MoneyDigest - Personal Finance, Lifestyle, Money Saving Tips

4 accommodations with an aesthetic design for under $79/night in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

An accommodation that marries style and affordability doesn’t come by that easily.

And if you’re in search of one, look no further for we’ve curated a list of accommodations, each with an aesthetic design and costing under $79/night.

Eager to see what we’ve in store for you?

Let’s get the list started!

Cozy & spacious one-bedroom apartment with a view of KL Tower

Price: $55/night (for 4 persons)

Perched high above, this spacious one-bedroom apartment offers views of KL Tower and the skyline.

Well furnished, the high-floor apartment features an open-concept living and dining area with plenty of natural light. A kitchen area with a coffee machine, kettle, fridge, and toaster makes prepping meals a breeze.

The separate bedroom has a queen-size bed, dressing table, and plenty of storage while the attached bathroom comes with a shower. You also get a balcony space with seats where you can sip your morning tea/coffee.

With Bukit Bintang’s shopping, dining, and nightlife right on your doorstep, this apartment is screaming “Book me!”

Modern studio serviced apartment close to Cheras Stadium

Price: $58/night (for 2 persons)

Next, we have this modern studio-serviced apartment near Cheras Stadium with everything covered for a convenient stay.

The living area features high-speed wifi, a large TV, smart home voice controls (English & Chinese), a comfortable sofa, a bean bag, and more for lounging. The kitchen is fully equipped for light cooking with an island marble dining table.

The bedroom accommodates two and features a king-size bed, a working desk, and wardrobes. The bathroom comes with a washing machine and essential toiletries. Private parking is available on-site if you’re driving.

Monochrome-themed staycation suite at Arte Mont Kiara

Price: $64/night (for 2 persons)

Nestled within close distance to Publika Shopping Gallery (shopping mall), this 517-square-foot one-bedroom suite features a color scheme of black, white, and gray.

Relax in the queen bed dressed in premium linens and cook/warm up your simple meals in the microwave/on the induction cooker whenever you need to. A refrigerator, kitchenware, and dining table make this apartment feel just like home.

Step outside your suite to discover dining options and shopping. Yet within your classy monochrome retreat, you will find a place ideal for recharging your batteries between adventures.

Book 7 days or longer to enjoy a 5% weekly discount—your chance to score some extra savings.

Adorable one-bedroom apartment for Japan lovers in Mont Kiara

Price: $78/night (for 4 persons)

Last but not least, we have this one-bedroom apartment situated in the Mont Kiara neighborhood of Kuala Lumpur.

The roomy living room features a Japanese tatami area great for relaxing with a view of Mount Fuji through the lightbox background. The master bedroom offers a queen bed, single bed, floor mattress, and bedding for up to four guests. The kitchen has all the essentials and a water purifier so you can prep food with ease.

Residents also have access to on-site amenities like the sauna, gym, and pool, as well as one complimentary parking space upon request.

A journey to Kuala Lumpur doesn’t have to be expensive. Choosing any of the above-mentioned accommodations with their aesthetic designs can add a touch of artistry to your travel senses. Each of these options, priced under $79/night, offers not just a place to rest, but an experience to remember. So settle your travel dates and let’s get those bookings in!

Surprising Financial Perks of Turning 30

Approaching the milestone of 30 often evokes a mix of emotions, including anxiety about stepping into full-fledged adulthood. However, reaching this milestone actually signifies a significant upturn in various aspects of life, especially financially.

From enhanced independence to valuable government subsidies, here are 7 financial benefits awaiting individuals hitting the 30 mark in Singapore.

EMBRACING FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE

While the support of parents is undoubtedly cherished, transitioning to financial self-sufficiency is crucial. By your 30s, with a stable income in place, it’s time to bid farewell to dependency on parental finances.

This includes taking charge of personal expenses such as meals, bills, and travel costs. Assert your independence graciously, freeing yourself from the chains of reliance.

