5 FREE Things to Do in Marina Bay

Are you searching for the top activities to enjoy in Marina Bay, Singapore without breaking the bank? This guide has got you covered with a lineup of free and budget-friendly attractions you won’t want to miss during your visit! And when we say budget-friendly, we mean absolutely free!

1. TAKE A LEISURELY STROLL IN GARDENS BY THE BAY

Gardens by the Bay is like stepping into a fantastical world and ranks among the top attractions in Marina Bay Singapore!

While wandering through the Supertree Groves is free of charge, you can elevate your experience by catching a panoramic view of the area from the suspended walkway known as the Supertree Observatory, priced at S$10 for adults and S$7 for children or senior citizens.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Get your tickets here: gardensbythebay.com.sg

2. EXPERIENCE A LIVE PERFORMANCE AT ESPLANADE

Don’t overlook the complimentary performances and captivating artistic displays at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay – they’re just as captivating as those in the concert halls, if not more so!

From local talents to international acts, Esplanade offers a diverse array of performances that are definitely worth your time.

Check out the schedule here: esplanade.com/whats-on

3. WITNESS THE SPECTRA LIGHT & WATER SHOW

When night falls over Marina Bay, be sure to catch the Spectra light and water show, taking place every night at 8 pm and 9 pm, with an additional show on Fridays and Saturdays at 10 pm. Laser lights choreograph to the rhythm of the music, casting vibrant images over the water spray for a 15-minute visual extravaganza – and the best part? It’s entirely free!

Plus, during Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour, expect to hear some of her chart-topping hits.

4. EXPLORE THE ICONIC SIGHTS WITH APPLE

Embark on an evening tour around Marina Bay and master the art of capturing stunning low-light photos using Night mode and more on your iPhone. Learn how to adjust exposure, balance foreground and background, and capture your best night shot with simple techniques. This tour covers approximately 500m. Remember to bring your iPhone or use the latest one provided!

The next session is scheduled for Monday, March 18th, from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm. Sign up here: apple.com/sg.

5. SET SAIL FOR FREE

Take the helm and sail aboard DBS sailboats, soaking in breathtaking views as you glide along the Marina Bay waterfront promenade for 30 to 40 minutes – all at no cost!

The DBS Marina Bay Sailing Programme is part of the bank’s ongoing commitment to enliven the bay and offer more opportunities for everyone to experience sailing around the Marina Reservoir.

Hop aboard the SB20 and the SM40, and see Singapore’s Marina Bay from a whole new perspective. Booking is available monthly, so reserve your spot here: dbs.com.

Location: Marina Bay, boarding at Pontoon beside Customs House (70 Collyer Quay 049323 Singapore)

Marina Bay offers a plethora of unforgettable experiences without straining your wallet. From the surreal ambiance of Gardens by the Bay to the enchanting performances at Esplanade and the mesmerizing Spectra light show, there’s something for everyone. Dive into photography workshops with Apple or set sail on the Marina Bay waterfront, all at 0 dollars. Enjoy!

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

Read More...

Capture IG-Worthy Moments at the Claude Monet-Inspired Exhibition in Gardens by the Bay This July

In my quest for exciting activities and hidden gems within the Red Dot, a captivating advertisement caught my eye – “Impressions of Monet: The Garden” at Gardens by the Bay.

Mark your calendars because, from July 12, 2024, this exhibition promises to transport you into the enchanting world of Claude Monet, the renowned French painter.

BACKGROUND OF THE EXHIBITION

Enter the realm of Claude Monet (1840-1926), a visionary who not only pioneered but passionately championed the Impressionist style. Originating in France in the 1860s, Impressionism is a painting movement that focuses on capturing the visual essence of a moment, emphasizing the play of light and color.

Prepare for a truly immersive experience as a digital presentation breathes life into the timeless masterpieces of Claude Monet. Complementing this, a delightful floral arrangement painstakingly recreates the landscapes that fueled Monet’s creativity in Giverny, France.

Titled “Impressions of Monet,” the exhibit unfolds in two captivating zones: The Garden and The Experience. Step into The Garden at the Flower Dome, where you’ll be welcomed by scenes reminiscent of Monet’s own Giverny garden in France.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Transition to The Experience, where several of Monet’s masterpieces come alive on the walls and ceiling. Amidst a lively symphony of strobe lights and tunes, you’re invited to roam freely, becoming part of the living canvas.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Revel in the recreation of Monet’s iconic pink house and its garden, now the second most visited tourist attraction in Normandy, France. Explore the adjacent Clos Normand garden and the serene Water Garden, both integral to Monet’s later works. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the beauty of hydrangeas, weeping willows, digitalis, daisies, delphiniums, and geraniums – all echoing the flora of Monet’s original gardens.

What’s more? Feast your eyes on the green Japanese bridge and water lilies, subjects immortalized in Monet’s renowned Water Lilies series.

This multi-sensory adventure is a deep dive into the heart of French Impressionism, offering glimpses of 19th-century Europe through the eyes of Monet and his fellow Impressionist painters.

