Surprisingly Affordable Yet Quality Japanese Brands In Singapore

Uniqlo

Long before JPOP was mainstream, Japanese brands had been circulating the worldwide market. Valuing their historical significance, contemporary influence, and innovative style, Japan never seize to amaze its consumers. On that note, here are 4 Surprisingly Affordable Yet Quality Japanese Brands Available In Singapore…

1. MUJI

I am in love with MUJI’s products not only because of its simplicity but also because of its efficacy. Most of their products are practical such as the CT LINEN POLY SOFT BOX OBLONG S HALF, a foldable fabric storage box for only S$13.

Curated by Ryohin Keikaku Co., Ltd., MUJI upholds the philosophy of bringing quality products at lower prices. This is because of their intensive selection for raw materials. A testament of that are their stationery items including office supplies, packaging items, acrylic storage, desktop items, and handphone accessories with prices ranging from S$0.90-S$49. Aside from this, they also sell tasty foods and skin care products, which Japan is truly known for.

Image Credits: Paul Davidson via Flickr

Image Credits: Paul Davidson via Flickr

MUJI has 9 outlets islandwide, click here for more details.

2. TSUBAKI

Everyone knows that a woman’s crowning glory is her hair. A shiny, smooth, and beautiful hair is the definitive characteristics of a good hair care brand. TSUBAKI fuses its Japanese roots by adding the hair ingredient of ancient times – the Camellia oil. Although it was launched in 2006, TSUBAKI has been leading the hair care brand in Japan with over 270 million units of shipments worldwide. This is due to their affordability, quality, attractive packaging, and celebrity endorsers. As it is gracing Singapore, users can surely love the effect of lustrous and frizz-free hair with regular use. TSUBAKI is available at all Watsons outlet with prices as low as S$8.90 (e.g., TSUBAKI Shining Shampoo 220ml and TSUBAKI Damage Care Conditioner 220ml).

 

3. UNIQLO

A Japanese brand that is celebrated by international clientele, UNIQLO’s shops have always something for everyone. From plain T-shirts, patterned dresses, oxford shirts, winter jackets, and undergarments…UNIQLO pieces proves to be diverse. Aside from that they are known for quality products sold at a reasonable rate. Focusing on quality helps reduce waste. With prices as low as S$4.90, UNIQLO still offers worldwide sales. Fancy a Striped 3/4 Sleeve Dress?

It is available now for S$29.90 – save S$20! Or how about a classic long sleeves for men? It is available now for S$12.90 – save S$12!

UNIQLO has 22 outlets islandwide, click here for more details.

4. HADA LABO

Dreaming of a flawless and fair skin? Dream no more. Japan has brought its special formulation to Singapore with Hada Labo’s skin care line. Hada Labo embodies an uncomplicated approach to skin care products with its motto “Nothing More, Nothing Less” being present in their ingredients and product processing. This means that each product is formulated with the suitable ingredients to meet the needs of the consumers. For example, they use Retinol for the anti-aging products and Hyaluronic Acids for the hydrating products.

Their prices are as low as S$12.90 (Retinol Lifting + Firming Lotion) and as high as S$32.90 (Arbutin White Essence). Hada Labo is available at all Watsons outlets. Here is a short clip of a Japanese skin care regimen incorporating Hada Labo’s products:

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Instagram-Worthy Hostels In Singapore With Services Under S$28

First, a hostel is a place where a guest can rent a bed while sharing the facilities such as the bathroom, lounge, and kitchen with other guests. So, if you value social interaction rather than privacy then, a hostel is a better and cheaper option for you. Whether you are a tourist looking for new acquaintances or a group of local friends looking for an awesome place to stay for the night, here are affordable yet aesthetically pleasing hostels that are worth to post on Instagram:

1. RUCKSACK INN (LAVENDER STREET)

Singapore’s most award winning hostel chain since 2009 to present, Rucksack Inn at Lavender Street, boasts its convenience as it is just half an hour away from the major tourist attractions such as Orchard Road, Clarke Quay, Sentosa, and Chinatown. The place exudes a hip, vibrant, and youthful vibe. Their rooms are fully air-conditioned with Free WiFi connection throughout the building. Also, a simple breakfast will be provided at no charge. Rates start at S$22 per night.

