6 Thomson-East Coast Line Stations Will Soon Open In Q3 2021

Represented by the color brown on the rail map, the Thomson–East Coast Line (TEL) is a new Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) line in Singapore. It is currently under construction and is expected to be completed by year 2024. Its completion will provide the residents in the East and along the North-South Corridor a faster access to the city.

The TEL’s development spans five different phases. When these phases are accomplished, it will serve approximately one million commuters a day. The first phase of TEL (TEL 1) opened for service last January 31, 2020. TEL 1 includes Woodlands North, Woodlands, and Woodlands South MRT stations. The second phase of the TEL (TEL 2) is scheduled to open in the third quarter of 2021.

EXPERIENCING EARLIER DELAYS

Due to the circumstances brought by the COVID-19 pandemic and further system review, the second phase of the Thomson–East Coast Line had been delayed twice from its original target opening date. A system review was prompted by a five-hour disruption along the line last Dec 4, 2020.

In a glimmer of hope, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) handed over six MRT stations along the second phase of the Thomson-East Coast Line to SMRT last Friday (April 30, 2021). This entails that there will be nine operational stations in the TEL soon.

Image Credits: facebook.com/WeKeepYourWorldMoving (LTA)

MORE ON THE SIX STATIONS

The six stations (TEL 2) that were handed over to SMRT included Springleaf, Lentor, Mayflower, Bright Hill, Upper Thomson, and Caldecott. The Caldecott station will become an interchange that connects to the Circle Line.

According to LTA: “The civil and structural works for the six stations have been completed, with some architectural, electrical, and mechanical works ongoing.

LTA has also completed rigorous testing and commissioning of the trains and systems for (the second stage of the Thomson-East Coast Line), including tests to ensure that the new stations operate seamlessly with the three (operating) stations.”

Train operator SMRT will continue with more tests to ensure everyone’s safety.

UPGRADE IN THE COMMUTER’S TRAVEL TIME

LTA highlights the convenience of faster travels upon the opening of the Thomson-East Coast Line’s second phase. By Q3 of 2021, residents from households near (i.e., within a 10-minute walking distance) one of the nine stations can expect travel time savings of up to 50%. For instance, a Sin Ming resident travelling to Republic Polytechnic by public transport will enjoy a 25-minute journey instead of the current 50-minute travel time.

Image Credits: facebook.com/WeKeepYourWorldMoving (LTA)

More TEL stations will be opened in the next three years. Moreover, the Jurong Region Line and the Cross Island Line are still under construction. Let us stay tuned!

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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Ask Your Insurance Agent These 4 Important Questions

Life is full of uncertainties. We are not aware of what will happen in the next hour or the next day. Despite this, we try our best to plan out our lives as best as we can. As you plan for the future, you may consider getting an insurance. Insurance is a means to cushion against financial losses and unexpected events.

Complete your financial plan by finding a suitable insurance policy that will cover your hospital bills, critical illnesses, and other needs. Do your research and ask your insurance providers for guidance to find the most suitable insurance plan for you.

On that note, here are four important questions that you may ask to your insurance agent.

#1: WHICH TYPE OF INSURANCE DO I NEED?

The distribution of insurance is regulated by the Insurance Act. Under this act, no one is allowed to establish an insurance business unless licensed or authorized by the Government. It also entails the duties and responsibilities of the insurance agents such as arranging contracts of insurance and collecting or receiving premiums on policies in Singapore. The insurance agent helps customize your insurance policy to best suit your needs.

There are many types of insurance policies. While endowment policies focus on savings, protection-type policies protect you from unforeseen circumstances. Do your research prior to meeting your insurance agent. As you become transparent with your financial circumstance, you may ask more questions surrounding the differences in their insurance policies. For instance, you may ask your agent to elaborate on the specifications of both their health and life insurance policies. With so many types of insurance around, you cannot blame a person for getting confused at first!

#2: IS IT ESSENTIAL TO PAY MORE WHEN MAKING A CLAIM?

Let us put a spotlight on health insurance. Although insurance policies help cover most of your hefty hospital bills, you can expect to pay some portion in form of deductibles and co-payments. Deductible is the initial amount that you need to pay for claim/s made in a policy year. You need to pay the deductible before you can get a payout from your insurance. On the other hand, co-payments are crucial principle in the design of health insurance. Co-payment is the amount that you need to split with the insurer after paying your deductibles.

