Do you have a lot of unopened CNY goodies sitting on your table? You can donate them and let someone else enjoy them on your behalf!

It’s Raining Raincoats (IRR), a local non-profit organisation formed to support the needs of migrant workers in Singapore, is calling for donations! You can share your unopened and unexpired CNY goodies with our brothers who toil for our country. These donations will be distributed to the migrant worker community at their dormitories, worksites and construction areas and this initiative by IRR is happening from now until Feb 28.

Time to pack all your unopened and unexpired CNY goodies. IRR has a list of Whatsapp numbers whom you can reach out to for the various donations. They will help to facilitate the distribution of the snacks by giving you a list of the dormitory locations where you can drop the snacks off.

Apart from CNY goodies and after this donation drive, you can still work with IRR to bless the migrant worker community through other donation means. They include pre-loved items such as men’s clothes, backpacks, and more. Do ensure they are washed and in good condition!

If not pre-loved items, you can also work with IRR to bless them with care packs that include daily necessities such as instant coffee, biscuits, toothbrushes and toothpaste, body soap, shampoo, shaver etc.

There is also a correspondent who collects monetary donations used to top up data cards for the workers. This will be very helpful as the migrant workers rely on these data cards to stay connected with their families back home.

The migrant worker community in Singapore is a large one and they are Singapore’s unsung heroes. Every day, rain or shine, they toil for Singapore’s soil and they are the reason we get to live comfortably in our buildings, drive safely on our roads and more. It isn’t easy for them to be away from their families and to be working so hard to send money home. Let us all show some love to our brothers who have been working so very hard for us.

More info at https://sites.google.com/view/irrcny-2021/home.

Following the popularity of the Mala Oden is the Spicy Clam Noodles, or better known as Hua Jia Fen.

Also brought in by snacksdelivery.sg, this instant noodles from China is the trending snack in both China and Singapore now and the cartons of stocks have been selling like hotcakes since its launch.

It is quite different from the Mala Oden, but no less satisfying.

READ OUR REVIEW ON THE MALA ODEN

The Hua Jia Fen is a less spicy version as compared to the Mala Oden. By the famous Hai Chi Jia in China, every cup packs a punch and will leave you salivating for more.

Each cup comes with a serving of potato noodles (or what we affectionately known as tang hoon), veggie pack, enoki mushrooms, real clams and spices. Mix them all in the cup, fill the cup with hot water (don’t fill it to the brim in case it becomes too diluted), let it sit for about 5 minutes, and your snack is ready for enjoyment!

Slurp up the noodles that are coated with the soup. The soup is a slightly nutty and slightly sweet one that is dangerously addictive. Complete with real sweet clams and a handful of enoki mushroom, the Hua Jia Fen makes a fantastic midday snack and supper.

Can’t take spicy food? Don’t worry, the Hua Jia Fen is not spicy like the Mala Oden. We would say the spice level is 2 out of 5, and shiok-ness level is 5 out of 5.

The Hua Jia Fen is priced at a reasonable S$19.90 per carton, with 6 cups in each carton. Purchase 3 cartons at only S$58.80 and delivery fee will be waived too!

Get your Hua Jia Fen and Mala Oden from https://snacksdelivery.sg/.

This post was brought to you by Snacks Delivery.

This all-new Mala Oden by snacksdelivery.sg will have you rethink instant cup noodles.

Gone are the days when we can be pacified by mere chicken cup noodles. Our taste buds have been absolutely spoilt by all the innovative options in Asia and this Mala Oden joins the league of trending snacks in 2020.

For as cheap as S$3.60 per cup (if you purchase 3 cartons at a go), this Mala Oden is our new addiction and we’ve been eating one cup every day. No joke!

For the uninitiated, oden is quite simply Japanese-style yong tau foo, where a mix of fishcake variations are served in a sweet dashi soup. Take the sweet soup out and replace it with kickass mala soup and you have the Mala Oden.

In a nutshell, this instant snack is a cup chockfull of goodness. Each cup comes with a portion of sweet potato noodles (or what we Chinese know as tang hoon), dried veggies and a generous mix of fishcake.

You can customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of water added. There are suggestions on the cup itself for mild spicy to super spicy. Brilliant.

The end result is a comforting cup of Mala Oden that is so flavourful, it will leave you wanting more. The soup isn’t as numbing and spicy as it looks, and in fact very drinkable without burning your throat!

This Mala Oden can be a meal on its own, and makes a great snack any time of the day. Want to be a baller? Add abalone slices and razor clams to level up your Mala Oden. Other suggested ingredients to throw into your cup are ham, luncheon meat, crabsticks, button mushrooms and enoki mushrooms.

Seriously, how can we ever go back to regular instant noodles?! Give us Mala Oden any time!

snacksdelivery.sg is the official distributor of Mala Oden. The first two batches of stocks were sold within 36hrs. There are currently ready stocks for this popular Mala Oden on snacksdelivery.sg, so don’t miss out on it again!

This post was brought to you by Snacks Delivery.

All fans of Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market, listen up. This is the news you’ve been waiting for: the famous weekend market from will be in Singapore in 2020!

This is great news because if flying to Bangkok is not possible in the near future for you due to work or family commitments, you can still enjoy it on our sunny island for a limited period of time.

Chatuchak Weekend Market Singapore will happen from 04 Feb to 03 May 2020. 3 whole months of good food and shopping awaits!

Chatuchak Weekend Market, for the uninitiated, is Bangkok’s most popular outdoor market that spans across acres of land. It takes place every weekend and you can find anything and everything there—from food to clothes, homeware to furniture…

Chatuchak Weekend Market is a perennial favourite among visitors to Bangkok, and it is one that draws Singaporeans to Bangkok too. Bustling is an understatement; and we hope the pop-up in Singapore will not disappoint.

From 04 Feb to 03 May 2020, the Market will be held at The Grandstand in Turf Club and the organizer has, thus far, promised over 200 stalls including food, retail and services vendors. These would include vendors that will fly in from Thailand—a true taste of the Land of Smiles; aren’t you already stoked?

There will be over 1,000 vendors on rotation across the period, and you can expect an eclectic mix of food, shopping and services. How does Thai massage sound?

We are just hoping that the stalls will not be the same ones at Artbox / Geylang Serai Market / Shihlin-inspired Night Market in Singapore.

Chatuchak Weekend Market Singapore
The Grandstand in Turf Clu

All hail the cat without mouth; Hello Kitty Orchid Garden, Singapore’s first Hello Kitty Cafe is opening at Changi Airport Terminal 3 in May 2016!

For so long now, we have been pinning for a Hello Kitty cafe in Singapore, and though some may argue that it is but a gimmick, many of us are suckers for thematic cafes like that. Just take a look at the various Hello Kitty cafes in Asia, and how “atmospheric” in their own ways they are. Surely this is something for fans to be excited about?

What makes it even better is that the café will be open for 24 hours daily. Hello Kitty cakes for supper, anyone?

Inspired by Singapore’s ‘Garden City’ vibes, the Hello Kitty themed cafe will feature lush greenery and opulent blooms. A definitive but lovely touch to the Singapore outlet, Hello Kitty Orchid Garden is going to be nothing short of photogenic.

Hello Kitty Orchid Garden’s menu comprises all-day breakfast fare and desserts such as gelato sundaes, waffles, pastries and tea cakes. While the exact menu has not been finalised, the dishes are said to carry local influences to reflect our cultures and taste buds.

There will also be a retail section selling Singapore-exclusive merchandise including a range of custom Hello Kitty-inspired tea blends, plush toys, grow-it-yourself plant kits, postcards and tea cups. Oh yes, we are so going broke.

We can’t be the only ones who go gaga over Hello Kitty, right?

Hello Kitty Orchid Garden
Arrival Hall Central #01-22
Terminal 3, Singapore Changi Airport
Daily: 24 Hours

All images used in this post are for illustration purposes only, and are taken from the other Hello Kitty cafes in Asia. The first photo belongs to Changi Airport.

The world is our oyster. But as we all travel around the world more, the world gets more hurt.

While traveling brings about tourism, it is precisely because of this correlation that the world is endangered. Tourism can bring about irreversible negative environmental, social and economical impacts, and we are being destroyed by the minute every day.

Sustainable Tourism is hence so vital in protecting this world we live in, and that means we should be considerate and only positively impact the places we visit. With the recent decision made by Italy to restrict the number of visitors to its gorgeous Cinque Terre evokes even more sentiments about tourism sustainability.

All of us have a part to play in this world – you and me, we are all responsible for this very world we live in. And when we travel, we ought to be responsible travellers too.

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES

Government organisations are more often than not the biggest stakeholder in tourism, and it is with constant and concerted effort that everyone fights to protect their countries’/ cities’ heritage places. It can be a temple, a museum, a park, a building or even a whole island.

Funds are managed and awarded to the various places that deserve preservation and conservation. The selection process happens once a year, and places are selected based on their natural and cultural importance to the country/ city and humanity.

