Can’t travel overseas? No problem. Instead, you can take your tastebuds on a flight at the new Gong Cha Terminal here at Paya Lebar. The latest concept is inspired by the unique flavours of each country with Gong Cha’s presence. Namely, these countries include hot destinations like Singapore, Japan and Mexico. Bubble tea fans will also be treated to a wide array of other flavours to choose from, with the cafe’s exclusive eight destination-inspired drinks. Some of these unique options include Maple & S’mores, Daebak Banana, and even a Mangonada drink — the latter being a sweet and spicy number that’s guaranteed to tantalise your tastebuds. Having opened its “boarding gates” on April 10, the new Gong Cha Terminal spans over 800 square feet and features an aviation-themed look that’s sure to be a sweet spot for those looking to take shots for the ‘Gram. In fact, the Terminal also features a check-in counter, boarding gate and window seat view, which are all synonymous with ... » Learn More about The new Gong Cha Terminal at Paya Lebar will take your tastebuds on vacation
Marshmallow root tea
The best face toners for every skin type in Singapore (2021)
What is a face toner? Do you need it? How should you use it? Read on for the answers to all your toning questions answered and the best face toners in 2021! IMO, face toners are the skincare equivalent of Mark Ruffalo — great at adding depth to the team, but you sort of forget they're there and…wait, what role do they play in the whole regime again? You could probably live without face toners, but why would you? The whole routine wouldn’t be the same without it. So this round we’re spotlighting toners, a skincare calefare. Read on to find out the benefits of using a toner and its essential role in our skincare routine. Grab your cotton pads and let’s dive right in. So, what is face toner? Designed for quick absorption, face toners have a water-like consistency that helps remove excess dirt, oil, and makeup, shrinks pores and balances out the potential of hydrogen (pH) levels of your skin. If you’re wondering why restoring your skin’s pH balance is important, that’s because ... » Learn More about The best face toners for every skin type in Singapore (2021)
Using cannabis legally in Thailand
Toto Inasal Cannabis Tea. Courtesy: Toto Inasal I am into cannabis for 10 days now. I bought two packs with 20 tea bags of dried leaves and stems. I sometimes go to a cannabis bar for cannabis pizza, cannabis pudding and everything with cannabis in it. But I’m not an addict. My South African friend, Emile, called me “pothead” since I told him about my newfound “cure” for the chronic pain I’ve had since I can remember. The pain is subsiding. Thanks to cannabis. In the Philippines, possession and use of cannabis is a major crime under Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002, which carries penalties of imprisonment and fines of up to P10 million for possession of at least 500 grams of marijuana. Or worse, get “tokhanged,” a portmanteau of extrajudicial killing). But I am in Thailand. Legalization of Cannabis In January 2021, the government of Thailand laid down business guidelines for the use of cannabis and hemp for medicinal, food, and ... » Learn More about Using cannabis legally in Thailand
52 free things to do in Singapore: Your boredom-beating guide for every week of the year
We Singaporeans just love to hate on two things about our island . One, that Singapore is expensive; and two, that there’s nothing to do here. Well, we’ve put together a list of free things to do in Singapore that’ll put both complaints to rest for good. Whether you love trees or thrills, history or hiking , this 52-strong guide has them all – one activity for every week of the year, in fact. Bookmark this page, lace up your shoes , and get exploring. 1. Go geocaching Think of geocaching as the world’s largest and longest treasure hunt, going on unseen right under your nose. Singapore is dotted with over 700 geocaches – tiny spots where a trinket or souvenir is hidden, along with a logbook detailing the names of all who’ve found the cache before. To join this treasure quest, all you need is a GPS-enabled device, the official Geocaching® app as your guide, and a sturdy pair of legs – many of these caches are very much off the beaten track. Kick off your geocaching adventure ... » Learn More about 52 free things to do in Singapore: Your boredom-beating guide for every week of the year
Heritage Trails in the West: Walk down memory lane, discover an old railway bridge
Queenstown's charming shops and good hawker food RATING: 4/5 DURATION AND DIFFICULTY More than six hours if you visit all 40 points. About 26,300 steps. An easy walk, with some stair-climbing. HIGHLIGHTS Queenstown Public Library; first HDB blocks; HDB terraces; Tiong Ghee Temple; HDB’s first point blocks; “Butterfly Block”; Alexandra Hospital; Hang Jebat Mosque; colonial terraces at Jalan Hang Jebat; Wessex Estate; former Malayan Railways; Singapore Improvement Trust flats; Sri Muneeswaran Temple; Church of the Blessed Sacrament; Tanglin Halt Neighbourhood Centre; first flatted factory; Shuang Long Shan Wu Shu Ancestral Hall; VIP Block; Ridout Tea Garden; Commonwealth Crescent Neighbourhood Centre THE GOOD Queenstown is Singapore’s first satellite town, so it has plenty of character – from charming old sundry shops to examples of early public housing, and there is no shortage of good hawker food. The five mini trails offer a comprehensive tour of ... » Learn More about Heritage Trails in the West: Walk down memory lane, discover an old railway bridge
