MoneyDigest - Personal Finance, Lifestyle, Money Saving Tips

Reasons why you should join a holiday tour group even though it may be more expensive than DIY-ing your trip

So you’re thinking of going on holiday soon but cannot decide whether to join a tour or DIY?

Yes, we know it can be a little bit of a tough choice. Tours can be more ex but there’s a guide to take you everywhere, take care of transport, bookings, and all that.

But DIY-ing your trip means you can choose anything you want, with no need to follow any fixed schedule. But still, going with a tour has its pros over DIY.

Easy peasy

First up, going with a tour group means there’s no need to plan your own itinerary or handle any logistics. The tour guide will plan everything for you—where to go, what to see, and where to eat. Good for times when you just want to be a follower without stressing your head over planning.

Having a tour guide also means having a built-in encyclopedia (all the juicy details about the sights). These experts can share history, facts, and tips about each place, things you won’t know if you decide to explore on your own.

You’re super safe

With a tour group, you have a guide who knows the place inside out. No need to panic if you get lost or cannot find your way.

Tour guides also know places that are potentially dangerous areas and will have you avoid them.

There’s also safety in numbers! More people means less chance of being targeted. Pickpockets won’t dare to try their stunts.

Image Credits: Webuy

For solo travelers, you’ve got yourself companions. It’s a good way to make new friends in your tour group.

So if you are anxious about traveling alone or going somewhere new, joining a tour group can be a good idea. You feel more relaxed and can focus on enjoying instead of worrying. Worth paying more for that peace of mind, isn’t it?

Get access to exclusive experiences

Tour companies have special access to places that are restricted to the public. For example, they can bring you into off-limit areas or get you behind-the-scenes tours of farms or factories.

They also can get you priority bookings for popular restaurants or shows that are super hard to get reservations if you were to book yourself. In short, don’t need to wait long long.

Some tour companies have special connections and can arrange local experiences not available to the average tourist.

You also get to skip queues at crowded attractions and enter via special tour group entrances.

Usually, for hotels or cruises also, tour companies can get better rates than what you will find online. It’s all included in that one package you sign.

So why DIY everything yourself and stress out over all the planning? Get a tour company to handle everything while you relax and enjoy the holiday without worrying if you booked the right hotel or if you will miss your flight. Of course, we can’t deny that joining a tour group means paying more upfront than going free and easy, but for convenience, it’s pretty worth it. At the end of the day, holidays are meant to be fun, not pulling your hair out 😉

5 nail wraps under $16.60 for gel-like manicures minus the price tag

If you’re a fan of beautiful, long-lasting manicures but finding a way to cut a little cost, we might just have the solution for you.

Allow us to introduce to you a selection of nail wraps that deliver gel-like perfection, all without the hefty price tag.

From trendy designs to durable finishes, these nail wraps priced under $16.60 will have your nails looking fabulous for CNY 2024 and beyond.

Let’s roll with our handpicked designs!

Kisses Of Kebaya

Promo price: $10 (was $14.90)

These nail stickers mimic the traditional Peranakan kebaya with their delicate floral patterns and ornate motifs. The 16 nail stickers in various sizes will have you channeling cultural charm with just a few minutes of application. Also included is a mini nail filer and cuticle pusher to prep your nails for the right fit. Go coat-free for a quicker manicure or layer on a topcoat for a longer-lasting design. Either way, these kebaya-inspired nail stickers will have you feeling regal and refined in an instant.

Lucky Red

Price: $12.90

This irresistibly lucky red shade with gold strips is the ideal nail polish pick for CNY 2024. The simple, minimalist design will suit any lady who appreciates understated elegance. Included are 16 self-adhesive nail wraps of varying sizes so you can create the perfect manicure in minutes. A mini nail file and cuticle pusher stick help you achieve a polished, professional finish. Paste this lucky red on your nails and strut confidently into the Year of the Dragon knowing your nails are on point.

The Dragon (In White)

Price: $13.90

Summon the spirit of the mythical dragon with these nail wraps designed to bring good fortune in the Year of the Dragon. Part of Emmezing Nails’ ‘Soar Through The Sky’ collection, this white dragon nail art features beautifully detailed dragon-inspired artwork to boost your style in an animated yet graceful way. The nail wraps apply easily and come with a file and instructions so you can channel your inner dragon in minutes. Whether you’re celebrating CNY or simply love all things dragon for the new year, these nail wraps will infuse some lucky dragon energy into your everyday look.

