Celebrating NDP 2023: Theme, Discounts, & More!

Get ready to join in the festivities and celebrate Singapore’s 58th year of independence on 9th August with the National Day Parade (NDP) 2023! The best part? You can participate for free, even if you didn’t score tickets to the parade. We’ve got you covered with all the essential information to make your day memorable.

The theme for NDP 2023 is “Onward As One,” urging all Singaporeans to look ahead with confidence and unity as we build our shared future. The logo, featuring a lion’s head with the number ’58’ and five stars, embodies Singapore’s determination to come together and forge a stronger nation.

The main NDP 2023 parade will be held at the iconic Padang this year, right in front of the National Gallery Singapore. It’s a perfect location to witness the grand celebrations, especially since the usual venue, The Float@Marina Bay, is currently closed for redevelopment.

Now, let’s talk about the amazing discounts and deals waiting for you. The NDP 2023 eCoupons are the nation’s gift to you, offering over 100 deals and promotions on food, products, and experiences. The best part is that they’re all digital, so no more hassle of collecting physical coupon vouchers. Just visit the NDP 2023 eCoupons website, and you’ll have all the exciting offers at your fingertips!

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Let me highlight some of the top deals for you:

a. LAC Nutrition For Life is offering a fantastic 1-for-1 deal on its Joint Protec Glucosamine Chondroitin Jelly, which includes Collagen Jelly too. This deal is perfect for improved joint health, and it’s valid for those who have signed up for LAC Club’s free membership. You can redeem it at any LAC physical store or their online webstore.

b. Holistic Way, the Singapore-based health supplement brand, has an irresistible sitewide 28% discount on all products. On top of that, get an extra $8 off with a minimum purchase of $88 on their online store. Stock up on health essentials and make the most of this exclusive one-time offer.

c. If you have elderly parents who need a little upgrade in their home appliances, consider Bosch’s offerings at selected COURTS outlets. To celebrate Singapore’s 58 years, Bosch is offering a generous 58% discount on its 9kg Washer, Handstick Vacuum Cleaner, and Kitchen Machine. But remember, it’s on a first-come-first-serve basis, so act quickly while stocks last.

d. For those who wear glasses or contact lenses, OWNDAYS has some exciting deals too. Upgrade your contact lens to OWNDAY’s progressive contact lens or get protection against harmful blue light with their blue light lens upgrade. You can redeem these deals at selected OWNDAYS outlets and enhance your eye care routine.

e. Calling all 7-Eleven fans! Don’t miss the chance to grab up to 58% off on local favorites. These deals are available in-store until 15th August 2023, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled as you browse through their shelves.

With all these incredible offers and the vibrant spirit of the National Day Parade, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. Join in the celebrations and embrace the theme of “Onward As One” as we move forward together as a united nation.

Happy National Day, Singapore!

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

 

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5 Life Lessons from the Candy Crush Saga

Though I was late to the fad, I’ve recently indulged in the world of Candy Crush Saga. I must admit, it’s an undeniably addictive game, but surprisingly, it has also imparted some valuable life lessons. Let’s delve into it and discover what makes it so intriguing.

Candy Crush Saga can be described as a delightful puzzle game with a social twist. The objective is to connect candies of various colors, creating chains that make them vanish, all while progressing through the sugary levels of this exciting adventure.

Playing this game has taught me a few important things that I’d like to share.

#1: BIGGER ACHIEVEMENTS LED TO SWEETER REWARDS

As you progress through Candy Crush, the game not only acknowledges your achievements but also rewards you accordingly. Whether it’s a handy lollipop hammer or the coveted ultimate treasure chest, these special incentives add an extra layer of interest and engagement to the gameplay.

Likewise, in the workplace, recognizing employees for their accomplishments plays a significant role in motivating them to put in even more effort to reach their objectives and encourages them to stay committed. Rewards not only spark interest but also aid individuals in achieving their future goals. Leaders who genuinely acknowledge people and their skills become respected figures admired by many.

#2: TAKING THE RISK LETS YOU EVOLVE

I’ve taken quite a few risks in my life – working and studying overseas and switching careers. Sometimes, we can’t predict all the obstacles that lie ahead, but that shouldn’t stop us from moving forward. In the game, there are mystery blocks that reveal themselves over time. Players take the risk and forge ahead, despite not knowing what awaits them – whether it’s good or bad.

