Are you spending too much on traveling?

sunset view from a plane

Got the wanderlust bug, but your wallet’s feeling the sting?

Overspending can quickly turn your love for vacations into stress.

So here’s THE post to help you find a balance between flying and maintaining financial stability.

Monitor your travel expenses
  • Compare and analyze

Gather your expense data and compare it against your predetermined budget; this will reveal any overspending patterns or areas where you can cut back.

Identify red flags in your spending

One major red flag is frequent credit card debt related to trips.

If you’re struggling to pay off your balance each month, you might be overspending.

Another warning sign is dipping into your savings to fund your wanderlust.

Pay attention to your post-trip finances too.

If you’re feeling stressed about money or cutting back on essentials after returning home, it’s a sign…

Evaluate your travel priorities
  • Distinguish needs from wants

Is that 5-star hotel necessary, or would a good-rating Airbnb suffice?

  • Experiences over things

Instead of splurging on expensive souvenirs, invest in local cooking classes or free guided hikes. These immersive activities often cost less.

  • Smart choices, big savings

Consider traveling during shoulder/off-peak seasons or to less touristy locations.

Use comparison sites to find the best deals on flights and accommodations before you book.

One site that I’ve been using for years is Skyscanner.

At a glance, you will be able to find all the flights available and the latest promotions individual airlines are having.

SG to Seoul

Image Credits: skyscanner.com.sg

Play around with the features and you will find that it works wonders.

But one good point to note is this:

Once you click through to a third-party site to “check out” your tickets, check the price again to make sure it’s the promo price you want to pay for.

Sometimes, the price gets updated in real-time or seats get sold out quickly so the stated promo price may not be available anymore.

Strategies to cut down travel costs
  • Hunt for deals

Sign up for airline newsletters and follow Facebook pages to catch flash/promo sales.

Also, check for package deals that bundle flights, hotels, and activities for extra savings (I’m not a fan, but it does work sometimes).

  • Opt for budget-friendly destinations

It doesn’t always have to be an expensive hotspot, right?

Explore lesser-known destinations where your dollar can stretch further.

Plus, you will likely encounter fewer crowds and more authentic local interactions.

By being mindful of your budget, prioritizing experiences over luxury, and seeking ways to save, you can continue satisfying your wanderlust. The best take-homes are the memories you make, not the debt that stresses you. As you pack your bags, pack your financial savvy too 😉

Read More...

The Rise and Impact of Gambling in Singapore

A BRIEF HISTORY

Gambling has been a part of Singapore’s culture long before the iconic Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa opened in 2010. Whether through lotteries or casinos, it has driven Singaporeans to wager billions each year. Let’s explore this phenomenon and its broader implications.

Gambling in Singapore encompasses three main activities: betting, gaming, and lottery participation. For instance, Singapore Pools, the state-linked lottery operator, reported an impressive turnover of S$4 billion in 2005, or approximately S$11 million daily, highlighting the lottery’s immense popularity. That year alone, an estimated S$7 billion was spent on gambling, excluding illegal betting and stock speculation.  Illegal gambling, such as operating or managing illegal venues, can lead to fines of up to S$500,000 and imprisonment for up to 7 years upon conviction.

In recent years, games like 4-D, Toto, and Singapore Sweep have attracted over 30% of Singapore residents, demonstrating their widespread appeal.

RISE OF CASINOS

The opening of Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa marked a significant shift in Singapore’s gambling landscape. These integrated resorts not only boosted tourism but also provided a regulated environment for casino gaming, enhancing Singapore’s global reputation.

Marina Bay Sands, with its unique architecture and world-class amenities, quickly became a hub for both local and international gamblers. The casinos in these resorts have since contributed significantly to the country’s economy, attracting high-rollers from around the globe and reshaping Singapore’s image as a luxury destination. This influx of tourists has spurred other sectors, including hospitality and retail, enhancing Singapore’s economic growth.

ASIA-PACIFIC GAMBLING MARKET

The Asia-Pacific gambling market is heavily influenced by regulatory frameworks, tourism, and local demand. Singapore, Macau, and the Philippines are major players in this market, each attracting a significant number of tourists and gamblers, fueling regional competition and innovation.

While Macau remains the largest gambling hub in Asia, Singapore holds a strong second place. However, the Philippines is making strategic moves to overtake Singapore by developing new integrated resorts and casinos, focusing on boosting tourism and economic growth. This competition highlights the dynamic and evolving nature of the gambling industry in the region and emphasizes the need for continuous adaptation and strategic planning.

SOCIAL IMPACT OF GAMBLING

While gambling can be a form of entertainment and a boost to the economy, it also comes with social costs. Problem gambling can lead to severe financial and personal issues for individuals and families, affecting overall community well-being. Recognizing this, Singapore has established various measures to help those affected by gambling addiction.

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) provides resources and support for individuals struggling with gambling problems. Their helpline, 1800-6-668-668, is available for anyone seeking assistance and guidance. Additionally, educational campaigns and support programs aim to prevent problem gambling and mitigate its impacts.

