Author: Mei Yan

Victoria’s Secret Angel Adriana Lima To Come To Singapore In March!

GUYS! Victoria’s Secret angel Adriana Lima will be here in Singapore on 10 March, IN THE FLESH. This is not a drill!

Here to launch VS’s new Body by Victoria collection at its flagship store in Mandarin Gallery, the sultry Brazilian supermodel with abs of steel will also be signing autographs from 6 – 8pm for those of you who religiously watch the annual Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show!

[caption id="attachment_23361" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Photo Credit: Lima will be the first angel to visit Singapore’s Victoria Secret stores which could hopefully mean one thing: more angels descending upon our humble little island. Let’s hope this is the case!

Because Skydiving Is Expensive AF, iFly Singapore Lets You Enjoy The Flight Without Feeling The Burn

Always wanted to try skydiving but don’t have the courage or funds to do so? Why not try indoor skydiving for a taste of the real thing!

With a safe and controlled indoor environment, you don’t have to worry about anything going wrong. Plus, you will only need to pay a fraction of the price!

Located a stone’s throw away from Sentosa’s Beach Station, iFly Singapore is a state-of-the-art flight facility that is also the largest themed indoor skydiving simulator in Southeast Asia.

Designed with an airport theme in mind, features like a flight status board at the entrance for customers to check when to ‘board’ their flight and the sound of airplanes in the training room make a trip to iFly Singapore a total experience.

Finding Our Wings

We tried the First Timer Challenge Package ($119), which consists of 2 skydives of 45 seconds each. That is the same time it takes to free fall from 12,000 to 3,000 feet, as with an actual skydive!

After registering and signing the waiver and indemnity forms, you’ll watch a few video presentations which will take you through certain safety procedures and some things to take note of while flying in the wind tunnel.

Once all these nitty gritties are over and done with, it’s time to learn how to fly!

Your flight instructor will guide you through a practical training where you learn how to posture yourself during flight, how to enter and leave the wind tunnel, and some simple hand signals to communicate while in the wind tunnel. (You’ll be wearing earplugs while in there!)

You’ll finish with some light stretching, before heading to the Gear Up counter to get suited up!

During the flight, there isn’t much to remember: have your arms out at right angles, bend your legs slightly and keep your chin up.

Each flyer will enter the wind tunnel one at a time, which means you’ll get the instructor’s full attention while flying! He will be watching or holding on to you, depending on how much help you need.

From inside the wind tunnel, you’ll be treated to a gorgeous view of the South China Sea. If you time your flight exactly right, you can even catch the fireworks from the nearby Wings of Time that happens nightly!

DSG Tip: To see the fireworks while flying, try catching a 8.00pm or 9.00pm flight. 

While your first flight might be a bit of a hot mess (as mine was), you’ll probably get the hang of it by the second flight. After knowing what to expect in the wind tunnel and having had some practice, you’ll be more at ease and enjoy the flight a whole lot more!

What You Can Expect…

One thing we definitely did not expect from our flight was getting saliva all around our mouths, and for some of us, even on our faces! Yep, that’s what happens when there are strong winds blowing at your face when your mouth is open while flying.

Another thing we found was that our hair got really tangled from the flight. Girls, expect to be fiddling away with your hair, detangling the knots in it hours after flying, especially if you have long hair! Make sure you take pictures before and not after flying!

DSG Tip: Bring a hair brush if you need to meet someone special/important post-flight.

All these minor inconveniences aside, the flight is definitely an exhilarating experience, especially if you have always wanted to try skydiving! You can even learn cool tricks like flips and flying upside down—but only after you’ve got the basics down.

The other flyers and I felt extremely safe throughout our flights. iFly Singapore opens its doors to flyers from as young as 7 to as old as 106–that tells you something about the safety standards at the facility!

To give you that added peace of mind, all instructors at iFly Singapore have undergone intensive training complying with the rules and regulations of the International Bodyflight Association (IBA). So, rest assured you’re in capable hands.

