In an era where we grew up with technology, having a timepiece on your wrist is a pretty outdated idea.
Think about it. Why do we need watches when we all have smart phones with very accurate clocks on them? Heck, even our computers/laptops have the time right there in the corner. It’s pretty easy to find out what time it is.
Yet. I like watches. I have over the past couple of years acquired several. From Timex to Seiko, my mom used to love buying watches for my birthday.
However, I’ve realised that I never knew how to repair any of my watches when they died so I end up spending so much money just because the seller tells me, “You need to do a complete overhaul.”
So the lovely folks at Watch Wonderland invited me down to their Academy to learn how to assemble my own watch and leather strap, so I’m better prepared the next time someone tells me my watch needs a complete overhaul.
The Academy
Located in Suntec City, Watch Wonderland is more than just a watch shop. It’s also an academy and a concierge. This retail space carries big names such as Seiko as well as micro-indie brands from the US, France and more. In addition to that, they also carry a total of 6 brands that are made with love by our very own Singaporean watchmakers.
At Watch Wonderland, they place a strong focus on their selection of watches. You can purchase your watches with an ease of mind because their selection process is one that covers everything from aesthetics to mechanical testing before they allow a brand into their portfolio.
Apart from buying watches, Watch Wonderland is also a place for watch enthusiasts to convene with other likeminded people to learn more about this fascinating universe.
I was honestly scared shitless at this moment because 1. I’m terrible at fixing things and 2. I’ve never attended a single leather making class in my entire life. However, the course instructor, Mr Vincent Goh, assured me that I’ll do just fine.
Have you seen me in D&T class, Mr Goh?
Nonetheless, we dove right in and learned how to assemble the basic parts, oil and regulate the timing of the watch.
[caption id="attachment_36239" align="aligncenter" width="6000"] Tools and Equipments used | Image Credit: Watch Wonderland[/caption]
They first opened The Academy in November 2017 and have since been consistently hosting classes through The Academy to broaden the knowledge and perspective of their audience.
“I’ve had participants flying in from all over the world JUST to attend this workshop. In fact, my youngest participant was only 12 years old and she managed to complete the workshop,” Vincent exclaimed.
So I calmed down, rolled up my sleeves, put on my finger gloves and got to work. Vincent started off with a video explaining how a mechanical watch works. He printed out a step-by-step guide for us so we always knew what to do next.
I was lost and struggling half the time but Vincent was patient and kind enough to guide me on where to place the different parts and constantly checked on my work to ensure that I didn’t miss a step.
To be honest, if I never knew who he was, I’d mistake him for some random uncle who loves to lepak at the kopitiam with his friends but I was completely wrong. Vincent is an extremely talented and experienced watchmaker who has worked on restoring 500 vintage watches in the US back in the 90s.
Being posted to China for 11 years also saw him having more opportunities to learn from highly experienced watchmakers and veterans, giving him an advanced knowledge of watch repair that no book has ever documented.
[caption id="attachment_36223" align="aligncenter" width="6000"] Guidance from Vincent Goh | Image Credit: Watch Wonderland[/caption]
So I knew, I was in very safe hands.
“Eh Farhanah, come come I take your photo. You wayang a bit lah, pretend you fixing, don’t look at camera ah! 1…2…3…!” he shouted.
After 2 hours of putting the watch together and using the TimeGrapher to regulate the watch timing, I was extremely satisfied with my final product. Vincent gave me a little pat on my back and told me I did a pretty great job for a first timer.
You’re too kind sir.
Leather Crafting
No watch is complete without a strap. Especially one that further tells your audience about your personality.
We were guided by our leather craft instructor, Mr Jeremiah Ang who established J.Myers Co six years ago, and has since grew from a one-man show, to creating numerous products in collaboration with brands such as Bentley, Vertu, Red Army Watches and Bang & Olufsen.
[caption id="attachment_36222" align="aligncenter" width="6000"] With Jeremiah Ang who established J.Myers Co six years ago | Image Credit: Watch Wonderland[/caption]
He first introduced to us the different types of leather and finally gave us two colours to pick from.
After a brief introduction as to how to use the tools, we got to marking and cutting out our leather strap using a template that he prepared for us. We crafted our very own leather NATO strap for the watch that we assembled earlier on.
The process to making your own leather strap was not easy at all. The last step, which was to stitch the holes we created was definitely the toughest part of it all. After an hour of poking my thumb and messing up my stitches, there were tiny beads of sweat formed on my forehead and I was pretty much ready to get it all over and done with.
