Anna Agoncillo, Author at MoneyDigest.sg

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

How To Overcome The Temptations Of Retail Therapy

With a population of nearly 5.7 million people, the humble Lion City is one of the major e-commerce markets in Southeast Asia. In fact, the largest segment in its e-commerce market is the Electronics & Media. This segment’s growth is understandable given that most of us relied on technology to sustain our needs during the pandemic.

Aside from this, research firm IGD Asia found that Singapore’s grocery market saw an increasing demand in its consumers. It was forecasted to become a S$9.9 billion industry by 2023. The leading players in the local online groceries were NTUC FairPrice and RedMart.

These figures highlight the increasing numbers of people who patronize online shopping. Online shopping can bring multiple benefits to its consumers, but it can also encourage retail therapy. Oh! What exactly is retail therapy?

DEFINITION

Retail therapy is the act of shopping for goods with the primary purpose of improving one’s mood or disposition. In other words, it is shopping (or window shopping) for something to make you feel better.

PSYCHOLOGY BEHIND RETAIL THERAPY

Retail therapy produces “happy hormones”.

When you are shopping, the body releases dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a role on how we experience pleasure and reward. It helps reinforce enjoyable sensations and behaviors. This affects how people feel during the anticipation and acquisition of a new possession. Interestingly, the height of the blissful release is usually during the anticipation of getting a new item. Before you know it, the bliss is gone!

Retail therapy can boost the buyer’s self-esteem.

Many advertisements take advantage of how retail therapy can boost one’s self-esteem. You may be tempted by both targeted ads and SMS notifications when you are most vulnerable. Be mindful!

On the other hand, treating yourself can be strategically motivated. A 2011 study showed that consumers can exercise restraint if this act leads to improved mood.

Retail therapy has its advantage too.

The authors of a 2013 study suggests that retail therapy gives people a sense of control that counteracts the feelings of powerlessness. People tend to feel empowered when they decide what they must purchase. When done in moderation, retail therapy can bring positive effects.

However, it becomes a harmful habit if you consistently shop to cope with distress. The temporary boost associated with shopping can prevent you from seeking necessary help.

Retail therapy can affect your financial situation.

Retail therapy may affect your finances if you do not keep track of your spending. Having a budget and sticking to it can help you cushion the costs of shopping.

Spending more than what you have may lead to significant levels of debt over time. Drowning in debt can result to more distress. Therefore, it is important to have a realistic allocation for your leisure shopping activities.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

FOLLOW A REALISTIC BUDGET

Overspending and debt are the primary negative consequences of retail therapy. Avoid these by strategically planning your spending. Create a budget and maintain your limits. Set aside a specific amount for your retail therapy each month.

If you want to shop for an item that is beyond your limit, you can plan to save up for it. Saving for a desired item can be rewarding!

TRY WINDOW SHOPPING

Much like physical or online shopping, window shopping or scrolling through an online store can positively impact your mood. The anticipation of eventual possibility of a treat releases dopamine. It gives your brain the bliss it craves for, but it does not cost a thing!

REDUCE THE TEMPTATION

Shopping apps are tempting for all types of consumers. The convenience of shopping at one’s fingertips as well as swift online payments have helped increase the online shopping tendencies of many. Because everything is convenient, there is only a small room for contemplation and clearer decision-making. Hence, you can delete the shopping apps from all your devices to reduce its temptation.

THINK BEFORE YOU PURCHASE

Everyone has bad days. If you are overwhelmed with emotions during your shopping day, give yourself a brief waiting period. Ponder about the content of your shopping cart for one to two days. Then, go back to it.

If you still feel like you want or need the item when you are in a better mood, you can get it if your budget permits it.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

CONCLUSION

Retail therapy is the act of shopping for goods with the primary purpose of improving one’s mood or disposition. In most cases, rewarding yourself with new items can make you feel better. You just need to stay within the budget.

It turns harmful when you use it as a coping mechanism to regulate your emotions (i.e., emotional spending). To relieve distress on a long-term basis, you must identify and manage its triggers. Seek professional help when necessary. Remember that retail therapy is not actually therapy!

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

3 Trendiest Spots To Explore In Singapore

Travelling outside Singapore may be restricted for the time being, but it does not mean that you will stop discovering new places. Just look at the places found this list!

#1: TROPICAL MONTANE ORCHIDETUM AT SINGAPORE BOTANIC GARDENS

Feast your eyes with nature’s beauty as you stroll in the Singapore Botanic Gardens. When you arrive, do not forget to visit the recently opened Tropical Montane Orchidetum. This Orchidetum spans around 2,480sqm and features the largest collection of high-elevation montane orchids in Asia.

Nestled within the National Orchid Garden, this attraction features whimsical trails from the Secret Ravine to the Sembcorp Cool House. The latter not only brings a delightful escape from the heat, but also emulates the climate at 1,000 m to 2,000 m elevation. This air-conditioned glass house has high ceilings paired with its beautiful array of fauna. Visitors may wander amidst a garden of more than 1,000 species of orchids and hybrids. Apart from these, the Orchidetum has a lot more to offer!