TO CONCLUDE

Gambling in Singapore has evolved significantly over the years, from lottery games to world-class casinos. While it contributes to the economy and offers entertainment, it’s essential to acknowledge and address the potential negative impacts on individuals.  By fostering responsible gambling practices and providing adequate support, Singapore can strive to maintain a sustainable gambling environment.

For those needing help or advice on gambling issues, resources like the NCPG are available to provide guidance. For immediate support, visit NCPG at ncpg.org.sg.

Sources: 1,2,3 & 4

Read More...

Here are the top 10 must-visit Starbucks outlets in South Korea

Daegu Jongro Gotaek Store_exterior

Are you the sort that goes to Starbucks around the world to bring home some local-specific merch?

If yes, you would want to drop by one (or more) of the top 10 must-visit Starbucks outlets in South Korea.

These stores aren’t handpicked by me, but by Starbucks Korea together with the Korea Tourism Organization.

And they are not just in Seoul, just in case you’re visiting other cities for your upcoming trip to Korea 😉

KYUNGDONG 1960 STORE

KYUNGDONG 1960 STORE

Dedicated to revitalizing and restoring the Kyungdong Market’s heritage, this store preserves the original architecture and materials of the old Kyungdong Theater.

3F Kyungdong Market, 1036 Jegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul

THE YANGPYEONG DT STORE

The Yangpyeong DT Store_interior

The largest Starbucks store in Korea, located in Yangpyeong, offers scenic views of the South Han River and flexibility for any travel style.

76 Yanggeunro, Yangpyeong-eup, Yangpyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do

THE YEOSU DOLSAN DT STORE

The Yeosu Dolsan DT Store_exterior

Located on Dolsan Island, this store features an observatory to enjoy breathtaking ocean views of Yeosu.

697-20 Udu-ri, Dolsan-eup, Yeosu-si

THE JEJU SONGDANG PARK R STORE

The Jeju Songdang Park R Store_exterior

Korea’s largest Starbucks Reserve® store in Jeju City offers views of Hallasan Mountain and Jeju Stone Park, with an interior design by local kinetic artist Jo Byeong-cheol.

2635-3 Songdang-ri, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si

EDAE R STORE

Edae R Store_interior 2

The first Starbucks® store in Korea, remodeled into a Reserve® store, located in the Ewha Womans University area.

54-4 Daehyeong-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul

THE BUKHANGANG R STORE

The Bukhangang R Store_interior

South Korea’s only pet-friendly Starbucks® store, located along the Bukhan River and provides open space for pets and their owners.

806-1 Geumnam-ri, Hwado-eup, Namyangju-si

THE BUKHANSAN STORE

The Bukhansan Store_exterior

Near the entrance of Bukhansan National Park, this store offers a unique café experience with a special photo zone capturing Bukhansan Mountain.

277-11 Jingwan-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul

BYULDABANG STORE

Byuldabang Store_interior

An oasis known locally as ‘Byuldabang’, this store features a large digital art wall and LEED-certified design.

88 Hoehyeon-dong 2-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul

CHUNCHEON GUBONGSAN R STORE

Chuncheon Gubongsan R Store_exterior

This store offers panoramic views of Chuncheon City, lovely for sunset viewing on Gubongsan Mountain.

340-61 Mancheon-ri, Dong-myeon, Chuncheon-si

DAEGU JONGRO GOTAEK STORE

Daegu Jongro Gotaek Store_exterior

Housed in a century-old hanok, this store honors Daegu’s heritage with over 100 years of history.

58 Jong-ro 2ga, Jung-gu, Daegu

Starbucks Korea celebrates 25 years

If you haven’t heard, Starbucks in Korea is celebrating 25 years of coffee and connections this year.

To share the milestone with their loyal customers, they will offer some special drinks and deals for a limited time.

If you’re in Korea during this period, look out for their global-inspired beverages like the London Fog Tea Latte, French Vanilla Latte, and Melon of Melon Frappuccino on the menu.

Starbucks Korea 25th anniversary

Image Credits: starbucks.co.kr

The new Oleato Golden Foam Iced Shaken Espresso with Hazelnut is also available!

As an eco-friendly option, you can get an Americano, Latte, or Caramel Macchiato at the original 1999 price when buying a reusable cup.

To mark the anniversary, Starbucks Korea has also launched a limited collection with the heritage logo.

You can pick up mugs, tumblers, and a big Bearista Bear.

Exclusive merch made in collaboration with Bernardaud and Bialetti is also on sale.

All image credits to Starbucks Korea/Starbucks Asia Pacific.

Read More...

Singapore Airlines Crowned 2024 Best Airline in Asia, Ranked #2 Globally

With our leave requests finally approved, it is time to pack our bags and escape the daily grind of the Lion City. It is important that our adventure is enjoyable from the moment we step on the plane as traveling is our chance to truly unwind.

To help us make the best choices, Skytrax, a UK-based consultancy specializing in the air transport industry, conducted the 2024 World Airline Awards. Since its inception in 1999, the World Airline Awards have been based on an annual global customer satisfaction survey. This year, the competition was fierce, with results so close they required a recount. Qatar Airways claimed the top spot globally, while Singapore Airlines secured a close second.

