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Cheekiemonkies 15th Anniversary: One giveaway every day for Jan 2020!

December 30, 2019, 11:48 pm
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HELLO 2020!

15 years ago in January, our humble blog was born together with our first child, Ash. Back then, blogs were still a relatively new medium and Cheekiemonkies actually began as a means to document the growing years of our kids.


Along the way, I have gained many faithful readers - THAT'S YOU! - and some of you have actually became friends. To be honest, I have never expected in my wildest dreams for the blog to last this long. FIFTEEN YEARS! In fact, who really still blogs this days???? 😂😂😂 It's all about photos and IG nowadays, no?

I think I must be still one of the rare ancient ones that is still keeping this blog alive... thankfully though, I think it still is relevant and resonates with my readers (I hope) because 1.5 million pageviews in Year 2019 can't be wrong! 😁

And also because our blog is only as popular as the support that you have given us all these years, what better way to mark our 15 years than to reward you in the most enormous way we can think of - by having a giveaway EVERY SINGLE DAY for the ENTIRE MONTH of January!

Yes, I pulled the exact same stunt back in 2015 to celebrate the blog's 10th anniversary and it was stupendously well-received. So why not do it again for the 15th anniversary?

So let's kick off this ULTIMATE Giveaway, shall we?


Every day from 1 to 31 January 2020, there will be one giveaway. More than 90% of the giveaways will involve a sponsor that I had previously worked with  so you can be assured of the quality of the prizes!

All of the giveaways will taking place on my Facebook page while a few selected ones will also be reposted on my IG for bonus chances. Also, each giveaway may have different mechanics of participation depending on the sponsor's preferences so do read through each individual giveaway's mechanics details carefully.

The following Terms and Conditions apply for every giveaway though:

- The giveaways are open to all residents living in Singapore, unless otherwise stated.
- All readers and fans of Cheekiemonkies are eligible to take part.
- Participants will be required to follow each individual giveaway's mechanics in order to qualify for that giveaway.
- Winners will be picked randomly.
- Each winner will only be able to win a maximum of 2 prizes for the entire month of giveaways.
- Cheekiemonkies will not liable for any damages or the condition of the prizes.
- The sponsors reserve the right to replace the prizes.
- Prize winners will be contacted via email.
- The giveaways are in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Participants will be providing information to Cheekiemonkies, not to Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Each giveaway will only be hosted for between 3 and 4 days so you know what that means, right? You will have to bookmark our blog! Or better yet, follow us on Facebook and Instagram so that you will not miss a single giveaway. 😄

And trust me, the prizes are pretty substantial... with vouchers, tickets to attractions, annual passes, toys, and even hotel/resort stays. Yes, it's PLURAL for the latter one.

WHO'S EXCITED???

Stay tuned! 🎉

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The Ultimate Cheekiemonkie 15th Anniversary Giveaway

December 31, 2019, 11:37 pm
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It has begun. 

In celebration of our Cheekiemonkie blog turning 15 years old, one giveaway will be conducted EVERY SINGLE DAY for the ENTIRE MONTH of January 2020.


Every single giveaway will be consolidated in this blogpost, which probably means it is highly recommended that you bookmark this post.

So if you are going to read only ONE blog post this January, make it this one.

Oh, and do read my previous post on the terms and conditions of the giveaways if you haven't done so. Good Luck!

DAY 1

1 x 4 Full Day Passes to SuperPark Singapore


SuperPark Singapore is a gigantic adventure playground, game arena, and sports park all rolled into one... and it just got better with two brand new experiences, iTeacher Lü and SuperBoxer! iTeacher Lü consists of immersive and interactive spaces with over 20 interactive physical edutainment games that are mostly curriculum based while SuperBoxer is an incorporation of boxing and fitness into a fun daily routine catered for all ages. Sounds super fun, no???

To kick off my month-long giveaway, I'm giving away 4 Full Day Passes to one lucky family! To particiapte, visit HERE.

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Turning Fifteen

January 3, 2020, 1:04 am
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Hi dude,

Well, here we are - I woke up and you’re 15. Every year this day, I find myself asking how on earth did it go by so fast? Before you and I both know it, you will soon be enlisting for National Service. 

It feels like just moments ago since I last sat in front of my computer, trying to find the words to pen a blog post for your welcome-to-teendom 13th birthday, then it was your 14th, and yet here we are, FIFTEEN.


I think I have to stop deceiving myself - that you are no longer that tiny baby placed in my arms, nor the toddler who so willingly held my hand while outside, and definitely not that little boy who allowed me to pepper kisses all over your cheeks.

Instead you have grown into a dependable and responsible young man, whom I'm glad that you are being recognised for these admirable traits in school.


You have a huge heart and never hesitate to help friends and family. You help out around in the house without question - most of the time anyway - and are ensure your younger siblings clean up after themeselves too... usually by barking orders. 😅

But yet, you can be silly and goofy too - joking, laughing, tickling, giggling, guffawing toether with Ayd & Ale in a hearbeat. You are also especially loving towards your four grandparents and take great pains to look after them whenever we are outside with them.


And I know how hard it has been for you when Kong-kong passed away last April. You were his first and favourite grandchild and he loved you to bits. I will never forget how loud you wailed when you first learnt of his passing, how you collapsed to the ground in grief. During his funeral, you insisted on sacrificing your sleep just to keep vigil at the void deck throughout the night. You seldom wish to talk about it but both Mummy and I know how much you miss him... and still do.

The pain will never go away but these are the sort of feelings that you have to learn to deal with while growing up. Being fifteen is like being caught in a funny stage, you feel like you are in limbo, still technically a child but feeling like a young adult in so many ways.

I see so much of myself in you Ash. And the funny thing is for all the times I get angry with you, I find myself asking myself, “Why am I scolding him when he is exactly like me?” 😂


But I also do know that as you grow older, your priorities will change, they won’t always include me – and that’s okay. (Not that I have a choice anyway) I guess it is all about making the most of every small moment and holding on to it until the next one comes around. Like the moments when you snuggled close to me and just gave me a light hug. Or the moments when you leant your head onto Mummy for no apparent reason. Or just chatting about the most random of things over meal times. Or how you let me watch Netflix on the TV even though every second away from your own Playstation game must feel like a lifetime. 🤣


And whatever the coming year may bring, I am so excited to see what it has in store for you.

Happy 15th Birthday, Ash.

Love,

Papa
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Sembawang Hot Spring Park reopens with free Footbath pools & it's Beautiful!

January 3, 2020, 6:13 pm
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Remember the old Sembawang Hot Spring off Gambas Avenue? It has re-opended today with new cascading hot spring pools, a hot spring water collection point, educational panels, a F&B outlet and even enhanced accessibility for wheelchair users!

And from the looks of it, it is beautiful!


This is Singapore’s only natural hot spring and its water used to be bottled commercially by Fraser and Neave, under the brand name of Seletaris. The spring water is popular for its purported curative properties, and so, some parents bring their kids who have skin conditions such as eczema, to bathe there every week.


I'm not too sure about that but I what I do know is the 1.1 hectare Sembawang Hot Spring Park has that kampung-like environment which Nparks has tapped on and retained in the design of the park.


For starters, the entrance to the park has been spruced up tremendously with the planting of plants reminiscent of old kampung life. Upon entering the park at the new Floral Walk, visitors can see fruit trees and edible plants commonly found in kampungs, and flowers commonly seen in the 1960s to 1990s.


After a short 200m walk from the entrance to the main area of the park, you will come face to face with the centerpiece attraction - the Cascading Pool.


If you have been to the Hot Spring before the refurbishment, you will know that back then, the water flows out through various taps scattered around the area. It is rustic, yes but everything is pretty haphazard.


Now, the area has been transformed - where the hot spring water is concentrated at the Cascading Pool... much like an ashiyu, a Japanese public bath in which people can bathe their feet.



Water emerges at the top at 70°C and cascades down one tier at 60°C, then 45°C and finally at 40°C at the foot of the pool. Here, visitors can rest on the built-in seats at the edge of the 40°C pool and enjoy a foot bath.


The pool mimics the hot spring in its natural state, where overflowing pools of hot water form after emerging from the ground.


Even better, the pool is also designed to allow for wheelchair users as well.


If you prefer to soak your feet in hotter water, head to the Main Water Collection Point. This area allows for different sizes of water collection containers or buckets to be used.


There are 5 taps which are installed at various heights with integrated tables and benches, designed to cater to visitors of all ages and abilities.


A note of caution though, the water that flows out here is extremely HOT at 70°C.


But you know what that means, you can try cooking your own soft-boiled eggs here! Like what some visitors have done!


And as an added feature, wooden ladles and buckets (big and small) have been provided for public use. Just grab one, fill it up with hot spring water and you can enjoy your free session of foot soak!


(Although it remains to be seen how long the ladles and buckets will last before they 'disappear'. Hope my fellow Singaporeans can prove me wrong!)


And specially for kids, there is also an Educational Zone which consists of an interactive water play feature which allows kids to learn more about the groundwater cycle, as well as play safely with the hot spring water.


Here, the water is cooled down more so that it is safer for younger kids.


The feature is also designed as a table to allow everyone to use as a gathering space at the hot spring. In addition, they can discover more about the site and the geothermal processes behind the formation of a hot spring through information panels!


The area is further enhanced by the many Seating Areas beside the Cascading Pool and Main Water Collection Point.


Personally, I was pleasantly surprised by how the refurbishment turned out. Everything - from the hot spring water collection to the foot bath area - has been improved and beautified and yet, the rustic and kampung-like atmosphere has been retained. Love it!





Plus, there is even a F&B outlet too, including public toilets... features that were missing before the park was enhanced.



I know the kids will love it. 😁



Sembawang Hot Spring Park is open daily from 7am to 7pm. It is accessible via Gambas Avenue, and from the nearest bus stop which is 400m away at Sembwang Road. There is NO carpark located within the park, and the nearest parking lots are 400m away at Block 114 Yishun Ring Road.



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Chinese New Year 2020 in Singapore: 32 Acvtities for Kids over the CNY Long Weekend

January 20, 2020, 6:35 am
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The Chinese New Year long weekend is upon us and as usual, there are plenty of fun kid-friendly CNY events in Singapore! From the annual Chinatown light-up, to carnivals and fireworks, to open houses at the museums, take your pick from the many activities happening during this weekend... and the next too.

Oh and in case you didn't know, 28 Jan is a SCHOOL HOLIDAY which means the kids get a 4-day break! Those lucky buggers.


So get the kiddos decked out in their new clothes and join in the CNY fun.. because with this list, it's gonna be a
鼠-per CNY! (Sorry, couldn't resist making at lease one rat pun in the Year of the Rat 😂)


Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations 2020
Now until 22 Feb 2020
Chinatown
FREE


Street Light-Up
Date: Now until 22 February 2020
Time: 7.00pm – 12.00mn (Daily)
7.00pm – 6.00am (Chinese New Year Eve)
Venue: Eu Tong Sen Street, New Bridge Road, South Bridge Road and Garden Bridge

Festive Street Bazaar
Date : Now until 24 January 2020
Time : 6.00pm – 10.30pm (Daily)
6.00pm – 1.00am (Chinese New Year’s Eve)
Venue : Pagoda Street, Smith Street, Sago Street, Temple Street and Trengganu Street

Nightly Stage Shows
Date : Now until 24 January 2020
Time : 8.00pm – 10.30pm
Venue : Kreta Ayer Square

Chinatown Chinese New Year Countdown Party
Date: 24 January 2020
Time: 9.30pm – 12.30am
Venue: New Bridge Road and Eu Tong Sen Street

Chingay 2020 @ Chinatown
Date: 2 February 2020
Time: 6.00pm – 10.00pm
Venue: New Bridge Road and Eu Tong Sen Street

The Chingay parade, the annual largest street performance and float parade in Asia, will make an appearance in Chinatown this year to bring the celebrations to a great height but also marking the end of the Chinese New Year Celebrations. Join us with your family and friends for a vibrant night that include special performances by local and overseas performers and not forgetting the nine (9) beautifully decorated and lighted float.

Dahlia Dreams
Now until 23 Feb 2020; 9am - 9pm
Gardens by the Bay, Flower Dome
Admission charges apply


Get caught up in the tale of the heavenly race and feast your eyes on Dahlia Dreams – The Heavenly Race, the first-ever collaboration with Beijing Florascape Co., Ltd. in Southeast Asia. Gracing the Flower Field with their famed Mosaiculture, the horticultural art of creating giant topiary-like sculptures with the use of bedding plants to carpet metal frames, the display also features an abundance of more than 70 Dahlia cultivars, and other festive plants commonly associated with the season such as Narcissus, Azalea and Celosia.

Usher in good luck this Chinese New Year with a spectacular Fu medallion at the entrance of Flower Dome. Then stroll past a landscape akin to a Chinese painting, dotted with peach blossoms, red-crowned cranes and a pavilion. Finally, make a grand entrance through the magnificent archway placed front and centre, and catch up with the rat, the first to reach the Jade Emperor by outwitting the other 11 zodiac animals.

River Hongbao 2020
23 Jan - 1 Feb 2020; 2pm - 11pm daily (Extended till 1am on CNY Eve)
The Float @ Marina Bay
FREE Admission


Fireworks Spectacular! With a Local Twist
Fireworks Spectacular! With a Local Twist is a series of magnificent fireworks choreographed by local fireworks artist set to send the echoes of celebration across Singapore's most iconic Marina Bay skyline.

Daily Fireworks Timing:
23 Jan: 9.00pm
24 Jan: 12:00am
25-28 Jan: 9.00pm
29 & 30 Jan: 10.00pm
31 Jan & 1 Feb: 9.30pm

Dazzling Lanterns
Lanterns have been one of River Hongbao's key attractions year after year. They are an integral piece in Chinese cultural celebrations because they symbolize wishes for a brighter future. Create the perfect photo opportunity with more than 20 dazzling lantern pieces at River Hongbao 2020, with the largest lantern set stretching over 50m long, and the tallest lantern up to 18m high.

Carnival & Food Street
Enjoy over 20 thrilling rides and games with yummy street bites just a stone's throw away from the carnival rides. Be sure to try out the authentic taste of local traditional bites from different major dialect groups in Singapore.

Saturdays@ACM: Rat Race
25 Jan 2020; 1pm - 5pm
Asian Civilisations Museum
FREE


Race into the Year of the Rat with a special Chinese New Year celebration at ACM, and get blessings from a lion dance performance! Create your own blessing scroll and visit the Living with Ink exhibition at a discount to see scrolls by master painters. Discover how the rat fared in the animal race in the interactive drama performance or join a complimentary guided tour of the galleries.

