The Game Plan – Explore The Best Of Bedok Cafes With This Trail!

Ever wanted to Cafe Hop without going through the hassle of planning your route and researching on cafes? Those nightmares are officially a thing of the past with our Bedok Cafes Trail!

We’ve combined all the directions and must-try menu items from 4 of our favourite Bedok Cafes in this post. That’s right; all you need to do is grab a friend (or two) and embark on this extraordinary food adventure!

The Game Plan

[caption id="attachment_11498" align="alignnone" width="1166"]Image Credit: Google Maps Image Credit: Google Maps[/caption]

Firstly, let’s take a look at the route. The map above illustrates the entire trail which covers all 4 Bedok Cafes, as highlighted in red by Google Maps. It starts and ends at Bedok MRT and Bedok Interchange which are side by side. The best part is that you’ll only need to take one bus (222) throughout the entire journey! How great is that?

First Stop: To-gather Cafe

Image Credit: Aspirant Sg

Directions: Upon alighting from Bedok MRT, take exit A and board 222 at the bus stop. Get off at the 5th stop (Opp Blk 85).

We’re starting off with an east side favourite. To-gather Cafe is the perfect place to well, gather. Its gorgeous interior and spacious tables make for an ideal dining option for families and friends. To-gather is also celebrated for its pocket-friendly prices. All its mains (only excluding the Grilled Ribeye Steak- $17.90) don’t exceed a modest $12.90; certainly, a steal when it comes to cafe prices!

Cafe highlights

Be sure to try out their exotic Grilled Pandan Chicken Chop ($9.90) drizzled with Coconut and Pineapple Salsa. Also, don’t forget the crowd pleasers: Pork Cordon Bleu ($11.90) and To-Gather Breezers ($3.80) which come in Passionfruit, Strawberry and Green Apple. Lastly, the one must-try is definitely the highly-raved Matcha Lava Cake with Vanilla Gelato ($7.20). This warm and cold dessert also comes in a decadent chocolate flavour that will definitely leave you craving for more!

[caption id="attachment_11479" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: Burpple Image Credit: Burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11478" align="alignnone" width="2448"]Image Credit: ShannonSohh Image Credit: ShannonSohh[/caption]

Second Stop: Milk and Honey

Directions: take a 5-minute walk from To-Gather to this cafe located just beside 85 Market!

There’s a saying that goes, “you’re never too full to have another helping of dessert”. This takes us to Milk and Honey, a cosy cafe loved for its flavourful gelato topped waffles. Seats are known to be virtually unattainable here which simply pays testimony to their quality desserts!

Cafe Highlights

We recommend their Quaffles Set which gives you a bit of everything and is ideal for sharing. A Buddy Meal Quaffles Set takes you back $14.50 and includes 2 scoops of creamy gelato, 1 quarrel (waffle!) and 1 lemonade. They even serve up savoury ice cream flavours for the bold and adventurous! In addition, Milk and Honey also makes Cakes which can be collected at their store with a pre-order. We personally recommend the divine Cookie Monster Gelato Cake ($68) pictured below!

[caption id="attachment_11481" align="alignnone" width="593"]Image Credit: milkhoney.sg Image Credit: milkhoney.sg[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11482" align="alignnone" width="1000"]Image Credit: milkhoney.sg Image Credit: milkhoney.sg[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11483" align="alignnone" width="620"]Image Credit: milkhoney.sg Image Credit: milkhoney.sg[/caption]

Third Stop: Nakhon Kitchen

Directions: Go back to the bus stop you came from (Blk 85). Next, take 222 and alight at the 3rd stop (Bedok Ctrl Po). Finally, cross the road to Nakhon Kitchen.

Thirdly, we introduce Nakhon Kitchen. While we know this isn’t exactly a cafe, Nikon does serve up mouth-watering Thai dishes that capture beautifully in a flat lay. Its delicious cuisine and photogenic dishes definitely qualify in our Bedok food trail!

