Max the Racer! He drives a Formula car!

Anna loves fast car.  You might remember that from a previous post when she went full throttle in a Lotus in Sepang circuit.

So when SingExperience proposed a Formula Car experience, she quipped at me with no hesitation “its your turn now!”

I could not believe I arrived at Pasir Gudang race track in less than 30 minutes from the border.  

My excitement was already high.  I could see the cars being prepared by the mechanics. 

Whilst that was happening, I was given my racing suit to change.  

You may ask: "can clothes make a man?"   Yes it does, if it means to expense one’s courage to wheel a Formula 1 car.  

This was no ordinary suit.   I donned the light weight fire-retardant suit which only pros and champions wear in F1.  

I became a new “me”, a new man: No more “Max the blogger”, but “Max the driver”.  It felt EXTRAORDINARY!

Watch the video

I sat through a comprehensive and professional driver’s briefing.  It continued my transformation… safety procedures, the fundamentals of the car, how to brake and how to accelerate, and more importantly, how “not to” brake or accelerate.

Listening to this, my heart was pumping fast. There were also few other drivers like me all waiting with bated breath.  

That was nothing yet.

“Into the cars!” 

The message that we all waited for… finally getting into a real Formula car.  

The car is narrow, the technicians help to belt-up each driver, help us start the car, and soon ... off we go for the first lap!

Behind the professional driver showing the racing line, where to brake, where to accelerate, the small group is very focused: switching gear is very different from normal cars; breaking requires real pressure; the head balances itself during the turn,…but the fun is so much higher than I expected.

It feels like “the real thing”.

My transformation is complete : I am “Max the racer”!

When the checkered flag is waved to announce the last lap, it feels like the flag announcing "I won!"

The truth is, though the whole experience is pure sensation, we all feel like winners, even though it was no race (this would be madness): we pushed ourselves hard because none of us has ever been behind the wheels of  such a car!

Something memorable, something unique, something unforgettable.  No equivalent to this!

Every Encounter With A Child is A Divine Appointment

There is a special joy of being a child and having children around us. Take a stroll down our gorgeous Botanic Gardens, Marina Barage, Gardens by the Bay, riverfront, museums or just at home, we see our ambiences come alive with laughter of little voices, innocent jests, or play.
Because children are innocent and free-spirited, their boundless imagination, energy, creativity are so infectious.  By natural default, a child is a constant source of happiness to us grown-ups.

Beat that smile! Tree-climbing experience

You and me have all once been a child.  A child reminds us how we have travelled so far in time, shed our free self only to become the total opposite - fixed, organised, ruled by rules.  It is no wonder often we say "I wish I am a child again!"

Learning beyond books.  Expect the unexpected in snorkel adventure

Kids take far greater risks than adults.  We see this when kids are learn new things, play within rules, innovate without an agenda, receive love graciously and reciprocate love unconditionally.  The most powerful gift they posses is the "child-like" faith, playing partnership in full faith and trust in every encounter with adults.  In return children want very simple things - to be loved, accepted, to be heard and to be guided as who they are.  And with time spent on this fearless beings we know one day they would become one of our greatest - inventors, industry leaders, musicians or crusaders of change.

Be a 'rock star'

Children give so relentlessly, and they deserve to be celebrated every moment.   With school exams lurking around the corner, why not indulge the kids in some fun and share a love-time.  At SingExperience there is an experience for different kids.

Sporty busy bodies should try an indoor rock climbing.  The rock-climbing wall is designed in different segments (basic, intermediate and advanced) with various color rocks.  An experienced and trained instructor will guide children and adults in each challenge according to their skills.  
If not, the popular outdoor tree climbing adventure is recommended to help a child take risk while develop thinking skills up in a tree canopy.  A sure way to fire up confidence in any child!  
Wake-boarding experience is pure fun and freedom.

Every child loves chocolates!  Creative hands with dads, moms siblings or playdates can dive into chocolate making classes.  We also have culinary classes for baking or pasta sessions.  Fantastic for developing organizational skills, locomotive and communication skills!

Future Michelin-chef in action

Wizards of Oz can stimulate their minds in a technology or science camps.  Why not book a group camp with their friends where they discover, learn through thematic whiz camps like Harry Potter, Dr. Suezs, Mr. Magic and more.