Jurong Lake Gardens - Ant Play
25 Jan 2020; 9am - 12pm
Jurong Lake Gardens, Forest Ramble - Play Pavilion
FREE


Build your fortress, have fun interacting with new friends made as children learn how ants build homes as they get the opportunity to mimic ants and play with huge blocks bigger than regular blocks.

CNY 2020 @ Wildlife Reserves Singapore Parks
25 Jan - 8 Feb 2020
Singapore Zoo | River Safari | Jurong Bird Park | Night Safari
Admission charges apply


Oh Rats! It's 2020. Time to usher in the new year with these auspicious activities! Meet the adorable rats and discover the heroic and helpful side of these animals with edu-taining activities, upcycling crafts and more! Don’t miss out on our popular lion dance performance, mascots and Zoo-diac Predictions for the Year of the Rat. Local Residents enjoy up to 20% savings online! Visit HERE for programme details and activities at the individual parks.

Istana Open House
26 Jan 2020; 8.30am - 6pm
Istana (Entrance to the Istana grounds is via the main gate at Orchard Road)
FREE for Singaporeans and Singapore permanent residents. 
Other visitors are required to pay an entrance fee of $2 per person.

There will be a variety of performances on the grounds during the Open House. For an entrance fee of $2, visitors could tour selected function rooms in the Istana building and view a special display of gifts presented to the President and the Prime Minister. There are also guided tours of the Istana building, conducted by the Preservation of Sites and Monuments (PSM) volunteers. Istana souvenirs are also sold at the Open House. All proceeds from the sale of the souvenirs and the entrance fees collected are donated to charity.

Lunar New Year Celebrations at NMS
27 Jan 2020; 11am - 5pm
National Museum Singapore
FREE


Celebrate the year of the Rat with your friends and family at the National Museum! Enjoy a lion dance performance, or learn about the different or similar practices celebrated by other visitors during Chinese New Year. You can also create a special festive keepsake at our drop-in craft stations, and enjoy a live music performance of Lunar New Year tunes. For details on activities, visit HERE.

Chingay 2020
31 Jan - 1 Feb 2020; 8pm - 9.45pm
F1 Pit Building
31 Jan: $28.50, $40 & $50 | 1 Feb: $28.50, $50 & $60
*20% discount for PAssion Card holders


Chingay 2020 brings to you “Colours in Harmony”, a dynamic showcase of our multiculturalism and diversity. About 6,000 volunteer performers will be involved in co-presenting this People’s Parade that also marks PA’s 60 years of community building with our people. Highlights include:

- Electrifying Opening with release of 200-m long firecrackers
- The World’s Biggest and Longest Flying Dragon
- Highly skilled Stilt walkers vs Sky Runners - Traditional Art vs Contemporary Displays
- Multi-ethnic cultural performances by local talents and international acts
- Stunning display of lights, lasers, pyrotechnic and fireworks!

For tickets, visit HERE.

Chinese New Year at Sentosa
Now until 7 Feb 2020
Beach Station & Beach Plaza, Sentosa
FREE (Island admission applies)


Leap right into a prosperous year and celebrate spring with exciting festive performances and activities!

PROSPERITY FRIENDS MEET & GREET
25 - 27 Jan
11.30am -12pm | 12.30pm -1pm | 1.30pm - 2pm | 3pm - 3.30pm | 4.30pm - 5pm | 6.30pm -7pm
Beach Station

SOUTHERN MEET NORTHERN LION DANCE
25 - 27 Jan
4pm - 4.30pm | 5.30pm - 6pm
Beach Plaza (Roundabout Area)

LED DRAGON DANCE
25 - 27 Jan
7pm - 7.30pm | 8pm - 8.30pm
Beach Plaza (Roundabout Area)

MICKEY AND MINNIE PHOTOPOINTS
Now until 8 Feb
Beach Plaza

Huat Huat Land
Now until 8 Feb 2020; 9am - 11pm
Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre
FREE


Roll into prosperity with larger-than-life pineapples, sit on a pile of gold and shuffle gigantic mahjong tiles at the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre as it transforms its Roof Garden to usher in a prosperous Chinese New Year with Huat Huat Land. One can also step into familiar scenes of Chinese New Year celebrations in the heartlands with a series of murals designed by award-winning local illustrator Lee Xin Li, and learn more about how Chinese New Year is celebrated in Singapore.

Chinese New Year 2020 at Universal Studios Singapore
Now until 9 Feb 2020
10am - 7pm (24 Jan 0 2 Feb - 10am - 9pm)
Universal Studios Singapore
Admission charges apply


Celebrate Chinese New Year at Universal Studios Singapore with a lineup of auspicious activities. Start the year with prosperity and fortune as you follow a mystical dragon dance on an exciting park-wide trail, and join in a reunion with all your favourite characters, dressed in their New Year best. Plus, enjoy the many thrilling rides, shows and attractions as you celebrate the brand new season of good fortune with family and friends.

Abundance in the Sea
Now until 9 Feb 2020; 10am – 7pm
S.E.A. Aquarium
Admission charges apply



This new year, get up close to our living auspicious symbols of wealth! Be surrounded by water as you visit animals like the Mouse Grouper and the Pineapple Fish. Enliven your selfies with festive décor and photo props. Don’t miss our underwater dragon dance!

Spring Surprise
27 Jan - 9 Feb 2020
Various programmes & timings
Gardens by the Bay
FREE (except Flower Dome & Cloud Forest)


Usher in the Year of Metal Rat with a variety of festive programmes and activities this Lunar New Year. Watch The Story of Nian unfold through music, puppetry, and drama, and don’t miss out the spark-tacular Golden Pyro Dragon Dance making its first appearance in Singapore. Visitors can also look forward to thrilling acrobatic stunts by a lion dance troupe, music performances by local ensembles, shadow puppet shows telling the story of the Chinese zodiac, meet-and-greet sessions with the God of Fortune, and a festive bazaar! Highlights include:

Lion Dance
Mon, 27 Jan | Fri, 31 Jan - Sun, 2 Feb | 6pm | Supertree Grove | FREE
The Rat zodiac symbolizes strong vitality in the chinese culture and display both agility and alertness. Usher in the Lunar New Year with thrilling lion dance performances by an award-winning local lion dance troupe! Try not to hold your breath as the lion leaps from pole to pole and performs difficult stunts.

Golden Pyro Dragon Dance
Fri, 31 Jan - Sun, 2 Feb | 9.10pm | Supertree Grove | FREE
Usher in the year of the Metal Rat and be the first in Singapore to catch the sparktacular Golden Pyro Dragon Dance under a shower of firework-like sparkles achieved through the use of special metal granules to create these pyrotechnic displays!

The Story of Nian
Sat, 1 Feb - Sun, 2 Feb (5.00pm, 6.15pm & 9.30pm) | Fri, 7 Feb - Sun, 9 Feb (7.00pm, 8.00pm, 9.00pm) | Supertree Grove | FREE
The Story of Nian comes to life with the use of puppetry, music and drama. A village finds itself under threat from a terrifying monster, the Nian, who descends upon them from the mountain every year. Little do they know that it is actually the discord and squabbling amongst them that draws the monster to the village every year. A wise old man holds the key to repelling the Nian, and reminds them of the importance of the village's history and traditions. But will the villagers be able to learn from his wisdom and experience, and to put aside their differences to unite and fight the beast together?

Festive Bazaar
Mon, 27 Jan - Sun, 9 Feb | 12pm - 5pm | Flower Dome
Stock up on Chinese New Year goodies such as homemade snacks to DIY crafts from our festive lineup of stalls!

Visit HERE for more activities.

LEGO Lunar New Year @ JEM
Now until 9 Feb 2019
Retail: 10.30am-9.30pm | Activities 11am-9pm
JEM Atrium


Redeem exclusive gifts and promotional items/bundles, take part in building competitions, add your wishes to the Wishing Tree, insta yourself at the life sized LEGO set sculptures,  beat your drum to waken the lion, create your own puppet shows and find Kai to get your ang pao. Visit HERE for more information.

Festive Celebrations at City Square Mall
Now until 9 Feb 2020
City Square Mall


Asian Night Market: Taiwan Food Festival featuring Ningxia Night Market
Now until 9 Feb 2020 (Closed on 20 - 22 Jan 2020)
5pm - 10.30pm
Siloso Beach, Sentosa
FREE (Island admission applies)


From 16 Jan to 9 Feb 2020, the critically acclaimed Taiwan Food Festival (士林嘉年华), will make Sentosa home. Spanning from Siloso Point to Siloso Beach, Asian Night Market: Taiwan Food Festival will recreate a mini Ningxia Night Market (宁夏夜市 ) with more than 30 food vendors direct from the popular night market.

You can savour popular dishes such as Flaming Beef Cubes (火焰骨子牛肉), Taiwanese Oyster Omelette (蚵仔煎), Egg-bombed Scallion Pancake (鸡蛋葱油饼), Fried Chicken Cutlet and Crispy Salted Chicken (炸鸡排, 咸酥鸡), Grilled King Oyster Mushroom (烤杏苞菇), Tian Bu La (Taiwanese oden) (甜不辣), and many more. If you’re a fan of Beef Noodles (牛肉面), be sure to check out the yummy dish served up by award-winning Taiwanese chef and entrepreneur, Cheng Cheng Chung! Visit HERE for more details.

Rainforest Lumina: Season 2
Now until 9 Feb 2020
7.30pm - 12am daily
Singapore Zoo
Adult $18 | Child & Senior Citizen $14
*Get 10% discount for online bookings


At night fall, after the animals have drifted off to sleep, the 8 Creature Crew set off on a mission to take you on this enchanted night walk. From creativity to courage, every member of the Creature Crew has a special virtue to strengthen the unity among humans, animals and nature. Consisting of 11 zones - of which 3 are interactive and will prove extremely popular with kids (& adults) - the trail will allow visitors to meet the Creature Crew, a group of unlikely animals heroes who will take visitors on a whimsical adventure along the paths of their enchanted world. Visit HERE for tickets.

Lunar New Year @ LEGOLAND Malaysia
Now until 9 Feb 2020
LEGOLAND Malaysia
Admission charges apply


Welcome the year of the Rat with loads of Brick-sperity fun! LEGOLAND Malaysia welcomes a brand new Lunar New Year with fabulous exclusive activities, festive shows and games for the whole family. Come and join us to experience brick-sperity at its full glory! For details on activities, visit HERE.

Meow! Where’s the Cat?
24 Jan - 9 Feb 2020; All Day
Esplanade Festival Corner, Esplanade
FREE


Have you ever wondered why the cat is not one of the 12 zodiac animals? Unravel this mystery through a colourful and whimsical installation at the Esplanade Festival Corner!

An Intergalactic Odyssey
Now until 16 Feb 2020
10am - 7pm
ArtScience Museum
$7 per pax


Take an out-of-this-world voyage to the edge of the galaxy and beyond! This multi-media fully immersive experience will take your breath away with stunning interstellar scenes and a flying saucer ball pit. Strike a pose in space and twinkle brightly against the night sky as part of An Intergalactic Odyssey.

MOVIES GALORE!


Dolittle - Now showing
A Shaun The Sheep Movie: Farmageddon - Now showing
Bernie The Dolphin 2 - Now showing
Playing With Fire - Now showing

Wan Qing Festival of Spring 2020
1 & 2 Feb 2020; 10am - 9pm
Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall
FREE


Usher in the Year of the Rat at the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall’s Lunar New Year celebrations! Wan Qing Festival of Spring 2020 presents an exciting line-up of festive offerings suitable for all ages, including auspicious lion and dragon dance performances, Chinese painting and drumming workshops, heritage tours and trails, and craft activities for the little ones. Join the Memorial Hall’s signature mass lohei and toss to bountiful luck and prosperity, get your zodiac predictions for the new year, enjoy an evening concert of contemporary and traditional performing arts, and more. For more details, visit HERE.

Chingay @ Heartlands
Various dates and timings
Various locations
FREE


To enable more Singaporeans and tourists to enjoy the parade, Chingay celebrations will continue at the following venues:

Chingay 2020 @ Chinatown Festival
Sun, 2 Feb 2020 | 7pm
Eu Tong Sen Street and New Bridge Road

Chingay Colors in Harmony @ North
Sat, 8 Feb 2020 | 6pm
9 Woodlands Avenue 9 @ Republic Polytechnic, Woodlands Ave 6 (near Vista Park Sport Hub), Woodlands Ave 7 opposite Admiralty MRT, Sembawang Drive opposite Blk 319 and 320 Hard Court, Canberra Walk in front of Open Field

Chingay Heartland @ Tampines GRC 2020
Sun, 9 Feb 2020 | 6pm
Our Tampines Hub

Ang Mo Kio GRC & Sengkang West SMC Chingay 2020 @ Heartlands
Sat, 15 Feb 2020 | 6pm
Teck Ghee Square near Blk 409 Ang Mo Kio Ave 10, Outside Jubilee Square (61 Ang Mo Kio Ave 8), Blk 525 Ang Mo Kio Ave 10, Buangkok Square Park beside Buangkok Square Mall (Blk 991 Buangkok Link), Hougang Ave 9 (Opposite Cui Yuan CC), Sengkang East Way (in front of Blk 351A and 351B Anchorvale Road), in front of Blk 443C along Sengkang West Avenue

Chingay @ Heartlands 2020 - Colors in Keat Hong
Sun, 16 Feb 2020 | 6pm
Keat Hong CC

Chingay 2020, Colors in Harmony
Sat, 22 Feb 2020 | 4.30pm
Cambridge Road, Holland Ave near Bus Stop 11409, Dawson Road near Skyville @ Dawson, Tiong Bahru Road near Tiong Bahru Park, Cantonment Road near Pinnacle @ Duxton

Colours of the East Chingay 2020
Sun, 23 Feb 2020 | 6pm
Simei Street 1 (open field beside Eastpoint Mall), Bedok South Avenue 3 near Siglap CC, 208C New Upper Changi Road near Bedok Town Square, Bedok North Road (in front of Fengshan Greenville Estate, 186 Bedok North Street 4), Bedok South Road (Open Space between Blk 19 & 20)

West Coast GRC & Pioneer Constituency Chingay @ Heartlands 2020
Sat, 29 Feb 2020 | 5.30pm
Jurong West Street 63, Boon Lay Place in front of Blk 207 Boon Lay Place, Open field opposite Blk 41 Teban Gardens Road, Blk 78B Telok Blangah Drive, Clementi West Street 2 from West Coast CC

Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC Chingay @ Heartlands 2020
Sun, 1 Mar 2020 | 5.30pm
Bishan Street 13 in front of Bishan Community Club, Bishan Street 22 (in front of Bishan North Shopping Mall), Sin Ming Ave in front of Blk 454, Lorong 1A Toa Payoh in front of Blk 127 Market, Apex and Blk 29 Toa Payoh Lorong 5, in front of Toa Payoh Library next to Blk 179, Toa Payoh Central

Chingay Heartland @ Marsiling - Yew Tee GRC
Sat, 7 Mar 2020 | 5pm
Open field between Woodlands Ave 5 and North Woodlands Link

#FUTURETOGETHER
Now until 15 Mar 2020
OUTDOOR EXHIBITS: 7pm - 12am | Dragonfly Lake & Bayfront Plaza | FREE
INDOOR EXHIBITS: 9am - 9pm | Bayfront Pavilion (Bayfront Plaza) | FREE for Singaporeans & $10 for others
Gardens by the Bay


Come experience the interactive art that art collective teamLab is renowned for! Take a peek into the #futuretogether – an immersive art exhibition jointly presented by Gardens by the Bay and GIC, with art by art collective teamLab, in support of the Singapore Bicentennial. Featuring seven digital art installations spanning across both the indoor and outdoor spaces of Bayfront Plaza, these exhibits encompass three themes – Aspirations, Connectivity, and Possibilities. Head HERE for more information and tickets.

