6 Storage Solutions For Small Spaces

As we celebrate the 2020 Singles’ Day (11.11) in Singapore, more and more retailers have converted their promotions into the e-commerce platform. According to The Straits Times report, this year’s 11.11 sales will most likely shatter the 2019’s 11.11 sales record.

Physical stores in Singapore, such as Isetan and Marks & Spencer, have started selling their products online through Lazada. Metro, will also be joining Lazada’s 11.11 promotions this year. I know it is tempting to purchase items today due to the good deals. However, being mindful is more important that giving in to your impulse purchases.

If purchasing storage items are necessary for your home, you may consider these storage ideas and other inexpensive alternatives to decorate your small space.

#1: MAXIMIZE THE SPACE BEHIND THE DOOR

For flats with tiny laundry areas, you may take advantage of the storage space behind the door. Use stick-on hooks or over-the-door racks to keep your laundry supplies and accessories. You may also mount a hook rack, if you are looking for a long-term solution.

#2: USE PEGBOARDS FOR MULTIPLE PURPOSES

From cubby holder to tool organizer, pegboards have multiple uses in one’s home. Simply mount a pegboard above your desk and use hooks or zip ties to attach your art materials and other items.

Image Credits: familyhandyman.com

Most pegboards come in two colors – white and brown. Dress it up by rolling a coat of paint with a gloss or semi-gloss finish. Remember to apply light coats to avoid clogging up the holes. You can get a 36×56 cm pegboard for S$15 at IKEA Singapore.

#3: PURCHASE AN OTTOMAN STORAGE

Investing your money on an ottoman storage can help you store unnecessary items scattered around your living area. You may either purchase a new one or revamp an old one. Aside from adding a functional furniture and a dash of glamour to your space, an ottoman storage will keep the clutter out of sight.

Lazada Singapore offers ottoman storages such as this fabric option, which retails for S$13.86.

#4: ADD A MAGIC MIRROR

Adding a mirror to your space gives an illusion of a bigger and a brighter room. If you have a blank wall space on your flat, take advantage of it with a full-length mirror. Max out the space on a small entryway by adding the mirror without the need to add a bench.

You can get a long mirror an IKEA for as low as S$7.90.

#5: CONSIDER A FLOATING WORKSPACE

Instead of filling up a cramped space with bulky tables and dressers, you may opt for floating shelves and cabinets. They can store your needs without occupying an overwhelming amount of space.

IKEA Singapore sells the  EKBY ALEX for S$89. For corners and short walls that can be hard to utilize, you may use wall-hung shelves and cabinets like EKBY ALEX. Pull up a chair underneath and you are ready to go!

#6: KEEP YOUR SHOES IN ONE PLACE

The abundance of the shoes your family owns may cause a major headache when you have a small space. Do not fret! Use your creativity to tuck away your shoes in a tidy manner. You can either purchase a dresser with pull-out drawer or a shoe hanger. These will provide extra surface area for other necessary furniture in your home.

You can grab a 24-pocket hanger for your shoes in Lazada Singapore for only S$15.20. Look for other options to reap the best value for your money.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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7 things you need to know about the Singapore – Hong Kong air travel bubble starting on Nov 22

A-couple-walk-on-Avenue-of-Stars-with-the-Hong-Kong-island-skyline-on-the-background

Apart from it being a hectic 11.11 promotions-filled day, out comes a piece of excellent news for people who are dying to travel. After the announcement of the in-principle agreement to establish a bilateral air travel bubble mid-October, it’s finally coming to play.

Here are 7 things you need to know about the Singapore and Hong Kong air travel bubble starting on Nov 22 (Sunday).

#1: One flight per day for a start

There will only be a flight a day going into Singapore and Hong Kong. Also, expect a limit of up to only 200 passengers each way. A little too scarce? Fret not. The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) said that from Dec 7, there would be an increase to two flights a day.

#2: Dedicated flights compulsory
Singapore Airlines

Image Credits: Business Traveller

As it’s probably a given, travellers keen to fly via the air travel bubble will have to hop on dedicated flights. But thankfully, there will be no restrictions on your travel purpose or itinerary. With that said, there isn’t the need to serve any quarantine or stay-home notice.

#3: COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests required

As the world battles the pandemic, the situation might quickly escalate. So even without a controlled itinerary, COVID-19 PCR tests are required. You must test negative within 72 hours before your scheduled departure time.

#4: Take your PCR test at least seven days before departure

Suppose you’re departing from Singapore, you will need a confirmed flight ticket to Hong Kong before applying for approval to take the PCR test. And yes, you have to do it at least seven days before your scheduled departure date.

If you think it’s a hassle to seek approval, then you might want to arrange to travel from Dec 1. By then, you won’t need to apply for approval to take the test. According to the Ministry of Health (MOH) on Tuesday (Nov 10), individuals will be able to get tested at approved clinics and providers.