[caption id="attachment_36216" align="aligncenter" width="6000"] One stitch at a time | Image Credit: Watch Wonderland[/caption]
Leather crafting is an amazing art form and I’m glad that I finally have a deeper appreciation for artisans and designers who are dedicated to creating quality leather products, with the sole objective to bring about a deeper appreciation of craftsmanship. One stitch at a time.
After 5 gruelling hours, my face glowed (or maybe it was the sweat) when I finally assembled my watch together. Wearing it for the first time felt so satisfying because I knew I put in all my effort into making this watch.
Watch Wonderland has changed my expectations of a brick-and-mortar store forever. This chic space doesn’t just sell watches but it also doubles up as an Academy with a workshop space right in the middle of the store.
Welcoming their customers with a giant neon logo emblazoned across a wall, it’s the opposite of typical luxury watch boutiques with intimidating grand entrances and snooty judgey salesmen clad in suit and tie.
So if you’re ever looking at doing something out of the ordinary in Singapore, then Watch Wonderland is a great place for watch enthusiasts to come together and learn about leather crafting or watchmaking from the masters themselves.
The Academy at Watch Wonderland Address: 3 Temasek Boulevard, #01-470/472 Suntec City Mall Price: $400 (Watchmaking Workshop), $100 (Leather Crafting Workshop) Hours: 10am – 6pm (Watchmaking Workshop), 10am – 3pm (Leather Crafting Workshop) Day: Every Fortnight, Weekends (Check their FB page for sign ups) Website | Facebook | Instagram
Whenever I’m having a bad day, one of the few things I find comfort in, is a hot bowl of ramen.
Singapore is no stranger to ramen establishments, with many dotting the island, serving up bowls of comforting noodle soup.
This weekend, Singapore’s largest and only ramen event, Ramen Revolution returns for its 2nd edition!
The Revolution Returns
This year’s Ramen Revolution will be bigger and better than last year’s, with an extensive event lineup spanning the weekend, taking place at Resorts World Sentosa, The Forum B1!
Some of the participating ramen stores include local favourites like Kanshoku Ramen, who will be presenting their best-selling Truffle Ramen, and Hokkaido Ramen Santouka with their event-exclusive Tantanmen – made with their signature shio base, sesame paste, and chilli oil for that spicy kick.
Other ramen stores who will be offering event-exclusive ramen include Ramen Bar Suzuki with their Extreme Black Tonkotsu Ramen, Kajiken Singapore with their Okinawa Mazesoba, and Men Men Tei with their Jiro Style Aburi Chashu Ramen.
On top of being able to try all these exclusive ramen, you get to vote for your favourite ramen store! If the ramen store you voted for wins the most votes, you stand a chance to be one of 10 lucky winners to walk away with Crayon Shinchan collectibles!
That’s not all that will be happening at the Ramen Revolution 2018. There will also be JPOP performances by various JPOP cover girl groups such as Natsuiro Party and Tokimeki JUMP.
For those of you who are intrigued by eating competitions, we have good news.
There’s the Food Fight, a speed eating competition, organised by Singapore’s very own Food League SG. Participants will have to finish a bowl of ramen and 8 gyozas in the fastest time. The fastest 6 will qualify for the finals on Sunday.
Food League SG’s own competitive eater, Zermatt Neo, will also be there to demonstrate his ability at Capacity Eating (eating a large amount of food in the time allocated).
The champion of Food Fight will win a 3D2N staycation at Park Hotel Clarke Quay, $100 Syun F&B voucher, a pair of S.E.A Aquarium adult tickets and a pair of Adventure Cove Waterpark tickets!
If you’re a Japanophile, don’t miss out on the Ramen Revolution 2018, happening this weekend from 27 to 29 July 2018 at Resorts World Sentosa, The Forum B1!
Taking place on December 1 on the shores of Sentosa Siloso beach, this year’s event will feature a full-fledged festival site complete with a food village, custom installations, mind-blowing stage production as well as roving acts.
Are You Ready?
Headlined by the likes of Marshmello and DJ Snake last year, the ZoukOut 2018 line-up is set to be packed with a stellar and diverse line-up of international, regional and local acts across dance music genres.
Acclaimed DJ duo Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike also known as DVLM, will be making their Singapore debut. This will also be their only performance in Southeast Asia this year!
Known for their massive hits like “When I Grow Up” featuring Wiz Khalifa and “Tremor” with Martin Garrix, this duo can’t be missed. They were also awarded the second spot in DJ MAG’s 2017 Top 100 DJ list, arguably making them the biggest EDM duo in recent years.
The Lion King Musical first debuted at Marina Bay Sands in 2011 and is finally back to entertain us with a stellar ensemble from around the globe.
