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6 Best Places To Eat Delicious Local Dishes

Singaporeans really love to eat. It is one of the forces that hold our country of different races together. A chicken rice, chili crab, nasi lemak, and roti prata can share the same table with problem at all! So, for the newcomers and locals who want to experience good food at a budget, here are the best places to visit:

1. HAINANESE CHICKEN RICE

One of my all time favorite local dishes is the chicken rice! It is so popular in the island that almost all the restaurants, hawker centers, and Singapore Airlines aircrafts serve this dish. When it comes to chicken rice, people expect the chicken to be as good as the rice. Both should be flavorful, tender, and smooth. Suggested places are as follows:

a. Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice

Known for its fragrant and delicious chicken rice, Tian Tian has been voted as the best chicken rice hawker stall in Singapore. A bowl of chicken broth and a plate of chicken rice cost about S$3.50. This is a great price for quality taste!

Location: 1 Kadayanallur Street, #01-10/11 Maxwell Food Centre, Singapore 069184

b. Wee Nam Kee Hainanese Chicken Rice

Wee Nam Kee has been named as the Top Hawker at AsiaOne People’s Choice Award in 2010. Its chicken rice is unique because of its dipping sauce. A plate of chicken rice is about S$4.80 while a half chicken is S$16.

Location: 101 Thomson Road, #01-08 United Square, Singapore 307591

2. CHILI CRAB

In 2011, CNNgo dubbed Chili Crab as one of the world’s most delicious food. Such a prestigious list, if you ask me. Chili Crab is one of the famed seafood delicacies for any travelers. Suggested places are as follows:

a. No Signboard Seafood Restaurant

No Signboard Seafood Restaurant is the home for unique white pepper crab. The peppery taste is strong but does not overpower the sweetness of the crab. And, the spiciness is paced at your own taste. The average price per person is S$40.

Location: 414 Geylang, Singapore 389392

b. Mellben Seafood

Mellben Seafood’s menu features a wide array of crab dishes such as chilli crab, claypot crab vermicelli soup, black pepper crab, butter crab, and shimmering sand crab. The average price per person is S$35.

Location: #01-1222, 232 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3, Singapore 560232

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

3. SATAY

Also in CNNgo’s 50 of the world’s most delicious food is the satay. Satay is a dish with meat, cucumbers, and onions served with a thick peanut sauce on the side. Suggested places are as follows:

a. Chomp Chomp Satay

Chomp Chomp Satay’s satay is juicy and generously marinated. Besides that, they offer local street food dishes like fried oyster, carrot cake, and Hokkien mee. The price of satay is about S$0.50 per stick.

Location: 20 Kensington Park Road, Singapore 557269

b. Chuan Kee Satay

Since its inception in the 1970s, Chuan Kee Satay has been serving its traditional Hainanese satay. Its pork satay is complete with flavorful spices, tasty peanut sauce, and pineapple gravy. The price of satay is S$0.40-0.50 per stick but the minimum order is 10 sticks.

Location: Block 51 Old Airport Road, Singapore 390051

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

Sources: 1 & 2

Prevent High Turnover Rate By Knowing 4 Common Reasons Why Singaporean Employees Quit

I do not have to throw statistics to claim that some Singaporean companies are experiencing trouble in retaining their employees. Losing money to hire a new talent over and over again seems to be inevitable because of the perceived dissatisfaction in the workplace. Last year, the aspects of work of 5,000 Singaporean employees were studied by Singapore Human Resources Institute. They found that on average, the employees were considered “Under Happy” at work.

Prevent the high turnover rate by instilling alterations in the working conditions. Often times, employees are just hungry for change. Start with these 4 issues that you can juggle on:

1. HORRIBLE BOSS

The competitive cost of living in the country affected the demand for faster output. In return, this can create a toxic workplace wherein employees suffer from burnout or depression. Adding a horrible boss into the mix will only worsen the situation.

Image Credits: Vocab Ninja via Flickr

In 2012, JobsCentral conducted a survey including the responses of 3,299 employees and 256 hiring managers. A whopping 31% of the respondents said that they do not have satisfying boss-worker relationship. This is because of the following reasons: lack of advancement opportunities (87.5%), lack of autonomy (80.6%), and work demands (71.1%). So, if you want your priced employee to stay, warn the boss against these poor practices.

2. LOW OPPORTUNITIES FOR CAREER GROWTH

Career growth does not only help the employee personally but also financially. An employee maybe happy at his or her current position but in need of bonuses to cover the rising costs. A limit in growth can decrease the motivation and purpose of the employee to strive for more. For some the limit is unacknowledged and it is famously called as the “glass ceiling”. Therefore, companies shall create tangible career paths.

3. LOW SALARY

I cannot deny the fact that salary is a common factor for an employee to draft his or her resignation. In fact, 61% of Singaporean employees felt that were underpaid and overworked compared to the existing market rates. CPF deductions and domestic expenses will be deducted to the baseline salary afterwards. This leaves no room for retirement funds or any type of savings.

