We all know that Singapore is undisputedly one of the safest and cleanest countries in the world—home to the best airport in the world as well as cheap yet amazing hawker food, our Little Red Dot is indeed a country that easily piques one’s interest.

Yes, many of us agree that the temperatures here can drop by 10 degrees or so, but there are so many reasons to love Singapore that we endure our all-year-long summer. Besides being famous for the banning of chewing gum and our seemingly animated colloquial slang, Singlish, there are plenty of reasons for us to be oh-so-proud Singaporeans.

Here are 13 Homegrown Brands That Will Make All Singaporeans Proud of Our Little Red Dot—we bet you didn’t know that half of these are homegrown brands! #majulahsingapura

AWFULLY CHOCOLATE

What started as a statement to tackle dessert vendors everywhere, home-grown Awfully Chocolate has successfully established itself as one of the best and most popular chocolatiers around the world. Famed for its variety of chocolate-laden desserts, we absolutely go mad for their All Chocolate cake, that sees a simple chocolate cake between layers of dark chocolate fudge.

BANYAN TREE HOLDINGS

Established in 1994, Banyan Tree Holdings is founded by Singaporean businessman Ho Kwon Ping. In 1995, Ho and his wife Claire Chiang chanced upon an empty plot of land on the western coast of Phuket which was soon after developed into Banyan Tree’s first resort.

Since then, Banyan Tree has grown to be Asia’s premier luxury hotel and resort brand with close to 40 properties internationally. It now has hotels as far apart as Mexico and Seychelles.

Photo Credit: Bee Cheng Hiang

BEE CHENG HIANG

Bakkwa—an all-time favourite snack amongst Singaporeans that is enjoyed particularly during the Chinese New Year period. For the uninformed, Bakkwa is essentially smoked and roasted pieces of pork with a consistency similar to jerky.

Founded in the 1930s by Singaporean businessman Mr Teo Swee Ee, Bee Cheng Hiang started out as a humble stall in Chinatown. Today, Bee Cheng Hiang sees over 260 retail outlets serving their famous bak kwa in 13 other countries across countries including Vietnam, South Korea and Cambodia.

BREADTALK

You’ve probably had a few of Breadtalk’s ever-popular Floss buns for breakfast if you grew up in Singapore. Founded in 2000, BreadTalk has expanded rapidly within the past 2 decades, establishing a distinctive presence in 18 locales across Asia, the Middle East, and most recently Europe.

Other brands that are under the Breadtalk Group include Din Tai Fung, Food Republic and Toast Box, which would probably sound very familiar to Singaporeans as well as those living in our neighbouring countries.

Photo Credit: Visit Singapore

BENJAMIN BARKER

An esteemed purveyor of smart-casual attires for men, Benjamin Barker is a home-grown fashion label founded by Mr Nelson Yap, who—you’d be surprised to hear—is a film graduate from the University of Melbourne as he had the intention to pursue a career in film-making.

The brand’s first store opened in Marina Square in 2009 and now sees retail stores in Melbourne, Seoul, Malaysia and a flagship store in Los Angeles.

Yap says that he intends to develop Benjamin Barker into a lifestyle brand by combining retail, F&B and hospitality—they even have a Benjamin Barker Café located in Cathay Cineleisure Orchard now!

Photo Credit: Miss Valerie Tan

BROWHAUS

One should never underestimate the importance of eyebrows in changing your image. Many of us, image-conscious or not, would be familiar with the brand Browhaus, which is a one-stop salon dedicated to perfect your lashes and brows.

Browhaus was established in 2004 under the wings of Spa Esprit Group, a homegrown brand founded by Singaporean businesswoman Cynthia Chua. The brand now has outlets all over the world, including stores in London and New York City. What more can we say? Browhaus is on fleek!

Photo Credit: Charles & Keith

CHARLES & KEITH

Set up by sibling duo Charles Wong and Keith Wong in 1996, Charles & Keith is a Singaporean fast-fashion footwear and accessories retailer which now has over 600 stores worldwide, including locations in Africa and Latin America.

It is amazing to see a 100% Singaporean brand grow from being a humble shoe shop in Amara Shopping Centre to venturing internationally and imprinting their global footprint across regions in Asia, the Middle East and Europe alongside Latin America and Africa!

OLD CHANG KEE

Lo and behold, the ultimate go-to for curry puffs and giant fishballs. Old Chang Kee started out as ‘Rex Curry Puff’, an assuming stall situated near the then Rex Cinema along Mackenzie Road.

Old Chang Kee has expanded expeditiously to opening franchises in Indonesia, Malaysia and Australia. Just weeks ago in June 2018, they officially launched the opening of an outlet in London where guests can get their hands on Singapore’s famous curry puffs.

