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7 nice-smelling candles $30 & under to get you in the mood at home

Setting the mood at home goes beyond visual aesthetics; the right scent can transform and create an inviting space.

And if you agree, here’s a curated list of nice-smelling candles that are perfect for infusing your home with delightful fragrances.

Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day, enjoy a romantic evening, or simply enhance your living space, these candles will help you achieve the perfect ambiance, creating an experience your senses will appreciate.

Over The Rainbow

Price: from $15.90

Take a trip over the rainbow with this tropical fruit blend.

The vibrant top notes of guava, honeydew, lemon, and strawberry will awaken your senses with their sweet and tart aromas. As the fragrance blossoms, juicy middle notes of mango, peach, pear, and watermelon emerge, conjuring carefree summer days. Just when you think the fun is done, the fragrance reveals its whimsical base notes—a bouquet of jasmine, tonka bean, vanilla, and white tea—transporting you to a fantasy world of enchantment.

This blend of succulent fruits and fanciful florals will whisk you away on a multi-sensory adventure, leaving mundane moments on a sweet note.

Sunshine – Frangipani & Ginger – Mini Soy Candle

Price: $18

Inspired by the sweet scent of frangipani blossoms and ginger flowers, this mini soy candle fills your space with a fragrance that’s pure summer bliss.

The all-natural soy and coconut wax provide an ultra-clean 25-hour burn, while the hand-poured artisanal construction ensures an even, complete melt.

One whiff of this candle’s lush, sultry aroma conjures images of swaying palm trees, sun-kissed skin, and vibrant sunsets that linger at the water’s edge. Exotic yet familiar, feminine yet bold, this candle captivates the senses.

When you can’t get away, get into the island spirit with this little luxury that brings the sunshine in. Paradise found—no passport required.

Lemongrass Rosemary Essential Oil Candle

Price: $20

This candle brings the invigorating scents of lemongrass and rosemary right to your living room. The classic lemongrass scent gets a refreshing twist from the rosemary addition, and herbaceous aroma, toning down the lemongrass’ sharpness for an uplifting yet balanced blend.

Handcrafted on our sunny island using natural soy wax and cotton wicks, this candle fills your space with positive energy. While lemongrass is known for repelling insects and neutralizing odors, rosemary provides an extra boost of purification.

Light this candle when you need to clear your mind, focus your thoughts, or simply brighten your mood. Let the soothing glow and citrusy scent of this lemongrass rosemary candle transport you to a place of calm and clarity.

Lychee & Calamansi Soy Candle

Price: from $22

This refreshing soy candle has a calamansi and lychee fragrance that evokes sun-drenched shores and exotic escapes, bringing the outdoors in with each flicker of the flame.

At first whiff, zesty calamansi citrus mingles with the floral sweetness of lychee, conjuring memories of tropical vacations and faraway places. A perfectly balanced blend of fruit and zest, this candle scent is ideal for those who enjoy a touch of the exotic without being overpowered.

When adventure calls but responsibilities keep you home, this candle offers a quick getaway for your senses and a chance to recharge. One inhale transports you to white sands and turquoise waters. I kid you not.

Urban Rainforest Petit Mercury Glass Candle

Price: from $29.90

A lush tropical oasis awaits with this artisanal soy candle. Its juicy blend of kaffir lime, mango, and leafy greens conjures visions of a rainforest retreat, while creamy coconut notes whisk you away to a luxurious island getaway.

Handcrafted using 100% non-GMO soy wax and premium fragrance oils, this petite candle comes packaged in an elegant gold-plated glass votive that lends a touch of glamor. Whether lighting your living room or illuminating your yoga practice, this vibrant scent helps shift your mindset to a sun-drenched state of calm.

Take a sniff of this candle’s aroma and you will swear you’re lounging beachside with a fruity cocktail in hand and not a care in the world. Who says you can’t experience the tropics from the comfort of your own home?

Strawberry Pound Cake

Price: $30

This wax blend is fragranced to capture the essence of handmade strawberry pound cake fresh from the oven, swirled with notes of buttery cake, ripe red strawberries, and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Quality lead-free wicks ensure an even, consistent burn, releasing the mouthwatering aroma that fills your home. The decorative lid preserves the fragrance when not in use, but once lit, the scent of strawberry pound cake baking in the oven will waft through your home.

So close your eyes, breathe deep, and enjoy a slice of homemade heaven.

Fresh-Cut Basil Soy Candle

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Price: from $30

Made from eco-friendly US soy wax and infused with essential basil oil, its fresh aroma evokes visions of vibrant green leaves, al fresco lunches, and lazy summer afternoons. Known for its uplifting, renewing properties, basil has been used for centuries to boost the vitality of both body and mind.

