Author: Discover SG

Hermo Celebrates 4th Anniversary With Descendants Of The Sun Hunks In Singapore

Southeast Asia’s top beauty e-tailer, Hermo is pulling out all the stops when it comes to celebrating its 4th Anniversary on 12 June 2016. Riding on the craze of the award winning Korean television series ‘Descendants of the Sun’, they partnered our hot local hunks from Manhunt Singapore 2016 to bring Korean drama excitement to the ladies on the streets!

Last weekend, 30 of the most eligible bachelors in Singapore were out on the streets to increase awareness of Hermo’s unique offering of over 500 Korean, Japanese and Taiwanese beauty brands to beauty enthusiasts here. To impress the office ladies at Raffles Place and the teenage girls on Orchard Road, the Manhunt contestants were dressed as characters from the popular Korean drama, “Descendants Of The Sun”.

These 30 hunky manhunt contestants were busy spreading the news of Hermo’s Fourth Anniversary Special – a whooping 80% discount on all products purchased from 12 to 18 June 2016. New online customers of Hermo can also enjoy $10 off their first purchase by using the discount code “HERMO10”.

The photogenic Manhunt contestants were also game for pictures with the public. Besides taking selfies and wefies, they were also able to re-enact the most famous scenes from the Korean drama.

Many members of the public grabbed the opportunity to take photos with the contestants. By hash-tagging their pictures with #hermotakeson4 on Facebook or Instagram, they stand a chance to win one of 1,000 goody bags from Hermo.

Visit www.hermo.sg today and shop for the best beauty products at the lowest prices from 12 June 2016!

Hermo
Website

This article originally appeared on 6 Seriously Addictive Salted Egg Yolk Snacks You Must Try In SG!

Go Ga-Ga Over Geylang With These Seriously Good Eats Under $15

Geylang Sipaku Geylang!

The atmospheric district of Geylang is known for many things (if you know what I mean…), but do you know that it is also home to a huge selection of food at penny-pinching prices? Well, now you do. We’ll be happy to take the credit!

Let us take you on a trip down the streets, past whimsical shophouses and great period architecture to get your fill of some of the best local food in the country. On offer is a greedy grab of choices that will make you go gaga with glee!

1. Penang Seafood Restaurant

Craving for authentic Penang dishes but don’t want to travel across the causeway? Don’t pout, leave your passports at home and opt for the popular Penang Seafood Restaurant instead, a worthy alternative. Aside from traditional favourites, they also serve a wide array of local zi char dishes.

Penang Seafood Restaurant
Address: 76 Lorong 25A Geylang, S 388258
Opening Hours: Daily: 11am – 12mn
Tel: 6841 3002

2. Geylang Claypot Rice

A specialist at their craft, Geylang Claypot Rice takes an estimated 30 minutes – an hour (during peak hours), to serve the food. Good food must wait. For interested diners, it’s advisable to call them in advance. Served with an array of wholesome ingredients, kick up the taste with the recommended two rounds of dark sauce. Believe me, the wait is well worth it.

Geylang Claypot Rice
Address: No. 639, Lorong 33 Geylang, S 389570
Opening Hours: Tues – Sun: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5pm – 12am
Tel: 6744 4574

3. Hong Qin Fish & Duck Porridge

This stall offers a variety of Teochew fare such as braised duck and pig trotter platters (in other words, Kway Chap side dishes) to go with their signature porridge. Of course, their best would be the sliced Batang fish, which is often sold out a few hours into business (there’s the fried fish option too). The early bird catches the fish!

Hong Qin Fish & Duck Porridge
Address: #01-127, 134 Geylang East Avenue 1, S 380134
Opening Hours: Daily: 5.45am – 3.30pm
Tel: 9061 4988

4. L32 Kopitiam Ban Mian

When it comes to handmade noodles, the phrase “one of the best” often gets thrown around a lot. But this time, we’re going to make an exception. On the surface, L32 Kopitiam may look ordinary, until you take a glance at the queue at this stall. Such is the power of their Ban Mian, which comes equally slurp worthy, dry or soup.

L32 Kopitiam Ban Mian
Address: 558 Geylang Road, S 389509
Opening Hours: Tue – Sun: 11am – 9pm
Tel: 9770 2829

5. 126 Dim Sum

Also featured in best 24-7 food places, it’s impossible not to include Wan Dou Sek in this list too. Head down for a no-frills dining experience of value for money dim sum. Nevertheless, be wary of the quality inconsistency of some of their dishes (sometimes good, sometimes bad). At their prime however, this eatery deserves to be on everyone’s list.

