Fun & Exciting Things to Do in Singapore This September, Under S$50

#1: A MID-AUTUMN ODYSSEY BY EU YAN SANG

Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with Eu Yan Sang over delicious mooncakes, fragrant brewed tea, and more. This event takes place at two locations: Orchard Paragon on 7 September 2024 and Takashimaya on 14 September 2024, both from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Tickets are priced at S$28 for Eu Rewards Members and S$48 for Non-Members.

Grab a friend or family member to join in this delightful experience, which includes mooncake and tea sampling, tea appreciation with tea master Mr. Lincoln Han (on 7 September), a TCM talk by expert Physician Eric Tan (on 14 September), a DIY Mid-Autumn lantern session, light refreshments, and goodies worth S$76.20. Sounds like a good plan? Buy your tickets here.

#2: A SUNFLOWER SOJOURN AT CHANGI AIRPORT

If you’re looking for a no-cost way to immerse yourself in artistic floral displays, head to Changi Airport for the ongoing “A Sunflower Sojourn” event, running until 30 September 2024. Admire over 5,000 sunflowers with more than 10 varieties, including the pastel pink Strawberry Blonde and red and yellow Florenza, which are found across all four terminals. Check out these displays at Terminal 1 Central Piazza (Transit),Terminal 2 Departure Hall Centre (Public), Terminal 2 Departure North Check-in Rows 3-4 (Public), Terminal 2 Departure North Check-in Rows 9-10 (Public),Terminal 3 Departure Hall Centre (Public), Terminal 3 Crystal Garden (Transit),Terminal 3 Departure North Jewel Linkway (Public), and Terminal 4 Departure Hall Centre (Public).

Image Credits: Image Credits: facebook.com/changiairport

The floral joy extends outdoors to the Hub and Spoke Cafe, where you can indulge in sunflower-infused yogurt soft serve and butter toast. While art lovers such as myself can enjoy the replica of Vincent Van Gogh’s sunflower painting in the Departure Hall of Terminal 2.

#3: SOUND BATH BY HEALING HARMONIES

Let’s put an end to your stressful daily grind by joining the Healing Harmonies’ 60-minute sound bath experience! Happening on 7 September 2024 at 10 Selegie Road, this sound bath session is priced at S$38.00 per person. A sound bath is a meditative experience where attendees are soaked in sound waves, creating a unique experience. Even if you’ve never tried it before, this could be just what you need to rediscover peace as the soothing vibrations can quiet the mind and relax the body.

Ready to be completely relaxed? Grab your general admission ticket here.

#4: ART OF THE BRICK

Are you curious to find out what Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa or Van Gogh’s Starry Night would look like if these artworks are made out of LEGO? Discover these and more at the “Art of the Brick” exhibition happening now at Singapore Expo. This globally renowned showcase features over 150 LEGO sculptures by contemporary artist Nathan Sawaya, who transforms simple LEGO bricks into intricate masterpieces.

Image Credits: facebook.com/artofthebrickexpo

Kids can spot the 6-metre-long T-Rex skeleton and unleash their creativity at the interactive play and build area. What are you waiting for? Tickets start at S$14.90 for residents and S$18.90 for tourists. Get yours here.

#5: GARDENS BY THE BAY’S MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL LANTERNS

For a magical and free experience, visit Gardens by the Bay’s Mid-Autumn Festival! The Gardens are transformed into a mythical wonderland with picturesque paths lined with lanterns until 22 September 2024. Enjoy larger-than-life lantern displays, some inspired by iconic playgrounds, as well as Singapore’s largest-ever flower carpet. You see, this year’s festivities pay tribute to the country’s rich heritage. Expect performances, games, and street food, which can be best enjoyed with your family or friends.

Image Credits: facebook.com/gardensbythebay

#6: MOLLY’S ANNIVERSARY  STATUES POP-UP

Molly, the beloved character created by artist Kenny Wong in 2006, is celebrating her first-ever anniversary with a statues pop-up at Bugis Junction – Malay Street, Level 1. Open until 22 September 2024, this pop-up features a thematic display inspired by Molly’s Classical Retro Series collection.

