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DBS Marina Regatta Combines Fitness, Food And Craft Into One Big Party At The Bay

For those of you who religiously watch Ninja Warrior and Wipeout and think you can conquer the courses with ease, then we’ve got news for you.

The DBS Marina Regatta is back once again for its 7th edition in celebration of DBS’ 50th anniversary, with 2 weekends of fun and challenges for adrenaline junkies and urban athletes.

The DBS Marina Regatta will be held at The Promontory@Marina Bay on 26 – 27 May and 2 – 3 June 2018.

For The Fitness Buffs

Southeast Asia’s largest land and water obstacle course, the daunting Battle Bay Extreme returns again this year, with 3 levels of difficulty.

Choose from the Beginner (Initiate), Intermediate (Intense) and Advanced (Insane) levels and test your endurance, strength and speed. Here’s a peek at what the courses will be like.

https://www.facebook.com/dbs.sg/videos/1719473524833556/

Of course, you’re not expected to just “be ready” for such an intense challenge. So DBS has prepared a series of complimentary fitness and wellness activities around the bay starting from 17 April 2018.

Prices for Battle Bay Extreme start at $8 – $10 for Initiate and $28 for Intense and Insane.

You can register for the complimentary, pre-Regatta fitness classes and the Battle Bay Extreme here.

That’s not all, for an early-bird fee of $38, you’ll be able to try your hands at the six-foot wall, inverted ladders, rope climbs, quintuple steps and more!

All registered participants will receive a goodie bag with exclusive DBS Marina Regatta products and TripleFit discount passes!

The Creator’s Market will feature the Mahota Grocers Market selling healthy snacks and drinks, an open area for wellness activities, and even a communal social kitchen.

There’s something for everyone in the family. Parents can choose to make your own superfood snacks such as granola bars and acai bowls while the kids can get creative in the hands-on upcycling, craft and wellness workshops available.

All workshops and classes are ticketed which means you’ll need to register and pay for them. Don’t worry though, all are priced below $20.

You can view the list of workshops available here and register for them on-site or online if you’re applying for the Mahota classes.

For The Sports Fans

Now for the main event of the DBS Marina Regatta – the dragon boating competition.

Organised in partnership with the Singapore Dragon Boat Association, this is the 7th edition of the international dragon boating competition which sees over 80 teams from all over Asia compete for the cash prize of $147,000 – the largest prize amount for dragon boating in Asia.

That’s not all, this year’s competition will feature youths-at-risk and youths with special needs taking part in the Community Race category.

If you’re a fan of dragon boating, then this is a sporting event featuring the best teams in the region that you don’t want to miss!

For The Foodies

Singapore’s largest pop-up creative market, Artbox, is back bigger and better than before!

Taking over 140,000 square feet of space at the Bayfront Event Space, this year’s Artbox will feature over 400 regional retailers, a larger selection of food and beverage, creative art installations, and even a hammock and foam pit zone!

If this is your first time heading to Artbox, here’s a glimpse of what went done last year.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=10&v=FcbjFLabnHE

Artbox Singapore 2018
Venue: Bayfront Event Space
Date: 25 – 27 May 2018, 1 – 3 Jun 2018
Opening Hours: 3pm – 11pm
Why Book A Hotel Room When You Can Party On A Yacht For The Same Price?

(Header Image Source: DBS)

ULTRA Singapore Returns This June With DJ Snake And Afrojack Among Headliners

For all you party people, the long awaited Ultra Singapore is slated to return for its third instalment this June – with this year’s festival set to be the best and biggest yet.

Get ready for another round of heart racing electronic dance music by top-notch DJs and music producers from all around the globe.

With stellar line-ups boasting the likes of Above & Beyond, Afrojack, Axwell, DJ Snake, Hardwell, Kygo, Skrillex, Tiesto amongst many others, Ultra Singapore has become a prime destination for international revellers and local dance music lovers alike.

The highly anticipated global music festival will take place over the long weekend of Friday 15th and Saturday 16th June 2018 at Ultra Park on Bayfront Avenue.

An Ultra Good Time

Dedicated to the best of EDM, Ultranauts can expect another full-fledged weekend of partying and dancing – just hopefully less mud this time.

This time round, the Singapore crowd will also get to experience the famous ULTRA Worldwide stage for the first time in Southeast Asia. Straight from the bayfront of Miami, the unique arching open stage concept domes over the crowd and takes beat-hungry Ultranauts on an electronic odyssey.

