Editor's Letter: March/April 10

March is pretty much a period of non-existence in MSR. Being one of the folks who's always been looking forward in life (some branded me a modernist, as a result), I'm urging you to think of the bigger picture and welcome to the brand new month of April.

Behold an exciting month where fashion hits us with a local twist with the Singapore Audi Fashion Festival. Not a fashionista you say? How about the Singapore International Film Festival? Did you just say that it's a hassle to get to town for these fabulous events? Oh my, you're just right on time as yet another phase of the Circle Line inaugurates her operation on April 17. Well if you're still not excited and inspired about the events lined up for this month, you are probably one of the local University students who have exams boggling their perceptions in life.

It'll just be your books, your coffee and you. And me.
And MSR.

We'll try our best to fit your study gaps of break in between with delightful content and visuals. Meanwhile for the rest of us, you move on in life with your "nine-to-five plus a great weekend" combination. Start it off by catching Shutter Island when it's released next week.

Let MSR be the one to suggest the lifestyle for your weekday nights and weekends.

Editor's Letter: February 10

Twenty eight days may be short for a calendar month, but it's definitely not short of festivity and romance as both embody each other for the year 2010. Coincidentally, Chinese Lunar New Year and Valentine's Day marked on the exact same square on your calendar monthly grid will induce a truly unique experience this year.

Chinese Singaporean couples will face a queer dilemma where they will have a choice to make. Dating your partner of romance to a luxurious night out versus reuniting family members for a sumptuous domestic steamboat. Everyone has an opinion pertaining to this phenomenon, so what's yours? I say it'll be family over romance as per traditional Chinese culture favours. Or better still, bring your date home for a reunion dinner with your folks and relatives!

As we gear up for the most important Chinese festivity, many of us will be cumbered by goodie purchases, spring cleaning and new year outfit shopping. Unsure of how your attire can be fashionable in mind of keeping to obligatory cultural restrictions and traditions? Do keep a look out as MSR might just offer fashion interest reads with a local twist. Just before CNY hits us, the Fall/Winter 2010 Fashion Week will begin in New York (Feb 11), followed by London (Feb 19), Milan (Feb 24) and finally Paris (Mar 3). Ladies, I hope you are ready for what's to roll out on the runways with the recovering economy this year. We've already seen the menswear collection earlier last month, so the possibilities are intriguingly vast!

Film buffs will be pleased to know that the road to Oscars are already well in place with the Golden Globe and the Guild Awards concluded in January and early this month. The Academy Awards will be presented on March 7, with the nominations announced it is time to critique and pick who in your fine opinion should go on to win the statues. Let us know if you have interesting ideas and theories to share as well, in fact, feel free to. We'd love to hear them.

Before we see you again in March, MSR will like to wish all a prosperous joyous Chinese Lunar New Year!

With that, enjoy what MSR has in line for everybody this February.

Editor's Letter: January 10

For the record, I'm finally repatriated after my 5 month stint abroad in Europe. This very article is currently being made in Singapore, I hope that's a good affair bringing along a tremendous blast to the commencement of a very brand new year of 2010 along with it!

Europe was so 2009, welcome back to Singapore for 2010! It is a brutal (and shameful) fact that MSR has been isolated for frequent drastic periods without updates of any sorts during my stay in Europe. I travelled and indulged in time that seemed to last forever back then. I've never been able to take things easy one at a go at the expense of precious time. Yes, the very commodity that every single one of us had yearned for since we've entered the society either pursuing an individualistic education or a mercenary career. There's always no time for something, be it leisure or work.

Oh yes, I've almost forgotten my apologies for the above faux pas pertaining to MSR's content draught conditions that I've left it in.

Perhaps it's not so very arduous to understand why we've been following acts blindly without perpetually realizing what they actually meant or stood for. Every joyous occasion such as the ever popular Christmas and New Year season, Singapore picks up both the tab and the taps and drowns herself with endless flow of spirits and alcoholic beverages. I've always pondered if they really know what they have placed upon their tabs for the night, as most usually just circle the total damage figures printed on the bill and consents to accept that stated portion of monetary sacrifice by landing that big and sophisticated looking signature of theirs gleeful with pride on it (usually with a pink and rosy cheek and ruby neck too). The very next day when some decent friend asks keenly about how they spent their previous night, the common reply usually follows "I got drunk and it was really a happy night".

Now stop right there for a moment.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to preach how we should reduce our intake of alcohol. I'm just thinking really hard, how nobody does justice to the very appreciation of the beverage they've chosen to release their caged up joy within them (ironic that one actually requires some catalyst to release joy even during festive periods). Who bothered whether if it was a Chardonnay or Riesling? Whether if it was a Bordeaux or Pinot Noir? Whether if it was Gin and Tonic or some poor chap's regurgitation? Was the cocktail shaken, stirred or been in the shaker within the vest pocket of the bartender who went for a quick intimate extravaganza in the restroom? Did it matter if it was Bourbon or some cheap bleaching agent mixed with the coke? All these potentially quality appreciation experience were exchanged for merry-making catalysts to create explosive laughter and vomits for some. For some party groups, they ingested massive amounts of alcoholic substance to worship one of the major Chinese families in Singapore where one never fails to hear them chant "Lim! Lim! Lim!". And I thought it was a Christmas/New Year party, not some Hungry Ghost Festival auctions.

