Rachel Ridgwell, Author at Connected Women - Entrepreneurs, Freelancers and Professionals.

Hot Date Tips: Date Night Bars In Singapore (With Snacks!)

Rachel Ridgwell — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 15:31:08 +0000

It’s date night, and the pressure is on to select the perfect venue – somewhere not too loud or obnoxious, and doesn’t have a price tag you’ll regret the next day.

Singapore is renowned for its bespoke cocktail bars; many come and go, but good, unique ones stay! Now remember, this is date night: Finding the right mix of atmosphere and romance is important. Sitting in an overcrowded bar where you must yell or you won’t get a seat is not what you want.

These three hidden gem bars are guaranteed to fill this void – and bonus points, the majority of their cocktails are around $20-$30 (inclusive of the ++)!

Here’s one of my hot date tips: Let’s do date night in an out-of-the-ordinary fashion. Ditch the dinner and head straight for the bar – snacks included, because a) I love food; and b) You don’t want your night over too soon due to one of you getting intoxicated too quickly!

So why skip the meal? Spontaneity, that’s why. When you go out for dinner, whilst it is lovely you are generally forced to sit apart from each other. When you’re on date night, you should want to be close – hand-holding, sneaky kisses, and strokes to the face. You want to have in-depth conversations – these moments can’t be achieved over dinner.

**Remember: Some PDAs are cute, and some are not – make sure you know the distinction!**

Now, Onto The Date Night Bars in Singapore:

The Black Swan

One of my favourite bars, overlooked by so many people who don’t work in the CBD, is The Black Swan. It has an excellent cocktail list, and the 1930’s setting is eclectic. I love how the hostesses dress in gorgeous black flapper outfits, all glittery head gear and drowning in pearls!

In The Black Swan, you’ve got two options: By the bar downstairs, if quiet is what you prefer; or upstairs to the powder room, where their finest cocktail makers will whip you up cocktail treats beyond your wildest dreams!

The reason why The Black Swan stands out for me is because I can never decide which cocktail to have, and there is always a cool twist that goes with each one. Each drink is made with love or something quirky – think popping candy around the rim of your Rhythm & Booze, or a side of sorbet with your BB King.

And if you want to start the night right with a light nibble or end it with one, don’t miss the spiced nuts, frog’s legs, and wild mushroom & bacon jam crostini. Yum!

Bitters & Love

Free the Robot by day, creates love and happiness by night. Small and intimate, Bitters & Love’s cocktail list is one to be desired.

Drinks are customised to your taste – so why not use this time to see how well you know each other as a couple? After all, the bar is just flowing with love.

The game is set: You must each select a drink for the other – start with the base, and then add the love potions to it. If you are a bit stuck for choices, don’t worry – the staff here are some of the loveliest people I have met. They will help you whip up an epic concoction for your lover.

As for nibbles, they have a small selection of bar snacks, but make sure this is your destination earlier in the night as the kitchen shuts early.

Manhattan

I stumbled upon Manhattan with two girlfriends of mine, not on a date. However, we all insisted our next date night be there.

Whilst it is in a HOTEL (#boring!), the moment you step into Manhattan you feel like you have been instantly transported across the seas to Manhattan Island itself. With cocktails formed and inspired by the different districts on the Island, you can pretend you are sipping soulful whisky infusion from Harlem, or taking part in high society while indulging in something light and fresh.

What’s even better, each cocktail list is paired with a matching district nibble selection. Think corn bread from Harlem with your whisky, or a street style hot dog with your Cosmopolitan from the Theatre District.

Another reason to ditch the dinner and just nibble here too!

In all honesty, the door staff are a bit disconcerting; however, the beautiful waiters inside certainly make up for that. Now grab a seat on the soft plush sofas and pretend you are somewhere else far. far away. Perhaps make plans for your next holiday together OR tell each other your ultimate holiday dream!

