FairPrice offers a 3% discount to CHAS Orange cardholders every Friday from now until March 2025

Ask us questions, discover the latest offers & more on Telegram.

Good news for CHAS Orange cardholders—your Fridays just got even better! Now, you can enjoy a 3% discount on your purchases every Friday at all FairPrice and Unity stores islandwide. Simply present your CHAS Orange card at checkout to unlock these special savings and make every shopping trip more affordable!

FairPrice is committed to supporting every Singaporean by ensuring access to affordable essentials and nutrition, making each day a little brighter and lighter on your wallet.

For more details, visit: https://go.fpg.sg/CHASOrangeDiscount

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Inside the Labubu Craze: Scams, Steals, & Surprises

For those unfamiliar with its origin, Labubu emerged from the imagination of Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung in 2015. Introduced in Lung’s Nordic folklore-inspired series “The Monsters”, Labubu is a quirky, elf-like figure that has captured the hearts of many. It has since been crafted in over 300 variations as reported by Kaikai Kiki Gallery.

Labubu’s journey skyrocketed in 2019 when Lung partnered with Pop Mart to release the character in collectible blind boxes, amplifying the thrill of each purchase. Yet, it wasn’t until early 2024, when K-pop sensation Lisa shared photos of her Labubu dolls, that the toy captured mainstream attention, setting off a viral trend.

Recently, Labubu headlines have been everywhere, and my social media feeds are flooded with stories ranging from petty thefts to heartwarming initiatives. While some fans have fallen prey to scams, others are using Labubu’s popularity to support charitable causes.

FAMILY OF 3 STEALS S$100 WORTH OF LABUBU 

Cash Chong, the owner of Dr. Clawtopus in Sim Lim Square, shared shocking footage of a family allegedly swiping S$100.70 worth of Labubu dolls from his claw machines. The video shows the family tinkering with the machines, seemingly attempting to break one open.

Image Credits: facebook.com/popmartglobal

Watching the footage left me stunned as the parents committing a theft in front of their child is disheartening. The stolen dolls included a Halloween Labubu, a Pronounce Labubu, and a “Have a Seat” Labubu, valued between S$24.90 and S$37.90 each. Chong, in an act of grace, said he hopes the family will return the dolls in good condition and assured them he would not press charges if they do.

WOMAN LOSES S$6,000 IN LABUBU SCAM

A young woman in Malaysia was scammed out of nearly RM20,000 (around S$6,000) while trying to purchase Labubu dolls through Instagram. Initially, she made a small purchase that went smoothly, receiving a genuine doll in excellent condition. However, when she placed a larger order, the seller demanded payments split across five different bank accounts. Trusting the seller due to her positive first experience, she complied, only to be blocked by the seller shortly afterward.

Reflecting on her experience, I’m reminded of my own encounter with an overseas seller on Instagram whose designer wallets seemed too good to be true. While I received my item, I still wonder if it was genuine as an online forum revealed that the seller has scammed hundreds of people before. Afterward, I became more cautious, buying only from reputable sellers despite their higher prices.

MAN SPENDS S$10,000 ON LABUBU IN A MONTH

In the world of collectors, everyone has their own currency of value. While my cousin invests in luxury watches and I save up for my dream bag, some enthusiasts like Lu Tianfu pour their funds into Labubu.

Lu, an architect by profession, dedicates much of his free time to hunting for Labubu figures. He visits arcades across Singapore nearly every day. With over 60 Labubu blind boxes and multiple larger figurines in his collection, Lu has even started selling some of his catches.

CHANGI PRISON INMATES CRAFT LABUBU OUTFITS FOR CHARITY

In a heartwarming twist to the Labubu phenomenon, four female inmates at Changi Prison have put their skills to good use, crocheting tiny outfits for Labubu dolls as part of the Art Behind Bars rehabilitation program.

Guided by volunteers, the inmates spend up to six hours a day crafting these outfits, which will be sold to the public for S$15 each at Just BrewIN cafe starting mid-November. Proceeds will support the Yellow Ribbon Fund, showcasing how the Labubu craze can contribute to meaningful causes.

Image Credits: facebook.com/SingaporePrisonService

What Labubu story do you think will go viral next? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Sources: 1,2,3 & 4

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3 well-rated karaoke spots in Singapore to visit so you can ‘飙高音’ & sing your stresses away

Cash Studio's karaoke room

Got an inner diva and want to sing your heart out?

Or you’re a shower singer/self-proclaimed seasoned performer?

These well-rated karaoke spots we’re about to introduce to you are places where you can belt out your favorite tunes and ‘飙高音’.

