Audience: Couple

5 Tips For A Cheaper Staycation In Sentosa

When we talk about staycations in Singapore, Sentosa is bound to come to mind. Just imagine: a little beach paradise featuring top-notch restaurants and several five-star hotels, not to mention a superb aquarium and a couple of theme parks – all just minutes away from the mainland to boot.

Seriously, what’s not to love? With all that it has to offer, it’s no wonder that Sentosa remains a top choice for staycations. But as any visitor to Sentosa probably knows, “cheap” things don’t really exist in this tourist hotspot. Indeed, Sentosa is also home to some of the most expensive hotels in the country, with rates that can easily run into the thousands.

Still, don’t be disheartened! Even if you’re on a tighter budget, there are ways of turning that dream of yours into a reality. So if you’d like to know more about how you can have a dream staycay without burning a hole in your wallet, read on!

1. Be flexible, widen your options

If you have a limited budget to work with, then you’ll have to be flexible and realistic. Capella Hotel may be incredibly luxurious and grand, but it comes with a hefty price tag – are you prepared to fork out something like $500-1000 a night? If that doesn’t sit well with you, then why not try another hotel?

After all, a staycation at Capella is really not the only way to have a great beach holiday! Instead, do consider Mövenpick Heritage Hotel Sentosa (about $200-400/night), Siloso Beach Resort (around $200-300/night) or even Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa (from $233/night), all of which are more affordable and just as charming.

If you’re looking for something new, check out these newly launched hotels below by Far East Hospitality!

Family vacationers can stay at the family-friendly Village Hotel Sentosa (from $235/night)! With connecting family rooms, kid-amenities and a mega pool deck, this hotel is designed ideally for young families! The hotel also features many free activities like Family Scavenger Hunts, movie nights by the pool and more!

If a couple’s getaway is what you’re after, visit The Outpost Hotel Sentosa (from $250/night) then. This hotel caters exclusively for adults and features a new concept which allows you to select your own room views and customize your own minibar items! Don’t forget to check out their exclusive rooftop pool, where you can sip on evening cocktails with stunning coastal views as your backdrop.

2. Be on the lookout for deals and promotions

Okay, this one sounds like a no-brainer, but in all honesty – do you know where to look? While places like Groupon occasionally have special staycation deals for some hotels, do check places such as the

Some ongoing offers at the moment include the 3D2N Hotel and Multi-Attractions Package, which includes both a hotel stay and 2 adult passes to Adventure Cove Waterpark, S.E.A. Aquarium and Universal Studios Singapore (price from $708), as well as a 3D2N Deluxe Room stay at Siloso Beach Resort, which comes with two full-day adult passes for Universal Studios Singapore (price from $515).

3. If you can, book your room on the hotel’s website directly

Although booking websites such as Hotels.com, Agoda and Expedia have made hotel searching and price comparison more efficient, they tend to be more expensive than simply booking from the hotel website directly as they charge an extra middleman fee. This is despite each website claiming to be the cheapest amongst all.

While the difference is often not a lot, there’s somehow a sense of satisfaction in knowing that you secured the best possible deal. I mean, you clicked on this article to find out how to save money, so every dollar counts in the long run!

That being said, these booking websites do have pretty good deals once in a while, so don’t dismiss them entirely. The bottom line is: don’t simply rely on one single website or app when it comes to booking. Keep checking and comparing if you really want to save up!

4) Book early (or earlier)

Again, this one sounds pretty duh, especially since everyone knows that the early bird catches the worm offer. The thing is, as little planning needs to be done for staycations, bookings tend to be more last-minute.

However, in order for you to do steps 1 to 3, you’ll need some time – researching is time-consuming you know! Plus, if you’re eyeing a particular date such as a long weekend or public holiday, chances are that demand for hotel rooms is going to be really high. So if you don’t book early enough and are dead set on that date, you may end up paying significantly more for the same room. Booking early will also mean a higher chance of securing better deals, not to mention getting what you want.

Amara Sanctuary’s advance special, for instance, can help you save up to 30% if you book 30 days in advance. Click

You’re already in a nice room, and since there’s no one else around, the ambience is all the more intimate! No music? Simply bring along some portable speakers or play some chill tunes from your phone. There really isn’t a need to head to the bar (unless that’s really your thing) since the atmosphere’s already perfect.

Lastly, if you are going to BYOB, remember to plan and bring along other staycay essentials! Be it a movie to watch, some junk food to snack the night away, or perhaps even a Durex condom if it’s a staycay with your SO, do make sure you’re well-prepared to have a good time!