This 100% natural candle is handcrafted in small batches using only the finest ingredients to provide an authentic sensory experience. The start of your la dolce vita is only a strike of a match away.

Achieving the perfect ambiance at home doesn’t have to break the bank. With this selection of nice-smelling candles for $30 and under, you can indulge your senses and create a warm, inviting atmosphere without overspending. Explore these delightful fragrances and elevate your home’s ambiance, making every moment at home an enjoyable experience.

Embody the Ninja Spirit with Naruto 20th Anniversary Exhibition ’til July 2

Calling all Naruto fans! If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the world of shinobi and experiencing the thrill of being a ninja, then you’re in luck. The Naruto 20th Anniversary Exhibition is here, and it’s ready to transport you to the Hidden Leaf Village and beyond. From May 29 to July 2, Marina Square Singapore will be transformed into a haven for Naruto enthusiasts, offering a range of immersive experiences and exciting displays that will ignite your love for this beloved manga and anime series.

At the heart of Naruto is the journey of Naruto Uzumaki, a young and determined ninja who overcomes countless challenges to become a true hero. Now, you have the chance to embark on your own ninja journey through this extraordinary exhibition. Step into the shoes of Naruto and unleash your inner shinobi as you explore five immersive encounters designed to transport you into the world of Jutsu. Through the clever use of light and sound effects, you’ll feel the rush of battle and the adrenaline of mastering powerful techniques.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

But the excitement doesn’t stop there. The Exhibition brings to life eight classic scenes from the 720 episodes of the anime series, allowing you to relive iconic moments that have captivated fans for years. Take a stroll through the 3D sets and find yourself standing in The Final Valley, witnessing the epic clash between Naruto and Sasuke. Grab your friends and strike a pose as you capture these unforgettable memories, forever etching them in your mind and heart.

For those seeking a nostalgic trip down memory lane, the exhibition features three galleries that will transport you back to the early days of Naruto. Adorned with snippets of memorable scenes from the anime and accompanied by character quotes, the walls of these galleries will evoke a sense of nostalgia and bring back cherished memories. As you explore, you’ll also come across displays showcasing beloved ninja tools like kunai knives and smoke bombs, delighting your inner geek and reminding you of the incredible attention to detail that has made Naruto so beloved.

True fans will find themselves enthralled by the section dedicated to original concept artwork and sketches dating back to the 2000s. Marvel at the creative process behind the series and gain a deeper appreciation for the immense effort that goes into bringing Naruto’s world to life. While you won’t be able to take photos of these precious pieces, they are sure to leave an indelible mark on your appreciation for the artistry behind the series.

Of course, no visit to the Naruto 20th Anniversary Exhibition would be complete without a trip to the pop-up store. Here, you’ll discover a treasure trove of limited-edition merchandise that is sure to make any Naruto fan’s heart race with excitement. From exclusive t-shirts to stationery and home goods, these items can only be found at the exhibition, making them truly special souvenirs. Be sure to snag yourself one of the exclusive souvenir shirts before they vanish, as they are sure to become prized possessions for any Naruto enthusiasts.

Tickets for the exhibition are already available for purchase, with weekday prices set at $22 per person and weekend prices at $25. For an additional $25, you can take part in a thrilling VR experience that allows you to interact with characters from the Naruto universe.

If you are up to the challenge, participating in this immersive adventure will earn you a small token, but for those who possess the skills to conquer all the objectives and defeat the boss, an even grander prize awaits. Just remember, this virtual battle is no walk in the park—it’s tougher than the Chuunin exams, so be prepared to unleash your inner ninja.

So, gather your fellow Naruto enthusiasts and head over to the Naruto 20th Anniversary Exhibition in Singapore. Unleash your inner ninja and celebrate two decades of this incredible journey filled with action, friendship, and the indomitable spirit of Naruto Uzumaki. Dattebayo!

Sources: 1 & 2

How to reduce air-conditioning bills in Singapore?

As the tropical heat of Singapore continues to challenge our daily comfort, air-conditioning has become more of a necessity than a luxury.

However, the soaring energy bills that accompany constant usage can be a rude awakening. And that’s why I’m here to help you strike a balance between staying cool and keeping costs down. Or at least try to offer my two cents.

Let’s discuss some practical tips and smart habits that can significantly reduce air-conditioning bills, ensuring you enjoy a cool and comfortable living space without breaking the bank.

Maintain your air-conditioner

First up on our simple hacks list is the need to maintain your air-con properly and regularly.

