5 Best Credit Cards in Singapore for Exclusive Lounge Access

Who says air travel must be a stressful affair? With the right credit card in hand, you can glide into exclusive airport lounges, sip on fine beverages, and relax in plush chairs.

Start with this roundup of Singapore’s best credit cards offering lounge perks.

#1: CITI PREMIERMILES CARD

For the occasional traveler, the Citi PremierMiles Card delivers. You get 2 complimentary visits per year to over 1,400 Priority Pass lounges worldwide. Need more? Additional visits are charged at just US$35 per person. Benefits include renewal bonus of 10,000 Citi Miles on your card anniversary and ability to earn points on payments made through Citi PayAll.

#2: DBS ALTITUDE VISA SIGNATURE CARD

With the DBS Altitude Visa Signature Card, you’re entitled to 2 free Priority Pass lounge visits annually. Perfect for those quick getaways. If you’re planning more visits, the cost is US$32 per person per visit.

#3: STANDARD CHARTERED VISA INFINITE CARD

Jet-setters will love the Standard Chartered Visa Infinite Card, which offers 6 complimentary lounge visits per year. Keep in mind that this card caters to high-income earners with a minimum annual income requirement of S$150,000.

#4: HSBC VISA INFINITE CARD

For true luxury, the HSBC Visa Infinite Card stands out with unlimited access to over 1,100 airport lounges worldwide via LoungeKey. This includes both primary and supplementary cardholders. Guests can tag along for US$32 per visit, but you’ll need to meet the S$120,000 income threshold to qualify.

#5: UOB PRIVILEGE BANKING CARD

With the UOB Privilege Banking Card, you can enjoy access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide, including those in Singapore. In addition to lounge access, the card offers exclusive benefits such as travel insurance, dining privileges, and more, making it a great choice for those seeking a luxury experience.

WHY DOES LOUNGE ACCESS MATTER?

Airport lounges aren’t just about luxury as they’re about convenience. Whether you need a quiet space to work, indulge in gourmet snacks, or freshen up during a long layover, lounge access turns your journey into an experience worth savoring.

Ready to upgrade your travel game? Choose the card that fits your lifestyle and income, and let your next trip start in style.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Disclaimer: Please note that credit card benefits and terms are subject to change. It’s advisable to verify the latest information directly with the respective banks or their official websites before making any decisions.

Sources: 1, 2, 3 & 4

 

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4 accommodations from $40/night in Phu Quoc, Vietnam, if you can free yourself for a weekend trip in March 2025

Phu Quoc Airbnb

Headed back to the office and feeling a little blue?

We understand how it feels…

And maybe a little travel planning can help ease those depressive vibes.

This ‘Travel Thursday’, the first for 2025, we’ve got some accommodations from Phu Quoc, Vietnam.

These Airbnbs are a gem if you can free yourself for a weekend trip in March 👏

Beachfront bungalow with a double bed for two

Beachfront bungalow with a double bed for two

Price: $40/night (for 2 persons)

Travel dates: 7 to 9 March 2025

First up, we have this beachfront bungalow beckoning with its garden views and (almost) direct access to the shores of Bà Kèo beach where you can start your morning with your toes in the sand.

Just steps from OCSEN Beach Bar & Club.

The bungalow’s double bed and self-contained living spaces—complete with AC, TV, fridge, and free wifi—ensure just the getaway you need.

Leave your cares in SG and lose yourselves in sun-soaked days and romantic evenings in Vietnam for two mere footsteps from the crashing waves.

It’s only $40/night!

Budget-friendly vacation rental for three beach-loving travelers

Budget-friendly vacation rental for three beach-loving travelers

Price: $41/night (for 3 persons)

Travel dates: 7 to 9 March 2025

Calling all beach bums on a budget!

This vacation rental on Phu Quoc Pearl Island was made for sun-seekers who want to soak up the island life without overspending.

