7 Best Cafes in Singapore

Imagine the sheer delight that washed over our office when we welcomed the arrival of our brand new De’Longhi Coffee Machine. It felt as if it could magically brew joy with every cup. We were a bunch of coffee enthusiasts, and the yearning for top-notch breakfast and artisanal coffee was about to be fulfilled by Singapore’s finest cafes.

From specialty brews and hearty breakfasts to delightful brunch spots tucked away in the city, we present to you a list of Singapore’s most beloved cafes, each brimming with its unique charm and flavors.

MR. HOLMES BAKEHOUSE

As we stepped into Mr. Holmes Bakehouse, it was like stepping into a sweet dream. Have you ever tasted a cruffin, a mouthwatering blend of croissant and muffin? If not, this is the place to try one. These delightful pastries are sugar-dusted and cream-filled to perfection, coming in flavors like lemon meringue and pistachio. And if you’re craving something savory, they’ve introduced new treats like the Tomato & Pesto Melt ($13++) and the Short Rib ($20++) sandwich.

Image Credits: facebook.com/mrholmesbakehousesg

Location: Multiple locations, including Pacific Plaza and MYP Centre

DOUGH

Dough, a Korean-style bakery-cafe nestled in CHJIMES, was a revelation brought to life by the talented creators behind Glyph Supply Co and Runes, two other beloved local cafes. Whether you come here to work, unwind, or brunch with friends, you’ll find an ambiance that suits your mood.

Every item on the menu, from bread and pastries to pastas, is crafted fresh in-house. One standout is the Adzuki Mochi Danish ($5.50++), a delightful blend of textures. Another must-try is their Pistachio Raspberry ($6.50++) croissant cube, filled with luscious pistachio cream.

Location: 30 Victoria St, #01-30, Singapore 187996

FIFTYFIVE COFFEE BAR

Nestled on Neil Road, FiftyFive Coffee Bar is far from ordinary. The space exudes a calming zen vibe, anchored by a sensory garden installation that transports you to a forest retreat. With its stylish 40-seat layout, it offers an array of specialty coffee and tea drinks ($5.50++). Plus, you can savor freshly baked goods and light bites.

Their menu includes quirky blends like the highly acclaimed manuka miso honey latte ($7.50++), a refreshing dirty spiced lemonade ($7.50++), and the whimsical strawberry pipagao latte ($7.50++), which playfully incorporates nostalgic Chinese herbal cough syrup. For those feeling fancy, there’s filter coffee featuring a rotating single-origin selection.

Location: 55A Neil Rd, Singapore 088892

PS.CAFE PALAIS RENAISSANCE

PS.Cafe is synonymous with excellence. You can always count on impeccable food, chic aesthetics, and a fabulous dining experience. If you’re seeking sophistication, the Palais Renaissance outlet is perfect for brunch, boasting iconic high ceilings, classic decor, an outdoor dining area, and ample natural light for those Instagram-worthy shots.

And the food? It’s a feast for the senses, featuring pasta dishes, sandwiches, truffle fries, and decadent chocolate cakes. Gather your brunch companions and indulge in a memorable meal.

Location: #02-09A, Palais Renaissance, 390 Orchard Road, Singapore 238871

THE GLASSHOUSE

If you find yourself in the City Hall area searching for a cafe, The Glasshouse is a beloved choice. Located in CHJIMES, this cafe lives up to its name with its floor-to-ceiling windows and lush plant decor, evoking the ambiance of a botanical greenhouse. It’s the ideal spot for catching up with friends over coffee or grabbing a quick caffeine fix. The coffee here is not only delicious but also budget-friendly, crafted from beans sourced from the homegrown roastery, Apartment Coffee.

Location: 30 Victoria St, #01-03 CHIJMES, Singapore 187996

WILD HONEY

A local gem, Wild Honey is a go-to spot for comforting brunch cuisine. Step inside to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, where you’ll be surrounded by Instagram-worthy interiors and delectable dishes. Signature favorites include Corsican, a classic omelet folded with goat and feta cheese, and Delancey, featuring sliced beef pastrami with poached eggs. Sweet tooths will adore treats like apple crumble, Basque cheesecake, and artisanal ice cream. And don’t forget to explore their selection of coffees and teas. If you’re in the mood for a drink, stop by during happy hour from Sundays through Thursdays.