Image Credits: www.rucksackinn.com

Image Credits: www.rucksackinn.com

Location: 280 Lavender Street, Singapore 338800
(Check out more photos or make your booking here: Rucksack Inn, Chinatown, Singapore)

2. BEARY GOOD HOSTEL

A Beary Good Hostel is the good place for a cozy and clean stay. As the name suggests, it is filled with adorable teddy bears. The rooms are painted colorfully in yellow, blue, and green. You and your friends can enjoy appreciating our rich heritage at Chinatown or partying all night with no curfew or extra charges as the hostel’s reception service is open for 24 hours. The rates starting at only S$27 per bed is inclusive of free flow of breakfast, beverage, free local phone calls, WiFi connection, and notebook access. If the weather is not on your side, worry not. You can chill out in the hostel while playing with their board games and console.

Location: 66A and 66B Pagoda Street, Singapore, 059225
(Check out more photos or make your booking here: A Beary Good Hostel, Chinatown, Singapore)

3. MONI GALLERY HOSTEL

For people who are passionate for art like me then, a pleasant stay at the Moni Gallery Hostel is perfect for you. It is not just a hostel; it is an art gallery showcasing artworks that you can purchase. Also, it includes these amenities: reception, art gallery lobby, alfresco pantry, mixed dorm, female dorm, family room, club room, classic room, bathrooms, and reading corner. Price of a bed starts at S$22 per night.

Location: 263 Lavender Street, Singapore 338795
(Check out more photos or make your booking here: Moni Gallery Hostel, Kallang, Singapore)

4. 5 FOOTWAY INN

Interestingly, 5 Footway Inn got its name as the place has a five-foot-wide walkway. They pride themselves in offering comfortable, stylish, and top-rated facilities at a friendly price. With its classically beautiful interior, you will surely feel that it is worth every dollar spent. Rates start at S$22 per night.

Image Credits: www.5footwayinn.com

Image Credits: www.5footwayinn.com

Location: 3 Locations in Singapore, visit here: www.5footwayinn.com
(Check out more photos or make your booking here: 5Footway.inn Project Bugis, Rochor, Singapore)

5. BUNC @ RADIUS HOSTEL

A minimalistic haven filled with monochromatic interior, Bunc @ Radius is suitable for people who seek for serenity and cleanliness. They fuse together the elements of a luxury boutique hotel with the culture of a hostel. Aside from that, they you can enjoy their attraction ticket plus a night accommodation package – hurry as its valid until May 31, 2015 only. Rates start at S$25 per night.

Image Credits: www.bunchostel.com

Image Credits: www.bunchostel.com

Image Credits: www.bunchostel.com

Image Credits: www.bunchostel.com

Locations:
15 Upper Weld Road. Singapore 207372
36 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058670
(Check out more photos or make your booking here: Bunc at Radius Hostel on Clarke Quay, Riverside, Singapore)

Sources: Wikipedia and Travel Fish

[Disclaimer: The prices and information on this article were accurate during the time of writing.]

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4 Ways To Get Cheap Moving Services In Singapore

Starting a new life as a freshly hired expat or a newlywed couple encourages a new chapter of moving into your new nest. That’s not all, upgrading or downgrading of offices can encourage a relocation plan too. These transitions show that it is important to find efficient moving services at affordable prices. Is that possible in Singapore? Yes it is! Here are the 4 Ways To Get Cheap Moving Services In Singapore…

1. HIRE A PROFESSIONAL MOVING SERVICE

Number 1 may be costly compared to the other ways in this list but it is proven to be the most convenient. Professional movers will not only load your items but they can also pack it for you. In order to get the cheapest option, you must compare the professional moving services available in the market. Take advantage of the free quotations and the current promotions. The average price range of these services is from S$40-100.