Indoor skydiving was definitely a one-of-a-kind experience. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or someone seeking a new experience, indoor skydiving is definitely an experience worth trying. Who knows, you just might find yourself a new passion!

This was an invited session from iFly Singapore.

iFly Singapore
Address: 43 Siloso Beach Walk #01-01 Singapore 099010
Opening Hours: Mon-Tue, Thu-Sun: 9.00am – 9.30pm; Wed: 11.00am – 9.30pm
Contact No.: 6571 0000

Healing Touch Is The Busy Millennial’s Solution To Stubborn Fat And Difficult Skin

We millennials are a busy bunch. Between sitting on our butts all day, balancing school, work, our social lives and the 101 other commitments we keep these days, there are definitely some things that fall by the wayside, including our fitness, skin health, and sometimes, even our general well-being.

Who has the time to hit the gym three times a week or to religiously go through a 5-step skin routine? Well, every now and then, it’s good to stop, take a break, and find a fix for some of the things you’ve been neglecting until now.

If you’re all about quick fixes when it comes to your weight, skin, or if you just want to purge your body of all the tiredness within it, Healing Touch has your back. The beauty chain whose core services include facials, massages and slimming has won awards from CLEO, Women’s Weekly and TripdAdvisor, sealing its status as a peoples’ favourite.

Its staff are friendly and highly experienced, they use quality products and the latest technologies. And the best part? It won’t cost you a bomb!

Last week, I popped by the branch in Orchid Country Club to give its slimming treatment and facials a go and this was what went down.

Slimming Treatment

The slimming treatment I tried was the Slim Lipo-Laser Treatment ($230 excl. GST) and the staff there guaranteed—as they do with all their first time customers—that I would lose 5cm around my waist. A little bit skeptical at first, I went for it and wound up losing a total of 8.5cm within the 60 minute session! I was definitely surprised by the results.

The treatment uses a machine called a ‘Lipo Laser’. During the treatment, after the skin is prepped with a Complex AHA fruit acid, a total of 8 laser light emitting plates are strapped across the tummy region. It sounds scary, but trust me, it isn’t!

The lasers penetrate the skin, targeting fat cells and releasing water and free fatty acid. This effectively causes the fat cells to “shrink”, which is how you lose the inches around your tummy! After this, the slimming therapist conducts a Manual Lymph Drainage massage to flush out all that water and nasty toxins that was released earlier.

The heat from the metal plates can be a little painful, especially if you’re on or near the beginning/end of your period (like I was), because the skin tends to be more sensitive during this time. Don’t try to bear with it like I did! Feel free to let the attentive staff know if it’s too hot, and she will make adjustments accordingly.

As the lasers were working away at “melting” my fats, the therapist went through a questionnaire to find out more about my lifestyle habits—how much water I drink, how often I exercise, etc.—as well as my weight loss goals—what my goal weight is, when was the last time I was at my goal weight, etc.

When the session was over, we had a short consultation where she advised me on how to lead a healthier lifestyle, and made sure I had realistic expectations when it came to achieving and maintaining my goal body, i.e. it takes a total lifestyle change. Slimming treatments without any accompanying changes to your nutritional habits or exercise frequency won’t do the trick, especially not in the long run.

While the Lipo-Laser Treatment is definitely a quick fix when you need it, I think it’s great that Healing Touch employs a holistic approach toward weight loss, providing nutritional coaching and motivating customers to live healthier beyond just administering the treatment, so they can better achieve their goal physiques.

Facial

For the facial, I tried the NEO Energy Advanced Facials ($226 excl. GST), a 90 minute bespoke facial where you get to use 2 of 5 cutting edge technologies, depending on your skin issues.

The 5 are Meso Infusion, which facilitates the penetration of serum for more hydrated, firmer skin; D-Sonic Deep Cleansing for a deep clean of the skin; Sonic Muscle Toning for firming and lifting; LED Multi-Purpose, to promote the production of collagen; as well as Bio-Mask Refining, to minimize pores as well as to brighten.