The stage is set to feature DJs from the trap and future bass world such as Illenium and and Joyryde.

Ultra Singapore 2018 will span four stages on Bayfront Avenue. Aside from the inaugural debut of the Worldwide Stage, the Ultra Main Stage, the Resistance Stage, and a fourth Stage to house up-and-coming local and regional acts in the South East Asian music scene.

The Ultra Main Stage will feature headline acts while the Resistance Stage will pay homage to deep house and techno music. This year’s regional acts support features names such as Myrne, Kaku and Rave Republic.

With past acts including EDM heavyweights, Hardwell and Tiesto and over hundreds of thousands of Ultranauts, Ultra Singapore has become a force to be reckoned with.

Tickets are still available for purchase here, and are priced at $120 for single day general admission tickets, $170 for two-day general admission tickets and $210 for two-day premium general admission tickets.

If you’re looking for the best experience Ultra Singapore has to offer, the two-day VVIP tickets are going at $550 – which includes access to the festival grounds via a VVIP Entrance, VVIP Platform and the VVIP Village with exclusive bathrooms, bars and a rest area.

We’re pumped for this year’s Ultra Singapore! Hurry and purchase your tickets before they sell out.

In the mean time, here’s a recap of what went down at last year’s Ultra Singapore:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oN9uCVPBB3Q

Ultra Singapore 2018
Address: Ultra Park
Date: 15 – 16 June 2018
Tickets: From $120. Tickets can be purchased here.
Website

Also Read Pink Dot Turns 10 This July – All Are Welcome To Celebrate The Freedom To Love

(Header Image Source: Ultra Singapore)

Pink Dot Turns 10 This July – All Are Welcome To Celebrate The Freedom To Love

The annual gay pride rally, Pink Dot is back to mark its milestone tenth edition with an expanded array of activities and a strong message to Singaporeans.

This time round, Singaporeans and non-Singaporeans (yay!) are invited to celebrate Singapore’s biggest LGBTQ-affirming event.

This year, Pink Dot organisers managed to find a way to let everyone participate, no matter the citizenship.

Grab your pink outfits and celebrate Pink Dot 10 with your loved ones and stand strong together on Saturday, 21 July 2018.

#FreedomToLove

For the past nine editions, Pink Dot has worked hard to win the hearts and mind of Singaporeans to help bring the message of inclusion and diversity to everyone on this Little Red Dot.

Pink Dot spokesperson Paerin Choa said, “The 10th year is a reflection of looking back”.

Despite the challenges the organisers face each time such as the “Wear White Campaign” in 2014 where they urged followers to wear white in protest of Pink Dot on the weekend of the event, Pink Dot stands strong till this day.

Continuing from its successful debut last year, Red Dot for Pink Dot returns with another fundraising drive, calling on corporate Singapore to continue taking a stand for inclusion and diversity with a current tally of more than 60 local sponsors.

Year after year, Pink Dot attendees look forward to headlining local artistes as they declare their undying support for the Freedom To Love through song. The Pink Dot Concert will also be hosted on a purpose-built stage as Telok Ayer Hong Lim Green Community Centre undergoes renovations.

[caption id="attachment_34717" align="aligncenter" width="1365"] Image Credit: Sebastian Tan[/caption]

In addition to the usual festival tent, concert and light up, there will also be a PinkFest.

Spanning across two weekends prior to Pink Dot, PinkFest will see close to a dozen businesses, groups and individuals, LGBTQ and straight allies, organising an assortment of privately-run activities and events geared towards greater engagement with Singaporeans.

You can expect movie screenings, bake sales, art talks and more!

Similar to last year’s outing, you are required to show photo ID (pink/blue NRIC or passport) to volunteers and security personnel before being admitted into the park.

However, there will only be one dedicated entrance, which will bring you to 12 different checkpoints. Once they hit max capacity, they won’t be able to let anyone else in. You’re encouraged to come early!

If you’re attending this year’s Pink Dot, here’s a look at their first campaign video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsgru2aB-kE

Pink Dot 2018
Address: Hong Lim Park
Date: 21 July 2018

Also Read Skip The Geylang Crowd And Visit These 6 Ramadan Bazaars In S’pore Instead

(Header Image Source:

Why Book A Hotel Room When You Can Party On A Yacht For The Same Price?

Boat parties have long been an activity favoured by the high SES demographic.

