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4 accommodations under $116/night in Berlin, Germany, if you can free yourself up over the National Day break in August 2024

If you’ve got the itch to break free from the daily grind over the National Day break, we’ve scouted out four accommodations where the welcome is warm, and the price tag is under $116/night.

These wallet-friendly stays will ensure your Berlin adventure is both memorable and affordable.

Cozy double room in a 1928 house near Ernst-Thaelmann-Park

Price: $90/night (for 2 persons)

Travel dates: 7 to 11 August 2024

Cozy up in this 1928 house near Ernst-Thaelmann-Park.

Apart from your private room, the apartment features a balcony overlooking a lush meadow, great for relaxing any time you wish.

With trains and trams just 3 minutes away, you will have easy access to the city center.

When you’re not out exploring, make yourself at home in the welcoming common areas – cook a meal in the kitchen, or simply unwind on the balcony and take in the views.

And with the host often working long shifts, you will enjoy plenty of privacy and independence during your stay.

It’s the ideal home base for discovering Berlin’s neighborhoods and attractions, all while returning to a comfortable retreat.

Minimalist room in a holiday home great for solos

Price: $95/night (for 2 persons)

Travel dates: 7 to 11 August 2024

Seeking a fuss-free holiday home for your solo travel needs?

Look no further than this minimalist room in a shared holiday home. With a garden view and proximity to the nearby German-Russian Museum, it’s a spot to rest your head and soak in the local atmosphere.

No need to worry about elaborate setups or crowded common areas—this straightforward space is all about simplicity, allowing you to recharge and explore at your own pace.

This room in a holiday home is an ideal, low-maintenance choice for the solo traveler (able to take in a pair too though).

Modernly furnished room in a classy apartment near Eisenacher Str. (station)

Price: $96/night (for 2 persons)

Travel dates: 7 to 11 August 2024

Unwind in the lap of modern luxury at this classy apartment near Eisenacher Str. (a Berlin U-Bahn station).

Your private room boasts wooden floors and high ceilings, creating a welcoming ambiance.

Feel free to spread out in the shared spaces and soak up the neighborhood’s offerings, with plenty of restaurants and bars just steps away.

Settle in, kick back, and let the city’s dynamics inspire you.

Brightly-lit room in a bed and breakfast

Price: $115/night (for 2 persons)

Travel dates: 7 to 11 August 2024

Last but not least, enjoy a cozy home base in the heart of Berlin’s hip Prenzlauer Berg neighborhood.

It’s close to Schönhauser Allee/Bornholmer Str. (station).

This 12 square meters room in a shared apartment puts you within walking distance of the area’s bars, restaurants, shops, and supermarkets.

With a double bed and small workstation, it’s a comfy place to recharge between adventures.

Though the kitchen and bath are shared, you will have the opportunity to interact with other travelers or connect with the friendly host and his family.

Need some extra space for a little one?

Just request a baby bed and a high chair (additional costs may apply).

Whether you want to spend your days tracing history through cobblestone streets, indulging in local food, or simply being a short-term Berliner, these stays under $116/night will provide you with quite the experience without emptying your pockets. Book early before the spots get taken up!

Where to Go with the World’s Strongest Passport

In 2024, Singapore continues to hold the title of having the most powerful passport in the world, sharing the top rank on the Henley Passport Index with France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and Spain. This ranking is based on the number of destinations passport holders can visit without a pre-approved visa. For Singaporeans, this translates into unparalleled travel freedom. Here’s how you can make the most of the world’s strongest passport.

SET SPONTANEOUS ADVENTURES

With visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 192 countries, the Singaporean passport allows for spontaneous travel decisions. Whether you feel like exploring Japan’s cherry blossoms, enjoying a weekend in Paris, or experiencing the historic ruins of Rome, your travel plans can be made on a whim, turning dreams into reality without the hassle of visa applications.

EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS HORIZONS

For business professionals, this passport is a gateway to global opportunities. Effortless access to major economies like the United States, European Union, and China facilitates international networking and business expansion. You can attend important conferences, meet with global partners, and explore new markets without worrying about visa restrictions, making your business ventures more efficient and productive.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

PURSUE OVERSEAS EDUCATION

Students can take advantage of the Singaporean passport to access prestigious universities worldwide. Whether it’s studying the arts in Italy, engineering in Germany, or business in the United States, the ease of travel opens doors to a myriad of educational opportunities, fostering a well-rounded and globally informed academic experience.

IMMERSE IN DIVERSE CULTURES

The world is rich with cultural experiences waiting to be explored. With the strongest passport, you can dive into the vibrant street life of Bangkok, explore the art and history of Spain, or relax in the serene landscapes of New Zealand. Each journey provides a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures, enriching your personal and professional life.

