Celeste Elle, Author at MoneyDigest.sg

This website allows you to search for cheaper meals around you

Don’t say bojio.

I recently came across this website called BudgetMealGoWhere, a go-to online hub for finding affordable and delicious meals at HDB coffee shops in your neighborhood.

Developed by the Housing and Development Board (HDB) and the Government Technology Agency (GovTech), this user-friendly portal is designed to help you uncover wallet-friendly food options close to home.

Simply head to BudgetMealGoWhere, type in your postal code or address, and hit “GO” to explore a world of budget meal and drink choices at nearby HDB coffee shops.

The website conveniently sorts the results by distance, starting with those within a 2 km radius of your location.

You can even navigate between languages!

Here’s what it looks like on my screen:

But the results weren’t that accurate.

Based on the website search, the nearest coffee shop to my address is FOODCLIQUE, and it’s written as being 1.75km away.

But when I searched on Google on how to get there, it’s actually 2.7 km away.

Hmm, is it just me?

Let me know if yours is accurate.

Anyhow, currently featuring about 40 coffee shops, the website is continuously expanding to include more budget-friendly eateries.

To qualify as a budget meal, the offerings should be full meal options such as lunch or dinner, priced affordably compared to other dining establishments.

Typical budget meals range from $3 to $3.50, with basic drinks priced at $1 to $1.15 across various neighborhoods.

Keep an eye out for the budget meal decal sticker on participating stalls’ food displays to easily spot the value-for-money options available.

It looks like this:

Image Credits: The Housing and Development Board

The options are not plentiful now but the relevant authorities are working on things.

By 2026, your local HDB coffee shops will become even more enticing as they begin to offer a range of budget meal options for folks, as announced by the Senior Minister of State for National Development 2 months ago.

Although this requirement has been implemented since 2018 for newly leased HDB coffee shops, it will now extend to all existing HDB coffee shops as well.

Starting from this month onwards, any HDB rental coffee shop up for tenancy renewal must offer at least 4 budget meals and 2 budget drinks to secure their three-year lease.

With this new tenancy stipulation in place, all 374 HDB-managed coffee shops will feature budget-friendly options by 2026.

This represents almost half of the coffee shops found in HDB estates!

So, get ready to enjoy delectable and affordable meal experiences at an HDB coffee shop near you.

And I sincerely hope they will make some improvements to the search results. :/

Asking about your delayed promotion without seeming pushy

I was suddenly reminded of a close friend at work who was “chasing” after her promotion but kept facing delays.

It was not just a frustrating experience for her but for me as well because I was looking forward to her promotion as much as she was.

But days turned to weeks and weeks to months; nothing happened.

Is that you too?

You’ve been promised a promotion by your boss but months have passed and you’ve yet to receive any official email or letter from your HR?

Then this article is for you.

Keep your emotions in check

Yes, I know your emotions are running high now.

It’s natural.

But showing your emotions for the world to see at work can sabo you instead of aiding the situation.

Woah, woah, don’t get me wrong. I’m certainly not asking you to ignore your feelings. It’s unhealthy.

I’ve “exploded” once at work before and I know how it feels to bottle everything up.

What I’m saying is that you should know the difference between “feeling” and “showing” your emotions.

If you need someone to talk to about the situation, connect with someone outside of work, or better still, seek a professional counselor.

Schedule a meeting to discuss the issue

Sometimes, even the most patient among us needs a gentle reminder about something promised but not delivered.

Don’t second guess your boss’ thoughts. Reach out and ask if you can schedule a meeting to talk about your promotion. Of course, be armed with the main points you want to make.

Share that you are looking for clarity as to when the promotion may come through (since you’ve waited long enough since the last talk).

Tip: Keep that accusatory tone in your bag.

Come prepared with examples of your achievements

If you’ve stayed long enough, you would have some past performance reviews stashed somewhere, right?

Image Credits: venngage.com

Use that as a starting point.

Highlight the positives in your past reviews—whether that be praises from your colleagues, successful projects you spearheaded, or any other accomplishments that speak to the value you’ve added thus far.