Nestled in the heart of the action, it’s just steps from the sand, surf, and party central at OCSEN Beach Bar & Club and The Cheeky Traveler English Pub & Bar.

At “home”, two comfy beds (one double and one single) await after long days spent lounging on the beach.

Other must-haves like air conditioning, a smart TV, a fridge, and a wardrobe mean you will have all the conveniences of a hotel minus the markup.

Three’s a company at this affordable island crash pad.

Fully furnished apartment with an ocean view

Fully furnished apartment with an ocean view

Price: $41/night (for 2 persons)

Travel dates: 7 to 9 March 2025

Perched atop a hill in central Phu Quoc, this fully furnished apartment allows you to wake up to ocean views from the balcony of your retreat, located in the upscale Mi Amor complex (it’s part of Mi Amor Luxury Island Apartment).

After a short 3-minute stroll, you will find yourself among the sands of Phu Quoc’s beach.

This sanctuary is complete with a kitchenette, washer/dryer, and a blend of contemporary furnishings.

Take a 5-minute walk from the apartment and enjoy some seafood at Xin Chao Seafood Restaurant if you’d like.

Resort-style bungalow with a balcony overlooking the sea

Resort-style bungalow with a balcony overlooking the sea

Price: $55/night (for 2 persons)

Travel dates: 7 to 9 March 2025

Greet your mornings from your private balcony, sipping coffee as the gentle waves lap the golden sand just steps away.

After mornings spent strolling the shores of Bà Kèo Beach, laze on the breezy front porch, or head to the nearby Beach Bar to mingle over frosty cocktails.

When night falls, retreat to your double bed, where the rhythm of crashing waves creates just the right amount of white noise.

With a near-perfect 4.95 rating, this resort-style bungalow promises a beach escape you know you (and a +1) need.

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6 Free (or Cheap) & Fun Things to Do This Jan 2025

Ready to make the most of January 2025 without breaking the bank? Here are 6 ways to kick off the year while creating fun memories with your family.

From artsy weekends to festive light displays, there’s something for everyone!

ARTBOX 2025: ARTBOX EVERYDAY

Artbox returns with the theme “ARTBOX EVERYDAY,” celebrating the beauty in our daily lives. Expect two vibrant weekends filled with food, music, and over 190 brands offering unique finds. Plus, 90+ F&B stalls mean you won’t go hungry. Don’t forget to snap Instagram-worthy photos while soaking in the aesthetic vibes!

When: 17–19 Jan & 24–26 Jan 2025
Where: Singapore EXPO, Hall 4
Tickets: From S$5 (Terms & Conditions apply)
More Info here: facebook.com/artboxsg

Image Credits: facebook.com/artboxsg

SINGAPORE ART WEEK (SAW)

Dive into Singapore’s annual arts celebration featuring over 130 events across the island. SAW 2025 showcases international names like Jean-Michel Basquiat alongside local talents.

See exhibitions, enjoy performance art, and don’t miss the stunning light installations that illuminate iconic landmarks. This is your chance to see Singapore in a new light…literally!

When: January 2025 (various dates)
Where: Islandwide
Cost: Free for most events (ticketed events available)
More Info here: facebook.com/SGArtWeek

LIGHT TO NIGHT FESTIVAL 2025

Celebrate the 9th edition of this beloved festival with over 70 programs, including dazzling projection mapping across landmarks like the National Gallery and Asian Civilisations Museum.

Marvel at works by local legends Chng Seok Tin, Goh Beng Kwan, and Jaafar Latiff while enjoying live performances, art exhibitions, and street food at the Art X Social Festival Street.

When: 17 Jan – 6 Feb 2025
Where: Civic District & National Gallery Singapore
Cost: Free (ticketed exhibitions available)
More Info here: nationalgallery.sg

Image Credits: nationalgallery.sg

CHINATOWN CNY LIGHT-UP

Stroll through Chinatown’s streets lit up with stunning lantern displays and zodiac-themed decorations. The official light-up start on 8 Jan at Kreta Ayer Square, which is perfect for family photos or a relaxing evening walk.

