Beginner’s Guide to Saving Money in Singapore
5 Surprisingly Affordable Hobbies to Try Now
Anna Agoncillo
Looking to refresh your routine or to alleviate your stress without overspending? Whether you’re budgeting or just love simple joys, these budget-friendly hobbies will keep you inspired and engaged throughout the year.
#1: GET LOST IN A SHORT BOOK
Over the past two months, I’ve read four short books, each under 200 pages, and they’ve been incredibly rewarding. There’s a quiet joy in finishing a book in just a few sittings and diving into a new perspective, whether fiction or nonfiction.
Some of my recent favorites include Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi (S$23.95 at Popular Bookstore), I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki (S$19.95 at Kinokuniya), and Days at the Morisaki Bookshop (S$22.15 at Kinokuniya). These books are gentle yet powerful, perfect for light reading with meaningful takeaways. For even better deals, check second-hand shops where books can go for as low as S$3. Or borrow from your local library at little to no cost.
#2: LEARN TO PLAY KALIMBA
The kalimba, also known as a thumb piano, is a soothing instrument you can pick up for just S$9.68 on Shopee. Made mostly from wood and easy to learn, the kalimba became my go-to hobby during the pandemic.
I had a blast taking song requests from friends and learning tunes like A Thousand Years or Fly Me to the Moon using free YouTube tutorials and online chord sheets.
#3: PAINT SERENE LANDSCAPES
Painting is both soothing and creatively fulfilling. You can find canvas panels on Shopee starting from S$0.50 in beginner-friendly sizes like 15×15 cm and 30*30. A 12-piece acrylic paint set goes for as low as S$0.60, and you can pick up a brush set on Lazada for around S$0.90.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
I’ve already painted two pieces this month and plan to do more. For inspiration, I watch Bob Ross or follow creators on Instagram who share beginner-focused tutorials. Friendly reminder: brushes and palette knives can help you experiment with texture and techniques as you grow more confident.
#4: LEARN A NEW LANGUAGE
There’s something empowering about learning a new language, especially when you can use it in real-life situations. I’ve been self-studying Korean since 2021 and finally got to practice it during a trip to Korea last December. The feeling was unforgettable.
You can begin learning Korean (or any language) for FREE through YouTube tutorials or platforms like Coursera. It’s a practical, enriching hobby that offers lifelong benefits.
#5: GET IN TOUCH WITH NATURE
Urban walking is an underrated way to explore your surroundings, improve your mood, and get some light exercise. Take a weekend walk through scenic trails like the Southern Ridges, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, or the Rail Corridor. The National Parks Board (NParks) offers detailed guides to many of these trails, and the best part is they’re completely FREE.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
Pack a bottle of water, wear comfy shoes, and let your feet take you somewhere new.
6 anti-bacterial laundry detergents from $3+ for germophobes to get rid of germs once and for all
Celeste Elle
Get this right, I’m a germophobe and I’m definitely not mocking anyone with an obsession with cleanliness.
So if you’re a big G like I am, these anti-bacterial laundry detergents from $3+ would probably give you peace of mind to get rid of germs once and for all 
FairPrice Laundry Liquid Detergent – Anti-Bacterial
Price: $3.82
At last, a laundry detergent powerful (and cheap) enough to tackle your family’s germiest messes at the top of our list.
This anti-bacterial formula slays 99.9% of bacteria lurking in your clothes, defeating odors, stains, and microscopic invaders with germ-fighting zeal.
Fabric-brightening agents restore colors and patterns, while the citrus scent leaves a fresh burst.
Whether you’re doing a top loader machine wash or hand washing delicates, this detergent deep cleans with ease.
Best of all, its indoor drying prowess means no more lugging heavy laundry poles outside.
Proudly made in sunny Singapore.
RedMart Antibacterial Laundry Detergent
Promo Price: $4.46
Or consider this laundry detergent that shatters the stain-fighting vs. fabric-safe paradox with mighty cleaning power to remove even the most stubborn stains.
It’s gentle, and its color-safe formula keeps your garments looking their best.
With advanced germ-killing agents, it slays odor-causing bacteria while leaving clothes smelling clean.
No need to separate fabric types, either—this detergent plays nice with every textile.
And because it’s phosphate-free, you can feel good about making an eco-conscious choice.
GW Anti-bacterial Laundry Detergent – Wild Lavender
Promo Price: $7.13
Say bye to smelly socks and hello to fragrant freshness with this GW anti-bacterial laundry detergent.
Containing wild lavender oil, each wash bathes your clothes with a soothing scent.
And thanks to its bacteria-busting formula, you can rest assured that odor-causing germs get the boot before they camp on your favorite top/bottom.
