From A Game Of Thrones Dinner To A Batman Exhibit, These 5 Events Will Have You Geeking Out
Comic-Con may not be here in Singapore, but that doesn’t mean that we have to live boring lives.
We found a few places and events for you to geek out at because let’s admit it, geek culture is the best culture.
So put on your superhero tees and let’s go!
1. Game Of Thrones-Themed Dinner
Who else thinks Season 8 of Game Of Thrones cannot come soon enough?
Since it’s going to be a while before we can get our hands on new episodes of the HBO series, here’s something to satiate your desire for all things GoT in the meantime.
[caption id="attachment_31641" align="aligncenter" width="750"] Image Credit: TimeOut SG[/caption]The Bay Hotel is presenting a halal buffet inspired by the fantasy series. Aptly called “The Feast Of Fire And Ice“, this buffet will fill you up on a spread fit for kings and queens, and a whole lot of geeky GoT references.
[caption id="attachment_31626" align="aligncenter" width="615"] Source[/caption]Once dinner is done, head over to Bay Hotel’s rooftop bar, Propeller, and sip on Mother of Dragons champagne ($18), a drink containing dragon fruit balls (of course), that comes served with wisps of smoke.
[caption id="attachment_31624" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Source[/caption]The buffet will be available from December 22 onwards, and is priced at $58 for lunch and $78 for dinner.
The Feast Of Fire And Ice
Venue: Rumah Rasa, Bay Hotel, 50 Telok Blangah Road, Harbourfront
Date: 22 Dec 2017
Opening Hours: Daily, 12pm – 10.30pm
Image Credit: VivoCity Singapore[/caption]
The Knightcrawler is a monster of a tank owned by Bruce Wayne, that debuted in the Justice League movie. The current replica at Vivocity, stands at an impressive 3.4m tall and 14m wide and is exclusively displayed in Singapore.
The replica took a year to conceptualise and 36 hours to assemble on-site at VivoCity’s Atrium.
From now till 3 December, just present a receipt of any purchase at the Justice League roadshow, or a minimum $30 receipt from any outlet in VivoCity for an up-close and personal photo opportunity with the multi-terrain tank.
There will also be life-sized figures of the Justice League characters, an interactive photo booth, and an extensive range of Justice League movie merchandise.
Venue: VivoCity, 1 Harbourfront Walk, Singapore, 098585 Open the Grab app, choose your side (The Resistance or The First Order), and the app will be re-skinned for 5 weeks. The Grab cars on the map will be changed to look like TIE fighters or A-Wing Fighter Jets, depending on the side you choose. So hurry pick your side and start riding with Grab today! Happening on 18 – 19 November, OCBC Cycle 2017 has 3 riding categories, but one of them is particularly interesting. Specifically, The Straits Times Ride. This Superhero-themed 23km ride encourages cyclists to dress up as their favourite DC or Marvel heroes and heroines! Nobody wants to see capes getting caught in wheels. What’s more, the rider with the best superhero costume gets to walk away with the Casio EXILIM EX-FR100 Action Cam (worth $629)! So gather your friends and family and assemble your own superhero squad for this 23km ride that takes you past scenic landmarks and views of the Singapore city skyline! Sweat it out, hero-style at OCBC Cycle 2017. You can register for your spot in the ride here! OCBC Cycle 2017 If you watch Stranger Things, then this new bar at Clarke Quay might remind of you a certain arcade in Hawkins. Opened on 15 November, Level Up is a bar with vibrant mood lighting, that combines retro arcade games and drinking games with live entertainment from local musicians. Located at Clarke Quay, this arcade bar might not have Dragon’s Lair or Dig Dug, but you’ll still be able to find many classic retro arcade games.
Date: 14 Nov – 3 Dec 2017
Image Credit: Grab[/caption]
4. Superhero-themed Cyclothon
Venue: Singapore Sports Hub
Date: 18 – 19 Nov
Website5. Stranger Things-esque Arcade Bar
Also read KFC Just Unveiled Its Spiciest Chicken Yet – And It’s Offering Milk Too In Case You Cry
(Header Image Source:
Thks Fr Th Hnts, LAMC Productions – Fall Out Boy MIGHT Be Coming To Singapore!
Fall Out Boy fans, fall in!
On 10 November, LAMC Productions, a regional concert promoter in Asia, released a clue regarding the next musical act to grace our shores.
Let’s see if you can guess who it is. Are you ready?
First Clue
[caption id="attachment_31549" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Image Credit: LAMC Productions Facebook[/caption]According to LAMC Productions, this is a music video theme. Well, there are a few people on our minds as to who the musical act could be.
Judging from the post’s comment section, guesses are varied but there is one name that keeps popping up.
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBr7kECsjcQ[/embed] [caption id="attachment_31551" align="aligncenter" width="496"] Image Credit: LAMC Productions Facebook[/caption] [caption id="attachment_31552" align="aligncenter" width="499"] Image Credit: LAMC Productions Facebook[/caption]Do you have someone in mind yet? But wait, there’s another clue!
Second Clue
[caption id="attachment_31553" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Image Credit: LAMC Productions Facebook[/caption]Another music video theme! The 2nd clue seems to have confirmed most guesses.
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onzL0EM1pKY[/embed] [caption id="attachment_31554" align="aligncenter" width="497"] Image Credit: LAMC Productions Facebook[/caption] [caption id="attachment_31555" align="aligncenter" width="496"] Image Credit: LAMC Productions Facebook[/caption]The consensus seems to be Fall Out Boy that’s coming to Singapore.
