9 Clever Ways to Save Money on Your Daily Coffee Fix

As someone who occasionally drinks coffee, I consider myself a moderate coffee drinker, finding myself somewhere between my friends who are frequent visitors of coffee shops and those who have never tried a cup of joe.

Although I can easily spend S$3-5 on a delicious coffee beverage at a cozy coffee shop to start my day, I understand that this can quickly add up if done on a daily basis.

For those who can’t live without coffee, exploring money-saving strategies is worth considering. After all, daily caffeine consumption can be costly, and taking steps to save money can have a significant impact in the long run. Start with these 9 hacks:

#1: SIGN-UP FOR LOYALTY PROGRAMS

Many coffee shops offer loyalty programs to encourage their customers to come back for their special brew. While it’s not going to save you tons of money in a day, your cumulative savings and freebies can be worth it.

For instance, Flash Coffee Singapore has three rewards tiers, namely Bronze, Silver, and Gold. Bronze members can redeem a free drink after every 10 purchases. Silver members can redeem a free drink after every 7 purchases. Lastly, Gold members can redeem a free drink after every 5 purchases. Another brand that offers rewards to its members is PPP Coffee. As a PPP+ Rewards Member, you can enjoy a 3% cashback on your coffee purchases at its retail outlets, plus all food and beverages at participating cafes by PPP Coffee in Singapore (T&Cs apply).

Combining your utilization of loyalty cards with other saving strategies such as brewing your coffee at home can save you extra money on top of getting a free cup.

#2: SHOP AROUND

Kopi at Kopitiam can give you the caffeine kick you need, but for a fraction of the cost of cafe coffee. Sure, you’re missing out on the fancy latte art. But if you are drinking it down during a workday, you may not have time to savor coffee art anyway. Drink the foamy heart art coffee when you have time to indulge it.

#3: GRIND IT YOURSELF

Did you know that coffee beans retain their freshness and flavor better when stored as whole beans compared to pre-ground coffee? This is because pre-ground coffee often contains additives and fillers that can compromise its quality.

Coffee that has lost its aroma and flavor may end up going unused or being discarded, which means that you’re essentially pouring money down the drain along with your brew. By grinding your own beans, you can enjoy fresher coffee and lessen your waste.

#4: MAKE BETTER COFFEE

Perhaps, your own brew does not appeal to you because of its taste. If you’re not satisfied with the taste of your homemade coffee, it might be time to invest in higher quality coffee beans. Spending a little more on quality beans can save you money by providing you with a more satisfying, enjoyable coffee.

To get the most out of your beans, start by selecting the right grind size for your coffee brewing method. For instance, a coarse grind is ideal for a French press, while a medium-coarse grind is suitable for automatic drip. Next, experiment with different coffee-to-water ratios to find your preferred strength. Lastly, make sure to use the best water temperature for your chosen brewing method.

#5: INVEST IN QUALITY COFFEE MARKER

Don’t set yourself up for failure by using a cheap coffee maker. Get a coffee maker that you are excited about! It will inspire you to drink more coffee at home and improve your overall coffee experience.

#6: DRINK YOUR COFFEE BLACK

Drinking your coffee black may seem like a simple choice, but it can actually help you save money on buying milk, sugar, or creamer. By drinking black coffee, you can avoid these additional costs and appreciate the true flavor of the coffee. Plus, black coffee is a healthier option that eliminates the added sugar and calories from milk or creamer.

#7: ORDER THE SMALLEST SIZE

The difference between buying a small and a large-sized coffee can set you back by S$1 or more. For example, %Arabica Singapore’s Caffe Latte is priced at about S$7 for a short and S$8 for a tall order. Opting for a smaller size can save you approximately S$5 in a week or a yearly savings of S$240. Can you imagine what you could do with the S$240 you save?

#8: ASK FOR GIFT CARDS

For special occasions such as birthdays or anniversaries, include a coffee gift card on your wishlist. A Starbucks gift card in Singapore can be purchased with a minimum value of S$10 and a maximum value of S$300. Use your gift card to fuel your weeks’ worth of coffee fix, or to treat yourself to a special drink without worrying about the cost.

#9: SEARCH FOR PROMOTIONS AND FREEBIES

To make the most of your coffee budget, keep an eye out for freebies and exclusive discounts at your favorite coffee shops. One way to do this is by following their social media pages, where they often announce monthly specials and offer freebies to their loyal customers.

