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Jump Into Volcanoes And Go Whitewater Rafting At S’pore’s First VR Theme Park – Tix Start From $35

Ask anyone what the best ride at Universal Studios Singapore is, and Transformers: The Ride is bound to come up in the conversation.

With its slick combination of 3D and practical effects, this literal thrill ride is an adrenaline-pumping masterpiece, giving you a virtual reality experience that you can’t find anywhere else in the park.

And if you’re a fan of that, then you’re going to love Headrock VR.

Virtual Reality Heaven

Also located at Resorts World Sentosa (a two minute walk form USS, no less), Headrock VR is Singapore’s first virtual reality theme park.

As its name suggests, each of its 11 rides make use of virtual reality technology, offering a wide range of experiences that include whitewater rafting, leaping through the jungle and jumping into a volcano.

For those who don’t like their hearts beating at a 120 beats per minute, don’t worry — there are less intense activities like archery and that Beat Saber rhythm game that you might have seen on YouTube as well.

K-pop fans will also be interested to know that Big Bang’s Seungri is both Headrock VR’s ambassador and creative director. He played a role in selecting every ride in the park, and you’ll even get to hear his voice in the aforementioned whitewater rafting ride.

Headrock VR is open right now, with ticket prices ranging from $35 to $65. To commemorate its opening there are discounts of up to 30% till the 16th of December, so you might want to change your plans this weekend.

Headrock VR
Venue: Resorts World Sentosa, #01-38/39
Price: $35 – $65
Opening Hours: 10am – 8pm (last admission at 7pm)

Tickets I Facebook

Also Read Need A Quick Getaway? One Of The World’s Largest Waterparks Is Only A 2-Hour Drive From S’pore

(Header Image Source: Discover SG)

I Tried A S’pore Based Skincare Line For A Month, Here’s How My Skin Looks Like Now

Remember your first skincare routine? We bet it looked a lot like a foamy bar of soap or cream cleanser, a bottle of toner and some cotton pads, and maybe a cream for your acne problems.

We’re guessing you probably could not imagine following the same routine now. As your skin needs shifts with age, so will your products.

When it comes to skincare, routine varies from person to person. They can be minimal or extreme depending on your skin type, environment, age and budget. And with so many skincare products out there, it can be difficult to separate the wheat from the chaff.

IDS Skincare is a homegrown brand that was started by Dr SK Tan. For the unacquainted, Dr SK is one of the foremost skincare doctors in Singapore. IDS’ skincare line is made to deliver highly visible results that surpass those achieved by most prescription products, without the side effects they often cause.

Majority of us are used to turning to Korean skincare products to miraculously solve all of our problems, so our colleague, Esther, decided to jump on the IDS bandwagon to check out if our homegrown brand is everything that it promises to be.

Identifying Your Skin Type

If you don’t already have a good idea what your skin type is, you definitely would want to be able to identify that before beginning a new routine.

You can get a skin analysis at IDS Clinic, where doctors are able to help pinpoint the cause of your skin problems.

“I’ve always thought I had combination skin but the doctor at IDS told me that my skin type leans towards the oily side,” Esther shared with us.

Not only do they provide consultation services but they also offer products from their IDS Skincare line that are designed to address the most common skin problems faced by the public. After consultation, IDS will recommend treatments or a set of products to address all potential concerns.

Morning And Night Routine

After the consultation with IDS, they set Esther up with a range of products specifically for her skin.

Her daily skincare routine includes 10 products that are meticulously grouped to cleanse, balance and protect the skin for a flawless complexion.

• Refreshing Cleanser: non-drying cleanser for oily and blemish-prone skin

• Refreshing Toner: skin-refinement for oily and blemish-prone skin

• Probiotic Mask + DermProbiotic: a mineral-rich clay mask that soothes inflamed skin

• Pore Formula: an ultra-light pore-refining solution that clears blackheads

• C-Plus: Vitamin C serum to lighten and even out skin tone

• Blemish Clear: help clears blemishes without excessive dryness

• Eye Rescue: reduces visible sign of aging and brightening eye area

• Oil-Free Moisturizer: seals in moisture to plump up skin and smooth fine lines

• DermaShield Serum: protection against blue light and pollution

• Non-Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA+++: protects the skin from short and long-term damage from UV rays

The formulas are designed to target specific skincare concerns and are packed with the highest level of effifacious ingredients possible, so users could get the most visible results in the shortest time possible.