On Etiquette:

On nights like this you’re bound to run into a colleague or friend – no doubt they will want to join you, or ask you to join them. Or, they may just be rude and join you anyway.

To avoid them taking residence next to you, ensure you mention you are on a romantic date night, followed by a squeeze of the hand and peck to your loved one. If this isn’t hint enough, politely pull them aside and tell them that this is your date night and you want to keep it to two of you.

DO NOT coil and make a joke of it with an eye roll; be confident – you guys are on this because you want to break out of the norm. Get that friend or colleague out of the way – if not, finish quickly and get out of there!

On Being Cost-Conscious:

For the cost-conscious, this is another reason why you might have to skip the meal: Most cocktails come with the obligatory $25++ price tag. Okay, some of The Black Swan cocktails are $21 price based, but what is another $4, really?

Now pick your two favourites, write your lover a sweet note suggesting a romantic night out, and think of another way to please them. I promise, you will not be disappointed – these bars are suited for romantic date nights out.

Enjoy – I am off to the Black Swan now, the popping candy is calling!

NB: None of these bars paid me for my comments or drinks – this was put together to highlight my favourites based on service, drink selection, romantic ascetics, price point, and did I mention customer service?! Think you’ve been somewhere better? I doubt it – but tell me anyway!

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Keeping It Discreet: How To Travel With Your Sex Toys

Rachel Ridgwell — Wed, 29 Mar 2017 00:00:00 +0000

It’s time for that long-awaited holiday! You’ve worked hard, and probably spent some time away from your partner to ensure you get everything done in preparation for a relaxing, no-stress holiday.

According to studies, more than 50% of couples are likely to be more intimate with each other whilst on a holiday than they are at home. When on holiday you have more time, you rekindle your relationship, and your sex drive boosts! New surroundings, new spaces to play with and on – you’re going to have more sex!

With all the passion and excitement, you may want to try something new; or, for those of you who already play with sex toys on a regular basis, you’ll want to take your toys with you. The question is: How to travel with your sex toys? And is it legal?

The majority of the countries that consider sex toys illegal are those which follow strict Islamic laws – think Saudi Arabia, Iran, UAE, Malaysia, Indonesia. However, other counties such as India, Vietnam, and Thailand also consider them illegal.

**Honeymooners beware** The Maldives is also an Islamic country and therefore bans the importation of sex toys too.

Just because they ban them does NOT mean you can’t take them along for the ride. There are plenty of sex toys and vibrators out there that you won’t get busted for.

Think, Crave products like the Vesper¹ and Duet, WeVibe4+², Vibease, perhaps some anal beads, and of course, lubricant. Basically anything that doesn’t look like the shape of a penis or cylinder should be fine.

However, here are some further tips to help you conceal and smuggle your delights without getting caught or embarrassed.

Top Five Tips To Smuggle Your Sex Toys On Holiday:

1. Go Incognito

As I said above, the WeVibe 4+ and Vibease are great couple travel companions. They are discreet-looking and can easily be inserted into your vagina (WeVibe) before going through security, or placed into your cosmetics bag in your handbag.

For me, I am always wearing my Crave Vesper Necklace and Crave Cuffs so I’m ready to vibe and play anywhere, anytime – even on the plane! These items are on me and are so completely incognito, it’s ridiculous!

Perfect for travelling!

HOT TIP: If you go through customs with your Crave Cuffs, make sure you do a loop with them; and when you take them off, loop them together so they don’t separate and look like cuffs. Remember, they are just a bracelet, and therefore state that to them.

2. Drain The Battery Or Remove The Batteries

Do you want to draw unwanted attention?

Most new and high-quality vibes such as Fun Factory³ have a special aeroplane lock on them. However, if in doubt, drain that battery so the vibe is dead – you can charge him on arrival, or remove the batteries.

Doing this will help you avoid having your vibrator going off mid-flight, or during the baggage handler stage. There have been a few cases lately where vibrators have gone off when the baggage handlers pick the suitcase up. This has caused delays, not to mention a few red faces of embarrassment.