With extravagant and timeless number such as “The Circle of Life” and “Can You Feel The Love Tonight”, this show will definitely be a night to remember for you and your loved ones.
King Of The Broadway Jungle
Disney’s well-loved film was transformed into a spectacular theatrical experience in November 1997 and has since won more that 70 global theatrical awards including the Tony Award for Best Musical.
Set against the majesty of the Serengeti Plains, The musical tells the epic story of Simba the lion and his journey from a wide-eyed cub to his destined role as King of the Pridelands.
When The Lion King first debuted at Marina Bay Sands in 2011, it became the longest running musical in Singapore’s theatrical entertainment history, playing to over 300,00 people during its eight-month season in Singapore.
The international tour celebrates the musical’s 20th anniversary on stage and is the title’s 25th global production.
Expect a wave of emotions because this musical is about to blow your mind. You can expect more that 200 puppets in the show, including rod, shadow and full-sized puppets.
Be blown away by the 5.5 meters giraffes in the “I Just Can’t Wait To be King” scene as well as the elephant – the largest and longest animal in the show measuring 4 meters long and 3 meters wide.
The most unique part of this musical is, Rafiki The Baboon which is presented as a male character in the animated movie will be played by a strong female character – she’s a complete #girlboss.
If you grew up belting out the lyrics to “The Circle Of Life” or “Hakuna Matata”, then you can’t miss this exciting, yet moving theatrical classic that has ever come to Broadway.
The Lion King Musical
Venue: Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands Performance Times: Tuesday – Friday: 7:30pm, Saturday: 2pm & 7pm, Sunday: 1pm & 6pm Price: From $65, excludes the booking fee of $4 per ticket Website
With SAF Day approaching on 1 July, it’s time to show our appreciation for all SAF national servicemen.
Pretty much the SAF’s equivalent of GSS, this special day is definitely worth spending two years of your time serving the country. Time to treat yo’self this SAF Day because you guys deserve it!
Get your wallets ready for these SAF Day promotions!
1. Shaw Theatres
(1-For-1 Weekend Movie Tickets)
You can’t go wrong with free movie tickets. Shaw Theatres is offering 1-for-1 Weekend Movie Tickets to all existing SAFRA Card Members.
If you’re looking for a fun day out with bae, Sentosa is offering the “Happy 2 Joyrides” promotion ($48/Adult or $39.50/Child) which includes:
One-Day Cable Car Sky Pass Unlimited (Unlimited cable car rides on Mount Faber Line & Sentosa Line
Free Sentosa admission pass
2 attractions of your choice
40% off Good Old Days* Buffet (U.P $29+ Adult and $24+ Child) with the above purchase. *Operating House: 5 pm – 10 pm daily (Last seating: 9.15 pm)
This promotion is valid from 1 Jun 2018 to 31 Aug 2018.
Check out the attractions you can choose from Image Credit: Salutensmen.sg[/caption]
Best part, enjoy 15% off selected merchandise such as t-shirts, bags, shoes, sunglasses and more!
This promotion is valid from 22 June – 31 July 18.
Swee lah, outfield barang settled!
5. Caltex
(20% Discount Petrol & Diesel)
If you ride or drive to camp, Caltex got your back.
From 29 June – 3 July 2018, enjoy 20% of fuel (Petrol & Diesel) at all outlets! The more you pump, the more perks you enjoy with SAFRA!
All you have to do is present your SAFRA card upon payment to qualify for this discount.
6. Futsal Court
(50% Booking Fees)
Gather all your soccer buddies for a futsal session at SAFRA Jurong or SAFRA Mount Faber and enjoy 50% off booking fees.
This offer is valid from:
30 Jun – 8 Jul 2018 (Booking Period)
30 Jun – 8 Aug 2018 (Usage)
Book your futsal court Image Credit: Sony Singapore[/caption]
If you love anything tech then you’ll be pleased to know that you can get cameras, headphones, speaker and even a TV at discounted prices!
This offer is valid from 1 July to 31 August 2018.
Check out what’s on sale Image Credit: Topman Facebook[/caption]
This offer is valid on selected regular-priced items (tee, hoodie, swear, casual jackets) with any purchase of a casual bottom (jeans, chinos, shorts) and limited to a maximum of 2 pieces in a single transaction.
Check out the T&Cs https://goo.gl/CkkFdA by applying the promo code: UAXSAFRA and enjoy additional 20% off min. 3 regular-priced and sale items.
From 29 June – 31 July, enjoy additional 20% off min. 3 regular-priced and sale items. This offer is not applicable on top of other promotions or flash sale.