Depending on your insurance provider, some health insurance policies may not cover certain illnesses or procedures. For instance, many health insurance policies will not pay for your cosmetic procedures. Ask your insurance agent about this. Know the scope and limitations of a policy before committing to one.

#3: HOW MUCH DOES THE INSURANCE COST?

Whether you are getting a car insurance or a life insurance, it is vital to scan your options in order to find a policy that fits your financial capabilities. The cost of life insurance, health insurance, car insurance, etc., will vary.

From a general perspective, the price of insurance depends on the risks. People who are working in high-risk jobs (e.g., factory workers or construction foremen) may be subjected to higher premiums. The insurance practice of charging higher premiums for certain occupational classes is called occupational loading. This practice is most commonly found in personal accident insurance. Do note that the premiums will also be affected by other factors such as the number of years that you need to have the policy in place.

Ask your insurance agent about this. If you feel that you cannot afford all the insurance coverage available, you do not need to worry. Your insurance agent will help you to prioritize your needs.

#4: HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU UPDATE YOUR INSURANCE POLICY?

Throughout our lives, our goals and needs will change. This is why experts suggest to review your insurance policies every year. You may ask an insurance agent or a financial advisor for advice regarding the possibility of increasing your insurance coverage as years pass.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Gradual increase in your insurance coverage may help prepare for the unexpected health problems that might come as you age.

Sources: 1 & 2

 

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Apple AirTag, Samsung SmartTag & Other Location Trackers In Singapore

Are you looking for the perfect present for that one friend who loses absolutely everything? Search no further than this list of location trackers.

People who tend to forget where they last placed their items can benefit from location or GPS trackers such as Apple AirTag and Samsung Galaxy SmartTag. These trackers can be used for a variety of ways such as locating where you parked your bicycle or locating your beloved pet. People who are suffering from memory loss may also use these devices as aides.

On that note, here are 4 location trackers that can be purchased in Singapore.

#1: APPLE AIRTAG

Before its launch in April 30, numerous Apple fanatics have been raving about the technology of the Apple AirTag. Apple AirTag aims to provide its users with an easy way of tracking your items. You can attach this portable AirTag to your keys, slip it to your backpack, or place it at the back of your iPad.

Locate your item by asking Siri for help (e.g., “Hey Siri, find my bag!”) or by playing a sound on its built-in speaker. You can activate its alarm by using the Find My app. If it is hiding nearby, you can simply follow the sound and end your search. If you have misplaced it outside, you can assign a phone number to a lost AirTag.

When it comes to privacy, Apple has put several measures to ensure that the AirTag cannot be misused. For starters, you cannot activate an AirTag on behalf of someone else. Secondly, the AirTag will draw attention to itself by playing a sound if it has been separated from its owner for a long period of time. Lastly, your iOS devices can identify if an unknown AirTag is travelling around with you. This will give an alert that the unknown AirTag’s owner can see your location.

Price starts from S$45 at apple.com/sg/airtag.

#2: SAMSUNG GALAXY SMARTTAG

Samsung’s Galaxy SmartTag is a small, battery-powered device that you can attach to your important items such as your wallet or backpack. It is a black square device with a hole for your key ring or clip. As a responsible pet-owner, you may attach it to your pet’s collar too. Once it is set up, you can link it to your Samsung account. The tag can be located using the SmartThings Find app on your phone.

Activate its sound feature by tapping the ring button on your mobile and follow the familiar sound. Even when you are offline, the Galaxy Find Network can be used to find your SmartTag privately. Furthermore, it is easy to retrace where your tag has been by scrolling through its history.

Price starts from S$34.90 at mobyshop.com.sg. You can also purchase the SmartTag from different stores.

#3: NUT MINI SMART TRACKER

One of the most affordable GPS trackers in the market is the Nut Mini Smart Tracker. Its lightweight and compact design weighs no more than 70 grams. Speaking of its compact design, it is as small as a mobile SIM card. Its size makes it easy to insert it in your wallet, your car, or your child’s bag. It is compatible to both Android and iOS devices.