This is what most of us really need: cultural appreciation. By that, it doesn't necessarily mean that we need to study the history behind how rice dumplings came about or how to provide a critical review for some art house film. All we need is to stop for a moment, just a brief second, to spare some attention span on the very things you're enjoying at that very current moment. Just stop to think about how great happiness comes about during festivities. Perhaps it could be the quality company that you're having to spend Christmas with, and not the excessive drinking? Perhaps it could be the dream getaway from your extremely tight work schedule where you are finally able to sing in joy and laugh in sync with your fellow colleagues at a gathering. What about the smiles that are reciprocated when you contributed a random joke of the night and instilled a boisterously hilarious moment in their memories for years to keep?

Think about it, when was the last time you did something so indulging as stated above? Life is simple, but life's interesting secrets are hiding within the cracks of moments. Instead of just going through the motion of simple life, why not use some effort to explore the surprises life has in stall for you? Perhaps this could inspire you in generating a new set of new year resolutions.

Till then, enjoy this great year ahead of you!
Happy New Year!

Editor's Letter: December 09

Never in my entire life (thus far) do I feel this intricate emotion churning nastily somewhere within my innards. December is finally here, and while most associates within my (somewhat limited) social circle of life have already commenced rejoicing for the impending festive season to come, I'm rather concerned in dismay with my current life nevertheless.

It's the last month of the year. The last period of my stay in Oslo. The last of my wild Europe travelogue endeavour. The last chance I own to immerse myself in this somewhat new cultural experience here in Scandinavia. The last pardon before it's revoked to see me deprived of liberal personal time and space that has been pretty constructive towards personal aspirational development.

The last Editor's Letter that I'll be penning for the year 2009.

I'm not nostalgic (I know I'm in denial as a Virgo) but am just really organizing my thoughts and experience gathered and realized how cruel time has (always) been to me. Time is cunning, it gets past you while you're unaware, while you're having the best and worst moments in life. Time does not bid you Good Morning, Good Evening or Good Bye (your mom does), but does its job in governing your usage of your lifespan. Time is passive, but it's constantly present as every second of it ticks by without exceptions. "Time's up", says me aloud in my mind. "Treasure whatever time you have to re-organize yourself before your imminent re-integration back into your home sovereignty", says me somewhere else (possibly my heart).

There will never be a complete conclusion to my experience in this strange continent, nothing can conclude my complex reaction with the world as I interact with it like some chemical equation. Oxygen is O2 in science, but it's life to us since the prehistory of homo sapiens. When I'm jogging, I see CO2 as a nuisance byproduct of human anatomy. When I'm feeling bored, "car burn die outside" just pops to mind. I know this is not a good example to illustrate how intricate it is (perhaps how perverse my mental state is), but still it's too sophisticated for something as regular as a tiny full stop to conclude my experience here.

Life is such, such is life.

Fret not my dear readers, for this month will not be an "emo" issue of MSR. I'm all set in positivity to gear up for the upcoming Christmas travels in Germany, Austria and Belgium. Not forgetting the Northern Lights trip before everything else in mid December as I venture up north in search of the legendary "Aurora Borealis". That too, will be a difficult encounter to put into conclusive words. Maybe it's because somewhere within me (probably my heart once again), I never wanted these memories to conclude, to cease.

Ever.

Welcome to the month of winter festivity and enjoy your holidays as well as I do. If I can achieve that, so can you. Here's a little clue: Positivity vs. Negativity levels should always be positive.

Oh and great delicacy helps drastically too, especially chocolates.

Have a happy holidays.

Editor's Letter: October/November 09

I hate to admit, but I've failed my promise of contribution to MSR ever since September. Here I am again, penning a bi-monthly Editor's Letter for the second time. Life is beginning to settle gradually after my recent three-month stint of travelling, thus finding time on hand to finally browse through the massive digital archives full of travel media while considering which of these destinations should I start with. If you're wondering how many places I've visited, let's just say that I'm spoilt for choices when it comes to picking an album for posting.

Being to several places around in Europe had not only allowed me to visually savour the vast scenic landscapes that always seem to be in abundance, I have also immersed myself in the local culture as part of a learning experience. I guess that's one of the major differences between a tourist and a traveller. Usually you will see tourists flocking to the major attractions as depicted in their travel guidebooks, rapidly snapping stills of the spot as well as shots of themselves with the attraction before rushing to the next listed attraction. They've probably covered it all together with the local delicacies and purchases that they will pursue at tourist traps, so what exactly are these people really missing out?

The people. The natives also constitute a part to the whole of the city, providing it with the needed character or identity. It is often the people's way of lives and their behavorial habits that tend to give bits and pieces of the city's cultural identity away to unsuspecting travellers like yours truly, for example. Let's see, hmm. Scandinavians are a group of nice people in line with Belgians. Italians' passion in daily life is probably a tad bit too much for my taste while the Frenchs are possibly one of the most liberal and open-minded people in Europe, especially those of the City of Lights. These aspects are not easily experienced by the typical tourists available in bus loads, they will need to communicate with them. Hearing them speak the native tongue may sometimes lead to an interesting encounter, even though it may fall upon your ears many a times as alien talk. Just smile back at them and give them your widest grin, that usually work wonders.

Snow covered Oslo on Thursday, but it's gone for now. I missed my chance at snow since I was away from town for the weekend. I guess that marked the beginning of winter and I shall be seeing snow in the days to come.

Till then, take care and do check back for more updates and content. Ha det.