Cafe Highlights

We love their Tom Yum Soup ($6) which is served with either prawn, chicken or seafood in a clear or coconut milk base. Further, their Green Curry ($8) is the bomb dot com and the Stir-fried Kang Kong Belachan ($6) is as good as it gets. And, as with all Thai places, refresh yourself with a glass of Thai Iced Tea ($3)!

[caption id="attachment_11486" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: Burpple Image Credit: Burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11485" align="alignnone" width="800"]Image Credit: Burpple Image Credit: Burpple[/caption]

Last Stop: Percolate

Directions: Take a 1-minute walk to Percolate Cafe from Nakhon Kitchen.

Finally, let’s end the Cafe trail with a coffee and dessert place! Percolate is full of those chill vibes everyone looks for in a cafe. Its classy interior features lots of wooden panelling, robin-egg blue accents and even fairy lights. Group photos are therefore best taken in this picturesque cafe – preferably with a table of dainty desserts in front of your squad!

Cafe Highlights

Percolate Cafe serves up a plethora of drinks. You’ll be spoilt for choice with regulars like the Iced Black Coffee ($4.50) and the Hot Tea ($6 per pot). For a walk on the wild side, we’ll recommend the Mexican Sodas ($5) and Bananut Smoothie ($6.50). Furthermore, Percolate also serves up a varying selection of baked cakes and pastries every day to keep things fresh and unique!

Screen Shot 2016-07-21 at 1.42.04 pm

Mothershipsg

burpplex

Heading Home

Directions: Cross the road and board 222 at the bus stop you came from. The next stop will drop you off at Bedok Interchange which is right beside Bedok MRT.

To End it Off

In conclusion, while this trail doesn’t cover ALL the Bedok cafes, we’re convinced that the tasty food you’ll enjoy will leave you grinning from ear to ear. Happy Cafe-hopping, Cafe lovers!

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

What’s In This Year’s NDP Goodie Bag? You’ll Be Surprised!

What’s in my bag? NDP 2016 Goodie Bag version

In this article, we’re bringing you the NDP 2016 Goodie Bag version of ‘What’s in my bag?’! From food to National Day Merchandise, and even to.. a trash bag? We will cover all bases to give you the ultimate breakdown of what’s in your 2016 National Day Goodie Bag!

The bag itself

First, let’s start with the actual bag. It comes in our two national colours, red and white, and is made of a translucent plastic. Together with its unique structured frame, this year’s goodie bag seems like a nod towards the future. Talk about futuristic vibes! Moreover, it can be carried 2 ways: as a bag pack or a shoulder bag. The bag also comes with a rain cover. Perfect for Singapore’s temperamental climate! Impressive!

[caption id="attachment_11252" align="aligncenter" width="1200"]Image Credit: NDP 2016 Image Credit: NDP 2016[/caption]

NDP merchandise, with a High-Tech twist!

Moving on to the National Day themed items. National flag, Singapore scarf, patriotic tattoos- check! The goodie bag committee has also thoughtfully included a foldable fan just in case you feel warm during the show. Besides the regulars, this year’s merchandise stars the LED wristband everyone’s been talking about!

The LED wristband flickers brightly in a kaleidoscopic array of colours. It is programmed to match the pumping music and movement of the performers due to its wireless connection. As a result, this high-tech twist allows the audience to be involved in the parade on a whole new level. Audiences simply have to wear it!

[caption id="attachment_11249" align="alignnone" width="3507"]Image Credit: Rebecca Ong Image Credit: Rebecca Ong[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11247" align="alignnone" width="2795"]Image Credit: Rebecca Ong Image Credit: Rebecca Ong[/caption]

This year’s NDP 2016 Goodie Bag features… a Comic Book?

Next, we move on to the printed materials. NDP 2016 Goodie Bag includes the ever-popular discount voucher booklet in addition to the programme booklet. You can stay informed of the parade’s highlights and find the lyrics to this year’s melodious theme song, “Tomorrow’s Here Today”!

Furthermore, there will be a comic book featuring the parade’s hero, Badang. The artful comic illustrates Badang’s journey and the origin of the Singapore Stone. It makes learning about Singapore’s history, fun especially for the little ones. A must-read, we say!