Similarly, in the workplace, we encounter situations like new technology, expansions, and process changes where the effects are unknown until later. Embracing that risk-taking attitude becomes crucial in such scenarios. Taking risks allows us to evolve, meet objectives, and achieve our goals.

As a leader, being prepared to take risks and prioritize work is essential for success. A great leader focuses on their employees, leading by example in handling risks. It’s all about taking those calculated risks when needed, as they pave the way for success and bring us closer to achieving our visions.

#3: HAVING A STRATEGY PAYS OFF

In the game, just playing continuously takes you to the next level, but it doesn’t mean you’ve truly won. To achieve victory, you must stay focused on your actions. Whenever I find myself losing repeatedly, it becomes evident that my strategy needs adjustment, and I must incorporate more special power-ups. After all, how can you expect to win without a solid strategy? It’s a no-brainer; you definitely need one.

Whether it’s in games or any aspect of life, if you aim to progress and come out on top, a strong and well-thought-out strategy is essential.

#4: BETTER RESULTS HAPPEN WHEN YOU DON’T KEEP SCORE

It’s backed by statistics, and there’s even a famous dialogue from the movie “3 Idiots” that echoes this sentiment: “Pursue Excellence and Success will follow.” I can vouch for its truthfulness – it really works!

Constantly obsessing over the scoreboard or worrying about success can actually hinder your progress. Instead, focusing on achieving excellence in whatever you do allows you to concentrate on the task at hand and perform at your best. That’s just the way life goes! So, strive for excellence, and success will naturally follow suit.

#5: THERE’S ALWAYS A WAY OUT

I’ve found myself stuck in numerous levels of Candy Crush, and at times, it’s taken me days to overcome them. But the beauty of the game lies in the fact that you must keep trying. Just like in life, it’s all about resilience and perseverance. Persistence truly holds the key to success. If you keep pushing forward, sooner or later, you’re bound to figure it out, whether through sheer determination or a stroke of luck, perhaps even both. This reminds me of my uncle’s incredible journey, from picking food out of garbage bags to eventually dining in fine dining restaurants – a true rags-to-riches story.

There are hidden paths you must seek both in the game and in life. You have to trust that there’s always a way out, leading you to the next level. Just keep playing, and sooner or later, the solution will reveal itself. It’s a valuable lesson to remember – never lose hope and believe in your ability to find a way forward, both in Candy Crush and in your own life’s challenges.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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5 Heartwarming Experiences at Singapore Zoo

Planning a memorable trip to Singapore Zoo with your beloved children? Look no further! We have curated a guide to help you create cherished moments at this extraordinary family-friendly destination.

Get ready to embark on a journey of emotions as you explore the following five exciting activities:

#1: INDULGE IN A FEEDING SESSION

Prepare to have your heart filled with joy as you witness animals delicately nibbling food from the palm of your hand. Participating in our token feeding sessions allows you to forge a profound connection with these beautiful creatures. Not only will you create lifelong memories, but your contribution will also support wildlife conservation efforts in the region.

Please keep in mind that feeding sessions operate on a first-come, first-served basis and are subject to availability. To secure your spot, we recommend booking the feeding session online and arriving 15 minutes before the scheduled time. We kindly request your understanding that once the capacity is reached, we won’t be able to accommodate additional guests. Reserve your feeding session now at this website.

Choose from a variety of feeding options, including elephants, giraffes, goats, tortoises, and more. Prices start at SGD 8.

#2: MEET THE ZOOKEEPERS

Ignite the curiosity of your little ones or satisfy your own inquisitive nature by immersing yourselves in the world of our dedicated zookeepers. Engage in captivating “Keepers’ Chit Chat” sessions where our knowledgeable staff will share intriguing insights and captivating anecdotes about your favorite animals. From elephant keepers to white tigers, the expertise and passion of these caretakers will leave you with a deep sense of admiration.

For session timings, please visit our website and schedule a listening experience. It’s an opportunity not to be missed!

#3: EXPERIENCE WHIMSICAL DELIGHTG

Take a moment to rejuvenate and immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of the Wild Animal Carousel. As you embark on a whimsical animal-themed ride, feel the joy radiating through every fiber of your being. This vintage merry-go-round is not only a delight for children but will also awaken the inner child within you. To avoid waiting in queues, we recommend booking your carousel ride online.