Editor's Letter: August/September 09

It's kind of dusty in here right now, with MSR being left idle for such a long time frame. *Cough* As I commence penning this letter, I realized that it has been almost two months since somebody took care of things here. For those who are wondering, I've left Singapore for Oslo, Norway since the beginning of August. Life has been hectic ever since. Finally finding an intimate leisure time span of say 15 to 20 minutes to compose a post, I thought that it might be more appropriate to begin with the Editor's Letter that I failed miserably to update in August.

If I have to pick one word to describe Oslo, it will undoubtedly be "costly". Oslo stands among the top most expensive cities in the world. Let's begin with some fundamental familiar comparisons. In Singapore, a regular Burger King meal will set you back at approximately 6 to 7 Singapore Dollars. In Oslo, the same will start from 20 Singapore Dollars. Public toilet entry fee in Singapore will probably be charged at 10 or 20 SGD cents, and it's 2.50 SGD for the same in Oslo. It's not shocking to find me in a rather passively (I'm trying hard not to show it on the exterior) devastated state during the initial days here, especially with the extreme cold climate that I have to learn to live with. Mornings are usually below 10 degree Celsius. The cruel chilling wind remained every one's top public enemy, as they seriously get into your bones to send them tingling in cold.

Now you might have already sensed it, my complaining in the above is probably one of the obvious exporting qualities of Singapore. Well guess what, it's not. When we talk to people about Singapore, most of them seriously own no idea at all where (or what) is Singapore. A Russian once mentioned that she has always conceived Singapore to be a very cold region. A French kept on insisting that Singapore's one of the provinces in Japan (probably because I look oriental as well as their unexplained passion for Japonais). As for the well-informed travellers, the first thing that comes to mind when the word "Singapore" enters into conversation is Singapore Airlines ("Oh! You're from Singapore? Did you fly Singapore Airlines?"). Surprisingly genuine it remains to be, Singapore Airlines is actually the unrivalled marketing icon of Singapore that promotes it to members of the World.

It's interesting to be a traveller, because you really get to enjoy an in-depth view of the World and how the World views you. One of the true beauty in a country that you visit lies in its people. The people you may meet during your travels can add on to a better trip, although sadly this is often missed out by most where they usually focus on scenic views, attraction sites, fun activities, local gastronomy and shopping. On the side note, I have travelled to quite a few destinations in Europe and still find travel plans under my drawer unrealized.

Let's see if I can get any of the places well into proper agenda in future posts to come.

Till the next time, my dear readers.

Editor's Letter: July 09

Now's the time to put aside Spring/Summer and embrace this Fall with blissful warmth. If you're to provide warmth in your arms, you've to arm your wardrobe with the proper season attire like, say, parkas and scarves.

It's seriously time to browse through the Fall collections during your retail therapies these days, and not be distracted by the Spring/Summer sale section with an internal mental dispute with the devil's advocate over whether or not to fall for the final reduction bear trap. It's so depressing to see the major crowd vibrating like molecules in close proximity over at the sale corner, leaving me alone with eager sales assistants rendering their widest smiles to me while I stroll through their new collections. Yes, S/S sale is probably one of God's best gift sent to us fashionistas and shopaholics (that I agree!), but I think the date is drawing close to the end of the flamboyant and vibrant season. After all, you'll only find yourself stashing all your best buys and great steals within your closet by the end of this month. So it's time to wave goodbye to it and keep it out of your mind until the day when future season runway shows call for its rise (yet again). By then, it's not only trendy. It's also vintage.

In my opinion, a man who travels beyond his childbirth nation usually makes a better man than one who doesn't (leaving out those rich egoistic chauvinists whose main aim in traveling is just out to put others down, of course). Not only does a traveling man benefits from cross cultural exchange, it also widens his knowledge horizons and will probably be capable of making better decisions and opinions on daily life matters. Traveling will add on to the better fulfillment of a man's life journey. Didn't our fore-fathers step out of their comfort zones and ventured out to strange lands in aim of a better life? For these great men, many of us paid them their due respect even till today. Maybe it's time you earn yours as a new age modern man.

Despite having the notorious H1N1 presence of recent, I think it's best for us to take advantage of the falling travel expenses and go for a nice vacation trip. As long as you travel responsibly, taking precautionary hygiene measures, you may come out of it with a memorable trip for keeps. Don't forget to bring back stories that you can retell either via recounts of a special encounter with a fellow globe trotter or in the form of inspiring visual prints. Stay here with MSR to learn more on travels and related essentials that will be made available once in a while, as we provide the window of travel inspiration to all of you. We'll be happy even if we manage to just create passing travel considerations in you, at least it's a start to all great journeys.

Till a better time, wear your masks and wash your hands with soap regularly.

Travel responsibly. Travel like a Man.

Editor's Letter: June 09

Don't be surprised to see this here nearing the end of the month, I'm just trying out the "end of month editor's letter" routine. Okay, I'll admit to it. I'm just too busy to do it.

Yet another end to another month, but it's a special closure as we're nearing the end of the Spring 2010 Men's Wear RTW Fashion Week in Milan and Paris. I've spotted some interesting trends from the runways, which might be discussed in detail in a later "Couture" post (Ok, I'm still having the image of the Givenchy Man's belt imprinted in my mind as I'm penning this letter). Speaking of which, I've already started building a part of my fall/winter wardrobe. What about you?

Orange and blue are some of the colours in trend for the coming season, in conjunction with the usual dark and dull shades adopted for fall/winter collections. I have been thinking, perhaps one can experiment with layering different texture pieces of similar colours to allow each piece to stand out significantly since it will probably be a "dark on dark" F/W combination anyway.

