6 animal cafes that are not dog/cat cafes to visit in South Korea

Animal Cafes in South Korea

Love animals but want a little something different because you’re “sick of” dogs and cats or have been to too many of such cafes?

Why not give these animal cafes we’re about to introduce to you a visit?

They are located all around South Korea and not limited to just Seoul.

Addresses are listed accordingly so have fun exploring 😉

땡스네이쳐카페 | Thanks Nature Cafe

Opening hours:

12 pm to 9 pm (Daily)

Prices: No entry fees but you will have to order something from the menu; drinks start from 4,400 KRW (approx. 4.28 SGD)

Address: 서울 마포구 홍익로 10 서교푸르지오상가 지하121호 | 10 Hongik-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Basement #121

Distance: 402 m from Exit 9 of Hongik University Station

First up, we have this sheep cafe located in hipster Hongdae area. I’ve personally visited this place and their waffles are absolutely delicious. You pay no entry fees but as long as you’re a paying customer (of any food items on their menu), you get to interact with the sheep in the mini barn.

에덴미어캣프랜즈 | Eden Meerkat Friends Zoo (Incheon Branch)

Opening hours:

1.30 pm to 6 pm (Weekdays)

12 pm to 7pm (Weekends)

Prices: 15,000 KRW (approx. 14.58 SGD) for an entry ticket (as of January 2024)

Address: 인천 남동구 호구포로 219 (세중프라자) 10층 | 219 Hogupo-ro, Namdong-gu, Incheon (Sejung Plaza) (10th floor)

Distance: 190 m from Exit 2 of Hogupo Station

This meerkat cafe is located right outside Seoul, in Incheon. They have another branch in Hongdae too but since that doesn’t have many reviews on Naver Maps, I’ve decided to highlight their Incheon branch instead. Pretty easy to get there since it’s a short walk from Hogupo Station.

세븐테마카페 | 7 Theme Cafe

Opening hours:

12 pm to 10 pm (Weekdays & Saturdays)

11.30 am to 10 pm (Sundays & Public Holidays)

Prices: from 10,000 KRW (approx. 9.72 SGD) for a standard entry

Address: 부산 수영구 광안해변로 237 6층 | 237 Gwanganhaebyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan (6th floor)

Distance: 758 m from Exit 3 of Gwangan Station

Where are my piggy lovers at? You will adore this themed cafe in Busan, which is within walking distance of Gwangan Station. FYI, it’s very near Gwanganli Beach so you can swing by for the ocean view after your animal adrenaline rush.

수달앤쥬 | Sudal n’ Zoo

Opening hours:

11 pm to 7 pm (Weekdays)

10 am to 8 pm (Weekends)

Prices: 12,000 KRW (approx. 11.66 SGD) for a standard adult entry

Address: 경기 수원시 권선구 금곡로 219 8층 807호 808호 | 219 Geumgok-ro, Gwonseon-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do (8th floor, #807 & #808)

Distance: about a 10-minute taxi ride from Hwaseo Station

Sudal n’ Zoo is home to otters. If you don’t already know, “sudal”, or written in Korean as “수달” = otters. But since they promote themselves as a zoo, they also house other animals such as rabbits, capybara, and more.

카페 옴뇸뇸 | Cafe Om Nyom Nyom

 

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Opening hours:

11 am to 11 pm (Daily)

Prices: No entry fees but you will have to order something from the menu; drinks start from 6,000 KRW (approx. 5.83 SGD)

Address: 경기 남양주시 별내면 청학로54번길 122 1층 , 2층 | 122 Cheonghak-ro 54beon-gil, Byeollae-myeon, Namyangju-si, Gyeonggi-do (1st & 2nd floor)

Distance: about a 15-minute taxi ride from Tapseok Station

If the silly expression on an Alpaca’s face amuses you, then consider visiting this cafe in Namyangju-si, Gyeonggi-do. It’s a little out of the way but accessible via a taxi ride from Tapseok Station. The alpacas are accompanied by other animals such as dogs, pigs, and parrots so it’s quite an interesting combo :p

이웃집수달 | Otter’s Home

Opening hours:

1 pm to 6 pm (Weekdays)

12.30 pm to 7 pm (Weekends)

Prices: 15,000 KRW (approx. 14.59 SGD) for a standard adult entry

Address: 경북 경산시 한의대로 136 | Gyeongsangbuk-do, Gyeongsan-si, Haneuidaero 136

Distance: about a 15 to 20-minute taxi ride from Gyeongsan Station (KTX)

And last but not least, we have this cafe which houses otters. It’s the furthest away from Seoul but if you’re visiting Daegu and its surrounding areas, it’s a good place to visit.