There’s something about being on the ‘high’ SES (read: seas) that makes a party appear more lavish than it seems. Is it the sun or the sea breeze?

But that’s beside the point. Did you know that you can now rent a yacht for the same price as booking a lavish hotel suite?

[caption id="attachment_34697" align="aligncenter" width="4032"] Image Credit: GRVTY Media[/caption]

However, there are a few problems with the current process of renting a yacht in Singapore.

Firstly, finding a yacht owner who is willing to rent their yacht. The current process is to trawl forums or find a yacht owner by word of mouth.

Next is finding one that suits your budget and occasion.

This tiresome process is time-consuming and might ultimately come to naught in the end.

This is where Yachtly comes in.

Yachtly is Singapore’s first yacht rental platform perfect for a wide range of occasions and budgets.

It allows you to take your parties and special events out to sea, all while making the process of booking a yacht seamless and effortless.

Sailing Yachtly On The High Seas

I have to admit I’m a bit of a “suaku”. I’ve never been on a yacht in my life unless you count the Tekong ‘Penguin’ Ferry. Never thought the first time I board one will be for an office yacht party.

We boarded the yacht, a gorgeous Leopard 51 Power Catamaran, at One Degree 15 Marina.

[caption id="attachment_34700" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Image Credit: Yachtly[/caption]

 

[caption id="attachment_34710" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Image Credit: Yachtly[/caption]

The first thing I noticed was the food.

Stacked trays of beehoon, fried rice, chicken wings, stir fried vegetables and samosas on the table at the back of the yacht.

Apparently, Yachtly has partnered with Halal-certified catering companies such as Neo Group and EZBBQ to provide either cooked food or barbecue food.

And that’s not all, some of the yachts might even provide complimentary BBQ services or BBQ rentals at a nominal fee.

You can also choose to bring your own food and alcohol on board. They even have a small fridge and microwave for you to store and heat up your food!

Just take special care and dispose your rubbish properly and NOT in the sea.

Now, being the “suaku” that I am, I scrambled up to the top deck and heaved a sigh of relief. It was better than I expected – breezy, spacious and scenic.

[caption id="attachment_34701" align="aligncenter" width="1109"] Image Credit: Yachtly[/caption]

After the captain laid the ground rules on board the yacht (No littering, no food, drinks, and wet people in the cabin etc.), we set sail out of the Marina and onto the high seas!

The water might be choppier on certain days outside of the Marina so ALWAYS follow the safety rules on board the yacht.

[caption id="attachment_34702" align="aligncenter" width="4032"] Image Credit: GRVTY Media[/caption]

So away we sailed towards Lazarus Island and dropped anchor within the cove, safely tucked away behind the island where the big scary waves can’t rock this yacht.

[caption id="attachment_34711" align="aligncenter" width="480"] GIF Credit: GRVTY Media[/caption]

Armed with a large unicorn float and the inflatable slide on board, one by one we jumped in.

[caption id="attachment_34708" align="aligncenter" width="480"] GIF Credit: GRVTY Media[/caption]

Not me. I was lying on the upper deck watching the sun set and the clouds go by.

If you’re wondering where the girls showered and changed, the yacht has 2 decent-sized bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms.

[caption id="attachment_34704" align="aligncenter" width="1109"] Image Credit: Yachtly[/caption]

 

[caption id="attachment_34705" align="aligncenter" width="1109"] Image Credit: Yachtly[/caption]

When the sun set, we had dinner and we heard a shriek. Someone found the karaoke machine in the cabin.

[caption id="attachment_34707" align="aligncenter" width="1109"] Image Credit: Yachtly[/caption]

 

[caption id="attachment_34706" align="aligncenter" width="1109"] Image Credit: Yachtly[/caption]

The rest of the night’s activities comprised mainly of singing. Some in the cabin with the karaoke machine, and most of us on the upper deck with the acoustic guitar.

As we sang the night away, our yacht set sail towards Marina Bay Sands for a glorious view of the Singapore city skyline before looping back to One Degree 15 Marina.

Book Your Own Yacht, Airbnb-Style

The Yachtly website is reminiscent of Airbnb, in that the process of booking a yacht is simple and fuss-free.

Choose the occasion. Is it a family gathering, a wedding, a celebration party, or a corporate event?

Select the date that you need to charter the yacht.

Lastly, indicate the number of guests and hit ‘Enter’!

