Lifestyle Archives | Page 9 of 55

Jackson Wang & TEAM WANG Arrive in Singapore

K-Pop sensation Jackson Wang has arrived in Singapore to an enthusiastic crowd of screaming fans. The star arrived in Changi Airport last August 2. He waved, gave out high-fives, and accepted a letter from a fan as he walked out of the Changi Airport Terminal 3 arrival gate.

Wang is a Hong Kong-born singer/songwriter, rapper, and record producer who gained global recognition after debuting with the South Korean boy band Got7 by JYP Entertainment. He is here in the Lion City until August 10 to help promote the SingapoReimagine campaign by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB).

To top off the celebration, he will host a party in Marquee nightclub at Marina Bay Sands with his record label Team Wang on August 6. This sold-out event is entitled Team Wang Records (Human Remix), which will feature pop and hip hop music.

Other acts that will delight its guests include Marquee’s DJ Fvder, beatboxer Dharni as well as other artists such as Laurie, Xenzu, and Boytoy. This will be the first event hosted by an international artist at Marquee since its opening in 2019.

Image Credits: instagram.com/marqueesingapore/

If you miss out on this event, do not fret! You can catch him in a series of lifestyle vlogs featuring wellness, food, music, as well as arts and culture spots in Singapore. Furthermore, he will open a concept space for his streetwear label – Team Wang Design.

The concept store is open in voco Orchard hotel. The voco Orchard Singapore is under the IHG Hotel umbrella and is located at 581 Orchard Road.

TEAM WANG DESIGN

Whether you admire Jackson Wang or not, you can still get a piece of his art through his TEAM WANG Design “MUDANCE” Concept Space. Located at the new upscale hotel voco Orchard Singapore, this free-entry concept space is a treat to the eyes. The theme here is tropical paradise where decorations are decked in floral prints, pink decor, and luscious plants.

This concept space is filled with Team Wang’s newest summer collection. Expect a selection of beachwear in floral prints and clothing pieces in the hues of pink and white.

Running until August 31, this concept space has items for both men and women. You will see some floral shirts, pink tops, jackets, and more. Couples who love to wear matching outfits can surely achieve a flawless #OOTD!

If you are curious to know which pieces are Wang’s favorites, you better take this down. Jackson has revealed that the floral print bikini and pink gradient tank top are his favorites.

Sources: 1 & 2

Do You Need to Tip in Singapore?

Tipping is the “act of giving an amount of money to someone who has provided a service, especially in a hotel or restaurant”. It is customary to leave gratuity throughout America. In Asia, the tipping etiquette varies across countries and establishments.

Tipping, in general, is not expected in Singapore. However, there may be times when you want to reward the waiter or staff for providing an excellent service. On that note, here are some scenarios where tipping can be considered.

RESTAURANTS AND FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS

Gratuity is usually not expected at cafes, bars, and small-scale eateries. No one is going to run after you if you do not leave a tip! However, most restaurants and hotels in Singapore add 10% service charge to the total bill. If you insist on tipping your waiter for their pleasant service, it is best to hand the cash directly to the person or to leave the cash on the table.

TAXI DRIVERS

Taxis in Singapore are well-regulated. Thus, it is not necessary to leave your cab driver a tip. Nonetheless, it can be done to round up the fare.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

AIRPORT PERSONNEL

At Changi International Airport, services range from baby care rooms to convenience stores. Despite receiving excellent service, you cannot hand over tips to shop clerks or baggage handlers. Airport personnel are not allowed to receive gratuity in Singapore.

TOUR GUIDES

Being a tour guide is a thankless job. Tour guides are tasked to entertain a group of people from day to night. Depending on your experience and the length of the tour, handing a tip to your tour guide at the end of the tour can be done. Tip around five to fifteen percent of what you paid for.

HOTEL STAFF

Tipping the bellhops is not compulsory, but highly appreciated. Leaving a tip for cleaners and other hotel staff is entirely up to you. You may leave a note and an envelope in your room to extend your gratitude to them.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

AS A TOURIST, WHAT IS A REASONABLE TIP?

Tipping in Singapore is not customary, but it is highly appreciated. You can give tips after receiving good service. Opinions can vary about the most reasonable amount to tip. A good measure is leaving about five to fifteen percent of the total bill behind.