And there you have it!

Even though having a staycay at Sentosa isn’t exactly cheap, there’s still quite a bit you can take note of to save some money or at least, make it more worth the price. “Cheap” is relative, but no matter the budget, we’re sure every dollar counts in the long run.

Header image credit: Capella Singapore

Also, read This New Black And White Hotel In Singapore Is A Minimalist’s Dream Come True

Step Aside Pastamania, This Resto Chain Serves Legit Italian Fare For Under $30

Running overtime tonight? That’s not a problem.

At Singapore After Nine, we bring you the scoop on tried-and-tested, late night gems for you to rest your work-weary self.

This time, we’re featuring Image Credit: Chong Yi Sze[/caption]

Alternatively, enjoy the breeze at the alfresco dining area:

[caption id="attachment_23921" align="alignnone" width="2880"] Image Credit: Chong Yi Sze[/caption]

Here is where you’ll find genuinely good Italian food that doesn’t call for a pound of flesh. They’re generous with their portions, do not scrimp on their cheese (cheese lovers take note) and use fresh, quality ingredients. Read on to see what’s good.

Starters

1. Caesar Salad from the Cheese Wheel Menu ($19++)

[caption id="attachment_23902" align="alignnone" width="2880"] Image Credit: Chong Yi Sze[/caption]

Prepared in a uniquely traditional Italian method right by our table, the salad was tossed in the middle of a 20kg Grana Padano cheese wheel.

[caption id="attachment_23919" align="alignnone" width="871"] Image Credit: Chong Yi Sze[/caption]

While the salad was being mixed, the server scraped off fluffy cheese from the wheel to add a creamy, sweet-salty zing to the salad. Smoked chicken and light, crispy croutons were the cherry on top. It was such a refreshing accompaniment to our meal, and also doubled as an effective palate cleanser.

2. Wagyu beef carpaccio ($18++)

[caption id="attachment_23904" align="alignnone" width="2880"] Image Credit: Chong Yi Sze[/caption]

This dish consisted of finely sliced wagyu, topped with fresh rocket leaves and mushrooms, and drizzled with truffle oil. Amidst the bed of rocket leaves lay delicately-shaved pieces of 24-months old Parmesan cheese. All in all, it was a tasty, clean and refreshing dish. There were no hints of fishiness from the beef, which was sweet and tender. The rocket leaves were fresh, and tasted great with the dressing.

3. Oven Baked Eggplant Alla Parmigiana Style ($16++)

[caption id="attachment_23910" align="alignnone" width="2880"] Image Credit: Chong Yi Sze[/caption]

This dish of eggplant gratin proved to be a delicious, well-executed twist on the popular potato gratin. Baked to a pleasing softness without being overly mushy, the eggplant pieces were doused in a tomato-herb based sauce that had more flavour and depth than regular pasta sauce.

While potatoes might have weighed the dish down, the eggplant added a lighter touch that was delightfully refreshing. We bet you’ll love the chewy golden Parmesan crust atop the eggplant base. It was generously thick and stringy, and crispy at the edges.

Pizza

4. District 10 Pizza ($19++)

[caption id="attachment_23905" align="alignnone" width="2880"] Image Credit: Chong Yi Sze[/caption]

This dish was the highlight of the night. The pizza arrived warm and toasty, brimming with the aroma of a good ol’ stone oven. The crust was fluffy and so chock full of ingredients that it bent under their weight when we tried to pick up the pizza slices. The Pancetta ham was smoky and savoury, its fatty juices adding a flavour burst in every bite. Refreshing zucchini pieces were thoughtfully added to counter the richness of the ingredients, which included a sunny side up egg and mushrooms.

Pasta

5. Spaghetti Carbonara with Black Truffle ($24++)

[caption id="attachment_23908" align="alignnone" width="871"] Image Credit: Chong Yi Sze[/caption]

This dish was another one of our favourites. Al dente pasta coated with creamy carbonara sauce and infused with truffle – what’s not to like? The dish arrived with a sprinkling of finely-shaved black truffle, and a perfectly poached egg that oozed golden yolk.

6. Homemade Angel Hair with Live Lobster, Chilli, Basil and Fresh Tomatoes ($34++)

[caption id="attachment_23909" align="alignnone" width="2880"] Image Credit: Chong Yi Sze[/caption]

Looking ever so tempting, this dish no doubt lived up to its appearance. The tomato-based sauce was tangy and appetizing, which made us lose track of how much pasta we were eating. The zesty hit of tomato also went very well with the half-shell lobster, which could have been a tad bit more springy.