ENGAGE IN WELLNESS TOURS

The growing trend of health and wellness tourism is easily accessible with a powerful passport. Travel to Switzerland for cutting-edge medical treatments, India for holistic yoga retreats, or South Korea for advanced skincare regimens. This access ensures you can seek the best health and wellness options globally, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.

PROMOTE RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

With great travel freedom comes great responsibility. Singaporean passport holders can set an example by practicing sustainable and responsible travel. Choose eco-friendly accommodations, support local businesses, and respect cultural heritage. This mindful approach ensures that your travels have a positive impact on the environment and the communities you visit.

IN CONCLUSION

Image Credits: unsplash.com

The Singaporean passport is more than just a travel document; it’s a key to unlocking the world’s wonders. From spontaneous getaways and business expansions to educational pursuits and cultural immersions, the strongest passport in the world provides endless opportunities. Embrace this freedom and embark on adventures that enrich your life and broaden your horizons.

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Need a targeted treatment for your skin concerns? These ‘pure actives’ from a French skincare brand can help

This concept of ‘pure actives’ from a French skincare brand called “Etat Pur” is here to mess up your beauty routine (in a good way).

These potent, targeted treatments are designed to address specific skin concerns with precision, offering a solution whether you’re battling dryness, seeking to soothe sensitivity, or chasing that glow.

Stay on this page to see a full range of their face serums.

Dryness & Urban Stress

Aloe Vera

Price: $26.90

To Soothe & Moisturize – Women and Men

Thirsty skin?

This aloe vera extract is the drink your complexion craves.

Concentrated 200 times to pack a punch of hydration, it’s the ideal remedy for fragile, dehydrated skin stressed by cold, wind, or heat.

Aloe vera rehydrates and helps maintain optimal moisture levels, offering protection against dryness.

With soothing properties, this molecule comforts and strengthens sensitive skin.

Precisely dosed to maximize efficacy without stripping, this ultra-targeted formula works exactly where your skin needs it most, thanks to the innovative IN-SKIN™ patent.

Hypersensitivity & Redness

Enoxolone

Price: $32.90

To Rapidly Soothe – Women and Men

Enoxolone is the skin-soothing superhero your sensitive complexion has been waiting for.

This active ingredient helps reduce redness, irritation, and discomfort for skin that’s easily flushed by heat, sun, stress, and spicy foods.

Formulated at the right concentration, Enoxolone rapidly soothes and calms reactive skin, improving its tolerance threshold so you can say goodbye to that tight, tingling feeling.

Use this one-week treatment as needed to restore your skin’s natural balance, letting you face the world without that embarrassing flush.

Pimples & blemishes

Salicylic Acid 2%

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Price: $26.90

Targets: Pimples & Blackheads – Women and Men

Banish blemishes and blackheads for good with this potent 2% salicylic acid treatment.

Thanks to its high concentration and keratolytic action, it unclogs and tightens pores to visibly reduce imperfections while refining skin texture.

The patented IN-SKIN™ technology delivers the active ingredient deep into the skin for maximum efficacy, normalizing pH and eliminating acne-causing bacteria.

Use this targeted SOS remedy daily until your complexion is cleansed and hydrated—no more hiding behind heavy, suffocating makeup.

Zinc Gluconate 3%

Price: $26.90

Targets: Oily Skin, Excess of Sebum – Women and Men

Flattering shine-free skin is just a few drops away with the Zinc Gluconate 3% serum.

This powerful sebum-regulating agent visibly rebalances and mattifies combination to oily complexions, thanks to its antibacterial and astringent properties.

Zinc gluconate helps control excess sebum to reduce shiny areas and clear impurities, while also tightening pores for a smoother, more refined look.

Use it as a 4-week cure for oily skin, applying 2-3 drops to the T-zone or 4 drops all over the face before moisturizing.

Loss of Radiance & Hyperpigmentation

Glycolic Acid 10%

Price: $32.90

Targets: Uneven Skin Texture – Women and Men

Unlock your skin’s youthful glow with the 10% Glycolic Acid serum.

This highly concentrated formula features the smallest AHA molecules to gently “peel” away dull, dead surface cells, revealing the smooth, luminous skin beneath.

Glycolic acid boosts cell turnover and collagen production, visibly smoothing fine lines and wrinkles for a more youthful texture.

No more uneven tone and texture—this keratolytic superstar will have your skin looking and feeling its absolute best.

