Andrew Baisley

Do you remember back in school when you would sprint to the canteen during recess, just to get that steaming warm plate of Chee Cheong Fun (rice noodle rolls) with sweet sauce or a plate of delicious Lor Mai Kai (Chicken Glutinous Rice)?

If you grew up in Singapore, chances are, all of these are more than familiar to you. To us, these local breakfasts are still what comforts us the most in the mornings.

As Singaporeans, we are always proud of our multi-ethic society and of all the different cuisines available. Also, these local breakfast foods are usually inexpensive. If you are new to our Lion City, here are 12 local breakfasts in Singapore to try. And to all fellow Singaporeans, don’t you agree that these are better than the typical brunch fare of eggs Benedict and pancakes?

#1 BANANA LEAF-WRAPPED NASI LEMAK

This popular Malay cuisine usually consists of coconut rice with Ikan Billis, Sambal Sauce, Fried Fish, Omelettes and more.

Typically wrapped up in banana leaf to give that extra bit of fragrance, Nasi Lemak is our favourite comfort breakfast. And they usually cost only a dollar or two – depending on the ingredients in the packet.

#2 CHAR SIEW PAU

A Singaporean-style Char Siew Pau is a fluffy white bun with chopped char siew (honeyed BBQ pork), then steamed until cooked. These used to cost us only about S$0.50 back in school, and they are about S$1 to S$1.50 now at coffee shops.

#3 CHEE CHEONG FUN WITH SWEET SAUCE

The Singapore version differs from its Hong Kong-style counterpart and is more sweet than savoury. These rice noodle rolls are steamed, cut up then served with sweet sauce and sesame, and chilli upon request.

These are a great breakfast option as it will satisfy your cravings without filling you up to an uncomfortable extent. A serving these days costs an average of S$1.

#4 CHWEE KUEH

Chwee Kueh is really steamed rice cakes topped off with Cai Poh (diced preserved radish), and chilli is served on the side upon request. The rice cake itself is pretty much tasteless but the Cai Poh is flavourful and slightly salty, hence balancing out the textures and overall taste of each bite.

A serving of 6 Chwee Kuehs in Singapore typically goes at a mere S$1.50 at local coffee shops, thus making it both economical and understatedly delicious.

#5 DOUJIANG YOUTIAO

Doujiang is soya bean milk, and Youtiao is dough fritters. When put together, it is a match made in heaven.

More often than not, the dessert of jellied beancurd (or what we call douhua) is served instead of soya bean milk. But whatever it is, you dip your youtiao into it for the best taste. Breakfast or supper, Doujiang Youtiao is always a good idea.

#6 FISHBALL NOODLE SOUP

A bowl of fishball noodles go for an average of S$3.50 in coffee shops. It may look next to nothing, but this unassuming bowl is sheer comfort food for most Singaporeans.

Yellow noodles served with fishcake slices and fishball in a bowl of sweet broth, fishball noodle soup is well-loved by both children and adults in Singapore. Add some chilli padi for an extra punch.

#7 KAYA TOAST & HALF-BOILED EGGS

Kaya is coconut jam for the uninitiated, and kaya toast is quite simply toasted old-school bread with a spread of kaya and butter slice(s). Kaya toast is often served with two half-boiled eggs and a cup of warm beverage.

Back in school, we had half-boiled eggs and kaya toast with a warm cup of Milo or Horlicks. Now, when we have it in coffee shops or hawker centres, we have them with a nice cup of black coffee or tea.

#8 LOR MAI KAI/FAN CHOY

Lor Mai Kai (Glutinous Chicken Rice) and Fan Choy (Glutinous Char Siew Rice) are quick and easy meals as they are usually pre-packaged and re-steamed to be served hot.

Both glutinous rice variations are extremely filling, and though they are harder to find these days, we have fond memories of this local breakfast that typically costs S$1.50.

#9 PEANUT PORRIDGE

This is as old school as it can get. Primarily accompanied with shredded chicken and/or peanut, it is one of the most economical breakfast option in Singapore hawker centres. You can easily get a bowl for S$1 or less.

#10 PRAWN NOODLES SOUP

Hours and hours of simmering pork bones and prawn shells and more; nothing beats the sweetness of prawn noodles soup.

The choice of noodles is yours – vermicelli, yellow noodles or flat noodles, you take your pick. But the highlight here is the flavourful broth and fresh prawns, with fried shallots to top. A bowl of Prawn Noodles Soup costs an average S$4, but the better ones can go up to S$10 per bowl (served with tiger prawns).

#11 ROTI PRATA

This local Indian dish is hands down our ultimate guilty pleasure. Few things in life please us like a slice of piping hot egg prata. Prata comes in a plethora of variations, but we prefer ours the classic way – kosong (plain) or with egg.

Dip it in the complimentary curry sauce, or do it the Singaporean way and eat ‘em with sugar.

#12 WANTON NOODLES

Wantons are popular meat dumplings and they are either boiled or deep-fried when sold here in Singapore. Whether you have it dry or with soup, a bowl of Wanton Noodles never disappoints.

When the wantons are big and juicy and the noodles are nice and springy, the whole dish just falls into place. Having Wanton Noodles for breakfast is lovely, but it works as a lunch or dinner dish too!

Illustrations for ladyironchef by Chen Xuan

The following was syndicated from The Huffington Post as a part of The Daddy Diaries for The Fatherly Forum , a community of parents and influencers with insights about work, family, and life. If you'd like to join the Forum, drop us a line at TheForum@Fatherly.com .

The boy is lying on my chest as I type. His body about 19 inches long and wrapped in a white and yellow swaddling blanket. He is warmer than a fresh loaf of French peasant bread, and is noisily breathing and wriggling, slowly making his way up to my shoulder. I'm thinking about how I want to raise him in an atmosphere of warmth, love and respect, and how I want to make sure no one ever speaks a harsh word in our home.

I listen to him breathe. Suddenly, he shouts a phrase that sounds like, "I LOVE!"

After a startled pause, I ask, "Okay... You love... who? "

He refuses to elaborate. Later, when I tell Michelle what happened, she says I am being ridiculous if I think a child less than a month-old would ever shout the words, "I love."

Unsplash / Mindy Olson

She points out that it's far more likely he said, "I'm Lev." That makes a lot more sense. It's just that he shouted it so quickly that I misheard him. He's a fast talker.

Other things I've noticed about the new arrival: while awake, he often does a nonstop movement that's a cross between John Belushi's imitation of Joe Cocker and Mick Jagger being taken aback by something.

He will stare for a long time towards one side of the room as though listening to a thief pick the lock outside the door.

Generally, he is as cool as a cucumber in Alaska but sometimes he will start to act a bit snarky. At those times I have an 8-step process. First I burp him. If he's still upset. I change his diapers. If that doesn't soothe him, I do the 5 S's — swaddle, shush, side position, sway and let him suckle at my man teet. Finally, if he's still upset, I make snide comments under my breath and flip him the bird when he isn't looking. (To those who think it's rude to make such gestures to a baby, I learned this from our cat, Mr. Whiskers, who used to flip me the middle finger every time I turned my back.)

In short, I'm a totally normal dad. I divide most of my time between sitting around the house trying not to go insane, and rocking back and forth in a fetal position in the bathtub, or hiding in the coat closet. Nothing gets to me.

But I confess that I snapped. I whispered (very calmly) under my breath, "Yeah, well at least I don't poop in my pants. And your onesie is ridiculous."

But recently, Lev's begun testing me. And he has a new weapon: irony. (I assume he gets that from his mother.)

Like a greased wild boar or an overly hot potato, a sardonic baby is hard to handle. For example, this morning as I was getting dressed he arched his eyebrow and shot me a look like, "Please tell me that's not what you're planning to wear."

Then he snapped his fingers and did a little head circle movement. Also he was wearing a onesie I'd never seen before that said, "Idaho? No, you da ho."