Have a good time!

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5 Places to Find the Cutest Blind Boxes in Singapore

Do you want to know the latest obsession captivating both kids and adults across Singapore? Well, it’s none other than blind boxes or blind bags.

These mysterious boxes, often linked to beloved franchises, spark a wave of excitement with each unboxing. Just picture the thrill of never quite knowing what treasure awaits inside and the element of surprise that each reveal creates!

Whether you are an avid collector or just hopping into this trend, there’s something undeniably entertaining about uncovering the unknown. On that note, let’s explore some of the best spots in Singapore to find the cutest blind boxes around.

#1: HAPPIBOX

Lucky Plaza might be known for its thrift shops and delicious eateries, but tucked away in its basement is Happibox, a hidden gem for blind box collectors. Here, you’ll find high-end collector toys with prices starting from just S$4.90, like the adorable Ugly and Cute Family Mini Beans series, and the MR PA Mahjong Series 2 Blind Pack from S$6.90. You can also find Happibox at Sim Lim Square.

Image Credits: facebook.com/happibox.sg

#2: ACTION CITY

A favorite for toy collectors, Action City offers a wide range of blind box collections from brands like Pop Mart and tokidoki, starting from S$12.90. For the more serious collectors, you can snag a full set like the Zzoton Treasure Land Series (i.e., S$190.80 for a case of 12 blind boxes).

#3: MINISO

From delightful toys and functional household goods to trendy cosmetics and tasty snacks, Miniso has something for everyone including blind boxes. The brand has made waves with its exciting collaborations, including a whimsical partnership with Winnie the Pooh in 2021, featuring adorable blind boxes priced between S$5.90 – S$12.90. And, its latest collaboration “Miniso x Chiikawa Pop-Up Store” is available at Jewel Changi Airport until October 11. See for yourself!

#4: POP MART SINGAPORE

Pop Mart has taken Singapore by storm, with life-size characters and irresistible blind box figurines. Pop Mart collaborates with artists to create beloved characters like Molly, Labubu, and Skullpanda, making it a haven for collectors. You will find individual blind boxes featuring Disney/Pixar characters from S$9.90 and SpongeBob SquarePants figurines from S$15.90 at their pop-up stores in malls such as Bugis Junction, Century Square, Jurong Point, and Suntec City.

#5: 52TOYS

Marking its Singapore debut this year, this mega Chinese toy chain has an exciting range of blind boxes, designer toys, figurines, and sculptures. If you are after characters like Mickey and Friends, Shinchan, or Doreamon, 52Toys has it all. Prices start at S$15.90 for the Kimmy & Miki Floral Emblems Blind Box and S$16.90 for the Disney Pixar Toy Story – Lotso’s Room Blind Box. What are you waiting for? Head over to 52Toys, located at PLQ Mall (#B1-20).

Image Credits: facebook.com/52ToysCandyBox

Whether you’ve stumbled upon blind boxes in TikTok videos or spotted them in shopping malls, these delightful treasures are popping up everywhere, capturing the hearts of children (and adults!) of all ages. Each store exudes its own unique charm, adding to the thrill of securing that coveted collectible. So gather your friends or plan a fun-filled family outing to explore these stores in Singapore. Happy hunting! 🙂

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East-West Line Back on Track After 6-Day Delay

After six days of delays, train services finally resumed between Jurong East and Buona Vista MRT stations along the East-West Line on the morning of October 1. The disruption, caused by extensive track damage, had left many commuters scrambling for alternative routes and dealing with longer travel times.

This return to normalcy brings a sigh of relief for many. However, westbound trains along the four-station stretch (i.e., between Dover and Clementi) are currently running slower at a temporary speed limit of 40km/h until October 3. This slower pace is part of a standard safety process following rail replacements, as trains typically travel at speeds of 60-80km/h.

COMMUTERS’ EXPERIENCE

During the disruption, the daily lives of more than 2.1 million passengers were affected with long waits and crowded platforms becoming the norm from September 25 to 29. The delays created challenges for those heading to work or school, requiring them to leave home earlier than usual.

Many commuters switched to alternative transport like buses, ride-hailing services, or taxis, which are typically more expensive than the MRT. You see, ride-hailing services also implemented surge pricing due to higher demand. These increased travel costs added up, especially for long-distance commuters.

ALTERNATIVE ROUTES

For six days, commuters took alternative routes, with many switching to the North-South Line or opting for the Thomson-East Coast and Downtown Lines. As a result, stations were packed, and transfer points became congested with passengers seeking faster routes to their destinations.

