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In Gift Ideas 10 Mins Read

Samsung Galaxy Note 4 4G+ Pre-orders Begin In Singapore

NEW INFORMATION UPDATE
Samsung today announced the commercial availability of the Samsung GALAXY Note Edge 4G+ in Singapore. The GALAXY Note Edge 4G+ will be available islandwide from 22 November 2014, and it is available for pre-order from 13 November 2014 at 12pm.

Pre-Order / Registration of Interest
Registration of interest with SingTel, StarHub or M1 for the Samsung GALAXY Note Edge 4G+ will commence from 13 November 2014, 12pm.

You can visit the following URLs for more information:

SingTel: www.singtel.com/galaxynoteedge
StarHub: www.starhub.com/galaxynoteedge
M1: www.m1.com.sg/galaxynoteedge

You can also visit the following Samsung Experience Stores from 13 November 2014 during opening hours to pre-order the Samsung GALAXY Note Edge 4G+ [without contract] by placing a $50 deposit per device:

Central
Great World City #02-39 Tel: 6235 1134
Paragon #B1-27/27A Tel: 6735 5926
VivoCity #02-28/29 Tel: 6376 9150
Bugis Junction #01-54 Tel: 6338 7911
Chinatown Point #01-48 Tel: 6222 7911
313@somerset #B2-24/25/26 Tel: 6836 1809

East
Tampines Mall #02-29 Tel: 6782 9575
Bedok Mall #B1-07 Tel: 6785 1118
nex Mall #04-42 Tel: 6636 7392
Parkway Parade #02-32 Tel: 6440 7969

North
AMK Hub #B1-37/38 Tel: 6753 6070
Causeway Point #03-12 Tel:6891 1011

West
Jurong Point #B1-09/10/11 Tel: 6791 2272
Westgate #01-01 and #02-01 Tel: 6369 9175

When you pre-order the GALAXY Note Edge 4G+ from SingTel, StarHub, M1 or the Samsung Experience Stores, you will receive a FREE Flip Wallet worth SGD$78, while stocks last, when you collect your GALAXY Note Edge 4G+ on 21 November 2014.

Local Availability
The GALAXY Note Edge 4G+ will be available from 22 November 2014 in Charcoal Black and Frost White at SingTel, StarHub, M1, major consumer electronics stores, authorised retailers and Samsung Experience Stores.

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We were at the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 World Tour 2014 yesterday and we were mightily impressed by Samsung’s new Galaxy Note 4 4G+ and Galaxy Note Edge 4G+. The expansion of Samsung’s flagship Galaxy Note series certainly packs a punch and we anticipate that there will be a huge market demand for the new GALAXY Note 4 4G+ and Galaxy Note Edge 4G+.

On top of that, Samsung also unveiled the Samsung Gear S, the next generation smart wearable device that expands the smartphone experience to the wrist. The new Samsung Gear S delivers an up-to-date smart wearable experience with 3G connectivity and wearable optimised features to meet the evolving needs of consumers.

As there was so much information that were being disseminated during the event yesterday, we are going to make this blog post as concise as possible so that you don’t get information overload.

Samsung Galaxy Note 4 4G+ Key Highlights

Design

The Galaxy Note 4 4G+ introduces a new sleek and stylish Galaxy design language. The device features a premium metal frame with fluid curvature that seamlessly blends with the device display. A soft and textured back cover provides incredible comfort that makes it easy to control with one hand. The device not only looks beautiful, but offers a superior grip and enhanced durability. With an extraordinary 5.7-inch Quad HD SUPER AMOLED Display [2560 x 1440], the Galaxy Note 4 4G+ reproduces clearer and more vivid images with deep contrast, better viewing angles, and response times as fast as a millionth of a second, providing a tremendous viewing experience. There are 4 colours available; Charcoal Black, Frost White, Blossom Pink, and Bronze Gold.

Features

The wide selection of enhanced essential features of the Galaxy Note 4 4G+ enables users to get even more from their mobile device. With the Fast Charging feature and Ultra Power Saving Mode, the Galaxy Note 4 4G+ charges from 0 to 50 per cent battery level in 30 minutes and ensures that users do not run out of power when they need it most by extending the remaining 10 per cent battery life with up to 36 hours worth of standby time.

The Galaxy Note 4 4G+ comes equipped with multiple microphones and an improved speaker phone for better noise cancellation when speaking in loud environments. A built-in Voice Recorder offers eight different directional voice tagging and a selective playback capability that allows users to isolate and listen to specific voices in a group conversation.

The Galaxy Note 4 4G+ also provides users with a choice of multiple, seamless note-taking methods integrated with Samsung’s S Note application that allows everyday tasks to get done faster and more easily. In addition to typing and writing, the innovative Photo Note feature allows users to take a picture of their handwritten notes on a paper or whiteboard, and then quickly and easily convert to an S Note for further editing. They can also further unleash their creativity by jotting down their thoughts quickly with Voice Memo.