Ticket prices for the Wild Animal Carousel are as follows:
– Single Ride: $4
– Three Rides: $8

Image Credits: unsplash.com

#4: ENJOY CAPTIVATING SHOWS

If you find yourself yearning for the presence of your beloved pets at home, rejoice in the Rainforest Kidzworld Amphitheatre for the Animal Friends Show. Witness the talent of a remarkable cast of domestic animals as they showcase their entertaining skills. After the show, seize the opportunity to collect autographs or capture treasured photographs with these incredible performers. And for those seeking wet and wild amusement, the Splash Safari Show features the delightful antics of the California sea lion.

To find out more about the Animal Friends Show, please visit: mandai.com
For information on the Splash Safari Show, please visit: mandai.com

#5: JOIN AN EXCITING TOUR

If strolling through the vast expanse of Singapore Zoo with young children seems daunting, we invite you to embark on the Wild Discoverer Tour aboard a comfortable tour buggy. Allow yourself to relax and be chauffeured through the captivating animal exhibits while immersing yourself in tales of their care and conservation. Moreover, seize the unique opportunity to feed the rhinos and giant tortoises, fostering a profound connection with these magnificent creatures.

For an extraordinary and unforgettable experience, indulge your child’s dreams by treating them to a behind-the-scenes adventure as a zookeeper for a day. Our exclusive hands-on program allows them to work alongside our dedicated keepers, learning the art of animal care and conservation. We offer two options: one for children aged 6 to 12 and another for older children and parents, ensuring that everyone can participate in this magical experience.

Tickets for the Wild Discoverer Tour are priced at S$380 per person.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

These five activities offer a diverse range of heartwarming experiences for families visiting Singapore Zoo. From creating connections with animals through feeding sessions to engaging with passionate zookeepers, enjoying captivating shows, and embarking on immersive tours, there’s something for everyone to cherish. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to create lasting memories. Book your tickets now and get ready for an unforgettable day filled with wonder and joy!

Sources: 1

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HDB Prices Continue Their Steady Rise in 2Q 2023

In the second quarter of 2023, HDB resale prices marked their 13th consecutive quarterly increase, rising by 1.5% quarter-on-quarter (q-o-q). This adds to the 1% q-o-q increase witnessed in the first quarter of the year, reflecting a sustained uptrend in the public housing market.

While the prices have been steadily climbing during the first half of the year, it’s worth noting that the pace of resale price growth has shown some moderation compared to the overall trend observed in 2022, where the average quarterly growth was 2.5%.

According to the latest public housing statistics, executive flats saw a significant 2.3% q-o-q increase, with prices rising from $800,000 in 1Q 2023 to $818,000 in 2Q 2023. Meanwhile, five-room flats also experienced a rise of 1.9%, with prices climbing from $638,000 to $650,000 during the same period.

Let’s take a closer look at the areas that experienced the biggest price increases for HDB estates in 2023, compared to the growth observed from 2020 to 2023:

3-Room Flats:
– Bukit Batok recorded a substantial price growth of 52.53%
– Toa Payoh followed closely with a growth of 50.35%
– Sembawang saw a rise of 43.26%
– Woodlands experienced an increase of 42.84%

4-Room Flats:
– Bukit Batok topped the list with a remarkable growth of 59.71%
– Sembawang followed with a growth of 48.82%
– Ang Mo Kio saw a rise of 43.86%
– Woodlands experienced an increase of 38.64%

5-Room Flats:
– Sembawang led the way with a substantial growth of 47.07%
– Bukit Batok closely followed with a growth of 46.03%
– Woodlands experienced an increase of 40.19%
– Choa Chu Kang saw a rise of 32.01%

The Housing Development Board (HDB) attributes the moderation in the rate of price increase to the government’s measures aimed at maintaining a stable and sustainable property market. These measures, implemented in December 2021, September 2022, and April 2023, include a 15-month wait-out period for private property owners before purchasing a non-subsidized HDB resale flat and a lowering of the loan-to-value limit for HDB housing loans.