Within the first 5 days of religiously following through the skincare routine, she noticed that her bare skin was a lot more radiant and glowy as compared to when she first started.

However just like many others after starting on a new extensive skincare routine, their skin will tend to “purge”. As for Esther, her skin started purging two weeks after starting her new skincare routine.  

If you can grin and bear the purging or breakouts for a few weeks, it may very well go away, but if the product in question is causing you real grief, go back to your tried-and-tested!

After following the routine dutifully for a month, she saw pretty fantastic improvements in her skin across the board: fewer breakouts, more even tone, a legitimate “glow” that was luminous rather than oily, and noticeably lesser bumps and blemishes on her forehead.

If you’re not too sure where to start with new skincare, simply ask a professional who can offer knowledgeable suggestions and prescribe products to help you on your path to healthy and clear skin.

Head down to their first pop-up #IDServe Exclusive Showcase at Robinsons The Heeren for the ultimate skin discovery journey. If you are new to IDS Skincare, check in with any of the friendly staff who will analyse your skin and recommend suitable products for free!

Getting to know your skin better saves you from possible skin irritations, a possibility of allergies arising and money wasted buying all the wrong products for your skin.

IDS Skincare products are formulated with clinical insights and patient experiences so you never have to worry if their products are suitable for your skin type.

Enjoy savings on your IDS Skincare products as they have curated special bundle skincare sets for different skin concerns specially for this event. Best part, their products are formulated to target common skin problems especially in our tropical country.

Receive IDS Skincare vouchers (worth up to $190) which can be used for instant redemption on any regular-priced a-la-carte purchases at #IDServe.

Be one of the first 150 to spend from 17 November 2018, Saturday to 18 November 2018, Sunday and receive a mini dried flower bouquet alongside your beauty purchase.

Swing by IDS’ upcoming glasshouse pop-up event happening from 15 – 21 November to kick start your skincare journey.

Who knows, you’ll probably spend lesser time on your makeup routine the next time you leave the house!

#IDServe Exclusive Showcase
Address: in front of Robinsons The Heeren
Date: 15 – 21 November 2018
Website 

PSA: SBS Will Be Offering Free Wi-Fi On 300 Buses From Feb 2019 Onwards

Free Wi-Fi, Best Wi-Fi

[caption id="attachment_38143" align="aligncenter" width="1394"] In red: the blessed area. Gotta start somewhere, we guess.
Image Credit: Google Maps[/caption]

Need A Quick Getaway? One Of The World’s Largest Waterparks Is Only A 2-Hour Drive From S’pore

It’s the school holiday season so you know what that means!

Time to pack your bags and take your family on a road trip because one of the largest waterparks in the world is opening in Desaru and it’s only a 2 hour drive from Singapore!

https://www.facebook.com/DCAWP/videos/1095250830642267/

Get Your Splash On

Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark opens 15 November 2018 and we are not exaggerating on how amazing this waterpark is turning out to be.

Set against the backdrop of a traditional Malay fishing village, Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark is home to 5 playing zones and over 20 wet and dry rides, slides and attractions. There’ll never be a dull moment in the sun!

Here’s a sneak peek of what to expect once the waterpark officially launches on 15 November:

1. One Of The World’s Largest Tidal Wave Pools

Holding more than four million gallon of water over nearly three acres, the tidal wave pool is a zone on its own! The Tidal Wave Beach is one of largest wave pools in the world with some of the world’s biggest man-made waves. Yes, waves that reach up to 3m in height!

For that reason, everyone is required to wear a life vest and are not allowed to cross beyond a marked line.

Guests can relax in luxury and enjoy the wave pool views from the Beachside Cabanas, or lounge along the 170-meter-long sandy shoreline of Tidal Wave Beach. But honestly, who cares about the beach when there’s an amazing wave pool to dip in.

