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Capture IG-Worthy Moments at the Claude Monet-Inspired Exhibition in Gardens by the Bay This July

In my quest for exciting activities and hidden gems within the Red Dot, a captivating advertisement caught my eye – “Impressions of Monet: The Garden” at Gardens by the Bay.

Mark your calendars because, from July 12, 2024, this exhibition promises to transport you into the enchanting world of Claude Monet, the renowned French painter.

BACKGROUND OF THE EXHIBITION

Enter the realm of Claude Monet (1840-1926), a visionary who not only pioneered but passionately championed the Impressionist style. Originating in France in the 1860s, Impressionism is a painting movement that focuses on capturing the visual essence of a moment, emphasizing the play of light and color.

Prepare for a truly immersive experience as a digital presentation breathes life into the timeless masterpieces of Claude Monet. Complementing this, a delightful floral arrangement painstakingly recreates the landscapes that fueled Monet’s creativity in Giverny, France.

Titled “Impressions of Monet,” the exhibit unfolds in two captivating zones: The Garden and The Experience. Step into The Garden at the Flower Dome, where you’ll be welcomed by scenes reminiscent of Monet’s own Giverny garden in France.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Transition to The Experience, where several of Monet’s masterpieces come alive on the walls and ceiling. Amidst a lively symphony of strobe lights and tunes, you’re invited to roam freely, becoming part of the living canvas.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Revel in the recreation of Monet’s iconic pink house and its garden, now the second most visited tourist attraction in Normandy, France. Explore the adjacent Clos Normand garden and the serene Water Garden, both integral to Monet’s later works. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the beauty of hydrangeas, weeping willows, digitalis, daisies, delphiniums, and geraniums – all echoing the flora of Monet’s original gardens.

What’s more? Feast your eyes on the green Japanese bridge and water lilies, subjects immortalized in Monet’s renowned Water Lilies series.

This multi-sensory adventure is a deep dive into the heart of French Impressionism, offering glimpses of 19th-century Europe through the eyes of Monet and his fellow Impressionist painters.

Get lost in the grandeur of famous, inspirational images set to a powerful classical score. Watch as paintings are projected at an enormous scale, illuminating the bold brushstrokes of Monet, Camille Pissarro, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, Edgar Degas, and many other luminaries.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary exhibition running from July 12 to September 15, 2024, from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm. Admission ticket prices start at S$8 for Singapore residents. Prepare to embark on a journey into the captivating world of Monet’s artistry – an experience that promises to linger in your heart and Instagram feed alike!

Sources: 1 & 2

Indulge in an Up-Close Evening with Ed Sheeran at the Price of S$298!

Get ready for a unique and intimate concert experience with the announcement of “An Evening with Ed Sheeran.” Set to captivate fans, the event will unfold on February 17 at the renowned Capitol Theatre in Singapore. Presented by AEG Presents Asia, in collaboration with KrisFlyer, the esteemed rewards program of the SIA Group, this concert promises an extraordinary affair with a limited seating capacity of just 1,000 attendees.

The Capitol Theatre originally opened its doors in July 1930 as a cinema, premiering the 1929 musical Rio Rita. Touted as having the most modern auditorium in the Far East at the time, the venue became a cinematic hub in the ’50s and ’60s. Not only did it host Miss Singapore and Miss Malaya beauty pageants, but it also witnessed performances by local legends like The Quests. Now, Ed Sheeran is set to have his concert here.

Ed Sheeran, a global sensation with over 150 million records sold worldwide, will enchant the audience with tracks from his albums “Autumn Variations” and “Subtract,” in addition to delivering some of his greatest hits. This concert is a departure from his usual arena shows, offering a more personal connection between the artist and his fans.