#5: Cooperate to take another COVID-19 test at Hong Kong
Hong Kong International Airport

Image Credits: Time Magazine

Upon reaching Hong Kong International Airport, you will take another COVID-19 test. Until you’ve received your negative test results, your movement will be restricted to only within the airport grounds.

#6: Upon testing positive for COVID-19

Should the unfortunate situation happens, COVID-19 positive travellers will have to bear the full cost of any medical treatment. Of course, this is subjected to prevailing medical and healthcare policies in the respective countries.

#7: Possible suspension of the air travel bubble

While arrangements are in place, there are still chances of a suspension of the air travel bubble. Specifically, if the weekly average number of unlinked COVID-19 cases is more than five in either country. When that happens, the air travel bubble will be deferred for two weeks.

Transport Minister Ong Ye Kung said, “The Singapore-Hong Kong Air Travel Bubble enables us to achieve two objectives at the same time – open up our borders in a controlled manner while maintaining safety in our societies.”

“While we may be starting small, this is an important step forward. I have no doubt both Singapore and Hong Kong will cooperate fully to make this scheme work.”

singapore-hong-kong-travel-bubble-graphic

Image Credits: CNA

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Singapore – Hong Kong travel bubble to launch on November 22; air fares cost almost twice as much

You can soon travel to Hong Kong 

Singaporeans will soon be able to travel to Hong Kong for leisure. This comes after Minister for Transport, Mr Ong Ye Kung, announced the launch of bilateral air travel bubble between Singapore and Hong Kong.

According to Mr Ong, travellers from both cities can travel without quarantine, stay-home notices or controlled itineraries. However, travellers must take a pre-departure Covid-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test within 72 hours before departure, and must obtain a negative test result.

There will be no restrictions on the type of travel or itinerary. Whether you’re travelling for business, for leisure or to reconnect with family, friends and loved ones, you can get on the ‘bubble’ and travel between Singapore and Hong Kong, and vice versa.

For the start, there will be a quota of one flight per day with 200 travellers per flight.

Air Fares Jumps On Travel Bubble Plan

According to travel website, Skyscanner Ltd, the cheapest price return air tickets from Singapore to Hong Kong will cost S$330 via budget carrier Scoot. The most expensive ticket can cost up to S$770 for a return flight with Singapore Airlines Ltd.

Air Fares Chart via Skyscanner

 

What Are The Restrictions And Requirements

Who can travel

Anyone who has lived in Hong Kong or Singapore for the last 14 days will be eligible to travel with the exception of Work Permit and S-Pass holders working in the construction, marine shipyard or process sectors in Singapore. Persons travelling to Hong Kong under the ATB arrangement must ensure that they meet the entry requirements of Hong Kong.

What is required for travellers

  • Singapore to Hong Kong: Apply for approval to take a pre-departure COVID-19 PCR test in Singapore here. Undergo a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test in Singapore within 72 hours before the scheduled departure time of the designated flight from Singapore to Hong Kong at one of the clinics or testing centres designated by the Singapore Government, and obtain a negative test result report. Once you arrived in Hong Kong, you are required to take a Covid-19 test on arrival at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).
  • Hong Kong to Singapore: Travellers can take the test at recognised clinics.  Download the TraceTogether app on mobile device and register mobile number and personal details on the app.

Where can I take the pre-departure Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test?
Pre-departure COVID-19 PCR tests for your travel may only be performed at selected clinics as listed here.

For more information on the requirements, click here.

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Consider these 6 kids’ subscription boxes from S$19.90 to keep the little ones occupied at home

Parents, caregivers, aunties, and uncles, this is a reminder that the school holidays are approaching very soon. Are you scratching your head desperately finding ways to keep the kids engaged over the month-long break? Then we think you’ve got to give a little thought to what we’re about to introduce to you.

Here are six kids’ subscription boxes from S$19.90 to keep the little ones occupied at home.

#1: One Happy Book

One Happy Book series

Price: from S$19.90; other subscription plans available.

Shanice and Shernice who are sisters and both mothers to young children are the creators of One Happy Book. They aim to offer an affordable reading experience to all mummies out there with kids. From their website, we saw a comprehensive range of subscription pricing based on a child’s age and the number of books. Click through the link to find out more.

#2: Josh & Cherie Books

Josh & Cherie Books

Price: from S$31.90/box (12 months prepay); other subscription plans available.

Josh & Cherie Books is the brainchild of Cheryl and her husband, Julius. If you want your child to fall in love with reading, this is an excellent place to get your resources. Their lovingly curated books are targeted at children aged 0 to 7 years old. Be it board books, mandarin books, or picture books; your kids will find them oh-so-captivating.