Because the beautician identified uneven skin tone, blackheads and enlarged pores as my key skin issues, she recommended Meso Infusion and Bio-Mask Refining. The treatment was so relaxing I actually fell asleep!

After giving my face a thorough double cleanse, as well as a routine extraction, the beautician applied a customized serum to my face and gently massaged it in using the Neo Energy Mesotherapy probe which was tuned to the optimal frequency for penetration (Meso Infusion).

Next, she applied 6 pairs of electrodes to the face through a face mask. While the positive ion plates helped with detoxification and removal of dirt and oil, the negative ion plates helped with the delivery of the active ingredients of the serum used, as well as with brightening the face and the minimizing of pores (Bio-Mask Refining).

What struck me as quite unique about the facials here was that they pluck your eyebrows as part of the treatment. I was so surprised I actually asked “Is this part of the facial?” when the beautician offered to pluck them! Aside from that, the facial included a face and shoulder massage—again, an unexpected touch, but definitely a plus by me.

All the products used were lightly and beautifully scented and felt super luxurious, and as promised, at the end of the treatment, my pores were noticeably smaller and my skin felt soft and youthful again!

From my experience, it’s clear to see that the staff at Healing Touch are truly dedicated to serving its customers. With a strong no hard-selling policy, you don’t have to worry about having to commit to anything you’re not comfortable with. Whether it’s slimming, a facial, or a relaxing massage you’re in for, you’ll sure to leave feeling very, very satisfied.

Healing Touch
Outlets: Healing Touch has seven branches islandwide. Click Healing Touch 
Instagram: @healingtouchspasg

The Ultimate Guide To Valentine’s Day If You’re Single AF On The Day Of Love

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and with it comes the reminder that the single ones of us are, well, single AF. Whether you haven’t had much luck in the love department lately or are single by choice—which let’s admit, most of us are—, Valentine’s Day has a way of getting to even the best, most fiercely independent ones of us.

While Valentine’s Day can be absolute torture for those of us without someone special to spend the occasion with, it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are some parties and options you should definitely check out that will have you feeling a lot less sorry about being single on Valentine’s.

1. Let Your Heart Go Loco At Lucha Loco

Single and ready to mingle? Lucha Loco’s Hearts Go Loco is the place to be! The Mexican joint sees a huge turnout year after year at its annual anti-Valentine’s party and this year is likely to be no different.

For the bold and the daring, step up to the kissing booth and lock lips with a stranger. Complimentary tequila shots will be on hand to give you that extra bit of liquid courage if you need it! For those fresh out of a crappy relationship, bring along a photo of your ex and pin it onto one of the piñatas provided. Unleash the full force of your rage upon it and you’ll feel so much better after! And if you’re out to find love, snap a polaroid of yourself and stick it on the love board. By the end of the night, who knows? Love just might come calling—or texting.

Lucha Loco
Where: 15 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089598
When: 14 February 8pm – late
Admission: Free

2. Party The Night Away At Valentine Vendetta

See yourself partying the night away come Valentine’s Day? And why shouldn’t you! Own your single status and mingle with other eligible singles like yourself. Back for its 6^th year, award-winning Valentine Vendetta is THE singles party of the year.

Happening at Skyline Club & Lounge on the 45^th floor of Singapore Land Tower, you’ll be treated to a stunning view of the gorgeous Singapore skyline. This year, the theme is masquerade, so come masked to give yourself that added bit of mystery. With ice-breakers and games designed to let you meet other singles, you might just leave the party with someone special on your arm!

Skyline Club & Lounge
Where: Level 45, Singapore Land Tower
When: 14 February 6pm – 1am
Admission: here for table packages.

