Articles Viva Latino

Connections Group is proud to celebrate the arrival of the new Viva Latino Magazine.

The successful launching of Viva Mexico and Viva Brasil has prompted us to reach out to our extended Latin-American family through this latest venture.

It aims to share with the Hispanic/Latin, expatriate and local communities articles of interest on lifestyle, culture & traditions, gastronomy, art, music as well as to cover events organized by the respective communities and Latin-American Embassies in Singapore.

As part of the project, Connections Group is aiming to launch its News Portal (www.latino-connections.com).

It will maintain frequent updates related to us when the publications are between editions. We take this opportunity to express our heartfelt appreciation to all of our loyal supporters who have made this venture possible.

Warmest regards,
Dania Roberta Acevedo

To talk about Latin America is to take a chance in comprehending the array of nomenclature, concepts, ideologies, designations, political connotations, and abstract meanings and to inevitably become confused.

In general terms, Latin America comprises of the American countries who had their languages derived from Latin (Spanish, Portuguese and French) and who were colonized by presently known Spain, Portugal and France, with the latter in smaller proportion.

The countries form a major part of South, Central and North America, an example would be Mexico. Some countries, such as Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic; although they are located in the Caribbean basin are considered part of Latin America and they are equally perceived by the rest as "Latino Brothers".

Even with the same ethnic, historic and cultural background, the perception of what it is to be a Latin-American is so diverse as widely varied are the ties that unify us or, as is many cases, sets us apart. There are many that believe that there are more differences between "Latinos" than similarities. True or not, it is no secret that there are few countries that, even as neighbors, they do not know about each other. When used on a popular sense , and exempt of any other more complex connotations, the terms " Latin" and/or "Hispanic" barely expose a feeling that has more to do with a designation of geographical and language origin than that of political preferences or beliefs.

According to the late renowned Brazilian writer, Jorge Amado, the region should be known as "Afrolatinamerica", as we have an African component that is often ignored. But It's true that Brazil is considered the " different kid" in the neighborhood. Bolivar, is a hero in many of the Latin-American countries but Brazilians once again do not identify themselves with his ideals which reinforce the utopic Latin American identity.

Independent of the dialectic linguistic variations, economics, politics and social inequalities between the different countries in the region, being a Latin American is a feeling, it is about sharing. It is about the unlimited sensuality, warmth and spontaneity. It is to be a son of the Sun, the breeze and the Sea. It is to insist on dreaming to carry on.

In the following pages, know our Latin America. VIVA LATINO !

When the word "Brazil" pops up, to many, the term is synonymous with "football", "carnival", and even the "Amazon" forest. But scraping a little deeper we can get much more from this impressive country.

Brazil is the largest country in Latin America, occupying nearly 50% of South America. Endowed with rich natural resources, 58% of the land is covered with lush evergreen forests. 40% of the world's biodiversity is estimated to be found in Brazil. With 185 million inhabitants, its leading cities are São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, though Brasília is the capital. Contrary to popular beliefs overseas, Brazil does not share a language with its South American neighboring countries: Portuguese is the national language.

Brazilians also pride themselves on their cultural heritage. In the 16th century, Portuguese colonizers mixed with the native Indians and African slaves more than anywhere else in the New World. The welcoming Brazilian society created a positive context for miscegenation - that also combined European and Japanese immigrants - turning the country into one of the most racially mixed in the world. This racial integration has fueled an intercultural blend, revealed in the music, dance, artwork, architecture, gastronomy, and religions, forging unique regional identities.

Renowned for being easy-going and playful, Brazilians proudly host one of the world's most spectacular shows: the Carnival. For a whole week, Brazil stops to pay tribute to life in a formidable feast of colors, rhythms and dance. Whether you "jump carnival" at a social club or in the street, it becomes very difficult not to give in to the irresistible allure of opening up for the magical joy for life!

Brazil shares an innate fondness for sports. More than 8,000 sports clubs exist throughout the country. However no other sport in Brazil can compare to the passion for football. The Brazilian team holds an undisputed record of five World Cup titles - 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002.

With the opening up of the economy in the 1990's and the re-structuring in progress of the State of Brazil have led to new policies being implemented to promote an increase in productivity and attain economic stability. In recent years, many new opportunities have emerged as a result of structural changes in the economy and industrial restructuring. Brazil and Singapore have much to exchange, culturally and commercially. It is fundamental to move forward with the strengthening of a trade and cultural bridge between both countries.