3. Heading To A Country Where It Is Allowed?

YAY! But also, do yourselves a favour – do as above, but also pack light. Do you really need them all? Could you just take a few favourites? Perhaps leave your big vibes at home and just pack the smaller ones instead? Again, a lot of countries love a good baggage scan. Do you want security seeing your big beautiful dildo?

4. Be Cool

You know customs officials just LOVE to pick on those who look suspicious. If you’re acting weird, they will sense it and probably pull you aside thinking you’re a drug mule! Be confident – remember that you’re not really doing anything wrong. You’re not hurting anyone, and if in a country where it’s illegal and you get busted, play dumb. Pretend it is something else – tensions massager for your sore neck, an eraser, make-up applicator. ANYTHING.

If they open your bag and the vibe slips out, be cool. That’s perfectly ok, and you should not be ashamed. Be proud of your awesome sexuality – OWN IT!

5. Lubes And Lotions

You know the rule: 100mls in a clear plastic bag. It’s been the rule for over a decade, so no excuses. Put your lubricant, toy cleaner, and lotions in your check-in luggage. Make sure to wrap it up separately in case it bursts, as it could ruin your clothes or other items.

Not carrying a check-in bag? Buy a lubricant that is small, like Defence anti-bacterial 60ml.

So, you’re all set – just follow these rules and be safe, not sorry. Take things that don’t look like a vibrator or dildo when unsure if it’s illegal, and own it like a rock star if you can!

Happy holidays!

Relax, play a lot, and ENJOY!

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^{This article was originally published on Rachelridgwell Blog and has been reposted on Connected Women with the permission of the author.}
^{Edited by Michelle Sarthou

Image credit: Shutterstock}^{References:

1 Vesper}

^2 WeVibe4+

^{3 Fun Factory}

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Date Night Dishes: 5 Simple Meals For Yummy Evenings

Rachel Ridgwell — Sun, 19 Mar 2017 00:00:00 +0000

You’ve done the coffee date, went out for drinks, caught a movie together… Now comes the big one: Dinner. Time to showcase your cooking skills – and seal the deal!

There is no doubt that if you get to this stage of dating, you’re quite keen on your companion, otherwise why invite them into your home and show off your culinary skills? With an at-home date, there is a huge chance that you’re going to get frisky, too. But the question is, will it happen right there on the kitchen floor – or in the boudoir later?

The first rule of ensuring you’ll get some fun under-the-cover action is to not cook anything too heavy. If you cook a heavy meal there is a high chance either you or your date will feel fatigued, bloated, or too full. NO ONE wants to feel bloated or fat whilst getting naked during the dating period. So with that in mind, you need to keep it light and simple.

When I say simple, the worst thing you can do is cook something you have never cooked before, or is too tricky. You shouldn’t be out of your depth, or need to follow a recipe to a T – it will stop you from engaging in conversation, and make you more nervous.

Just cook what you’re comfortable with. It is far better to impress with a simple delicious dish than something tricky or too time-consuming. Your date probably cares more about flowing conversation and great wine than anything else. Or is that just me?

So let’s get to it!

Five Seriously Simple Meals That You Have Undoubtedly Cooked Before – And Are Bound To Impress:

Spaghetti In A Tomato-Based Sauce

Pasta is almost impossible to ruin, and you can pre-prepare the sauce in advance. Whilst some people think this is a cope out – I totally disagree.

Firstly, regardless if they veggie or meat lovers, you can adapt the sauce youa re preparing – and you can enjoy flirting with your date by asking them to taste the sauce and perhaps, accidentally, making a slight mess on their face, which you will kindly offer to lick or kiss off.

It’s sexy, it’s flirty, it’s easy, and it rocks with red wine – remember to not overeat so you’re not too bloated!

Add a green salad and some bread with oil and balsamic as a side.

Tacos And Burritos (Who doesn’t love Mexican?!)