You will have to judge whether you want to give a tip that is lower than 5%. Consider your travel budget, the country’s tipping customs, and your personal preferences.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

How to Save Money on Healthcare in Singapore

When it comes to healthcare costs, we are wired to believe that things cost the way they do. If you have an insurance provider, chances are, you are paying a premium on a regular basis. If you are uninsured, you might be avoiding visits to the nearby clinic or hospital.

You can still save money on healthcare! To get the most value for your dollar, follow these money-saving tips.

#1: PRACTICE PREVENTIVE CARE

Do not get sick! One of the best things you can do to limit your healthcare costs is to establish a healthy routine that incorporates good nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management. Choose a wellness routine that works for you. When you nourish your body and spirit, you can have a meaningful impact on your future health and prevent healthcare costs.

#2: SELECT A SUITABLE HEALTH INSURANCE

Health insurance aids you in paying for your medical expenses when you get sick, get injured, or become disabled. Although all Singaporeans and Permanent Residents are covered by Medishield Life, you may face some restrictions to your uses and claims. Payouts correspond to the prices for the Class B2 and C wards in public hospitals. So, you must be prepared to pay a large amount of money if you want to stay in a Class B1 or A ward. You can combat this by enhancing your health insurance coverage with an Integrated Shield plan.

#3: OPT FOR GENERIC MEDICATIONS

Brand-name medications are more expensive than generic brands. From a medical standpoint, previous literature has shown that generic medications seem to perform in the same manner as brand-name medications. Instead of poking a hole in your pocket, you can opt for generics to reap its benefits.

For instance, you can pay S$11.50 for 100 tablets of Paracetamol (500 mg) instead of paying S$10.50 for 20 tablets of Panadol.

#4: DROP BY YOUR LOCAL PHARMACY

For mild conditions, you can visit your local pharmacy to ask for advice. According to Unity’s website, their pharmacists can assist you with advice on minor ailments, medication concerns, travel medication, and so on.

For instance, you can consult their pharmacists if you have questions on your medications for your constipation. If you are experiencing mild ailments such as constipation, you can skip the clinic queues and go straight to the pharmacy. However, you must see a doctor if you are certainly unwell.

#5: SCREEN FOR LESS

Screen for Life is a national screening program that encourages Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents to go for regular health screening. Singaporean citizens only need to pay S$0 to S$5 per screening visit*. While Permanent Residents can check with their CHAS GP clinic on the screening test rates offered under the said program. The doctor consultation will be charged accordingly by the respective CHAS GP clinics.

Note: *Rates apply only at Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) General Practitioner (GP) clinics

#6: GO TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD POLYCLINIC FOR AFFORDABLE DENTAL CARE

If you are looking for a dental option for regular check-up and oral maintenance, search no further than the neighborhood polyclinic. Neighborhood polyclinics offer subsidized dental treatment and care. Both SingHealth and National Healthcare Group polyclinics have dental services, and it is easy to make an appointment online.

Alternatively, you may utilize the company dental and health screening benefits. Check with your employee handbook or ask your Human Resources department to know which medical benefits you are eligible for.

#7: FREE VACCINATIONS AT POLYCLINICS FOR INFANTS

The National Childhood Immunization Program offers immunization against certain diseases, which are fully-subsidized. Full subsidies* for vaccinations under this program are available for Singaporean children at CHAS GP clinics and polyclinics.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Note: *This is applicable for certain vaccine brands. Refer to go.gov.sg/vaccine-list for the list of the latest subsidized vaccine brands.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, & 4

No Cost Ways to Relax After a Long Day at Work

Lately, I have been swamped with work. I switched from having an 8-hour shift to a 12-hour shift. As my body adjusts to the longer hours and the added demands of the workload, I realized how stress can affect my body and mind.

We cannot deny how important work is. With Singapore’s modern go-go-go society, people can be constantly put in the “fight or flight” mode. Relaxation is essential to slow things down and to take care of your overall health and wellbeing.

From gently rolling a ball under your feet to drinking green tea while soaking your toes in a relaxing foot bath, these are some of the no cost ways to relax after a tiring day at work.

#1: STROLL DOWN THE BOARDWALK

A quick stroll around the block combines physical activity with a change of scenery, which can act as your weapon against worries. You can end your day by walking to your favorite park. If Changi Boardwalk or Changi Point Coastal Walk is nearby, you can even enjoy the sunset. The stunning sunset over the coastline is a bonus. Best of all? Admission is free.

