Visit These 5 Places To Buy Real Christmas Trees & Decorations In Singapore

All of us have different memories of Christmas that we hold close to our hearts. As time passes, our relationship with the Yuletide season evolves. However, one thing remains the same. There’s nothing quite like the smell of Christmas in your home to lift your holiday spirit.

What exactly, is the smell of Christmas? Fresh wreath and trees of course!

For newbies, take this friendly words of advice. If you want to score a fresh tree, you must get it early. Don’t worry about the upkeep because these trees normally last the whole season. Little fading may occur due to being in the tropics. Check out our top picks to buy one in Singapore.

#1: PETITE FLEUR

Spruce up your home with a Christmas wreath meant to be hung on your front door or in the living room to welcome guests and loved ones. Boutique florist Petite Fleur’s 26cm Christmas wreaths will make you stand out from the crowd as it is carefully arranged for you. No two wreaths look exactly alike!

Apart from this, they are selling mini pine trees measuring 30cm to 60cm. These mini-Christmas trees come with fairy lights and fresh decorations.

Image Credits: petitefleursg.com

Price: S$120 for wreaths and S$120-210 for trees, excluding 7% GST

Order online at petitefleursg.com and get free delivery.

#2: IKEA

IKEA not only houses the famous Swedish meatballs and DIY furniture, but also the Vinter 2021. The Vinter 2021 consists of live Christmas trees that retail for S$59 to S$79 at their Alexandra store. Accompany it with a tree stand for only S$25.

Image Credits: Image Credits: ikea.com/sg

Price: S$59 for a 1.6m tree and S$79 for a 2m tree

Purchase at the IKEA Alexandra store. Delivery rates range from S$15 to S$70.

#3: FAR EAST FLORA

When traveling along Thomson Road, it is hard to miss the Far East Flora. Far East Flora is known for its massive selection of flowers and plants. Local plant enthusiasts should be aware of its existence and its huge nurseries. Quickly visit to see their selection of noble fir trees, which were imported from Europe.

Trees that measure 2 to 2.5 meters come with a tree stand. It costs about S$379.45 including GST. If this is beyond your budget, consider purchasing smaller trees or mini trees to bring home the holiday spirit.

Image Credits: facebook.com/FarEastFlora

Price: S$379.45++ for 2-2.5m tree with a tree stand

Location: 565 Thomson Road, Singapore 298184

Purchase online or in store, with a delivery fee of S$25.

#4: SING SEE SOON

Searching for affordable Christmas trees that are as tall as you? The search is over. Sing See Soon has Fraser fir Christmas trees that range from 1.52m to 1.83m, which are sold without a stand. Due to its straight horizontal branches, these Canadian variety of fir trees are pleasing to the eyes.

Image Credits:
singseesoon.com/collections/christmas-tree/products/faser-fir-christmas-tree-5-6ft

Price: S$188

Location: 5 Simei Lane, Singapore 528710

Get yours online or in store, with a delivery fee of S$30.

#5: WONDERLAND BOTANICALS

You don’t have to sacrifice the festive decorations just because you live in a smaller space. Rather than putting your items in the storage area, you can opt for a tabletop Christmas tree. Join a tabletop Christmas tree workshop on 17 Dec to learn how to make your own tree. This 2-hour workshop costs about S$150.

For those who want to save time and money, you can simply buy a Christmas wreath decorated with classic berries for S$135 or a bouquet of nobilis fir branches for S$25.

Image Credits: wonderland.com.sg

Price: S$25 for the bouquet, S$135 for the wreath, and S$150 for the workshop

Location: 1M Yong Siak Street, Singapore 168641

You can order online and get it delivered to your doorstep!

Sources: 1 & 2

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What We Know & Don’t Know About The Omicron Variant

Another coronavirus variant has emerged last month, and with it comes a new wave of uncertainty and a set of unanswered questions. On 26 November 2021, the World Health Organization designated the variant B.1.1.529 as a variant of concern on the advice of WHO’s Technical Advisory Group on Virus Evolution. This variant is commonly known as the Omicron.

Days after the news broke about the Omicron, we remain in an information vacuum. Researchers in South Africa and around the world have been conducting studies to better understand the aspects of Omicron and they will continue to share the findings of these studies.

The current situation was best put by WHO’s Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus during the November 29th World Health Assembly. He said: “Omicron’s very emergence is another reminder that although many of us might think we are done with COVID-19, it is not done with us.”