[caption id="attachment_11251" align="alignnone" width="4288"]Image Credit: Rebecca Ong Image Credit: Rebecca Ong[/caption]

There’s an… NDP trash bag too??

A trash bag seems like the strangest addition to the NDP 2016 Goodie Bag this year. Correction: an NDP themed trash bag! You can play your part in keeping the indoor stadium clean by putting all trash into this sizeable trash bag.

Also, a packet of tissue and wet wipes are included, so you can clean up any mess. Don’t forget the adorable card holder with its friendly reminder about striving for a sustainable Singapore!

[caption id="attachment_11248" align="alignnone" width="4171"]Image Credit: Rebecca Ong Image Credit: Rebecca Ong[/caption]

Makan time!

Finally, let’s have a look at the snacks in the goodie bag! It includes crowd pleasers like double-chocolate Hello Panda, the classic Keng Guan tidbits and Tai Sun peanuts. It won’t be an NDP goodie bag without a bottle of NeWater, just in case you get thirsty. Also, there is a packet of Nin Hom Herbal Candy to soothe tired throats. With these in your goodie bag, no sore throat is going to stop you from bellowing out cheers and songs!

[caption id="attachment_11250" align="alignnone" width="3644"]Image Credit: Rebecca Ong Image Credit: Rebecca Ong[/caption]

To end this article, we’d like to wish Singapore an advance Happy 51st Birthday. Majulah Singapura!

Also, read A Peek At NDP 2016 – Fireworks Both Indoors AND Outdoors!

The Best Food Around SMU – Cos Muggers Need Good Food Even More!

One of the best things about Singapore Management University (SMU) is its extremely central location. It’s just a stone’s throw away from over five malls and four movie theatres.

As compared to the relatively elusive NUS, SIM and Pulau NTU, SMU’s location is gold. With an enviable variety of dining options perfect for brunch get-togethers, indulgent lunch plans, and romantic dinners, decision-making can get pretty tough whenever lunch/dinner rolls around.

To help you guys out, listed below are our top 5 picks for the best food around SMU.

1. Timbre @ The Substation

Image Credit: Sg.asia-cityImage Credit: Sg.asia-city

Image credit: sszekiImage credit: sszeki

With live music acts going on almost every night after 8.30pm, this hangout makes the perfect place to unwind with friends.

2. Kith Cafe [caption id="attachment_10587" align="alignnone" width="4746"]Image Credit: Burpple Image Credit: Burpple[/caption]

If you’re looking for a quick fix to spice up your Instagram, Image Credit: Burpple
Image Credit: Burpple

Breakfast options like Kith’s Big Breakfast (Eggs, toast, bacon, smoked bratwurst, sautéed mushrooms, grilled tomatoes) are served till 3pm. Mains such as the Sirloin Steak Sandwich are served after 11am. Oh, and don’t forget to order coffee, the latte art really completes the food flat lay!

3. The Daily Scoop

Pretty much unrivalled when it comes to waffles and ice-cream, Image Credits: gracellowImage Credits: gracellow

Take it from someone who knows waffles, this is the perfect balance between a crispy and fragrant crust with a soft and light interior. The Daily Scoop offers a large collection of tastebud-friendly ice creams and often introduces refreshing new flavours to keep things new. After the first ice cream waffle, you’ll be coming back again and again for your dessert fix.

4. I’mKim Korean BBQ [caption id="attachment_10583" align="alignnone" width="620"]image credits: groupon image credits: groupon[/caption]

We have two words for this eatery: Affordable and Awesome. I’m Kim Korean Barbecue is the place for meat lovers, with tender pork, beef, and chicken marinated in lip-smacking spicy, sweet, and salty sauces at your disposal. With its salad, soup, cooked food (their chicken wings are the best!) and drinks counter, you can’t go wrong with the student-friendly weekday lunch price ($12.90++).

