The most difficult part for us during these trying times is the lack of in-person communication with our extended family, friends, and colleagues. Thankfully, we’re halfway through the circuit breaker period.

We’re sure that all of us are looking forward to seeing our extended family, friends, and colleagues again. But if you think that you’re not able to last 2 more weeks without keeping in constant contact with your loved ones, fret not.

Group video platforms are now on the rise, and here are some of our fave 5 platforms to use to keep in touch with your loved ones during the circuit breaker period, for the next 2 weeks. Ranging from the usual Skype video calls to playing mini-games with your friends via Houseparty, these apps have something for everyone.

HOUSEPARTY

Houseparty is a free-to-download application that allows its users to video call and play quizzes and games with each other. This brings us together online, when we can’t do it face to face. What makes this app stand out is the addition of quizzes and games you can play over a call, giving us the freedom to do more than just talk. It is one of the most popular apps on the App Store.

Available on iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and Android. More information can be found here.

SKRIBBL.IO

Skribbl.io is a free multiplayer drawing and guessing game, and the largest drawing game online. In one game, there are a few rounds. In every round, someone draws their chosen word on screen, and the others in the group have to submit wild guesses as to what the drawing is to gain points. The person who gains the most points at the end of the game wins. A great way to rewind with your friends on a lazy afternoon, we think.

Play Skribbl.io here. Available on iOS, macOS, and Android.

SKYPE

Before WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Houseparty, there was Skype. Skype is a veteran telecommunications application, specialising in video chats and voice calls. It’s also very family-friendly and has parental control features that allow their children to only add people they know, so parents need not worry.

Skype is available on various platforms, ranging from macOS (for Mac users), to Android tablets, to Amazon Alexa devices. Find the full list here.

ZOOM

Zoom was originally mostly used by business organisations to host business meetings. Nowadays, people use the app to host virtual birthday parties, or virtual classrooms for kids stuck in their homes. Their free plan allows you to host up to 100 participants, have unlimited number of meetings, and a 40-minute limit on group meetings.

Available on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. More information here.

KAST

Kast is a video sharing app that allows its users to host watch parties with friends. Kast allows you to host TV and movie watch parties with 100+ friends, and you’re even able to play and live stream your games by sharing your screen. These features make Kast stand out from the usual telecommunications app.

Available on Windows, PC, and macOS. Download and find out more here.

Royale—known for their extremely affordable buffet spreads—has now launched their newest Weekend High Tea Buffet showcasing tea time delights spanning from local delights to Western favourites. Specially crafted with a leisurely weekend gathering in mind, feast to your heart’s content at the gorgeous baroque-style dining hall that features dim sum counters, a sandwich bar, desserts and many more.

Bask in an indulgent afternoon of over 40 delectable teatime delights with scrumptious international and local lunch staples alongside a Live Dessert Station. Royale Weekend High Tea rotates between two different menus for Saturday and Sunday, both created in the spirit of a communal feast that is family-friendly and very pocket-friendly.

On the international front, the line-up features classics such as a fresh selection of sandwiches, salads, and brunch fares such as Eggs Benedict and Beef Sliders. Royale also allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds with local delights such as oyster omelette, nasi lemak, and DIY rojak.

Royale’s Weekend High Tea Buffet is available on weekends, Saturday and Sunday, during lunch hours from 12pm – 3pm at only S$48++ per adult and S$24++ per child. Kids under 6 years old dine for free. And here’s the sweetest part: quote ‘LADYIRONCHEF30′ upon making your reservations for a whopping 30% discount off the weekend high tea buffet at S$33.60++ per pax.

IRREGULAR SALAD BAR

Before you scoff at this, while a salad bar is more often than not the least popular part of a buffet, it isn’t the case here at Royale. The salad bad is filled with an array of refreshingly delicious salads to promote a healthier lifestyle.

Expect new varieties and combinations such as Smoked Duck Salad, Thai Beef Salad, Slow Braised Pork Belly with Homemade Pickles and Thai Marinated Squid Salad. They even have a DIY Chinese Rojak station where you can customise your rojak to your own liking.

DAINTY AFTERNOON APPETISERS

When you think of a typical English afternoon tea, handheld sandwiches and light bites are an absolute must. The sandwiches come with a plethora of fillings that cater to every palate—from Smoked Turkey with Cheese and Tomato, Pepper Beef Steak with Sweet Onions, to Smoked Salmon with Cream Cheese. They even offer cheesy Caesar Chicken Quesadilla, Beef Sliders and oozy Egg Benedicts; perfect for kids!

