ladyironchef » Amanda Tan

10 Important Things To Note Before Travelling To Europe

Amanda Tan — Sat, 21 Mar 2015 01:29:39 +0000

A trip to Europe is always an exciting one to look forward to. From jaw-dropping landscapes to majestic structures (seriously, I can never get how detailed some of the buildings are, especially when they were built without the technology we’ve got today), each holiday there feels like a unique adventure. So make your trip a fruitful one with these 10 things to note before travelling to Europe.

#1 DO YOUR RESEARCH

Watch clips of each country you’re visiting to get a feel of what it’s going to be like. Note which way the traffic in each city goes, as different countries abide by driving on different sides of the road (obviously).

And, this is one thing you may learn through experience, but here’s this: each city has its own rules when it comes to crossing the road. Germans may wait patiently for the green man to flash, but in Italy, be careful, even when there’s a traffic light. Its drivers go pretty fast, so make sure they come to a complete stop before making your way across the road.

#2 LOOK FOR CHEAP ACCOMMODATION

Hotels in Europe don’t come cheap, especially if you’re hoping to get a good night’s rest. We recommend using apps like Airbnb, where you get to rent rooms or apartments from locals. Other options include couchsurfing or hostels, but it really depends on how adventurous you are.

Read: Here are the top 10 reasons why we love Airbnb.

#3 DOWNLOAD THE NECESSARY MAPS BEFORE YOU GO

It always helps to know where you’re headed to, especially if it’s your first time in a new city. And, instead of calling attention to the fact that you’re a tourist with your printed maps and guidebooks, let your smart phone do the job instead.

You can download the map of the area you’re looking for via Google Maps. Just type in ok maps in the search bar, and wait for it to load. Evernote, a popular notetaking app is also useful when it comes to clipping receipts and other paperwork such as your documents.

#4 SKIP THE GUIDEBOOKS

They may be useful, but why spend a couple of dollars on it when you can download information for free online? There are plenty of travel apps online which has guides for major cities such as London, Rome and Copenhagen and Paris can be useful when it comes to getting information on the site that you’re going to be visiting.

Also, Google Translate is your best friend, if you don’t speak the language of the city. You may not be an expert in the field, but all you really want, is to get your message across. Right?

#5 TRAVEL DURING OFF-PEAK SEASON

It really depends. Summer’s usually the high season for travellers in Europe. That’s also when most of the stores and tourist attractions are open. But if you’re a winter person, you’ll face less crowds and shorter queues… and lesser stores will be open.

For example, if you’re headed to Cinque Terre or the island of Capri (both in Italy) in winter, you’ll find an empty town, as most of the stores are closed. But if you’re there for the sights and photographs, you’ve got more time to admire the scenery!

#6 STRETCH YOUR DOLLAR

Focus on your priorities and determine what you’re going to spend on. Are you going to indulge in gourmet food in Europe, or would you rather save it on covering as many sites as possible? Is having comfortable accommodation important to you, or would you rather spend it on shopping? These are questions you should ask yourself, so you can set aside some money for each aspect of your trip.

#7 HEAD TO THE LOCAL TOURIST OFFICE

It varies from each city, but you may find useful tips, as well as discounts, free passes to attractions or public transportation and fun events you may want to suss out.

#8 DO AS THE LOCALS DO

The locals know best. Don’t be afraid to ask them for their recommendations. You’ll never know where they may lead you to. But of course, keep your eyes peeled. If you feel uneasy about a situation, please get away from it as fast as you can.

#9 PACKING TIPS

Make a list of essentials you must have. They include: international adapters, chargers, comfortable footwear, a formal outfit (in case you’d like to visit a fancy restaurant or something), toiletries, and the list goes on. But our point here is, pack light.

Read: Here are the top 10 essential travel items and accessories that will make your life that much easier, as well as save time and money.

Chances are, you’re going to be there for two weeks or more, and you need to save space for shopping! Bring clothes you can mix and match easily such as separates that are easy to work with. Think of the outfits you’re likely to wear each day, and plan from there.