#2: TAKE A NAP ON A FORT

Forts are childhood staple for a reason! They are fun to build and are cozy to sleep on. Make an adult version of a fort by arranging your soft blankets, favorite book, and delicious snacks.

#3: SOAK YOUR TIRED TOES

With all the heavy lifting that your feet do all day, it is about time to give it the extra love it deserves. Use your available bath salts, bubbly foot bath, or simply sit on the edge of the bathtub filled with a few inches of relaxing hot water. Finish it off by massaging your feet with lotion.

#4: BE SURE TO DRINK YOUR GREENS

Help reduce your body’s stress responses by drinking green tea to reap the benefits of L-Theanine. Enjoy the earthy colors of your drink as you relax in your couch with your favorite TV show.

#5: MEDITATE IN SILENCE

Forget about spending hundreds of dollars on a week-long silent retreat overseas! You can meditate in five minutes or less with visualization techniques. Give it a go before a nerve-racking meeting or after you end your shift.

#6: STRETCH OUT

Put your head between your knees or stand and hang your head and arms toward your toes. Doing these stretches can lessen your reactivity to the fight-or-flight response and provide restorative effects to your autonomic nervous system (ANS).

#7: TAKE YOUR FRUSTRATION OUT ON A STRESS BALL

It is okay to be angry at times. Stress can bring rage, and what is important is how you manage your fiery emotions. It might be tempting to throw your laptop away but squeezing a stress ball is a less costly and safer option. You can also gently roll the ball under your feet to calm you down.

#8: WRITE IT DOWN

Putting your feelings down serves as an outlet to release what is on your mind. Try journaling about your work problems, pet peeves, relationship conflicts, debt, and so on. You might just get a new perspective upon seeing what you have written down.

#9: LISTEN TO YOUR FAVORITE SONGS

Soothe your soul by creating a playlist of songs that will best calm you down. Listening to music has relaxation benefits. So, try listening to music during your commute back home. If you are not going to bother anyone else, go ahead and sing along. You know you want to!

#10: DANCE AROUND

If dancing is your passion, try dancing to your favorite tunes once you are at home. Losing yourself to the beat can help you take the edge off. Dancing gets the blood flowing for a re-energizing rush of oxygen.

#11: TELL YOUR FAVORITE CHILDHOOD STORY

Relive your happy moments and create new ones by sharing your memorable childhood story with your loved ones. Not only will this bring a smile to your face, but it is a wonderful way to bond with your child before bedtime.

#12: ENJOY SOME MILK AND COOKIES

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Eating milk and cookies is not only reserved for the Yuletide season. It turns out, consuming milk and cookies can help you relax because the carbohydrates in the cookies combine with tryptophan. According to a study published in Nutritional Health, tryptophan is an amino acid found in dairy foods, which can induce a feeling of relaxation.

Sources: 1 & 2

4 Telltale Signs that You Don’t Make Enough Cash

It can be immensely frustrating to feel stuck in a financial rut with no means out. You may think that you earn decent money, but still struggle each month. Whether you are overspending or not making enough money, these problems can lead to big trouble!

Consider these financial issues and how to solve them.

#1: CONSTANT FINANCIAL WORRIES

There is a difference between worrying about covering your necessities and worrying about unexpected car repairs. Constant worries about money can keep you up at night.

Put these worries to rest by creating a realistic plan. A budget allows you to plan out your purchases within a certain period. Moreover, an emergency fund can help you cover unexpected costs.

#2: RELIANCE ON CREDIT CARDS

One of the surefire signs that you are having financial problems is your reliance on credit cards to cover all your finances. If you need the help of credit cards to manage between paychecks, your balance can trap you. The solution is easier said than done – stop using your credit cards and leave within your means.

#3: UNABLE TO COVER BILLS

It is important to act quickly when you are not able to pay the bills on a monthly basis. Look for ways to reduce your bills and increase your income.

Start by cutting down your unnecessary costs. Trimming back luxuries across the board such as bringing your mobile plan down and canceling your cable television can help. Instead of eating out, you can cook at home to follow your meal plan.

#4: INABILITY TO HANDLE EMERGENCIES

It is difficult to grow your savings when you are stretched tight each month. However, the inability to create an emergency fund can lead to reliance on credit cards. Eventually, your credit card payments will grow detrimentally.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Set up an emergency fund by starting slow. You can put aside an extra S$50 per pay period and build from there.

Source: 1

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