Should you take many short, cheap trips in a year or invest your money in a long, expensive trip once a year?

a luggage full of items

If you’re like me, a wanderlust-er, you’re always plotting your next escape.

But here’s a big big dilemma: should you go for quick, budget-friendly getaways, or save up for one blow-out vacation?

Let’s look into this topic together.

The pros of taking multiple short, cheap trips
  • Boost your endorphin levels

I’m sure you know that wonderful feeling of counting down the days to your next getaway.

By taking multiple short trips throughout the year, you’re giving yourself more opportunities to feel that pre-vacation hype.

Let’s also not forget that brief escapes can increase your positive emotions.

  • Stress less, live more

Life is a rollercoaster of stress and by taking regular travel breaks, you’re giving your mental and body chances to reset.

Think of it as preventive medicine for your well-being!

The benefits of investing in one long, expensive trip
  • More bang for your buck

If you believe in “quality over quantity,” investing in one long, expensive trip each year is the way to go.

Instead of just skimming the surface with weekend getaways, you’re allowing yourself to fully experience a new country, food, and more.

Plus, you will have more flexibility in your travel plans, not having to cramp everything in days.

  • Expand your horizons

Saving up for that big annual trip means you can push your boundaries and explore places you’ve never been before.

man taking photo of woman against a backdrop of hot air balloons

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Maybe you’ve always wanted to trek through some great mountains or sail through some faraway islands.

With a bigger budget, these experiences become possible.

  • Stress-free planning

Travel is fun but planning multiple trips throughout the year can be exhausting.

By focusing on one big adventure, you can take your time researching and planning your destination; curate the perfect itinerary, find those hidden spots, and ensure every aspect of your trip is exactly what you want.

How to decide?
  • Your energy levels and vacation time

Think about how much time off you can realistically take from your boss.

If you’re the type who gets wiped out after a week away, shorter trips might be your thing since they are less fatiguing and easier to bounce back from.

But if you’ve got a decent chunk of time to spare and love exploring new places, a longer trip works.

  • Excitement and variety

Multiple short trips can keep your excitement levels sky-high throughout the year since there’s always another adventure waiting!

But don’t count out long trips just yet; they offer a different kind of thrill.

  • Destination demands

Some places are perfect for a quick weekend getaway, while others need more time to fully appreciate.

What’s on your bucket list?

If it’s a complex destination with loads to explore, a longer trip might be the way to go.

But if you’re eyeing several easily digestible locations, go for short trips.

If you crave variety and frequent escapes from the daily grind, choose short trips. But if you want that once-in-a-lifetime adventure, saving up for one HUGE journey could be worth it. Weekend road trips or weeks-long expeditions, it’s your pick.

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4 accommodations under $46/night in Bangkok, Thailand if you can free yourself for a weekend trip in October 2024

Bangkok Airbnb

Itching for a weekend getaway this October to Bangkok?

Then allow us to intro to you some budget-friendly accommodations, all under $46/night, that will allow you to rest your heads.

These affordable options ensure you will have more to spend on Pad Thai and more.

Neat studio rental flat close to Airport Link Station

Neat studio rental flat close to Airport Link Station

Price: $30/night (for 2 persons)

Travel dates: 11 to 13 October 2024

First up, we have this really cheap rental to start us off.

Touchdown at this Airbnb studio just a quick 7-minute stroll from the Airport Link Station.

Kick back on the wide balcony with city views from the 8th floor, then head downstairs for a caffeine boost at the building’s cafe or to pick up essentials at the convenience store.

With easy access to the city center, this studio is in a prime location.

Complimentary laundry service is provided so you can pack light.

Clean & bright vacation home near Huai Khwang Station

Clean & bright vacation home near Huai Khwang Station

Price: $32/night (for 2 persons)

Travel dates: 4 to 6 October 2024

Or consider this bright vacation home near Huai Khwang Station, a part of a bustling neighborhood that comes alive late into the night.

Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, while a double bed and high-quality latex pillows ensure you catch up on your ZZZs.

Stay connected with free high-speed Wi-Fi, and take advantage of the coin-operated laundry on the second floor if you need it.

There’s room for a third guest (at an additional fee), just ask the host for more info.

One-bedroom unit with gym & pool access

One-bedroom unit with gym & pool access

Price: $38/night (for 2 persons)

Travel dates: 18 to 20 October 2024

Looking for a home base near Bangkok’s Huamak Station?

This one-bedroom unit offers homely vibes—a queen bed, a living area with a sofa, and a kitchenette stocked with all the basics.

You also get access to the building’s amenities, including a pool to cool off after a day out and a gym to stay active.

Stay a while or stop over—this prime location near Huamak station lets you dip into the city’s bests.