The Carnivore Restaurant literally dressed itself in yellow and green during late June and beginning of July. Singaporeans, expatriate community, Brazilians and Latin lovers had the great experience of the flavours, tastes and colors of Brazil.

Having the beautiful church of CHIJMES as backdrop, Carnivore offered a 3 nights Dinner Celebration to showcase the highlights of Brazilian Culture. It was a unique opportunity for the locals to learn more and entertain themselves with the colorful Samba Dancers and the energetic Capoeira Show (Brazilian Art martial choreography) and feel the heat of the World Cup Fever with the display of "Ëmbaixadinhas" (football moves), by Brazilian footballers.

Besides the most exotic Brazilian Food and the sweetness of the typical Brazilian national drink, "Caipirinha", there were many exciting prizes including Restaurant vouchers,and many Brazilian products souvenirs.

Together with Santa Catarina Trade, Carrefour, Viva Brasil Magazine and the support of the Brazilian Embassy in Singapore, the promotion achieved its goals, having full house attendance during the whole week.

Carnivore is a must-try for all meat lovers. For just one price you can eat all you want.

For reservations or Corporate Function bookings, please contact 6334 9332 or visit them at www.carnivore.com.sg
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Marcio Ribeiro: a conversation with our bodies

Intuitively, all of us know that we have to talk to our body, and more importantly, to learn to listen to its answers.

Bodytalk is an alternative, preventive and integrated treatment that improves connections of the body, mind and soul; which has its origins in Australia and its was developed by Dr. John Veltheim. In recent years it has expanded to 27 countries (in 7 different languages), achieving gradual acceptance thanks to its proven benefits and effectiveness.

In Singapore, Bodytalk is practiced by the Brazilian Marcio Ribeiro and it consists of rescuing – through therapeutical and holistic methods – the innate knowledge and wisdom in each one of us, developing a natural process of healing that eliminates, in a lasting and deep manner, the causes of illness and not only their symptoms.

Bodytalk can be used as sole form of treatment or it can be associated with other therapeutic modalities.

Marcio is performing, on a regular basis, free presentations with the purpose to explain (in Portuguese and English) the basic concepts of this marvelous technique.

VIBE AT MERITUS NEGARA HOTEL

Vibe is a vibrant new classic restaurant, at Meritus Negara Hotel, and offers guests the best of an international buffet that highlights the modern Churrasco featuring unique items.

This Brazilian specialty grill is prominently featured in the buffet line-up and guests are treated to a selection of succulent premium meats and pristine seafood. These are served hot off the char-grill and skillfully carved from large skewers by Brazilian Passadors Marinaldo and Amilson at the buffet counter during lunch – where six to eight kinds of meats are served, and at the dining table during dinner – where 10 to 12 varieties of meat are available.

VIBE RESTAURANT

10 Claymore Road, level 2

Singapore 229540

Tel: 6831-6686 or 6737 0811

Fax: 6831-6617 or 6737 9075
E-mail: negara.mns@meritus-hotels.com

Leonardo, Maitre D (centre), Passadors Marinaldo and Amilson on left and right respectively

Brazilian Connections under the direction of Dania Acevedo is the only entity in Singapore specializing in organizing Brazilian Cultural and Social events, offering consultation services in the development of menus, decoration and entertainment.

Activities and Events:
- Organizers of the Brazilian Event at Carnaval Bar with the support of the Brazilian Embassy in Singapore and Petrobras

-Supported the second Brazilian Film Festival which was held at Golden Village Cinemas

- Co-organized the promotion of "Colours and Tastes of Brazil" at Carnivore in Chijmes

- Co-organized the high-profile event marking the launch of Petrobras's operations in Singapore at the Four Seasons Hotel

- Co-organized the opening day of the networking event for the Brazilian-American Chamber of Commerce at the Shangri-La Hotel

- Published two editions of VIVA BRASIL Magazine

- Brazilian and Mexican Connections have developed the editorial and publications of the LATINASIABIZ Magazine, produced by International Enterprise (I.E.) Singapore for the upcoming LatinAsia Biz Forum in September 2006

- Supported the INSEAD Brazilian Week held at the INSEAD Centre

On 31 August 2006, Petrobras organized a high-profile cocktail event to mark the launching of its operations here in Singapore. In the midst of the majesty and grandeur of the authentic Brazilian decorations and enriching Bosa Nova entertainment by Brazilian Vocalist, Roberta Sa and her band, the mouth watering delicacies were graciously prepared by the Four Seasons Hotel under the guidance of Tania Lai.