Italy is home to the most number of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

With the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, these monumental places that carry heavy importance and significance are protected and preserved, and all that we enjoy today can too be enjoyed by many more generations to come.

RESPONSIBLE TOURISM

We are stakeholders of our world too. Whether we are living in our homeland or visiting a country/ city, the saying goes, “the objective is to create a better place for people to live in and to visit.”

Responsible tourism is displayed through our behaviour. While it all differs from individual to individual, the rationale stays – to make positive contributions to conversations, and to minimise social, economical and environmental damage.

There are many ways to being a responsible tourist, and the list starts now.

DO NOT LITTER

Well, this is basic. You do not even do this at home, so why do it at someone else’s home?

The dustbin may be a kilometre away, but walk anyway. Dumping your rubbish inconsiderately and illegally is the darnest thing you could ever do to this wonderful world that shelters you and comforts you, so do not litter wherever you go.

Let the world continue to shine in its full glory.

CONSERVE WATER AND REDUCE ELECTRICITY CONSUMPTION

We are somehow guilty of taking luxurious showers when we are in a foreign land, even more so if we are putting up at nice accommodations.

The logic stays – if you do not do it at home, then don’t do it at someone else’s home.

Shower as you normally would. Skip the bubble bath. Switch off the tap fully. Flush with consideration.

As with electricity. Switch off the lights before you head out. Unplug your charging devices when you are done with charging. And switch on only what is necessary.

CULTURAL PRESERVATION

To be culturally sensitive wherever we go means conducting ourselves and respecting the locals’ way of life, traditions, practices and beliefs.

We should not make the locals feel invaded, nor threaten and change their lifestyles.

A greater understanding of a local culture will also benefit our travels as we can positively interact with the locals – to better understand the place, to respect their cultural expressions and to appreciate all that they endorse and live by.

This will, too, enhance the overall host-tourist connection – which in turns encourage sustainable tourism.

SUPPORT THE LOCALS

There are many ways to support the locals and its community, so as to keep their life cycles going. This is also a form of cultural preservation, and it brings about positive economical impacts to the place.

It may be crafts that are locally produced, it may be a meal at a local restaurant, or it may be a form of performing arts. Whatever they are, it is always lovely to support the locals – within your means, of course. Whether is it a hand-sewn pouch, a dish that is prepared with only locally-farmed crops, or an ethnic dance put up by the kids of the village, tourism can be bring about positive contributions just like that.

YOUR SOUVENIR MAY BE A DESTRUCTION

It is alright to pick up fallen maple leaves and dry them up as souvenirs, but it is not alright to fill your bottle with sand from the beautiful beach that you just visited. Sometimes, we do not think too much of the souvenir that we decide to bring home, and this can be extremely detrimental.

Stop and think if what you are about to bag home is going to make a difference to the place. Like the gorgeous flower that you see en route to your destination? Or the seashells along the coast? The best way to remember that wonderful sight is to capture it on your camera.

They belong where they are, and their beauty is only to be admired, never to be claimed.

DRESS RESPONSIBLY

This is definitely important, especially if you are visiting somewhere religious or conservative. Cover up when roaming around sacred grounds, and respect the community.

Similarly, dressing up is a form of respect, and if the locals dress a certain way/ with a certain style, take a leaf and follow suit.

SPEAK WITH THE LOCALS

Learn all you can about the place that you are visiting. Learn about their history, learn about their environment, learn about their lifestyle, learn about their prohibitions.

It is through learning that we can truly appreciate the way life is – all its rawest forms and nakedness. We are all inherently different, and through our differences, we cross paths and meet; our acquaintance will bring about amazing social impacts, and it is this bond that will make the world go round.

Melody is the other half of Ladyironchef. While she seeks solace in traveling, she does not forget to love and protect the world. She has a keen interest in cultural and performing arts, and is sometimes lost in the beauty of history. London is where she longs to move to, and someday, she will spend her mornings practising yoga in Hyde Park.

alice + olivia is my muse. I am a huge fan of New York-based designer Stacey Bendet, for she is one inspiring woman who leads a fulfilling life with her family, yoga, and colourful fashion. It is one of those brands that would have me willingly splurge on, because what is to not love about her iconic monochromatic stripes and Stace Face, right?

And today, a piece of news got me really excited – alice + olivia is collaborating with local Japanese-inspired cafe Karafuru desserts! Damn those whimsical tea sets; I am so going gaga already!

From 09 Dec 2015 to 31 Jan 2016, Karafuru desserts will have its interiors decked in alice + olivia colours and styles, and you bet that is going to be nothing but fascinating.

There will be three tea sets available, and I know it is not going to be cheap, but it will be worth it for all fashion lovers. Heck, even if you do not know who Stacey Bendet is, you will be drawn to the very adorable Stace Face.

Marrying alice + olivia’s signature looks with Karafuru’s popular eclairs, the first set to expect is the Eclair Set 2 (S$18) that comprises two eclairs and a choice of drink. Two eclairs ain’t enough? Sure, the Eclair Set 1 (S$24) has the same eclair and drink combination, except that they come with three eclairs.

The Parfait Set (S$22) is for those who do not quite prefer eclair.

These special sets will include a redemption card, and with that card, bring it to the alice + olivia store in ION Orchard to receive an exclusive coaster. Yes, it is something you must not miss the world for.

Karafuru Desserts
8 Jalan Klapa
Singapore 199320
Tel: +65 6291 4430
Tue to Sun: 1pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Lavender

So good, you would want to lick them off your screen. That is why we say these are the Prettiest Desserts in Singapore That You Must Try At Least Once In Your Life.

Or twice. Or thrice. Or just worship them forever.

Desserts are sweet endings to our meals; well, they can be sweet beginnings too. Desserts are divine, and they lift our spirits up like no other. We are always enthralled by the idea of a pretty dessert – one that we cannot wait to dig in to, yet have to capture a thousand and one photos of it in different angles before we eat them, so that we can remember the moments forever.

Do you feel the same way too? Then you have to read this list for the Prettiest Desserts in Singapore That You Must Try At Least Once In Your Life.

#1 BANANA TREE – FLOWER POT DESSERT

Because eating from plates and bowls are too mainstream, we now dig in to flower pots!

26 Keong Saik Road
Singapore 089133
Tel: +65 6221 5020
Tue to Sat: 11am – 9pm
Sun: 12pm – 7pm
Nearest Station: Outram Park

#2 CAKE SPADE – #OVERTHETOP MILKSHAKE

This #OverTheTop Milkshake is topped with a “salad” of fluffy Cotton Candy, a slice of Red Velvet Cake, Old-school Biscuits, Grape Wafer Biscuits, lots of Nutella Rainbow Sprinkles with a Vanilla milkshake as the base.

Orchid Hotel
1 Trans Link, #01-06
Singapore 078867
Tel: +65 6444 3868
Mon to Thu: 12pm – 9pm
Fri to Sun: 12pm – 10:30pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

#3 HOSHINO COFFEE – PANCAKE SOUFFLÉ

Enjoy the best of both worlds with this cross-breed of soufflé and pancake.

Capitol Piazza #B2-55
15 Stamford Road
Singapore 178906
Tel: +65 6384 5131
Daily: 10.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

#4 LOKKEE – BACON DELIGHT

Butterscotch and bacon infused ice-cream sitting in a deep-fried hot crunchy bread bowl drizzled with raspberry and chocolate sauce. Oh. My. God.

Plaza Singapura
#03-01, 68 Orchard Road
Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6884 4566
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

#5 POOL GRILL – BANOFFEE

The crumbly crust, the sweet toffee and the bananas all came together beautifully in this Banoffee.

310 Orchard Road
Singapore 238865
Mon to Thu, Sun: 11am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#6 SINPOPO – JACKFRUIT TEA CAKE

Do not belittle this tea cake; its wonderful sweetness pays homage to the amazing tropical fruit and it is a one-of-a-kind cake!

458 Joo Chiat Rd
Singapore 427671
Tel: +65 6345 5034
Tue to Thu, Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 12am
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Dakota

#7 SYNC – MATCHA CHOCOLATE LAVA CAKE

Greens are good for you, right? So is this Matcha Chocolate Lava Cake!

Serangoon Garden Estate
12 Maju Ave
Singapore 556690
Tel: +65 6282 0612
Daily: 11am – 12am
Nearest Station: Serangoon/Lorong Chuan

#8 TART BLANC – BLUEBERRY LAVENDER CHOCOLATE TART

Sounds complicated. Just eat the tart after you’ve photographed it. We assure you, you will love it.

Millenia Walk, 9 Raffles Boulevard #01-102
Singapore 039596
Tel: +65 6238 6893
Mon to Thu: 10.30am – 9pm
Fri: 10.30am – 9.30pm
Sat: 11am – 9.30pm
Sun: 11am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Promenade

#9 THE COLD PANTRY – ROOT BEER WAFFLES

I see what you did there.

