you know what kind of impression you make. Group Size: 24 Group Size: 40 Price: $52 Price: $35 (includes 1 drink (house pours, beer, juices or soft drinks))

OCT–DEC 2015 / DUET 25 December 2015

3 December, Thursday 4 December, Friday

GROUP DATING @ CRYSTAL CAFÉ

Don’t be shy! Join us for buff et spread in a relaxed atmosphere and make new friends in a cosy TGIF! DATE It’s the end of the workweek, so chill out in a lounge Location: City Area environment. that off ers a 360˚ view of the city skyline. Time: 8pm–10pm & DRINKS Host: Champagne SG Location: 131 Killiney Road Closing Date: 2 December Time: 7pm–9:30pm Group Size: 26 Host: Singles Mingle Price: $38 (M) / $48 (NM) (includes Closing Date: 30 November one drink (alcoholic/non-alcoholic) Group Size: 40 and fi nger food) Price: $36

5 December, Saturday 6 December, Sunday

CHRISTMAS TERRARIUM WORKSHOP

Jazz up your work or room table with your own garden-in-a-glass jar! Let us help you unleash your creativity. DAY TRIP TO Specially for ladies 35 and below, and guys 42 and Location: Johore, Malaysia Location: Upper Aljunied Lane PENGERANG below, this trip to southeastern Johore includes Time: 7:30am–9:30pm Time: 3pm–5pm visits to an ostrich farm and a coastal fort. Host: One Plus One Host: GaiGai Closing Date: 1 December Closing Date: 2 December Group Size: 30 Group Size: 24 Price: $56 (includes transport and Price: $49 (includes refreshments, seafood lunch) terrarium materials, and tools)

9 December, Wednesday 12 December, Saturday

YEAR-END PARTY

You’ve slogged hard through 2015, so you deserve to close it out with a grand party in a sophisticated lounge located in the heart of Orchard Road.

Location: Orchard Time: 7pm–9pm Mingle and connect with new friends over a Location: TBA Host: Lunch Actually MIX & sumptuous buff et spread. Includes a 1–to-1 rotation. Time: 10:30am–1pm Closing Date: 8 December MINGLE Host: Dating Moments Group Size: 50 LUNCH Closing Date: 8 December Price: $35 (includes 1 drink (house pours, PARTY Group Size: 40 beer, juices or soft drinks)) Price: $50 (M) / $55 (NM)

26 DUET / OCT–DEC 2015 October November December

12 December, Saturday 17 December, Thursday

LADIES’ SUPPORT GROUP

Ladies, if you’re under 35 years old, we welcome you to join us to help you expand your social circle, learn dating tips, and gain insights from CHRISTMAS Take part in an Amazing Race-style adventure as Location: Gardens by the Bay hearing each other’s experiences. SPECIAL! part of a team comprising a mix of genders on the Time: 7pm–10pm grounds of this amazing park. Cool prizes await Host: Love Express AMAZING Location: The Central, Clarke Quay the winners. Closing Date: 9 December Time: 7:30om–10:30pm NITE RACE @ Group Size: 24 Host: CompleteMe GARDENS BY Price: $49 (includes one drink and Closing Date: 16 December THE BAY snacks) Group Size: 15 Price: $20

19 December, Saturday 26 December, Saturday

SINGAPORE ROMANCE CUM MAKAN ON WHEELS

Gallivant around town in an automobile to look for best bites and romantic spots. Limited to eight vehicles only.

Location: Around Singapore PREP & Join seven other singletons for a fun time preparing Location: Actfa School of Dance Time: 10am–4pm DINE: THE a healthy yet delicious meal in under 20 minutes. Time: 11am–2pm Host: Singles Mingle They say that the way to a man’s (or woman’s) heart Host: A Dance Date Closing Date: 23 December HEALTHY is through the stomach, so something more could Closing Date: 15 December Group Size: 30 OPTION develop from this! Dress code: smart casual. Group Size: 8 Price: $45 (car owners get $10 off Price: $58 (includes food & drinks) registration fee; includes snacks and drinks)

31 December, Thursday

NEW YEAR EVE Enjoy a sumptuous Japanese dinner, mingle with like-minded Location: The Sail @ Marina Boulevard and interesting new friends, and have a jolly good time. Time: 6pm–9pm SPECIAL! SLOW Host: Love Express DATING DINNER Closing Date: 23 December @ MARINA BAY Group Size: 24 Price: $49 (includes a Japanese dinner)

OCT–DEC 2015 / DUET 27 ACCREDITED AGENCIES

The SDNTrust accreditation framework for the dating industry was introduced to ensure high standards of professionalism and excellence for singles. The private dating agencies on this page have all been awarded this trustmark.

