5 perfectly rated accommodations in Padang, Indonesia, to book a stay in H2 of 2025

Do you know that Padang is the capital of Indonesia’s West Sumatra province?

If you haven’t heard of Padang, it’s time for a trip there to see things yourself.

We like how it’s only 1 to 1.5 hours from Singapore by flight, so you save on traveling time and annual leave.

Makes a good, quick getaway if you’re on a budget but still want to get out of our sunny island to a fresh destination.

So to help you with your planning, we’ve got a quick list of perfectly rated accommodations for your consideration.

Take a look! ‍

Hotel Santika Premiere Padang

Agoda Rating: 8.9 (950+ reviews)

Opened in 2021, Hotel Santika Premiere Padang places you about 5.2 km from the sands of Air Manis Beach.

The hotel’s location, earning a 9.8/10 traveler rating, sits about 40 minutes from the airport, making arrivals and departures fairly quick.

Find a room style to suit your vibe, from deluxe quarters to ocean view suites worthy of a splurge.

Kids under 8 stay free when using existing bedding, so this means more rupiah for food and stuff

Truntum Padang Hotel

Agoda Rating: 8.8 (3.6K+ reviews)

Your West Sumatra adventure at this 4-star hotel puts you just 45 minutes from the airport but a mere 5-minute ride from Plaza Andalas mall, ideal for shopping or a bite.

Whether you opt for a deluxe room or stretch out in an executive suite, the choice is up to you.

Traveling with the kids?

Little ones 10 and under stay for free when bunking with adults, keeping more cash in your pocket for experiencing Padang.

Whiz Prime Hotel Khatib Sulaiman Padang

Agoda Rating: 8.8 (3.4K+ reviews)

Whiz Prime Hotel Khatib Sulaiman Padang is just 35 minutes from the airport.

This 3-star gem puts Padang Beach’s surf and seaside sunsets a quick 10-minute drive away.

Whether you’re in need of a roomy queen/king room or a twin, this hotel’s got the cozy crash pad covered.

Junior suites are available for booking too.

ibis Padang Hotel

Agoda Rating: 8.7 (2.1K+ reviews)

When your vacation calls for easy oceanside access, the ibis Padang Hotel hits the sweet spot.

This hotel sits just a less than 10-minute drive from Padang Beach and is also a 35-minute jaunt from the airport, so you can ditch that travel fatigue fast.

Choose from a range of guest rooms, from deluxe to business suites—some even flaunt mountain and ocean views.

For families, kids 11 and under snooze for free when sharing your room, stretching that travel budget farther.

Amaris Hotel Padang

Agoda Rating: 8.7 (1.4K+ reviews)

Last but not least, we have Amaris Hotel Padang, which has earned rave reviews, voted a top choice for Agoda travelers in 2024.

With standard, twin, and double rooms available, there’s plenty of space for everyone, and kids 8 and under stay free using existing bedding.

It’s also about a 45-minute drive from the airport (minus the traffic).

PUMA Singapore’s 7.7 Sale has up to 70% off selected items until 10 July 2025

PUMA Singapore’s 7.7 sale has started and is almost coming to an end!

Up to 70% off items for both men and women, so you certainly don’t want to miss this opportunity to save.

Promo runs till Thursday, 10 July 2025, so act fast!

Here are some listings we think are worth a look at.

Up to 70% off for men

Sport your sporty side with this graphic tee made using a 100% cotton blend with a regular fit that’s never too loose or too tight. The rubberized graphic print emblazoned across the back lets everyone know where your passion lies. Slip it on for instant athletic cred, whether you’re heading to the gym, catching the big game, or just leaning into your sporty aesthetic.

PUMA Shuffle Trainers

Promo Price: $41.58 (was $99)

Golf Backpack

Promo Price: $47.52 (was $99)

PUMA’s golf backpack is built to haul all your gear with ease. With room to stash everything, you will never have to carry an extra bag. The smart layout of pockets and compartments keeps your essentials organized too.

PUMA x PALM TREE CREW Tech Cap

Promo Price: $33.12 (was $69)

Leadcat 2.0 Sandals

Promo Price: $27 (was $45)

Slide into life’s adventures with the cushioned comfort and athleisure style of PUMA’s Leadcat 2.0 sandals. Boasting the PUMA logo, these lightweight slides are good for hitting the beach or running weekend errands. The compression-molded EVA material and molded CMEVA outsole keep your feet feeling comfortably supported yet primed for performance with grip and durability.

SHOP PUMA 7.7 SALE FOR MEN NOW!

Up to 70% off for women

Blake Women’s Golf Skirt

Promo Price: $29.70 (was $99)

It’s game time, so step up to the tee box battle-ready in PUMA’s Blake Women’s Golf Skirt. This featherweight piece features a PWRSHAPE waistband, stretching every which way to keep you completely unrestrained as you take your shot. What’s more, it’s crafted with at least 30% recycled materials, so you can tee off in eco-conscious style.

Caracal Trainers

Promo Price: $49.20 (was $109)

THE FAST RACE Hoodie Women

Promo Price: $81.12 (was $169)

This hoodie won’t just get you from point A to B—it will propel you there with velocity. Crafted from recycled cotton, THE FAST RACE hoodie has a relaxed yet figure-flattering fit that lets you claim the podium and make a statement.