This is a great meal to whip up together. You concentrate on creating the meat or veggies into a sultry chill, and they can assist in grating the cheese, and slicing up the salad and sides, to compliment the meal.

It will help you see how you work as a team, and also know find out some of their likes and dislikes in food. Avocado-hater, spice lover, lactose intolerant, boring eater?! You’ll find it all out with Mexican.

*Hot Tip: Don’t go too spicy! Spice lingers, spice stings – even in your erogenous zones! Don’t over-spice. Just don’t!

BBQ

If the weather is right and you have a divine backyard, terrace, balcony etc, then this is the way to go. Impress him or her with your grilling skills!!

*Note: If you don’t know how to grill, or have never tried to, skip this. Now is not the night to learn! Having a barbecue is great meal option if you want to impress, and let them sit and relax. Have a few sides already to go, tenderise and season the meat – then leave the salad to just before they arrive. This way you can pour a glass of wine for each other, finish off the salad whilst chatting casually, and then head out to the grilling area to begin preparations and show off your skills!

Don’t forget to check what meat they enjoy, or perhaps try and mix of things – beef and reef rocks my world every time! That’s beef steak with prawns YUM!

Oh and don’t forget the condiments – a good set of condiments will certainly impress; in fact, it will make you look more cultured, mature, and with good taste.

Grilled Fish/Salmon And Veggies

If you have a feeling that tonight is a green light to intimacy, perhaps a light meal of fish and veggies is the way to go. What season is it? Head to the store and pick what vegetables are in season; they are guaranteed to be fresh and flavoursome.

Salmon increases your libido, and a lighter meal ensures that no-bloat or over-eating feeling. It’s simplistic and you can get creative with a side sauce or the veggies.

Risotto

Yeah, ok, another Italian dish. Then again, Italians are known to be the most romantic in the world!

Why risotto? It’s easy, and it’s a dish worth making with company. Risotto can be painfully boring to cook alone, but with a date it can be fun – and you can chat your way to it being perfect and ready. (Again, taste-testing together is always fun!)

Use this time to converse, and if they want to help – which everyone almost always asks – have some salad greens ready for them to create a salad.

“If you can survive how different you both make a salad, they are probably a keeper. “

Did you know that you can tell a lot about someone by how they handle a cooking and kitchen situation? Watch out for traits such as telling you how to slice a vegetable, over-dominating and not allowing you to help, or not talking whilst cooking (can’t multitask!). You will see many new traits in your date whilst working together in the kitchen. Watch and learn!

While these dishes may all seem basic, remember: Simplicity is key. You don’t want to create something you might just mess up, OR spend most of your time in the kitchen being totally unsociable. The idea of this date is to get to know each other more and casually converse whilst you prepare a delicious simple dish.Desserts? Have some vanilla bean ice-cream and strawberries or nice chocolates on hand – though honestly, if you have cooked a great meal and the conversation is flowing, you’re more than likely going to be making out – and possibly heading to bedroom! – instead of thinking of dessert.

Still, dessert can be a great post-romp treat! Or… shall we take dessert to the bedroom? Chocolate sauce on each other’s body – YUM!

If the evening didn’t work out the way you would’ve liked it to, a yawn and the mention of a super early start will get rid of your date quickly. If they don’t get the hint, offer some chamomile tea and reiterate the early start! And if they still don’t get it, be honest, you really have an early start – and just order them an UBER!

Finally, enjoy the evening! If you mess up your meal it’s ok – laugh it off and order some takeaway!

Powering success, happiness, and work-life balance.

^{This article was originally published on Rachelridgwell Blog and has been reposted on Connected Women with the permission of the author.}
^{Edited by Michelle Sarthou
Image credit: Shutterstock}

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Get Your Shutter Fingers Ready! #PhotoFaceOff Series 2 Premieres Tonight

Rachel Ridgwell — Mon, 21 Sep 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Do you love photography? Asia’s leading photography competition series Photo Face-Off would be the perfect show for you to catch, and they’re airing their premiere of season 2 tonight! Proudly presented by Canon PhotoMarathon and in association with SilkAir, catch the show on HISTORY® (StarHub TV Channel 401). The highly successful first season was rated number one in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand.

