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3 May 2017

DBS PayLah! Palooza - Singapore’s first QR code payment-led bazaar


Speaking of digitisation where technology plays a part in contributing to the convenience factor in our daily life, DBS has done it again! Ever since the launch of DBS FasTrack, an app to reduce the long waiting lines of participating brands, DBS will be collaborating with the organisers of Artbox once again for the first ever QR Code flea market! The event is jointly organised with SCAPE in support of Singapore’s Smart Nation drive.

You read it right, you go cashless since you can basically scan and pay for everything at the event via QR code with DBS PayLah! Just make sure you have PayLah! downloaded into your mobile device before you head down.

Here are some of the outlets you might expect at DBS PayLah! Palooza:


Fay Terrarium


I could not take my eyes off these cute little terrariums by Fay Terrarium! From simple and minimalist designs that is suitable for office environment to cute or romantic ones that could be used as a home decoration. They do workshops as well!!

93ArtMarket



From a series of customisable crayons such such this spaceship form Starwars to artistic hand-painted coasters to 100% cotton t-shirt hand dyed using the Shibori technique, also known as the tie and dye technique. 93ArtMarket's products definitely do attract eyeballs.



Pine43


Pine43 is an ongoing collective project across New York and Singapore to inspire artful living. Despite the limited range of products, Pine43's bags are minimalist yet classy, mainly in monochrome-nude colours. I definitely would never ever place my groceries into any of these bags.



Sotnwable


Doodles or graphical art? These creations are usually in limited quantity since no 2 drawings could exactly be the same! From notebooks to posters to cards, the designs ranges from cute to abstract to graffiti-looking.



Minimalyst



As its name suggest, Minimalyst's fashion accessories revolve around affordable yet stylish designs. From earrings to bracelets to necklaces that comes in designs that could easily match any of your outfits any day, anytime.



DopeTactics



The goal of the company is to bring life to the clothes you wear and to make you stand out from the rest. The inspiration of their designs are mainly street wear style where clothes are more trendy and rugged.


BarangShop



A whole lot of supplies as well as leather craft goods ranging from wallets to sandals to key rings. Not only does BarangShop sells handcrafted products, they conduct leather craft workshops as well. Not only that, DIY motorised toys kits are also available!


WildButterco


The owner's idea of Wild Butter Co. is to bring back the origins of nut and peanut butters where it has substantial amount of health benefits. They stick to using quality ingredients and natural sweeteners.
I would love to spread my loaf with a thick serving of their matcha spread!!



Imageenation



Imageenation is a lifestyle design community aimed at showcasing the artistic talent of the Asia Pacific. They carry a huge variety of products from different brands that cater to both the young and old, from handmade bibs to facial masks.


ThreeOneTwoFive


Started off as a hobby making elastic bracelets out of pony beads and now involving other materials such as raw gemstones and precious metals. ThreeOneTwoFive's jewelleries are on of a kind and the owner hopes to turn the business into a social enterprise which offers opportunities for women to better their lives.



Bw Apparel




Bw Apparel meant “Black White Apparel” in short. It was chosen because the founders wanted to emphasise on the idea of contrast which is the state of being strikingly different from something of close association.

https://bw-apparel.com/

KelseyLabel


Flaunt your curves with an attitude as you dress in KelseyLabel's Label. You are spoilt for choice due to a range of dresses, tops, bottoms, jumpsuits as well as outerwear, perfect for casual, office wear of even to attend parties.


 APinkShade



Shop your way through a series of bags and dresses that would be available for sale!



ShamlessSG


Every product has a background and story as to how they come upon it or source it in their travels. A range of gemstones and crystals bracelets and rings are design as they believe in each properties such as physical and emotional healing, etc. 



RisottoChips


A perfect snack that is still uncommon yet? Or probably a perfect snack to go with beer on a TGIF night as you spend your time lazing around?



After I spend my time painshakingly compiling all the tenants that would be displaying their products at DBS PayLah! Palooza, would you be heading over?? If yes, check out the details below!!

Event: DBS PayLah! Palooza, jointly organised with SCAPE
Date: 5 to 7 May 2017
Time: 1pm to 9pm
Venue: SCAPE Playspace

Download PayLah! now and enter promo codePAYLAH505” and get S$5 to spend at the event!

Do hashtag #dbspaylah #dbspaylahpalooza #paylahpalooza when you visit!

(Image Credits: All images are from each respective web pages or social media platform.)  

29 Apr 2017

Latest Bio Sculpture Treatment at Shou Slimming


Shou Slimming

Another virgin experience ticked off my list as I had undergone a session of the latest Bio Sculpture Treatment at Shou Slimming. Shou Slimming have 3 outlets in Singapore and the one I went was located at Velocity, Novena Square. The post will probably be a detailed process of my personal experience since I have been wanting to get rid of those annoying fats located around my lower abdomen. I want to correct others perception that being skinny does not necessary mean no ''spare tyre''. Having one made it even more shameful for me to even admit.  

