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Best Philippine Destinations Under S$500

Craving turquoise waters, misty mountains, and sun-soaked adventures without draining your wallet? The Philippines is waiting for you. With just S$500 (around ₱21,600), you can immerse yourself in the beauty of this stunning archipelago for 3 unforgettable days or more.

1. Port Barton, Palawan
Estimated total for 3 days: ₱8,700 (S$200.80)

Port Barton offers a peaceful escape with island-hopping tours priced at around ₱1,200 (approximately S$27.70) per person, inclusive of lunch and snorkeling gear. Charming guesthouses and homestays start at just ₱700 (about S$16.20) per night. It’s a more budget-friendly alternative to El Nido or Coron.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

2. Baguio City
Estimated total for 3 days: ₱6,800 (S$157.70)

Beat the tropical heat with a refreshing getaway to Baguio, famously known as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines.” Wander through Burnham Park, go thrift shopping for unique finds, and indulge in beloved local delicacies. During our recent visit for the vibrant Flower Festival, my family and I stumbled upon a sweet surprise: strawberry taho. For just ₱50 (around S$1.16), this warm, silken tofu treat came topped with real strawberry chunks, not just syrup. Getting there is easy too, with bus fares from Manila typically under ₱800 (S$18.50), and cozy accommodations starting at ₱1,000 (S$23.10) per night.

3. Siquijor Island
Estimated total for 3 days: ₱4,800 (S$110.10)

Known for its mystical charm, Siquijor offers serene beaches and waterfalls like Cambugahay Falls. Homestays and beach huts range from ₱500 to ₱1,000 (S$11.60 to S$23.30) per night. While you’re there, try the popular “Fairy Walk Challenge” for a fun experience.

4. Iloilo & Gigantes Islands
Estimated total for 3 days: ₱10,600 (S$245.50)

My husband and I are heading to Iloilo this May, perfect timing for the mango season. We’re especially excited for the “Mango Eat-All-You-Can” event during the Manggahan Festival in nearby Guimaras. Beyond its world-famous mangoes, Iloilo charms visitors with its rich heritage and natural beauty. While in the area, don’t miss the chance to explore the Gigantes Islands, known for their white-sand beaches and incredibly fresh seafood. Hotel accommodations in Iloilo City typically start at around ₱2,800 per night (approximately S$64.70).

Image Credits: unsplash.com

5. Donsol, Sorsogon
Estimated total for 3 days: ₱9,000 (S$208.20)

Experience swimming with whale sharks in Donsol between November and June, with peak sightings from February to May. Eco-friendly tours start at ₱2,400 (S$55.80), and guesthouses range from ₱800 to ₱1,500 (S$18.60 to S$34.90) per night.

6. Tinaga Island, Calaguas
Estimated total for 3 days: ₱5,800 (S$134.00)

Tinaga Island offers powdery white sands at Mahabang Buhangin Beach. Accessible by boat, it’s perfect for camping, with simple huts available for ₱600 to ₱1,000 (S$14 to S$23.30) per night.

7. Tagaytay
Estimated total for 3 days: ₱7,200 (S$166.10)

Tagaytay offers cool weather, views of Taal Volcano, and attractions like Sky Ranch and Picnic Grove. Rooms start at ₱1,200 to ₱2,000 (S$27.90 to S$46.50) per night. Public buses cost around ₱100 to ₱200 (S$2.30 to S$4.60).

Image Credits: unsplash.com

8. Puerto Galera, Mindoro
Estimated total for 3 days: ₱7,200 (S$166.10)

Known for its diving spots and vibrant marine life, Puerto Galera offers beautiful beaches and a range of accommodations to suit any budget. Accommodations start at ₱1,000 (S$23.30) per night, and round-trip travel from Manila costs under ₱1,200 (S$27.90).