Image Credits: facebook.com/wildhoneysg

Location: Multiple locations, including Mandarin Gallery and Scotts Square

SIMPLE CAFE

Simple Cafe may appear unassuming at first glance, marked only by a plain sign and a chalkboard by the wall. But once you step inside, you’ll be transported to Taiwan, with its humble furniture and a Mandopop playlist setting the mood.

Swing by for their all-day Simple Breakfast ($17++), featuring toast, eggs, sausages, and a side salad. You can also enjoy sweet and savory bagels, all priced under $10.

Location: 462A Crawford Ln, #01-73, Singapore 191462

Go ahead and explore the delightful coffee culture and delectable offerings of Singapore’s finest cafes!

Sources: 1 & 2

 

Read More...

I’m back at this award-winning hair care centre for another customised treatment for my hair woes

Time flies and it’s been about 6 months since I’ve found the perfect customised hair treatment for my hair loss.

I underwent a 2-hour session after Topp Care Hair Solutions invited me to try out their customised hair treatment back then. But life got in the way, I was frequently overseas, and just couldn’t find the time to travel down for regular treatment sessions.

And I guess that’s why my scalp has been suffering for the past few months. With hair that turns oily just after a few hours out of the shower, I knew it was about time I did something about it. That’s why when Topp Care contacted me again to check in on my current scalp condition, I jumped on the opportunity with a huge “yes please”!

Curious to see my scalp condition, I headed down for my second session.

It’s good to be back in a familiar place.

If you don’t already know, Topp Care is located in Eastpoint Mall on the 3rd floor and just a 5-minute walk from Simei MRT Station. A very convenient location and easy to get to.

So here I am! I was greeted by the Customer Service Officer at the front desk and ushered into the consultation room after he confirmed my appointment time slot.

While waiting for my hair & scalp specialist, I was asked to fill in my particulars and a short self-assessment of my hair condition. Nothing too difficult here since I’ve done it before on my first visit.

And yes, before I get into the nitty-gritty details of how my second session went, allow me to give you a quick introduction to Topp Care.

About Topp Care Hair Solutions

Topp Care is a certified member of the British Herbal Medicine Association and the US Trichology Institute. They can assist with age-related greying, hair-thinning issues, uncontrolled sebum build-up, and more because they provide hair solutions for people of all ages.

Only quality plant-derived western botanicals and hair-friendly herbs are used to promote hair growth and enhance scalp health, and they are all administered by US Trichology Institute Certified Specialists in addition to well-trained and experienced therapists.

The hair & scalp specialist who attended to me was none other than Helen, the same specialist that I was assigned to on my first session.

Since it was my second session, we skipped the formalities and went straight into the scan. This scanning machine may be small but it sure is mighty—being able to zoom in up to 200x to spot all your scalp issues.

And lo and behold, here’s what it has found:

The reddish spots on my first scan done 6 months ago were still visible and the excessive sebum build-up on my scalp, as usual, was clogging up my hair follicles.

I wasn’t expecting my scalp condition to improve since I had made no extraordinary effort to deal with my hair issues, except for my daily hair wash and scalp tonic application routine. But I was in for a shock when Helen told me that I’d gotten some dandruff this time around.

Oh my, oh my. This is what months of neglect have gotten me into.

Having seen tremendous improvement from my previous session, I quickly asked Helen what she had in store for me this time since the last session I was treated to a Dead Sea Masque hair treatment.

Helen suggested that I take up the Detoxdren Treatment for this session since it’s the solution to scalps filled with oil and dandruff. Yeast is used in this thorough treatment to nourish hair and scalp, moisturise hair shafts, shield the scalp from damaging UV rays, and promote the creation of collagen.