Even if it’s a tedious process, it’s one that you should not siam.

Clean and replace filters where necessary (depending on usage), and service the unit via a professional to make sure it’s running smoothly.

This will ensure that you use less energy and cool down your room/home faster.

Opt for energy-efficient models

If you don’t know what I’m talking about, just remember—the more ticks, the better it is.

You should be able to find better energy-efficiency products with ease thanks to the tick rating system we have in Singapore.

In other words, if an appliance uses less energy to produce the same results as an appliance that uses more, it is said to be more energy efficient.

And that will have a direct impact on how much you pay for electricity at the end of the month.

It’s almost a no-brainer, right?

So don’t just be a cheapo and go for the lowest-priced one, be a smart shopper for longer-term gains.

Set the right temperature

Image Credits: luceaircon.sg

There’s no need to make your room feel like it’s winter in Antarctica, yeah.

The sweet spot should be around 24 to 25°C. Any lower than that and your bill will skyrocket like… a rocket. Every degree lower can add up to 10% more energy consumption.

Use a fan

If you really cannot tahan the heat without lowering the temperature, try using a fan to supplement. Or even better, use a ceiling fan.

Turning on the fan and the air-con together can help you set the aircon temperature higher. The fan will help to circulate the cool air and make you feel much better.

You don’t need to worry too much about the electricity bill because a fan uses waaay much less energy than the aircon. So, you can enjoy the cool air and save money at the same time.

How awesome is that?

Use a timer

Next, set the timer to turn off after a few hours, especially at night when you’re in deep slumber.

Some people like to leave the aircon on an entire day, and then wear a jacket or wrap themselves in a thick blanket because it’s too cold.

Why?!

You’re just saboing yourself financially.

Insulate your home

Image Credits: softhome.sg

You don’t need to hire someone to do it.

Just invest in some curtains, blinds, or window films. Block out the sun during the day, keep your home cooler, and reduce the need for air-conditioning at night.

And speaking of which, remember to also close your windows and doors. If your air-conditioner is turned on with an open window, you can’t blame anyone for those high bills.

Dress for the weather

People can die for fashion but I won’t sacrifice it for comfort.

I’m saying this because I used to have a friend who layers like he was going to the North Pole or what. He calls it the “layering fashion” and thinks it’s cool. Oh, well.

Anyhow, don’t be like him.

Choose lightweight items of clothing, like cotton or linen. They can help you stay cool and thus reduce the need to rely too much on your air-conditioning when you reach home from a warm day out.

Minimize heat-producing activities

When you cook or use appliances like an iron or a hair dryer, it makes your surrounding area hotter than your spouse’s temper.

The air-con works harder to cool down your house, so your bill goes up.

If feasible, turn on the air-conditioner after you’re done with all those appliances. It may sound like a “sis, you serious?!” moment but, hey, every little bit counts.

Install energy-efficient lighting

Those old-school bulbs are damn hot and can make your room feel even hotter than the weather outside.

But if you use LED bulbs, they generate less heat, and less power is needed also. Good, right?

Plus, LED bulbs can last longer, so you don’t need to keep changing them all the time.

Soaring air-con bills in Singapore really can make you want to pengsan. But don’t worry, follow the tips I’ve listed in this post to help you get by like a pro. To recap some points we’ve looked at: clean your aircon regularly. If there’s dust and dirt, the air-con must work harder to cool the room. Next, use a fan together with the air-conditioning. Not only will you be saving energy, but you will also instantly make the room feel cooler with the constant air circulation. Then, set the temperature to 25 degrees—no need to make the room feel like it’s winter. So there we have it, simple hacks for long-term gain 😉

Latest WFH internships posted from 5 to 9 June 2023

Are you still searching for a remote internship?

We’ve got your back with the latest opportunities from 5 to 9 June 2023.

#1: Worq Health – Operations Associate (Intern)

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Website: worqhealth.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,200 monthly

Job Qualifications

Currently pursuing a Diploma or Bachelor’s degree
Excellent communication skills, interpersonal skills, and analytical/problem-solving skills
Meticulous and attention to details
Comfort working within a fast-paced start-up environment
Self-starter and highly resourceful

Key Responsibilities

Support supply operations in the onboarding, engagement, and assignment of healthcare professionals
Respond to, organize, and/or assign tickets, emails, and texts from healthcare professionals and facility customers
Understand user needs, requirements, and market trends to identify growth opportunities
Scale the number of filled shifts for healthcare facilities on our platform
Provide feedback to drive product improvements and ensure our users are provided with the best user experience on our platform

How to apply?

