As a self-proclaimed boba tea fanatic, I was beyond excited to attend the launch of Create by The Alley, a new experiential concept cafe by The Alley, at Tampines 1.
The Alley is a globally recognised bubble tea brand known for its artisanal beverages like the iconic Brown Sugar Deerioca Series and a range of Healthier Choice options. The brand is committed to providing customers with an authentic bubble tea experience, using only the finest ingredients and brewing their tea fresh daily.
Create by The Alley
Create by The Alley is a new concept cafe that offers bubble tea lovers the chance to experience The Alley’s unique recipes from scratch. The cafe offers seasonal experiential sessions, such as creating your own drink and dessert.
My Boba Tea Adventure
I had the opportunity to try out the “Create Your Own Drink” session, a thoughtfully designed hands-on session with simple-to-follow recipes to craft your own personalised beverages from just $7.90.
I have to say, it was an amazing experience! I got to choose my own tea and toppings, and I chose to make the Passionfruit Green Tea, which is a sweet and tangy combination of passionfruit juice and fruity bits shaken with freshly brewed jasmine green tea. It was so much fun to make my own drink, and it tasted even better than the ones I’ve had at other bubble tea shops (yes I am probably biased).
I also got to make my own boba from scratch. The staff were super friendly and helpful, and they guided me through the whole process. And let me tell you, those boba pearls were something else! I learned that they’re handmade, cooked, and served fresh on the spot every single day. Talk about dedication to quality! It definitely showed in the taste and texture – perfectly chewy and delicious.
Finally, I got to try The Alley’s new Royal No. 9 Milk Tea Soft Serve, and Alvin Youw (Director of The Alley Singapore) told me that the Royal No. 9 Milk Tea Soft Serve took them lots of iterations to get it just right. This is a creamy and fragrant soft serve that is infused with the same blueberry flavour that is found in their signature milk tea and I found it very fruity and delicious. It was the perfect way to end my boba tea adventure.
Overall, I had an amazing time at Create by The Alley. It was such a fun and unique experience, and I would highly recommend it to any bubble tea lover.
Have you been to Create by The Alley yet? Let us know in the comments below!
Shiver me timbers! The PAW Patrol pups recently docked in Singapore with their high-energy, musical extravaganza, “The Great Pirate Adventure,” and it was a treasure trove of fun for the whole family. My little ones and I were lucky enough to catch the show, and we’re still humming the catchy tunes and reliving the exciting escapades.
A Pirate Day to Remember in Adventure Bay
The show opened with the familiar bustle of Adventure Bay as Mayor Goodway prepared for the annual Pirate Day celebration. But the festivities were quickly interrupted when Cap’n Turbot found himself in a spot of bother, trapped in a mysterious cavern! Enter Ryder and his fearless team of pirate pups, ready to save the day with their trademark blend of bravery and ingenuity.
The rescue mission took an exciting turn when the pups discovered a secret pirate treasure map. With Mayor Humdinger hot on their tails (or should that be paws?), the race was on to find the hidden loot before he could get his mischievous claws on it. The ensuing adventure took us from the familiar shores of Adventure Bay to uncharted islands and treacherous seas, keeping the little ones on the edge of their seats.
“The Great Pirate Adventure” was a visual and auditory delight. The colourful costumes, dynamic set design, and energetic choreography brought the beloved animated series to life in spectacular fashion. The catchy songs had the entire audience singing and dancing along, creating a truly immersive and interactive experience.
But beyond the entertainment value, the show also cleverly weaved in valuable lessons about teamwork, problem-solving, and perseverance. The pups demonstrated the importance of working together, using their unique skills to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. It was a subtle yet powerful message that resonated with the young audience.
Overall, PAW Patrol Live “The Great Pirate Adventure” was a resounding success. It was a joyous and engaging show that captured the spirit of the beloved TV series while offering a fresh and exciting storyline. My children were utterly captivated from start to finish, and I have to admit, I found myself thoroughly entertained as well. It was a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time together as a family and create lasting memories. If the PAW Patrol sails into Singapore again, we’ll be the first to grab our tickets and climb aboard!