Hosted by the lovely Sarah Lian, Photo Face-Off Season 2, presented by Canon PhotoMarathon, follows 16 amateur snappers from six different countries competing in a series of photography challenges across three categories, that of Speed, Theme and Extreme. The challenges are designed to push each photographer’s skill, knowledge and creativity to the limit. Season two boasts new segments of elimination rounds and unique photography tips from some of Asia’s leading photo professionals.

Fashion Show Photo Challenge

Executive Lifestyle Experts Martha Chaudhry and Helga Herrera were chosen to attend yesterday’s fun, colourful, press event where a Fashion Show Photo Challenge took place. Professional photographer Justin Mott took part in the competition with the three Singaporean representatives Shaun Tan Chun Wen, Cheng Kok Hou and Mohamad Yusof Bin Noor — all pitting themselves against each other to see who could best capture the runway looks by local brands Actually and SuperSpace. In an unnamed line-up of four final photos, Justin’s perfectly captured shot was chosen by the media as the winning entry.

Executive Lifestye’s Photography Experts

It was an entertaining evening for our Executive Lifestyle experts, the highlight of which was a conversation and exchanging a photography joke or two with Justin Mott himself.

Helga and Martha were thrilled to meet Justin, and feel a part of the experience. It was also a breath of fresh air to see the ladies on the other side of the camera for a change.

Happy Snappers “Get Your Shutter Fingers Ready!”

Watching Photo Face-Off is not just watching another reality TV show, it requires so much more than cunning, or strength. It requires a knowledge of the art, a love and passion to seek after the perfect presentation, and a good eye, with fast reaction time.

If such a show should interest you and challenge you in your own photography skills, here’s a sneak peek at where the contestants will be headed next: Penang, Chiang Mai, Hanoi, Bali, and lastly, Cebu!

It was a night of competition and art – both in fashion design and photography – one which our experts were inspired by. We look forward to following the competition series through to the end, and of course, we’re rooting for the Singapore “photo warriors” Shaun Tan Chun Weng, Cheng Kok Hou and Mohd Yusof bin Noor!

Find out more on the official website! Photo Face-Off S2 premieres on 22 September, 2015 at 10pm on HISTORY (StarHub TV Ch. 401)

This article was written by Amber Valencia.

_{Images: www.historyasia.com}

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BNP Paribas WTA Finals Singapore presented by SC Global – Oct 25th – Nov 1st

Rachel Ridgwell — Sun, 20 Sep 2015 16:00:00 +0000

The BNP Paribas WTA Finals Singapore presented by SC Global is the flagship season finale of the WTA. It is the most prestigious tournament of the women’s tennis circuit and showcases the skill, athleticism and spirit of the finest women tennis players in the world.

From 25th October to 1st November, the world’s top 8 singles players and doubles teams will return to Singapore to compete in the WTA Finals.

Racquet Club is the official hospitality programme of the WTA Finals. Recognised as the premier client engagement platform in its inaugural year in 2014, Racquet Club provides the perfect base to entertain, wine, dine, and network before soaking up the thrilling tennis action on court.

Racquet Club benefits:

VIP access to Racquet Club hospitality pavilion
Gourmet dining experience
Free flow of wine, beer, and soft drinks
Meet and greet with players and tennis legends
Premium, baseline seats during tennis matches
VIP access to Aces Lounge – a private champagne bar within Centre Court with free flow champagne and snacks

Join us to get up close and personal with some of the world’s best women tennis players, the conversations and inspiration alone will make it worth it!

