Free Activities To Do Alone In Singapore

Whether Singapore is the most expensive city in the world or not, you should be able to explore the country freely. Take it in the most literal sense!

#1: DEDICATE A DAY FOR THE ARTS

As a concrete jungle, Singapore does not have numerous natural attractions. However, it boasts its variety of exhibitions and museums. Where can you begin your creative journey? Consider visiting the National Museum of Singapore. Its the country’s oldest museum. Then, you may hop a ride to Singapore Art Museum. Its contemporary take on art will warm your hearts. Lastly, you may visit a museum that features Asian cultures in a humble light. I am referring to the Asian Civilisations Museum, which overlooks the Singapore River.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Enjoy free admissions to these museums by presenting your NRIC to validate that you are either a Singaporean or a Permanent Resident.

#2: TAKE A TRIP DOWN HISTORY

Take some time to explore the historic route of the first HDB developed town – Toa Payoh. You may explore the facilities inside the Toa Payoh Sports Complex. Did you know that the 1973 South East Asian Peninsular Games was held there? As a resident of Toa Payoh, I can attest how efficient and convenient it is to have a wealth of fitness facilities close-by.

Adults with a youthful spirit can feel nostalgia by visiting playgrounds with soft sands. Relive your joyful childhood memories by walking or running in the Toa Payoh’s dragon playground. After all, it is the last of its kind!

#3: TAKE CARE OF ANIMALS

Making a difference starts with a single step. As an animal lover, you may leave a mark by helping a cause that houses abandoned animals. Said furry friends have physical and emotional well being too. It is time to give the support that they need! Volunteer at the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Volunteering to causes such as this one is not a piece of cake! It requires a ton of patience, commitment, and passion for animals. Are you up for that?

#4: SHOP AT THE REALLY REALLY FREE MARKET

You read that right! One of the country’s beloved flea markets is the the Singapore Really Really Free Market (SRRFM). SRRFM welcomes anyone to sell their goods or services by setting up their own stall. You are encouraged to roam around to experience different treats along the way.

Image Credits: facebook.com/srrfm

Who knows what gems await you? Will you be able to hunt old vinyls or vintage clothing? There is only one way to find out! Head to the next event by following their Facebook page.

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Some of your questions about the GSS – answered.

It’s hard to believe how many saving opportunities there are within just one year. There’s Black Friday weekend, pre-Christmas period, post-holiday time and there is this: the Great Singapore Sale. What is it about and is there anything you still don’t know?

Fact 1: More is more

The Great Singapore Sale is so much more than just the sales. Over the recent years, it has grown so much that both the stores and the city itself organise concerts, lucky draws and other attractive activities for locals and tourists. Instead of mere shopping sprees, it’s an excellent opportunity to meet new people, immerse yourself in the local culture and see what’s happening in other parts of the city.

So who’s participating? The simple answer is: anyone who’s trading can take part in the GSS and offer their customers deals and discounts. Registration is not necessary, and there is always a possibility that your favourite store is taking part. Currently, online shops, such as Zalora give their users opportunities to save tons of money on luxurious products from top brands with discount codes and seasonal markdowns.

Fact 2: What purpose does it serve?

For any group invested in the event, the answer is different. On the one hand, the economy needs our taxes to thrive. The more we spend, the more taxes merchants pay and this is directly reflected in the services we receive as locals. For shoppers, it’s a wonderful opportunity to stock on all kinds of goods, from fashion to house appliances. Some people don’t buy anything throughout the year and do all the shopping from June to August. Finally, it’s a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to advertise their services to locals and tourists. If you love their products, chances are you will return before the next year’s GSS. What if you have no time for shopping due to a busy schedule? Anyone can stay updated at all times thanks to the event’s official app.

Fact 3: Why is it so long?

It all started in 1993, and before 2016, the event lasted for only a few weeks. However, it was proven that tourists from other countries, like China, often visited Singapore and would have benefitted from taking part in the GSS. This is why the year 2016 was the first one where the shopping spree was extended to ten weeks. This year’s event started on the 8th of June and is scheduled to end on the 12th of August. There is still plenty of time, but stocks don’t always last for too long at these prices. Of course, those who reside in other countries can take advantage of international shipping offered by many stores. In Singapore, on the other hand, Lazada brings many household items and gadgets with the Great Singapore Sale for less.

Fact 4: How can you make it more convenient for yourself?

In the past, you wouldn’t have known about the sales unless you went to the store or someone you know had told you about them. Fortunately, with online shopping, it’s no longer the case. The Internet gives infinite opportunities to all shoppers who want to get the best value for the smallest money. Most of the shops, even those which carry luxurious goods, now offer online sales to shoppers. What is more, they can be found both on- and offline. If someone prefers to go to the shop, they can view the information on promotions on the internet and then check them out in person. Those who like to stay online can visit discount websites, such as Picodi which gathers all those fantastic GSS bargains in one place.