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

#2: Holicay – Software Development Intern

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Website: holicay.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,500 monthly

Job Qualifications

Proficiency in Javascript
Frontend frameworks like React
Nest.JS microservice maintenance and scaling
Java, Kotlin is a plus
Knowledge of Kafka message queues, and system architecture is a plus

Key Responsibilities

Frontend

Develop, implement, test, and maintain web applications of travel products, with a focus on building a data-driven funding platform with great user experience
Deliver and maintain high-quality interface implementation
Work closely with UIUX designers to implement and improve stack for long-term product roadmaps built on React

Backend

Develop a secure and scalable backend system that gathers and processes a high volume of data by third-party API integrations
Build and maintain APIs linked by microservices which are hosted on databases and integrate them with other third-party APIs

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

#3: Clover Bridal House Pte Ltd – Marketing Intern

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Website: thecloverphoto.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,200 monthly

Job Qualifications

–

Key Responsibilities

Brand management

Work with other departments to decide what the brand image of the company should be and how best to communicate that identity to the public. Create marketing campaigns that are in line with the brand and help other departments to make decisions with brand identity in mind.

Analyze marketing trends

Perform market research to determine what customers are most interested in and what their interests are likely to be in the future. Collect data, perform analysis, and create reports regarding what those market trends might mean and how best to use them to the company’s advantage.

Create promotional strategy and content

Plan and implement a wide variety of different promotional projects. These may include emails, videos, graphics, social media posts, posters, billboards, pamphlets, fliers, commercials, and in-person events.

Monitor competition

Keep track of competitors and work to differentiate the Clover Brand.

Expand organization reach

Review and execute plans for greater market presence and reach through various channel platforms such as SEO, Tik Tok, Facebook, and Instagram.

How to apply?

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

#4: O2genes – Social Media And Marketing Intern

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Website: o2genes.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $850 – 1,050 monthly

Job Qualifications

Proficient in basic photography and video editing
Proficient in Canva/Photoshop/Illustrator [plus point]
Creative and have an eye for aesthetics
A knack for handling the media, and influencers and creating media pitch decks
Enjoys press events and engaging with the media

Key Responsibilities

Social Media Content Management: Research and curate aesthetic and relevant content on our socials including Instagram, Tik Tok and Xiao Hong Shu
Content Curation: Content curation in the form of photos, videos, and gifs
Public Relations Media Management: Reach out to the media and influencers to pitch our brands to secure coverage
Any other ad-hoc tasks

How to apply?

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

#5: Mapletree Media Pte Ltd – TikTok Content Creator Intern

Website: mapletreemedia.com

Allowance / Remuneration: from $700 monthly

Job Qualifications

A genuine passion for TikTok and an active user of the platform. Familiarity with popular TikTok trends, challenges, and viral content.
Demonstrated creative thinking and the ability to contribute fresh ideas. Willingness to explore different content formats and experiment with creative approaches.
Good verbal and written communication skills. Ability to effectively convey ideas and collaborate with team members.
Basic knowledge of video filming and editing techniques. Experience with video editing software is a plus.
Strong organizational and time management skills. Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to a fast-paced work environment.
A proactive and positive mindset, with a willingness to learn, take on new challenges and contribute to a collaborative team environment.
An interest in digital marketing and social media trends. Familiarity with other social media platforms is beneficial.

Key Responsibilities

Assist in the development and production of TikTok videos that align with the brand’s voice, style, and objectives. This includes brainstorming ideas, assisting with scripting, filming, editing, and post-production.
Stay up-to-date with the latest TikTok trends, challenges, and viral content. Contribute ideas on leveraging these trends to create engaging and relevant content.
Collaborate with the team to brainstorm and contribute innovative ideas for TikTok content. Provide input on enhancing TikTok presence and driving audience engagement.
Support the creation of compelling narratives and storylines that effectively communicate the brand’s message and values. Learn and utilize creative techniques to capture and maintain viewer attention.
Monitor and engage with TikTok users by responding to comments, and messages, and participating in relevant discussions. Foster a sense of community and help build strong relationships with followers.
Assist in monitoring the performance of TikTok content, analyzing key metrics, and identifying areas for improvement. Learn to use data-driven insights to optimize future content and increase reach and engagement.
Collaborate with various teams, including videographers, editors, designers, and marketing professionals, to ensure a cohesive and integrated approach to content production.

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and apply directly.

Note: We’ve selected these internships based on the “remote” tag, but some positions may still require some face-to-face time. Please contact the employer directly for more deets.