#1: TRANSMISSIBILITY

It is unclear whether Omicron spreads more easily from person-to-person compared to other variants including Delta. For now, we can observe the Omicron cases in South Africa and other countries.

In South Africa, the number of people testing positive for COVID-19 has risen and as many as 90% of new cases in Gauteng are caused by it. Epidemiologic studies are underway to understand whether the sudden rise in cases is due to Omicron or other factors. Globally, there have been 1,458 confirmed Omicron cases as reported by 55 countries and posted by European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control last 8 December 2021.

Despite the observed cases in South Africa, some areas in United Kingdom and Europe have reported cases of Omicron that are not linked to travel to Southern Africa. This may suggest that the variant has been spreading from person-to-person within the community.

#2: SEVERITY OF THE DISEASE

Much like the transmissibility, the severity of the disease posed by the Omicron variant remains unclear. Although preliminary data suggests that there are increasing rates of hospitalization in South Africa, this may be due to the elevating overall numbers of people becoming infected and not due to the Omicron.

All variants of COVID-19, including Delta, can cause severe disease or death particularly for the most vulnerable people. Prevention is always the key!

#3: EFFECTIVENESS OF VACCINES

The World Health Organization is collaborating with researchers and technical partners to understand the potential impact of Omicron on the existing countermeasures such as the vaccines. Vaccines remain vital to reducing severe disease and death, including against the dominant Delta.

Could the boosters help combat the Omicron? Scientists do not know yet.

#4: CURRENT SITUATION IN SINGAPORE

More than a dozen countries including Singapore have started closing its borders to visitors from countries where the Omicron might be spreading. Entry requirements into Singapore became stricter, including the requirement of a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test on arrival of all the air travelers. A ringfence will be thrown around the person and any close contacts if there is a positive test result. These safety measures will help prevent Omicron from entering the community.

On 9 December 2021, two COVID-19 cases tested preliminarily positive for the Omicron variant. One of the new Omicron cases is a frontline worker at Changi Airport. The other case is an imported case, according to the Ministry of Health (MOH). MOH is currently conducting aggressive contract tracing to ringfence these cases.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

As scientists around the world work tirelessly to learn more about the Omicron variant, we just have to wait. Whether it will rise to dominance like the Delta or fade like the Alpha and Beta, all we can do is to wear our masks and practice other social distancing measures.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, & 6

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4 Reputable Tattoo Studios Around Singapore, Prices Start At S$60

Are you thinking getting inked any time soon? Whether you want to tick off “tattoo” in your bucket list or want to grow your collection of body art, there is a variety of tattoo studios in Singapore. Read this list to explore your options and to know the estimated rates of these four reputable tattoo studios.

#1: INKVASION TATTOO STUDIO

Highlights
Easily accessible location
Versatile tattoo designs
Customized tattoo designs
Pain-free and safe numbing options

Searching for an easily accessible tattoo studio that is just minutes away from Orchard MRT? The search is over! Inkvasion, located at the Far East Shopping Centre, houses skilled tattoo artists that can help you achieve your desired design. The artists at this studio are proficient in a myriad of tattoo designs such as words and scripts, dot work, fine line tattoos, Polynesian tribal, Japanese art, and more. Find your ideal design by heading over to @inkvasionsg on Instagram.

Prices start from S$100. Please contact them through WhatsApp at +65 8127 5371 for a free quotation.

Website: inkvasiontattoo.com
Location: 545 Orchard Road #06-15 Far East Shopping Centre, Singapore 238882

#2: WILD PAW TATTOO CO.

Highlights
Aftercare products
Best known for modern and classic tattoo designs
Customized tattoo designs

Wild Paw Tattoo Co. is a laidback studio where the atmosphere is relaxing, and the staff is friendly. It is best known for its modern and classic tattoo designs. Clients can either get beautiful portraits of their beloved pets or their favorite cartoon characters. As a friendly reminder, the studio has a strict policy against bringing alcohol or drugs. Furthermore, they only accept clients aged 18 and above.

Tattoo prices can range from S$200 to S$350.

Website: wildpawtattoo.com
Location: 30A Bali Lane, Singapore 189866

#3: LOVESICK TATTOO STUDIO

Highlights
Award-winning tattoo artist and founder
Customized tattoo designs
Affordable price for small tattoos

Established in 2012, tattoo artist Louis Tham founded the Lovesick Tattoo studio. Brainchild Louis Tham has been in the tattoo scene for about a decade. In fact, he has won multiple awards in Singapore and overseas for his tattooing expertise. Alongside Louise, the studio houses two professional resident artists named Liucifer Ling and Kian Tan. These talented artists have unique tattoo styles to suit the client’s preferences. For instance, you can opt for Louis who specializes in black and grey realism tattoos or Kian who fuses Japanese art with dot works.