Online shopping is the answer if your weekends are burned from guard duties.
Shop from thousands of products from international and local labels on ZALORA, including TOPSHOP, TOPMAN, Herschel, Nike, New Balance, River Island and more!
You can also “dumzi-dumzi” and “ewah-ewah” the night away from 1 April – 29 September 2018. Enjoy complimentary access to Zouk & Phuture for the first 30 SAFRA members every Wed/Fri/Sat, before 12am only.
You’ll find a diverse selection of 17 varieties of gourmet cheesecakes comprising of classics such as their Classic New York Cheesecake, Oreo Cookies & Cream Cheesecake to Asian and local-inspired creations like Milo Dinosaur.
Here’s what Cat & The Fiddle will be offering this SAF Day:
Promotion 1 (Valid from 29 Jun – 1 Jul 2018)
50% off Devil’s Chocolate Cheesecake – Naughty and Nice
Use Promo Code ‘CATSAF50’ upon checkout online
Promotion 2 (Valid from 2 Jul – 10 Aug 2018)
20% off 3 cheesecake options: Milo Dinosaur, Jolly Horly (Horlicks Cheesecake) and Queen of Hearts (Strawberry Cheesecake)
Use Promo Code ‘CATXSAF’ upon checkout online
Treat the fam to an amazing spread of Dim Sum from 1 July – 31 August 2018.
Here’s what Yum Cha will be offering:
Yum Cha Chinatown: 30% off weekday high tea buffet, per SAFRA card holder
Yum Cha Changi: 30% off a la carte items after 6pm
If you’re craving for some real good and hearty Dim Sum such as Fish Roe with Siew Mai or Xiao Long Bao, then Yum Cha Restaurant is right up your alley.
Being a parent is tough. Teaching a child is tough. Looking after a child is tough.
But what if it doesn’t have to be? Don’t worry I’m not trying to sell you anything (fight me, insurance agents).
I’ve compiled a list of places to take your kids that’s both educational and inexpensive. Because honestly, we’re quite done with the zoo, and the rooftop play area at VivoCity.
So parents, aunties, uncles, guardians, LISTEN UP.
Farms
Mainland Tropical Fish Farm
Personally, I love fishes and marine life in general. So I spent a good amount of time visiting fish farms as a child. If you live in the East, then you might want to pay a visit to Mainland Tropical Fish Farm instead.
[caption id="attachment_35325" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image Credit: Little Tree House[/caption]
While the place primarily sells aquarium fishes and supplies, there are activities available for the kids too. Spend a dollar or 3, on packets of food pellets and feed the fishes in the outdoor pond.
For $4, equip your child with a fishing net and a bucket for them to try their hand at catching their very own “longkang” fish! Just make sure they don’t fall in.
The Animal Resort is home to stallions, a variety of birds that includes a Cassowary and Marabou Stork, a German Shepherd dog training ground, rabbits and guinea pigs, fishes, a pet grooming centre, and a pet shop.
After familiarising yourself with the different species of flora and fauna within the farm, visitors can enjoy a myriad of dishes made from local produce at the bistro, Poison Ivy, to nourish your body.
If you ever need a break from the fast-paced city life we’re all used to, make a trip down to Bollywood Veggies and experience an afternoon of serenity for a change.
Bollywood Veggies Address: 100 Neo Tiew Road, Singapore 719026 Opening Hours: Wed – Fri: 8am – 5.30pm, Sat – Sun: 8am – 6.30pm Contact no.: 6898 5001 Sungei Buloh Wetland Reservehas much to offer. Explore the vast mangroves and trails that span all over the reserve as you contemplate the beauty of your surroundings.
[caption id="attachment_35330" align="aligncenter" width="1566"] Image Credit: 2011 Bird Checklist released by the National Parks Board, over 200 different species of birds have been recorded on-site at the reserve!
For those unfamiliar with Kranji Marshes, the 56.8-hectare freshwater marshland is home to unique biodiversity.
Kranji Marshes is actually split into two main areas – the public area that is open to all members of the public, and the restricted core conservation area that is deemed to be ecologically sensitive. You can enter the core conservation area if you sign up for a guided tour.
According to NParks, Kranji Marshes is home to more than 170 species of birds, 54 species of butterflies, and 33 species of dragonflies! Alongside Sungei Buloh Nature Reserve, it plays an important role in providing a habitat for the conservation of wildlife in the Kranji area.
Moorhen Blind and Swamphen Hide are 2 bird-watching stations that overlook marsh landscapes, perfect for taking in the sights of nature.
