Celebrate Mother’s Day With These Special Gift Ideas Under S$61

May 10 marks our Mothers’ special day. With the days fast approaching, have you thought of a gift yet? Fret not. As we got it covered for you! Honor your favorite Superwoman and show her some love with these Special Gift Ideas Under S$61…

1. FOR THE SWEET TOOTH

Indulge your Mother’s love for sweets by giving her a present made with mouth-watering authentic chocolate. The Limited Editions Mother’s Day Set by Awfully Chocolate consists of Chocolate Champagne Cups and Hazelnut Chocolate Cake.

Image Credits: www.facebook.com/awfullychocolate.sg

Image Credits: facebook.com/awfullychocolate.sg

Individually the Hazelnut Chocolate Cake costs S$42 while the Chocolate Champagne Cups costs only S$18 (i.e.,10 pieces). The set costs S$55 and it is best to pre-order in advance as there will only be finite pieces on May 8-10. Order yours by calling 6345 8212.

2. FOR THE WORKAHOLIC

For your Mom that is always on-the-go, a well-deserved spa day is the perfect gift! Take your Mom in the Rule Of Thumb spa at Beach Road. Try the 60-minute Shiatsu, Deep Tissue, Relaxation, Back, Javanese, Aromatherapy, Swedish, or Traditional Chinese Herb Massage for S$48-S$60.

Still wanting to pamper your queen? Then, give a dash of add-on services such as cupping, ear candling, and body scrub for only S$15. You can pick a time-slot fit to your Mom’s schedule, as it is open until 4 am daily. For more information, visit ruleofthumb.sg.

3. FOR THE LOVELY ARTSY

MAAD, Market Of Artists And Designers, houses unique and budget-friendly artisan pieces. Here you will find a wide array of crafts, plush toys, handmade jewelry, and paintings. The price range starts from S$10 to S$50. Shop around with your Mom on their upcoming MAAD Pyjamas event this May 8 while enjoying the live performances from the local artists. Visit museum.red-dot.sg/maad for more information.

4. FOR THE ROMANTIC

Express your unwavering love to your Mom by tickling her romantic side with the “Single Stem Sweetness Only Gift Box” by Roses Only. This gift box includes 1 long-stemmed pink rose, Roses Only Signature Gift Box, and 30g of Lindt Pralines Heart.

Image Credits: rosesonly.com.sg

Image Credits: rosesonly.com.sg

Order this for S$39 at rosesonly.com.sg.

5. FOR THE GLAMAZON

SaSa Singapore has tons of promotional offers in stores until May 24, 2015. In fact, you can get S$10 off with a minimum purchase of S$80 (T&C apply)! I recommend the Cyber Colors Bundle Deal for S$29. It consists of Lash Amplifier Waterproof Dual Mascara and Gentle Eye Makeup Remover.

Image Credits: facebook.com/SGSaSa

Image Credits: facebook.com/SGSaSa

Stay updated by visiting facebook.com/SGSaSa.

Advance Happy Mother’s Day to all the wonderful Moms! Thank you for giving us the priceless gift of life. 🙂

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Surprisingly Affordable Yet Quality Japanese Brands In Singapore

Uniqlo

Long before JPOP was mainstream, Japanese brands had been circulating the worldwide market. Valuing their historical significance, contemporary influence, and innovative style, Japan never seize to amaze its consumers. On that note, here are 4 Surprisingly Affordable Yet Quality Japanese Brands Available In Singapore…

1. MUJI

I am in love with MUJI’s products not only because of its simplicity but also because of its efficacy. Most of their products are practical such as the “CT LINEN POLY SOFT BOX OBLONG S HALF“, a foldable fabric storage box for only S$13.

Curated by Ryohin Keikaku Co., Ltd., MUJI upholds the philosophy of bringing quality products at lower prices. This is because of their intensive selection for raw materials. A testament of that are their stationery items including office supplies, packaging items, acrylic storage, desktop items, and handphone accessories with prices ranging from S$0.90-S$49. Aside from this, they also sell tasty foods and skin care products, which Japan is truly known for.