With the recent upgrade of quarantine centres to holiday resorts (or chalets as we call it), global travel seems to be seeing cautionary second thoughts in several potential travellers as the Swine Flu is slowly obtaining the limelight from the financial crisis. I, for one, am severely mindful of the latest updates on the status of the wretched flu epidemic as my travel plans for Europe are at its mercy. More tourists in Singapore are donning on masks, in fear of receiving a quarantine order rather than contracting the flu itself. We've seen the caucasian father and son attempting to leave the quarantine centre, didn't we? Maybe the authorities forgot to stop them from watching Prison Break that airs every Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursday, thus getting those under quarantine inspired. (Wait a minute, did the grievous demise of MJ result from a cardiac arrest, or a house arrest?)

I hope I won't have to resort to a post on a survival guide against H1N1 for the months to come.

Editor's Letter: May 09

I've received some queries this month pertaining to MSR, which were interesting to me and for that I'd certainly be much obliged to answer them. The first one should be one that commonly exists within the minds of all dear faithful readers of MSR: Why hasn't the "Editor's Letter" for the month of May been posted yet?

First of all, I apologize for the delay in the availability of this month's "Editor's Letter". The monthly "Editor's Letter" column has always been one of my favourites as it directly allows me to freely communicate with all readers the essence of current times. I have been busy of late with work and other agendas, among which includes the preparation and planning for a scheduled exchange trip to Norway. Now that you know of it, let this be a first hand notice on what's to come in MSR for the coming months. Yes, there shall be more content coverage of Norway, Europe and many others (given that the global flu outbreak doesn't take place, of course).

The next question surprised me, though allowing me to feel exhilarated knowing that people do take notice of the blog content: Why aren't some movies reviewed or featured on MSR, even though they are of mainstream genre such as the recent "Angels & Demons". (Understand that it may be absurd to expect MSR to be watching almost all, if not all, movies. But Angels & Demons? It's a blockbuster!)

I might as well say this for the record now: I am a movie fan, a cinema buff, a film connoisseur, or whatever names you have for us. I have been intently watching several movies, be it great or bad ones. Films that were fantastic, inspiring and awesome in my opinion are usually featured and reviewed on MSR, in aim of sharing my passion for these movies and hope that some of you might be able to catch the fire of joy by indulging in the very movies that have done the same to me. Bad films, and sometimes average films, are just not worth the time and effort to mention on MSR. Everything covered on MSR is purely good content in mind of our good readers' satisfaction. So if you don't see a review for any movie here, it means it's either a bad one or just merely an average mediocre one (in my kind opinion, that is). Understanding that not everyone shares the same thoughts and feelings for movies as I do, I endeavour to provide opinions as accurately as my good judgement allows.

Speaking of which, Angels & Demons felt mediocre in the opening fifteen minutes or so, upon which it slowly built up to an "Amazing Race" pace in search of all the four churches where the massacre of the four preferattis took place. Just some food for thought: The four cardinals were branded with the ancient scientific elements of Earth, Air, Fire and Water. What happens if The Illuminati was formed later when science was more profound and advanced, will there be 117 Cardinals being held hostaged to be branded and killed one by one, each with the various elements of the Periodic Table? The movie will probably be 58.5 hours long, seeing Professor Langdon physically exhausted from the "Amazing Marathon of Cardinal Rescues".

Have a pleasant time enjoying MSR, all you good readers.

Editor's Letter: April 09

On an act of self reflectory effort, I do understand the standing fact of my apparent disappearance from MSR (some might also argue that I've practically disappeared from the surface of this Earth). There will not be any excuse tendered except for lots of apologies, for I have not been contributing much in the form of lavish posting of perky reads to all you faithful readers (if any). Kindly note that during the month of April, your amiable MSR Editor shall be engaged in intensive academic obligations. We regret for any inconvenience caused to any single individual throughout this tough period, so do bear with us if there are any prolonged periods in MSR without updates. We shall be back with more in the month of May!

With the formalities aside, let's get down to real business here. I roam the streets these days and I spot lots of sales happening everywhere! I have never seen so many forms of in-store promotions to entice shoppers in believing their purchase to be 'value for money'. Indeed it is, where prices of virtually anything are slowly lowered to meet the demands of stringent consumers who are struggling in the aftermath of an extreme economic calamity. However, I just don't feel the vibes induced from the recent shopping experience as much as it did for Ms. Rebecca Bloomwood in the now showing 'Confessions of a Shopaholic'. Speaking of which, I seriously urge all shopaholics of likes to catch that movie. It is almost as hot as a closed door fashion ballroom sale, at least to a shopaholic. Oh, did I forget to mention how convincing and captivating Isla Fisher was in the film?

Racing hot off the tarmac roads into our local theatres is 'Fast and Furious', the 4th (and possibly the last) sequel to the hot adrenaline-pumping street racing series. The hype is clearly evident as the sneak preview ticket sales for the film over the weekend was simply overwhelming. Fast and Furious is clearly the top box office favourite over concurrent sneaking films like action-thriller 'Knowing'. We just simply cannot undermine the power of wheels appeal to the boys, can we? Trust me on how great the influence of this film will be when you notice how the clubs are spinning to the tunes of 'Blanco' in the coming week.

Don't forget to drop by Tampines on the 9th April for the opening of one of the most anticipated shopping mall in the suburban neighbourhood - Tampines One. Be pampered by several opening promotions and offers by various retailers such as Springfield and UNIQLO!

Till next time, do keep checking in on MSR!