You can also share some “evidence” of successes that you’ve had since the promise of your promotion was made.

But we all know we’re not flawless.

So play the balance game by mentioning your shortcomings—delayed project deadlines or issues with communication—whatever it is, openly acknowledging your flaws can show that you’re aware of personal areas of improvement.

Express your commitment to career growth at the company

You want the promotion for the money. That’s a fact.

But showing it upfront is not going to get you anywhere.

You want your boss to know that you don’t just want the promotion—you want to take ownership of the opportunity and drive results for the company.

And you can do so by revealing your long-term vision for yourself and the company.

Showing that staying at the company is part of your long-term plans will help demonstrate that you don’t just want the position—you want to be here over time, to contribute in every single way.

Okay lah, a bit fake but you want the promotion, right?

Ask for clear next steps and timelines

You can’t be waiting forever for a delayed promotion.

I sure won’t.

So ask for the details about your promotion. This will give you an idea of how long the process may take.

But be reasonable too.

For example, if your bosses are dealing with a huge project or it’s “paperwork season”, they may need more time than usual to process your promotion.

This is why it’s important to be patient and understanding when waiting for an official confirmation of your promotion.

Gear up for the next steps if the promotion ain’t happening

If months have gone by (or worse still, a year or two) and there’s still no sign of your long-awaited promotion, it’s time to think ahead.

Perhaps it’s about time you start looking elsewhere for opportunities that could help you get ahead in your career.

Go to job search portals and start researching potential similar roles in other companies.

Prep your resume and portfolio, write cover letters… you know the drill, yeah?

And yes, it’s time to log in to your moldy LinkedIn profile and start networking—you never know what opportunities may arise.

However, be sure to not neglect your current duties in your role as you await more updates from your boss and HR manager.

And always, always, leave on a good note (if you’re resigning). Burning bridges won’t do you any good.

As we close, if your boss is delaying your promotion, don’t be afraid to ask why. Be direct but polite, and make sure you’re specific about the terms of the promotion. By being mindful of both your needs as well as your boss’, you can have a productive conversation about your delayed promotion without seeming pushy. Remember, the only way to get what you want is to ask for it. Don’t settle for anything less than you deserve.

FAQs about The Reserve Residences that’s launching on 27 May 2023

In this post, we will be exploring the most frequently asked questions about The Reserve Residences, an exceptional new development set to launch soon, on 27 May 2023.

We will look into the luxurious, unique features, and unparalleled amenities that await future residents.

Whether you’re a potential homeowner, investor, or simply curious about this property, this comprehensive guide will provide valuable insights into all that The Reserve Residences has to offer.

Ready? Let’s dive right in.

Where is it located?

The Reserve Residences is located in District 21, along Jalan Anak Bukit, Singapore 589603.

What are the nearest MRT stations?

Beauty World and King Albert Park.

Where can I eat, shop, and exercise?

Bukit Timah Market & Food Centre is a 2-minute walk away.
The nearest shopping malls include Bukit Timah Plaza, KAP Mall, and Beauty World Centre (all within 6 minutes).
Rifle Range Nature Park offers walking paths and it’s a 9-minute walk away.

What are some schools nearby?

Preschools

WorkPlayz Montessori @ Upper Bukit Timah
Kanopy Forest Preschool
ChildFirst @ King Albert Park

Primary schools

Pei Hwa Presbyterian Primary School
Cambridge Primary School (DIMENSIONS)
Bukit Timah Primary School

Secondary schools

Methodist Girls’ School
Hillgrove Secondary School
Hwa Chong Institution (High School Section)

Higher institutions

National Junior College (9-minute drive)
Ngee Ann Polytechnic (5-minute drive)
Singapore University of Social Sciences (4-minute drive)

Who are the property developers?

Sino Group and Far East Organization.

What is the tenure and when is the TOP date?

The tenure is 99 years and the TOP date will be in 2028.

What are some of the facilities available?

A world of leisure and social opportunities spanning 7 floors at this new development awaits you.

It features a 600-m jogging path, a designated area for your furry friends to frolic, open-air activity spaces, and lush gardens.