Key details for “An Evening with Ed Sheeran” are as follows:
Date: February 17, 2024
Venue: Capitol Theatre, Singapore
Ticket Price: S$298
Ticket General Sale Date: January 12 (Friday) at 3 pm
Ticketing Merchant: Ticketmaster

For KrisFlyer members, starting from January 5, they can redeem a pair of Category 1 Standing and Category 2 tickets for 63,000 and 78,000 miles, respectively, through KrisFlyer Experiences. Each member has the opportunity to redeem up to four tickets across both categories.

AEG Presents Asia expressed excitement in its media release, stating, “Experiencing Sheeran in a smaller theatre setting and sharing stories as he goes through his catalogue of hits with a full band will be a treat for Singapore fans.”

Image Credits: ticketmaster.sg

Don’t miss out on this exclusive rendezvous with Ed Sheeran that promises to be an unforgettable musical journey!

Sources: 1 & 2

How to Save Money on Luxury Perfumes in Singapore

In the vibrant city-state of Singapore, where luxury and style converge, indulging in the finer things in life can sometimes take a toll on your wallet. One such luxury item that many Singaporeans adore is perfume.

In this article, we’ll explore some practical tips and tricks on how to save money on expensive perfumes in Singapore without compromising on quality.

EXPLORE LOCAL BRANDS

Singapore boasts a growing number of local perfume brands providing unique and high-quality fragrances at more affordable prices. One noteworthy example is the homegrown perfume brand, Singapore Memories. True to its name, the brand offers perfumes inspired by Singaporean heritage, featuring scents like Peranakan Oud and Singapore Girl. Prices for these fragrances start at S$28.

Image Credits: singapore-memories.com

By patronizing local businesses, you not only save money but also have the opportunity to explore scents that draw inspiration from the diverse landscapes of Singapore.

OPT FOR ONLINE SHOPPING

Embrace the convenience and often more affordable options that online shopping affords. Numerous reputable online retailers provide discounts, promotions, and exclusive deals on perfumes, including Sephora Singapore, where Versace Pour Homme Eau De Toilette starts at just S$29. Ensure you compare prices across various platforms to secure the best deals.

SIGN UP FOR NEWSLETTERS AND LOYALTY PROGRAMS

Subscribe to newsletters from your preferred perfume retailers and enroll in their loyalty programs. Retailers frequently send exclusive discounts, promotions, and early access to sales to their subscribers. Loyalty programs may also allow you to accumulate points that can be redeemed for future discounts or freebies.

For instance, consider signing up for the Scent by SIX newsletter to receive the latest promotions. Their 20ml EDT bottle starts at S$66, while refills are priced at S$45.

WAIT FOR SPECIAL EVENTS

Patience pays off when it comes to buying luxury perfumes. Keep an eye on major sales events, such as the Great Singapore Sale or Black Friday, when many retailers offer significant discounts. These events are an excellent opportunity to score your favorite scents at a fraction of the regular price.

CONSIDER TESTER BOTTLES

Tester bottles, used for display purposes in stores, are often available for purchase at a lower cost. These bottles are identical to the regular ones and can be an economical way to get your hands on high-end fragrances without the luxurious packaging. Consider searching for testers at Mustafa Centre and Lucky Plaza.

BUILD YOUR OWN PERFUME

Immerse yourself in the world of perfume through a hands-on experience by attending a DIY perfume workshop. This not only offers a unique and enjoyable experience but also allows you to craft your signature scent at a fraction of the cost of a designer perfume.

Consider Oo La Lab as a prime example. This craft fragrance lab stores perfume and essential oil ingredients in small batches, hand-pouring them to order. You have the option to select from popular formulas or collaborate with an Oo La Mixologist to create your own during the workshop, available through Klook for S$56.99 to S$75.60.

Image Credits: Oo La Lab via klook.com

IN A NUTSHELL

Saving money on expensive perfumes in Singapore is all about being strategic and exploring various options.

Whether you opt for local brands, shop online, take advantage of sales, or try your hand at DIY perfume-making, there are plenty of ways to smell fabulous without burning a hole in your pocket.