What we do recommend the most though, has to be their bowls of Mini Nasi Lemak that was nothing short of indulgent, savoury and fragrant that even the little ones would want more of.

STEAMY DIM SUM

Of course, high tea doesn’t always have to be an exclusively Western affair. Here, Royale has multiple bamboo steamers filled with classic Asian favourites such as Siew Mai, Braised Chicken Claw and Chicken Char Siew Pau. Our personal favourite had to be the Chicken Pockets, which were little crispy dumplings stuffed full of savoury filling.

There’s also a large vat of congee to help yourself to, and an entire spread of condiments to add to your heart’s content.

SIZZLING HOT EATS

The lineup also features the likes of fluffy Crab Meat Fried Rice, thick umami Braised Ee-Fu Noodles with Mushrooms, decadent Oyster Omelettes and even Bak Kut Teh.

You can also cook your own Laksa. The broth was so rich and flavourful, we had multiple servings of this!

SWEET TREATS TAKE CENTRE STAGE

As with any high tea affair, the sweet treats section is the main star. If you love a show along with your dining experience, head over to the Live Dessert Station to watch the chef serve up Crepe Suzettes with Grand Manier or freshly Baked Apple Strudel with Caramel Sauce. The two live stations are available on Saturdays and Sundays respectively.

In addition to that, there’s also a grand assembly of assorted desserts by Chef Man—from Yam Paste with Coconut Cream to Durian Crème Brûlée, Pandan Kaya Cake and Royale’s speciality cheesecake in Oreo or Lemon. A tray of nonya kueh awaits too, alongside Japanese-style muah chee.

There is also a very decadent (and very good) Durian Penget that was so lusciously thick; we couldn’t stop going back for more. That alone was well worth the buffet price.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Just adjacent to Royale’s main dining area is a playroom (available during the weekend high tea buffet) to keep the young diners entertained while parents enjoy a well-deserved quiet and relaxing afternoon tea break. Complete with cartoons and a selection of fun-filled activities, you’d be happy to know the little ones wouldn’t plan on pulling your arms off whining to leave any time soon.

This is just about the perfect weekend plan for families! Available every Saturday and Sunday from 12pm – 3pm at just S$48++ per adult and S$24++ per child, enjoy a further 30% discount when you quote ‘LADYIRONCHEF30′ upon making reservations. Kids under 6yo dine for free!

Weekend High Tea Buffet Details
Sat & Sun: 12pm – 3.00pm
Price: Adult – S$48++/ Child – S$24++ (Ages 6 – 12)/ Children below the age of 6 dine free

Royale
Level 3, Mercure Singapore Bugis
122 Middle Road
Singapore 188973
Tel: +65 6521 6030 / or email HA0D7-FB1@accor.com
Nearest Station: Bugis

This post is brought to you by Mercure Singapore Bugis.

Whenever I meet people and tell them I used to write the food pages for a magazine, they assume that I’m a fervent foodie who spends every Friday evening at a hip new diner and every Saturday afternoon having brunch and coffee at a just-opened cafe. The truth is, I’m as boring as they come. Also, I am as cheap as they come. I don’t believe in spending money when I want to hang out outside, so here, I’m going to tell you about 9 things you can do for free in Singapore.

#1 GO FOR A HIKE

Okay, I know this isn’t the most ingenious of suggestions, but really, it’s such a great free activity. There are plenty of routes to choose from, whether you’re after only a leisurely walk or a heart-pumping, quad-burning trek. Pack food to make it a picnic and double the fun. If you’re a lone ranger looking for company, search outdoor activity groups on Meetup.com to find trekking kakis. Along the same lines of this suggestion would be visiting parks or going to the beach.

#2 GO SAMPLE “SHOPPING”

Back in Her World, I was tasked by my editor to live on $0 for a week. I failed, mostly spending money on groceries to make my own food. But one thing I realised was an easy freebie, were beauty products samples, whether from departmental stores or individual retail outlets. Obviously, this shouldn’t be the only way you get your beauty hoard because that’s just plain not nice. If you’re strapped for cash with payday not till next week and you’ve run out of moisturiser, then head to these counters to tide you over.

Here are 12 Kids Friendly Activities in Singapore! These places not only enhance parent-child bonding, but create fun experiences for the little darlings as well!