2. Water Slides Designed For Kids

Remember when you weren’t allowed on most rides when you were younger due to the height requirements?

Well this waterpark designed their rides with kids in mind. In addition to the standard water play structure, complete with mini water slides and giant splash bucket, there are also water slides specially designed for younger kids. So they won’t miss out on all the fun!

The slides are scaled down to a small version so that kids can have a go at it.

Kids Ahoy is a dedicated children’s zone with three separate age-appropriate play areas filled with water play equipment and a combined total of 13 different water slides designed for our younger guests. This zone is a splashing favourite for the waterpark’s younger guests.

3. Rollercoaster Flume Ride

We’re most excited for this ride!

The Kraken’s Revenge is a combination of a roller coaster and splashing flume ride that takes you up 30 metres above ground and spinning through a full 360º horizontal loop, followed by a diving 27-metre drop. Riders can reach speeds up to 70km/h as they plummet to a splashing finish.

4. 4 Signature Water Slides To Increase Your Adrenaline Levels

Head over to the left section of the waterpark to ride the 4 main crazy water slides that will sweep riders at the steepest angles and fastest speeds giving an unparalleled feeling of weightlessness.

Ride with friends and see them scream their lungs off.

5. Learn How To Surf

For those who want to surf but too lazy to travel all the way to Bali, ride the waves at Surf Wall – a safe and high-energy surf simulator where surfing beginners or enthusiasts can catch and ride a radical artificial wave.

Take Us Away!

Desaru is known for their pristine beaches and resorts. If you’ve never been, here are some suggested ways to get there!

By Car

Driving to Desaru takes around 2 hours from Singapore Checkpoints via Senai–Desaru Expressway. Do remember to prepare your Touch N Go card to pay toll when entering Malaysia.

Paid parking is available next to the waterpark. However, if you do intend on finding a hotel to stay for the night, the nearest option is Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast which is located just next to the waterpark. Other resorts near to the waterpark are Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort (Desaru Coast) and Sand & Sandals Resort & Spa which are located a 5-minute drive away.

By Coach

Coach from Singapore available at Singapore Flyer. Round trip tickets from S$36.33. Visit HERE for more info.

By Ferry

You can also book a 30 minute ferry ride from Changi Ferry Terminal to Tanjung Belungkor Ferry Terminal in Kota Tinggi for $26. The tickets can be easily booked online at DirectFerries.com.

Do note that Desaru is still a 30-45 minute ride away from the ferry terminal, so do check for alternative transportation that will bring you there!

Can this new waterpark rival our Wild Wild Wet or Adventure Cove?

Guess we’ll just have to wait and see!

Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark
Address: Desaru Coast, No. 4 Jalan Danau, Desaru Coast, 81930 Bandar Penawar,  Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Thurs – Sun: 10am – 6pm, park closed from Monday to Wednesday
Admission Prices: Adult RM151 | Child (below 12 years old) & Senior (Age 60+) RM113 | Toddler (below 3 years old) FREE
Website

Also Read The Flower Dome Is Decked With Disney Tsum Tsums And Over 8,000 Poinsettias For Christmas

(Header Image Source: Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark)

Don’t Fight With The Crowd This NYE – Catch A Fireworks Musical From Japan At The Marina Bay Floating Platform

Well, we’re already halfway into November (seriously, where did the time go?), which means that it’s just about time to start making plans for New Year’s Eve.

From community centres to clubs there’s no shortage of venues to usher in 2019, but arguably the most popular place to be is still the fireworks display at Marina Bay (judging by the massive crowds we see every year, we’re clearly not the only ones who think so).

If that’s where you’re headed and want to take your viewing experience to the next level, however, then Star Island – Singapore Countdown Edition is something that you should definitely check out.

Fireworks, Japanese Style

Taking place in conjunction with the Marina Bay countdown, Star Island is a musical centered around the concept of Hanabi, a long-standing Japanese tradition of eating, drinking and being generally merry while watching fireworks.

“Traditional” doesn’t mean low-key, though. The show will be equipped with an array of futuristic gizmos, including laser projections, pyrotechnics and a whopping 200 speakers that’ll create an immersive, audio-sensory experience that you won’t soon forget.