Image Credits: Paul Davidson via Flickr

Image Credits: Paul Davidson via Flickr

MUJI has 9 outlets islandwide, click here for more details.

2. TSUBAKI

Everyone knows that a woman’s crowning glory is her hair. A shiny, smooth, and beautiful hair is the definitive characteristics of a good hair care brand. TSUBAKI fuses its Japanese roots by adding the hair ingredient of ancient times – the Camellia oil. Although it was launched in 2006, TSUBAKI has been leading the hair care brand in Japan with over 270 million units of shipments worldwide. This is due to their affordability, quality, attractive packaging, and celebrity endorsers. As it is gracing Singapore, users can surely love the effect of lustrous and frizz-free hair with regular use. TSUBAKI is available at all Watsons outlet with prices as low as S$8.90 (e.g., TSUBAKI Shining Shampoo 220ml and TSUBAKI Damage Care Conditioner 220ml).

 

3. UNIQLO

A Japanese brand that is celebrated by international clientele, UNIQLO’s shops have always something for everyone. From plain T-shirts, patterned dresses, oxford shirts, winter jackets, and undergarments…UNIQLO pieces proves to be diverse. Aside from that they are known for quality products sold at a reasonable rate. Focusing on quality helps reduce waste. With prices as low as S$4.90, UNIQLO still offers worldwide sales. Fancy a Striped 3/4 Sleeve Dress?

It is available now for S$29.90 – save S$20! Or how about a classic long sleeves for men? It is available now for S$12.90 – save S$12!

UNIQLO has 22 outlets islandwide, click here for more details.

4. HADA LABO

Dreaming of a flawless and fair skin? Dream no more. Japan has brought its special formulation to Singapore with Hada Labo’s skin care line. Hada Labo embodies an uncomplicated approach to skin care products with its motto “Nothing More, Nothing Less” being present in their ingredients and product processing. This means that each product is formulated with the suitable ingredients to meet the needs of the consumers. For example, they use Retinol for the anti-aging products and Hyaluronic Acids for the hydrating products.

Their prices are as low as S$12.90 (Retinol Lifting + Firming Lotion) and as high as S$32.90 (Arbutin White Essence). Hada Labo is available at all Watsons outlets. Here is a short clip of a Japanese skin care regimen incorporating Hada Labo’s products:

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Fantastic Tricks To Help You Spend Less

Often you feel confident to change your shopaholic ways. Then, you find yourself stuck with your old and impulsive patterns. The good news is that, it is never too late to change. You can outsmart your mind by tricking it with these simple ways…

1. AVOID SHOPPING WHEN YOU ARE FEELING H-A-L-T

Four common emotions that lead you to overspend are hunger, anger, loneliness, and tiredness. You must not shop hungry in a grocery store because you would end up buying everything that satisfies your hunger. Same goes for other aspects of shopping, it is best not to shop angry, lonely, and tired.

2. HAVE A 7-DAY MENU PLAN

Are you one of those people that take long in deciding which meal to cook every night? Menu plans will not only save you time but it will also save you money. If you have a menu plan for your meals throughout the week then, you would only spend money on the items that you really need. More so, you will be able to manage your calorie intake to live a healthier lifestyle. Here is a sample 7-day meal menu plan by Anytime Fitness:

mealplanimg

3. SELECT A CLEVER PASSWORD

For the shopping websites that require you to log-in before purchasing, I suggest to use clever passwords related to your long-term goals such as Need$4NewCar or $ave4HOLIDAY. This way, every time you type your password in, you will be reminded to think twice before spending it.

4. WALK OR CYCLE AROUND

Instead of spending money on petrol, walk or use your bicycle around the streets of Singapore. Running errands will not only serve as a good exercise, but it will also make you spend less.