SECURE RETIREMENT PLANNING

Entering your 30s often coincides with a newfound discipline in managing finances, steering away from impulsive spending towards long-term financial goals, notably retirement.

With a robust retirement savings strategy apart from your CPF, which may involve diversifying investments, exploring supplementary income streams, and securing retirement policies, you lay the groundwork for realizing your aspirations in the future.

ENHANCED FINANCIAL LITERACY

Years of earning experience equip you with a deeper understanding of financial concepts like insurance, investments, and interest rates.

Armed with this knowledge, you can navigate financial decisions more confidently, from budgeting effectively to optimizing savings and investments. This financial preparedness ensures you’re equipped for the various life stages that lie ahead.

QUALITY SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

As you approach 30, you’ve likely curated a more refined social circle, having distanced yourself from toxic relationships.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

This streamlined network means fewer obligatory social engagements and a focus on nurturing meaningful connections with those who genuinely care. You would need trusted people to help you make significant financial choices. With reduced drama and authentic relationships, your 30s offer a more fulfilling social landscape.

RENEWED IC

Turning 30 in Singapore marks a symbolic transition as you bid adieu to the youthful snapshot on your identity card (IC). Re-registering for a new IC signifies a step into a new phase of adulthood, ensuring your identification remains current for essential activities like voting and accessing government services.

FREE HPV SCREENINGS FOR WOMEN

Women reaching the age of 30 in Singapore enjoy the advantage of complimentary HPV screenings at designated clinics, facilitating early detection of potential health issues. Get a free HPV Screening at the Singapore Cancer Society Clinic in Bishan. Test results will be available within 4-6 weeks, and the clinic will schedule follow-up medical appointments if you test positive.

Considering the connection between HPV and cervical cancer, regular screenings are crucial for safeguarding your health and well-being.

ACCESS TO FREE SKILLSFUTURE COURSES

Singaporeans aged 25 and above are entitled to SkillsFuture credits, with an initial allocation of S$500 as well as a one-time top-up of S$500, valid until December 31, 2025.

Leveraging these credits for courses in diverse fields such as career advancement, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship empowers you to upskill and seize new opportunities in the evolving job market. Tapping into these resources early is advantageous for personal and professional development.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

By embracing these financial benefits as you cross the threshold into your 30s in Singapore, you lay a solid foundation for continued growth and prosperity in various aspects of life. Cheers to being thirty and thriving!

Dry promotion offered? Should you take it or not?

Do you know what a dry promotion is?

Simply put, it’s a promotion, minus the salary increase or benefits.

So you now find yourself choosing between two sides of a coin with people telling you:

“At least got promotion, take it!”

“What? Waste time only, better find better opportunity elsewhere.”

So how?

The pros of accepting a dry promotion

First, think about your resume.

If you accept a dry promotion, you can put it on your CV and show future employers that you received more responsibilities due to the skillsets you have.

Secondly, it can show that you have commitment and a sense of work ethic. You are willing to do more work and go beyond what your job scope is (for the time being) without being too money-minded.

This can impress your current boss and maybe in the future, he will give you a “real” promotion with better pay when the company does better financially.

Thirdly, you’re betting on yourself. You believe that the new responsibilities and skills can enhance your future earnings potential. It’s like an investment in your future.

The cons of accepting a dry promotion

Image Credits: unsplash.com

We know it can be very disappointing if the offer doesn’t match your career goals, in terms of salary or role expectations.

Like, they give you more power and title, but your pay’s still the same. More responsibilities but no extra money? Hmm.

It can also send a wrong signal to your penny-pinching boss if you only give a quiet nod, which can easily make you a pushover in the office later. This may set the stage for future monetary promotions, and you may be left out of the picture entirely.

Making the decision: Should you take the dry promotion?

If you think you won’t be able to handle the stress that comes with a dry promotion, it’s better to look for other opportunities. Don’t simply accept this dry promotion and then lose sleep over it.

You worked hard, you deserve better. Find somewhere that appreciates you and gives you the proper recognition and pay.

