Delicious And Affordable Places For Snacks in Singapore

One of my favorite things to do when I am bored is snacking! Who does not love indulging on small amounts of that sweet slice of cake or that salty pack of potato chips? Besides these classics, there are other budget-friendly snacks that are to die for!

Inexpensive does not always come with bad taste if you know the right places to look. That being said, here are 4 delicious yet affordable places to satisfy your hunger for quick bites…

1. TAI-PARFAIT

In 2014, a Japanese dessert shop called Tai-Parfait graced Singapore at the Bugis Junction. Brought by Dining Innovation Singapore, Tai-Parfait boasts its Taiyaki – a Japanese original fish-shaped pancake filled with sweet red bean paste. What’s more? You can also put ice cream, fruits, and other toppings on your dessert.

For example, you may try the Matcha Azuki Tai-Parfait for S$5.50. It is a chocolate-filled Taiyaki topped with Matcha cream, Green Tea ice cream, and Azuki. Sounds delicious, doesn’t it?

Image Credits: facebook.com/TaiParfait

Image Credits: facebook.com/TaiParfait

Go ahead and get your very own Tai-Parfait desserts at their 3 outlets.  

2. SHIHLIN TAIWAN STREET SNACKS

I have to be honest! My sisters and I consider XXL Crispy Chicken as one of our favorite snacks. Its crispy breadcrumbs exterior mixed with chili powder and juicy chicken cuts dance gracefully with our taste buds.

If you were going to ask me where to get it, I would answer Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks right away. This snack is sold for about S$4.20.

Image Credits: facebook.com/shihlinsnacks

Image Credits: facebook.com/shihlinsnacks

Try it at one of their 4 outlets. Trust me, you would not regret it!

3. OLD CHANG KEE

The brand name speaks for itself. Old Chang Kee has been serving us with their signature curry puffs for over 50 years!

A curry puff is a fried pastry made with curry chicken, eggs, and soft potatoes. You cannot go wrong with Old Chang Kee’s consistency in preparing crispy and zesty curry puffs that are filled with herbs and spices. These are sold for only S$1.40 each.

With a bunch of outlets nationwide, you are sure to find one that is nearby.

4. WHAT THE FRIES!

Say you are out with your friends and you want to get a snack, what better food to share than a bowl of flavored fries? What The Fries! sells creatively delicious flavors such as Nacho Cheese, Chili Crab, Herb Mayo, Bolognese, and Wasabi.

Made with thick-cut potatoes and a sizable sauce, this hot snack is a great way to satisfy your tummy. Get a single serving for S$3.90 or a double serving for S$4.90. If that is not enough, you can try their golden nuggets or curly fries for S$4.90.

Image Credits: facebook.com/WhatTheFries

Image Credits: facebook.com/WhatTheFries

Location: 2 Jurong East Central 1, J Cube Building, #B1-K09 Singapore 609731

Sources: 1 & 2

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Excellent Ways To Showcase “Singlish” With Pride

Singapore is unique melting pot of diverse cultures such as Chinese, Malay, and Indian. These cultures fused together to build the unofficial common language of all Singaporeans – the Singlish. Despite one’s efforts to speak fluent English, one cannot help it when Singlish phrases kicks in so naturally. You get so comfortable with it that your foreign friends look at you with total perplexity.

How do exactly explain what “leh”, “liao”, or “lah” is?

Well, you can start by (affordably) wearing it with pride!

1. THE LITTLE DRÖM STORE

Keychains: S$13.90 & Badges: S$20. Buy here.

From badges to keychains, you name it…they have it! The Little Dröm Store sells local items for several types of Singaporean.

Their gold-plated keychains have 30 different designs like Huat ah, Chope, Kopi Uncle, and Shiok. With that many choices, you will surely find one you like. While the badges have 16 different designs. From the Precise (Zhun zhun guni hoon), to the Champion (Kiasu), and the Composed Singaporean (Steady Pom Pipi), this store has it all for you!

Image Credits: http://shop.thelittledromstore.com/product/chope-kc

Image Credits: shop.thelittledromstore.com/product/chope-kc

2. NAIISE.

Singlish Poster (A3 Size): S$15. Buy here.

Nothing screams your pride for Singlish even more than a poster hanged in your home or office. Aside from posting your precious family portraits, post this printed Singlish words and phrases by angmohdan. Also, you may share it with your loved ones who are overseas to remind them of our beautiful land!

Image Credits: www.angmohdan.com

Image Credits: www.angmohdan.com

3. SIMITAIJI

Uniquely Singaporean Phrases: S$25. Buy here. 

Sprinkled with Singaporean humor, Simitaiji presents the Uniquely Singaporean Phrases unisex tees that are available in two nationalistic colors. Simitaiji was founded by two designers from diverse backgrounds and was brought together by their love of the country.