Here are some of the moving services dedicated to bring professionalism with the best rates:

a. RENTALORRY 

With authentic high ratings on their Facebook page, Rentalorry Singapore is a transportation and moving company that hires only professional movers for your common house moves or office moves. Their movers also specialize in plants moving and international moves. Rentalorry invests heavily in providing awesome customer service, so liaising and getting free quotations from them will be smooth and hassle free!

Contact +65 6715 1507 or visit rentalorrysingapore.com

b. SHALOM MOVERS

Aiming to provide reliable and fuss-free moving services, Shalom Movers at Kaki Bukit Road, provide several services such as residential moving, office moving, express delivery, and international moving.

Contact +65 6287 6117 or visit shalom.com.sg

2. HAIL A CAB

If you were only moving a certain amount of items (i.e., 2-4 boxes) then, hiring a cab would do the trick. If you are relocating to a relatively short distance then, the ride will only cost you about S$8-15. Here is a comprehensive list of Singapore Taxi services complete with contact numbers and booking fees: taxisingapore.com.

3. RIDE THE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

One of the cheapest ways to move your items from Point A to Point B is to carry it via MRT or Bus. Although, this can be less convenient as security check guards may want to check your items first. Nonetheless, Singapore’s efficient public transportation will get you there on time.

4. SEEK HELP FROM A FRIEND

If you have a kind-hearted friend that is willing to help you move your stuff by using his or her car then, you are the luckiest of all. A good friend who is willing to make a few rides back and forth without anything in return is a friend for keeps. Give back by cooking a lovely meal for two in your new home.

Image Credits: Alpha via Flickr

Image Credits: Alpha via Flickr

* Update 29 Sep 16: An earlier version of this article includes 3 professional moving services, of which 2 are no longer in operation. We have added Rentalorry which provide a large fleet of transportation vehicles at competitive rate

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Budget-Friendly Ways To Build Your Dream Home Office

If you are waving goodbye to the office life and venturing to the exciting world of freelance or self-employment, you will find yourself in need of a home office. Luckily, due to modern technology, building a home office is easier than ever before. Here are some budget-friendly ways you can start with…

1. DO IT YOURSELF

Instead of hiring an interior designer or other professionals, decorate your office by yourself. You have the freedom to choose your working space. Be creative, as your imagination knows no bounds. For example, you may hang inspiring posters or family photos to motivate you everyday.

2. USE WHAT YOU ALREADY HAVE

Recycle and repurpose your old furniture or decorative materials. Buried in your attic or closets are useful yet forgotten things such as lamps, chairs, or notebooks. Seek for these things. Then, reinvent these forgotten treasures by fixing and painting on them. Not only did you save more money but you also saved Mother Earth. 🙂

If purchasing for other items is necessary, consider to…

3. PURCHASE FURNITURE ONLINE

Looking for stylish yet inexpensive furniture? Then, GROUPON.sg is the website for you! They currently offer a wide selection of discounted furniture but, here are some of my top picks:

a. The classically beautiful Funika 3-Tier 2-Tone Reversible Bookcase priced at S$25.90 (38% off). Available here.

b. The assorted colors of Bolton Swivel Chair with Armrest priced at S$79 (47% off). Available here.

c. The space-saving Set of 2 Folding Chairs priced at $29.90 (30% off). Available here.

d. The maple colored 2-Tier Desk priced at S$59 (54% off). Available here.

4. BARGAIN AT THE FLEA MARKETS

It is possible to buy unique yet affordable pieces of electronics, rags, stationery, paintings, and furniture at Singapore’s flea markets and thrift shops. Some of the known fleas include MAAD (Market of Artists and Designers), Zouk Flea & Easy, and China Square Central Sunday Flea Market.

Related Article: Score Great Deals At Flea Markets In Just 5 Steps

5. LASTLY, SHOP DURING SALES

To save more money, list down everything that you need for your home office. Then, buy these items one by one once the sale comes up. It is okay to take your time in building up your ideal haven since you are the master of your own time. One of the large-scale brand that offer quality products at low prices is IKEA Singapore. And, they occasionally have special product offers. For example, you may add a tampered glass VITTSJÖ laptop support to your home office for only S$19.90 (U.P. S$39.90).

