Review on House of Traditional Javanese Massage on 28 June 2016

Don't be deceived by the no frill, simple shopfront which House of Traditional Javanese Massage located at 598B Sembawang Road has.  Inside the shophouse lies a Bali inspired sanctuary which offers authentic traditional Javanese massage services like no others.  I was very lucky to be approached by the great people from House of Traditional Javanese Massage to try out their massage services together with my Kaiser boy.

House of Traditional Javanese Massage

Exterior of House of Traditional Javanese Massage

 Before the start of our body massages, I had to fill up a form so that the assigned masseur can take note of any contraindication/s.

Kaiser looking on while mummy filled up the form

This was the second time Kaiser was sponsored a body massage together with me.  He was super excited as he looked forward to the day.  When i picked him up from his childcare centre, he was still having his nap.  But the moment I whispered to him that we were going for a massage now, he opened his eyes immediately to pack his school bag to leave... lol.

I am thankful that even since I started to be active on social media, many sponsors are coming forward to pamper me with their awesome services.  And just nice, House of Traditional Javanese Massage offered to do a body massage for Kaiser boy.  As a single mum, I must say I am a very lucky person with so much love from everyone.

My birthday is around the corner anyways, so let this be the start of a relaxing pre-birthday celebration!  At the same time, going for massages together is a great mummy and son bonding activity!

Kaiser can't wait to go for his massage

The interior gave me a feeling that I was transported to Bali straightaway with the clever use of decorative pieces and lighting.

The foot reflexology area

 Let's take a look at the individual rooms for massages.  House of Traditional Javanese Massage has cleverly segregated massage rooms for males and females.  Hence especially for Malays, this would be a great place for massage services.

I love the effort used to decorate the room to look as if one is in Bali!

My Kaiser boy getting ready for his massage.  He knew exactly what to do when the masseur asked him to lie down with his face downwards into the hole.

Kaiser was given a relaxing body massage for children as he was too young for other types of body massage.  I was so glad that Kaiser got to enjoy the massage after House of Traditional Javanese Massage explained the benefits as stated below.

Massage Therapy for Children

Massages for children offers a variety of health benefits. The touch stimulates the body in positive ways to help it grow and develop.

Gentle strokes are administered on the child’s legs, toes, feet, arms, fingers, chest and back.  Repeated strokes and motions are used with alternating hands.  Other techniques including flattened palms, fingers slipping through grasps and tiny circling motions are administered.

Benefits of Child Massage Therapy

•        Holistic approach towards a childs’ good health
•        Promotes blood flow and harmonises the workings of the organs.
•       Stimulates Motor Development  
•       Eases tension and pain in developing muscles that make motor skills possible
•       Stimulates Cognitive Development
•       On a long term basis, it enhances physical fitness and immunity 
•      Happier and Calmer Children

Kaiser getting ready for his body massage

As for myself, after a discussion with the masseur on my sore muscles after a gym workout the day before, I decided to go for deep tissue javanese massage.

 What is Javanese Massage?

A system of massage that uses all parts of the hand, including the knuckles, to knead and massage the muscles. This massage works on the muscles and nerves to relieve tension, back pain and aid in the healing of fractures.  The pushing and stroking techniques predominate.  We rely upon deep thumb pressures pushing, pressing and circling along and around the body's energy meridians to break down tensely knotted muscles and to stimulate the body's lymphatic system into releasing its self regenerative power. The deep thumb pressure is accompanied with simultaneous stroking palm movements, squeezing and pushing against the skin and veins to improve blood circulation. 

The Benefits of Indonesian Javanese Massage 

• The blood circulation gets improved and assistance is given to the lymphatic system by helping to eliminate the waste produced by the body. 
• It helps easing of tension, stiffness and pain, makes breathing better and helps to circulate the blood better. 
• This massage can stimulate and calm the nervous system, reducing fatigue and the leaves the receiver feeling more rejuvenated. 
• Relief from headaches, stiff neck, backaches, sore feet and fatigue 
• Boost energy to the body 
• Speedier recovery after birth 
• It can help tone the abdominal skin and to warm and soothe the internal organs and muscle 
• Help support the lower back and flatten the tummy 
• To get rid of wind in the body 

My turn to get ready for my body massage

Both our massages took about 60 mins.