Don't get me wrong. I love my son, and after 3 decades of meditation I like to think I'm a patient man. But I confess that I snapped. I whispered (very calmly) under my breath, "Yeah, well at least I don't poop in my pants. And your onesie is ridiculous."

Honestly, I said it so quietly I didn't think he could hear. But I turned around and he glared at me with an expression that said, "No daddy. You're ridiculous."

Flickr / Melissa Austin

It was like he branded his words on my heart with a hot iron. As Freud notes in his theory of the Oedipal complex, a boy will have the unconscious urge to murder his father. And in 30 years of martial arts training, while I have learned self-defense against knives, guns, and multiple opponents, unfortunately there is no defense against a sarcastic baby.

I'm sure every parent of a newborn has had this same experience so it's almost pointless to say what happened next. But yes. We fell to the floor in a wrassling match, he got me in an arm bar, and started yelling, " Now who's your daddy?" He was kneeling on my chest delivering a classic ground and pound beating, so I tapped out.

The moral of the story is words have power. And you can't win a fight while holding a baby.

Beyond that, I learned a valuable lesson: sarcasm really is the ugly step-cousin of anger. And I've decided it has no place in our home. Although once in a while I will say, "Oh nice, Lev, I see you 'decorated' the inside of your diapers. Good work, Pooc asso." And then I'll make air quotes with my fingers, and run for it.

Dimitri Ehrlich is a multi-platinum selling songwriter and the author of 2 books. His writing has appeared in the New York Times, Rolling Stone, Spin, and Interview Magazine, where he served as music editor for many years.

The following was syndicated from The Huffington Post as a part of The Daddy Diaries for The Fatherly Forum , a community of parents and influencers with insights about work, family, and life. If you'd like to join the Forum, drop us a line at TheForum@Fatherly.com .

Confession: Before becoming a parent, I had never wiped someone's else butt. Maybe I don't go to the right bars. Anyway, it just hadn't come up. But if it had, one might have expected a polite thank you. Perhaps an invite to dinner. Certainly not someone screaming in my ear like I was stabbing him. After all, I use a warm wipey.

We didn't want to spoil the child, of course, but as first-time parents, we went overboard and purchased this machine (2 of them, in fact) that pre-warms the butt wipes. Still, Lev's reaction was not the attitude of gratitude you might hear from patrons leaving an upscale spa after a massage. "Oh thank you, it was wonderful, and here's a tip for the nice man who wiped my bunghole."

Flickr / makelessnoise

No. It was more like the reaction you'd expect from a Russian prison gang-leader after you snitched on him and spilled his borscht. In this case, Lev didn't shank me, but that was only because he hasn't figured out how to use his opposable thumb and index finger. But as I gently tried to clean his lower gate, the boy shouted with rage, shock and indignation, his primal howl an implicit promise of retribution at some future date.

It all starts nicely enough. You notice your infant is making that face, all reddish and crinkled, and making a low mooing sound. So you go to change the diaper. While it is anatomically impossible, he has pooped not only in the usual place but also somehow on his legs, ankles, up his back in a jagged smear to his neckline, as well as the back of his wrists and a dollop on each of his earlobes.

You are grabbing his ankles, swatting at his hands and using your teeth to open up a clean diaper, while pawing ineffectively at the butt-wipe machine with your foot, when suddenly you realize, you are not doing what's called "a good job." The situation has spun quickly and wildly out of control.

You go on, flailing wildly, like a man sinking in quicksand while trying to save a donkey having an epileptic seizure. Only it's less graceful.

The baby is crying. You're crying. There's caramel pudding everywhere. If Michelle walks in now, you will have some explaining to do, but at this exact moment, there's no time to rest. And so you go on, flailing wildly, like a man sinking in quicksand while trying to save a donkey having an epileptic seizure. Only it's less graceful. And stinkier.

Michelle and I had been having a little chat the day before because there was a pillowcase I loved and didn't want to throw out. I had owned this pillowcase for years and it had sentimental value, but somehow Lev's mustard attack emerged from the neck-hole of his onesie and turned my beloved linen into a Jackson Pollock. Just like that, Michelle won the argument about the pillowcase — we threw it out.

We didn't have the luxury of throwing out the bed, floor, ceiling, the walls, but let's just say we probably should have just doused the apartment with gasoline and set it ablaze. In any event, my beloved pillowcase, soft tender, organic cotton I had rested my face on for years, was now Lev's toilet paper.

Giphy

But that's the amazing thing about being a father. You don't mind losing an argument or an heirloom. You may be up to your wrists in e coli, but you find yourself leaning in to his howling pie-hole, kissing that little button nose and laughing.

You may have tried drugs, alcohol, yoga, meditation or any combination of the above, but now for the first time, you are, for a moment, free of the terrible relentless weight of thinking only about yourself.

This is the oft-spoken of irony of parenthood. You have taken on a job with 24-hour workdays, no pay, no vacation, no rest and it requires you to handle someone else's poo, and yet you are happier than you've ever been in your life.

A glimpse of liberation is right there in the palm of your hands. Screaming at you. And you're smiling uncontrollably.

Dimitri Ehrlich is a multi-platinum selling songwriter and the author of 2 books. His writing has appeared in the New York Times, Rolling Stone, Spin, and Interview Magazine, where he served as music editor for many years.

Kids will cry at the drop of a hat. As in, LITERALLY. Actually losing their sh*t because a piece of head fashion landed upon the Earth. And we’re not talking about moderate showers here, but sudden, full-scale thundering torrential downpours.

Greg Pembroke created Reasons My Son Is Crying, a bitterly hilarious collection of the strange (or monumentally insane) “reasons” someone’s kid turned into a screaming, ugly-blubbering puddle. Let’s have a look, shake our heads or laugh or weep or all of the above.
 

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Well there you have it! With the right combination of hunger and tiredness and plain ol’ childhood nuttiness, kids can hit the ground bawling, surprising (or entertaining) you with the pure crazy that passes their snotty trembling lip when you ask, “Why are you crying?”

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Follow Reasons My Son Is Crying for more even sigh-inducing, cringe-loaded fun.
 

Singapore salon Chez Vous has already wowed us with their FIX YOU program and their dedicated team of Caucasian hair specialists, and now they’ve taken things to the next level with Trilogy. Here’s how to repair your hair, mama!

With the heat and humidity of Singapore, not to mention the everyday rigours of simply parenting, it’s pretty easy to let our hair get damaged, mama. But the innovative team at Chez Vous Salon thinks we can all do better: recognising that women are super busy, but also want to look good (with minimal effort, of course!), they’ve just come out with the new Trilogy System to repair, restore and rejuvenate tired tresses. I gave it a try and came away not only with extra bounce in my hair, but an extra spring in my step!

If you’re not familiar with Chez Vous at Ngee Ann City, know that it started over 20 years ago – this is not one of your hair today, gone tomorrow (see what I did there?) businesses; rather they’ve got a loyal and dedicated following, and are always adding new generations of loyal clients thanks to their fabulous staff (all style directors – you won’t get screwed with a junior stylist here) and unique initiatives like their Caucasian Hair Team (all stylists that’ve worked in North America, Europe or Australia and are well-versed in the different textures of Caucasian hair) and FIX YOU.

What is FIX YOU? So you know how every now and then you go to the salon, leave yourself in the stylist’s capable hands, and then discover that your hair has turned orange, or you’ve been given a hideous fringe, or some other hair horror? Chez Vous welcomes refugees from other salons with open arms and does their best to correct other salons’ mistakes – FOR FREE. That’s right, they so want people to be happy with their hair that they’ll take in other salons’ clients to help them out. Understandably these appointments are only available subject to availability but still – that’s a pretty radical idea, right?

If the W Hotel chain had an offshoot hair salon, I think Chez Vous would be it. The vibe is cool and stylish, with a definite edge of whimsy. Coloured spotlights greet you at the door, alongside a decked out mannequin (Chez Vous works with local designers to showcase their clothing). The tranquil shampoo room is called “Splash”, and scarves in a palette of soothing colours gently waft from the ceiling while clients luxuriate in the vintage chairs. As the salon’s director, Eugene Teo told me, “We know our clients are busy and stressed out, we want them to fall asleep when they’re getting their hair washed!”