Small designs can cost as low as S$60. While big and striking designs can cost about S$150-S$400 per hour. Rest assured that this studio completes all its inking within its sterile and safe environment.

Website: lovesicktattoostudio.com
Location: 35 Selegie Road, Parklane Shopping Mall #05-03, Singapore 188307

#4: VISUAL ORGASM TATTOO STUDIO

Highlights
Team of tattoo artists
Freehand and customized designs
Colored and monochrome designs
Late closing times

Visual Orgasm Tattoo Studio has a team of tattoo artists that specialize in different tattoo styles such as freehand, cartoon, drawings, blackwork, and realism. Best of all? The artists are open to customizing designs to suit their client’s preferences. You can even bring your child’s drawings for inspiration.

Since the studio allows flexibility in choosing designs, Visual Orgasm also allows its clients to choose between colored and monochrome designs. Those who want to have vivid designs are free to book an appointment on the studio. Just ensure that you answer their forms online and consult them before getting inked. Prepare accordingly as the studio’s base price is S$150 for small and simple designs. Prices will vary for more complex designs.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Website: visual-orgasm.com
Location: 8B Canton St, Singapore 049748

Note: With the current situation, increased social distancing requirements and other operational changes were implemented in these tattoo studios. Please contact your tattoo studio for more information.

Sources: 1 & 2

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S’Pore Yuletide Shopping Do’s & Don’ts

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Whether you are figuring out how to dodge awkward questions from your relatives or are planning your gift list, this article can help you navigate through the maze of holiday campaigns and attractive sales. Remember, the Yuletide shopping season will be even more cutthroat than the last. You best come prepared!

#1: SHOP SAFELY

Are you excited drop by the Orchard Road? When shopping at the mall, look for stores or businesses that offer safety precautions for its customers and staff. These precautions include enforcing face mask policy, offering hand sanitizers at the entrance, encouraging social distancing, and providing contact-free payment options. Do you part in keeping the community safe by staying at home or by refraining from shopping if you feel unwell.

#2: SHOP AHEAD OF TIME

The massive growth of online shopping and deliveries will likely put an additional strain on the logistics that are already reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic. Many customers have come to expect shipping delays over the past months, but these delays could become worse during the last few months of the year. Not to mention, the effect of the Yuletide season.

Thus, it is best to shop ahead of time. Plan your gift giving list and complete your Yuletide shopping. You can also opt for the store pick-up option. Some retailers such as Samsung and Uniqlo Singapore help alleviate shipping delays by offering the store pick-up option. Customers may purchase the goods online and pick them up in the store to avoid waiting for deliveries.

#3: DO NOT FORGET TO CHECK THE PRICES

Despite your best intentions, the perfect gift may come with a hefty price tag. If you find that a gift can blow your budget, you may use your smartphone to check whether there are better deals elsewhere. Look into websites that post deals such as Money Digest or go to price comparison websites like iPrice.

#4: CREATE A GAME PLAN

Avoid biting into the holiday temptations by creating a game plan before you complete your Christmas or New Year shopping. Make a list of the gifts that you need to buy for the people whom you love the most. Weigh whether you can purchase these gifts online or in-store.

By equipping yourself with a list, you will be able to navigate through the busy malls. If you still have trouble resisting items that are not on your list, consider leaving your credit cards at home. Bring enough cash for your purchases.

#5: DO NOT MAX OUT YOUR CARDS

Your credit card utilization rate is a vital part of your credit score. It refers to how much you currently owe divided by your credit limit. Thus, you must use your credit card wisely to prevent damage to your credit score. Do not get us wrong! It is understandable to have a higher balance over the holidays. However, please try to keep your utilization rate as low as possible. You can either spend less money, use cash for small purchases, or make multiple credit cards payments in a month.

#6: ENSURE ONLINE SECURITY

It is important to educate yourself about shopping securely, given that many people have experienced data breaches over the past years. Monitor your credit and financial accounts regularly and exercise caution when submitting your personal information. Is it secure to provide your credit cards details over the phone? Can you click a random link sent through your spam folder? Be careful!

