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3 accommodations amidst nature for under $90/night in New South Wales, Australia

Sick of Singapore’s city life and want to take on a healing trip amidst nature without breaking the bank?

It’s the same for us.

Thus, we have sourced a couple of rental units in New South Wales, Australia that will allow you to reconnect with the outdoors for under $90/night.

Keep reading!

Caravan farm stay in Tintenbar for two

Price: $74/night (for 2 persons)

Built on a large veranda made from sustainably sourced timber, this retro caravan is THE basecamp for your countryside escape.

Wake up to birdsong, splash your feet in the creek, and watch koalas and wallabies as you please.

Inside, the caravan has a comfy double bed, an equipped kitchen with a gas stove and oven, a dining table, and storage.

The shower comes with a panoramic window that you can gaze out as you clean up.

This farm stay promises an escape back to simpler times, reconnecting you with nature.

And yes, do enjoy the FREE welcome basket prepared for you by the host! 😉

Light-filled studio that used to be home for alpacas

Price: $86/night (for 2 persons)

Next, we have this brightly-lit studio that once sheltered a herd of alpacas.

Sited amid greenery, this accommodation features a queen bed, outdoor shower, and composting toilet overlooking nature.

Wake up to the sounds of wallabies grazing and birds singing and sip your morning coffee on the porch and watch the mist rise over the hills.

Or stroll down to the creek to spot platypuses and turtles when you feel like it or feed the resident alpacas at noon.

A 20-minute drive leads to a scenic waterfall, while The Channon Village with its pub, stores, and tearoom lies just five minutes away.

You have full access to the studio, shower, toilet, and lawn for a getaway in nature, far from the hustle.

Glamping-style stay with views of the surrounding mountains

Price: $89/night (for 2 persons)

Last on our list, we have this glamping-style stay above the treetops with views of the surrounding mountains.

This tent sits on a raised deck where you can soak in the view from your comfy queen bed as the sun rises over the valley.

When the sun sets, lay back and gaze at the stars at night, surrounded by the sounds of nature.

The eco-friendly compost toilet and hot outdoor shower are only steps away; electricity and wifi keep you connected while the portable heater ensures comfort on cooler nights.

Enjoy sunrise coffee and sunset cocktails from your private deck, then ready yourself for a sound slumber for a night, a weekend, or longer… it’s your call.

Whether you’re a nature lover or a traveler seeking a peaceful escape, the abovementioned rentals in New South Wales prove to be a haven for your next getaway. With affordable accommodations nestled amidst nature’s embrace, all you have to do is unwind, recharge, and discover the wonders of Australia. So, pack your bags, it’s time to let nature take over!

5 FREE Things to Do in Marina Bay

Are you searching for the top activities to enjoy in Marina Bay, Singapore without breaking the bank? This guide has got you covered with a lineup of free and budget-friendly attractions you won’t want to miss during your visit! And when we say budget-friendly, we mean absolutely free!

1. TAKE A LEISURELY STROLL IN GARDENS BY THE BAY

Gardens by the Bay is like stepping into a fantastical world and ranks among the top attractions in Marina Bay Singapore!

While wandering through the Supertree Groves is free of charge, you can elevate your experience by catching a panoramic view of the area from the suspended walkway known as the Supertree Observatory, priced at S$10 for adults and S$7 for children or senior citizens.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Get your tickets here: gardensbythebay.com.sg

2. EXPERIENCE A LIVE PERFORMANCE AT ESPLANADE

Don’t overlook the complimentary performances and captivating artistic displays at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay – they’re just as captivating as those in the concert halls, if not more so!

From local talents to international acts, Esplanade offers a diverse array of performances that are definitely worth your time.

Check out the schedule here: esplanade.com/whats-on

3. WITNESS THE SPECTRA LIGHT & WATER SHOW

When night falls over Marina Bay, be sure to catch the Spectra light and water show, taking place every night at 8 pm and 9 pm, with an additional show on Fridays and Saturdays at 10 pm. Laser lights choreograph to the rhythm of the music, casting vibrant images over the water spray for a 15-minute visual extravaganza – and the best part? It’s entirely free!

Plus, during Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour, expect to hear some of her chart-topping hits.

4. EXPLORE THE ICONIC SIGHTS WITH APPLE

Embark on an evening tour around Marina Bay and master the art of capturing stunning low-light photos using Night mode and more on your iPhone. Learn how to adjust exposure, balance foreground and background, and capture your best night shot with simple techniques. This tour covers approximately 500m. Remember to bring your iPhone or use the latest one provided!

The next session is scheduled for Monday, March 18th, from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm. Sign up here: apple.com/sg.

5. SET SAIL FOR FREE

Take the helm and sail aboard DBS sailboats, soaking in breathtaking views as you glide along the Marina Bay waterfront promenade for 30 to 40 minutes – all at no cost!

The DBS Marina Bay Sailing Programme is part of the bank’s ongoing commitment to enliven the bay and offer more opportunities for everyone to experience sailing around the Marina Reservoir.