Fans can enjoy a walkthrough of Molly’s archival collections for free and shop for exclusive merchandise such as scented candles, blind boxes, fridge magnets, and a limited edition first-anniversary statue. Oh, a friendly reminder! Don’t miss the chance to snap a photo with the life-sized Molly sculptures before you leave. And if you’re willing to spend more than the budget, a minimum purchase gives you the chance to participate in creating your own Silk-Screen printed tote bag* (*Terms and Conditions apply, with limited stocks and selected date and timeslots only).

Image Credits: facebook.com/popmartsg

Create wonderful memories with these budget-friendly activities this September!

Sources: 1,2, & 3

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Disney Adventure Sets Sail from S’pore in 2025: 10 Things You Need to Know

If there’s one thing Disney does best, it’s creating magical experiences that bring their beloved characters to life. Whether you’re strolling through Tokyo DisneySea or exploring Hong Kong Disneyland, children and the young at heart can’t help but be enchanted. Now, that same magic is coming closer to home. Get ready, as Disney Cruise Line’s newest Disney Adventure is about to set sail from Singapore!

Departing from Marina Bay in 2025, Disney Adventure will be the first Disney cruise ship to homeport in Asia. Here’s everything you need to know:

#1: THE ALL-NEW DISNEY ADVENTURE

Disney Adventure will offer three- and four-night journeys. With a whopping 208,000 gross tons, it’s designed to accommodate approximately 6,700 passengers, along with a crew of around 2,500.

Onboard, you’ll be transported to seven immersive themed areas: Disney Imagination Garden, Disney Discovery Reef, Marvel Landing, San Fransokyo Street, Toy Story Place, Town Square, and Wayfinder Bay. Plus, this ship is packed with unique features tailored specifically for Southeast Asia.

#2: VISIT THE DISNEY IMAGINATION GARDEN

Kick off your adventure in the Disney Imagination Garden, a space inspired by 100 years of Disney’s most heartwarming tales. Shop, dine, or catch a mesmerizing performance in an enchanted valley, complete with a charming garden and majestic stage.

Image Credits: facebook.com/DisneyCruiseLineSG

#3: MEET YOUR FAVORITE CHARACTERS

Prepare to meet some of your favorite Disney characters in ways you’ve never seen before! Whether it’s the jaw-dropping stunts in the action-packed live show “Avengers Assemble”, or encounters with beloved Disney and Pixar characters, every moment promises to be unforgettable. Don’t forget to take some snaps!

#4: WATCH THE LIVE SHOWS

From dazzling costumes to spectacular set designs, Disney Adventure’s live shows are packed with special effects and the classic Disney songs we all know and love.

#5: WATCH MOVIES ON THE BIG SCREEN

What’s a Disney adventure without a their timeless movies? Enjoy both classic and new Disney films in stylish theater spaces that add a touch of luxe to your movie-going experience.

#6: INDULGE IN DISNEY-INSPIRED FOOD

Indulge in an array of Disney-inspired dining options, from upscale restaurants to bountiful buffets and quick-service bites. What makes Disney Adventure unique is its blend of international flavors, including regionally inspired dishes from Asia. It also includes halal and vegetarian options for all.

#7: TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE EXLUSIVE CLUBS

Disney Adventure offers exclusive clubs suited to different age groups:

Image Credits: facebook.com/DisneyCruiseLineSG

a. Oceaneer Club
Kids aged 3 to 10 can let their imaginations soar with beloved Disney characters and fun-filled activities.
b. Edge Club
Tweens aged 11 to 14 have their own exclusive hangout, complete with the latest music, video games, and engaging activities.
c. Vibe Club
Teens aged 14 to 17 can chill out in a stylish club, watching movies, listening to music, and playing interactive games.

#8: LET ADULTS PLAY TOO

While the kids are busy in their clubs, adults can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation. Unwind at the spa and salon, sip a cocktail in one of the bars and lounges, browse the shops and boutiques, or hit the fitness center to stay active.

#9: STAY IN A DISNEY-THEMED ACCOMMODATION

When it’s time to rest, Disney Adventure offers staterooms designed for comfort and style. Choose from a variety of room types, including those with stunning scenic vistas or ocean views of the ship’s interior.

#10: MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Disney Adventure is set to embark on its first voyage from the Marina Bay Cruise Centre in 2025. This marks the beginning of at least five years of magical journeys, thanks to a collaboration between Disney Cruise Line and the Singapore Tourism Board.