Verdict: I love the deep tissue Javanese massage as it was able to kneel my sore and achy muscles at various points.  Oh boy... it was so gratifying to get my body pressed,  kneeled and rolled to ease the pain away.

As for Kaiser boy, he was happy after the body massage because he felt relaxed and loved the gentle massage strokes which made him want to fall asleep.  The masseurs adored him so much that they offered him slices of strawberry cakes which happened to be his favorite as well.  He was throughly enjoying himself throughout the whole experience.  It warmed my heart to see him smiling happily.

Kaiser enjoying his cakes

Special thanks to the awesome people behind House of Traditional Javanese Massage for pampering Kaiser boy and myself.  We are totally grateful for the love!

My Kaiser boy smiling so happily

 And yes, we are a bunch of fun loving people too!

Trying to make funny faces and cute gestures

If you are keen to try authentic traditional javanese massage, House of Traditional Javanese Massage has four outlets located at:

Sembawang Branch
Address: 598b Sembawang Road 
Singapore 758456
Tel: 6756 1050

Pasir Panjang Branch
440 Pasir Panjang Road
Singapore 118782
Tel: 6897 0969

Bukit Timah Branch
783 Bukit Timah Road
Singapore 269760
Tel: 6468 7855

Goldhill Branch
1 Goldhill Plaza #01-35/37
Singapore 308899
Tel: 6252 9330

You can also check out their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/MyHouseofTJM to find out more about them.

Good News!  House of Traditional Javanese Massage is running the following promotions currently:

* GSS special

-1 hour Javanese Massage at only $47 (usual: $60)

- Share & Tag your friend below! They get it at only $37

* Buddy Special

- Complimentary 1 hour Javanese Massage on the house when your friend signs up a a package

Both promotions is only applicable to 1st timers only*

Hurry and book your appointment with them now!

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[Media Invite] Food tasting at Moca Cafe on 20 Jun 2016

The first time I visited Moca Cafe located 27A Loewen Road was for a KIA launch event.  The kind people from Moca Cafe invited me back for a media food tasting and enjoy the atmosphere there.

Moca Cafe at Dempsey is located amidst the green and tranquil surroundings next to the Museum of Contemporary Arts (MoCA).  As you walk towards the Cafe, you will get to see many art pieces which have been incorporated into the decor so that guests can appreciate these pieces which are placed strategically both inside and outside of the cafe.

Art pieces in Moca Cafe could serve as a starting point for our guests’ art experience where after enjoying a meal at the cafe; they can proceed to a visit of MOCA. Or the cafe can be where they extend their art tour after the museum visit, a place where they can have inviting meals with a modern Asian twist amongst well selected art pieces.

 I love the unique art pieces on display.  It impact an arty feel to the place where one can enjoy the intricacy and story behind each piece while having a relaxing lunch or dinner.

Chef Nelson was very hospitable and came over for a chit chat and showed us the plants he planted himself.  He asked if we would like to choose from the menu, any special request for food or leave it to him to decide the four courses for us.  As he is the expert, we decided to leave it to him to craft out our four course menu.

First up was the 1/4 Buratta with Sicilian Tomatoes, Mesclun Salad and sliced San Daniele Parma Ham - S$16.  I am a cheese lover so when I saw the Buratta cheese, my heart was jumping with joy!  super sweet tomatoes matched with slightly nutty flavored parma ham, together with semi-soft rich tasting burrata cheese. Washed it down with white wine, omg... Everyone should try this!

Next up was the Braised White Asparagus served with Pan fried Quail Egg in butter cheese sauce - S$15.  I have never tasted asparagus so soft and sweet before!  And the butter cheese sauce was so amazing that I can't help but use the bread to soak up the sauce to eat.  I know as an image consultant, I shouldn't be doing that but Chef Nelson said to give it a try and yes, I didn't regret doing so.  It was yummy!

My plus one guest had Wagyu Oxtail Soup Braised Indonesian Style with Potatoes, Carrots, Tomatoes, Celery, Leek and Fried Shallots. Served with Jasmine Rice, Chili Padi with Kicap Manis, Lime Wedge, Japanese Cucumber and Shallots. - S$26

According to him, this was one of the best oxtail soup he had ever tasted.  Very authentic Indonesian style with the fiery chilli padi.

