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6 ryokans under $120/night in Kyoto, Japan, for a traditional stay

Konnichiwa.

In this week’s Travel Thursday series, buckle up because I’m about to take you on a virtual journey through some handpicked ryokans in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.

With a blend of history, hospitality, and comfort, each of these ryokans gives you a taste of the authentic Japanese lifestyle for less than $120/night.

Can’t wait to view the listings?

I can’t wait to introduce them to you too.

Let’s start the ball rolling!

Japanese-style room on the 2nd floor opposite Mikane-Jinja Shrine

Price: $98/night

Just an easy 8-minute stroll from the subway station, this accommodation offers a Japanese-style room on the second floor, complete with a balcony for those serene morning views or evening reflections.

It’s a space okay for 2 to 4 guests, though do note it might feel a little snug if you max it out. While your room is all yours, it’s all about the community here. Shared spaces include toilets, a shower room, and a comfortable lounge where you can meet fellow travelers and make small talk. The shared kitchen is good for those who love to cook or just enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning.

To ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible, their staff resides in the house, always ready to assist.

Room in a Japanese house close to Nishiki Market Shopping District

Price: $100/night

Just a few steps away from this Airbnb, you will find Nishiki Market, a feast for all senses. And with numerous stations nearby, you’re never far from the city’s must-visit tourist destinations.

This ryokan is more than just a place to sleep; it’s a taste of the Kyoto lifestyle. Despite being close to the city center, they are tucked away on a quiet street, ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep after a day of exploration.

Experience the traditional Japanese ryokan in Kyoto that’s been loved by guests from around the world. With close to 400 glowing reviews and an impressive near-perfect 5-star rating, I’m confident you will love it here too.

Room in a guesthouse near Kyoto Aquarium

Price: $103/night

This guesthouse is located in the heart of Kyoto, just a skip away from Kyoto station, making your exploration of the city a breeze.

Here, you will have your own private room decorated in timeless Japanese style. Sink into the comfort of the futon beds, complete with mattresses, pillows, and clean sheets. Your room comes with a lock for added privacy and peace of mind. The house is a shared space and you will have access to a kitchen and two bathrooms.

Simple room in Shimabara for solo travelers

Price: $110/night

B&B Hachi is your retreat in the historically rich Shimabara area of Kyoto.

The host offers you a traditional Japanese room complete with a view that opens up to a garden. The room is furnished with a comfortable, single-size futon, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. For your peace of mind, it’s equipped with a number lock, ensuring privacy as you venture out into the city. Feel free to stretch out in the spacious living room, whip up a quick meal in the fully-equipped kitchen, or enjoy a meal in the dining room.

It’s just one stop away from Kyoto Station, or if you’re up for a bit of exercise, it’s walkable from the station.

Baby-friendly room in a 100-year-old townhouse

Price: $112/night

This century-old townhouse is sited in the heart of Kyoto’s historic district near the iconic Heian Shrine. It makes the ideal spot to truly experience the spirit of Kyoto from the inside out.

For your convenience, they are just a short stroll away from practical amenities. You will find a laundry service for your clothing needs, a drug store for any health or beauty essentials, and a convenience store for those late-night snacks or early-morning necessities.

And babies are welcome so that’s wonderful news for parents!

85-year-old traditional wooden house for four

Price: $117/night

Fancy staying in an 85-year-old traditional Japanese wooden house in a quiet and safe neighborhood in Kyoto? Well, I’ve got this historical gem to round up this post.

It offers two bedrooms and is apt for those seeking to embrace history while enjoying modern comforts like fully equipped cooking facilities, a washer and dryer, and snug beds that promise a restful slumber.

Despite its peaceful surroundings, this ryokan is just a short train ride away from the heart of Kyoto. In 20 minutes, you can swap the tranquility of Otsu for city life.

These six ryokans offer you the chance to get a taste of traditional Japanese culture and hospitality for under $120 a night. Each one, with its uniqueness and convenient location, serves as an inviting home base for all your Kyoto adventures. So it’s probably time to stop hesitating, pack your bags, book your flights, and get ready for a tok kong journey in Japan.

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

Singapore banks are phasing out Singdollar checks and here’s what you need to know

There’s a major shift happening in the world of Singapore banking and it’s all to do with our trusty Singdollar checks.

Here’s the scoop.

Starting this November, some of the biggest banks are going to start charging for Singdollar checks and more.

In fact, our local trio of DBS, OCBC, and UOB are already asking for a S$0.75 fee every time you issue or deposit a corporate check.

Maybank is doing things a bit differently now—they’re only charging for issuing checks, at the same S$0.75 fee per check. But if you hold certain accounts with them, you can enjoy up to 30 free checks a month.

But hang onto your hats, because there’s more.

DBS revealed that from 1 November 2023, they will be applying check processing charges to all Singdollar and local US dollar checks, whether they’re issued or deposited.

They’re keeping us in suspense about the details, but promise to give us more info as we get closer to November.

UOB is following a similar path, introducing charges for both Singdollar and US dollar checks. But they’re playing it cool, rolling out these fees “in phases” from November.

OCBC and Maybank are keeping things under wraps for now, but they’ve said they will spill the beans about charges in due time.

Image Credits: reuters.com

And here’s another big news: by the end of 2025, corporate checks will be a thing of the past in Singapore.

Individuals will still be able to use checks for a while longer, but we don’t have an official end date just yet.

This all comes after a public consultation conducted by MAS last year, suggesting a roadmap to phase out checks in Singapore. The use of checks has been steadily declining, thanks to the rise of e-payments among both companies and individuals.

Also, the cost of processing checks has been increasing and is expected to rise even further by 2025.

Until now, most banks have been absorbing these costs, but that’s not sustainable. Hence, they will start passing these costs onto us, the customers.

It’s not all bad news, though.

The goal is to usher in a new era of electronic deferred payment (EDP) solutions, allowing users to make deferred payments or issue a cashier’s order, without needing a physical check.

After the EDP solution is rolled out in 2025, banks will stop issuing new checkbooks to corporates. This will give businesses more time to transition to the EDP solution and other alternative payment methods.

For individuals who are still using checks, don’t worry. You will have a longer time to switch to alternative payment methods like PayNow, FAST, and GIRO.

So, if you’re one of the few who still prefers checks, it’s time to start familiarizing yourself with digital payment options.

The future is here, and it’s digital for sure.

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

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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