Additionally, the horse chestnut extract included in this treatment stimulates blood flow, which is good for nourishing and thickening hair. I was told that after the session, my scalp’s sebum level would be more balanced and my hair follicles would be better strengthened.

Omg, give it to me, please.

The Actual Treatment Process

After the consultation session, I was whisked away to a private cubicle to begin my treatment.

My customised treatment started with a deep scalp cleanse spray followed by a mask application to my roots. Helen was very generous with the mask and you can see it for yourself in these shots I’ve taken:

If you’re wondering why my hair looks messy, that’s because Helen gave me a little massage to make sure that the mask was effectively coating every empty spot on my scalp and hair follicles before leaving me to rest for 20 minutes to let the mask do its work.

It was cooling on my scalp and I loved the minty fragrance that accompanied the product.

When my hair mask time was up, Helen guided me to the hair-washing area and told me that a therapist would be with me shortly to give me a thorough rinse.

The therapist who attended to me gave me a revitalising rinse using lukewarm water, which I was grateful for since I was feeling a little chilly. She also reminded me to use my fingertips and never my nails when washing my hair.

I was given a little massage during shampooing and while a conditioner was applied to the ends of my hair, the therapist shared with me that conditioners should only be applied to the hair and not the scalp. We don’t want any unnecessary build-up adding to my already oily scalp, don’t we?

Anyhow, I was wearing a surgical mask but the scent of the products used was so pleasant I asked the therapist if they sold it in-house. (P.S. Yes they do!)

Back at my cubicle, the therapist applied a moisturising hair spray before semi-blowdrying my hair. We’re approaching the second last step of the hair treatment but I was looking forward to the little massage that comes right after the ampoule application. Hehe.

Just in case you’re wondering, the ampoule helps to stimulate hair growth, boost the immunity of the scalp, and strengthen hair follicles to enhance the anchoring of hair.

To make sure that the ampoule worked its magic into my scalp, I was given the massage I was looking forward to. From my scalp down to my neck and shoulders, I was treated to a mini-kneading session to get my blood circulating.

Similar to the last session, I was then treated with the Hair Growth Laser that emits non-invasive lasers to awaken my hair follicles and speed up regeneration. It may look scary to some but there’s no pain involved; you will only feel a little comforting warmth.

And we’re done after about 20 minutes and it’s time for a post-treatment scan.

Post-Treatment Consultation

I reunited with Helen again in the consultation room after my hair treatment and she put the scalp scan machine to work again.

Having experienced the “before” and “after” shots of my scalp during the first session, I had high hopes for this second one. And guess what? It didn’t disappoint.

If you’re skeptical about how one treatment can solve your hair woes, I’m living proof that you shouldn’t be. But of course, as with most things, severe hair problems don’t get solved after one treatment session.

After this session, I’ve learned not to underestimate what months of neglect can do to my scalp, and will certainly step up my game with regular, proper hair and scalp care to prevent my condition from worsening again.

And if you’re dedicated to nipping the problem in the bud, I suggest you give Topp Care Hair Solutions a chance to impress you.

Claim Your Promo Today

You may have a different hair or scalp concern from mine but rest assured that the professionals at Topp Care will be with you every step of the way.

So stop hesitating and…

Click here to book your customised hair treatment @ $40 (U.P $309) now.

Your scalp’s awaiting some TLC! 😉

Topp Care Hair Solutions

Address: 3 Simei Street 6, #03-24, Eastpoint Mall, Singapore 528833

Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 11 am – 9 pm; Weekend & PH: 10 am – 7 pm

For the latest news and promotions, follow them on Facebook and Instagram. You can also call them via 6645 3020 for booking or WhatsApp 9150 8917 for more information.

 

Read More...

Excitingly Free Events to Enjoy in September 2023

Are you itching for some entertainment without denting your wallet? Look no further! September 2023 has an assortment of thrilling events that won’t cost you a cent.

From lively markets and festivals to captivating performances, enlightening talks, and interactive workshops, September is packed with budget-friendly delights.

