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Why “Buy Now, Pay Later” Might Not Be Your BFF
Browsed any online store recently? You’ve probably encountered the enticing “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) option. With the promise of splitting payments over weeks or months without interest or hefty fees, it seems like a dream come true. For many, it has been. Yet, as it becomes a tool for essentials like groceries, it’s worth pausing to consider: is BNPL as great as it seems?
#1: BUYER’S REMORSE HITS TOO LATE
Remember the days of saving for that dream pair of sneaks, making payments, and only taking them home after they were fully yours? BNPL flips this script. You get your purchase instantly, and with the click of a button, you’re locked into a commitment before common sense kicks in.
If regret creeps in later, BNPL doesn’t care. Essentially, you’ve handed over control of your wallet.
#2: RISKY CONNECTION TO YOUR CARDS
BNPL payments are often tied directly to your debit or credit card. Miss a payment due to insufficient funds? Expect a late fee. Fail to pay off your credit card balance on time? That BNPL purchase suddenly carries a hefty interest charge. What starts as a seemingly free loan could snowball into a mess of late fees and mounting credit card debt.
#3: IMPULSE SPENDING MADE EASY
Saving up for a purchase gives you time to evaluate if it’s truly necessary. BNPL removes that waiting period, nudging you to click buy without hesitation. So, if you’re going to use BNPL, be intentional. A new wardrobe for a job might be justifiable. A shopping spree because it’s interest-free? Not so much.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
#4: HAVING A MINDSET OF “ZERO” INTEREST
While many BNPL services advertise zero-interest payments, not all plans are created equal. Larger purchases, like appliances or electronics, may come with longer terms and interest. Sometimes, the interest rates are even higher than what your credit card might charge.
The trouble? It’s all too easy to click “BNPL” without fully reading the terms. Once the purchase is processed, undoing it can be a challenge.
#5: TRAPPED BY HIDDEN PSYCHOLOGY TRICKS
One of BNPL’s sneakiest pitfalls is how it breaks down costs. A purchase of S$80 might feel like a mere S$20 every fortnight. While this makes items feel more affordable, it also detaches you from the full cost. Couple this with a lack of financial education and relentless advertising, and many see BNPL as a way to manage money. The result? Early reliance on debt and a lifetime habit of paying things off in chunks rather than saving.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
IN A NUTSHELL
Don’t buy it if you cannot afford it. If you’re tempted, ask yourself: Do I truly need this? Can I pay for it outright?
Financial freedom isn’t about splitting payments or juggling debts. It’s about saving and spending within your means. BNPL may be a tool, but it’s not a safety net. In the end, whatever you’re buying will feel far better when they’re truly yours.
5 highly rated hot pot restaurants (that’s not Haidilao) in Singapore to visit because it’s almost steamboat season
Steamboat season is just around the corner.
While Haidilao may be quite a familiar name when it comes to hot pot dining, there are other options.
So allow us to share with you a quick list of highly rated hot pot restaurants filled with sizzling soups, fresh ingredients, and more.
Xiabu Xiabu Hotpot @Lazada One
Website: drive.google.com
Google Rating: 4.7 (2.7K+ reviews)
Address: Bras Basah Rd, #01-03/04 Lazada One, Singapore 189554
Straight from the streets of Beijing, Xiabu Xiabu Hotpot brings the flavors of Chinese hotpot cuisine to your table.
Xiabu Xiabu sources only the freshest ingredients to create its mouthwatering broths.
Take your pick from a selection that includes classics like Japanese Dashi alongside bases like Nanyang Curry.
Vegetarians, there are meat-free options for you too.
No matter which broth you choose, you will dunk premium meats, seafood, and veggies into simmering pots of flavor at an unbeatable value.
Set menus start from $25.
Happy Lamb Hot Pot 快乐小羊火锅 – Orchard
Website: happylambhotpot.sg
Google Rating: 4.7 (2K+ reviews)
Address: 9 Scotts Rd, #02-10 Pacific Plaza, Singapore 228210 (Located in Pacific Plaza)
Happy Lamb Hot Pot’s signature “Good Soup without Dipping Sauce” style ditches the usual dipping sauces, instead slow-stewing a rich base broth for 6 full hours to extract maximum flavor.