Event Details:

Date: October 25th to November 1st 2015
Venue: Racquet Club, Singapore Indoor Stadium
Fee: $559 (single session) – S$8,000 (full week pass)
Contact Person: Martin Lord
Contact Person Email: m.lord@wsgworld.com

REGISTER

^{Image: Courtesy of Racquet Club}

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Top 15 Things That Make You Realise You’ve Made Singapore Your Home

Rachel Ridgwell — Sat, 19 Sep 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Well, it’s been a good four months since I stepped off my big Emirates A380 and called this red dot my home. Fast fact: did you know that Singapore isn’t even the size of Kangaroo Island (small Island off the coast of South Australia)? It’s actually only one- seventh of the size! That said, despite its small size, Singapore is huge in culture, lifestyle, and FOOD!

I have enjoyed and embraced as much as possible. Having lived an expat life for over five years, I have learned to adapt quickly or forever complain, and be miserable. No one likes that “whinny annoying person” – yep we all have one, that lady who compares everything to her amazing home country. #moveon!

Just for fun, here are my top 15 thing that make you realise you’ve made Singapore your home:

You stop caring about people not looking where they’re going. Now, YOU are that person, too! Yep, YOU! Eyes glued to your phone as you zig zag through the streets and MRT stations.
Can and Lah become part of your daily vocabulary, even if at first you try not to, it just rolls off the tongue. And everyone older than you is suddenly your Auntie and Uncle.
$15 is a bargain for a glass of vino outside of happy hour. You no longer raise your eyebrows at the wine list.
Can we eat Dim Sum AGAIN? This is now both my hangover cure and my late night treat!
Chicken is a staple — it’s so cheap! And lamb, what is lamb again?
You have no problem deciphering acronyms like MBS, HDB, MRT & CBD and you’ve started making up your own abbreviations, too.
You will never just say Raffles. You specify an exact Raffles location; because now you know there is a different Raffles something on each corner.
Tissues: you do not go out without tissues, how else will you “chope” your table at the food court?
You have learned to live without gum, *sigh*.
You thought the climate meant you would never wear pants again, but you do. Fashion is fashion after all.
Level 1 means ground. I still have to remember that.
No price is ever what it seems but you’ve finally figured out the difference between plus, plus-plus and nett.
Singapore Sling, yeah you had that – ONCE, on a holiday before you moved.
In the 3 months, you have been here long enough to make a great friend and lose them to their own country or a new one.
You are no longer offended by the rude aunties and uncles at the Hawker Centres #getoverit. In fact, now you find it endearing.

This is MY top 15 but I am sure you’ve had other experiences. Please share them with me! There is always room for a follow up after my first year!

Do you have some fun facts, tips or advice for Singapore living to contribute? Sign-up as a contributor!

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Fuel Your Energy For The Singapore Grand Prix F1 Weekend Party

Rachel Ridgwell — Sun, 13 Sep 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Rev up your energy as you prepare for the fast lane of activities and parties on Singapore Grand Prix F1.

F1 Race

On September 18th, the TCR International Series Qualifying Session and the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia First will take place on track at 3:00 pm, and the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia Qualifying Session at 7:55 pm. The F1 Qualifying Session will happen on September 19th.

The race will intensify on the TCR International Series Second Race, and Porsche Carrera Cup Asia Second Race on September 20th.

Entertainment

Music artists Dawn Ho, Lily Anna, Daphne Koo, Michaela Therese, and Reuben Stone will perform at the Paddock Club Lifestyle Stage. Steel Pan music artist Kyle Cox will bring a unique beat as he plays at the Zone 1 Sunset Stage. Zouk DJs will make everyone dance to the beat of the dance sensation Mambo Jambo at the Circuit Park. Fiesta Tropical will also move you to the sways of Salsa, Merengue, Cha, Souk and Calypso.

Roving performers Jerome Murat, Supersonics, Captain Jack, The Mirror Family, and the Light Umbrellas will be making a scene around Zones 1, 3, and 4.

Spandau Ballet (of the hit songs “Gold” and “Only When You Leave”) will be performing at the Zone 1 Village Stage on September 19th.