OSIM

OSIM would probably be first to come into your mind when luxurious massage chairs are mentioned. With brand ambassadors including Korean superstar Lee Min Ho and Chinese actress and model Fan Bingbing, OSIM has managed to climb its way to becoming a top-tier global brand.

Originally starting out as an electrical and household appliance company in 1980, founder Ron Sim saw an opportunity to bloom in Singapore’s healthcare products industry and thus started OSIM to advocate for a healthy lifestyle.

Credit: Razer

RAZER

Razer is a global gaming hardware manufacturing company established in 2005 by Singaporean entrepreneur Min-Liang Tan and Robert Krakoff.

Step into any IT retail store such as Challenger and COURTS and it would be hard to miss the bright green triple-headed snake logo that dons the front of every Razer product. They offer a wide range of products in the likes of gaming equipment and wearables including smartwatches.

Photo Credit: Skin Inc.

SKIN INC.

The homegrown skincare brand is founded by Sabrina Tan, an IT-expert-turned-skincare-guru who took the leap of faith to step into the beauty industry after having worked in IT for 11 years.

Skin Inc. offers a range of skincare products that combine technology and beauty, providing customers with customisable skincare products. The brand has been a winner of over a hundred beauty awards and their products are now sold in over 20 countries in Asia and Europe.

SINGAPORE AIRLINES

Awarded ‘The World’s Best Airlines’ by Skytrax World Airline Award in 2018 is Singapore Airlines, which has constantly been on the list for the world’s top 10 airlines for the past decade.

SIA has 26,000 group employees who are dedicated to making all traveller’s experience the most comfortable and pleasant experience with their impeccable service. Oh, how lucky we are!

TWG TEA

Short for The Wellbeing Group, TWG Tea is a brand that offers fine harvest teas since its founding in 2008. In a short span of 6 years, TWG Tea has vastly expanded to having outlets in countries such as Canada, Korea, Germany and Australia.

Its parent company is OSIM International, so you can be sure that it is not any atas tea brand from Europe!

Sarong kebaya, red nails, a neat bun and a mega-watt smile.

As a young girl, I used to aspire to be one of those poised SQ girls clad in the iconic kebaya – to be part of the crew, and to globe-trot for a living. To many around me, it was but a high-class waitressing job; to me, it was an esteemed desire to provide world-class service in Singapore Airlines, and an opportunity to see the world.

When I finally turned nineteen, I mustered all the courage i had, and together with two other girlfriends, we went for the SIA cabin crew interview. So what is it that the interviewers at Singapore Airlines look out for, and what qualities must you possess to be recruited? We were as clueless as you might be now.

Honestly, there is no one manual that will provide model answers and step-by-step guides on how to ace the many rounds of interviews, but there is a certain formula and things to adhere to. Here, I share with you 8 tips on how to prepare for SIA cabin crew interview based on my own experience, alongside stories from many other friends who are part of the prestige cabin crew team.

#1 WHAT TO WEAR FOR SIA CABIN CREW INTERVIEW

This is something that always bothers every candidate the night before. Is there a rule on what to wear? Not really, but just don’t turn up looking all flippant in shorts and slippers.

As with regular interviews, most candidates play safe with formal wear like shirts and pencil skirts or pants, and with court shoes or polished leather shoes. Some look corporate-sleek with a shift dress and tailored blazer, some with polo tees and jeans.

My take is to be presentable, and to wear your confidence on your sleeve. For the ladies, makeup is essential because it is a form of respect, but keep it classy and minimal. No gaudy eyeshadow colours and overly long false lashes. For the gentlemen, snip off that extra long fringe, and keep your hair to the side without covering too much of your face.

#2 WHAT TO BRING ALONG FOR SIA CABIN CREW INTERVIEW

The usuals – your portfolio of certificates (everything. I’ll tell you why in a bit), application form (to be filled up before you go for the first round), a few passport photos, your identification documents, a pocket mirror (so that you can always check on how you look), lipstick to touch up, a lightly-scented perfume/ cologne, a book to read while waiting in between, and your confidence.

And why I’d say to bring along all your certificates is because apart from that impressive degree you thought would be the only paper the interviewer is going to look out for, you’d never know what your miscellaneous “accolades” would help blow your trumpets in the most unassuming ways! My interviewer was so impressed with my merits in classical piano and distinctions in music theory that he spoke about how he had such admiration for people who are well-versed in music and poised when playing the piano!

#3 THE FIRST AND MOST CRUCIAL ROUND OF INTERVIEW

This is one big chance to make (or break) an impression during the SIA cabin crew interview. And believe me when I say many kiss their chances of being a crew goodbye at this seemingly easy first round.