Niacinamide 5%

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Price: $32.90

Targets: Uneven Skin Tone – Women and Men

Banish uneven skin tones, sallowness, and redness with this powerful 5% Niacinamide serum.

Also known as Vitamin B3, this biological skin perfector targets complexion concerns at the root, delivering a flawless look.

The rightly-dosed formula works on melanin transfer to reduce discoloration, prevents protein glycation to diminish yellowing, and regulates inflammatory cytokines to calm redness.

Suitable for all skin types, this 8-week treatment is your ticket to a more even, luminous complexion.

Just apply it to the entire face and let this universal molecule work its magic.

Signs of aging

Hyaluronic Acid 1.5%

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Price: $40.90

Targets: Wrinkles & Hydration

Smooth away wrinkles and fine lines with this powerful Hyaluronic Acid 1.5% serum.

Formulated with a blend of low and high molecular weights, it works on multiple levels to hydrate, plump, and protect your skin.

The hyaluronic acid acts like a sponge, locking in moisture and reducing the appearance of crow’s feet, forehead wrinkles, and dehydration-induced fine lines.

Fragrance-free and gentle, this pure active ingredient stimulates your skin’s natural collagen and hyaluronic acid production for a smoother, more youthful-looking complexion.

Let your skin drink up the benefits of this hydrating, wrinkle-fighting powerhouse.

Vitamin C 10%

Price: $40.90

Targets: Age Spots – Women and Men

Banish age spots and even out your complexion with this powerful Vitamin C 10% serum.

Formulated without water or preservatives, this glycol-based treatment targets melanin production to visibly reduce pigmentation marks.

Due to its antioxidant properties, this serum protects the skin from free radicals that dull the complexion.

Just apply a drop to affected areas and massage until fully absorbed.

(Caution: you may feel a slight warming sensation as the ascorbic acid penetrates for maximum effectiveness.)

Use for 8 weeks as a targeted treatment to reveal a brighter, more even-toned complexion.

This water-free, preservative-free formula ensures that Vitamin C 10% stays stable over time for long-lasting results.

Retinol 0.3%

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Price: $52.90

Targets: Deep Wrinkles – Women and Men

Retinol 0.3% is the secret to visibly younger skin.

This dry-oil texture ensures the retinol’s integrity and enhances its stability, helping your skin absorb it more effectively.

As a youth molecule, it stimulates collagen and elastin production to firm and enhance skin’s elasticity.

While it may cause some initial redness or dryness, your skin will adjust with consistent use.

Just be sure to avoid sun exposure and use a minimum SPF 30 sunscreen during your retinol treatment for the best results.

As we’ve explored, these ‘pure actives’ precision in targeting specific skin issues is unmatched. So, if you want a tailored skincare regimen, these potent elixirs might just be what you need for a flawless complexion. With science and nature in harmony, these French skincare marvels stand ready to transform your skincare journey into a story of triumph. Try it!

Influencer as a Career in Singapore: Is It Feasible?

The digital revolution has not only transformed how we communicate but also opened up new career avenues that were unimaginable a few decades ago. TikTok personality, Instagram influencer, YouTube content creator – these are occupations that just a few years ago would not have been considered real jobs. But not anymore! From setting up online shops to crafting personal brands, people of all ages in Singapore have found ways to monetize their social media presence and create income opportunities.

One such controversial career path is that of a social media influencer. In Singapore, a country renowned for its technological advancement and high internet penetration, becoming an influencer has emerged as a viable and attractive career option for many.

Why Are Influencer Careers Appealing?

Several factors make the influencer career particularly appealing in Singapore:

INCREASED FLEXIBILITY

One of the primary attractions of an influencer career is the flexibility it offers. Influencers can set their own schedules, choose their collaborations, and create content that resonates with their personal brand. This autonomy is appealing for those who prefer not to adhere to the conventional 9-to-5 work structure.

CASH OPPORTUNITIES

There are various ways influencers can earn money, including sponsored posts, brand partnerships, affiliate marketing, and selling their own products. In Singapore, brands are increasingly investing in influencer marketing as an effective way to reach targeted audiences. For instance, according to Shopify, Instagram micro-influencers (10,000–50,000 followers) earn SGD 135 to SGD 675 per post, while mega-influencers (500,000+ followers) earn approximately SGD 13,500 or more per post.

CREATIVE OUTLET

For many, becoming an influencer provides an opportunity for creative expression. Whether it’s through photography, videography, writing, or graphic design, influencers can showcase their talents and connect with their audience on a creative level. This aspect of the job can be immensely fulfilling and can lead to both personal and professional growth.

What Are the Challenges in the Influencer Industry?

