Travel & Entertainment Archives | Page 12 of 70

40+ new Korean convenience store foodstuffs in April 2025 to buy & try from emart24 because Singapore don’t have

If the word “emart24” rings a bell, you’re probably right because you’ve probably seen the Korean supermarket named “emart” around South Korea.

“emart24” is their convenience store version, just so you know.

And if you’ve enjoyed the GS25 version we wrote about it earlier—50+ new Korean convenience store foodstuffs in April 2025 to buy & try from GS25 because Singapore don’t have—you will love this post too.

Here’s the list of newly launched items this month to buy and try if you’re in 🇰🇷!

#1: Chef M’s Milk Cream / Strawberry Cream Sweet Potato Mousse (2,700 KRW; approx. 2.47 SGD)

#2: Maeil’s Milk Cream Banana Cookie-Syu / Choco Cookie-Syu (2,900 KRW; approx. 2.65 SGD)

#3: Injeolmi-Flavored Shaved Ice Drink (1,500 KRW; approx. 1.37 SGD)

#4: Fire Volcano Carbonara Fried Instant Noodles (1,800 KRW; approx. 1.65 SGD)

#5: ‘Maeb-Taeng’ Kimchi Bibimmyeon Packet (1,400 KRW; approx. 1.28 SGD)

#6: Corn Cream Soup Crispy Rolls (1,800 KRW; approx. 1.65 SGD)

#7: Frenchpie (Plum) (4,200 KRW; approx. 3.84 SGD)

#8a: Bourbon Matcha Cookies 113 g (8,000 KRW; approx. 7.31 SGD)

#8b: Bourbon Langue-de-chat Blanchul Matcha Biscuits (8,000 KRW; approx. 7.31 SGD)

#9a: Kiri Lemon Cream Cheese Cake (4,800 KRW; approx. 4.39 SGD)

#9b: ‘Ddeok’ Cake (2,500 KRW; approx. 2.29 SGD)

#10: Deluxe Burger (Beef Patty) (3,800 KRW; approx. 3.47 SGD)

#11: Egg Chilli Hotdog (3,600 KRW; approx. 3.29 SGD)

#12: Full Moon Matcha Choco Cake (1,800 KRW; approx. 1.65 SGD)

#13: Rainbow Cone (Yogurt + Popping Candy) (2,500 KRW; approx. 2.29 SGD)

#14: Maeil’s Melon / Strawberry ‘Turtle’ Bread (3,300 KRW; approx. 3.02 SGD)

#15: ‘Yogurt is Greek’ Pastries (7,000 KRW; approx. 6.40 SGD)

#16a: ‘Haek’ Sour Jelly (Calamansi & Lemon) (1,500 KRW; approx. 1.37 SGD)

#16b: ‘Haek’ Sour Chew (Calamansi & Lemon) (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.91 SGD)

#17a: Super Supreme Cheese Burrito 120 g (3,500 KRW; approx. 3.20 SGD)

#17b: Bulgogi Cheese Burrito 115 g (3,500 KRW; approx. 3.20 SGD)

#18: Rich Milk Bread (2,100 KRW; approx. 1.92 SGD)

#19: Luncheon Meat Mayo + Spicy Buldak Sauce Triangle Kimbap (1,300 KRW; approx. 1.19 SGD)

#20: Thick Katsu Sandwich (3,900 KRW; approx. 3.57 SGD)

#21: Poka Chip Triple Pepper (1,700 KRW; approx. 1.55 SGD)

#22: Ricotta Cranberry Sandwich (3,600 KRW; approx. 3.29 SGD)

#23: Creamble (Crème Brûlée) (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.57 SGD)

#24: Lucky Chocolate Ball Mochi (Matcha) (1,500 KRW; approx. 1.37 SGD)

#25: Strawberry & Yogurt Jam Filling Sour Jelly (1,500 KRW; approx. 1.37 SGD)

#26: Doritos Flamin’ Hot Sour Chilli Lime Flavor Nachos (1,700 KRW; approx. 1.55 SGD)

#27a: Trolli Blue Octopus Jelly (2,500 KRW; approx. 2.29 SGD)

#27b: Squeezes (Mush Mix Sour Jelly) (Bubblegum & Strawberry Flavor) (2,500 KRW; approx. 2.29 SGD)

#28a: Sweet & Sour Chicken Burger (4,500 KRW; approx. 4.11 SGD)

#28b: Chinese-Style Stir-Fried Pork Kimbap (3,800 KRW; approx. 3.47 SGD)