Double room in a vintage-looking villa

Double room in a vintage-looking villa

Price: $45/night (for 2 persons)

Travel dates: 4 to 6 October 2024

Last but not least, escape the tourist trail and experience local life like a true Thai native with this double room in a vintage-looking villa.

This place offers a real taste of residential living.

You will be nestled right among the locals, with a convenience store and hawker center just around the corner.

Inside, the room features a king-size bed, a private balcony for catching the breeze, and a wide couch to slouch on after a day of exploring.

There’s also a proper work desk if you need to get things done.

And that’s about it from us. These abovementioned options under $46/night won’t stay unbooked for long for a weekend escape this October. So, reserve fast, pack your bags, and get ready to hop on your flight to Bangkok. Have a safe trip!

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Failing to declare large amounts of cash at Singapore checkpoints could lead to fines and/or jail time

immigration gates

Have you read the news about how a couple of individuals were apprehended at Changi Airport for failing to declare that they were bringing in more than S$20,000 in cash into Singapore?

If you don’t already know, know this:

You must declare such amounts online within 72 hours of arriving at or departing from Singapore’s checkpoints.

For more information on this and how to make your declaration, head to ICA’s official website.

Why declare?

Simply because the anonymity that cash provides makes it appealing for illegal activities.

Let’s also not forget that large sums of cash can be suspicious since there are now more efficient ways to keep and transfer money.

In addition, declarations help authorities track suspicious money flows and ensure that funds are not used for unlawful purposes or illegal activities that may lead to charges and imprisonment.

hand cuffs

Image Credits: npr.org

Why the S$20,000 limit?

The S$20,000 limit aims to balance effectiveness and intrusiveness.

If the limit were to be too high, illicit activities might go undetected and conversely, if it were to be too low, the requirement to declare would become overwhelming and unnecessary for small, everyday transactions.

In some borderline cases, authorities may issue a warning if you can provide a valid explanation for carrying large sums of cash.

Perhaps it’s for medical expenses, family emergencies, gifts, business transactions, education costs, or large purchases…

But you don’t want to play by ear when it comes to such things.

Consequences of non-declaration

Since the online declaration process within a 72-hour window leaves little room for excuses, failing to fully and accurately declare amounts over S$20,000 in cash or bearable negotiable instruments can result in up to three years of jail time, fines up to S$50,000, or both.

Moreover, some individuals explicitly try to evade detection by hiding cash in vehicles or on their bodies, further complicating matters.

Is this declaration only a Singapore thing?

No. Similar declaration requirements exist in other countries.

For instance:

In Australia, you must declare amounts over A$10,000.

In the United States, you need to declare amounts over US$10,000.

European Union countries like Germany, Spain, Italy, and France require declarations for amounts over 10,000 euros.

The United Kingdom has a limit of £10,000.

In the UAE, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the limit is 60,000 dirhams, etc.

By understanding and adhering to these requirements specific to the country you’re entering/leaving, you can help ensure the security and integrity of financial systems globally and most importantly, don’t get yourself into unnecessary trouble with the law.

Travel with the right knowledge in your mind, yeah? 😉

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Best Handheld Fans to Beat the Heat for Under S$30

Are you tired of feeling hot and uncomfortable in Singapore’s sweltering heat? Do you want a solution that is both effective and affordable? Look no further than these cooling portable fans!

Stores selling these fans, some of which conveniently attach to the neck or wrist, report rocket sales compared to last year. They have become the latest trend for coping with elevated temperatures in Singapore and around the world. With the right fan, you can enjoy a cool and refreshing breeze to stay comfortable all year round. These products are all available online on Shopee or Lazada.

#1: JISULIFE MINI PORTABLE FAN

When it comes to choosing a portable fan, the top choice is from JISULIFE, an established provider of sustainable gadgets for personal use. Try their JISULIFE Mini Portable Fan, which impresses with its 46-hour battery life, meaning you won’t need to charge it often.

Image Credits: JISULIFE

Available in five different pastel shades, this handheld portable fan also doubles as a desk fan, flashlight, and power bank. Talk about versatility! Weighing 129g or 180g, with a battery capacity ranging from 2000mAh to 4800mAh, and a battery life of 20 to 46 hours, it charges in 3 hours and costs S$21.80 to S$27.25.

#2: SIMPLUS PORTABLE MINI FAN

Another top contender in Singapore’s best portable handheld fan options is the Simplus Portable Mini Fan. Personally, I own their waffle maker and it has been our go-to breakfast fix.

Image Credits: simplus.online

Its built-in noise reduction technology makes it ultra-quiet, even with its powerful wind-gathering air ducts. You can easily adjust the wind speed by clicking the control button. The carabiner design also makes it extra convenient to bring around and doubles as a desk fan! The hidden blades make this fan particularly safe for parents or those traveling with kids. Use it on your morning stroll or during travels without worrying about safety! Weighing 125g, with a battery capacity of 1200mAh, and a battery life of 5 hours, it charges in 2 hours and costs S$10.90.