Despite the allure, the influencer career comes with its own set of challenges:

CONTENT CREATION DEMANDS

Maintaining a successful influencer career requires constant content creation. This involves a significant investment of time and effort in planning, producing, and editing content, as well as engaging with followers. The pressure to consistently deliver high-quality content can be daunting. This is why many creators quit or take a break.

MARKET SATURATION

The influencer market in Singapore is highly competitive and increasingly saturated. Standing out and building a loyal following requires unique content, a distinct voice, and a strong value proposition. New influencers may find it challenging to gain traction in a crowded space.

INCOME INSTABILITY

Unlike traditional jobs with steady paychecks, influencer income can be unpredictable. Earnings often depend on factors like follower count, engagement rates, and the ability to secure brand deals. This variability can make financial planning difficult and requires influencers to have multiple income streams.

Tips for Aspiring Influencers

For those considering an influencer career in Singapore, here are some tips to help navigate the journey:

1. Identify Your Niche
2. Be Authentic
3. Engage with Your Audience
4. Invest in Quality Equipment and Skills
5. Network and Collaborate

IN A NUTSHELL

The influencer career in Singapore is a promising path for those willing to invest the time and effort required to build a strong online presence. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, influencers will play an increasingly important role in shaping consumer behavior and trends. Aspiring influencers should focus on authenticity, audience engagement, and continuous improvement to thrive in this dynamic field.

4 kids’ cameras under $54 to consider buying if your child loves taking photos

If your little one is showing an eye for images and a curiosity for capturing moments, a user-friendly camera can be a tool to further foster creativity.

With a budget of just $50+, you might think your options are limited, but you will be pleasantly surprised.

Allow us to bring you a list of kids’ cameras that not only stay under budget but also deliver fun, functionality, and a child-friendly experience.

YEEHAO 32MP Dual Lens Digital Camera

Price: $33.78

First up, help your little one capture his/her world with the YEEHAO 32MP Dual Lens Digital Camera.

Designed with easy-to-use controls, this camera lets kids simply press a button to switch between modes, making it a breeze for even the youngest photographers.

Equipped with a 32MP front and rear dual lens, plus 1080P HD, they can easily capture details in their photos and videos.

And with a pre-installed 32GB TF card, there’s plenty of room to store their masterpieces.

Made using soft, comfortable materials and comes with a lanyard, this lightweight, kid-friendly camera can withstand those unavoidable drops, so the fun never has to stop.

ARNSSIEN Camera for Kids

Promo Price: $40.99

Or let your little shutterbug unleash their creativity with the ARNSSIEN Camera for Kids.

This mini marvel has a 2.4-inch HD screen and 1080P resolution, so your child can capture every detail in clarity.

The larger buttons are perfect for little hands, and the 180-degree flip lens makes self-portraits a breeze.

With a 32GB storage capacity and 1000mAh battery life, they can snap and shoot to their heart’s content.

Plus, 31 fun photo frames and filters ensure their photos are unique all the time.

This kid-friendly camera is a wonderful way to nurture their inner photographer.

ArtCWK Dinosaur Kids Camera

Price: $42.04

This kids’ camera boasts dual 48MP lenses, 1080P video, and an eye-protecting 2-inch HD screen to capture all their adventures.

The durable silicone case shields the camera from bumps and scratches, while the included lanyard and dinosaur-themed carrying bag make it easy to tote around.

With 8x digital zoom, 28 frames, and 6 fun filters, this camera lets kids get creative, from selfie snapshots to time-lapse videos.

And with a 32GB SD card, they can store up to 5,000 photos and videos to relive their dino-mite memories.

The ultimate companion for young explorers, the ArtCWK Dinosaur Kids Camera makes capturing life’s biggest (and smallest) moments a roaring good time.

VTech KidiZoom Camera Pix Plus

Price: $51.07

Last but not least, your little shutterbug will have a blast capturing the world around them with the VTech KidiZoom Camera Pix Plus.

This kid-friendly digital camera packs a punch with 2.0MP resolution, 4X zoom, and a 1.8″ screen for framing.

But the real fun starts with the 40+ camera effects like photo frames, stamps, and kaleidoscope—let their creativity run wild!

They can even stitch together panoramic shots or create animations.

Perfect for ages 3 to 8, this camera makes a great gift that will keep them entertained for hours.

In wrapping up our snapshot tour of budget-friendly cameras for budding photographers, we’ve highlighted some options for you that feature durability, simplicity, and engaging features that are just right for little hands and creative minds. Watch as they capture the world one click at a time and who knows, you might just have a mini-Ansel Adams in the making 😉