Author: Sonia Lourdes

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10 Best and Affordable Places To Visit In Southeast Asia

image of the view in da nang

Southeast Asia is a treasure trove of beautiful destinations. Apart from the common haunts most of us know and love, did you know there’s some lesser-known gems to see without breaking the bank? From stunning beaches to bustling cities and serene islands, there’s something for each traveler. In this guide, we’ll cover ten of the best and most affordable places to visit in Southeast Asia.

image of hua hin vineyard

1. Hua Hin, Thailand

The land of smiles sure has plenty of hidden spots lying around, and Hua Hin is one of them. A charming coastal town in Thailand, Hua Hin offers a perfect medley of beaches, markets, golf courses, and historical sites. It’s known for its beautiful vineyard too. Located hours away from bustling cities, this laidback town provides an atmospheric landscape at every turn. Remember to check out the popular night markets, indulge in plenty of fresh seafood, and head over to nearby parks to make it an enjoyable destination.

image of the coast line at Nha Trang

2. Nha Trang, Vietnam

Another coastal city that will hit the spot is Nha Trang. Located approximately an hour and a half away from Ho Chi Minh City, this quaint Vietnamese city which bears close resemblance to Miami’s South Beach, is renowned for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Naturally, it’s an excellent spot for snorkeling and diving due to its divine coral reefs. Adding to the city’s charm, it’s also home to the Vinpearl Amusement Park and the Po Nagar Cham Towers (think a smaller version of the Ang Kor Wat). Nha Trang is also filled with plenty of budget-friendly accommodations and eateries.  

image of the sea view at rawa island

3. Rawa Island, Malaysia

Did you know Malaysia is filled with a plethora of beautiful islands? Rawa Island, a small coral island off the east coast of Malaysia, is one of them. Loosely dubbed the hidden paradise, Rawa Island is known for its white sandy beaches and clear blue waters. Like many Malaysian islands, it is perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and other water activities on top of resting your mind, body and soul. The island offers a serene escape with limited but cozy accommodations, making it the ideal getaway spot for those looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle.

image of sunset at Tawau

4. Tawau, Malaysia

Can’t get enough of Malaysia? Why not head over to Tawau – located in Sabah, a state that’s on the northern portion of Borneo in the region of East Malaysia. Escape to Tawau for its stunning natural attractions like the famous Tawau Hills Park which is great for hiking and exploring waterfalls. The city is also known for its seafood and cocoa, making it a culturally-rich destination.

image of waterfall at Luang Prabang

5. Luang Prabang, Laos

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Luang Prabang is known for its well-prrsevered architecture, beautiful temples, and calm atmosphere. Despite being a lesser-known destination hot spot in Southeast Asia, expect to do a wide range of things here. First, be sure to head over to the local markets to get some shopping done, then make your way to UXO Laos Visitor’s Center to check out real-life bombies on display. After that, climb up a scenic, steep 329 step staircase to make your way up the sacred hill of Luang Prabang – Mount Phousi. Be sure to add other sights like the Pak Ou Caves, Kuangsi Waterfalls, and Tad Sae Waterfall to your list.

sunset at Otres beach at Sihanoukville, Cambodia

6. Sihanoukville, Cambodia

Embrace the island life at Cambodia’s premier beach destination, Sihanoukville. Offering a relaxed vibe and stunning beaches, you can also get on an island-hopping tour and head over to Koh Rong or partake in other water activities like snorkeling or diving. If you’re a budget traveler, this is the perfect destination for you!

image of hot air balloons flying over temples in bagan, myanmar

7. Bagan, Myanmar

Welcome to Bagan, an ancient city in Myanmar and home to thousands of temples and pagodas. If you’d like to strengthen your spirituality whilst traveling, this is the place for you. Expect to find stunning landscape and historical significance where you can bring back a wealth of knowledge from this fascinating destination. You can opt to explore the temples by bike, horse cart, or even hot air balloon. The must-visit destination is generally considered safe for tourists to visit amidst ongoing political issues.