ASIA’S BEST AIRLINES IN 2024

#1: SINGAPORE AIRLINES

Singapore Airlines not only topped the list as Asia’s best airline but also secured the second spot globally. Known for its exceptional cabin crew and world-class service, Singapore Airlines has consistently ranked as a 5-star airline by Skytrax for the past three decades.

It was the first to introduce the Airbus A380 and Boeing 787-10 into service and is the only operator of the ultra-long-range Airbus A350-900. The airline is celebrated for its efficiency, convenience, and spacious cabins, making it a favorite among travelers.

#2: ANA (ALL NIPPON AIRWAYS)

Ranked fourth globally, ANA (All Nippon Airways) is a Japanese airline offering both domestic and international flights. Known for its excellent service, ANA has received a 5-star rating every year since 2013. The airline also won awards for the World’s Best Airport Services and the World’s Cleanest Airline. Committed to expansion, ANA plans to introduce new short-haul and medium-haul aircraft by 2030.

#3: CATHAY PACIFIC

Cathay Pacific, the flag carrier of Hong Kong, flies to over 200 destinations and consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction. This year, it was recognized as the World’s Cleanest Airline and the provider of the World’s Best Economy Class. It also received the Cargo Airline of the Year award at the 49th Annual Airline Industry Achievement Awards.

#4: JAPAN AIRLINES

Japan Airlines, founded in 1951, was Japan’s first international airline and now connects over 349 airports in 54 countries and regions. Known for its hospitality, it has been awarded a 5-star rating by Skytrax and consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction.

#5: EVA AIR

EVA Air, one of Taiwan’s largest airlines, operates both passenger and cargo services to more than 40 international destinations. Celebrated for its cheerful environment and brightly painted livery, EVA Air is known for its fun in-flight experience and a wide range of service items.

WORLDWIDE RECOGNITION

The World Airline Awards are based on a survey conducted from September 2023 to May 2024, with over 21 million customers from 100 countries who evaluated more than 350 airlines. This extensive survey captures a wide range of opinions and experiences, providing a comprehensive overview of the global airline industry.

Qatar Airways’ win marks its eighth time as the World’s Best Airline, highlighting its commitment to quality and service. Although Singapore Airlines slipped to second place, it remains a key player in the industry, renowned for its exceptional service and innovation.

LOOKING AHEAD

The World Airline Awards serve as a benchmark for excellence in the airline industry, recognizing airlines that excel in service quality, customer satisfaction, and innovation. The prominence of Southeast Asian airlines in these awards indicates a positive trend for the region’s aviation industry.

As these airlines continue to invest in fleet modernization and service enhancements, they are likely to further strengthen their positions in the global market.

Sources: 1,2, & 3

Read More...

Singapore’s Gold Medal Payout: World’s Most Generous Prize

As the 2024 Paris Olympic Games unfold, the world’s top athletes are competing not only for individual glory but also for their countries’ pride. The medals themselves are a spectacle: gold medals consist of 523 grams of silver coated in 6 grams of gold, while silver medals weigh 525 grams and are made of pure silver. Bronze medals weigh 455 grams and are composed of copper, tin, and zinc. Adding a unique touch to their traditional design, this year’s medals also incorporate a piece of iron from the Eiffel Tower.

While nations like the U.S., China, and France currently lead the medal tally, another exciting race is taking place behind the scenes: which country offers the most generous reward for Olympic gold?

The answer is Singapore, as it stands out with its extraordinary prize offerings. Through its Major Games Award Programme (MAP), it awards an impressive S$1 million to gold medalists in individual events. Silver medalists receive S$500,000, while bronze medalists are given S$250,000. For team events—such as athletics relays or badminton doubles—the reward is even higher, with winners taking home S$1.5 million. In the case of team sports like basketball or football, the prize reaches S$2 million. Silver and bronze medalists in team events receive 50% and 25% of these amounts, respectively.

To date, the only athlete to have claimed this substantial prize is swimmer Joseph Schooling, who won gold in the 100m butterfly at the Rio 2016 Olympics.

In comparison, American athletes are awarded US$37,500 (approximately S$51,000) for each gold medal, US$22,500 (about S$30,600) for silver, and US$15,000 (around S$20,400) for bronze. And the neighboring country, Malaysia, offers one million ringgit (approximately S$341,000) for a gold medal.

Other notable countries include Hong Kong, which provides HK$6 million (approximately S$1.03 million) per gold medalist through its Athlete Incentive Awards Scheme, and Serbia, which awards US$218,000 (about S$295,000) for gold medalists.

Image Credits: facebook.com/Olympics

With its impressive prize structure, Singapore leads the world in Olympic gold medal payouts, highlighting its dedication to celebrating athletes’ extraordinary accomplishments. As the Paris 2024 Olympics continue until August 11, we look forward to seeing more Singaporean athletes make their mark in sports.

Sources: 1,2, & 3

Read More...