Unlike harsh detergents, it’s gentle on hands.
Even better, its low-suds blend fits any top-loader or front-loader washer.
TOP Concentrated Liquid Detergent Anti-Bacterial
Price: $8.50
Bacteria will meet their match with TOP’s Concentrated Anti-Bacterial Liquid Detergent.
This Japanese formula pulls out all the stops, eliminating 99.9% of germs to keep your clothes protected for up to 48 hours.
With the power to banish 99.9% of dust mites, stains, and odors, your laundry emerges fresh as a daisy.
No more overnight soaking required.
Dynamo Liq Detergent Refill Anti-Bacterial
Price: $12
Don’t settle for dingy and smelly—it’s time to go Dynamo.
This liquid laundry detergent goes beast mode against stains and odors, blasting them out with a deep-cleaning formula.
Whether you’re scrubbing stains or sweat from your pits, Dynamo leaves your favorite threads smelling fresh.
Ka Anti-bacterial Concentrated Laundry Liquid Detergent – Indoor Drying
Price: $12.16
Last but not least, we have this Ka concentrated laundry liquid detergent that packs the punch to keep your clothes cleaner and fresher than ever before.
Its grime-fighting formula wages war on 99.9% of bacteria, while also eliminating 99% of dust mites and odors for a hygienic clean you can practically smell through your screen.
Indoor drying approved.
Latest WFH internships posted from 5 to 9 May 2025
Looking for a WFH internship this May?
This week, we’ve got opportunities in social media strategizing, HR talent acquisition, and more.
#1: Pinnable.ai – Social Media Strategist Intern
Website: pinnable.ai
Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,500 monthly
Job Qualifications
- A social media native who lives on Instagram, TikTok, RedNote, etc, with a knack for spotting trends before they blow up.
- Creative & scrappy, able to craft eye-catching Reels or Stories with tools like CapCut or Canva (no big budget needed!).
- Passionate about travel & lifestyle—you’re the friend everyone asks for café or travel recs.
- A storyteller who can make a WhatsApp chat about “sushi in Taipei” feel like an adventure.
- Data-curious, eager to dig into analytics to see what makes followers click and share.
- Bonus points if you love uncovering local hidden gems
Key Responsibilities
- Create Epic Content: Produce Instagram Reels, TikTok videos, and LinkedIn posts that show Pinnable.ai in action—think WhatsApp chats planning a “romantic Hong Kong date” or a “Taipei foodie tour.”
- Grow Our Tribe: Build our follower base organically with hashtags like #PinYourWorld, engaging comments, and interactive Stories (polls, Q&As).
- Spark UGC: Launch challenges (e.g., “Pin Your Favorite Café!”) to get users sharing their Pinnable.ai itineraries, making our community buzz.
- Connect with Creators: DM emerging food and travel influencers for organic collabs, setting the stage for future KOL partnerships.
- Analyze & Optimize: Use Instagram Insights and TikTok Analytics to track what’s hot (Reels? Carousels?) and double down on what works.
- Have Fun: Experiment with trends, memes, and travel hacks to make Pinnable.ai the coolest startup on social!
How to apply?
View the job post here and send your application to warren@pinnable.ai.
#2: SAESL – HR Talent Acquisition Intern
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Website: saesl.com.sg
Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,200 monthly
Job Qualifications
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 (e.g., Excel, Power Automate, Power BI)
- Strong communication and organisational skills
- Interest in talent acquisition, HR operations, and process optimisation
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with the administration of the TA process: data entry, arranging medical check-ups, arranging interviews, conducting assessment centre, etc.
- Assist with screening of resumes (for certain roles).
- Assist with Career Fairs administration: Logistics preparation, attending career fairs, managing database of interested candidates, follow-up with interested candidates, etc.
- Assist with data collections: collect data on hiring success rate, career fair success rate, TA SLA, etc.
- Assist with improvement project: e.g., create or improve automation within TA processes, branding projects, TA process improvement projects, etc
How to apply?
View the job post here and send your CV to jiayi.tang@saesl.com.sg.
#3: Outscayle – Social Media and Content Creation Intern
Website: outscayle.com
Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 – 1,150 monthly
Job Qualifications
- Passion for social media, digital storytelling, and online communities
- Strong writing skills in English (visual storytelling a plus)
- Basic knowledge of tools like Canva, CapCut, or similar video editing apps
- Familiarity with TikTok, Instagram Reels, and content trends
- Self-motivated, proactive, and detail-oriented
- Bonus: Experience with website CMS (e.g., WordPress, Wix)
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and update our website content regularly
- Plan, write, and publish blogs aligned with brand voice and SEO best practices
- Create, schedule, and monitor content across Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
- Conceptualize and produce short-form video content for TikTok and Reels
- Stay on top of social media trends and recommend fresh, engaging content ideas
- Track performance and assist in analyzing results to optimize content strategy
How to apply?
