5 Local Scams to Watch Out For & How to Stay Safe

Singapore is known for its efficiency and safety, but it’s not immune to fraudsters. With digital platforms becoming an integral part of our lives, cybercriminals have found new ways to exploit unsuspecting victims.

From love scams to phishing traps, read this guide to some of the most common scams in Singapore and how you can protect yourself.

#1: LOVE SCAMS

Imagine building an emotional connection with someone online, only to find out that their affection was a lie designed to drain your bank account. Love scams typically involve fake online relationships, where the scammer eventually asks for money, often citing urgent personal crises.

PROTECT YOURSELF: Be cautious when interacting with people online, especially if you’ve never met them in person. Avoid sending money to anyone you haven’t met, no matter how convincing their story may be.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

#2: TELEGRAM SCAMS

Telegram has become a popular messaging app, but its privacy features are also being exploited by illegal groups. From drug deals to illicit pet trades, scammers operate within seemingly harmless chat groups. Users are often lured in with attractive offers and end up becoming victims of fraud or even criminal investigations.

PROTECT YOURSELF: Join reputable and verified groups on Telegram. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always report suspicious activity to the relevant authorities.

#3: PHISHING SCAMS

Phishing scams involve fraudulent emails or text messages that trick you into revealing personal information like your bank account details or passwords. Scammers often impersonate legitimate companies or even government agencies.

PROTECT YOURSELF: Many apps, including Google’s new Android upgrade, offer features to block scam messages and prevent harmful apps from being installed. Enable these features and keep your apps updated to ensure you’re protected from the latest threats.

Furthermore, never click on links from unknown or suspicious sources. Instead, double-check the URLs of websites you visit to ensure they’re legitimate.

#4: E-COMMERCE SCAMS

Online shopping is convenient, but it also opens doors for e-commerce scams. Fraudsters often create fake online stores or advertise products at ridiculously low prices, only to disappear once payments are made.

PROTECT YOURSELF: Stick to trusted e-commerce platforms with strong buyer protection policies. Then, regularly read reviews before making a purchase.

#5: JOB SCAMS

Looking for a new job? Be careful of job scams, where fraudulent job offers are used to extract personal information or request upfront payments for job allocations. These scams usually promise high pay for minimal work, which is a major red flag.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

PROTECT YOURSELF: Legitimate employers will never ask for payment during the hiring process. Verify job offers through official company websites or directly with their HR department.

Sources: 1,2, 3, & 4

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6 Wallet-Friendly Weight Loss Tips That Actually Work

#1: PINPOINT THE ROOT OF WEIGHT GAIN

Weight gain can sometimes be linked to underlying health issues such as PCOS and Hypothyroidism. If you suspect this might be the case for you, it is wise to consult a doctor before starting any weight loss plan.

A medical professional can help identify potential health concerns, while a dietitian can craft a personalized meal plan tailored to your needs and lifestyle.

#2: CREATE A BALANCED PLATE

Aim for well-rounded meals that include protein, healthy fats, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates. Protein is important as it helps maintain muscle mass during weight loss and keeps you feeling fuller for longer, reducing the temptation to snack.

Calorie-dense healthy fats such as olive oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds can help when taken in moderation. You see, healthy fats contain about 9 calories per gram, compared to just 4 calories per gram for protein and carbohydrates. Thus, you have to be mindful of your intake of saturated and trans fats.

#3: BE ACTIVE

Combine cardiovascular exercises with strength training for optimal results. Cardio workouts such as walking, jogging, cycling, or running are excellent for enhancing overall health.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Take advantage of the Park Connector Network as exercising here is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature and stay active without spending a cent!

#4: SHOP WITH A FULL STOMACH

Shopping on an empty stomach can lead to impulse buys that derail your healthy eating goals. A seemingly irresistible S$6 chocolate bar or S$5 bag of chips can quickly find its way into your cart when you are hungry.

To combat this, consider having a glass of water or a healthy snack before heading to the grocery store.