#10 KEEP YOUR VALUABLES SAFE

It’s so obvious, but we can’t stress this enough, especially in larger cities like Barcelona, Rome, Paris and Athens, where pickpockets are prevalent. Look out for them (don’t stereotype – the person who looks least like it may clean out your pockets if you’re not careful), try not to look lost, and don’t flash your valuables about.

Read: How to avoid tourism scams – be smart and not fall for these old tricks.

Don’t keep all your valuables in one place, and invest in a money belt or a hidden pouch for your cash and travel documents. It may look (and feel) unglamorous, but it’s worth it. Also, don’t forget to make photocopies of your passport, papers and itineraries, as well as email them to yourself in the event it gets lost or stolen.

About the writer:
Amanda Tan has written pieces for several publications, which include stories on food, lifestyle and beauty. She believes life is too short for regrets, and hopes to live in London (just for the experience). She is also a self-professed cake addict, and can never resist a slice, at any time of the day. If you’d like to share life hacks, travel tips and general advice, you can drop her a note at scented19@gmail.com.

10 Things to Take Note Of Before Your Wedding

Amanda Tan — Sun, 21 Dec 2014 03:28:17 +0000

From trying your wedding dress at least once before the big day, to not letting the small stuff get to you, here are some tips on the 10 things you should take note of while planning for your wedding.

#1 ENJOY BEING ENGAGED

It’s supposed to be a joyous occasion, but you’ll find that not long after, it’s being overtaken by a flurry of wedding planning activity. Often overlooked for the actual wedding, the engagement period usually sees a lot of stress and bridezillas. Which shouldn’t happen. Get around it by scheduling regular date nights with your significant other (cut the wedding talk!) and enjoy this special time.

#2 PRIORITISING YOUR NEEDS AND WANTS

When you’re making your list of must-haves, you should note your priorities. For instance, if you’re intent on having good food, opt for smaller centrepieces, or recycle your aisle decorations. Or, if flowers are placed high on your list, skip the stationery such as save-the-dates, menu cards or escort cards.

#3 DO YOUR SUMS AND STICK TO IT

When you’re starting your research, here’re a few things to note: get your priorities right, set a date and budget, fix the number of guests you want, and move on from there. Plus, with local weddings, your banquet will make up the bulk of the cost. Then there are your gowns, suits, decorations, flowers and so on. Know what you’re working with, and think of ways to work around it.

#4 READ REVIEWS

Don’t be lazy, especially when it comes to reviewing your vendors. Reviews are a really important way of sifting through the good and bad. And, with the convenience of the Internet these days, there really is no excuse. Also, make sure your contracts are in order when you confirm a deal. If you’re having a wedding at a venue that doesn’t offer comprehensive packages, make sure you know what you’re getting, so you don’t get sticker shock.

#5 BE FIRM

It may be your wedding, but don’t be surprised if plenty of people have opinions about everything related to it. The solution? Take it kindly – he or she is only trying to help. And if someone’s getting a little insistent, don’t be rude about it. Simply say thanks and let him or her know you’ve got other ideas.

#6 PRUNE YOUR LIST

It may be tempting to invite everyone you know (including a great aunt whom you’ve never met), but remember this: the more people you ask, the higher your bill. Draw up a list of must-haves (A-lists), then the good to haves, (B-list) and go down the line. But be sure to send your A-lists out in good time to allow for your invites to the B-listers to get out on time without making them look like they’re fillers only

#7 TRY EVERYTHING ON AT LEAST ONCE

Your wedding dress, shoes (especially if they’re new), and other accessories you may be wearing. If you’re having a dress with a large skirt or a long train, practise walking in it a day or two before your wedding to make sure you know how to handle it. Similarly, if you’re having on a new pair of shoes, make sure it’s worn it properly, especially since you’ll be on your feet the entire day.