Once you sink down into your comfy stylist’s chair, you’re greeted with a thick menu of food and beverage choices, along with accouterments like a lap desk (I typed away on my laptop just like everyone else!), phone chargers, video screens, and much more. For the first time in quite a while I didn’t have to nervously watch the minutes tick by as I got my hair done – I was actually able to get other stuff done at the same time!

But back to Trilogy: its aim is to restore new life, inner strength, incredible shine and softness while sculpting a bespoke look that is as flattering as it is effortlessly manageable. Sounds easy, right? Step 1 is Rebuilding. The team has actually conducted its own R&D (seriously, the salon director Eugene might have been a science teacher in his previous life the way he talked to me about amino acid complexes!) to develop bond-rebuilding elements and anti-breakage actives at the cellular level. Hair is strengthened from within, getting it ready for future treatments!

Step 2 is called Resculpting Supreme, and it’s Chez Vous’s innovative version of a keratin-infused retexturizing. Eugene and my stylist, Readen, took one look at my hair and decided it was so damanged it wouldn’t even be able to withstand the heat element of this step, so I didn’t experience it personally (though I did appreciate their candor!), but it’s all about smoothing and refinishing. In their words, “Just point a hair dryer at your hair and it will fall into place perfectly.” Bye bye, flyaways!

The final step in the series is Express Revitalizing. It’s like skincare for hair, borrowing potent skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides and amino acids that are transmitted via an express ultrasonic delivery process. No heat, just amazing little beams of light! This 45-minute process leaves hair impossibly smooth and silky. As I flounced out of the salon, I couldn’t help but keep touching my hair for the rest of the day – it was just so shiny and bouncy!

So if your hair is in need of some major R&R (that’s rest and revitalization, mama), give Chez Vous a visit. The vibe is so much fun, and the team is so friendly, I think it’s virtually guaranteed that you’ll leave happier than when you came in!

Trilogy Series prices start from $155 for the Advanced Hair Rebuilder; $375 for Resculpting Supreme; and $185 for Express Revitalizing Supreme. The more steps you do, the better your hair will look, mama!

Chez Vous Salon, #05-05 Ngee Ann City Podium, Singapore 238872, Tel: (+65) 6732 9388

www.facebook.com/chezvoushair

The post Chez Vous, New You: Loving the Trilogy System at this Singapore Salon appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Sometimes that hot humid air is too much to bare, and you shouldn’t have to spend your days hiding in an air-conditioned room. If all you’re craving is clean fresh air, open spaces and even a short reprieve from the sweltering heat, then we’ve got 5 “cool” Asian destinations for you to visit:

Fujiyoshida City, Japan

View of Mt. Fuji from Chureito Pagoda

Get yourself to Fujiyoshida City, 100km from Tokyo, during cherry blossom season for crisp spring air and unbeatable Mt. Fuji views. Seeing an entire city burst into bloom is a sight not to be missed with one of the best views in town being from Chureito Pagdo. Here the blossoms are usually at their peak around mid April and temperatures between March and May tend to be the most pleasant with highs generally under the 25 degree mark and with much cooler evenings.  While you’re here why not challenge yourself to a hike up Mt. Fuji, Japans highest and most iconic mountain.

Sapa, Vietnam

Sapa, Vietnam

In far north Vietnam lies the picturesque town of Sapa. Home to the highest peak in the country, a rich culture of hill tribes and best of all the year round temperatures rarely ever pass the low 20’s. Spend your days taking in the dramatic scenery of rolling hills and rice terraces or enjoy a scenic hike to visit a remote hill tribe village.

Paro, Bhutan

The Paro valley is a tranquil and scenic region of the country. Year round temperatures here rarely exceed the mid 20 degree mark. With a backdrop of Himalayan mountains, Paro is home to one of the most significant buddhist monasteries in the Himalayas. Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) is perched 3,000 feet above the Paro valley, the hike to this spiritual site can take between 1 to 3 hours and has some unbeatable views. Other things to do in Paro include visiting the National Museum of Bhutan, enjoying the natural scenery and exploring nearby monasteries.

Jiuzhaigou, China

Jiuzhaigou national park, Sichuan Province, China

North of the Sichuan province lies the natural wonders of Jiuzhaigou national park & reserve.  The park is a nature lovers paradise with scenic hiking tracks, colourful lakes, lush rainforest, stunning waterfalls and cool year round temperatures.  It might not be the easiest place to reach, but the journey will all be worth it once you’re breathing that fresh mountain air and pinching yourself to see if this place actually exist.

Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Tea plantation Cameron highlands, Malaysia

Ok this one might not give you as big a reprive from the heat as the others on the list but the Cameron Highlands are still 1,500m above sea level giving it a relatively cooler climate then the rest of Malaysia. Just 3 hours North of Kuala Lumpur is where this nature escape awaits you. Here you can spend your entire day enjoying the beautiful scenery, tea estates, strawberry farms, lakes and waterfalls.

The post Escape the Heat with these 5 “Cool” Asian Destinations appeared first on Suma Lifestyle.

The edit: Borrowed from the boys

Trends may come and go, but menswear-inspired looks continue to rule the runways season after season (and the closets of the fashion IT-crowd). More than just raiding your boyfriend’s wardrobe, the perfect borrowed-from-the-boys aesthetic combines clever contrast and proportions. (Wo)man enough to nail the look? Read on for our picks of two trending menswear-inspired looks and comfy boyfriend pieces that’ll easily translate into your closet.

Yves Saint Laurent's iconic Le Smoking Tux, photographed by Helmut Newton

Mango double-breasted cotton blazer ($139) and Mango straight cotton trousers ($55.90)

Uniqlo Oxford cotton shirt ($29.90); Ralph Lauren custom-fit Oxford cotton shirt ($197.51)

Ray-Ban RB2180 Sunglasses polarized lenses in tortoise shell ($227.78, from ASOS)

Paul Smith's briefcase-inspired Concertina small tote bags in black and chocolate mock croc (£750-£850)

Church's wg Burwood Polished Binder, £345

Skagen Holst Multifunction Leather Strap Watch (US$155); Uniform Wares Leather Strap Watch (US$700)

The female dandy

From Yves Saint Laurent’s iconic Le Smoking Tux to the slick suits favoured by the style-setting Olsen twins, classic male tailoring remains a celebrated style, with oversized blazers, vests and sharp trousers still reigning supreme in womenswear. Pay homage to the tuxedo tradition with a double breasted suit and a crisp, oxford shirt, and finish off with a red lippie for a sensual touch. But if a full suit’s too much to master, throw on a sleek, tailored blazer and complete the look with supple leather brogues or monkstraps.

Athleisure model, Adrianne Ho flawlessly combines sportswear and streetwear in her popular #OOTD shots. Photo: Adrianne Ho, instagram: @adrianneho

Topshop petite bomber jacket (£55) and Mango Contrast Trim Bomber Jacket ($89.99)

Uniqlo Women Dry Stretch Jogger Pants and Women Drape Jogger Pants (both $49.90)

Adidas NMD primeknit in grey ($299)

COS Soft Cube bagpack (US $229)

Adidas Ladies Climalite Tank top (US$29) and Athleta Women Energizer Tank (US $49)

DIOR So Real Sunglasses in Gold ($890 from Nordstorm)

Athleisure

There’s no denying it: sports luxe clothing is having a moment. Commonly known as athleisure (AKA fashion’s latest buzzword) the once male-dominated trend is a glammed-up, sneaker-oriented spin on comfy sportswear loved by IT-girls like Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner. To pull off the look, pair your kicks with tailored joggers, a killer bomber jacket and accessorise with a sleek bagpack and mirrored sunnies.