7. Warm Lava Chocolate Cake and Vanilla Ice Cream ($14++)

[caption id="attachment_23912" align="alignnone" width="2880"] Image Credit: Chong Yi Sze[/caption]

All it took was a gentle cut and the chocolate lava flowed like an endless river. Safe to say, this tops our list of chocolate lava cakes. The chocolate flavour was intense and the consistency of the lava was great. It wasn’t too runny, nor was it too thick. The cake itself was moist and fluffy, which was a major plus point.

8. Traditional Italian Tiramisu ($14++)

[caption id="attachment_23996" align="alignnone" width="6000"] Image Credit:

Likewise, the tiramisu was another crowd pleaser.  Topped with cocoa powder and garnished with a berry and holly leaves, it looked like Christmas came early. The light cream sat atop a fluffy cake base flavoured richly with coffee, and was not as bitter as some other tiramisus out there.

While District 10 is known for serving up great-tasting Italian fare, its latest outlet at Suntec City specialises in something rather more unique, but equally delicious. There, choose from an ample variety of flavoursome, dry-aged meats that are beautifully marbled and paired off with premium red wine.

Last but not least, what better way to round off the night than with these sweet deals?

Ho Seh Liao! The Govt Is Giving Out S$120M To Help Out HDB Homeowners

The Ministry of Finance announced today that around 880,000 Singapore HDB households can expect to receive $120 million worth of Service & Conservancy Charges (S&CC) rebates in FY2017.

This rebate is intended to provide additional support to households and will be used to offset a household’s S&CC payment directly.

Each eligible Singaporean household will receive 1.5 – 3.5 months of S&CC rebate, depending on your HDB flat type. This rebate will be disbursed through the months of April 2017, July 2017, October 2017, and January 2018.

Eligible households will receive a letter from end March with further details on the rebate.

Also read, 10 Awesome Activities To Kick Start Your April [1-15 April]

10 Awesome Activities To Kick Start Your April [1-15 April]

Unfortunately, there won’t be anything to do this April…

…

…April Fools! Of course there is.

This month is one with something for everyone! There’s a run for the fitness junkies, a pet fair for the animal lovers, and a whole lot of yummy food events for the rest of us who just love to eat.

Here’s a calendar of fun and exciting activities to fill your 1-15 April! We’re not pulling your leg when we say you shouldn’t miss them.

Play & Discover

1. Teh Tarik Run

So you want to run, keep fit, and stay healthy. But you also can’t stay off good ol’ prata and teh tarik.

Well, Teh Tarik Run 2017 proves you can do both! At the same time, no less.

It’s no news that our tiny island is a hotspot for famous international artists.

This year is no different. April’s offering is five-time #1 DJ in the world, Armin van Buuren!

[caption id="attachment_24338" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: Trance.Es[/caption]

For the less acquainted, Armin is a progressive trance DJ and producer of cinematic and synth sounds.

The Embrace World Tour is closely related to Armin’s latest album ‘Embrace’, which embraces different styles, genres, and sounds.

Internationally acclaimed artists Mr. Probz, Kensington, Eric Vloeimans, Cimo Fränkel, Betsie Larkin, Angel Taylor and BullySongs will be performing live too!

Armin Only Embrace World Tour
Where: The Meadow, Gardens By The Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953
When: 1 April,  4.00pm-11.50pm
Probably the most luxurious event this month is the Singapore Yatch Show!

Here’s your opportunity to discover some of the world’s finest superyacht and international yacht brands.

[caption id="attachment_24339" align="aligncenter" width="2808"] Image Credit: ONE°15 Marina Club, 11 Cove Drive, #01-01, Sentosa Cove, 098497
When: 6-9 April
Contact no.: 6304 7950
Bonjour!

Celebrating 51 years of friendship between France and Singapore, the annual French festival Voilah! brings the ooh la la to Singapore yet again.

[caption id="attachment_24340" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Image Credit: 101-103 Cluny Park Road Singapore 259595
When: 8 April-21 May
Website

5. Tsum Tsum Carnival

Everyone’s favourite cylindrical Disney characters have reached CapitaLand’s malls for an interactive Tsum Tsum Carnival!

You’d be lying if you said you don’t think these little creatures are cute as anything.

[caption id="attachment_24341" align="aligncenter" width="1372"] Image Credit: Time Out[/caption]

Take pictures with the cylindrical-shaped figures in recreated scenes from Disney Tsum Tsum’s animation shorts.