Editor's Letter: March 09

After sitting through flick after flick during last month's award season, it has finally drawn its curtains with the Slumdog leaving the Kodak Theatre in triumph with 8 Oscars. I will remember how Jamal plunged right into the abyss of human waste in order not to miss the chance of obtaining his idol's signature. I will never forget how Benjamin had lived strong and manage to part with his love Daisy when he had foreseen the future outcome of him eventually turning into an infant. It will always be in my mind, the scene where Harvey Milk addressed how angry he was during his campaign speech in the fight for the rights of homosexuals in his country. I weep for Randy who has led a hard life as a professional wrestler and finally finds eternal solace in the ring as he faces dejection elsewhere when he tries to leave wrestling behind to start over. It will always be that way, in how movies can change our minds and perceptions and make things that tad bit interesting for each and everyone of us in life.

With the end of a series of great inspirational films comes yet another run of mainstream crowd-pleasing blockbusters. Films with higher budgets, bigger names and louder effects are what you will be expecting in the theatres starting this month. That's right, you will see the return of all the Superheroes in particular, ranging from those with weird hairdo to those donning the ever popular spandex costumes. Maybe that's what they're selling other than casting Superheroes on screen to save the day with all the outraged use of spandex costuming. No, it's not Michael Phelps (a hero no less, nevertheless!)but the element of hot and sizzling sexiness. Oh yes, you will find yourself nodding in profuse agreement soon after you've seen the latest movie posters and trailers of Watchmen.

Watchmen begins the Superhero watch this week as the top feature of theatrical distribution, starring the hot Ford Supermodel of Canada search Malin Akerman in your most desired spandex suit and cute bangs. Carnal appeal aside, this is one film that we've affixed our attention to as we think this will be a great comic book adaptation with the visionary Zack Snyder (Director of 300) helming the film! Be warned though, if you think The Dark Knight was a deep film, wait till you catch Watchmen.

So sit tight, buckle up, and strap yourselves in everyone!

(P.S.: Do head down to the newly launched Overeasy @ One Fullerton to give this latest drinking hole a shot! You can't go wrong with the 1-for-1 drinks deal from 5-8pm and a-la-carte mains under $20. Beat the depression by going Overeasy!)

Editor's Letter: February 2009

Other than being known as the shortest month of a year, it is also one with the highest intensity of love in the air. (For some of us, it's the month of massive pocket emptying too.) In less than two weeks' time, we shall all be hit by Cupid's arrow as Valentine's Day approaches. Roses, chocolates and soft toys are probably flying off the shelves even as I am drafting this very letter. For those who are unwilling to be restricted by the norms, there are other alternatives this Valentine's Day. Attractive fragrance, champagne delights and exquisite ornaments might just seal the deal and overwhelm the Ladies' hearts. As a member of the masculine gender to another, I say to you this: It's time to pamper your Lady with luxuries of love!

For the bachelors who are still participating actively in the courtship game, you shouldn't complain much as your ang bao reserves from your old uncles and aunties you've cheekily leered at over the last few nights of January should see you through a lavishing night of romance.

With your pockets full, it's time to influence on your purchasing decision. Spending extravagantly flaunts your arrogant wealth and self to not just your date, but the couples within your vicinity as well. Remember, it's good to be subtle on the whole but yet electrifying to your Lady. You're not trying to show off what you can do for your Lady, it's how affectionately you perform the task that in turn churns up a great smile on her face to bring home for the night. Your choice of restaurant, cuisine, champagne, gift, activity and attire truly speaks of the kind of gentleman you are deep down inside. For that, you might want to anchor MSR under your favourites for quality reads that will instill interesting thrills of inspiration for the coming Valentine's Day! Fashion, food, film, music, we aim to provide an avant-garde lifestyle.

Ladies, you might want to be reminded that the Fall/Winter fashion shows are coming up this month. If you haven't noticed, MSR has already presented the highlights for the Haute Couture S/S 2009 in the previous entry. As for the film connoisseurs, the Oscars are heading towards you on 22nd February. I do hope you Ladies will own a memorable Valentine's Day this year! If your man is of no romance calibre, you might want to usher him to your laptop and check out the latest issues that MSR has specially arranged for you this month.

For those who are still searching for that special someone, I do hope you will meet him/her soon. Try flipping through that phonebook of yours for a start, or better still, your Facebook. No Facebook? How about your Friendster or MSN Messenger?

NO? Go knock on your neighbour's door and pray that it's someone of suitable age and gender.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Editor's Letter: January 2009

A shuddering chill quivered down my spine a few days ago as I was replacing the old set of calender in my room with a fresh one, it was then when the undeniable truth yet again dawned on me for the umpteenth time. Time really zooms past one mercilessly, totally unstoppable by anything or anyone at all. Whether it's good times or bad times, the tick-tocks resume without fail. So there's no reason why you should welcome a new year in pessimism even though everybody entered 2009 expecting to tough out the gloomy aftermath of the lacklustre economic condition that struck us during late 2008. You should grab hold of time and create your own opportunities of hope and happiness! With that said, the ball's ultimately still in your court whether or not you choose to heed my words of advice. You can't control time, but you definitely can control your own life.

Spring is arriving in no time, as the Chinese community will be embracing the Chinese Lunar New Year at the end of this month. Time to stock up your bak kwa, mandarin oranges and what-nots, as a reminder for those who are still unaware of how close CNY really is. With that said, it is also time for everybody to shop for a dashing new set of CNY outfit! Still unsure of what to wear for this CNY? No worries as you can always browse through the S/S 09 collections at STYLE.COM and MEN STYLE.COM. If you're fashion forward, you'll be delighted to know that the Men's A/W 09 collection will be unveiled at the end of this month! Ladies, I'm afraid you'll have to wait till next month for the ladies collections.