Slouchy boyfriend staples

We’re going to come right out and say it: The older we get, the less likely it is to find us in skin-tight, glamour-puss ensembles. Thanks to fashion’s call for slouchier, oversized fits, we’ve made peace with our need for effortless, relaxed outfits. Must-haves like the boyfriend jeans (also known as our bestfriend on bloated days) can take you from errand-running to a night on the town (with polished accessories, of course) while the equally versatile boyfriend shirts look spiffy with a-line minis and ripped jeans.

Mid-century modern is often touted as the ideal when it comes to design, but while that era gifted us beautiful and timeless works from the likes of Mies and Charles and Ray Eames, not everyone at the time was keen on keeping with this design aesthetic. As the 70s gave way to a slew of political and social change, many homes also saw revolution of their own from the streamlined to the downright psychedelic. Case in point: All of the interiors featured in old issues of Apartment Life, a city living lifestyle magazine from the 70s.

But what might be better than ogling all the decades-old acid trip decor in these old issues is reading the captions of the glossies. Like the folks featured in our My sqft series, Apartment Life talks the challenges of urban living (like no-view windows and limited storage), in addition to offering up some tips on how to deal (solution: build yourself a “butcher block storage/coffee table” they say!). They’ve even got a great idea for beating the below-zero blues: A “Winter Picnic” in bed.

Apartment Life was published from 1974 through 1981 before becoming now-defunct Metropolitan Home, and according to RetroSpace who scanned the pages you see here, “No magazine is a better time capsule of 1970s living than Apartment Life… for a few glorious years in the 70s, Apartment Life perfectly encapsulated the culture, the fashion, the look and the feel of the time.” We also love the fact that the magazine transports us back to a time where people built, knit and sewed things by hand, rather than clicking an add-to-cart button online.

Ahead are some of our favorite editorials, which we love for a variety of reasons—but mostly for their ridiculousness.

(Click on any image to see an enlarged version)

In the above, Apartment life looks at how to turn ordinary objects into something special by creating a “production.” This couple is practicing mind over matter with a “Winter Picnic” of summery foods and fashions.

“These characters never get out of bed,” Apartment Life quips over this ultra-creepy DIY quilt cover that even has arms and feet that “hang free and can be moved around.” More hilariously, the photo styling includes a box of Zesta saltines atop the bed and a plate of cookies and giant Hershey’s almond bar at the foot.

We’re not even sure where to start with this room; the article suggest stapling dark felt to walls to emulate the sophisticated “rich, dark-leather-and-velvet” look of a library, but the blazing cacti bed sheets we’d say counter the effect to class things up.

More is more, and back then you could never have too many wreaths around the holidays. Above you’ll also find a recipe for a “creamy punch of bubbling apples in wine, brandy and spices.”

Struggling freelance writers also worked from their beds back then; while souvenir shirt pillows served as a great way to show where you’ve travelled to—not to put off doing laundry.

RetroSpace also scanned some ads of the day, showing that back then you could not only get your patio furniture to match with your tablecloth, but also your bed and curtains.

And finally, director-style furniture in your favorite colors. Need we say more?

See a few more tears in our gallery below.

All images via RetroSpace.org flickr

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Tucked away in a quiet street of food stalls at Toa Payoh, The Chicken King is by the same people behind Orchid Live Seafood, helmed by none other than the man himself, Chef Steven Chua.

It is an unassuming-looking outlet that got our attention with their chicken-only menu. No service and ambience to speak of, so don’t expect anything at all. They are really just a small eatery that would do for a fast, hassle-free meal.

The Chicken King is a very different concept from its sister restaurant, offering hearty and affordable food in the heartlands of Toa Payoh.

Chicken is the primary ingredient on the menu here, with dishes such as Steven Chicken (4pcs for S$5), Salted Egg Popcorn Chicken (S$5.40) and even Buttermilk Chicken Waffles with Salted Egg Sauce (S$13).

When the Salted Egg Popcorn Chicken was served to us, the fries were piping hot but the chicken tasted like it was left out there for quite awhile before being served to us. And it tasted ordinary. But the sauce is worth a mention, and we soon overlooked it all for the salted egg yolk sauce was addictive and divine.

What you should try at The Chicken King is the Chicken and Waffles. The chicken thigh comes topped with caramelised onions and torched mozzarella cheese. Sadly, the caramelised onions did nothing for us, and together with the badly torched cheese, it looked and tasted nothing more than a burnt mess.

But what took us by surprise was actually the waffle itself! The fragrance and taste of the buttermilk sure upped the ante for the waffle, and the accompanying salted egg sauce is what they would say, “the bomb dot com.”

Thick and boasting bits of salted egg and chilli padi, the sauce was every bit flavourful and slightly spicy; it sure elevated the overall taste of the dish.

For an additional S$2.50, you get a soft drink and a side of your choice – pick from Shoe String Fries, Egg Fried Rice and Coleslaw. Unfortunately, the fries tasted so bad. It was basically just frozen fries badly fried. The Coleslaw was slightly better; we thought it was mayo overload, though.

Well, just skip the sides altogether.

And oh, the waiting time can be extremely long. You have been warned.

The Chicken King
Blk 190, Toa Payoh Central #01-530
Singapore 310190
Tel: +65 9191 8268
Daily: 11am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Toa Payoh

For more recommendations, read our guide to cafes in Toa Payoh neighbourhood.

Second-hand shopping in Singapore: Vintage fashion, pre-loved furniture, used toys and more

Singapore as a second-hand shopping haven: who’d have guessed? With the rise of recycling, donating and passing on pre-loved goods in Singapore, saving some money by diving into the second-hand shopping scene is a great way to cut down on consumerism. Not to mention, it keeps perfectly good items out of landfills, and you get to find something fabulous in the process. Whether you love the thrill of thrifting or scoring a one-of-a-kind seventies dress, the Little Red Dot’s got a huge market for pre-loved finds. All it takes is a little sleuthing and a good eye for a fab deal. From eclectic vintage boutiques to huge consignment stores, busy garage sales and online bargain hunting, we’ve tracked down Singapore’s best spots for second-hand shopping. Happy hunting!

Vintage & second-hand shopping in Singapore

WHERE TO BUY VINTAGE FURNITURE

Salvation Army Family Store

Scattered in different locations around Singapore, Salvation Army’s one of our top places to hunt down second-hand loot for the house. Check out the mega thrift stores in Bukit Timah and Tanglin Road where these low-key treasure troves have everything you could ask for and more. Think sofa beds, children’s toys and even paintings to spruce up your living room.

Where: Various locations in Singapore including Upper Bukit Timah, Tanglin Road and Bukit Merah

Real Singapore Expat Wives Classifieds

Popular among the expat crowd in Singapore, this Facebook group is a hot trawling ground for advice, the latest goss and tips for raising kids. Put aside this feisty female tribe’s tendency for heated debates and hilarious topics of conversation, and you’ll find a bounty of second-hand goods. From homewares and children’s toys, to vintage shoes and designer handbags – all in its classified page. As this is a closed group, do note that you’ll have to request to join. We scored a bar made out of an Indonesian boat on here, and it remains one of our fave finds ever!

ECMG Pre-Loved Sales

Although predominantly set up for East Coast wheeling ‘n’ dealing, members can pick up a bargain island-wide over at ECMG Preloved Sales. Items move quick, so if you’re on the hunt for mostly baby and child orientated bargains, jump in for some fun chat and awesome deals.

Cash Converters

It’s difficult to walk past this second-hand shopping institution without peeking in. Located in heartland locations around Singapore, Cash Converters is one of Singapore’s best-kept secrets for cheap preloved merch. Its wide product range never ceases to surprise us. The store has everything from furniture and smart watches to old CDs, kick scooters and Lego sets for the kids. We love browsing the ornament section and have picked up some rather cute bits for just a few dollars during our rummage raids.

