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8 Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Gifts: From Budget-Friendly to Splurge-Worthy

As the Lunar New Year festivities fade into memories, the rush of Valentine’s Day preparations is upon us. If you’re among the early birds who meticulously plan for this day of love, hats off to you!

But if you find yourself in the “Wait, Valentine’s Day is tomorrow?” category, fret not—you still have time to make it special. Whether you’re seeking the perfect present for a dear friend or a sweet surprise for your new flame, these last-minute gift ideas will help you express your affection with thoughtfulness and care.

FOR THE MELODY MAKER

If your loved one is a music enthusiast, consider gifting them the second-gen AirPods, available at a discount of 20% (S$159) at Courts. These wireless earbuds provide quick access to Siri and boast a range of convenient features. Alternatively, the second-gen AirPods Pro offer enhanced sound quality and noise cancellation, making them a perfect choice for audiophiles. Find them at Courts for a discounted price of S$325.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Imagine the joy on their face as they immerse themselves in their favorite tunes, thanks to your thoughtful gift!

FOR THE CREATIVE SOUL

Express your love through art with a blank sketchbook from Popular Bookstore. Fill its pages with heartfelt words and cherished memories, creating a personalized gift that speaks volumes. Available for as low as S$8.70, this simple yet meaningful gesture is sure to touch their heart.

Pouring your emotions onto paper, you create a unique masterpiece that reflects the depth of your feelings.

FOR THE SWEET TOOTH

Indulge in decadent delights with ANGELINA’s macarons. Treat your sweetheart to a box of assorted flavors, each bite a symphony of sweetness and delight. Available in various sizes, these delectable treats are sure to sweeten your Valentine’s Day celebration. Order online or visit the ANGELINA store at MBS. Price starts at S$13 for a box of 4.

Share a moment of sweetness as you savor each macaron together in an at-home romantic dinner, creating memories as delightful as the flavors themselves.

FOR THE TIMELESS ROMANTIC

Declare your love with the PUREST LOVE quartz movement watch by Swatch. Its elegant design, featuring a red sun-brushed dial adorned with symbols of love, makes it a timeless symbol of affection.

Image Credits: swatch.com

Priced at S$106, this watch is a simple yet meaningful gesture that will be treasured for years to come.

FOR THE MEMORY KEEPER

Capture precious moments together with the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12. This instant camera is perfect for creating tangible memories on the spot. With its user-friendly design and built-in selfie mode, it’s ideal for preserving your special moments in an instant. Get your very own Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 kit for S$179 at Harvey Norman.

Every click of the shutter captures a memory that will be cherished for years to come—a tangible reminder of your bond.

FOR THE PAMPERED PRINCESS

Spoil your beloved with luxurious self-care products from Lush. The With Love Gift Set, priced at S$59, includes a selection of indulgent bath and body treats designed to pamper and rejuvenate.

Whether they prefer a relaxing bath or a refreshing shower, this thoughtful gift is sure to make them feel cherished. So, grab a set at the nearest Lush store or purchase it online.

FOR THE BEAUTY CONNOISSEUR

Treat your beauty enthusiast to fragrant delights from Jo Malone or vibrant lipsticks from MAC Cosmetics. Whether it’s a signature scent or a red lip color, these beauty essentials are sure to delight. Choose from a range of options, including Jo Malone colognes starting from S$120 and MAC lipsticks starting from S$38.

The bestsellers of Jo Malone colognes include English Pear & Freesia Cologne, Lime Basil & Mandarin, and Honeysuckle & Davana. As for my personal favorites from MAC, I adore the Ruby Woo and Russian Red shades. These universally beautiful shades complement most skin tones perfectly.

FOR THE LOVER OF ELEGANCE

Elevate their style with exquisite jewelry pieces from Pearly Lustre. From elegant earrings to enchanting necklaces, their Valentine’s Day collection offers timeless pieces that reflect your love and admiration. Available online or at their flagship store at 313@Somerset, these stunning pieces are sure to capture their heart.

Image Credits: pearlylustre.com

This Valentine’s Day, let these thoughtful gifts serve as expressions of your love and appreciation, making your celebration truly memorable. Whether it’s a grand gesture or a simple token of affection, what matters most is the love that lies behind it.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

6 Vibrant & Inexpensive Lunar New Year Festivities in Singapore

Looking for some fantastic ways to ring in the Chinese New Year in Singapore but haven’t made any plans yet? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

Whether you’re up for joining a bustling public celebration, exploring an aquarium, soaking in historical richness, or simply enjoying the festive vibe at a mall, there’s something for everyone.

Here are some top picks for you and your loved ones this weekend:

CHINATOWN’S CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION

Chinatown bursts into a glimmer of lights and color every year, and 2024 is no different. With dazzling displays and family-friendly workshops, the streets come alive with the theme “Soaring into the Auspicious Dragon Year.”