I’m Kim Korean Barbecue
Address: 1 Zubir Said Drive, #01-04/05/06/07 S227968
Located opposite SMU’s School of Economics, at SOTA.
Contact: 6238 7218
Opening Hours
: Mon to Thu 11.30am-2.30pm, 5pm-10.30pm; Fri to Sun 11.30-3.30pm; 5pm-10.30pm

5. Teaparty Express

[caption id="attachment_10584" align="alignnone" width="550"]Image Credits: Trip Advisor Image Credits: Trip Advisor[/caption]

With its $4.80 pasta and iced lemon tea lunch set, and located within the campus itself, we’re pretty sure Tea Party Express is a familiar name to the majority of SMU students.

Image Credits: Burpple
Image Credits: Burpple

Pasta choices include the Carbonara, Aglio Olio, Bolognese, and if you’re feeling adventurous and extra-hungry, order their famous Scones with Cream Cheese sauce to go! Tea Party Express has very recently expanded and is now serving new menu items such as Truffle Fries, Mac & Cheese, Chicken and Fish and Chips. With so many student favourites, you can’t possibly go wrong with this pocket-friendly dining option.

Tea Party Express
Address: 90 Stamford Rd #01-75, S178901
Located at SMU’s School of Economics, Level 1.

Whether it’s your first or hundredth visit, these best food around SMU will still guarantee great dining experiences.

Also, read Stuff Yourself Silly! 6 Best Buffets Below $30

A Peek At NDP 2016 – Fireworks Both Indoors AND Outdoors!

If we could describe NDP 2016 (National Day Parade 2016) in one word, it would be ‘spectacular’.

With a catchy theme, ‘Building Our Singapore Of Tomorrow‘, and set against the refreshing backdrop of Singapore Indoor Stadium, here are the reasons NDP 2016 will be the best one yet!

[caption id="attachment_11137" align="alignnone" width="4288"]Image Credits: Benjamin Ong Image Credits: Benjamin Ong[/caption]

NDP 2016 – The First NDP at Indoor Stadium

Singapore will celebrate her birthday in the newly-renovated Singapore Indoor Stadium for the first time. That’s right! Fret not about the hot sun and enjoy the show indoors while staying cool! In addition, the venue boasts a huge seating capacity of up to 12,000. You can also look forward to conveniently located restrooms.

[caption id="attachment_11130" align="alignnone" width="4288"]Image Credits: Chua Zhan Teng Image Credits: Chua Zhan Teng[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11133" align="alignnone" width="4288"]Image Credits: Benjamin Ong Image Credits: Benjamin Ong[/caption]

Jaw-dropping Light Shows

Next up, the dazzling light shows are undoubtedly the most impressive part of NDP 2016 itself. Be awed by the ingenious use of light effects throughout the parade. Keep a lookout for Act 3 and 4 when the stadium lights go off.

In fact, every spectator can be part of the performance simply by wearing the LED wristbands distributed in goodie bags! The LED wristbands pulsate with colours. It even syncs with the parade’s live music, light shows and body movements. Just imagine the stadium as the night sky, and your wristbands form part of the galaxy of twinkling stars!

[caption id="attachment_11134" align="alignnone" width="4288"]Image Credits: Benjamin Ong Image Credits: Benjamin Ong[/caption]

Our Prime Minister has remarked that “Singapore is like a unicorn. One of a kind, a special animal, no other in the world. It works well, (and) has unique solutions.” Indeed, NDP 2016 even stars a sparkling unicorn dancing gracefully above the audience.

Watch in awe as dancers and aerialists clad in kaleidoscopic LED costumes execute a perfectly synchronised performance. Our favourite segment was Act 5, where Singapore’s future cityscape took shape right before our eyes, made possible by 3D projections!

[caption id="attachment_11140" align="alignnone" width="4288"]Image Credits: Benjamin Ong Image Credits: Benjamin Ong[/caption]

Drawing Inspiration from the Past

NDP 2016 features the lesser-known story of Badang. In the act ‘Bandang and The Singapore Stone‘, impressive boulders are hurled across the stage together with artistic depictions of a tribe war.

Notably, Badang represents the strength and resilience of our nation in the face of hardships. The story is set in ancient times. Incorporating the Singapore Stone into a thrilling adventure, the story tells of true bravery in times of adversity.

In a truly engaging way, Singaporeans can learn more about this national treasure!