On the narrative side of things, the show will feature not one, not two, but six segments, each choreographed to a unique soundtrack and featuring an extensive cast of multi-disciplinary performers. If you didn’t manage to catch the national day parade this year, this might be the next best thing.

While the musical itself will run for a little over 60 minutes, the festivities will start much earlier — from 5pm, ticket holders will be able to indulge in the Star Island marketplace, which’ll feature roving performances, family-friendly activities and of course, a wide variety of F&B stalls. Once the fireworks end, there’ll also be a dance party to help you make full use of your public holiday.

Tickets are available right now at apactix.com, with prices ranging from $38 to $118. Early bird prices are available till the 30th of November, so you might want to act sooner than later for this one.

Between the Prudential Marina Bay Carnival and this, Marina Bay sure looks like the place to be this New Year’s Eve.

Star Island – Singapore Countdown Edition
Venue: The Float @ Marina Bay
Date: 31st December
Time: 5pm – Late
Price: $38 – $148

Website I Tickets

Also Read The Flower Dome Is Decked With Disney Tsum Tsums And Over 8,000 Poinsettias For Christmas

(Header Image Source: Star Island)

Trade In Your Travel Memories For Credits Or Free Experiences On Klook – Happening This Weekend Only

In today’s Instagram-centric age, it’s pretty much a requirement to take an abundance of photos while you’re on holiday.

But what happens to those photos after said holiday? More often than not those painstakingly VSCO’d pictures get lost in your phone’s photo gallery, never to be seen again until nostalgia kicks in every once in awhile.

Klook’s Travel Pawn Shop, however, is looking to change that.

Old Memories, New Experiences

Happening this Friday to Sunday at the Bugis+ Atrium, this pop-up is giving you the chance to “trade” your travel memories for tangible rewards.

All you have to do is head down this weekend, post a photo with the hashtag #travelpawnshop on Instagram or Facebook, and you’ll be given a pawn ticket that grants you entry to the pawn shop.

This pawn ticket can then be redeemed for one of Klook’s 10,000 “mystery experiences” in Japan, Korea, Thailand, Taiwan or Hong Kong, which includes cooking classes in Bangkok and go-karting down the streets of Akihabara.

And if you’re not in the mood to try your luck, you can use the pawn ticket to redeem Klook credits instead, which give you a discount on your next booking with Klook.

Not a bad deal, considering that all you have to do is dig out something that’ll take two minutes to find.

https://www.facebook.com/klookglobal/videos/1888211688115039/

On top of that, there’ll be an Ask Klook Booth, where Klook staff will be ready to give you travel advice and answer any queries that you might have. There’ll also be flash deals on popular attractions such as Universal Studios Japan and Ocean Park Hong Kong happening at 2pm-6pm on Saturday and Sunday, so look out for that as well.

With vacation season on the horizon, this pop-up couldn’t have come at a better time. If you’re in the Bugis area this weekend, we’d definitely recommend heading down.

Klook Travel Pawn Shop
Venue: Bugis+ Atrium, Level 2
Date: 16th November – 18th November
Time: 10am – 10pm

Also Read Long Weekend At Work? Rest And Recharge At These 5 Japanese Onsens In S’pore Instead

(Header Image Source: Discover SG)

Kodaline Returns To Singapore On 5 March 2019 – Tickets Go On Sale On 16 Nov

Whether you’ve had a good or a bad year, 2018 had so much in store. Just look at how many concerts we’ve had in the last couple of months!

2019 is no exception. With big stars like Ed Sheeran and Jason Mraz announcing their return in 2019, fans of Dublin based rockers, Kodaline, just announced their highly anticipated return to Singapore, on 5 March, 2019, at ZEPP@BIGBOX.

Ready To Be Born Again

Kodaline released their brand new album, Politics of Living, on 28 Sep 2018, to rave reviews and are ready to embark on their upcoming world tour!

We’ve got high hopes for their upcoming tour as they last performed in Singapore in 2015 at Scape Playspace. Their upcoming concert will be held ZEPP@BIGBOX, which will definitely hold a larger crowd as compared to their last show 3 years ago.

