MoneyDigest - Personal Finance, Lifestyle, Money Saving Tips

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!

Seamless Connectivity for Concert-Goers: Level Up Your Experience with Singtel’s 5G Tourist SIM/eSIM in Singapore

Calling all concert-goers! Get ready for an extraordinary journey that will have you belting out every chart-topper! And guess what? Singtel’s got your back with their awesome Tourist SIM and eSIM packages, specially designed to keep you connected seamlessly and grooving throughout the entire concert experience! From queueing to front-row thrills, the Singtel 5G Tourist SIM ensures you’re never out of the loop – scroll TikTok seamlessly and capture every concert highlight!

Stay Connected with Singtel’s 5G Tourist SIM/eSIM:

Arriving in Singapore for the concerts? Ensure you stay connected with Singtel’s 5G Tourist SIM/eSIM, offering you unparalleled connectivity and convenience. Here’s what you get:

5G $50 Tourist SIM: Enjoy a whopping 120GB of 5G data along + 10GB of roaming data, valid for 28 days. Perfect for streaming, snapping, and sharing every concert moment!
5G $30 Tourist SIM: Dive into 100GB of 5G data paired with 5GB of roaming data, also valid for 28 days. Whether you’re exploring the city or sharing highlights with friends back home, the 5G and roaming data keeps you connected wherever the music takes you.
4G $12 Tourist SIM: For those who prefer 4G, grab 100GB of data with 3GB of roaming data, valid for 14 days. Short stay or extended vacay? They’ve got flexible plans to match your rhythm and keep you rocking throughout your trip!

And guess what? Singtel now offers the same incredible deals in fully digital eSIM format. The Singtel Tourist eSIM streamlines your connectivity setup with an easy online sign-up process, allowing you to handle all your connectivity needs before you even depart. Upon arriving in Singapore, activating your eSIM via the Singtel hi!App on your mobile device is a breeze. This seamless process not only saves you the time you’d spend queuing at a physical outlet for a SIM card but also eliminates the hassle of switching between SIM cards. With the Tourist eSIM, toggling between your own SIM and Singtel’s is effortless, offering a truly convenient and digital experience from start to finish.

How to Purchase Singtel’s 5G Tourist eSIM:

Order eSIM at singtel.com/hitourist. Do ensure your device is eSIM compatible.
Get eSIM order confirmation. Receive your eSIM reference number and verification code.
Download and register on Singtel hi!App when you are in Singapore
Install eSIM on hi!App and add eSIM on mobile data settings on your mobile phone and you are all set to go.

Prefer a Physical SIM? Here’s How:

If you prefer a physical SIM or your device isn’t eSIM compatible, fret not! You can purchase your Singtel Tourist SIM online and collect it at various locations in Singapore, including Changi Airport and Singtel Shops islandwide.

Purchase your Physical SIM online via these platforms:

Once you make payment, you can collect it at the following places:

UOB Money Changing Counter at Singapore Changi Airport
Travelex at Singapore Changi Airport
Changi Travel Services at Singapore Changi Airport
Singtel Shops islandwide

Already in Singapore? You can always visit any of these outlets in Singapore to purchase the Physical SIM:

Singapore Changi Airport:

UOB Money Changing Counter
Travelex Foreign Currency Exchange
Changi Recommends
Cheers store

Out and about in Singapore:

7-Eleven store
Cheers store
Singtel Shop
Authorised retailers at Harbourfront / Tanah Merah
Other authorised retailers

Exclusive Offers Await You!

1. Get a free Friendship Handphone Charm or a Portable USB Fan

Receive a complimentary friendship handphone charm (available until March 15, 2024, or while supplies last) or a portable USB fan (available until March 31, 2024, or while supplies last) with each purchase or collection of a 5G Tourist SIM at Changi Airport – specifically at UOB money changing counters, Travelex foreign currency exchange counters, or Changi Recommends.