131 Rangoon Road
Singapore 218409
Tel: +65 9179 7266
Mon to Thu: 12pm – 9pm
Fri to Sun: 12pm – 10pm
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Farrer Park

Read: Here’s a compilation of the prettiest cakes that we have tried in Singapore.

Line Friends Store & Cafe was one of our first stops during our recent trip to Seoul, and you would not believe how excited we were. We couldn’t even believe it ourselves; who would have thought that a few characters would make us lose our composure?!

So it happened. We were like kids at Line Friends Store & Cafe, Seoul. It was like stepping in to Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory; maybe even better. The multi-level outlet features hugeee merchandise sections and a cafe, and is filled with excitement and laughter of all like-minded fans of Line.

Situated in Garosu-gil, Line Friends Store & Cafe sees a crowd that comprises both Koreans and visitors from all over the world since the Line app started taking the world by storm. It is a must-visit when in Seoul.

Brown greets everyone who steps in, and boy, was Brown gigantic! Want some photos with the very cuddly bear? Join the queue. We did, too!

The first floor is the main merchandise level, and it was impossible to stay calm. The sheer plethora of merchandise includes stationery, bags, plush toys and more plush toys. The selection of plush toys alone is enough to make you go broke. Brown, Cony, Lennard, Sally… they are all waiting for you to adopt them!

Then, we have more merchandise at the basement level, together with the cafe where you can be seated and to tuck in to the cutest Line Friends macarons. We don’t know how you are gonna do it but we didn’t even have the heart to bite into our Brown and Cony macarons!

Want to do more shopping? Head up to the second level for Line Friends apparels, with selections for both adults and children. So many printed tees and sweaters, so many cute caps for kids, and then there are the hair accessories; fancy a Sally hairband?

We had so much fun at Line Friends Store & Cafe just taking photos, choosing who to bring home, gushing over macarons, and simply living in the moment where all fans of Line forget the worries of the world while reliving the inner kid in us. The next time we go to Seoul, we are sure to visit to bring more plush toys home!

Line Friends Store & Cafe Seoul
535-15, Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu
Nearest Station: Sinsa

Why, where do we even begin?

In a gastronomical century that we live in lies infinite possibilities of dessert creations – every one enticing in their own ways. Cakes in particular have our hearts, for they are ever comforting, mood-lifting, Instagram-worthy, and the list goes on.

We’ve got the French-style ones, we’ve got the rainbows, we’ve got the ones with lots of chocolate, and we’ve got the guys with the fanciest flavours.

So we did a little compilation of the prettiest cakes that we have tried in Singapore, and you have to try them at least once too. Any more that we miss out?

#1 BOUFÉ – STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE

Hey! This pretty little square is soft and chiffon-y and makes a perfect weekend treat!

308 Tanglin Road
Phoenix Park
Singapore 247974
Tel: +65 6734 7656
Tue to Sun: 9am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard/Redhill

#2 BUCKTILE ST – BLUE VELVET CAKE

Well, red velvet alone is not enough to satisfy, so we have the Blue Velvet Cake.

104 Faber Drive
Singapore 129412
Tel: +65 6566 7058
Daily: 12pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Clementi

#3 BRUNETTI – STRAWBERRY CAKE

Yes, yes, and yes. Hell yes!

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn miles for every dollar spent at this restaurant. Download and try Mileslife out now! You can use our code ‘Ladyironchef‘ upon your first spending to get 1,000 miles.

163 Tanglin Rd, Tanglin Mall #01-35
Singapore 247933
Tel: +65 6733 9088
Sun to Thu: 8am – 9pm
Fri & Sat: 8am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#4 BUTTER STUDIO – RED VELVET SALTED CARAMEL CAKE

Taking the ubiquitous red velvet to a whole new level, with a touch of salted caramel. One of the best we’ve tried in recent times!

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn 2 miles for every dollar spent at this restaurant. Download and try Mileslife out now! You can use our code ‘Ladyironchef‘ upon your first spending to get 1,000 miles.

147 Jalan Besar
Singapore 208865
Tel: +65 6294 7115
Sun to Thu: 10.30am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 10.30am – 12midnight
Nearest Station: Farrer Park/Lavender

#5 COMESTIVEL DESSERTS – NUTELLA CHEESECAKE

This Nutella Cheesecake (S$8) is a decadent treat that is every bit photo-worthy.

55 Siglap Road
#B1-11/12 Siglap Centre
Singapore 455871
Tel: +65 9859 6214
Wed to Sun: 12pm – 7pm
Nearest Station: Kembangan

#6 CREME MAISON BAKERY – FLORAL CUPCAKES

Really, do we even need to tell you why?

50A Prinsep St #02-01
Singapore 188680
Tel: +65 8181 3689
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

#7 FRESH FRUITS LAB – TIRAMISU 

A Tiramisu with Mascarpone Cream with Mocha and Toffee Sauce, Strawberry and Phyllo Chip served on a tripod and gauze mat - this is one helluva complicated tiramisu! This is part of Fresh Fruits Lab’s new afternoon tea set.

351 Changi Road
Singapore 419818
Tel: +65 6677 6741
Nearest Station: Eunos/Kembangan

#8 FLOR PATISSERIE – STRAWBERRY SOUFFLÉ

Because some things never go out of style…

2 Duxton Hill #01-01
Singapore 089588
Tel: +65 6223 8628
Mon to Sat: 10.30am – 7.30pm
Sun: 10.30am – 6.30pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

#9 I AM… CAFE – RAINBOW CREPE

Mind-blowing, to say the least. This rainbow crepe makes a lovely sweet treat – any day. It is halal, too!

674 North Bridge Road, 01-01
Singapore 199486
Tel: +65 6295 5509
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 11.30am – 1am
Sun: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

#10 JANE’S CAKE STATION – CHOCOLATE CAKE

Okay, this is actually the most un-photogenic cake. But we have to include it here because it tastes like heaven and you definitely have to try this one. BEST OLD-SCHOOL CHOCOLATE CAKE.

265 Jln Kayu
Singapore 799493
Tel: +65 6481 1322
Mon to Sat (Except Wed): 12pm – 6pm
Sun: 12pm – 4pm
Nearest Station: Fernvale

#11 KKI SWEETS – ANTOINETTE

Some Japanese-style treats for you? Yes to KKi Sweets’ Antoinette.

1 Zubir Said Drive SOTA #02-01
Singapore 227268
Tel: +65 6225 6650
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 8pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

#12 LYNN’S CAKES & COFFEE – RAINBOW CAKE

This neat rainbow cake sure tastes as good as it looks!

11 Eng Kong Terrace
Singapore 598983
Tel: +65 6314 2886
Tue to Thu: 11am – 7pm
Fri, Sat & Eve of PH: 11am – 9pm
Sun & PH: 11am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Clementi

#13 MUSEO – CHEESECAKE ON CHOCOLATE SOIL

Creative meets cakery. We can never get sick of this item at the sexy Museo.

31 Ocean Way #01-22
Quayside Isle, Sentosa Cove
Singapore 098375
Tel: +65 6734 8066
Sun to Thu: 11.30am – 10pm
Fri, Sat & Eve of PH: 11.30am – 1am
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

#14 SKY ON 57 – BLUEBERRY CHEESECAKE

Who can look at blueberry cheesecake the same way again after having THIS?

10 Bayfront Avenue, Marina Bay Sands
Singapore 018956
Tel: +65 6688 8857
Daily: 7am – 10.30pm, 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Bayfront

#15 TIAN KEE & CO – RAINBOW CHEESECAKE

Be still my beating heart.

12 Dakota Crescent #01-48
Singapore 390012
Tue to Sun: 9am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Mountbatten

For more recommendations, read our guide to Singapore’s 65 Must-Try Desserts You Must Try At Least Once.

Social Eating House + Bar is arguably our favourite dinner spot in Gold Coast. It has this lively vibe that makes the place feel so happening, yet in an extremely unpretentious manner. Stepping in to this modern restaurant is an experience on its own – be prepared to queue up and wait for a while, but the exuberant staff will make you feel at home and you can groove to the music while keeping warm at the fireplace.

Social Eating House is all about communal dining and, well, socialising. Take some time to study the menu. The contemporary offering of small and large plates will leave you bewildered and so spoilt for choice.

Take a seat at the kitchen counter so that you can watch the chefs in action. It makes a lot of difference to the dining experience, and it will be like no other. You will be presented a regular menu, but look out for the blackboard for daily specials; there will always be interesting dishes to try apart from the usual ones you’d get.

We can’t recall the name of this appetiser we had, and we do not believe it is as simple as wagyu with pork crackling, truffle and pecorino cheese. At AUD$7 per serving, this totally jolted our taste buds and we knew we were in for an amazing night.