The park is open from 7am-7pm daily. Do note that there is no lighting in the evenings! The park is also wheelchair- and pram-friendly, with the exception of the Raptor Tower.
Diggersite is a one-of-a-kind edutainment centre that provides realistic experience in operating small scale construction machinery. The main motive is to help your child build motor skills, which are vital for writing, crafts, and other fine motor activities.
Unlike most rock-climbing facilities, Clip ‘n Climb also caters for climbers of all ages with 19 different colourful climbing challenges. Meaning, kids can join in the fun too!
Clip ‘n Climb is great for improving a kid’s concentration and focus as well as sensory and motor skills.
Check out the packages and pricing at Clip ‘n Climb here!
I remember the days when ORTO used to be Bottle Tree Park.
Today, the 555,000 square feet space has been completely revamped and taken over by ORTO. Located in the North, it is Singapore’s first multi-recreational park that is open 24 hours a day.
Today, it houses a prawning and fishing facility, a paintball park, a trampoline park, a drift karting circuit, and even a sporting facility for rent!
The Artground is an accessible play space for children aged 12 and below, and they aim to provide positive art experiences through interactive art installations that changes tri-annually.
[caption id="attachment_35339" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Image Credit: The Artground[/caption]
Children are encouraged to climb over, under or through the interactive art installations, which helps to develop their motor skills.
[caption id="attachment_35340" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Image Credit: The Artground[/caption]
On the weekends, there will also be various art-related programs that families with young children can participate in.
If your life revolves around makeup and skincare products, you know how pricey they can get. Let’s be real, most of us are guilty of spending WAY too much money on makeup that we’ve somehow managed to convince ourselves that we need.
I like to call this an “investment” because we all deserve great things in life.
If you do desperately need a lil pampering, then we have good news. What if we tell you that you can treat yourself without breaking the bank this month?
BeLive is no stranger to many of us. It’s Asia’s premium social live streaming platform that connects you with real people in real-time. You can also catch local influencers such as Naomi Neo and Bong Qiu Qiu on the app as well!
And now that their Flash Sales are back this GSS, you get to shop guilt-free, with beauty products going at 50% off. You better BeLive it! Who said beauty has to be expensive?
Sneak Peek of BeLive’s GSS Flash Sales
You have one more week to enjoy BeLive’s flash sale which will be happening on Monday (25 June) and Thursday (28 June).
They say good things must share so we have insider info of what will be on sale these two days. Here’s what you should camp for.
ColourPop Lippie Stix ($4.50, U.P. $9)
When it comes to affordable lip sticks, ColourPop comes into mind. This brand exploded all over social media in 2015 and for a good reason – they offer pigmented products at affordable prices.
The Lippie Stix reminds me of those twistable crayons we all used to love and went crazy over in primary school. So if you have kids, maybe keep this one away from them in case they plan on using it for their next art piece.
Honestly, where else can you get lip sticks THIS cheap in Singapore? Even drug store lipsticks will cost you at least $10.
This product will be reviewed by @caxs on Monday, 25 June, 9.15pm onwards. Mark this date and time on your calendar!
Tarte Glow To Go Palette ($17.50, U.P. $35)
We can all agree that a little bit of glow goes a long way.
Our goal in life is to blind everyone else with our highlight and what better way to do that than with Tarte’s Glow To Go Palette. It’s a compact trio housed in a slim, black cardboard palette with a velvety feel on the outside. This palette includes two highlighters and one contour powder.
This product will be reviewed by @thatericboy on Thursday, 28 June, 9.15pm onwards. Time to glo-up fam!
How It Works
If you’re already convinced and you can’t wait to get your hands on the items mentioned, then this is how it works!
Step 1: Tune In At 9.15 PM Sharp
Punctuality is key! If you want to steal this product, then you have to get on the BeLive app at 9.15pm sharp to catch the flash sale live stream.
We highly recommend camping on your phone at least 10 minutes before the live stream! Good things come to those who wait.
Step 2: Click To Buy
A shop button will appear in the live stream from 9.30pm. You don’t have to leave the app at all. All you have to do is click the shop button and it will redirect you to the page with a promo code to get 50% off your desired makeup item.
Best part, the live stream will continue playing in the background as the influencer continues explaining the product to you.
Step 3: Fastest Fingers First
Here’s the catch. This deal ends in 15 minutes. So once that shop button appears, you have to be quick before they run out of stock!
All those years of running through Sephora for your last minute make up runs will finally be put to use. Good luck and may the Make Up Gods be ever in your favour.