January's one of the most exciting calender events for movie lovers. The 66th Annual Golden Globe Awards is set to roll out the list of winners on January 11. So if you are interested in the best of film and television, you won't want to miss this out! This should serve as a wonderful appetizer in due of the upcoming Academy Awards in February.

We're also glad to continue with the second issue of Passport this month as we shall be bringing you with us on a travel to one of the most popular island getaway of choice in Indonesia - Pulau Batam! We hope this will inspire readers out there as MSR shows how you too, can enjoy a nice vacation in the midst of a poor financial situation.

Before I end the first editor's lettor of 2009, I will like to wish all a Happy New Year with great prosperity and happiness ahead!

Have a great year in 2009!


Managing Editor,
Nil N.

Editor's Letter: December 2008

We're finally just down to the last thirty-one days of the year 2008. I've been pondering on the past events and happenings for this year, so far.

Let's see, hmmm... We have the poor chap who perished during his attempt in being a circus master taunting the white tigers. We have the mini-bond saga where a handful of locals gathered together, encouraged in cohesive unity to question the whereabouts of their money while achieving some quality social networking at the same time. What about the first long queue formed outside AIA that is actually not for 4D, Toto, IT Fairs or sale? Early this year, Edison Chen's ambition of creating a Hong Kong Sexipedia was exposed with the discovery of his wide recorded collection of female celebrity indecency by his IT technician. Not to forget the recent devastating terrorism act in Mumbai and the concurrent political unrest in Thailand. We cannot help but feel that chaos is creeping at the doorsteps of Asia's sovereignty, there isn't a better time to hope for world peace.

With the above in mind, we have decided to spare everyone the cruelties of discouraging current world affairs and urge everyone to look forward in optimism. Stay out of the gloom and busk in the sunshine as we focus on the jubilant side of life. Live your life to the fullest by indulging in various festive lifestyles that we shall be featuring on MSR this month. After all, Christmas is one of the few scheduled reasons on the calender for us to be jolly.

Decembers have always been a popular month for travels in the local context, so fly people! Go on and take time off for a highly needed vacation to keep you in the right spirits. Whether you have the financial pockets to pull off luxurious holidays or not, do fret not. MSR shall lead the way in fulfilling your dreams of enjoying a memorable holiday without leaving your bank accounts in absolute dismay. We're currently in the works of a newly proposed travel agenda on this blog, so do stay with us for updates and you may find yourself travelling in style with MSR sooner than you think.

Amidst the disturbing predicament for the coming year by experts, we shall usher you into a new year of excitement and joy with us nevertheless as MSR offers yet another dosage of fine lifestyle in the year 2009. Thank you for your support thus far and we embrace you with our utmost gratitude.

See you next year!
(in 30 days' time!)

Managing Editor,
Nil N.

Editor's Letter: November 2008

Skies are shrouding with a crisp chillness in the air of late, as the frosty season is here once again to hibernate the lands before the warmth of spring induces life upon the earth thereafter. It's a vicious cycle, especially for those who hate the cold. When one speaks of winter, one seldom map that thought to winter fashion. That, my beloved readers, is exactly the case here on this island.

Upon saying what you think you've just read, I do have to add that the local fashion sense is gradually on the rise nevertheless. Impressed as I am, the collections that I've seen modelled on the thousands off the urban city streets are somewhat, restricted. Yes, the cursed tropical climate is to blame, but there are ways to derived winter dressing in due of the heat and humidity. Look, even the retail stores have not given up hope on us as they rolled out collections after collections of winter fashion-wear. Do these retailers a favour during times of poor economy, they may in turn return it by offering wallet-friendly discounts. Resource issues resolved, the big question now in your mind should probably be a mind-baffling How? - "How do I improve my dress sense in adaptation to the damned tropical heat?". Your answer to that, is the reason to my presence here in MSR.

Before you start branding me a shameless fashion shrewd, I too, own the acquired taste buds of a sophisticated movie connoisseur. For a start, allow me to share with you an upcoming unique local film. "Pulau Hantu" will be screening at Sinema Old School on 2nd November 8pm, including an exclusive cross dialogue session with film director Esan Sivalingum pertaining to his spooky tale project. Hell, for all it's worth, I'm even going to throw in the trailer for it. An exclusive first in the history of MSR monthly editor's letters!

In case you haven't noticed, I'm Nil N. penning this month's letter. It's nothing more than a mere change of name, trust me.

Have fun in November!

Managing Editor,
Nil N.

Editor's Letter: October 2008

What a horrific time, it is.

Don't doubt my opening words, you've heard it right. It's Halloween just round the corner coming end October, have you forgotten? The Boogeyman returns to haunt the living once again, but fear not though as he's probably not going to emerge from your closet or hide under your bed. He's speculated to be camping within the stock exchange vicinity with a set of newspapers folded under his arms to monitor his hard-earned investments as the world's economy is currently going through fires, scaring the "hell" out of us (even The Boogeyman himself too). "Looks like I'm gonna hafta cut down on Halloween party appearances this holiday season, as there's no need to scare the living especially when all their faces are already stricken with horror", The Boogeyman thought to himself.

