Think your wallet can rest after the costly festivities of Christmas and Chinese New Year? Think again as we usher the season of love!
While Valentine’s Day is a great way to appreciation and affection to your significant other, I cannot deny the fact that the anticipated costs may cause a hole in your pockets. This year, however, you can turn things around if you are willing to put in creativity, time, and flexibility.
1. SAVE THE SPARKLES FOR LATER
If you are planning to purchase jewelry for your beloved, try to clamor dry out first. Since the demand for jewelry goes way down after 14th February, the retailers offer discounts to attract customers to buy their remaining products.
The only downside is that you have to discuss this with your partner in advance and seek his or her understanding.
2. AVOID THE CROWDS
Valentine’s Day 2016 is on a Sunday and more than ever, shopping malls and restaurants will be populated. Most places are jammed with couples and women holding on to their bouquets or stuffed animals. Beat this “competition” by scheduling a wonderful date on another day as long as your significant other is fine with it.
By doing so, you had avoided the crowd and maximized your savings.
3. OPT FOR AFFORDABLE FLOWERS
Since some people prefer getting blooms for Valentine’s Day, you would have to plan beforehand. Save money by skipping high-end or mainstream florists. Instead, visit your local grocery store or compare the prices of various online flower shops.
And if you are in the Gardens By The Bay area, I was got a bouquet of orchids there for only S$5.
4. CRAFT YOUR GIFTS BY HAND
What better message of love can you convey when you pour your heart on handmade gifts? Consider these gift ideas:
a. COOK TOGETHER
There is nothing sweeter than sharing your interests to your partner. If you are a fan of cooking and baking then, teach him or her the basic recipes and techniques. But, if neither of you have an expertise, lookup free online tutorials and prepare a V-Day dinner together.
b. SPECIAL CARD
Bring your wonderful memories to life by turning photos into very personal V-Day card. Print his or her favorite Instagram photos in JPEG format using glossy or matte photo papers available for as low as S$2 at Popular bookstores.
“I’m more of a handbag girl; my guilty pleasure is bags. I don’t even have a clue how many I own.”
Like Poppy, many Singaporeans have an undeniable fondness for bags. A bag is a statement piece not only because it blends your outfit together but also because it often sheds a light to your personality. With its importance and functionality, you may wonder about the best places to find reasonably priced bags.
Wonder no more as this list has you covered!
FOR EVERYDAY BAGS
Any person with a tight budget would know that one of the best places to shop at Orchard Road for standout ensemble is the Far East Plaza. With about 6 floors, this building is filled with bargain deals for just about anything you can wear! So for everyday bags priced as low as S$15, focus on the shops at levels 1-3.
FOR PERSONALIZED BAGS
If you like adding a personal touch to your bags then, you will love what GSEWS has to offer. GSEWS’ bags are handmade by a local self-taught crafter whose pricing strategy is set according to the materials and time spent while making each item. This is such a fair trade because you can customize a unique design based on your preference in colors, fabrics, and add-ons. Limited customization slots are up for reservation every 4th Sunday of the month.
Image Credits: carousell.com/gsews
However, if you want to purchase the ready-made items, prices start at S$8.
FOR WORKPLACE BAGS
ZALORA Singapore comes to my mind whenever I think of workplace suitable bags that create a balance between shape, function, and affordability. Known for its wide range of international and local brands available at several countries, ZALORA is one of the top online retailers that sell bags, accessories, shoes, apparel, and beauty products for both men and women.
Here, I found a well-structured tote bag for S$34.90 as well as an adorable set of Cosmetic Bags for only S$10. Who does not need these organizational convenience at work?
As for, I recommend the Medium Size Messenger Bag for S$16.10 and the Canvas Laptop Carrier for S$14.90 only.
BONUS: FOR LUXURY BAGS
Luxury bags are not exactly affordable however, you can still find some reasonably priced items if you know where to look. With prices that are over 80% lower than the retail price, how can you resist an online bargain deal? Consider these shops:
a. www.reebonz.com.sg: Reebonz offers the widest range for both new and pre-loved designer bags, wallets, and watches. From Chanel, YSL, to Louis Vuitton bags – they have it all!
b. www.brandsfever.com: Getting a great bag deal at the Brands Fever’s flash sale is like hitting the jackpot. But you have to be a site member to indulge all its benefits.
c. www.madammilan.com.sg: Madam Milan not only has an online shop but also physical boutiques in Far East Plaza, Raffles Place MRT, Tanjong Pagar MRT, and Star Vista. They offer prime selections of designer labels islandwide.