Shop and Save With BeLive’s GSS Flash Sales
BeLive’s GSS Flash Sale is every shopaholic’s dream come true. In fact, this has taken online shopping in Singapore to a whole new level.
If you’ve ever tried shopping online, you tend to be skeptical of certain items JUST because you can’t find any reliable reviews online. Well this time round, you get to watch a live review of the item before making your purchase.
So YOU get to decide if the product is worth the buy or not. Well in this case, we 100% support buying it because there’s no way you can get beauty products this cheap in Singapore!
What’s more, 5 lucky viewers get to win $20 Gift Cards (Sephora / Watson’s) at every session.
So what are you waiting for? Makeup Lovers, you know where to flock to next week to get the cheapest deals in town.
Download the BeLive app and get your phones ready for BeLive’s GSS Flash Sales!
BeLive Holy Chic! GSS Flash Sale When: 4 – 28 June, Every Mon & Thurs Download app: Apple | Google Play Website
Tucked away in the northern region of Singapore, Yishun makes news headlines regularly. From drug ring busts and cat murders to civilians trying to attack policemen with stun guns, Yishun has developed a reputation for bad news.
“Build a wall around Yishun”, they said.
What’s up with Yishun? Could it be something in the air or perhaps the water? Is the temperature different in Yishun?
But it turns out, after multiple visits to Yishun, that the problem with Yishun is simple. There’s no problem. Nothing. Zero. Zilch.
Recently, I came across an Instagram (@makeyishungreatagain2018) that aims to make Yishun the greatest neighbourhood in Singapore. And here’s why I believe that Yishun is a pretty damn cool neighbourhood.
Contrary to popular belief, Yishun is a great place to raise your kids. Don’t believe? Come, I show you.
1. Yishun Has President Halimah, Your Neighbourhood Got What?
Remember when everyone went crazy about President Halimah living in a flat in Yishun. After being declared President on September 13, President Halimah continued to live in her flat, making her Singapore’s first head of state to live in public housing while in office.
In her Facebook post, she mentioned: “Therefore, as much as I would like to continue living in my current home in Yishun, I have accepted MHA’s recommendation and will make arrangements to move to a new place soon.”
She’s so chill and down to earth. She’s the kind of President we all need!
Who knows, living in Yishun might inspire your kid to be the next President of Singapore.
2. Cheap, Good Food For The Soul
Living in Singapore may be expensive but food doesn’t have to be.
You’ll be surprised but Yishun Hawker Centre is home to some pretty darn good and cheap food.
Ah Tan Wings (Yishun Park Hawker Centre)
They’ve managed to perfect Har Cheong Gai that is crispy yet juicy, perfectly cooked, smells like heaven and tastes like an umami bomb.
For just $1.70, you can get a bomb Har Cheong Gai that will keep you coming back for more. Their wings are so good that they sell out quite quickly, so if you’re feeling brave and want to venture into Yishun, don’t waste the trip and stop by Ah Tan’s because where else can you get Har Cheong Gai to die for?
For the longest time, Singaporeans have complained about the increasing prices of food and housing.
But for a day in the month of June, Yishun Park Hawker Centre is taking things back to the old days, when food was still cheap, and a crisp $10 note made you seem like a rich man.
For ONE DAY ONLY, 26 stallholders in Yishun Park Hawker Centre will be showcasing food from its traditional and young hawkers and you get to try the signature dishes from the participating stalls, for just ONE DOLLAR.
Your neighbourhood got playground like this? Don’t have right?
[caption id="attachment_35279" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Image Credit: Young Parents[/caption]
Created by US-based light sculptor, Mini Pool consists of 16 pads on the ground that light up and change colour when they are stepped on, according to a Straits Times report.
Complementing the playground’s whimsical theme are three crooked houses that seem to have been plucked straight out of a Dr Seuss book. There is also a kinetic hammock trellis – a swing set with nine seats installed at different heights.
Your kid will thank you for this. This playground is definitely not #basic.
Yishun River Green Playground Where: Block 330 Yishun Ring Road
4. Home To The Largest Mall in the Northern Part of Singapore
Can we please talk about Northpoint City’s glo-up?
[caption id="attachment_35282" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Image Credit: SAA Group[/caption]
If you’re both busy working parents, figuring out where to bring your kids to over the weekends can be quite a headache.
Well, you won’t have that problem living in Yishun. Northpoint City recently opened their new South Wing and the options are endless.
There are over 100 food and dining concepts so if you have a kid who is a picky eater, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. If you need a quick retail therapy, there’s even Uniqlo in Northpoint City now.