Solution! Companies: make room for increments no matter how small it may seem. Individuals: do not hesitate to ask for a raise.

4. OFF-BALANCE BETWEEN WORK AND LEISURE

When we work as hard as we do, we only deserve to play hard too! According to a survey, 57% of Singaporeans said they would rather have a work-life balance over higher pay. Take notes from the CEO of I-Search Worldwide – Mr. Richard Hoon who sets aside the Friday evenings for the staff to gather and chat with complementary food and beverage. It is his way to help the employees ease into the relaxing weekends ahead.

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

7 Awesome And Inexpensive Green Things You Should Try In Singapore

In Psychology, the color green signifies harmony, balance, and growth. It has been the fixed color of important objects such as money and the Earth itself. In fact, the green lifestyle has been encouraged all over the world but, one of the longest running eco-friendly campaigns is found in our country. The Clean & Green Singapore launched the Clean and Green Week campaign in 1990 and since then, Singaporeans were inspired to protect the environment.

That said, here are the top 7 green things every Singaporean must try:

FOOD

1. VIETNAMESE FOOD

Serving meals that are mostly low in fat, gluten-free, MSG-free, and rich in vitamins and minerals…Vietnamese food proved to be a healthy cuisine above the rest. In the heart of the city center, you will find a store called Wrap & Roll. The first to serve freshly made steamed rice paper rolls; Wrap & Roll offers casual yet genuine Vietnamese dining experience. They serve morning tea to start your relaxing day. You shall expect tasty dishes at the affordable price range of S$7-20. Call 6694 4111 for reservations and enquiries.

Image Credits: facebook.com/wrap.roll.sg

2. PICKLED GREEN CHILI

How do I begin to tell you how much chilies are adorned here? Let me start by saying that it complements most of the flavors of Singaporean and Malaysian noodles very well especially with Wanton noodles. You can make your own pickled green chilies by following the simple steps here.

3. ORGANIC GROCERY SHOPPING

Looking for an organic grocery that is within your budget? Look no further as local groceries such as Green Circle Eco Farm and Quan Fa Organic Farm have you covered.

A place with luscious greenery and farm animals, Green Circle Eco Farm not only welcomes educational tours for the public and schools but it also sells food without artificial chemicals and pesticides. These produce are mostly locally grown. There is a minimum amount of S$30 for home deliveries of products listed on their vegetables, fruit, herbs, and condiments tabs. Delivery fee of S$5 is one of the lowest delivery service among other organic groceries in Singapore. Visit Green Circle Eco Farm at 41 Neo Tiew Road Singapore 719028 or at greencircle.com.sg.

While, Quan Fa Organic Farm abstains from the use of pesticides and harmful fertilizers. They offer about 40 varieties of hard vegetables, herbs, leafy greens, and fruits that are from our local roots. Aside from Asian produce, they also sell imported organic produce from Malaysia, Australia, and Thailand. Their products are at available at Sheng Siong outlets. Visit Quan Fa Organic Farm at 35 Murai Farmway Singapore 709145 or at quanfaorganic.com.sg.

DECORATIONS

4. POT OF GREENS

Instead of purchasing the S$299 branded air purifier, go natural and grow your own succulents. Plants are more than just decorations as it can improve the air quality in your home by absorbing dangerous toxins. Go for the inexpensive and easy to maintain plants such as ferns, green spider plants, English Ivy and dracaenas. If you do not have a backyard or an apartment balcony there are community gardens for you to plant your own seed. My personal picks for affordable plants are from Far East Flora and Chye Heng Orchid Garden.

5. GREEN ORGANIZER

GLES box from IKEA Singapore is the perfect organizer for your food, gardening tools, sports equipments, school books, laundry, and other accessories. We have one at home and it has been useful for over 4 years. What is shocking is that it is priced at S$1.90 a piece.

ATTRACTIONS

6. SINGAPORE BOTANIC GARDENS

Whether you are on a date with a special someone or yourself, nothing beats a refreshing day at the Singapore Botanic Gardens (SBG). Sandwiched between the busy vicinities of Bukit Timah Road and Holland Road, the SBG is opened from 5 am all year round. Feel the chirping of the birds, the sound of the crickets, and the hush of the trees as you enter the garden – for free!

7. FIVE GARDENS AT CHANGI AIRPORT

Aside from the SBG, every “Type A” individuals on the go can relax at the five indoor gardens located at the Changi Airport. These are namely: Cactus Garden (T1), Orchid Garden (T2), Fern Garden (T2), Sunflower Garden (T2), and the Butterfly Gardens (T3). While you are in there, enjoy the breath of fresh air, may your kids count the species of succulents and take colorful selfies that you can upload right away because of the Free WiFi!

Image Credits: facebook.com/fansofchangi?fref=photo

For a cleaner world, let us push through a greener Singapore! 🙂

What Is Debt Check And How Do You Make It Healthy?