ONLINE DATING SERVICE ONE-TO-ONE MATCHING SERVICE DATING EVENTS

A DANCE DATE LOVE EXPRESS A Dance Date aims to bring together Those looking for fun lifestyle events need people who feel the spirit of dance—from look no further than Love Express. their fi ngertips to their toes—and who wish to share it.

www.adancedate.com www.loveexpress.com.sg 8157 7733 6823 1232

CHAMPAGNE SG LUNCH ACTUALLY Champagne SG off ers a full suite of dating Asia’s fi rst and largest lunch dating services, from events to personalised company since 2004, Lunch Actually’s matching services, guaranteeing an expertise lies in matching discerning exclusive experience. professionals over lunch or drinks.

www.champagnesg.com www.lunchactually.com 6838 0298 6532 0010

COMPLETEME ONE PLUS ONE CompleteMe organises indoor and outdoor One Plus One equals you and me, so join an events, specialising in one-to-one speed expanding group of singles who are looking dating, which increases the chances of you for aff ordable and exciting events. fi nding a mutual match.

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DATING MOMENTS SINGLES MINGLE Dating Moments specialises in one-to- What’s the secret to fi nding true love? one matching services, creating unique Mingling, of course! So do just that with opportunities for singles to meet through Singles Mingle, which provides a list of activities, both exhilarating and relaxing. holistic events.

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eSYNCHRONY VIVAONE eSynchrony off ers online and offl ine VivaOne off ers a variety of events for busy dating based on 16 areas of compatibility. professionals to network and hopefully A dating consultant will arrange real dates meet that special someone. with people you’re matched with online.

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GAIGAI Casual settings, quality dates, and reasonable prices—this is GaiGai’s philosophy to make eff ective offl ine dating aff ordable for singles.

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28 DUET / OCT–DEC 2015 DEALS

OUTTA HATHA YOGA VALIDITY: 1 OCT–31 DEC 2015 WEBSITE: WWW.OUTTAHATHA.COM FACEBOOK: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OUTTAHATHA

Outta Hatha Yoga is a series of pop-up 2 FOR THE PRICE OF 1 yoga sessions at Customs House Terrace. In • 1 YOGA SESSION AT CUSTOMS HOUSE TERRACE FOR this oasis of calm on the edge of the CBD, 2 FIRST-TIMERS AT THE PRICE OF 1 PERSON ($20) we’ll guide you to overcome stress, cultivate • MON–THU EVENINGS; SAT MORNINGS deep self-awareness, and seek greater • COME IN WORKOUT ATTIRE; BRING OWN MAT balance in mind and body.

MYKONOS ON THE BAY VALIDITY: 1 OCT–31 DEC 2015 ADDRESS: #01-10 QUAYSIDE ISLE, SENTOSA

Greek chefs preparing classic Greek dishes 10% OFF BILL (FOOD ONLY) from scratch. Head to Mykonos on the • VALID EVERY DAY, INCLUDING PUBLIC HOLIDAYS Bay to enjoy an authentic Greek dining • FOR LUNCH & DINNER experience by the sea. Decked out with • DOES NOT APPLY TO DRINKS imported blue and white furniture and décor, • CANNOT BE USED WITH OTHER PROMOTIONS this restaurant is located by the stunning marina on Sentosa Cove.

QUAYSIDE FISH BAR & BISTRO VALIDITY: 1 OCT–31 DEC 2015 ADDRESS: #01-11 QUAYSIDE ISLE, SENTOSA

Quayside Fish Bar & Bistro features the 1-FOR-1 DESSERT freshest cold-ocean fi sh and seafood. A • ORDER ANY DESSERT AND GET ANOTHER FOR FREE wide selection of wines, craft beers, bespoke • MINIMUM OF 2 PEOPLE, WHO MUST EACH ALSO ORDER A cocktails, premium liquor and seafood is also NON-PROMOTIONAL MAIN COURSE available for retail. This waterfront venue • VALID MON–THU, EXCLUDING PUBLIC HOLIDAYS off ers a wonderful, unique and unforgettable • CANNOT BE USED WITH OTHER PROMOTIONS dining experience.

ARCH ANGEL VALIDITY: 1 OCT–31 DEC 2015 WEBSITE: ARCHANGEL-SHOES.COM FACEBOOK: FACEBOOK.COM/ARCHANGELSHOES

Arch Angel has stylish and comfortable $20 OFF BILL shoes that have removable insoles • VALID FOR PARTICIPATING SHOE BRANDS, ONLY AT replaceable with custom-made orthotics. PURVIS STREET AND WHEELOCK PLACE OUTLETS It also stocks a wide range of footcare accessories, all carefully sourced from all over the world by our footcare specialists.