image of borobudur temple at Yogyakarta, indonesia

8. Yogyakarta, Indonesia

We can’t forget about Yogyakarta, can we? Home to the breathtaking Borobudur and Prambanan temples, Jogja (as its often referred to as) is in the cultural heart of Indonesia. Apart from its historical sites, you’d also enjoy a vibrant traditional arts and street food scene. The affordable city is slapped with plenty of fun and cultural activities.

images of buddha in a Laotian Buddhist temple

9. Vientiane, Laos

Don’t sleep on Vientiane, the capital of Laos found along the Mekong River. Vientiane is popular for its French colonial architecture, Buddhist temples, and vibrant night markets – an excellent spot for exploring Laotian culture. This city has a thriving night scene, is filled with plenty of outdoor activities for the adventurous souls, and comes with a variety of local delicacies to sink your teeth in.

image of Da Nang's longest non-stop single track cable car

10. Da Nang, Vietnam

Haven’t gotten enough of Vietnam, yet? Enter Da Nang, a sleepy coastal city with a luxury vibe. Unlike Nha Trang, which has a consistent weather throughout, Da Nang is actually warm and cold. How does that work? Well, the higher you go to the Marble Mountains and Golden Bridge the colder it gets, and if you decide to remain by the beach, you get to bask in the Sun and its warmth by the sea. Do remember to pack a windbreaker as you head on up to the Golden Bridge (situated 1,400 meters above sea level) via the Ba Na Cable Car – which holds the world record for “longest non-stop single track cable car”.

Final Thoughts

There’s more to Southeast Asia than meets the eye, especially when it comes to affordable travel destinations that offer diverse experiences. Despite there being only 10 on this list, you best believe there’s actually more in each country waiting for you to source them out. It’s time for you to get out of your cave and start exploring these picturesque spots for your next trip!

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The Best Chicken Rice Stalls In Each Area In Singapore

image of chicken rice

Ask anyone in Singapore and they will tell you that Chicken rice is an iconic dish here. Enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, each area in the city has its own renowned spots for this delectable meal. Think fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth, succulent chicken meat with crispy roasted skin, a bowl of warm, hearty soup paired with spicy, homemade chilli. The sheer thought of the dish is enough to make us drool at our desks. If you, like us, are huge fans of chicken rice, here is a list of best chicken rice stalls in each area.

East Side

Let’s begin with the best side of the lot, the East. Honestly, there’s more than one stall that serves exceptional chicken rice. But the winner, for us, will have to be Bruce Lee Chicken Rice. This hidden spot in East Coast Road will get you going back for more. Although a tad bit unconventional, an order of roasted chicken rice will get you a plate of chicken coupled with a medley of vegetables (bean sprouts, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and braised tofu) doused in a secret savoury sauce. It also comes with an unlimited serving of achar! And in true Bruce Lee fashion, the chilli here packs a punch and will surely get you screaming for waataah!

Where: 396 E Coast Rd, Singapore 428994

North Side

Another household name is Yishun 925 Hainanese Chicken Rice. This stall has been a staple in the North for years. Known for its flavorful chicken and perfectly cooked, aromatic rice, the stall draws crowds from all over the island. But is it worth traveling down to the North for? You bet it is. They have also branched out over several areas, where the remain consistent in quality to give people what they want. You can expect tender and moist chicken, and a serving that’s full of robust flavor! The chicken rice here also comes with a tiny side of achar. Be sure to get to the original stall early to avoid a long queue.

Where: Blk 1, 925 Yishun Central, #01-249,

image of anthony bourdain's endorsement on Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice
Photo Credits: Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice

South Side

On to the South we have Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice. Also known as the late Anthony Bourdain’s favourite joint. Located at Maxwell Food Centre, Tian Tian is known for their juicy chicken and rice that’s chock full of flavor. A bowl of soup, chilli and ginger paste are provided here, making it the perfect accompaniments to your chicken rice experience. Don’t believe men? This stall’s long queues are a testament to its quality and reputation.

Where: 1 Kadayanallur St, #01-10/11 Maxwell Food Centre, Singapore 069184

West Side

Finally, we have the West Side. Admittedly, this is an area that’s less frequented by many. And tucked away in this ulu area, we have Hoe Kee Kitchen located in Jurong West 505 Market & Food Centre. Known for its steamed chicken rice, Hoe Kee Kitchen was also included in the Michelin Guide Singapore with a Michelin Plate in 2023. It’s also famous for its affordable price, at only $2 per plate. Despite its official closing time of 6pm (as listed on Google), they are notorious for selling out by late lunch time, with a queue sometimes forming before their official opening hours of 10am. Talk about a hit!