#5: STAY HYDRATED

Adequate hydration is essential for your body to function efficiently and eliminate waste. Fortunately, water not only keeps us hydrated but also supports our weight loss efforts.

Sipping water before meals can help you eat less, while staying hydrated boosts the fat-burning process. So, opt for water or other low-calorie beverages when dining out.

#6: ENJOY YOGURT

Whether you prefer Greek yogurt or traditional yogurt, both can be good additions to your diet. In fact, a Harvard study tracking over 120,000 people for a decade found a strong correlation between yogurt consumption and weight loss. While this does not imply that yogurt directly causes weight loss, it certainly stood out among other foods in the study.

For as little as S$3, you can enrich your diet with Greek yogurt from many local supermarkets and enjoy the benefits it offers.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Add these budget-friendly tips into your routine to help manage your weight without straining your wallet. Remember that consistency is key! Therefore, combine exercise with a balanced diet and other weight loss interventions to ensure a holistic change.

Disclaimer: Always consult with a medical professional before starting any weight loss program, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Sources: 1 & 2

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6 Delicious and Budget-Friendly Makan Spots in JB

Johor Bahru, Malaysia (JB) is a popular destination for Singaporeans looking for a quick getaway filled with delicious food. With its diverse culinary scene and hidden gems, here are 6 must-visit makan spots in JB that you should try!

#1: IT ROO CAFE

For mouthwatering Western cuisine, It Roo Cafe is the place to be. Located in JB’s historic city center, it has been serving the best chicken chop since 1961. Crowd favorites include It Roo Fried Rice (RM9.90 / SGD 3.00), Fish and Chips (RM18.50 / SGD 5.50), and the customizable Hailam Mee (RM9.90 / SGD 3.00).

Image Credits: IT Roo Cafe via fb.com

Location: 17, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

#2: ONN KITCHEN

Famous for its fluffy Roti Canai (RM1.50 / SGD 0.45), Onn Kitchen offers a self-service gravy station where you can choose your favorite curries. Go for the Lontong (RM8 / SGD 2.40) and Nasi Lemak with Fried Egg (RM5 / SGD 1.50) for a true taste of Malaysian cuisine.

Location: 29A, Jalan Tarom, Kampung Bahru, 80100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

#3: RESTORAN KACANG POOL HAJI

At Restoran Kacang Pool Haji, you can enjoy one of the best kacang pool in JB. This dish features seasoned fava beans topped with a fried egg, served with toast for dipping. Try the Kacang Pool (RM7 / SGD 2.10) alongside Nasi Ambang (RM7 / SGD 2.10) or Nasi Lemak (RM2 / SGD 0.60) for a hearty breakfast.

Location: Jalan Sabar, Taman Dato Onn, 80350 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

#4: YUMMY NASI LEMAK HOUSE

As its name suggests, Yummy Nasi Lemak House specializes at nasi lemak. Have a bite of the Nasi Lemak Basic Set (RM10.50 / SGD 3.10) for its delicious sambal and coconut rice, or go for the Nasi Lemak Ayam Berempah Set (RM14.50 / SGD 4.30) for a generous piece of spice-fried chicken.

Location: 104, Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Taman Abad, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

#5: TONG GUAN NYONYA KOPITIAM

For authentic local cuisine, visit Tong Guan Nyonya Kopitiam. Don’t miss the Nyonya Mee Siam with Fish Otak (from RM14.90 / SGD 4.50) and the indulgent Nasi Lemak Seafood Special (RM24.60 / SGD 7.40). To calm your body, you may eat the hot Three Eggs Porridge (RM13 / SGD 3.90).

Location: 14, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

#6: PACHEM THAI FOOD

I recently visited Thailand, where my favorite dishes are Mango Sticky Rice and Pad Thai—both of which are simply delicious. To satisfy my cravings, Pachem Thai Food is a must-visit for Thai food lovers, offering dishes like Mango Sticky Rice (around RM12/SGD 4) and Tom Yum Soup (around RM20/SGD 6.50).