Image Credits: facebook.com/hello.simitaiji

Image Credits: facebook.com/hello.simitaiji

Worry not if you fit the tee as they come in XXS-L!

4. HOSAY!

Hosay! Itunes App: Free. Buy here.

If you want to master your “mother-tongue” even more, do it with this free yet cool app! It comes with 80 unique Singaporean expressions and their meanings. Learn how to pronounce phrases such as “Wah Lau” or “Jialat”. A review by Kitty966 even added that this really funny App has accurate pronunciations.

Complete with insults, kopitiam, gambling, and character lingo – this App will surely brush up your Singlish skills while tickling your funny bone.

Image Credits: Hosay! via Itunes

Image Credits: Hosay! via Itunes

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Wallet-Friendly Ways To Make Parenting Simple And Fun

One of the best parts of parenting is spending quality time with your children. Most of the time, creating fun memories are simple. However, there are days when it is far from easy.

This is why you must unlock the “inner child” within you by trying these inexpensive ideas:

1. BE A PART OF WHAT THEY LOVE TO DO

In the weekends, you just want to lay down and rest your body from all the week’s work. But, you also want to spend time with your beloved ones. Kill these two birds with one stone with the “Car Play Shirt”.

The Car Play Shirt allows you to relax and lay down while your kids are playing with the activity on your back. The interactive puzzle is drawn at the back of your shirt lets your boys imagine where they want their cool cars to go. You can either purchase them for S$32.17 or make your own by following this tutorial.

Image Credits: thebluebasket.blogspot.sg/2011/09/tutorial-car-shirt.html

Image Credits: thebluebasket.blogspot.sg/2011/09/tutorial-car-shirt.html

2. TALK ABOUT THEIR FEELINGS

Children who do not express themselves genuinely can become people-pleasers with low self-esteem or unhappy adults who cannot reach their fullest potentials. This is why as parents, it is important to encourage the child to be more demonstrative.

Do so by making “Paper Plate Emotion Masks”. The goal of this artistic activity is to open up a conversation with your children to know more about them. With this, you can emphasize more on happy situations and decrease the sad situations.

Simply gather these materials: paper plates, popsicle sticks, markers, crayons, scissors, and tape. Then, let your child create a mask with basic emotions such as happy, sad, scared and angry. If you need more help, follow the instructions here.

Image Credits: thepinterestedparent.com/2013/11/teaching-toddlers-emotions

Image Credits: thepinterestedparent.com/2013/11/teaching-toddlers-emotions

Note: This activity is great for toddlers and preschoolers.

3. FEED YOUR CHILD’S IMAGINATION

If you want a few minutes to an hour to yourself to do some work at home, you can try indulging your child with arts and crafts. Aside from keeping him or her occupied, art therapy is especially beneficial for children since they are naturally more imaginative and creative. Furthermore, it enhances the child’s problem solving and cognitive (brain) skills.

Inspired by various craft from the Internet, a blogger that goes by the name of “A Little Learning For Two” came up with the “Sticky Window Art”. This easy craft lets your child illustrate endless images with colorful sticks drawn on the “sticky paper” that is plastered in the window. You would need these four items: scissors, clear contact paper, tape, and colored matchsticks/popsicle sticks. After which, follow the tutorial here.

Image Credits: alittlelearningfortwo.blogspot.sg/2010/11/sticky-window-art.html

Image Credits: alittlelearningfortwo.blogspot.sg/2010/11/sticky-window-art.html

Much to the blogger’s surprise, her daughter played this activity for almost an hour without losing interest!

Note: A roll of clear contact paper can be found at your nearest stationery shop such as Popular Bookstore. 

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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Visit The Most Instagrammable Architectures In Singapore

Everyone deserves to take a break from all the urban madness we face on a daily basis. A spontaneous break that does not require you to travel overseas or spend too much money.

I am talking about a day spent on savoring the aesthetically pleasing architectural gems in Singapore!

If you are up for it, spend under S$25 as you visit one of these Instagram-worthy architectures:

1. THE ARTS HOUSE

The Arts House is a creative landscape situated at the Old Parliament building. This longstanding building was inspired by the Palladian architecture – a European style of architecture derived from the designs of Andrea Palladio. Now, it is a home for a museum that presents multidisciplinary programs such as film, performing and visual arts.

Image Credits: alantankenghoe via Flickr (CC License)

Image Credits: alantankenghoe via Flickr (CC License)

Indulge on The Art House’s elegant and historical architecture as well as the amazing art form brought by the “G is for German Giants” show on November 13. Standard tickets are sold for S$20 while students and senior citizens can get it for S$15.