Bio Sculpture Treatment at Shou Slimming

The Bio Sculpture Treatment started off with me stripping and changing into a disposable underwear provided and lying with my belly exposed to the slightly warm red light hue. As explained by my therapist, the treatment involved the use of FIR (Far Infrared Ray) technology to target localised fatty deposits as well as to stimulate the body's natural cellular stimulation while aiding in detoxification.

There were a total of 3 different types of Nano serums used in this Bio Sculpture Treatment. The therapist did explained to me each serum's purpose in mandarin before using each of them. As shown, the first 2 serums were used under the red hue, followed by a 10-15 mins long belly massage/torture. I have attached a video that I have recorded for reference below. It was rather painful as my belly was constantly being pressed downwards (from middle and sides) for optimum results I supposed.

The third serum used to spread across my belly was cold and gel-like. One of them could possibly be the Bio Clay which has the function to seal in the effects of speeding up overall fat-burning, skin tightening as well as to encourage overall hormonal balance.

Bio Sculpture Treatment at Shou Slimming

Bio Sculpture Treatment at Shou Slimming


Bio Sculpture Treatment at Shou Slimming

Shortly after the 3 serums, the treatment proceeded on with a cold bandage reeking strongly of herbal extracts. My therapist did warn me in regards to the smelly smell beforehand, but I somehow loved the 草药 (herbal medicine) smell instead!

After the mummification process of my belly was completed, a device of metallic studs was belted across the herbal bandage. These vibratory stud were explained to target important vital points for effective slimming results. A 'pain-test' (intensity level) was performed to ensure that I wasn't in too much of a discomfort since it could be painful to some. My advice would be to withstand the discomfort and go with the normal settings suggested by your therapist for optimum results. The timed session lasted for about 45 mins as the device would vibrate aggressively on specific areas from time to time. 

I tried taking a nap to pass time but unlike facial, I could not. The last 'Beep' sounded and my treatment has ended. From the pictures, my belly area was slightly red after the treatment and it took some time to subside. The entire treatment duration was about 1 hr 15 mins.

For the following 2 days, my belly was aching just like after doing 1000 situps the previous day. (Not that I could do that amount since I could barely hit 40.) Thankfully the pain subsided on the third day and my normally tight pants actually had a bit of leeway! Hopefully I do not fill this space up too quickly within the next few days. 

Bio Sculpture Treatment at Shou Slimming

Bio Sculpture Treatment at Shou Slimming


Bio Sculpture Treatment at Shou Slimming

Bio Sculpture Treatment at Shou Slimming


In celebration of the launch of Shou Slimming Bio Sculpture Treatment, a first time trial session would cost $89. It is available at all Shou Slimming outlets.

Shou Slimming also does a body analysis for every treatment to access individuals needs.
Find out more information from their web page here.

Thank you Brand Cellar and Shou Slimming for the invite.

1 Apr 2017

Skip Queues During Rush Hour With DBS FasTrack

Old Tea Hut with DBS FasTrack

Singaporeans are probably not the most patient breed of people on this planet. Yes, including myself who often whine about the queue after barely 10 minutes. It was from this problem that sparked DBS to come out with this new innovative mobile solution payment that would make our lives so much easier.

Check out this short video about DBS FasTrack, acted by Sylvia Chan from Night Owl Cinematics!


So bascially the idea of not needing to queue at all would definitely appeal to most of us. Right now,
there are already a few brands making use of DBS FasTrack app to reduce the long waiting lines. These brands include:

1) Old Tea Hut
2) Five Star Resturant
3) Old Kim Guan (OKG Express)
4) Koufu
5) Boon Tong Kee

More brands are set to launch their apps as well. They include Li Xin Teochew Fishball, Tiong Bahru Bakery, Wolf Burger, Miam Miam, Qi Ji, Aloha Poke and Food City @ Midpoint Orchard!

DBS FasTrack is available for download in IOS and Android.

Old Tea Hut with DBS FasTrack

Time to bring DBS FasTrack to the test!

Bascially each brands had an app under their name. Download the ones that would deem relevant to you and follow the simple steps to purchase. An estimated waiting time would be shown and a notification will appear to inform you once your purchase is ready.

I basically paid by DBS PayLah!, an innovative mobile wallet app that allows customers to transfer money instantly and conveniently to one another. 

''Let DBS handle the transections while allowing the merchants to focus on their craft, which is to produce quality food.''