Lucky Cat Club

Price: $15

Want a lucky cat manicure that’s purr-fect for CNY? This festive fortune cat nail sticker kit has all the red envelope, pineapple tart, and tangerine charms you need to attract blessings and fortune in the Year of the Dragon. The easy peel-and-stick red and pink blush tone decals with light gold foil accents make for an auspicious manicure that takes just 15 minutes—no polish changes required. Use the included nail file to shape your stickers for a custom fit, and rest assured the non-toxic nail polish ingredients pose no threat to your good fortune.

Prosperity Color Chart

Price: $16.50

Last but not least, we have this bright and happy color chart that aims to bring you prosperity in the new year. Let your nails channel the energy for you when you choose these joyful color combos apt for CNY celebrations. The matching pedicure polishes make it easy to coordinate hues for a festive look. You can get it here: Prosperity Colour Chart Pedicure. The already-dry formula means no need to sit around waiting for them to dry—you will be ready to head out and celebrate in no time. Add a topcoat if you want an extra glossy and smooth finish that will last through your days of visiting.

With these nail wraps priced under $16.60, achieving a professional gel-like manicure has never been easier or more affordable. No more smudged or chipped polish so say hello to long-lasting, eye-catching nails that will turn heads wherever you go. Whether you’re looking for a touch of kebaya, a burst of luck, or a bold color combo, these nail wraps have got you covered. So treat yourself to a salon-quality manicure and get ready for your manicure to be the envy of all this CNY and beyond!

Hefty Price Tag of Vaping in Singapore

According to a recent release from the Health Sciences Authority (HSA), electronic vaporizers, commonly known as e-cigarettes, e-vaporizers, or vapes, have gained popularity in Singapore despite being banned.

Many young individuals are captivated by vaping because they perceive it as trendy and safe, while advocates argue that it aids in quitting smoking. However, there’s a darker side to this narrative.

The Dark Side of Vaping

E-vaporizers are known to harbor harmful chemicals such as fine particulate matter (PM), cancer-causing agents like carbonyls, and volatile organic compounds such as formaldehyde and benzene. Additionally, perilous heavy metals like tin, lead, and nickel have been detected in these devices, posing inherent health risks. Despite their alluring packaging in vibrant and sleek designs, adorned with sweet and fruity flavors to mask potential health hazards, the fundamental purpose of e-vaporizers is to dispense nicotine, a highly addictive substance.

While the long-term effects of vaping are still under scrutiny, it has been associated with nausea, vomiting, mouth and airway irritation, chest pain, and palpitations.

Penalties Under the Act

According to the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act, individuals convicted of selling, offering for sale, possessing for sale, importing, or distributing e-vaporizers may face a fine not exceeding S$10,000 or imprisonment for up to six months for the first offense.

Subsequent offenses can result in a fine not exceeding S$20,000, imprisonment for up to 12 months, or both. Furthermore, individuals found guilty of possessing, using, or purchasing e-vaporizers may be liable to fines not exceeding S$2,000.

Enforcement of the Act

In 2022, more than 2,600 e-vaporizer-related posts were removed from online platforms. Between 2018 and 2022, 860 individuals were apprehended for selling and smuggling e-vaporizers, with 145 facing prosecution during the same period.

For travelers, Singapore is heightening enforcement measures against those entering with electronic vaporizers. Operations will be conducted at air, land, and sea checkpoints, commencing at Changi Airport. Incoming passengers may undergo screening for vapes or their components, and fines will be imposed if caught.

Travelers can avoid penalties by declaring and surrendering these items at the Red Channel, as stipulated by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the HSA. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) will persist in security checks to identify and deter smuggling attempts.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

Latest WFH internships posted from 15 to 18 January 2024

Just imagine NOT having to wake up earlier to prep for work or squeeze with the other on-the-way-to-work zombies on the buses and trains…

Wouldn’t that be the ideal work scenario?

And to help you make that happen, we have searched high and low to bring you this week’s WFH internships.

Keep scrolling!