But if you’re not in a hurry to build wealth and want to gain some new skills, then maybe give it a little thought. But if you think it’s not worth it and you can find better opportunities elsewhere, then don’t hesitate to say “no thanks”.

At the end of the day, only you know what’s best for your career ahead. If you’re a newbie starting out in the industry and don’t have a family to feed, then it’s not too bad to accept a dry promotion. Just don’t forget to ask when a pay raise will follow, so it will give you a rough timeline on when to bring up the promotion conversation again. If you’re on the opposite side of the spectrum, then I guess you don’t need any advice. Don’t settle for less if you think you’re worth more, yeah?

4 feminine wipes from $3.12 to help you keep fresh down under

Maintaining feminine hygiene should be as routine as brushing your teeth.

But let’s face it, the options available can be overwhelming, and not all products are created equal. This is why we’ve done the hard work for you!

Allow us to present to you a list of affordable feminine wipes, each priced from $3.12, that promise to keep you feeling fresh throughout the day.

Pureen Flushable Wipes

Price: $3.12

First up, we have Pureen wipes to help you stay fresh where it counts most, without irritation.

Made with plant-based, biodegradable material and formulated with lactic acid and aloe vera extract, these wipes maintain pH balance and soothe the sensitive skin of a woman’s intimate area.

Clinical tests show they won’t cause irritation or reaction, even with repeated use. They’re wonderful for moms-to-be (do check with your doctor for professional advice though) or any day you need a little extra refreshment, and you can flush them away when you’re done for an easy cleanup.

Tara Feminine Wipes

Price: $5

Next, Tara Feminine Wipes give you the confidence to smell fresh anytime, anywhere.

Infused with natural tea tree oil, these soft and soothing wipes relieve itching while removing odor and perspiration. Great for on the go after a workout, during your period, or before and after intimacy, Tara Wipes ensure a fresh feeling without harsh chemicals that can strip your vagina and vulva of “beneficial bacteria”.

Use them anytime you need a boost in freshness down there, without having to worry about irritating fragrances or residue.

Rael Natural Feminine Wipes

Promo price: $5.48 (was $6.85)

Rael wipes pamper your most intimate areas with a blend of aloe vera extracts, camellia leaf extracts, and grapefruit extracts.

The vegan, cruelty-free formula cleanses and moisturizes while maintaining your natural pH balance. Free from harsh chemicals, these wipes won’t irritate sensitive skin. Instead, the gentle formula focuses on protecting and refreshing using all-natural plant/fruit extracts.

Simply pull one from the pack anytime you need a refresh, whether that’s post-workout or before bed. After use, simply flush or discard the wipes in a trashcan.

Wipeout pH-Balancing Intimate Wipes

Price: $18

Last not the least, we have Wipeout pH-balancing intimate wipes that are made with a blend of moisturizing ingredients that leave you fresh and clean without irritation.

The powerhouse formula contains panthenol, which holds water in the skin for smoothness, and antioxidant resveratrol that calms and protects. Arginine supports collagen production to safeguard against radical damage while evening primrose oil moisturizes and comforts.

Ideal for an intimate refresh anytime, these wipes help maintain a balanced pH with ingredients that nurture skin. Though not the most affordable wipes out of the lot, this premium formula is worth it for skin that feels soft and cared for.

And there you have it—four feminine wipes that deliver on their promise of freshness, comfort, and hygiene. So whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go, these wipes priced from $3.12 are your allies in feeling clean and fresh all day long. Cheers to embracing products that support us in our journey of better feminine care in 2024!

8 Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Gifts: From Budget-Friendly to Splurge-Worthy

As the Lunar New Year festivities fade into memories, the rush of Valentine’s Day preparations is upon us. If you’re among the early birds who meticulously plan for this day of love, hats off to you!

But if you find yourself in the “Wait, Valentine’s Day is tomorrow?” category, fret not—you still have time to make it special. Whether you’re seeking the perfect present for a dear friend or a sweet surprise for your new flame, these last-minute gift ideas will help you express your affection with thoughtfulness and care.