Where: Various locations including Jurong East and Toa Payoh

Second Charm

Since starting out over a decade ago, the people behind Second Charm remain passionate about the hunt for unique vintage finds. Coo over French armchairs, iconic midcentury furniture, reupholstered sofas, wingbacks, and desks made from recycled teak.

Where: Blk 21 Kallang Avenue, #05-165, Mapletree Industrial Building Singapore 339412

WHERE TO BUY VINTAGE CLOTHES

New2U Thrift Store

A fave among hipsters and bargain-loving hunters, New2U Thrift Shop is a treasure trove of hidden gems including past-season designer goods or pre-loved statement pieces. All proceeds from sales go to Star Shelter, a refuge for victims of domestic violence, or the various Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations (SCWO) initiatives including The Women’s Register, a platform for mentoring young women. If you’re a student looking for a bargain (or you have a teen always on the lookout for new threads) then head over on a Tuesday: it’s half price promotion day! Or visit on the last two working days of the month for 50% off storewide!

Where: 96 Waterloo Street, Singapore 187967

Dayglow Vintage

If your fave fashion era is somewhere between the 1970s to the 1980s, hit up Day Glow Vintage. We love that the online catalogue is extremely user-friendly – the size filters truly make shopping a breeze. Nothing vintage caught your eye? The brand also offers figure-flattering retro-inspired clothing and made-to-measure services.

Where: 12 Loyang Place, Singapore 508876

Dejavu Vintage

Focusing on steering away from mass market bleah (their words, not ours), this vintage Mecca’s appeal lies in its unpredictable stock brought in from week to week. From quirky 70s day dresses to modish designer vintage, pieces at Dejavu Vintage are one-of-a-kind and imported from the U.S, Europe, Australia or Japan. Unique and gorgeous!

Where: Outlets at Millenia Walk #01-70 9 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore 039596, and #03-11 Wheelock Place, 501 Orchard Rd, Singapore

The Attic Place

If you are looking for vintage treasures in the form of luxury bags, jewellery and other designer items, then The Attic Place is full of top-notch pre-owned luxe products. Chanel necklaces and Hèrmes purses, here we come!

Where: 545 Orchard Road, #04-01 Far East Shopping Centre, Singapore 238882

Dark Horse Vintage

Handpicked from all over the world by founder Jasmine, the quirky collection of vintage pieces at Dark Horse are carefully curated to include one-of-a-kind finds. Whether you’re looking for floral dresses, elegant silk scarfs or retro skirts, each piece is categorised by decade and are easy on the eyes and on the wallet. Keep an eye on its Facebook page for pop-ups, or drop them a note to book a personalised styling appointment!

Refash

We’ve talked about buying second-hand clothes, but what about selling yours? Enter Refash. It’s an exclusive online marketplace for women to buy and sell “like new” fashion. Just list the items you’d like to give away and get your deal on! Alternatively, you can also shop for used and brand new items here, too.

Where: Multiple locations including Orchard Gateway, West Coast Plaza, City Plaza and more.

The Fashion Pulpit

Guilt-free shopping has never been easier thanks to the Fashion Pulpit. It’s a place where fashionistas can swap from the best selection of pre-loved fashion pieces with all the clothes you’ve stored at the back of your closet. Also, it’s an easy-peasy way to refresh your wardrobe and care for the planet at the same time. Talk about a win-win situation for everyone!

Where: 5 Straits View, Marina One The Heart #01-04, Singapore 018935

SHOP ONLINE FOR SECOND-HAND LOOT

Carousell

Available on the web (for sneaky lunch break shopping) and as a handy app for effortless bargaining (it may have you spiralling into addiction: don’t say we didn’t warn you!), Carousell hosts local-based listings of everything. Think women’s fashion and designer goods, to lightly used furniture too. Once you’ve got your eyes on the prize, chat to negotiate, or quickly make an offer with the seller’s asking price. From there, shipping or meet-ups can be easily arranged. Payment is made through bank transfers or payment upon meet-up.

Gumtree

An online local classifieds store, Gumtree is completely free for you to register and use. The store’s got heaps of stuff for sale, including mountain bikes, sofa beds and beauty products. Contact the seller directly through an email address provided on the listing or through the site’s direct messaging tool. You can even create listings to sell your own secondhand goods.

Ebay

Ebay seems to have been around since the dawn of time. Its magic combination of reputable sellers, convenient browsing tools and auction-style bidding repeatedly gets buyers coming back. Simply register for an account and place a bid, or instantly buy your coveted item. The downside? Payment is only made through Paypal.

Up Close with Kristen Kish

Wildfire Burgers proudly hosts US culinary sensation and travel show host Kristen Kish during her visit to Singapore for two nights only, on 2 and 3 April 2016 from 7pm to 10pm. In partnership with Eazy Gourmet and HSBC, this ticketed event gives fans and diners the opportunity to get up close with Kish, winner of popular and much coveted US TV culinary competition Top Chef in 2012 and now the host of Travel Channel show inspired by New York Times, 36 Hours.
Up Close with Kristen Kish will showcase some of Kish’s specialties such as Slow Cooked Beef Brisket, Sweet Peach Olive Oil Cake and Brown Butter Pistachio Financier. These are served alongside Wildfire Burgers’ favorites such as Sriracha Chicken Sliders, Perigord Slider, Smoky Chipotle Slider and Yuzu Kosho Ebi. One of the world’s most popular bourbons, Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, also gets in on the act – some of the evening’s dishes will be laced with the bourbon and guests can look forward to sipping on Maker’s Mark cocktails during the event.

Menu:
Perigord slider, Sriracha chicken slider, Smoky Chipotle slider, Slow Cooked Beef Brisket, Sweet Peach Olive Oil Cake, Brown Butter Pistachio Financier, etc., complimentary Maker’s Mark cocktails

Price:
$110 / guest with 20% discount for HSBC cardholders

Where to get tickets:
Wildfire Bugers on Evans Road +65 6734 2080
Wildfire Burgers at 313@Somerset +65 6509 4408
or
http://wildfireburgers.com

Nafise Motlaq

Nooshyar's father used to teach Persian literature at a university. "When I was a child he took care of me for 3 years because of the problem I had in my legs. Now I feel like I'm compensating for those years"

Nafise Motlaq

Tooran's father is a caterer. "He used to practice martial arts when I was a child. He believes that karate gives me confidence and strength. I agree with him."

Hello Honey: Interior Designer Chloe Elkerton

It’s no surprise that Chloe Elkerton, founder of a homegrown interior decorating firm, lives in trendy Tiong Bahru which was voted by Vogue as one of the hippest neighbourhoods in the world! The fact that she was one of the first expats to discover and nest in the area over seven years ago, is further testament to her fantastic eye for style. Curious as we were, we couldn’t help but explore her humble home.

Her apartment is light and calm with hints of playfulness and bohemia, and the perfect showcase of E&A Interiors’ gorgeous artisanal prints and fabrics. Chloe reveals that she prefers to live with a more neutral palette, whilst bringing in luxury elements such as brass, marble and velvets, as well as the use of natural linens. This is the kind of home that instantly makes you feel happy, inspired, comfortable… and desperate to move to Tiong Bahru. We grab some insights from the brilliant interior designer herself.

“The table was custom made in Singapore, the mirror inherited from my grandmother and the wallpaper is one of the many designs we stock at E&A.”

Tell us a bit about your background and what you’re doing now.

I started my career 18 years ago after completing a Textile Fine Art degree at Goldsmiths University, London. I knew interiors was what I wanted to do and was focused at a young age. From there, I went straight into the magazine world as a stylist working for interior design titles such as Elle Decoration and Living, as well as styling for interior campaigns and TV.

When the recession hit London in 2008, I saw it as an opportunity to venture out of my comfort zone and roll the dice! Suitcase packed, London flat rented, I headed to the tropics and very quickly set up my own styling company working for agencies and editorial in Singapore. I also worked for a well-known interior design firm in Singapore before meeting my business partner Elizabeth Acland, and launched E&A Interiors in the Summer of 2013.

Coral details are always a nice touch

How would you describe your house?