Valentine’s Day is a special occasion wherein you get to show your affection and to reconnect with the people you care most for. Whether you are celebrating with your spouse, your girlfriend/boyfriend, your group of friends, your family, or yourself – go on an adventure this Valentine’s Day with this fun activities that cost under S$55…
1. FOR THE EXTREME COUPLES
Aside from riding roller coasters, taking your date on exciting and seemingly dangerous situations can boost the levels of hormones that are mainly responsible for making people fall in love or feel euphoria.
This is why, couples may consider the extreme surge of G-MAX REVERSE BUNGY or GX-5 EXTREME SWING at Clarke Quay. These two rides designed in New Zealand, the home of Bungee, to ensure it is 100% safe. The G-MAX Reverse Bungy catapults you up to 200 km/h in a steel capsule while the GX-5 Xtreme Swing acts like a giant swing that speeds up to 120km/h. What a thrilling experience indeed!
One ride costs about S$45 (different student rate applies)
2. FOR ALL THE “SINGLE” SQUADS
For all the single people who decide to celebrate together as a powerful group, take on an enjoyable challenge by playing Bubble Soccer. Bubble Bump Singapore offers bubble games where players wear inflatable balls in an attempt to win in a Soccer match. Each suit are harnessed and equipped to make sure your fall will be relatively painless.
One date with your friends can surely bring loads of laughter as you start the full-on bouncing action just to score a goal. A casual fun game including 10 bubble suits, 2 facilitator, equipments, and photography starts with S$15/pax (i.e., 20 people). For more information, visit: www.bubblebump.sg.
3. FOR A FAMILY DATE
If you cannot leave your kiddos this February 14, try to bring them along on a fun date at a water amusement park. One of Singapore’s largest water theme parks called “Wild Wild Wet“ offers exhilarating rides at inexpensive prices. As Valentine’s Day fall on a Sunday, it follows the peak price of S$24 for adults and S$17 for children and senior citizens. While, toddlers are free to swim all year round! Cheaper prices are in store for NTUC members and Plus! cardholders.
Once you are there, brave the rapids with Ular-Lah, make your way to wacky the crazy turns of The Waterworks, and so much more. Also, you may take part in their online contest (until February 8) to win exclusive Wild Wild Wet prizes!
Being #ForeverAlone on the day of hearts does not give you the free pass to sob on the corner. Instead, try something new and exciting by taking the leap of faith. If you happen to be in Sentosa, do the “ParaJump” attraction including the Jungle Ride for S$19. ParaJump replicates a free-fall parachute jump through its safety harness and experienced staff.
I have to admit…I am fearful of heights but after trying this, I felt a surge of fulfillment and happiness. Beyond the fear, the experience was unforgettable.
Let us face it! We all have those bum moments when you just want to binge watch on your favorite sitcom or drama series while eating a whole lot of food. Aside from the ever so popular 24-hour McDelivery, there are other delivery services that bring you food without having to go out of your home.
Here are some of them:
GLORIOUS PIZZA
a. SAPRINO’S PIZZA
Saprino’s Pizza offers inexpensive pizzas that you can mix and match. You can even create your own pizza by choosing from their meat, vegetable, and cheese toppings. You may also indulge on their gourmet pizzas with flavors such as New York Deli, Sicilian, and Classico Italiano or their specialty pizzas with flavors such as Vegetarian Special, Tuscany, and Pesto Veggie.
We usually order the Pepperoni and Aloha pizza for S$28, inclusive of the delivery charge. Not bad for two 10″ big pizza. Prices of the pizzas range from S$13.80 – S$35.
Spizza first opened with its vision of serving affordable yet authentic thin-crust wood-fired pizza and other delectable Italian dishes. Their beautifully named pizzas including Anna, Claudia, Katerina, and Nadia can be customized by adding toppings for S$4.
If you cannot decide which type of pizza to choose then try their best sellers such as Margherita (Vegetarian), Pamela, and Olivia. The prices of the pizza range from S$21 – S$25.
Operating Hours: 12pm-10:30pm (Break from 3pm-6pm on weekdays only) Contact Number: 6377 7773 Delivery Charge: S$8 (For orders under S$30) Minimum Order: None Online Orders:www.spizza.sg
c. PIZZA HUT
With more than twenty-seven years offering home delivery services in Singapore and continuous improvements, Pizza Hut has become one of the best pizza deliveries here. To many Singaporeans, Pizza Hut is a part of their childhood and its delectable pizzas are always their favourites. Efficient service, delicious pizzas, affordable prices and frequent promotions are what make people love Pizza Hut delivery.
Using special designed Hot Pouches to keep heat and prevent condensation from accumulating, Pizza Hut’s pizzas are always delivered to customer houses hot and fresh. Operating twenty-eight delivery outlets around Singapore, their delivery service is available islandwide and relatively fast.