You go in to the room in groups of ten or so, and you are given a minute each to do a self-introduction. The chief interviewer will tell you the things he wants to hear, together with a random question. The norm is to introduce yourself together with your age, your current or previous profession and your hobby.

Yes, your hobby. Said a HR manager that I had a brief chat with, “what you love doing and what you do in your free time speaks volume of your character.”

As for the random question, it is really up to the interviewer. The most common one, which was also the one I had to answer is, “Why do you want to be a cabin crew at Singapore Airlines?” Other questions I’ve heard of from friends and fellow candidates include, “what is your favourite colour and why?” “Have you had breakfast this morning? Do you think breakfast is important?” “Who is your favourite movie star?” and “what is your favourite country?”

Strike an impression in that one minute. Plan your speech in your head, and take a deep breath before you start. Project your voice; you have to be articulated. If you are quavering in your voice, do not panic or frown. Instead, apologise, smile and restart that sentence. Do not keep your gaze at only one interviewer (there are a few); look at all the people around you – both interviewers and candidates – and smile as you speak. And when you are done, thank everyone for listening.

#4 SKIN CHECK AND KEBAYA-FITTING

Do not worry a thing about having to be perfect. The interviewers have their ideals, and we do not know what exactly, so just smile and remain confident.

The skin check round will have a huge light shining at you while they examine your face, forearms and hands, and neck. But the routine differs from person to person.

And when you are ushered to the kebaya section, pick a size you think fits you best. Some girls from my round rummaged through the rack in such a distasteful manner that one of the interviewers frowned so hard. And because I was not fast enough, I was left with a L-sized set. But an assistant staff was kind enough to help me pin up the excess material, so all went well. I was asked to do a short walk around the room, and as much as it may sound awkward, you’d have to get the walk done with confidence.

Chin up, breathe in, and smile.

#5 ATTITUDE AND PERSONALITY TESTS

These come in a series of game tests, mostly with the interviewers standing at a corner to observe. Candidates are split up into groups for a game or two, and the objective is really to assess how much of a team player you are.

So whether you win or lose the game does not determine your success for the round. More importantly, focus on your communication with your team members – all of whom you are not acquainted with. This is a simulation of how your future work environment would be, when you’d always have to work with strangers and people you meet for the first time. And your interviewer really wants to find out if you are a leader or a follower.

#6 FAQS ABOUT Q&A ROUNDS

There will be one-to-one interviews and debate-style group interviews for Q&As.

The former is a casual session where you’d be seated with one interviewer – of whom might be an interviewer from the first round, the one you’d have to leave a crucial first impression with – and he/ she will have you read a passage out loud before chatting with you. He/she may ask about your family, or your travel experiences. It may also be about your career, or the subjects you excelled in at school. Just relax, and think of it like a passenger making small talks with you.

The latter is usually left for the last round. The panel of interviewers may cast a scenario, and you’d have to share your views and how you’d handle the situation. Always be polite; raise your hand and make your speech after the interviewer gives you the permission to do so. Should you want to disagree with a fellow candidate’s statement and make a rebuttal, begin with “thank you for sharing your point of view. I thought if this was to happen, I would…”

And of course, when the dialogue is over, thank your interviewers before making your exit.

#7 HOW TO EARN BONUS POINTS

There are little things you can do along the way to make an impression – subtly, of course. Take the chance to hold the door open for others as you enter and leave the interview room. Show that you are really interested in listening when others speak. I’ve seen candidates using their phones when others are making their introduction, and they never made it through that round. The interviewers may walk around the holding areas, so do not be caught digging your nose or sitting with your legs up.

#8 WORDS THAT MAY HELP

Whenever you can and whenever there is a need to, say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’. The power of such positive words reflect very well on your mannerism – one vital attribute that all cabin crew must possess. Words like ‘I believe’ and ‘I understand’ convey confidence and politeness as well.

And at any one point in time, do not attempt to be bossy or vulgar. This guy who was in my group for the games round exclaimed a very loud “bloody hell!” when we missed a tile. How very classy. Another “leader” in my debate round was overly eager to impress at every possible minute and was eventually instructed by the interviewers to “take a break and let the other candidates speak.”

Like you, I was clueless before my SIA cabin crew interview and I didn’t know how to prep myself. I tried googling for tips and things to look out for, but nothing much came up. Over the years, friends have shared so much with me about their respective interview experiences, and every so often, I have friends and aspiring young people coming up to me and asking for tips on how I aced mine.

With this, I hope you have a better understanding of what to expect for the different stages of SIA cabin crew interviews, and to prep yourself for that important day.

As for me, you may wonder if I eventually made it through the grueling rounds. I did, much to my delight. But I never joined the force at Singapore Airlines, because of a prevailing health condition. If you are medically unfit, go for your checks, have your doctor certify that you are fit to fly, and bring the relevant supporting documents along.

