When Should You Add To Cart?

With all the advertisements on social media and all the Christmas promotions along the Orchard Road, we are constantly bombarded with visions of owning new things. The marketers know how to push our buttons and how to make us click “buy now”.

Pause for a while! There are ways to tame our desires. Wanting is an emotional response to being unsatisfied with what you already have. Satisfying wants can give you a temporary high, but it wears off. Consider the following factors when deciding to purchase something or not.

#1: PRICE

The first question to ask yourself is whether you can afford the item or not. This question is not as simple as it sounds. If you can afford the item, you must ensure that the money is coming out of your budget and not from your credit card. Do not spend money that you are expecting to get.

Lastly, you can save money for a big purchase if you cannot afford it now. Asking money instead of gifts for your birthday or wedding can be doable too.

#2: OPTIONS

Study your options before adding the item to your cart. This will give you time to ponder about the purchase. You can either do window shopping in the nearby shopping malls or browse different online shops. Consider what you already have and weigh the costs of the possible purchase.

#3: QUALITY

Know the quality of your purchase by reading the online reviews. What do others think about the item? Ask your friends for their opinion regarding the item too. They may give you tips on where to get the most affordable and durable option.

More than the style or the brand, consider if the functions of the item will last you for a long time. Unless what you already have is obsolete, buying a similar item is wasteful.

#4: PURPOSE

Distinguish whether what you aim to purchase is a want or a need. If you do not need the item, you may want to reconsider the purpose of your purchase. You can save money to make room for the things you want.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

On the other hand, a need is a requirement or a necessary duty. Buying what you need should be a priority. Adjust your budget to fulfill your daily needs. Always try to get the best value for your money.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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13 “Oraegage” to visit the next time you hit the streets of Seoul

Myeongga Tteokjip

Taking advantage of the vaccinated travel lane (VTL) scheme that started on 15 November to travel to South Korea soon? You must be researching what to do in Seoul.

If you don’t already know, Seoul is a metropolis that is always evolving. In the pursuit of urbanization, low-rise buildings and old infrastructures have been bulldozed, skyscrapers have sprung up everywhere, and historic lanes have been substituted with straighter routes. The Seoul you’ve seen a few years back could have been very different by now.

But still, some businesses have existed for a long time in the fresher, wealthier districts south of the Han River, which are more renowned for high-end restaurants and upscale shops with designer items. These are the spots filled with years of meaningful memories right around the corner of Seoul’s flashy complexes.

That is why before you urgently book a train to Busan or a flight out to Jeju, you will want to visit these newly added “Oraegage” or “Historical Stores” in Seoul’s southeastern areas.

Worthy of its title
Oraegage logo

Image Credits: Seoul Metropolitan Government

Stores with a heritage of over 30 years in the Seoul area, have been passed down for two or more generations, and where experts and craftsmen practice their specialty are accorded the status by the city government. Since 2017, about 100 over spots have received the worthy label.

Here are the recent “Oraegage” or “Historical Stores” added this time:

  • Guro District: Jinsun Audio
  • Dongjak District: Apple House
  • Songpa District: Myungga Tteokjip
  • Gangnam District: Manna Dang, Manna Snack, Motungijip, Sangsindang, and Gembros
  • Seocho District: Doosung Paper, Seowoo Confectionery, Ewha Myeong Joo, Hill String, and Dongyang Korea Oriental Instruments

The metropolitan area has grouped the 13 locations into 4 themes and offers 4 itineraries in which travelers can visit the stores associated with each concept.

#1: Rediscovery of Market
Manna Snack

Image Credits: Seoul Metropolitan Government

This tour takes you to shops in a market and a mall in an old apartment block that has retained its attractiveness for decades.

You will be visiting Manna Snack, a snack bar at Eunma Shopping Center that has been selling noodles and spicy rice cakes since 1990. You will also stop by Myeongga Tteokjip, which started in 1980 and is famous for its fist-sized glutinous rice cakes with red bean paste at Saemaul Market in the Songpa District of Jamsil area.