Total Defence Special Exhibition 2020
Now until 22 Mar 2020
9am - 6pm (Closed on Mondays except Public & School Term Holidays)
Singapore Discovery Centre
FREE for Singaporeans & PRs


What can we as Singaporeans do to defend against evolving threats? Head to Singapore Discovery Centre (SDC) to explore how you can be better prepared to deal with these challenges to contribute to the whole-of-nation effort in ensuring Singapore’s survival. Curated by SDC in commemoration of Total Defence Day 2020, the Special Exhibition “Will You Do You?” is set against the current geopolitical backdrop and casts a spotlight on issues like digital threats, climate changes and trade wars that bear an impact on Singapore.

Living Worlds: An Animal Planet Exhibition
16 Nov 2019 - 22 Mar 2020
Annexe Hall, Science Centre Singapore
Adult $23 | Child $18 | Family (2A&2C) $66


Living Worlds: An Animal Planet Experience is the world’s first travelling wildlife and exploration exhibition created and produced by Kingsmen. Made in collaboration with Discovery Inc. and Science Centre Singapore, it is a first-of-its-kind edutainment exhibition that explores the interdependent relationship between animals and the environments they inhabit through bespoke multimedia interactives and never-seen-before footage to narrate stories of the natural world. The exhibition also leverages on the latest technology to captivate visitors with unique immersive experiences and interactive play elements, while fostering environmental consciousness. For more information and tickets. visit HERE.

Busking@Sentosa
Every Saturday & Sunday (Now until 29 Mar 2020)
Imbiah Lookout: 5pm - 7pm | Beach Station: 6pm - 8pm
Sentosa
FREE (Island admission applies)


Circus In Motion presents a series of contemporary circus acts Islandwide! The use of inventive live performances and geometrical shapes will enthral you in various ways. From the walking mirror man, roaming Monowheel LED twirler, magicians and more, one can never be prepared enough to be blown away!

Disney: Magic of Animation
Now until 29 Mar 2020
10am - 7pm
ArtScience Museum
Local Adult $15 | Local Concession $11 | Local 2A & 2C $41
Adult $18 | Concession $15 | Local 2A & 2C $50


Fall in love again with your favourite films and stories from Walt Disney Animation Studios! From Mickey Mouse to Anna and Elsa, uncover the magic behind almost a century of artistry and technological innovations that has brought to life our most beloved animated characters. Disney: Magic of Animation at ArtScience Museum also debuts original artworks from the highly anticipated Frozen 2, which will be on display before the release of the animated film in Singapore.

In keeping with ArtScience Museum’s ethos of presenting captivating interactive exhibitions, the show also includes projections, audio-visual displays and alluring exhibits that transport visitors into the world of Disney’s films using hands-on educational activities. Go behind-the-scenes at the Walt Disney Animation Studios and delve into a world of art and technology developed by the talented artists and production teams behind the films. For more information and tickets, visit HERE.

2219: Futures Imagined
Now until 5 Apr 2020; 10am - 7pm
ArtScience Museum
Singapore Residents: Adult: $16, Child: $12
Tourists: Adult: $19, Child: $14


Discover the possible futures of Singapore 200 years from now through a series of immersive installations, meditative spaces, films, paintings and sculptures. Inspired by the work of Singaporean writer and poet Alvin Pang, 2219: Futures Imagined marks this year’s Singapore Bicentennial by looking two centuries into the future.

While we cannot be entirely sure what is to come, each section of this exhibition hinges on the scientific certainty that changes in our climate will require us all to adapt. This massive global transformation will act as a backdrop, upon which Singapore’s daily life, communities, cultures and traditions will evolve and change.

I-Opener by Playeum
Now until 26 Apr 2020
Tues - Sun: 10am - 6pm (Closed on Mondays)
Playeum
$22 per child (1-12) | Accompanying adult: Free | Additional accompanying adult: $10


I-Opener features the aesthetic and sensory play-worlds co-created by individuals with various disabilities, and also without. It invites kids aged 1 to 12 to explore their senses through play and the arts.


As we all know, the senses - sight, touch and hearing all play an important role in a child’s discovery of the world as well as their social-emotional development. But more than that, this exhibition DIFFERS from Playeum's previous exhibitions in that instead of just introducing the art of play to kids, it allows kids to step into the world of those with special needs and experience the way how they interact, play and sense the world around them. Read my review HERE.

200: A Natural History
4 Jun 2019 - Jun 2020
Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum
Admission charges apply


As part of Singapore’s Bicentennial, LKCNHM reflects upon 200 significant natural history events in the island’s past. These interweaving, and sometimes quirky, threads of animals, plants, events, places and people have played an important role in shaping the country’s natural heritage. For more information, visit HERE.





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NEW & FREE! Interact with light art on the sand & watch light projections at Sentosa's Magical Shores show!

January 22, 2020, 5:38 am
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Media Invite

There's a new night attraction in town, and it's FREE for all!


Magical Shores at Sentosa is a multi-sensory experience that transforms Siloso Beach into an interactive light and sound spectacle come nightfall.


Starting from 23 Jan 2020, Magical Shores is Singapore's first interactive beach light art attraction and spans 400m across Siloso Beach.


From 7.30pm to 10.30pm every night, the showcase comes on in 15-minute cycles and features vivid light, sound and must effects.


Comprising of four acts, the show will bring two islets to life, which will be bathed in lights, dreamy fog and tranquil music. The trees on the islets will also come "alive" as a relaxing light and symphony completr the magical experience.


And remember I said it will be interactive too? Everyone can interact with light art on the sands, which are inspired by diverse elements ranging from water flow to marine creatures. Expect this to be a hit with the kids!


The four acts include:

NOCTURNAL AWAKENING


Experience the awakening of Siloso Beach with magical movements on the sand. Interactive art will be projected onto the beach at two areas where people will be able to interact with them.



ISLET WHISPERS


Marvel as a mysterious cloud of fog and lights emerge from the two islets, flowing over the waters and merging with the projections on the beach.

FORCE OF NATURE


Look to the islets as the trees come alive with a relaxing light and symphony accompaniment. Incredibly, the lights from the islets will change colours and intensity, as they track movements on the beach and reflect off the waters!

NEW PEAKS


In a spell-binding flourish of colour, multi-coloured projections will light up the night sky. New Peaks lasts three minutes, and take place every 15 minutes.


Do note that there are TWO main areas of Magical Shores along Siloso Beach - one is just in front of Ola Beach Bar and the other is near to the former Wave House Sentosa. In my opinion, the latter works better because the area is darker so the light projections stand out more.

Personally I love the location of the interactive light show - the beach is a nice place to head out to at night with the balmy winds.... plus it's a great place for the kids to run amok! 😂 AND IT'S FREE!


Useful Information

Magical Shores at Siloso
Siloso Beach, Sentosa
7.30pm - 10.30pm daily
FREE Admission (Island admission applies)
Website

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Explore Secret Bunkers & Discover Singapore's WWII History at Battle for Singapore 2020

February 2, 2020, 8:23 am
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8 February 1942 nightfall marked the moment when Japanese forces began the invasion of Singapore. By 15 February, it was all over when the British officially surrendered Singapore to the Japanese.

This year, Singapore will mark 78 years since its fall to the Japanese and as part of National Heritage Board’s (NHB) annual Battle for Singapore programme, members of the public will have the exclusive chance to explore lesser known sites and structures around Singapore that have links with the war.


From 8 to 29 February 2020, you can participate in a wide variety of WWII-related programmes. These include 74 guided tours offered by NHB comprising crowd-favourite tours to two lesser known WWII-related sites (i.e. Former Admiralty House and Former View Road Hospital), soapbox tours at National Museum of Singapore, and more.  You can also look forward to public talks on topics such as Prisoner-of-War art, the Nanyang Mechanics, as well as other offerings at participating MR museums such as tours at Former Ford Factory and in Sentosa, and storytelling sessions by wartime survivors and their relatives at Eurasian Heritage Gallery.

To sign up for Battle for Singapore 2020 programmes, visit www.museums.com.sg. Registration commences 3 February 2020, Monday, at 12 noon, and slots on the programmes will be allocated on a first-come first-served basis.

And trust me when I say that these tours will get snapped up VERY QUICKLY!

Here are some of the tours that I highly recommend:

Former View Road Hospital
Date: 8*, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23 February 2020
Time: 10am to 11.30am, 2pm to 3.30pm (*10am only)
Note: Tours are only open to participants 18 years old and above.


Construction of the main building and annex can be dated back to 1941. It started out as an unfinished building before the war and a completed one by 1945, research into the structures suggest that construction was started by the British before WWII, but subsequently completed and used by the Japanese as a naval base during the Japanese Occupation.




Thereafter, the State property at 10 View Road served as accommodation for the Naval Base Police Force from the 1950s to the early 1970. It was also known for its time as View Road Hospital, a branch of Woodbridge Hospital (now the Institute of Mental Health) until the early 2000s. In 2008, the building was converted into a foreign workers’ dormitory and renamed View Road Lodge. View Road Lodge ceased operations in 2011.



This tour of Former View Road Hospital will unveil more about what is thought of the building’s past dating to WWII and the Japanese defence of Singapore during the Japanese Occupation. And get this, you will get a chance to head down to a bunker too!


Apart from having thickened walls, there is little information available about the bomb-proof office though. But the bunker is HUGE!



You will also get a chance to climb to the fifth storey of the main building and visit the watchtower.


While little is known about the watchtower, it was likely used as a lookout point for occupants of the building during the Japanese Occupation of Singapore, given that it would have offered a commanding view of the northern parts of the island, including the former Singapore Naval Base and the Causeway.


The watchtower would have been useful given that the Japanese anticipated the British would attempt to recapture Singapore from the north (from Malaya) and the watchtower would have given them a vantage point to spot enemy movement coming from the north, and to direct artillery fire in the event of a British attempt to cross the Causeway into Singapore.


Transport will be provided for all participants to and from the Former View Road Hospital.


Former Admiralty House & Bunker
Date: 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23 February 2020
Time: 10am to 11.30am, 2pm to 3.30pm
Note: Tours are only open to participants who are 18 years old and above.


Surrounded by several ancillary buildings and facilities on a sprawling estate, the Former Admiralty House (now Canberra House) used to accommodate key military commanders based in Singapore. A house on a hill, Former Admiralty House follows a medieval tradition where the most important building is located on the highest elevated ground for defensive purposes and to overlook its surroundings as a reminder to others that they are being supervised. It bears testimony to the former Singapore Naval Base that was part of Britain’s attempt to fortify Singapore in preparation of a Japanese offensive in WWII.

The tour of Former Admiralty House and its surrounding features will reveal more about Singapore’s strategic position in WWII and the stories behind the building. Tour participants will even get to enter an underground bunker that dates back to WWII!


The underground bunker was discovered in 1990 by Mr Tan Seng Heng, the General Manager of Yishun Country Club. He discovered it when a wheel from an excavator suddenly sank into a cavity in the ground during the construction of a landscape garden in the area in front of the bunker.


The floor area of the underground bunker is about 30sqm and while there is limited information available on the use of the underground bunker, it was likely constructed and fitted for use by Japanese ranking officers stationed at Former Admiralty House during the Japanese Occupation.


There is a concrete squat toilet constructed in the underground bunker. During that period, such toilets were seldom built for British Naval officers and it was more likely constructed for use by the Japanese.


Transport will be provided from an MRT station located nearby to the Former Admiralty House and back.

WWII Japanese Administration in Singapore
Date: 16, 29 February 2020
Time: 4pm to 5pm

Have you ever wondered what life in the heart of the city was like during the Japanese Occupation? Join this tour to find out the WWII history of some of our beloved buildings in the Civic District and the different nodes of the Japanese administration that was set up in Singapore under the Japanese Occupation.

During this hour-long walk you will also be introduced to some of the figures who shaped the lives of Singaporeans during the war and learn how the Japanese planned to transform the city into a “nerve centre” of the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere.

The tour will start at Raffles Place MRT (Exit A), Ground Level (gathering point) and end at
the Civilian War Memorial.

Former Command House
Date: 8, 16 February 2020
Time: 1pm to 2pm

Hidden on a hill, this stately building is an important part of Singapore’s military history. Discover the stories behind the building, and the people who lived there through the different stages of Singapore’s history. Explore the unique architecture of this “Arts and Crafts” building and more on this exclusive tour to the Former Command House.

The tour will start at the Main Entrance of Former Command House, 17 Kheam Hock Road.


Tour of Changi Prison Entrance Gate, Wall and Turrets
Date: 15 February 2020
Time: 9am to 9.45am, 10am to 10.45am

The Changi Prison Entrance Gate, Wall and Turrets are an enduring symbol of the suffering and hardship felt by Prisoners-of-War during the Japanese Occupation. Hear stories of Singapore’s war-time experience and gain exclusive access to this monument on this special tour!

The tour will start at the main entrance of the Changi Prison Complex, 990 Upper Changi Road North.

Lest We Forget
Date: 22, 23 February 2020
Time: 4pm to 5.30pm

Throughout history, people have erected statues and sculptures in honour of men and women of valour, courage and sacrifice. Tall, impressive and often austere – what do these memorials stand for? Who, or what, are we meant to remember? Discover the symbolism in each memorial’s design as well as the hidden stories behind each sculpture and engraving. More importantly, learn about the heroes who sacrificed themselves for Singapore, lest we forget.

