6 Attractive Reasons to Plan Your Travels in Advance

As the year 2024 rapidly approaches, the allure of an upcoming adventure may seem distant. However, the benefits of planning your trips well in advance are numerous.

Personally, I can attest to the advantages of meticulous planning, particularly for international journeys, where I prefer to plan two to three months ahead, and for local staycations, a month in advance. This proactive approach not only aids in saving money but also ensures securing desired leave dates from work.

On that note, let’s explore six compelling reasons why planning ahead for your travels is a wise choice.

ENHANCED AFFORDABILITY

The memories created during a trip are priceless, but the financial investment is required to stay at your dream destination. Planning your trip well in advance allows you the time to save up for it. Utilizing tools like Klook, a marketplace for travel experiences in Asia, can further streamline your expenses. For instance, it helped me to purchase cheap tickets for attractions, pocket WiFi, and transportation in my recent trips to Taiwan and Japan. Not to mention, I was able to avoid hefty mobile roaming fees. Look for travel tools such as this, to help you save more money and budget in advance.

TIME SAVINGS

Planning ahead not only saves you money but also valuable time. Checking train schedules or departure details before leaving for your destination ensures you arrive at the right time, avoiding unnecessary waiting periods. For instance, I planned our recent trip to avoid peak traffic times in Hong Kong (i.e., 7:00 am – 9:00 am). Opting for train travel further contributed to time and cost savings compared to using cabs.

STRATEGIC ACCOMMODATION/S

Finding suitable accommodation is crucial for a successful trip. Planning in advance allows you to research and choose the best option within your budget and preferred location. Additionally, checking cancellation policies ensures flexibility in case of unexpected changes.

IMPROVED ITINERARY

I don’t know about you, but when it comes to traveling to a new country or city, my husband and I make sure to maximize our work leaves. Making the most of our limited time away requires a well-thought-out itinerary. An easy way to get organized is to use a spreadsheet. Tools like spreadsheets can help you plan the pace of your journey, factor in travel days, and create backup options for unforeseen circumstances. I usually draw inspiration from travel agencies’ offerings and itineraries to enhance my planning process.

POPULAR ACTIVITIES

Researching early enables you to pinpoint must-visit attractions, events, and accommodations. Platforms like YouTube offer valuable insights through reviews, aiding in informed decision-making and securing bookings well in advance.

For example, being someone afraid of heights, I strategically planned which Disneyland rides I could comfortably experience. By downloading the Disneyland app and meticulously mapping out the day with the specific rides I felt at ease with, we managed to enjoy or ride 10 attractions. This thoughtful preparation significantly enhanced our overall experience, providing a personal touch to our journey.

CONFIDENT NAVIGATION

Understanding the history, geography, and culture of your destination is invaluable. Researching local customs and current affairs enhances your engagement as a traveler (e.g., knowing the tipping culture). Additionally, familiarizing yourself with the weather allows you to pack appropriate clothing, ensuring a more comfortable trip.

IN CONCLUSION

In conclusion, planning ahead for your travels not only contributes to financial savings, but also enhances the overall quality of your journey.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Whether it’s securing the best accommodations, crafting a detailed itinerary, or staying informed about your destination, the benefits of proactive planning are significant. Embrace the excitement of your upcoming adventure by preparing for it in advance!

Sources:1, 2, & 3

 

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7 Enchanting Places to Enjoy ‘Snow’ in Singapore this Christmas

Did you know that you can escape into the enchantment of a frosty Christmas right here in Singapore?

Discover the joy of the snowy Yuletide Season with our curated list of the best locations to find “snow” in the city. Whether it’s the “foamy” kind or the chilly, icy delight, both kids and adults can enjoy the magic of snow. On that note, let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

#1: ICE MAGIC: WINTER WONDERLAND

December 9, 2023 – January 21, 2024

Looking for the perfect opportunity to don your winter attire and immerse yourself in a snowy adventure in the heart of Singapore? Look no further, as Ice Magic is back for another enchanting season! This year’s event features 3,000 sqm of snowy activities, including Singapore’s first-ever Merry-Go-Round on Ice and the Longest Snow Slope in the country.

Embark on an adventure at the Merry-Go-Round on Ice, a spectacular 8-meter diameter carousel set adrift on glistening ice. This captivating ride promises exhilarating spins, infusing a magical touch into the winter wonderland experience. Additionally, refuel throughout the day with the help of onsite food vendors.