No-Cost Tips to Refresh Your Mind

Imagine your mind as a cluttered desk with various projects, notes, and documents piled high. Much like searching for information amid the chaos, dealing with stress or persistent thoughts can be equally challenging. To regain clarity and tranquility, consider giving your mind a quick reboot. This practice can help declutter your thoughts, leaving you with a more organized mental space.

Here are some effective techniques to become a person of peace:

CHANGE YOUR SCHEDULE

Attempting to outrun or outperform anxiety and depression is a losing battle. Being overwhelmed and overcommitted is a surefire way to disrupt your peace of mind. Take a close look at your schedule and identify tasks you can eliminate. It’s essential to slow down, set boundaries around your commitments, and create time for relaxation.

TRY JOURNALING

Journaling is a powerful tool to unearth the thoughts and emotions swirling within you. Instead of allowing chaotic ideas to dominate your mind, put them on paper. Grab a blank sheet and allow your thoughts to flow freely. There’s no need to edit or censor yourself; the goal is to connect with your inner self.

RECONNECT WITH NATURE

Engaging in light physical activity outdoors can significantly boost your mood. If exercise isn’t your preference, spending time in your favorite natural setting can alleviate stress. Singapore offers numerous trails and park connectors, providing ample opportunities to reconnect with nature.

Image Credits: unsplash.com,

NURTURE YOUR CREATIVITY

Creativity serves as an exceptional outlet for finding stress relief and inner peace. Brené Brown’s insight, “Unused creativity is not benign… It metastasizes into resentment, grief, heartbreak,” resonates deeply. Rekindle your neglected creative pursuits, whether it’s playing a musical instrument, launching a business, gardening, or cooking. Immersing yourself in a captivating novel also offers a welcome break from constant problem-solving.

LEARN FROM THE PAST

Our past experiences serve as amazing teachers. No matter how hard you try, you cannot bring the past back; it is behind you, and there is nothing you can do to change it. Whenever negative thoughts about the past arise, remember how far you have come and look into the future with a positive perspective. You are not the same person you used to be.

SHARE GRATITUDE WITH OTHERS

Research has shown that expressing gratitude can strengthen relationships. So, the next time your significant someone, friend, or family member does something you appreciate, make sure to let them know how much you value their actions. Having good relationships helps alleviate worries and provides a strong support system.

VOLUNTEER TO THE ANIMAL SHELTER

Research highlights the stress-reducing benefits of spending time with pets, as they can lower blood pressure and provide comfort. If you have a pet, take advantage of quality time by walking your dog or engaging in playful interactions with your cat. If you don’t have a pet, consider volunteering at local animal shelters like Hope Dog Rescue or Love the Voiceless, or offer to walk your neighbor’s dog.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

By incorporating these practices into your life, you can pave the way for a more peaceful and organized state of mind. Just as you declutter your physical environment for better efficiency, tending to your mental space through these strategies can lead to enhanced clarity and a greater sense of tranquility.

Sources: 1 & 2

7 Best Cafes in Singapore

Imagine the sheer delight that washed over our office when we welcomed the arrival of our brand new De’Longhi Coffee Machine. It felt as if it could magically brew joy with every cup. We were a bunch of coffee enthusiasts, and the yearning for top-notch breakfast and artisanal coffee was about to be fulfilled by Singapore’s finest cafes.

From specialty brews and hearty breakfasts to delightful brunch spots tucked away in the city, we present to you a list of Singapore’s most beloved cafes, each brimming with its unique charm and flavors.

MR. HOLMES BAKEHOUSE

As we stepped into Mr. Holmes Bakehouse, it was like stepping into a sweet dream. Have you ever tasted a cruffin, a mouthwatering blend of croissant and muffin? If not, this is the place to try one. These delightful pastries are sugar-dusted and cream-filled to perfection, coming in flavors like lemon meringue and pistachio. And if you’re craving something savory, they’ve introduced new treats like the Tomato & Pesto Melt ($13++) and the Short Rib ($20++) sandwich.