From majestic dragon dioramas to cultural performances, there’s plenty to see and do. More details here: chinatownfestivals.sg.

GARDENS BY THE BAY’S RIVER HONGBAO 2024

For an unforgettable Lunar New Year experience, head to River Hongbao. This annual extravaganza features cultural performances, giant lantern displays, a food street serving up festive treats, and even a glimpse into the history of Chinese New Year markets. This event runs from February 8 to 17 at various locations within Gardens By the Bay.

Image Credits: riverhongbao.sg

What’s more? With 2024 being the Year of the Dragon, expect a 140m-long centerpiece symbolizing this mythical creature. Secure your tickets at gardensbythebay.com.sg.

F1 PIT BUILDING’S CHINGAY PARADE

Chingay Parade is Singapore’s answer to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, blending local flair with international spectacle. This year’s theme, “Blossom”, promises a parade filled with floral delights, along with 230m interactive projections and vibrant art installations. The Parade happens on February 23 and 24 with tickets starting from S$20.

Get your tickets here: chingay.gov.sg/tickets.

SUN YAT SEN NANYANG MEMORIAL HALL’S WAN QING FESTIVAL OF SPRING 2024

Celebrate the season at the heritage-rich Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall. Participate in hands-on workshops, enjoy Chinese music performances, and marvel at a giant inflatable installation. It’s fun for the whole family! Admission is free, with some ticketed activities.

Image Credits: sysnmh.org.sg

More details are available here: sysnmh.org.sg!

S.E.A. AQUARIUM’S SPRING IN THE SEA

Experience the magic of Chinese New Year beneath the waves at S.E.A. Aquarium. Watch an underwater dragon dance amidst Lunar New Year decorations and immerse yourself in a soundscape blending tradition with modernity, curated by the Ding Yi Music Company.

From now to February 25, 2024, you can get your tickets at: rwsentosa.com.

MARINA BAY SANDS’ SOARING FORTUNE

Marvel at the Legend of the Dragon Gate drone show, which showcases stunning visuals and performances against the iconic backdrop of Marina Bay Sands. The event will take place on February 10, 11, 12, 16, 17, and 18.

Don’t overlook the impressive dragon displays and interactive light installations spread throughout the mall, including the two 40m-long dragons adorning the magnificent 15m-tall Dragon’s Gate at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands’ Grand Colonnade. This embellished spectacle features 88 koi fish decorations, a dragon’s pearl, and 28 lotus lanterns.

For those seeking an elevated experience, don’t miss the Dragon in the Sky show at SkyPark Observation Deck on February 10, 11, 16, or 17 at 8 pm.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Discover more at marinabaysands.com.

With so many exciting events happening around Singapore, you’re sure to have a memorable Chinese New Year 2024 celebration!

Sources: 1 & 2

3 accommodations with a view for $83/night & under in & around the rich Gangnam District of Seoul, South Korea

If the city life in Seoul is calling your name, then this article is for you.

We’ve scoured the (internet) streets of Gangnam District to bring you some hidden gems that offer both the views and the affordability.

With each pick priced under $80/night, you can experience living among the rich without the high prices.

Minimalist rental unit with a lovely view of the city

Price: $75/night (for 2 persons)

Sit back, relax, and soak in the city views from this rental unit. Located just minutes from Sinnonhyeon Station with easy access to Eonju Station, this minimalist retreat offers expansive windows that frame views of the cityscape day after day.

The open layout and simple furnishings create a backdrop for lounging, while the equipped kitchen allows you to whip up simple meals with ease. Additional guests can be accommodated with bedding and mattresses for an extra charge.

Sip your morning coffee in bed here, because you can.

Studio home a 3-minute distance from Eonju Station

Price: $77/night (for 2 persons)

Next, we have this studio apartment located just a short 3-minute walk from Eonju Station, placing you right in the heart of Gangnam. The convenient location means you are just minutes from the bustle but can still come home relatively quickly to a retreat.

The studio has been furnished with a queen-sized bed with hotel-style bedding and towels to ensure a good night’s sleep. The kitchenette is equipped with basic cooking facilities and various condiments and seasonings, allowing you to prepare light bites/meals. Complimentary tea/coffee is provided.

If needed during your stay, capsule detergent is also available for doing laundry.

Bright & modern serviced apartment near Samseong Station

Price: $83/night (for 2 persons)

Last but not least, we have this bright and airy serviced apartment that offers Seoul living just steps from the city’s subway and hotspots.

Located a mere 2 to 3 minutes’ walk from Samseong Station, you will be connected to Seoul’s transportation network while Hyundai Department Store and Coex Mall are right across the street for all your shopping needs.

Large-size windows bathe the high-floor apartment in natural light during the day, while a queen-size bed and sofa provide a space to rest after a day of exploring. The kitchenette has the basics for light meals and coffee, so you can feel right at home in this home away from home.

Good for anyone seeking a convenient, modern Seoul residence.