The tour will start at the Civilian War Memorial and end at the Lim Bo Seng War Memorial.

WWII Legacy Trail (Bukit Timah)
Date: 9, 23 February 2020
Time: 10.30am to 12pm

During WWII, Bukit Timah was a key target for the Japanese as the British supply depots, reservoirs and the strategic Bukit Timah Hill were all located in the area. This trail explores WWII-related sites and places that carry the memories and legacies of the Japanese Occupation in Bukit Timah. Stops include the Cheong Chin Nam Road Shophouses, Former Beauty World and the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.

The tour will start at Beauty World MRT Station (gathering point) and end at Former Ford Factory. 

WWII in Orchard
Date: 15, 29 February 2020
Time: 2pm to 4.30pm 

Have you ever wondered what Orchard Road looked like in times of war and conflict? This trail will take you to sites in Orchard Road that saw action both during the dark days of WWII and the turbulent decades after. This trail will allow you to discover the lesser-known face of Orchard Road by exploring how the legacies of Singapore’s most tumultuous years have been inscribed on sites including the grand MacDonald House and the iconic Cathay Building.

The tour will start at YMCA (gathering point) and end at the former Singapore Chinese Girls’ School campus on Emerald Hill.

“Discovering Singapore’s Best Kept Secrets” Battle for Singapore 2020 Edition
Date: 15, 22 February 2020
Time: 10am to 11.30am
Note: Tours are only open to participants 18 years old and above. 

Discover the history of the pavilion-style wards of the Former Communicable Disease Centre. Previously known as the Infectious Diseases Hospital and Middleton Hospital, the centre played a key role in the containment of highly contagious diseases. During the Japanese Occupation, the site was known as Densen Byoin, where sick people with infectious diseases such as typhoid were treated.

The tour will be at the Former Communicable Disease Centre, 72 Moulmein Road.

Botanic Gardens to Bukit Brown
Date: 15, 16 February 2020
Time: 8am to 11.30am

Participants will be taken on a walk through the heritage corridor from the Botanic Gardens to Bukit Brown cemetery. During the tour, the guides will share stories of WWII heroes and prominent personalities at heritage landmarks, including the Jacob Ballas Garden and old Raffles College. Participants will also get to explore the remnants and stories of the ‘kampong’ life that was once at Bukit Brown cemetery, and make a stopover at Former Command House along the route.

The tour will start at Botanic Gardens MRT Station, Ground Level and end at Bukit Brown.

Bukit Brown (Hills 1 and 3)
Date: 15 February 2020
Time: 9am to 11.30am

Bukit Brown remains the largest in situ grave site for WWII casualties in Singapore. This walk will cover the graves of community leader Lim Chong Pang and the harrowing sea journey undertaken to evacuate his family at the start of the War. It will also cover war heroes, such as Wong Chin Yoke and Tan Ean Kiam, who paid a heavy price for their resistance.

Bukit Brown (Hills 2 and 5)
Date: 16 February 2020
Time: 9am to 11.30am

Bukit Brown remains the largest in situ grave site for WWII casualties in Singapore. This walk will cover the graves of ordinary people and provide a glimpse of their stories. The tour will draw on stories from a book compiled and written by the community and will feature a stopover at the grave of war hero, Tay Koh Yat, who was instrumental in setting up a people’s voluntary civil defence force before the war and who was a key figure in gathering evidence for the war tribunal conducted after the war.

Adam Road
Date: 23 February 2020
Time: 9am to 11.30am

Venture into the exciting world of battlefield archaeology and learn more about the WWII Battle at Adam Park. Adam Park was the site of the last battle for Singapore and the place where the British succeeded in holding the line against the Japanese right up to the time of the surrender on 15 February 1942. After the surrender, the site was used as a Prisonersof-War camp.

Battle of Singapore Tours at Sentosa
Date: 8, 15 February 2020
Time: 3pm to 4.30pm
Venue: Fort Siloso (Meeting Point: Fort Siloso Skywalk Lift Lobby)

Date: 22 February 2020
Time: 10am to 11.30am
Venue: Fort Serapong (Meeting Point: Sentosa Cove Village Bus Stop)

Date: 22 February 2020
Time: 3pm to 4.30pm
Venue: Mount Imbiah Battery (Meeting Point: Imbiah Lookout Bus Stop)

Join Fort Siloso in a series of Battle for Singapore Tours at Sentosa. Sentosa played a vital role in the defense of Singapore and the tours will cover the strategies, plots, and follies that led to the Fall of Singapore in WWII. The tours will explore the remains of the 19th century British coastal artillery and fortifications and participants will be taken through the tunnels at Fort Siloso to the Surrender Chambers to witness the two surrender signings in the form of iconic waxworks. Visit HERE to register.


Visit www.museums.com.sg for more information.
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Viral Skullbreaker Challenge among Teens is so Dangerous it can break skulls & spines

February 12, 2020, 9:00 am
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Parents, take heed - there's a new trend going viral on TikTok and it is extremely dangerous and potentially lethal! Named the'Skullbreaker Challenge', the consequence is exactly as the name implies... you may end up with a broken skull or spine.


What is the Skullbreaker Challenge?

Also known as the "jump trip prank," the challenge involves three persons who stand in a line and jump. When the middle person's feet leave the ground, the people on the side kick their feet out from under them, often leading to the middle person falling backward and possibly smacking their back and/or head on the ground.

Source

It possibly originated from South America

The Skullbreaker challenge appears to have originated in South America, possibly Venezuela, and has since made its way to USA. There are no official numbers of kids who have gotten hurt but there have been news reports about teens getting seriously hurt.

It's dangerous and people have been getting hurt

Actually, one doesn't need official numbers to see how dangerous the act can be. A parent in Arizona shared a public Facebook post warning that her son had been injured when doing the challenge.



And more parents are posting warnings about the challenge online.


One school in USA has already issued a warning

A School in Missouri has also posting a warning regarding the challenge.



Are kids in Singapore doing it?

I'm not sure if it has arrived in Singapore yet so I'm doing this post to create awareness among the parents here. 

Do share it with fellow parents and especially your kids. Let them know how extremely dangerous AND potentially fatal the challenge can be. One can hit the tailbone and be paralysed for life... or worse, hit the head and die.

To put it simply, this is just plain dumb on so many levels because people could hurt themselves really bad. And that's not funny at all.

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UPDATE:TOUCH Cyber Wellness has shared some pretty good tips on how parents should engage their kids about this challenge:


You can read the orignal post HERE.

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Paul Immigrations Reviews: Increase your Chances of becoming a Singapore PR!

February 13, 2020, 6:14 pm
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Singapore has been my home for more than 40 years (yes, I'm that old!) and frankly, if I have the choice to choose my country of birth all over again, I will choose this country in a hearbeat... well, even though I wish for cooler temperatures at times! 😆

Because what is there not to love about Singapore? Of course, I wouldn't go as far to say it is the best country to live in the whole wide world but it sure offers the complete package when deciding on a place to call home. It is safe, clean, has excellent medical and transport infrastructure and most importantly, a great place to raise kids.


So if you are a foreigner reading my blog (hello!) and thinking of relocating to Singapore and applying to be a Permanent Resident (PR), this guide is for you!

Firstly, what are the benefits of becoming a Singapore PR?

Singapore PRs hold the key to benefits that are inaccessible to non-citizens.

Visa Flexibility
Once you become a PR, you can enter and exit the country without the need to apply for separate visas for work and travel purposes.

Education Priority
I think everyone knows about the strengths of a Singapore education so if you have kids, they are will be next in line on the priority list - behind citizens - to enter government schools.

Family Proximity
Keep your family unit close together with you as you will be able to apply for long-term visit passes for your parents.

More Job Opportunities
Increasingly, more companies here are committed to hiring only citizens and PRs. In addition, you can switch to a new job without the hassle of applying for a new work permit every single time.

CPF Benefits
PRs get to enjoy benefits of an account under the Central Provident Fund (CPF) scheme. Under the scheme, you and your employer will contribute a fixed monthly amount to your CPF retirement fund. These funds can also be used for buying a home in Singapore as well as healthcare and investment.

Property Ownership Perks
PRs can enjoy higher priority when taking housing loans to purchase property. Additionally, although only citizens are eligible to buy new HDB flats, PRs are eligible to buy second-hand HDB flats, which are still cheaper than the average private property here.

Singapore Citizenship
If you wish to own the red passport, you can be eligible to apply for citizenship in Singapore after a number of years of having PR status.

Great, so what is the process for PR application?

Submitting an application is super easy. They are managed by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority of Singapore (ICA) within the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). So all you have to do is to submit it via the e-service website.

Ok, so that is the easy part. The not-so-easy part comes BEFORE the submission. The part when you have to put together the documents required and basically, market yourself favorably so that your chances of securing a PR is high.

And that is what usually trips up first-time applicants.

For starters, the tedious paperwork coupled with a strict submission time frame is a huge obstacle. And for first-timers, they are usually unfamiliar with the process and may not be fully aware of all criteria required by ICA. But most importantly, they lack the critical knowledge on how to make their application stand out.

Even for re-applicants who have faced multiple times of rejection, the same problems remain. And to make matters worse, they are usually unaware of the reasons for their previous PR rejection!

How can I make the application process smoother and increase my chances?

Engage a reputable immigration consultancy firm to help fufill your dream.

Or specifically, Paul Immigrations.


Established in 2016, Paul Immigrations is an immigration consultancy firm based in Singapore with over 100 employees.  It specializes in the application of Singapore PR and thanks to the expertise and comprehensive knowledge of its consultants, they have maintained a high success rate over the years... boasting over 15,000 satisfied clients!


Paul Immigrations Reviews: The Process

I headed down to its office at Suntec City and the first thing that struck me was how huge the office is! And it was super bustling, with all of its consultation rooms filled with clients.


But more importantly, I got a better understanding about the PR Application Process:

Step 1: Interview via Telephone Call
A consultant will conduct the first round of interviews with the prospective client to ascertain if they are eligible to apply for Permanent Resident (PR) status via a telephone call.

At this stage, the consultant will conduct an interview to find out your:
● Type of work pass (i.e. S Pass, Employment Pass, Personalized Employment
Pass)
● Family ties with any S’pore Citizens or Permanent Residents
● Pending applications with the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority
(ICA)

Thereafter, the consultant will conduct a profile assessment, based on a number of factors, including:
● Age
● Length of stay in S'pore
● Salary

Step 2: In-Person Appointment
After the first round of interview, the consultant will schedule an in-person appointment with them to confirm that they are holding the correct work pass, as stated during the telephone interview (The physical work pass is required for verification during the appointment).

After that, the consultant will proceed to review your profile, based on the profile assessment conducted by phone. This is to gauge your likelihood of a successful PR application. Based on the profile, they will go through with you the factors that will affect their PR approval. These factors include:
● Your profile assessment like education qualifications, industries you work in,
and if you have admirable merits and more.
● How difficult it is to attain approval when applying for PR

Upon which, you can decide if you will like to engage their service to improve their chances of getting an approval.

Step 3: Request for Documents from You
After reviewing your eligibility, you will be requested to submit their documents to the immigration specialist. After compiling the documents, they will advise you if your documents satisfy the listed PR criteria and requirements as stated by ICA.


Step 4: Completing the Rest of the Paperwork 
The specialist will complete the form based on the information extracted from your documents. In addition, their in-house writer will craft a personalized cover letter based on the questionnaire that was previously given to you as well as the application form. The purpose of the cover letter is to emphasize your commitment to the local community and the Singaporean society as a whole.

Step 5: Submitting the PR Application
After every aspect of your PR application is completed, the specialist will proceed with the online submission of the application.

Step 6: Outcome
ICA takes about four to six months to assess each PR application. Depending on the outcome of
your application (i.e. whether it is approved or rejected), the specialist will guide them on the next best course of action to take.


Truly a fuss-free and throughout the application process, you can be assured to be guided every step of the way.

But don't just take it from me... read these testimonials of these individuals who were successful in their PR application!


Arumugam S, 48, India, Quality Assurance Manager:
"Paul Immigrations has professional experience in guiding families for successful Singapore PR applications. I did try several times in the last 10 years but was not successful. I went to Paul Immigrations last time and me & my family get PR application approved. Thank you very much to Paul Immigrations for the professional service."


Zhang Hao, 43, China, Researcher:
"Thank you, Paul Immigrations, for helping my family to have successfully obtain our Singapore PR approval the first time we apply. The staff at Paul Immigrations has a very good attitude and ardently help us in PR application process preparation. The staff patiently help us to solve the problems we face; thus, our whole family is grateful that our PR got approved within 6 months. With the approval, it solved the problem of our child’s education issue and enable our family to live in Singapore more conveniently."

So how can I contact Paul Immigrations?

GREAT NEWS! You can assess your Singapore PR eligibility on its website now - it's FREE and totally NON-OBLIGATORY. Click HEREto see if you are eligible!

Or you can give them a call at +65 6206 6390 or visit its office at Suntec Tower Two, 9 Temasek Boulevard, #13-01/02/03, S(038989) between 9am and 6pm from Mondays to Fridays. Do note that it is strictly by appointment only.


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FREE Admission to Canopy Park at Jewel Changi Airport til 31 Mar for Everyone!

February 27, 2020, 5:59 am
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Located on the top level of Jewel Changi Airport (Level 5), the Canopy Park at Jewel Changi Airport opened last year with nine play attractions like the Sky Nets, thrilling Discovery Slides and creative gardens full of lush greenery all around. Only thing is, the attractions are all ticketed, starting from $4.50 per person.

BUT GREAT NEWS! From 27 Feb to 31 Mar 2020, everyone gets to enjoy FREE admissions to Canopy Park and get a glimpse of Cherry Blossoms!


For other attractions like the walking and bouncy nets, you get 50% OFF with any Jewel receipt. This includes the Changi Experience Studio and the receipt can be of ANY AMOUNT spent in Jewel.

Admission to Canopy Park includes the following attractions:

1) Discovery Slides*,
*Minimum height requirement is 110cm and child below the height of 140cm must be accompanied by an adult.


2) Foggy Bowls,


3) Petal Gardens, and


4) Topiary Walk


 50% OFF tickets apply to the following attractions:

1) Canopy Bridge
2) Hedge Maze
3) Mirror Maze
4) Manulife Sky Nets – Bouncing*
5) Manulife Sky Nets – Walking*
6) Changi Experience Studio

*Minimum height requirement is 110cm and child below the height of 140cm must be accompanied by an adult.