[caption id="attachment_11131" align="alignnone" width="4288"]Image Credits: Benjamin Ong Image Credits: Benjamin Ong[/caption]

We’re All in This Together

Do you know that this year’s parade features a performance put together by the special needs community? In the act “What A Wonderful World”, a beautiful mass display formation is inspired by creative paintings drawn by the special needs community.

You’ll even see members of the disabled society joining in the iridescent show on stage! Also, the audience will have a chance to sign together to songs like “Count On Me Singapore” and everyone’s favourite “Home”. This is to raise awareness for the deaf community.

We found it especially heartwarming to see the entire audience singing together with the performers on stage at NDP 2016. The effortless blend of engagement and emphasis on Singapore as an inclusive society will certainly impress audiences of all ages!

[caption id="attachment_11132" align="alignnone" width="4288"]Image Credits: Rebecca Ong Image Credits: Rebecca Ong[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11135" align="alignnone" width="4288"]Image Credits: Benjamin Ong Image Credits: Benjamin Ong[/caption]

To Top It All Off: Fireworks

Finally, as Singaporeans, one of our favourite parts of the national parade has to be the dazzling fireworks to end the night. Though the indoor stadium maintains a partially-closed roof during the spectacle, audience members can still catch a glimpse of the ‘night-time flowers’ comfortably from their seats.

In addition, NDP 2016 features indoor fireworks as well. We say yes to the best of both worlds: indoor AND outdoor fireworks!

[caption id="attachment_11136" align="alignnone" width="960"]Image Credits: Rebecca Ong Image Credits: Rebecca Ong[/caption]

NDP 2016 – The Final Verdict

NDP 2016  is similar, yet extremely different from all the previous parades we’ve ever witnessed. That is, different in the best way possible. We feel that the parade does an excellent job of fostering Singaporean pride and creatively showcasing the bright future of our ever-developing country.

Therefore, you’ll be in for a treat at NDP 2016 for sure, and don’t forget to bring those cameras to capture the spectacular parade!

Also, read Comfort Food Always Wins! 7 Local Desserts That Steal Our Hearts

Blue Wine: What It’s All About & How To Get Your Hands On One!

Just when you thought food can’t get any more colourful (that’s right rainbow cakes/coffee/god knows what else, we’re looking at you!) This latest trend in foodie haven we’re going to talk about is something else. Today, we’re introducing to you the Blue Wine. Its natural colour has taken the internet by storm. Here’s the low-down on what we know so far.

[caption id="attachment_10341" align="aligncenter" width="478"]Image Credit: @giklive Image Credit: @giklive[/caption]

The creators of blue wine

GikWines is a Spanish firm that has decided that the world’s current selection of red, white, and rose wine is getting a little meh. The team of 6 has said, with a punny reference to the acclaimed book “The Blue Ocean Strategy”, that there’s potential in capturing a relatively uncontested market.

This led to the inception of the Blue Revolution as the wine company affectionately dubbed. There’s also a barrage of #EnjoyTheRevolution hashtags popping up all over  Image Credit: @giklive[/caption]

How is the colour produced?

The wine gets its unique electric blue colour from anthocyanin, a pigment derived from grape skins and an indigo tint sourced from a particular plant. These hues are then added to a base blend of red and white wine.

Interestingly, the Gikblue carries no added sugar and instead sweetens over time due to the natural sugar fermentation process.

[caption id="attachment_10333" align="aligncenter" width="597"]blue wine Image Credit: @giklive[/caption]

How is the world reacting to it?

The original (and peculiar) colour of the wine has proven to be an extremely successful selling point for the company. It sold out last week due to huge demand!

Fret not, wine lovers! GikWines has assured its many fans via social media that its stocks will be replenished the following week. The company has also reached out to thank its customers for what they call an incredible and unanticipated international response on their trending  Image Credit: @giklive[/caption]

A little bit more on blue wine itself…

With an alcohol level of 11.5% and a signature sweet taste, this wine exclusively retails internationally via GikWine’s online website. It goes for an affordable €10 (S$14.99) for a 750ml bottle. The company is currently working on plans to launch a new version of the wine. It’ll be specifically targeted at the Millennial generation.