Gather your friends, warm up those vocal cords, and get ready to sing your stresses away at these top spots.

Cash Studio Karaoke Cuppage

Website: cashstudio.com.sg

Google Rating: 4.9 (5K reviews)

Address: 5 Koek Road, Cuppage Plaza, #B2-09 to 20, Singapore 228796 (Behind Orchard OG)

For two decades, Cash Studio has been a go-to karaoke haunt.

One of the top family-friendly karaoke chains, their constantly updated song catalogs let you belt out the latest hits on a “mini stage” setup complete with retro microphones.

They’ve got a variety of rooms for small groups… even VIP lounges that accommodate your entire squad.

Cash Studio’s affordable per-person pricing (as low as $15.50 for two hours!) makes it an attractive option for groups of all sizes.

Looking to bond with the fam, cut loose with friends, or celebrate team wins?

Cash Studio invites you to soak up the karaoke spirit late into the night.

Members can keep the vocal showcase rolling until 1 am if their room hasn’t been booked by other customers (T&Cs apply so do enquire with the staff on duty).

HaveFun Karaoke (Cineleisure Orchard)

Website: havefunkaraoke.com

Google Rating: 4.9 (990+ reviews)

Address: 8 Grange Rd, Cineleisure, Level 8 Orchard, Singapore 239695

Or consider turning up the volume and rocking with the mics at HaveFun Karaoke.

Located in the heart of Orchard, this venue invites you to belt out ballads or to the latest hits.

Take advantage of their various promotions, including non-peak weekday rates at just $10++ per person and a karaoke dinner buffet starting from $18++ per adult.

Gather your crew and sing the night away in one of their private rooms.

For more info on rates & menu specific to the Cineleisure Orchard outlet, head here: havefunkaraoke.com/cineleisure-orchard-rates-menu

Jewel Music Box Pasir Ris

jewelmusicbox.com

Website: jewelmusicbox.com

Google Rating: 4.8 (430+ reviews)

Address: 60 Pasir Ris Dr 3, Aranda Country Club, #03-01, Singapore 519497

For 30+ years, Jewel Music Box has kept the karaoke party going strong.

Gather your kakis and let the singing unfold—all from just $12+ per person.

With private rooms decked out for entertainment, you will live it up karaoke style with free-flow drinks and nibbles for 3 whole hours.

Whether you prefer an intimate space or a room to go wild with the whole squad, they’ve got a room size to suit any vibe.

And the fun doesn’t stop at the mic: drinking games, board games, and dart boards let you switch things up between songs.

And that’s all from us. The abovementioned spots offer more than just a microphone and a screen with lyrics. They provide a stage for expression and a space for stress relief. Sing emo or harmonize with friends, it’s your choice. Time to grab the mic and hit the high notes! 🎶

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7 Budget-Saving Dental Care Tips

Dental care can often feel like a hefty expense, especially for those without insurance. With advanced tools and equipment driving up costs, even routine checkups can strain your wallet. For instance, basic treatments like scaling and polishing range from S$50 to S$100 at public clinics, while private clinics may charge between S$80 and S$120. More complex procedures such as dental implants can set you back anywhere from S$3,000 to S$7,000 per implant. Can you imagine spending that?

Despite the government’s efforts to subsidize healthcare including dental services, many Singaporeans still find themselves covering a significant portion of these expenses out of pocket. One solution is to get your own dental insurance. However, dental insurance can have premiums varying from S$229 to S$693 based on the level of coverage and insurer. If this is beyond your budget, here are some essential tips for navigating the world of dental care without additional insurance:

#1: PRIORITIZE GOOD ORAL HYGIENE

The best way to minimize dental visits and expenses is to practice good oral hygiene. Unless faced with a medical emergency, regular brushing, flossing, and using antibacterial mouthwash can significantly reduce your need for dental interventions. Consistent care not only protects your teeth but also supports your overall health, as poor oral hygiene can lead to systemic health issues.

#2: ASK FOR DISCOUNTS

Many dentists offer flexible payment options or discounts for patients who pay upfront. Don’t hesitate to ask about financial relief for families seeking treatment together or for those experiencing financial constraints. A simple inquiry could lead to substantial savings.

#3: CHOOSE THE RIGHT TOOTHPASTE

Select a toothpaste containing the appropriate level of fluoride, typically between 1350-1500 ppm, suitable for all ages. Your dentist can recommend specific brands if fluoride levels are a concern for younger children, allowing you to maintain oral health without overspending.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

#4: USE AN ANTIBACTERIAL MOUTHWASH

Using antibacterial mouthwash daily helps combat harmful bacteria and reduces plaque buildup. Opt for an alcohol-free formula to avoid dry mouth; these can be found at local supermarkets starting at around S$5. This small investment can pay off in preventing costly dental issues.