#8 BE PREPARED

Have an emergency kit – one that’s filled with essentials and items you may need. These include safety pins, bobby pins, blister plasters, plasters, stain remover stick, pads (if it’s coming soon), flat shoes, water, light bites, mobile charger and tissue paper. This list isn’t a comprehensive one, and you may choose to add more items. Just make sure you hand it to a bridesmaid or someone who’s going to be around you most of the time, so you’ll have it at hand should the situation calls for it.

#9 HAVE A DESIGNATED POINT OF CONTACT

When you’re a bride, chances are you’ll have a million and one things to do. Arrange for someone to take charge of certain things, like fielding guests’ queries and making sure the event runs on time – whether it’s a trusted friend or a day-of coordinator. It’ll help make your life so much easier.

#10 RELAX

Don’t sweat the small stuff. Most brides fuss on the teeniest details like whether the table linen will match their place cards, or some other minuscule detail. Newsflash: all that time you spent planning your wedding decor? you’ll hardly notice it when you’re walking down the aisle or getting busy with guests at the reception. Really.

6 Places in Singapore You Can Escape To

Amanda Tan — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 01:00:33 +0000

While we’re best known for our rags-to-riches story, from a sleepy fishing village to a cosmopolitan metropolis today, one thing’s for sure: we’ve grown so much, it’s definitely hard to avoid the crowds in Singapore today. Honestly. Just ask any resident here, and they’ll attest to that. So where do you go when you’re looking to escape the city bustle, or are simply seeking pocket-friendly options for a quiet retreat? These places have the answers:

1. PUNNGOL WATERWAY PARK

This not-so-secret spot boasts a variety of attractions for couples and families. The up-and-coming lifestyle spot, which used to be a quiet farming area, now sees a hive of activity from young couples and families in the area, due to housing developments there.

Today, the Waterway Park features a series of fun activities designed to cater to residents of all ages, as well as picturesque surroundings for couples seeking for fun date alternatives. We like that the park pays homage to the area’s heritage with a series of mature trees and old vegetation, and offers a green respite to residents.

How to get there: You can take a few buses (including 3, 34, 82, 85, 136) from Punggol Bus Interchange. If not, you can also take a 10-15 minute-walk from the interchange, or from Punggol MRT station.

2. SUNGEI BULOH WETLAND RESERVE

Animal-lovers can consider visiting this rich spot that’s teeming with different species of animals. Tucked away in the northwest part of the country, the natural habitat covers an area of 130 hectares, and is known to be home to a large variety of birds and other animal inhabitants. More recently, crocodiles have been known to be spotted within its waters.

How to get there: You can either take 925 from Kranji MRT station or go via the Kranji Express, which operates from 8.30am to 5.45pm.

3. THE SOUTHERN ISLANDS

If you’re tired of the usual offshore options (read: Pulau Ubin and Sentosa Island), there are many others for you to consider. For pristine beaches, serene surroundings and unspoilt landscapes, you can consider the group of southern islands that are waiting to be explored. The more well-known ones include St. John’s Island and Kusu Island, but you can also look to others within the group such as Lazarus Island and Pulau Seringat and Sisters’ Islands.

How to get there: Take a cruise from the Marina South Pier, and get your tickets. The cruises cover three stops: the pier, St. John’s Island and Kusu Island. From these islands, you can cover the rest via a link bridge. Alternatively (if you’ve got the moolah, that is), you can rent a charter yacht to take you there.

4. THE ABANDONED RAILWAY TRACKS

Since the KTM Malaysian Railway closed its doors, its train tracks have been left abandoned. Today, it is known to be popular with photoshoots and hipsters looking to get Instagram-worthy shots by the tracks. You can pop by the former Bukit Timah Railway Station or places where the track runs, at Cluny Road, Newton Circus, or the ones near the Ayer Rajah Expressway, Teban Gardens and Sunset Way.