No more best kept secret recipes...We are pleased to share some with you. A picture truly paints a thousand words, we hope this paints your palettes.

Quimdim

9 Eggs Yolks (removed egg yolk sac)
3 Eggs
100gr Butter Unsalted (melted)
100gr Grated Fresh Coconut
500gr Fine Sugar

Hand mix all the ingredients, coated the mould with butter and fine sugar

Pour in the mixture and rest for one hour, to let coconut floated on top,
Baked in water bath, 180 degrees for 45min to an hour.

100gr Fine Sugar (Dry Caramel)
1kg Chopped Pumpkin (Raw)
400gr Fine Sugar
100gr Water
5 pcs Cloves
100gr Fresh Grated Coconut

Caramelized first part of sugar to golden light color, add in pumpkin, sugar, water, cloves and coconut, cook until thicken, let cool down and mould the desire shape served with Cheese Minas.

BANTUS CAPOEIRA

Paulo Cesar Leite dos Santos, or Master Pintor, is the founder of Grupo Bantus Capoeira, in Brazil.

The word Bantus is formed by -NTU , that means "human" and BA, that indicates a plural. Together they mean "people". The term Bantu refers to over 400 different ethnic groups from the West African region.

Although Pintor's training was within Capoeira Angola, his school practices both Angola and Regional styles. Mestre Pintor is also an expert in other Brazilian rhythm as Maculelê , Samba de Roda and Forró . Bantus Capoeira has a number of schools in several countries as China, Japan, Australia , Germany, Netherlands, Malaysia, Israel and Singapore.

For more information, please contact BANTUS CAPOEIRA SINGAPORE
Instructor Claudio Moraes, Claudinho , HP: 81575083
Email: singbantus@yahoo.com
http://sg. bantus.org

Even though JIU JITSU was born in Japan,the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (or Gracie Jiu Jitsu) has been gaining such popularity around the world that nowadays even the Japanese fighters are learning from Gracie´s style.

The Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is primarily a ground-fighting martial art that emphasizes effectiveness as well as than elegance, polishing this martial art by removing ineffective moves and modifying the original ones that are maintained.

In Singapore, this modality is being promoted by the Instructor Jason Quek Jee Tien.

The South American coastal strip bordered by the Andes Mountains in the west, boasts the longest and most narrow country in the world, Chile, which runs over 4.600 km from North to South.

The Atacama Desert in the north has great mineral wealth, consisting primarily of copper and nitrates. Southern Chile features rich forests, grazing lands and a string of volcanoes and lakes. The climate of Chile ranges from subtropical in the north, arid desert in the Atacama Desert and a fertile valley centre, with a cold and wet southern region.

The Mediterranean quality of the centre caters to the cultivation of fruits - being Chile's main exports - and wine production. Vineyards in the centre of the country consist of a 500-mile corridor filled with great farms, forests, lakes and the country's capital, Santiago.

Most of the historical buildings in the capital date between the 17th and 18th centuries. Chile declared independence from Spain in 1810, although a clear victory was not achieved until 1818. The country's first freely elected president took office in 1990 and following years of steady growth and stability, Chile has maintained a democratic and representative government.

The chief of state is Michelle Bachelet Jeria, the country's first female president elected into office in March 2006. The next Presidential Election will be held in December 2009.

Chile's 16.2 million population has a large, well-educated middle class, with most young people receiving secondary and tertiary education. Chileans also boast a major literary background, producing two winners of the Nobel Prize for Literature – the poets Gabriela Mistral and Pablo Neruda.

Throughout the country, two lively and contrasting cultures exist. One is the affluent cosmopolitan urban culture, and the other that of the peasants, who are mainly of Spanish decent, but contain traces of Araucanian heritage. The latter establish their presence through their music and dance. The official language is Spanish, with the major religion being Roman Catholicism.

With its export orientation, Chile has several Free Trade Agreements (FTA) with many countries, including Singapore. Chile has constantly demonstrated its commitment to trade liberalization by being a member of several international economic organizations such as Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum (APEC), the World TradeOrganization (WTO), and MERCOSUR.

