35+ newly launched foodstuffs from Korea’s convenience store chain to try before January 2025 ends

CU Newly Launched Foodstuffs January 2025

Didn’t it just feel like we’ve just swung into 2025?

Now that the first month of the new year is almost over, it’s time for a round-up of some newly launched foodstuffs from Korea’s famous convenience store chain, CU.

Continuing from last month’s craze, we’ve got more launches from the contestants of Culinary Class Wars—Master of School Meals and Napoli Matfia 🧑‍🍳

So stay on this page, keep scrolling, and best of luck finding them in stores!

#1a: 405 Bakehouse’s Mac & Cheese Steamed Bagel (3,800 KRW; approx. 3.59 SGD)

#1b: 405 Bakehouse’s Ham Cheese Steamed Bagel (3,800 KRW; approx. 3.59 SGD)

#2a: One-Day Nuts (Blue) (990 KRW; approx. 0.93 SGD)

#2b: One-Day Nuts (Pink) (990 KRW; approx. 0.93 SGD)

#3a: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Healthy Chicken Soup Ramen (2,800 KRW; approx. 2.64 SGD)

#3b: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Healthy Chicken Gomtang Ramen (2,800 KRW; approx. 2.64 SGD)

#4a: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Hanwoo Yukgaejang Rice Soup (6,900 KRW; approx. 6.51 SGD)

#4b: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Malatang (4,900 KRW; approx. 4.62 SGD)

#5a: Halim’s Chicken Breast (Prawn) (4,500 KRW; approx. 4.25 SGD)

#5b: Halim’s Chicken Breast (Squid) (4,500 KRW; approx. 4.25 SGD)

#6a: Yonsei’s Red Velvet Whipped Cream Bread (3,300 KRW; approx. 3.11 SGD)

#6b: Yonsei’s Red Velvet Roll Cake (3,800 KRW; approx. 3.59 SGD)

#6c: Yonsei’s Red Velvet Cream Rice Cake (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.89 SGD)

#7a: Teenieping Strawberry Cake (1,900 KRW; approx. 1.79 SGD)

#7b: Fresh Cream Strawberry Sandwich (3,800 KRW; approx. 3.59 SGD)

#8a: Wow Spicy Fish Cake Kimbap (2,200 KRW; approx. 2.08 SGD)

#8b: Wow Spicy Fish Cake Triangle Kimbap (990 KRW; approx. 0.93 SGD)

#8c: Wow A-Trip-Down-Memory-Lane Dosirak (3,900 KRW; approx. 3.68 SGD)

#9a: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Buldak Flavored Seasoned Dried Squid (2,500 KRW; approx. 2.36 SGD)

#9b: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Caramel Flavored Stir-fried Anchovies (2,500 KRW; approx. 2.36 SGD)

#10a: Low Sugar Chestnut Flavored Soya Milk (1,400 KRW; approx. 1.32 SGD)

#10b: Low Sugar Injeolmi Soya Milk (1,400 KRW; approx. 1.32 SGD)

#10c: Pepper Popcorn (1,800 KRW; approx. 1.70 SGD)

#11a: Traditional Tonkatsu Set (5,900 KRW; approx. 5.57 SGD)

#11b: Traditional Spicy Chicken Set (5,900 KRW; approx. 5.57 SGD)

#12a: Teokbokki Flavored Tuna Kimbap (3,200 KRW; approx. 3.02 SGD)

#12b: Teokbokki Flavored Tuna Mayo Triangle Kimbap (1,200 KRW; approx. 1.13 SGD)

#12c: Mozzarella Cheese Beef Burger (4,500 KRW; approx. 4.25 SGD)

#13a: Culinary Class Wars’ Napoli Matfia’s Aglio Olio (5,000 KRW; 4.72 SGD)

#13b: Culinary Class Wars’ Napoli Matfia’s Truffle Mushroom Noodles (5,500 KRW; 5.19 SGD)