I had the Oven Baked Barramundi with Chanterelle Mushrooms, Basil, Cherry Tomatoes, Shallots, White Wine and Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Cartoccio Style) - S$30.

I was surprised that it came wrapped up like what you see in the photo below.  It upped my curiosity as to how the fish will taste like when it is baked this way.

  

This dish over exceeded my expectations.  At first look, it didn't really look good but when you tasted the fish together with the soup, it was so sweet and flavorful.

Desserts always make my day.  I love the  Homemade Panna Cotta served with Seasonal Wild Berries and Fruit Coulis - S$9.  It was so smooth and when I ate it with the berries to balance out the sweetness, it was a clear winner!

 A photo with the friendly and hospitable Chef Nelson!

 Overall, it was a wonderful experience having an awesome 4 course lunch inside a glasshouse lookalike structure amidst the lushful greeneries decorated with art pieces.  Reserve your seats now by calling Moca Cafe located 27A Loewen Road at Tel:+65 6509 4730.

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Review of Eyelash Extension by Nailz Treats on 15 Jun 2016

For those who had read my previous blog posts on where I did gelish manicure and pedicure with art nail, waxing and eyelash extensions, you would be very familiar with Nailz Treats, a one stop beauty parlour that offers all the above.  So if you want to look good, all you need to do is to visit Nailz Treats.

Also, I have announced in one of my previous blog posts that Nailz Treats just opened its latest outlet in The Clementi Mall, #04-14, so for those staying in the West, you are definitely in luck cos it will be so convenient to visit them.  The other outlets are located in the East side.  I secretly wish that Nailz Treats can expand to the North side of Singapore as I stay in the North and we lack good beauty parlours here that can offer great services like Nailz Treats.

Outlet 1: 
BEDOK MALL #B1-03
311 New Upper Changi Road Singapore 467360
Tel: 6844 9558
SMS/Whats app: 97311180

Outlet 2:
Vanity at Bedok Mall #B1-56
311 New Upper Changi Road Singapore 467360
Tel: 6385 6255
SMS/Whats app: 8533 5776
(Nails . Lashes . Waxing . Makeup)

Outlet 3:
ONE KM Mall #02-46
11 Tanjong Katong Road Singapore 437157
Tel: 6702 2202
SMS/Whats app: 9111 8123

Outlet 4:
THE CLEMENTI MALL #04-14
3155 Commonwealth Avenue West Singapore 129588
Tel: 62623727
SMS/Whats app: 8522 6771

***

I was back at the Clementi Mall but this time round, it was for eyelash extensions.  I had my previous eyelash extensions done at the the outlet in Bedok Mall and I love them so much.  Basically, I do not need to spend a lot of time putting on my eye makeup as the eyelash extensions made my eyes big and more defined.

The room where I did my eyelash extensions.

 I told the beauty therapist that this time round, I wanted a more sexier look by going for slightly more dramatic look, with the lashes longer at the outer corners of the eyes.

After hearing my request, she chose this set of lashes for me.

 She pasted collagen eye masks on the bottom part of my eyes while she did her magic on my eyelashes... nice!

my original eyelashes

Eyelash extension will take a while hence try to schedule it on days when you are free and try not to make any appointments after that, so that you can relax while getting your eyelash extension done.

My eyelash extensions using 10mm at the inner corners of the eyes, 11mm at the middle and 13mm at the outer corners of the eyes.

Front view

Right view

Left view

 If you are thinking of doing eyelash extensions, Nailz Treats is currently running the following promotions: 

1. S$68 for 120 strands  (Usual price S$128)

2. S$98 for unlimited strands.  (Usual price $158)

Promotion is ending soon so quickly make your appointment now!

Reach THE CLEMENTI MALL Outlet at:
Tel: 62623727
SMS/Whats app: 8522 6771

Enjoy your eyelash extension and the new you!

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Enjoy The Merriment of Western-Asian Palates with Earle Swensen's New Menu

Continuously striving to outdo themselves in providing scrumptious and healthier dining options, Earle Swensen’s is back again this June with new and improved dishes, ranging from appetite-inducing appetizers, hearty mains, to delectable desserts. In the new myriad of Western dishes, Earle Swensen’s infuses Asian flavours that make dining at Earle Swensen’s a best of both worlds.

I am a food lover hence when i received the invitation for a media food tasting, I was elated to be able to try out the new dishes, so that I can recommend them to my network.  Thanks Earle Swensen's and Touch PR & Events for the kind invite!