A common strategy involved transferring at Queenstown station to take the shuttle train to Buona Vista, or using Boon Lay station to transfer to Jurong East. While necessary, these options still extended travel times and complicated otherwise straightforward journeys.

REPAIR WORK

The damage affected the stretch between Clementi and Ulu Pandan Depot, requiring a full replacement of rail segments. On September 30, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced that the rail repairs been completed and the third rail had also been reinstated.

Before fully reopening the line, the LTA carried out a series of rigorous tests to ensure the tracks were safe. This included load tests using a locomotive to verify the rails were securely welded, followed by an endurance test involving a fully loaded train packed with sandbags to mimic real commuter conditions. Only after passing these assessments were trains allowed back on the line.

THE IMPACT

Commuters faced higher travel costs, missed appointments, and lost valuable time that could have been spent with family or at work. Many shared their frustrations of waking up earlier, enduring crowded buses, and dealing with extended travel times.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

For the millions affected, the six-day disruption felt like a marathon of endurance. With services now restored, they can finally return to their routines, though with a lingering sense of caution until the repairs are fully stabilized.

Sources: 1 & 2

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This new “Fall in Love” K-beauty box worth $240+ is yours to bag home at just $67+

BEAUTY BOX OCT (FALL IN LOVE BOX)

Welcome to the last quarter of 2024!

We’ve entered the final stretch of the year and it’s time to relook at your beauty routine before a new year begins.

Not sure what beauty products to try this month?

Why not give Olive Young’s “Fall in Love” K-beauty box a go?

Here are $240+ worth of products to bag home by paying just $67+:

FULL SIZE

A’pieu Honey & Milk Lip Oil

A’pieu Honey & Milk Lip Oil

First up, we have this lip oil which is more than just a pretty gloss.

Its densely adhering formula ensures moisture that lingers, quenching parched lips with honey and milk protein extracts.

As the oil glides on, your lips will be enveloped in a soft milk scent that uplifts the senses. But this lip product isn’t just a treat for the nose; its non-sticky formula offers a lightweight feel that is comfortable enough to wear all day long.

From the first swipe to the final sheen, this lip oil delivers lasting hydration and soothing nourishment as we swing into the last quarter of 2024.

UNOVE Silk Oil Essence 70ml #Tender Bloom

UNOVE Silk Oil Essence 70ml

Indulge your strands in the nourishment of UNOVE’s Silk Oil Essence.

This hair treatment infuses locks with botanical oils and silk proteins to repair damage and enhance shine.

Proteins and amino acids help smooth the hair cuticle, eliminating frizz and sealing in softness.

Meanwhile, plant oils like olive, macadamia, argan, sunflower, and camellia penetrate the hair shaft, locking in moisture to strengthen and revive thirsty strands.

A few drops of this bloom-scented essence is all it takes to transform lifeless locks into lustrous-looking hair.

Haruharu wonder Black Rice Bakuchiol Eye Cream 20ml

Haruharu wonder Black Rice Bakuchiol Eye Cream 20ml

Powered by fermented black rice and bamboo extract, this eye cream is an antioxidant force that banishes dark circles and fine lines.

But the real deal is bakuchiol, a plant-derived retinol alternative that smoothes crow’s feet without irritation.

Unlike some anti-aging creams, this milky formula melts into delicate eye areas so you look fresh, not greasy.

With continued use, the brightening and firming effects create a wide-awake gaze.

Don’t let tired, puffy eyes age you before your time.

Give it a try!

Arencia Fresh Green Cleanser 120g

Arencia Fresh Green Cleanser 120g

Is your skin in dire need of a reboot?

Arencia’s fresh green cleanser can help.

This dual-action powerhouse pulls double duty as both a cleanser and a clay mask, giving skin a one-two punch (in a good way).

Clogged pores and dull complexions meet their match as the fresh green cleanser gets rid of blackheads and sebaceous filaments while clearing up skin bumps.

Powered by nature’s best like green tea extract and rice water + powder, this blend has been clinically tested to improve key skincare factors.

Simply massage it onto damp skin, let it work its magic for a minute, then rinse it off for a baby-soft skin canvas.

COSRX The Retinol 0.1 Cream

COSRX The Retinol 0.1 Cream

This retinol cream from COSRX blends high-efficiency ingredients to solve skin problems and delivers them safely to the skin.

Whether you’re a lady who can’t stop uncaking on makeup (it gets stuck in fine lines) or a gentleman wanting to smooth over sagging skin, loss of elasticity, noticeable pores, and dryness, this is your answer.