Excited to set sail? Sign up for updates here: disneycruise.disney.go.com.

Sources: 1 & 2

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6 Travel Hacks to Help You Save Money in Bangkok

Bangkok, a popular shopping destination among Singaporeans, offers a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and retail therapy.

Recently, I visited Bangkok with a few friends, eager for some much-needed R&R and a bit of a shopping spree. During my three-day stay, I met a Singaporean businessman who had once led a prominent entertainment hub in Singapore. He shared his fascination with Thai culture, particularly the practice of visiting various temples to pray for success in business. Another memorable stop was the Chang Siam 100 Baht Shop, which was packed with tourists. I even bumped into another Singaporean who was lamenting how crowded the shop was, and I echoed his sentiment.

Having last visited before the pandemic, I was also struck by the prevalence of cannabis stores. Neon weed signs are now a common sight in Bangkok’s tourist hotspots, with dispensaries on nearly every corner and vendors offering cannabis-infused drinks and food. You see, Thailand became the first country in Asia to decriminalize cannabis in 2022 for medical purposes. However, the market appears to be almost unregulated, raising public concerns about crime and misuse.

Despite these changes, Bangkok remains a worthwhile destination, especially if you’re looking to save money. On that note, here are some travel hacks I discovered during my trip:

#1: DOWNLOAD THE BOLT APP FOR PRIVATE TRANSPORT

Traffic in Bangkok can be chaotic, especially during peak hours. If you prefer the comfort of a private ride over crowded trains and buses, Bolt is a great option.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

I discovered this app thru a friend who shared that it was the cheapest private transportation option she experienced. True enough, the prices on Bolt were significantly cheaper than regular taxis and Grab. For example, a regular taxi quoted 300 Baht for the distance from Platinum Shopping Mall to My Hotel Pratunam, but on Bolt, it was only 66 Baht. Imagine what we can do with the huge difference!

#2: VISIT LOCAL NIGHT MARKETS

Not all markets in Bangkok are created equal. While popular spots like Chatuchak and Ratchada Train Markets are great for the experience, they often come with tourist price markups.

I recommend exploring less touristy markets where you can enjoy cheaper food and shopping. Some local favorites include Ram Inthra Expressway Market and Ramkhamhaeng Night Market.

#3: EAT LIKE A LOCAL

While indulging in high-end dining experiences is tempting, you can enjoy amazing meals anywhere in Thailand without breaking the bank. Try eating at roadside vendors or shopping mall food courts for a more budget-friendly option.

I had a delicious mango sticky rice for 100 Baht and a hearty Pad Thai for about 150 Baht. Just remember to bring antacid medicine if you have a sensitive stomach.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

#4: HIT UP THE HYPERMARKETS

No trip to Thailand is complete without stocking up on local snacks. In Bangkok, Big C and Lotus are must-visit hypermarkets.

They offer a vast selection of snacks, fresh produce, and local treats at reasonable prices compared to smaller convenience stores. It’s a foodie’s dream come true!

#5: WITHDRAW TO THE MAX AT ATMS

In the age of contactless payments, it’s easy to forget how much cash you might need. While many places accept digital payments, you’ll still need cash at local markets and smaller establishments.

To avoid extra bank fees, withdraw the maximum amount or more than you anticipate needing at ATMs. My husband and I compared the conversion rates between paying by card and withdrawing cash, and surprisingly, the ATM rates were cheaper. But, rates may vary depending on the bank, so it’s best to compare first.

#6: NEGOTIATE PRICES WHENEVER POSSIBLE

Singaporeans, like many budget travelers, appreciate getting good value for their money. Bangkok is the perfect place for that, as you can haggle with ticket vendors, taxi drivers, market sellers, and shop owners.

For instance, I saw that the famous Poy Sian inhalers were priced at 99 Baht for six pieces at the Chang Siam Thailand 100 Baht Shop, compared to 120-140 Baht at Pratunam Night Market and Platinum Mall. Shop around and haggle whenever possible.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

These travel hacks can help you make the most of your trip to Bangkok without overspending. May you have a great trip!

Sources: 1 & 2

 

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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

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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

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