#28c: XO Crab Meat Fried Rice Kimbap (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.83 SGD)

#28d: Sweet & Sour Chicken & Dumplings (7,900 KRW; approx. 7.22 SGD)

#29a: Truffle & Mushroom Burger (4,900 KRW; approx. 4.48 SGD)

#29b: Sweet Pumpkin Cream Gnocchi (5,900 KRW; approx. 5.39 SGD)

#30: Stir-Fried Pork & Tonkatsu Mealbox (5,600 KRW; approx. 5.12 SGD)

#31: Luncheon Meat Tuna Kimbap (3,500 KRW; approx. 3.20 SGD)

#32: Samlip x KBO Collaboration Custard Cream Bread (2,500 KRW; approx. 2.29 SGD)

#33: Chicken Teriyaki Big Bread (1,900 KRW; approx. 1.74 SGD)

#34: Thai Crab Curry, Buldak Stir-Fried Noodles (Big Cup) (2,200 KRW; approx. 2.01 SGD)

#35: Melon-Flavored Corn Snack (1,700 KRW; approx. 1.55 SGD)

#36a: Strawberry Banana Twist Smoothie Ice Cream Pouch (3,300 KRW; approx. 3.02 SGD)

#36b: Tangerine Pineapple Twist Smoothie Ice Cream Pouch (3,300 KRW; approx. 3.02 SGD)

All image credits to emart24.

Price conversion from KRW to SGD is accurate at the time of writing.

50+ new Korean convenience store foodstuffs in April 2025 to buy & try from GS25 because Singapore don’t have

Korean convenience stores are really on the next level because there are new launches every week.

And in this list, we’ve got 50+ newly launched foodstuffs from GS25 you need to try if you’re in kimchi land because Singapore don’t have 😂

#1a: Stir-Fried Pork Ssam Kimbap (3,500 KRW; approx. 3.21 SGD)

#1b: Gochujang (Red Chilli Paste) Stir-Fried Pork Triangle Kimbap (1,800 KRW; approx. 1.65 SGD)

#2a: Salt Tomato Candy (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.75 SGD)

#2b: Corn Cream Soup Crispy Rolls (1,800 KRW; approx. 1.65 SGD)

#3a: Beehive’s Honey Greek Yogurt (4,900 KRW; approx. 4.50 SGD)

#3b: “Towel” Iced Cake (Choco / Vanilla) (4,500 KRW; approx. 4.13 SGD)

#4a: Hachuping Strawberry / Grape Chewy Candy (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.92 SGD)

#4b: Basque Cheesecake (3,200 KRW; approx. 2.94 SGD)

#5a: Seongsu Low Sugar Black Olive Bagel (2,800 KRW; approx. 2.57 SGD)

#5b: Seongsu Baguette Cream Cheese (4,500 KRW; approx. 4.13 SGD)

#6a: Raspberry Pişmaniye Cookie (3,700 KRW; approx. 3.40 SGD)

#6b: Fire Volcano Carbonara Cup Ramen (Big) (1,800 KRW; approx. 1.65 SGD)

#7a: Sikhye (Traditional Sweet Korean Rice Beverage) (L size) (1,700 KRW; approx. 1.56 SGD)

#7b: Vita500 Ion Active (L size) (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.84 SGD)

#8a: Choco / Matcha / Coffee Rice Cakes (1,500 KRW; approx. 1.38 SGD)

#8b: Pişmaniye Cookie (Strawberry / Choco) (2,900 KRW; approx. 2.66 SGD)

#9a: Carbonara Schnell Chicken (6,900 KRW; approx. 6.33 SGD)

#9b: Banana Hazelnut Latte Parfait (3,500 KRW; approx. 3.21 SGD)

#10a: Basque Cheesecake (Yuja) (3,200 KRW; approx. 2.94 SGD)

#10b: Milk Cream Sandwich (2,500 KRW; approx. 2.29 SGD)

#10c: Black Sesame Cream Sandwich (2,700 KRW; approx. 2.48 SGD)

#11a: Minions Popcorn (Butter & Salt) (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.84 SGD)

#11b: ‘Yogurt is Greek’ Cake Snack (7,000 KRW; approx. 6.42 SGD)

#12a: Hachuping Biscuits (1,700 KRW; approx. 1.56 SGD)

#12b: Aurora Light Jelly (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.84 SGD)