CLASSICS Pleated Mini Skirt Women

Promo Price: $39 (was $79)

Sense Medium Crossbody Bag

Promo Price: $89.40 (was $149)

A hands-free companion for everyday adventures, combining design with practical function. The adjustable, removable shoulder strap features a repeating jacquard pattern, adding a touch of detail to the silhouette. Also available in black.

SHOP PUMA 7.7 SALE FOR WOMEN NOW!

What Can You Still Buy with S$1 in Singapore?

In a city where kopi often costs more than S$1 and hawker meals regularly climb past S$5, it is hard not to wonder…is there anything left that still costs just a dollar?

With the rising cost of living and food ingredients, is the humble S$1 still good for more than just candy? Can you still get an actual bite to eat for that price, or is it just a number from the past?

We searched around and found a few surprising ways that S$1 still stretches in Singapore.

#1: BREAD FOR UNDER S$1

Most bakeries now price soft buns and cake slices at S$2 or more. But Love Confectionery in Bukit Timah is keeping things simple.

This old school heartland bakery still offers custard buns, cream puffs, pandan cake slices, and sugar coated doughnuts for S$1 or even under. It is not just affordable. It is also packed with nostalgia.

Image Credits: facebook.com/loveconfectionerysg

#2: ICE CREAM FOR $0.50

Mixue sells its Signature King Cone for S$1.50. You get soft serve in a big crispy cone and according to one Redditor, it is a much better deal that the McD’s. Someone wrote, “Better than McDonald’s by far in my opinion. You get more for what you pay.”

Image Credits: unsplash.com

For a budget option, you can always grab the soy ice cream at IKEA for just 50 cents. Still one of the cheapest cool treats in town.

#3: IKEA’S S$1 HOTDOG

IKEA’s hot dog is something of a local icon. Despite inflation, it still sells for just S$1. You can choose the classic meat version or a plant based option made with kale, lentils, and quinoa. The veggie dog is available at IKEA Tampines and IKEA Jurong.

One Redditor shared, “This was how I used to bribe my son to behave in IKEA. He knew he would get a hot dog at the end.”

#4: DOLLAR DEALS AT 7-11

From now until 15 July 2025, 7-Eleven Singapore is running its rotating S$1 deals and there is a huge list of drinks and snacks on offer.

Items include Milo Gao, Pokka Lychee Tea, Fuze Jasmine Tea, Eurocake mini rolls, Want Want crackers, Nestlé Milo energy bars, and more. All at just a dollar. Do note that these are available only at selected stores and while stocks last.

#5: INSTANT NOODLES FOR JUST OVER S$1

They are no longer exactly one dollar, but Maggi Hot Cup Curry is only S$1.21 and Indomie Mi Goreng Cup goes for S$1.22 at FairPrice.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

If you are in need of a quick and comforting bite, these cup noodles deliver that warm familiar taste.

IN A NUTSHELL

You might not get a full meal for one dollar anymore, but if you look around, you can still find sweet deals for that price or just a little more. Ice cream, drinks, and hot dogs can still be within reach if you know where to go.

Got more S$1 finds? Let us know before they vanish too!

6 catering companies with buffet prices from $9.50/pax for your events & gatherings

Got an event or gathering coming up, and you’re tasked to find catering companies that offer buffet options within a tight budget?

Consider this list of catering companies with buffet prices from $9.50/pax

Neo Garden | Mini High Tea A

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Price: $9.50/pax

Cue the tea trolley with Neo Garden’s Mini High Tea A.

This experience delivers 6 courses of sweet and savory bites.

Roam the menu as you sip homemade herbal teas and nibble everything from Thai mango salad and dim sum to mini danishes and chicken drumlets.

With so many options, it’s only $9.50 per person for parties of 25 (minimum) or more.

Chilli Manis | Mini Tea Break Set A

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Price: $9.50/pax

This mini tea break set serves up an assortment of halal-certified treats that will have taste buds doing a happy dance.

From buttery pastries and savory bites like sotong balls to fresh salads and bite-sized dim sums like soon kueh, there’s something to thrill every palate.

And at just $9.50 per pax for a minimum of 25 people, it should be way within your budget.

Elsie’s Kitchen | Nostalgic Taste

Price: $13.90/pax

Elsie’s Kitchen delivers the flavors of various cuisines with this generous 6+1-course.

Choose from nasi goreng kampung + ikan bilis, seafood white beehoon, nonya chap chye, and more.

There are also braised black pepper chicken, kunyit-ginger fried chicken drumlets, and crispy cereal fish.

Dessert options include pulut hitam tarts, pandan buttercream choux, etc.

It’s a platter for groups of 50 pax (minimum) or more at $13.90 per person.

Deli Hub Catering | Super Value A

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Price: $13.99/pax

With not one, not two, but seven dish categories on deck, there’s something to satiate every palate.

From wok-tossed Hong Kong mee and sambal fried rice to crispy chicken wings and tangy lemonfish, Deli Hub Catering has it all.