Where: Jurong West 505 Market & Food Centre, #01-39, Blk 505, Jurong West Street 52, Singapore 640505

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re in the East, North, South, or West of Singapore, you can find top-notch and highly raved about chicken rice stalls that do justice to the nation’s unofficial national dish. Each stall offers a unique take on this classic meal, making your trip down worthwhile. It wasn’t easy narrowing down one stall from each area, but we did it. However, we do understand that taste is subjective so don’t come for us if you feel like any of the stalls above aren’t the best that Singapore has to offer!

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How To Clean Stubborn Mold And Tough Stains On Walls

image of mold on wall

Did you know inhaling mold and other chemicals can affect your health in the long run? That’s why it’s important to be on top of your mold and tough stains game! Whether you live in an apartment or landed property in Singapore, maintaining a clean living environment is key. Besides, stains – no matter how tough – on walls can be unsightly too. We have specially curated this piece to assist you or your part-time cleaner tackle these issues with the right techniques and tools. Let’s get to scrubbing out the stubborn mold and tough stains together! 

1. Understand the Problem

Before diving into a solution, we first have to find out the cause. It’s important to understand the nature of the mold and tough stains. For the unbeknownst, mold thrives in damp, humid environments, and can cause respiratory issues and allergies. Stains on walls, however, can be caused by food, drinks, smoke, markers or crayons. Whatever the reason, it can penetrate deep into the paint, making stain removal a difficult process. Once you’ve identified the cause and type of mold or stain, you can select the most effective cleaning method. 

2. Prepare the Area

As you will be dealing with chemical solutions, it’s important to protect yourself and the room you’re in. Wear gloves, a mask and goggles to protect yourself from mold spores and chemical exposure. Then, ensure your room is well-ventilated by opening the windows and doors. Lastly, remember to cover the floor or furniture with plastic sheets or old newspapers. 

image of mold on wall

3. Clean Mold from Walls

If you’re cleaning mold from walls, here’s a step-by-step approach to follow to effectively remove them:

What You Need: 

  • White vinegar or bleach 
  • Water
  • Spray Bottle
  • Scrub or sponge 
  • Protective gear 

Steps:

  1. Mix one part vinegar with one part water to create a cleaning solution. (you can also use a solution of one cup of bleach and mix it with water for more severe mold).
  2. Pour the solution into a spray bottle and spray generously onto the moldy area and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
  3. Use a scrub or sponge to clean the mold off the wall. Apply more or less solution accordingly. 
  4. Rinse the area with clean water and dry thoroughly with a cloth. Ensure the wall is completely dry to prevent mold from returning.
image of grease stains

4. Remove Tough Stains from Walls

If you’re looking to remove tough stains from walls, you must understand that different stains require different approaches. Here’s how to tackle all of them: 

What You Need: 

  • Baking soda
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Dish soap
  • Magic eraser or sponge

Steps:

  1. For grease stains, make a paste of baking soda and water. Then, apply the paste to the stain, let sit for a few minutes, and then scrub with a sponge.
  2. For food and drink stains, mix a few drops of dish soap with water. Then, apply the concoction to the stain and scrub gently. For stubborn stains, use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water.
  3. For crayon or marker marks, use a magic eraser or sponge to scrub off the marks. Alternatively, a mixture of baking soda and water can help.

5. Preventive Measures

To prevent mold and stains from reappearing it is important to use dehumidifiers and ensure good ventilation to control humidity, especially in toilets and kitchens. Remember to wipe down walls regularly with a mild cleaning solution and fix any water leaks promptly to prevent damp conditions that encourage mold growth. 

Final Thoughts

Although cleaning in itself may seem like a daunting task, using the right techniques can change everything. Also, if it’s too difficult for you to do it yourself, you can always opt for a part-time cleaner in Singapore to help you maintain the cleanliness of your home. Always remember to put your health and comfort first!