On the Small Plates section, the Spiced Soft Shell Crab (AUD$19) is a must-try. It comes with a green mango side salad, complete with peanuts, fried shallot and chilli caramel. If you are a fan of asparagus like we are, then the Steamed Asparagus (AUD$17) has to be part of your dinner too. As simple as it may sound, it comes with a fried hen’s egg, truffle oil, goat cheese and manchego beignets – that’s a pretty complex veggie dish, huh?

And for some Large Plates to share, you definitely have to go for the Free Range Organic Chicken (AUD$30 for half, AUD$55 for whole). Chargrilled  with lemon, garlic, fresh herbs and soaked in natural roasting juices, this is comfort food at its best. Healthy, easy on the palates, and it is also the chef’s favourite. Want something gamey? The Boneless Lamb (AUD$70) is one popular sharing dish too.

They’ve also got pretty complex deconstructed desserts, and they are all at AUD$16 each. We love the Milk Chocolate & Peanut Butter Marquise; decadent stack of sweet that comes complete with banana ice-cream. Mamma mia!

Social Eating House + Bar
Shop 137-138
3 Oracle Boulevard Broadbeach QLD 4218
Tel: +61 (07) 5504 5210
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm

Morning walks in SoHo, Manhattan saw us combing the streets to feed our perpetual hunger for beautiful cafes and coffee places, and one of those finds include this gem of a place called Maman.

Slightly off the beaten tracks of SoHo, Maman is a coffee, bakery and lunch outlet – or what we would like to think of as one of our favourite finds in Mahattan.

There is something about florals and French jazz that gets our hearts. This rustic bakery is every bit visually arresting. The space is lavishly filled with fresh blooms in whites and purples, like a garden that Audrey Hepburn would be seen having cakes at.

The aroma of fresh bake perfumes the place daily, and French jazz tracks are on the loop. Bakers are hard at work, and diners start their days with gorgeous house bakes and coffee; Maman is an artisanal breakfast spot, indeed.

But actually, we would say to ditch the coffee and go for the Lavender Hot Chocolate (US$4 for small, US$4.90 for large). Infused with fresh lavender, this sweet drink is brilliantly fragrant and completely addictive. It was the best that we ever had, and we couldn’t help but to get a second helping.

Maman bakes lovely pound cakes, and the one to try is most definitely the Lavender Blueberry Pound Cake (US$3.50). Lightly sweet and as au naturel as it can get, this had us change our minds about pound cakes being dry and boring.

There is also a range of quiches daily, and they are US$6.53 for a huge slice. You can have your regular croissants (US$3.50) too. If you need something more wholesome, why not pick the Egg Salad Sandwich (US$6)? We love how it is not just your typical egg mayo sandwich, but one with avocado and dill.

Did we also mention that Maman has a merchandise corner where you can pick up healthy chips, preserves and baking needs too?

Maman
239 Centre Street, New York
Tel: +01 (212) 226 0770
Mon to Fri: 7am – 6pm
Sat: 8am – 6pm
Sun: 9am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Canal Street/Spring Street

Enchanting. That’s how we would like to think of Elk Espresso – a cafe in Broadbeach, Gold Coast. It is not the fairytale kind of enchanting; it is a cafe with a rustic outlook, and a lazy kind of sexiness.

Honest Australian fare, aromatic brews, good music and a laid back vibe. The cafe has a really tasteful interior and furnishing. Wooden furnitures and chairs in shades of green, blue and white; and we are really digging those pipes on the wall and the abundance of plants everywhere.

Elk Espresso lived up to its hype indeed. It is little wonder so many locals recommended this cafe to us, and now, we are strongly urging all of you who are in or going to Gold Coast to drop by Elk Espresso too. Fall in love with this Australian cafe, you guys!

To start off with a drink, there are plenty of options for you to choose from. It will bewilder you for a while surely, but if you just want a good cuppa, yes, go for that latte (A$3.60). Want something a little crazier? The Lindt Hot Chocolate (A$5.50) was simply divine! You have to drink it while it is hot, when it is first served to you, because that is when the chocolate bits are still semi-solid and you can actually bite into them while sipping the milky goodness.

Alright, salads are not the most exciting meals to have. But the Pea and Silverbeet Croquette Salad (A$18) drove us crazy! The croquette may be fried and not the healthiest, but we can forgive that as long as it is not overly greasy! Accompanied with steamed beet, pickled radicchio, avocado, Persian feta, smoked trout and a watercress salad, this dish was among the best we’ve had among all the Aussie cafes we had been to by far.

Then, there is a pretty mean Southern Style Fried Chicken Burger (A$17) that’s stuffed with coleslaw, double smoked bacon, chipotle mayo and a side of fries. The fried chicken alone wasn’t astounding but the combination is so damn awesome. It made us so happy.

This lunch at Elk Espresso was so wonderful, and we can only say that if we were living in Gold Coast, it would be our favourite cafe to frequent.

Elk Espresso
16 Chelsea Avenue
Broadbeach QLD 4218, Australia
Tel: +61 7 5592 2888
Daily: 6am – 4pm

Quiet afternoons are meant for scones and tea. It is such an elegant combination and we can do with a good set anytime.

You need not be English to love scones and tea; you only need to find Smith & Hsu, and all is well. How this Taiwanese brand captured our hearts and made us fall head over heels in love with them is simple. And they cast the same spell on whoever steps in too. You’d never want to leave, simply because Smith & Hsu is indeed the best place for scones and tea in Taipei.

Homely. Cosy. Peaceful.

These are but a few reasons why you have to stop by Smith & Hsu when in Taipei. The interior is every bit inviting, almost like a living room. It is nothing like a Victorian tea room – no long curtains, no plush seats, no roses.

Instead, it is a simple and well-lit space with low-hanging lamps, many shelves of books that are free for reading, and simple wooden tables with white chairs. Unpretentious and comfy; that’s just where we prefer to spend our afternoons at.

And of course, when at Smith & Hsu, thou shalt not leave without trying their signature scones. Buttery and warm and lightly glazed on the crust, the scones are served with clotted cream and a spread of your choice. Pick from their homemade jams and marmalades, honey and lemon curd; our favourites are the strawberry jam and lemon curd.

Eat your scones with the strawberry jam and you’d get a sweet delight, or you can always go for honey too. Eat your scones with the lemon curd if you are a fan of tangy flavours; the curd is always tart at the perfect degree such that it does not musk the fragrance of the buttery scones.

Picking your tea is always the most fun part of the Smith & Hsu experience. We always look forward to when the server brings us the whole tray of samples, and we would spend what seemed like a decade smelling every jar; deciding on just one tea is of course as tough as rocket science. But whatever you have a taste for – green or black teas, fruity or floral – the range of teas will have something to please you.

Smith & Hsu is definitely a place that we’d visit every time we are in Taipei, and if it is not your list yet, you don’t know what you are missing out on!

Smith & Hsu
No. 8, Section 5, Zhongxiao East Road
Tel: +886 2 8786 2877
Sun to Thu: 11am – 9.30pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Taipei City Hall

No. 21, Section 1, Nanjing East Road
Tel: +886 2 2562 5565
Daily: 10am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Zhongshan

I live in an epicurean world where my every day is filled with big feasts and good food. The nature of my job takes me to the best eating places, and my tummy is very much pampered. Sometimes, too much that my belly shows.

A strict model’s diet is impossible for me to say the least, and with all the temptations I am often presented with, how do I ever say no to delicacies like Adriana Lima does? Heck, even Adriana Lima caves in to chocolate cakes once in a while!

Let’s be realistic – staying trim and slim is what we all want, but we do not want to eat salads every day. I love my greens but no, salads every day is far too depressing. We have to be happy (and healthy) even when we are trying to slim down.

Many of you have asked what is a typical day of meals like for me, and I am most happy to share all my tips in this post. But please note that what works for me may not work for you, because we have different activity levels and metabolism rates. If you are suffering from any long-term illnesses and/or allergies, please consult a dietician and have him/her advise you professionally about slimming down.

Here are 9 Important Diet Tips On What To Eat To Stay Trim And Slim – our sequel to 11 simple rules to stay slim without exercising.

#1 THE 6:1 RATIO – SIX STRICT DAYS OF EATING AND ONE CHEAT DAY

I started on my slimming down quest with this strict 6:1 ratio. It simply means six strict days of eating and one cheat day; and it takes a hell lot of determination to get it done. But it will work. Your efforts will pay off.

Pick a day of the week to be your cheat day. I did not set a fixed day because I did not want my body to be too regimented and tuned to a routine that way, but it is entirely up to you. If I knew I had to attend a party on the coming Saturday, then that Saturday would be my cheat day of the week because more often than not, you do not have much food choices at an event and you’d have to eat whatever’s available.

“Started on your slimming down quest with this strict 6:1 ratio. It simply means six strict days of eating and one cheat day; and it takes a hell lot of determination to get it done. But it WILL work. Your efforts WILL pay off.”