2. 10% off CASETiFY purchase with no minimum spending

Additionally, take advantage of exclusive CASETiFY offers at Singtel Shop 313@somerset. Receive a 10% discount on any CASETiFY purchase, with no minimum spending required. Just show your coupon or present your Singtel Tourist SIM or eSIM email confirmation at Singtel Shop 313@somerset #03-31, Somerset MRT, to claim this special offer. Valid until March 31, 2024.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to stay connected and make the most of your concert experience in Singapore. Purchase your Singtel 5G Tourist SIM/eSIM today and let the magic unfold!

For more information, visit singtel.com/hitourist.

Offer valid till 31st March 2024 or while stocks last. Terms and conditions apply. Offers are subject to availability and may change without prior notice. Singtel reserves the right to amend or withdraw the offers at its discretion.

Latest WFH internships posted from 26 to 29 February 2024

Yet to score yourself a remote internship opportunity?

We’re starting March 2024 on a good note for you with this week’s openings.

Scroll and have a look yourself!

#1: RECO Buddy – Community Partnerships Intern

Website: recobuddy.org

Allowance / Remuneration: $400 – 1,500 (project /contract based)

Job Qualifications

Project management experience.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Resilient and determined personality.

Key Responsibilities

Support the planning and conceptualization of the program.
Build and manage partnerships with community organizations and institutions.
Support the planning and execution of roadshow events.
Manage client database.

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and send your application to [email protected].

#2: Reculture Life Pte Ltd – Marketing Intern

Website: reculturelife.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $500 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

Currently enrolled in a diploma or related program, preferably in Marketing, Business Administration, Communications, or a related field.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.
Competent in English for both writing and speaking.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and familiarity with social media platforms.
Detail-oriented with a proactive attitude and a willingness to learn.
Require to attend a once-weekly in-person meeting

Key Responsibilities

Marketing Support:

Assist in the development and implementation of marketing campaigns across various channels, including social media, email, and digital advertising.
Create and update marketing materials, including website, brochures, and promotional materials.
Help manage social media – TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook accounts by creating and scheduling posts, engaging with followers, and monitoring performance metrics.
Support the planning and execution of events and other marketing activities.
Required to attend all events

Administrative Support:

Provide general administrative support to the marketing team, including scheduling meetings, managing calendars, and handling correspondence.
Assist with data entry, document management, and organizing files and records.
Perform other administrative tasks and ad hoc projects as assigned.

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Elyn via this link.

#3: Applivon Pte Ltd – Solution Consulting Internship

Website: applivon.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,700 monthly

Job Qualifications

Eager and passionate to learn and self-practice to deep dive and understand the depth and breadth of the product
Willingness to travel for client meetings and presentations with the solution consultant team

Key Responsibilities

Work alongside the solutions consultant for:

Product Demonstration

Conduct product demonstrations to showcase the features, functionality, and value proposition of the software.
Tailor presentations to meet the specific needs and interests of potential clients.

Customer Engagement

Engage with potential customers to understand their requirements and challenges
Collaborate with the sales team to align software features with customer’s needs

Collaboration with Solution Consultant and Marketing

Work closely with the solution consultant team to support the sales process, including creating PowerPoint presentation decks and proposals
Update and record minutes of meetings in CRM
Develop marketing materials e.g. product brochures, email communication template

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Valerie via this link.

#4: BW Maritime Pte Ltd – IT Intern

Website: bw-group.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,200 monthly

Job Qualifications

Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a degree program in Information Technology, Computer Science, Communication, Design, or a related field.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills; should effectively engage with stakeholders at all levels.
Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Project Management: Drive the SharePoint Design project, meeting the project goals and completing deliverables on time.
Stakeholder Engagement: Regularly interact with various stakeholders to understand their requirements and translate them into functional and technical requirements.
Hands-On Development: Learn and apply principles of SharePoint design and development, alongside external vendors.
Vendor Coordination: Coordinate with external vendors for the development phase of the project, ensuring that the solution built aligns with the project’s objectives and timelines.
Documentation: Maintain documentation of the project, including stakeholder requirements, project progress, and timeline.