The menu reflecting one of the new dishes on the cover

I was informed that I can order anything I want from the menu and of course, I went for the new dishes.

Earle Swensen’s continues to deliver its complete dining experience to every patron with their signature Salad Buffet Bar (available a la carte at S$16.20), accessible with all main course orders at the restaurant.  The all-you-can-eat salad bar boasts an extensive range of fresh compound salads, crisp mixed greens and juicy fruits that diners can tuck into. The salad variety is often switched up based on different themes to keep Earle Swensen’s customers coming back for more. 

I had loads of fun mixing my own salad concoction with the wide variety and amount offered.  Basically I was spoilt for choices.  

After I went through Earle Swensen's revamped menu, I am sure that it is bound to capture the hearts and provide patrons of all ages the perfect dish to savour.

The first dish which I chose was the Breaded Scallops with Wasabi Tar-Tar Sauce (S$10.90).

Generously coated with fine bread crumbs, succulent scallops are fried till perfection for that crispy exterior crunch. Douse each golden scallop into the oriental wasabi tar-tar dipping sauce, made from a legendary in-house recipe. I can't keep my hands off this addictive appetizer. 

Next up, I wanted to try this main course, called Earle's Surf & Turf. (S$40.90)

Undecided between meat or seafood? Get the best of both worlds with Earle’s Surf & Turf as you indulge in a mouth-watering grilled wagyu steak and succulent fresh lobster dish. Rich in dietary fibre and unsaturated fatty acids, this magnificent piece of steak is unmis-steak-ably delicious and well worth the splurge. Coupled with fresh ocean lobsters drizzled with refreshing honey mustard sauce, this smorgasbord show-stopper delights with every bite. 

If you prefer to go for a light appetiser, order the Smoked Salmon Avocado Tart (S$9.90).

Specially imported smoked salmon with the perfect blend of rich, creamy avocado, is generously filled in an exquisite tart shell pastry. The quaint tart is surrounded by lush arugula to provide an added crunch, packed with health benefits in every bite. This dish easily makes up a lighter meal option. 

I paired this with the strawberry Jubilee drink for a refreshing taste.

I love cod fish so when I saw Baked Hoisin Cod Fish (S$35.90) on the menu, I immediately chose this as my second main to try.

A harmonious pairing of Asian flavours with Western influences, this dish features a silky smooth catch of house special cod fish coated with homemade piquant hoisin bean sauce to accent lively and moreish flavours. Paired with fresh arugula, sautéed mushrooms and potatoes, this epicurean masterpiece will hit the spot, every time. 

After a salad, 2 appetizers and 2 main courses and one drink,  I was already very full but how can I leave Earle Swensen's without trying out the desserts?

I ordered For the Love of Lychee (S$13.10) since it was new in the menu.

It didn't fail me... This is a dessert that reconnects you with your inner child while you indulge in the refreshing creation of generous scoops of lychee gelato, juicy lychee fruits and sweet strawberry toppings.

Enjoying my dessert!

There were so many new dishes in the menu which I didn't get to try.  Overall, it was a hearty dinner with the choices of food that I love.  I will be going back to Earl Swensen's to try out the following:

Appetizers

Creamy Fish Chowder Breadbowl (NEW) (S$11.90)
Start your meal with a comforting hot and creamy tomato soup encased in a rye breadbowl that is crusty on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Packed with all the healthy goodness of fresh salmon fillet, tender dory chunks and healthy vegetables, this heart-warming starter is food for the soul.

Sesame Sriracha Fried Drumlets (S$10.90)
Juicy, tender and packed with a fiery punch, these lip-smacking, finger-licking deep fried drumlets serves up delightful and sumptuous flavours when paired with the bold combination of sweet and spicy homemade hot sesame sriracha dip. Get ready to get your taste buds blown away.

Mains

Kalbi Beef Ribs (200gm - NEW) (S$33.90)
Aloha to sweet, juicy pieces of Korean Barbequed Beef Short Ribs with a touch of Hawaiian style. Infused and marinated overnight with Earle Swensen’s in-house secret blend of sweet soy sauce marinade, the tender beef slices are carefully grilled and served with a side of fragrant rice with mesclun salad. Tuck into this tantalising Korean-American dish that is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy and savoury notes.