Get lost in the grandeur of famous, inspirational images set to a powerful classical score. Watch as paintings are projected at an enormous scale, illuminating the bold brushstrokes of Monet, Camille Pissarro, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, Edgar Degas, and many other luminaries.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary exhibition running from July 12 to September 15, 2024, from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm. Admission ticket prices start at S$8 for Singapore residents. Prepare to embark on a journey into the captivating world of Monet’s artistry – an experience that promises to linger in your heart and Instagram feed alike!

Sources: 1 & 2

Read More...

What’s The Hype About Jewel Changi Airport?

Scheduled to open this month is the latest Jewel of Singapore – the Jewel Changi Airport. This multi-purpose development includes a hotel, aviation facilities, retail stores, dining facilities, and various attractions. A complex that houses all these facilities must be massive! The complex covers a total gross floor area of 134,000 meters, which spans about 10 stories.

I am most excited about the key attractions including the world’s largest indoor waterfall and the five-story indoor garden. Let us start with the HSBC Rain Vortex. Standing at 131 ft high is the world’s largest indoor waterfall. At night, the Rain Vortex glistens with lights and sounds. These were curated by the water design expert WET Design. I expect nothing but the best!

Lastly, Canopy Park aims to astound you with its two gardens including Topiary Walk and Petal Garden. The former features animal-shaped topiaries. The latter features seasonal floral displays. These natural displays excites my flower-loving heart!

Aside from flowers, food holds a special place for us. Singaporeans are enthusiastic about the flavors offered by Shake Shack and the comeback of A&W Restaurant.

Image Credits: danielfooddiary.com

Probably the most anticipated F&B opening at Jewel, is the famous burgain chain called Shake Shack. Its first outlet in Singapore is set to open on April 17. Shake Shack will offer its classic coffee milkshake along with locally brewed Jewela Melaka and Pandan Shake. Jewela Melaka is a frozen vanillacustard ice cream with coconut salted caramel, Lemuel chocolate chunks, shortbread, and gula melaka. Pandan Shake (S$7.80) puts a Singaporean-spin to their classic brew by adding pandan. Putting a spotlight on their burgers entails that its made with freshly ground 100% Angus beef. Rest assured that it has a delicate texture, great taste, and no added hormones. ShackBurger costs S$9.20 to $12.90.

Last but not the least is the ultimate throwback F&B opening of A&W Restaurant in Jewel Changi Airport. It is operating for 24 hours daily and is Halal-certified. Many are thrilled to taste the Root Beer Float, Coney Dogs, Curly Fries, and Waffle Ice Cream once more. This all-American restaurant will welcome long queues for sure!

Image Credits:greatdeals.com.sg

Oh! The Jewel houses a Pokemon center too. Certainly, the nation is shaken by the opening of the Jewel! Wait and see for more.

Sources: 1 & 2

Read More...

Delicious And Affordable Dishes From Themed Eateries In Singapore

Did you know edible helium balloons ever existed in Singapore? Well, it does! It exists along with other unique dishes offered at themed restaurants and cafes. Themed eateries usually go above and beyond the average dining experience.

If you are looking for something that steps outside of the box, keep your self entertained at these four establishments:

THE FIRST OF ITS KIND

In most situations, we bring more importance to the first and recent thing that we encountered. This is called the Primacy and Recency Effect. Let us pump up the accelerator on the Primacy Effect as we dive into a pioneering cafe, which showcased a massive collection of board games in Singapore. This cafe is none other than the Settler’s Cafe.

Settler’s Cafe has a collection spanning across its 14 years of existence. From trendy games such as the Game of Thrones Monopoly to the classic games such as Cluedo, you can always find something to suit your preferences.

Image Credits: facebook.com/pg/SettlersCafe

Image Credits: facebook.com/pg/SettlersCafe

What’s more? You can enjoy an hour of competitive game without having to break the bank! Go for the Chicken Chop (about S$9.90) or the Dory Pasta Spaghetti (about S$10.90).

Location: 39 North Canal Road, Singapore 059295

I’LL BE THERE FOR YOU

As a certified television enthusiast, there are some shows that I can watch over and over again. One of my all-time favorite sitcoms is F.R.I.E.N.D.S. To my delight, founder Lim Jit Min has curated a cafe focusing on the wonders of the said show. The loyal following of this sitcom was highlighted as the cafe was made possible by crowdfunding.

Relive its hit set by taking a trip into the Central Perk Singapore. The interior of the cafe has been intricately designed to recreate the overall vibe of the show. Aside from its hip interior, Central Perk Singapore shines due to the quality of the food and beverages. A proof of that is the recently introduced “Edible Helium Balloons“.

The average price of a complete course can cost you about S$50. Nonetheless, Mrs. Braverman’s Cheesecake (S$12) is the pocket-friendly dish that you must try!