Colombia has an extension of over one million square kilometers and has borders with Panama, Venezuela, Peru, Brazil and Ecuador. The capital is Bogota located at 2,600 meters of altitude in the Andes mountains.

The Colombian coast extends on both side of the country. On the Caribbean with 1610 km and the Pacific with 1290 km. The mineral resources of this country are important and varied. Colombia is the largest producer of emeralds in the world. It has important reserves of both oil and natural gas, coal, gold, silver, iron, platinum and salt.

With its 33 million inhabitants, more than half of the population is concentrated in the Andean region , at altitudes between 800 and 3000 m above sea level.

The President of the Republic heads the Executive branch. In an historical Colombian presidential elections, President Alvaro Uribe was recently re-elected immediately by direct popular vote, with an impressive 62.1% of support from the electorate and will govern until 2010.

Rich in natural resources and well positioned among the south American oil market, it suffers from a negative image represented by the drug cartels, such as the Cali Cartel. Thus, the "underground" economy is, in effect, very important. On the other hand coffee is vital to the country's economy, both by the extension of cultivated land and the income it generates from exports.

Colombia is the second largest producer of Coffee in the world after Brazil and is the largest producer of the Arabica blend. Colombian also grow sugar cane, rice, banana,
tobacco, tapioca, corn and cotton.

Colombia is proud of its great celebrities and idols in the different areas, which have granted international fame and recognition to the country, such Nobel award winner writer Gabriel Garcia Marquez, the painter Fernando Botero, singers as Shakira, Carlos Vives , Juanes and Formula One driver Juan Pablo Montoya.

Mexico , officially known as the United States of Mexico, is located inNorth America. It shares its northern border with the United States ofAmerica, and its southern with Guatemala and Belize; to the east is the Gulf of Mexico and to the west is the Pacific Ocean. It has an area ofalmost 2 million square km with a great diversity in climate. This country,one of the most densely populated in the world, has almost of 104 millions inhabitants.

Mexico is a republic and its Capital is Mexico City. The Federation comprising of 32 states, including the Federal District. Mexico recently elected its new President, Felipe Calderon.

Thanks to its history, geography, abundant natural resources and richculture, Mexico offers a wealth of tourist attractions: the heritage of pre-Hispanic cultures, among them Mayan, Olmec and Aztec; the Spanishlegacy; the juxtaposition of ancient traditions with modern urban life; thebeauty of its beaches; extensive natural areas with historical elements and an ultra-modern tourism infrastructure.

As an independent political entity, Mexico was born in the first quarterof the nineteenth century, following the war of independence waged against its coloniser, the Kingdom of Spain. Mexico has the largestSpanish-speaking population in the planet.

Mexico is renowned for its many cultural and scientific achievements. To date three distinguished Mexicans have received the Nobel Prize: in 1982Alfonso García Robles received the Nobel Peace Prize; Octavio Paz wasawarded the Nobel Prize for literature in 1990; and in 1995 Mario Molina received the Nobel Prize for Chemistry.

Mexico is also the birthplace of many internationally renowned artists,among which are José María Velasco, José Clemente Orozco, Geraldo Murillo,David Alfaro Sequeiros, Rufino Tamayo, Diego Rivera and his equally famous and controversial wife, Frida Kahlo.

The cuisine of this immense country is characterised by its abundance andvariety. Most of the ingredients used in Mexican kitchens today are of indigenous origin, such as maize (corns), chilli, beans, avocado and cacao;and of Spanish origin, such as chicken, pork, milk, flour or pepper. Themarriage of these two culinary traditions produced such typical dishes as mole, tamales, chocolate and tacos. These days there is also plenty ofinfluence from China, Italy and its Latin-American neighbours.

Mariachis, Tequila, beautiful women, astonishing beaches, breathtaking colonial cities, exceptional archaeological sites, huge national parks andthe most fabulous and rich history. Mexico is one of the most beautifulplaces in the world. A feast for the senses and for the soul.

Renowned for its canal, the Republic of Panama is located on thesoutheastern end of the isthmus forming a land bridge between North andSouth America. Covering an area of 75,990 square kilometers, it is mostly mountainous with a tropical climate . For the uninitiated, Panama is muchmore than its Canal, shipping and banking. It is a gateway to theCaribbean.The capital, Panama City is majestically located on the Pacific Ocean and a short flight to the high altitude province of Chiriqui and Baru Volcano.