How to get there: To get to the tracks at Bukit Timah, just make your way to King Albert Park, where you can spot the old railway bridge. For the one near Teban Gardens and Clementi Avenue 4, you can head to Sunset Way and travel along the road, till you reach an underpass that leads to the tracks.

5. SEMBAWANG PARK

Head to this little gem on the northern part of the island, and you’ll be able to see things you don’t normally come across, like oil rigs, and the Johor coast. The area exudes a quaint, almost old-school charm, where you can find traces of our colonial past almost everywhere. These include the black-and-white houses nearby, as well as buildings such as the Navy Museum, Old Admiralty House and the Sembawang Memorial. Plus, if you’re seeking a quiet spot for dates, or a day out with the kids, the park boasts a variety of activities, from its sandy beaches, to fishing (at the jetty), and other play areas. While you’re there, you might want to check out the famed Sembawang Hot Springs nearby, which is the only one in Singapore.

How to get there: Its nearest MRT station is Sembawang. From there, you can take bus 882 from the interchange.

6. THE KRANJI COUNTRYSIDE

The stretch of farms around the Lim Chu Kang area may be a little difficult to get to if you don’t drive, but it’s worth a visit anyway. Whether you’re looking to relive the good old days of our agricultural past, or you’re just looking to take a break, it’s a great way to spend your weekends. And there’re lots to see: from vegetables to exotic fish, chickens and frogs. You can even choose to stay a night or two in some of the farms offering resort-style options. Just make sure you load up on the insect repellent, as those pesky mozzies are always lurking around waiting for a bite.

How to get there: The nearest MRT stations are Choa Chu Kang and Kranji. From there, you can either take a taxi or a public bus, depending on which farm you’re looking to visit. Alternatively places like Farmart offer shuttle bus services – just drop by their website to enquire.

5 Cafes Buzzing in the East of Singapore

Amanda Tan — Sun, 21 Sep 2014 01:00:33 +0000

You know your neighbourhood’s getting cooler when hipster cafes are popping up all over the woodwork. We bring you 5 cafes in the East of Singapore that you must check out.

1. The neighbourhood joint

Tucked away in a cosy corner of the Bedok North area, To-gather café, which is named after the concept of the old children’s song, “The More We Get Together”, evokes a homey vibe – inspirational quotes and poems line almost every wall of the café, which includes a feature wall plastered with post-its containing notes, confessions and more quotes written by its customers.

While we didn’t get to try its mains, its desserts – warm chocolate lava cake and chocolate brownie – hit the sweet spot after our dinner. With prices ranging from $7.90 for pasta dishes to $3.90 for desserts, we say the place is pretty affordable.

To-gather Cafe
Blk 84 Bedok North Street 4, #01-25/27
Tel: +65 6445 1011
Tue to Thu, & Sun: 11am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11pm
Nearest stations: Tanah Merah or Bedok

2. Take a break, have a latte

Backstage café, which is situated in the Kallang industrial area, offers a cool respite for those seeking a break from the weekly humdrum at work. While it didn’t get off to a stellar start (diners had to wait for about 45 minutes or more for their meals when the café first opened), we think it’s coming along well.

Look out for its Duck Confit ($18), Roasted Spring Chicken ($15) and Beef Burger ($17) for its mains. For dessert, you shouldn’t miss the café’s rainbow ($7.50 a slice) and red velvet cakes ($6.50 a slice).

Backstage Cafe
#01-06 Performance Building
158 Kallang Way
Tel: +65 6743 6893
Mon to Sat: 11am – 9pm
Nearest station: Aljunied

3. The café for Instagram-worthy pics

If you’re looking for a café to grab Instagram-worthy pictures, Fart Tartz’s probably it. The café first grabbed our attention with the rows of adorable-looking mudpies ($5.50 each) that look like potted plants and cakes in old-school glass jars, but there’s definitely more to it.

The friendly owner, who opened the café two months ago with his wife, is kept so up-to-date with the latest Insta-worthy trends, he even helped us style our tray of goodies. Plus, we are happy to report that we enjoyed every last bite of the mudpie we had. Consider us impressed.