So there you have it—a short list of stays in Seoul’s posh Gangnam District that are as friendly to your eyes as they are to your wallet. Each of these accommodations not only offers you quite a view of the city’s skyline, but they all come in under $80/night. Have your flights to Korea booked already? Then get your accommodations settled today before they get sold out!

S’pore Ranked 5th in Least Corrupt Nations, Denmark Leads the Way

Singapore has maintained its position as the fifth least corrupt country globally, as per the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index.

Since its inception in 1995, Singapore has been the sole Asian country consistently placed in the top 10. Over the years, it has ranked third in 2018 and 2020, fourth in 2019 and 2021, and currently sits at fifth in 2022 and 2023.

The index evaluates and compares countries based on their perceived levels of corruption in the public sector, utilizing a scale ranging from 0 (i.e., very corrupt) to 100 (i.e., very clean). Various aspects of public sector corruption, including bribery, misuse of public funds, and favoritism in civil service appointments, are taken into consideration.

Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 least corrupt countries in the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index 2023:

1. Denmark (90)
2. Finland (87)
3. New Zealand (85)
4. Norway (84)
5. Singapore (83)
6. Sweden (82)
6. Switzerland (82)
8. Netherlands (79)
9. Germany (78)
9. Luxembourg (78)

The Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) revealed that expert opinions and business surveys contribute to the data collection process. The CPIB emphasized that this data stems from 13 external sources. Interestingly, the global average score stands at 43, with more than two-thirds of countries scoring below 50.

Singapore maintained its score of 83 in 2023, consistent with the previous year. The CPIB assured the public that corruption in Singapore remains well-managed, with the number of public sector corruption cases consistently low. Public Perception Surveys conducted regularly by the CPIB indicate a high level of public confidence in Singapore’s efforts to combat corruption.

“Singapore’s reputation as one of the least corrupt countries in the world is hard-earned,” according to CPIB.

In addition to the Transparency International index, Singapore excels in other corruption-related rankings. For instance, in the World Justice Project Rule of Law Index 2023, Singapore ranks third globally for the absence of corruption, making it the leading Asian nation among 142 countries.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

The CPIB highlights its commitment to working collaboratively with the community to maintain the integrity of Singapore’s governance. Moreover, the CPIB conducts its own Public Perception Surveys, further demonstrating the public’s strong confidence in Singapore’s anti-corruption endeavors.

Sources: 1 & 2

Capture IG-Worthy Moments at the Claude Monet-Inspired Exhibition in Gardens by the Bay This July

In my quest for exciting activities and hidden gems within the Red Dot, a captivating advertisement caught my eye – “Impressions of Monet: The Garden” at Gardens by the Bay.

Mark your calendars because, from July 12, 2024, this exhibition promises to transport you into the enchanting world of Claude Monet, the renowned French painter.

BACKGROUND OF THE EXHIBITION

Enter the realm of Claude Monet (1840-1926), a visionary who not only pioneered but passionately championed the Impressionist style. Originating in France in the 1860s, Impressionism is a painting movement that focuses on capturing the visual essence of a moment, emphasizing the play of light and color.

Prepare for a truly immersive experience as a digital presentation breathes life into the timeless masterpieces of Claude Monet. Complementing this, a delightful floral arrangement painstakingly recreates the landscapes that fueled Monet’s creativity in Giverny, France.

Titled “Impressions of Monet,” the exhibit unfolds in two captivating zones: The Garden and The Experience. Step into The Garden at the Flower Dome, where you’ll be welcomed by scenes reminiscent of Monet’s own Giverny garden in France.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Transition to The Experience, where several of Monet’s masterpieces come alive on the walls and ceiling. Amidst a lively symphony of strobe lights and tunes, you’re invited to roam freely, becoming part of the living canvas.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Revel in the recreation of Monet’s iconic pink house and its garden, now the second most visited tourist attraction in Normandy, France. Explore the adjacent Clos Normand garden and the serene Water Garden, both integral to Monet’s later works. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the beauty of hydrangeas, weeping willows, digitalis, daisies, delphiniums, and geraniums – all echoing the flora of Monet’s original gardens.

What’s more? Feast your eyes on the green Japanese bridge and water lilies, subjects immortalized in Monet’s renowned Water Lilies series.

This multi-sensory adventure is a deep dive into the heart of French Impressionism, offering glimpses of 19th-century Europe through the eyes of Monet and his fellow Impressionist painters.

Get lost in the grandeur of famous, inspirational images set to a powerful classical score. Watch as paintings are projected at an enormous scale, illuminating the bold brushstrokes of Monet, Camille Pissarro, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, Edgar Degas, and many other luminaries.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary exhibition running from July 12 to September 15, 2024, from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm. Admission ticket prices start at S$8 for Singapore residents. Prepare to embark on a journey into the captivating world of Monet’s artistry – an experience that promises to linger in your heart and Instagram feed alike!

Sources: 1 & 2

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