By proactively guarding your identity and sensitive information, you may be able to prevent fraud from ruining your holidays.

#7: DO NOT SPEND MORE THAN WHAT YOU HAVE

Do not let the flashy advertisements and the pressures of the season to tempt you to go into debt. The holidays can still be a joyous season even if you do not have gifts for everyone. If you do not have enough money for gifts, there is no shame in giving homemade gifts or being present in the celebration. Sometimes, the best gift is spending quality time with the ones you love.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

May these Yuletide spending tips help you survive the season with your wallet still intact!

Sources: 1 & 2

 

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Feast Your Eyes With These New Restaurants In Singapore

Rediscover the beauty of Singapore with its newly opened restaurants and cafés. From Minion-themed dishes to lattes topped with frozen teddy bears, you can take your gastronomical journey to new heights with this list. Best of all? You do not have to travel outside of Singapore to experience these five Instagram-worthy restaurants.

#1: MINION CAFE

Southeast Asia’s first Minion-themed café graced our shores this year and will stay until January 2022. Fans of the lovely characters from the Despicable Me film can enjoy dishes that are decorated with minions. Do not miss the chance to eat a pizza topped with minions or a banana boat dessert with Kevin, Stuart, and Bob.

Image Credits: Image Credits: facebook.com/minioncafesg

The café’s menu was curated for the Singaporean palette and highlights dishes such as Minion Singapore Prawn Noodle ($24) and Minion Pumpkin Mantou with Chilli Crab Meat Dip ($15 for four pieces).

Price: $$
Location: 3A River Valley Road, Merchant’s Court #01-01C to 01D, Block A Clarke Quay, Singapore, 179020

#2: SHINJUKU KISSA TETSUDO

What better way to reminisce your last trip to Japan than by dining at a Japanese railway-themed establishment? At Shinjuku Kissa Tetsudo, you can get behind the controls of model trains and pass the time by sipping coffee.

Image Credits: instagram.com/p/CUr5Q1vvjpw

Visit Shinjuku Kissa Tetudo at 111 Somerset to drink a cup of coffee ($6 to $15) or eat a slice of cake. Roll cakes cost about $8. Then, you can amp up your experience by operating the miniature railway models. Interactive railway activity rates start at $15/hour.

Price: $$
Location: 111 Somerset Rd, 02-K02, Singapore 238164

#3: KNOCK KNOCK CAFE

Open the door at the Knock Knock Cafe to feast your eyes with the floral-themed décor. Knock Knock Cafe serves a range of classic and fusion dishes using only the freshest ingredients. Excite your taste buds with the Seafood Laksa Pasta, Salted Egg Prawn Taco, Aglio Olio, and Ribeye Steak. End your meal with a satisfying dessert or an adorable drink like the foamy lattes topped with frozen teddy bears.

Image Credits: facebook.com/knockknockcafe.sg

Worry not about your social media feed because this place is adorned with flowers and studded with neon-lit signs. Reserve a seat in advance to secure your spot.

Price: $$
Location: Knock Knock Cafe, 101 Geylang Road, Singapore 389211

#4: LUCKY SAIGON RESTAURANT

Nestled at Tanglin Road is a hidden gem named Lucky Saigon Restaurant. This Vietnamese restaurant is the perfect spot for affordable food and picturesque ambiance. You will notice the green canopies, bird enclosures, and water fountain as you step inside. We do not blame you if you want to take a snap or two!

Image Credits: facebook.com/luckysaigonrestaurant

Do not forget to try the Fresh Spring Rolls ($7.50 for three pieces) and Slice Beef Pho ($12.50) when you are there. Apart from these, Lucky Saigon offers catering services for events such as birthday parties and staff dinners.

Price: $
Location: 356 Tanglin Road, Singapore 247674

#5: DEWGATHER

On November 21, Australia will open some of its states to Singaporean travelers. While waiting, you can get a taste of the Land Down Under by eating at Dewgather. Dewgather serves hearty Australian-inspired dishes tinged with Asian influences.

Image Credits: facebook.com/dewgather

Satisfy your cravings for Australian grub with options such as The Aussie Crumpet ($15), Salmon Avo ($8), Dew Swordfish Pasta ($27), and Waffle & Fried Chicken ($20). As for beverages, you can try the Houjicha Latte ($8) or the Prana Chai Latte ($8).

Price: $$
Location: #01-46 The Star Vista, 1 Vista Exchange Green, Singapore 138617

Sources: 1 & 2

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