9. Subic, Zambales
Estimated total for 3 days: ₱8,100 (S$187.80)

Subic Bay is great for families, offering attractions like Inflatable Island and Zoobic Safari. Day passes range from ₱300 to ₱700 (S$7 to S$16.30), and local accommodations range from ₱1,000 to ₱2,000 (S$23.30 to S$46.50) per night. It is also a designated Freeport Zone, where you can enjoy duty-free shopping within the secured area. Here, goods are sold without local taxes or import duties, making it a popular spot for bargain hunters. However, be mindful that there are limits and regulations on how much you can bring out of the zone, especially for non-residents.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Disclaimer: The prices provided are estimates based on current listings as of writing and are subject to change depending on your choices of transportation, food, accommodation, and activities. Exchange rates fluctuate, and your shopping choices may add to the total cost. Therefore, the total cost for 3 days may vary, but this is the baseline estimate.

Sources: 1,2 ,3, & 4

6 floral one-pieces under $60 that are flattering for a first date

Got yourself a first date with that new love interest, but not sure how to dress?

Why not go for florals? 🌼

We’ve got a quick list of floral one-pieces under $60 for your consideration.

Gabriella Floral Prints Short-Sleeved Dress with Pockets

Price: $38.90

When your closet needs a touch of sunshine, get this floral print dress.

Made from a cotton blend, this cheery number bursts with embroidered florals in a yellow and white palette, instantly brightening your mood.

The relaxed silhouette features a round neck, flirty flutter sleeves, and side pockets.

Also comes with a back zip and inner lining.

Pier Summer Ruffle Dress in Blue Floral

Price: $47.80

Warm summer days call for this Pier Ruffle Dress in blue floral from Young Hungry Free.

Its flirty ruffled straps invite breezy, sun-kissed vibes.

A v-neckline flaunts just the right amount of skin, while the double-lined, padded bust offers all-day coverage.

There’s also that cheeky backless design that you will love.

This carefree frock strikes the ideal balance between flirty and feminine.

Verela Floral Ribbon Romper In Cream

Price: $48.90

Daydream of swaying wildflowers and warm, sunny afternoons in this floral ribbon romper.

With its blossoming print and pretty puff sleeves, you will look as fresh as a meadow in bloom for that first date.

The stretchy, smocked back and polyester blend let you frolic and play without feeling constricted.

A chic sweetheart neckline trimmed with delicate crochet lace frames the one-piece while the ribbon tie adds a feminine touch.

Two side pockets lend practicality, so you can stash date essentials like a mirror or lip gloss.

Isla Floral Toga Dress (Purple Florals)

Price: $52

This flirty toga dress blooms with purple florals, embroidered into a lightweight polyester blend.

But it’s more than just a pretty pattern with functional pockets and a fully lined body, merging boho whimsy with practical polish.

The flowy silhouette drapes, while a back zipper cinches the look.

Floral Province Blue Frill-Neck Tiered Dress

Price: $53

Florals, frills, and fun, this tiered dress brings the romance with its lightweight polyester/spandex blend that swishes and sways with movement, while the frill neckline detail adds a touch of charm.

The tiered, twirl-worthy bottom flatters every figure while side pockets add practicality.

Removable sash belt? Check.

Plus, a concealed side zip keeps lines clean.

Krissy Ruched Tie Straps Bubble Dress in Red Florals

Price: $59.50

Last but not least, floral romance meets feminine flair in this red bubble dress from The Velvet Dolls.

A bold crimson bloom pattern dances across the polyester blend fabric.

Fully lined with a smocked back, the tie straps and flowy bubble silhouette conspire to sculpt a shape that’s as flirty as your favorite sundress yet polished enough for date night.

And with side pockets, you’ve got room for all the little things that make your day go ’round.

Catholics in Singapore Mourn the Passing of Pope Francis, Aged 88

The Catholic community in Singapore has joined millions around the world in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, who died at the age of 88 following a stroke and subsequent heart failure, according to a statement from the Vatican.