Then there’s this guy.
[caption id="attachment_31556" align="aligncenter" width="496"] Image Credit: LAMC Productions Facebook[/caption] [caption id="attachment_31557" align="aligncenter" width="640"] GIF Credit: giphy[/caption]We still don’t know who the musical act is, but stay tuned to LAMC Production’s Facebook page for more updates!
Also read 14 Exhilarating Events And Food To End This Month On A High Note
(Header Image Source: Consequence Of Sound)
14 Exhilarating Events And Food To End This Month On A High Note
We’re finally halfway through November and we can practically smell the candy canes and artificial snow (foam) on Orchard Road.
With just 2 more weeks to go until Christmas season is in full swing, here are more events and food for you to tank through to December.
Let’s do this!
Play & Discover
1. The Addams Family Musical Comedy
[caption id="attachment_30964" align="aligncenter" width="1249"] Image Credit: TodayTix[/caption]Along with Uncle Fester, Grandmama, Lurch the butler, and Thing the hand, everyone’s favourite fictional household, The Addams Family, will be here in Singapore from 15 Nov – 3 Dec, bringing us a musical comedy featuring an original tale.
The story goes that Wednesday Addams – all grown up now – has kept a shocking secret that only Gomez knows; she is in love with a young man from a normal, respectable family. Find out what chaos ensues when the eccentric Addams clan meet with Wednesday’s ‘normal’ boyfriend and his parents.
Fans of The Addams Family, this is a hilarious show you won’t want to miss. Tickets are already on sale and are priced from $86.80* – $146.80*, so grab yours while they’re still available!
Purchase your tickets to The Addams Family here.
The Addams Family
Venue: MES Theatre at Mediacorp, 1 Stars Avenue, Singapore 138507
Date: 15 Nov – 3 Dec 2017
Price: CAT 1: $146.80* | CAT 2: $120.80* | CAT 3: $86.80*
*Discounted prices available only on Hapz.
2. Let’s Go Jalan Jalan
[caption id="attachment_30676" align="aligncenter" width="3000"] Image Credit: Let’s Go Jalan Jalan Facebook[/caption]“Let’s Go Jalan Jalan” is a food and music festival that brings all the most iconic things about Singapore – both new and old – to one place.
Happening from 17 – 19 Nov, this three-day event will take place at the nostalgic The Three Peacocks @ Labrador Park and will feature over 100 varieties of food and merchandise stalls.
Expect popular local cuisines such as Ice Blended Rainbow Dash, Rickshaw Noodles, traditional “You Tiao” with soya bean drink, the old school ice cream uncle, and more!
The event is pet-friendly and wheelchair-friendly, so bring your ah ma, ah gong, and even your furry ones to this festival come November! You’re sure to have a good ol’ time at this chill, hyper-local extravaganza!
Let’s Go Jalan Jalan
Address: The Three Peacocks @ Labrador Park, 8 Port Road, Singapore 117540
Date: 17 – 19 Nov 2017
Time: 17 Nov: 5pm – 12.30am | 18 Nov: 10am – 12.30am | 19 Nov: 10am – 12.30am
Admission: Free
Website
3. OCBC Cycle 2017
[caption id="attachment_30560" align="aligncenter" width="1259"] Image Credit: OCBC Cycle[/caption]The annual OCBC Cycle is back!
Happening from 18 – 19 November, OCBC Cycle is Singapore’s most happening cycling event. An event that brings together cyclists young and old, from the greenest to the most seasoned, everyone is welcome to be a part of this cycling fiesta.
OCBC Cycle 2017 has something for everyone, with 3 riding categories for people who just want to have a good time.
The Straits Times Ride is undoubtedly the highlight at this cycling extravaganza. A Super Hero-themed ride, come dressed in your favourite Marvel or DC heroes and heroines!
The Mighty Savers® Kids and Family Ride guarantees a great time for even the youngest of the pack. Children from as young as 2 years old can sign up, with the youngest tots taking part in the 100m course and older children getting 20 or 30 minutes on the circuit.
If you’d like to take it easy and go for a leisurely ride, go for The Corporate Bike Ride. Pick between the 23km The Straits Time Ride and the 42km The Sportive Ride, and take on the city with a group of at least 15 cyclists!
If you know you’re long overdue for some exercise, or just like sweating it out with like-minded people, register for OCBC Cycle 2017 here! And make sure to take your best pals along because everything is better when you do it with a friend!
OCBC Cycle 2017
Venue: Singapore Sports Hub
Date: 18 – 19 Nov 2017
Website
4. It’s The Ship
[caption id="attachment_31489" align="aligncenter" width="2201"] Image Credit: It’s The Ship 2017Date: 17 Nov – 20 Nov 2017
Image Credit: brookings.edu[/caption]
The Projector is not your average cinema. On 17 November and 25 November, they’re screening Ridley Scott’s definitive Final Cut of the 1982 version of The Blade Runner, complete with extended scenes and never-before-seen special effects.
There will also be an afterparty at The Intermission Bar at The Projector, where Perilune will be playing for the attendees.
Tickets for the 17 November screening have been sold out but tickets for the 25 November are still available for purchase Website
6. Arts In Your Neighbourhood
[caption id="attachment_31272" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Image Credit: Arts For All[/caption]Arts In Your Neighbourhood is back, and this time, it’s taking a journey to the West.