#3: My Messy Box

A day in the life of a birdkeeper

Price: from S$32/box (12 months); other subscription plans available.

Back in 2013, when sensory play activities were tough to source for, Jeff decided to start My Messy Box for his then 2-year-old son. You can expect themed kits for children below six-plus years of age. You might be interested in their ‘A day in the life of a birdkeeper’ box if you want to start arousing the curiosity of your little ones with the flying creatures in the sky.

#4: Squizzel Box

Squizzel Box about the water cycle

Price: from S$37.90 (3 – 12 months prepaid plan); other subscription plans available.

Squizzel Box is all about fun, hands-on activities for children aged above three years old. Developed in consultation with teachers, you can look forward to play-based activities that will enhance your child’s learning. This month’s (November 2020) theme is about the water cycle and the exciting uses of water.

#5: DaBox by Da Little School

DaBox - Starry Edition (Advanced)

Price: at S$38/box (self-collection available)

So far, in this article, we’ve seen subscription boxes for children aged below seven. Parents with kids at lower primary will be glad to know that there are options! Consider getting the Home Edition (Advanced), Starry Edition (Advanced), or Sunflower Edition (Advanced) boxes! Gift your child the ability to explore through innovative crafts and nurture their creativity from young.

#6: EllieFun Box

Box 17 Nature

Price: from S$53/box; subscriptions are open periodically.

Abigail and Matilda, both former teachers, are the inventors of EllieFun (a pun on ‘elephant’). Their child-centred and Montessori-inspired boxes are suitable for kids aged six years and below. We took a look at one of their latest packages, box 17, a nature-themed inspired box which contains a scratch-and-sniff book, a simple Science experiment guide, and more!

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Invest Your SRS with MoneyOwl And Get Up To $200 Shopping Vouchers

The Supplementary Retirement Scheme (SRS) is a voluntary scheme to encourage individuals to save for retirement. Unlike the Central Provident Fund (CPF), it is not compulsory to participate in the SRS scheme. A key benefit of SRS is that members can enjoy dollar for dollar tax relief, capped at $15,300 per annum for Singaporeans while saving towards their retirement goals. As a tax deferral scheme, when you subsequently withdraw from your SRS after the statutory retirement age, only 50% of the amounts withdrawn will be subject to tax. Individuals who would like to open an SRS account can do so with either DBS, UOB or OCBC bank.

Don’t leave your funds in SRS un-utilised

After transferring funds into your SRS account, don’t leave it un-utilised! According to Ministry of Finance (2019), over 28% of SRS contributions sit idle as cash balances, earning a low interest rate return of only 0.05% p.a.

There are many ways that you can utilitse your SRS contributions to grow your retirement funds, such as investing in unit trusts, ETFs, stocks, bonds (including Singapore Saving Bonds and Singapore Government Securities) and single premium insurance.  A particular affordable and convenient way is to invest your SRS funds with MoneyOwl to boost your future retirement fund. Here’s why you should do so.

Invest your SRS with MoneyOwl

Investing your SRS funds with MoneyOwl starts from as little as S$50/month or $100 as a lump sum. This means that it is possible to start early without waiting for your SRS funds to accumulate to a substantial level. Besides, there is no platform fee so that more wealth is generated for the you in the long run. With MoneyOwl, you gain access to a globally diversified portfolio of companies with good growth potential at value prices.

Receive up to $200 eCapita shopping vouchers

MoneyOwl is offering a limited time SRS promotion valid till 31 Dec 2020*

Tiers Qualifying Conditions* eCapita voucher
1 S$1,000 to S$10,000 fresh funds invested OR; $50
2 S$10,001 to S$50,000 fresh funds invested OR; $100
3 S$50,001 and above fresh funds invested $200

More details can be found on MoneyOwl’s website

*T&C:

  • This promotion is only valid from 9 November to 31 December 2020.
  • This promotion is only open to the first 500 people who successfully invest their SRS funds with MoneyOwl.
  • Promotion is valid for one-time top ups using SRS funds only. Regular savings plans/ monthly SRS investments are not eligible.
  • Promotion is not valid for cash investments and investments in WiseSaver portfolio.
  • You need to stay invested and not withdraw your funds for at least 2 months after the promotion period is over (i.e. till end-February 2021). Vouchers will be sent to you in March 2021.
  • Only new MoneyOwl clients are eligible for S$50 voucher redemptions.
  • Both existing and new MoneyOwl clients are eligible for the $100 or $200 voucher redemption.
  • MoneyOwl reserves the right to change these terms and conditions from time to time.

About MoneyOwl

MoneyOwl empowers and fulfils lives by helping people make wise decisions to achieve their financial goals. With one of the lowest fees in the market, invest your SRS funds with MoneyOwl today to boost your future retirement income.

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