But that’s not all! Other activities include the Ninja Castle Challenge, making your own Disney Tsum Tsum characters from Play-Doh and racing Disney Tsum Tsum Tomica die-cast cars.

So grab your family and friends for the cutest event yet!

Tsum Tsum Carnival
Where: Participating CapitaLand malls: Sembawang Shopping Centre, Lot One, Bukit Panjang Plaza, JCube, IMM, Westgate, The Star Vista, Junction 8, Plaza Singapura, Bugis Junction, Bedok Mall, Raffles City, Tampines Mall
When: 1 April
Our favourite day of the year–it’s Ben and Jerry’s Free Cone Day!

You heard us right. Free. Ice-cream.

[caption id="attachment_24342" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Image Credit: Scoop shops all over the country
When:  4 April, 12pm-8pm
This one’s for you junk food lovers out there who love to snack! (That’s all of us, really.)

World Snack Fair 2017 is here to satisfy all your sweet and salty cravings!

[caption id="attachment_24343" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Image Credit: Emaze[/caption]

This yummy exhibition will feature hundreds of different snack brands from all around the world.

Popular brands you will be familiar with include Japanese brands Meiji and Calbee. We can hear the crunch of potato chips already!

There will also be Ichiban kuji for Otakus who wish to try their luck, getting some rad anime merchandise. What’s more, a maid and butler cafe will also be set up on-site for those who enjoy themed cafes!

World Snack Fair 2017
Where: Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre, 1 Raffles Boulevard, Level 3, Concourse 1-4, Singapore 039593
When: 7-8 April (9am – 10pm), 9 April (9am – 9pm)
Contact no.: 6560 5424

8. Michelin Guide Street Food Festival

Have you tried Michelin starred local food?

Now’s your chance to try food from Michelin starred eateries, all under one roof!

[caption id="attachment_24344" align="aligncenter" width="5742"] Image Credit: MICHELIN guide Singapore[/caption]

This is a celebration of multi-cultural and delicious local street food. They’re coming from the kitchens of more than 12 Michelin starred restaurants and celebrated Bib Gourmand eateries.

Expect star dishes including many local street food favourites and a selection of international street cuisine!

Join us at the ambient, breezy Coliseum at RWS for a meal you won’t forget!

Michelin Guide Street Food Festival
Where: The Coliseum, Resorts World Sentosa
When: 14-15 April
Price: $20 per pax
Website

Shop

9. Pet Expo

You won’t have to leave Fido at home for this one.

Welcome to Pet Expo 2017!

[caption id="attachment_24345" align="aligncenter" width="920"] Image Credit: Pet Expo SG[/caption]

Bring your furry friend to the biggest pet fair this year! There will be a whole lot of businesses present, as well as educational and engaging activities focused on pets and their well-being.

Look forward to a series of informative talks and intense competitions planned to bring the pet community together!

This year, fish lovers too can look forward to participating in competitions for aquatic animals, while families can bring children to learn more about aquatic animals and marine life.

Join in on a fun-filled learning journey towards pet ownership!

Pet Expo 2017
Where: Singapore Expo Hall 7
When: 14-16 April, 11am-8pm
Price: $5 per day / $12 for 3-Day Pass (Free entry for children below 12)
Website

10. Artbox

Hipsters and art market lovers rejoice!

Artbox—Bangkok’s famous hipster market—is coming to Singapore this month.

[caption id="attachment_24506" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Image Credit: The Lawn @ Marina Bay, 8A Marina Boulevard, Singapore 018984
When: 14-16 April, 21 – 23 May, 3pm – 11pm
Price: Free entrance

Don’t be a fool this April!

Come join in on these cannot-miss events to kick off your April on a strong note. We kid you not, you’ll have a whale of a time!

Also, read Enjoy Movies By The Beach At Sunset Cinema, The First Silent Movie Experience In S’pore

This New Black And White Hotel In Singapore Is A Minimalist’s Dream Come True

Singapore is no stranger to boutique hotels. They’re fun, uniquely designed–a welcomed break from the standard fare you find at more well-established hotel chains.

For those of you who are always on the lookout for somewhere to have a stay-cay with your beau, your gal pals, or even your family, there’s a new player in town, and it’s a minimalist’s dream come true.

Get your cameras and phones ready, ‘cuz we foresee lots of insta-worthy photo opportunities!