Location: 2, Jalan Dedap 15, Taman Johor Jaya, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

Image Credits: facebook.com/pachemthaifood

With these 6 spots, your food adventure in JB will be both tasty and budget-friendly. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: The prices listed in this article were accurate at the time of writing, but they may change as restaurants or eateries update their pricing.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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The Fascinating Story Behind Michelin Stars & Singapore’s Best Michelin Eateries

Who would have thought that one of the world’s most prestigious restaurant rating systems began with… tires? You read that right!

As my father-in-law casually mentioned during a family hangout, Michelin Stars were originally part of a guidebook aimed at helping early car owners find reliable spots along their journeys. His revelation piqued my curiosity, leading me down an intriguing culinary rabbit hole. I began by learning about Michelin’s history and searching for other Michelin-starred restaurants in Singapore.

THE ORIGIN STORY

The Michelin Star rating system, known today for honoring culinary excellence, has a surprising origin tied to the automotive industry. In 1900, André and Édouard Michelin, founders of the Michelin tire company, launched the Michelin Guide. Their goal? To encourage more people to drive and use their tires. The guide provided essential travel information, such as maps, gas stations, mechanics, and most notably, hotel and restaurant recommendations.

As the guide evolved, so did its culinary focus. By 1926, it began awarding stars to recognize the quality of food at various establishments. A single star indicated “a very good restaurant,” and by 1931, a three-star system was introduced to reward the best of the best. Today, Michelin Stars are synonymous with the pinnacle of fine dining, with restaurants worldwide vying for recognition.

MECHANICS OF MICHELIN STARS

Michelin inspectors remain anonymous, visiting selected restaurants multiple times throughout the year. They assess various aspects, including food quality, creativity, consistency, and presentation. Restaurants can receive up to three stars:

1 Star – Very good restaurant in its category
2 Stars – Excellent cooking, worth a detour
3 Stars – Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey

In addition to the famed stars, the Michelin Guide also includes the Bib Gourmand award, celebrating high-quality food at reasonable prices, and the Michelin Green Star, honoring sustainability efforts.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

MICHELIN STARS IN SINGAPORE

The Lion City’s inclusion in the Michelin Guide in 2016 marked a new era for our culinary scene. At the time, Singapore became the first country in Southeast Asia to have Michelin-starred restaurants and stalls, a milestone that firmly established the country as a gastronomic hub. From hawkers to fine dining, our eclectic food culture became a hotspot for Michelin-starred cuisine.

On that note, below are Michelin-starred and Bib Gourmand recommendations you must try today.

1. Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle (1 Star, Crawford Lane)
A Michelin-starred hawker stall, renowned since 2016 for its flavorful and comforting bak chor mee.

2. Meta (2 Stars, Chinatown)
Headed by Chef Sun Kim, Meta blends French techniques with Asian influences. Signature dishes include steamed Jeju abalone and Korean-inspired courses.

3. Candlenut (1 Star, Tanglin)
As the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, Candlenut offers a contemporary twist on traditional Straits-Chinese dishes.

4. Alma by Juan Amador (1 Star, Orchard)
Offering a fusion of Spanish-European cuisine with Asian influences, Alma’s tasting menus highlight exquisite ingredients such as Arctic char and caviar.

5. Thevar (2 Stars, Chinatown)
Chef Thevar’s creative take on South Asian cuisine is heavily inspired by his Penang roots, offering an Indian fusion tasting menu in a modern setting.

6. Les Amis (3 Stars, Orchard)
A pinnacle of French fine dining, Les Amis is known for its impeccable service and classic dishes, offering a truly sophisticated experience.

7. Art di Daniele Sperindio (1 Star, City Hall)
This elegant Italian dining establishment focuses on Ligurian roots, presenting thoughtfully curated tasting menus that blend tradition with innovation.

8. Born (1 Star, Tanjong Pagar)
Chef Zor Tan fuses French and Chinese gastronomy, creating an unforgettable nine-course dining experience with flavors that cross borders.