Who does not know Kentucky Fried Chicken? Their world-famous fried chicken is both crunchy and juicy at the same time. Current promotions include Shoyuzu Wings Buddy Meal (S$15.90) and Zinger Hearty Variety Box ($24.90).
For a healthier and quicker fix, consider Subway’s sandwiches. Subway is an American fast food restaurant that has outlets around the world. In Singapore, they primarily sell sandwiches and salads. My personal favorites are Classic Tuna, Cold Cut Trio , and Spicy Italian (costing about S$5.70 each)
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen is a fast food chain that originated from New Orleans, Louisiana in 1972. Carefully blending their spices and seasonings, hand battering their fried chicken, and tenderly cooking every dish to give you nothing but a satisfying experience. I suggest you try Popeyes’ raved fried chicken, rock sugar honey lime chicken, or chicken burger.
Shopping is Entertainment. That’s the slogan for Japan’s No.1 online shopping Mall Rakuten.
Launched in Singapore in 2014, Rakuten believes that shopping should be a fun experience, and they do so by creating an engaging environment for customers to do their shopping. Besides providing a platform for retailers to showcase their products, there are various interactive campaigns for shoppers.
The Rakuten Super Points was introduced as a reward program where customers can earn points to help save on their next purchase. Just like how airlines reward travellers with frequent flyer miles, Rakuten Super Points is awarded every time you make a purchase.
Rakuten carries over 330,000 goods from close to 500 merchants, with more than half of the retailers from Japan. Start your retail therapy with Rakuten today as we put together 10 Rakuten shopping hacks to help you be a smart shopper and save on your next purchase.
1. Bookmark the Deals page
This is one of the most important page you need on Rakuten. It showcases thousand of deals at up to 80% off and Buy 1 Get 1 free. It also includes a range of items from categories such as Food & Beverages, Health & Beauty, Electronics, Travel & Living, Women Apparels and many more.
*Tip: Simply drag the image below and place it in your Bookmark Toolbar on your browser.
2. Rebates, rebates and more rebates
Every dollar spent will earn you 1 Super Point and 100 Super Points = S$1 discount.
Accumulate your Rakuten Super Points to become a privileged Gold Member and once you achieved this milestone, there will be special perks and secret coupons mailed to you periodically! For example, Gold Member is eligible for the surprise Golden Member Days where you get a 24-hour Rakuten Super Points Day with exclusive discounts!
Update: Rakuten has recently launched a 5x Rakuten Super Point-back programme to help you accumulate your points faster. Every dollar spent will now earn you a whopping 5 Super Points (rather than 1) and that is equivalent to an impressive 5% rebate on any products, on any day.
Tip: Look out for Bonus Super Points Promotion Campaigns, Rakuten will reward you with 20x, 30x, 40x, etc, Bonus Super Points to help you save even more.
3. Shop on Tuesday
TGIT. Thanks God It’s Tuesday! Every Tuesday, you can enjoy an additional 5% off your shopping if you pay with your MasterCard.
Tip: Remove all the MasterCard sitting in your wallet. Find out which of these cards provide more points or rewards when you charge your online purchase.
4. Shop from Ebates
Haven’t heard ofEbates? You have been missing out where everyone’s cashing in. Ebates is a cashback website that helps you stretch your dollar on your online shopping from over 300+ online retailers such as Groupon, Redmart, Foodpanda and more. Is Rakuten included in their cashback scheme? You bet. Register with an account with them and shop from their platform to earn an additional 5% cashback on your purchase.
5. Subscribe to Rakuten’s Newsletters and Follow Them on Facebook & Twitter
Be the first among your peers to know of the latest promotions and contests! Rakuten is on Facebook and Twitter, so follow them closely on their social media accounts and sometimes it pays to be kiasu!
You would have missed out on a chance to participate in their contest if you’ve spent $190 — $10 short to earn 1,000 Rakuten Super Points! Don’t miss out on such opportunities and start following them on Facebook!
Tip: There’s a $288 Rakuten Super Points giveaway today on 14/1 if you simply like their page, share and comment on the pinned post today. Otherwise, there’s also the Win a Free Trip to Shizuoka, Japan contest ongoing until 20/1.
6. Be a smart shopper: Know what to shop on Rakuten
If you have been a savvy shopper, you know what are the best deals to buy at Rakuten. But what if you don’t? Don’t worry, we have done the homework for you.
Mega Discount Store: Because of Rakuten’s generous 5% cashback from its Super Points (+ additional cashback from credit cards), it makes purchasing big ticket items attractive. That means you can essentially save up to hundred of dollars when you buy home appliances such as refrigerators, LED TV and massage chairs.