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9 Affordable Healthy Snack Ideas For The Perpetually Tired

a bowl of different kinds of nuts

Staying healthy whilst keeping fit as a working professional doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. With a bit of planning, you too can have a variety of sumptuous and nutritious snacks ready by your side to keep you energized throughout the day. Here you go, nine affordable healthy snack ideas you can easily find at a supermarket near you!

image of nature's wonders baked almonds
Photo Credits: Fairprice

1. Mixed Nuts

Nuts offer a perfect balance of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They are an amalgamation of a powerhouse of nutrients. Nuts are also great for boosting energy and keeping you full between meals. However, it’s important to opt for the unsalted or lightly salted versions to keep healthy. 

Image of a tub of greek yogurt
Photo Credits: Fairprice

2. Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is surely making its way around social media. They are packed with protein and probiotics, which are great for digestion. Pair it with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey for a satisfying snack. It’s also low in calories and can keep you full for a long time. 

image of tteokbokki
Photo Credits: Fairprice

3. Rice Cakes

Rice cakes or tteokbokki are a light snack option that you can pair with a wide range of healthy ingredients. Avocado spread, peanut butter, or hummus work deliciously well with it!

image of organic blueberries
Photo Credits: Fairprice

4. Fresh Fruit

Nothing beats the OG – fresh fruits. Think natural sweetness plus nutritional benefits. Apples, bananas, and berries are easy to store and make for quick yet healthy snacks. 

image of carrots
Photo Credits: Fairprice

5. Vegetable Sticks

Remember the times when you were physically repelled by vegetables? Well, not anymore. It’s time to cut up some carrots, celery, and cucumber sticks and have it with a healthy dip like hummus. This snack is low in calories but high in fiber and vitamins.

image of a box of muesli bars
Photo Credits: Fairprice

6. Muesli Bars

Muesli bars are a convenient snack that combines the benefits of oats, nuts, and dried fruits. Look for options with minimal added sugar and preservatives.

image of dark chocolate
Photo Credits: Fairprice

7. Dark Chocolate

An option that may not sit well with many is dark chocolate. It’s a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth while still getting some antioxidants. It’s also great for your heart! Remember to choose varieties with at least 70% cocoa for the most health benefits. 

image of seaweed snack
Photo Credits: Fairprice

8. Seaweed Snacks

Another versatile snack is seaweed snacks. Not only are they low in calories, but they are also high in minerals like iodine and iron, and are a great source of vitamins A and C. Additionally, they can be eaten just like that or with anything. 

image of protein bars
Photo Credits: Fairprice

9. Protein Bars

The perfect post-workout snack or when you need an energy boost, protein bars come in high protein content and minimal sugar. 

Final Thoughts

Incorporating these healthy snacks into your workday can help maintain your energy levels, improve concentration, and keep you full between meals. Plus, all these snacks are conveniently available at various supermarkets, making it easy to stay healthy without breaking the bank.

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The Best Things To Do This Weekend (15-16 June)

Singapore iLights Festival

“There’s nothing to do in Singapore,” is something we hear far too often. However, contrary to popular belief, she isn’t that boring and has a slew of events hiding under her belt. You have to look for the exciting things in the right place. From vibrant festivals to immersive exhibitions, there’s no shortage of fun-filled activities to fill your weekend. Check out this guide to know more.

image of Inside Out 2's Kaleidoscope of Memories
Photo Credits: Gardens by the Bay

1. Gardens by the Bay Children’s Festival

Are you a fan of Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out 2? If so, this will be a treat for you (and the kids, of course)! Bask in the 10th edition of the Gardens by the Bay Children’s Festival, where everyone can immerse themselves in the world of wonder. The festival includes an outdoor carnival with large-scale installations, interactive activities, and themed play areas. That’s not all, your inner moody self can hang out at the Mood Swings – an area to swing the moodiness away and transition to a joy(ous) self, and hop over to the doodle wall after. This is the perfect way to have fun and learn at the same time! 