Yachtly will generate a list of yachts in their fleet that suit your criteria. You can even toggle the budget and select the yacht type!

They have yachts that can accommodate up to 50 people.

Their price range starts as low as $400 up to $10,000, depending on your criteria.

If you’re unsure at any point, Yachtly has a live chat function that you can access to speak to an agent immediately.

Are you still thinking of a location to celebrate a special occasion? Try Enjoy The Best Of British Food At This Humble Hawker Stall For As Low As $3

(Header Image Source: GRVTY Media)

The Ultimate Tourist’s Guide To Getting Around Singapore With Public Transport

As a Singaporean, I am proud to say that Singapore is home to the best airport in the world. If you think that the same pride extends to our public transport system, you are not wrong.

Despite recent performance issues, our public transport system is actually quite convenient and reliable. Places that aren’t accessible by MRT (Mass Rapid Transit), are covered by bus services that visit even the quietest neighbourhoods.

If you’re coming to Singapore for the first time, there’s an MRT station connected to the airport terminals to take you to the city centre, or anywhere else in Singapore for that matter.

But before you take the MRT or bus, you need a ticket or an EZ-Link card.

EZ-Link & Singapore Tourist Pass

Now you can choose to purchase a single trip ticket from the ticketing machine at the station but that’ll just be a waste of time if you intend to take public transport frequently during your time here.

Get yourself an EZ-Link card from the TransitLink Ticket Office. If you’re flying into Singapore, the nearest ticket office can be found at Changi Airport MRT station.

Other ticket offices can be found at these MRT stations – Ang Mo Kio, Bayfront, Bugis, Chinatown, City Hall, Farrer Park, Harbourfront, Jurong East, Kranji, Lavender, Orchard, Raffles Place, Tanjong Pagar and Woodlands.

For SGD$12, the card comes with stored value which allows you to use it immediately.

The EZ-Link card is valid for 3 years so if you’re making numerous visits to Singapore, you can continue using it. That’s not all, certain places even accept payment via EZ-Link so it’s not just limited to public transportation fares.

Recently there’s been a trend of people using EZ Charms instead. They have the same function as an EZ-Link card, just that they’re much cuter. And they’re charms, like this cute Pikachu one that’s currently available at all Buzz outlets islandwide.

But if you’re only in Singapore for a few days, you can consider getting the Singapore Tourist Pass which grants you unlimited rides on Singapore’s public transportation for the valid duration of the pass (maximum of 3 days).

Singapore Tourist Passes can be purchased at the locations listed Image Credit: Wikimedia[/caption]

But the question is, which line to take? There’re so many options – East-West (Green), North-South (Red), North-East (Purple), Circle (Yellow) and Downtown line (Blue).

All the lines are pretty straightforward. The signs in the station will indicate the final stop of the direction that they’re headed.

For example, if you’re going to City Hall station from Tanah Merah on the East-West line, then you should be taking the train headed towards Tuas Link (the last station on the West-bound East-West line train).

Most attractions in Singapore are within walking distance from an MRT station so you don’t have to worry so much about getting lost.

Taking The Bus 

Bus services here are extensive and they’re an economical mode of transport around Singapore.

You can get yourself a brochure that lists all the stops for a particular public bus service, at the interchange.

If you’re planning to visit the tourist attractions, there are also “hop on hop off” bus services, although they’re pricier. You can find different “hop on hop off” bus tour packages here.

Taking A Cab

Cabbing is definitely the most efficient and fastest way to travel around Singapore. Cabs in Singapore go by the meter, and there might be additional surcharges depending on the time and location that the cabs are hailed.

You can hail a cab almost anywhere. The best spot would be by the main road, although we suggest you do so at a convenient location so that traffic is not affected.

Alternatively, you can book a cab by calling the common taxi hotline at 6342-5222 or if you have any ride-hailing apps, those work here too!

Getting Around Singapore

Now that you’re ready and equipped for the public transport system in Singapore, it’s time to get exploring.

If you’re not sure where to go, check out our list of must-visit places in Singapore!

Also read 7 Staycation Spots In S’pore Under $150 For A Good Urban Getaway

(Header Image Source: Flickr)

Skip The Geylang Crowd And Visit These 6 Ramadan Bazaars In S’pore Instead

If you’re tired of the overhyped and overpriced food at Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar, we get you.

Here’s a list of alternative bazaars that you should go to do all your last minute Hari Raya shopping. From kuih and dendeng to capal and baju kurung, these bazaars got you covered.