9. Araya (1 Star, Tanjong Pagar)
Specializing in South American cuisine, Araya highlights native crops like corn and Chilean berries, paired with Japanese proteins for a fusion of flavors.

10. Bedok Chwee Kueh (Bib Gourmand Winner, Bedok Interchange)
It is well-known for serving steamed rice cakes topped with savory preserved radish, a beloved local dish.

Image Credits: danielfooddiary.com

With such a dynamic food scene, it’s no wonder Singapore continues to rise as a gastronomic hotspot. Whether you’re a seasoned gourmand or simply love trying new dishes, these Michelin-recommended restaurants are sure to impress!

Sources: 1, 2 & 3

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5 Places to Find the Cutest Blind Boxes in Singapore

Do you want to know the latest obsession captivating both kids and adults across Singapore? Well, it’s none other than blind boxes or blind bags.

These mysterious boxes, often linked to beloved franchises, spark a wave of excitement with each unboxing. Just picture the thrill of never quite knowing what treasure awaits inside and the element of surprise that each reveal creates!

Whether you are an avid collector or just hopping into this trend, there’s something undeniably entertaining about uncovering the unknown. On that note, let’s explore some of the best spots in Singapore to find the cutest blind boxes around.

#1: HAPPIBOX

Lucky Plaza might be known for its thrift shops and delicious eateries, but tucked away in its basement is Happibox, a hidden gem for blind box collectors. Here, you’ll find high-end collector toys with prices starting from just S$4.90, like the adorable Ugly and Cute Family Mini Beans series, and the MR PA Mahjong Series 2 Blind Pack from S$6.90. You can also find Happibox at Sim Lim Square.

Image Credits: facebook.com/happibox.sg

#2: ACTION CITY

A favorite for toy collectors, Action City offers a wide range of blind box collections from brands like Pop Mart and tokidoki, starting from S$12.90. For the more serious collectors, you can snag a full set like the Zzoton Treasure Land Series (i.e., S$190.80 for a case of 12 blind boxes).

#3: MINISO

From delightful toys and functional household goods to trendy cosmetics and tasty snacks, Miniso has something for everyone including blind boxes. The brand has made waves with its exciting collaborations, including a whimsical partnership with Winnie the Pooh in 2021, featuring adorable blind boxes priced between S$5.90 – S$12.90. And, its latest collaboration “Miniso x Chiikawa Pop-Up Store” is available at Jewel Changi Airport until October 11. See for yourself!

#4: POP MART SINGAPORE

Pop Mart has taken Singapore by storm, with life-size characters and irresistible blind box figurines. Pop Mart collaborates with artists to create beloved characters like Molly, Labubu, and Skullpanda, making it a haven for collectors. You will find individual blind boxes featuring Disney/Pixar characters from S$9.90 and SpongeBob SquarePants figurines from S$15.90 at their pop-up stores in malls such as Bugis Junction, Century Square, Jurong Point, and Suntec City.

#5: 52TOYS

Marking its Singapore debut this year, this mega Chinese toy chain has an exciting range of blind boxes, designer toys, figurines, and sculptures. If you are after characters like Mickey and Friends, Shinchan, or Doreamon, 52Toys has it all. Prices start at S$15.90 for the Kimmy & Miki Floral Emblems Blind Box and S$16.90 for the Disney Pixar Toy Story – Lotso’s Room Blind Box. What are you waiting for? Head over to 52Toys, located at PLQ Mall (#B1-20).

Image Credits: facebook.com/52ToysCandyBox

Whether you’ve stumbled upon blind boxes in TikTok videos or spotted them in shopping malls, these delightful treasures are popping up everywhere, capturing the hearts of children (and adults!) of all ages. Each store exudes its own unique charm, adding to the thrill of securing that coveted collectible. So gather your friends or plan a fun-filled family outing to explore these stores in Singapore. Happy hunting! 🙂

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