#3 ATTEND A FREE CONCERT AT THE ESPLANADE MALL

I think the Esplanade team would be really upset if you didn’t know by now that they have regular free performances held on the compound throughout the week. Stumped by the dreaded “What do you want to do now?” question and don’t have much moolah left? Enjoy some free live music with our island’s gorgeous CBD skyline in the background.

#4 GYM HOP WITH FREE TRIALS – ‘NUFF SAID

I have a friend of a friend who saves so much on exorbitant gym fees by visiting a new gym every week. Free trials – ’nuff said. Sure, it can be a hassle constantly going somewhere new but think of it as exploration. Yes, some of you may say you can go running outdoors and not spend a cent too, but seriously, if everyone was motivated like that, there wouldn’t be a multi-million dollar gym industry.

#5 PICK UP SPEEDMINTON – TENNIS AND BADMINTON

It’s a sport that combines Tennis and Badminton, using a racket similar to a Squash one. It can be played anywhere because the “court” is basically some lines you set up yourself. There’s a group that comes together to play at various parks every Sunday at 9.30am so make your way down to learn more about the game. It’s totally free and equipment is provided. If you enjoyed yourself, the group also sells the kits. Click here (link: https://www.facebook.com/SpeedmintonSingapore) for updates on location and playing schedules.

So where do you go when you’re looking to escape the city bustle, or are simply seeking pocket-friendly options for a quiet retreat? You can escape to the following 6 places in Singapore. 

#6 EAT FOR FREE

Yes, you read right. The Buddhist Lodge temple, located in the River Valley area, dishes out free vegetarian meals every day and you don’t have to be a low-income individual to enjoy it. Many Buddhist temples in Singapore offer the same service but we heard that Buddhist Lodge has the biggest spread with a buffet of several dishes (think soups, congee, noodles, vegetables and fruits). Of course, if you aren’t actually strapped for cash, do leave a donation so the temple can providing good food to those in need, at no cost.

#7 WATCH ALTERNATIVE FILMS

Tired of mainstream movies? Get clued in on the local indie art scene at the Substation. Yes, I know the place might make you wonder if you’re cool enough to be there, but don’t worry too much about that – any support for local directors and filmmakers is very much appreciated by the community. There are short films shown every first Monday of every month under their First Take programme.

Whether it’s your computer, television, or your mobile phone, I say it’s time to get unplugged, and indulge in some good old offline fun. Here are five weekend activities you can try without relying on technology:

#8 GO ON A FREE TOUR AROUND SINGAPORE

The Singapore Footprints team will take you around the Singapore River and Bugis and Bras Basah area, enthralling you with tales of the yesteryears. The tour is run by a bunch of passionate students from the Nanyang Technological University’s Tourism and Hospitality Management Club; you can leave a donation if you enjoyed yourself so they can continue providing the service for free.

Another one I recommend is a visit to Baba House, near Chinatown. It is a restored Peranakan heritage home that belonged to a rich local family in the early 20th century, accessible only by this free hour-long tour held four times a week. Email babahouse@nus.edu.sg for more information.

#9 GET OUT TO THE COUNTRYSIDE

It’s hard to fathom that we have a countryside, beyond the city skyscrapers, high-rise residential areas and industrial parks – so get out there and see it for yourself. The Kranji area is home to a wetland reserve, vegetable farms, fish farms and even a frog farm. A Kranji Countryside Express Bus service takes you from Kranji MRT station to several points of interests like Bollywood Veggies, Jurong Frog Farm and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve (which has a free guided tour). If you are up for spending some money and want to take the experience up a notch, stay the night at D’Kranji Farm Resort. You shouldn’t expect city-slick amenities and 5-star service because then you’re missing the point. There are going to be bugs flying around – it is the countryside after all, people.

About the writer:
Ruby Tan used to write for Her World, and is now a freelance writer with a dream to travel the world. She believes that the some of best things in life don’t have to be bought. If you want to make a friend, share travel tips and advice, or even to discuss deeply about life, write to her at rubytan.work@gmail.com

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

1. PUNNGOL WATERWAY PARK

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

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

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

2. SUNGEI BULOH WETLAND RESERVE

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

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

3. THE SOUTHERN ISLANDS

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

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

4. THE ABANDONED RAILWAY TRACKS

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

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

5. SEMBAWANG PARK

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

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

6. THE KRANJI COUNTRYSIDE

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

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

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

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

1. HEAD OUTDOORS AND ENJOY THE SUN

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

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

2. BE A LOCAL TOURIST FOR A DAY

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

3. MEET YOUR NEIGHBOURS

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

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

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

5. GET CRAFTY

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

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

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

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