Location: 01-01 Central Mall, 1 Magazine Road Singapore 059567

JOURNEY INTO THE WOODS

Take an aesthetically pleasing journey into the forest as you enter the wooden door of Windowsill Café. When I say forest, I am referring to a couple of trees in the corner and wooden furniture. Not to mention, there is a teddy bear in the middle of the place. Take these all in!

Image Credits: facebook.com/WindowsillPies

Image Credits: facebook.com/WindowsillPies

The brains behind Windowsill are two brothers named Jonathan and Sean Gwee. Food has been their longstanding passion as they operated some food stalls from Pandan Valley to Takashimaya. Their pies and tarts are crafted in the finest manner with each one being sold at approximately S$8 per slice. Do not skip on the highly-recommended flavors such as S’mores and Banana Cognac!

Location: 95 Soo Chow Walk, Singapore 575382

FALL DOWN A RABBIT HOLE

As a curious child, one of the several tales that I gravitate towards was Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland”. I guess the owners of the Hatter Street felt the same way too. This whimsical and bright cafe centers on all things related to the “Wonderland”. The walls were decorated with large stickers of creatures having tea or huge teapots. This is clearly a reference to Mad Hatter’s tea party.

Image Credits: facebook.com/HatterStreet

Image Credits: facebook.com/HatterStreet

For people who are fond of the flavor Cookies and Cream, you will enjoy the Oh My Tian Brownie (S$7.50) which playfully fuses a generous scoop of ice cream and a soft brownie. Talk about the goodness that hot and cold can bring.

Location: Block 212 Hougang Street 21 #01-333, 530212

What restaurant or cafe looks most interesting to you? Can you recommend other themed eateries with inspirational interior? Leave a comment down below!

Sources:  1,  2, & 3

Read More...

Affordable And Quality 24-Hour Laundromats In Singapore

If you are a avid-fan of FRIENDS, you would remember the first time Rachel and Ross kissed. It was in a simple self-service laundry shop wherein customers put their clothes inside the machines. The machines would wash their clothes once they filled its slot with coins.

In the most parts of the world, this self-service laundry shop is called laundromats while in United Kingdom, they call it launderettes. When this technology graced Singapore, people welcomed it with open arms.

Laundromats enables you to save time and money compared to the “traditional” laundry services. If you are rushing to have your business coat washed and dried, go to a laundromat! It will only cost you several minutes to get it done rather than the average turnaround time of 5 working days in other laundry shops.

With more than a hundred laundromats in Singapore, travelers can also take advantage of their affordable and pay-as-you-use prices.

On that note, here are four affordable and quality laundromats that operate for 24 hours…

1. WONDER WASH

Wonder Wash is one of the first self-service laundry shops in Singapore. By self-service I mean, there are completely no attendants! You are free to wash all your garments at any time and any day (except in their One@KentRidge outlet). Aside from their premium technology, Wonder Wash’s edge from the rest is their accessibility. With more than 40 outlets all over Singapore, you will surely find one that is near you!

Pricing:

Washing

11 kg from S$5

16kg  from S$7

20kg  from S$9

Drying

S$1 per 5 minutes

Locations: Full list of the outlets, here.

2. EASY WASH

Raved with good reviews in Yelp http://www.yelp.com.sg/biz/easy-wash-laundromat-singapore, Easy Wash uses their state-of-the-art technology to suit your needs and the needs of the delicate fabrics. You can choose from a myriad of services such as normal wash, soft wash, hot water wash, and double wash.

Pricing:

Locations: 4 outlets nationwide. Click here for the full list.

3. WASHINGHUT

WashingHut started as a family business that has grown to be a well-established company in Singapore. Two things that make WashingHut stand out are their exclusive DOMUS technology and their prepaid payment system.

DOMUS, a company that boasts with 90 years of experience, is the official brand used by WashingHut. DOMUS Laundry Point allows customers to pay through coins, banknotes, and WashingHut Card prepaid card. Isn’t that amazing?

Pricing:

Washing

11 kg from S$5

16kg  from S$7

20kg  from S$10

Drying

S$1 per 5 minutes

Location: 216 Joo Chiat Road, SOHO Life, Singapore 427483

Image Credits: facebook.com/washinghutlaundromat

Image Credits: facebook.com/washinghutlaundromat

4. VAPOUR LAUNDRY

VAPOUR Laundry showcases modernity in its website and aesthetically pleasing environment. Using industrial-strength machines, customers can leave with their clothes as fresh and crisp as they can be. Wonderfully located at the vicinity of restaurants and bakeries, foodies who need to get their garments washed can just press the machine and grab a bite while waiting for 30 minutes or so. Also, they offer seasonal promotions so it is best to stay update by liking their Facebook page at: facebook.com/vapourlaundry.

Pricing:

Washing

10 kg from S$4 to 6

13kg  from S$6 to 8

16kg  from S$8 to 10

Drying

S$1 per 5 minutes

Location: 109 Clementi Street 11, Singapore 120109

Image Credits: facebook.com/vapourlaundry

Image Credits: facebook.com/vapourlaundry

Sources: 1 , 2 , 3 , & 4

Read More...