1. Jalan Jalan Makan Makan Raya Edition 2018 (Marina Bay Sands)

The Jalan-Jalan Makan-Makan Raya Edition 2018 is coming to Marina Bay Sands from 1 – 3 June. It is the first MEGA halal food and shopping bazaar at MBS that you definitely don’t want to miss out on.

You’ll get to meet your favourite celebrities, shop for your Hari Raya outfits and break your fast, all in one place!

If you’re looking for the perfect baju kurung, homegrown Muslimah fashion designer Adlina Anis, will have a pop-up booth at the bazaar. Get your wallets ready, because her Hari Raya collection is to die for.

If you’re planning on breaking fast at the bazaar, head on to Farah Diana Catering’s booth for their famous Nasi Ambeng ($7). This meal is packed with sides such as beef rendang and sambal goreng – you’re definitely going to need a power nap after eating this.

Their booth will be located right next to the stage so you definitely won’t miss it! Best part, there’s plenty of seating space as well so you can break fast at the bazaar itself.

With over 200 stalls at the Jalan-Jalan Makan-Makan bazaar, you won’t need to look elsewhere for all your Hari Raya needs.

Jalan-Jalan Makan-Makan Raya Edition 2018
Address: Marina Bay Sands Expo Hall E
Date: 1 – 3 June 2018
Time: 10am – 10pm

2. Bazaar Raya One World (Our Tampines Hub)

The Bazaar Raya One World at Our Tampines Hub has plenty of traditional bazaar staples including putu bambu, ayam perchik, and satay burger. So if you’re looking for real food, then this is the place to indulge.

Keep cool with a cup of original Butter Booeh from BOO:EH and bask in the atmosphere of festivities at the bazaar! Their slushie is a new crowd’s favourite as well.

Out of the 150 stalls available at Bazaar Raya One World, we highly recommend getting the Satay Burger from Famous Satay Burger. If you need an upgrade from your usual ramly burgers, this is the perfect choice for you.

If you’re looking for real good food for the soul, then this bazaar won’t disappoint. No rainbow coloured food or edible balloons at this bazaar here!

Bazaar Raya One World
Address: Our Tampines Hub, 1 Tampines Walk, Singapore 528523
Date: 12 May – 13 June

3. KB Raya Fest (D’Marquee, Downtown East)

D’Marquee is the perfect location for a bazaar if you can’t stand the heat.

Get your wallets ready because you’re in for a real treat. KB Raya Fest is a one stop destination for all your Hari Raya needs. Not to mention, some of the food vendors sounds pretty damn good too!

Burgs by Project Warung will be selling their famous burgers at KB Raya Fest 2018. Unless you live under a rock, Burgs is known for selling gourmet burgers at an affordable price.

Trust me, you can’t miss out on this one.

KB Raya Fest
Address: D’Marquee @ Downtown East
Date: 25th – 27th May 2018
Time: 12pm to 11pm

4. LalooLalang Bazaar (Malay Heritage Centre)

Bring all your kakis for 3 days of food, fun and entertainment. For our non-Muslim geng, in the morning you go breakfast then in the evening you join for break fast ok!

This highly anticipated bazaar has been hugely successful since its debut in 2015.

Fashion, lifestyle, food and fun awaits you down at LalooLalang Bazaar. Be entertained by local acts and learn a thing or two about the Malay culture down at the Malay Heritage Centre galleries!

LalooLalang Bazaar
Address: Malay Heritage Centre, 85 Sultan Gate, Singapore 198501
Date: 1 – 3 June
Time: 3pm to Midnight

5. Bazaar Raya Utara (Woodlands Regional Centre)

The Bazaar Raya Utara is now in its 16th year, featuring a record of 80 stalls, selling everything from street food to homemade Hari Raya goodies.

A new air-conditioned section also houses apparel and fashion stalls, such as Muslimah fashion brand Ayu Apparels and online store Vintagewknd.

Thankfully, traditional food stalls still comprise the bulk of the bazaar’s offerings, with the longest lines dedicated to crowd favourites such as nasi Padang and Ramly Burgers!

Bazaar Raya Utara
Address: Woodlands Regional Centre, Next to Causeway Point
Date: 14 May – 12 June
Time: 10am – 11pm

6. The Grand Bazaar (Singapore Expo)

Inspired by the famed spice bazaars in Istanbul, The Grand Bazaar will take you through the sights and sounds of Turkey.