Read my Canopy Park Review HERE and Changi Experience Studio Review HERE.



Terms and Conditions for 50% OFF Attractions Tickets

· Promotion is valid from 27 February to 31 March 2020, unless otherwise stated.

· Admission to all Attractions (excluding Canopy Park) is from 10:00am – 10:00pm daily.

· Children below the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

· Purchase of the discounted attractions tickets is valid for Jewel receipt with any spend from any outlet, capped at 10 attractions tickets per Jewel receipt regardless of amount spent.

· This promotion applies for purchase of both ala carte attraction tickets and bundle packages.

· Purchase of attractions tickets through this promotion must be made on the same day of receipt.

· Transactions are final and non-refundable.

· Purchases can be made via Jewel Digital Kiosks (beside Arteastiq), Jewel Website and Jewel Ticketing Counter on Level 5.

· Purchase of attractions tickets at Ticketing Counter is available from 10:00am – 10:00pm daily.

· All receipt(s) must be presented at the Jewel Ticketing Counter for verification purpose.

· Duplicate receipts will not be accepted for redemption.

· Respective attractions’ terms and operation hours apply and may vary, kindly check the specific product page on Jewel website before redemption.

*Please click here for the full list of Terms and Conditions
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Adopt a FFL Share-the-Care Basket & involve our kids in showing appreciation to our unsung heroes

March 3, 2020, 12:35 am
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With the impact of Covid-19 - and its escalation around the world as I type this - it is perhaps inevitable that families have been spending more time at home.

And if you have kids like I do, then you will understand when I say staying cooped up at home with them can sometimes drive me up the wall... and age a few years at the same time. 😅 But hey, let's all look on the bright side because as with all situations, there are teachable moments we can share with our kids too.

Which why Families for Life (FFL) kick-started t the FFL movement last Sunday with the “Share-the-Care” launch which supports the nation-wide movement #SGUNITED and aims to encourage families to bond and look beyond themselves to encourage and appreciate our community’s unsung heroes and their families during this period.


For starters, together with People’s Association (PA), Dads for Life (DFL), Mums for Life (MFL) and the National Library Board (NLB), FFL has put together the FFL “Share-the-Care” basket which comprises of games and craft activities that families can do together at home.


Together with other families, we helped to pack close to 100 baskets at Jurong Spring last Sunday morning.





The “Share-the-Care” basket contains the following games and craft activities for family bonding:

- Families for Life (FFL)– FFL Council Chairman’s note to families, DIY materials for the red ribbon badge of appreciation, traditional games (five stones, paper ball)

- MSF Baby Bonus Parenting Resources – Fingerprinting kit, reading and rhyme cards

- Dads for Life– “Knowing Me, Knowing You” family card game, A note to Fathers and Mothers

- People’s Association– Playdate kit, containing 7 family games and activities

- National Library Board - Reading interest profiling toolkit for parent-child bonding


More importantly, it includes a very important item. See the text highlighted in red above?

The basket contains materials for families to make a simple Share-the-Care Red Ribbon Badge of Appreciation, which families can give personally to everyday unsung heroes in their community to show their appreciation.


These include those who keep our community clean and safe or those who help us go about our lives normally such as the cleaners in our estates, bus drivers, school bus drivers and so forth. You can even let your kids bring it to school and have them show their appreciation for the school's canteen aunty or uncle, and school cleaners!



In fact, you don't even need to have the basket to make your own Red Ribbon Badge of Appreciation. All you need is to get some red ribbons from either Popular bookstore or any craft store and you can make the badges with your kids! Here are the instructions:


You can download the badge template below and print it out:


So if you wish to adopt an FFL Share-the-Care basket and pay it forward to our unsung community heroes, all you have to do it is to indicate your interest HERE.


Even though the basket is FREE to adopt, please note that each household is entitled to one basket on a first come, first served basis. As of now, there are 1,000 baskets to be given away... while stocks last! Do like Families for Life's Facebook page so that you are kept updated of the details.


And if you are one of the lucky recipients of the basket, you can even consider paying it forward by by filling it with your own care items and gift it to everyday unsung heroes in the community, or to families who may need them!


Personally, I feel it is a meaningful platform for parents to lead by example for our kids. We all know how kids tend to mimic our actions rather than listening to us. The FFL Share-the-Care basket allows us parents to impart to our kids a heart of gratitude for others who had worked tirelessly behind the scenes to keep Singapore moving.

All with a simple act of appreciation with the red ribbon badge.

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YOTELAIR Singapore Changi Airport's Family Rooms are great for staycations!

March 7, 2020, 7:37 pm
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There's always something relaxing about a staycation - it's obvious that there isn't a need to bring along the passports and oversized luggage but it gives a chance to explore certain parts of Singapore while still feeling the vacation vibes.

And there's no better place to feel that than at YOTELAIR which is located at Jewel Changi Airport.


Located on the 4th floor of Jewel Changi Airport (near Lift H), YOTELAIR Changi is right where all the shopping and eating action is - which means non-flying visitors can also book a staycation and eat, shop, play non-stop at the numerous stores at Jewel.... and then head back to the hotel for a much-needed rest.

And we did just that with the monkies'grandparents at the end of last year.


Once we headed past the entrance, we arrived at YOTELAIR’s lobby, or better known as “mission control". You see, YOTEL's branding is modelled after the 'flying' experience so even the hotel staff are known as cabin crew.



The lobby was very spacious with ample seating all around. But what impressed me most was the check-in process.


Right in the middle of the lobby is the check-in kiosk where guests (or is that passengers?) will be able to use one of the several check-in counters to perform a self-check-in.

All I had to do was to enter my booking details, self-scan my NRIC and I got my room keys just like that. Everything under 5 minutes... super efficient!


And then it was all about the chilling in our room, I mean cabin. 😁


YOTELAIR Changi has a total of 130 cabins which are spread over two floors. The cabins come in two types: Premium Queens which are 110 square feet and sleep two adults and Family Rooms which are 226 square feet and sleep four adults.

If you are big on hotel room space then the Premium Queen cabin probably isn't for you. It is not exactly the tiniest of hotel rooms around, but it IS cosy with a queen-sized bed which can be put into either a flat or reclined mode at the touch of a button.


There is also a fold-out table and a foldable stool as well as shelves with plug and USB outlets. That's about it, really. No cupboards, no fridge, no safe - all kept to a bare minimum. What surprised me though was the bathroom, which was rather spcious compared to the entire room.

But if you are planning on bringing along the kids, then my suggestion is to go with the Family Room which comes with a queen-sized bed and a bunk bed. This room sleeps 4 persons in total.


YOTELAIR Changi's rooms has some mood lighting going on; I guess it is keeping in theme with the 'aírplane'experience. Some may like it, some won't but don't worry, you can turn it off and have the normal lighting instead.


Lighting aside, I love the Family Room simple because of its space. The floor area is more than DOUBLE of the standard Queen room and it really feels like a proper hotel room with ample space, spacious bathroom and extra sleeping arrangements to easily fit a family of four... or five if you have young kids.


No prizes for guessing where the boys chose to sleep for the night!


The other spot that I love at YOTELAIR Changi is its lounge, which is located just beside the lobby. Other than being the place where breakfast is served, the lounge offers fantastic views of the Rain Vortex at Jewel.


Oh, and there is free flow of coffee and tea at the lounge for guests too.

Come nightfall, there is also the hourly light and sound shows at the Rain Vortex which guests can watch from the comfort of the lounge without jostling with the crowds!


Of course, it isn't a staycation if we didn't play tourists for the day too. It was the first time my parents were visiting Jewel Changi Airport so I took the opportunity to bring them around.


We visited the Canopy Park too... which by the way, is offering FREE entry to everyone from now until 31 March 2020! (More details HERE)



The other great thing about staying at YOTELAIR Changi? We got to try some of the food that were notoriously famous for its long queues. Like Shake Shack's burgers!


Because we were staying in the hotel, we head down to the store at later hours and there wasn't any queue at all! Staycation FTW! 🤣

Depending on the room package you choose, you can opt for breakfast to be included as well. But I wouldn't recommend that because when we were there, the breakfast choices comprised only of plain bread and pastries. It is definitely not your standard hotel buffet breakfast so I think you will be better off heading to the many cafes at Jewel for breakfast.

*A note though, we stayed at November 2019 so the breakfast may have improved now.


And when it was time to leave, checking out was again a breeze. In fact, it was so easy that Ale took charge of everything! 😆


I think we thoroughly enjoyed our 1-night staycation at YOTELAIR Changi. Yes, the rooms (or cabins) may be smaller than what we are used to but they are functional and cosy. In fact, I liken the rooms to be like a first class airplane suite which offers a different experience compared to the standard hotel rooms.

Location-wise, it is excellent thanks to it being located within Jewel Changi Airport. You can walk, eat and shop all day long... and even hop onto the Skytrain to visit T1, T2 and T3 before heading back to the room to chill the rest of the time away.


Room rates start from S$140++ for the Premium Queen Cabins and S$260++ for the Family Rooms. Sign up as a YOTEL member to enjoy a further 10% discount! For more details and to book directly, visit HERE.
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25 March School Holidays 2020 Activities for Kids (Singapore)

March 9, 2020, 8:30 am
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Of all the school holidays activities listing I have done over the past years, this year's March School Holidays activities for kids listing has got to be the shortest one... no thanks to COVID-19. 😥 A lot of attractions, malls and event companies have cancelled or postponed various shows and events but nevertheless, we still have a healthy listing of actvities to keep the kids occupied for the 9-day holiday period.


Of course, be socially responsible and stay home if any of your family member is unwell. HAVE FUN with the kiddos but more importantly, stay safe and healthy!


Trolls World Tour
13 - 29 Mar 2020
Changi Airport T3
FREE


Trolls World Tour Boom Box
Terminal 3, Basement 2 Event Area (Opposite Kopitiam)
Enter into the psychedelic world of Trolls and take instagrammable shots with icons and characters from the Trolls World Tour Boom Box photo opportunity.

Poppy's Hot Air Balloon
Terminal 3, Departure Hall (Near Linkbridge to JEWEL)
Immerse yourself and take plenty of pictures with the iconic and larger-than-life hot air balloon replica from Trolls World Tour movie! Entry is free for all visitors.

Trolls World Tour Character Photo Spots
Terminal 3 Basement 2, ST3PS
Get to know the Trolls characters and take a fun shot with the Trolls World Tour 2D characters at ST3PS! What's more, catch Trolls Movie 1 at ST3PS from 13 to 29 March!

Inspire: Celebrating the Joy of Numbers
14 - 20 Mar 2020; 10.30am - 5.30pm
Science Centre Singapore, Hall A
Admission charges apply


Join in for an immersive celebration of Pi Day and numbers, filled with enriching activities for you to experience the exhilarating discovery of numbers all around you!

Pi Hunt
Using the properties of a circle, do you think you can get Pi=3.141592...? Explore the Science Centre galleries in search for Pi and put your calculation skills to the test!

Human Calculator
Are you confident of calculating without the use of a calculator? Challenge your ability for mental calculations and pick up some cool tips and tricks!

Beads of Pi
Make and take home your very own Pi symbol fashioned out of colourful iron-on beads. Only taking place on Pi Day itself (14 Mar) and for a minimum contribution of $1!

Kid's Cruise - Pirates Ahoy!
14 - 22 Mar 2020; 11.30am
Royal Albatross in Resorts World Sentosa
From $193


School’s out! It’s time to go exploring on board a real pirate ship straight right out of the movies! The Royal Albatross is one of less than 100 traditionally rigged tall-ships in the world. For the first time ever,  it is opening up the Royal Albatross to young explorers, plus the opportunity to meet an actual ship’s captain, play games, learn the ropes and understand how it is to be living as Pirates is like during the golden age of discovery! For tickets, visit HERE.

Croc & Friends
15 Mar 2020; 9am - 11am
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Wetland Centre (Neo Tiew Entrance)
FREE

Learn about the Estuarine Crocodiles and their friends at Sungei Buloh’s Main Bridge! Drop by and have a chat with Nparks' volunteer, Bernard, to learn fascinating information about the crocodiles and their friends – such as their characteristics and behaviour, and observe them as they go about their daily business. Do bring along your binoculars, scope or a camera with a good zoom if you have them. Registration not required.

Spring Kids Festival
15 Mar 2020; 11am - 7pm
195 Pearl's Hill Terrace
$10


A festival for the families, pets and friends, everybody is welcome to the Latin American Cultural Centre. Enjoy our program that is full of surprises! For more details, visit HERE.

Evergreen Serenades at the Gardens
15 Mar 2020; 6pm - 7pm
Singapore Botanic Gardens, Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage
FREE

OBOG Wind Symphony brings to you an evening of familiar earworms and songs for everyone - across age groups, generations, race and language. Be ready to hum and sing along to evergreen classics and tap your feet to upbeat pop songs. Look forward to their singers Ms. Tay Ke Wei and Mr. Jeremy Lee as they work with the band to deliver classic hits. It will be a perfect opportunity to gather with family and friends to enjoy a relaxing evening at the gardens while OBOG Wind Symphony and their singers serenade you!

Symphony in the Gardens
15 Mar 2020; 6.30pm - 7.30pm
The Meadow
FREE


Enjoy an SSO performance at twilight in the beautiful setting of Gardens by the Bay. As the sun sets, Darrell Ang conducts a programme of well-known music by Brahms, Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Prokofiev and Lully. Why not bring a picnic to enjoy along with the music? And what’s more, your pets are welcome to join us as well!

Tour of Gallop Extension
21 Mar 2020; 9am - 9,45am
Singapore Botanic Gardens, Gallop Extension
FREE (Registration required)

Join in for a 45 minute guided walk through the Gallop Extension of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Visit the OCBC Arboretum and a section of the Mingxin Foundation Rambler’s Ridge. The tour begins at the Visitor Centre at Gallop, and will take you through the OCBC Arboretum, viewing the dipterocarp collection. You will also experience the Mingxin Foundation Rambler’s Ridge, which showcases various pitcher plants and ant plants. Registration is required 15 minutes prior on a first-come-first-served basis at Visitor Services @ Gallop. The tour is approximately 30-45 minutes. Maximum participant at 20 pax, recommended for ages 6 and above.

Ecolife at Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park
21 Mar 2020; 9am - 11am
Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, Promenade
FREE (Pre-registration required)

This family tour introduces Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park and its biodiversity through the use of interactive exploration themes and activities. Have fun working together to answer worksheets, conduct surveys and photo hunts, among other activities. To register, visit HERE.