#14a: Culinary Class Wars’ Napoli Matfia’s Pizza Steamed Bagel (3,900 KRW; approx. 3.68 SGD)

#14b: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Ham Army Stew (4,900 KRW; approx. 4.62 SGD)

#15a: Galbi Dumplings (2,900 KRW; approx. 2.74 SGD)

#15b: 405 Bakehouse’s Choco Marshmallow Cookie (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.89 SGD)

#16a: Halim’s Today’s Protein Bar (Caramel) (2,900 KRW; 2,74 SGD)

#16b: Halim’s Today’s Protein Bar (Pistachio) (2,900 KRW; 2,74 SGD)

#16c: Ready-To-Eat Sweet Potatoes (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.89 SGD)

All image credits to CU.

Price conversion from KRW to SGD is accurate at the time of writing.

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Budget-Friendly Travel Hacks for Honeymooners

When my husband and I got married, one thing was clear: we wanted our honeymoon to be dreamy yet practical. Picture this: soft waves, powdery beaches, and vibrant marine life. We found our paradise in Siargao, Philippines, a destination that ticked all our boxes without burning a hole in our wallets.

Do the same with these tips:

START PLANNING EARLY

Last-minute trips sound exciting, but when it comes to honeymoons, planning ahead is the real deal. Give yourself ample time to research and book everything. With an early start, you’ll score better deals on flights and accommodations. Set up flight alerts and compare prices to lock in those savings.

SET A REALISTIC BUDGET

You’ve just said “I do,” but now it’s time to say “I don’t” to overspending. After a big wedding, it’s smart to be mindful of your finances. Discuss your budget as a couple and stick to it. There are tons of budget-friendly options, from discounted luxury cruises to hotel promos. Who says you can’t live large while saving big?

CHOOSE A DESTINATION TOGETHER

Compromise is the name of the game. If you’re dreaming of a bustling city while your partner craves serene beaches, find a spot that offers the best of both worlds. Consider destinations like Cebu or Japan for their mix of adventure, history, and vibrant local culture.

PLAN THE ITINERARY AS A TEAM

Couples who plan together tend to avoid unnecessary arguments. Share the load and collaborate on your itinerary. Mark must-visit spots, calculate travel times, and map out routes to avoid wasting precious vacation hours. Apps like Google Maps or travel forums are your best friends here.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

PACK LIGHT, PACK SMART

Packing for your honeymoon doesn’t have to feel like solving a puzzle. Coordinate your outfits with your activities and prioritize versatile pieces. For a beach getaway, a mix of denim shorts, breezy dresses, and comfy sandals will do the trick. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen and a reusable water bottle.

READY YOUR TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

Avoid the last-minute scramble by organizing all your travel documents in one place. Keep printed copies of tickets, hotel reservations, and IDs, even if you have digital backups. A little organization goes a long way in making your trip stress-free.

BRING A FIRST-AID KIT

Don’t let minor mishaps ruin your romantic getaway. Pack basic medicines for headaches, allergies, and stomach troubles. If you’re traveling internationally, check if vaccinations are needed for your destination. Staying healthy is key to making the most of your honeymoon.

IN A NUTSHELL

Your honeymoon doesn’t have to be extravagant to be unforgettable. With careful planning, smart budgeting, and a spirit of compromise, you can create a magical experience that’s easy on your wallet.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Go ahead and plan that dream trip—you both earned it!

Source:

 

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4 award-winning hotels in Kyoto to book a stay in before hotel taxes increase in 2026

Kyoto Hotel

Caught sight of the news that Kyoto will be raising hotel taxes in 2026?

To be exact, for room rates between 20,000 to 50,000 JPY (approx. 174 SGD to 435 SGD) per night, visitors will have to pay 1,000 JPY (approx. 8 SGD) per person per night.

As for accommodations over 100,000 JPY (approx. 871 SGD) per night, the tax will be at 10,000 JPY (approx. 87 SGD).