Analysts have noted that the slower price increase observed in the second quarter is not an isolated event. Eugene Lim, key executive officer of ERA Realty Network, emphasized that 21 out of 26 HDB towns experienced price gains in the second quarter, compared to only 12 towns in the previous quarter.

Geylang stood out with the highest increase in resale flat prices at 18.7%, followed by the Central Area with 8.6% and Bedok with 4.3%, according to Mr. Lee.

It’s worth mentioning that the resale flat prices in Bukit Timah have seen a contraction for two consecutive quarters, and this could be attributed to factors such as a lack of new supply and an aging stock of resale flats.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

In conclusion, the HDB resale market continues to show strength, with prices maintaining an upward trend. While the rate of increase has slowed somewhat, the market remains dynamic, and various factors, including government measures, continue to influence price movements across different HDB towns.

Sources: 1 & 2

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7 Marketing Strategies that Skyrocketed Barbie Movie to Success

Hollywood sure knows a thing or two about effective marketing, and as entrepreneurs, there’s much we can learn from their playbook. The Barbie movie stands out as a prime example of strategic marketing that played a vital role in its triumph. Everywhere I look, Barbie is there!

So, let’s dive right into the marketing strategies that made the Barbie movie shine.

TAPPING INTO TARGETED ONLINE FORUMS
One of the most impactful strategies used was identifying websites, group chats, and marketplaces specifically tailored to the movie’s target audience. This smart approach allowed the marketing team to connect with people who were actively seeking the services and experiences offered by the film. By harnessing the power of niche-specific forums and marketplaces, they greatly increased their chances of conversions, far surpassing the reach of broader platforms.

NETWORKING & OUTREACH
Building a robust resource base was a key aspect of the Barbie movie’s marketing success. The marketing team went above and beyond to connect with industry figures through various channels like LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, email, and even support phone numbers. They crafted personalized letters, showcasing their services and attaching portfolios, which they sent out to hundreds of companies.

EMBRACING UNIQUENESS
Recognizing that Barbie is a flagship brand and a major revenue driver for Mattel, the movie’s marketing team understood the importance of creating a film that truly resonated with the audience. After all, a movie that failed to captivate viewers could have negatively impacted Barbie’s popularity and sales. Their aim was to revitalize and redefine the Barbie brand by reflecting its evolution with the times and embracing a progressive future.

EXTENDING BARBIE’S INFLUENCE
Barbie’s impact goes beyond the movie itself. The brand has been at the forefront of the Barbiecore clothing trend and has successfully collaborated with numerous renowned brands. With an impressive 23 collaborations to date, including partnerships with Cotton On, Krispy Kreme, GAP, Impala roller blades, and even Airbnb, Barbie has firmly established its presence in various industries. The relisting of Barbie Dreamhouse on Airbnb to coincide with the movie launch added another dimension to the brand’s multifaceted marketing strategy.

CREATING IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES
The Barbie movie’s marketing campaign didn’t stop at traditional approaches. They took things a step further by organizing an activation at Bondi Beach, where the iconic Icebergs pool underwent a Barbie-themed transformation. This visually captivating backdrop set the stage for a press conference attended by director Greta Gerwig and cast members Margot Robbie, Issa Rae, and America Ferrera. The Bondi-meets-Barbie Land created an unforgettable experience, underscoring the team’s dedication and commitment to the movie’s success.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

INNOVATION IN BRANDING
Innovation can be a game-changer when it comes to establishing a brand identity. The Barbie marketing team fully grasped this concept and executed it masterfully. One of their most innovative moves was the creation of an AI-powered Barbie Selfie Generator. This ingenious tool takes a person’s facial features and transforms them into a Barbie-like image, resulting in fun photos that people can’t wait to share on social media. This marketing tactic quickly went viral, capturing the attention of the meme world and generating widespread buzz.

COLLABORATING WITH MARKETING LEADERS
Barbie went above and beyond in forging an impressive array of brand partnerships and cross-marketing projects. This demonstrated the immense value of collaboration for expanding one’s footprint in a cost-effective manner. These collaborations took various forms, such as strategic alliances, joint ventures, and co-marketing opportunities.

By examining the marketing strategies employed by the Barbie movie, entrepreneurs can glean valuable insights into effective marketing techniques.

Sources: 1,2, & 3

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