Fart Tartz
#02-04 Hall 2, 1 Expo Drive
Mon to Thu: 8am – 6pm
Fri to Sun: 8am – 8pm
Nearest station: Expo

4. Art attack — the cutest 3D latte art

A café that serves adorable 3D latte art, how cute is that? We found Chock Full of Beans sitting in a quiet corner of Changi Village (right next to the hawker centre), and were drawn toward the latte art that was on display.

While we were bowled over by the baristas’ serious attention to detail, we also enjoyed the cafe’s Iced Rose Latte and Lychee Lime Cooler. If you’re there for a meal, Chock Full of Beans serves mains and desserts, too.

Chock Full of Beans
#01-2090 Blk 4 Changi Village Road
Tel: +65 6214 8839
Tue to Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 10pm
Nearest station: Pasir Ris

5. Rustic haven

With wooden tables and bar-top counters, hanging lightbulbs, flower arrangements in glass bottles and menus on wooden clipboards, Percolate Coffee doesn’t seem to be any different from one of the cafes that are popping up all over the woodwork these days. The twist? It’s located in the middle of a seemingly quiet neighbourhood, which is a boon for east-siders, as there’s no need to travel all the way to the city to get our hipster caffeine/dessert fix.

Its reasonably-priced coffees (the barista was formerly from Loysel’s Toy, so there’s really no excuse for poor coffees here!) and pastries have received rave reviews from its customers. If you happen to be around the area, it’s a pretty cool place to chill with your friends, or relax with a good read, if you’re alone.

136 Bedok North Avenue 3 #01-152B
Tel: +65 8259 0316
Mon: 10.30am – 9.30pm
Wed to Fri: 10.30am – 9.30pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Bedok

We are currently working on the definite guide to the best cafes in the East of Singapore. For now, check out our guide to 18 cafes in Singapore’s residential neighbourhoods.

Five Weekend Activities You can Try Without Relying on Technology

Amanda Tan — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 06:55:06 +0000

As we live in a technology-filled society, it’s tough to get involved in anything that doesn’t include a screen. Whether it’s your computer, television, or your mobile phone, I say it’s time to get unplugged, and indulge in some good old offline fun. Here are five weekend activities you can try without relying on technology:

1. HEAD OUTDOORS AND ENJOY THE SUN

There’re many things in this world that are meant to be enjoyed, and it’s time to pay attention to them. While you may argue that going online takes you places, when was the last time you admired nature on its own? And you don’t have to go far – you can take a leisurely stroll by the beach, or take a day off to admire the rustic sights of Pulau Ubin, or any one of the Southern islands nearby.

Alternatively, you can even pack a picnic and enjoy the lush, verdant spaces we have, like the Upper and Lower Peirce Reservoirs, the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Gardens by The Bay or the Marina Barrage.

2. BE A LOCAL TOURIST FOR A DAY

Instead of paying attention to our own country, we’re usually jetting off, exploring foreign lands. But maybe it’s time to consider seeing what this Little Red Dot has to offer – and we’ve got plenty. History buffs can explore our museums (it’s especially a good time now that Singaporeans and PR citizens enjoy free admission), check out our oldest buildings, or experience old Singapore with the help of a trishaw. Or you can visit the various farms around the Lim Chu Kang area or check out the last kampong in Buangkok, and experience what life is like, away from the urban jungle.

3. MEET YOUR NEIGHBOURS

It may sound tacky, but hey, you get to know who they are at least. You can even invite your neighbours to a gathering, and have everyone get to know one another. But it’s really up to you. For me, a couple of neighbours took the initiative to rustle up the local community spirit, invited us to a potluck, and at the end of the day, we walked away with new friends, and (we think) a safer neighbourhood, where everyone keeps a look out for each other.