View the job post here and write to Jon via this link.
#4: The Meat Club Pte Ltd – Graphic Design Intern
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Website: themeatclub.com.sg
Allowance / Remuneration: $15 hourly
Job Qualifications
- A portfolio showcasing your graphic design skills and creative projects (please provide a link or attachment).
- Proficiency in graphic design software, primarily Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign is a plus).
- A good understanding of branding principles, typography, color theory, and layout design.
- Creative thinking with strong attention to detail and a keen eye for aesthetics.
- Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines.
- Good communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
- A passion for food and an interest in high-quality produce is a bonus!
- Currently pursuing or recently completed a diploma/degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, or a related field is preferred.
Key Responsibilities
- Create engaging visual assets for our social media platforms (including Instagram, YouTube), email marketing campaigns, and website.
- Develop eye-catching graphics for promotional materials, online advertisements, and potentially recipe cards or product features.
- Assist in maintaining and evolving The Meat Club’s brand identity across all visual touchpoints.
- Collaborate with the marketing team to understand design requirements and deliver high-quality work that aligns with our brand.
- Support with basic photo editing and visual content organization.
- Stay updated on the latest design trends, particularly within the food and beverage industry and social media.
- Contribute creative ideas for visual campaigns and brand storytelling.
How to apply?
View the job post here and send your CV and portfolio to brad.ross@themeatclub.com.sg with the subject line “Junior Graphic Design Intern Application – [Your Name]”.
#5: Helpling Singapore – Marketing Intern
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Website: helpling.com.sg
Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 monthly
Job Qualifications
- Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Marketing, Business, Communications, or a related field.
- Strong analytical skills with an interest in performance marketing
- Creative mindset with good copywriting skills
- Excellent communication skills and experience working with internal and external stakeholders.
- Highly organized, proactive, and eager to learn in a fast-paced environment.
- Familiarity with Digital marketing/CRM/Content/Influencer marketing is a plus.
Key Responsibilities
Campaign & Performance Marketing Support
- Assist in coordinating with our agencies to plan, execute, and optimize multi-channel marketing campaigns (SEO, SEM, Paid Social, Email, CRM).
- Help manage day-to-day digital ad campaigns (Google Ads, Meta, TikTok) and track KPIs.
- Support A/B testing for creatives, messaging, and landing pages.
Brand & Market Research
- Conduct competitor analysis and market trends research.
- Assist in tracking brand performance and sentiment.
- Help refine messaging and positioning based on insights.
Data Analysis & Reporting
- Extract and analyse marketing performance data (Google Analytics, Meta Ads, CRM).
- Prepare reports on campaign performance, customer acquisition, and retention.
- Identify trends and recommend optimisations.
Content & Creative Support
- Assist in content creation for social media, blogs, and email campaigns.
- Collaborate with designers on ad creatives and promotional materials.
- Support PR efforts (drafting press releases, media monitoring).
Administration / Cross-functional Collaboration
- Assist with administrative tasks related to marketing projects, such as scheduling meetings, organising files, and maintaining documentation.
- Assist in coordinating partnerships and promotional activities.
How to apply?
View the job post here and apply for this position by submitting your text CV to yvonne.lee@helpling.com.
Editor’s note: These positions are selected based on the “remote” tag, but some are hybrid ones, and you may need to report to the office physically. For more details, contact the employer directly.
5 well-rated accommodations in Chiang Rai, Thailand, to book a stay in 2025
There doesn’t seem to be any direct flights to Chiang Rai from Singapore, but we think it shouldn’t deter you from traveling to the city in northern Thailand if you need a change of scenery from the usual Thai spots you’ve been to countless times.
And to help you with your travel planning, we’ve sourced out a quick list of well-rated accommodations in Chiang Rai, Thailand, to book a stay in 2025.
Without further ado, here we go… 
Mora Boutique Hotel
Agoda Rating: 9.5 (2.2K+ reviews)
You’re never far from the action at Mora Boutique Hotel.
This boutique hotel puts you less than 20 minutes from the airport and a short stroll from Chiang Rai’s Night Bazaar and Walking Street.
We love the clean, minimalist aesthetics too.
Whether you opt for a double, deluxe, suite, or family-friendly room, you will be treated to Mora’s exceptional 9.5 rating, which speaks for itself.
This goes on top of our list! 
The Riverie by Katathani
Agoda Rating: 9.3 (5.2K+ reviews)
This 5-star paradise is less than 10 km from the airport, so you can swap jet exhaustion for a front-row seat to thrills, thanks to the hotel’s huge pool and on-site water park facilities.