Mesmerizing Mulu Caves

For the adventure and nature spirits, the world is an oyster!  Treat your child to the UNESCO World Heritage site Mulu caves in Malaysian Borneo.  Otherwise, a live-on board experience with snorkeling, encounter with fish or magnificent underwater.  Fantastic for teenagers who also dream of taking their junior PADI.  Sun-time, fun time! 

Behold our hands forever my child,  for your are the best gift in the world

There is no fitting time than now we decide the spotlight on children!  And no truer title than Wess Stafford's "every encounter with a child is a divine appointment".

Make your divine appointment with a child today at SingExperience:

Call +65 9178 1234 or Email inquiry@singexperience.sg

Full Throttle in Sepang

Few would have thought of speed for a gift.  Understandably, speed is perceived as a dangerous sport.  Its a question of WHERE and not speed itself.  So when I got a gift experience to race on a sports car in real F1 circuit, it was an instant 200 km/h yes.  Who would say no to something so rare, exceptional and daring.  I could neither resist nor miss it.

My pit stop - Sepang International Circuit.  Located in Selangor and 60 km south of capital of Kuala Lumpur (KL), it is the stage for F1Malaysian Grand Prix, Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix, A1 Grand Pirx and several international races.  This is where speed demons like Alonso, Hamiton and Vettal pit their finest skills, and legend like Michael Schumacher left his mark.  Here is where the man and the machine become ONE!  I needed to live it for myself. 

Sepang Race Circuit Layout 

Lotus Exige S

Upon arrival at Sepang, a cool and professional staff welcomed me  "welcome to Sepang.  At pit building 10A, your Lotus is waiting for you". I ran to my spot and there a stunning Lotus Exige S was ready with an instructor.  This 2-door coupe was a race prepared, dabbling a seasoned wheel made it all the more desirable for me.  I will do three laps of the 5.5 km circuit.  While being belted up, my instructor briefed me on the Lotus Exige S, its mechanics and what to expect from it.  You need to sit at 90-degree angel, your body is almost upright, and legs fully stretched straight.  At this position you are no longer an ordinary driver.  You are a re-born a racer in the womb of a speed machine.  Its a different psychology.

Pit lane

I was set on my three fast laps along the various chicanes of Sepang.  A single stretch passed in seconds because at 100 km/h it only takes 5 seconds!  At the DRS zone my Lotus went full throttle at an amazing 230 km/h within 10 seconds!  Faster than my heart beat, the acceleration was unbelievable.  My senses were all in full gear.  I know now what goes through the mind of a real racer.  At such speed a racer has no time to think.  Its to be the fastest man on earth.  Its about skills, strategy and precision.  And his destiny changes in a matter of mili-seconds.

Porche 996 in full action

I noticed the track is marked with zillions of tyre marks especially at the turns and chicanes.  And the tar smell adds an aura of victories won, dreams yet to be seen.  On track, every mark tells a story.

A happy passenger before her drive 

Sepang International Circuits also offers other race prepared sports coupe like Porche or Honda Civic.  If you like to get a handle of one of these one your own, you need to undergo some lapping on the track before the actual drive.  Otherwise, you can choose to be driven by the skillful instructors.  Book you seat with the friendly SingExperience team.

Some travel tip:  If you plan to drive to Sepang, its at least a six-hours to and fro drive from Singapore.  This is only if you are a relentless Harrison Ford in Indiana Jones who can beat an arsenal of cars on the highway.  If not a 50-min flight to KL from Singapore is hassle-free.  Either way, Sepang is best enjoyed with a weekend trip to KL.

Sepang is an epic moment for me.  I am thrilled to have experienced my fastest few minutes here.  Here's a video on my best drive ever!

Call +65 9178 1234 or Email: infos@singexperience.sg

Deluxe Russian Treat

If you have not visited Duxton Hill in the last 12 months, its time you make a trip.  Duxton Hill is buzzing with culinary delights and watering holes.  And make sure to book your seat at Buyan Restaurant and Caviar Bar at No. 9/10 Duxton Hill.