SINGAPORE RIVER FESTIVAL 2023 (7 SEP – 1 OCT)

Prepare for a sensory feast at the 7th edition of the Singapore River Festival, running from September 7th until the end of the month. This isn’t just about pretty lights along the Singapore River; it’s an immersive adventure. The Singapore River Festival 2023 offers live music, augmented reality (AR) experiences, delectable food workshops, and a series of events celebrating Japanese pop culture.

Explore the full event lineup on the Singapore River Festival website. Make sure to circle September 23rd and 24th on your calendar for a pet-friendly weekend featuring a best-dressed pet competition, a merchandise bazaar, pet health check-ups, and insightful talks by veterinary professionals.

Image Credits: facebook.com/singaporeriverone

Learn more: srf.sg

PETS WEEKEND (9-10 SEP)

Calling all pet lovers! On September 9th and 10th, 2023, Crane at Joo Chiat invites you to a weekend filled with delectable treats, playful activities, and adorable pet accessories. What’s even better? All the vendors at Pets Weekend are small local businesses, so you can support your community while enjoying quality time with your furry, feathered, or scaly companions.

Location: Crane Joo Chiat, 281 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore, 427962

GARDEN OF LIGHTS WITH SANRIO (till 1 OCT)

Nighttime light displays always enchant, and in September, VivoCity’s Skypark combines the magic of light installations with beloved Sanrio characters. Enter the Garden of Lights, a nightly wonderland featuring enchanting light displays with Cinnamoroll, Gudetama, My Melody, and, of course, Hello Kitty.

Don’t forget your camera! The exhibit is open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, with the Sanrio Garden wonderland lighting up from 6:30 pm onwards.

Location: VivoCity’s Sky Park, Level 3, 1 HarbourFront Walk, Singapore 098585

FEASTival FAIR (till 10 SEP)

Foodies, rejoice! Until September 10th, 2023, Jurong Point is hosting the mouthwatering FEASTival Fair. Featuring 26 food vendors from around the globe, including Japan, Thailand, China, Malaysia, and the USA, this food fair promises a wide array of sweet and savory treats. I look forward to viral Korean cheese coins from 2Ninja 1 Fatty, aromatic cinnamon rolls from Cinnabon, and mouthwatering wagyu skewers from Niku Master.

Location: 1 Jurong West Central 2, Singapore 648886

FAMILIES FOR LIFE (FFL) FAMILY SINGALONG PICNIC (9 SEP)

On September 9th, 2023, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, relax with your family at the Families for Life (FFL) Family Singalong Picnic in Gardens by the Bay. Enjoy beloved tunes from timeless animated classics, and don’t forget to sing along! Kids can indulge in free balloon sculpting and snacks, and the first 200 families will receive complimentary picnic mats.

Location: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953

UNIQLO X STUDIO GHIBLI POP-UP: A MAGICAL EXPERIENCE! (till 14 Sep)

The UNIQLO X Studio Ghibli Pop-Up continues to enchant until September 14, 2023. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli with captivating installations featuring iconic scenes and beloved characters. Pose beside Chihiro and No-Face from “Spirited Away” aboard the train, take flight with Kiki from “Kiki’s Delivery Service,” and marvel at the awe-inspiring moving castle from “Howl’s Moving Castle.”

That’s not all – don’t miss the enormous Catbus and Totoro inflatables from “My Neighbor Totoro”! Plus, if luck is on your side, you might even meet the iconic Yubaba, making special appearances at this pop-up extravaganza.

Image Credits: uniqlo.com/sg

As a bonus, all attendees receive an exclusive Studio Ghibli-branded tote bag, complete with a character poster and UTme! vouchers, allowing you to personalize your LifeWear with enchanting Ghibli designs (T&Cs apply). This is a magical experience you won’t want to miss!

Location: Bugis+, Level 2, 201 Victoria St, Singapore 188067

Mark your calendars and savor these thrilling events!

Sources: 1 & 2

Read More...