Pharrel Williams, Maroon V, and Bon Jovi will blast the biggest performances at Zone 4 on September 18th, 19th, and 20th respectively, just before midnight.

When the engines stop, the Singapore Grand Prix F1 parties start! The hottest Formula 1 racers, Hollywood celebrities, and international supermodels are coming to rock Singapore’s annual race extravaganza!

September 16th: #GIRLSNIGHTOUT with Bobby Tonelli

The party starts on Wednesday, September 16th with Vanilla Luxury hosting #GIRLSNIGHTOUT featuring DJ and actor Bobby Tonelli at the Empire, Singapore Land Tower. Billed as the most luxurious party of the week, ladies enjoy five complimentary lychee martinis as well as a chance to win a $20,000 diamond from eClarity hidden inside one of the lychees!

September 17th: Foxtrot and Vanilla Luxury Fashion Show

September 17th will showcase an array of the hippest pieces at Foxtrot’s Fashion Show. Vanilla Luxury will also present brands made proudly in Singapore, including Princessa, Audley Aisle, Lustre, ANK Jewellery, Jubillo Joias and House of Sheens in their debut runway show. Dance the night away with DJs fueling the after party with at the Empire.

September 18th: REV Magazine’s Supercar Lineup

Get your full F1 experience at the racetrack at Luxe Infinity – featuring REV Magazine’s Supercar Lineup on September 18th. Party with fellow F1 fans over flowing champagne.

September 19th: Party from dusk til dawn

On September 19th, Singapore gets a taste of Hong Kong’s party scene as Dragon- i feat DJ Remy Kersten revs up the night. Party from 5:00 pm all the way to 3:00 am.

Amber Lounge Fashion Show will stage Chi Chi von Tan’g debut by the founders of Gnossem and the F1 drivers will fire up the runway as they model Ted Baker’s AW15 collection, and international labels such as La Perla, Herve Leger, Frederick Lee, JM Icon, Brioni & Stefano.

Everyone will be grooving to Apl.de.ap’s (of the Black Eyed Peas) beats, and with other international DJs from Monte-Carlo, Ibiza, and Tel Aviv! Party starts at 11:00 pm.

September 20th: Dastardly Brunch F1 Edition and Grand Party

The energy races on through the Dastardly Brunch F1 Edition on September 20th at the Empire. A pop-up themed brunch will be a treat as you revel in the intensity of the race. To cap the week off, the Grand After Party will take place.

Get your tickets at http://www.singaporegp.sg/. Executive Lifestyle readers get a 5-day pass worth $288! RSVP at rachel@executivelifestyle.sg today (September 14^th, 2015)!

These week is going to be party-filled so engineer your health like the world’s fastest car and follow these F1-inspired nutrition tips!

Written by Vida Dumadag

_{Image: Singapore GP}

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You Are Invited To The Sky Grande Prix 2015!

Rachel Ridgwell — Wed, 09 Sep 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Vanilla Luxury is hosting 2015’s Sky Grand Prix taking you 45 levels up the Singapore Land Tower with a stunning 360 degree view of the city and a glimpse of the Formula 1 track. Fuel your excitement for the 5-day extravaganza that will feature a massive DJ lineup; the most luxurious ladies night featuring a diamond giveaway; fashion show; luxury super sports car night and more!

Feel on top of the world with Sky Grandé Prix 2015’s choice of venue. Perched on the 45 level of Singapore Land Tower building, this year’s venue boasts a stunning 360 degree view of Marina Bay and Central Business District with its al fresco deck offering a panoramic view of the FORMULA 1 track.

The multi-faceted entertainment precinct consists of Empire Ultra Lounge, Angie’s Oyster Bar, Patio & Sear Steakhouse, featuring a different genre in each area.

Sky Grandé Prix 2015 is located at Level 45 Singapore Land Tower 50 Raffles Place, Singapore 048623

Athena Network community members and Executive Lifestyle readers get a 5-day pass worth $288! RSVP at rachel@executivelifestyle.sg until September 14th!