Old Tea Hut with DBS FasTrack
Img from DBS

Old Tea Hut with DBS FasTrack
Img from DBS

Old Tea Hut with DBS FasTrack
Img from DBS

From actual case study results of Old Tea Hut

Old Tea Hut

-Increased in productivity and sales
(Increased 15% in sales with existing manpower)
-Reduces cash and change handling

Customers

-Reduced queueing 
-Cashless Payment

With DBS FasTrack app, both the participating brand as well as their customers stand to gain in terms of effeciency and convenience. Definiely suitable since our lunch break is only an hour or less in this fast pace country.

Koufu at 100 AM mall in Tanjong Pagar and Square 2 in Novena have already started utilizing DBS FasTrack, making them the first food court in Singapore where you can pre-order your food! Koufu even have plans to expand its usage across all other outlets islandwide!
 
To celebrate DBS FasTrack official launch, enjoy 10% off ala carte orders via the Koufu app!

29 Mar 2017

Thailand (Bangkok) has its Artbox ; Taiwan (Kaohsiung) has its Pier-2 Art Center

Pier-2 Art Center

The highly popular Artbox from Bangkok is arriving in Singapore! People of all ages from non-shipping or trade and logestic wake of life would definitely want to experience being in a modified shipping container, purchasing food and shopping for goods. I bet those who deal with containers would cringe or faceplam at the thought of it.
It would definitely be Thai-rific since many stores are imported from Thailand (Bangkok) itself! (More details up in future post! Stay tune!)

Despite the fact that I have not had a chance to visit Bangkok's Artbox, I could probably relate it to Pier-2 Art Center when I visited Kaoh Siung (Taiwan) about a month back. Pier-2 Art Center was once an abandoned and forgotten warehouse, buried in history due to the move from an industrial based segment to the service sector. It was a group of artist that injected creativity and inspirations, invoking life into this place, turning it into a centre where people come together to enjoy fine arts.

As seen from the map below, Pier-2 Art Center is stretched across a couple of streets and it is one of the worthy place of attraction in Kaoh Siung. For craft enthusiasts, it would probably take from 3 to 5 hours or more, having to browse through every craft and handmade outlets, checking out the flea vendors that rotate on a weekly basics or even attending workshops such as leather craft.

Besides shopping for crafts or arty-farty liftstyle products, children and adults could visit the Hamasan Museum of Taiwan Railway and pay to have a joy ride around the area on a mini train system that run on tracks. Probably one of the best instagrammable spot in Kaohsiung would be the large open area of railway tracks (last image). Besides tourists, many locals were seen having a picnic, gathering with family or friends as well as walking and playing with their doggy pals. Many large scale bronze/brass sculptures were randomly scattered across the plains as well.

I wanted to head back another day to revisit this place since tugging along my heavy trolley luggage that day was hindering my shopping and admiring process. Due to time constraint, I did not have the chance for a revisit after checking in though.

Anyway, left with 1 more post of my Taiwan (Kaohsiung) trip!

Check out my previous post on Fennel Hot Spring Resort 茴香戀戀溫泉會館 here!

Pier-2 Art Center Map

Pier-2 Art Center flea market

Pier-2 Art Center flea market

Pier-2 Art Center flea market

Pier-2 Art Center flea market

Pier-2 Art Center


Pier-2 Art Center

Pier-2 Art Center

Pier-2 Art Center

Pier-2 Art Center

Pier-2 Art Center Railway

Opening Hour : Monday to Thursday 10:00-18:00
                          Friday to Sunday 10:00-20:00
Pier-2 Art Center - Webpage

9 Mar 2017

DBS launches SPARK episode 6 at DBS Asia X

DBS Asia X

Who who've thought that DBS, a local leading consumer bank running a series of their own mini episodes?? I wasn't aware till I attended the launch of Sparks episode 6 at DBS Asia X a couple of days ago as this mini series redefines the conventional meaning of banking. DBS hopes that the public not only perceive them as a company that does transactions but also a company that embrace innovation and digitisation. 

DBS SPARK episode 6
Img. from DBS


Episode 6 of sparks is inspired by the true story of Zaya Learning Labs as they faces challenges while trying to bridge the education gap, bringing education to children in low income communities through the use of technology and innovation. Neil D'Souza, the founder of Zaya Learning Labs was one of the panelist that shared with us his story and advices that day. Zaya Learning Labs was also the grand prize winner in the inaugural DBS-NUS Social Venture Challenge Asia in 2014. 

Joining him as panellists on stage were also Dr. Alex Lin (Head of SGInnovate, DBS BusinessClass Advisor), Gillian Tee (Co-founder, Homage) and David Pong (Co-founder, WaterROAM), each with their own inspiring story to share.

Since the lanch of Sparks episodes 1-5 in Feburary 2016, their trailers together with the 5 episodes have garnered more than 42 million views and over 1.7 million digital engagements across the region.
You may want to check out these episodes from this link below before the launch of episode 6 on the 17th of March.