Due to its large screen, the refined Intuitive Multi Window feature is able to maximise the user’s experience, providing them with the key to easier multitasking. Users can choose how they access selected applications with Full, Split or Pop Up View, and easily change the size and positioning of apps on the screen with one intuitive swipe.

What’s even more delightful is that the Galaxy Note 4 4G+ can be a fitness companion! With the Enhanced S Health app that leverages various smart sensors such as the pedometer, barometer, and heart rate sensor, it helps users to monitor, manage, and challenge their workout routines. It is also the world’s first mobile device to have an in-built UV sensor that helps users gauge the level of UV exposure.

Camera

The Galaxy Note 4 4G+ sports an advanced camera that is able to reproduce brighter and clearer images. The device is equipped with a 16 megapixel rear camera featuring a Smart OIS [Optical Image Stabilizer] that counter-balances camera shake and automatically extends exposure time in low light settings. In addition, a 3.7 megapixel front camera with f1.9 aperture offers a default 90° shooting angle and up to 120° wide angle so that users can take the best Selfie or Wefie shots.

Accessories

Whether it is for the ladies or for the men, there are a whole range of accessories that complement the Galaxy Note 4 4G+.

For the fashionable ladies, the crystal back cover by Swarovski for the Galaxy Note 4 4G+ is a head turner

& for the men, the Mont Blanc Galaxy Note 4 Cover and S Pen might be quite intriguing.

Our Personal Opinion/Review of the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 4G+

We reckoned that the Galaxy Note 4 4G+ will be quite a hit with both the ladies and the men. For the men, the Galaxy Note 4 4G+ will definitely accomplish the most demanding tasks and for the ladies, the wide range of fashionable accessories that complements the Galaxy Note 4 4G+ will send them into a state of euphoria. Furthermore, the Galaxy Note 4 4G+ is equipped with 4G+ LTE Cat 6 connectivity and that allows users to browse the internet and download content at blazing speeds of up to 300Mbps! Watching videos online in full HD on the Galaxy Note 4 4G+ is never going to be the same again!

Pre-Order/ Registration of Interest for Galaxy Note 4 4G+

Registration of interest with Telecommunication Operators for the GALAXY Note 4 4G+ will commence from 2 October 2014 [today] at 12pm and if you are interested, you can visit the following links for more information:

M1: www.m1.com.sg/galaxynote4
SingTel: www.singtel.com/galaxynote4
StarHub: www.starhub.com/galaxynote4

You can also visit Samsung Experience Stores from 2 October 2014 during opening hours to pre-order the Galaxy Note 4 4G+ [without contract] by placing a $50 deposit per device.

If you have pre-ordered the Galaxy Note 4 4G+ at the selected Samsung Experience Stores and are early birds for the pre-order collection, you will be able to participate in the sure-win lucky dip and win prizes worth over SGD$126,000. You will also receive a free Extra Battery Kit and S View Cover, total worth SGD$146 [while stocks last], when you collect your Galaxy Note 4 4G+.

The Galaxy Note 4 4G+ will be available at SGD$1,088 from 11 October 2014 in Charcoal Black and Frost White at local Telecommunication Operators, major consumer electronics stores, authorized retailers and Samsung Experience Stores.

Samsung Galaxy Note Edge 4G+

Samsung’s relentless pursuit of the best in innovation through the optimisation of mobile technology and the user experience has led to the debut of the innovative and unique Galaxy Note Edge 4G+. Taking the Galaxy Note experience to the next level, the Galaxy Note Edge 4G+ provides users with a new way to access information, engage with their mobile device, and express their personality and tastes.

The Galaxy Note Edge 4G+’s unique curved Edge screen provides quick access to frequently used apps, alerts and device functionality. Users can also receive notifications directly on the Edge Screen while watching videos without interrupting their viewing.

Our Personal Opinion of Samsung Galaxy Note Edge 4G+

The Galaxy Note Edge 4G+ has a very similar specification as the Galaxy Note 4 4G+ except that the Galaxy Note Edge 4G+ runs on a 2.7GHz Quad Core Processor while the Galaxy Note 4 4G+ runs on either the 2.7GHz Quad Core Processor or the 1.9GHz Quad-Core [1.9GHz Quad + 1.3GHz Quad-core] processor.

From what we do know, the Galaxy Note Edge 4G+ will only be available in the fourth quarter of this year [between October to December].

If you are an early adopter of technology, the Galaxy Note Edge 4G+ might just be the phone for you. However, we personally prefer the Galaxy Note 4 4G+ over the Galaxy Note Edge 4G+ because we like our smartphone to be well protected and not have a curved Edge screen that is exposed.

Samsung Gear S

The Samsung Gear S with its display and flexible band, fits comfortably on the user’s wrist. Through 3G connectivity, the Samsung Gear S offers a new, powerful wearable experience and gives consumers the freedom to live their life on the go.