When: 8 Jan – 27 Feb 2025
Where: Chinatown (various streets)
Cost: Free

ALIWAL URBAN ARTS FESTIVAL 2025

Who says Singapore’s urban art scene isn’t tight? Immerse in graffiti walls, DIY skate obstacles, and trendy streetwear with Aliwal Urban Arts Festival 2025. This festival brings the community together for a day of creativity and connection.

When: 25 Jan 2025
Where: Aliwal Arts Centre
Cost: Free admission (workshops from S$5)
More Info here: facebook.com/AliwalArtsCentre

RIVER HONGBAO 2025

A festive highlight in the country, River Hongbao offers a magical evening for all ages. Embrace the spirit of Chinese New Year with lantern displays, fireworks, and cultural performances at Gardens by the Bay. Oh! Don’t miss the festive food street, where you can indulge in classic CNY snacks and dishes while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

When: 27 Jan – 8 Feb 2025
Where: Gardens by the Bay
Cost: Free
More Info here:riverhongbao.sg

Image Credits: riverhongbao.sg

This January, explore these free and affordable events, soak in the culture, and create lasting memories without leaving Singapore!

Sources: 1 & 2

 

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40+ newly launched foodstuffs from Korea’s convenience store to try before December 2024 ends

CU Newly Launched Foodstuffs December 2024

Hope you’ve had a joyful Merry Christmas with your loved ones!

If you’re currently in Korea and still enjoying the festive season, you might want to swing by Korea’s convenience store, specifically CU, for all the latest releases.

In this episode, we’ve got several launches from the contestants of Culinary Class Wars!

So hop by a few chains and see if you can get your hands on these foodstuffs:

#1a: Dining Table’s Grilled Vegetables & Chicken Platter (8,200 KRW; approx. 7.69 SGD)

#1b: Dining Table’s Grilled Pork Belly & Sausage (7,900 KRW; approx. 7.41 SGD)

#1c: Dining Table’s Toowoomba Pane Pasta (6,900 KRW; approx. 6.47 SGD)

#2a: Giant Bulgogi Pizza (3,900 KRW; approx. 3.66 SGD)

#2b: Hey! Chicken’s Sweet & Spicy Dakgangjeong (Small Cup) (3,900 KRW; approx. 3.66 SGD)

#2c: Cream Leek Croquette (1,600 KRW; approx. 1.50 SGD)

#3a: Sumifru’s Choco Banana Chips (3,600 KRW; approx. 3.37 SGD)

#3b: Sumifru’s White Choco Banana Chips (3,600 KRW; approx. 3.37 SGD)

#3c: Sumifru’s Dark Choco Banana Chips (3,600 KRW; approx. 3.37 SGD)

#4a: Zeroweet’s Zero Sugar Milk Vanilla Monaka (3,300 KRW; approx. 3.09 SGD)

#4b: Zeroweet’s Zero Sugar Choco Monaka (3,300 KRW; approx. 3.09 SGD)

#4c: Washed Apple Slices (2,900 KRW; approx. 2.72 SGD)

#5a: Hmmm! Sparkling Wine (12,900 KRW; approx. 12.09 SGD)

#5b: 王老吉’s Herbal Tea (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.87 SGD)

#5c: Crayon Shin-chan’s Americano (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#6: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Bulgogi Dosirak (6,200 KRW; approx. 5.81 SGD)

#7a: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Roasted Pork Dosirak (5,900 KRW; approx. 5.53 SGD)

#7b: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Braised Spicy Chicken (5,500 KRW; approx. 5.16 SGD)

#7c: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Bibim Dumplings (5,200 KRW; approx. 4.87 SGD)

#8a: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Gimbap (3,300 KRW; approx. 3.09 SGD)