On Politics of Living, Kodaline teamed up with some of the hottest production and writing talent imaginable including hitmaker supreme Steve Mac (Ed Sheeran, Liam Payne), pop guru Johnny Coffer (Rag’N’Bone Man, Beyoncé), Jonas Jeberg (Dizzee Rascal, Kylie Minogue), Stephen Harris (Miles Kane, Kaiser Chiefs) as well as long-time collaborator Johnny McDaid (P!NK).

Their latest album is a delightful treat and surrounds big choruses with digital rhythms, glimmering piano riffs, and synths.

https://open.spotify.com/album/1ITjhViDumL9llxAJYdKiC?si=Lug_5y_qTOaMPSrtZgoyKg

Tickets are priced at $128 for early bird and $138 for standard tickets. If you’re huge fans, an additional $20 will give you priority access on the day itself. Take note that this is free standing event. 

Early-bird tickets go on sale at 9am on 16 November 2018 via the official ticketing agent SISTIC, at www.sistic.com.sg and via the SISTIC Hotline (65) 6348-5555 and at all SISTIC Authorised Agents.

Kodaline took Singapore by storm at their debut gig in 2015. Don’t pass up the opportunity to see these guys live in 2019!

Who’s ready to be born again?

Kodaline Live In Singapore 2019
Date: 5 March 2019
Venue: ZEPP@BIGBOX
Early Bird Ticket Sales: 16 November 2018
Website

(Header Image Source: LAMC Productions)

The Flower Dome Is Decked With Disney Tsum Tsums And Over 8,000 Poinsettias For Christmas

Christmas is looking to be extra magical this year with the arrival of Disney characters across the city.

The adorable Disney Tsum Tsum characters are bringing a touch of magic to the Christmas floral display at Gardens by the Bay starting this November.

Let It Glow, Let It Glow

Brace yourself for cuteness overload this holidays as Gardens by the Bay presents Singapore’s first Disney Tsum Tsum floral display.

“Poinsettia Wishes Featuring Disney Tsum Tsum” sees over 40 Tsum Tsums lying amidst a large field of more than 8,000 multi-coloured poinsettias at the Flower Dome. Join your favourite Disney and Pixar characters in stackable form as they make preparations for Christmas.

Snap a photo with Minnie Mouse and her friends decorating the Christmas tree, Mickey Mouse painting the ornamental baubles, Tigger sliding down ribbons while gift wrapping, and Dumbo lifting presents into the air!

Not one to miss Christmas, the characters from Frozen are bringing Arendelle to the Flower Dome. Even Perry the Platypus from ‘Phineas And Ferb’ will be making a special appearance!

There’s no doubt that the Tsum Tsums are highly adorable but the main star here is the poinsettia! The star-shaped flowers are commonly used in Christmas decorations. The Tsum Tsum floral display will feature close to 20 varieties of poinsettias of various colours such as the traditional red, pure white, rich yellow, pink and cream.

There will be plenty of other plants synonymous with the season such as Christmas berries, holly, and coniferous trees, including the Korean Fir that will help turn the Flower Dome into a snowy wonderland.

You can’t bring home the huge Tsum Tsum-stacked Christmas tree but visitors can choose from a range of Disney Tsum Tsum merchandise – including apparel, stationery, lifestyle products and even special-edition Disney Tsum Tsum x Udders ice cream – at the Gardens’ Conservatory Gift Shop.

“Poinsettia Wishes Featuring Disney Tsum Tsum” is one of the festive highlights at Gardens by the Bay this year, along with “Christmas Wonderland” which takes place at Supertree Grove. Both events at the Gardens are held in conjunction with Marina Bay’s “Celebrate in the City”.

Don’t wait too long as the Tsum Tsum floral display will only be around till 6 January 2019!

Poinsettia Wishes Featuring Disney Tsum Tsum
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Gardens by the Bay Flower Dome, Singapore 018953
Date: 2 November 2018 – 6 January 2019
Opening Hours: 9am – 9pm
Price: Usual admission charge to the Flower Dome applies
Website

Also Read The Prudential Marina Bay Carnival Is Coming Back With New Rides – Runs From 22 Dec To 24 March

(Header Image Source: Gardens By The Bay)

Can’t Get Enough Of Mala? Now You Can Snack On These Mala-ficent Mushroom And Potato Chips

If you’ve been following food trends for the past year or so, then you probably already know that mala is one of the hottest dishes right now, both literally and figuratively.