The Samsung Gear S features a 2-inch curved SUPER AMOLED display, providing a richer view with a beautiful and easy-to-use user interface. It allows users to read messages and notifications at a single glance with features such as conversation view and condensed font. The Samsung Gear S’s chic, curved design fits comfortably around the contours of the wrist, while its customisable screen options and changeable straps empower users to express their own taste and style.

The Samsung Gear S extends its communication capabilities to include 3G as well as Bluetooth® and Wi-Fi® connectivity, allowing users to stay informed with seamless notifications from social networks, calendars and applications even when away from their phone. It lets users instantly reply to incoming messages using the onscreen keyboard, or utilise enhanced S Voice functionality to ensure tasks can be completed immediately. Finally, with Samsung Gear S, people can seamlessly make and receive calls directly from their wrist, or get calls forwarded from their smartphones.

Like the Galaxy Note 4 4+, the Samsung Gear S is also a perfect health and fitness companion with more enhanced multi-sensors, built-in GPS, and Enhanced S Health features to help users maintain a healthier lifestyle. The Gear S also features advanced coaching functionality that helps keep users motivated to achieve their workout goals. In addition, applications such as Nike+ Running allow users to track their runs and stay motivated while on the move, without their smartphone. With IP67 rating [dust and water resistant] and a UV sensor, the Gear S is designed for users’ active lifestyles.

Our Personal Opinion/Review of the Samsung Gear S

In all honesty, we are extremely tempted to get the Samsung Gear S because it is very functional and useful! Packed with so many features, it allows users to stay connected even when they are away from their smartphone and that itself is a major plus point. Furthermore,

For those whom lead an active lifestyle, the Samsung Gear S is definitely the smart watch that you want to get! The Samsung Gear S will be available in Blue Black and White, from 11 October 2014 at SGD$498.

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In Gift Ideas 4 Mins Read

An Engaging Online Shopping Experience

Online shopping is one of our favourite pastimes and it can be quite addictive and costly. Sometimes, it can also be very frustrating because of shipping and refund issues that arises due to damaged goods. Thankfully, the usual online shopping websites that we frequent have not given us any worries and frustrations.
Recently, we decided to go on an online shopping spree again because we wanted to purchase an action camera and a car camcorder for our own personal usage.

Action Camera

For a really long time now, both Jacqueline and I have been thinking about buying an action camera so that we can start Vlogging but we have always been put off by the extremely steep price of the ever-popular Gopro Hero3+ action camera. After much research by Jacqueline, we decided that the SJ-4000 action camera was going to be our best bet.

Almost everyone who sees this action camera mistakes it for the world-famous GoPro Hero3+ and it is not surprising as this gadget does not have a proper brand name, being known only by its model number, SJ-4000.

We bought it from Lazada Singapore for the price of SGD$125 and it comes with many accessories such as a waterproof casing, bicycle mount stand, two base plates, a tripod-mount clip, fixed base, three attachment arms, two helmet adhesive mounts, Velcro tighteners and even a wire rope.

SJ4000 Underwater Shots and Time-Lapse [Panglao Island] by Artworks of Scanhead [Watch it in 1080 HD]

The video quality is decent but the auto exposure is not fast enough. Some of the videos have a bluish tint in bright sunlight and were too orange under artificial lighting. However, these minor issues could be corrected with a video-editing software.

Even though the SJ-4000 action camera does not have the best video quality, its price and the impressive number of accessories makes it the best value-for-money action camera.

Car Camcorder

Both Jacqueline and I travel a lot in our car for events and we have encountered all sorts of road-users whom don’t have any regard for safety. As such, we decided that it is important to protect ourselves in the event of an unforeseen circumstance by installing a car camcorder. There are a couple of Car Camcorders that are available in the market and having heard so much positive reviews about the SAFEVue F178 Full HD Car Camera, we decided to purchase it from Lazada Singapore for only SGD$66!

SAFEVue F178 Full HD Car Camera has a super wide angle of 170°and has a motion detection feature that starts recording automatically when car movement is captured and a G-Sensor that locks all important file automatically. Furthermore, the video quality in low light conditions are also crisp and clear!

Our online shopping experience with Lazada Singapore was a very pleasant one. Since Lazada Singapore is Singapore’s latest online shopping site, we decided to try shopping there and see what they have to offer.

Singapore Road At Night by Xavier Xue [Watch it in 1080 HD]

Our Personal Review of Lazada Singapore

The first positive impression that we had of the site was its really neat and tidy layout. The highly-organised website layout makes the web-browsing experience very user-friendly and it was easy searching for what we needed.

The website also has a lot of enticing deals that really tempted us and the best part is, Lazada Singapore offers free shipping for orders that are above SGD$40.

As long as your orders are below SGD$500, Cash On Delivery payment method is also available island-wide for certain items. However, do note that Lazada Singapore do not accept cheques or card on delivery.