Family vacations are always an adventure, especially when you’re travelling with a multi-generational crew like ours! Our recent trip to Batam, Indonesia, was no exception. With my parents, sibling, and the ever-energetic “Lee kiddos” in tow, we set off for a short but sweet escape filled with new experiences, delicious food, and plenty of laughs.
Batam, just a hop, skip, and a ferry ride away from Singapore, was the perfect choice for our family getaway. The kids were absolutely buzzing about their first-ever ferry ride. We opted for the Batam Fast Ferry, known for its comfortable journey and frequent departures. Watching their faces light up as we cruised across the water, taking in the bustling harbour and distant islands, was a memory I’ll cherish.
Ferry Tip: Booking your ferry tickets online in advance is a must, especially during peak season or weekends. This not only guarantees your preferred timings but also helps you skip the long queues at the terminal.
Our first stop was the beautiful Montigo Resorts. The sprawling grounds, multiple pools, and vibrant kids’ club instantly transported me back to my own childhood holidays at Club Med. It was the ideal place for the little ones to unleash their energy and explore. While they splashed about in the pools, the adults could relax poolside, soaking up the sun and enjoying some well-deserved downtime.
Montigo Tip: Montigo offers a variety of villa options, some with private pools. If your budget allows, this is a fantastic choice for families seeking extra privacy and space. Plus, the private pool means you don’t have to worry about sharing with other guests!
We kept our itinerary relaxed to give the kids time to adjust to their new surroundings. A morning trip to the Batam Mini Zoo was a definite highlight. This charming little zoo, perfect for younger children, allowed for up-close encounters with a variety of fascinating creatures. From playful monkeys and colourful birds to slithering reptiles and even a capybara, there was something to capture everyone’s attention.
Zoo Tip: The tropical climate can be quite intense, so remember to pack plenty of water and sunscreen to keep everyone hydrated and protected from the sun.
The rest of our time at Montigo was spent enjoying the resort’s many amenities. The kids, ever the adventurers, loved exploring the vast grounds on the resort’s buggies (a necessity given the sheer size of the place!). And with everything we needed within easy reach, it was a truly relaxing experience for all.
To satisfy our cravings for local flavours, we ventured out to Bale Bale Resto Seafood, just a short drive from the resort. The fresh seafood, cooked to perfection with vibrant spices and sauces, was a hit with the whole family. It was a wonderful way to experience Batam’s culinary scene and introduce the kids to new and exciting tastes.
Seafood Tip: Bale Bale Resto is a popular dining spot, so making a reservation, especially for dinner, is highly recommended.
On our second day, we embarked on a culinary adventure at Bhinneka Resto, where we indulged in a hearty Indonesian feast. The restaurant boasts an extensive menu of authentic dishes, from classic nasi goreng and satay to flavourful rendang and refreshing gado-gado. It was a fantastic opportunity to sample some local favourites and experience the rich diversity of Indonesian cuisine.
After our tranquil stay at Montigo, we moved to Radisson Hotel in Nagoya, Batam’s bustling city centre. This put us closer to the ferry terminal and gave us easy access to the local markets. Penuin Market was a sensory explosion, with its vibrant displays of fresh produce, aromatic spices, and tempting local snacks. We stocked up on goodies to take home, including dried shrimp (hei-bee), crispy tempeh chips, and the irresistible kueh lapis (layered cake). The kids, however, were more captivated by the sights, sounds, and smells of the market than the shopping itself. Navigating the bustling crowds with a gaggle of excited little ones was certainly an adventure!
Market Tip: Be prepared to bargain for the best prices at Penuin Market. It’s also a good idea to bring small denominations of rupiah for easier transactions.
On our last day, we treated ourselves to a delightful dim sum brunch at Si Fang Yuan Restaurant. The food was simply divine! From delicate har gow and fluffy char siu bao to crispy spring rolls and flavourful congee, there was something to tantalise every taste bud. It was the perfect way to end our culinary journey in Batam.
Dim Sum Tip: Si Fang Yuan, located in Nagoya City Centre, is a popular dim sum spot. To avoid the crowds, especially on weekends, aim to arrive early.