As you can see, there is always something to learn about The Great Singapore Sale and the fact it’s getting bigger and bigger every year only shows that the sky truly is the limit. With the right attitude and a little planning, you can furnish your house, restock your closet and buy all essentials for your upcoming baby. All of that for considerably less money.

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Avoid Making These Costly Mistakes When Buying A Laptop

For many Singaporeans, laptops have become an integral part of their lives. Saying that I cannot live without powerful device is an understatement. Without my laptop, I would be out of job. This article would not exist either! Laptops bring so much ease to our lives.

Whether you use yours for business or entertainment, laptops are easy to get. Unfortunately, this type of device can be costly! I would categorize it as a major investment. With that said, it is best to plan your purchase to avoid buyer’s remorse.

#1: GETTING THE CHEAPEST MODEL

One might think that the surefire way to save money is to buy the cheapest model available in the market. This may be easy for your wallet, but said model may not have all the necessary features. Given that the materials used in the cheapest models are found in the lower end of the spectrum, many of them lack the longevity that you crave for.

It is best to opt for a laptop that will serve all your needs. Make a list of your ideal specifications, must-have features, and other preferences. Compare this list to your viable options.

#2: SPENDING TOO MUCH

Do you really need the top-of-the-line MacBook Pro costing about S$3,488? Can the least expensive Pro (i.e., the 13-inch costs about S$1,898) satisfy your needs? Realistically speaking, some powerful desktop computers have lower prices.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

If you believe that quality depends on the price tag then, your belief may not be applicable to laptop shopping. Higher prices do not always equate to better product performances. Spending too much on a laptop can lead to buyer’s remorse. Not to mention, parts and repairs are usually more expensive for laptops than other counterparts.

#3: THINKING SIZE DOES NOT MATTER

Let us face it! Size matters when it comes to acquiring a laptop. A laptop’s size determines the design of the trackpad and the keyboard. You will most likely be cramped when opting for a device measuring less than 13 inches. Furthermore, a laptop with a bigger display allows more space to work in your desktop. Also, a “larger laptop” often gives a better viewing space and or a more expansive experience in general.

For frequent travellers, you may benefit more with small laptops such as the ultrabooks. Ultrabooks are not for everyone! Just because a product is in the front page of a tech review, does not mean that it is the best for you. A Chromebook may be cheap and portable, but it has a low storage space that will not suit the needs of a graphic designer.

#4: DISREGARDING THE ART OF “SHOPPING AROUND”

When buying a laptop or accomplishing a major purchase, it is important to do prior research. Investing your hard-earned money on the manufacturer price many not be always be a good idea. Most companies want to sell their products at top prices. Thus, you must consider shopping around.

Look for bargain deals provided by online retailers such as Amazon. Alternatively, you may hit up the nearest IT/Tech shops such as Courts and Challenger. For instance, Challenger’s www.hachi.tech offers 15% discount on the Surface laptop (T&C’s apply).

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Not to mention, the Great Singapore Sale is still on going. Imagine the beaming online and offline promotions ahead!

#5: IGNORING THE IMPACT OF THE FUTURE

At a heartbeat, you were swayed by a salesperson who highlighted the wonders of a touchscreen monitor. This new laptop may be good for now, but how about a couple of years down the road? Is a “normal” laptop more durable than its touchscreen counterpart? Think about it!

As assets, laptops move like cars. Its value plummets as time goes by! Remember that.

Sources: 1 & 2

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Effective ways to reduce your financial burden

Quite often the most important thing that you pursue in life is that sound financial situation that you’ve been dreaming for years. You can do so by pulling yourself off from the credit card debt burden. Pulling out of this financial burden isn’t that easy unless you keep following a disciplined and structured approach.

Check out some important steps that can actually help you out of debt:

  1. Evaluate your financial standing

You must know your current financial standing before even attempting to lower your credit card debt. Several experts are of the same opinion when it comes to addressing the core issues pertaining to money management . Once you’re aware of where you’re standing, you’ll certainly be able to hit the target. In doing so, you’ll need to be absolutely honest to yourself. For every card that you possess, you must keep a note of your debt and the interest that you’re required to pay.

  1. Pick a unique payoff strategy.

You may opt for a strategy that suits paying off your credit cards more effectively. You may consider paying off the card bearing the highest APR while meeting the minimum balance with your other cards. For this, you must draw a separate budget from that of your monthly budget. This is certainly a good way of lowering your debt. You’ll find more cash on hand after paying off your first card. Thereafter, you must consider the card with the next highest interest rate for paying off. Similarly, you have to choose cards and pay them off as you go lower down the order of their APR value. On the contrary, you may choose to go the other way round by picking the card with the lowest interest rate first and thus going up the order as you develop the snowball effect. However, you can’t resort to any of the quick cash loans while repaying your cards.