From 1538-1821 it was part of the Spanish empire and its fortunes have forcenturies fluctuated with the geopolitical importance of the Isthmus.
The ancient city of Panama, Casco Antiguo, was recognized by UNESCO in 1997as a World Heritage Site. Narrow lanes, colonial churches, museums, and agolden altar saved from pirates more than 300 years ago, are some of the city's sites. The major, or largest cities apart from Panama City, areColon and David.

The Republic of Panama is a constitutional democracy with nineadministrative provinces and one territory. While it became independentfrom Spain in 1821, it wasn't until 1903 that Panama received independence from Colombia.

The chief of state is President Martin Torrijos Espino, who was electedinto office in September 2004. The President of Panama is both the chief ofstate and head of government, and it is the president who appoints the government's Cabinet. The next Presidential Election will be in May 2009.

The majority of the 3.4 million people of Panama are Mestizo. The third ofthe population are of West Indian, Caucasian and Amerindian decent.While the official language is Spanish, many Panamanians are bilingual with Spanish and English.

Due to its location, Panamanians and visitors all enjoy the Caribbeanbeaches and relaxed lifestyle. Local gastronomy, traditions and folklore,of which dance has become a symbol of the diverse cultures, is best experienced through the country's many festivals. Most Panamanians areRoman Catholic.

Free Trade Agreements with countries such as Singapore – the PSFTA wassigned in March 2006 – have increased the amount of foreign investment in the country, and continue to provide further growth in the service sector.
Panama is Singapore's largest trading partner in Central and South America.

The Peruvian Night Celebration

The local Peruvian Embassy in conjunction with Serangoon Gardens Country Club held a Peruvian Night celebration on 16 June 2006.

More than 300 people feasted on the delightful and abundant Peruvian Buffetthat offered over 20 different authentic dishes by chefs personallyinstructed by Ambassador Arturo Montoya. The traditional Andean cocktail drink: the Pisco Sour and the popular chicha morada was not missed. Theevening was highlighted by Yawar Inka, a Peruvian Andean Band direct fromTaiwan and by Professor Carlos Camacho, a well-known musician and resident

in Singapore.

The event also featured an exhibition and sale of nativehandicrafts including Alpaca rugs.

A night to be remembered.

Information provided by Embassy of the Republic of Peru
Special thanks to Mr. Alejandro Rodriguez, Second Secretary

Peru is a land of unsurpassed breadth and beauty, rich archaeologicalstores and scenic treasure- towering Andean peaks.

Peru is located in west central South America. It borders with Ecuador andColombia to the north, Chile to the south, Bolivia and Brazil to the east,with the Pacific Ocean constituting its natural western boundary.

Peru is a democratic republic with a presidential system of government.Power is vested in an executive branch headed by the President, asingle-chamber legislative branch embodied by the Congress, and the judiciary. Direct presidential and legislative elections are held everyfive years, local elections every three.

Peru has become a top destination and a world centre for tourist attractiondue to the friendliness of its people, its richly varied cuisine; and itsbeautiful scenery.
Its capital, Lima, with its century's old colonial churches and mansionsplus the unforgettable beauty of the country on the way over the Andeanhighlands makes it one of the most majestic regions in the world!

The magnificent Inca ruins in Cuzco and Machu Picchu are breath-taking,giving one a sense of the mysterious past. Cuzco, the scene of the rise andfall of the ancient Inca empire, has for nearly three centuries been the centre of interest for students of old civilizations and archaeologists whosearch for treasure and adventure.

Cuzco leads the way to the "Lost City ofthe Incas"- Machu Picchu making the former known as the "Navel of the World". Other archaeological spots include the Nazca Lines (and Paracas National Reserve), Titicaca (sacred lake of the Inkas), Manu National Parkand Arequipa.

Globally, Perú is the top fishmeal exporter, second in silver, third in asparagus, zinc and tin; fifth in copper and sixth in gold. In terms offorest extension, Peru ranks seventh largest in the world with one of thegreatest diversity of tree species.

Peru's economy is one of the most liberal and offers investmentopportunities in textiles, agro-industry, forestry, mining, fishing andinfrastructure. The Foreign Investment Promotion Act ensures non-discriminatory treatment, freedom to invest in any business, freetransfer of all capital, dividends, and royalties, stable labour regime,and provides long-term tax stability.