#1: The Good Hood Pte Ltd – Community Building Intern

Website: goodhoodsg.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $400 – 800 monthly

Job Qualifications

Can do attitude, fast learner
Responsible & resourceful
Love bringing people together
Have experience with digital community building and engagement (e.g. managed an active Facebook, Telegram, or WhatsApp group before)
Good with social media (IG, FB, Telegram)
Good to have: marketing & design skills – an eye for design/color/detail

Key Responsibilities

Creating interesting content to engage community members through various channels
Collaborate with stakeholders such as content creators to establish partnerships and collaborative projects to benefit the community
Support the planning and execution of events aimed at fostering a sense of belonging and unity

How to apply?

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

#2: Aspial Corporation Limited – Marketing Intern

Website: aspial.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 – 1,500 monthly

Job Qualifications

Able to work independently and take initiative in assigned tasks
Problem solver and strong coordination skills
Takes an interest in the brand and business
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Works well in a team with a good attitude

Key Responsibilities

Assist in marketing and advertising promotional activities
Be involved in creating strategies and marketing collaterals for product marketing campaigns
Perform weekly market analysis and research on competition
Assist in updating customer database and customer relationship management systems (CRM)
Supporting the marketing team in daily administrative tasks, including filing, stock fulfillment, and customer queries
Manage e-commerce-related duties
Any other duties as assigned

How to apply?

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

#3: Holicay – Performance Marketing Intern

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Holicay (@holicaytravel)

Website: holicay.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 – 1,250 monthly

Job Qualifications

Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program in Marketing, Business Analytics, or a related field
Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analysis tools
Experience with Copy Writing and able to deploy retargeting strategies on Mailchimp/ Klaviyo
Familiarity with digital marketing platforms such as Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and others is a plus
A love for creative problem solving, autonomy to run projects, and a deep curiosity for understanding user behaviors

Key Responsibilities

Performance marketing

Assist in developing and executing performance marketing strategies to drive user acquisition and engagement
Analyze competitor data and industry trends to develop creative systems to drive core product metrics
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize landing pages, user experience, and conversion funnels
Develop content strategies to drive engagement with target audience globally using Google Analytics and Facebook

Brand Strategy

Work with the marketing team to create brand guidelines to be used in all marketing collaterals across all online and offline channels
Develop core content pillars and retargeting funnels to drive awareness, engagement, and product signups using User Analytics tools like Clarity and Hotjar

How to apply?

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

#4: Loki Pte Ltd – Digital & Social Media Intern

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by LOKi (@thisisloki__)

Website: thisisloki.com/my/home

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

3 months (minimum) to 6 months commitment of internship.
Skill(s): Copywriting, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn platform management, Digital Analytics
Required language(s): English
Qualities: Independent, willing to learn, relentless problem solver, quick learner, street-smart, creative, enthusiastic.
Preferably students specialized in Marketing, Advertising, Communications or equivalent courses.
Stand out among other candidates if you … are a TikTok pro, know how to do a summersault, or have other cool skills!

Key Responsibilities

Assist digital managers in achieving marketing targets for key clients.
Managing, creating, and publishing original, high-quality content on social platforms assigned to you.
Crafting social media copies, blog articles, and ad copies. Copywriting and social media come hand in hand.
Work closely with digital managers and creatives to produce out-of-the-box social media content and ad campaigns.
Respond to comments, private messages, and DMs on social media accounts assigned to you.
Report on campaign performance and sentiments.

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and apply via this link.

#5: Difference Engine – Editorial Intern

Website: rivervalleyirregulars.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

A good command of the English language and impeccable grammar.
A strong interest and understanding of the comics and graphic novel medium; both superhero and independent properties, print and digital (including webcomics and webtoons).
Diplomatic and tactful in dealing with creators, partners, and internal team members. Able to handle sensitive conversations with multiple parties within a collaborative environment. Mindful of cultural differences that might exist regionally and internationally.
Good problem-solving skills. Responsible and able to work independently (as the team is primarily working from home), take initiative, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
Positive outlook, with the ability to adapt to dynamic, fast-paced environments and situations, both on and offline.
Able to work outside of office hours and on weekends (with replacement time-off given).