While my camera roll may be lacking in photos of our market escapades (thanks to the energetic kiddos!), the memories we created are far more precious. Seeing the world through the eyes of a child, with their boundless curiosity and sense of wonder, is a true gift. And despite the occasional meltdown and the constant need to keep little hands from grabbing everything in sight, I’m certain the kids had an unforgettable time.
Our Batam adventure reinforced the idea that family vacations don’t have to be extravagant or packed with activities to be memorable. Sometimes, the simplest moments – a shared meal, a splash in the pool, or a ferry ride with a view – are the ones that truly stay with us. And despite the inevitable tiredness that comes with travelling with little ones, the joy of sharing these experiences with loved ones makes it all worthwhile.
My family and I were amongst the first to experience the brand new Quincy House Singapore. Located in the vibrant One Holland Village, this serviced residence – the first of its kind under the Quincy brand – offers a unique blend of modern comfort and urban excitement, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a memorable short-term stay. As Far East Hospitality’s newest addition, Quincy House truly embodies the brand’s ethos of “Be Yourself at Quincy”, allowing guests to embrace their individuality while enjoying personalised service and curated experiences.
Spacious and Well-Equipped Apartments
We were allocated a spacious 721 square foot, 2-bedroom deluxe apartment, which provided ample space for our family of four. This is just one of the many apartment styles available, catering to solo travellers, couples, and families alike. In fact, Quincy House is leading the way with their “Deluxe Rooms”, designed specifically for the growing number of solo business travellers seeking extended stays. Our apartment was beautifully furnished with contemporary décor and featured all the amenities we needed for a comfortable stay, including a fully equipped kitchen, a washing machine, and a dryer.
The separate bedrooms ensured privacy for both parents and children, while the spacious living area provided a comfortable space for family bonding.
A Child’s Paradise: The Swimming Pool
The highlight of our stay, especially for our children, was undoubtedly the 20-metre-long rooftop pool. They spent hours splashing around and floating in their floaties, thoroughly enjoying the refreshing water and the vibrant atmosphere.
The pool area was well-maintained and offered a safe and enjoyable environment for children of all ages. It’s also the perfect spot for evening gatherings, offering stunning views of the city.
A Foodie’s Haven: Exploring the Culinary Delights of One Holland Village
One of the greatest advantages of staying at Quincy House Singapore is its prime location within One Holland Village. This bustling lifestyle destination, just a short 10-minute ride from the city centre, offers a plethora of dining options, catering to every taste and budget. We enjoyed exploring the diverse culinary scene, from the local delights at the nearby hawker centre to the international flavours at the various restaurants. Our children particularly enjoyed the warabi mochi from Warabimochi Kamakura, while we savoured the authentic Taiwanese cuisine at Fong Sheng Hao.
Warabimochi Kamakura at One Holland Village
The warabi mochi from Warabimochi Kamakura is so soft and fluffy that it melts in the mouth! Pictured here is just a sample taster that we got.
Yummy Oyster Mee Sua from Fong Sheng Hao, a Bistro Serving Authentic Taiwanese CuisineNo Taiwanese meal is ever complete without the mandatory Lu Rou Fan (braised pork rice).
The Quincy Qurator Neighbourhood Guide, provided upon check-in, offered fantastic recommendations and even exclusive discounts at partnering establishments.
More than Just a Place to Stay
Quincy House Singapore is more than just a place to stay; it’s a destination in itself. The property offers a range of facilities and services designed to enhance the guest experience, including a 24/7 Munchies Bar, a Fitness Room, and a rooftop terrace with stunning city views.
The Laundry Room, a self-service laundry area that doubles as a social hub.
The commercial laundry washing machines and dryers that are available at The Laundry Room for complimentary usage.
The friendly and attentive staff, including the knowledgeable Quincy Curators, are always on hand to assist with any requests, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable stay. We loved the personal touch of the Polaroid moment at check-in and the complimentary “See You at Quincy” kit, complete with foldable shades, a collapsible bottle, and a multi-purpose mesh bag.
The See You At Quincy Kit!