Parents will be glad to know that the kids can expend their energy in the indoor kids’ club.
When it comes to accommodations, there are deluxe rooms and suites with various views.
The little ones up to 12 years old stay free when using existing bedding anyway.
Come for the waterslides, stay for the 5-star service.
Mercy Hostel
Agoda Rating: 9.3 (1.9K+ reviews)
Mercy Hostel is just steps from the city’s Clock Tower and Night Bazaar, an accommodation at a prime location.
Freshly updated digs? Check.
Private and dorm rooms to suit all travelers? Check.
Bunk-bedded family suites? Triple check.
And that coveted 9.3 review score?
It’s not just a number—it’s a promise that this hostel delivers and its guests are satisfied.
Even better, this place treats you to a pool, a rarity among hostels.
Riva Vista Riverfront Resort Chiangrai
Agoda Rating: 9.3 (1.7K+ reviews)
Trade the typical hotel chains for a riverside retreat at Riva Vista Riverfront Resort Chiangrai.
Newly opened in 2023, this 4-star resort faces the Kok River and is just 15 minutes from the airport and a short stroll from Rong Suea Ten Temple.
Plus, with rooms ranging from ones with direct pool access to connecting rooms and family suites, there’s an option for every travel crew.
Kids under 12 even stay free using existing bedding.
Kokotel Chiang Rai Airport Suites
Agoda Rating: 9.3 (1.2K+ reviews)
Just a 15-minute ride from Chiang Rai Airport, this accommodation opened its doors in 2024, offering a respite for every type of traveler.
Whether you’re visiting as a couple, family, or group, the flexible room options hit the mark with suites, family rooms, and multi-single-bed quarters.
Art aficionados will appreciate being 3km from Baan Dam Museum.
When it’s time to depart, there’s no need to wake at dawn—the airport’s mere minutes away.
5 caffeine-free teas under $25, so you don’t get the jitters and be able to catch your ZZZs at night
Love your teas, but afraid you won’t be able to catch your ZZZs at night?
Worry not about a single thing with these caffeine-free teas under $25 that will ensure you still get to enjoy your sips without the jitters 
Green Sencha Decaff Tea
Price: $6.50
Sipping green tea has always been a pleasure reserved for daylight hours, lest the caffeine keep you tossing and turning?
Well, not anymore.
Now you can enjoy that fresh, crisp sencha green tea flavor whenever the craving strikes, day or night, with this decaf version.
The caffeinated kick is gone, but the antioxidant punch remains.
Each sip delivers the same taste and health-boosting polyphenols of classic Japanese sencha, minus any ensuing insomnia.
Simply steep a teaspoon or two in hot water and let the aroma work its magic.
Cold Brew Coconut Pineapple
Price: $8.80
Ditch the sodas and say aloha to a tropical treat you can feel good about with Basilur’s Cold Brew Coconut Pineapple infusion that transports you to an island oasis with every sip.
The coconut and pineapple flavors create a refreshing escape without the “high” from overly sweet drinks.
Thanks to its all-natural fruit blend, you can indulge in a healthy pick-me-up that skips the caffeine jitters.
Brew in cold or chilled H2O for a taste of sunshine in a cup.
Grand Monarch Tea (Caffeine-free)
Price: $14.90
Fit for a monarch’s table, this caffeine-free tea is royalty in a cup.
Expertly roasted brown rice grains lend a nutty aroma, complemented by the fragrance of osmanthus flowers.
Codonopsis root and Goji berries, treasured for centuries in royalty’s longevity recipes, mingle with ginseng’s essence to create a multi-layered brew.
Each sip delivers the rarest of herbs and spices in one soul-warming blend.
Why settle for an ordinary cuppa when you can raise your pinky like a royal with this caffeine-free tea blend?
Premium Boricha 보리차
Price: $18
Antea Social’s ‘boricha’, crafted from the finest barley, is heavily roasted for distinctive depth of flavor, awakening the senses with notes of toasted rice and roasted nuts.
Yet for all its richness, boricha remains a refreshing caffeine-free drink you can enjoy daily.
Every steaming cup connects you to the Korean tradition while delighting your modern palate.
FYI, the tea is sourced from a young tea farm owner in Hadong, South Gyeongsang Province, South Korea.
Sleep Tight Tea Bag Cube
Price: $21
Last but not least, drift into dreamland with this lemon balm-based tisane.
As the water meets the herbs, hints of citrus entwine with sweet florals, filling the air.
It’s a marriage of gentle lemon balm, lavender, and rose petals that lulls the mind into serenity.
The perfect nighttime ritual, this relaxing brew quiets the chaos of the day and eases you into slumber.