All you need to do is to beep the button to know where the item is. If your item goes out of range, it will alert you through its application. The only downsides to this tracker are the lack of an emergency button and the lack of a battery life indicator. Considering its price of about S$9.52 in Shopee, it is already a steal!

#4: ORBIT SMART TRACKER

Save yourself the hassle of searching for your misplaced items by attaching the Orbit Smart Tracker to your keys or your purse. If the Orbit is within the range, it will play a loud sound. This will help you locate your item. If you lose your phone, you can press the button on the tracker to make your mobile phone ring. This works even when you are on silent mode.

It is possible to know the history of the tracker too. Give your memory a break and let the app tell you where you last left your item. This way, you will know where to look first. What is more? You can take the perfect selfie by setting up your phone and using the Orbit as a camera remote.

This tracker has a replaceable battery, a battery notification, and no yearly subscription. Having a replaceable battery reduces product wastage. Get your own Orbit tracker on eezee.sg for S$46.27 (exc. GST) or on shopee.sg for as low as S$40.50.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

The abovementioned location trackers can locate your prized possessions as well as your beloved pets and family members. Leaving your home knowing that your valuables are protected can be possible with these tracking devices.

Sources: 1 & 2

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Top Places For Authentic Jjajangmyeon In Singapore (From S$7)

One of the most common take-away dishes in Korean dramas is Jajangmyeon (자장면) or Jjajangmyeon (짜장면). Jjajangmyeon is a Korean noodle dish coated with a thick sauce made of chunjang, vegetables, and diced pork. Different versions of this dish use seafood or other meats.

It was inspired by the Chinese dish Zha Jiang Mian, which was introduced by a Chinese immigrant living in Incheon. Nowadays, Jjajangmyeon brings delight to people all over the world. Luckily for us, we can satisfy our appetite without having to travel to Korea.

#1: MUKJJA

Mukjja‘s catchy name came from 먹자 (Mukja) meaning “Let’s eat!” and 짜 (Jja) from “Jjajangmyeon”. Located opposite Novena Church, MukJja offers a fusion of dishes from the Korean and Chinese cuisines. It opened last March 2020, before the implementation of the Circuit Breaker.

People who have missed the dishes from Tae Woo Ban Jum (i.e., a Korean restaurant that used to be at Clarke Quay) will be happy to know that its founder is the person behind MukJja.

Now, let us focus on MukJja’s Jjajangmyeon (about S$11). What makes their Jjajangmyeon memorable is its in-house noodles, its black bean paste, and its inclusion of shredded meat. Food blogger and presenter Daniel Ang expressed that its taste is as legit as the one he had before in Seoul. He is not alone! Many online reviews considered it as one of the best Jjajangmyeons in Singapore.

Image Credits: facebook.com/mukjja

Address: 275 Thomson Road #01-07, Singapore 307645

#2: DONG FANG HONG

This list will not be complete without the Dong Fang Hong Korean Chinese Restaurant. Dong Fang Hong serves a mouthwatering collection of dishes, which are suitable for casual dining and family gatherings. Serving people since 2005, Dong Fang Hong is one of the most experienced Korean Chinese restaurants in Singapore.

Try the DFH Jjajangmyeon (about S$12) or the Uni Jjajangmyeon (about S$13) when you are there. The DFH Jjajangmyeon is made with chewy handmade noodles and savory black bean sauce. While the Uni Jjajangmyeon is the spicy equivalent its Jjajangmyeon. The spiciness seeps through the thick savory sauce, making the dish more addicting with every bite.

Image Credits: facebook.com/DongFangHongSg

Address: 92 Telok Ayer Street #01-01 Singapore, Singapore 048472

#3: O.BBa Jjajang

O.BBa Jjajang is the sister restaurant of O.BBa BBQ. One of its well-known dishes is the Jjajangmyeon (from S$13). The restaurant’s Jjajangmyeon is served with fermented black soybean paste, homemade noodles, diced pork, onions, and shredded cucumber. Its size can feed about two people, but you are more than welcome to upsize your bowl for an additional fee.

Its noodles are smooth and chewy. As for the sauce, it has a generous sauce-to-noodle ratio. People who love saucy dishes will consider it a treat. Please mix the noodles and the sauce before consuming it to prevent the noodles from sticking together.