Fun fact, Northpoint City has all major bubble tea brands in one mall. Gong Cha, Liho, Koi, Share Tea, Hi Tea, Teafolia, Yuan Cha etc. Your neighbourhood can beat anot?
Who needs Vivocity when you have Northpoint?
Good things do come to Yishun.
5. HDB Prices Are Considerably Cheaper Than Mature Estates
If you work in the northern region of Singapore, or would prefer your abode to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city, then this location might make sense. With prices being correspondingly lower, a unit here could offer great value in the long-term.
If cost of living in Singapore is a major concern of yours, you can consider buying a house in Yishun to start a family.
Not only that, you don’t have to leave Yishun to access markets, schools, parks and even Khoo Teck Phuat Hospital. Everything you need is in one location.
There are also buses to almost everywhere from Yishun. Which makes travelling from place to place a whole lot more convenient.
6. Bowling, Prawning, Paintball, What Else You Want?
There’s no such thing as “nothing to do” in Yishun.
Welcome to the world of ORTO, where fun never sleeps.
Bishan is probably one of the best neighbourhoods to live in Singapore. With 2 intersecting MRT lines that lead to town and the ulu West side of Singapore, nowhere is too far when you live in Bishan.
This weekend, Bishan will be having their own festival, complete with food, a retail market, workshops, games, live band performances, and even a movie under the stars!
Here’s what you can expect at the Craving Communities Festival!
Eat, Play, Create
Happening this weekend, 23 to 24 June 2018, the Craving Communities Festival is a short but fun-packed festival for the whole family.
What To Eat
I’m not kidding. I mean, just look at the food that’ll be available at the fair.
Kway Guan Huat Joo Chiat Popiah is known for their traditional handmade authentic popiah and kueh pie tee.
[caption id="attachment_35262" align="aligncenter" width="645"] Image Credit: Burppler Harold Koh[/caption]
If you’re not familiar, they’ve been making their famous popiah rolls for over 70 years and no one makes better popiah skin. In recognition of their rich history, they’re even included in the National Heritage Board’s historical food trail!
You might also recognise some of these vendors who were also at Artbox Singapore 2018 as well as Market On Wheels that’s ongoing at Bugis until 8 July!
That’s right, The Swag Social will also be running a booth with Carrot Cubes, serving up cheesy popcorn chicken, fries, Earl Grey Milk Tea, and traditional handmade carrot cakes with a twist!
Fish Sh-nack will also be making an appearance with their very own Crispy Fish Skin snacks in 4 flavours and their Fish Sh-nack Donburi.
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If you’re sweating buckets in this heat, cool down with modern “sng baos” (ice slushie packs) from Coldshave! Available in unique flavours such as Avocado, Yuzu Longan, and Watermelon Strawberry!
What To Shop
What’s a festival without a flea market?
Shop for little knick knacks from the Craft Market.
Little locally-inspired and designed bits and bobs from Handy Dandy SG (@handydandysg), handmade bath soaps from Allet Soap (@alletsoap), candles and diffusers from Sally’s Room (@sallysroom), cute art illustrations and postcard from Laugh & Belly (@laughandbelly) and more!
Just a week ago, I realised that my debit card was nearing its expiry date.
Immediately, I thought about finding a good time to brave the typically long bank queues and renew it…and then it hit me.
When was the last time that I actually queued at a bank branch?
Not trusting my bad memory, I asked colleagues around me about the last time they queued (or even visited) a bank branch.
“Wow…I really think the last time was 5 years ago, when I went to get my debit card set up. I had a POSB kids account, and I needed to changed it to my current account,” said one.
The others, like myself, couldn’t remember the last time they even visited a bank.
Sure, withdrawing cash from an ATM is still pretty old school, but many bank-related transactions can now be done by starting up your iBanking app.
Take for example the transferring of funds.
I still remember when buying an item from an online shop meant heading down to an ATM, carefully keying in the account number, getting the transaction receipt, taking a photo of the receipt, sending over the photo to the vendor, and waiting for confirmation of payment.
Now, all you need is the recipient’s phone number to make a transfer!
What’s more, you’ll even get the digital receipt sent via SMS to your phone as well.
Image Credit: DBS
Checking in on my savings and financial health has also never been easier. I can’t imagine how tedious it might have been a decade ago, when the only way you could check your funds was by updating your passbook!
DBS Bank has just revealed plans to make banking even more convenient for customers, and it’s doing this by going ‘invisible’.
The Very Visible DBS Bank Goes…Invisible?
Just 2 weeks ago, DBS Bank unveiled that it’s ditching the decade-old, well-known tagline “Living, Breathing Asia” for a brand new one.