_{Image: Sky Grande Prix}

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#MasterChefAsia: Wine Pairing MasterChef Asia’s Three Mystery Box Dishes

Rachel Ridgwell — Thu, 03 Sep 2015 16:00:00 +0000

^{Image Credit: Lifetime Asia}

We very recently shared an article with you about our experience with the MasterChef Asia panel of judges and our three Singaporean representatives (check it out here before reading on)! It was an exciting event as the contestants were tested with the classic Mystery Box Challenge with the same 7 ingredients.

Our wine loving customer relationship manager, Rachel Melville, was invited to attend as a VIP guest to the press event along with our Executive Lifestyle contributors Ying Yih Low, Pauliina Salmenhaara and Liza Rowan. Inspired by the creativity of the three MasterChef Singapore contestants, Rachel got straight to work on finding the perfect wines for each unique dish. Rachel approached Sommelier Gerald Lu, Best Sommelier of Singapore 2010, VP of Singapore’s Sommelier Association, and WanderWine active curator for his expert wine pairing recommendations!

Pairing The MasterChef Dishes With the Perfect Wine

In choosing the wines for the pairing, the component that experts play with is texture and intensity on the palate. The flavour stay along the same thread as the dish, but with a shift in the dimension of mouthfeel and flavour intensity.

1. Butter Poached Prawns, Pickled Daikons with Lime-Coconut Cream by Woo Wai Leong

In terms of presentation, this seems to be the lightest and most elegant dish. Sommelier Gerald Lu chose to pair Champagne Perrier Jouet Belle Epoque 2007. He noted,

“An elegant mousse, a cool vintage, touches of apples and pink grapefruit add a fresh zesty lift to the dish. Notes of white flowers and poached pears come in the middle, giving flair and some ripeness to aid the coconut cream. An elegant champagne, sleek and slender to match with the delicate expression of the dish.”
^{Image Credit: WanderWine}

2. Coconut Ginger Prawns with Prawn Omelette served on Pineapple Salsa and Pickled Daikons by Sandrian Tan

Gerald Lu thought well of the dish, and said,

“A rich, tasty looking dish of the lot, with the egg adding body and the salsa cutting through the richness of the prawns. I will pick something to compliment the salsa, very fresh and crispy but with a lot bolder flavours like the Alsace Altenbourg Riesling 2011. Jasmine, pear, apricot, and nectarines on the flavours bring wafts of ripe stone fruits to the salsa and marry nicely in with the prawns. And the vibrant fresh backbone help maintain the texture given by the eggs and prawns. A perfect marriage of flavours with this prawn dish.”
^{Image Credit: WanderWine}

3. Prawn Tacos (Coconut Flatbread, Sautéed Prawns and Pineapples, with Shrimp Mayonnaise and Pickled Vegetables) by Lennard Yeong

Lastly, he thought of Lennard’s dish, and with great ease chose another fine wine:
“The Amigne de Vetroz, La Danse de Etoiles 2012 is my choice for the dish. A blast back to the classic burrito but served like a taco, the flatbread gives body and bite to the dish, and the use of pineapples whole gives a big burst of flavour and texture to the already crunchy prawns. The Amigne, with a slightly oilier and richer body lends its weight to the hearty dish, and still holds its own in terms of flavour with its red apple and light raspberry skin like tones. You will match the dish out while balancing nicely the flavours intensity with that wine!”

^{Image Credit: WanderWine}

Great recommendations from an expert Sommerlier! If you’d like to purchase one of the wines, visit WanderWine where you can find even more information about them.

Remember that drinking one to two glasses of approximately four ounces of wine can actually be good for you. Moderate consumption is the key! Enjoy, friends!

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The post #MasterChefAsia: Wine Pairing MasterChef Asia’s Three Mystery Box Dishes appeared first on Connected Women - Entrepreneurs, Freelancers and Professionals..