Another way to save on coffee purchases is to download apps such as the CoffeeBean SG Rewards App by The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Singapore. These coffee shop apps often provide discounts and coupons that can be used on your purchases, allowing you to enjoy your favorite drinks without going over budget.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Use all these nine strategies to maximize your caffeine savings and indulge in your favorite beverages, guilt-free!

Sources: 1,2, & 3

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How to Live Like a Millionaire on a Small Budget

Do you dream of living a luxurious lifestyle like a millionaire, but feel like your bank account just won’t cut it? The good news is that you can still enjoy the finer things in life without having to break the bank.

By adopting a few straightforward lifestyle changes, you can indulge in luxury without worrying about overspending or debt. Here are some of the smart financial choices that you can begin with.

TRACK YOUR SPENDING

One of the first things you can do to live like a millionaire on a shoestring budget is to learn how to budget effectively. By examining your expenses and prioritizing your spending, you can ensure that your money is going towards things that matter most to you.

Do you value childcare over new gadgets? Do you prioritize training or travel? Assessing your spending habits will result in cutting back on unnecessary expenses and focusing on things that bring you joy.

ADOPT A MINIMALIST LIFESTYLE

When you’re trying to live like a millionaire on a budget, it’s crucial to invest in high-quality items. This doesn’t mean spending a fortune. Instead, you must choose items that are worth the investment and will last a long time.

For instance, you could invest in a classic white button-up shirt that costs S$100 and wear it to different work events, rather than buying a cheap shirt that you’ll only wear twice and dispose of due to its poor quality. While you’re at it, consider building a capsule wardrobe to simplify your life. By cutting out clutter, you can create a more luxurious and clean-living environment.

GO FOR FREE OR LOW-COST EXPERIENCES

Take advantage of free or low-cost experiences. Look for free events in your community by browsing social media groups or marketplaces. You can also join DIY or home improvement projects initiated by your community.

Indulge in some free group activities, such as visiting ArtScience Museum‘s “Future World: Where Art Meets Science” exhibit. Guests can enjoy complimentary entry for up to four children under 12 years old on Fridays, except during Singapore school periods or public holidays.

You can also go to the Singapore Heritage Fest, which highlights the country’s rich history through a series of exhibitions, talks, and performances. Many of the festival’s activities are free. By being resourceful and creative, you can have fun and feel fulfilled without spending a lot of money.

WATCH OUT FOR PROMOTIONS

Expand your collection of high-quality goods and services by seeking out deals and discounts. Many luxury brands offer clearance events or seasonal promotions, so keep an eye out for those.

INVEST IN YOURSELF

Knowledge is an investment that yields the highest returns, as it is something that no one can ever take away from you. Take classes and learn new things to add value to your personal and professional life. When you have more skills and knowledge, you can negotiate better deals and increase salary. Sign-up for some classes today at SkillsFuture Singapore (e.g., Introduction To Personal Investing for S$20).

TRAVEL SMART

True luxury is often found in experiences and not in material possessions. Travelling can be a great way to experience luxury as perceived by diverse cultures. Don’t forget to travel smart! Instead of staying in expensive hotels or resorts, consider renting an apartment or house. This will give you more space and privacy for less money.

When it comes to dining out, eat like the locals or choose restaurants that offer good value for your money. Read online reviews to be guided, especially when you are in a place you have not been before.

GO YACHTING

Have you been on a yacht before? Yachting may seem like an activity reserved only for the wealthy elite, but at The Yacht Club, you can enjoy the experience at an affordable price. With one of the largest fleets of yachts in Singapore, The Yacht Club offers a variety of options to fit your budget. The most economical choice starts at S$635 and provides an elegant, powered single-hull that can accommodate more than 10 passengers in its spacious lounge area. Check out their website for special rates.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF REWARDS

Credit cards offer a variety of rebates and rewards, allowing you to purchase items on your wishlist for a fraction of the price. However, it’s important to use these cards with discipline and wisdom. You don’t want to end up in debt just to satisfy your lavish taste.

SPLURGE ON LUNCH OR BRUNCH

If you love eating out, opt for lunch instead of dinner. Many restaurants and cafes offer lunchtime promotions or set menus at lower prices than their dinner offerings. The food is just as delicious.

MAKE ARTISINAL COFFEE AT HOME

For a coffee enthusiast, savoring a delicious cup of coffee is a luxurious experience. Fortunately, many grocery stores offer a wide range of high-quality coffee beans to choose from. By purchasing whole beans and grinding them at home, you can save a significant amount of money on your daily latte. Whiff the aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the comfort of your own home while also being budget-friendly.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Living like a millionaire on a tight budget is all about adopting a mindset of abundance and focusing on the things that truly matter. By simplifying your life, being resourceful, and budgeting effectively, you can create a life of comfort without draining your savings!