Image Credits: Jeremy Levine via Flickr

Image Credits: Jeremy Levine via Flickr

Building your own home office may take time, money, and effort but, once you found something you truly love (whether it be blogging or web designing), all of these will be well worth it. 🙂

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The Hippest Food Places In Singapore, Serving Under S$30

Hipster, a sub-culture in today’s society, exhibits appreciation for freedom, creativity, and wit. Thus, hipster places exude a youthful vibe that opposes the status quo. A modern spin on things results to the cultural experimentation of dishes. Where exactly are these hip food places located? Well, they are all over Singapore. In hawker centers, inside the malls, and more. With these myriad of choices, here are the best ones that serve dishes under S$30…

1. PERCOLATE

Located in the Bedok area, is a humble cafe opened by a few friends. The place is simple, cozy, and beautifully decorated that is why it brings a relaxing ambiance to its customers. Prices are budget-friendly with an average price of S$10. A 5-oz of white will only cost you S$4.50 while a yummy Smoked Salmon with Wasabi Cream Sandwich will cost you S$9. Good prices offering delectable dishes…who am I to complain?

Location: 136 Bedok North Avenue 3, #01-152B Singapore 460136

2. IMMANUEL FRENCH KITCHEN

Have you ever eaten fine French cuisine in a “Kopitiam” setting? If not then, you have not taste the media acclaimed: Immanuel French Kitchen. A brainchild of Chef Immanuel Tee, this food stall serves restaurant quality dishes using only the finest dining techniques such as espumas and braising. At a an affordable price, Immanuel French Kitchen dishes are priced at S$18 on the average. People have only good things to say with their Duck Confit. While a hip Miso Foi Gras (S$16.50) was made with fusing Japanese cuisine elements.

Location: Blk 119, Bukit Merah Lane 1, Singapore 151119

3. TWO WINGS

The unique thing about Two Wings is that the owner Jeremy Loh used their original family recipe that have been passed down to each succeeding generations since 1970. Their amazing Crispy Wings that are imported from Brazil will cost you S$8.50 for 4 pieces and S$24 for 12. A true must-try considering the inexpensive prices and the glorious crunch of each wing. If you are a health-conscious individual, fear not. They offer Fresh Cut Salad for only S$3 and you can choose between balsamic vinaigrette or honey mustard dressing.

Location: 119 Bukit Merah Lane 1, Singapore 151119

4. FIX

Fix Cafe is a poolside cafe located at the Balestier area. Sounds like a cool place doesn’t it? You are correct! The place is youthful and appealing that even most of the customers are young. A notable modern take on their menu is their naans. Instead of using the traditional wrap, they used naan in making dishes like Chicken Tikka Naanwich (S$11) and Beef & Kimchi Naanwich (S$11). For dessert lovers, you must order the Butterscotch Arabica Choux (S$6) or the Strawberry Pistachio Rose Tart (S$6). Surely, Fix is a place for affordable and delicious pastries, grilled sandwiches, and artisan coffee.

Image Credits: www.facebook.com/FIXsg

Image Credits: www.facebook.com/FIXsg

Location: HomeTeam NS-JOM Clubhouse, 31 Ah Hood Road Singapore 329979

5. STEW KÜCHE

If you think that European dishes are only served in “Atas” restaurants then, you have got one thing wrong. Located in a busy kopitiam is a stall that fuses Swiss-German and Italian cuisine. With their scrumptious feasts prepared in a very experienced way, it is surprising that their prices are under S$30! It is recommeded that you try their special dishes such as the Paprika Beef Goulash (S$15.50) and the wide array of sausages (priced from S$6.90). They also sell a broad selection of craft beers for all the beer lovers out there.

Location: 119 Bukit Merah Lane 1, Singapore 151119

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