Yes, The United States has triggered a financial catastrophe and we are all affected in a way or another for sure. There's never a better time than now for the second US Presidential Debates with a focus on global economic conditions to take place, especially with a higher public concern over the world's economic aftermath. Looks like whoever is capable of presenting and executing a feasible and optimistic battle against America's economic crisis will win the Presidency. So, have you decided on your stand? Is it going to be Obama or McCain?

With a projected economic downturn for Singapore in the couple of years to come, consumption is expected to recess. Every citizen is going to sew up their pockets to reduce spendings, things may very well be turning pessimistic for all of us. Even in times of such, allow me to say this to you: Fear not.

Fear not about how you will have to miss out all the fun with a lesser spending power. Fear not about your worries in losing style without the ability to afford an expensive closet of chic outfits. Fear not as you will still have one thing in your life that is looking forward to the future with you in good faith, and that's MSR... us. The economic disaster is not going to hinder MSR's efforts in bringing you the latest trends, features, reviews and tips to lighten up and accentuate your lifestyle. We've been rendering high level fashion, lifestyle and entertainment content all year round, and we will continue to do so in spite of bad times. Notice that there's already two posts ahead of this month's Editor's Letter, evidence of duty fulfilment in progress.

Still not convinced? Here's a good reason how one simply cannot resist MSR - It's free to read MSR for a start.

Witty. Unique. Eclectic.
MSR.

Managing Editor,
MuHu Son

Editor's Letter: September 08

I recall my first automotive ride in my life was during my childhood days when I was 5 or so. I didn't even have a seatbelt to buckle up, all I had was a mini steering wheel in front of me. There was good stereo too back then, child nursery songs played out loud upon successful ignition of the automobile with a 20-cent coin inserted into the machine slot. I was a happy boy then.

I'm a happy man now. Not just myself alone, we'll be seeing loads of gleeful men roaming around the streets this month as their male hormones are rejuvenated by the mechanical roars of the 2008 F1 Singapore Grand Prix coming 26 September! This will not only be Asia's first F1 street race, it'll also be the first night race in the history of F1 racing.

We are scheduled for an extremely happening calender of events this September. First up it's the Mid-Autumn Festival that's already ongoing at various malls where one can find creative works of mooncake art by various hotel chefs. Be sure to head down early for better deals and to avoid disappointment.

The survivors of the Army Half Marathon and Nike+ Human Race shall be pitting their endurance and fitness against one another at the gruelling Aviva Ironman 70.3 Triathlon 2008. For anti-sports music fans, you're not left out as Avril Lavigne is holding The Best Damn Tour on the same day as well.

Fashionistas will be thrilled to hear about the upcoming Fashion Weeks in New York and London where they can book their way into a preview of the Spring/Summer 2009 collection of various designers. Get inspired and come up with your very own wardrobe to wear to events like the Singapore Motorshow 2008 and see if you can challenge the race queens and exotic automobiles to wrestle the limelight away from them.

Our local art scene is stirring up gradually as it welcomes the 2 months long Singapore Biennale 2008 as well as the Singapore River Festival that has the ever-popular Timbre MusicFest 2008 under its belt. Looks like I'm buying you guys out there more excuses for chilling out, not that anybody is staying put at home much during this month with all these events going on anyway.

For those of you who're still not convinced out of your comfort zones at home, here's a dollar coin from me to you. Come on, those were the days when the rides were still going at 20 cents.

I'm just kidding, seriously.


Managing Editor,
MuHu Son

Editor's Letter: August 08

We have to admit it, we're constantly hungry for something. It's not just the natural instinct of survival if we come to think of it. Sometimes we just call it cravings or desires, but let's just stick with the term 'hungry' this month. I would say it's the hungriest month of the year, believe me. The beginning of August marks the opening of the Chinese Gates of Hell as well, according to the Lunar calender. Yes, be afraid you naughty guilty ones! The Hungry Ghost Festival 2008 (HGF 08) is once again back to haunt the living.

Hungry for movies? Jack Neo gets the ball rolling for the local film industry by launching his sequel to his classic heartland success ten years ago - "Money No Enough 2". Not sure if the film title is really describing the woes of the living though, since we are sighting a lot of incense "bank notes" burning this month. Followed strongly by a documentary based on the same theme of HGF 08 as well, we have "A Month of Hungry Ghosts" by award-winning Tony Kern. This should be interesting enough as it explores the phenomenon on the effects of HGF on a world class cosmopolitan city like ours. Last but not least, Royston Tan returns once again with a similar genre related to his recent getai-spectacular "881" - "12 Lotus". Roystan is doing all our dear Mothers and Fathers a great favour by providing an opportunity for their offspring to bring them to the theatres for a family gathering accentuated with dialect songs and dances.

Hungry for performances? SINGfest is due to rock and shake your HGF fears off from 2-3 August with an overwhelming calibre of performers such as Alicia Keys, One Republic, Simple Plan and many more! This is definitely a must watch top-class "ang-moh getai" for all of you out there! Not sure if they will be leaving the front row seats empty though. If you're a little artsy-fartsy, you will be glad to hear that the OCBC Singapore Theatre Festival will be hitting us on August 6 with 14 plays. Who says you can't mix patriotism with performance when it's happening on August 9 in the form of our National Day Parade 2008? Be sure to stay home too if you want to scrutinize the Parade Commander on tube and compare your "Baris! Sedia!" with this year's choice of candidate.