It’s an old 1930s block in Tiong Bahru – it’s not one of the ‘done-up’ heritage blocks and it is definitely a little rough around the edges, which also gives it its charm and the feeling of living in Asia. The ceilings are high, good-sized rooms with no wasted space, and what really won me over was the incredible mosaic-tiled pink and red floor.

There had been 10 tenants living here before me, and it was pretty ugly when the agent showed it to me seven years ago. But I knew that with a bit of cosmetic work, I could make it an interesting, unique space and create a much-loved home in the best area of Singapore.

“This piece of art is by the Singapore-based British painter, Leo Poloneicki. I’m a huge fan and we love to incorporate his work into our projects”

How would you describe your style?

I guess it follows my fashion. I see your home as an extension of yourself. Fresh, contemporary, chic, yet paired down understated luxe. Not too serious, but not trend-following either. I love to combine textures with not too much colour and I’m also a sucker for a bit of moorish and bohemian design, which comes from many holidays and growing up on the Greek islands. I can’t live with interiors that are cluttered or overworked and try to do too much in one space.

What’s your favourite thing about your house?

The mosaic floor!

What’s your most treasured item in your home?

I couldn’t pick one thing. My antique convex Girandole mirror was inherited from my grandmother – it’s wonderful, when you are so far from home, to have a few pieces that are special and evoke nostalgia and happy memories. The dining table is another one; I designed and had it custom-made in Singapore. And the sofa is also custom-designed and based on a vintage piece, and is unbelievably comfortable; if I want to change the look, I can just re-upholster it too.

We loved the simplicity of the black and white kitchen which oozed calmness, and had a very European vibe

What’s the most important thing you’ve learnt when it comes to interior design in Singapore?

When working here, I had to really understand apartment design. It was different from beautiful period properties in London where you have all the wonderful details of skirting, fireplaces and windows. Apartments here can be very bland and soulless: marble floors, white walls and a very open plan. Wall finishes are key, and even just a white grasscloth wallpaper or texture can add real warmth and depth to a room. The humidity is another key factor to consider; it’s why we like to decorate using just natural linens and cloths, and why we decided to bring in an amazing library of artisanal printed linens to Singapore – we felt these were really missing here.

“I like to combine textures and patterns.”

Which neighbourhood would you live in if you didn’t live in Tiong Bahru?

I’d only really consider moving to Duxton and Everton Park areas. I occasionally have moments where I get fed up with the four flights of stairs when back from a trip, and no outdoor space. Sometimes, I find myself daydreaming about a snazzy seafront apartment in Sentosa. But I know I’d miss Tiong Bahru too much!

Neon brights: Chloe also provides custom neon light signs like this one for residential and commercial use

We love her travel-inspired accents, which add a sense of serenity to the space

Tropical style: This flamingo print is sure to brighten up any space. Chloe also makes regular trips to Charlotte Puxley's studio in Tiong Bahru for her flowers

"If you get bored and want to change the look of a chair or sofa you can always just re-upholster it."

What’s your favourite…

Bar in Singapore?

I have a few for different reasons; Potato Head on Keong Saik Road for its atmosphere, the National Gallery Aura rooftop bar for its amazing views, and Manhattan Bar at St. Regis for their amazing cocktails.

Restaurant in Singapore?

Kilo is always a firm favourite of mine and PS Chop Suey in Dempsey is delicious too!

Shop in Singapore?

Asiatique Collections in Dempsey for beautiful Interiors, and I also love edit lifestyle for last minute holiday buys.

Thing to do in Singapore?

I never tire of the Botanic Gardens, which have recently been given a UNESCO award. I love getting away from the built up city and being surrounded by beautiful nature. I also like to head to Sentosa at the weekends and spend time on the beach.

Best kept secret in Singapore?

Bincho: cool yakitori in Tiong Bahru. It makes me a little sad when yet another kopitiam gives way to another hipster café though! But this place manages to retain the old whilst injecting fresh vibes into the same place. The bar is awesome, wrapped in copper, and serves great cocktails!

Place in Singapore that gives you home envy?

We’ve just started to renovate an old property – it’s a ground floor apartment in Bukit Timah and the space is great with a real indoor / outdoor feel. We have gutted it, and the client has chosen an amazing herringbone bathroom floor and striking marble bar. I am going to have serious bathroom and bar envy once this one is done!

Book an appointment to see Chloe in E&A’s studio on: 46 Kim Yam Road, #04-24 Singapore, 239351.

this week in internet: the folks over at Bad Lip Reading have turned out some gems in the past, but this just might be their masterpiece. 

34 Singaporean Abbreviations You Need To Know

Though Singapore’s one bustling nation that never seems to take a break, it doesn’t mean that we don’t know how to cut corners – at least, in our everyday lingo. Efficient and expressive, Singaporeans have been using abbreviations and acronyms for ages, with many eventually becoming cornerstones of our culture. We’ve compiled a list of 34 such buzzwords that you’ll often hear Singaporeans speak; no more “LOL” or “SMH” moments whenever you try to use these phrases in vain, ’cos you’ll be conversing like a SG pro in no time!

Government

PAP

People’s Action Party: The country’s rulers and the political party that’s won every election in Singapore since 1959.

HDB

Housing Development Board: The high-rise flats provided by the government which the majority of Singaporeans call home.

BTO

Build To Order: The housing system that will help hook you up – once you’re eligible – with a HDB flat (see above).

IRAS

Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore: The government body responsible for reaping your taxes, phooey.

CPF

Central Provident Fund: The mandatory savings plan that takes a chunk outta your monthly salary to fund your future.

MOE

Ministry of Education: The body of government you complain to when you feel like disputing your child’s education system in school.

CCA

Co-Curricular Activity: The reason why your kid’s coming home later and later after school.

SAF

Singapore Armed Forces: The mandatory two-year period where all Singaporean men have to serve the nation in the military (we speak from experience).

IPPT

Individual Physical Proficiency Test: The annual, strenuous post-SAF exercise test that you hear most un-fit males groan about.

ROM

Registry of Marriages: The institution that officially and legally recognises your gesture of tying the knot.

CWO

Corrective Work Order: The punishment served to litterbugs in Singapore, often identifiable from the fluorescent yellow jackets that attract as much shame as a Dunce Cap.

ICA

Immigration and Checkpoints Authority: The organisation in Kallang where you have to endure half-day queues just to renew your passport.

PUB

Public Utilities Board: The folks that ensure we get clean, sufficient water despite Singapore’s scarcity of resources… even if that means the reputedly dubious sewage-sourced NEWater.

MDA

Media Development Authority: The reason why we can’t publish words such as ****, *********, and especially not *#$!%&***.

Do you live in an HDB? (Credit: Flickr/ Neil Howard)

SAF - an ordeal most Singaporean males have to go through (Credit: Basic Military Training Centre FB page)

An abbreviation all motorists in Singapore hate (Credit: Flickr/ Karl Baron)

You ain't Singaporean unless you've squeezed with your fellow countrymen on the MRT (Credit: Flickr/ Alan Tan Keng Hoe)

Transport

SBS/MRT/LRT

Singapore Bus Service/ Mass Rapid Transit/ Light Rapid Transit: The primary forms of public transport that see many squeezing with hundreds of people during their daily commute – hang in there!

ERP

Electronic Road Pricing: The pain-in-the-butt overhead gantry that charges motorists for driving into certain areas of the city – think a barcode scanner for vehicles. 

CTE/ECP/MCE/PIE

Central Expressway/ East Coast Parkway/ Marina Coastal Expressway/ Pan Island Expressway: The key highways that you need to know about; drive safe!

COE

Certificate of Entitlement: The expensive license that you must painstakingly bid for before becoming a proud (and poorer) owner of a vehicle.

LTA

Land Transport Authority: The letters you’ll likely see if you’ve been caught parking illegally, driving along the bus lane or having the wrong license – busted.