Concerts for Children: Journey Around the World
21 & 22 Mar 2020; 2pm & 4pm
Victoria Concert Hall
$25, $32


Join conductor and host Jessica Gethin on a Journey Around the World with the orchestra. As the audience, you will explore soundscapes of music from across the globe. Who knows what will come first! This interactive show celebrates the beauty of cultural diversity, uniting people through the language of music. For tickets, visit HERE.

Taman Soka by NUS Singa Nglaras Gamelan Ensemble
22 Mar 2020; 5.30pm - 7pm
Singapore Botanic Gardens, Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage
FREE

Taman Soka takes its name from the heavenly garden constructed by Ravana in the Ramayana to house Sita after capturing her. Singa Nglaras means “relaxing lion” (the word “nglaras” means both to “relax” and “to harmonize, tune”). Founded in 2004 by Dr Jan Mrazek of the Department of Southeast Asian Studies at the National University of Singapore (NUS), the ensemble have been bringing together musicians and enthusiasts of Javanese gamelan through public performances. Come and join us in this concert as they bring you through the classics of Javanese gamelan with a thematic melody that features the flowers, gardens, and the natural world.

World Water Day Trail at Jurong Lake
22 Mar 2020; 3.30pm - 6.30pm
Jurong Lake Gardens
Adult $22 | Child $12


World Water Day, held on 22 March every year since 1993, is an annual United Nations Observance focusing on the importance of freshwater. Join this discovery trail around Jurong Lake Gardens to explore its flora and fauna with sensory invitations, know more about our Singapore's Water Story, how social behaviors can impact our waterways as well as the actions we can take to fight climate change and ways to protect our natural resources. We will learn and share through interactive activities suitable for all ages, closing with drinking blue coloured tea at sunset to support #GoBlue4SG, a movement to support water cause! For tickets, visit HERE.

National Orchid Garden School Holidays FREE Admission
Now until 22 Mar 2020; 8.30am - 6pm
National Orchid Garden
FREE


Enjoy free admission to National Orchid Garden from 7-22 March for students, Singaporeans, Permanent Residents, Work Permit Holders.

- Students are required to present valid student cards.
- Singaporeans, Permanent Residents, Work Permit Holders and Dependant Pass Holders are required to present their ID cards or relevant documentation.
- Not applicable to tour groups, tickets purchased in advance and other promotions.

#FUTURETOGETHER
Now until 22 Mar 2020
OUTDOOR EXHIBITS: 7pm - 12am | Dragonfly Lake & Bayfront Plaza | FREE
INDOOR EXHIBITS: 9am - 9pm | Bayfront Pavilion (Bayfront Plaza) | FREE for Singaporeans & $10 for others
Gardens by the Bay


Come experience the interactive art that art collective teamLab is renowned for! Take a peek into the #futuretogether – an immersive art exhibition jointly presented by Gardens by the Bay and GIC, with art by art collective teamLab, in support of the Singapore Bicentennial. Featuring seven digital art installations spanning across both the indoor and outdoor spaces of Bayfront Plaza, these exhibits encompass three themes – Aspirations, Connectivity, and Possibilities. Head HERE for more information and tickets.

Total Defence Special Exhibition 2020
Now until 22 Mar 2020
9am - 6pm (Closed on Mondays except Public & School Term Holidays)
Singapore Discovery Centre
FREE for Singaporeans & PRs


What can we as Singaporeans do to defend against evolving threats? Head to Singapore Discovery Centre (SDC) to explore how you can be better prepared to deal with these challenges to contribute to the whole-of-nation effort in ensuring Singapore’s survival. Curated by SDC in commemoration of Total Defence Day 2020, the Special Exhibition “Will You Do You?” is set against the current geopolitical backdrop and casts a spotlight on issues like digital threats, climate changes and trade wars that bear an impact on Singapore.

Arts in Your Neighbourhood
Now until 29 Mar 2020
Various timings and locations
FREE


Arts in Your Neighbourhood (AYN) March 2020 will focus on the vibrant neighbourhood of Bukit Panjang. This year’s AYN March features 40 family-friendly events and close to half of them are inspired by Bukit Panjang – its landscape as well as stories of the town and its people. These include recorded sounds from residents crafted into podcasts, as well as site-specific performances, which foster a greater sense of community and belonging through the arts.

AYN’s programmes will take place in eight locations around Bukit Panjang, including lesser-known spots in the neighbourhood such as the Pang Sua Pond and Bukit Panjang Khek Community Guild Building. With some of the activities taking place at unconventional locations, residents and the wider public are encouraged to rediscover Bukit Panjang through the arts and form shared memories and social bonds rooted in their neighbourhood. For more details on various programmes, visit HERE.

Sakura Matsuri – Tale of the Peach Boy
Now until 29 Mar 2020; 9am - 9pm daily
Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay
Admission charges apply


Admire the fleeting beauty of sakura centrepieces in kumiko planters and immerse yourself in traditional Japanese architecture at the Gassho village set amidst over 20 varieties of cherry blossom trees. Under the canopy of peach blossoms, you will find yourself reliving the tale of the peach boy through chibi-style illustrations of the classic Momotaro folklore! For more details on activities, visit HERE.

Busking@Sentosa
Every Saturday & Sunday (Now until 29 Mar 2020)
Imbiah Lookout: 5pm - 7pm | Beach Station: 6pm - 8pm
Sentosa
FREE (Island admission applies)


Circus In Motion presents a series of contemporary circus acts Islandwide! The use of inventive live performances and geometrical shapes will enthral you in various ways. From the walking mirror man, roaming Monowheel LED twirler, magicians and more, one can never be prepared enough to be blown away!

Disney: Magic of Animation
Now until 29 Mar 2020
10am - 7pm
ArtScience Museum
Local Adult $15 | Local Concession $11 | Local 2A & 2C $41
Adult $18 | Concession $15 | Local 2A & 2C $50


Fall in love again with your favourite films and stories from Walt Disney Animation Studios! From Mickey Mouse to Anna and Elsa, uncover the magic behind almost a century of artistry and technological innovations that has brought to life our most beloved animated characters. Disney: Magic of Animation at ArtScience Museum also debuts original artworks from the highly anticipated Frozen 2, which will be on display before the release of the animated film in Singapore.

In keeping with ArtScience Museum’s ethos of presenting captivating interactive exhibitions, the show also includes projections, audio-visual displays and alluring exhibits that transport visitors into the world of Disney’s films using hands-on educational activities. Go behind-the-scenes at the Walt Disney Animation Studios and delve into a world of art and technology developed by the talented artists and production teams behind the films. For more information and tickets, visit HERE.

School Holiday Sports Programmes - March 2020
Various sports and locations by ActiveSG


The school holidays are here again! Join ActiveSG's programmes to keep active, be happy and be sporty! Definitely a fun way to relax before school bell starts ringing again. Check out the list of sporting activities HERE.

2219: Futures Imagined
Now until 5 Apr 2020; 10am - 7pm
ArtScience Museum
Singapore Residents: Adult: $16, Child: $12
Tourists: Adult: $19, Child: $14


Discover the possible futures of Singapore 200 years from now through a series of immersive installations, meditative spaces, films, paintings and sculptures. Inspired by the work of Singaporean writer and poet Alvin Pang, 2219: Futures Imagined marks this year’s Singapore Bicentennial by looking two centuries into the future.

While we cannot be entirely sure what is to come, each section of this exhibition hinges on the scientific certainty that changes in our climate will require us all to adapt. This massive global transformation will act as a backdrop, upon which Singapore’s daily life, communities, cultures and traditions will evolve and change.

Fly High
Now until 11 Apr 2020; Various Timings
KC Arts Centre - Home of SRT
From $29


Poppy and Mo both dream of flying. When they meet each other in the park they soon become friends and decide to embark on a crazy ambition of building their very own flying machine. Physical theatre, comedy, original songs, and puppetry create a whirlwind tour through the basics of aerodynamics and friendship. For tickets, visit HERE.

I-Opener by Playeum
Now until 26 Apr 2020
Tues - Sun: 10am - 6pm (Closed on Mondays)
Playeum
$22 per child (1-12) | Accompanying adult: Free | Additional accompanying adult: $10


I-Opener features the aesthetic and sensory play-worlds co-created by individuals with various disabilities, and also without. It invites kids aged 1 to 12 to explore their senses through play and the arts.


As we all know, the senses - sight, touch and hearing all play an important role in a child’s discovery of the world as well as their social-emotional development. But more than that, this exhibition DIFFERS from Playeum's previous exhibitions in that instead of just introducing the art of play to kids, it allows kids to step into the world of those with special needs and experience the way how they interact, play and sense the world around them. Read my review HERE.

Chatuchak Night Market Singapore
Now until 3 May 2020
4.30pm - 10.30pm (Closed on Mondays)
The Grandstand South Carpark
FREE Admission


Finally, the first Chatuchak market outside Thailand is here - in Singapore! Authentic Thai food, handicrafts and souvenirs, mixed with global tastes mean something for everyone. Eat, shop, pamper, play with family and friends in the iconic Grandstand Bukit Timah. Expect loads of fun, a warm welcome, and an authentic Thai experience in Singapore - not for a weekend or two, but 3 months of fun!

200: A Natural History
4 Jun 2019 - Jun 2020
Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum
Admission charges apply


As part of Singapore’s Bicentennial, LKCNHM reflects upon 200 significant natural history events in the island’s past. These interweaving, and sometimes quirky, threads of animals, plants, events, places and people have played an important role in shaping the country’s natural heritage. For more information, visit HERE.
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LEGOLAND Malaysia is giving away 1 FREE Adult ticket with purchase of 1 Child ticket!

March 9, 2020, 10:11 pm
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If you have been wanting to visit LEGOLAND Malaysia, now's a great time to buy the tickets because they are giving 1 FREE Adult Ticket for every purchase of 1 Child Ticket!


You can choose from four combo packages - either the 1-Day Combo ticket to the Theme Park and SEA LIFE or Theme Park, Water Park and SEA LIFE, or you can go for the 2-Day Combo ticket to the Theme Park and SEA LIFE or Theme Park, Water Park and SEA LIFE.


The cheapest combo starts from RM210 which is approximately SGD70 for TWO PERSONS!

You have to choose the date of admission when purchasing the ticket and do note that there is strictly no change of date, cancellation and refund allowed.

I did a check on the booking website and saw that the latest date you can enter the park to enjoy the promotion is on 28 February 2021. So you can probably plan a visit during the later half of this year!

You have to be quick though as the promotion ends at 11:59am of 13 March 2020 (Friday).

To book, visit HERE.
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1-for-1 tickets to Singapore Zoo, River Safari, Night Safari & Jurong Bird Park this March School Holidays!

March 10, 2020, 1:30 pm
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This March school holidays, it's time to pay the animals a visit because Wildlife Reserves Singapore is offering 1-for-1 admission to the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Safari and Jurong Bird Park from 13 to 22 March 2020!


In addition to the 1-for-1 admission, visitors will receive a $2 retail voucher with every ticket purchased online or onsite.





Promotion is applicable for local residents only.

Valid with every purchase of full priced ticket for same park and same day admission from 13 – 22 March 2020.

Terms and conditions apply.

VISIT HERE to buy your tickets.
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YOTEL Singapore is Orchard's most value-for-money staycation + A 3D2N GIVEAWAY!

March 10, 2020, 3:06 pm
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Opened in Oct 2017, YOTEL Singapore at Orchard was the first YOTEL to open in Asia and because a staycation need not be expensive, YOTEL Singapore has redefined just that by being one of the most affordable hotels in Orchard Road area.


Sharing the same location as International Building, the hotel is just beside Shaw Centre and Lido Theatres, making it just steps away from ION Orchard, Wisma Atria, Wheelock Place, Takashimaya, TANGS and yes, even Orchard MRT. In short, its location is fantastic!


HOTEL LOBBY & CHECK-IN

YOTEL is inspired by first-class air travel which means the clever usage of space with minimalist clean designs occupy the entire hotel.


Oh, do you see the two robots in the above photo? They are Yolanda and Yoshi, serviced robots which can be called into action with a phone call from your hotel room to deliver simple items like bottles of water or a set of towels. Pity they were off-shift (read: under maintenance) when we were there so we could not test their services.

What we did test out was the speed at which our check-in was completed. If you had read my previous post on YOTEL Changi Airport at Jewel, it is exactly the same check-in process.


Once again, all I had to do was to enter my booking details, self-scan my NRIC and I got my room keys just like that. Everything still under 5 minutes! I can't tell you how convenient that is, especially for families with young kids who always seem to get super restless while waiting to check in at a hotel. Yes, been there done that. 😅

ROOMS

And we were in our rooms or rather cabins, in a jiffy.


Just like the cabins at YOTEL Changi Airport, the cabins here also come with the hotel chain's signature adjustable bed which can be reclined like a sofa and lay fully flat at night during bedtime - all at the touch of a button.


But that's where the similarities end because for starters, the room area is considerably larger than that at YOTEL Changi Airport. Our Premium Queen with View cabin certainly doesn't feel as claustrophobic and there is ample walking space.

Best of all, the cabin comes with full length glass windows and a view!


A thing to note though, the bath and toilet area is located right next to the windows, which means you have to roll down the blinds every time you wish to use the bathroom. Hmmm...

So yes, I feel a little conflicted. The windows with the view is a great touch but because there is a frosted glass partition and door separating the bathroom from the rest of the room, one doesn't get as much natural light streaming into the room in the day time.


But I still love the cabin overall because I'm amazed how the furnishings are designed to fully maximize the available space. There are hidden panels which stores the ironing board and even an umbrella, extra hangers which can be 'pushed' out of the walls and extra desk space made by pulling down a panel from below the television. Even the bedside table managed to fit plenty of features into a tiny space - a pull-out table, a foldable chair, a safe and even a mini fridge!

Bringing along the kids? Then you have to opt for the Premium Queen with Bunk!


It's basically the same room as the Premium Queen cabin but it comes with an additional bunk bed above the Queen bed. And it will always be a hit with the kids, I say! 😁


But enough of chilling in our cabins... it was time to explore YOTEL Orchard's premises!

AMENITIES


Just like any other hotel, YOTEL Orchard has a restaurant, bar, gym and swimming pool. Yes, that last bit always works for the monkies. 🤣


We had earlier walked around ION Orchard, went to Daiso and bought two foam noodles for $2 each at a whim. And who knew how much fun these two cheap long tubes would bring??? 😂😂😂



And did I mention that the pool area is highly Instagram-worthy too? Heh.