Buyan Restaurant & Caviar Bar

Most restaurants rise to fame either through food or an acclaimed chef.  Buyan chose the extraordinary route. In a three-storey shophouse with mythical themes, Buyan is already set as a culinary powerhouse.  Its concept is to bring Russian food of exquisite taste in modern presentation.   In June 2011, Buyan bought the world's oldest 1841 Veuve Clicquot champagne and shot to fame in local culinary scene.  But its food and wine culture speaks more than its headline.

http://www.singexperience.sg/experiences/gastronomy/new-russian-haute-cuisine-and-caviar-bar-at-buyan-restaurant.html?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage_images.tpl&product_id=128&category_id=10

Its S$250/- tasting menu for two is a must try.  We had the privilege of being taken care by the friendly and knowledgeable, Katia with her attentive crew which made the experience a top-notch one.
The first course 'Black Treasure' comes with black caviar from the famed sturgeon fish with flat pancakes called blinis and sour cream.  The caviar is smooth with a slight hint of saltiness was perfect with our Abrau Durso Russian champagne!  This starter is surprising light yet indulgent.

The divine 'Black Treasure' sturgeon caviar, blinis with sour cream 

For the main course, beef stroganov with a mashed potato gets another thumbs up.  It came beautifully presented with mashed potato.  The beef is slow-cooked for six hours which explains its very tenderness and rich taste.   

Beef straganov with mash potato 

The bubbly Abrau Durso champange

Shashlyk, a medley of char-grilled lamb, chicken and trout

For the traditional palate, one should try the Shashylk, a medley of healthy char-grilled lamb, chicken and trout.  This dish is substantial for one person but also can be a sharing platter.  Each meat is marinated differently for a twist of flavors.  

Sladka Trioka, Trio of Milk Kissel, Honey Cake and Napoleon Cake with berries

Buyan's signature Sladka Trioka, a trio of milk kissel, honey cake and Napolean cake will score even with a non sweet-tooth.  The milk kissel, a close resemblance to a panna cotta is a duo of milk and berry firm jelly.  The eponymous honey is rich in honey flavor but melted like honey crumbs.  Napolean cake could look heavy but this mille feuille of puff pastry with cream is an ultra light delight.  We recommend you enjoy the trio with the fresh berries and compote for a perfect blend of sweet, tangy and fruits.

At the end of your culinary trip, make time to see the exclusive wine collection decked in the dining room.  Some of these exclusives are not for sale but.  The sights of vintage Rothschild, rare Bordeaux and champagnes are a absolute delight for any businessmen, wine connoisseurs and humble diners. And the friendly staff are more than happy to walk you through their house collection with pride. Buyan is not just a restaurant but an epitome of food and wine culture.  Creating a lasting impression, one would beg to return for a special experience soon enough. 

Rare and exclusive wine collection

With Christmas, New Year and Chinese Lunar New Year coming, why not discover this gem of Duxton Hill with your loved ones. Book this exclusive culinary experience with SingExperience today.  Two types of tasting menu for two S$250++ and S$150++ available.

Call +65 9178 1234 or Email: infos@singexperience.sg

SingExperience - Anna's Gone Crooning

To me, music is Nirvana, a straight shot at redemption.  My friends always said that I was a rock star!   Hmm, I see myself as a Soprano!  

It does not matter, I am singing the tune,...  Witney Houston today, Maria Callas or Adele tomorrow, Katy Perry next....

 

A great friend bought through SingExperience a gift experience to record my first CD, I was so excited. The best gift ever!

I went to the studio with some friends, with a chilled bottle of Moet of course,  to have fun.  Honestly I was stressed, "more champagne please!"  Will my voice sound ok?  Will the recording engineer laugh when he hears me?....

When we arrived, Mike, the sound engineer explained how this works:

"we record the first take, and then depending on the quality of the recording, improve all or parts of it with another recording, here and there..."

When I heard the recording could be done all over again, and again, and again,... I started to relax. My pals gave me a cup of champagne, I gulped it with bravado and was set.  Bring me the mic now.

The sound room equipped with professional sound boards with a million buttons.  There is the equilizers, screens, mic and many other gadgets.  Mike is the 'maestro' of these cool buttons and machines, I could not wait to hear my professional voice.

The first take was not bad at all. It is surprising how good I sounded when my voice is combined with the actual music.  In fact all I hear in my headset was my voice with minus one music.

 

This is the easy part.  After a couple of takes, Mike and I identified sections that needed improvement, and focused on it.   Like a magician Mike will compose my good + improved takes and make it sound as though it was recorded at one go.

We did probably 5 or 6 different recording... Mike would tell me "a bit faster here"... "too high here".... "more energy at that point"... I felt like a real star!

I could imagine fans and paparazzi waiting for me behind the door!  My friends at the studio after many sips of champagne were already playing paparazzi.  They photographed, blow air kisses, 'swore' their faith to me screaming "you are best....we love you....".  One too many champagne I thought?  Nah, its my voice, since we are such cool bunch together.