A Home Away from Home
Our stay at Quincy House Singapore was a truly memorable experience. The spacious and well-equipped apartment, the exciting swimming pool, and the vibrant culinary scene of One Holland Village all contributed to a relaxing and enjoyable family staycation. Quincy House Singapore truly provides a home away from home, offering a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and excitement for families seeking an unforgettable urban retreat.
Beyond the Staycation: Exploring the Neighbourhood
Holland Village itself is a charming neighbourhood with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Beyond the immediate vicinity of One Holland Village, families can explore the nearby Holland Village Park, a green oasis perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls. The area is also home to several art galleries and cultural institutions, offering opportunities for enriching experiences.
One of the many art pieces as TAKSU, a leading Southeast Asian contemporary art gallery and specialist.
Craftsmen Coffee, which is just a stone’s throw away from Quincy House, serves delightful coffees and sweet treats.
Unwind and chill at the many different restaurants and bars that are within walking distance from Quincy House Singapore.
A Sustainable Choice
Quincy House Singapore is committed to sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly practices throughout its operations, including filtered water in all rooms, water-efficient fittings, and extensive greenery to combat the urban heat island effect. This commitment aligns with the growing global awareness of environmental responsibility and provides guests with the satisfaction of knowing that their stay is contributing to a greener future.
A snippet of the weekday Grab and Go breakfast served at Quincy House Singapore
A Perfect Blend of City Living and Tranquil Retreat
Quincy House Singapore offers a unique blend of city living and tranquil retreat. Its strategic location in the heart of Holland Village provides easy access to the bustling city centre, while its serene ambience and family-friendly facilities offer a welcome escape from the urban hustle and bustle. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing short-term stay or an exciting urban adventure, Quincy House Singapore is the perfect choice for families seeking a memorable experience.
Discover Quincy House with an exclusive opening promotion. Guests who book between now till 31 December 2024 for a minimum of six nights stay between 1 October 2024 till 31 March 2025 will enjoy two complimentary nights. Quincy House Singapore is now open for reservations at https://www.quincy-hotels.com/en/Serviced-Residences.
Last Friday, my wife and I, along with our two energetic kids, immersed ourselves in the vibrant festivities of The Glam Circuit Festival 2024, held in the heart of the historic Kampong Gelam. As part of the Grand Prix Season Singapore celebrations, this 10-day extravaganza promised a blend of racing thrills, culinary delights, and family-friendly fun – and it certainly delivered!
A Feast for the Senses
We kicked off our adventure exploring the bustling culinary and shopping lanes. The aroma of sizzling kebabs and freshly grilled seafood filled the air, tempting us at every turn. Our little ones were particularly drawn to the sushi bake from Home of Seafood – a delicious and kid-friendly treat that they devoured with gusto.
Carnival Games & Creative Delights
The festival truly came alive for our children at the Games Village. The classic carnival games, like Ring Toss and Mini Golf, brought out their competitive spirit. Unfortunately, the Bubble Play Zone weren’t ready when we visited.
The Canvas Circuitry was another highlight. The kids loved contributing their colourful strokes to the life-sized cardboard race car, a collaborative masterpiece that captured the festival’s spirit of community and creativity.
Music, Memories & More
As the sun began to set, we settled down to enjoy the live music at Sultan Gate Park. The Kampong Gelam Music Festival showcased a fantastic lineup of local talent, creating a lively atmosphere that had everyone tapping their feet. We were impressed by the variety of genres on offer, from reggae to indie-pop, providing a true reflection of Singapore’s diverse music scene.
A Festival to Remember
Overall, The Glam Circuit Festival 2024 was a fantastic experience for the whole family. The combination of delicious food, engaging activities, and lively entertainment created a truly memorable day out. We loved that the festival catered to all ages, ensuring that everyone, from toddlers to grandparents, had a wonderful time. If you’re looking for a fun and vibrant way to celebrate the Grand Prix season in Singapore, we highly recommend checking out this fantastic event.
The Glam Circuit Festival 2024 is part of the Grand Prix Season Singapore (GPSS). The event will open daily from 13 to 22 September from 2pm to 10pm from Monday to Thursday, and till 10:30pm from Friday to Sunday. For more information and the latest updates, please visit One Kampong Gelam’s Facebook and Instagram.