126 Dim Sum
Address: 126 Sims Avenue, S 387449
Opening Hours: Daily: 24 hours
Tel: 6746 4757

6. Lorong 9 Beef Kway Teow

When you plaster the word “famous” in bold white front at your eatery, you are either arrogant or your food really is damn good. Fortunately, it’s the latter. Arguably one of the best Hor Funs in Singapore, the thick sauce is irresistibly shiok. Although I’ve heard that standards have dropped, it still remains somewhere along the pinnacle.

Must try: Beef Hor Fun ($6)

Lorong 9 Beef Kway Teow
Address: 237 Geylang Lorong 9, S 388756
Opening Hours: Daily: 4.30pm – 2.30am
Tel: 9388 0723

7. The Ranch Cafe

Astons? Chargrill Bar? Collins Grille? With all of them offering affordable Western delights and much to the chagrin of our tummies, we can only be at one place at one time. Well, when in Geylang, add The Ranch to that list, which is also same same, but different. Their economical set lunches and dinners on menu are to die for.

The Ranch Cafe
Address: 71 Lorong 27 Geylang, S 388198
Opening Hours: Daily: 11.30am – 11pm
Tel: 6747 0788

8. Little Vietnam Café

Little Vietnam is quite literally, a little Vietnamese-run eatery that serves an extensive menu of Vietnamese staples. You’ve got your phos, banh mis, spring rolls and the likes. Not forgetting to mention, this place is uber popular because prices are middling cheap. Add to that a chill atmosphere and you’ve got yourself a winner.

Little Vietnam Café
Address: #01-25, Grandlink Square, 511 Guillemard Road, S 399849
Opening Hours: Daily: 5pm – 3am
Tel: 6547 8587

9. Brawn & Brains Café

We’ve now headed into café territory so how can we neglect Brawn & Brains, one of the best cafes Singapore has to offer? Brawn & Brains ticks all the boxes. Instagram-worthy food? Check. Artisanal drinks? Check. Good vibes? Triple check. For a genuine wholesome dining experience, make this place your next destination.

Brawn & Brains Café
Address: #01-02, Singapore Badminton Hall, 100 Guillemard Road, S 399718
Opening Hours:
Tue – Fri: 9am – 7pm
Sat – Sun: 9.30am – 7pm
Tel: 6348 0501

10. The Real Hut

Need a break from the meat fare? Head down to this Asian-Western fusion inspired vegetarian café, a relatively new player in the culinary scene. The Real Hut’s dishes are eloquently presented and they look outstanding, giving our favourite greens the extra zing (you have to admit it’s hard to make veggies look appetizing). Psst, there is no service charge and GST too.

The Real Hut
Address: #01-197, Blk 46 Sims Place, S 380046
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat: 11am – 8.30pm
Tel: 6846 9976

There you have it! A world of delectable food for you to explore. So, when in Geylang, you know what to do… Oei! You know what I meant!

Are these places worthy of this list? Did we miss out anything in our food series? Let us know!

Also read: 8 Best Laksa In Singapore For Thick, Flavourful & Spicy Broth

Print Photos For Free & Enjoy Exclusive Promotions – SPARK Asia

With the inception of digital media, less people these days actually print out photographs they have taken. The ubiquity of data storage devices such as SD cards, memory sticks, or even online storage platforms, has led to lesser people printing their photos. Furthermore, not everyone has access to home photo printers that allow you to print in the comfort of your own room. To add, it is also a hassle to head down to a photo shop to get your photos printed. However, many still agree that printed photos are still ideal in this day and age, as they represent a tangible form of preserving one’s memories.

Enter SPARK, a Singapore-based service that allows you to print your photographs for free! In all honesty, when I first heard of SPARK from a friend, I was undoubtedly sceptical. It simply sounded too good to be true. Especially in a country like Singapore, where you have to pay for almost everything from iced water in cafes, to extra chilli sauce sachets in certain restaurants, I couldn’t help but wonder where the proverbial catch was. But since their website,

Also read: Here’s An Ingenious Way To Easily Save 10% Off Your Dining Bills

Under $15 Best Food Places That Make Our Hearts Go Bedok Bedok!

Damn, Discover SG! Back at it again with the food lists!

Take our hands cos we’re taking you on a journey through Bedok, a residential heartland in the East filled with amazing food at very affordable prices. Known for several famous hawker stalls, Bedok has also seen a rise in cafes shooting up like beansprouts.