An initiative by the National Arts Council that happens twice a year, Arts In Your Neighbourhood has taken over neighbourhoods like Toa Payoh, Yishun, and Woodlands previously, bringing arts experiences to the doorsteps of Singaporeans living in these areas.
From 9 – 26 November, Arts In Your Neighbourhood is giving Jurong residents the same treatment with its interactive arts programmes that show a different side of Jurong.
Expect visual arts installations, performances, trails, stories, and more by established artists and arts groups happening across Jurong.
For the month of November, pop by these installations, watch these performances, or go on the trail! Who knows, you just may come away with newfound appreciation for your neighbourhood!
Arts In Your Neighbourhood
Address: Various locations
Date: 9 – 26 Nov 2017
Website
7. Harry Styles Live In Singapore 2017
[caption id="attachment_31497" align="aligncenter" width="1296"] Image Credit: Harry Styles Live In Singapore 2017 Facebook[/caption]In case you didn’t hear the screams from the fangirls, Harry Styles is coming to Singapore for a one-night only performance at The Star Theatre on 23 November 2017!
Fans can expect hits from his self-titled debut album such as “Sign of the Times”, “Two Ghosts” and “Kiwi”, just to name a few.
Tickets are already sold out for the 2017 show but you can grab tickets for his May 2018 concert 8. Sole Superior 2017 [caption id="attachment_31507" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: Sole Superior 2017 Facebook[/caption]
Sneakerheads of Singapore, listen up! Singapore’s premier sneaker and streetwear convention is returning for its fifth instalment on November 25.
As with every year, Sole Superior will be giving away a truck load of goodies. Every ticket comes with a raffle entry to a prize pool of over S$30,000 worth of products, ranging from snapbacks to feet heat.
A new addition this year is the Sole Superior Afterparty, jointly presented in partnership with Moonbeats Asia, which will be held in a secret warehouse in Tai Seng featuring top international DJs Falcons, The Whooligan and Yeti Out. For more info on the afterparty, check out the Facebook event page here.
Get your tickets on Sole Superior’s e-ticketing page 9. Treasures Of The Natural World [caption id="attachment_31277" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Image Credit: marinabaysands.com[/caption]
Come 25 November 2017, the ArtScience Museum will host the ‘Treasures Of The Natural World‘ exhibition, which showcases the most significant treasures of the natural world.
Carefully selected from over 80 million specimens, over 200 treasures from London’s prestigious Natural History Museum will travel to Southeast Asia for the first time.
There will also be a treasure hunt, specially designed for children, families and schools, for the younger visitors to embark on a series of adventures, learning about nature and searching for wildlife.
Opening on 25 November 2017 through till 29 April 2018, do not miss out on this wondrous exhibition!
Tickets can be purchased here.
Treasures Of The Natural World
Venue: ArtScience Museum
Date: 25 Nov 2017 – 29 Apr 2018
Image Credit: Whisky Live Singapore 2017 Facebook[/caption]
Organised by Maison Du Whisky, Whisky Live Singapore is South-East Asia’s premier whisky and spirits event that began in 2010 and this year it is back for it’s eighth instalment from 25 November to 26 November!
The event sees over 70 whisky and spirit brands gathering for tasting, and also featuring some of the world’s most famous distilleries as well as upcoming notable brands.
This year, the event moves to Robertson Quay: TheatreWorks and Singapore Tyler Print Institute, and features top level masterclasses, a lineup of Singapore’s best cocktail bars, food partners and more!
Ticket prices go from $99 for a standard discovery pass for 1 person, to $900 for a 10 person group pass.
Hurry and purchase your tickets Venue:
Singapore Tyler Print Institute, 41 Robertson Quay, Singapore, 238236Date: 25 Nov – 26 Nov
11. MØ Live In Singapore
[caption id="attachment_31514" align="aligncenter" width="1336"] Image Credit: MØ Live In Singapore Facebook[/caption]If you’ve listened the DJ Snake’s “Lean On”, then you’ve heard MØ singing. Danish singer and songwriter Karen Marie Aagaard Ørsted, better known as MØ, is coming to Singapore on 26 November for the first time ever!
Performing with a full band, gather your friends an dance along to MØ’s beat-driven electropop and amazing vocals!
Tickets go from $78 for early bird tickets, to $272 for the Dance Buddies package.
Purchase your tickets here!