#2: Rediscovery of Walking
Ewha Myeong Joo

Image Credits: Seoul Metropolitan Government

If you book this package, you will be in the compounds of Bangbaesai-gil and Naebang. Enter Ewha Myeong Joo, a hanbok store that has been retailing Korean traditional apparel since 1978 and has seen many foreigners as its customers. It is located in Seorae Village, which is recognized as a French enclave consisting of stylish restaurants and boutiques.

You will also make stops at Apple House, a snack shop that started in 1986 serving spicy fried dumplings, and Seowoo Confectionery, which has been operating since 1980, selling cookies consisting of overcooked rice crust with garlic.

#3: Rediscovery of Emotions
Jinsun Audio in Guro District

Image Credits: Seoul Metropolitan Government

Connect with your artistic side via this tour. Jinsun Audio in Guro District is recommendable for individuals who like the rich and detailed tone of vinyl recordings. You can also get your hands on some valuable handmade turntables from the store, which first opened in 1988.

Thereafter, head to Ationery, a stationery and office equipment business established by Doosung Paper in 1982 that sells high-quality paper products. Hill String, which has been selling Western instruments since 1967, and Dong Korea Oriental Instruments, which has been producing and retailing traditional Korean instruments since 1991, are among the stores you will see too.

#4: Rediscovery of Gangnam
Motungijib gimbap and ramen

Image Credits: mangoplate.com

On this journey, the locals will show you diverse views of Gangnam Station and Garosu-gil in Sinsa-dong. The journey begins at Motungijib, a little snack business just around the bend from Gangnam Station that has been serving spicy fish cake rice rolls wrapped in seaweed since 1988.

You will also get to witness for yourself Sangsindang, a business that has been creating stamps and seals since 1977; Gembros, a jewelry store that started in 1984; and Mannadang, a place that has been selling Korean traditional sweets since 1963.

We heard that there is more information on these rediscovery-themed travel packages at Tripadvisor so do an online search over there if you’re curious! Have a safe trip.

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Some considerations to note before purchasing a luxury bag

luxury bags

The choice to spend lavishly on a luxury bag can be loaded with lots of pre-considerations.

Whether you’re spending a fortune for the first time or are unsure if luxury bags are a worthy investment, there’s no disputing that these thoughts are a notch up from your regular handbag purchase. That’s why you will want to ensure the bag you buy has all of the features that make it deserving of that big swipe.

Here are some considerations to note before purchasing a luxury bag to guarantee that you get the most out of your purchase.

Think about practicality

An excellent luxury bag must be able to justify its hefty price. We’re referring to how it should be both stylish and practical. It ought to be large enough to store everything you need, but not so bulky that it obstructs your style and overall stance.

Chain straps that may be worn on the shoulder or across the body offer a bit of glamor to the look. Card slots, side pockets, and magnetic clasp are thoughtful details that allow quick access to regularly used belongings. Most importantly, it should go with almost any ensemble in your closet and can be worn at practically any function.

Pay attention to the color, design, and material
luxury bags of different brands

Image Credits: designerbagsblog.com

People typically believe that they should only invest in bags with classic designs and timeless colors. However, if you enjoy flashy, eccentric, or elaborate patterns, go ahead and invest in one that meets that criteria and that you will adore using.

Another point to consider is its material. Exotic skins and premium leathers are highly treasured not simply due to their rarity, but also because they require professional expertise to handle and construct. Lambskin is a famous leather for luxury bags because of its weight, fine-grain texture, and ultra-soft touch. You will be in for an ultimate treat if you can get one with an aniline finish.

Decide on your possession period and research its potential resale value

Although everyone’s tastes vary, you should have a broad notion of how current or timeless a luxury bag is. Of course, our likes and inclinations vary with age and we may rethink our opinions, but it’s alright to purchase a trendy bag with the goal of reselling it later.

If you intend to purchase a bag and carry it until it falls apart, you’re unlikely to consider reselling it. However, if you’re searching for a contemporary piece to sell after a few seasons, you need to be more mindful of how you maintain it. Dustbags are included in every transaction for a specific purpose! Try doing some research on the prospective resale value before buying would be a smart step most would recommend you to take.

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Visit These 5 Places To Buy Real Christmas Trees & Decorations In Singapore

All of us have different memories of Christmas that we hold close to our hearts. As time passes, our relationship with the Yuletide season evolves. However, one thing remains the same. There’s nothing quite like the smell of Christmas in your home to lift your holiday spirit.