So instead of listless (pun intended) scrolling/swiping through random listicles, we’ve carefully curated the 10 places you should definitely check out in the area. Be it breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there is certainly no shortage of options! Thank us later.

1. Nakhon Kitchen

The Nakhon Kitchen chain and Thai food has been synonymous. You just can’t separate the two. Offering killer prices with consistently good authentic food, it’s hardly any wonder why there are long queues almost every day. The best part, no GST and service charge!

Nakhon Kitchen
Address: #01-166, 136 Bedok North Avenue 3, S 460136
Opening Hours: Daily: 12 – 3pm; 5.30pm – 10pm
Tel: 6245 5548

2. Syed Restaurant

Simpang Bedok is home to an entire stretch of halal restaurants, but none of them can beat Syed Restaurant for “best late-night prata”. Aside from crispy flatbreads, this eatery also serves a full slate of Indian-Muslim dishes. Open 24 hours, your supper cravings will not go unsatisfied.

Syed Restaurant
Address: 326 Bedok Road, S 469496
Opening Hours: Daily: 24 hours
Tel: 6242 5412

3. The Burning Oak

The Bedok Marketplace is a very “atas” hawker center, so there are no surprises here that the food would also get the same pharaonic treatment. Follow the aroma of searing meat to the Burning Oak, a rustic yet modern food joint serving charcoal grilled Yakitori. Mouth-wateringly delicious, you’ll never go back to Tori-Q again.

The Burning Oak
Address: #02-16, Bedok Marketplace, 348 Bedok Road, S 469560
Opening Hours:
Tue – Thurs: 12 – 1.30pm; 6pm – 9.30pm
Fri – Sun: 12 – 1.30pm; 6pm – 10pm
Contact: 9873 6093

4. Percolate

Unlike the many many slew of cafes here in our tiny island, Percolate’s menu is friendly. Wallet friendly, that is. Despite food items being relatively cheap, food quality isn’t compromised. An awesome place for a light chill brunch or to grab a quick hot Papa Pahelta!

Percolate
Address: #01-152, 136 Bedok North Avenue 3, S 460136
Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed – Fri: 10.30am – 9.30pm
Sat – Sun: 9am – 9.30pm
Tel: 8259 0316

5. Sarah’s The Pancake Café

Good news to the Muslim pancake-loving community, this is a halal pancake restaurant (wow!). Sarah’s is home to fluffy brown pancakes, tasty crepes, and delectable pastas. But what’s so special about this place? Well, cafe owner Alina spices up the menu with local flavours using ingredients such as Gula Melaka, Otah, and Red Bean Paste.

Sarah’s The Pancake Cafe
Address: #01-062, East Village, 430 Upper Changi Road, S 487048
Opening Hours:
Mon – Thurs: 11.15am – 10pm
Fri: 2.30pm – 10.30pm
Sat – Sun: 9am – 10.30pm
Tel: 9688 4163

6.To-gather Café

Don’t you just love it when cafes start springing up in our heartlands? As compared to the town area, rental prices are kept much lower at heartlands so cafes are able to charge lower prices (to the delight of foodies). Speaking of low prices, To-gather is a no GST (yes lah!) food joint serving foodgasmic Western delights and artisanal coffee. Hurray to penny pinchers!

To-gather Cafe
Address: #01-25/27, 84 Bedok North Street 4, S 460084
Opening Hours: Tues – Sun: 11am – 10pm
Tel: 6445 1011

7. Refuel Café

The last café in this list, Refuel boasts a casual vibe with plenty of natural sunlight for that perfect Instagram shot. I use ‘affordable’ a lot (hey, who can blame me when it’s true!), so I’ll change my tune by saying that the food menu is value-for-money. For a wholesome and hearty meal, look no further.

Must try: Full Tank ($13.90);

Refuel Cafe
Address: #01-3029, Blk 744 Bedok Reservoir Road, S 470744
Opening Hours: Mon, Wed – Sun: 11am – 10pm
Tel: 6448 0015

8. Pin Xiang Chicken Rice

It’s hard to miss this one, for this chicken rice stall generates a bustling long queue during lunch and dinner hours. The stall is true to its name (Pin Xiang means fragrant in Mandarin) with both the rice and chicken being extremely well prepared. I would consider this to be one of the best chicken rice stalls in Singapore.