Price: Price starts at S$19. Get your tickets here.
Location: Bayfront Event Space, 12A Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018970

#2: CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND

December 1, 2023 – January 1, 2024

Gardens by the Bay’s beloved Christmas event is set to dazzle your eyes once more! Fondly reminiscing about my visit in 2016, where I immersed myself in the enchanting displays and had the pleasure of meeting Santa.

Image Credits: Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay (on Facebook)

Amidst the captivating festive entertainment and mesmerizing light displays that seize our attention, the true magic unfolds during Blizzard Time when the simulated “snow” descends. Snowfall sessions are complimentary with a Christmas Wonderland ticket.

Price: Price starts at S$8 for adults and S$6 for children (3 to 12 years old)
Location: Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953

#3: SNOW CITY SINGAPORE

Open All Year

As Singapore’s first permanent indoor snow center, Snow City Singapore stands out as the sole destination in the country where temperatures closely mimic cool winter weather. This unique venue offers a one-of-a-kind snowfall experience every hour, every day. If you follow the brand’s social pages, you might have caught wind of the occasional snow rave, which guests absolutely love.

Price: Price starts at S$27 for adults and S$20 for children for 2 hours of Snow Play. Get your tickets at here.
Location: Snow City Singapore, 21 Jurong Town Hall Road, Singapore 609433

#4: CHANGI AIRPORT: CANDY SNOW HOUSE

November 4, 2023 – March 31, 2024

Create unforgettable memories with your loved ones at the Candy Snow House nestled within Changi Airport’s delightful Candy Carnival. The whimsical charm of the Candy Snow House comes alive with captivating ice sculptures, thrilling ice luges, and exhilarating slides, promising a cool experience for everyone.

Dive into the joy of the season as you try your hand at mini-golf, bowling, or even basketball in these magical play areas crafted from ice. A gentle reminder: wear your coziest long pants and bring along a pair of socks.

Price: Tickets are about S$18 with 1 hour of play time per entry.

Location: Changi Airport’s Candy Snow House, Terminal 3, 65 Airport Boulevard, Singapore 819663

#5: MAGICAL SNOWFALL AT VIVOCITY

November 17, 2023 – December 25, 2023

VivoCity’s Outdoor Plaza showcases the festive spirit with Kiztopia’s X’mas With A Splash bouncy castle fun, featuring a new water play zone. And here’s the delightful part – you can join in the fun without spending a single dollar!

Join the magic by catching the mesmerizing snowfall show, where fluttering foam descends gracefully against the backdrop of a majestic 15m tall Christmas tree in the heart of VivoCity. Snowfall timings include 7:30 pm & 8:30 pm from Monday to Thursday, and 7:30 pm, 8:30 pm & 9:30 pm from Friday to Sunday. Don’t forget to take pictures with your loved ones under the snowy spectacle.

Price: FREE
Location: VivoCity, Outdoor Plaza, Level 1, 1 HarbourFront Walk, Singapore 098585

#6: SNOW SPLENDOURS AT TANGLIN MALL

November 16, 2023 – January 1, 2024

Tanglin Mall welcomes back its much-loved attraction, Snow Splendours, featuring delightful avalanches and enchanting snow sessions. Get ready for 45 minutes of pure joy with daily foam snow sessions for the little ones and the young at heart. Just a heads up, the avalanches are made of foam, and the snowfall involves the charm of fake snow.

But that’s not all—there’s a flurry of activities for the whole family! Pose for pictures in front of a larger-than-life snow globe, join in the Christmas caroling festivities, and don’t miss the chance to meet and greet Santa himself.

Avalanche time slots: 7:30 pm (Weekdays); 7:30 pm & 8:30 pm (Weekends & Public Holidays)
Snow time slots: 7:45 pm (Weekdays); 7:45 pm & 8:45 pm (Weekends & Public Holidays)

Price: FREE
Location: Tanglin Mall L1 Outdoor Area (Outside Starbucks), 163 Tanglin Road, Singapore 247933

#7: SNOWFALL AT MARINA SQUARE CHRISTMAS WANDERLAND

November 23, 2023 – December 31, 2023

Prepare for an utterly adorable Christmas experience at Marina Square this year, where festive magic blends seamlessly with beloved Sanrio characters such as Hello Kitty, Pompompurin, Little Twin Stars, Cinnamoroll, and more!