Pope Francis, the first Latin American to lead the Roman Catholic Church, was widely seen as a transformative and deeply compassionate figure. His papacy blended tradition with a fresh spirit of inclusivity and empathy. Though he upheld conservative views on issues like abortion, gender theory, same-sex marriage, and the ordination of women, he also became known for his heartfelt welcome to the LGBTQ community, his passionate defense of immigrants, and his strong opposition to the death penalty and unchecked capitalism. An outspoken environmental advocate, he often called on world leaders to take urgent action against climate change.

His visit to Singapore in September last year left a lasting impression. He delivered a message of compassion and unity that resonated deeply with many Singaporeans, regardless of faith. It’s no wonder that around 50,000 people gathered at the National Stadium for the Papal Mass!

On Monday (Apr 21), Singapore’s leaders expressed their condolences and paid tribute to the late pontiff. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said he was “deeply saddened” by the pope’s passing. “His leadership and compassion have touched countless lives, inspired hope, and strengthened efforts to build harmony across all faiths and bring people together,” he said.

President Tharman Shanmugaratnam also honored Pope Francis in a Facebook post, writing, “His unwavering compassion, humility and dedication to humanity inspired us all. His message of peace and understanding touched people from all walks of life.”

What Happens Next?

Pope Francis’ body is expected to lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing the public to pay their respects. Honoring his wishes, he will be buried at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, becoming the first pope in over a century to be interred outside the Vatican.

The Vatican has entered a period of mourning, and preparations are underway for the conclave, where cardinals from around the world will gather to elect the next pope. This process typically takes between two to three weeks. It can stretch longer if consensus is elusive.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

As the Church prepares to turn a new page, many reflect on the legacy of Pope Francis. He was a man who, in his quiet humility and unwavering faith, strove to build bridges in a divided world.

Sources: 1,2, & 3

6 makeup removers from $12 to help you remove makeup thoroughly at the end of the day

At the end of a long day, there’s something incredibly satisfying about removing your makeup and letting your skin breathe.

But finding the right makeup remover that effectively cleanses stubborn waterproof mascara or layers of foundation can be tough.

And that’s where this list of makeup removers from $12 comes in handy to help you remove makeup thoroughly.

Have a look and cart out what you think would work for you!

Sephora Collection Express Waterproof Makeup Remover

Price: $12

After a full day of makeup, raccoon eyes are the last look you want.

That’s where this waterproof makeup remover comes in with its soothing formula that makes light work of even the most stubborn waterproof mascara and eyeliner without greasy residue.

Infused with cornflower extract, it protects your delicate eye area, calming and hydrating with each swipe.

Caudalie Vinoclean Makeup Removing Cleansing Oil

Price: $21

This botanical cleansing oil deploys a 100% plant-powered formula to dissolve every last trace of makeup.

As it whisks away cosmetics, it simultaneously coats your skin with antioxidant-rich plant oils, leaving you with a healthier glow.

And thanks to castor oil, you will notice lusher lashes in the long term, too.

Dear Dahlia Skin Conditioning Lip & Eye Remover

Price: $22

Dear Dahlia Lip & Eye Remover is a lightweight, oil-in-water blend that melts away makeup without any tugging or greasy residue.

Infused with shea butter, sweet almond oil, and olive oil, it pampers eye areas while breaking down long-wearing pigments.

The pH-balanced, non-irritating formula soothes sensitive skin as it clears away impurities.

Vegan, cruelty-free, and very hardworking.

Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm

Price: $25

A cult favorite among makeup wearers, this balm transforms from solid to oil to milk as you massage it onto skin, dissolving even your most stubborn mascara and sunscreen.

Plus, it’s lightweight and infused with hydrating safflower seed oil and vitamin E to leave skin feeling nourished.

Bobbi Brown Soothing Cleansing Oil

Price: $26

This cleansing oil slips onto skin and removes makeup thoroughly (we’re looking at you, long-wearing lipstick).