Key Responsibilities

Assisting the editorial team to edit or proofread comic manuscripts and artwork for publication; making style, structural, and grammar corrections, as well as other necessary art direction as required.
Providing general administrative support for the editorial team including but not limited to processing submissions, consolidating feedback, arranging meetings, etc.
Assisting the editorial team in researching and identifying potential comic book creators and projects relevant to the company’s vision.
Assisting with any marketing copy needed as tasked by the editors.
Will also be required to staff book events and workshops when needed.

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and apply 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.

Sip into Local Flavors: Must-Try Alcohol Brands in Singapore

Singapore’s local brewing scene has flourished over the years, offering an impressive array of beverages ranging from whiskey to gin and beyond.

It is now home to a diverse collection of distilleries and breweries, making it an exciting destination for those seeking unique and flavorful libations. If you’re in the mood for a drink, why not explore and support these remarkable homegrown brands?

ALIVE BREWING CO

Imagine the fusion of a craft beer enthusiast with a background in financial analysis and a chemical engineer driven by art and design. The result? Alive Brewing Co, a brainchild of passionate hopheads Cheong Qing Yang and Ryan Yue.

Image Credits: alivebrewing.co

Founded in 2020 during the peak of the pandemic, they meticulously designed, engineered, and self-installed brewing equipment at their Tuas facility. Having crafted an impressive repertoire of 72 different beers, Alive Brewing Co is committed to providing craft beer lovers with high-quality alternatives to premium imported beers. Prices start at S$8.30.

Order here: alivebrewing.co

PINK BLOSSOMS BREWING

Pink Blossoms Brewing captures attention with its whimsical and intriguing collections. With offerings like the seasonal offering “Let It Be” and the intense drink “Don’t Stop Believing,” there’s something for every palate.

Lean on Me, a New England pale ale with citrus and stonefruit hop aromas, offers a refreshing alternative. The 6-Pack Beer selection starts at S$65.90.

Order here: pinkblossomsbrewing.com

THE ORIENTALIST SPIRITS

Founded by Michel Lu, The Orientalist Spirits embraces the allure of Asian botanicals, sourcing ingredients from Tibet, South Korea, and Taiwan. With expressions of gin like Gunpowder Gin and The Orientalist 23, alongside the intriguing Dragon Whiskey and Asian vodka expressions, it stands as one of the finest local alcohol brands in Singapore.

Image Credits: theorientalistspirits.com

Prices start at S$118, and tasting sessions are offered twice a day from Wednesday to Saturday.

Order here: theorientalistspirits.com

SINGAPORE DISTILLERY

Singapore Distillery made waves by introducing six craft gins crafted in Ang Mo Kio. Founder Ashwin Sekaran ingeniously utilizes fresh and exotic spices and fruits native to Singapore, resulting in creative variations of the iconic Singapore Sling.

Unique offerings include Stolen Roses Gin, an homage to the bandung drink, and Coconut Pandan Gin. Priced at S$69.90, these gins showcase the brand’s innovative take on the classic spirit.

Order here: singaporedistillery.com

BRASS LION DISTILLERY

Founder Jamie Koh embarked on a six-year odyssey across the globe to bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to the Brass Lion Distillery.

At the core of Brass Lion’s offerings is the Singapore Dry Gin (S$98), a testament to the distillery’s dedication to quality. The menu has since expanded to feature captivating variations like the Pearl Jasmine Gin (S$108) and Butterfly Pea Flower Gin (S$108), each a visual and flavorful delight, especially enjoyed during the nighttime ambiance.

Order here: brassliondistillery.com/collections/drink

NIANG BREWERY CO

Niang Brewery Co embarked on its journey with meticulous planning and design to extract the best flavors from each beer. Constantly innovating and experimenting with diverse flavors, their creations ensure a distinct drinking experience.

Image Credits: facebook.com/niangbreweryco

Notable is “Only Fun,” (S$45) an Asian rice lager with a bright floral and lemon aroma, sweetness from the rice, and a crisp bitterness. While, the 6-pack of Lucid Dreams – Fruited Stout is available for S$59.

Order here: niangbrewery.co

What are you waiting for? Savor the essence of Singapore’s rich and diverse brewing culture today! Drink responsibly.

Sources: 1 & 2