If you are planning to experience this attraction soon, do visit during weekdays or off-peak hours. Strict safety management measures are placed for the well-being of all its visitors. Thus, they employ temporary closures when the maximum capacity of the place is reached.

Good news! Entrance fee is waived for Singaporeans and PRs until April 11, 2021. Nonetheless, the regular ticket prices (*for Singapore residents) are S$5 for adults and S$1 for students or senior citizens. Tickets are free for children under 12.

Address: 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569
Visit nparks.gov.sg/sbg for more details.

#2: LEGO® CERTIFIED STORE (LCS) BRICKS WORLD AT SUNTEC CITY

Whether you are a LEGO® enthusiast or a hobbyist, you will be happy to know that the revamped Bricks World – Suntec City is bigger than ever! During its opening (April 9), this LEGO® Certified Store showcased its unique features such as the Merlion mosaic wall.

The bespoke Merlion mosaic wall was made from 92,160 pieces of LEGO® bricks and was designed by LEGO® Certified Professional Nicholas Foo. Spanning 3.9 meters high and 1.6 meters wide, the Merlion mosaic wall took over 128 hours to complete. Apart from this, visitors may happily spot the hidden Mickey and Minnie Mouse in the display scene. Moreover, younger visitors will be able to enjoy its LEGO® play wall in the future.

Best of all? Its grand opening includes exclusive deals!

Image Credits: facebook.com/BricksWorld

Address: 3 Temasek Boulevard, #01-305, West Wing, Suntec City Mall, Singapore 038983
Visit bricksworld.com to build more.

#3: MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM AT DEMPSEY

Amp up your social media game by taking aesthetically pleasing snaps at the Museum of Ice Cream – Singapore. The highly anticipated opening of this colorful museum marks its first outlet outside United States. Singapore Tourism Board (STB) announced that it will be opening by the second half of the year.

As the Museum of Ice Cream graces our shores, you can expect to enter 14 never-before-seen installations. These multi-sensory installations are dedicated to the celebration and experience of enjoying an ice cream. In fact, its American counterpart features the Rainbow Tunnel and the Sprinkle Pool.

It is set to open its sweet doors in August 2021 at a 60,000 sq. ft. property along Dempsey. For the meantime, you can sign up for early ticket access at museumoficecream.com/early-access-sg.

Visit facebook.com/museumoficecreamsg to get the latest scoop!

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

Budget-Friendly Sources For Plants & Gardening Essentials In Singapore

Nurturing your plants is a great way to temporarily disconnect from the uncertainties of the world. Letting nature fill your space not only improves your mood, but also helps you breathe clean air.

If you are looking for places to shop for plants, check out the plant nurseries and online marketplaces on this list.

#1: NOAH GARDEN CENTRE

If your fondness for online shopping extends to love for plants, I have good news for you! Noah Garden Centre is an online marketplace that connects buyers to multiple sellers. You will be greeted with a variety of options from plants to gardening accessories. Furthermore, the plants are categorized according to types and sizes.

Image Credits: facebook.com/noahgardencentre

The website also gives specific instructions regarding plant care such as the amount of water and sunlight needed for each plant. Aside from these useful details, you should check out the “clearance tab”. This is where all the special deals reside. Shopping for plants has never been easier.

Website: noahgardencentre.com.sg

#2: THE GARDEN STORE

People who are new to the amazing world of plants may stick to plants that are easy to take care of. From succulents to cacti, you will be spoiled for choice in The Garden Store at Bedok South. This one-stop shop retails plants, planters, soil, gardening tools, paving slabs, and more. You will be able to get what you need to complete your own landscaping project.

Its informative website provides a fact sheet for its plants. For instance, the Money Plant (S$3.50) was described as a plant that needs to be exposed to bright indirect sunlight or semi-shade. Those who are going to shop online will get free delivery purchases amounting to at least S$200. Otherwise, the delivery charge is S$25.

Address: 10 Bedok South Rd, Singapore 469274
Website: thegardenstore.sg

#3: WORLD FARM (HUA HNG TRADING)

The World Farm or Hua Hng Trading is one of the largest garden centers in Singapore. Feast your eyes with a variety of plants and gardening essentials. Simply grab a cart and load your plants in it. You may also pick up accompanying accessories located near the cashier.

Prices here are usually cheaper than most nurseries and they readily stock the bestsellers such as succulents (from S$3), herbs (from S$5), and flowering plants (from S$9). They also have several options for gardening tools, accessories, fertilizers, and other medicines (e.g., insecticides).

Address: 15 Bah Soon Pah Road, Singapore 769962
Website: huahng.com.sg

Image Credits: unsplash.com

#4: FAR EAST FLORA GARDEN CENTRE

Grow delicious herbs to use in your homecooked meals by purchasing plants from Far East Flora Garden Centre. For starters, it stores mint (from S$7) and basil (from S$7). Far East Flora is one of the most popular plant nurseries in Singapore. Its selection for houseplants is vast and even includes garden furniture and other accessories.