Gather with your loved ones in the cozy, communal dining pavilions and living areas designed to help you relax and re-energize.

At the heart of it all, you will find the Family Pool, seamlessly connecting the 50-m Lap Pool with an array of themed pools, creating a refreshing oasis for rejuvenation and togetherness.

What are the 4 distinct collections of The Reserve Residences?

The Reserve Residences

Experience luxurious living at The Reserve Residences, where the elegant residential towers rise majestically amidst verdant greenery and serene pools.

There are perfect 1- to 3-bedroom abodes designed to cater to your unique lifestyle preferences.

Each home encapsulates the spirit of a tropical sanctuary, bathed in an abundance of natural light and offering spacious layouts for modern living.

Plus, cleverly designed storage solutions ensure a clutter-free and harmonious environment for you to call home. Perfect.

Horizon

This exclusive Horizon collection features 3- to 4-bedroom residences, ideal for families and multi-generational living.

Boasting full-height windows, these homes showcase breathtaking panoramas of the sky and surrounding greenery.

Spacious living and dining areas provide the ideal setting for social events and festive occasions, making every moment truly memorable.

Selected units present unrivaled tranquil vistas of the neighboring Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and Rifle Range Nature Park.

Creekside

Creekside homes have 3 to 4 bedrooms, each featuring a balcony with invigorating views of the pool or lush greenery.

Nestled within a low-rise block, these homes are set apart from the main residential towers, lovely for folks who want a sense of seclusion.

For an added touch of luxury and discretion, selected residences come with a private lift so you can have a truly private living experience.

Treetops

Lastly at Treetops, picturesque vistas are exquisitely paired with sophisticated interiors, showcasing tasteful marble accents.

Revel in the grandiosity of the living spaces, boasting generous ceiling heights of up to 3.2 m.

Every residence in this distinguished collection offers either a private lift or direct access to the car park, providing an unparalleled level of convenience.

Can I have a brief breakdown of the floor plans?

The Reserve Residences

Unit Types	Sqft Range
1-Bedroom	441 & 495 sqft
2-Bedroom	560 to 743 sqft
2-Bedroom + Study	721 to 807 sqft
3-Bedroom	883 to 1044 sqft
3-Bedroom + Study	1216 sqft

Horizon

Unit Types	Sqft Range
3-Bedroom	1313 & 1324 sqft
4-Bedroom	1475 to 1744 sqft

Creekside

Unit Types	Sqft Range
3-Bedroom	1119 to 1378 sqft
4-Bedroom	1894 & 2185 sqft

Treetops

Unit Types	Sqft Range
4-Bedroom + Study	1991 & 2250 sqft
5-Bedroom	2336 to 3003 sqft

What is the cost per square foot (PSF)?

The estimated price is around $2,300 per square foot (PSF).

What is the price range?

Starting from $1,110,000.

Where’s the showroom?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Far East Property Sales (@fareastpropertysalesandleasing)

The show flat’s located at 100A Upper Bukit Timah Road Singapore 589680.

And there we have it. I hope this blog post has shed light on the most frequently asked questions about The Reserve Residences, launching in a few days! As an outstanding development offering an unparalleled luxury lifestyle, it’s no wonder that interest in this property is on the rise. For those considering calling this exceptional place home, I trust that this post has provided some necessary insights to make an informed decision. Let me know if you want to see a similar post on Lentor Hills Residences? Till then, see ya!

Latest WFH internships posted from 16 to 19 May 2023

Happy Friday, and welcome back to this weekly WFH internship opportunity series!

Remote internships provide an incredible chance for fresh graduates or aspiring professionals to gain valuable experience in their preferred industry while enjoying the flexibility of working from home.

Interested? Join us as we dive into the latest available internships posted from 16 to 19 May 2023.

#1: StackUp (Under TribeX) – Product Content Intern

Website: app.stackup.dev

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

–

Key Responsibilities

Content Creation: propose and design campaign content for learning on StackUp to increase educational value, and drive user engagement and usage.
Stakeholder Management: work with internal and external stakeholders in designing and running content to increase user engagement. Where relevant and timely, you may also have the opportunity to participate in meetings with external partners.