What exactly, is the smell of Christmas? Fresh wreath and trees of course!

For newbies, take this friendly words of advice. If you want to score a fresh tree, you must get it early. Don’t worry about the upkeep because these trees normally last the whole season. Little fading may occur due to being in the tropics. Check out our top picks to buy one in Singapore.

#1: PETITE FLEUR

Spruce up your home with a Christmas wreath meant to be hung on your front door or in the living room to welcome guests and loved ones. Boutique florist Petite Fleur’s 26cm Christmas wreaths will make you stand out from the crowd as it is carefully arranged for you. No two wreaths look exactly alike!

Apart from this, they are selling mini pine trees measuring 30cm to 60cm. These mini-Christmas trees come with fairy lights and fresh decorations.

Image Credits: petitefleursg.com

Price: S$120 for wreaths and S$120-210 for trees, excluding 7% GST

Order online at petitefleursg.com and get free delivery.

#2: IKEA

IKEA not only houses the famous Swedish meatballs and DIY furniture, but also the Vinter 2021. The Vinter 2021 consists of live Christmas trees that retail for S$59 to S$79 at their Alexandra store. Accompany it with a tree stand for only S$25.

Image Credits: Image Credits: ikea.com/sg

Price: S$59 for a 1.6m tree and S$79 for a 2m tree

Purchase at the IKEA Alexandra store. Delivery rates range from S$15 to S$70.

#3: FAR EAST FLORA

When traveling along Thomson Road, it is hard to miss the Far East Flora. Far East Flora is known for its massive selection of flowers and plants. Local plant enthusiasts should be aware of its existence and its huge nurseries. Quickly visit to see their selection of noble fir trees, which were imported from Europe.

Trees that measure 2 to 2.5 meters come with a tree stand. It costs about S$379.45 including GST. If this is beyond your budget, consider purchasing smaller trees or mini trees to bring home the holiday spirit.

Image Credits: facebook.com/FarEastFlora

Price: S$379.45++ for 2-2.5m tree with a tree stand

Location: 565 Thomson Road, Singapore 298184

Purchase online or in store, with a delivery fee of S$25.

#4: SING SEE SOON

Searching for affordable Christmas trees that are as tall as you? The search is over. Sing See Soon has Fraser fir Christmas trees that range from 1.52m to 1.83m, which are sold without a stand. Due to its straight horizontal branches, these Canadian variety of fir trees are pleasing to the eyes.

Image Credits:
singseesoon.com/collections/christmas-tree/products/faser-fir-christmas-tree-5-6ft

Price: S$188

Location: 5 Simei Lane, Singapore 528710

Get yours online or in store, with a delivery fee of S$30.

#5: WONDERLAND BOTANICALS

You don’t have to sacrifice the festive decorations just because you live in a smaller space. Rather than putting your items in the storage area, you can opt for a tabletop Christmas tree. Join a tabletop Christmas tree workshop on 17 Dec to learn how to make your own tree. This 2-hour workshop costs about S$150.

For those who want to save time and money, you can simply buy a Christmas wreath decorated with classic berries for S$135 or a bouquet of nobilis fir branches for S$25.

Image Credits: wonderland.com.sg

Price: S$25 for the bouquet, S$135 for the wreath, and S$150 for the workshop

Location: 1M Yong Siak Street, Singapore 168641

You can order online and get it delivered to your doorstep!

Sources: 1 & 2

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Christmas gift ideas under S$30 for kids

Christmas is around the corner! If you’re not on route to a VTL trip this yearend, it’s not too bad to celebrate a cozy Christmas within the safe borders of Singapore.

To completely feel the Christmas vibes, you will want to get your Christmas trees and decorations up and hanging. Families with kids should definitely involve their children in the process! And on the night of Christmas Eve, remember to place your nicely wrapped gifts under the light-filled tree.

If you’ve not gotten your presents for the little ones, take it from our list of Christmas gift ideas under S$30 for kids.