Doing something for the first time is always a special moment. Like reading Harry Potter for the first time; finally seeing your idol in person; tasting foie gras when you have no idea what the alien-looking thing is; or trying skydiving for the very first time. They are life changing experiences that make you go “oh my God”, and they are memories that will stay with you for a very long time.

Joining Scoot on their inaugural flight from Singapore to Sydney, is definitely one of those memorable life experiences. For those who don’t know, Scoot (a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines) is a new low cost carrier which operates on medium and long-haul routes to destinations like Sydney, Gold Coast, Tianjin, and Bangkok.

With my awesome travel partner Dawn.

Read on to find out more about our experience on flying Scoot from Singapore to Sydney.

Scoot airlines is very different from other low cost carriers. It uses Boeing 777 aircraft (3-4-3 configuration as compared to 3 by 3 seating in smaller budget airlines) which are more comfortable and spacious. Seat-wise, it is similar to full-fledged carriers. The only difference is it does not provide in-flight entertainment (although you can rent an iPad for SGD$22) and food (which you can order from the menu).

Last I checked, they are still offering sale tickets to Sydney and Gold Coast for under SGD$500 (round-trip). I also managed to get a flight to Bangkok next month for just SGD$140.

To sum it up, Scoot is great news for everyone who loves travelling. I can’t wait for them to launch their new routes to Taipei and Tokyo later this year.

To be completely honest, before the flight I was dreading the seven hours journey because I thought we would be flying in a “budget airline”. But I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised that the flight was very smooth and comfortable, and before we knew it, we arrived in Sydney.

Over the next three days, we had an amazing time exploring the city, but I will share more about that in my next post.

Full Disclosure & Fine Print: I travelled to Sydney as a guest of Scoot Airlines and Destination NSW. No monetary benefits were received, only air tickets and hotel accommodations were sponsored.

Travelling is the perfect time for us to discover ourselves. A simple getaway can do wonders for your soul. With prices of airline tickets falling faster than a soufflé, everyone should go for a holiday. Besides cheap flights from budget airlines, there are also occasional promotions from some of the best airlines in the world.

I’ll cut to the chase. While “stalking” airline websites, I saw some special offers from Singapore Airlines (SIA) which include cities in Asia like Beijing, Ho Chi Minh City, and Osaka. I’m really tempted by the flight promotions to Bangkok, Taipei, and Tokyo!!!

Singapore Airlines Promotion 2012
Travel Period: 01 – 29 Feb 2012
Sale Period: Till 8 Jan 2012

Singapore – Bangkok SGD$328 (incl taxes & surcharges)
Singapore – Hong Kong SGD$408 (incl taxes & surcharges)
Singapore – Taipei SGD$558 (incl taxes & surcharges)
Singapore – Tokyo SGD$598 (incl taxes & surcharges)
Click here to see the flight promotion

Note: This is not an advertorial. No monetary benefits were received for mentioning Singapore Airlines Promotion.

I have been traveling a lot recently, and it gives me a new perspective about everything.

Each time I visit a new airport, I can’t help but to compare it with Singapore Changi Airport. The outcome is always the same — very few airports in the world can match Singapore Changi Airport in terms of efficiency and facilities. I think many of us always take things for granted; we complain about this, and grumble about that. But we are very fortunate to be living in one of the finest cities in the world.

“Can you take a photo of the in-flight food?”

A friend asked as he has never taken Singapore Airlines (SIA) before. Now, I may have taken photos of food at random places before, but to use my bulky dslr on a plane? No way! Fellow passengers would probably think that I’m crazy, and maybe the cabin crew might just throw me off the plane!

But speaking of airplane food, they have been improving over the years; not just in variety but also in terms of taste and appearance. This is hardly surprising since Singapore Airlines has an International Culinary Panel (ICP) to advise and create the in-flight food menu. The panel includes celebrity chefs like Gordon Ramsay, Sam Leong, and Matthew Moran.

If you are looking for the cheapest flight from Singapore to Shanghai — I’m sorry, but you are looking at the wrong page. This may sound bias since I’m a Singaporean, but Singapore Airlines is definitely one of the best in the world.

People always ask what’s the big deal about Singapore Airlines, and I used to question that too. It’s only after I took other airlines then I realized the little things that made a huge difference. KrisWorld, the in-flight entertainment system is definitely a  life savior (especially for long haul flights) with an impressive list of the latest blockbuster movies.

By the way, if you are traveling soon, do take a look at the following posts by my fellow fashion & beauty blogger: 5 Fashion Traveling Essentials, and Guide on Travel Beauty Tips.

// This is not an advertorial and no payment was received. I’m just sharing about my recent experience on the Singapore Airlines flight from Singapore to Shanghai.