And as is often the case with foods that become hype, companies have created all kinds of different products to capitalise on its sudden popularity (It’s something we like to call “The Salted Egg Phenomenon”).

Among all the self-heating hotpots and instant noodles, however, these Mala Chips just might be our favourite thing to come out of the mala craze.

It’s Getting Hot In Here

Created by local snack brand Mala Mala (you know they’re not playing around when they name their entire company after the dish), these mala chips are a dream snack for any spicy food lover.

The chips come in two varieties: Mushroom Chips and Hand-Cut Potato Wedges. While the wedges provide a more traditional snacking experience (think potato chips, but thicker), the mushroom chips add another dimension of…well, mushroom to the flavour profile.

The choices don’t stop there, however — for the sake of people who can’t handle hot food, the chips are available in three levels of spiciness: Mild Spicy, Super Spicy and Crazy Spicy.

Thanks to the addition of key mala ingredients like Szechuan chilli, peppercorn and star anise, even the mild option possesses the dish’s signature kick (without the oiliness that usually comes with it, thankfully).

Fair warning, though — that signature kick also comes with a lingering heat in your mouth (an especially long one, if you go for the crazy option), so we’d suggest attempting these with a cold drink in hand.

Price-wise, a bag of four 30g packets costs $8 and $9 for the Hand-Cut Potato Wedges and Mushroom Chips respectively. You can head over to the Mala Mala website to order a bag, or head over to their physical store at The Paragon if you don’t feel like waiting.

We’ve seen a lot of weird snacks in recent months, but unlike Chicken Rice and Egg Prata potato chips, these mala chips actually make some sense.

Spicy flavours have always had a place in the snacking world (who doesn’t like some Calbee Hot & Spicy?), and for those looking to take things to the next level, this could be your new favourite snack.

Website I Facebook

Also Read Can You Take The Heat? McDonald’s New Red Hot Spicy Peppers Burger Claims To Be Hotter Than The Mcspicy

(Header Image Source: Mala Mala)

The Prudential Marina Bay Carnival Is Coming Back With New Rides – Runs From 22 Dec To 24 March

The Prudential Marina Bay Carnival sure was fun, wasn’t it?

For four months, pretty much the entire Marina Bay area was transformed into neon-lit wonderland, acting as a simultaneous haven for foodies, Instagrammers and plush toy enthusiasts alike.

And if you’re experiencing withdrawal symptoms or for some reason missed it the first time round, don’t worry — you only have to wait seven weeks before you can revel in its fun again.

Just In Time For Christmas

That’s right — the Prudential Marina Bay Carnival will be returning to the Bayfront Event Space on the 22nd of December, and will run for three months till the 24th of March 2019.

Like its predecessor, admission is completely free, and it’ll run from 4pm – 11pm every single day. Operating hours will also be extended to 2am on both Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, so if you’ve ever wanted to usher in the new year 55 metres in the air, here’s your chance.

Not much else has been revealed at the moment, but their website does mention that they’ll be bringing in more carnival rides from Europe.

Apart from that, it looks like the carnival will be sticking to the tried-and-true formula of hipster food stalls and deceptively simple carnival games that’ll challenge your boyfriend’s masculinity.

The best part is that this is just one part of a bigger series called Celebrate In The City, an initiative by the Urban Redevelopment Authority that’ll see events running all the way till the end of the year.

We’ll keep you updated on the carnival and everything else as more information comes in, so watch this space…and mentally prepare yourself for the inevitable crowds and queues too.

Prudential Marina Bay Carnival
Venue: Bayfront Event Space
Date: 22nd December 2018 – 24th March 2019
Time: 4pm – 11pm (extended hours till 2am on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve)

Website I Facebook

Also Read A Sneak Peek Of i Light Singapore Happening Jan 2019 – The Biggest One Since 2010

(Header Image Source: Prudential Marina Bay Carnival)