#8b: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Egg Sandwich (3,400 KRW; approx. 3.19 SGD)

#8c: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Beef Veggie Fried Tofu Rice Bar (2,700 KRW; approx. 2.53 SGD)

#9a: Ottogi’s Jjamppong Rabokki (3,900 KRW; approx. 3.66 SGD)

#9b: Ottogi’s Cream Jjamppong Rabokki (3,900 KRW; approx. 3.66 SGD)

#10a: 405 Bakehouse’s Mocha Salt Bread (3,600 KRW; approx. 3.37 SGD)

#10b: 405 Bakehouse’s Choco Salt Bread (3,600 KRW; approx. 3.37 SGD)

#11a: Culinary Class Wars’ Napoli Matfia’s Pistachio & Strawberry Cup Cake (5,200 KRW; approx. 4.87 SGD)

#11b: Culinary Class Wars’ Napoli Matfia’s Pistachio & Strawberry Sandwich (3,900 KRW; approx. 3.66 SGD)

#12a: Soondae Rice Soup (5,900 KRW; approx. 5.53 SGD)

#12b: Hmmm! Double Oak Red Wine (12,900 KRW; approx. 12.09 SGD)

#13a: Wow Kimchi Fried Rice (3,900 KRW; approx. 3.66 SGD)

#13b: Mexican Couscous Salad (5,900 KRW; approx. 5.53 SGD)

#13c: Cereal Style Honey Rice Cake Balls (3,300 KRW; approx. 3.09 SGD)

#14a: The Misik’s Squid Ramyeon Cup (2,800 KRW; approx. 2.62 SGD)

#14b: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Gangneung Style Jjamppong Soft Tofu Stew (4,900 KRW; approx. 4.59 SGD)

#14c: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Gamjatang (Pork Back-bone Stew) (4,900 KRW; approx. 4.59 SGD)

#15a: Red Sun Rise Cocktail Style Ade (Pomegranate) (1,600 KRW; approx. 1.50 SGD)

#15b: Green Apple Martini Cocktail Style Ade (1,600 KRW; approx. 1.50 SGD)

#15c: Fresh Citron Highball Can (4,500 KRW; approx. 4.22 SGD)

#16a: Culinary Class Wars’ Napoli Matfia’s Pistachio & Strawberry Fresh Cream Bread (3,400 KRW; approx. 3.19 SGD)

#16b: Yonsei’s Strawberry Milk Roll Cake (3,800 KRW; approx. 3.56 SGD)

#16c: 405 Bakehouse’s Garlic Salt Bread (3,600 KRW; approx. 3.37 SGD)

#17a: Super Large King “Half-Half” Burger (13,000 KRW; approx. 12.19 SGD)

#17b: Super Large King 1kg Pasta (9,900 KRW; approx. 9.28 SGD)

#17c: Apple Cider Vinegar Tangle Pocket (5 Pcs) (5,900 KRW; approx. 5.53 SGD)

All image credits to CU.

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

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10 bars/restaurants with the Han River view as its backdrop in Seoul, South Korea, to visit

Han River View Bar & Restaurants

Want to dine with Seoul’s Han River within sight?

We’ve scoured a list of bars/restaurants that offer you just that.

Some offer course sets which can be quite pricey if you’re on a budget; others have ala carte menus so take your pick.