MØ Live In Singapore Etsy Made Local is back for its second instalment this Christmas! Etsy Made Local is a national initiative that celebrates collectors, artisans and crafters from local communities in South-East Asia and Australia. On 25 November, Etsy artisans will be selling their handmade products and vintage wares at the Capitol Piazza in celebration of the spirit of our local community. Admission is free so bring your friends and family down! Etsy Made Local 2017 Ramen fans, there’s a new ramen coming to you, and this one comes courtesy of none other than Michelin-starred ramen restaurant Tsuta. For their first year anniversary in Singapore, Tsuta has come up with not one but two ramen dishes, and the star ingredient is a meat we Singaporeans eat plenty of: duck. After experimenting with different recipes and cooking methods for a year, Chef Yuki Onishi created 2 ramen dishes: the dry Kamo Abura Soba ($10), and Kamo Paitan Soba ($11) which is served in soup. These ramen dishes will only be available from 4 November onwards and are exclusively available in Singapore. The next time you’re craving a hearty bowl of ramen, be sure to head down to your nearest Tsuta to eat it! Tsuta
Venue: Zouk Singapore, 3C River Valley Road, The Cannery, Singapore, 179022
Date: 26 Nov 2017
Price: Early Bird: $78, Standard: $88, Dance Buddies Package: $272 (excluding booking fee)
Image Credit: alt-J Live In Singapore
Venue: Esplanade Theatre
Date: 29 Nov 2017
Image Credit: Etsy Made Local 2017 Facebook[/caption]
Venue: Capitol Piazza, 13 Stamford Road, Singapore, 178905
Date: 25 Nov 2017
WebsiteEat
14. Tsuta Duck Ramen
[caption id="attachment_31202" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Kamo Abura Soba[/caption]
Address: Pacific Plaza, 9 Scotts Road, #01-01, Pacific Plaza, Singapore 228210
Opening Hours: Daily, 11am – 10pm
Contact no.: 6734 4886
The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-Time Is Coming To A Stage Near You In March 2018
(Header Image Source: The Finder Singapore)
S’pore’s Iconic Drag Queen Kumar Turns 50 And He’s Putting On An Epic Show To Celebrate
Singapore’s most iconic Drag Queen, KUMAR is back! This time for his Golden Jubilee!
Yes, our favourite Drag Queen is turning 50 and he’s celebrating it with everyone with his Kumar50 show at the Capitol Theatre!
[caption id="attachment_31456" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Image Credit: Sistic[/caption]From 28 February to 11 March 2018, Kumar will be performing at the Capitol Theatre for 13 shows only!
The Queen Returns
Watch as Kumar regales us with tales from his birth, growing up, and his career doing standup. Nothing is off the table as he touches on every topic that tickles our funny bone.
No drag performance is complete without lip-syncing. Be prepared for a hilariously entertaining Golden Jubilee as Kumar is joined by his fabulous showgirls, shaking booties and lip-syncing to legends such as Whitney Houston!
[caption id="attachment_31461" align="aligncenter" width="480"] GIF Credit: giphy[/caption]So gather your friends and family for a no-holds-barred, side-splitting comedy night with Singapore’s favourite Drag Queen at the Kumar50 show!
Tickets for the Kumar50 are available on Hapz on a name your own price basis, so quote your own price and purchase your tickets here!
Kumar50
Venue: Capitol Theatre, 17 Stamford Road, Singapore, 178907
Date: 28 Feb – 11 Mar 2018
Price: Name your price*
Website
*Discounted prices available only on Hapz.
Also read Have A Furry Merry X’mas At Changi This Year As Hello Kitty And Friends Take Over Our Airport
(Header Image Source: Kumar50)
B Burger Serves Cheeseburgers With A Japanese Twist And It’s Pure Umami Magic
Fusion food has always been a hit-or-miss in the world of gastronomy.
However, this newest fast food joint has managed to perfect their recipes for Japanese-American fusion burgers.
Meet B Burger, a quaint new burger joint located at Cathay Cineleisure Orchard, serving up classic American burgers with a Japanese twist.
[caption id="attachment_31399" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Image Credit: B Burger[/caption]Picture yourself biting into a juicy, toasty burger in a backdrop of palm trees, artsy murals and neon lights juxtaposed against a wall of 80s paraphernalia. That is the B Burger experience.
Feel Good Vibes Meets Feel Good Food
If you thought you’ve had the best burger you can possibly have in your lifetime, hold that thought.
B Burger serves up classic American burgers with a Japanese twist. Picture daikon pickles replacing gherkins, or an okonomiyaki re-imagined with a bratswurst and served as a corn dog.
That’s the Osaka Corn Dog ($6.90).
[caption id="attachment_31425" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Osaka Corn Dog ($6.90)[/caption]The signature B Burger ($6.90 to $11.90) is a cheeseburger that features a single portion of juicy beef patty, daikon pickles, tomato, lettuce, cheese and their secret B Sauce. Double and triple patty options are also available for their burgers.
[caption id="attachment_31420" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] B Burger ($6.90 for single patty, $8.90 for double, $11.90 for triple)[/caption]The other burger to look out for is the Bomchika Wow Wow ($9.90). Buttermilk fried chicken burger, sriracha honey (YASSS), truffle mayo, homemade wafu slaw, topped with a fried egg. If this doesn’t get you salivating, we don’t know what will.
[caption id="attachment_31421" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Bomchika Wow Wow ($9.90)[/caption]For those seeking a vegetarian option, there’s a burger for you. Meet the Umami Burger ($7.90). A combination of buttermilk fried Portobello, melted cheddar, garnished with a sprinkling of nori flakes.
[caption id="attachment_31422" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Umami Burger ($7.90)[/caption]Going meat-free has never tasted so good.
B Burger didn’t forget about their sides either. Some of the interesting sides are the Nacho Soup ($3.50) and the Wafu Ramen Slaw ($3.50).
The Nacho Soup is exactly what you think it is. All of the cheese and nacho shards. Like Beer Cheese Soup, without the beer. So, really just cheese soup.
[caption id="attachment_31423" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Nacho Soup ($3.50)[/caption]The Wafu Ramen Slaw is B Burger’s homemade coleslaw with Japanese dressing and dried ramen noodles for crunch.