#5: STEER AWAY FROM TOBACCO PRODUCTS

Smoking is a leading contributor to gum disease and oral cancer. Quitting can significantly improve your oral health, so consider discussing cessation strategies with your healthcare provider. Not only will you save money in the long run, but you’ll also enhance your overall well-being.

#6: DON’T FORGET YOUR TONGUE

Your tongue can harbor bacteria, so brushing it while you brush your teeth can contribute to better oral hygiene. A simple swipe with your toothbrush can make a big difference in your oral health.

#7: WATCH WHAT YOU EAT

Your dietary choices have a direct impact on your dental health. Minimize sugary snacks and beverages, as frequent consumption can erode enamel. Focus on nutrient-rich foods, particularly those high in calcium, to strengthen your teeth and maintain your smile.

My Dental Health Story

Growing up, I was always conscious of my dental health, partly due to having (somewhat painful) braces during my teenage years. The journey wasn’t easy, but it taught me the value of proper oral hygiene. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for preventing issues like cavities and gum disease. Regular dental visits, combined with self-care practices, can save you money and ensure your smile stays healthy.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

For more insights on maintaining oral health and managing dental expenses, consider visiting reputable health sources or local dental associations in Singapore. With the right strategies, you can enjoy a healthy smile without taking a big bite out of your budget.

Sources: 1,2, 3 & 4

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4 unique bags from $95+ to own for folks who can’t stand making “average” fashion statements

Unique bags

Do you cringe at the thought of “average” and seek out pieces that stand out?

Good for you for we’ve got this list of bags that are anything but ordinary.

These bags are not just accessories, they’re bold fashion statements that reflect any individuality.

These pieces will ensure you never blend into the background.

Gift Set: Metallic Beaded Top Handle Bag – Silver

Metallic Beaded Top Handle Bag - Silver

Price: $95.90

First up, turn heads with this limited-edition metallic showstopper.

Adorned with heart-shaped beads, the silver finish exudes luxury.

Pair it with everything from cocktail dresses to leveled-up athleisure for a dose of disco ball-worthy shine.

It also comes with a reversible inner pouch.

Not to mention the silver gift box that comes with it for your unboxing TikToks/Shorts.

Whether you’re hitting town or just need an accent piece, this bead-embellished beauty is sure to garner glances.

Monster Dumpling Bag

Monster Dumpling Bag

Price: $159

Forget basic totes—this furry Monster Dumpling Bag from Beyond the Vines brings a cute twist to the classic dumpling bag look.

With color block fur in different lengths and textures, this special edition accessory sports a playful monster face design on the front pocket, complete with quirky eyes and a metal logo.

It’s the right size for toting all your essentials while keeping your iPad safe inside.

Comes with a crossbody strap and brushed silver D-ring.

Also includes a dust bag and branded wooden box for storage when you’re not sporting this one-of-a-kind bag.

Singapura Printed Clutch Bag

Singapura Printed Clutch Bag

Price: $169

Or consider this printed clutch bag, a botanical dream.

Floral motifs from our sunny island’s heritage gardens intermingle with porcelain patterns, creating a celebration of Singapore’s legacy.

The interior features a zippered pocket to keep essentials safe, while the detachable black shoulder strap allows for versatile wear as a crossbody.

Made from polyester, this printed clutch bag promises to be your new plus-one for days out.

Checkmate (Foldover)

Checkmate Foldover

Price: $199

Inspired by a game of chess, Quintessential’s Checkmate clutch is a power move for fashion (and chess) lovers.

The bold B&W pattern evokes the game board with glass beads and sequin embellishments representing chess pieces.

Made with a removable heavyweight chain, you can carry this clutch hands-free.

Inside, discover a polyester/satin lining and an open pocket to stash essentials.

Whether attending a gala or your next black tie event, the Checkmate clutch delivers checkmate style with its design.

Just be sure to make your move quickly before this limited-edition accessory is captured by another fashionista.

Shop more amazing hand-beaded clutches here: quintessential.com.sg/handbeaded-clutch

Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression. For those who shy away from the “average,” these bags offer a chance to showcase your style. So choose a bag that’s as awesome as you are! We’ve got to admit that they aren’t very wallet-friendly but being fashionable comes with a little price tag… and rightly so, right? 😉

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