For your convenience, Lazada Singapore also have apps available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store where you can shop anytime, anywhere!

If your fingers are itching to do some online shopping, you might want to consider shopping at Lazada Singapore for some of the hottest deals in Singapore!

Do also “like” Lazada Singapore Facebook Page to be kept updated about the latest deals and bargains!

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In Gift Ideas 3 Mins Read

Transitions® Signature Lenses, Transitions® Newest & Most Adaptive Lenses

Although I don’t have to wear eyeglasses, I have always been fascinated by the Transitions® Lenses because they are equipped with patented, photochromic dyes that enable the lenses to rapidly activate, or darken, when they are exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet light.

This means that the lenses are clear when indoors or at night and automatically darken to a sunglass tint when exposed to sunlight.

Recently, Transitions® has set another milestone by launching its latest and most responsive adaptive lenses, the Transitions® Signature™ Lenses.

Thanks to Transitions® Chromea7™ photochromic technology, the Transitions® Signature™ Lenses are more reactive to UV light and they get darker in more conditions, including bright sun, partially sunny weather, cloudy weather, and everything in between. They also adapt to indirect light; such as light reflected from buildings, cars, and many other surfaces. With its ability to continuously adapt to changing light, the Transitions® Signature™ Lenses are always exactly the shade you need them to be.

What about when you’re indoors or at night?

The Transitions® Signature™ Lenses remains fully clear and with its fast fade back speed, it just makes your lifestyle more mobile and convenient!

In case you’re wondering, the Transitions® Signature™ Lenses is suitable for people of all ages; including children and they fit any prescription and spectacle frame.


Source: Transitions Optical Singapore

The price of Transitions® Lenses will vary because there are many factors that affect the price of eyeglass lenses. The final price depends on the lens material, your prescription, any features you add, and which Transitions® Lenses product you choose.

Here are some questions that you can discuss with your optician so that you get an eyeglass lenses that best fit your needs.

Lens material: Do you need impact resistant lenses or ultra-thin ones (especially if you have a high prescription)? Or do standard plastic lenses work just fine for you?

Your lens type: Do you need lenses just for reading? Do you need a single distance vision correction or a multi-focus one?

Coatings or treatments you opt to add: Do you need an anti-reflective coating for reducing reflections from the front of your lenses, reducing glare from headlights, streetlights, computers or TV screens? Do you want scratch resistance for sports?

The Transitions® Lens product you select: Do you need darker lenses for extra protection? Or do you want lenses that are just like clear lenses indoors?

The latest Transitions® Signature™ Lenses is available to all lens wearers across the region in Hong Kong, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.

If you are interested to fit the latest Transitions® Signature™ Lenses into your preferred spectacle frame, you can enquire with the optical store nearest to you or check out Transitions® Lenses Store Locator.

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In Gift Ideas 3 Mins Read

6 Useful Tips When Working From Home

We don’t know about you but it’s increasingly harder to work from home (yes, we’re homebodies whom enjoys lazing around at home) with all the temptations & distractions around us. After all, it is home a.k.a our comfort zone right?
However, here are some helpful tips that you can use to really maximise your working time at home; which is good to adopt should the day come when we’re hit by a zombie apocalypse or the next flu bug.

1. Stick to a schedule: Treat your days like a normal workday. You should not be setting an alarm for the morning and then hitting the snooze button repeatedly until you realise it is noon time! However, it is perfectly fine to have a coffee break during your working hours. For some people, working from home may be quite daunting because they see themselves giving up their own personal lifestyle by being on-call (contactable and available via mobile) the whole day…which isn’t necessary. Just maintain your normal working hours and your own email rhythm.

2. Set a to-do list: Identify all the tasks that you need completed. It really helps us to focus throughout the day, lest we get carried away watching too many YouTube videos online.

3. Reduce distraction with a wire-free environment: The office has a nice setup, likely created by your friendly IT guy, which may not be easy to replicate at home. Instead, consider simplifying your setup with wireless devices, such as the Logitech Wireless All-in-One Keyboard TK820 or the Logitech M235 Wireless mouse. A neat desk and work space helps to create a productive environment and a more welcome sight, especially when you might need to overcome the initial inertia to work at home.

4. Get outside: Take a walk outside your block, get lunch or coffee from your nearby kopitiam, or just chat with your neighbour next door. Most of us actually need to take short breaks during work, be it to rest our eyes or to collect our thoughts for a bit; so just do the same as you would in the office. There would be some initial adjustment since you’re without your friends and colleagues. Or if you prefer to change your work environment, bring along your tablet and keyboard so that you can still work at the park or café…which might be a good idea if you need to avoid the evil afternoon nap.

5. Use the cloud: Some of us may not like to work from home because the all-important documents are in the office’s servers. If possible, back up your documents on cloud services such as Dropbox or Google Drive which will allow you to easily access your documents.