Pin Xiang Chicken Rice
Address: #01-03, Blk 208B, Bedok Interchange Food Centre, New Upper Changi Road, S 460207
Opening Hours: Daily: 9am – 10pm

9. Xing Ji Rou Cuo Mian

The highlight of this humble list and one of my favourites of all-time, Xing Ji Bak Chor Mee is like seriously out of this world! The 30-45 minutes wait is well worth it. There’s only a soup version but the soup/broth is rich and immaculate. It outshines the meatballs and noodles by a mile. Tip: order more than 1 bowl.

Xing Ji Rou Cuo Mian
Address: #01-07, 85 Fengshan Food Centre, Blk 85 Bedok North Street 4, S 460085
Opening Hours: Mon – Wed, Fri – Sun: 2.30pm – 1.30am
Tel: 9835 7884

10. Inspirasi Stall

Inspirasi is a Muslim hawker stall that is well-known with Bedok residents. Here, you can find the legendary Soto Ayam dish, which according to word-of-mouth, is the best in Singapore. Despite winning many awards, prices are still kept low while the food remains scrupulously prepared. Inspirasi is truly inspiring (sorry, I had to).

Inspirasi Stall
Address: #01-11, Blk 207, Bedok Interchange Food Centre, New Upper Changi Road, S 460207
Opening Hours: Mon – Wed, Fri – Sun: 12pm – 12am
Tel: 6589 8494

Yup, that’s your heart going bedok bedok. With choices like these, is it any wonder?

Are there other eateries you think we should have included in the list? Let us know!

Also read: Here’s An Ingenious Way To Easily Save 10% Off Your Dining Bills

10 Best Food Places At Tanjong Pagar Under $15

Often finding yourself scrolling through random listicles for the best food deals? Or simply referring to the same food articles you’ve bookmarked since January when it comes to picking out eateries?

Yeap, we totally feel your pain. So instead of the endless scrolling/swiping, we are proud to announce that we’ll be bringing forth a series of articles on best food places under $15 at a selected area.

We’ve put together a list of eateries, ranging from restaurants to hawker centres, in the CBD that offer decent meals for under $15. You’re very welcome.

1. Pho Stop

The spiritual rival of the more mainstream NamNam Noodle Bar, Summer Fresh Rolls ($6)
Stuffed with whole prawns, chunks of chicken and rice noodles-all wrapped in a Vietnamese rice paper, this is an appetiser that does more than just whet one’s appetite. Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7443" align="alignnone" width="640"] Vietnamese Coffee ($3.60)
Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

Pho Stop
Address: 72 Tanjong Pagar Road, S 088493
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat: 11.30am – 9.30pm
Tel: 6534 8178

2. Selfish Gene

An unpretentious hipster café, this eatery is a favourite because of its consistently good comfort food. Boasting a minimalist style with carefully plated dishes, Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7446" align="alignnone" width="640"] Beef Sandwich $13 
Upon one’s first bite, one can taste a sharp wake up sting, thanks to the dijon mustard. The beef sandwich is roasted to perfection. Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7447" align="alignnone" width="640"] Smoked Salmon & Eggs ($15)
With creamy, fluffy scrambled eggs, buttery sautéed mushrooms & generous portions of smoked salmon, this dish will make the perfect brunch. Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

Selfish Gene
Address: 40 Craig Road, S (089678)
Opening Hours: Mon: 10am – 3pm, Wed – Fri: 10am – 5pm, Sat – Sun: 9.30am – 5pm
Tel: 6423 1324

3. Drury Lane

Yet another hipster café, Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7449" align="alignnone" width="640"] Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7450" align="alignnone" width="640"] Eggs Benedict ($12)
Honey cured turkey bacon, poached eggs, and hollandaise sauce on toast – a medley of flavours. 
Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

Drury Lane
Location: 94 Tanjong Pagar Road, S (088515)
Opening Hours: Mon – Tues: 8am – 6pm, Wed – Fri: 8am – 10pm, Sat – Sun: 9am – 6pm
Tel: 6222 6698

4. Two Blur Guys

In contrast to its name, founders Max and Anthony are anything but blur. Inspired by American style diners, Prime Beef ($13.95)
The sinful combination: prime beef, streaky bacon & truffle mayonnaise. Absolutely worth the calories!
Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7452" align="alignnone" width="612"] Pulled Pork ($11.50)  
A combination of marinated pork, gruyere cheese & honey mustard is simply superb. Every mouthful filled with meaty goodness. Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

Two Blur Guys
Address: 1 Tras Link, S (078867)
Opening Hours: Daily 11am – 10pm
Tel: 6636 4183