Taking place on the final weekend of Ramadan, visitors can expect a myriad of food, fashion and furniture shopping, plus cultural performances to enjoy.

A colourful experience awaits you at the Grand Bazaar. With a wide spectrum of vendors participating, you are sure to find something unique in this gathering.

The Grand Bazaar
Address: Singapore Expo Hall 6B
Date: 8 – 10 June 2018
Time: 10am – 10pm

So grab your friends, family and most importantly, your wallet, and head down to these bazaars before the month of Ramadan ends!

Also Read $30 VS Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar 2018 – Can You Get Decent Food?

(Header Image Source: @projectwarung, @boo.eh, @nataliayusoff)

Go Loco For Coco – Bangkok’s Popular “All Coco” Ice Cream Opens Its First Branch In S’pore

For those of you who’ve been to Bangkok, you might find this familiar.

Bangkok’s famous coconut ice cream brand, All Coco has landed in Singapore! Right outside The Cathay, to be specific.

Established in 2004, the brand has 16 outlets in Bangkok, 1 in the United States and 1 in South Korea.

If you couldn’t already tell from its name, their products are all coconut-based. Everything is made from fresh NAM HOM coconuts – the coconut water, coconut shakes, ice cream, pudding and their signature soft serve.

The signature coconut soft serve comes in 2 flavours, Original and Charcoal. If you can’t make up your mind, go for the Swirl which combines both flavours into one.

Don’t forget to check with the staff on the ice cream flavour of the month!

Also, everything from All Coco is dairy-free, coconut milk-free and low in calories so it’s guilt-free snacking.

If you love coconut-flavoured everything, then better hurry down before word gets out and queues start forming.

All Coco
Address: The Cathay, #01-24, Handy Road, Singapore 229233
Enjoy The Best Of British Food At This Humble Hawker Stall For As Low As $3

(Header Image Source: @allcoco.usa)

Boys Over Flours – These S’porean Dudes Bake And Sell Cakes For A Good Cause

This time last year, I came across an Instagram account belonging to a group of all-male bakers who call themselves “The Four Baker Boys“.

I never really had a FOMO moment in my entire life until I met them. This baking club of theirs looked so fun and exclusive and for once, I wished that I was a boy just so I could be the fifth member of their club.

I mean, Spice Girls had 5 members. Just saying.

I had the pleasure of meeting these 4 guys last year at one of their charity bake sales.

Meet Qamarul (@theboywhobake), Syahid (@prettyawkwardpastry), Aidil (@daintycandy) and Lutfi (@bkosfood), the dream team behind The Four Baker Boys.

Saving The World One Cake At A Time

These four amazing guys give back to charity by utilising their specialised skill set of baking as a way to raise funds for their chosen organisation.

The first time I met them last year, you could tell that they were four VERY different guys bonded by their love for baking. Aidil, the brainchild of The Four Baker Boys, established a baking-only charity organisation in 2014 because there was a growing trend of male bakers entering the market.

They all started off as four individuals with a passion for baking but eventually joined forces to give back to the community.

When I went to one of their bake sales last year, they were raising funds for Majulah Community who were travelling to Aceh to help the victims who were affected by the earthquake.

Their bake sales are typically held at 62A Arab Street. It’s a small but cosy space for the male bakers to all come together and set up tables full of bakes.

They’re also joined by other male bakers from a community called The Baker Boys Club. So you’ll meet other familiar male bakers like Arman (@armnrhmn), Muz (@mmuzs) and more!

Once inside, you will be given a box to stock up on desserts to your heart’s desire, proceed to the cashier and make the payment.

I especially love Syahid’s (@prettyawkwardpastry) tarts. If you’re a tart over cake kind of person, then you’ll love his Thai Milk Tea tarts which is usually available at the charity bake sales.

You can also get huge cake slices from Aidil (@daintycandy). His Pengat Pisang cupcake is to die for. This cupcake is the perfect balance of something old and new.

If you’re a cookie person, then you’ll love Lutfi’s (@bkosfood) cookies. He offered me a taste of his black pepper cookie. Which I initially thought was an extremely weird combination because cookies are supposed to be sweet but guess what, I still dream of his black pepper cookie till today.

You’ll be spoiled for choice because there’s just too many bakes to choose from. Be prepared to leave with two huge boxes if you’re craving for some sweet treats.