Embrace Quiet Luxury: 8 Essential Pieces for Timeless Elegance on a Budget

After scrolling through a bunch of reels on Instagram and shorts on YouTube, one thing is for sure: the world of fashion is being taken over by quiet luxury. Introducing “quiet luxury,” a movement that embraces a minimalist approach to fashion and a curated capsule wardrobe. It’s not just dominating the runways for spring, but also finding its way into our shopping carts.

So, what exactly is quiet luxury? It’s all about clothing and accessories that exude an expensive allure while remaining timeless and free from ostentatious logos. The shift towards quiet luxury signifies a transformation in our shopping habits, as we now prioritize quality over quantity and seek to make long-term investments in our wardrobe.

Quiet luxury also encourages the appreciation of vintage pieces that showcase exceptional artistry and craftsmanship. It encompasses the choice of designer bags that offer a low cost per wear, favoring subtle elegance over overt branding. By focusing on essentials, creating a quiet luxury look becomes an effortless endeavor. In this article, we present the eight must-have quiet luxury essentials that deserve your investment.

#1: SUIT VEST

To beat the heat in style, consider investing in a comfortable linen vest. Brunello Cucinelli offers a menswear-inspired staple that pairs effortlessly with a pleated midi skirt. Complete the look with loafers and classic sunglasses from renowned brands like Saint Laurent.

#2: LONGLINE DENIM SKIRT

Long denim skirts are currently in high demand, and it’s no wonder why. You can find a minimalist maxi denim skirt from Guess or explore other options such as Alice + Olivia. Pair it with sandals for a stylish ensemble that exudes quiet luxury.

#3: TAILORED COATS

Whether you want to exude power or look fashion-forward on your next overseas trip, consider investing in tailored coats or thrifted designer pieces. Max Mara is a brand that exemplifies these qualities, but emerging designers like Toteme have also created covetable outerwear that perfectly captures the quiet luxury aesthetic.

#4: STRUCTURED BAGS

Contrary to the idea of purchasing bags solely for their easily recognizable logos or trendy shapes, the quiet luxury movement places less emphasis on brand recognition. While logos still hold appeal for luxury brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton, others have completely abandoned this notion.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Logo-free bags, such as Polène’s Numéro Neuf and The Row’s Park Small Tote Bag, have gained popularity. These structured leather bags are simple, elegant, and embody the essence of quiet luxury.

#5: UNDERSTATED SHOES

An outfit is only as good as the shoes that accompany it, and in the realm of quiet luxury, there are no exceptions. When it comes to shoes, they should stand out without overpowering the rest of your look. Opt for styles that will remain appealing for years to come. Currently, loafers and ballet flats are the epitome of quiet luxury, capturing its essence perfectly.

#6: MICRO FRENCH MANICURE

How does quiet luxury translate to manicures, you might wonder? Think of micro French manicures, subtle shimmer, pale pinks, and sheer neutrals with delicate metallic accents. It’s all about maintaining an understated elegance. Start by applying a semi-sheer pink, peachy nude shade, or taupe. This color should be barely visible, yet not fully opaque. Then, delicately draw a very thin line on the edge of the nail using white nail polish.

#7: NUDE T-SHIRTS

Instead of bold-colored tees, opt for a foundation of warm neutrals and soft shades of white. Pops of rich earthy tones like rust, olive, and sage can add welcome touches of color. While black and deep shades like navy are also used in quiet luxury-inspired spaces, most bold colors are generally avoided in favor of a more understated, predominantly neutral palette.

You don’t need to break the bank on basic tees. Visit Uniqlo, where you can find the best T-shirts at affordable prices, ensuring you maintain your quiet luxury style without compromising on your budget.

#8: LINEN BLAZER

For high-quality, meticulously crafted staple items made to stand the test of time, Everlane is the go-to brand. There, you can discover the hand-picked Oversized Linen Blazer, featuring a shape inspired by menswear. This 100% linen blazer is available in different sizes and comes in four colors: Canvas, Canvas and Navy, Light Blue, and Kalamata.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Focus on reducing your luxury purchases and being mindful with them. Quality trumps quantity. Elevate your wardrobe with these timeless pieces that perfectly embody the essence of quiet luxury. Embrace the elevated, understated style.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

Read More...