5. Two Men Bagel House

As the pioneer of all the bagel houses in Singapore, there’s a lot weighing on Babe Bagelwich ($10.90)
Cheesy soft scrambled egg, Montreal bacon, fresh tomatoes and spring onion with a cinnamon raisin bagel. The sweet and savory combination is quite a trip.
Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7454" align="alignnone" width="640"] Lox Bagelwich ($11.90)
A classic combination of cured salmon, cream cheese, red onions, beets, dill and capers, atop crisp yet chewy bagel halves. Brunch time goodness!
Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7455" align="alignnone" width="640"] Porky ($8.90)
Mushrooms coupled with bagel sandwiched between perfect scrambled eggs, scallions, bacon, tomatoes. An all-day breakfast choice!
Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

Two Men Bagel House
Address: #01-12, Icon Village Altez, 16 Enggor Street, S079717
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 8am – 7pm, Sat – Sun: 9am – 6pm
Tel: 6509 4125

6. Hokkaido Izakaya

Serving some of Hokkaido’s best produce, the Kakiage Tempura Soba ($14)
Soba prepared fresh made with buckwheat flour and stock cooked using Hokkaido soba powder with a mixed vegetable strip tempura.
Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

Hokkaido Izakaya
Address: 95 Tanjong Pagar Road, S 088516
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 12mn; Sun: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Tel: 6221 7118

7. The Lawn

A fully customisable Salad café, Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7460" align="alignnone" width="640"] Salad Bowl ($9.90)
Who says salads can’t be delicious? A salad with 5 toppings and 1 dressing – a treat for the mind and soul.
Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7461" align="alignnone" width="640"] Olive Rice ($10.90)
Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

The Lawn
Address: #B1-11, AXA Tower, 8 Shenton Way, S 068811
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 10.30am – 9pm
Tel: 6534 8749

8. Moi Lum

A traditional Cantonese restaurant serving a wide variety of dishes “zi-char” style, Minced Pork & Salted Fish Rice ($8.90)
These wholesome sets include a bowl of homecooked soup and fresh fruit!
Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7463" align="alignnone" width="640"] Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7464" align="alignnone" width="640"] Sweet & Sour Pork Hor Fun ($7.90)
Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

Moi Lum
Address: #01-01, Airview Building, 38 Maxwell Road, S069116
Opening Hours: Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Tel: 6226 2283

9. Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice

Probably the most famous chicken rice stall in Singapore, Tian Tian is both renowned amongst locals and tourists alike. Many flock here to get a taste of the Anthony Bourdain-endorsed fragrant rice that is so good you’ll have seconds. There’s also a guaranteed queue at any time and at any day.

[caption id="attachment_7465" align="alignnone" width="649"] Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7466" align="alignnone" width="648"] Chicken Rice ($3.50)
Ain’t no chicken rice like a Tian Tian chicken rice. Nuff said.
Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice
Address: Maxwell Food Centre, 1 Kadayanallur Street, S (069184)
Opening Hours: Tue – Sun: 10am – 8pm
Tel: 6448 0120

10. A Noodle Story

It’s wanton mee! No, it’s ramen! No, it’s, it’s…both? A Noodle Story offers gourmet noodles at hawker prices. For a bowl, you get an A+ presentation as well as a culinary medley of noodles, onsen egg, char siew, potato-wrapped prawn, and wanton. Ohhhh yes.

[caption id="attachment_7467" align="alignnone" width="642"] Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7468" align="alignnone" width="640"] Singapore-Style Ramen ($5.50)
The synergy between these ingredients has formed another unique experience worthy enough to claim as our own local rendition of ramen.
Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

A Noodle Story
Address: #01-39, Amoy Street Food Centre, 7 Maxwell Road, S069111
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 11.15am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 7.30pm;
Sat: 10.30am – 1.30pm
Tel: 9027 6289

So buckle down and loosen those belt straps the next time you’re in the CBD! With these eateries, you’ll never look at lunch hour the same again.

Are there other eateries you think we should have included in the list? Let us know!

Also read: 6 Oozing Lava Desserts You’ll Definitely Have A Soft Spot For!

9 Types Of Singaporean Mums And Best Gifts For Them

 

As Mother’s Day draws near, we keep an eye out for florists, gifts and online deals, if only to get the best gifts for our mums on that special day. Some mums love flowers, whilst others think of it as a waste of money (it’s going to wilt anyway); some mums love accessories and clothes, whilst others haven’t dressed up since they had us.