6. Listen to some music: If you’re one of those who need something to listen to, feel free to play your favourite tunes without the worry of disturbing your colleagues. You can play your tunes from your smartphones/tablets with a wireless speaker such as the UE MINI BOOM or hook up a Bluetooth speakers like the Logitech Bluetooth Speakers Z600 to your own set up.  Just don’t forget to turn down the volume while you’re at a conference call or audio/video meeting.

At the end of the day, remember that working from home is really just that…work. It means that you shouldn’t be entertaining friends or family members during your working environment nor should you have non-work appointments (e.g. grocery trips). Once you’re able to establish a comfortable routine, it’ll be a lot easier to maximise your working hours at home…like Dilbert (:

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In Gift Ideas 3 Mins Read

[Blog Giveaway Only For Readers Above 18 Years Old]- Uncage The Tiger In You!

10 days have past since Singapore celebrated her 49th birthday and though all birthdays are somewhat a once-in-a-year affair, you can still be patriotic every other day without all the fanciful fireworks!

In case you haven’t know, Singapore is the birthplace of Tiger Beer, and since 1932, the brand has grown to become an intrinsic part of the Singapore identity.

Going back to the basics of how we have come to adore the quirks and nuances of our uniquely Singaporean culture, Tiger Beer has collaborated with YouTube Stars, “Tree Potatoes” to produce a video entitled, “You Know You’re Singaporean When…”

One-of-a-kind in Singapore’s YouTube landscape, the Tree Potatoes’ core team consists of Aaron Khoo, Elliot Tan, and Janice Chiang; a creative trio who took a gamble to start their own YouTube channel half a year ago. Currently standing as one of the top three YouTube channels in Singapore and one of the local representatives at the 2014 YouTube FanFest, the collaborative video “You Know You’re Singaporean When…” garnered a remarkable 45,660 views within a day’s posting; that’s more than 1,900 views per hour and nearly 200,000 views within a week!

Whether it’s eating at hawker centres more often than you’d like to admit, turning the void deck into a stadium, or even using more than three languages within a single sentence, we all have our little quirks that are unique to having lived on the little red dot.

In commemoration of Singapore’s 49th birthday, Tiger Beer has shed its signature corporate colours to don the national colours on its livery. This is the first time the brand has embarked on such an initiative, in a bid to walk the talk to unleash its pride as a home-grown beer that has gained recognition internationally. The limited edition red and white livery comes in packs of 10 [330ml] cans and it is retailing for the price of SGD$25.60 at all major supermarkets and hypermarkets.

Well, we have some good news for you and that is, in collaboration with Tiger Beer, we will be giving away 3 Packs of Tiger Beer Red & White Livery that contain 10 [330ml] cans each. To participate in this Tiger Beer Giveaway, all you have to do is just submit a photo of yourself in a fashionable red-and-white outfit of the day [OOTDs], creative red-and-white manicures, or even face paints!

You can submit your entries to admin@awinsomelife.org or post it as a comment on this blog post or Facebook post.

The giveaway will close on 23 August 2014, 2359 hours and the three most outstanding/creative entries will be selected to win. Winners will be announced on our Facebook Page on 24 August 2014, 1000 hours

For more information on Tiger Beer’s National Day campaign, do check out Tiger Beer Singapore’s Facebook Page.

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In Gift Ideas 3 Mins Read

Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE, 3 Months and Still Going Strong

It has been 3 months since the launch of the Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE [Galaxy S5 LTE] smartphone and amongst the different Android phones that are currently available in the market, the Galaxy S5 LTE is still a popular hit with consumers because of its treasure trove of technological goodness.
[Image Credits to Samsung Mobile Singapore]

In this blogpost, we will be highlighting 5 top features of the Galaxy S5 LTE that will power up your life like you have never known before.

Stay Fit

[Image Credits to Samsung Mobile Singapore]

With the Enhanced S Health, you can now track your health data and calorie intake, monitor exercises daily, and receive fitness coaching. Combined with the built-in heart rate sensor, you can also observe your heart rate at any time. Staying fit has never been so convenient with the Galaxy S5 LTE.

Advanced Camera

[Image Credits to Samsung Mobile Singapore]

You can now shoot more brilliant shots because the Galaxy S5 LTE camera’s Auto Focus is now faster than ever at up to 0.3 seconds. Selective Focus lets you put your subject at the centre of attention, mimicking the depth of effect of professional DSLRs; thus putting photo bombers at bay. The Real time HDR allows you to snap pictures and shoot videos in high lighting contrast environments, mirroring what your eyes see in rich, vivid colours.

Ultra Power Saving Mode

[Image Credits to Samsung Mobile Singapore]

This is one very useful feature that is available on the Galaxy S5 LTE because it switches your phone display to black and white and shut down unnecessary features so that the remaining 10% of your battery life can be prolonged; allowing you to stay connected for up to 30 hours.