2. KONG SENG ROAD SHOPHOUSES

About 15 minutes away from the Eunos MRT is a vivid architecture that can potentially be a photo-shoot location – the Koon Seng Road. It is filled with traditional Peranakan shophouses that are pastel colored and intricately embellished. Some of them were immaculately restored.

Be in awe with the rich architectural background as you take gorgeous selfies!

3. STADIUM MRT STATION 

Who would have thought that an architectural jewel can reside alongside the public transportation? I did not…until I saw the Stadium MRT station!

Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons (Author: Circleline4)

Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons (Author: Circleline4)

The station, designed by the popular WOHA Architects, was so masterfully done that it was awarded with the “Design Of The Year of the President’s Design Award” in 2010. Its sleek lines and slashes on top open to a wider space below.

4. ARTSCIENCE MUSEUM

Another museum with an outstanding architecture is the ArtScience Museum located at Marina Bay Sands. You might have seen the building from afar because of its iconic shape that has “10 fingers” anchored by a unique round base in the middle. The modern and exquisite detailing is perfect for the central themes of the museum.

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

Grab the opportunity to catch the poetic and informative “Hermès Leather Forever” exhibition for free from now until December 13 (T&Cs apply).

5. THE SANDCRAWLER

If you are a fan of Lucasfilm’s massive movie franchise, you would love to see the Sandcrawler in real life! Inspired by the fortresses inhabited by the hooded Jawas in Star Wars films, the Sandcrawler building is the regional headquarters of Lucasfilm Singapore. The eight-story building is made up of metallic glass that curves along its edges, giving it a futuristic feel.

Image Credits: Catriona Ward via Flickr (CC License-Attribution-ShareAlike)

Image Credits: Catriona Ward via Flickr (CC License-Attribution-ShareAlike)

The public can only see its wonderful urban jungle exterior as the building is a working production facility. Nonetheless, you can always apply for a job there. Click here to apply.

May the force be with you! 🙂

Sources: 1,  2, & 3

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5 Budget-Friendly Ways To Enhance Your Eyesight

With each word that we type on our computers, each group message that we read on our mobile phones, and each movie that we watch on our televisions – we rely on our eyes more than ever.

The continuous strain we put on our eyes can cause fatigue and other eye problems. Not to mention, Myopia or short-sightedness has been one of the public’s health concerns. The prevalence of Myopia in Singapore among all ages, was considered as one of the highest in the world.

That said, here are five ways to sharpen your vision and to see a “brighter” future ahead…

1. SEEK THE OUTDOORS

Scientists believe that high levels of light triggers the retina to release a chemical called “Dopamine” that stops the eyeball from lengthening. This belief was supported by studies in the United States and Australia, which showed that children who spent at least 21 hours a week outdoors have decreased their risk of suffering from short-sightedness.

So, it is best to encourage your kids to embrace the outdoorsy lifestyle. Make it a fun and rewarding experience by having family outings or playing outdoor sports.

2. EAT HEALTHY FOOD

Healthy food that are rich in zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, and vitamin E can help  protect your eyes from age-related vision problems.

Eat your way to a better vision by indulging on leafy green vegetables (e.g., spinach or kale), fishes (e.g., salmon or tuna), non-meat protein sources (e.g., nuts or beans), and citrus fruits (e.g., orange or pomelo) regularly.

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

3. QUIT CIGARETTE SMOKING

Smoking affects your health in more ways than one. Aside from increasing our risk of developing heart disease and lung cancer, smoking can lead to vision loss. Smoking increases the risk of Dry Eye Syndrome, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts.

If you want to keep your vision in tact, quit smoking cigarettes as early as you can. Do not lose hope if you have tried and failed in the past because more you try, the more likely you are going to succeed. Determination and perseverance are everything!

4. GIVE YOUR EYES A BREAK

Give your eyes the break it clearly deserves by looking away from the computer every once in a while. Rest your eyes about 10 minutes for every 50 minutes you spent in front of the computer screen.

If your eyes feel really tired after work, Dr. Mao Shing Ni (the bestselling author of Secrets of Longevity) suggests putting cooled cucumber slices over your eyelids while lying down.

5. EXERCISE YOUR EYES

Aside from giving your eyes a break, you must exercise it to remove the tension and to improve your vision naturally.

Simply follow these steps…

a. Rub your palms together to create heat then, place it against your eyes for 5 seconds to warm it up.

b. Roll your eyes in different directions by slowly circling them 10 times clockwise and 10 times counterclockwise.

c. Use your thumb knuckles to massage your temples in small circles 20 times in one direction and another 20 times in the opposite direction. Repeat the same motion above the midpoint of the eyebrows and at the forehead.

Or, move along with this “Animated Eye Exercises” video:

Sources: 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , & 5

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