Which is why this article recommends gifts based on Mum’s hobbies and tastes – think lululemon for yoga enthusiasts, and a nice chopping board for mums who love to cook.

We’ve compiled a list of 9 Singapore Mum personalities, ranging from the Yogi to the Traveller – and a great gift for each type of mummy this Mother’s Day.

1. The K-Drama Ahjumma

[caption id="attachment_6622" align="aligncenter" width="975"] Credit: Persona:
Other mums may complain that we spend too much time in front of the screen, but K-Drama lover Mum is just as guilty of that as we are. She’ll stay up till the wee hours to finish her latest rom-com. She remembers the day of the week by the episodes released. Don’t even think of testing her database of cute Korean male leads, she’ll ace it for sure. A true blue K-drama addict, ‘Eomma’ will do anything and everything to get her daily drama fix.

Suggested gift for her: A Descendants of the Sun Poster

Surprise her with memorabilia from this mega-popular series – she’ll treasure your gift forever. If Mum doesn’t know what we’re referring to, then she has not become a full-fledged K-Drama Ahjumma, find something else on this list for her instead. 

2. Foodie Mum

Persona:
She may or may not know how to cook, but Mum certainly knows how to eat – and very well at that. Always caught munching on something regardless of the hour, and forever on the prowl for the next café to hop to, Mum lives for food and food only.

Suggested gift for her: A Free Flow Italian Brunch Buffet at Garibaldi for 2

What better way to treat a foodie mum, than a buffet at one of the best Italian cuisine restaurants in Singapore? Forget the usual flowers and decent restaurant meals – Mum deserves to be served only the best, and pampered on this special day. The buffet upgrades include free flow of alcohol, ensuring a merry Mother’ Day for you and Mum.

3. Yogi Mum

Persona:
Mum is flexible, in the most literal sense, and it certainly isn’t too much of a stretch to say that she’s absolutely obsessed with yoga. Be it Bikram or Yin, and no matter the pose, she always appears to be in perfect zen – but closer inspection reveals that she’s peeking at the timer and muttering: 30 more seconds…

Suggested gift for her: As if Mum doesn’t look awesome enough in those back-breaking poses, adorn her with yoga gear that her fellow yoga buddies will be jealous of with this lululemon gift card. Give your mum the freedom to fill her wardrobe with their esteemed collection.

4. Cooking Mum

Persona:
Saying Mum loves to cook is a huge understatement. Deriving immense satisfaction from stuffing her children (lucky you!), she spends her time experimenting with new recipes and different ingredients. Baking, frying, stewing, and force-feeding are peanuts to her, and whipping up a new dish everyday is ‘chicken feet”.

Suggested gift for her: Slice Cutting Board by Qualy Design

Albeit a little cliché, the cuteness and style of this cutting board will make your mum go gaga – cutting vegetables and fruits has never been more satisfying. Available in four different designs, each representing meat, fish, vegetables and cooked respectively, this board makes the best gift for any cook, and will surely show her how much mum and her cooking means to you.

5. Fashionista

Persona:
Many follow the latest fashion trend, but Mum is one of the rare few who can ACTUALLY pull it off. From her meticulously styled hair to her chic outfits, she dresses to wow – and much wow she gets.

Suggested gift for her: Rose Tear Drop Necklace 16’’ from Marilyn Tan Jewellery

Mum will never have enough accessories – so fret not about adding this little beauty to her collection. Available in 6 different colours, this locally designed necklace features an elegantly carved rose that will look good on any lady. As an added bonus, instead of gifting it in a box, put it around her neck personally and round it off with a hug to show your love and appreciation for her.

6. Travel Mum

Persona:
Family members call her proactive and outgoing, which roughly translates to ‘cannot sit still’ – and you have to agree. Unable to stay in one place, and still bursting with the curiosity of youth (despite her inevitable wrinkles), Mum is a roamer, an explorer of places around the world. The definition of young at heart, she loves travelling and discovering new places – but not as much as she loves you!

Suggested gift for her: JOIK Grapefruit and Mandarin Gift Set

For mums who travel in and out of the country as though it were their front door, gift her a body lotion, soy candle and soap bar – all inside a beautiful gift set that she can bring out on her travels. Soy candles last much longer than paraffin ones, and can fill her room with a scent that’ll remind her of you when she’s away. The lotion can’t return her youth, but at least it keeps her skin smooth and supple after all those hours in the plane! Both useful and stylish, this is a perfect gift for one who travels frequently.