Charbroiled Ribeye Steak (250gm) (S$37.90)
Chow into Australian grain-fed premium beef – heifers or steers that follows a strict grain based diet of minimum 60 days and 70 days respectively – renowned for being tender, juicy and flavour rich. Feast your eyes and taste buds with the generously-sized fine textured prime cut that has the right amount of fat marbling, making each bite a melt-in-your-mouth gastronomic experience. Accompanied with potatoes and seasonal greens. 

Sandwiches, Burgers and Wraps

Triple Decker Clubhouse (S$19.90)
Earle Swensen’s classic clubhouse sandwich gets a touch of summer makeover. Sink your teeth into a taste of picnic in the summer with the Triple Decker Clubhouse, featuring honey oat bread with a dash of tangy honey mustard sauce, generously filled with a delightful medley of Cajun chicken breast, juicy tomato slices, avocado, crisp lettuce and cheese.

Buckaroo BBQ Chicken Burger (S$22.90)
Served hot off the grill, this satisfying burger experience features a wholesome classic chicken slice, tenderly grilled and stacked between fluffy buns, Shitake mushrooms, fresh tomatoes and wonderfully dressed with a signature full-bodied and balanced BBQ sauce for an extra zing. Served with mesclun salad and potato wedges, the layering of textures and generous serving is comfort food at its best.

Meat Assortment

Raspberry Sriracha Smoked Duck (NEW) (S$26.50)
Full of flavours, this delectable dish presents delicate smoked duck breast seared till golden brown and topped with mesclun salad and orange segments. Married with a homemade raspberry sriracha-infused jam, this creative dish leaves a lasting impression of an ultimate sweet and spicy umami experience.

Lamb Stew (NEW) (S$25.90)
Warm and filling, flavourful slow-cooked Moroccan lamb tagine is gently infused with a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, served alongside a refreshing mesclun salad and fragrant lemongrass macadamia nut rice. Topped off with apricots, sweet potato strips and a dose of sour cream, treat your taste buds to an extra level of flavour complexity.

Earle’s Poultry Combo (S$28.90)
Feast on hearty helpings of juicy signature chicken sausage, tender slices of smoked duck, chunky chicken thigh and flavoursome chicken breast, all drizzled with fragrant herb onion gravy. Excite your appetite with this winning charbroiled combination, a comforting, definite must-try.

Seafood

Crispy Skin Barramundi in Orange Basil Sauce (S$26.90)
This delicacy, highly prized for its firm flesh and pleasantly light on the palate, is lightly seasoned and pan-fried on the sides to a golden crisp. Complemented with sautéed Shitake mushrooms, mashed potatoes, mesclun salad and topped with Earle Swensen’s homemade orange basil butter, enjoy a refreshingly tasty and clean aftertaste.

Hawaiian Seafood Baked Rice (S$22.50)
Enjoy spoonful of savoury rice with a hint of fragrant lemongrass topped with crushed macadamia nuts, pineapple dices and loaded with a tantalizing mix of ocean fresh seafood such as smoked salmon, juicy prawns, squids and blue mussels, all baked with thick creamy sauce and melted cheese. Filled with seafood essence, this robust flavoured dish is the ultimate treat for all seafood lovers.

Desserts

Millefeuille with Seasonal Fruits and Gelato (NEW) (S$11.70)

Complete your meal with a gourmet dessert experience with a classic French pastry, featuring layers of razor-thin puff pastry that is airy, crispy, and decadent. Select four gelato flavours of your choice to go in-between this delicate dessert alongside a medley of seasonal fruits to offer an innovatively creamy and crunchy bite.

Green with Envy! You met your Match-a (S$13.10)
A definite must- have for all green tea lovers. Metabolism booster, fibre rich and enriched with vitamin C, enjoy this healthy yet oh-so-decadent treat featuring smooth matcha gelato mixed with red beans for that perfect aromatic and time-tested combination. 

Earle Swensen’s New Menu will be available at all Earle Swensen’s restaurants island wide from 1st June 2016 onwards.

Earle Swensen’s Outlets

VivoCity 1 HarbourFront Walk, #02-117 Opening hours: 10:30am-10.30pm Tel: 6272 3306
Westgate 3 Gateway Drive, #03-10/11 *Opening in July 2016

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