[caption id="attachment_24454" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Exterior of Hotel Mono (Image Credit: Reception Area (Image Credit: Single Room (Image Credit: Twin Room (Image Credit: Bathroom (Image Credit: Double Room/Double Plus (Double Plus has bigger windows for a better view) (Image Credit: Studio Room (Image Credit: Family Room (Image Credit: Family Room (Image Credit: Hotel Mono

(Top Image Credit:

Unconventional Valentine’s Date Night Ideas For Couples Who Are Tired of Clichés

If 11 November (11.11) is the day for singles, then 14 February is the day for couples, and with it comes a whole slew of shopping opportunities. Valentine’s Day in Singapore is not something to be trifled with, and we have the stats to prove it.

In February 2015, a Groupon survey done on 20,694 of its global subscribers found that Singaporeans are among the top 3 spenders for Valentine’s Day, with .

Valentine’s Day tends to be rather headache-inducing when it comes to making restaurant reservations. Booking last minute can burn a veritable hole in your budget, or end up with dinner at a fast food restaurant.

A Guavapass[/caption]

GuavaPass is a startup that connects you to gyms and fitness studios all over the world. For the couple afraid that all the Valentine’s chocolates would add a few more pounds, or for those who enjoy working out together, this is the gift for you.

The great thing about GuavaPass is that discounting their worldwide networks, they also have studios in almost every corner of Singapore, so finding a place to workout has never been easier. The second great thing about the GuavaPass is that it helps you shed all those chocolate pounds, as well as give you that healthy glow.

3. Be My (Beauty) Valentine

All the chocolates and dining out might not be good for the skin, so after a decadent meal, or even as a post-workout downtime for the both of you, how about a facial? And I don’t mean one of those animal print masks either. No, I’m talking more about a decadent experience to share with your partner.

The Amaris B. Clinic features several skin treatments for both 4. Be My (Adventure) Valentine [caption id="attachment_24487" align="alignnone" width="768"] bemyguest[/caption]

Put a healthy adventure spin on Valentine’s with BeMyGuest.

The platform curates a mind-boggling array of activities for anyone looking for a day of action and fun. Rather than the conventional dinner and flowers, take your date out to the Adventure Cove Waterpark, werk it together in a twerking class, or even learn how to snowboard!

The fun part about BeMyGuest is that it doesn’t just cover Singapore, but more than 800 destinations from Budapest, Hungary to Tokyo, Japan.

Exercise and eating right can give you that special glow for Valentine’s, and for that extra boost of radiance, here comes gift no. 5.

5. Be My (Body Makeover) Valentine

For a more luxurious experience, you and your partner can also consider signing up for medical aesthetic treatments, something that would revamp your whole outlook so that you and your partner can become the people you want to be together.

A good option for ladies to consider, if you’re not the GuavaPass type of person, but are the type to worry about what all the holiday snacking will do to your body is Amaris B. signature fat reduction and body contouring treatment: Vaser Liposelection (VASERlipo). This is the Vulcan Post.

Also, read The Most Romantic Dinner + Night Stroll Places In Singapore For A Lovey-Dovey V Day

Enjoy Movies By The Beach At Sunset Cinema, The First Silent Movie Experience In S’pore

Forget the conventional indoor cinema. Come May, film buffs can enjoy the latest flicks while sipping champagne at Sunset Cinema, Singapore’s first silent outdoor cinema.

This highly anticipated movie event will be held from 5 – 14 May at Tanjong Beach.

What to Expect at Sunset Cinema

Alongside top-notch movies, expect a fun night filled with great food, and tunes by live DJs, set against a spectacular sunset!

Some of the movies in the six-film line-up include Oscar nominated sci-fi film, Arrival, where a linguistics professor races against time to discover the intentions of aliens who have landed on earth; Lion, an adoption tearjerker and comedy-drama; Captain Fantastic, and many others!

Doors open at 5pm, so cinema-goers can arrive early to enjoy some pre-film tipple and bites. At 7.30pm, sit back and relax on the deck chairs while your movie plays through your noise cancelling wireless headphones. After each movie screening, there will be shuttle buses to ferry you back to Harbourfront MRT!

Tickets cost $29.80 a pop and are selling fast, so grab yours soon!

Click here for the full line-up of movies and to book tickets.

DiscoverSG Giveaway

DiscoverSG will be giving 5 lucky winners one pair of tickets each to see one of the following films:
– Arrival
– The Founder
– Captain Fantastic

All you have to do is:
1. LIKE our Facebook page
2. SHARE the giveaway post
3. TAG a friend you would like to bring along to Sunset Cinema

The giveaway ends on 11.59pm, 29th March.

(Top Image Credit: Sunset Cinema)

Also read, Put Your Prison Break Skills To The Test At One Of Lockdown SG’s Most Challenging Escape Rooms