7. Business Woman

Persona:
There are housewife mums, stay-home mums, retired mums, and then there’s your Mum. Taking her work seriously, and seriously working her head off, you sometimes wonder how she found the time to have you. I mean, just look at her juggle that laptop, tablet, phone and stack of documents – on one hand.

Suggested gift for her: A5 Soft Leather Journal by Bynd Artisan Atelier

At a size of A5, and handcrafted with natural grain cowhide, this notebook will fit nicely in her extremely cluttered bag (which is probably already overflowing with other things). Perfect for taking notes during her long meetings, as a notebook of to-do lists, or a journal, remind her that you’re always there for her when times are hard and deadlines are pressing! Engraving services are available, so you can print her initials on the notebook – and gift something that is hers and hers only.

8. Hipster Mum

Persona:
With great taste and an artistic flair, Mum busies herself with hobbies and interests – usually in the form of a DIY project. Which probably explains why her room is overflowing with the random-est things. Her motto: Huh, buy for what? I make for you la.

Suggested gift for her: Perfume Making Workshop by Je tamie

For mums who relish the challenge of crafting, and the satisfaction of using a product that they made themselves, no less, a perfume making workshop with definitely satisfy her hipster fingers. The workshop is for two, which obviously refers to you and mum, simply because the best memories you can give her are crafting experiences with you. Each participant gets to take home 105ml of perfume: three sample bottles of 10ml and one 75ml perfume in a hand- polished crystal bottle.

9. Grandma

Persona:
Grandma is… someone who has a grandchild (duh). Despite the many stereotypes about grandmas, such as their fussiness about the smallest things, Grandma is a wise person who is brimming with love for her children and grandchildren. A ‘next level’ Mother, the mother of mothers, Grandma fully deserves her title of ‘Grand’ Mother.

Suggested gift for her: Premium D24 Durian Puffs

Unless Grandma doesn’t like durians, these puffs are the best gifts for her, simply because they taste awesome. Available in a box of 12 and filled with the creamy goodness of fresh D24 durians, Grandma and the family will be in for a treat this Mother’s Day. Forget the sugary restrictions that the doctor gave and indulge Grandma – just this time.

Get more Mother’s Day gift ideas here.

This article is brought to you by MerryMakr

(Header image credit: 5 Posh Dinner Places To Bring Mom To So She’ll Be Proud Of You

The Ultimate Guide To Awesome Photos People ‘Like’

In this social media age, taking great photos has increasingly become one of the most important social skill sets to possess. Thanks to the advancement of camera technology in smartphones, everybody is practically becoming a photographer. Smartphones have also generated higher interest in photography, and subsequently, a higher demand for unique photos that smartphones cannot produce.

Still that does not make the job any easier, as well shot photos are hard to come by. For example, there are no smartphones in the current market that can produce the much sought after bokeh effect which requires a camera with a good quality lens.

Another type of photo which smartphones cannot produce – long exposure photos. The long exposure effect blurs any moving subject, giving it an in-motion effect while keeping stationary objects in sharpness.

If you, like us here at Vulcan Post, are among those who like to tell your story through photos and create that unique relationship with your fans and followers, you might want to consider investing in a good quality tool. Instead of asking “how do I take better photos?”, maybe the better question is, “am I equipped with the tool which produces great photos effortlessly?”

Instead of the usual flat lays and selfies taken via the smartphones, here are some popular types of photos that people “like” on social media which we personally prefer capturing with a camera:

1. Architecture Photography

Architecture photographs are well liked because they showcase the magnificence of human work. You’ll be surprised how a well shot architecture photo can fuel a great deal of inspiration among your followers.

2. City Skyline

The classic skyline shot never fails to impress, because it simply works. The biggest challenges to taking a skyline shot, especially at night are making sure your camera doesn’t move and that your exposure is long enough, resulting in the perfect mix of light and shadow.

3. Close up shots of food and drinks

More often than not, smartphone photographer usually just snap a photo and post it on their social media channels. A close up shot of food and drinks with the proper tool captures all the details and texture of the food before you savour it, and yes, with room to play around and get that bokeh effect!

4. Street Photography

Last but not least, street photography – the perfect story telling photo form. No matter where you are, each street has its own unique story to tell, providing you with endless opportunities to exercise your creativity with your camera.

Quick Tips On Choosing The Right Tool For You:

1. A Mirrorless Camera with interchangeable lens – Over here at Vulcan Post, we personally like using a mirrorless interchangeable camera as we’re not a fan of hearing the mirror swing up each time we press the shutter button; allowing us to shoot unobtrusively. In addition, having a camera system with various lenses allow us to really enjoy the process of shooting various styles of photography; from macro to landscape shots.