3. Keep Things Chill at Timbre @ The Substation

If a wild night out isn’t quite your speed, head down to Timbre for their version of Anti-Valentine’s Day. A low-key affair with all the things we’ve come to love and expect from Timbre—great food, great drinks and great musical company in the form of 53A—it’s perfect for those who just want to chill out with friends and get away from the flowers, the overpriced dinner sets, and all the lovey dovey nonsense that’s going on everywhere else. Drink promos will also be available for that day only!

While you’re there, share exactly why you think Valentine’s Day is the absolute worst on the Wall Of Heartbreak—it just might win you a free bucket of beer! All the better to help you drink your Valentine’s Day-related sorrows away.

Timbre @ The Substation
Where: 45 Armenian Street
When: 14 February, 8.30pm
Admission: Free

4. Claim Insurance For Your Heartbreak

Dreading heartbreak this Valentine’s? Claim insurance. No, we’re not kidding. The people at Insurance Market, an online insurance brokerage, have designed two heartbreak policies to tide you through a rough Valentine’s: The Break-Up Policy and the Unrequited Love Policy.

Whether your partner dumps you the one day a year we celebrate love (*cough* JERK *cough*) or you confess your feelings only to find them unreciprocated, you get to make a claim and come out of the ordeal with two free movie tickets. Take your best friend, your sibling or even your mum and forget the ones who can’t see you for the gem that you are!

As with all insurance policies, you’ll have to apply for the policy in advance—that means signing up for it ahead of Valentine’s Day, if you want to make a claim on 14th Feb. To claim your Broken Heart Insurance, simply submit your heartbreak story between 12pm – 6pm on Valentine’s Day and you’ll receive your tickets between 15 – 17 Feb. Because payout is limited to 150 pairs, remember to pick yourself up quickly and make your claim!

Where: Insurance Market
When: 14 February, 12pm – 6pm

5. Find Your Tribe On The Meetup App

Even though its name seems to suggest it, Meetup is not a dating app. If love comes out of it, that’s simply a bonus! Originally intended to bring like-minded individuals together, there’s a group (or ten) for everyone, whether your interest lies in board games or badminton!

This Valentine’s Day, we’re pretty sure there will be single groups on there making plans to meet, so why not join in on the fun? Alternatively, find any group you like and spend your Valentine’s with them instead! Even if love doesn’t come out of it, we’re sure plenty of friendships will and sometimes, that’s actually even better.

Being single on Valentine’s Day can really, really suck, but take comfort in the fact that you’re not the only one. Instead of moping around the house lamenting the fact that you’re all alone, get out there and have a great time! Don’t let you get in your way.

8 Awesome Valentine’s Day Dinner And Gift Ideas For A Truly Special Date

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and with it comes another opportunity to appreciate our partners—after all, we can never do it enough. It’s a time to celebrate love, to forgive past quarrels, to thank, and to simply enjoy the presence of one another.

Every couple has their own Valentine’s day traditions. Some of us like to pamper our partners’ with a fancy meal, some of us like to exchange gifts, and for some of us, it’s just another day—aside from the fact that there are loving couples everywhere you look.

If you’re still at a loss as to what to do with your special guy or girl this Valentine’s day, here are some places you can consider for your dining, outfit and gifting needs!

1. Romantic Dinner

Guys, if you want to look sharp on V-Day, why not make a stop at T.M.Lewin. With sales of up to 70% off, you might as well get your Chinese New Year shopping done there too!

And ladies, we haven’t missed you out. Wang Edition is having a massive price slash on its clothing as well, so you’re sure to walk away with a stylish ensemble yourself!

Remember, at the end of the day, Valentine’s day is about spending time with the one you love. Whether you go to a fancy restaurant or just want to take a walk down the festively dressed Orchard Road, what makes the occasion special is the company of each other.

So, don’t stress over where to eat, what to wear, and what to give the guy or girl you love. As long as it comes straight from your heart, your partner is sure to appreciate it!

This season, Orchard Central wants to treat all its shoppers (single or attached) to some amazing giveaways!

Please visit Best Brunch Spots In Singapore For The Non-Early Risers