4. PICK UP A NEW SKILL OR TAKE PART IN NEW ACTIVITIES

If you’re the type who can’t sit still, this one’s probably for you. Look out for the event schedules from your nearest community centre, and check out the ones which you’re most interested in. You can choose from a diverse range of classes and activities including yoga, music lessons, baking, language classes or even flea markets (always a good time to clear your stash of unwanted items at home).

5. GET CRAFTY

Start your own scrapbooking project or visual journal with simple tools like a notebook, glue, coloured pens, scissors, and magazine and newspaper cut-outs. I like that this activity helps collect your thoughts, and may even relive wonderful memories you might’ve forgotten you had.

And even if you’re not the type who’s great at creating art, don’t worry – this is meant to be a form of expressing yourself, and it can even be relaxing. So don’t put unnecessary pressure on yourself trying to create the opus of a lifetime.

Of course, this list isn’t exhaustive, and frankly, there are much more things to do out there. If you’ve got more suggestions, sound off in the comments below!

12 Things You Never Knew About Singapore

Amanda Tan — Thu, 03 Jul 2014 01:00:55 +0000

Whether you’re a history buff, or you’d simply like to find out more about our country, here are 12 interesting things that you never knew about Singapore.

1. WE ARE MORE LIKE AN ARCHIPELAGO

Despite our size, Singapore is actually made up of one main island and 62 smaller ones around us. You might be familiar with Pulau Ubin and St. John’s Island, but there’re others like Lazarus Island, Pulau Serangoon (also known as Coney Island), and Pulau Satumu (where Raffles Lighthouse is located at) as well.

2. WE PAY FOR JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING

Now, it’s no secret to most that we’re known as a “fine” country, as we are liable to get charged for things like littering, importing or selling chewing gum, feeding monkeys, consuming food and drink on public transports and so on. But getting fined a sum of $1,000 for not flushing a public toilet? That’s news to us, considering how often we have come across exceedingly dirty public washrooms.

3. OUR NATIONAL LANGUAGE IS ACTUALLY MALAY

This is due to historical reasons, as the lingua franca of the island was originally Malay. English was made the primary language during British rule, and was used after independence, to unite the races. However, we do use Malay in other aspects, such as our national anthem, and military commands.

4. WE ARE IN THE WRONG TIMEZONE

Technically, we’re supposed to be running our clocks 30 minutes behind, as our correct timezone is in GMT+7.30. But we opted to follow in Peninsula Malaysia’s footsteps to be 30 minutes ahead of our original time in 1982, to facilitate better transactions between both countries. We are also in the same timezone as Beijing, Hong Kong, Taipei and Perth.

5. WE ARE ONE OF THE THREE CITY-STATES IN THE WORLD

As it turns out, we are not alone – in being a city-state, that is. For the uninitiated, a city-state consists of one central city and its surrounding territories, and is being ruled by one independent government. And there are three of us today, including the Vatican City and Monaco.

6. WE HAVE TWO PEOPLE TO THANK FOR OUR EARLY START

Although Sir Stamford Raffles is the founder of modern Singapore, the person who was responsible for the development of this nation, was the first British Resident, Major-General William Farquhar. While Raffles drew up his plan for Singapore, Farquhar was the one who implemented these policies, as Raffles had to take up his post in Bencoolen shortly after. He was the one who set up our first police force to maintain law and order, cleared the country of pests (which was a serious problem at the time), attracted traders to our port, and distributed the land properly amongst the various communities. In short, he made sure this country didn’t end up a mess.

7. THE REASON BEHIND THE BUILDINGS ALONG SINGAPORE RIVER

If you were wondering why we’ve got a line of shophouses facing a slew of government buildings on the banks of the Singapore River, it’s all part of Raffles’ Town Plan, where he reserved the north bank for government offices (that’s where Parliament House and the Supreme Court are currently at).

At the same time, commerce buildings (where shophouses and financial buildings still stand) were built on the south bank of the river, as it resembles the belly of a carp, where wealth and prosperity are at, according to Chinese belief.