On the six strict days, I do not touch a few categories of food – fried food, fast food, desserts (good luck and have fun), potato chips and processed snacks of that nature, canned drinks and sodas. And I eat three proper meals – breakfast, lunch and dinner. If I need a snack in between meals, it would only be a cup of fruits or a glass of milk. No eating after 8pm, too! So, supper definitely does not count as a meal yea?

On cheat days, I did not binge either. I allowed myself to give in to my cravings – ice-cream, cakes, cookies, eclairs… whatever. But in moderation and with control, please. Do not deprive yourself of the “sins” because they are actually mood-lifting as much as they are sinful, but do not stuff yourself silly either. A slice of cake can already make you happy, and three cubes of chocolates suffice to release the endorphins in your body. Sure, grab that slice of cheesy pizza too. But just one, ok?

#2 DRINK MS KINNY SLIMMING COFFEE AND COCOA

Slimming products are usually frowned upon because they cause diarrhea, cramps and all things nasty. Sure, you lose weight fast but they often come along with some sort of suffering.

But what if I told you you need not go through all of that, and can still lose weight gradually? Yes, you can with Ms kinny Slimming Coffee and Dark Cocoa. Formulated in the U.S.A. and manufactured in Singapore, I founded Ms Kinny with 2 other partners because we’ve been searching for ways that promote healthy weight loss sans all the discomfort.

Ms Kinny’s main products are the Original Slimming Coffee and Dark Cocoa. Both products are plant-based and Halal-certified, and all you have to do is to drink one sachet of our skinny coffee each every morning before your breakfast, and you are on your way to a healthy weight loss journey!

If you want to try them, you can buy my Ms Kinny slimming coffee & cocoa from mskinny.sg.

#3 HAVE YOUR RECOMMENDED DIETARY ALLOWANCE (RDA) CALCULATED

I stopped doing this already, because I found it too difficult to keep record of every single thing I eat throughout the day. But this step is definitely necessary in the initial stage of shedding those unwanted kilos. There are many websites that do the calculations for you based on your age, height, weight and activity level.

To be even more precise, pick those sites that help you calculate your RDA based on the weight you need to lose. All you need is to punch in your current weight/ BMI, then decide on a goal (desired weight/ BMI) and the site will work out how much you can eat to achieve your target while still remaining healthy.

“Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels” – Kate Moss

There is no fixed answer for this, but I used this as a reference instead of religiously tying myself to all the numbers. Calculations to a precision can be really torturous! At the end of the day, remember that you still have to be happy. Depression is one attributing factor to obesity, and you definitely do not want to head that direction.

But of course, if you have any prevailing health issues and dietary requirements, please consult a professional before you even attempt to lose weight.

#4 BLOOD TYPE DIET – EAT FOOD THAT ARE SUITABLE FOR YOUR BLOOD TYPE

Do you know that different blood type calls for different foods for a healthier and trimmer diet? Your body supposedly reacts chemically to foods based on your respective blood type, and if you follow the recommendations for your blood type, your body will be more efficient in digestion. You will lose weight for sure, and it will even alleviate the chances of diseases. They call this the “Blood Type Diet”, and though it is not a common practice, I like it as a generic reference.

Here’s some overview if you are lazy to research:

TYPE-O PEOPLE NEEDS A DIET THAT IS HEAVY IN PROTEIN because the muscle tissues are skewing towards the high acid side. Think lean meat, poultry and fish. Berries are highly beneficial to counter the high acidity stomach that Type-O genetically has. Go easy on the grains and breads, especially in the initial phase of losing weight. Dairy products are not recommended too.

TYPE-AB PEOPLE HAVE LOW STOMACH ACID AND CANNOT METABOLIZE MEAT AS EFFICIENTLY. Eat more fish like tuna, trout and cod. Type-AB also has a weaker immune system, so if you fall under this category, you’d need more vegetables and fruits. Also, tofu and grains are ideal protein supplements. Avoid smoked and cured meats, and shellfish. Black tea, too.

TYPE-A PEOPLE HAVE SENSITIVE IMMUNE SYSTEM, AND ARE MORE PRONE TO CANCER AND HEART DISEASES. Also, if you are a Type-A, your stomach-acid content is lower, hence digestion of meat will be very slow. Try to go as meat-free as you can, and make up for your protein intake with beans and legumes and nuts. Ideally, your food should be as natural a state as possible – vegetables and fruits will be your best friends. But seafood works well too.

TYPE-B PEOPLE HAVE IT EASIER AS THEIR BLOOD ARE MORE RESISTANCE TOWARDS MOST SEVERE DISEASES, but are more prone to immune-system disorders. A balanced diet is most encouraged, especially a full variety of diary products. Abstain chicken as much as possible. Fish works well, but eliminate shellfish from your diet. Corn and buckwheat are major ingredients that attribute to weight gain.

#5 BREAKFASTS FOR CHAMPS – TAKE YOUR BREAKFAST SERIOUSLY

So, if you remember my previous post on 11 Tips to Stay Slim Without Exercising, you might recall this part about having three proper meals a day, and not skipping breakfast no matter what. I will do a recap; it’s gonna be lengthy, but bear with me because it will surely benefit you.

Many underestimate the importance of breakfast, but this should always be the first meal of our day, and it has to be taken seriously. In fact, skipping breakfast will cause all weight loss plans to backfire – because your body will condition your mind in to eating a lot more than you should for the rest of the day.

Start making breakfast a habit. It aids in weight control, and improves your overall performance and energy level for the day. This is also the time of the day when carbs (and occasional sweets) are encouraged – think oats and wholegrain breads with an almond butter spread, or peanut butter if you must.

“To cut the long story short: Breakfast should always be the first meal of our day, and it has to be taken seriously. Skipping breakfast will cause all weight loss plans to backfire – because your body will condition your mind in to eating a lot more than you should for the rest of the day.”

Adding protein also helps in keeping you fuller, so that you do not grab unnecessary snacks before lunch hour. Egg whites are highly recommended. Loaded with the highest quality protein, it keeps you full and satisfied.

A typical morning in my life is starting my day with two egg whites and a glass of water or Milo. Or grapefruit juice, of course. Sometimes when I wake up feeling really famished, I will also eat a banana or a bun. If you want something convenient that you can pack and eat on the go, sandwiches and subs are lovely; just remember to go easy on the sauce.

I do cut myself slack when I eat out, so there will be that occasional dim sum or French Toast kind of brunch. Eating sweets in the day (if you really need to) is also more advisable because you have the whole day to burn them off. So, go ahead and reach for that red velvet cupcake. Life ain’t that tough afterall.

#6 RELAX WITH LUNCH – NO HARD AND FAST RULES FOR LUNCH

Lunch is like a mood-lifter for me, especially on days that I work. I trust I am speaking for all who work typical 9-5 shifts, and are always counting down to lunch hours. It is like an escape from the humdrum of work, and it is that hour of the day that we can take a little breather. It is also the meal of the day that allows us to recharge ourselves.

Lunch can be fancy, but it must not be heavy lest it leaves you sluggish for the next half of the day. Again, different activity levels call for different requirements. If you hold a desk-bound job, you are the last on the list to be entitled to a heavy lunch because the long hours of sitting that follows after lunch means digestion will be slow, and the contents may even settle on your tummy and hips.

No one wants muffin tops and that swimming float around the tummy, right? But if your activity level is high – say an athlete, a service staff that requires you to be physically active and/or up and about all day, or a construction worker – then you should load up on a bit more carbs and protein to stay energized.

“Why not try to pack your own lunch to work? Not only do you get to save money, you can also say goodbye to unhealthy food. Here are 10 useful tips on packing a healthy lunch to work.“

I do not set rules for my lunch. As long as I have a balanced diet, I am good. And what is a balanced diet to me? Carbs + protein + fibre. I would half my carbs portion, so even if it means wasting food, I would only eat half of what is served on my plate. Sometimes when I am not too hungry, I’d skip the carbs altogether. Protein is generally essential, so my lunch must include a type of meat or seafood. FIbre is very important for digestion, and I obtain my fibre from a lot of vegetables or a glass of fruit juice.

No hard and fast rules for lunch. Keep it simple and normal, don’t stress your body too much, and eat enough to keep you full till dinner. If need be, a midday snack can be an apple, or whatever your favourite fruit is. I don’t deny doing an occasional decadent treat like a slice of cake or a cookie, but that cannot happen every day. Once or twice a week is just about the maximum you can “cheat”.

#7 GO EASY ON DINNERS

One of my favourite quotes to live by – Feast like a king for breakfast, dine like a prince for lunch, and eat like a pauper for dinner.

I always keep my carbs for the first half of the day; whatever pastas and rice I crave and want to eat, I will have them at lunch. Dinners cannot be heavy, because food eaten at the last part of the day will not be metabolized as well and will very likely be converted into fat. Also, going to bed with a full stomach increases the chances of heartburn.