#1: Lego Creative Bag Charm

Lego Creative Bag Charm

Now: S$7.90

Usual Price: S$10.90

This LEGO Creative Bag Charm is a sand-colored 2 x 4 Lego brick with 12 Lego pieces for making creative faces tied to a sturdy metal ring and chain. It can be used to keep keys safe, or can be attached to your kid’s backpack to distinguish theirs from their classmates’! A fantastic Christmas present for children six years old and above who are Lego lovers.

#2: Kinetic Sand Hidden Treasure

Kinetic Sand Hidden Treasure

Now: S$9.99

Usual Price: S$12.99

With the Kinetic Sand Buried Treasure set, children can now hunt for gold at home. Have them find the buried tool that helps to scoop, shovel, and transform the kinetic sand. They might even locate the unique gold coin while searching for the three bronze or silver coins hidden within. The portable treasure chest makes an ideal storage container for the kinetic sand once your kids are done with their playtime. The sand is easily moldable, glides through one’s hands, and never dries out, allowing your children to play over and over again.

#3: 4M Green Science Salt Powered Robot

4M Green Science Salt Powered Robot

Price: S$16.90

This 4M Green Science Salt Powered Robot offers a hands-on learning opportunity that emphasizes the importance of renewable energy sources. It is safe and non-toxic because it is mainly operated by a chemical reaction between saltwater and charcoal. This kit comes with everything your kid needs to build a saltwater-powered robot. It is specially designed for children aged eight and older and comes with a comprehensive user manual.

#4: Usborne Sticker Book & Jigsaw (100pc) Set – Unicorn

Usborne Sticker Book & Jigsaw Set

Now: S$19.90

Usual Price: S$24.90

Usborne Unicorn Sticker Book & Jigsaw Set is a brightly colored 100-piece jigsaw and a 16-page sticker book packaged together in a durable box. The jigsaw puzzle contains 100 pieces for kids to put together and is packed with unicorns to uncover. Apart from unicorns, flowers and other charming creatures can be added to the vibrant themes in the sticker book. It has a variety of enjoyable tasks that aid in the development of key abilities such as visual differentiation and memory recollection. A great way for children to get started with intermediate-level puzzles!

#5: Wall Climbing Car – Met Red

RED5 Wall Climbing Car

Now: S$20

Usual Price: S$49.90

This RED5 Wall Climbing Car attaches to most surfaces via suction, allowing your car-loving kid to play on the wall and even the ceiling. Simply set it on the area you wish to run on, and the vacuum mechanism will take its course. It comes with an infrared remote that allows the user to control it wirelessly. You may either recharge straight from the remote or use the USB charging cord that comes with it. This toy also boasts brilliant LED lamps, enabling an upgraded play experience at night! For kids eight and older, this gift would provide gravity-defying excitement.

#6: Aquarellum Junior Dinosaures (Dinosaurs)

Aquarellum Junior Dinosaures

Price: S$24.90

​​Aquarellum Junior Dinosaurs is a collection of watercolor painting kits with fun concepts. Kids may paint four dinosaurs in different colors and shades with this dinosaur bundle! It’s uncomplicated to use, thanks to distinctive imprinted cards that soak paint in certain areas while repelling it in others, with no need for additional tools or templates. Even kindergarteners are capable of creating exquisite artworks with this set. A wonderful opportunity for your kids to hone their color awareness and unleash their artistic side.

#7: Snakes & Ladders Board Game

Snakes & Ladders Board Game

Price: S$24.90

Djeco’s version of Snakes and Ladders has been refined and redesigned with an arctic twist. To ace the game, remember that ladders will help you move closer to the end of the race, but be careful not to fall through the nets and be left behind. This activity aids in your child’s development of number awareness and basic counting abilities. It’s a fun family or team game to play on Christmas Day!

#8: Rainbow Xylophone & Double-Sided Drum

Rainbow Xylophone

Double-Sided Drum

Price: S$27.94 each

Musical instruments are incredibly beneficial to your child’s development because they help to engage the mind and improve sound recognition. Consider the Rainbow Xylophone and Double-Sided Drum if you’re shopping for musical toys for your toddler or young child. The durable xylophone enables children to recognize colors and musical scales while the adaptable drum allows your little ones to create amazing beats! Use the stick to hit the top surface as well as the ridges on the sides of the drum. Then turn around and strike the wooden-side drum for a differentiated tone.

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