And of course, enjoy the view 😉

Near Dongjak Station

녹트 | NOCT

 

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Opening hours:

6 pm to 12 am (Daily; closed on Sundays)

Prices: Ala carte starts from 8,000 KRW (approx. 7+ SGD)

Address: 서울 용산구 올림픽대로 2085-96 THE RIVER 2층 | Seoul, Yongsan District, Olympic-daero, 2085-96, The River (2nd Floor)

Distance: 938 m from Exit 2 of Dongjak Station

르다 | Le Da

 

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Opening hours:

12 pm to 10 pm (Daily; closed on Mondays)

3 pm to 6 pm (Break Time)

Prices: Lunch course starts from 95,000 KRW (approx. 89+ SGD)

Address: 서울 용산구 올림픽대로 2085-96 THE RIVER 3층 | Seoul, Yongsan District, Olympic-daero, 2085-96, The River (3rd Floor)

Distance: 942 m from Exit 2 of Dongjak Station

멜트 | Melt

 

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Opening hours:

7 pm to 1 am (Daily; closed on Sundays & Mondays)

Prices: Ala carte starts from 18,000 KRW (approx. 16+ SGD)

Address: 서울 용산구 올림픽대로 2085-96 THE RIVER 2.5층 | Seoul, Yongsan District, Olympic-daero, 2085-96, The River (2.5th Floor)

Distance: 948 m from Exit 2 of Dongjak Station

Near Sangsu Station

서강8경 | Seogang 8 Kyung

Opening hours:

12 pm to 12 am (Daily)

3 pm to 5.30 pm (Break Time 1)

7.30 pm to 8 pm (Break Time 2)

Prices: Lunch course starts from 110,000 KRW (approx. 103+ SGD)

Address: 서울 마포구 토정로 128 프렌치룸레스토랑8층, 홀 다이닝바9층 | 128 Tojeong-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (8th & 9th Floor)

Distance: 463 m from Exit 3 of Sangsu Station

다이닝늘 홍대점 | Dining Neul (Hongdae)

Opening hours:

11.30 am to 10.30 pm (Daily)

3 pm to 5 pm (Break Time)

Prices: Lunch set starts from 35,000 KRW (approx. 32+ SGD)

Address: 서울 마포구 토정로 136-13 6층 | 136-13 Tojeong-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (6th Floor)

Distance: 609 m from Exit 3 of Sangsu Station

레스토랑괴르츠 | Gortz

 

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Opening hours:

11.30 am to 11.30 pm (Daily)

Prices: Lunch pasta set starts from 59,000 KRW (approx. 55+ SGD)

Address: 서울 마포구 토정로 136-13 JNC빌딩 7층 | 136-13 Tojeong-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, JNC Building (7th Floor)

Distance: 609 m from Exit 3 of Sangsu Station

Near other stations

르포르테 | ㅣLe Forte

Opening hours:

5 pm to 12 am (Daily; closed on Sundays)

Prices: Ala carte starts from 17,000 KRW (approx. 15+ SGD)

Address: 서울 영등포구 양평로 68 DN빌딩 12층 | 68 Yangpyeong-ro, Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul, DN Building (12th Floor)

Distance: 212 m from Exit 13 of Dangsan Station

레스토랑 아이오유 | Resturant I. O. U

Opening hours:

11 am to 10.30 pm (Daily)

2.30 pm to 5 pm (Break Time)

Prices: Special course starts from 78,000 KRW (approx. 73+ SGD)

Address: 서울 용산구 원효로1길 16 | 16 Wonhyo-ro 1-gil, Yongsan District, Seoul

Distance: 549 m from Exit 4 of Mapo Station

블루페이지 | Blue Page Lounge

Opening hours:

11 am to 9.30 pm (Daily)

Prices: Ala carte starts from 8,000 KRW (approx. 7+ SGD)

Address: 서울 서초구 잠원동 121-9 | 121-9 Jamwon-dong, Seocho District, Seoul

Distance: Less than a 5-minute cab ride from Jamwon Station or approx. a 16-minute walk from Jamwon Station

메종한남브이 | Maison Hannam V

 

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Opening hours:

6 pm to 2 am (Daily)

Prices: Ala carte starts from 8,000 KRW (approx. 7+ SGD)

Address: 서울 용산구 유엔빌리지3길 24 | 24 UN village 3-gil, Yongsan District, Seoul

Distance: Less than a 10-minute cab ride from Hangangjin Station

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