You may hate to find out, but my dinner is usually just soup, vegetables and fruits. And I prefer home-cooked soups so that the sodium content is lower; those lauded with MSG and other salts are high in sodium, and sodium causes water retention. I never say no to a hearty homemade kimchi stew, or a minestrone. Simpler days would be clear chicken soup or tofu and vegetables soup.

“Feast like a king for breakfast, dine like a prince for lunch, and eat like a pauper for dinner.”

Sounds impossible, but it can be done. It is just a matter of self-discipline and having your body get used to the reduced intake. Sure, it cannot be done overnight, so you start off with no carbs. Pick fish over meat, and help yourself to an extra serving of greens. I try to avoid eggs at night, but I’ve heard of how people rely on egg whites for dinner to keep them full at night.

Of course, evenings are usually when we meet up with friends, have a family gathering, or attend events and parties. Let loose on those days, enjoy that steak and duck confit, but stay away from carbs as much as possible. The darnest thing to do at night is to indulge in carbs.

And please please please do not take supper. If repeating this sentence to yourself a million times a day helps, then say it a million times.

#8 AVOID THESE FOOD AT ALL COSTS

There are sacrifices to be done. The following list of items are extremely detrimental to your health and figure, so you have to set your heart to stay away from them. Here goes:

Potato chips and processed snacks of that nature. Fast food and processed meats. Sweetened canned drinks and bubble tea.

If you want to make your life tougher (but congrats, and kudos to the determination!), we have a list of food that are commonly perceived to be healthy, but they are actually far from beneficial.

#9 AND LASTLY, TAKE YOUR TIME TO EAT

I have also mentioned in my first post that if you wolf down your food, you tend to eat more than what you should before you even realize it. On the flip side, if you take your time to eat, you feel fuller faster, hence reducing your overall intake. Having smaller bites also makes you feel less hungry after the meal. Take sips of water in between your bites too, to aid digestion and to fill you up faster.

To lose weight effectively and naturally, try MsKinny Slimming Coffee. You can buy the skinny coffee from Mskinny.sg

It’s true that there is no place like Home.

As our Nation mourns the passing of our beloved Founding Father Lee Kuan Yew, it is heartening to know that in spite of our differences in opinions and beliefs, Singaporeans come together during this difficult time and stand together strongly as one as we celebrate the life and legacy of the late Mr Lee.

Mr Lee was selfless and he led a fulfilling life to build this beautiful Garden City we are so privileged to call Home, and we owe him an eternal gratitude for all that we have in Singapore today. We will turn fifty this year, and there are no words to describe our grief and sorrow of his untimely passing.

But we, Melody and Amanda, want to honour all the good we have at Home, and to take stock of all to be grateful for in Singapore. Amanda spent two years abroad as a student, while Melody travels frequently for work. And there is absolutely nothing like coming home, even if you think you could get used to the lifestyle at wherever you travel to.

Easy access to water and electricity, crime-free streets, the ability to read and write, colourful ethnic cultures; here are 13 things we should be grateful for in Singapore.

#1 WE ARE IN A SAFE ENVIRONMENT

First and foremost, our geographical location puts us in a spot where we are protected from natural disasters. Secondly, we are not at war, nor are we on the verge of it. This may sound complacent to most, but we ought to thank Mr Lee Kuan Yew and his team for managing diplomatic relations well enough.

When you consider our situation, we are considered really lucky to be able to do the things we do. Have you ever felt thankful that you can roam around at night on our crime-free streets? Unlike many cities around the World, the sheer fact that we can walk around at night without feeling threatened speaks volumes. And many countries and cities really do not enjoy such safety.

#2 CLEAN WATER AND FACILITIES

You would be surprised, but even among the many first world countries that we have travelled to do not have clean water. The water that flows out from the tap is not the cleanest even for a shower, let alone being safe for consumption at all. We’ve got proper sewage and water systems that you can count on.

And then, we do not forget the facilities and amenities that are so well-maintained and clean – public toilets that do not stink, litter-free streets, a Green city even before being green was fashionable. These do not come by chance, and we have to thank Mr Lee Kuan Yew for his farsightedness and his fierce fights to achieve all of these for what would otherwise remain as a muddy Singapore.

#3. ACCESSIBILITY OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT

To most, our size puts us at a disadvantage. But when you stop to think about it, we get to travel to almost any part of the country without taking more than an hour and a half. We really do have very efficient public transportation system and ready taxis any time.

Singaporeans often complain about Singapore’s public transportation system. But as compared to first world cities such as New York, London and Paris, ours are world-class. Do you know how dirty and stinky Paris’ trains are? And do you know how often the tubes in London break down? Sure, we have breakdowns from time to time. Sometimes, we wait longer than we should for a train. But it is only normal for technical glitches, and Singapore’s system is considerably well-maintained with minimized errors.

Honestly, you do not know how frustrating it is to take a train in Paris. Even Seoul’s transportation system drives us nuts.

The cherry on top? Taking public transport in Singapore is among the most affordable we have experienced. We never understood the complaints and rants about “increasing transportation costs”, because if you would feel the pinch of a £2 tube ride (for just one stop, mind you!) when in London or a AUD $3 tram ride in Melbourne (for one stop, too)…

#4 OUR LITTLE RED PASSPORT ALLOWS US TO TRAVEL VISA-FREE TO 170 COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD

Singapore’s passport is ranked fifth in the World, and we can easily travel to 170 countries around the globe without needing to apply for a visa. We are truly very lucky to have our little red passports.

#5 WE’VE GOT A ROOF OVER OUR HEADS

We know this will be a point of argument for many, but if you would just see Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s effort in giving everyone a stake of the country, you will perhaps understand the role of Housing Development Board.

From what used to be slums and even sleeping on the streets for many, we are now a transformed first world country with most of us having a roof over our heads. Public housing may be considered expensive and a burden to some, but subsidies and grants are put in place, checks are regularly done, and revisions are made so as to solve as many housing issues as possible.

Be thankful, for our surrounding neighbours would love to be in our places instead of paying hefty rents every month.

#6 WE ARE KEPT COOL

Despite our tropical climate, we see a need to bring our sweaters to most places. Why? Because we have air-conditioned malls, public transport, libraries, even classrooms. While the humidity can really soil our moods, we should be grateful that our facilities and amenities are mostly air-conditioned. Or at least, well-ventilated.

#7 CLEAN AND GREEN

Sometimes we take for granted that we’ve got trees and shrubs lining the streets and highways, but we only notice the difference when we travel to other countries, where the landscape is filled with skyscrapers, dusty buildings, or roads filled with cars leaving trails of smoke behind.

Our Garden City will always stand in trend. So many decades ago, even before becoming green was fashionable, Mr Lee Kuan Yew already had the vision to turn Singapore into a clean and green country. And we cannot be more thankful for his farsightedness, because look what we are today! Few countries and cities in the world can match up, really.

#8 LUXURY ITEMS

We assure most Singaporeans own a computer and/or laptop, smartphone and access to the Internet (if not, you wouldn’t be reading this right now). But we often forget that these are considered luxury items – they do not come cheap, and they aren’t necessary for your survival.

While we are clamouring for the next new gadget, we neglect the fact that many other people in the world do not even have the resources to buy their daily meals or pay for utilities.

#9 EDUCATION IN SINGAPORE

We have the ability to read, write and discern for ourselves what is wrong and right. This, we have Mr Lee Kuan Yew to thank. If he had not persevered on and instilled such strict rules about minimum schooling; if he had not made education so much more accessible regardless of race, language or religion; if we did not have efficient education systems; we would not be the flourishing nation today. We would not be able to get jobs, we would not prosper.

In fact, our education system is so remarkable that we see an increasing number of foreigners relocating and making Singapore their base – just to study.

#10 WE CAN HANG OUT (ALMOST) ANYWHERE

While it’s true that Singapore can get pretty boring (how many times can you visit the Zoo or the Singapore Botanic Gardens), we have also learned to adapt. Which other citizen in the world say they get to hang out at their award-winning airport often, or have easy access to a clean beach, reservoirs and parks, or any supper joint for that matter?

#11 STRONG AND STABLE CURRENCY

50 years ago, when Singapore was kicked out of Malaysia (thank God), Mr Lee strived for our nation. He said he had millions of lives to account for, and that Singapore will survive. Yes, we have. And we are doing very well.

In Mr Lee’s first year as Prime Minister, our GDP was US$428. And we have grew 30-fold to US$12,766 by 1990, the year he left the PM office. Singapore prospered under his exemplary leadership, and our currency has also strengthened against many. Today, our currency is stable and we are almost on par with USD, and this gives us an edge in so many ways to even speak of.

#12 COLOURFUL ETHNIC CULTURES

To be multiracial is a beautiful thing. Regardless of our skin colour, we co-exist with equal rights. We receive the same education, we grow with the nation, and we stand equal chances when seeking a job. No prejudices, no discrimination.

And this equality is stronger than you think.