Sources: 1 & 2

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How to Save Money When Travelling on a Cruise

Last March, my husband and I witnessed the wonderful union of his cousin and her long-term beau. When the ceremony ended, they packed their bags and went to a cruise that journeys from Singapore to Penang and Penang to Phuket. A ticket can cost as low as S$415 per person for a 4-night cruise.

I wondered how crucial it was for them to book this trip on time. As newly minted husband and wife, they need to save up money to build a life they dreamed of. What are the strategies that newlyweds, retirees, or young adults can use to save money when booking for a cruise?

#1: TIMING IS CRUCIAL

Tickets may be reduced at the last minute to fill up empty spaces in a ship. However, you could score the best prices when you book early. Booking a year in advance will help you snag the lowest rates and get you on the cruise you specifically desire. It is likely to get you the best prices on the most sought-after staterooms too. So, keep checking in or sign up for price notifications to weigh your options.

#2: SAVE MONEY ON BOOZE

You can save money on booze by researching the cruise ship’s alcoholic beverage policy. While some cruise lines let you bring your own alcohol on board, others forbid it. For cruise lines that allow you to bring your own alcoholic beverage, most put a limit of one bottle per person.

For instance, Royal Caribbean International allows each guest of drinking age to bring one sealed 750 ml bottle of wine or champagne. Guests who bring more than one bottle at the beginning of the first sailing should have documentation to share with the security.

#3: CHARGE ALL YOUR GADGETS

When you are limited to one or two electrical outlets in your room, it can pose a problem to keep all your devices charged throughout the day. Solve this issue by keeping a compact travel adaptor to charge multiple devices at the same time. These adaptors are sold for as low as S$4 online.

#4: SIGN YOUR KIDS UP FOR COMPLIMENTARY ACTIVITIES

Several cruise lines offer kid-friendly activities at no cost. Apart from these kid-friendly activities, cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean offer a youth club called Adventure Ocean program, which is essentially a day care for children whose ages range from 6 months to 12 years old. Multiple programs and games are planned out for your loved ones to enjoy. Programs such as these will allow you and your partner to enjoy quality time together.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

#5: CONSIDER THE TIME OF YEAR

Supply and demand dominate the pricing strategy of cruise lines. Thus, it is more costly to book a cruise during Christmas or Summer break. If you have more flexibility to go with your children or your partner during off-peak season, you can save a lot of money.

#6: JOIN QUIZ NIGHTS

Skip on the souvenirs found in the gift shops and join quiz nights to win exclusive prizes instead. Quiz nights are one of the most underrated things on cruises. Spend your evening answering trivia questions to win prizes that you take home with you. Just secure a spot in advance.

#7: LOYALTY PAYS

Once you’ve experienced the luxuries of a cruise, it’s highly likely that you’ll be hooked. Fortunately for you, most cruise lines offer loyalty schemes, which reward returning guests with upgrades and special packages.

Regent calls its membership scheme the Seven Seas Society, which ranges from Bronze to Commodore. While Princess Cruises’ loyalty program is divided into four tiers namely Gold, Ruby, Platinum, and Elite members. Lastly, Star Cruises offer the Star Cruises Genting Rewards, which are split into five tiers. Join a loyalty program that suits you best.

#8: MAXIMIZE YOUR CREDIT CARD’S POTENTIAL

Some credit card reward programs can be used for booking trips on cruises. You can save using your points or cash out your reward points close to your cruise date. This will help you to reduce the cost of your cruise ticket or to help pay for items on your cruise.

#9: GET SEA SICKNESS REMEDIES FOR FREE

Natural seasickness remedies such as green apples and saltine crackers are typically free on a cruise ship. Many crew members strongly advocate these tried-and-trusted natural remedies. Alternatively, you can simply ask Guest Services or your stateroom attendant for some seasickness medication. Do not hesitate to ask!

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Source: 1,2, & 3

 

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Why we should engage in traditional hobbies in the era of technology

Analog Hobbies

We live in a highly developed era of technology and that’s not something bad.

Thanks to our devices, we are continually connected with our loved ones, and the internet makes it simple to find solutions within a few clicks.