Komyuniti is the hotel's in-house restaurant which serves all-day dining, and this is also where you will have your buffet breakfast as well.


The selection is pretty decent; not too may choices but sufficient.


Besides the usual staple of sausages, scrambled eggs, bacon, baked beans, there are also fried beehoon, nasi lemak, and congee dishes. And for egg fans, there is an egg station too.


HERE'S A TIP: If you book DIRECT with YOTEL Orchard, you get FREE buffet breakfast as part of the booking! Can't argue with that, no? 


ROOM COST

The room rate for a Premium Queen cabin starts from $144++ while the rate is $160++ for the Premium Queen with Bunk for YOTEL members. The membership is free to sign up by the way.

That said, it will not be surprising that the hotel will run certain promotions now and then. In fact, I checked the rates for the March school holidays weekends and the rates are $137.70++ for the Premium Queen cabin and $153.90++ for the Premium Queen with Bunk cabin! All with free buffet breakfast!

SPECIAL STAYCATION PROMOTION!

YOTEL has newly launched a Staycation package which is perfect for weekenders who are after a unique, comfortable “getaway” experience in the heart of the city and want access to a pool, gym and great F&B choices (think award-winning cocktails!). The package consists of a minimum 2-night staycation experience over a weekend and includes late check-out till 4pm, complimentary breakfast and $40 nett F&B credit at KOMYUNITI. This offer is applicable to all cabin types, subject to availability. To book, visit www.yotel.com/en/hotels/yotel-singapore, select your desired date range (must be minimum 2 nights crossing over a weekend) and choose the Staycation Package option.


OVERALL VERDICT

If you are looking for a staycation in the Orchard area, you probably won't be able to find a cheaper option elsewhere. In addition, you also get to enjoy amenities typically found in more upscale hotels such as a pool and gym.

For more details and to book directly, visit HERE.



[GIVEAWAY]

Thanks to YOTEL Orchard, I have a 3D2N STAYCATION Package (with breakfast) to give away! You can choose from either a Premium Queen cabin or Premium Queen with Bunk cabin.

Redemption period is until 31 August 2020.

To participate, all you have to do is the following:

1. LIKE YOTEL Singapore's Facebook page HERE.
2. Tell me why you wish to win the 3D2N Staycation package. Leave your comment either in the corresponding Facebook post HERE or in this blog post.


TWO WAYS TO INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING!

1. SHARE this blog post of the giveaway on Facebook for a BONUS chance! Remember to set your profile to public so that I can see the shared post.

2. Head to my post on Instagram to score more bonus chances!

Giveaway ends on 20 March 2020, 2359 hours.

GOOD LUCK! 😊



Useful Information

YOTEL Singapore
366 Orchard Road, Singapore 238904
Website
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12 'Free Admission & 1-for-1 Promotions' to Attractions to stretch your dollar this March!

March 11, 2020, 2:58 pm
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Because of the COVID-19 situation, attractions in Singapore have been seeing a decline in visitor numbers. So in a bid to boost visitorship, plenty of attractions have actually come out with fantastic promotions - from offering FREE admission, to Buy-1-get-1-FREE deals, to even a 6-month pass to a theme park!


The majority of the promotions are happening in March 2020, just in time for the March School Holidays!

So you gotta be quick to snare these deals:


FREE ADMISSION
Canopy Park @ Jewel Changi Airport
Now until 31 Mar 2020


From now until 31 Mar 2020, everyone gets to enjoy FREE admission to Canopy Park and get a glimpse of Cherry Blossoms! Admission to Canopy Park includes the following attractions:

1) Discovery Slides*,
*Minimum height requirement is 110cm and child below the height of 140cm must be accompanied by an adult.
2) Foggy Bowls,
3) Petal Gardens, and
4) Topiary Walk

For other attractions like the walking and bouncy nets, you get 50% OFF with any Jewel receipt. This includes the Changi Experience Studio and the receipt can be of ANY AMOUNT spent in Jewel. 50% OFF tickets apply to the following attractions:

1) Canopy Bridge
2) Hedge Maze
3) Mirror Maze
4) Manulife Sky Nets – Bouncing*
5) Manulife Sky Nets – Walking*
6) Changi Experience Studio

*Minimum height requirement is 110cm and child below the height of 140cm must be accompanied by an adult.

FREE ADMISSION
Sentosa
14 Mar - 30 Jun 2020


From 14 March 2020 to 30 June 2020, enter Sentosa via Sentosa Express, or drive in for free! Or if you are taking the shuttle bus to Sentosa from Our Tampines Hub, the transport fee is also waived.

FREE ADMISSION
National Gallery Singapore
From now until 31 Mar 2020


Enjoy free admission to all exhibitions at the Gallery in the month of March! Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Singapore Biennale before it closes soon!

FREE ADMISSION
National Orchid Garden
Now until 22 Mar 2020 | 8.30am - 6pm


Enjoy free admission to National Orchid Garden from now until 22 March 2020 for students, Singaporeans, Permanent Residents, Work Permit Holders.

- Students are required to present valid student cards.
- Singaporeans, Permanent Residents, Work Permit Holders and Dependant Pass Holders are required to present their ID cards or relevant documentation.
- Not applicable to tour groups, tickets purchased in advance and other promotions.

FREE ADMISSION & 50% OFF TICKETS
Gardens by the Bay
From now until 22 Mar 2020


From 14 to 22 MArch 2020, children aged 3 to 12 years old enjoy FREE admission to the Conservatories, Floral Fantasy, and Supertree Observatory!

Adults enjoy 50% discount on tickets purchased for One Conservatory, Two Conservatories, Floral Fantasy, Supertree Observatory and Attraction Bundle. PLUS, there's FREE parking for FOUR hours (no coupon needed)!


FREE SEASON PASS
Universal Studios Singapore
Now until 12 Apr 2020


Mastercard Exclusive: Buy a one-day ticket at $81 and receive a FREE Season Pass, giving you 6 months unlimited access to the park, discounts, exclusive invitations and more!

Promotion is valid from now till 12 April 2020, for new Season Pass sign-ups only. Ticket(s) valid for one-time park entry by 12 April 2020 to process into Season Pass membership card. To book online, visit HERE.


FREE PLAY
PLAY! Indoor Playground
Changi Airport Terminal 3, Basement 2, #B2-14/15/16/17
13-22  & 27-29 Mar 2020 | 11am - 10.30pm


Have a ball of a time at the Cartoon Network themed indoor playground at KinderPLAY!

Spend a minimum of S$50 (S$80 for supermarkets) in a single receipt from participating retail and F&B outlets in Changi Airport T1-T4 public areas to redeem two (2) slots of 30 mins playtime at PLAY! Indoor Playground. Redeem your activity passes at https://playpass.changairport.com

Note: Participants are required to wear socks to enter and play at the indoor playground.

1-FOR-1 ADMISSION
Singapore Zoo | River Safari | Night Safari | Jurong Bird Park
13 - 22 Mar 2020


This March school holidays, it's time to pay the animals a visit because Wildlife Reserves Singapore is offering 1-for-1 admission to the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Safari and Jurong Bird Park from 13 to 22 March 2020!

In addition to the 1-for-1 admission, visitors will receive a $2 retail voucher with every ticket purchased online or onsite. VISIT HERE to buy your tickets.

1-FOR-1 ADMISSION
Future World @ ArtScience Museum
14 Mar - 5 Apr 2020


To celebrate the unveiling of new and refreshed artworks at Future World, ArtSCience Museum will be offering a special 1-for-1 ticket offer to Future world from 14 March – 5 April 2020. Visit HERE for more information.

1-FOR-1 ADMISSION
Science Centre Singapore | KidsSTOP | Snow City
From now until 22 Mar 2020


Simply purchase two or more admission tickets to any of the participating attractions below to enjoy 50% off your total purchase:

Science Centre Singapore**
Butterflies Up-Close (Hall D)
Laser Maze Challenge (Hall A)
KidsSTOP™**
Snow City***

*Promotion is not extended to Omni-Theatre admission.
**Promotion is only applicable for peak period ticket purchase to Science Centre Singapore and KidsSTOP™ on weekends, public as well as school holidays.
***Promotion is only applicable to 1hr Snowplay Session at Snow City.

For ticket prices, visit HERE.
You have to purchase the tickets online via https://www.gevme.com/scsonlinetickets

1-FOR-1 ADMISSION
KidZania Singapore
Now until 31 Mar 2020


For the entire month of March, one Adult can enjoy FREE entry with the purchase of one usual-priced Kid ticket. Limited to one (1) free Adult ticket with the purchase of one (1) usual-priced Kid Ticket per transaction via walk-in purchase at KidZania Singapore Ticketing Counters only.

1-FOR-1 ADMISSION
Trick Eye Museum
From now until 30 Mar 2020


For $50, buy 2 Adult tickets and get 2 Child tickets FREE! Tickets must be utilised by 30th April 2020.


**BONUS!**

1-FOR-1 ADMISSION
LEGOLAND Malaysia
From now until 13 Mar 2020, 11.59AM


*NOTE: Promo ends on 13 March 2020, 11.59AM

Get 1 FREE Adult Ticket for every purchase of 1 Child Ticket to LEGOLAND Malaysia! You can choose from four combo packages - either the 1-Day Combo ticket to the Theme Park and SEA LIFE or Theme Park, Water Park and SEA LIFE, or you can go for the 2-Day Combo ticket to the Theme Park and SEA LIFE or Theme Park, Water Park and SEA LIFE.

You have to choose the date of admission when purchasing the ticket and do note that there is strictly no change of date, cancellation and refund allowed. To book, visit HERE.

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8 Ulu Open-air Places to Chill in Singapore because Social Distancing (ALL FREE!)

March 13, 2020, 5:43 am
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If you are afraid to head out with the family because of the current escalating COVID-19 situation, I totally understand. Sometimes it may be better to stay at home....

BUT if you are like me who simply just can't stay at home with the kids (because they drive me up the wall 😅) then good news, there are actually places in Singapore that are ulu (or out of the way) and are devoid of crowds!

I've compiled 8 places in Singapore which are less crowded than the usual parks - places that are not only vast in area (lots of fresh air!) but also FREE to enjoy for everyone! 😄


So head on out with the family to soak in some sun!


1. Changi Point Coastal Walk

This boardwalk hugs the scenic Changi coastline from Changi Beach Club to Changi Sailing Club. The boardwalk is made up of six segments: Sunset Walk for a splendid view of the sunset, flanked by a hill of lush greenery on one side and the sea on the other. Kelong Walk: a stretch of the boardwalk with kelong stilts built over water. Cliff Walk: built slightly inland, this part is a path through lush greenery. Viewing decks along this stretch at vantage points provide panoramic views. Sailing Point Walk: the longest stretch of the boardwalk, and provides open views of the sea. Beach Walk: second longest stretch of the boardwalk and faces the Serangoon Harbour and Changi Beach. Creek Walk: this portion lies on the southern bank of Sungei Changi.


With marine life and birds being sure visitors here, the best time to visit is in the late afternoon to catch the sunset. The boardwalk totals 1.2 km and is extremely easy for children. Continuing the walk from Changi Beach Club to Changi Village covers a total of 2.6 km and forms the Changi Point Coastal Walk.


Address: 51 Lorong Bekukong, Changi, Singapore 499172
Download NParks' DIY Walk Map HERE

2. Jurong Eco-Garden


Just a stone's throw away from Thow Kwang is Jurong Eco-Garden, the 'green lungs' of CleanTech Park and Singapore’s first freshwater swamp forest located within an industrial park. If we had not visited Thow Kwang, we would not have discovered this gem of a find. Simply because the Eco-Garden has an amazing variety of wildlife and nature and is home to many birds, dragonflies, butterflies and insects.


Spread over four areas - Summit Forest, Wildlife Corridor, Stream Ravine and Freshwater Swamp Forest - the 5-hectare park intersperse building parcels seamlessly with green spaces. One interesting station to visit is the Composting Station which features the processes how horticulture waste are converted into resources. If you are planning to expose nature to the kids minus the crowds, Jurong Eco-Garden will be your best bet!

Address: 1 Clean Tech Loop, Singapore 609434

3. Tampines Eco Green

Tampines Eco Green is probably the most underraated park in Singapore because it is unlike any other nature park we had visited. For starters, it is a sprawling 36.5-hectare ecological park resembling a savannah with marshlands, secondary forests and freshwater ponds. Not only that, the park was designed with minimal intrusion, leaving most of the land untouched and in its original state. In fact, the park is NOT lit at night - so go before 7pm! - so as to minimize disturbance to its wildlife inhabitants.


But if you are looking for playground structures to keep the kiddos occupied, there are NONE here. What is present in the park is plenty of flora and fauna to keep the little ones fascinated. And the main difference here compared to other nature parks is the footpath is carpeted with Manila Grass rather than concrete or gravel, making it a unique walking experience.


The park offers three trails weaving through the forest: Diversity Trail, Forest Trail and Marsh Trail. In total, one loop of the park covers 3km, with a walking time of between 1.5 to 2 hours. The terrain is flat throughout, making it extremely easy for kids. Read more about our experience HERE.

Address: Tampines Avenue 9 and Tampines Avenue 12
How to get there:
Alight at Tampines MRT station and walk 20 mins to the park via Sun Plaza Park.
If you drive, the nearest parking is at Block 408, Tampines Ave 9
NOTE: No lights after dark
Website

4. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Make your way through the mangrove forest boardwalks, or watch the birdlife over the freshwater wetlands – especially during the September to March migratory season. Boardwalks keep visitors safe – and their feet dry – as they venture deep into the mangroves to catch sight of tree climbing crabs scuttling up trunks of trees, mudskippers skimming across swamp waters and archerfish shooting insects with jets of water.


The Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve extension is more kids-friendly, with three different boardwalks catering to all nature enthusiasts. The Mid-canopy Walk immerses visitors in the understory of a secondary forest through an elevated, 120m-long boardwalk, where they can spot birds and insects like cicadas that reside in the mid-canopy region and forest floor while the Coastal boardwalk offers a scenic and breathtaking view of the Kranji waterfront with a lookout point where raptors such as the Ospreys and White-Bellied Sea Eagles can be spotted hunting for prey.


At low tide, visitors can even observe crabs and fish foraging for food in the waters. Lastly, the Forest Trail offers visitors the chance to experience the sights and sounds of the reserve up close, and learn more about the plants and wildlife which are unique to the reserve.