Step into the wonderful world of the Cinnamoroll Magical Rink, where three daily foam snow showers (at 2:00 pm, 7:30 pm, and 8:30 pm) promise moments of pure delight. Capture memories at numerous Instagrammable spots, with the stunning pink Christmas tree providing a picturesque backdrop. And here’s the extra sprinkle of joy – you might just meet the charming Sanrio mascots during your visit.

Just a friendly reminder: the magical rink has limited standing capacity, and entry is on a first-come-first-served basis. So, come early and soak in the festive vibes as you are surrounded by your favorite Sanrio friends!

Price: FREE
Location: 6 Raffles Blvd, Singapore 039594

Image Credits: Marina Square

In the midst of Singapore’s tropical warmth, these seven enchanting places offer a delightful escape into the magic of ‘snow’ this Christmas season. From cascading foam snow to whimsical winter wonderlands, these experiences promise to create lasting memories, making this festive season truly special for everyone in the Lion City.

Sources: 1 & 2

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How to Break Free from Work Obsession

Living in a country with a high cost of living, the increasing pressure to stay on top of our bills makes us cling to our work life. While working long hours is one thing, obsessing over office predicaments and looming projects during our free time is detrimental to our mental health and relationships.

On that note, this article explores effective strategies to help you stop fixating on work and find a healthier work-life balance.

IDENTIFY THE UNDERLYING CAUSE/S

Your work obsession has underlying causes, which are often psychological or emotional. Some common reasons why people develop workaholism include a drive for perfectionism, a need to maintain control, a strong desire to be valued as “high-achieving,” avoidance of other problems, and beliefs that you are only worth as much as you produce.

Pinpoint the underlying causes by trying to journal or seeking support. A qualified therapist can help you unpack and make sense of these sensitive issues.

BREAKING THE CYCLE

Many of us find it challenging to let go of work-related thoughts, even after hours. To break this cycle, start by tracking how much time you spend ruminating about work.

According to psychologist Guy Winch, some individuals dedicate 10 to 20 hours a week to these work thoughts. To interrupt this pattern, engage your mind with activities more stimulating than watching Netflix. A few minutes of mental taxation can serve as a reset.

Channel your concerns into problem-solving – identify the core issue and explore actionable solutions. If workload worries you, consider delegating tasks or declining unnecessary meetings. When faced with situations beyond your control, focus on finding the silver lining to maintain a positive outlook. Improving your spiritual health can help.

REFRAMING YOUR LIFE

Obsessing about work can disrupt your sleep, mood, and overall mental health, impacting your performance at work. Establish a clear boundary between work and personal time by creating a simple ritual that signifies the end of your workday – whether it’s making your coffee or changing clothes.

Engage in hobbies that provide a genuine escape from work-related thoughts. Try tennis or pottery! Set achievable goals, such as dedicating an hour to gardening, especially on stressful workdays. By immersing yourself in activities you love, you can regain a sense of control and balance in your life.

ELIMINATE HARMFUL BELIEFS

Breaking free from an obsession with work can be challenging, particularly when you perceive that your worth is linked with your productivity.

Interrogate these beliefs and reflect on whether they authentically originate from within you or if they were absorbed from cultural or familial influences. Often, the detrimental beliefs we hold onto in adulthood are not inherently ours but are deeply embedded in us during our formative years.

IN A NUTSHELL

Obsessing over work not only affects your mental well-being but also hampers your relationships and overall quality of life. By implementing these strategies, you can break free from the cycle of work obsession, reprioritize your life, and rediscover the joy in your personal pursuits.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Remember, finding a balance between your professional and personal life is essential for your productivity, happiness, and overall fulfillment.

Source: 1 & 2

 

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How to Steer Away from Scammers this Yuletide Season

I got scammed! I must admit, I recently fell victim to a scam. In my quest to purchase a luxury item for my mother as a Christmas gift to reward her hard work, I opted for a seemingly reputable online seller complete with video reviews and customer proof. Little did I know, everything was just a facade. After stumbling upon a Reddit thread, I discovered that the owner had successfully victimized numerous people this year, and they are collectively exploring legal avenues for recourse.

As we embrace the festive spirit of the Yuletide season, it is crucial to remain vigilant against potential scammers seeking to exploit the joyous atmosphere. With the heightened hustle and bustle during this time of year, individuals like the online shop scammer may become more prevalent.