Image Credits: facebook.com/obbajjajang

Address: 77 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088498

#4: ANNYEONG CHICKEN

The most inexpensive Jjajangmyeon (about S$7) on this list packs a punch! You see, it added vibrancy to our local hawker scene with its offerings of popular Korean cuisines such as the Jjajangmyeon. At Annyeong Chicken, the black bean sauce coats every yellow noodle strand. It boasts with a heavy onion flavor too.

You can complete your course with delicious dishes such as the Soy Garlic Chicken (about S$8/3 pieces) and the Haemul Pajeon (from S$10). Haemul Pajeon is otherwise known as the Korean seafood pancake.

Image Credits: facebook.com/annyeongck

Address: Blk 710 Clementi West Street 2, #01-247, Rong Fa Coffee Shop, Singapore 120709

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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3 Places Where You Can Learn Pottery In Singapore

Pottery is one of the oldest and most widespread forms of decorative arts. Despite the technological advances, the existence of pottery is far from over.

Experience the beauty of pottery as you attend one of the classes below. These classes will help you create your own plates, bowls, mugs, and more. Handmade crafts are more personalized and meaningful than store-bought products.

What are you waiting for? Make pottery your new hobby this 2021!

#1: THOW KWANG POTTERY JUNGLE

What better way to experience pottery than by going back to its roots? While most pottery studios in the country operate on electric kilns, the Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle does not. Witness the magic of the dragon kiln as you attend one of its workshops.

Built in 1940s, the Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle’s dragon kiln is one of the last two dragon kilns in Singapore. Its uniqueness does not stop there! You see, it is the only dragon kiln that is fired up multiple times per year. It is made from bricks and uses a wood-firing technique to engulf the pieces in fire. This way, the ashes react with the pottery glaze to create dynamic textures and colors.

Visit this place to enjoy their tours, workshops, and retail items. One of its interesting workshops is the Paw-Stamping Workshop. This workshop allows you to personalize your pet’s bowl with its paw (costs about S$65). Workshop prices start from S$28/pax.

Address: 85 Lorong Tawas, S (639823)
Website: potteryjungle.com

#2: ARUDIO

ARUDIO’s story dates way back in 2014 with its founder – Poh Sin Yong. Poh Sin Yong aims to support the local art scene through providing arts to the public and job opportunities to the local artists. Nestled in Woodlands, you will find various workshops such as painting, printmaking, and pottery.

ARUDIO provides art classes to all levels and rental spaces for artists. In its core, it believes that everyone is bestowed with the gift of creativity.

Well, here is one for the books – a pottery class for couples or friends! If you are looking for an activity to experience quality time with your partner, you may book for the Ceramic Hand Building Class (about S$130/2 pax). It is a 3-hour class for people who are eager to learn about the different tools and techniques used in pottery. Nonetheless, their trial classes start at S$70/pax.

Address: 11 Woodlands Close, #09-30, S (737853)
Website: arudioceramic.com

Image Credits: facebook.com/arudiosg

#3: THE POTTERS’ GUILT

The Potters’ Guilt offers more than its eye-catching name! According to its website, it got its name by playing with the terms “guild and guilt”. For them, the word “guild refers to the respect accorded to the integrity of craft” and the word “guilt refers to the pursuit of our own idiosyncratic imperfections”. This studio consists of practicing artists, who are dedicated to work in the realm of three-dimensional art. They share their passions through their products and workshops.

Sign up for The Potters’ Guilt Pottery On Wheels Experience (about S$55/pax) to know more about the technique of wheel-thrown pottery. This is the same tool used in the unforgettable scene in the film “Ghost”. Classes are kept small to ensure everyone safety.

Best of all? Their workshops are not only for adults. Your beloved children can experience the therapeutic effect of pottery by signing up for the Children’s Workshop (about S$60/pax). Let your children create monster mugs while having fun!

Address: 195 Pearl’s Hill Terrace, #01-03, S (168976)
Website: thepottersguilt.com

The abovementioned art and pottery studios are just some of the options you may consider when starting out your creative hobby. If you are not yet ready to take a class, learning at home is a budget-friendly alternative. Start by gathering air-dry clay, paint, and acrylic gloss. There are countless tutorials available on YouTube. See for yourself!

Sources: 1 & 2

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