#13a: Tonkatsu Mealbox (5,200 KRW; approx. 4.77 SGD)

#13b: Butter Dried Pollack & Peanuts (9,900 KRW; approx. 9.09 SGD)

#14a: PRIME Ice Pop / Blue Raspberry / Lemonade Sports Drinks (2,900 KRW; approx. 2.66 SGD)

#14b: Strawberry Fudge (4,200 KRW; approx. 3.85 SGD)

#15a: Pistachio Dip Choco Cake (4,200 KRW; approx. 3.85 SGD)

#15b: Melon Cream Spread (8,000 KRW; approx. 7.34 SGD)

#16a: Tiramisu Rice Cakes (3,500 KRW; approx. 3.21 SGD)

#16b: Nougat Bar Peanut Butter (1,500 KRW; approx. 1.38 SGD)

#17a: ‘Chalddeok Ice’ Shaped Jelly (Strawberry) (2,500 KRW; approx. 2.29 SGD)

#17b: Strawberry Cream Jelly (2,500 KRW; approx. 2.29 SGD)

#18a: Dakgangjeong Sauce Rice Cakes (4,900 KRW; approx. 4.50 SGD)

#18b: Original Chicken + Rice (4,900 KRW; approx. 4.50 SGD)

#19a: BBQ Mini Jokbal (Pig’s Trotters) (4,900 KRW; approx. 4.50 SGD)

#19b: Spicy Chewy Noodles (5,900 KRW; approx. 5.41 SGD)

#20a: Chinese-Style Mealbox (B Course) (5,900 KRW; approx. 5.41 SGD)

#20b: Fried Boneless Chicken (3,900 KRW; approx. 3.58 SGD)

#21a: Spicy Japchae Kimbap (2,800 KRW; approx. 2.56 SGD)

#21b: Culinary Class Wars’ “Imokase” Seaweed Flakes (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.57 SGD)

#22a: ‘Heavenly Ever After’ Red Bean Kalguksu (5,900 KRW; approx. 5.41 SGD)

#22b: Red Bean Cream Sandwich (2,500 KRW; approx. 2.29 SGD)

#23a: Bulgogi Burger (1,980 KRW; approx. 1.81 SGD)

#23b: Cheese Burger (1,980 KRW; approx. 1.81 SGD)

#24a: Black Pork Duruchigi (8,500 KRW; approx. 7.77 SGD)

#24b: Black Garlic Boiled Pork (8,900 KRW; approx. 8.13 SGD)

#25a: Rainbow Yogurt Bead Ice Cream (2,500 KRW; approx. 2.29 SGD)

#25b: Milk Caramel Mini Sandwich (1,800 KRW; approx. 1.65 SGD)

#26a: Black Pepper Chicken Tenders (1,500 KRW; approx. 1.38 SGD)

#26b: Spicy Squid Tentacles (5,900 KRW; approx. 5.41 SGD)

#27a: Melon Kick Snack (1,700 KRW; approx. 1.56 SGD)

#27b: Ice Spirit (Lemon / Peach Oolong) (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.74 SGD)

All image credits to GS25.

Price conversion from KRW to SGD is accurate at the time of writing.

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 best-rated accommodations in Boracay, Philippines to book a stay in 2025

The sound of gentle waves lapping against the shore, turquoise waters, and white sands await you at Boracay, Philippines, a destination that should be topping travel bucket lists for 2025.

And if you’re planning a trip there, here’s a list of the best-rated accommodations in Boracay for your consideration.

Thank us later! 😉

COAST Boracay

Agoda Rating: 9.6 (2.7K+ reviews)

Paradise awaits at COAST Boracay, a beachfront gem that places you steps from the White Beach stretch and a short 4.8 km from Godofredo P. Ramos Airport.

Ease into vacation mode by the outdoor pool or make yourself at home in quarters tailored to your needs—from lofts to suites and deluxe/premier rooms.

And with an exceptional 9.6 rating, this one sits right at the top of our list.

Mandarin Nest Boracay

Agoda Rating: 9.4 (2.2K+ reviews)

Your all-in-one Boracay basecamp has arrived at Mandarin Nest Boracay, putting you right in the thick of White Beach action, as central as it can get.

A quick 610-meter walk leads you to Bulabog Beach if you need a change of space.

Accommodations range from deluxe rooms to premier ones, some treating you to sea views.

And with Godofredo P. Ramos Airport 5 km away, you’re just a short ride from settling in.