[caption id="attachment_31424" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Wafu Ramen Slaw ($3.50)[/caption]Remember to eat your veggies, kids!
You can pay an additional $3.50 for a side and a drink to go with your burger for a more filling meal!
Food aside, the tropical motifs plastered on the walls of the joint really brightens up our mood. Vibrant, colourful, and cheerful.
If the food doesn’t make you smile, the decor will.
[caption id="attachment_31428" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Image Credit: B Burger[/caption] [caption id="attachment_31429" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Image Credit: B Burger[/caption] [caption id="attachment_31430" align="aligncenter" width="688"] Image Credit: B Burger[/caption] [caption id="attachment_31431" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Image Credit: B Burger[/caption] [caption id="attachment_31432" align="aligncenter" width="1067"] Image Credit: B Burger[/caption]Eating here isn’t just a meal. It’s a visual and gastronomic experience.
Head down to B Burger if you’re craving for a good burger!
B Burger
Address: Cathay Cineleisure Orchard, 8 Grange Road, #01-01, Singapore, 239695
Opening Hours: Daily: 12PM – 10PM
Website
Also read Forget Truffle Fries, These 7 Luncheon Meat Dishes Will Make You SPAM All Your Money
(Header Image Source: @cathaylifestyle)
5 Of The Biggest Bills You Will See In Your Lifetime As A Singaporean
Whoever said adulting would be fun was clearly playing a cruel joke on all of us.
As a woman in her mid-20s who is soon to be married and who has recently paid the down payment on her future home, if I could pick just one word to describe adulthood, it would be ‘expensive’.
While many of us were blissfully unaware of how much we were spending during our carefree teenage years, once you reach your late 20s or early 30s and you are standing at the cusp of the next phase of your life (i.e. marriage), you quickly realize how much it costs to build – and to live – a life here in Singapore.
Here are 5 of the biggest bills you’ll see in your lifetime as a Singaporean. A word of warning: Brace yourself for these numbers.
1. A House
Price Tag: ~S$240,000 – ~S$580,000 for a BTO flat
It’s no secret that home ownership is prohibitively expensive in Singapore; everyone who is soon to be married will be well acquainted with this fact.
[caption id="attachment_31404" align="aligncenter" width="1430"] Image Credit: Unsplash[/caption]One of the most expensive things you will purchase in your lifetime is a house, and it’s the price of the first property you will ever own that will be the rudest shock to your system.
If we consider the BTO launches that happened this year, that bill will be somewhere between ~S$240,000 for a 4 room flat in Woodlands to ~S$580,000 for a 5 room flat in Toa Payoh.
After you subtract off the grants, that comes up to about ~S$180,000 and ~S$580,000 respectively for the two types of property.
Not going the BTO way? If you’re considering resale flats, be prepared to part ways with a sum of between ~S$260,000 for a flat in Marsiling and ~S$1,200,000 for one in the award-winning Pinnacle @ Duxton. Yes, that’s S$1.2M for a HDB flat.
Do we even want to think about the price of private property?
2. Renovation Costs
Price Tag: ~S$40,000 – ~S$70,000
According to Qanvast, HDB homeowners spend an average of S$50,000 on home renovations, while people living in condominiums spend an average of S$75,000.
[caption id="attachment_31405" align="aligncenter" width="1429"] Image Credit: Unsplash[/caption]Of course, that price tag differs depending on various other factors, such as the size of your flat. People spend an average of about S$35,000 to renovate a smaller 70sqm house, while the average amount spent for larger homes of 140sqm and larger is S$120,000.
[caption id="attachment_31406" align="alignnone" width="1419"] The average amount homeowners spend on home renovation by size of house. (Image Credit: Qanvast)[/caption]Interior style also plays a huge role in determining how much your total bill will run up to. A simpler Scandinavian or Industrial style home costs an average of S$40,000 while a more contemporary look and feel costs an average of S$70,000. Yikes.
[caption id="attachment_31407" align="aligncenter" width="1430"] The average amount homeowners spend on home renovation by style of interior. Price not inclusive of furnishings and appliances. (Image Credit: Qanvast)[/caption]All that said, it is not unusual for people to keep within a modest S$20,000 budget when designing their home. At the end of the day, it all depends on what you want, what you need, and how much you’re willing to spend.
Cost-cutting Tip: To shave down home renovation costs, drive across the causeway to Malaysia or go online to sites like Taobao to purchase your furniture pieces!
3. Wedding
Price Tag: ~S$35,000 – ~S$73,000
[caption id="attachment_31408" align="aligncenter" width="1430"] Image Credit: Unsplash[/caption]While your wedding day may be one of the most unforgettable days of your life, it is also likely to be one of the most freakishly expensive days of your life.
When you’ve factored in key items such as the engagement and wedding bands, the bridal package, wedding banquet, actual day costs, and the cost of your honeymoon, you can rack up a bill of a woman took to social media and revealed that her mum’s care and treatment at the hospital resulted in a whopping S$1,018.469.29 in bills – a figure none of us would wish to see in our lifetime.
Hospital bills are one of the most painful things to pay for, and often, we only discover this too late – when the bill is already in our hands.