5 Best Trekking Trails in Singapore

Got hitched and those extra pounds tagged along (I’m guilty of this)? No worries! One thing that won’t cost you a dime is hitting the trails for a good run. Dive into nature and get your sweat on at the various hiking trails and parks scattered across beautiful Singapore. The best part? Trekking won’t put a dent in your wallet!

Why are we known as the Garden City, you ask? Well, because we’re decked out with an abundance of parks, nature reserves, and some hidden gems tucked away from the bustling city skyline. You name it – from lush hills to serene wetlands – Singapore’s greenery has something in store for every adventure-seeking hiker out there. Check out this list!

CHANGI BAY PARK CONNECTOR

Let’s kick things off with the Changi Bay Park Connector, a section of the eastern corridor on the Round Island Route. This stretch, spanning 3.6km, connects Changi Beach Park to the East Coast Park Connector Network, allowing you to embark on a 75km trek from Rower’s Bay Park to Berlayer Creek

Be sure to take a breather at the boardwalk to soak in the breathtaking waterfront scenery. And hey, if you’re a K-drama fanatic, this place might ring a bell – rumors are swirling that it exudes vibes reminiscent of Jeju Island!

MACRITCHIE RESERVOIR

Guess where my sister and I love to run? It’s none other than Singapore’s oldest and most beloved nature park – MacRitchie Reservoir. This place is a haven for joggers, families, and weekend wanderers. But the cherry on top has to be the HSBC TreeTop Walk, a suspension bridge hanging 25 meters above the forest floor. It links the two highest points in the reserve, treating you to awe-inspiring panoramic views. Remember, it’s a one-way journey on the bridge, so no turning back once you step on it!

For a true rainforest escapade, explore the MacRitchie Trails, offering both leisurely boardwalk paths and more daring treks extending up to 11km. The wildlife here, from flying lemurs to tree frogs and pangolins, is thriving but a tad elusive. You might come across the ever-present long-tailed macaque monkeys, but be cautious – they’re used to handouts from less responsible visitors and can be a bit feisty.

TAMPINES ECO GREEN

Folks in the eastern part of town, rejoice! You don’t have to journey far for a good hike. The expansive Tampines Eco Green awaits, covering a whopping 36 hectares. This eco-friendly oasis boasts diverse natural habitats, including grasslands, wetlands, and rainforests.

Take your pick from three hiking trails and see if you can spot the delightful bird and butterfly residents during your trek. Keep the adventure alive by exploring the lush waterway along Sungei Tampines.

COAST-TO-COAST (C2C) TRAIL

Now, brace yourself for a challenging trek – the Coast-to-Coast Trail. This 36km trail isn’t for the faint-hearted or those easily winded. It takes you on an exhilarating journey from Jurong Lake Gardens in the west all the way to Coney Island Park in the northeast. The route is meticulously planned, leading you through numerous parks and park connectors. To help you out, the Coast-to-Coast (C2C) Mobile App is your go-to guide for planning your route and discovering the fascinating native biodiversity, complete with augmented reality (AR) features.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Speaking of Coney Island, keep your eyes peeled for native macaques, rare birds, and butterflies as you explore the woods and uncover hidden beaches. Oh, and if you’re venturing into the woods, a heads up: be on the lookout for snakes!

BISHAN-ANG MO KIO PARK

Last but not least, let’s talk about Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, one of Singapore’s largest parks spanning a whopping 3km. Split into two sections by Marymount Road, this park is a nature enthusiast’s paradise. And guess what? On top of all the natural beauty, there’s a spa and a handful of eateries where you can recharge.

What’s the highlight, you ask? Well, it’s the Kallang River that gracefully meanders through the park. Walk along the banks for a close-up view of the waterside, and you might just catch sight of Singapore’s famous river otters snacking or lounging around on the banks.

So, there you have it – a fantastic lineup of Singapore’s finest trekking trails. Lace up and step out with your partner!

Sources:1 & 2

Read More...