#3: GADGET MIX MINI PORTABLE HANDHELD FAN

The Gadget Mix Mini Handheld Fan is so small it’s only a little larger than a lollipop, making it incredibly convenient to slip into your bag. Despite its minute size, this fan is extremely lightweight, weighing just 86 grams—almost the weight of a tomato!

Image Credits: Gadget Mix

It features a low-noise motor that emulates the sound of natural wind and offers three wind speeds to choose from. Additionally, this Gadget Mix fan can be fixed on a stand to be used on your desk. It’s the ideal multifunctional companion to keep cool whenever and wherever! With a battery capacity of 1200mAh, and a battery life of 1 hour, it charges in 3.5 hours and costs S$14.90.

#4: MINTHOUZ PORTABLE STROLLER MINI FAN

Travelling to a theme park with your family soon? Consider buying the Minthouz Portable Stroller Mini Fan. Powered by a built-in rechargeable lithium battery, you’ll avoid the hassle of needing extra batteries.

Image Credits: Minthouz

Its standout feature is the aromatherapy function, which protects your baby from mosquito bites outdoors. Simply add liquid mosquito repellent into the aromatherapy box, and let the fan work its magic! Weighing approximately 200g, with a battery capacity of 2000mAh, and a battery life of 2 to 7.5 hours, it charges in 3.5 hours and costs S$17.66.

#5: MUJI PORTABLE USB HANDHELD FAN

USB fans may be tiny, but don’t underestimate their power. The MUJI Portable USB Handheld Fan is perfect for both outdoor and indoor use. Its convertible handle allows it to be used as a desktop fan.

Image Credits: muji.com/sg

This fan also features a “Rhythm” wind mode, which operates on low-speed mode and switches on and off every five seconds to emulate natural wind. Weighing 92g, with a battery capacity of 1400mAh, and a battery life of 2 to 12 hours, it charges in 2.5 hours and costs S$19.00.

#6: SPACE DUCKLING MISTING FAN

Last on this list is a cute handheld fan that doubles as a desk fan – the Space Duckling Misting Fan. Available in three pastel colors, it features an adorable duckling in an astronaut helmet at its center. It dispenses mist to further cool your surroundings—just add cold or iced water with the provided funnel into the opening at the top of the fan. Get it online for S$12.33.

Image Credits: shopee.sg

Stay cool and beat the heat with these top handheld fans, all under S$30. Whether you’re outdoors or indoors, these fans will keep you comfortable and refreshed!

Sources: 1 & 2

 

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Heymax.ai raises $3.5M to expand on rewards platform for consumers and brands

heymax.ai blog banner

Have you heard of a software company called Heymax.ai?

News has it recently that they have raised $3.5 million to help people earn rewards from everyday purchases.

What is it about?

If you’re not familiar with the brand, Heymax.ai is a personal finance and shopping app that lets you earn “Max Miles” from over 500 businesses.

You can redeem those miles for flights on any airline or transfer them to 25 hotel and airline rewards programs.

 

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The company just raised $3.5 million led by January Capital, with other investors like Tenity and Ascend Angels participating.

They are pretty new in the market, having been founded in late 2023 by four former Meta engineers.

Their CEO Joe Lu says people have a hard time taking advantage of all their reward options and Heymax.ai wants to make it easy to unlock rewards from regular spending.

Their goal is to help each customer earn a free vacation every year.

Led by January Capital

January Capital believes in Heymax.ai’s vision of making rewards programs more connected.

Many rewards programs are limited to one company, making it harder for merchants to attract new customers and for consumers to manage their spending, noted Roy Ong, an investor at January Capital.

He added that Heymax.ai aims to change that and solve these problems for both merchants and customers.

With the team’s experience in tech, there’s confidence they could achieve this vision.

Growing customer base

Over 50,000 people have used Heymax.ai so far to earn over 50 million Max Miles, redeeming more than 10,000 flights.

The platform also gives recommendations on what credit cards offer the best rewards for your purchases so you don’t have to spend time doing your research.

Major stores like Amazon, Apple, and Grab are partners, so you earn miles when shopping there.

 

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Heymax.ai has also partnered with Visa so you can track rewards from all your Visa cards in one place.

Even companies like SingSaver and Airwallex are starting to offer Max Miles too to reward their customers.

Expansion plans

After launching in Singapore, Heymax.ai expanded to Australia in November 2023.

They plan to enter more Asia Pacific markets soon.

CEO Joe Lu mentioned that he’s very excited about a future where customers worldwide can easily maximize their rewards and get more free trips from Heymax.ai each year to create cherished memories.

“To achieve that, we are firing on all cylinders to bring more partners on board to reward customers with Max Miles,” he added.

Interested in turning your expenses into miles and need more info?

Find out how via heymax.ai.

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