Said DBS CEO Piyush Gupta during the event, “In the last 10 years, we have successfully established ourselves as a leader in Asia banking. While we remain rooted to Asia, Asia is rapidly changing, like the rest of the world.”
With the ubiquity of the smartphone, the explosion of data and the rise of the sharing economy, customer behaviours are dramatically different from what they were before. Customers want a new kind of banking.
Thus, it wants to evolve from simply being a bank that understands the region it’s in, to being one that reimagines how banking is done and perceived.
And it’s doing so by, ironically, going ‘invisible’.
But how does a bank that serves a few million customers and that’s almost as old as Singapore go ‘invisible’?
At the launch of “Live more, Bank less” / Image Credit: DBS
Its new ethos, “Live more, Bank less”, is the answer.
Evolving With Singapore And Its Customers
Just like how Singapore has evolved and grown over the years, DBS Bank has similarly followed suit since inception in 1968.
First established by the Singapore Government as The Development Bank of Singapore (yes, that’s where the ‘DBS’ comes from!) to take over industrial financing activities from the Economic Development Board (EDB), it has since grown not just locally, but across various markets in the region as well.
DBS’ first branch in Jurong / Image Credit: DBS
Currently, there are over 280 DBS branches across 18 markets.
With a market capitalisation standing at about S$75 billion currently, it is among the top 40 most valuable banks globally, and has been the most valuable bank brand in ASEAN for the past six years.
Named the “Safest Bank in Asia” by Global Finance for nine consecutive years, and “Asia’s Best Bank” by publications like The Banker, Euromoney, IFR Asia, and Global Finance, it has also been the pioneer of many firsts in the industry.
While these 2 ‘firsts’ might not be very applicable to a regular Singaporean, I’m sure you’ve heard of another Singapore-first initiative that they launched last year.
A DBS NAV financial planning session / Image Credit: DBS
Targeted at millennials, they launched phase 2 of the initiative just last month – “NAV – Your Financial GPS“, a digital financial advisor that can be found in customers’ DBS/POSB iBanking and digibank apps.
But more than just chasing ‘firsts’, DBS Bank’s main driving force lies in enabling more customers to, like its new tagline, “Live more, Bank less”.
“Live more, Bank less” encapsulates many aspects and DBS is intent on enabling its customers to:
1. Live Hassle-Free With Invisible Banking
One way it plans to do this is by embedding banking in customers’ financial journey.
To do this, DBS has launched car, property, and electricity marketplaces on its website in the last 9 months, making browsing and purchasing these items even more seamless.
DBS’ Car Marketplace
DBS iWealth, its platform for the higher-end consumer segment, also allows customers in Singapore and Hong Kong manage, trade, and transact via their mobile phones 24/7.
2. Seize Life’s Opportunities
iWealth also provides insights to these customers to better seize investment opportunities.
This includes having access to sophisticated portfolio and performance analysis, as well as curated research and investment views.
For the entrepreneurs among us, SMEs with DBS BusinessClass can get access to the latest market trends, a knowledgeable community of Asia’s business leaders, and also attend industry-specific events to gain more information and contacts.
Some F&B entrepreneurs at a BusinessClass event we attended
As a means to give back to society and encourage customers to live more fulfilling, socially-conscious lives, AsiaForGood.com, was launched as a first-of-its-kind lifestyle portal to help social enterprises in Asia gain greater visibility.
3. Live Larger Than Themselves
More than just giving them a platform to showcase their goods and causes, DBS has also been helping social entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life since 2014 through the DBS Foundation, which is actively supporting social enterprises through funding, mentorships, and training.
Banking, Like Living, Should Be Effortless
Having made reimagining banking a priority in the last few years, we believe we are well-placed to personify and embody banking of the future. – DBS CEO Piyush Gupta
Doing bank-related transactions have become so effortless that there’s no more excuses for any inertia – be it in paying any bills, signing up for any new cards, or even getting a head start on investing.
More than just effort saved, it’s also a whole lot of time saved, and while I’m speaking mainly as a DBS Bank customer, I’m pretty sure this is the same for customers of other banks as well.
For banks, freeing up time and energy for customers doesn’t just make them more bold to do more with their account – it also gives them time to do more non-banking stuff.
Image Credit: DBS
Like having fun with friends over food and conversation.
Like building a home and loving relationship with your partner.
Like witnessing your child’s first words and steps.
And that’s exactly what DBS wants to help its customers do.
For more information on “Live more, Bank less”, please visit: www.dbs.com/livemore. This article was written in collaboration with DBS Bank.
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