Not only are the bakes pretty but they taste amazing too.

This all-male bake club has a simple concept which is to combine their love for baking to help others in need. So if you’re looking to meet the 4 guys behind Four Baker Boys and the Baker Boys Club, then look out for their future bake sales.

You don’t only get to satisfy your sweet tooth but you also get to contribute to a good cause and help others who are in need.

So guys, are you opening up a slot for a fifth female member anytime soon?

Also Read Singapore Already Has A MasterChef And His Instagram Is Basically Food Porn

(Header Image Source: @fourbakerboys )

Enjoy The Best Of British Food At This Humble Hawker Stall For As Low As $3

As someone who grew up watching hours of Jamie Oliver and Great British Food on the Travel Living Channel (TLC), I’ve become quite enamoured with British fare.

Bear in mind that I’m talking about proper British nosh (food) and not just generic “Western food”. Singapore’s idea of Western food has always been very Americanised but now it’s time for British food to shine.

While there are a few establishments serving British fare such as The Queen & Mangosteen and Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen, they’re not necessarily affordable.

But now, there’s a humble stall serving British fare in a hawker centre and my gut has never been more ready.

Lad & Dad

Introducing Lad & Dad, a father and son duo that’s blessing Singaporeans with the wonders of proper and affordable British food.

Located in local food haven, Maxwell Food Centre, Lad & Dad serves up classic British staples such as Bangers & Mash ($8) and Beef Stew ($10).

The Bangers & Mash is pretty straightforward. 2 bangers (pork sausages) sit nicely atop a bed of mashed potatoes, topped with onion and mushroom chutney and bathed in thick beef gravy. Absolute delish.

Now there’s nothing I like better than a bowl of comforting Beef Stew and they sure delivered. Generous chunks of carrots, potatoes, celery and tender beef cubes swim in a dark brown gravy and it’s served with a classic Yorkshire pudding on the side.

If you’re expecting an actual pudding, you’re sorely mistaken. Yorkshire Pudding actually resembles a choux puff in terms of taste and texture.

The ones made by Lad & Dad are crispy on the outside, and buttery and fluffy on the inside – the perfect tool to mop up all the gravy from the beef stew.

Of course, for a stall that boasts classic British fare, this isn’t all they serve. Other must-try dishes include their Bacon & Chip Butty ($4) and the English Fry-up Platter ($12).

The Bacon & Chip Butty sees thick cut back bacon, a hash brown (this is the “chip” they’re referring to) and an oozy fried egg sandwiched between 2 toasted, buttered buns. You can also choose to have scrambled eggs instead of a sunny-side up.

The result is an indulgent sandwich with varying textures – from the satisfying bite of the back bacon, to the crunch of the hash brown. You can add Mozzarella cheese to your butty for a dollar for that extra savoury touch.

Now, for the most impressive item on the menu, the English Fry-up platter. For those who don’t know, the English Fry-up refers to the full English breakfast. This isn’t for the faint-hearted.

Slices of thick cut back bacon, fried till crispy, pork sausages, homemade hash brown, fried eggs, cherry tomatoes, a side of baked beans, a toasted bun, and mushroom and onion chutney make up this platter. Come ready and come hungry if you’re planning to tackle this.

If there’s anymore room in your stomach after your meal, go for the Yorkshire Pudding with Vanilla Ice Cream ($3).

Who are we kidding? There’s ALWAYS room for dessert.

If you’re looking for an alternative to the usual “Western food”, this is a good place to start.

Lad & Dad
Address: Maxwell Food Centre Stall 79, 1 Kadayanallur Street, Singapore 069184
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 11.30am – 2.30pm, Fri – Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 8.30pm, Sun: Closed
Contact no.: 9247 7385
Website

Also read A Suaku Singaporean’s Virgin Visit To Fortune Centre Ended With A $10 Aura Reading

(Header Image Source: Lad & Dad)

A Suaku Singaporean’s Virgin Visit To Fortune Centre Ended With A $10 Aura Reading

You’ve probably heard about Singapore’s booming food scene. However, what people don’t really tell you is that we’re also pretty religious. From various divination methods to geomancy (also known as fengshui), Singapore has no shortage of local occult practices and quirks.

Recently, I came across an intriguing little thing known as Aura Photography and as someone who enjoys reading up on horoscopes and zodiacs (don’t judge me), this is just right up my alley.

So I decided to try and get my aura read because why not?