[caption id="attachment_31409" align="aligncenter" width="1264"] All bill sizes for Singapore General Hospital (SGH) are complete and include doctors’ professional fees. Bill sizes for Mount Elizabeth Hospital Novena (MNH) may not be complete. All numbers stated are based on the 25th – 75th percentile bill size.[/caption]Take breast cancer surgery for example. The total bill, for hospitalisation and all procedures necessary, starts between S$1,372 – S$1,909 if you’re staying at the lowest grade C-class ward. Opt for an A-class ward and it can cost you between S$7,619 – S$13,009.
And if you decide to seek surgery at a private hospital? That number can be multiplied three-fold or even more.
While health is important, it’s definitely hard to part with that kind of money just to get better.
Cost-cutting Tip: Choosing yourself a good insurance policy will serve you well in such instances. In the best case scenario, you won’t have to pay a cent for hospitalisation, and in the worst, you only foot a fraction of the bill.
5. Car
Price Tag: At least $65,800
Singapore is notorious for being the most expensive place in the world to buy and own a car.
[caption id="attachment_31410" align="aligncenter" width="1429"] Image Credit: Unsplash[/caption]This is due to the S$65,800 and S$77,000, COE and all other taxes and fees included. The brands in the mix? Malaysia’s Perodua, China’s Chery and Japanese Mitsubishi.
[caption id="attachment_31411" align="aligncenter" width="863"] Image Credit: SGCarMart[/caption]If we’re talking about the 3 most popular car models in 2016, the Toyota Corolla Altis, Mazda3 and Nissan Qashqai, the price ranges between S$97,800 for a Mazda3 and S$110,300 for a Nissan Qashqai.
Cost-cutting Tip: Can’t bear the thought of spending so much money on a car? Then a second hand car is the way to go!
Protect The Things You Love The Most
Feel poor just reading this article? Don’t worry, you’re not the only one.
Thankfully, some of the things we value most – and that cost us the most – like our homes and our cars can be insured so as to soften the blow in case something bad happens to your home or car.
Freelancers who work from home in particular will benefit from an extensive home content insurance coverage. Not all home insurance policies cover the home office, which means that in the event that your work equipment (e.g laptops, printers) is lost or stolen, you will not be able to make a claim.
There is no sure-fire way of preventing such unfortunate events from happening, so the only way to protect yourself from the huge financial cost of getting back on your feet is to make sure you’ve covered yourself and all your most valued things with insurance.
If you’re new to insurance, the first thing you should know is that not all insurance policies are created equal. In fact, there are 4 different layers of insurance. The more layers of insurance you have, the more protected you are in the case that emergency strikes.
4 Layers Of Insurance
[caption id="attachment_31412" align="aligncenter" width="544"] Image Credit: FRANK by OCBC[/caption]Ranking according to importance, you have Hospital Insurance, Life Insurance, Critical Illness Insurance and Endowment Plans.
Hospital Insurance covers hospitalisation, surgery and personal accidents both local and overseas. This type of insurance ensures that when you have to put yourself through treatment or therapy, you don’t wipe out all of your hard earned savings.
Life Insurance, on the other hand, covers death, terminal illness and total permanent disability. The most basic form of insurance, Life Insurance policies ensure that in the case of an unexpected death or disability, your dependents are well taken care of.
One thing to take note of is that most Life Insurance policies exclude serious illness and the treatments required. Instead of having you and your family dig deep into your own pockets to pay for the exorbitant medical bills, Critical Illness Insurance takes the financial burden off you and your loved ones.
And finally, there are Endowment Plans. More of a savings plan than an insurance policy, putting your money into an Endowment Plan will give you better returns that if you put your money in a deposit account. As an added bonus, you also get basic insurance coverage.
Still don’t know the what’s what of insurance? Why not get a professional to explain it all to you? To gain a better understanding of insurance and what kinds of insurance you’ll need, sign up for a consultation with FRANK here!
This article is written in partnership with FRANK by OCBC.
Also read 8 Houses In Singapore So Extravagant, You’ll Wonder What The Owners Do For A Living
(Header Image Source: Unsplash)
We Sussed Out 6 Of The Best Online Deals To Watch Out For On 11.11
This is it. The month you’ve been saving for. The time has come for the floodgates to your bank accounts to be opened. November is here and your wallets best brace themselves because the online sales are coming.
[caption id="attachment_31385" align="aligncenter" width="622"] Image Credit: imgflip.com[/caption]Gird your loins for Single’s Day sales!
So Many Deals, So Little Budget
1. Tmall
[caption id="attachment_31386" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image Credit: Tmall[/caption]Tmall, formerly Taobao Mall, is operated by the Alibaba Group and they’ve launched the 11.11 Global Shopping Festival for shoppers in Singapore!
With their wide range of products going on sale this Single’s Day, you’ll be spoilt for choice in this immense sale festival!
When: 11 Nov 2017
Products: Home and Living, Fashion, and Lifestyle
Website
2. Watsons Singapore
[caption id="attachment_31388" align="aligncenter" width="599"] Image Credit: @watsonssg[/caption]Watsons is having their online and in-app exclusive ‘Buy 1 Get 1 Free’ deals at their highly anticipated Double 11.11 Online Shopping Carnival!
If there’s something you’ve been wanting to get at Watsons, now is the time!