How to apply?

View the job post and apply directly via this link.

#5: Almanak Blockchain Labs – Software Engineer Intern

Website: almanak.co

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,900 monthly

Job Qualifications

Not specified.

Key Responsibilities

Assist in the development and maintenance of agent-based modeling platforms, focusing on scalability, performance, and user experience.
Contribute to various phases of the software development lifecycle, including design, coding, testing, and deployment.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand requirements and deliver solutions that meet business needs.
Engage in code reviews to maintain code quality and encourage best practices.
Participate in agile development processes and contribute to sprint planning, stand-ups, and retrospectives.
Explore new technologies and methodologies that can be implemented to enhance our platform and development practices.

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Nasrudin via this link.

Editor’s note: These internships are selected based on the “remote” tag, but some positions are hybrid ones and you may need to report physically to the office. For more deets, do contact the employer directly.

Expanded Occupancy Cap for Larger HDB & Private Residences: Allowing Up to 8 Unrelated Individuals

Between January 22, 2024 and December 31, 2026, the Housing & Development Board (HDB) and the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) announced a temporary relaxation of the occupancy cap for larger HDB flats and private residential properties. During this period, these accommodations will be permitted to accommodate up to eight unrelated persons, an increase from the current limit of six. This measure aims to address rental demand and support households seeking rental accommodations.

This relaxation applies to four-room and larger HDB flats, living quarters of HDB commercial properties equivalent to at least a four-room flat, and private residential properties of at least 90 square meters. However, any extension of this relaxed occupancy cap beyond 2026 will be subject to review based on market conditions at that time.

Minister for National Development Desmond Lee highlighted the surge in residential rents, largely attributed to heightened demand amidst construction delays caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. To alleviate this situation, the government accelerated housing supply, with nearly 100,000 homes slated for completion by 2025. Mr. Lee emphasized that this increased supply would enable Singaporeans to vacate rental units sooner, thereby freeing up rental stock.
He stated that the government “(anticipates) the need to maintain a healthy rental supply to support those seeking to rent.”

Image Credits: unsplash.com

To ensure a harmonious living environment, the temporary measure applies only to larger properties capable of accommodating more occupants with minimal impact on their surroundings. Residential property owners currently housing up to six unrelated persons must apply to HDB or URA, depending on the property type, to include additional occupants. Private property owners can register their properties through URA’s e-services for a S$20 administrative fee.

HDB and URA reiterated that the existing rule requiring HDB flat owners and commercial property owners to obtain approval before commencing tenancy remains unchanged.

Applications for renting out HDB flats or bedrooms can be submitted online through HDB’s e-services, with an administrative fee of S$10 per bedroom or S$20 per whole flat rented out. Similarly, HDB commercial property owners and tenants seeking to rent out living quarters can apply via the GoBusiness Licensing Portal, with an applicable administrative fee of S$100 per application.

Furthermore, to meet growing housing demand, the government has bolstered the supply of both public and private housing units, collaborating closely with the construction industry to address supply-side challenges.

With a significant surge in housing supply anticipated in the coming years, rental demand is expected to be sufficiently addressed. This year, around 40,000 homes are projected to be completed across public and private residential sectors, marking the highest completion rate in five years. Furthermore, from 2023 to 2025, approximately 100,000 public and private residential units are scheduled for completion. HDB is also doubling the supply of flats under the Parenthood Provisional Housing Scheme (PPHS) to about 2,000 units, compared to 2021.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

For enquiries regarding the rental of HDB flats/living quarters, the public can write in using HDB’s e-Feedback form, or contact the HDB Branch Service Line at 1800-225-5432 (for HDB flats) or HDB Commercial Enquiry Line (for living quarters) at 1800-866-3073. For enquiries regarding the rental of private residential properties, the public can reach out via URA’s e-Feedback form or contact the URA Development Control Line at 6223-4811.

Sources: 1,2, & 3