Simply massage it in, add a few drops of water, and watch as it transforms into a silky film that rinses away impurities.

Made with a botanical blend of olive, lavender, jasmine, and jojoba oils, each drop conditions.

Get a fresh canvas primed for the rest of your night routine.

Shu Uemura Ultime8∞ Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil

Price: $35

Say sayonara to chalky makeup removers and konnichiwa to this cleansing oil that embraces your face in a cashmere-like veil of hydration.

At its heart lies precious tsubaki oil—the liquid gold of Japanese beauty rituals.

Obtained from hand-picked seeds on the island of Toshima, this cleansing oil wipes away makeup while protecting your skin.

It also contains ginseng, each pump a worthy part of your cleansing ritual.

3 days left to ‘Discover a Taste of New Zealand’ with discounted items flown in straight from the island country

With just 3 days remaining, the countdown is on to Cold Storage’s ‘Discover a Taste of New Zealand’.

This limited-time fair brings the flavors of New Zealand to you, with a range of discounted items flown in just for the occasion.

Here are some NZ picks we have for you.

Picky Orange & Apple Juice 800ml

Promo Price: $5.95

Who says you can’t compare apples to oranges?

This bottle begs to differ.

Bringing together the citrus sweetness of oranges and the crispness of New Zealand apples, Picky’s Orange & Apple Juice unites two fruits in sweet harmony.

With no preservatives, concentrates, or guesswork, just the simple, natural flavors of 100% fruit juice, a sip reveals the sun-kissed sweetness of oranges mingling with the mouth-watering tartness of apples.

Also available in other flavors such as apple, apple & pear, apple & blueberry, and in tropical smoothie form.

Little Island Ice Cream Banoffee 450ml

Promo Price: $8.50

Escape to a little NZ island with this banoffee ice cream.

It contains a banana base swirled with ribbons of rich caramel and chunks of chocolate cookie scattered throughout, adding a crunch to every spoonful.

It is also entirely dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free, and vegan.

Also available in other flavors such as mint choc chip, triple choc raspberry, and mango passion.

Sealord Hoki Fillets Classic Crumb 6x480g

Promo Price: $13.95

Reel in the rich flavors of the sea with these wild-caught New Zealand Hoki filets from Sealord.

These flaky white fish filets are coated in a crispy breadcrumb blend, creating tender and crunchy textures in each bite.

Also available in other flavors such as tempura batter, dory classic crumb, and more.

Donovans Rocky Road Clusters 150g

Promo Price: $6.70

When your chocolate craving simply won’t be denied, indulge in Donovans Rocky Road Clusters.

This sinful treat blends rich 60% dark chocolate with soft marshmallow pieces, chewy berry bites, and crunchy peanuts for a multi-sensory flavor and texture celebration.

Also available in other flavors such as strawberry pavlova and toasted coconut.

Ceres Organics Pea Chip Cheddar Cheese 100g

Promo Price: $3.40

Pea-culiar as it sounds, the secret to these addictively crunchy chips lies in humble peas.

Ceres Organics starts with organically grown peas, gently popping them into light, crispy bites before showering them in a savory cheddar seasoning.

It’s a plant-based snacking masterPEAS that’s as yummy as it is wholesome.

Also available in other flavors such as salt & vinegar and salt & pepper.

Mother Earth Oaty Slice Apricot Chocolate 240g

Promo Price: $5.50

Chocolate cravings got you down?

Don’t reach for those sugary candy bars.

Instead, indulge in Mother Earth’s luscious Oaty Slice Apricot Chocolate bar.

Baked with the goodness of oats and packed with chopped dried apricots and chunks of rich dark chocolate, it’s a fiber-filled treat that’s vegetarian-friendly and ideal for snacking.

Also available in other flavors such as blueberry, chocolate chip, and raspberry & white chocolate.

Click through this link to ‘Discover a Taste of New Zealand’ till 23 April 2025!