Debt is the amount of money borrowers by an individual or a corporation used to make huge purchases that they cannot afford under the normal circumstances. Pay this debt in a later date and you would get fined with interest! As of June 2015, the total card billings in Singapore amount to S$3,980,000.40 million! If you do not owe anybody now then, good job! You can start browsing our other articles and enjoy your debtless life. For the rest of you, there is an easy way to check if your debt is not healthy and it is called: the debt check.

DEBT CHECK

The debt check gives you 4 warning signs that you are heading to a troubled path. Awareness of this will come a long way later on. Check if these apply to you:

1. You do not know exactly how much you owe. This shows that you are not in control over your debts.

2. You are usually paying late for bills and sometimes, you go over your credit limit. This could only pile up the debt even more.

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

3. You use your credit card as you would use a debit card just to get by. You can be charged with a higher rate of interest.

4. You are borrowing money to pay your debts. In a sense, you are currently borrowing money to pay the money that you previously borrowed. This vicious cycle is how most people get into trouble.

MAKING YOUR DEBTS HEALTHIER

If all or any of the warning signs apply to you then, you need to take action – now! Take control of your debt and live a happier life by:

1. GATHER DATA

The first step is to gather date of where you are financially. It is important that you are aware of your current debt situation by knowing: how much you owe, to whom you owe these to, how often do you need to repay the amounts, and what interest rates are attached to these.

2. PRIORITIZE DEBTS

The consequences of not paying off some debts are more serious than others so, you must divide your debts into categories. The categories are priority and non-priority debts. Priority debts include mortgage, rent, government tax, loans, utility bills, and child maintenance (if applicable). These are priority debts because you do not want to lose your home, to be bankrupt, to have your electricity cut off, and to be summoned in court. The rest of the debts are non-priority debts.

3. ESTABLISH A BUDGET

Establish a budget to track your spending and savings. Keep track by having an online or physical journal where you log your cash flow every month. By doing so, you will get a fuller picture of where you spend too much and where to cut down costs. You can get out of debt faster if you prioritize paying it.

4. STICK TO YOUR BUDGET

Here are some helpful tips to ensure that you stick to your budget:

Sources: 1 , 2, & 3

4 Affordable Nail Salons Offering The Best Services In Singapore

Whenever we go for first dates or job interviews, us women prefer to put our “best foot forward”. Aside from making a great impression, we take this idiomatic expression literally by preening the nails on our foot or hand to perfection!

With all the specialized nail salons sprouting over Singapore, it has been difficult for us to choose the best ones. But in totality, we look for a nail salon that has friendly staff, hygienic practices (e.g., uses clean tools), and value for money. That said, here are the 4 nails salons that suit your needs…

1. MANICURIOUS

Located at 41 Beach Road, Manicurious may just be a woman’s paradise. It is a unique store that combines a nail salon with a cafe corner and a retail section offering shoes, accessories, and handbags. The interior of the store is relaxing, vintage, and neat. You will surely feel cozy in their armchairs while you choose from an array of polish colors. Their reasonable service prices (e.g., express manicure or nail shaping) start at S$6 while add-ons (e.g., hand scrub or quick dry) prices start at S$3.

What’s more? They have 20% off nail services from Monday to Thursday at 11 am-4 pm (T&C apply).

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Image Credits: facebook.com/manicurious

Book an appointment here: manicurious.sg.

2. LILY NAILS SALON

Gelish manicures may stay for the longest time but they can get very pricey even amounting to over S$60! Thankfully, you can go to Lily Nails Salon for an unbelievably affordable express gelish manicure costing about S$16. You can avail this whether you are working or you are studying. Aside from this, they have interesting designs with an assortment of polish and gelish colors. The express manicure is priced at S$8 while the classic manicure is priced at S$9.

Image Credits: facebook.com/lilynailssalonbugis/timeline?ref=page_internal

Book an appointment here: lilynailssalon.webs.com/contact.

3. NAIL QUEEN BEAUTY SERVICES

Aside from pampering the nails of some celebrity brides, Nail Queen Beauty Services is known for its premium nail art service. Located at Far East Plaza, this nail salon is great place for fashionistas to soothe their nails after a long day of shopping. Their express service ranges from S$12-15 while classic service ranges from S$25-35. And, their express gelish costs S$30-35. What you will love about this salon is the vintage interior and the amiable staff.

Image Credits: facebook.com/pages/Nail-QueenLet-Us-Pamper-You/235276535956

Book an appointment by calling 6836 1393.

4. FINGERWORK

Since 2003, Fingerwork has been renowned for its gel nail extension and nail art services. Located near Raffles MRT, working ladies in the area can enjoy personalized manicures or pedicures are reasonable prices. Also, students can enjoy discounts from time to time. The prices for the manicure range from S$6-46 while the prices for pedicure range from S$9-56. For instance the express manicure is about S$12 while the express pedicure is about S$17. Aside from this, you can indulge on their nail enhancements including nail repair, gel infill, and temporary tips.

Image Credits: facebook.com/pages/Fingerwork/184157964957218?sk=timeline&ref=page_internal

Book an appointment by calling 63275967.

Sources: 1 & 2

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