Water and Dust Resistant

[Image Credits to Samsung Mobile Singapore]

The Galaxy S5 LTE is resistant to sweat, rain, water, and dust. It can stay protected under 1 metre of water immersion for up to 30 minutes. It’s a pretty hardy phone as compared to its predecessors.

Fingerprint Security

[Image Credits to Samsung Mobile Singapore]

This is one feature that will probably revolutionise the security of smartphones. You can unlock your phone and authenticate purchases using your fingerprint. What’s more, you can compartmentalise personal content made accessible via Private Mode. Security can be this easy because there is no need to change your passwords frequently anymore.

If you would like to find out more information about the Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE smartphone, do check out the Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE Microsite or “like” Samsung Mobile Singapore Facebook Page!

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In Gift Ideas 6 Mins Read

Celebrating Jacqueline’s 26th Birthday With Resorts World Sentosa, Rainbowly & Taobao!

The month of June has been an extremely busy month for us as there were so many media requests, reviews, and events for us to attend and even though there were so much things to do with so little time, I managed to squeeze some time to plan Jacqueline’s 26th birthday and it was indeed such a memorable occasion for the both of us.
The Chocolate Mousse Cake From Swee Heng 1989 Classic That Jacqueline Really Love

To begin with, I had a difficult time deciding what to get for Jacqueline. After much consideration, I decided to give her a dollhouse that fits the theme of our upcoming wedding. Just in case you are wondering, the theme for our upcoming wedding is, “Nautical” and it will be held next year at ONE°15 Marina Club.

In the past, there used to be a push-cart store at VivoCity that sells do-it-yourself [diy] dollhouse kits but after searching high and low, I was informed that the push-cart store was no longer in operation. As such, I began to search online for diy dollhouse kits and it took quite a while as I was not sure where to begin. Thankfully, I managed to find the diy dollhouse kit that I was looking for on Taobao and I got it shipped over to Singapore via a third-party shipper, 65daigou.

The entire process [including shipping] took less than 1 week and 65daigou provided me with many convenient options to collect my shipment. It cost me about SGD$120 [inclusive shipping] to get the diy dollhouse kit and I must say, it was well worth the money!

The diy dollhouse kit took me about 1 month to complete and I had to start building the dollhouse from scratch! Though it was difficult at first, I managed to figure my way around and the instruction manual was really helpful in aiding me to piece everything together.

Everything was literally built from scratch and a lot of cutting, pasting, and sewing was involved! The windows, bed, flower pots, sofa, and other minute details are all pieced together bit by bit.

Due to a mistake that I made at the very first step, I had to do some drilling on my own as well. After constructing all the various decorations and furnishings, the last thing I had to do was to fix the lighting using a parallel circuit.

Viola!

Here’s a picture of the dollhouse that I made for Jacqueline and when she saw it, she was so happy that I felt a sense of satisfaction and achievement!

Apart from giving Jacqueline a dollhouse that I made from scratch, I also gave her an edible bouquet of fresh strawberries that are coated and decorated with white chocolate. The bouquet of fresh fruits also came with 3 stalks of beautiful roses and it was really pretty!

In the past, I have always given Jacqueline a bouquet of roses but she has never really fancied it because she felt that it was a waste of money. Giving Jacqueline an edible bouquet of fresh strawberries was really a fantastic idea as we could enjoy and savour the sweet and juicy strawberries together. The edible fruit bouquet was very practical and reasonably priced too!

If you are interested in giving an edible bouquet to your loved ones, do check out Rainbowly’s Official Website and like Rainbowly Facebook Page for more information and promotional updates! In fact, Rainbowly has a wide range of edible bouquets that you can choose from and we are sure you can find one that your partner adores!

On this note, both Jacqueline and I would also want to thank Rainbowly for coming onboard as one of our sponsors for our upcoming wedding! We are truly honoured and privileged!

Last but not the least, to celebrate Jacqueline’s birthday, we had a great dining experience at L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, Resorts World Sentosa.

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, a two-time winner in the Best Dining Experience category at the Singapore Experience Awards (2012 and 2013), is a unique dining concept where chefs experiment and create; working on new ideas and fusing different concepts reflective of the locale.

This presentation immerses guests in a dining experience where guests are part of the action, separated by a counter between kitchen and main dining area. Mr Robuchon has likened L’Atelier to an artist’s studio, where diners can witness chefs create, prepare, and cook innovative dishes right before them, and chefs have the pleasure of watching diners enjoy their meal.

Here’s a picture of the servers whom served us really well!

At L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, we entered a whole new realm of fine dining. After shocking the culinary world with his retirement at 50 years of age, Mr Joël Robuchon returned to the kitchen with the idea to create L’Atelier. “This concept has convinced me that its informality and conviviality, where you can have just one dish or a whole dinner, is the way people want to eat today. In addition, you have the theatrical aspect, of being able to watch the food prepared.” – Joël Robuchon on L’Atelier.