This article aims to provide you with valuable insights on how to steer clear of scammers and safeguard yourself and your loved ones.

STAY INFORMED

Knowledge is your first line of defense against scammers. Stay informed about common scams circulating during this time. Scammers often adapt their tactics to match current events or holiday trends.

Be wary of phishing emails, fake charity solicitations, and fraudulent online shopping websites. Familiarize yourself with the latest scams to better recognize and avoid potential threats.

SECURE YOUR ONLINE PRESENCE

Online shopping has become increasingly popular, making it a prime target for scammers. Ensure your online accounts are secure by using strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication when available.

Verify the legitimacy of websites before making purchases, and only provide personal information on encrypted and trusted platforms.

MONITOR YOUR BANK STATEMENTS

Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements. You can also review your transactions via your banking app. Regularly review transactions to detect any unauthorized or suspicious activities promptly.

Report any discrepancies to your financial institution immediately to minimize potential losses and prevent further unauthorized access.

VERIFY CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS

The Yuletide season often inspires charitable giving, but scammers may exploit this generosity. Before making any donations, research the legitimacy of the charity or organization

Use reputable platforms to contribute and be cautious of unsolicited donation requests. Legitimate charities will provide transparency about their mission and purpose, use of funds, and contact information.

IN A NUTSHELL

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Learn from my mistake. As you embrace the joy of the Yuletide season, prioritize your safety and security. Safeguarding yourself from scams ensures that the season remains a time of celebration, generosity, and peace.

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3 highly-rated live bands in Singapore for your wedding because live music is life

duo live band

So everything’s more or less set for the wedding?

Wait, what about the music? Live music is an essential part of any wedding celebration if you believe that music is life.

Here are three of Singapore’s finest live bands that will help ensure your big day is full of joy and the right notes.

Merry Bees

 

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Website: merry-bees.business.site 

Facebook reviews: 5 stars (180+ reviews)

Merry Bees have been perfecting their art for over 8 years, earning hundreds of 5-star reviews and thousands of happy customers along the way.

Their multilingual singers are expert entertainers who bring joy and merriment to every event with their lively performances. One customer even remarked that Merry Bees is “the best in the market for a very very reasonable price”.

Merry Bees can craft a setlist to suit your tastes and get your guests singing and dancing along in no time. Their energetic performances are guaranteed to make any wedding occasion truly one to remember.

A Little Dream Live Music

Website: alittledream.com.sg

Facebook reviews: 5 stars (80+ reviews)

For over 20 years, A Little Dream has been a pioneer in bringing live music to life at weddings and corporate events in Singapore.

With a repertoire spanning classical, contemporary pop, rock, jazz, and more, their talented musicians and singers led by founder Bevlyn Khoo never fail to delight audiences. Bevlyn, a trilingual singer-songwriter with four albums under her belt, continues to charm crowds with her soulful voice and passion for music.

The band’s dedication to their craft and flair for transforming any event into an unforgettable celebration have earned them a loyal following as well as clients that include international brands.

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large-scale soiree, A Little Dream Live Music will make it a day/night to remember with their one-of-a-kind performances that are sure to have guests on their feet. Book them today and experience the magic of live music brought to you by the professionals at A Little Dream.

Musical Touch

Website: musicaltouch.sg 

Facebook reviews: 4.9 stars (420+ reviews)

Liven up your special day with a performance by Musical Touch.

For over a decade, their experienced wedding singers and emcees have been serenading brides, grooms, and guests on their big day. Whether you’re dreaming of a duet, full band, or orchestra to set the mood during your first dance, Musical Touch has a variety of options to suit your style.

Their professionally trained sound crews and musicians will ensure the music is flawless from start to finish while their emcees guide you through the program with grace and humor. Guests can even request their favorite songs and dedicate them to you, the happy couple.

As a guarantee of their quality, Musical Touch offers a full refund if their live band performance fails to meet your expectations on your wedding day. Book Musical Touch to make your wedding reception truly memorable with music that has your love story written all over it.

Booking a live band for your wedding in Singapore isn’t just about great tunes, it’s about creating buzzing energy with those musical notes. After all, there’s no better way to celebrate love than with live music that touches the soul. So, as you embark on this exciting journey of planning your nuptials, remember that the right live band can make your celebration truly come alive. Because live music, after all, is life! 🎶

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