  1. Keep a note of all costs.

Create a list of all of your unavoidable and regular expenses like that of the minimum payments on credit cards, car maintenance, phone bills, insurance policies, cable connection, mortgage besides tracking your expenses pertaining to family trips, entertainment, and dining out. You may develop your budget on this foundation. You may derive a true and fair view of your overall monthly expenses by checking out your bank statements and credit card statements.

  1. Draw your budget.

You might need to cut down on some of your expenses. You’ll need to be realistic in your approach as you ought to bear with a few sacrifices. Cutting out is often not effective as that of cutting back. You may achieve a few big savings when you make a few amends in your domestic budget. However, you must remember that it’s often not easy to opt for an overhaul of your lifestyle. Your budget demands some breathing space so that you may cope with the unforeseen expenses more comfortably.

You may opt out of some services, which in turn helps you in cutting back much sooner than you expect. Segregate your monthly income for meeting a portion of your budget every week.

  1. Monitor your progress.

You must keep a track of your spending just to check if the expenses are dropping or mounting beyond your reach. Keep checking your progress towards an improved financial situation after every alternate month. You can’t see yourself in stress for a much longer duration.

You must have been through a lot while trudging your way through debt. Now, it’s your time to hold on to your patience and work your way out of it. You may check out your financial progress by setting reminders on a sheet a paper. Comparing your progress turns easier as you get it updated with your initial balances.

 

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3 Car Accessories Worth Spending On

1. DASHBOARD CAMERAS

UNIQUE SELLING POINT: A dashboard camera has the ability to record any unforeseen events.

PRODUCT PRICE RANGE: Quality dashboard cameras can cost you hundreds of dollars. However, the cheapest one I saw was S$10 in Lazada.

The dashboard camera, better known as dash cam, is an on-board camera that continuously records the view of the vehicle’s exterior or interior. It can be attached in many spots including on the dashboard or on the windshield. Due to its suction cup or adhesive mount, dash cams are movable. Find a spot that will not obstruct your view while you drive.

Image Credits: Paul Townsend via flicker.com/creativecommons

Dash cams are useful for a variety of reasons. Firstly, it allows you to keep track of the exact location of your vehicle and the route it has taken. Secondly, it is your first line of defense when claiming insurance. It can record suspicious activities while you are parking or driving. Imagine capturing a video of a perpetrator vandalizing your car in the mall’s parking lot! A newbie driver will surely benefit from this feature.

2. PARKING SENSORS

UNIQUE SELLING POINT: Parking sensors covers your blind spots by detecting the obstacles while you park.

PRODUCT PRICE RANGE: The company Singtech produces parking sensors that go for as low as S$15 and as high as S$90. Each product has its own special features.

I have to admit! As a novice driver, parking is the area that I lack strength on. It is challenging for me to measure the approximate distances of each stationary car without having the help of a guide or a sensor. I am referring to the trusty parking sensors. These are proximity sensors for road vehicles, which are designed to alert its drivers of the obstacles ahead.

Whether you are choosing an electromagnetic or an ultrasonic device, a parking sensor is one of the optional car accessories that you must consider. You see, even veteran drivers have a lapse in judgement in difficult parking spaces. Having an SUV fit through a narrow space through parallel parking is another challenge! I cannot stress how large cars can benefit from installing said sensors. Preventing an accident or two can make your life easier.

3. BLUETOOTH CAR KIT

UNIQUE SELLING POINT: Bluetooth car kits provide a wireless mode of communication and entertainment throughout your journey.

PRODUCT PRICE RANGE: Bluetooth car kits are sold as low as S$8 at Lazada. While, premium quality devices are sold for S$80 and above.

The recent amendments in the Road Traffic Act entail a wider scope of restrictions on the usage of mobile devices while driving. Any driver caught holding hand-held equipment can be found guilty of committing an offense. The market has thought of a solution to combat this. Said solution is by using a hands-free connection such as Bluetooth.

With modern technology, Bluetooth provides a standard for wireless communication. It allows its users to talk while on the move without having to hold a physical equipment. This feature is worth investing on especially if you are fond of navigating through the city while listening to music or while answering important phone calls.

As I search the web for credible and affordable Bluetooth car kits, I found the brands Kinivo and Jabra. Kinivo (available in Amazon for US$35.99 or about S$50) gets power from the car’s cigarette lighter and connects to your radio through an auxiliary jack. It allows you to manage your playlist and acts as a speakerphone during calls. Thanks to its built-in microphone!

Let us move on to the user-friendly Jabra Drive. Jabra Drive’s voice-guided instructions tell you how to connect to your mobile phone. This Bluetooth car kit allows you to use the dedicated control buttons to answer calls. Furthermore, it lets you play your tunes too. It retails for a whopping S$98!

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Sometimes, a car’s extra features depend on the individual’s preferences. Are there any car accessory that we missed? Let us know in the comment section below.

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