Website: www.sbwr.org.sg
Address: 301 Neo Tiew Crescent, 718925 (*To access the new extension, enter via the new entrance at Kranji Way)
Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 7.30am to 7pm | Weekends & PHs: 7am to 7pm

5. Thomson Nature Park

Even though there isn't a playground for kids, Thomson Nature Park is home to the ruins of an old Hainanese village that was there from the 1930s which offers adults and kids a glimpse into life in a Singapore kampung back in the 1960s.


Located to the east of the Central Catchment Nature Reserve (CCNR), between Old Upper Thomson Road and Upper Thomson Road, Thomson Nature Park complements existing nature parks including Springleaf and Windsor Nature Parks to extend the green buffer for the CCNR. This 50-hectare buffer park is unique for its rich cultural heritage as the site of a former Hainan Village as well as housing a rich array of biodiversity and is notably a key conservation site for the critically endangered Raffles’ Banded Langur.


There are a total of five walking trails spanning 3.8 km around the former village's road network - Ruins & Fig Trail (1.5km), Stream & Ferns Trail (1.4km), Rambutan Trail (0.4km), Langur Trail (0.15km) and Macque Trail (0.35km). All of them are relatively short distances which means kids will be able to go on them pretty effortlessly!

The trails have been specially curated to provide visitors insight into the ways of life during the kampung days as well as into the variety of floral and faunal species found in Thomson Nature Park.

If you love nature, then go on the Stream and Ferns Trail which enables visitors to appreciate the freshwater habitat in Thomson Nature Park and observe the great diversity of ferns and aquatic animals present. Personally, I think the Ruins and Figs Trail is the most interesting trail of the lot because it will bring visitors along a trail where there will be plenty of abandoned and old buildings to spot, giving them a chance to experience the heritage highlights of the Hainan Village through carefully conserved ruins.


Thomson Nature Park is unlike your usual nature parks in Singapore. The presence of an abandoned Hainanese village with its ruins scattered throughout the park definitely makes it an intriguing day out with the kids, giving them a glimpse of what life was like there in the past.

Address: Off Old Upper Thomson Road
Opening hours: 7am – 7pm daily (entering or remaining in the park after 7pm is not allowed)
Website

6. Kranji Marshes


Spanning 56.8 hectares (half the size of Gardens by the Bay), Kranji Marshes is the largest freshwater marshland in Singapore. It is home to a combination of lush, marsh, woodland and grass habitats with more than 170 species of birds, 54 species of butterflies and 33 species of dragonflies lies in the north-western part of Singapore. And not only is it open to everyone, it is FREE to visit!

There are two main areas – one that is open to public and the core conservation area which can only be accessed via guided walks. For the public walk, the start journey begins at Kranji Gate which is located at the end of Neo Tiew Lane 2 (beside D'Kranji Farm Resort).


The walk is a relatively straight-forward linear one, a 1km route which ends at 10-metre tall Raptor Tower which offers a panoramic view of the entire Kranji Marshes. Suffice to say, scaling the tower is the highlight for the kids!

To complete an educational day out, be sure to head to the nearby Marsh Station where they can learn more about the birds and their respective bills and feet.

Address: 11 Neo Tiew Lane 2, Singapore 718814
Opening hours: 7am to 7pm daily
Website

7. Marsiling Park

After a 22-month makeover, Marsiling Park re-opens with plenty of activity areas and amenities for families with kids. Popular elements of the park - such as the viewing tower, Chinese pavilions and stone bridge - have been retained and improved, including the addition of boardwalks which extend to the water at certain parts around the perimeter of the reservoir.



For kids, the main highlight of the park has got to be the inclusion of three new playgrounds - the first being a butterfly-shaped playground with climbing ropes!


There is also a ninja warrior-style playground located just opposite the butterfly playground, which might just appeal to older kids.


Got younger kids? Then head to the Fun Play area located at a short walk away (nearer to the car park entrance). Here, kids get to hit on play equipment with musical elements for an interactive play experience. If you are feeling peckish after all the play, there is a 24-hour F&B outlet at the park.

Address: Woodlands Centre Road adjacent to Bukit Timah Expressway
Park lighting hours: 7.00pm to 7.00am

8. Dairy Farm Nature Park

The 63-hectare Dairy Farm Nature Park serves as an alternative recreational venue to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve with two biking trails, with catering to the intermediate level of riding, and the other for beginners who wish to have the thrill of mountain biking. Be sure to end your biking trail at the south-western end of the park where the Singapore Quarry lies. Here, it has been transformed into a wetland habitat and boasts a magnificent view of the quarry.


For something less relaxing, go on the Wallace Trail at Dairy Farm Nature Park. The 1-km long Trail is a relatively easy trek, taking visitors through a dense forested area which used to house a kampung community. In fact, you can still see signs of past ‘civilisation’ – remnants of walls of houses, and wells. You will also come across a number of little meandering streams with crystal clear water. Kids will have a field day treating their tiny feet to a cool dip, and trying to spot pond skaters skipping on the surface too!


Also, be sure to make a stop at the Wallace Education Centre, Singapore’s first field study hub for schools. Located in a restored cow shed, the Centre now houses the Wallace Environmental Learning Lab (WELL), as well as an interpretative centre, where visitors can learn about the changing landscapes of Dairy Farm and Bukit Timah Nature Reserve through various exhibits.

Address: Along Dairy Farm Road


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Kids (& adults) can learn all about Invisible Braces at Singapore’s first Invisalign Centre

March 15, 2020, 6:37 pm
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Advertorial

When someone mentions braces, what normally comes to your mind?

Straightening crooked teeth? Painful? Troublesome? Only for teenagers? Well, the first point is true but as for the rest, it need not necessarily be.

Invisalign invisible braces are the alternative to the conventional metal braces. These clear aligners are virtually invisible, removable and most importantly, comfortable. In fact, with over 22 years of research and development, Invisalign was the first to start clear aligners. Today, Invisalign has partnered over 150,000 doctors worldwide and helped to straighten the smiles of more than 8 million users!


But I've got to admit - braces are something I am not entirely in the know of. Sure, there are tons of information available online but because every individual is different, the experience with braces may not be similar. So rather than just doing my research online, I took the monkies down to the Invisalign Centre at Wisma Atria!


Located at #B1-14 of the mall, the Invisalign Centre is a first in Singapore and offers a personalised and immersive experience for anyone who is interested in learning more about the Invisalign treatment.

And no, the centre does NOT sell anything. I couldn't even place an order for a set of Invisalign braces even if I wanted to. 😂 What the centre offers is a one-stop location for people to walk in and feel first-hand how the invisible braces feel like.


Also equally important, they are able to find out more about the various cases that are treatable through Invisalign. But more on that in a bit.


Because the Invisalign Centre is much more than just showing you samples and case studies - it actually comprises of FOUR stations which brings you through the entire Invisalign experience.

So if you are thinking of starting your kids on braces, I strongly recommend bringing them down so that they are able to fully understand the entire process.

STATION 1: Teeth Straightening Simulation


Using the iPads at the station, you can snap a selfie of your teeth when smiling and through its SmileView technology, you can see how your smile would look like after undergoing Invisalign treatment!


 I have to say the results look amazing!


Look, no more gaps in between teeth for both Ayd and Ale!


Amazingly, they were more inclined to find out more about Invisalign after seeing the results. 😆 I guess it has to do with being able to see the eventual positive outcome that piqued their interest.

STATION 2: Hands-on with Invisalign clear aligners


This forms the main portion of the centre where you truly get to touch and feel the clear aligners for yourself. What's interesting is Invisalign compiled six of the most common teeth misalignment problems and showcased individual case studies at the panels.


These are REAL Invisalign cases collected from around the world, including nationality, age and duration of treatment.


Personally, it is never enough for me to just see braces on a teeth model when I go to the dentist. I want to see in reality how the aligners had changed in the real-life cases displayed in the centre – and that was also when I found out that you don't wear the same aligner throughout the entire treatment. C'mon, who else thought the same... I can't be the only one right???  😅

So yes, turns out that couldn't be further away from the truth.

The whole Invisalign treatment consists of a series of custom-made clear aligners, as you can see from the rows of clear aligners for one particular case below.


As time passes, the teeth will shift according to the clear aligner and that's when you change into another set of clear aligner which provides a better fit for the teeth.

Like this clear aligner for crowded teeth. Do you see the 'single tooth' portion which juts out of the aligner?


This is the first stage of treatment. Fast forward to the final stage of the treatment and the final clear aligner looks like this.


Amazing progression! I feel it's great for both parents and kids to be able to see something so tangible; to see the progression of the teeth being straightened in the series of customised clear aligners displayed. There are even teeth models which you can fit the clear aligners to during the mid-stage treatment.


And having touched the aligners, the monkies and I were surprised to feel that they are so lightweight and flexible. Definitely a plus considering one has to wear it for 20-22 hours a day. But no worries, they are removable which makes it super convenient for everyday tasks like brushing teeth or eating. Yes, no worries about getting food stuck in between the teeth AND you can still eat whatever you want!

Even better, it's much safer too especially if your kids play sports. There will not be a case of broken wires, or the dreaded need to head down to the dentist at the last minute with an exam looming the next day!


If you need more assistance, there are also Smile Consultants stationed within the centre to answer all your queries.


 STATION 3: See how a digital teeth scan is done


Gone are the days where kids have to sit on the dentist's chair for long periods of time just to have their teeth moulds done. That process is tedious, takes a longer duration for the aligners to be custom-made and more importantly, is frowned upon by kids because they just can't seem to sit still!!!

Now, thanks to the marvels of the iTero intraoral scanner, a scan of the teeth can be obtained digitally and on the spot.


It's fast, efficient and can let you see the desired outcome of the treatment even before you begin.


Once the scan is done at the dentist and you are okay to proceed, the dentist will place an order for the custom-made aligners which will be ready in a few weeks' time.


 STATION 4: Smile Consultant Assistance


If you have more questions about Invisalign, you can approach the friendly onsite Smile Consultants. They will be able to assist you in any queries about the treatment that you may have, and even help you find a preferred Invisalign dentist based on your location and book the first appointment.


And if you do book an appointment with your preferred doctor at the centre, you will receive a voucher of up to $200 off your Invisalign treatment! Terms and conditions apply, do check in-store for more details.

After the 4 stations, I had a clearer idea of what to expect from an Invisalign treatment so I didn't have any questions for the Smile Consultant.

But Ale did.

"Can I go for Invisalign?"

I thought to myself she is too young for this (she's 9) but I was wrong. Turns out that there is a treatment called Invisalign First which is designed specifically for kids aged 6 to 10 years old. The Smile Consultant shared that even with baby teeth, it may be the perfect time for children ages 6 to 10 to start orthodontic treatment. This is known as Phase 1 treatment and for growing children with a mix of baby and permanent teeth.


That is because at this stage, orthodontists can see issues that may need early treatment to address a developing problem. This can include preventing existing bite issues from getting worse, fix existing teeth straightening issues and even correct oral habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting.

Best of all, getting started early can mean that when Phase 2 comes along - that's the treatment for teens or when most of the permanent teeth have erupted - it will be considerably shorter and easier.


If you are thinking of getting braces for your child, it pays to head down to the Invisalign Centre to find out more for yourself. And do bring along your child too so that he or she can interact with the displays and will not find it too intimidating when the actual treatment begins.

Like I had mentioned, there is nothing to buy in the centre, so there isn't any obligation to do anything. Just walk in and browse and touch and ask. 😄

No time to head down?  You can do the teeth assessment online first - www.invisalign.com.sg/free-assessment


Useful Information

Invisalign Centre
435 Orchard Rd, #B1-14
Wisma Atria, Singapore 238877
Opening Hours: 11am - 8pm daily
Website
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Receive up to 20 tokens from Sentosa DAILY to redeem for Activities! ALL FREE!

March 18, 2020, 7:51 pm
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From now to 14 April 2020, Sentosa is giving away a FREE Sentosa Fun Pass that comes loaded with up to 20 tokens per person EVERY DAY! The tokens be used to redeem fun activities at various attractions on the island.


But before I go into the details, let me preface this post by saying that in view of the challenging times now, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE stay at home if you or any one of your family members are feeling unwell. If you are not feeling well, even with the slightest hint of sore throat or drippy nose, please stay at home. This post is by no means encouraging everyone to head out, queue and congregate but I also understand that some families may wish to spend some time outdoors with the kids instead of being cooped up at home. By all means, do so but please do it sensibly, stay away if there are large crowds and practice good personal hygiene at all times.

So if you are planning to take the kids out, you may wish to pay Sentosa a visit because the island is giving away FREE activities in the form of tokens!

How does it work?

In order to redeem the free tokens, you must first register online for a Sentosa FUN PASS account. You will then receive a personalised link through email which you can use to redeem for the tokens.

Redemption of the tokens must be made in person at only at the following Sentosa Ticketing Counters: Resorts World Station, Beach Station, Imbiah Lookout& Imbiah Forecourt.

You will need to present the link and NRIC/FIN registered to the account. All parties to be present during redemption, which means if you have used your kids' birth certificate numbers to register too, you will need to bring along their actual birth certificates OR student passes in order to redeem.


Each person is entitled to redeem up to TWO complimentary Sentosa FUN PASS (10 tokens) per day - that means each person can choose to receive a maximum of 20 tokens a day. Do note that the tokens cannot be combined when redeeming; you cannot use 20 tokens to redeem for a 20-token-valued activity but only use the 10 tokens for different activities.

*NOTE: When redeeming at the counter, you have to specify if the FUN PASS tokens are meant for adult or child entry.

The tokens have a 2-day validity period, and is valid for 2 consecutive days and time stipulated, or until closure of attractions, whichever is earlier.


This promotion is valid from now to 14 Apr 2020, on a first-come-first-served basis, while stocks last. Promotion is only open for participation by Singapore citizens, Singapore permanent residents and Singapore work pass holders.

What can I redeem for 10 tokens?

Actually, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing an activity to redeem!

For 10 tokens, you can redeem one of the following:

NESTOPIA (Unlimited Play)



AJ HACKETT: Skybridge Walk


GOGREEN: Segway Fun Ride (30 mins)



HEADROCK VR: One ride from Orange or Green Zones



4D ADVENTURELAND: Desperados + 1 Free Cornetto Ice Cream



MEGA ADVENTURE PARK: Megabounce


All sounds fun, right? Especially for the kids!

In fact, this is the full list of activities you can redeem for either 5 or 10 tokens:


And since you can redeem up to 20 tokens per day, this means that you can visit Sentosa EVERY DAY for FREE FUN! 😁

To register for the tokens, visit https://stayandplay.sentosa.com/


Visit www.sentosa.com.sg/en/campaigns/stay-and-play for more information.
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