And at just $13.99 per person for 100 (minimum) or more, it’s a value crowd-pleaser.

Saybons | International Breakfast Buffet

Price: $17.90/pax

This 8-course international breakfast buffet will fuel up right as you and your guests load up on flaky croissants and multigrain loaves from the bread bar.

Savor slices of chicken ham alongside juicy basil tomatoes and smoked salmon with mesclun salad.

A cheese lover’s paradise awaits with slabs of cheddar and grapes on the side.

Breakfast staples get an upgrade in the form of house-baked beans, scrambled eggs, and hard-boiled options.

Even the mini brownie platter can’t resist joining this spread.

At $17.90 per person for gatherings of 35 or more, no one’s leaving the room hungry.

Yea! Mama Experiential Catering | Premium Buffet Catering Menu

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A post shared by Yea! Mama Experiential Catering (@yeamama.sg)

Price: $18.90/pax

Yea! Mama’s premium buffet catering brings the flavors to your next event with an 8-dish spread.

At $18.90 per person, you will enjoy the juiciest chicken dishes with flavor-packed sauces, fish filets with fruity creams, veggie varieties, and crispy sides, plus hearty pastas or noodle stir-fries.

Complement your savory spread with refreshing fruit-infused desserts and beverages 🫗

Editor’s note: Accompanying Instagram posts for graphic purposes only.

T&Cs and GST may apply.

2025 GSTV Payout Guide: What You Get & When

The GST Voucher (GSTV) Scheme for 2025 continues to provide vital financial support to help Singaporeans handle everyday costs arising from rising prices. It’s part of the larger Assurance Package, alongside Community Development Council (CDC) vouchers. The scheme comprises four key components designed to benefit different needs: GSTV Cash, U‑Save utility rebates, MediSave top‑ups, and Service & Conservancy Charges (S&CC) rebates.

Let us start with GSTV Cash. It is available to Singapore citizens aged 21 and above with an assessable income of S$39,000 or less and who own at most one property with an annual value (AV) of S$31,000 or less. Applicants in homes with AV up to S$21,000 receive S$850, while those with AV between S$21,001 and S$31,000 receive S$450.

Next, MediSave top‑ups are offered to Singaporeans aged 65 and above, subject to the same AV and property criteria . Recipients aged 65–74 receive S$250 (AV ≤ S$21,000) or S$150 (AV up to S$31,000); those aged 75–84 receive S$350 or S$250; and those 85+ are awarded S$450 or S$350.

Thirdly, U‑Save rebates are provided quarterly to eligible HDB households that have at least one Singapore citizen and must not own more than one property. These rebates are automatically credited to SP utilities accounts in January, April, July, and October 2025. The quarterly amounts are S$95 for 1‑ and 2‑room flats, S$85 for 3‑room, S$75 for 4‑room, S$65 for 5‑room, and S$55 for executive or multi‑generation flats.

Lastly, S&CC rebates offset town council charges and are similarly credited quarterly. Depending on flat type, households receive between 1.5 and 3.5 months’ worth over the year, including a bonus half-month rebate in January 2025.

PAYOUT PROCESS

To receive GSTV Cash, register for PayNow‑NRIC by 27 July 2025 or update your bank details by 28 July. Payouts begin on 6 August via PayNow‑NRIC, 15 August via direct bank credit, and 22 August via GovCash for those without bank accounts. MediSave top‑ups are credited from 11 August 2025 for those already signed up or who sign up by 13 July 2025. Later registrants (14 July 2025 to 20 June 2026) will receive their top-up within two months of signing up. On the other hand, no action is needed for U‑Save or S&CC rebates as they’re automatically applied.

You can check eligibility, update payment details, or review payout statuses through Singpass or at govbenefits.gov.sg.

Image Credits: govbenefits.gov.sg

IN SUMMARY

The following is a quick summary of the key details above to help you better understand the 2025 GST Voucher benefits. Do check govbenefits.gov.sg regularly for the latest updates, as details may change.

GSTV Cash

S$850 for AV ≤ S$21,000
S$450 for AV between S$21,001–31,000
Income limit: S$39,000 or less (YA 2024)

MediSave Top‑ups (age 65+)

S$250 (AV ≤ S$21,000) or S$150 (AV S$21,001–31,000) for ages 65-74
S$350 / S$250 for ages 75–84
S$450 / S$350 for ages age 85+

U‑Save Rebates (quarterly)

S$95 (1–2 room)
S$85 (3‑room)
S$75 (4‑room)
S$65 (5‑room)
S$55 (executive/multi‑gen)

S&CC Rebates (quarterly)

1.5 to 3.5 months’ worth based on flat type (+0.5 month in January 2025)

Payment Dates

GSTV Cash via PayNow‑NRIC: From 6 August 2025
Bank crediting: From 15 August 2025
GovCash: From 22 August 2025
MediSave: From 11 August 2025

Actions Required

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Link PayNow‑NRIC by 27 July 2025
Update bank details by 28 July 2025 (if needed)
Register for MediSave by 13 July 2025; later registrations processed in ~2 months
Sources: 1 & 2