8. WE HAVE OUR VERY OWN “SANDCRAWLER”

I’m sure this is an open secret, but it’s so exciting to know that we can call the Star Wars series a part of our own. Lucasfilm Animation officially opened its first overseas production facility at the Fusionopolis this year to tap on the pool of Asian talent, and to support future Star Wars movies and other projects. Plus, check out the super cool statue of Yoda that resides in the building.

9. WE PLAYED HOST TO THE MISS UNIVERSE PAGEANT

Before the Youth Olympic Games, we were put in the international spotlight with the pageant’s 36th year in 1987. The event was held at the former World Trade Centre, and the winner during that year, was Cecilia Bolocco from Chile.

10. WE CAN VOTE IN THE BRITISH ELECTIONS

While Singapore citizens who vote in foreign countries may lose the right to vote in Singapore, this isn’t applicable for the British elections, as we are part of the Commonwealth. If we have taken up residence in the UK, we are allowed to vote in the general and local government elections there.

11. WE HAVE ONE OF THE LARGEST ORCHID GARDENS IN THE WORLD

Housed within the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the National Orchid Garden is home to one of the largest display of orchids in the world – we have over 600 species and hybrids, including the world’s largest orchid, the Tiger Orchid. On that note, we have a wider variety of trees in the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve than the whole of North America. Not too shabby for a country that’s also known as the Garden City.

12. WE DON’T HAVE SINGAPORE NOODLES

Okay, so this is mainly for the tourists who might come here expecting to find this everywhere. But despite what you think, Singapore Noodles – a dish of thick bee hoon noodles fried with a type of sweet and slightly peppery sauce – isn’t our national dish. Instead, you should be focused on looking for delectable dishes (and ones that we are actually proud of), like chilli crab, laksa and Hainanese chicken rice.

5 Things You Should Do In Your 20s

Amanda Tan — Tue, 24 Jun 2014 23:00:51 +0000

Like most people in their 20s, life is about to begin for me. I graduated from university not too long ago, secured my first job, still live with my parents at home, but I am enjoying my financial freedom, and have all the time in the world to do whatever I want. In short, this is the best time of my life.

But all too soon, the dream life will fade, and responsibilities will come into the fray. So here are 5 things you should start doing when you are in your 20s.

1. START SAVING

While it may be tempting to spend every last dollar and cent from your salary on things like expensive dinner dates with friends, or splurge on the latest ‘It’ bag, or a holiday, do remember that you can’t rely on your parents forever, and you might even have to start sharing some of the family responsibilities already.

One of the things you should begin is a regular savings habit, if you haven’t already done so when you were in school. The sum doesn’t have to be much – it really depends on whether you are comfortable with the amount or not – but this has to be a monthly contribution.

2. APPRECIATE YOUR PARENTS

If you’ve been taking them for granted, now’s the time to change things. Since entering the workforce, I’ve always marvelled at how my parents are able to face doing more housework and screaming kids at home when all they probably want to do, is to look forward to an evening of rest.

And, while you’re growing older, your parents aren’t getting any younger, and they will not be around forever. Try to spend more time with them and help them with things they need, as you may not be able to spend as much time with them in future, when you move out of the house, or when you’re married.

3. GET ALL THE EXPERIENCE YOU CAN

When you’re young and you’re just starting out in your new career, this is the best time to get all the experience and the lessons, and make all the mistakes you can, because when you’re older and presumably more established in your job, your mistakes may have a greater impact.

Besides, being in your 20s is a great time to learn about failures and accept them. When you do take a tumble, it won’t have as much impact and consequence, as when you’re making the same mistake in future.

4. LIVE A LITTLE

Like I said earlier, this is the best time of your life, so why waste it? See the world while you can, take risks, start a business, go on adventures you never thought you’d do… and so on. To use a cliché, the world is your oyster, so go and do whatever you want. Don’t wait till you’ve got a family of your own, or some unforeseen circumstance, that’ll cause you to halt your plans.