5. NARROW YOUR EXPENSES

When it comes to spending less, do not try to be Jack-of-All-Trades. Instead, narrow your expenses by focusing on two categories that you spend more of such as dining out and groceries. Cut down these expenses by 20-30%. You will feel less overwhelmed and more motivated afterwards.

6. SHOP WITH HIGH-HEELED SHOES

A 2013 study showed that consumers who wore high-heeled shoes are more likely to spend less as they are more focused on maintaining their balance. The effect is the same when you shop after a relaxing yoga class.

Image Credits: Victor Tongdee via Flickr

Image Credits: Victor Tongdee via Flickr

Follow your 2015 New Year’s Resolution and do your best to spend less and save more for your future! 🙂

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The Hippest Food Places In Singapore, Serving Under S$30

Hipster, a sub-culture in today’s society, exhibits appreciation for freedom, creativity, and wit. Thus, hipster places exude a youthful vibe that opposes the status quo. A modern spin on things results to the cultural experimentation of dishes. Where exactly are these hip food places located? Well, they are all over Singapore. In hawker centers, inside the malls, and more. With these myriad of choices, here are the best ones that serve dishes under S$30…

1. PERCOLATE

Located in the Bedok area, is a humble cafe opened by a few friends. The place is simple, cozy, and beautifully decorated that is why it brings a relaxing ambiance to its customers. Prices are budget-friendly with an average price of S$10. A 5-oz of white will only cost you S$4.50 while a yummy Smoked Salmon with Wasabi Cream Sandwich will cost you S$9. Good prices offering delectable dishes…who am I to complain?

Location: 136 Bedok North Avenue 3, #01-152B Singapore 460136

2. IMMANUEL FRENCH KITCHEN

Have you ever eaten fine French cuisine in a “Kopitiam” setting? If not then, you have not taste the media acclaimed: Immanuel French Kitchen. A brainchild of Chef Immanuel Tee, this food stall serves restaurant quality dishes using only the finest dining techniques such as espumas and braising. At a an affordable price, Immanuel French Kitchen dishes are priced at S$18 on the average. People have only good things to say with their Duck Confit. While a hip Miso Foi Gras (S$16.50) was made with fusing Japanese cuisine elements.

Location: Blk 119, Bukit Merah Lane 1, Singapore 151119

3. TWO WINGS

The unique thing about Two Wings is that the owner Jeremy Loh used their original family recipe that have been passed down to each succeeding generations since 1970. Their amazing Crispy Wings that are imported from Brazil will cost you S$8.50 for 4 pieces and S$24 for 12. A true must-try considering the inexpensive prices and the glorious crunch of each wing. If you are a health-conscious individual, fear not. They offer Fresh Cut Salad for only S$3 and you can choose between balsamic vinaigrette or honey mustard dressing.

Location: 119 Bukit Merah Lane 1, Singapore 151119

4. FIX

Fix Cafe is a poolside cafe located at the Balestier area. Sounds like a cool place doesn’t it? You are correct! The place is youthful and appealing that even most of the customers are young. A notable modern take on their menu is their naans. Instead of using the traditional wrap, they used naan in making dishes like Chicken Tikka Naanwich (S$11) and Beef & Kimchi Naanwich (S$11). For dessert lovers, you must order the Butterscotch Arabica Choux (S$6) or the Strawberry Pistachio Rose Tart (S$6). Surely, Fix is a place for affordable and delicious pastries, grilled sandwiches, and artisan coffee.

Image Credits: www.facebook.com/FIXsg

Image Credits: www.facebook.com/FIXsg

Location: HomeTeam NS-JOM Clubhouse, 31 Ah Hood Road Singapore 329979

5. STEW KÜCHE

If you think that European dishes are only served in “Atas” restaurants then, you have got one thing wrong. Located in a busy kopitiam is a stall that fuses Swiss-German and Italian cuisine. With their scrumptious feasts prepared in a very experienced way, it is surprising that their prices are under S$30! It is recommeded that you try their special dishes such as the Paprika Beef Goulash (S$15.50) and the wide array of sausages (priced from S$6.90). They also sell a broad selection of craft beers for all the beer lovers out there.