If approval is granted by the city assembly, the rise in taxes will be a nightmare come true for Japan lovers.

So perhaps 2025 is the year you should visit Kyoto before traveling gets a little too expensive in 2026…

Here’s a list of award-winning hotels in Kyoto to book a stay in.

Book early to secure your spots!

Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi

Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi

Rating: 9.1 (9.2K+ reviews)

First up, we have this hotel tucked in the heart of Kyoto.

Hotel Forza Shijo Kawaramachi plants you just 300 m from Nishiki Market.

This centrally located 9-floor hotel is the perfect spot for exploring the city’s sights on foot.

It’s also an easy 38.4 km from Osaka International Airport.

Twin rooms and family rooms for 3 are available for booking and the hotel features a 24-hour front desk (great for assistance at any time).

Kickstart your day with an energizing breakfast for an additional fee of 2800 JPY (approx. 25 SGD) if you’d like.

Sakura Terrace The Gallery

Sakura Terrace The Gallery

Rating: 9 (17.6K+ reviews)

For those seeking an adults-only getaway, Sakura Terrace The Gallery offers just the respite you need.

This hotel places you within a short stroll of Kujo subway station and Kyoto Station.

Selected rooms feature private balconies.

After a day of discovery, relax at the hotel’s rejuvenating sauna or burn some “sushi calories” at the fitness center.

It’s an approx. 45-minute ride to Osaka airport and proximity to nearby gems like Sanjusangendo Temple.

Hotel The M’s Kyoto

Hotel The M's Kyoto

Rating: 9 (15.3K+ reviews)

Hotel The M’s Kyoto is less than a 10-minute stroll from Kujo Subway Station, which puts you a quick ride from all of Kyoto’s must-sees, including the Kyoto Station Building and Sanjusangendo Temple—both under 1.5 km away.

They have rooms for duos to quartets.

Having opened its doors in 2021, this fairly new hotel is here so you can ditch the cramped hostels.

Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Hachijoguchi

Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Hachijoguchi

Rating: 9 (9.5K reviews)

Solo Kyoto-trotting or hanging with your travel crew?

However you explore Kyoto, Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Hachijoguchi has your back with attractions right at your fingertips—stroll 3 km to browse stalls at Nishiki Market or marvel at the Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Osaka International Airport is just a 45-minute drive away.

Comes with a range of single and connecting rooms that cater to all types of travelers.

Fuel up at the hotel’s breakfast buffet for just 1400 JPY (approx. 13 SGD).

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Why Now’s the Perfect Time to Visit Japan

Among all the countries my husband and I have explored in Asia, Japan reigns supreme as our top pick. If you’ve ever dreamed of indulging in sushi, soaking in hot springs, or wandering neon-lit streets, this is your sign to book that ticket.

Learn why Japan is calling louder than ever.

THE YEN MAKES JAPAN IRRESISTIBLE

Japan’s tourism scene is on fire, fueled by the yen’s historic depreciation. In March 2024, Japan welcomed an astounding 3.14 million foreign visitors, smashing the previous record of 3.08 million set in March 2023.

Why the boom? The yen’s slide to a 38-year low against the dollar has made Japan a bargain-lover’s paradise. For Singaporeans, S$100 now gets you over 11,465 yen, compared to just 8,000 yen before the pandemic. This increased purchasing power is a game-changer for foodies, shopaholics, and adventurers alike.

Despite slightly rising commodity prices in Japan, the weaker yen ensures visitors can still enjoy more bang for their buck. Whether it’s a luxurious wagyu dinner or trendy streetwear, the yen stretch is undeniable.

MORE FLIGHTS, MORE CONVENIENCE

Traveling to Japan has never been easier. Airlines are responding to surging demand by adding more routes. For instance, Air Japan, a subsidiary of ANA Holdings, launched its Tokyo Narita-Singapore route in April 2024, with one-way fares starting at 17,500 yen. Affordable flights? Yes, please!