Peru and Singapore has just concluded its second round of negotiations fora Free Trade Agreement in June 2006. It is expected to be finished in late September 2006.

Peranakan Place on Emerald Hill

With four Food & Beverage outlets, namely Acid Bar, Alley Bar, Rouge, and Rouge Outdoors, the Peranakan Place sparkles on Emerald Hill. There's an outlet to cater to every personality!

Acid Bar features a regular line-up of acoustic talents who serenade the crowd each night with tunes that span soul, pop, evergreens, and all the good bits in-between.

Alley Bar with its Café Del Mar type soundtrack playing in the background amidst fancy cocktails. Famous for its towering margaritas, no visit is complete without ordering one first!

The Rouge, only club on Emerald Hill, resident rock band John Molina & Krueger bring more than a decade of showmanship and charisma to the stage. The Professor, resident DJ of Rouge, plays dance friendly hits to keep the punters on the dance floor through the rest of the night! Rouge Outdoors is a comfortable alfresco deck right on Orchard Road.

With last dinner orders at 11.30pm and snacks available throughout the night till an hour before closing, this is the perfect stop for hungry night owls.

For more information on PERANAKAN PLACE please visit
http://www.peranakanplace.com

ATTITUDE DANCE STUDIO

Attitude Dance Studio is synonymous in Singapore for the instruction of the Latin dance form commonly known as Salsa. At the helm is Artistic Director Güpson Pierre, who founded the studio in 1998. Güpson is very much responsible for introducing the STYLE of Salsa danced and taught by most Salsa Dancers and Instructors in Singapore today. Hailing from Montreal, Canada, Güpson has over 20 years experience as a dancer, performer, instructor and choreographer in various dance forms ranging from ballet and jazz to contemporary and folkloric. He has taken his passion for dance and injected the same dedication into Salsa.

Gupson has developed a Salsa syllabus unique to Attitude Dance Studio focusing strongly in the techniques and fundamentals of this dance which is exactly what Attitude Dance Studio is best known for! In keeping with the demand for this ever popular dance, Gupson has also groomed a team of instructors at Attitude Dance Studio ensuring that the strictest standards with emphasis on dance techniques are preserved in the instruction.

In keeping with the spirit of being a pioneer in many areas, Attitude Dance Studio has also delved into a niche market and introduced Exotic Dance for Ladies in 2004.

At Attitude Dance Studio, we believe ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING, so if it's Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Street Cha Cha Cha, Afro-Caribbean or Exotic Dance that you're looking for, there's only one way to go - ATTITUDE!

Attitude Dance Studio

Lavina Kumar (Studio Manager)

70 Palmer Road #02-01/02

Palmer House (off Shenton Way)

Singapore 079427
Nearest MRT Station: Tanjong Pagar

Contact no: 6226 2381

E-mail: info@asiasalsa.com

Website: www.asiasalsa.com

FUEGO

Located at the bohemian center of Singapore, just a few steps from Club Street, the Latin bar Fuego, promises to be the new sensation in the city. The bar, owned by Carolyn Ortega and Andrew Wong, offers a varied alternatives of live Latin music.

Fuego
5 Gemmil Lane , unit # 01-01, Singapore 069261
Tel: 6327 1998
Email:enquiries@fuegodiosa.com

Since its opening in July 2005, Las LiLas, the very first and only establishment in Singapore to offer exclusive services related to the Spanish language, has gone through an intense and admirable task of having its students not only master the Spanish language but also develop an understanding of Spanish and Latin American cultures.

As part of this project, the organization sends out to thousands of readers, its monthly newsletter in digital version. The goal of the bulletin is to inform, in Spanish and in English, about the most relevant news in which the Spanish and Portuguese speaking communities take part.

A few months ago, Las LiLas decided to broaden its scope of services including Portuguese as part of its academic and cultural activity.

On the other hand, Las LiLas established the Corporate Services Division, which includes a comprehensive selection of exclusive and timely personalized services such as translation, interpretation, international secretarial services, tour guides, sales promoters, among others, for both local and overseas-based organizations.

Las LiLas is located in the heart of the city, on Bencoolen Street -the new district for arts and education in Singapore-, only a few minutes walking distance from the MRT stations of Bugis, Litle India and Dhoby Ghaut.