Services and Associations

SGH

Singapore General Hospital: The initials you should know if you desperately need a doc.

4D

4 Digits: The lottery game that many Singaporeans play in hopes of striking big (hint: you don’t wanna go with 4444).

IR

Integrated Resort: The government’s way of concealing the taboo, pro-gambling venue that starts with “c” and ends with “asino”.

NETS

Network for Electronic Transfers: The Debit scheme that Singaporeans use whenever they don’t wanna part with their cash, albeit physically.

SIA

Singapore Airlines: The country’s flag carrier airline company that’s touted as “a great way to fly”.

AWARE

Association of Women for Action and Research: The girl-power, non-governmental organisation that you wanna take up arms with whenever gender equality and women’s rights have been breached.

ACRES

Animal Concerns Research & Education Society: The freedom fighters of animals’ rights in Singapore whom Captain Planet would be proud of.

MUIS

Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura: The religious council that looks after the interests of the Muslim community in Singapore.

The famous clock tower at SGH (Credit: Flickr/ Stephanie)

Marina Bay Sands (MBS), the most prolific IR in Singapore (Credit: Flickr/ Mikhail Koninin)

SIA, one of the best airlines in the world (Credit: Singapore Airlines)

Fireworks fill the night sky every year during the NDP (Credit: Flickr/ April Ngern)

LKY, the founding father of Singapore (Credit: SG Press Centre)

Slangs and Pop Culture

GSS

Great Singapore Sale: The shopper’s highlight of the year that gives Black Friday a run for its money.

O$P$

Owe Money Pay Money: The threat that you will likely see if you borrow money from uncouth loan sharks – don’t.

NDP

National Day Parade: The momentous show that happens every year during Singapore’s birthday… in other words, fireworks!

LKY

Lee Kuan Yew: The late founding father of Singapore; has claimed that he’ll get up from his grave if he feels that something is going wrong.

SPG

Sarong Party Girl: The deprecating stereotype often used to describe Asian gold-diggers who prey after Caucasian men for their money.

SQ! SQ!

Excuse Me: The colloquially Singlish way of getting one’s attention.

KNN/SMLJ

Yeah… We’re not even gonna go into these (see: MDA). Just be warned that if someone uses this on you, it’s certainly not a compliment.

burning-soul:

• by ER Post on flickr

If you’re looking for a short beach getaway from Singapore that will keep the whole family happy, head to one of these family friendly beach destinations.

Bali, Indonesia

Head to the resort area of Nusa Dua for a beach lined with huge resorts, most of which are perfect for families. Here the beaches are clean with minimal sellers trying to pawn their stuff and lots of water sports on offer. Most of the large resorts have multiple pools including a kids pool and kids club. The Westin Resort Nusa Dua is a classic family favourite, and we also recommend trying the newer resorts Sofitel Nusa Dua and Ritz-Carlton Nusa Dua, both of which have a kids club and kids pool.

Why Bali: Everything you could want on 1 island. Restaurants, resorts, activities, culture, animals, nature. You name it, Bali has it.
Flight time from Singapore: 2 hours 30 minutes
Airlines: Many major airlines including multiple budget. KLM often offers great rates from Singapore to Bali. Check flights to Bali here.
Kids activities: water sports, Waterbom Bali (water park in Kuta), Bali Safari and Marine Park
Suggested articles: Bali’s Best Kids Clubs, 10 Things to do in Bali, Bali Travel Guide

Penang, Malaysia

Penang is perfect for a quick family getaway from Singapore, with 2 to 3 days being just right. The island is well known for it’s local cuisine, street art and restored heritage buildings. It’s fun to hop on a trishaw and explore Georgetown’s sights. Head to the beach area of Batu Ferringhi where Shangri-La’s Golden Sands Resort will keep the whole family happy with it’s own indoor kids park and lots of kids activities.

Why Penang: Penang has culture and history in Georgetown as well as the beach in Batu Ferringhi
Flight time from Singapore: 1 hour 15 minutes
Airlines: Fly direct from Singapore with Air Asia and Jetstar. Check flights to Penang here.
Kids activities: Penang Escape Theme Park, Made In Penang Interactive Museum, Penang Youth Park, Adventure Zone
Suggested articles: Penang Travel Guide

Phuket, Thailand

For a short beach getaway from Singapore with the family, Phuket is on many people’s lists. Family friendly resorts abound and adults can enjoy spa treatments while the kids are occupied at their resort’s kids club. Swissotel Resort Phuket is a popular spot for families with their multi bedroom suites and optional kids set up, where they will furnish the room with kids furniture and toys. Other newer resorts to consider include Novotel Phuket Karon Beach with a large kids club and separate kids pool or Pullman Phuket Arcadia where the parents get a luxurious resort and the kids get a great kids club and outdoor playground.

Why Phuket: Beaches, Thai food and kid friendly attractions
Flight time from Singapore: 1 hour 40 minutes
Airlines: Singapore airlines, Bangkok Airways and Budget Airlines. Check flights to Phuket here.
Kids activities: Splash Jungle Waterpark, The Kids Club, Patong Go-kart Speedway
Suggested articles: Krabi versus Phuket, Phuket’s Most Stunning Resort Pools

Krabi, Thailand

Krabi is popular spot for families that want a more laid back beach getaway. Much quieter than neighbouring Phuket, the beaches in Krabi are less crowded. Near by Railay is a not to be missed gem which is only accessible by boat, but still attached to the mainland. Railay feels like an island getaway with Pranang Cave Beach being a highlight.

One of the best things about Krabi is that it’s generally less expensive than Phuket, while still having a few high end resorts and lots of budget options. Popular family resorts include Holiday Inn Resort Krabi Ao Nang Beach and budget friendly ibis Styles Krabi Ao Nang.

Why Krabi: Nature, scenery, Thai food and budget friendly
Flight time from Singapore: 1 hour 40 minutes
Airlines: AirAsia. Check flights to Krabi here.
Kids activities: Island hopping by boat
Suggested articles: Krabi versus Phuket, Ao Nang Beach Krabi, Railay Krabi, Krabi Beaches

Pattaya, Thailand

With the introduction of direct flights from Singapore to Pattaya, and flights being really cheap (starting at S$65 round trip on AirAsia), add Pattaya to your list of short weekend getaway options. Families will especially love Pattaya, if they know where to go and not go. Pattaya can be seedy and attract unsavoury types, but they mostly congregate around Walking Street. Jomtien beach on the other hand has for many years been a popular destination for Thai families visiting from Bangkok and offers a more kid friendly alternative to neighbouring Pattaya beach.

Family friendly attractions are seemingly endless in Pattaya with more options than any of the other beach destinations on our list. To name just a few, there’s Underwater World, Cartoon Network Amazone Waterpark, Pattaya Floating Market, Pattaya Sheep Farm and Silverlake Vineyard.

Family friendly resorts include Mercure Pattaya Ocean Resort which is budget friendly and has a mini waterpark inside, Veranda Resort Pattaya for a more luxurious getaway while still having incredible family rooms with their own plunge pools and bunk beds, and the ever popular Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya with its own full scale waterpark, private beach and kids club.

Why Pattaya: Amusement parks, and kid friendly attractions.
Flight time from Singapore: 2 hours
Airlines: AirAsia. Check flights to Pattaya here.
Kids activities: Underwater World, Cartoon Network Amazone Waterpark, Pattaya Sheep Farm, Silverlake Vineyard and lots more.
Suggested articles: The Ultimate Toddler Vacation to Pattaya

Batam, Indonesia

For one of the quickest beach getaways from Singapore, head to Batam Island, Indonesia. Being accessible by boat, quick customs lines and many resorts being close to ferry terminals, you could go from home to resort in less than 2 hours depending on where you live and where you stay. The con to being so easily accessible from Singapore is that the prices resemble Singapore more than Indonesia.

If a quick beach getaway is what you’re after, head to Turi Beach Resort which is only 5 minutes from Nongsa ferry terminal. If non-stop kids activities is what you’re looking for, head to Harris Resort Waterfront Batam for cheap rooms and fun for the kids.