When: 9 – 15 Nov 2017 From 1 to 11 November, Shopee is having their 11.11 Shopee Super Sale! Expect hourly flash deals from 11AM – 11PM daily, Buy 1 Get 1 sale, daily giveaways and more! When: 1 – 11 Nov 2017 From 8 to 11 November, ezbuy is having up to 90% off flash deals, over $800 worth of free vouchers, clearance sales from 50% to 70% off, Spin and Win giveaways and more! When: 8 – 11 Nov 2017 From 9 to 12 November, ZALORA will be having their 11.11 Single’s Day sales! Following that, they will also be Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales so do keep a look out for updates on their Facebook page! When: 9 – 12 Nov 2017 Because crying alone in a hotel is better than crying alone at home, Hotels.com is having a Single’s Day Shopping Carnival with deals where you get to save up to 50% with your bookings from hotels around the world! When: 11 Nov 2017 So what are you waiting for? Book a holiday! Buy everything! We’re kidding, please spend wisely but most importantly… (Header Image Source: Pinterest)
Products: Skincare, Cosmetics, Health, Personal Care and Hair Care
Image Credit: Shopee Singapore[/caption]
Products: Fashion, Health and Beauty, Appliances, Sports and Outdoors, Gadgets, Food, Games and Hobbies
Website4. ezbuy
[caption id="attachment_31390" align="aligncenter" width="1680"] Image Credit: ezbuy.com[/caption]
Products: Fashion, Toys, Home and Gardening, Health and Beauty, Sports and Outdoors, Gadgets, Vehicle Accessories
Website5. ZALORA Singapore
[caption id="attachment_31391" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image Credit: ZALORA Singapore[/caption]
Products: Fashion, Sports, Skincare, Hair Care, Fragrance
Website6. Hotels.com
[caption id="attachment_31392" align="aligncenter" width="444"] Image Credit: hotels.com[/caption]
Website
This X’mas Market Is Full Of Artsy Knick Knacks And Activities That’ll Put Christmas Cheer In Your Hearts
If you love Christmas markets as much as we do, then we’ve got some news for you.
The Local People (TLP) is throwing a Christmas party at South Beach Avenue from 15 to 17 December with a Christmas Art Market aptly named ‘Santa’s Workshop @ The South Pole‘!
[caption id="attachment_31371" align="alignnone" width="1080"] Image Credit: The Local People[/caption]Watch South Beach Avenue transform into an art, design, food and music destination as local communities and visitors come together and celebrate this festive season in one of the largest Christmas Art Markets in Singapore.
Santa’s Workshop @ The South Pole
Spanning over 32,000 square feet across the basement, street level and conserved buildings, South Beach Avenue is the entertainment centre of the Civic District.
[caption id="attachment_31373" align="aligncenter" width="550"] Image Credit: TripAdvisor[/caption] [caption id="attachment_31374" align="aligncenter" width="550"] Image Credit: TripAdvisor[/caption]Starting from the basement plaza, you can be part of the longest communal dining experience, savouring mouth-watering treats.
Up on the street level, browse and shop at the various tents selling locally-made and designed products such as homemade organic baked goods, handmade accessories, and specially curated ranges of tea from various vendors.
Also keep a look out for pop-up stores by South Beach’s tenants. You can find whisky gifts from Quaich Bar, organic products from Real Food, and Christmas hampers from JW Marriott Singapore South Beach and Caffe Vergnano 1882, just to name a few!
[caption id="attachment_31378" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Image Credit: Quaich Bar[/caption] [caption id="attachment_31379" align="aligncenter" width="550"] Image Credit: TripAdvisor[/caption]What party is complete without music? Visitors can expect performances from local talents such as music duo Rene & Stef, singer songwriter Marian Carmel, Jean Goh, Desiree Orien Tay, and music band Nisha and Syaf!
There will also be Christmas carollers on 17 December to get everyone into the festive mood!
There will also be a screening of Michelle Chong’s award-winning ‘Lulu The Movie’ at 7pm daily, in the film’s first public screening since its theatrical release.
[caption id="attachment_31380" align="aligncenter" width="476"] Image Credit: Shaw Online[/caption]For the younger visitors, they can get their faces painted, play at the fundraising carnival games by The Social Co., take pictures at the photo booth, or get their craft on at any of the 3 Christmas workshops daily from 11AM to 10PM!
There’s something for everyone at Santa’s Workshop @ The South Pole so gather your friends and family and head down from 15 to 17 December!
Santa’s Workshop @ The South Pole
Venue: South Beach Avenue, 26 Beach Road, Singapore, 189768
Date: 15 – 17 Dec 2017
Website
(Header Image Source: The Local People)
Have A Furry Merry X’mas At Changi This Year As Hello Kitty And Friends Take Over Our Airport
From Disney to Pokemon, Changi Airport has always been outdoing their own Christmas themes every year. And this year is no different.
Following the opening of the Hello Kitty cafe in May 2016, the Changi Airport group has decided to go with Sanrio characters for this year’s Christmas theme!
[caption id="attachment_31355" align="aligncenter" width="602"] Characters such as Gudetama, Little Twin Stars and Hello Kitty will be part of the Sanrio lineup.[/caption]Hello Kitty will be bringing her other famous friends to Changi Airport Terminal 3 this Christmas!
Say Hello To Hello Kitty And Friends
Starting from 17 November, be enchanted by Changi’s first ever indoor drone show which will feature up to 40 drones working in formation to produce a spectacular light show!
That’s not all, Hello Kitty and her friends will also be performing enchanting songs and dances for everyone!