Aside from the fact that this level of technology has practically taken over every aspect of our lives, sometimes, it’s not necessarily a good thing. If we don’t do anything about our overreliance on technology, we run the risk of losing touch with the real world and ourselves.

What are some analog hobbies to try?

There are many analog hobbies out there, depending on your strengths and interests.

For instance, you can try your hand at woodworking or painting. I was online yesterday and came across an ad run by a graffiti warehouse in Singapore—Heaven Spot. 

 

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Each session is an hour long and packages start from S$45. I’ve yet to try them out but it does look intriguing.

Have you had a session with them before? Would you recommend it?

Whatever your interests are, there are a ton of activities that you can do to keep your mind active. You don’t need a ton of expensive materials to get started either. With a few basic tools and materials, anyone can practice any art, from calligraphy to pottery making.

Why is going analog necessary in the digital age?

You might be wondering why we should look to the past for hobbies like knitting or making model airplanes when we live in the era of digital technology with its seductive array of devices.

Well, the obvious answer is that it offers something that modern technology cannot. Yes, I know how much technology has enriched our daily lives. But, a crucial component—the bodily experience—is also being rapidly replaced by technology.

Tactile experiences, such as handling something small and delicate like a tiny brush tip, are ones that a fully digital world cannot offer. Other examples include feeling the weight and texture of clay while you sculpt with it. Also, working with your hands on something tangible can give you a sense of fulfillment that typing on a computer screen just can’t quite match.

The advantages of analog hobbies for the body and mind

Finding an analog hobby can be just what you need to concentrate on when you’re feeling drowned by all the digital noise.

The development of creativity as well as stress reduction and enhanced mental health, are just a few of the significant advantages that an analog hobby can provide.

  • Reducing stress

Gardening, drawing, or playing an instrument are examples of analog activities that focus you on the work at hand rather than being constantly barraged by notifications from email or social media accounts. By doing this, you can stay right in the moment.

  • Fostering creativity

By engaging in creative hobbies like painting, sculpture, or writing poetry (on paper), you can foster your creativity and improve your well-being. Moreover, self-expression and overall mental health can also be supported through artistic creations.

  • A sense of ownership

Arts and music-related analog activities can promote a sense of accomplishment and aid in the management of mental health issues including anxiety. Working on something tangible gives us a sense of accomplishment that is sometimes challenging to achieve through digital activities.

How to work a traditional hobby into your everyday life

So are you convinced to put down your devices, and set aside time for analog hobbies?

Lovely.

We have a few ideas to get you moving:

  • Start journaling

Journaling in a diary is a great way to reflect on your day’s highs and lows as well as any interesting occurrences. If you’re not sure where to start, why not try a guided journal?

Chai Sunrise has this 3 Questions a Day Journal to help you start penning.

 

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A post shared by Chai Sunrise (@chaisunrise)

It’s pretty pricey for a logbook but I’ll give it credit because it’s not just a blank one; there are daily positive reminders for your soul!

  • Choose a long-term hobby you can sustain

There are lots of activities available that exclude screens. For instance, start experimenting with film cameras.

If it sounds too expensive, though, you can start with watercolor paintings or drawings. There are affordable options available on Shopee! For example, this Singapore-based shop called ArtFarm Singapore has a decent range of art supplies, including ‘Paint by Numbers Art Canvases’ for beginners. Click through the links to find out more.

Finding the right balance between digital and analog

Finding the right balance between analog and digital interactions can be difficult, but maintaining an analog way of life in the digital era is not impossible.

One way to achieve this is to set time limits for your digital devices, such as refraining from accessing social media after a specific time you set. Keeping track of how much time you spend in front of a screen is another option. If you set a goal to spend more time offline than online, you will be surprised at how much spare time you have.

So why not give some traditional pastimes a try in this digital age? Along with making you happier, more at peace, and less stressed, it may even help you reach peak levels of productivity as you train yourself on how to focus.

It’s easy to forget that conventional hobbies were once our forefathers’ pleasures in a world dominated by screens and media. Also, concentrating on an analog task can aid in the practice of mindfulness and keep us present at the moment. It doesn’t even have to be a big shift. Traditional hobbies can be quite beneficial, whether you decide to start painting, woodworking, or simply cuddling up in bed with a nice book. Disconnecting from technology can have a variety of benefits, from better mental health to strengthened relationships. So why not go analog and limit the cord on technology as we start the 2nd quarter of 2023?