After we got the song right, Mike showed me how he can improve my voice to change the tone pretty much at will! This is amazing.  He can make me sound like Pavarotti, or Madonna!  The same recording, can be re-produced to sound like being sung by different artists or even genres.  

I will remember this experience being fun, fun and fun.

I got a great recording, my very own voice.  My friends listen to it, they don't believe it is me! It all sounds so perfect, so polished.

I tell them how we did it, they still can't believe it.

Being a star, is not so hard after all.

All it takes is good spirit, some drinks and Mike's magic touch!

And for my parents and friends back home, your Anna's CD is on its way for Christmas.

SingExperience: My Flying Experience Over Singapore

My flying adventure in Singapore.....

I wanted to know what it was like to fly.  And what better place to fly than where I live, in Singapore?  Listening to the dialog between the pilot and the air controller, feeling the vibration of the engine, hearing the wind  gives a new dimension to flying. Small private planes are so much fun because they provide the pleasure of flying that pilots experienced 100 years ago when flying was an adventure.

Few people know that flying over Singapore is possible. Very few have had the privilege of doing it.  So, I went to Seletar filled with excitement of what to expect.  My heart beat accelerated as I went into the plane.  And after the swift security check list on the ground, the plane took off.   

The views of the Zoo, verdant Bukit Timah and at the horizon, the profile of the financial district were breathtaking to behold.

I looked at Singapore from a bird's eye view and can only say "What a beauty"!  Flying over rich forest, over the world's second busiest PSA container port, the new Marina Bay Financial Centre reflecting the diversity of Singapore.  And the sights of how Singapore has physically transformed is even more amazing.  My favorite sight is the PSA port for its perfect linear and colorful stacked containers all remind me of lego constructions!

Great gift to anyone with a taste for adventure who loves this country.  My afterthought, I would pop a champagne and make that BIG proposal to sweetheart, up in the air.  A gift to remember forever.

Click to watch a video of my Flying experience

www.singexperience.sg or  Call +65 9178 1234 or Email: infos@singexperience.sg

Max & Anna

We have all heard many times "life is a journey, not a destination" (by Ralph Waldo Emerson), and Aerosmith frontman Steve Tyler also said that.  Much as it is easy to comprehend these words, they apply differently yet hold the same meaning to each of us.

Life itself is a journey of joy, forgiveness, love, defeat, relationships and dreams.  And each journey defines the person you are and what it means to you.  Most times we understand our journey through our own, sometimes through the journeys of others. 

Meet Max and Anna, our dynamic duo who will bring you journeys of their adventures in SingExperience!

Max on first impression is composed, charming man of few words.  He is full of surprises.  Behind the cool persona is a modern man well travelled, worldly, sensitive armed with a great sense of humor.  He is tech savvy, has a penchant for history and knows every spot in the atlas!  A born traveller at heart who appreciates nature, photography, new places and cultures.  To Max, there is no end to a journey.  And in most occasions he 'writes' his own journey.  The perfect companion to take on a long sailing trip without thinking twice.

Anna on the other hand, may not be your "girl-next-door".  Because the "girl-next-door" is a million dollar question.   As we know it is someone of a homebody, sweet, alluring, low key with tamer instincts. Anna is independent, uber-chic, energetic, smart.  Which explains her vibe for new experiences.  She can be alone or in large social groups.  She can be brutally honest to tell you "I don't know this yet, but I will try".  She defines life as abstract.  A foodie by default she enjoys all palates except the exotic snakes, fried crickets, or worms.  You will catch this curious creature indulging in travel, arts, wellness, philosophy or anything that stimulates her mind.  

Max and Anna like Ying and Yang are bound by one commonality.  To them  life is seamless.  Our fun is only limited to our imagination.  Together they will bring you exciting stories they are about to see in SingExperience.   

There is so much to discover.  Like the fun in cooking  with pals in a culinary class,  the re-juvenating spas, learning to swing a club, and the thrills on wheels of Harley, Ferrari and race cars.  The extraordinary contact with nature like boating trips, tree adventures, and even diving with hammerhead sharks.  And the artistic experiences of singing, photography, image make-over and dancing. 

We now leave a room full of suspense here for Max and Anna to fill.

With every small step begins a great journey. And with each journey, begins the next journey.

Call +65 9178 1234 or Email: infos@singexperience.sg