Now there are 2 different ways of discerning and deciphering your aura – Aura Reading and Aura Photography.

We initially headed to Fu Lu Shou Complex at Albert Park because there’s a shop there offering Aura Photography services but turns out they increased their price for it. $30 for Aura Photography? Not today, Capitalism. Not today.

So we went off to Fortune Centre in search for another aura reading option. For those who don’t know, Bencoolen and Albert Park is a hotspot for occult practices. I’m not talking about voodoo shenanigans.

The area is full of stores selling amulets, trinkets, sculptures of Taoist deities and the like. Fortune Centre is a building that seems to cater to Buddhists due to the sheer number of vegetarian eateries in and around the mall.

While the mall itself has an interesting collection of shops, from tiny hobby shops, to Geomancy services and even a calligraphist, we didn’t find any aura reading services.

We were going to give up because we had our auras, but we had no one to decipher them. What a struggle. How am I supposed to know if my love life was about to improve in the next 3 months?

As we were heading back towards the famous Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple along Waterloo Street, we saw it. Aura reading for $10.

This was the sign we needed so in we went to inquire about the process of aura reading. This was the more basic aura reading that uses different crystals instead of aura photography.

There were quite a bit of disclaimers though. According the lady who was conducting the aura reading, the result of the reading is not set in stone and it is subject to change just like my mood and external circumstance. Just like EVERYTHING in the universe.

That’s not all, the reading is only valid and “applicable” for the following 3 months. That’s if my mood and external circumstance doesn’t change it first.

So, now that I’ve had the terms and conditions read to me, we got started. I was skeptical as to how accurate this was going to be, so I thought, I might throw them some false information when asked.

The lady told me to pick out 11 crystals from a bag and place them on a labelled cloth.

After successfully picking out 11 crystals that resemble the colours in my wardrobe (lots of dark or neutral tones), it was time to get my aura read.

Career

The first thing she said was that there were no changes (good and bad) to my career. I was asked if I was in a creative industry. I told her I was an accountant (lol) but she told me I wasn’t meant for desk-bound jobs because I hate being restricted or limited and the creative industry would suit me better.

Well, while that sure sounds good, it’s also pretty generic. I mean, who likes being restricted? This isn’t 50 Shades of Grey.

Interpersonal Relationships

According to the cubic crystals of fate, I’m very good at forming and maintaining interpersonal relations. I’m incredibly likeable as you can see.

However, the lady also divined that I had to stay alert for there are darker forces working against me. “Beware of backstabbers”, she warned. Oh my, I didn’t know I was famous enough to have haters and backstabbers.

That’s not all, along with my backstabbing haters, I do have benefactors although they don’t seem to be as strong as the searing hatred of my backstabbers.

I’m sorry, my dear benefactors. Saranghaeyo.

Romance

I’ve been single for my entire life and considering my passive attitude towards finding a partner, I’m pretty sure that nothing’s changing in the near future.

So imagine my shock when she mentioned that my love life seems “promising”. She even confirmed with my colleague who was sniggering – “He’s very popular with the girls right?” All my colleague could muster was an unconvincing “Sure jan” nod.

Honestly though, she said my love life is blooming.

First of all, WHAT. Where? If someone was coming into my life, I think I would’ve seen it by now. But the crystals have spoken, so it must be true. WHERE ART THOU, MY BELOVED?

Health

This aspect wasn’t a good read. Apparently I should be more careful about my legs because they’re prone to injury. But, I don’t even do anything physically demanding.

Next, I need to take better care of my digestive system and drink more water. Is this a warning? It’s true that I skip lunches at least twice a week and hold my bladder for hours. But drink more water?

I’m the biggest advocate of drinking water among my friends so this is a lie. Any increase of water intake might probably lead to water poisoning, to be honest.

The kind divination lady ended off the aura reading session with a summary – drink more water, stay alert of backstabbers, be careful of leg-related injuries and keep my eyes open for potential romantic partners.

While I’m still skeptical about the reading, I’d say that it’s at least 60% accurate. If you’re feeling a little lost or confused or experiencing a quarter life crisis, then this might help to point you in the right direction and give you a little more clarity about your life.

Now that I think about it, maybe these ladies are just really good at judging reactions and tailoring their responses to match. But who knows?

Also read A Suaku Singaporean’s Virgin Visit To ‘Little Thailand’ Golden Mile Complex

(Header Image Credit: DiscoverSG)