Feliz Hotel Boracay

Agoda Rating: 9.3 (4.8K+ reviews)

Tucked just steps from the shores of White Beach, the Feliz Hotel Boracay is situated behind Mandarin Nest Boracay (our previous listing).

This boutique hotel has deluxe, premier, and suite accommodations, with double room options (with two queen beds), great for groups.

Refuel at the hotel’s indoor and sheltered al fresco dining option before taking a dip in the pool overlooking the ocean.

Shangri-La Boracay

Agoda Rating: 9.3 (1.7K+ reviews)

You deserve a beach break that lives up to its name, and we think that would be at Shangri-La Boracay, just steps from Punta Bunga’s sands.

This 5-star luxury escape is just 8.7 km from Godofredo P. Ramos Airport, so you can change your shoes for flip-flops in no time.

An array of premier rooms, suites, and treehouse villas is available for booking.

The Lind Boracay

Agoda Rating: 9.2 (3.1K+ reviews)

Only an hour’s drive from the airport, The Lind Boracay invites you to wake up to views of Willy’s Rock and Diniwid Beach within 500 meters away.

We like how the floor-to-ceiling glass doors drench every room in sunshine, whether you opt for a studio or a garden pool suite.

The resort also has an infinity pool for you to gaze out over the horizon.

Mandarin Bay Resort & Spa

Agoda Rating: 9.1 (3.1K+ reviews)

Escape to paradise at the pretty brand-new Mandarin Bay Resort & Spa, recently constructed in 2023.

This top-rated resort was awarded a Traveler’s Choice for 2024 by Agoda reviewers with a location that puts you just 4.6 km from Godofredo P. Ramos Airport and 170 m away from White Beach.

Rooms range from deluxe accommodations to premier suites, so you’re sure to find your ideal retreat.

After a day of exploring or just lounging seaside, cool off in the expansive resort pool.

5 Common Money Traps Targeting Travelers Abroad

You’ve booked your flight, packed your passport, and counted down the days until your vacation. But have you really thought about your travel budget?

Ever noticed the number of people buying extra luggage in Japan? It’s practically a rite of passage and a clear sign that spending can spiral without a plan. Let’s unpack five common money mistakes travelers make when heading overseas and how you can avoid them.

#1: SKIPPING TRAVEL INSURANCE

From trip cancellations and medical emergencies to lost luggage and delayed flights, travel insurance can be a financial lifesaver. If you’re a frequent flyer, consider investing in an annual plan as it may cost less than insuring individual trips.

Traveling with expensive gear? Even more reason to be insured. But whether it’s compulsory or not, skipping travel insurance is like boarding a plane without a seatbelt.

#2: NOT PLANNING YOUR PAYMENT METHODS

Picture this: you land in Thailand, only to find that your credit card isn’t accepted anywhere. Each country has its own money culture. In South Korea, per my experience, most stores and restaurants prefer cards, while street food stalls still operate on a cash-only basis. In contrast, cash is king in countries like Vietnam and Thailand.

Always travel with a mix of local currency and a travel-friendly card. Better yet, check with your hotel before your trip. The staff can give you the lowdown on what works best locally.

#3: USING PUBLIC WI-FI FOR MONEY TRANSACTIONS

That free airport Wi-Fi? Not your friend. Public networks are breeding grounds for cybercrime, especially when it comes to banking or logging into sensitive apps. Even if you’re not actively checking your balance, background apps could leak personal info the moment you connect.

Use a VPN or switch to mobile data for anything financial. Better safe than hacked.

#4: LANDING WITHOUT A BUDGET PLAN

Winging it might work for sightseeing, but it won’t help your wallet. Many travelers make the mistake of figuring out their daily spending limit after they arrive. Not only is it stressful, but it can also lead to overspending (or unnecessary scrimping).

Know how much you want to spend each day, monitor currency exchange rates, and start saving early. A pre-planned budget lets you enjoy the journey without counting coins.

#5: IMPULSE BUYING DESIGNER GOODS

Is it actually cheaper overseas with the tax refund? Sometimes, yes.

For instance, I found Hermes Oasis sandals to be cheaper in South Korea than in Singapore. Same goes for a Louis Vuitton bracelet I picked up in Bangkok. Do your homework before splurging. Prices vary wildly depending on the country, taxes, and exchange rates.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

While no trip is entirely free of surprises, a little planning goes a long way when it comes to your finances abroad. Avoid these common traps, and your wallet will thank you when you get home!

Sources: 1 & 2

Search the site