[caption id="attachment_31358" align="aligncenter" width="533"] Image Credit: Facebook User Alice King[/caption]If you’re looking for photo opportunities, look no further. Changi’s Mystical Garden will be lined with life-sized Sanrio characters, a gazebo, as well as a treehouse that’s topped with Hello Kitty’s signature ribbon!
[caption id="attachment_31356" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Image Credit: @changiairport[/caption] [caption id="attachment_31359" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image Credit: Changi Airport[/caption]But wait, there’s more! Sanrio fans and visitors can also purchase the plushies of the characters and participate in fun activities at the event area located opposite the Terminal 3 Check In Row 11!
So gather your friends and families this festive season, and head down to Changi Airport Terminal 3 for a very merry Sanrio Christmas!
Hello Kitty & Friends At Changi Airport
Venue: Changi Airport Terminal 3
Date: 17 Nov
Website
(Header Image Source: Changi Airport)
Forget Truffle Fries, These 7 Luncheon Meat Dishes Will Make You SPAM All Your Money
One of the most versatile yet underrated ingredients today, is the humble luncheon meat. Americans might be more familiar with the name “SPAM“. No, not the junk mail. As in the canned meat.
You can choose to eat the meat as it is, though we wouldn’t recommend it as it’s REALLY salty.
[caption id="attachment_31344" align="aligncenter" width="564"] Image Credit: Image Credit: Burpple User Nobelle Liew[/caption]Thick cut strips of fried SPAM served with a side of mayonnaise. It’s a simple dish but so so good.
The mayonnaise helps to cut through the oiliness of the SPAM fries. But let’s be honest, the fries disappear before you even touch the mayonnaise.
It’s a little pricey at $11.90, but it’s so worth it.
Curious Palette
Address: 64 Prinsep Street, Singapore, 188667
Opening Hours: Sun – Mon: 9AM – 10PM; Wed – Thu: 9AM – 10PM; Fri – Sat: 9AM – 12AM; Tue: Closed
Contact no.: 6238 1068
Website
2. Free Flow SPAM Fries @ TAP Craft Beer Bar
[caption id="attachment_31336" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Image Credit: @tapsingapore[/caption]This is the greatest piece of news ever. Every Thursday at TAP Craft Beer Bar, you are entitled to their free flow SPAM fries with any drink purchase.
You can also order the SPAM fries ($8) off the menu, if you’re not going on a Thursday.
These greasy strips of decadence come with a sweet chilli aioli that just elevates the dish to another level. If this doesn’t ignite a fire in your soul, we don’t know what will.
TAP Craft Beer Bar Are you getting sick of fries yet? Don’t worry. This one’s different. It’s still luncheon meat, but it’s deep fried mashed luncheon meat. Same but different. True to their name, these are so delightfully crispy and savoury, it’s just happiness with every bite. The best part? It’s only $6. Now both our stomachs and wallets are happy. Sinpopo Brand Think Doritos, but made of SPAM. A SPAM Dorito. A SPAM Chip. These SPAM Chips ($8.50) served at PARK cafe at Holland Village are so good and easy to eat. They’ll disappear faster than you can say “PARK Cafe”. PARK at Holland Village For those of you who don’t know, Musubi is essentially SPAM sushi. Because sashimi is expensive. Aloha Poké has managed to create these addictive little musubis, where each slab of SPAM is coated with a caramelised secret sauce and rests upon a bed of sushi rice. For $11, you get a serving of 6 musubis. Our only gripe? 6 musubis is not enough. Aloha Poké [caption id="attachment_31343" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Image Credit: @tanukiraw[/caption]
This. This is the ultimate SPAM dish. Thick cut SPAM fries piled with cheese, black garlic brown butter gravy (we know, right?), sour cream, guacamole, and onions. Honestly, is there anything better? For just $13.90, you get to relish in this sinful bowl of SPAM. Just looking at this gives us life. However, do note that SPAM WHAM! is only available at the Orchard Central outlet. Tanuki Raw Fries have never looked more outdated and our stomachs have never growled any louder. We’re going to get all of these for a SPAM buffet. Which SPAM dish are you going to try first? (Header Image Source: Burpple Users Nobelle Liew, Yeung Kai Ho)
Address: Capitol Piazza, #01-K1, 15 Stamford Road, Singapore, 179906
Opening Hours: Daily: 12PM – 12AM
Contact no.: 6384 7188
Image Credit: Sinpopo Brand[/caption]
Address: 458 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore, 427671
Opening Hours: Tue – Thu: 12PM – 10PM; Fri – Sat: 12PM – 12AM; Sun: 12PM – 10PM; Mon: Closed
Contact no.: 6345 5034
Website4. SPAM Chips @ PARK at Holland Village
[caption id="attachment_31339" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Image Credit: Burpple User Yeung Kai Ho[/caption]
Address: 281 Holland Avenue, #01-01, Singapore, 278996
Opening Hours: Tue – Sun: 10AM – 12AM; Mon – Closed
Contact no.: 9721 3815
Image Credit: Burpple User The Hungry Geek[/caption]
Address: 92 Amoy Street, Singapore, 069911
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat: 11.30AM – 2.30PM, 5.30PM – Late; Sun & Public Holidays: Closed
Contact no.: 6221 6165
Image Credit: 7. SPAM WHAM! @ Tanuki Raw
Address: Orchard Central, #04-01, 181 Orchard Road, Singapore, 238896
Opening Hours: Daily: 11.30AM – 10PM
Contact no.: 6636 5949
Website