Snaffle’s: Being a fan of Hokkaido’s catch cakes, Snaffle’s is one of my favourite store on Rakuten. Although they have physical stores in Singapore, you rarely see their catch cakes on promotion. However, if you have been following them on their online store, you can actually snag a deal at times when they are running their 1-for-1 catch cakes promotion, 20% off, free delivery and other bundled discounts.
Henri Charpentier: When French-inspired Japanese patisserie Henri Charpentier opened their first online shop at Rakuten late last year, i was jumping for joy. I no longer have to travel to the inaccessible Dempsey Hill to satisfy my craving for their famed financiers and madeleines. I can simply order at the comfort of my own home or office, and with a few clicks, i can get it delivered to my place fuss-free.
TokiChoi: Fast fashion label Toki Choi (東京著衣) is a popular fashion brand in Taiwan. Their fashion collections are a hit amongst the ladies, as they are reasonably priced for their quality! Look out for their $9.90 or 50% off campaign! TokiChoi, with its original designs and vast selections at reasonable prices could give local blogshops a run for its money.
NanoJapan: Ladies would love this. NanoJapan brings in quality beauty & health products directly from their Japan’s factory. Their beauty collagens has received good reviews so far and a trial can can be bought for just $39.90. For the month of January, you can get 1 can at the price of $39.90 and $36.90 per can for a set of 4! Wow!
Soup Stock Tokyo: Fans of Japan food chain Soup Stock Tokyo rejoice! They not only have an outlet at 313 Somerset but are also retailing their frozen soup stock exclusively on Rakuten. Get your hands on the CNY trial sets retailing at only $14 now!
Tip: Check out the Top 100 Best Sellers to see what are the popular items on Rakuten.
7. Use the right credit card
There are several cards you can use to enjoy additional perks when shopping at Rakuten:
Citi Rewards Card: 10% off storewide with code “RTCITI10” (max discount $50)
Standard Chartered SingPost Platinum Visa Credit Card: 7% cash rebate (min $600 spend a month)
DBS Live Fresh Platinum Card: 6% cash rebate (min $500 spend a month)
MasterCard (any banks): 5% off storewide on Tuesday + any points or rewards from your bank
Tip: Tuesday: Any MasterCard | Other days: Citi Rewards Card, Standard Chartered SingPost Platinum Visa Credit Card or DBS Live Fresh Platinum Card
8. Make full use of free shipping
Don’t want to pay for shipping cost? Several merchants on Rakuten offers free shipping with no minimum amount, so if you are the type of shopper that want to maximize your dollar, you can shop at their Free Shipping page. Rakuten will display all the products that are eligible for free shipping.
Tip 1: Save on shipping cost by combining orders with your friends or colleague. Some stores offer free shipping when you make a minimum spend. The key here is to buy in bulk for items such as diapers, ramen, rice seasoning, etc.
Tip 2: Most free shipping are on weekend so look out for weekend campaigns!
9. Do your homework. Use Price Panda or Priceme
Don’t shortchange yourself. With many e-commerce platforms online, make sure the item you want is competitively priced. I personally use Price Panda or Priceme to compare the price to see if i’m getting the best deal. And often, Rakuten seems to edge because of the various cashback, rebates and offers.
Take for example:
The GoPro Hero 4 Black Edition is retailing at S$750 at both Courts and Challenger according to Priceme.
(Click to enlarge)
The cheapest set displayed on Priceme: Lazada at S$619
(Click to enlarge)
Galaxy on Rakuten is selling it at S$650
Although it may seems cheaper at Lazada, it is an export set that doesn’t come with warranty. Whereas, the one by Galaxy (Rakuten) comes with a 1 year local agent warranty. And that is not all – Rakuten also offers 5X Rakuten Super Points which is equivalent to a 5% cash rebates. This works out to be a $32.50 discount which brings the total nett price to S$617.50! Now, which is more value for money?
*Tip: Charge your purchase with a a MasterCard and get an additional 5% discount on Tuesday + Points or rewards from your bank
10. Don’t miss out the Shop Campaigns
You thought that Rakuten’s campaigns was mindblowing? What if i say stores can run additional campaigns on top of Rakuten’s campaigns? Keep your eyes peeled when you visit a store’s page. There arecertain campaigns run by stores and this include giving away free gifts and voucher when you make a purchase.
For example, Mega Discount Store is currently giving away freebies such as free bread maker and $50 voucher when you purchase certain promotional items from their shop.
Tip: Subscribe to individual stores to get the latest updates on campaigns and promotions.
We hope you find these hacks useful!
To get your started, we have collaborated with Rakuten in the MoneyDigest X Rakuten Super Points Giveaway. 2,000 Rakuten Super Points (worth $20) will be given away to our readers who have yet to sign up for a free account at Rakuten. Do note that only the first 25 valid entries qualify.