5. DISCOVER YOURSELF

One of the biggest lessons I learnt, was to be comfortable in my own skin. As you grow into adulthood, you’ll start to realise what your priorities are, what matters, and what doesn’t. You may have wanted to play the popularity game when you were in school, but it doesn’t really matter anymore.

When you’re going through your 20s, you’ll learn to choose your friends wisely. Questions like, “Are you happy with them, and do you guys share the same goals?” may pop up from time to time. And if your answers are negative, then, maybe, it’s time to hang out with them less. Now, I’m not encouraging you guys to be loners here, but your influences define who you are, and life is too short to care about people who really don’t matter.

Why You Should Experience Living Abroad for a While

Amanda Tan — Sun, 08 Jun 2014 01:54:32 +0000

When I first found out I was accepted into a university in Brisbane, Australia in 2010, I was resistant to the idea. For several reasons, too: It was unfamiliar territory, I was going to be away from home for an extended time (a first) and I knew no one there. But eventually, I had a great experience during my stay, and I don’t regret a thing. Yes, it may sound scary being away from familiar surroundings, it’s something I feel everyone should try, at least once.

Here’s why you should experience living abroad:

1. YOU LEARN NEW THINGS ABOUT YOURSELF

I don’t know whether it’s a case of whatever happens overseas, stays there, but I found myself trying many more things, which I never would’ve done back home. For instance, when my housemates and I took a trip to Sydney during our first semester break, we climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge, rode horses, and went on a ghost tour – all of these, I was terrified of.

But I survived, and have learnt to beat my (somewhat) fear of heights and horses. So challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone, because you never know where it might take you, and what it might have to offer.

2. YOU LEARN NEW SKILLS

When you’re living overseas, you’ll definitely learn to take care of yourself better. If, like me, you’re more likely to set the kitchen on fire than to whip up a decent meal, this is one of the first things you’ll pick up. I was lucky enough to live with great housemates during my first three semesters, who took care of our meals, but I was alone during my last semester, after the rest graduated, or moved out. It was then that I learnt how to cook proper meals, buy my own groceries, work the washing machine, and so on. Yes, you may judge now.

3. IT BECOMES YOUR SECOND HOME

I have had so many fond memories in Brisbane, that I can’t think of any other place to settle down in, when I retire. It’s one of my backup plans, and I find myself gravitating toward the city, when I think of holiday destinations, just because it’s familiar.

Besides, since you’ve already called the city home for a while, it’s definitely easier and cheaper when you go back – you might score free accommodation with friends there, and you won’t have to suffer through touristy gimmicks. Plus, if you’re thinking of going back to work, the door’s always open. Although, make sure you read up on government policies on working visas, permanent residency, and so on.

4. YOU EXPERIENCE NEW CULTURES

This is kind of a given, especially when things are quite different back home. Life in Australia is more laidback in comparison. Stores close earlier (around 5 to 5.30pm, and they consider closing at 9pm, late night shopping!), and when it comes to paperwork processing, they take three days in comparison to a day’s wait here. But there are good things to be said as well. The people here know how to enjoy life. Coffee and hot chocolate seem to be a staple here, in addition to barbeques. And on a clear day, you see students lounging on the grass in the school’s courtyard, reading a book, sipping coffee, eating, and basically relaxing.

These are things you hardly get to see on our campuses here. Plus (and this one’s my favourite), they are more easygoing. These people really know how to keep a conversation going when they start one, and you can strike up a friendship randomly – whether it’s at the bus stop, or at the supermarket.

5. YOU BECOME MORE MATURE

Of all the reasons, this one’s probably the most compelling. You’ll find that while you’re missing home and your loved ones, you become a better person for trying to survive, at the end of the day. You’re taking better care of yourself, learning the ways of the world, managing your schoolwork and finances better, because no one is there to nag at you, or to pick up the slack for you when you make mistakes. And, when you’re finally ready to go home, you’ll appreciate your parents better, for what they’ve done for you.