#13 STABLE GOVERNMENT WHO ARE CORRUPT-FREE

We definitely do not want to suffer under and bear the brunt of a corrupted government. There is no need to cite examples, but as Singaporeans, in spite of the numerous opposition parties, our government remains stable and corrupt-free. We still share strong bilateral ties, and the friendships that Mr Lee had spent his life forging from all over the world will continue to bless Singapore with many more opportunities.

At the end of the day, we may not be happy with everything (case in point: rising housing and car costs), but when it comes down to it, we should all take a moment to express our gratitude towards the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew for his contribution and commitment to Singapore, to applaud our government’s efforts in trying to make Singapore a better place to live in, and be really proud to be a Singaporean. And, if you’re not, it is high time to start.

To our ever respectable Founding Father, we are nothing without you. We now enter a new era, and we will fight on to protect your legacy. Singapore will continue to glow, and we will always be your pride. Thank you for your love and devotion to our little red dot, and you will live forever in our hearts.

Words by Amanda Tan and Melody Yap.

It was barely 9am when we finally found ourselves walking down the alley of South Melbourne and stepping in to the huge cafe, but the place was already packed with breakfast-goers and coffee lovers. Bustling and full of chatter, St ALi Coffee Roasters – one of the pioneers of specialty coffee in Melbourne – is awake and full of life.

We were ushered to a table as soon as we stepped in, and the bubbly staff welcomed us with some much needed warmth after walking in the cold for a while. Breakfast would be good, we told ourselves.

These folks take their coffee very seriously, with strong focus on quality beans and unique brewing methods. If you ever find yourself at St ALi, you’d know to never leave without a cuppa, yes?

The menu has both breakfast and brunch choices, and we went for The Daddy (AUD $17.50) and Up Seven Creek Without A Paddle (AUD $24). Damn, the latter was a mouthful. But it is really an awesome open-faced steak sandwich with smoked onion, garlic mayo, baby beet and gruyère. The beef used is a Seven Creek marble score 9 Wagyu beef, and it is done medium well with a hint of char. Needless to say, this had our hearts and we polished them all within minutes.

The Daddy is a breakfast burger of brioche bun, scrambled eggs, pork, bacon, chilli & fennel sausage and Daddy sauce. Whatever that is. Brown sauce, perhaps. A very meaty dish instead, so it is not for the faint-hearted. But this makes a filling breakfast and we love the blend of the different meat textures.

This St ALi outlet at South Melbourne is housed in what used to be a warehouse, and the space is ever lively with club tracks and funky baristas. Definitely one of the most memorable cafes we’ve been to in Melbourne!

St ALi Coffee Roasters
12-18 Yarra Place, South Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9686 2990
Daily: 7am – 6pm

Singapore is a country with colourful heritages and cultures. There are so many things that are Singaporean-style and close to our hearts – lifestyles, practices, people, food, places… and as our country continues to transcend through changes and revolutions, there are ceasing practices and dying trades, and it is such a real shame.

For one, Singapore’s wet markets are hardly appreciated these days. Fast replacing the culture of waking up early to go to a neighbourhood wet market for fresh produce is the availability of modern supermarkets and convenience stores. Whatever we need to whip up that big meal, we can easily get from a nearby supermarket at any time of the day. With this, who has impressions of a typical wet market?

When was the last time you went to one, or have you even been before?

Lately, I took a trip down memory lane and rekindled some fond memories of how I used to go to the wet market with my mother – and it made me realise how this lifestyle attributes to my growing up in Singapore. But more than this, it is the realisation that an activity like this is actually dying out and being replaced by modernisation.

For the fact that my phrase “took a trip down memory lane” came out naturally as I penned this post, it speaks volume of how cosmopolitan citizens like me (and many more) no longer shop at wet markets. The next generation might not even have a clue how one looks like.

A typical neighbourhood market usually comprises two parts – the stalls selling fresh vegetables, fruits and meat; and a hawker centre for local cooked food. We began our morning with a hearty meal of wanton noodles, fried carrot cake and Teh-O. Singapore’s local breakfast is always satisfying and affordable, and if you need a little guide, read here.

And I followed my mother as she sashayed her way through the various lanes of the wet market. She knows the place so well because it is her daily haunt, and despite the sprouting of numerous supermarket options in my neighbourhood, she firmly believes that the wet market offers the freshest options and value-for-money buys. Well, I am sure most mothers from Generation X share her sentiments.

We went from stalls to stalls, and it was such a heartwarming scene to witness bonds that the stallholders share with regular customers like my mother. The fishmonger talked about her catches of the day, the butcher gave my mother some ideas on how to cook the piece of pork she bought, the vegetable seller picked out the freshest chye sim and carrots… it was nothing short of heartfelt contentment from the simplicity in life.

As I walked around the warm market, I tried to remember every corner and every turn, every smell of the fish and prawns and meat, every buzz and chatter in different dialects. It is indeed a very colourful heritage of Singapore, and while I have been to many local markets all around the world, the ones here at home remain the closest to my heart.

Now, if only everyone appreciated and went to wet markets a bit more, so that they would never have to go “extinct”.

If you know me in person, and if you and I are friends since five years ago, you would know that I used to be pudgy and meaty. From a severely underweight girl during my school days, to growing horizontally till I had to wear an L-sized skirt, my ballooning during my teens years was a horrible phase and one that made me realize how unhealthy my habits were. I hated the way I looked, I hated taking photos, and I hated the world.

But I manifested those negativity into motivation to slim down; the course of doing so was not an easy one. The end result is, of course, a trimmer body, a healthier lifestyle and bigger confidence.

Let’s not talk about exercise regimens and workouts, because those are very subjective. Fundamentally, your daily habits and lifestyle play a huge part in how you would look, and till today, I live by these simple rules to stay trim – even with minimal exercise. And as I regularly share with my friends, here are my 12 Simple Rules To Stay Slim Without Exercising:

READ PART 2: 8 SECRET DIET TIPS ON WHAT TO EAT TO STAY TRIM AND SLIM.

#1 NO SUPPER – NO MATTER WHAT

When I set my mind on losing weight, the first bad habit I had to kick was supper. This may sound like just another meal of the day, but it is extremely detrimental. I bade goodbye to my nightly pratas and nasi lemaks.

I won’t kid you – it is not going to be easy. Only sheer determination will guide you through. But trust me, this is one habit that you will be thankful to rid when you step on the weighing scale again after a fortnight. And increasingly so.

If your tummy won’t stop growling at ungodly hours, then make do with some low calories food like broccolis, strawberries and oranges. They may not sound like the most exciting supper food, but no supper means no supper. You have to be firm about this. The more determined ones can sleep the hunger away, which is your best bet.

#2 DRINK MS KINNY SLIMMING COFFEE AND COCOA

Slimming products are usually frowned upon because they cause diarrhea, cramps and all things nasty. Sure, you lose weight fast but they often come along with some sort of suffering.

But what if I told you you need not go through all of that, and can still lose weight gradually? Yes, you can with Ms kinny Slimming Coffee and Dark Cocoa. Formulated in the U.S.A. and manufactured in Singapore, I founded Ms Kinny with 2 other partners because we’ve been searching for ways that promote healthy weight loss sans all the discomfort.

Ms Kinny’s main products are the Original Slimming Coffee and Dark Cocoa. Both products are plant-based and Halal-certified, and all you have to do is to drink one sachet of our skinny coffee each every morning before your breakfast, and you are on your way to a healthy weight loss journey!

If you want to try them, you can buy my Ms Kinny slimming coffee & cocoa from mskinny.sg.

#3 DRINK GRAPEFRUIT JUICE EVERY MORNING

This might not be the tastiest option for many, but it should be an essential in your life. Grapefruit has always been associated with weight loss, and though it may not perform miracles, there are many studies that have shown its efficiency and countless of people swear by it for a boost. Grapefruit aids in digestion due to its high water and fibre content, so a glass every morning before your breakfast helps in clearing your system and flushing out the toxins that are stored in your body. If you have gastritis, try only a small glass of 250ml, or skip it altogether.

Of course, it works best if you can eat the fruit itself without juicing it. But baby steps work fine. Get used to the juice first, then advance to the fruit itself.

For more tips, read our guide on Team More—How to eat whatever you want without giving up your summer bod.

#4 YES TO BREAKFAST

Breakfasts are for champions. Many underestimate the importance of breakfast, but this should always be the first meal of our day, and it has to be taken seriously. In fact, skipping breakfast will cause all weight loss plans to backfire – because your body will condition your mind in to eating a lot more than you should for the rest of the day.

Start making breakfast a habit. It aids in weight control, and improves your overall performance and energy level for the day. This is also the time of the day when carbs (and occasional sweets) are encouraged – think oats and wholegrain breads with an almond butter spread, or peanut butter if you must.