Pure retinol and vitamin E join forces with hyaluronic acid to tighten wrinkles and build back elasticity.

Just a dab of this eye cream before bedtime is all you need to firm and plump skin while you sleep.

No more invasive fillers needed for needle fearers.

KAJA Gloss Shot

KAJA Gloss Shot

Talk about staying power: KAJA’s Gloss Shot lip gloss delivers a 24-hour glossy pearl luster that lasts through whatever your day brings.

Its formula prevents that tight, sticky feeling you hate.

Jojoba Seed Oil, Squalane, and Rosa Canina Fruit Oil form a blend that deeply moisturizes and strengthens the delicate lip skin.

Lips stay soft and smooth for the long haul.

A makeup bag must-have for hydration lovers who crave that all-day glossy look.

Colorgram Tintin Dory Eyeshadow Palette

Colorgram Tintin Dory Eyeshadow Palette

The colorgram Tintin Dory Eyeshadow Palette is for anyone who dares to get playful with color.

Packed with four highly pigmented shades in vivid hues and multiple finishes, this compact palette is your ticket to eye-catching eye looks.

Take your pick between earthy neutrals, peachy tones, or cool pinks—or really let your wild side roam free with the all-glitter version.

Whatever you fancy, these long-wearing, no-creasing formulas keep your eyeshadow in place.

Plus, the sleek size slips easily into any bag, so you can amp up the drama whenever (and wherever) you want.

Colorgram’s bold shades command attention so the only limit is your imagination.

WAKEMAKE Sheer Layering Dual Blusher

WAKEMAKE Sheer Layering Dual Blusher

Blush is more than just a rosy flush; it’s an expression, a mood-making finishing touch.

That’s why this sheer layering dual blusher from WAKEMAKE is a true palette for the face.

Sweep on a sheer watercolor veil of color, or build up the intensity with layers for a bolder pop.

And thanks to the reflective powder blend, each layer catches light for a subtle radiance.

Whether you prefer a just-pinched glow or want to turn up the wattage, their five shades can take you there.

Use the free brush provided for flawless application.

TRAVEL SIZE (FREE GIFTS)

Black Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil 30ml + COSRX Full Fit Sheet Mask

Black Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil 30ml + COSRX Full Fit Sheet Mask

Get Olive Young’s BEAUTY BOX OCTOBER (Fall in Love Box) at $67+ here.

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4-Day Work Week? 69% of Singapore Employers Say It’s Feasible!

In April 2024, a poll by payroll and HR solutions provider ADP found that nearly a third of Singaporean workers expect the four-day work week to become standard within the next five years. Notably, 21% of workers reported that their employers have already implemented this model to promote better mental health at work.

As the year progressed, another survey by recruitment agency Robert Walters revealed that 69% of Singaporean employers now consider the four-day work week “a feasible concept.” Employee enthusiasm, however, was even greater as 93% of workers expressed interest in a trial of the shorter work week. Neighboring countries like Malaysia and Thailand echoed this sentiment, with 94% and 95% of workers in these nations, respectively.

The survey, which gathered insights from over 5,000 professionals across 11 Asian markets, placed Singapore in the middle regarding support for the four-day work week.

SOUTHEAST ASIA LEADS

Southeast Asia appears to be the most optimistic region about this shift in work culture. Compared to places like Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, and South Korea, professionals and businesses in this region are more open to experimenting with a shorter work week.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

WORKPLACE CHANGES

While many HR experts agree that a four-day work week could improve work-life balance, boost employee happiness, and even enhance productivity, they caution that Singapore may not embrace this change immediately.

Aslam Sardar, CEO of the Institute for Human Resource Professionals, noted that Singaporean employers’ hesitancy could stem from the country’s highly competitive business environment. Concerns about operational impact, especially in specific industries, and the complexities of implementing such a shift are key reasons for their caution. Significant organizational changes, cultural adjustments, and technological advancements like automation and job redesign will be critical to making this model work, according to Sardar.

FUTURE IMPLEMENTATION

Despite the hurdles, many Singaporeans are eager to give the four-day work week a try. They view it as a way to improve work-life balance and spend more time with their families. In fact, 96% of professionals surveyed said they would be more inclined to apply for jobs at companies offering this flexible arrangement.

However, when it comes to making compromises, most workers are unwilling to trade reduced salaries or bonuses in exchange for shorter hours, signaling that while the demand for change is high, financial security remains a top priority.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

While the four-day work week is gaining traction, it may take time before it becomes the norm in Singapore, as businesses and workers balance the potential benefits with the challenges of implementation.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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