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Yan Ning via this link.

#2: Soft Spot – Marketing Intern

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Soft Spot (@softspot.baby)

Website: softspot.baby

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,100 monthly

Job Qualifications

–

Key Responsibilities

Customer service: Respond to and resolve customer queries or requests promptly and professionally
Events and activations: Assist in the planning and execution of pop-ups and other events
Marketing collaterals: Develop marketing materials on an ad-hoc basis
Business development: Be the key liaison for selected retailers to help drive channel growth

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Ely via this link.

#3: IFoundries (Asia Pacific) Pte Ltd – Social Media Graphic Design Intern

Website: ifoundries.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $600 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

Familiarity with producing content for Instagram, Facebook
A portfolio showcasing knowledge of graphic design ideally with a focus on digital design
A keen eye for consistency, color, typography, and details
Knowledge of current trends in design and technology
Strong proficiency in Photoshop and Illustrator
Keen eyes for details
Video production, video editing, and photography skills and/or their equivalent are a plus

Key Responsibilities

To work closely with the digital marketing team to design social media and online ad campaigns
Assist in brainstorming design ideas for social media posts and other marketing collaterals
Assist with editing images for marketing collateral and product launches
Brainstorm new and creative strategies.

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Vary via this link.

#4: Clarins Pte Ltd – Intern – Finance

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Clarins Official (@clarinsofficial)

Website: clarins.com.sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,300 monthly

Job Qualifications

Business or Finance degree
No particular experience is required but generally eager to learn and discover a fast pace business in a multicultural and dynamic international company
Basic Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint knowledge
Basic understanding of Information Systems
Eager to learn from experienced professionals (hard and soft skills)
A high degree of responsibility, integrity, and attention to detail.
Investigative nature
Entrepreneurial mindset, challenging the existing, seeking perfection
People and communication skills with an ability to adapt to different personalities

Key Responsibilities

Monthly Sales Reporting and Analysis
Tri-annual Budget and Re-estimates exercises
Day-to-day tasks
Ad-hoc Project Management

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and submit your resume to [email protected].

#5: Third Floor Pictures Pte Ltd – Production Assistant

Website: thirdfloorpictures.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,500 monthly

Job Qualifications

Independent, responsible, punctual, and self-driven.
Able to learn quickly and communicate effectively.
Interest in television long-form work – both fiction and factual content.
Minimum 6 months of related work experience.
Only for Singaporeans / PRs.

Key Responsibilities

Assist producers in day-to-day production tasks, including research and budget-related work.
Communicate with various production personnel to develop production schedules and prepare detailed call sheets. You may be required to travel for filming and assist in overseas production.
When a project goes into the post-production stage, you’ll coordinate with the different parties involved and assist in post-pro work.

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Oman via this link.

Note: We’ve selected these internships based on the “remote” tag, but some positions may still require some face-to-face time. Please contact the employer directly for more deets.

9 newly opened cafes to visit at Hongdae, South Korea

Have you heard?

Seoul Metro will be raising its fares in Q3 of 2023, which means it’s going to be slightly more expensive to travel via subway in Seoul starting in August or September.

But still, it’s going to be cheaper than cabbing around so… just saying.

And speaking of trains, it’s always easier to visit the shops near the stations, right?

I’ve received a really good response from my last post on newly opened cafes in South Korea last month so here’s another one for all you cafe-thirsty fans.

Oh, and yes, you can catch the post here if you’ve missed it:

3 newly opened cafes near Seongsu & Ttukseom Stations to visit in South Korea

Anyhow, for today’s post, we will be looking at cafes at a hot place—Hongdae. The nearest station will be Hongik University Station (홍대입구역), yeah.

Let’s roll with the names.