You get a milky pot of base broth that’s a feast in itself.
Simply swish your premium meat selections through the steaming pot and enjoy the Mongolian-inspired hot pot.
小燕子番茄火锅 XiaoYanZi Tomato Hot Pot
Website: xiaoyanzitomatohotpot.com
Google Rating: 4.7 (1.3K+ reviews)
Address: 6 Eu Tong Sen St, #03-87 Clarke Quay Central (Blue Zone, Singapore 059817)
Forget your standard hot pot experience.
XiaoYanZi is the pioneer who brought simmering pots of tangy tomato broth to Southeast Asia.
Each pot of their signature soup starts with 10 fresh, ruby-red tomatoes slow-stewed for full flavor.
They also take pride in their housemade shrimp paste with whole tiger prawns.
Once known as “Upin Hot Pot”, this brand has spent years refining its recipe.
Go ahead and dip in your favorite meats and veggies right here.
Wu Wang Guo 勿忘锅 Hot Pot
Website: wuwangguo.com
Google Rating: 4.7 (1.3K+ reviews)
Address: 133 New Bridge Road, above, #03-09/10/11/12/13/14 main atrium, Chinatown Point, Singapore 059413
Prepare to be wowed by Wu Wang Guo 勿忘锅 or “Unforgettable Hotpot.”
Slurp up soup bases like a collagen-fueled beauty broth or a spirit-lifting drunken chicken blend.
Can’t decide among the choices?
Opt for the tri or quart pot to sample up to 3 or 4 flavors.
Also features tender beef and mutton to affordable meat platters starting at just $12.80.
City Snow Hotpot
Website: citysnowhotpot.com
Google Rating: 4.7 (500+ reviews)
Address: Blk 501 W Coast Dr, #01-302, Singapore 120501
You haven’t experienced hotpot until you’ve tasted Beijing’s centuries-old tradition.
At City Snow Hotpot, a secret recipe stock base simmers for hours using spring water, lending a natural sweetness to the nutritious broth.
Fresh lamb meat and bones complete the authentic flavor alchemy.
With over 30 Beijing-style condiments to customize your dip, you’re the main lead of an endless flavor adventure.
Premium chilled cuts like beef and mutton await.
Prefer fruits of the sea?
Live seafood options let you indulge.
If you’re seeking a late-night fix, it’s good news for you because City Snow Hotpot’s doors stay open until 3 am daily, ready to serve your soul-warming spoonfuls.
5 Christmas cakes from $55 to order for your yearend festive celebrations
The holiday season is here and you’ve probably got a date or two set for your gatherings.
We think no Christmas celebration is complete without a lovely Christmas cake as the centerpiece of your dining table and that’s why we’ve searched high and low for some options from $55.
Fruitcakes, log cakes, and more…
These options are sure to impress both you and your guests.
Take a look!
Christmas Wreath Fruitcake
Price: $55
Celebrate the season with a fruitcake that tastes like it came straight from ah-ma’s oven.
Each bite of Luna’s Christmas Wreath Fruitcake reveals a traditional brown sugar and cinnamon spice blend.
There’s also a crown of chewy, jewel-toned dried fruits adorning the top, adding texture.
To complete the festive look, edible snowflakes, and mistletoe garnishes make this 18cm dessert a picture-perfect highlight for holiday gatherings.
Generously sized to feed a crowd of 8 to 10 merrymakers, this fruitcake is our 2024 Christmas dessert appeal.
Santa Sleigh
Promo Price: $66.30
Or consider this Santa Sleigh cake, a joyful medley of flavors with surprises in every bite.
An airy chiffon sponge forms the base with a lightness to counter the decadence ahead.
Yuzu curd lends a citrus zing that cuts through the sweet fraises compote and velvety vanilla chantilly cream.
Lush yet light, sweet yet tangy.
Topped with fresh strawberries and packaged in a festive design.
15% off right now!
Black Forest Yule Log
Price: $88
Let this Black Forest Yule Log seduce your taste buds.