FOR THE MELODY MAKER

If your loved one is a music enthusiast, consider gifting them the second-gen AirPods, available at a discount of 20% (S$159) at Courts. These wireless earbuds provide quick access to Siri and boast a range of convenient features. Alternatively, the second-gen AirPods Pro offer enhanced sound quality and noise cancellation, making them a perfect choice for audiophiles. Find them at Courts for a discounted price of S$325.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Imagine the joy on their face as they immerse themselves in their favorite tunes, thanks to your thoughtful gift!

FOR THE CREATIVE SOUL

Express your love through art with a blank sketchbook from Popular Bookstore. Fill its pages with heartfelt words and cherished memories, creating a personalized gift that speaks volumes. Available for as low as S$8.70, this simple yet meaningful gesture is sure to touch their heart.

Pouring your emotions onto paper, you create a unique masterpiece that reflects the depth of your feelings.

FOR THE SWEET TOOTH

Indulge in decadent delights with ANGELINA’s macarons. Treat your sweetheart to a box of assorted flavors, each bite a symphony of sweetness and delight. Available in various sizes, these delectable treats are sure to sweeten your Valentine’s Day celebration. Order online or visit the ANGELINA store at MBS. Price starts at S$13 for a box of 4.

Share a moment of sweetness as you savor each macaron together in an at-home romantic dinner, creating memories as delightful as the flavors themselves.

FOR THE TIMELESS ROMANTIC

Declare your love with the PUREST LOVE quartz movement watch by Swatch. Its elegant design, featuring a red sun-brushed dial adorned with symbols of love, makes it a timeless symbol of affection.

Image Credits: swatch.com

Priced at S$106, this watch is a simple yet meaningful gesture that will be treasured for years to come.

FOR THE MEMORY KEEPER

Capture precious moments together with the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12. This instant camera is perfect for creating tangible memories on the spot. With its user-friendly design and built-in selfie mode, it’s ideal for preserving your special moments in an instant. Get your very own Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 kit for S$179 at Harvey Norman.

Every click of the shutter captures a memory that will be cherished for years to come—a tangible reminder of your bond.

FOR THE PAMPERED PRINCESS

Spoil your beloved with luxurious self-care products from Lush. The With Love Gift Set, priced at S$59, includes a selection of indulgent bath and body treats designed to pamper and rejuvenate.

Whether they prefer a relaxing bath or a refreshing shower, this thoughtful gift is sure to make them feel cherished. So, grab a set at the nearest Lush store or purchase it online.

FOR THE BEAUTY CONNOISSEUR

Treat your beauty enthusiast to fragrant delights from Jo Malone or vibrant lipsticks from MAC Cosmetics. Whether it’s a signature scent or a red lip color, these beauty essentials are sure to delight. Choose from a range of options, including Jo Malone colognes starting from S$120 and MAC lipsticks starting from S$38.

The bestsellers of Jo Malone colognes include English Pear & Freesia Cologne, Lime Basil & Mandarin, and Honeysuckle & Davana. As for my personal favorites from MAC, I adore the Ruby Woo and Russian Red shades. These universally beautiful shades complement most skin tones perfectly.

FOR THE LOVER OF ELEGANCE

Elevate their style with exquisite jewelry pieces from Pearly Lustre. From elegant earrings to enchanting necklaces, their Valentine’s Day collection offers timeless pieces that reflect your love and admiration. Available online or at their flagship store at 313@Somerset, these stunning pieces are sure to capture their heart.

Image Credits: pearlylustre.com

This Valentine’s Day, let these thoughtful gifts serve as expressions of your love and appreciation, making your celebration truly memorable. Whether it’s a grand gesture or a simple token of affection, what matters most is the love that lies behind it.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

The pros of accepting a dry promotion

The cons of accepting a dry promotion

Making the decision: Should you take the dry promotion?

Search the site