The L’Atelier interior décor lies in the hands of world-renowned designer Pierre-Yves Rochon who designed the first L’Atelier in Paris in 2003. Kitted out entirely in black and red furnishings to streamline the signature dramatic sleek look for the Atelier concept, the restaurant also dresses its servers in black.

This was the 3-course meal that we had at L’Atelier.

My Appetizer: Cod Brandade Served With Condiments

Jacqueline’s Appetizer: Piquillo With Smoke Eggplant & Tuna Belly Confit

Our Main Course: Salmon With Lacquered Maple Sap & Endive Salad

Jacqueline’s Dessert: Mango Lightness, Passionata Sorbet With Exotic Coulis

My Dessert: Crunchy Chocolate With Coffee Chantilly & Fresh Orange

The 3-course meal that we had at L’Atelier was fabulous and they are lovingly made by the chefs whom were working really hard to whip up such a sumptuous meal. Jacqueline and I will definitely be back to try their other dishes!

Here are the promotions that L’Atelier has in the meantime:

Early Evening Dining
Daily, 5.30pm – 6.30pm
3-course Meal at $40++

Ladies’ Night (Every Thursday)
$88++ per person
Inclusive of 4-course set menu with free-flow of Sparkling wine or Bellini Cocktail

If you like to spend some romantic time with your loved ones over dinner, we will highly recommend L’Atelier. Though the menu is slightly on the expensive side, you will definitely enjoy the immersive and highly-personalised dining experience. Be sure to call and make your reservations as the restaurant is often packed with diners.

A Picture With The Chef De Cuisine & Sous Chef To Complete The Dining Experience

So this was how I planned and celebrated Jacqueline’s 26th birthday! I hope that by sharing my experience, the husbands/boyfriends would be able to get some tips and ideas here to thrill and surprise your other half!

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In Gift Ideas 2 Mins Read

TRANSFORMERS Toys Madness at Forum The Shopping Mall Toys “R” Us

We were at Forum The Shopping Mall yesterday and despite it being a Friday evening when everyone would usually go out to party till late, fans of the popular TRANSFORMERS gathered at Toys “R” Us for the TRANSFORMERS Toys Madness event.
Organised by Hasbro Singapore, the TRANSFORMERS Toys Madness saw the first person in line from 2pm and by nightfall, the queue stretched to the basement level of Forum The Shopping Mall.

Hence, it is quite evident that the TRANSFORMERS still has a loyal following in Singapore and it’s fan base is set to grow even bigger when the TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION movie is released here in Singapore on 26 June 2014.

Fans of the TRANSFORMERS also had the opportunity to meet and greet the casts from Ah Boys to Men whom were there to join the crowd in awaiting the unveiling of the TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION toy line.

A Toys “R” Us Star Card Member who is the top spender of the night will win this one-of-its-kind Gold-Chrome TRANSFORMERS 4 Optimus Prime Leader [with display case].

Featuring a brand-new storyline, the TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION toy line provides the first peek at the incredible new group of robots, the DINOBOTS, that will make a debut appearance in the upcoming movie! Together with returning favourites, OPTIMUS PRIME and BUMBLEBEE, and new AUTOBOTS like DRIFT and HOUND, they will take on the menace of the all-new DECEPTICONS!

In celebration of the 30th anniversary of the TRANSFORMERS brand and its iconic characters, Hasbro also launched the new line of TRANSFORMERS GENERATIONS figures that will feature classic conversions and the most detailed and accurate action figures of characters from the TRANSFORMERS movies and throughout the brand’s history. Refreshed mid last year to focus on the “Classic-style” re-imaginings of past characters, the TRANSFORMERS GENERATIONS toy line is set to resonate with the most loyal of TRANSFORMERS fans.

Are you geared up for the next wave of TRANSFORMERS fever as the highly-anticipated, hottest blockbuster comes to our big screens?

TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION Movie Trailer

The TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION movie merchandise will be available at all Toys “R” Us and major department stores.

Go and get it now!

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In Entertainment 4 Mins Read

Entertain Others And Be Entertained With The Entertainer App!

Have you ever encountered a really bad service experience when you try to redeem the deal vouchers that you have purchased from daily deal vouchers websites like Groupon Singapore or AllDealsAsia.com?
Yes, we have and it can be extremely frustrating because there are tons of terms and conditions to adhere to when utilising those vouchers! Furthermore, if you have never taken the time to read the fine print on those vouchers, you might be in for a rude shock when you realise that there are hidden costs involved.

Now, how would you like if we tell you that there are indeed 1-for-1 deal offers at well-known establishments like Hard Rock Café, Brewerkz, Forest Adventure, and etc.; with absolutely minimal restrictions and no hidden costs?

Recently, we were entertained by the folks from The Entertainer at Ah Hooi’s Kitchen and we came to learn about the great one-for-one deals that The Entertainer has to offer.