Begin the search for your newest plant baby by checking out its website or by visiting its flagship store. Delivery fee will cost you S$35.

Address: Multiple branches in Singapore
Website: fareastfloragarden.com

#5: PICK A PLANT

Pick a Plant’s story started with a humble search for rare air plants from all over the world. A lot has changed since then. Pick a Plant now houses the most interesting air plants, cacti, and succulents to share the founder’s passion for foliage.

Image Credits: facebook.com/pickaplantsg

This plant nursery typically sells their plants for S$4 each. Stay updated by following its Facebook page.

Address: 50 Choa Chu Kang Track 14, Singapore 698940
Website: pickaplant.com.sg

Sources: 1 & 2

6 Beautiful Places To Propose In Singapore

If you are popping the question soon, you may be pondering about where it shall take place. May this list help you start planning for the perfect proposal in Singapore. Be honest with your emotions. Your genuine intentions accompanied by the romantic ambiance will make your partner swoon.

HENDERSON WAVES BRIDGE

People say that love takes you to greater heights. What better way to propose to your loved one than by declaring your love in the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore? It is none other than the Henderson Waves Bridge. True to its name, it mimics the distinct shape of a wave as it curves along its entire 274-meter length.

This spot is suitable for couples who love to take an afternoon hike or an evening stroll. Just picture the city lights at night as you prepare for your memorable proposal. It is a popular place, so do not expect much in terms of privacy.

Address: Henderson Rd, Singapore 159557
Visit nparks.gov.sg to know more.

SINGAPORE FLYER

One of the attractions that make Singapore standout is the Singapore Flyer. Feast your eyes on its iconic skyline and famous sites such as Singapore River and Merlion Park. During your special night, you can book a romantic for two with its premium Sky Dining offering.

The Singapore Flyer Sky Dining experience includes:

a. two rotations (60 minutes) on the Singapore Flyer,
b. an in-flight host,
c. a four-course dinner of your choice (i.e., Western, Oriental, or Vegetarian Menu),
d. priority boarding to skip the queues,
e. and complimentary admission to the Time Capsule.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

You need to shell out a whopping S$300 (*special online price) to experience this. Remember to book at least one working day in advance!

Address: 30 Raffles Ave, Singapore 039803
Visit singaporeflyer.com for more details.

PULAU UBIN

Home to diverse habitats and overflowing ecosystems, the island of Pulau Ubin is the ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. Depart from the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the island by bicycle or kayak through its tranquil river.

Wait for the golden hour to come. Enjoy the island’s rustic charms as you kneel and ask the big question. Surely, it will be a life-changing moment for the both of you!

Address: Pulau Ubin, Singapore 508329
Visit nparks.gov.sg to know more.

SINGAPORE BOTANIC GARDENS

Treat yourself and your loved one with nature’s beauty as you explore the wonders of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. It is the first and only tropical botanic garden on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List. This place has numerous alluring spots on its arsenal. You can ask the most important question of your life in the Swan Lake, Palm Valley, Learning Forest, Symphony Lake, Ethnobotany Garden, or the new Tropical Montane Orchidetum.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

It recently unveiled the Tropical Montane Orchidetum. This Orchidetum spans around 2,480sqm and features the largest collection of high-elevation montane orchids in Asia. Embrace the beauty of your surroundings as you pop the question!

Address: 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569
Visit nparks.gov.sg/sbg for more details.

ST. JOHN’S ISLAND

Nestled in the string of islands on the Southern coast of Singapore is St. John’s Island. What was once a quarantine facility in the late 1800s has since become a destination for locals who want a quick getaway from the cityscape. Take your partner in this place to enjoy a variety of activities.

From dipping on the calm waters of the Swimming Lagoon to keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings, you can find the perfect timing to propose while enjoying a fun-filled day. Do not forget to snap some pictures!

Address: 12 St. John’s Island, Singapore 098600
Visit nparks.gov.sg to learn more.

CHIJMES

With its unique architecture and warm ambiance, CHIJMES is one of the favorite local spots for wedding ceremonies. In fact, its glistened in the big screen through the Crazy Rich Asians film. The place was decorated beautifully to celebrate the wedding of the fictional characters – Araminta and Colin. See for yourself!

Since its inception in the 1840s, the pristine walls of CHIJMES have not aged one bit. You do not have to think twice about considering to propose here. Complete the proposal by making a reservation for a romantic candlelit dinner.

Address: 30 Victoria St, Singapore 187996
Visit chijmes.com.sg to learn more.

Note: As a friendly reminder, the places on this list follow safety procedures for the well-being of all its visitors. Please observe these guidelines and ask necessary questions ahead of time. We wish you the best!

Sources: 1 & 2

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