[caption id="attachment_10334" align="aligncenter" width="596"]Image Credit: @giklive Image Credit: @giklive[/caption]

The Final Verdict

With many positive up-and-coming reviews about its taste and business concept, we’d say GikBlue is well positioned to revolutionise the wine industry. But, only time will tell if GikWines will be a timeless breakthrough in wine history or simply a passing fad.

Sadly, Singaporeans need to wait a little more to order GikWines’ exquisite Blue Wine via their online website, https://gik.blue. Presently, it only ships to select countries such as Spain, France, the United Kingdom, Germany and the Netherlands. If you desperately want to get your hands on it, consider using a freight forwarding service or have your friends who are overseas buy and bring it back for you.

Cover Image Credits: Business Insider

Also, read Seafood So Fresh, They’re Still Alive! 6 Best Places To Get Them

We Never Bluff – Local Food Going For Only 50¢ At Chinatown!

Ever wished you could stuff yourself silly with local delights without breaking the bank? At this year’s 50 Cents Festival, you can! For as little as – you guessed it!- 50 cents, enjoy a great variety of authentic local favourite dishes that will propel you right back to the good old 1950s.

[caption id="attachment_11000" align="alignnone" width="2000"]Image Credits: Chinatown Food Street Image Credits: Chinatown Food Street[/caption]

50 Cents Festival at Chinatown

The entire food street at Chinatown will be transformed into a “pasar”, or street hawker food scene. It’s specially designed to transport visitors to an authentic recreation of the 1950s and 60s! Treat yourself to delectable local delights – 35 iconic traditional dishes cooked by 20 stores!

Do also watch out for the mobile hawkers who roam the streets selling old-time favourites.

[caption id="attachment_11003" align="alignnone" width="4320"]Image Credits: Chinatown Food Street Ice Ball, $0.50[/caption]

50 Cents is Bigger Than a Bull Cart Wheel

An old Hokkien saying (translated) goes: “50 Cents is Bigger Than a Bull Cart Wheel!” What does this mean? In the 1950s, SGD 50 cents was enough to buy so much food that most would consider it a ridiculous amount to spend on a meal! Singaporeans and tourists alike will be pleased to note this will be a reality at the 50 cents festival!

[caption id="attachment_11004" align="alignnone" width="5616"]Image Credits: Chinatown Food Street Rickshaw Noodles, $0.50[/caption]

35 Iconic Local Delights at as Little as 50 Cents Only

That’s right budget hunters, 50 cents for your favourite Char Kway Teow, UFO (Fried Oyster Cake), Rickshaw Noodle, Ice Balls and Fried Carrot Cake. Other 50 cent dishes include BBQ Chicken Wings, Nasi Lemak wrapped in banana leaf, Satay and Roti Prata. For an additional 50 cents or one dollar, customers can even enjoy specialities such as Hainanese Chicken Rice Balls, Bak Kut Teh and Singapore’s signature Chilli Crab!

[caption id="attachment_11052" align="aligncenter" width="1000"]gallery-3 Pig trotter with vinegar, $0.50 x 3[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11008" align="aligncenter" width="1200"]Image Credits: Chinatown Food Street Hainanese Chicken Rice Balls, $0.50 x 2[/caption]

Fringe activities

To truly make the experience an unforgettable one, there will be a myriad of Fringe Activities lined up for all ages. Families can indulge in outdoor movie screenings, marvel at performances by martial arts professionals and opera singers. These activities will mimic “kampong-style” communal activities. Get your Chinese name artfully written by calligraphers, or you could also pay a visit to letter writers and fortune-tellers. All these while munching on your food spoils of the day!

[caption id="attachment_11001" align="alignnone" width="5616"]Image Credits: Chinatown Food Street Steamed Glutinous Rice (Sweet & Savoury), $0.50[/caption]

50 Cents Festival Details

gallery-5

With so much happening along this street bazaar, we say this is a must-visit for everyone! So, what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars and get ready to have a feast!