Founded in 2001 [yes, long before daily deal vouchers websites like Groupon came about] by Donna Benton, The Entertainer provides ‘buy one get one free’ incentive vouchers from well-known dining, leisure, entertainment, and hotel brands across the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Europe.

If you often check out Groupon Singapore, AllDealsAsia.com, or even Deal.com.sg for the best travel, spa, and food deals, you must absolutely check out what The Entertainer App can offer you!

The Entertainer will give you access to over 1,065 ‘buy one get one free’ vouchers from Singapore’s most exclusive dining, leisure, wellness and entertainment venues including Au Petit Salut, Kinki, Carnivore, Hard Rock Café, Brewerkz, Marmalade Pantry, Ben & Jerry’s, Spa Symphony, Gmax Reverse Bungy and Impakt Gym. Offers are also valid for leading hotels throughout the region including Dusit, Sofitel, Angsana, Oberoi, and Banyan Tree across sought-after holiday destinations from Thailand to Bali, and even to the Maldives.

With 3 vouchers per merchant, you can visit The Entertainers’ partners more than just once and include your family and friends in the 1 for 1 fun!

What We Really Like About The Entertainer App

• The Entertainer App is really easy to use and it is extremely handy.

• The 1-for-1 deals are definitely value-for-money!

• There are very few restrictions on the redemption of the 1-for-1 deals; in fact, a majority of the deals are valid anytime throughout the year, 24/7, less public holidays, until 30 December 2014.

• Ability to share the product with family and friends. All they have to do is to download the app, sign in with the account holder’s login details, and they can access the offers from their device.

• Ability to track savings each time an offer is utilised. The Savings Calculator function also allows users to see just how quickly they redeem the cost of their Entertainer product, and how much they save throughout the year.

Priced at SGD$95, the Entertainer Singapore will contain over SGD$150,000 in savings. Once purchased, the offers in The Entertainer App are available to redeem from 2 January 2014 through to 30 December 2014.

If paying SGD$95 for a one year membership of The Entertainer Singapore is expensive, why not pay SGD$19 for a one month membership of The Entertainer Singapore? This way, you will get access to all 770+ buy one get one free offers for Singapore’s hottest restaurants, nightspots, informal dining, spas, activities, attractions and more!

There is no difference between the one year membership or the one month membership. Both offer the same 1-for-1 deals and comes with 3 vouchers per merchant which you can utilise. After your one month membership, you can simply choose to upgrade to the full product for a further SGD$76, allowing you to keep redeeming your offers until 30 December 2014.

If you are a natural lifestylist and you’re always out hunting for great deals at well-known establishments, you really should consider purchasing The Entertainer Singapore One Month Membership for just SGD$19!

To purchase The Entertainer Singapore One Month Membership, you can visit https://www.theentertainerme.com/trysgfor19/ and be sure to enter my unique promo code awinsomelife when you purchase!

We are pretty sure you can cover back the SGD$19 in just one to two transactions when you utilise the 1-for-1 deals so try it for yourself and let us know what you think of it.

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In Gift Ideas 2 Mins Read

Colour Up Your Life With the 2014 Logitech Colour Collection

I can’t imagine myself living a day of just black and white. Without other colours like red, blue, green, and so on, wouldn’t you agree that life would be quite mundane and meaningless. Since colours allow us to express our style, our thoughts, and our emotions; how would you like if you could use a different colour each day at work or at play to express yourself?
With the 2014 Logitech Colour Collection, you can do just that!

The 2014 Logitech Colour Collection was designed to reflect the open expression of individuality in society today. Available in 5 bold and vibrant colours, the newly designed Logitech® Wireless Mouse M235 is a perfect mix of precision and comfort, and it offers a new way to express yourself.

Is having a computer mouse still necessary today? Yes, if you are using the desktop and more so if you are an avid gamer.

What if you are a laptop user?

Have you ever felt this way before?

While the touchpad on the laptop allows you to navigate your way around, it can sometimes be extremely frustrating to use because of its unresponsive touch and inaccuracies. In all honesty, we prefer to use the laptop with a mouse [rather than a touchpad] as it offers added convenience. Furthermore, a wireless mouse allows you to be mobile when giving presentations and with the Logitech® Wireless Mouse M235, there’s no need for a mouse pad!

What We Like About the Logitech® Wireless Mouse M235

• Compact-size
• Wireless
• Energy-saving [battery can last approximately one year]
• No need for a mouse pad
• Appealing design and colour

Are you ready to colour up your life?

The Logitech® Wireless Mouse M235 is retailing for SGD$29 each and it comes with a 3-year limited hardware warranty. For more information about the Logitech® Wireless Mouse M235, you can check out Logitech Singapore’s Website.

Oh, and if you are thinking of getting your wife/mum the Logitech® Wireless Mouse M235, you might want to join the Mother’s Day Contest that Logitech Singapore is running because they are giving away 20 sets of Logitech® Wireless Mouse M235. Hurry though; because the contest closes on 9th May 2014 [tomorrow].

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