Hop aboard the SB20 and the SM40, and see Singapore’s Marina Bay from a whole new perspective. Booking is available monthly, so reserve your spot here: dbs.com.

Location: Marina Bay, boarding at Pontoon beside Customs House (70 Collyer Quay 049323 Singapore)

Marina Bay offers a plethora of unforgettable experiences without straining your wallet. From the surreal ambiance of Gardens by the Bay to the enchanting performances at Esplanade and the mesmerizing Spectra light show, there’s something for everyone. Dive into photography workshops with Apple or set sail on the Marina Bay waterfront, all at 0 dollars. Enjoy!

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

4 confinement wines under $28.90 as thoughtful gifts for new mummies

As a new mother begins her journey of motherhood, why not surprise her with a thoughtful gift that’s nourishing to her body?

In this post, we will reveal our selection of confinement wines priced under $28.90, ready to pamper the new mummies you know in your life.

Keep reading!

W Rice Wine: Premium Traditional Rice Wine

Price: 19.90

First up, we have this premium rice wine that has been handcrafted in Singapore using an heirloom recipe passed down for over three generations since 1931.

Aged in clay barrels, this all-natural rice wine is made with only sweet rice, natural yeast, and purified water, without any added sugar or preservatives.

Here’s what you get: an aromatic and smooth rice wine.

Sip this gluten-free rice wine on its own or add it to steamed and braised dishes for added flavor.

Every bottle is a celebration of time-honored traditions and techniques that have been perfected over the years.

Ye Traditions: Red Rice Wine

Price: $23.80

Next, we have this traditional red rice wine from Ye Traditions, which uses a recipe also passed down from three generations.

The small-batch production incorporates only the finest ingredients sourced from Singapore, including premium mineral water, wine cakes, glutinous rice, and red yeast rice.

The unique fermentation process creates a natural sweetness and tartness without any added salt or sugar, making it a healthier option.

The red yeast rice, which imparts the beautiful reddish hue, is valued in Traditional Chinese Medicine for its cholesterol-lowering benefits.

Best enjoyed as a component of Hong Zao Chicken Soup, this distinctive red rice wine offers our new mummies a taste of heritage.

BC Rice Wine: Yellow Rice Wine

Price: $28.50

This yellow rice wine has also been crafted using a family recipe passed down for generations but hails from Sarawak, Sibu, and Miri.

The white koji yeast is fermented to produce a sweet, mild-bodied rice wine with a pleasant aroma.

Ideal for enriching confinement nourishing dishes or adding flavor to seafood, meat, and poultry, this preservative-free rice wine is made with natural ingredients and contains no added sugar.

Get a taste of the authentic flavors of Malaysia using this traditional rice wine that has been produced using time-honored methods.

BC Rice Wine: Hakka Rice Wine

Price: 28.50

Or you can consider this Hakka Rice Wine that hails from Eastern Malaysia from the same seller—BC Rice Wine.

The winemaking process remains fully handcrafted, using yeast and Red Koji Rice that lend the wine its pink hue.

With no added sugar or preservatives, the wine is mellow, sweet, and rich in flavor, making it a wonderful match for homemade confinement dishes or rich soups.

Its subtle notes also pair delightfully with seafood like clams and crab, as well as chicken, duck, and braised or stewed pork.

Gifting a new mummy with one of these confinement wines under $28.90 is not just about the wine itself, but the sentiment it represents. Let these thoughtful gifts serve as a reminder of the importance of self-care during this precious time.

Unlock Your Inner Mecha: Experience the Giant Gundam in Yokohama ‘Til March 2024

Browsing through your social media feed, you’ve probably noticed a delightful trend: many of your friends are jetting off to Japan. This surge in travel is fueled by enticing airline seat sales and the enchanting cherry blossom season, coupled with the allure of visiting attractions that resonate with anime enthusiasts. Among these captivating sights stands the 18-meter Gundam statue in Yokohama, slated to operate until March 31, 2024.

Here’s the good news: the Embassy of Japan in Singapore confirms that Singaporean citizens can enjoy visa-free entry into Japan for short-term tourist stays of up to 90 days. As for non-Singaporeans, checking if your country qualifies for visa-free travel or applying for a short-term visa online is a straightforward process.

Now, let’s talk about the Gundam. Prepare to be awestruck by this extraordinary 18-meter marvel in Yokohama, undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking attractions to date. With its flashing LED lights, articulated limbs, and the ability to step out from its docking station, this colossal robot stands as a testament to modern engineering marvels. Development of this project began in 2014, with designers investing several years in perfecting its mechanics before unveiling the Gundam in December 2020. For ticket information, visit the Gundam Factory Yokohama website: gundam-factory.net/en.

Tickets for Gundam Factory Yokohama entrance are priced at 1,650 Yen/adult and 1,100 Yen/child (ages 7 to 12). Additionally, there’s the option of purchasing a Gundam-Dock Tower viewing ticket, priced at 3,300 Yen for both adults and children. To access the Gundam statue up close, the purchase of a Gundam-Dock Tower viewing ticket is required, which includes admission to the factory.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Before embarking on your journey to Japan, consider these travel tips:

1. TRANSPORT PUNCTUALITY

Punctuality is key in Japan, particularly for their high-speed railway, the Shinkansen. Trains depart promptly, so ensure you arrive well in advance of departure times.