Image Credits: facebook.com/mrholmesbakehousesg

Location: Multiple locations, including Pacific Plaza and MYP Centre

DOUGH

Dough, a Korean-style bakery-cafe nestled in CHJIMES, was a revelation brought to life by the talented creators behind Glyph Supply Co and Runes, two other beloved local cafes. Whether you come here to work, unwind, or brunch with friends, you’ll find an ambiance that suits your mood.

Every item on the menu, from bread and pastries to pastas, is crafted fresh in-house. One standout is the Adzuki Mochi Danish ($5.50++), a delightful blend of textures. Another must-try is their Pistachio Raspberry ($6.50++) croissant cube, filled with luscious pistachio cream.

Location: 30 Victoria St, #01-30, Singapore 187996

FIFTYFIVE COFFEE BAR

Nestled on Neil Road, FiftyFive Coffee Bar is far from ordinary. The space exudes a calming zen vibe, anchored by a sensory garden installation that transports you to a forest retreat. With its stylish 40-seat layout, it offers an array of specialty coffee and tea drinks ($5.50++). Plus, you can savor freshly baked goods and light bites.

Their menu includes quirky blends like the highly acclaimed manuka miso honey latte ($7.50++), a refreshing dirty spiced lemonade ($7.50++), and the whimsical strawberry pipagao latte ($7.50++), which playfully incorporates nostalgic Chinese herbal cough syrup. For those feeling fancy, there’s filter coffee featuring a rotating single-origin selection.

Location: 55A Neil Rd, Singapore 088892

PS.CAFE PALAIS RENAISSANCE

PS.Cafe is synonymous with excellence. You can always count on impeccable food, chic aesthetics, and a fabulous dining experience. If you’re seeking sophistication, the Palais Renaissance outlet is perfect for brunch, boasting iconic high ceilings, classic decor, an outdoor dining area, and ample natural light for those Instagram-worthy shots.

And the food? It’s a feast for the senses, featuring pasta dishes, sandwiches, truffle fries, and decadent chocolate cakes. Gather your brunch companions and indulge in a memorable meal.

Location: #02-09A, Palais Renaissance, 390 Orchard Road, Singapore 238871

THE GLASSHOUSE

If you find yourself in the City Hall area searching for a cafe, The Glasshouse is a beloved choice. Located in CHJIMES, this cafe lives up to its name with its floor-to-ceiling windows and lush plant decor, evoking the ambiance of a botanical greenhouse. It’s the ideal spot for catching up with friends over coffee or grabbing a quick caffeine fix. The coffee here is not only delicious but also budget-friendly, crafted from beans sourced from the homegrown roastery, Apartment Coffee.

Location: 30 Victoria St, #01-03 CHIJMES, Singapore 187996

WILD HONEY

A local gem, Wild Honey is a go-to spot for comforting brunch cuisine. Step inside to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, where you’ll be surrounded by Instagram-worthy interiors and delectable dishes. Signature favorites include Corsican, a classic omelet folded with goat and feta cheese, and Delancey, featuring sliced beef pastrami with poached eggs. Sweet tooths will adore treats like apple crumble, Basque cheesecake, and artisanal ice cream. And don’t forget to explore their selection of coffees and teas. If you’re in the mood for a drink, stop by during happy hour from Sundays through Thursdays.

Image Credits: facebook.com/wildhoneysg

Location: Multiple locations, including Mandarin Gallery and Scotts Square

SIMPLE CAFE

Simple Cafe may appear unassuming at first glance, marked only by a plain sign and a chalkboard by the wall. But once you step inside, you’ll be transported to Taiwan, with its humble furniture and a Mandopop playlist setting the mood.

Swing by for their all-day Simple Breakfast ($17++), featuring toast, eggs, sausages, and a side salad. You can also enjoy sweet and savory bagels, all priced under $10.

Location: 462A Crawford Ln, #01-73, Singapore 191462

Go ahead and explore the delightful coffee culture and delectable offerings of Singapore’s finest cafes!

Sources: 1 & 2

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