Bite into the bitter dark chocolate chiffon with a hint of alcohol for depth, only to discover a molten core of rich Valrhona 70% chocolate cremeux.
Then comes the bright burst of Morello cherry compote, balancing the intense chocolate notes with its subtly sweet tang.
This sinfully delicious cake begs to be savored slowly, but good luck resisting more than a few heavenly bites.
After all, you don’t achieve “best-seller” status by being just another dessert.
Winter Raspberry Bliss Log Cake
Price: $89.91
For cakeholics, this winter raspberry bliss is a dream come true.
Savor the rich opalys chocolate coating that cocoons a pleasing raspberry puree filling with ripe, sweet-tart flavors.
This log cake also reveals a nutty crunch from pecan pieces and sable breton crumbs, plus a kick of sherry wine grapes.
Each purchase gives back, with 10% of sales donated to The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund in the spirit of giving.
So grab a slice of this seasonal raspberry bliss and do some good while you can.
Pandora Box (Whole Cake)
Price: $98
Last but not least, we have this confection from Pan Pacific Orchard that fuses Japanese culinary flair with Western dessert traditions.
At its heart lies a silky hojicha green tea mousse that delivers earthy, roasted notes.
Beneath, sour cherry confit cuts through the richness with a pop of tartness, while layers of pistachio feuilletine add an irresistible crunch.
It’s a treat that plays sweet and tart flavors against various textures.
Crave something beyond the ordinary this season?
Let this creation serve you right.
6 jade pieces of jewelry (that are not jade green) from $529 to gift a special someone this season of giving
While jade is traditionally celebrated for its green hue, this gemstone also dazzles in other colors.
Think lavender, white, and even black!
This holiday season, explore with us some exquisite jade pieces starting from $529, perfect for that special someone.
< $1,000
Zenith Lavender Jade Pendant in 9K Yellow Gold
Price: $529
First up, we have this Zenith Lavender Jade Pendant, a showstopper.
It features a premium 4.2-carat type A jadeite gemstone in soft lavender set against solid 9K yellow gold.
White sapphire accents add just a whisper of sparkle.
Whether topping off a workwear ensemble or dressing up a weekend best, this pendant “upgrades” any look with an air of luxury.
Comes with a FREE gold-filled chain necklace that lets one slip into jade elegance quickly.
Beautifully boxed with a polishing cloth, this jadeite marvel is an accessory to wear often.
The Suite
Price: $780
Bad vibes?
Not a chance when you’re rocking Little Jadeite House’s sleek black jadeite bangle.
This slim, shiny stunner is ideal for stacking or wearing solo as a lightweight statement piece.
But here’s where things get really cool: black jadeite is known for its negativity-repelling, evil-banishing powers.
Well, if you’re a believer, this accessory doubles as a protective, cleansing stone for its wearer.
Woo, good stuff 🖤
Highly Translucent Icy Light Blue Jadeite “Icy Trapezoid” Pendant
Price: $980
Or consider this solid 18K white gold pendant featuring a highly translucent icy blue “Type A” jadeite stone.
Cut into a trapezoid, the jadeite seems frozen in time, its icy hue offering a cool elegance.
Diamond accents twinkle from the white gold setting, amplifying its glamor.
Sourced from the most premium jade on earth, this jadeite jewel is a treasure to treasure—as unique as the person wearing it.
> $1,000
Translucent Brownish Red Flower Jadeite Ring
Price: $1,488
Carved from exquisite Burmese jadeite, this Nanyang Jade flower ring casts a brownish-red and translucent glow.
The design showcases artistry in its intricate floral carving that wraps around the finger.
Accented by an 18k white gold band, this 100% natural Type A jade ring radiates premium quality.
Jadeite has been prized for centuries as a precious gemstone, and this piece delivers with its craftsmanship and uncommon hue.
Icy “Sparkling Hearts” Jadeite Jade Drop & Dangle Earrings in White Gold with Diamonds
Price: $1,800
Fall head over heels for these sparkling heartdrops!
Carved from translucent jadeite jade, these earrings showcase nature’s icy gemstones in all their glory.
Suspended from 18K white gold settings speckled with shimmering diamonds, the heart-shaped charms catch the light with every slight turn of your head.