Things to do in Singapore that get you the most bang for your buck (April 2021)
If you ever find yourself with nothing to do in Singapore here's showing you the many things to do in our beautiful island country, as you make your bookings on the right credit card and earn rewards, points and cashback. In this article, we aim to capture the best activities in Singapore every month, so you can mark your calendar and plan your week around them. We will try to cover a range of our recommended options for the outdoorsy, the adventurous, the artsy, the closet food connoisseur, and the leisure-loving souls. At the risk of quoting a cliche - there's something for everyone here. Things to do: Art and culture 1. Songkran water festival 2021 at Wild Wild Wet It's a shame we are still not able to travel to Thailand for Songkran this year, but don't fret, because the water festival is coming to Wild Wild Wet! For the entire month of April, the water park will be given a fresh transformation into a Thai-themed attraction. Bring your water guns for a full-day ... » Learn More about Things to do in Singapore that get you the most bang for your buck (April 2021)
Why ‘big threats’ don’t faze Dumaliang sisters in saving Masungi
For sisters and eco-warriors Ann and Billie Dumaliang, their home during the year-long lockdown has been the conservation area Masungi Georeserve. Besides being secluded from ever-rising COVID-19 cases, the two remain in Masungi to take on constant and serious threats to their conservation efforts, from illegal quarrying to “ professional squatting .” Ann, 29, and Billie, 28, are managing trustees of the geological heritage site in Baras, Rizal, which is defined by rainforests and limestone rocks. Weekends as kids were spent in the area, which was being reforested with the help of their dad, Masungi Georeserve Foundation president Ben Dumaliang. As a denuded Masungi was rehabilitated in two decades, consciously or not, the sisters grew up to be its next stewards. Ann and Billie Dumaliang on Masungi’s iconic spider web-inspired platform. Image: Nikki Inso Saving Masungi ultimately means financing conservation efforts. Though managing the site is a joint venture between ... » Learn More about Why ‘big threats’ don’t faze Dumaliang sisters in saving Masungi
Visiting Thailand after the Pandemic: Where to Go and What to See
If you’re planning to visit Thailand after the pandemic, there are a few things you should cross off your ‘To Do’ list while you’re there. Whether you’re a fan of big cities and busy streets, or you just want to relax by the beach with a fancy cocktail in your hand, Thailand has it all! This guide will go through the places and activities that are a must when it comes to what you should visit and what to do while visiting this flavorful country. Bangkok It is only appropriate to start with the capital, Bangkok. Being the largest city in Thailand, Bangkok managed to keep all of its historical values intact, while also allowing modern times to sprinkle some architectural wonders all around the city – yes, I’m talking about the numerous and impressive skyscrapers spread all around. Surely one day around town will not be enough for you to visit everything, so make sure you plan your trip in such a way that you spend at least a few days in the capital. Floating Markets ... » Learn More about Visiting Thailand after the Pandemic: Where to Go and What to See
16 best rooftop bars in Singapore for romantic date nights
Looking for somewhere to kick back and relax in the evenings with your significant other? What better way than somewhere sky-high, where you get to feel a chilly breeze in your hair as you sip on a tipple. Even better if you get a gorgeous view of the night sky and city skyline. Check out these rooftop bars for killer views and delicious drinks: 1. VUE For spritz cocktails and grilled meats With sweeping views of Marina Bay and our iconic city skyline as your backdrop, this rooftop bar and grill comprises three sections – a main dining room, a private dining room for 12 and an al fresco pavilion that houses Singapore’s first outdoor spritz bar. It’s where you can relish 14 different types of spritz cocktails, from classic options like the Basil Spritz ($24) that combines dry gin, basil and lemon; to a more fruity option like the Ispahan ($22) that’s made of raspberry-infused gin, lychee and rose; as well as the Geisha’s Gaze ($24) that’s a combination of umeshu, prosecco ... » Learn More about 16 best rooftop bars in Singapore for romantic date nights
Asia’s best breakfasts: From hoppers in Sri Lanka to Vietnam’s banh mi
Breakfast is considered by many to be the most important meal of the day. What you eat in the morning replenishes those sleep jaded energy reserves and fuels your mind and body for the day ahead. Unfortunately, as our lives become increasingly busy, many of us opt to skip or skimp on breakfast and the traditions and culture that go with it. Modern Western options such as cereals, toast or even granola bars now rule many a breakfast roost. Morning dining routines around the world often stem from deep roots. Breakfast culture is alive and kicking in many parts of Asia, even as fast-paced Western alternatives muscle their way in. Being such a huge and varied continent, Asia is home to culinary and cultural extremes, richly reflected in its choices and attitudes towards breakfast. 1. Turkish delights Many nations claim to have the best breakfast, but when it comes to traditional morning meals, you would be hard-pressed to upstage the sumptuous Turkish spread. Straddling the ... » Learn More about Asia’s best breakfasts: From hoppers in Sri Lanka to Vietnam’s banh mi