Why Batam: Quick and easy
Time from Singapore: 45 minutes by ferry to Nongsa ferry terminal.
Ferries: Batam Fast, Sino Ferries
Kids activities: Watersports, kids clubs
Suggested articles: Batam Versus Bintan

One of the most sought after awards is to fly First Class but which routes can you fly Singapore Airlines A380 Suites? This was especially the case after a Singaporean blogger flew Suites but plagiarized much of the content last year!

Suites in A380 SQ

So Which Routes Can You Fly Singapore Airlines Suites?

Unfortunately for KrisFlyer Miles collectors Suites is only available on the A380 and they only fly the high density routes for Singapore Airlines.    These are the routes that are currently operated by the A380:

• Singapore to Sydney
• Singapore to London
• Singapore to Paris
• Singapore to Hong Kong
• Singapore to Zurich
• Singapore to Tokyo
• Tokyo to Los Angeles
• Singapore to Frankfurt
• Frankfurt to New York
• Singapore to Shanghai
• Singapore to Delhi
• Singapore to Mumbai
• Singapore to Beijing
• Singapore to Auckland

Singapore Airlines does occasionally use the A380 on different routes depending on demand but you can find an updated list of these routes here:

Which Routes Can You Fly Singapore Airlines A380 Suites?

You can however experience Suites for surprisingly few KrisFlyer Miles, a one-way to Hong Kong for instance will only set you back 31,875 KrisFlyer Miles which could be achieved with just one credit card sign-up bonus!

Reader Jayant has put together this really handy resource to show you how much your redemption will cost:

How Many Miles you Earn and Redeem for on Singapore Airlines

Changes to Singapore Airlines Business and First Class Products

Singapore Airlines has announced that they are looking to change its hard product over the next few years starting from 2017.  You have to bear in mind that Suites themselves were introduced in 2007 so they are pretty old.

A380 Suites Singapore Airlines

Australian Business Traveller shows some of the concepts that they are looking at:

New Concepts for Singapore Airlines First and Business Class

Feel like adding something?  Then leave a comment below!

The post Which Routes Can You Fly Singapore Airlines A380 Suites? appeared first on FlyStayTravel.

Just three months ago, Tinder introduced the ability for users to include their occupation and education details. Since then, millions of users have added the information for a more comprehensive profile. Well, that information also allowed Tinder to see which professions garnered the highest ratio of "right swipes." This data is compiled with information from the U.S., with male pilots and female physical therapists taking the top spot for most "right swipes." Interpret the data as you wish.

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In the Arthur Kill waterway, wedged between Staten Island and New Jersey, the Arthur Kill Ship Graveyard is the final home of over two dozen harbor vessels that had their best years in the city’s golden age of shipping. There were once as many as 400 of the ghostly crafts left to the wiles of entropy in the waterway, but according to Atlas Obscura, only 25 or so remain, picked over for their useful parts. Seven minutes of eerie and fascinating drone video footage offers a close-up view of the “urban marine cemetery” and the rusted metal hulls of once-useful tugboats and other harbor ships as they slowly sink into the silent, murky waters.

The ship graveyard actually belongs to the Witte Marine Equipment Company (now Donjon Marine Company), which, over the last century, has “slowly dismantled hundreds of ships that once crowded the bustling piers of New York’s coastline…Many old tugboats and smaller harbor ships have accumulated on the shores of Arthur Kill and now rot in shallow water,” reminders of New York’s bustling shipping era.

WNYC explained in a related article that the salvage yard’s former owner John J. Witte, who passed away in 1980, refused to let ships that were brought here be dismantled. According to Witte’s son Arnold, who runs the business in its current incarnation as part of a larger dredging company, the yard is still one of the largest collections of historic ships of this kind in the world.

[Via Atlas Obscura]

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For over 20 years Tony Potter has been working and living as an illusionist and magician, but this renaissance-man-entertainer also has a passion for woodworking. Combining all his unique skills, he designed a wine rack called Pinetti that makes bottles appear to vanish. And while many of us don’t need any help making wine disappear, it’s still fun to see this seemingly standard wine rack do its magic.

The rack is made from red oak and finished with Danish oil in Virginia wine country. They are 8 1/2 inches x 18 inches x 7 1/2 inches and hold 12 bottles in total with only six visible to the naked (or drunk) eye.

The racks cost $295, and are so popular that they’re currently out of stock, but if you’ve just fallen in love you can sign up on this website to be notified when they’re back on the sales floor.

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Map by vanshnookenraggen.com via Reddit.

We know the crowds that pack into our city’s subway cars each day are more than colorful enough, but the system also has a super-geeky color-coded navigation system that exists even outside of the main map’s primary colored lines.

The city-owned Independent Subway was opened between 1932 and 1940. Up until 1967, it was the last of three former competing subway systems, and contributed six major lines to what is now the unified New York Subway: A, B, C, D, E, F, G, Q (partial). Squire J. Vickers, the system’s architect, designed a special color coding system for each station. Color coded stations were then grouped between express stations to make riders aware of the zone they were passing through. At each express station, the color of the tiles would change. Some station tile color patterns have been altered with subsequent renovations. The system map is based on the original color coding sheet from 1930. After WWII, almost all new subway stations featured their own unique architectural designs and colors

Color Chart of Stations on Independent Lines (New York Transit Museum) via nycsubway.org.

The color variations within this system are subtle: Though they’re grouped by color family, i.e. the five primary colors, different shades are used within those families. Color names are based on paint chips and Berol Prismacolor pencils. Red stations include “Scarlet Red,” “Carmine Red” and “Tuscan Red,” just to name a few, and “Light Green,” “Nile Green” and “Hunter Green” are some of the green family used.

Click map to enlarge.

As you head away from downtown Manhattan–either uptown or toward Brooklyn, the color changes each time you reach an express station. After that, all subsequent local stations have tiles in the same color group as the preceding express station. This presumably was done as a means for helping passengers remember where they should change trains to the local on the way home from work. The ‘G’ line skips Manhattan altogether, so it’s treated as if it’s pointing away from Manhattan in both directions; all stations from Court Square to Fulton Street have tiles with the same color group, namely green. Three different shades of green exist in this section.

For example, on the 8th Avenue (A/C) line from 14th to 145th Street, 14th Street is an express stop so it gets its own color, yellow. 23rd Street is a local stop so it keeps the yellow color. Express stop 34th Street gets a new color. 42nd Street is also express so it gets another new color, purple. Next, 50th Street, a local stop, keeps the purple color. 59th Street is an express stop, so it has a new color, blue. And so on (the color schemes cycle through the five primary colors). This was likely to have been designed so that riders had indicators to remind them where to switch from an express to a local train.

You can take a look at this key to find out the color of your usual station’s tiles.

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Pharmaceutical CEO and #1 naughty child Martin Shkreli is seemingly not done with depriving the world of music -- after buying Wu-Tang Clan's Once Upon a Time in Shaolin for $2 million USD, he has now set his sights on none other than Kanye West's The Life of Pablo, offering the rapper a sum of $10 million USD to purchase the hyped album and keep it from a public release. Directing a tweet to Kanye to buy the album "last minute," Shkreli then followed up with a legal letter that he says must legally be presented by Kanye and Co. to the label's Board of Directors. That being said, if Shkreli indeed gets his way, we at least have a leak of The Life of Pablo to make do with.

aiyo @kanyewest last minute can i buy your album out so it dont get released publicly

— Martin Shkreli (@MartinShkreli) February 11, 2016

Here is my initial offer for the album. @kanyewest Thanks for your consideration and I look forward to your response pic.twitter.com/opJ7mlfraK

— Martin Shkreli (@MartinShkreli) February 11, 2016

Kanye and his label are legally required to take my offer letter to their Board of Directors. This should delay the album by a few days.

— Martin Shkreli (@MartinShkreli) February 11, 2016

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