The Latin Circle was founded in Singapore 13 years ago by a great lover and defender of the Latin culture, Tony Hiux, ironically an Englishman, and taken over by Peter Taylor until 1998. The following president of the networking group was Carlos Rios, by then Trade Commissioner of Bancomext that, together with the Spaniard Marta Gómez, made an outstanding task promoting the Circle.

In the year 2004, Alejandra Pérez Grobet took the direction of the group and, from July 2005 onwards, the Latin Circle joined efforts with Las LiLas School. Together, the Circle and Las LiLas, work in order to promote and keep alive the Latin spirit in this small big island.

The Latin Circle normally meets every last Friday of the month. These networking meetings gather together members of the Latin and Spanish communities, as well as people from all around the world who are lovers of the Spanish language and its related cultures.

Besides the gatherings, The Circle and las LiLas organize movie screenings in Spanish and other kind of activities, about which the members are monthly informed.

Last but not least, the Latin Circle is a great channel though which the Latin and Spanish people can communicate. We are really looking forward to welcoming you!

The only requirement to attend the events is to register yourself with latincircle@yahoo.com or enquiries@laslilasschool.com

Founded in 1978, the Spanish Speaking Women's Association (SSWA ) is a civil, apolitical and nonprofit organization, which currently unites more than a 100 Spanish speaking women, including some who speak Portuguese, residing in Singapore .

The main objectives of SSWA are: to support and welcome the new arrivals by offering information and personal warmth; to continuously promote cooperation, ethics, respect and mutual tolerance; to strengthen the ties of union, friendship, social participation and communion; to organize activities which interest the social, intellectual, sportive and cultural minds while at the same time include the participation of husbands and children; t o support in a humanitarian and economical manner, charity organizations in Singapore through voluntary and altruist activities; to foment the integration and adaptation of foreigners to the local culture and idiosyncrasy and to promote the Spaniard and Latin American culture, habits, life style, language and varied forms of expression through a combination of activities and programs.

President: Amelia Brough HP 9687-6347
e-mail : sswa2005@yahoo.com.sg

Clubexplor helps children reconnect with their cultural heritage though fun and creative activities. At Clubexplor they will interact, explore and discover the world, while speaking Spanish, English or French. Clubexplor allows them to make friends and feel a sense of belonging.

The Clubexplor's founder, the Spaniard Carmen Santos , has been in Singapore for many years and has extensive experience and love for teaching and organizing creative, innovative, artistic and educative workshops for young children.

www.clubexplor.com

E-mail: carmen@clubexplor.com

carmen_desma@yahoo.com.sg

When adventurer Martin Jones, 43, of British nationality, visited the Borneo jungles in December 2005, he tried to protect himself against tropical diseases and the insects that transmit them.

Before leaving home, Martin got vaccinated against yellow fever and took medicine to ward off malaria.

He took precautions. Whether trekking into the jungle or canoeing across the river to see leaf-eating ants on the opposite bank, he wore long-sleeved shirts and knee-high boots and used an insect repellent containing DEET. In his thatch hut at night, he slept under mosquito netting.

After he returned home, however, Martin noticed a sore the size of a dime above his left ankle. Martin decided to see a dermatologist.

By the end of March 2006, despite antibiotics, his sore had grown to the size of a silver dollar, so he made another medical appointment. "The doctor took a biopsy and the diagnosis was i ndeed leishmaniasis, a tropical disease spread by infected female sandflies.

As Martin's experience shows, travelers' precautions against tropical diseases are not foolproof. At least six weeks before departure, get current health information from CDC on regions you plan to visit. Other sources may be your health department, doctor, or travel agency.

Osteopathic Medicine and Rehabilitation Pte Ltd
Dr. Eufemio Lopez Rodriguez
BMSc, DO, MSc, Ost. Med.

General Practice, Homoeopathic Medicine
Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine
Sports Medicine
Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine
Osteopathic in the Cranial Field

No.1 Coleman Street, #B1-25/26
The Adelphi, Singapore 179803
Tel; (65) 63367110
Fax; (65) 63372229
Email; osteomedr@yahoo.com.sg
Mon – Fri: 9.00 am – 6.00 pm
Saturday: 9.00 am – 4.00 pm
Closed on Sunday & Public Holidays