DBS SPARK episode 6
Host and the panellists

DBS SPARK episode 6
Gillian Tee (Co-founder, Homage)

DBS SPARK episode 6
Neil D'Souza (Zaya Learning Labs)

DBS SPARK episode 6
David Pong (Co-founder, WaterROAM)

DBS SPARK episode 6

It was an informative session for me as I learnt that DBS Foundation actually provides holistic support to social enterprises at every stage of their journey, assisting them in their success as well as scaling up their social impact.

I also took away some key advises from these founders at the end of the session as well. (Not in exact sentences but almost there..)

''There are 10 thousands reasons to say you are not ready. Do not be afraid to start the journey, experiment and fail. You need to be comfortable with a bit of chaos. It was the impact that kept me going'' - Gillian Tee

''Believe in yourself. Although you are clueless, pretend to know. Surround yourself with people who believe in your cause. Building a strong team is important. Deliver values and not let the media define your values.'' - David Pong

''Do not take investment from somebody who does not know. Get the right person. You need plenty of support as well.'' -Neil D'Souza

Anyway, couldn't wait for episode 6 to be up!  #DBSsparks

5 Mar 2017

Fennel Hot Spring Resort 茴香戀戀溫泉會館 from Kaoh Siung 高雄

Fennel Hot Spring Resort 茴香戀戀溫泉會館

It has been almost a month since I came back from my trip from Taiwan, Kaoh Siung 高雄. I spent about a week in Kaoh Siung 高雄, mainly sight seeing in the urban cityscape and night market hopping as the friend I went with was a maniac in architectural and food photography. As for me? I definitely needed to visit places of relaxation or inspiration since I enjoy blogging about such stuff.

You probably won't find a week's worth of Kaoh Siung 高雄 itinerary since I only intend to share about Fennel Hot Spring Resort 茴香戀戀溫泉會館, Pier-2 Art Center and Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts. Of course I had spammed enough pictures on my instagram as well as my migme account by now. 

Fennel Hot Spring Resort 茴香戀戀溫泉會館

Fennel Hot Spring Resort 茴香戀戀溫泉會館

The journey from Kaoh Siung 高雄 was long as it took about 2 hours (without traffic jam) by bus to reach 車城站. From 車城站, it was another 10 mins car ride or 45 mins walking distance to reach Fennel Hot Spring Resort 茴香戀戀溫泉會館.    

''Sichong river Hot Spring Area is located at Checheng Township in Pingtung County. The water here is Sodium Bicarbonate spring, excellent quality mineral water. The Sihjhongsi Hot Spring is considered one of the four major hot-spring areas among Taiwan, along with Yangmingshan, Beitou, and Guanziling.''

There were 2 spring options to pick from:

1) The semi outdoor naked spa 半露天景觀裸湯 which was more private and does not require you to wear swim suit and swimming cap. It comprises of Cold Spring Pool, Hot Spring Pool and Medium Hot Pool, costing NT$200 per person.

2) Health Spa Love Sea Water Therapy Spa 愛情海水療SPA which required me to purchase a swim suit and swimming cap since I did not bring mine. It comprises of  Hot Spring Spa, Spa For Children, Floral Hot Spring, Herb Hot Spring, Garra Rufa Obtuse, Cold Spring Pool, Hot Spring Pool, Medium Hot Pool and Steam Room. It cost NT$300 per person.

Garra Rufa Obtuse 溫泉親親魚池 is basically a tiny fish pond where you dip your feet in and these little fishes would start nibbling the dead skin off your feet. I even ''stole'' other people's fishes once my feet landed in LOL. 


Lockers available at a cost of NT$10 to place your belongings and their toilets have soap and shampoo as well. Many random photos below.

Fennel Hot Spring Resort 茴香戀戀溫泉會館

Fennel Hot Spring Resort 茴香戀戀溫泉會館

Fennel Hot Spring Resort 茴香戀戀溫泉會館

Fennel Hot Spring Resort 茴香戀戀溫泉會館

Fennel Hot Spring Resort 茴香戀戀溫泉會館

Garra Rufa Obtuse 溫泉親親魚池

Fennel Hot Spring Resort 茴香戀戀溫泉會館

Overall it was a relaxing experience since the day before, I spent half the entire day cycling to the end (cargo area) of Cijin. The distance sure was crazy....definitely CRAZY in a foreign land. Not forgetting walking over 30km each day...

There were many cute little kids playing around, more like a family orientated Hot Spring Resort and the place was not exactly well maintained since there were faulty activation buttons. I should not be complaining since I paid only NT$300 for unlimited time and I probably spend about 3-4 hours in there. Hmmm maybe more hotspring and spa posts in future?

You may want to check out their web page for more information here: http://www.fennel.com.tw