Adding protein also helps in keeping you fuller, so that you do not grab unnecessary snacks before lunch hour. Egg whites are highly recommended. Loaded with the highest quality protein, it keeps you full and satisfied. Studies have also shown that those who eat two egg whites every morning consume fewer calories across the day, and boast the highest percentage of overall weight loss.

#5 NO CARBS AFTER 7PM

I know it sounds impossible, but if I am such a glutton and I can do it, so can you. Carbs are killers, and while I love my pasta and breads so much, I do not touch them after 7pm. Your body still needs energy from carbs, but you can load ‘em up in the day – not excessively, of course.

Remember this rule: Feast like a king for breakfast, dine like a prince for lunch, and eat like a pauper for dinner.

#6 CHOOSE YOUR CALORIES WISELY

Now, this is my favourite, and one that I am really strict about till today. Many things in life happen because of the choices we make, and a wise decision can do you wonders. It is like choosing to climb that flight of stairs instead of taking the lift – yes, I still do simple things like that.

So, how to choose your calories wisely? There are few things that I abstain from and very rarely touch, and they include potatoes and potato chips. You have no idea how much I love my potatoes. Unfortunately, they are the darnest things to eat, really.

Now, this is an extremely simple theory. If there is fried chicken and grilled chicken on the menu, you know which you should pick, right? Grilled and steamed fish over pork-anything any time. Wholegrain bread is much better than sweet white bread. Order a fresh fruit juice instead of grabbing a can of soda, and do not add sugar to your coffee and tea. Avoid sausages and processed meats. Yes to more fruits and vegetables. Salad that has the dressing served separately also means you can control the amount that goes over your leaves.

Need a snack in between meals? Think twice before you reach for your bag of chips. Eat an apple or a cup of berries to keep you full; the sugar in the fruit will also curb your cravings for tea-time sweets.

And there is another generic rule that I live by: if your food goes bad fast, then it is good for you. Which brings me to my next point.

#7 SAY GOODBYE TO FAST FOOD AND PROCESSED FOOD

Yes, the truth is hard to handle but those junk will do you no good at all. I did not touch McDonald’s and KFC for two whole years. Resistance was very tough and Filet-O-Fish called me in my dreams, but when I saw a flatter tummy and leaner arms, that sense of satisfaction was unparalleled. Before I even realised, my body and mind were in harmony, and I was already conditioned to developing healthy cravings. Trust me when I said I actually felt so good when munching on raw spinach and olives.

So anyway, processed food means they contain a lot of preservatives, and those are hidden chemicals that you do not see when eating until they appear on your hips. There is also a reason why they are so affordable, but what the menu does not tell you is the price you have to pay after eating them.

#8 DON’T GO OVERBOARD WITH THE SWEETS

You know what they say about “you are what you eat”? I would eat a Victoria’s Secret model if I could (Candice Swanepoel or Alessandra Ambrosio, please), but the sad truth suggests I should just stay away from sweets because sugar is every model’s top enemy. They are useless calories, and they do nothing but settle on your tummy, thighs and hips.

I love my eclairs, cookies and cupcakes. Sometimes, I indulge in ice-cream too. Not everyone has the kind of resistance to say ‘no’ to desserts like Adriana Lima does, especially when the world makes such great desserts.

I would say to go ahead and still eat them, but very selectively and minimally. Keep some days of the week sweets-free too. When I was doing my intense diet, I only had one cheat day per week, and even then, I only ate half a slice of cake.

I avoid canned drinks as much as possible too. A coke on a hot summer day by the beach sounds marvelous, but that is my occasional treat. Else, I stay away from soft drinks.

#9 EAT TOMATOES

The benefits of tomatoes are infinite, but for one, tomatoes aid in slimming down. It is a nutrient-dense super food, and is popular known for ridding cellulite. No in-depth science lesson today, but let me share it simply – tomatoes boast high level of lycopene, which is a key ingredient to help strengthen the skin and preventing the breaking of collagen. With collagen, the skin’s resilience is boosted and stops the fat cells and discourages cellulite from forming.

Read more about the benefits of tomatoes here.

#10 DRINK WATER REGULARLY

Water does not burn fat, but it is correlated to weight loss. For one, staying hydrated prevents overeating, and drinking water helps you stay full. Pee regularly to flush out the toxins in you.

#11 TAKE YOUR TIME AND EAT SLOWLY

Eating slowly and chewing your food properly helps in controlling your food intake, and even Gwyneth Paltrow uses this method. It is once again a correlation thing, but it is a good practice to inculcate in your lifestyle.

If you wolf down your food, you tend to eat more than what you should before you even realize it. On the flip side, if you take your time to eat, you feel fuller faster, hence reducing your overall intake. Having smaller bites also makes you feel less hungry after the meal. Take sips of water in between your bites too, to aid digestion and to fill you up faster.

#12 HAVE ENOUGH SLEEP EVERY NIGHT

The lesser you sleep, the more likely you are to gain weight. When our body does not have sufficient rest, our metabolism is affected. Being sleep-deprived also means a compromise on your energy level. When at work, we drink coffee to stay awake; we grab sweet snacks in between meals to give us an energy boost. The ideal is to have at least 7.5 hours of sleep each night, and of course, do not go to bed with a full tummy – that will increase the risk of heartburn, which keeps you up all night.

Sounds simple for a start? Are you more motivated to incorporate these healthy habits into your lifestyle? These are methods that may or may not be certified by doctors and specialists, but these are methods that are proven to be beneficial. But if you are suffering from obesity and other health problems, do consult a doctor for professional advice on how to lose weight while staying healthy.

To lose weight effectively and naturally, try MsKinny Slimming Coffee. You can buy the skinny coffee from Mskinny.sg

Strawberries are pretty, and strawberries are photogenic. Much has been discussed about strawberries, and yes, the “Queen of Fruits” come with a truckload of benefits indeed!

We love strawberries for many reasons, and if you don’t already, you should. It is a power fruit that has the highest nutrients. Sweet and plump, these berries are well-loved for many reasons – they whiten your teeth, they prevent cancer, regulate blood pressure, they promote eye health… and the list goes on.

Here are some of the various benefits of strawberries, and we’d strongly encourage you to incorporate this fruit into your lives! Also, we’ve included a fun fact about the fruit that you probably didn’t know about!

#1 WHITENS TEETH

You would be surprised, but yes, eating strawberries often helps in creating that perfect smile with pearly whites. We heard pageant queens rub their teeth with strawberries before they hit the runways!

#2 BOOSTS IMMUNITY

Strawberries are excellent source of Vitamin C. Needless to say, this boosts your immunity and helps your body fight infection. One serving of strawberries is said to contain so much Vitamin C that it meets half of your daily requirement.

#3 PREVENTS WRINKLES

And because it is so rich in Vitamin C, it promotes collagen production – which is vital to keep wrinkles at bay.

#4 PROMOTES EYE HEALTH

Rich in antioxidants, strawberries also prevents cataracts – the clouding over the eye lens, which can lead to blindness.

#5 FIGHTS AGING

Its antioxidants capacity protects the elastic fibre in our skins to prevent sagging. Also, strawberries are filled with Vitamin H which helps in building strong hair and nails.

#6 BOOSTS FIBRE

Fibre is essential for digestion, and every strawberry contains 2g of fibre. Regular consumption of strawberries will help prevent constipation and diverticulitis – the inflammation of intestines. Having sufficient fibre also helps in lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes as it helps slow down the absorption of sugars.

#7 PREVENTS CANCER

Something called the ‘ellagic acid’ is said to lower the risk of cancer, and strawberries contain a good amount of this acid to suppress cancer cell growth.

#8 BOOSTS SHORT-TERM MEMORY

We will spare you from the science lesson, but just this point alone should be sufficient to make you want to eat strawberries, yes?

#9 REDUCES INFLAMMATION

Harvard School of Public Health did a study, and it shows that women who eat 16 or more strawberries in a week are 14% less likely to have elevated levels of C-reactive Protein (CRP) – a signal of body inflammation.

#10 PROMOTES PRE-NATAL HEALTH

Strawberries are prized for their high density of folate – a B-vitamin that is recommended for pregnant women and women who are trying to conceive. It is an essential nutrient for women at the early stages of their pregnancies, to boost the baby’s development and to prevent birth defects.

#11 LOW IN CALORIES

Perfect snack, we’d say! Only 54 calories per cup, this is just about your best bet when you are feeling hungry, or when you need a midday munch. If you are on a strict diet to slim down, you know what to grab from the fridge – not chocolate bars, but strawberries.

#12 REGULATES BLOOD PRESSURE

Known as the silent killer because it has no symptoms, high blood pressure can result in a stroke and even death. Strawberries are vital for your heart health because they are high in potassium, and a single serving can maintain normal blood pressure levels.

#13 PROMOTES BONE HEALTH

And not forgetting that strawberries also contain potassium, Vitamin K and magnesium that promotes healthy bones.

Bonus fun fact: Strawberries actually belong to the rose family, together with apples and plums!