Image Credits: unsplash.com

HOT SPOTS AND MORE

The usual suspects like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hokkaido continue to charm travelers, but there’s more to explore. Hokuriku, with its breathtaking coastal landscapes and tranquil temples, is quickly emerging as the next must-visit region.

For travelers craving a mix of iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path experiences, Japan offers an endless array of discoveries waiting to be made.

WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS

Japan’s economy is gaining momentum, with wages rising and inflation cooling off. The government’s stimulus programs are aimed at promoting growth, with projections suggesting 1.2% economic growth for fiscal 2025. While there are challenges such as managing increased tourist traffic and infrastructure demands, Japan is rising to the occasion.

WHY GO NOW

The yen’s weakness isn’t just a travel perk; it’s an open invitation to experience Japan’s vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and world-class hospitality without breaking the bank.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Whether you’re a seasoned Japan traveler or planning your first visit, there’s never been a better time to say “konnichiwa”. 

Sources: 1,2,3, & 4

 

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Singapore’s Passport Reigns Supreme: World’s Most Powerful

Imagine holding a passport that opens nearly every door in the world. That’s the privilege Singaporeans enjoy, as their passport ranks as the world’s most powerful in the 2025 Henley Passport Index. With visa-free access to 195 out of 227 destinations, Singapore has outpaced global heavyweights, making travel easier and more exciting than ever.

Singaporeans aren’t just about holding the most coveted passport, because they know how to use it. According to the Singapore Department of Statistics, 50% of residents aged 15 and over take at least one overseas trip annually. Even more impressive, they rank third globally in travel spending, averaging US$2,966 per trip, as reported by the Singapore Business Review. Whether it’s exploring hidden corners of the world or indulging in luxury experiences, Singaporeans have perfected the art of globetrotting.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

The Global Passport Leaderboard

This year’s Henley Passport Index places Singapore firmly at the top, outpacing former leader Japan, which now holds the No. 2 spot with visa-free access to 193 destinations. European countries, including France, Germany, and Italy, tie for third place, offering access to 192 destinations. Here’s how the Top 10 shakes out:

  • Singapore (195 destinations)
  • Japan (193)
  • France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Finland, South Korea (192)
  • Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway (191)
  • Belgium, New Zealand, Portugal, Switzerland, United Kingdom (190)
  • Greece, Australia (189)
  • Canada, Poland, Malta (188)
  • Hungary, Czechia (187)
  • Estonia, United States (186)
  • Lithuania, Latvia, Slovenia, United Arab Emirates (185)

The United Arab Emirates has made significant strides, gaining visa-free access to 72 destinations over the past decade. Meanwhile, Afghanistan remains at the bottom of the list, with access to just 26 destinations.

Why a Passport Matters

A powerful passport isn’t just a travel perk; it’s a gateway to opportunities. For students, it opens doors to top universities around the globe, enabling world-class education. Professionals can leverage it for seamless business travel, while adventure seekers can explore the world’s wonders without worrying about visa complications.

Singapore’s top ranking showcases how a well-connected passport enhances freedom, whether it’s for work, study, or leisure. It reflects the country’s reputation for trust, efficiency, and global engagement.

For those dreaming of studying abroad, this is an advantage like no other. Imagine exploring cutting-edge programs in the UK or soaking in the vibrant culture of Spain without the stress of visa approvals. For digital nomads, it’s the ultimate passport to a borderless lifestyle.

Travel Smart, Embrace the World

Even if your passport doesn’t top the list, the joy of travel lies in the experiences you gain. Each destination offers its own magic, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of New Zealand.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Wherever you go, plan wisely. Research visa requirements, embrace local cultures, and savor every moment. Whether you’re a student chasing academic dreams, a professional expanding horizons, or simply an adventurer at heart, the world is full of possibilities waiting to be explored. Safe travels!

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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