2. JAPAN RAIL PASS

Secure a Japan Rail Pass in advance for convenient travel across the country. While passes are now available for purchase at select stations and airports until March 31, 2024, online purchases remain more cost-effective.

A 7-day Ordinary Pass and Green Pass will cost approximately S$277.65 and S$370.79, respectively, on Klook, and approximately S$280.80 and S$375.30, respectively, on the JR Pass website. Both options also include free delivery to your address in Singapore.

3. CONVENIENCE STORE FINDS

Indulge in Japan’s convenience stores, known as konbinis, offering an array of fresh and affordable food options, along with other essentials. Personally, my husband and I enjoyed the snacks and desserts in the convenience store. Moreover, anime merchandise is available there too.

4. CASH PAYMENTS

Cash is preferred in many establishments, so ensure you have sufficient funds for your trip. While credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and JCB are widely accepted, some places may not accept American Express. ATMs can be scarce in Japan, so convenience stores, many of which are open 24/7, often have ATMs for your convenience.

5. CHERRY BLOSSOM VIEWING

If planning a trip to see the cherry blossoms, aim for late March to early April in Tokyo (i.e., Flowering: March 22 / Full bloom: March 29), Osaka (i.e., Flowering: March 24 / Full bloom: April 1), and Kyoto (i.e., Flowering: March 22 / Full bloom: March 31). Alternatively, head north to cities like Sapporo, where blossoms bloom from late April to the first week of May (i.e., Flowering: April 30 / Full bloom: May 4).

Image Credits: unsplash.com

By using these tips, you’re sure to make the most of your adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun!

Sources: 1,2,3, & 4

4 dry shampoos under $14 when you don’t have the time for a hair wash but need a quick fix

When your schedule is packed and you can’t afford the time to wash your hair, dry shampoo becomes your best friend.

Let’s explore a list of dry shampoos under $14 that will rescue your locks on those days when a full hair wash just isn’t in the cards.

Whether you’re rushing to work, hitting the mall, or simply need a quick refresh, consider these options.

MOIST DIANE Perfect Beauty Dry Shampoo, 40g

Price: $5.50

Want effortlessly chic hair even when you’re on the go?

This travel-sized dry shampoo from Japanese brand MOIST DIANE soaks up oil and adds instant volume between washes.

The ultra-fine powder leaves no visible residue while absorbing excess oil and neutralizing odors.

It moisturizes and repairs hair as it refreshes your style, leaving strands soft, smooth, and airy.

The one solution for refreshing your style, it comes in a range of fragrances to suit your mood.

Just a spritz gives you fresh, full hair anytime, anywhere.

COLAB Dry Shampoo Paradise Fragrance, 200ml

Promo Price: $9.73 (was $13.90)

Or consider this award-winning dry shampoo from COLAB that has everything you need for refreshed, beautiful hair.

The lightweight formula effectively absorbs oil and excess sebum from roots while leaving hair feeling clean, soft, and fragranced with notes of sparkling lemon and neroli.

Suitable for all hair types, textures, and colors, it contains vitamin E for scalp care and leaves no white residue.

Simply shake well before use, then spray onto roots and style as usual.

RITUALS Refreshing Dry Shampoo, 50ml

Price: $10

Instantly refresh and revive your hair with this dry shampoo from RITUALS.

Enriched with conditioning shikakai and soothing boswellia, this formula absorbs oil, sweat, and odor without leaving any residue behind.

Just shake well and spray evenly onto the roots for a fresh, fuller-looking style in seconds.

The shikakai strengthens hair while boswellia helps soothe an irritated scalp, making this an ideal dry shampoo for all hair types, especially sensitive scalps.

Ideal for on-the-go styling, this 50ml travel-size bottle is small enough to fit in your carry-on for a quick refresh so revitalizing, and oh-so-satisfying!

BATISTE Dry Shampoo Cherry, 200ml

Price: $13.10

Lastly, we have this dry shampoo that delivers a burst of fresh cherry fragrance with every spritz.

Its blend of wild berries, cucumber, and soft florals infuses your locks with a fun and fruity scent that’s a little sweet, a little tart, and “delicious.”

The more you shake this bottle, the better—proper shaking helps distribute the formula evenly and prevents white residue.

This sulfate-free dry shampoo absorbs oil and adds volume, leaving your hair fresh and full with a sweet cherry scent that will have people guessing what conditioner you use.

A spray of this fun fruity dry shampoo is all you need to boost those fruity vibes.

When time is of the essence but your hair needs a pick-me-up, these abovementioned dry shampoos under $14 offer a quick solution to refresh your locks in a pinch. With the convenience and ease they provide, you can always put your best hair forward, even on the busiest of days. Give it a try!

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