Hungry for sportive challenges? The Beijing Olympics 2008 is gearing up for its official opening on August 8 (08/08/08), so it ain't such a bad thing after all to heed your parents' advice to return home early everyday when you have the auspicious Olympics on tube. For the itchy feet, the Singapore Bay Run / Army Half Marathon 2008 is scheduled to challenge all you runners out there to beat your own personal record on August 24. The Nike+ Human Race swiftly beckons a week later on August 31 where it sees a worldwide 10km race taking place.

Hungry for supper? Come on, surely you don't need us to enlighten you on that. Head on downstairs to your neighbourhood zichar outlet for a serving of hor-fun or mui-fan . Just remember: Don't feast on the food item randomly positioned alongside the roads even if you're broke.

Welcome to a hungry month of HGF 08.

Managing Editor,

MuHu Son

Editor's Letter: July 08

What a drastic overhaul MSR has been through, I must say, as a major change has been performed. That's right, we've all seen what our new Creative Editor's capable of, especially after her inspirational campaign speech on changes last month. With everything back in control this month, as I find the Editor's pen once again back in my right hand inking every single thought in me as I speak, let me officiate a warm welcome to April just for the record. I know I should be holding welcome parties for you, but here's one thing(just so you might know): a pat of appreciation on your back is louder than any party music. Ouch.

'

I'm back to kick some ass.

Let's move on with the great foundation laid by our CE and proceed to the next gear. It's the month of heroes as we can expect to see several of them roaming around us, and I'm not referring to our beloved heartland heroes. First up, it's "Hancock" who's all set for the rescue. Following up in quick succession, we have "Hellboy 2", Heroes from ROTK in "Red Cliff", "If I were Superman", Batman & the late Heath Ledger in "The Dark Knight", Rick O'Connell in "The Mummy 3", Mulder & Scully in "The X-Files Movie", and our very own Jack Neo in "Money No Enough 2". Not to forget the people behind the GST Credits that went into its second phase payout recently. Payment of the amount stipulated in a national payroll is quite a feat that probably not even the richest can achieve. Film junkies be anchored on alert to MSR.

We're also being on the frontline update of the current trends as the curtain has just drawn to a close at both the Milan & Paris Fashion Week that showcased the spring/summer 2009 men's wear collection from various influential designers, including those of major fashion houses. With the GSS still strong and striving, there's more reasons to log onto this lifestyle blog as all you fashionistas and shopaholics out there can use another opinion in style and class to advise the what's-in and what's-not for your retail therapy.

In June, we've seen what dinner you can find at two dollars short of twenty after our CE provided her first-hand experience at Cross Keys in Killiney Road. Now with just two days away to the upcoming Singapore Food Festival 2008, you might just find Chilli Crab, Satay and other savoury delicacies to satisfy your cravings. For a start, do head on to Lau Pat Sat for the Opening Celebration from 4-6 July. Don't feast on crap when you can check out what's tongue-pampering right here before you indulge in our glorious local fares.

Seems like MSR has almost everything covered to satisfy just about everyone. We hope to achieve that and we're all set to go.

Witty. Unique. Eclectic.

Managing Editor,

MuHu Son

Editor's Letter: June 2008

“The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are.”

Dear Readers,

Be gone is May, say hello to June. Hold on tight, people. We’re almost half way through 2008. If we’re alike, you’ve been through the roughs for the first half of the year, fret not. We’re not going to stay there and sulk. We’re going to move on to a new beginning and better futures.

For the second half of 2008, MSR is going to change. MSR is going to evolve. MSR is going to face a REVAMP. Yes, you heard me right. If you’ve been visiting the site (loyally), you’d notice a change. Yes, we’ve decided to give MSR a brand new look and provide you with better visuals. And as for me, I’ve got myself promoted; I’m now the Creative Editor/Writer for MSR! I hope you’re just as excited as I am.

Visually, we gave MSR a clean layout with a new banner. Let me let you in more about how the idea of the banner came about (no, an apple did not fall on my head). I met MuHu awhile ago and like you, I’ve been a devoted reader of his blog and I’ve heard all about MSR’s directions and what do we aspire to be and hopefully to make a difference. This month’s issue will be all about ‘Envy’ because nothing sharpens sight like Envy. MSR is all about fashion, food, fun and being fabulous. I believe that ‘Envy’ is the first step to change, however good or bad, that depends on you. MSR will be your source of Envy. We’re the colors lacking in this world of black and white. We strive to take the lead in being fabulous.

Content wise, MSR will continue to feed your minds with reviews and endless trends we’ve spotted. We’ll be adding more exciting columns if we witness an increase of readership (we’re proudly advertising for nuffnang now!). I’ll make sure we’ll bring you more reviews of places we’ve been to. It’s all in discussion right now and we’re sure to make them happen. Just for you.

I woke up today and I had a feeling – I want to change. I am going to be a happier person. I am going to make somebody happy. I am going to find the love and joy that has been severely lacking in me for the past months. From now on, I’m only going to absorb positive energy. So I hope for the month of June, you’ll be in this with me. Find your source of happiness, find your source of envy, and make a change. If you think you need to lose some weight, hit the gym. If you think you need to get something off your chest, say it. If you think you need to end a relationship because it’s really not working anymore, do not wait any longer. If you think you need to make your feelings known, go for it. Make the change, start today, start now.

You know what? I’ve got another feeling again. The month of June is going to be kind of great. It’s a hunch. *winks*

So MuHu-ians, please spread the spirit of MuHu-rism and keep rockin’. Till then, MuHu and I are off busy being fabulous. *blow flying kisses* And have fun shopping!


Creative Editor/Writer,
April