When: Until 22 June 2024
More information here.

image of Iwagumi Air Scape at I light Singapore 2024
Photo Credits: i Light Singapore

2. i Light Singapore 2024

You don’t have to be a fan of lights to head on over to i Lights Singapore 2024. This year’s festival includes innovative installations made from eco-friendly materials, creating a stunning visual spectacle around the Marina Bay area. Don’t miss the i Light Forum at Millenia Walk, where you can engage with artists and learn about the concepts behind their out-of-this-world creations too. 

When: Until 23 June 2024
More information here.

image of food stalls at gastrobeats
Photo Credits: GastroBeats

3. GastroBeats 2024

Is your tummy always rumblin’ and eardrums always beatin’? Check out GastroBeats 2024 for a culinary and musical extravaganza. This lively festival features an eclectic mix of food stalls, live music, and engaging activities. Enjoy a variety of delectable dishes from local and international vendors whilst grooving to stage performances by talented artists. If you’re a foodie and a music lover, this one’s definitely for you! 

When: 15 – 16 June 2024
More information here.

image of Japanese sakes

4. Sake Festival Singapore 2024

Kanpai! If you love all things Japanese or alcohol, make your way down to Sake Festival Singapore 2024. An event that offers a wide selection of sakes from various regions of Japan, provides an excellent opportunity for both novices and connoisseurs to explore and appreciate. Enjoy sake tastings, sumptuous food pairings, and insightful talks from sake experts. 

When: 15 June 2024
More information here.

image of Donald Duck
Photo Credits: VivoCity

5. Celebrate Donald Duck’s 90th Birthday at VivoCity

Have a quackin’ good time at Donald Duck’s 90th birthday at a Mickey and Friends-themed event at Vivocity this weekend. The event includes interactive games, photo opportunities with life-sized installations, and exclusive Disney merchandise. It’s definitely made for Disney fans of all ages.

When: Until 23 June 2024
More information here.

Final Thoughts

Still think Singapore’s boring? Offering a plethora of events and activities, Singapore definitely aims to please. Especially for the weekend. So whether you’re (not) getting blinded by the lights or reliving your childhood, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Stay tuned for the next weekend guide to help you plan your weekend right!

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Which food delivery app is the best in Singapore?

Logo of grab, foodpanda and deliveroo

Singapore is widely known for its food. So, it’s no surprise that we’re often faced with this important question, “which food delivery app is the best in Singapore?”

Our food delivery services have truly transformed dining experiences – offering convenience, variety, and accessibility at the tap of a button. With several apps vying for the top spot, it can be challenging to determine which one better suits your culinary needs. In this piece, we will compare the top three food delivery apps in Singapore – Grab, Deliveroo, and FoodPanda – to help you decide which is the best.

FeatureGrabDeliverooFoodPanda


Variety and Availability

Extensive selection of cuisines from local hawker delights to international fare.

Focuses on mid-to-high-end restaurants, offering exclusive dining options.

The widest range of food options from hawker stalls to chain restaurants and upscale dining.


User Experience

User-friendly app with seamless integration with other Grab services like GrabPay, GrabRewards, and GrabExpress.

Intuitive app with features like scheduled deliveries and real-time tracking. Deliveroo Plus subscription offers free delivery and exclusive deals.

Easy-to-use app with order tracking and scheduling. Includes grocery delivery through PandaMart. With the latest addition of PandaGo, a new delivery service initiative.  


Quality and Speed

Reliable service with a broad restaurant network. Excellent customer service.

Fast delivery times and premium restaurant partnerships.

Extensive delivery network covering most parts of Singapore.


Promotions and Discounts

Frequent promotions and discounts. Earn GrabRewards points on every order for discounts and perks.

Regular exclusive deals for Deliveroo Plus subscribers.

Regular promotions, discounts, and vouchers. Cost-effective for frequent users.


Additional Services

Integration with Grab ecosystem (ride-sharing, payments, rewards).

Exclusive restaurant partnerships offering unique dining experiences.

PandaMart for grocery delivery alongside meals.
a spread of takeaway food

Final Thoughts

When choosing the best food delivery app in Singapore, it’s crucial to pick an app that suits your specific needs and preferences. 

Each app has its own strengths and along with many, most of us will opt for the one that gives the best rates. So, whether it’s variety, speed, quality, or additional services, you must consider the factors before making an informed decision to enjoy a diverse and delicious meal from the comfort of your home.