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8 Free Things to Enjoy in Singapore This Month

 

Itching to get out of the house and explore what the island has to offer? Fortunately for you, you do not need to shell out money to enjoy a variety of shows, workshops, and tours. You will be able to experience the activities on this list at no cost!

#1: VISIT SINGAPORE’S OLDEST FIRE STATION

If you dreamt of becoming a firefighter as a child, this is your chance to encapsulate your childhood dream. Plan your visit to the Civil Defence Heritage Gallery to learn more about Singapore’s Civil Defence Force.

Within the halls of the Singapore’s oldest fire station are collections of firefighting exhibits and paraphernalia, which tackle notable moments in history including the Bukit Ho Swee fire. Experience simulating a real fire attack by going to their SCDF Emergency Preparedness Centre. What are you waiting for? Book your visit here.

Location: 62 Hill Street, Singapore 179367

#2: INVITE A FRIEND TO A PHOTO WALK

Invite a friend to a photo walk where you will both get insider tips from phone photography experts. These experts will teach you how to improve your mobile photography and editing skills. Apple’s “Photo Tour: Capture Marina Bay After Dark” takes you around Singapore’s Marina Bay to learn how to take beautiful low-light photos using Night mode and more on iPhone.

Experts will show you how to balance foreground and background, adjust exposure, and set up your best night shot. The Tour streches about 500m. Best of all? All these techniques are free! All you need to do is bring your iPhone or you can loan the latest iPhone models for snapping memories.

There are three sessions this March 2023. Click here to sign-up.

Location: 2 Bayfront Avenue, B2-06, Singapore 018972

#3: DIGEST THE HISTORY OF ST JAMES POWER STATION

The St James Power Station began its restoration works in 2018. At present, the monument has been reborn with a new Heritage Trail and Gallery. History enthusiasts can visit a free trail of Singapore’s maritime history and the evolution of the country’s first power station of such magnitude.

After relishing history during the trail, you can go inside the Heritage Gallery. Here you will experience impressive 3D artwork, animated augmented reality video series, and an interesting exhibit.

Register with your loved ones here.

Location: 3 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098544

#4: TURN YOUR OLD TEE INTO A TOTE BAG

Say goodbye to your old shirt and hello to a reusable tote bag with the support of Project Re:ground. Project Re:ground is a mental wellbeing initiative by Youth Corps Singapore in collaboration with the Health Promotion Board. This event highlights the importance of breathing new life into the items that you would otherwise throw away.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

This artistic event happens on 23 March 2023 at 7pm. Do not forget to bring along an old T-shirt and a water bottle! Learn more about this event by visiting volunteer.gov.sg.

Location: 113 Somerset Road, The Red Box, Singapore 238165

#5: GO TO THE SINGAPORE CAT FESTIVAL

Singapore Cat Festival is back for the third time! Celebrate your beloved cats this 25 to 26 March 2023 by joining cat adoption drives, breed showcases, vet chats, retail booths, and face painting.

This Festival is a cat-friendly event, so you can bring your purrfect companion as you browse the booths. Just make sure that your cat is secured in a carrier.

Location: Great World, Level 1 Atrium & Office Lobby, 1 Kim Seng Promenade, Singapore 237994

#6: INDULGE ON THE SNEAKER AND STREET CULTURE

Sneakertopia, an ArtsScience Museum exhibition, features film screenings that explore important films displaying streetwear and sneaker culture. This month, you will be able to watch entertaining films such as Space Jam: A New Legacy (2021), Space Jam (1996), and more.

From iconic blockbusters to indie titles, you can take a closer look at how films play a vital role in fashion and style. There are more film titles to come for April and May screening.

Location: ArtScience Cinema (Level 4), ArtScience Museum, 6 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018974

#7: BOOST YOUR RESUME

Thanks to the National Library Board (NLB)’s “Get Professional” series, you will be able to access professional techniques on how to improve your resume or C.V. writing and networking skills.

Industry experts will guide you throughout the process. This online workshop is on 22 March 2023 from 7pm – 9pm. Secure your spot here!

#8: GO FOR A WALKATHON

Let’s Walk, Singapore will take you on a free 3km walkathon in Yishun Park. Start your fitness journey with your friends and family! As a bonus, all attendees will receive a Sunnystep voucher.

This free event on 25 March will start with a gentle warm-up stretch routine and give you breaks every 20-30 minutes or so. To end the session, you will go through a short cool down stretch. What are you waiting for? Get your tickets here.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Location: Yishun Park (entrance near SAFRA Yishun Country Club)

Sources: 1 & 2

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