Location: 119 Bukit Merah Lane 1, Singapore 151119

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Save Up to 50% Every Time You Shop at Amazon

Amazon Shopping

Yusho Liu, co-founder of CoinHako.com, dishes out the dirt on how to save money at the world’s largest online retail store.

Let’s get real. Amazon is a wonderland of everything I’ve ever wanted to buy — or didn’t know I needed until they suggested it. With a huge selection of goods being sold at competitive pricing — not to mention, their remarkable 2-day delivery — it was my go-to place for everything during my time in Silicon Valley — except for my sneakers.

So while I was in Silicon Valley attending Boost VC’s accelerator program, I chanced upon this dubious(initially) site that was offering 20% off Amazon — www.purse.io

Purse.io is a San Francisco based startup. Their investors include prominent members in the Bitcoin ecosystem, as well as several well known Silicon Valley funds.

As seen in the screenshot, Purse.io allows holders of Bitcoin to exchange Amazon credits with gift card owners through Purse’s escrow platform. I followed up with some due diligence to check the legitimacy of their platform and decided to give this a shot. I ordered a bottle of fish oil. Sure enough, I received my omega 3 caps and saved about a buck doing so.

Fast forward 3 months and I’m back in sunny Singapore settling down, where I’m busy getting operations started for my own startup — CoinHako. We make Bitcoin easy and accessible.

“Not having 2-day shipping stinks. I know. But maybe learning to save significantly on your Amazon purchases when in Singapore will make it stink less.”

1. Pick your items and place them in your wishlist

I’m sure you’ve been itching to get that latest book on pandas playing chess with gremlins right — because Amazon is Amazin.

2. Sign up for an account at Purse.io

It doesn’t take you more than 30 seconds for this step.

3. Import your Amazon Wishlist into Purse.io

Click on “Spend BTC” and import your wishlist by pasting the URL directly into the field. Click “Import” and a pop up box will appear as shown below. Follow the steps and click “Done”

4. Pick your discount and note down the total amount of Bitcoin (mBTC) required to make the purchase.

It seems like Purse has tiered the discounts based on total spending. This simply means that the more you order via Purse, the more discounts you get.. (UP TO 50%) This should be largely beneficial to people who conduct Mass Orders.

Remember to note down the amount of milli-Bitcoin you will have to purchase. In this case, 503 mBTC = 0.503 BTC

Do note that my receiving address is in Dayton, OH, which is my freight forwarder’s office. The major players in Singapore are Borderlinx, Vpost, Comgateway, 65daigou etc.

5. Create an account at your freight forwarder.

This will give you a local US address to ship to. If you are not too certain on how to use these services, there are instructions on their website.

6. Buy sufficient Bitcoin and place your order.

If you have a Singaporean bank account, head over to CoinHako.com and purchase just enough bitcoins for the purchase. I personally recommend buying a little more in case the price fluctuates. If you do not know how to purchase Bitcoin, please head over here.

Once the coins are in your wallet, send the coins out to YOUR designated wallet address.

My designated wallet address. Purse.io recommends 8% market buffer

7. Wait for transaction to be completed.

It will typically take about 30minutes for the transaction to be confirmed by the network. Once that is done, just wait till it arrives at your transit facility.

Now that you have completed your transaction for 0.503 BTC….

Let’s see how much money Purse & Bitcoin can save YOU.

 Assuming that freight charges leaving Borderlinx is constant, I did some math for regular checkout (via Mastercard), and Purse.io

1. Cost via Mastercard

Based on Amazon’s rates, the total for both items:

USD163 = SGD231.03

2. Cost via Bitcoin @ 20% discount

0.503 BTC @ CoinHako’s rates:

~SGD180

Smart Nation Shopping, this is.

Imagine saving up to $200 for a $1000 purchase.

 (Article contributed by Yusho Liu, founder of CoinHako)

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