50 Cents Festival
Address:
Chinatown Food Street, Smith Street
Date: 30 July, Sat, 3PM – 11PM; 31 July, Sun, 11AM-11PM
Menu: click here.
Also read, A Timbre+ Event: Expect Only The Best Food & Music @ Open Stoves!

Must Read – 6 Things You Wish You Knew Before Entering University

Coming from someone who’s been there and done that, these 6 tips will spare you those ‘how I wish I knew’ moments when you start your University Life! We’ve spared you the culture shock. You’re very welcome.

[caption id="attachment_10171" align="alignnone" width="1280"]Image Credit: Tumblr Image Credit: Tumblr[/caption]

1. The rat race doesn’t stop. Be prepared to study.

Graduating from your Polytechnic or Junior College isn’t a get-out-of-jail-card from the books. Be prepared to spend your free time pouring over readings, test banks and notes especially during the oh-so-dreaded Hell Week.

Yes, it’s an official term around campus and yes, it’s very, very appropriate. It hit me the hardest during Week 10 of the semester when I was juggling 3 midterms, 1 project, and 2 presentations. During that time, I spent no less than 10 hours a day at school. Yup, you’ve been warned.

[caption id="attachment_10169" align="alignnone" width="2560"]Image Credit: Tumblr Image Credit: Tumblr[/caption]

2. You’ll meet ALL kinds of people.

Part-time Bloggers/ Models. Foreign exchange students from Italy or Tasmania. National athletes. Anyone can be sitting next to you in your first seminar. I realised that so many paths lead to University. It’s pretty cool when you meet someone whose life is just so different from yours.

Be sure to swap life stories and don’t miss the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with people from such diverse backgrounds.

[caption id="attachment_10167" align="alignnone" width="1280"]Image Credit: Tumblr Image Credit: Tumblr[/caption]

3. You’ll be broke. Like, 99% of the time.

Ugh. What’s new? It makes sense when you think about it. Gone are the days when your dear old Fish ball noodles cost $2.50. Because well, subsidised school canteens don’t exist anymore. You’ll find that you eat out more and more often. Giving in to the temptation of savouring a $10+ meal a few times a week becomes a norm.

My advice: eat the main meals at home and spend your pocket money on treats like Starbucks. It’s much more satisfying that way. You also won’t burn (as large) a hole in your savings account. Alternatively, you can look for a part-time job on job portals like Image Credit: Tumblr Image Credit: Tumblr[/caption]

4. Go. For. Camps.

Yes, I get it. Doing overenthusiastic cheers like 17 times a day isn’t exactly everyone’s cup of tea but camps are seriously important for University. You make a handful of friends and meet really nice seniors who will tell you which professors to avoid. You’ll also get advice on the best study and hangout spots around campus.

Trust me when I say it’s always nice to see familiar faces around lecture halls, tutorials or seminars.

[caption id="attachment_10166" align="alignnone" width="1280"]Image Credit: Tumblr Image Credit: Tumblr[/caption]

5. Universities are huge. Try not to get lost.

Attend the open houses and familiarise yourself with your campus. Ask for directions from seniors or if you’re desperate, friendly aunties or security guards. Better yet, download an online map at least for your first week. Universities are simply gigantic compared to the campuses you’ve been used to.

It’s no fun getting lost when you’ve got a class in 10 minutes at the other end of school.

[caption id="attachment_10164" align="aligncenter" width="1280"]Image Credit: Tumblr Image Credit: Tumblr[/caption]

6. You’re going to have a great time

This I say for sure, is true. University is when you’re basically handed free reign to live your own life. There are a million student groups to join and your schedule is in your hands. You meet lots of new people and gain lots of new experiences.

I won’t be that cliché writer who tells you that ‘University is going to be the best time of your life’. But I sure as hell will tell you that it’s pretty fun. The highs and the lows in University are part and parcel of life itself, and you’ll realise how time flies by so savor each moment while you still can.

All the best, Freshie!

From your well wishing senior.

If you’ll be in NTU, 12 Peculiar Things Only NTU Students Will Nod Silently In Agreement

Also, read The Comprehensive 2016 Guide To Student Discounts In Singapore!

(Header image credit: kinfolk.com)