NU HAUS | 누하우스

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 일상 속 새로운 휴식, 누하우스 (@its.nu.haus)

Opening hours:

8.30 am to 9 pm (Monday to Wednesday)

8.30 am to 11 pm (Thursday & Friday)

12 pm to 11 pm (Saturday)

12 pm to 6 pm (Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 4,000/4,500 KRW (4.02/4.52 SGD) for drinks

Address: 19 Donggyo-ro 22-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: 508 m from Exit 1 of Hongik University Station (green line 2)

MAXIM1CAFE | 맥심1층카페

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A post shared by 맥심1층카페☕️ (@maxim1cafe)

Opening hours:

8 am to 12 am (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday)

8 am to 8 pm (Tuesday)

11 am to 7 pm (Saturday)

Closed on Sundays.

Prices: Starting from 4,500 KRW (4.52 SGD) for drinks

Address: 22 World Cup buk-ro 5ga-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: 492 m from Exit 1 of Hongik University Station (green line 2)

ㅇㄷㅇㅅ | 어더아사

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A post shared by 어떻게 더위까지 사랑하겠어, 아이스크림을 사랑하는 거지 (@adas_hongdae)

Opening hours:

11 am to 10 pm (Monday to Thursday & Sunday)

11 am to 11 pm (Friday & Saturday)

Prices: Starting from 2,900 KRW (2.91 SGD)

Address: 40 Wausan-ro 23-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: 194 m from Exit 9 of Hongik University Station (green line 2)

ZERO CAFE | 제로카페

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A post shared by 제로카페 홍대 𝙕𝙀𝙍𝙊 𝘾𝘼𝙁𝙀 (@zero_cafe)

Opening hours:

9 am to 10 pm (weekdays)

11 am to 9 pm (weekends & public holidays)

Closed on Tuesdays.

Prices: Starting from 4,300 KRW (4.32 SGD) for drinks

Address: 17 Wausan-ro 27-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: 435 m from Exit 7 of Hongik University Station (Gyeongui–Jungang Line)

UNDERSTAND | 언더스탠드

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A post shared by 언더스탠드 (@understand__h)

Opening hours: 12 pm to 9 pm daily

Prices: Starting from 4,000 KRW (4.02 SGD) for drinks

Address: 11 Wausan-ro 29 da-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: 315 m from Exit 7 of Hongik University Station (Gyeongui–Jungang Line)

MILKFLO | 미크플로 연트럴파크점

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A post shared by 미크플로 (@miikflo)

Opening hours: 10 am to 9 pm daily

Prices: Starting from 4,500 KRW (4.02 SGD) for drinks

Address: 46 Yanghwa-ro 23-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: 267 m from Exit 3 of Hongik University Station (Airport Railroad Express)

DESSERT SAGAK | 디저트사각

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A post shared by Dessert S A G A K (@dessert_sagak_)

Opening hours:

11 am to 8.30 pm daily

Closed on Mondays.

Prices: Starting from 3,200 KRW (3.21 SGD) for desserts

Address: 28 Yeonhui-ro 1-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea (level 2, #202)

Directions: 289 m from Exit 3 of Hongik University Station (Airport Railroad Express)

CAFE LIFE | 라이프

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A post shared by from life to life (@cafe_coffee_l1fe)

Opening hours:

8.30 am to 7 pm (Monday to Friday)

11 am to 7 pm (Saturday)

Closed on Sundays.

Prices: Starting from 3,500 KRW (3.50 SGD) for drinks

Address: 26 Yeonhui-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: 410 m from Exit 3 of Hongik University Station (Airport Railroad Express)

HOWEVER YEONNAM | 하우에버 연남

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A post shared by 하우에버 연남 (@however_yeonnam)

Opening hours: 11.30 am to 9 pm daily

Prices: Starting from 5,000 KRW (5.02 SGD) for drinks

Address: 45-6 Yeonhui-ro 1-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: 397 m from Exit 3 of Hongik University Station (Airport Railroad Express)

As we wrap up this post of Hongdae’s latest cafe gems, it’s time to grab your friends, your favorite book, or just yourself and head out to explore these 9 new cafes. From creative and cozy hideouts to lively and social-media-worthy spots, each destination offers a unique atmosphere that will excite your senses and fuel your soul. So, whether you’re a cafe hopper, a coffee connoisseur, or simply looking for a place to rest your legs, these newly opened F&Bs in Hongdae are sure to become your go-to havens for your upcoming Korea trip. Have a lovely time to come!