2. Wi-Fi Function: A camera with a Wi-Fi feature lets you transfer your photos easily for use on social media. This is especially important as we are constantly connected with one another in this digital age.

3. Touch Screen: A camera with easy to use touch screen interface keeps things simple, fun and it provides a familiar sight to all smartphone users. Our favourite part about a touch screen? Touch screen focus! This is simply because it allows us to focus easily on any part of the screen.

If you are interested to improve your photography skills, you can enter the recently Leica T Photo Challenge, which gives you a chance to walk away with prizes up to S$8000. There are also photography workshops with Leica Akademie which you can be part of too! So see you there?

Also Read: Behind The Lens Of One Of Singapore’s Most Followed Street Photographers, Aik Beng Chia

Image Credit: Reviewed.com

This article originally appeared on Vulcan Post.

How A Russian And A Singaporean Met And Are Building A Multi Million Dollar Business Together

Almost 4 years ago, Alexander Danilov, who started a company called Shopster in Russia, had received a grant from Singapore for his company. On top of just receiving the monetary benefits, Alex flew in to Singapore to connect with mentors to get feedbacks on his idea. Back then, Shopster is a mobile location based shopping service and marketing platform for retailers, and the idea seemed ripe for a country like Singapore.

In a highly competitive business world, network is key – knowing the right people can open doors and new opportunities for you. This was what Alex realised when he came to Singapore, and as luck would have it, he had the chance to meet Michael.

“I spoke to Michael, who was a mentor at Ruvento Ventures. He gave me a lot of feedback, and provided huge support, and as we continued to connect and closely work together throughout the following months, we realised that we not only share the similar business vision, but also want to solve similar problems,” Alex told Vulcan Post.

At that point, Michael is the President Asia of Phicomm, and currently has more than 18 years of consulting experience with businesses throughout Asia. He was also actively mentoring Shopster. While working on Shopster, both Michael and Alex found a bigger problem that they are looking to solve – a problem that perhaps a lot of Singaporeans are facing as well – effective and efficient delivery service.

From there, Alex and Michael became full time partners in running Zap Delivery. As we have previously noted, Zap Delivery, is a newly launched on-demand express courier service, which promises to courier your items anywhere in Singapore within 2 hours.

All Great Ideas Solve A Personal Itch

“The idea came from our own experience – there was once, my wife locked herself out of the house, and she wanted to get a locksmith to unlock the door for her. We realised that it would be way cheaper to get someone to pick up the house key from me and get it delivered to her, but the solution was not available then,” Alex shared with Vulcan Post.

After almost one year of research, preparation and making sure that there are available couriers to help customers island wide with their on demand courier requests, Zap Delivery was launched in December 2015, with a network of more than 800 courier partners, all of whom have passed stringent qualification and background checks.

“With this app, we hope to transform and disrupt the way the traditional logistics industry works,” said Michael Tan, co-founder and chief executive officer of Zap Delivery.

A typical courier request works like this: you launch the app, key in your pick up address, key in your destination, and a courier will be on its way to pick up any items and drop it off for you. The app also calculates the delivery cost as soon as the required details are entered, before payment confirmation.

Splitting the Roles

For now, both Alex and Michael are eyeing the multi million dollar courier delivery service in Singapore, all thanks to the rise of e commerce and the on-demand economy. And the logistics sector is ripe for a disruption too. According to the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index, Singapore is Asia’s top performer when it comes to global freight forwarding and express carriers.

To tap on this multi million dollar industry boom, Michael takes charge of the company’s growth strategy and investor relations, while Alex is in charge of the operations and execution of the strategy. On a typical day, Michael and Alex keep track of customers’ and couriers’ satisfaction level, and that the company is hitting its growth target.

To stand out in technology superiority, Zap Delivery also feature a patent-pending, authentication technology, which replaces the arbitrary signatures that traditional couriers usually use to confirm delivery receipts. This process ensures that items arrive not only safely, but also to the rightful recipients. Additionally, the app features real-time tracking that allows senders to know the exact location of their items, every step of the way.

Further down the road, Zap Delivery has a few new ideas up its sleeve that they choose not to reveal for now, teasing us that it will truly be groundbreaking.

How ground breaking would it be? We will be keeping you updated on that. In the meantime, if you’d like to get anything delivered for or to you, do check out Zap Delivery.

This article originally appeared on Vulcan Post.