5 Best Hawker Centres in Singapore

Singapore boasts one of the most diverse food scenes on Earth, serving as a melting pot of various cultures. It is a place where you can indulge in a rich tapestry of culinary delights, encompassing Chinese, Malay, Indian, Peranakan, French, Japanese, Korean, and Italian cuisines. You can immerse yourself in these culinary experiences by visiting the nearest hawker centre.

The Lion City is renowned for its hawker centres, where you can still relish a delectable meal at a reasonable price. The available options are simply astounding.

On that note, here are some of the finest hawker centres in Singapore that you must try!

WHAT IS A HAWKER CENTRE?

The concept of hawker centres has spread rapidly since its inception in the 1970s. These centres were established to provide a new home for street food vendors, and over time, many of them have become cherished institutions. Their stalls showcase the finest of local cuisine, featuring iconic dishes such as chicken rice, bak chor mee, roti prata, nasi lemak, laksa, and much more. Today, a new generation of hawkers has emerged, offering an enticing variety of international flavors, from comforting bowls of ramen to delightful plates of pasta.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Hawker centres are open-air structures that house a range of food stalls offering local dishes and specialties from around the world. These centres are conveniently situated near large housing complexes, allowing you to effortlessly socialize with your neighbors at the communal tables.

#1: CHINATOWN COMPLEX FOOD CENTRE

As a result of being the world’s first hawker stall to gain a Michelin star, Chinatown Complex Food Centre has numerous Bib Gourmand and Plate winners. It stands as one of the largest hawker centres in Singapore, boasting over 260 stalls.

If you’re a fan of desserts, you should definitely try the 115 Tang Shui stall. This stall has been offering sweet soups since the 1960s, made from smooth nut pastes such as sesame, almond, and walnut. With a focus on preserving heritage, this stall offers a delightful selection of sweets.

#2: HONG LIM FOOD CENTRE

Situated conveniently next to Chinatown Point, Hong Lim Market and Food Centre has become more accessible with the implementation of the Downtown Line. It is advisable to have breakfast or brunch here to avoid the bustling office crowd. You can indulge in delicious minced pork noodles at Tai Wah Pork Noodle, savory char kway teow at Outram Park Fried Kway Teow Mee, and delectable peanut pancakes at Granny’s Pancake. To minimize waiting time, it is recommended to arrive before 8 in the morning.

#3: NEWTON FOOD CENTRE

Further popularized by the film “Crazy Rich Asians” and Gordon Ramsay’s SingTel Hawker Heroes Challenge in 2013, the Newton Food Centre is home to numerous culinary treasures, ranging from chilli crab to carrot cake. This establishment is frequently mentioned by adventurous tourists seeking to indulge in authentic Singaporean cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the seafood offerings and local specialties at the following stalls:

– Soon Wah Fishball Kway Teow Mee
– Hajah Monah Kitchen
– XO Minced Meat Noodles
– Bee Heng Popiah
– 88 San Ren Cold and Hot Dessert
– Newton Authentic Song Kee Teochew Fish Porridge
– Guan Kee Grilled Seafood
– Hup Kee Oyster Omelette
– TKR Honey Chicken Wing (大家乐烧烤鸡翼)

#4: TEKKA CENTRE

If you have cravings for Indian cuisine, there’s no hawker centre in Singapore that can quite compare to the delightful charm of Tekka Centre. From mouthwatering tandoor-cooked dishes and appam to fragrant nasi biryani and tempting Indian rojak, this place has it all.

Situated in the vibrant Little India neighborhood, Tekka Centre stands as a true dining landmark. It offers generous portions of freshly prepared food to both visitors and locals, conveniently located just a stone’s throw away from the Little India MRT station. Housed within a colorful warehouse, it has quickly become a go-to spot for those seeking delicious fare at fair prices.

#5: ALBERT CENTRE FOOD CENTRE

Just a short stroll away from Bugis Junction and Bugis+, you’ll find Albert Centre Market and Food Centre, a bustling hub where you can find everything from fresh produce to dried goods, along with a delectable selection of local cuisine. Start your hawker haunt by trying out the following:

– Say Seng Cooked Food
– Angel Horse Teochew Fish Soup
– Si Ma Lu Goreng Pisang
– Pondok Makan Indonesia
– Zheng Xing Mei Shi
– Fatt Kee Shou Shi
– Hock Lee Fish ball Noodles
– Bai Nian Niang Dou Fu

Image Credits: unsplash.com

While Bugis embraces modern trends, Albert Centre remains wonderfully old-school, serving up honest dishes like Cantonese porridge, fish ball noodles, and hearty pig organ soup. You can rely on this hawker centre to offer affordable and satisfying meals that will leave your appetite thoroughly appeased.

Sources:1,2,& 3