With its Type A jade, these “Sparkling Hearts” are fit for any loved one.
Aesha Earring
Price: from $1,738
Last, but not least, we have these precious pink and white sapphires shining alongside glossy jade.
Handcrafted by Gen.K Jewelry with solid 14K or 18K gold, each pair features a color blend of gems—from white to pink—and green/white jade adds an organic touch.
Since each jade varies in hue, your Aesha earrings become a truly one-of-a-kind statement piece.
Ready for a look that commands attention?
Go for this gemstone glamor.
7 Plushies to Heal Your Inner Child (Beyond Labubu!)
If you’re a fan of plush toys dangling from bags, you know that Labubu has set the gold standard. But guess what? It’s not the only cutie in town.
There’s a world of plushies ready to take center stage, each bursting with charm and nostalgia. Whether you’re reconnecting with your inner child or simply accessorizing with flair, these plushies are the ultimate feel-good companions.
#1: TEDDY LULU
First on the list is the irresistibly adorable Teddy Lulu by TOYZERO+. This minimalist yet charming little piggy is perfect for fans of understated cuteness. Small, squishy, and endlessly lovable, Lulu is dressed in the cutest teddy bear outfit. It’s a piggy in a bear disguise, and it’s pure perfection! You can snag one for as low as SGD 18 to 21 on Shopee or Carousell. Honestly, how can you not love this adorable combo?
Image Credits: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564126852037
#2: MANCHAO
The Manchao Naughty Animal Plush Pendant or Manchao Head adds charm and fun to any collection. These plush pendants are part of a blind box series, sold typically at SGD 20 to 30 each. Their playful designs make them ideal for accessorizing bags or keychains while appealing to a wide range of ages.
Image Credits: facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064812982378
#3: MOLLY
Meet Molly, the icon of quirk and charm. Created in 2006 by Hong Kong artist Kenny Wong, Molly is instantly recognizable with her golden locks, piercing green eyes, and signature pout. From casual to cosplay-inspired designs, Molly has it all. Her plush pendants range from SGD 20 to a jaw-dropping SGD 1,900 for rare figurine finds.
Image Credits: POP MART
#4: LIILA’S ZOO
Take a walk on the wild side with Liila’s Zoo. These animal-inspired plushies (i.e., think lions, giraffes, and more) bring a splash of fun to your style. Whether you’re into playful designs or statement pieces, you’ll find one to love. Prices hover around SGD 22 to 35, making them a budget-friendly delight.
Image Credits: facebook.com/PearlClothingPhilippines
#5: CRYBABY
Created by Thai artist Molly Yllom in 2017, Crybaby is more than just a plushie as it’s an emotional journey. With its teary-eyed expression, this adorable creation symbolizes the healing power of tears. Perfect for those who seek a meaningful connection through art, Crybaby POP MART plushies can be found in price ranges from SGD 20 to 350, depending on the edition and rarity.
Image Credits: POP MART
#6: DORA
Who can resist Dora dressed as their favorite animals? The TNTSPACE Dora Animals Series plush dolls feature cute and fierce designs, from koalas and foxes to baby elephants and dogs. Retailing for about SGD 17 to 20 each, these cuddly companions are too adorable to pass up.
Image Credits: facebook.com/tingting.gonzales.2024
#7: NOMMI
For those who love interactive designs, Nommi Loveliness Never Ends Series Plush is a must-have. Bulkier than most plush pendants, Nommi has eyes that move and can be customized for added whimsy. Whether you’re looking for a quirky vibe or a bold statement, Nommi’s plushies are a perfect fit, priced between SGD 20 to 50.
Where to Score These Plushies? Typically these plushies are sold on Carousell Singapore, POP MART stores, and Shopee Singapore. Please shop around to get the best deals.
Image Credits: facebook.com/PearlClothingPhilippines
Who says accessories can’t be cuddly? These plushies are more than just bag décor as they’re a way to wear your personality on your sleeve (or strap). Whether it’s the nostalgic Crybaby, the stylish Nommi, or the cheeky Teddy Lulu, there’s a plushie waiting to light up your day.
So, go ahead and pick up a charm or two!