In our search for a unique and memorable gift idea for Jacob’s 2nd birthday, we found out about Flower Chimp Singapore’s Cake Explosion Gift Box and we thought it might be a delightful surprise that not only brings the joy of celebration but also adds a delectable treat, creating an experience that goes beyond the ordinary.
The ability to personalise the contents of this gift box is a standout feature. It allowed us to curate a truly special and unique present for Jacob. The anticipation built when he unwrapped the box, and what unfolded was nothing short of magical. The Flying Butterflies took flight, creating an enchanting moment that added a touch of wonder to the entire experience.
Beyond the visual appeal, the Cake Explosion Gift Box delights the taste buds with a delectable treat. The inclusion of a sweet surprise adds another layer to the overall experience. It’s a thoughtful addition that ensures the celebration is not only visually stunning but also indulgently delicious.
The versatility of the Cake Explosion Gift Box makes it adapt beautifully for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or any other special event. The ability to customise the contents ensures that each box is a reflection of the recipient’s personality and interests.
Say goodbye to mundane gifts and welcome a wonderfully sweet and whimsical bang into your celebrations with the Cake Explosion Gift Box.
The Singapore outpost becomes the world’s first Skyline Luge to transform into a musical extravaganza, with monthly musical themes and special guest DJ playlists to create a fresh and immersive experience for all
Night owls, music lovers and thrill-seekers, this one’s for you! Skyline LugeSingapore — one of Sentosa’s most beloved and popular attractions —is proud to unveil Ride the Beat, a new sensory experience that brings the well-known Skyline Luge experience to a whole new level of fun! As the first Skyline Luge site in the world to bring music onto its exhilarating tracks, Ride the Beat is a new experience that invites you to go on a musical joyride. Ride the soundwaves and zip down dazzling neon-lined tracks to the rhythm of popular music and beats every Friday and Saturday from7pm – 9pm!
The launch of Ride the Beat will also be accompanied by a collaboration with AFTERLIFE by AIKO Collective, the nightlife arm of one of Singapore’s hottest new event agencies. EDM expert DJ Hamez brings the club to the tracks with a specially curated playlist that will be played throughout February, setting the mood for a rager of a night that will hype up your rides and have you grooving from pole position to the finish line!
Keep a look out for other exciting musical and DJ collaborations at Ride the Beat throughout the year, with rotating musical themes and DJs promising to keep the experience fresh every time.
Ride the Beat: A Mesmerising Fusion of Music, Lights and Action
Music is the heart of the new Ride the Beat experience! As you set off from the starting line, be enthralled by high-energy beats that amp up the dynamic rhythm of the ride. Whether it’s the pulsating bass that accentuates sharp turns, or the dynamic melodies that accompany smooth descents, each note becomes an integral part of the Ride the Beat experience — all with a visual feast of neon lights as your backdrop!
Pick your path and get set for an adrenaline-fueled ride through twists, turns and pure excitement! Skyline Luge Singapore offers 2.6km of downhill fun split between four thrilling Luge tracks. Each track has specially designed features that include curvy corners and exhilarating tunnels that will have you grinning from ear to ear. Choose between the Expedition Trail or the Jungle Trail for the best musical experience during your ride. The moment you push off from the starting point to embark on your chosen track, you’re instantly enveloped in a sensory symphony that electrifies the air. The neon-lit tracks carve through the darkness, casting a mesmerising glow that guides your descent.
Since its opening in 2005, Skyline Luge has become one of Sentosa’s most beloved attractions by both tourists and locals alike. In the 19 years since its opening, the attraction
has undergone continual upgrading and improvements to ensure that each visit is not just fun, but also promises a fresh and exhilarating ride each time. Now, with an exciting musical twist infused into the famous attraction, Ride the Beat gives visitors and locals alike a whole new immersive and dynamic experience that they’ll keep coming back for — once is never enough!
Exclusive Promotions with Shake Shack
In collaboration with Shake Shack’s Sentosa outlet, discover exciting launch promotions from 1 February to 30 April to complete your memorable evening at Skyline Luge!
Get a free box of Cheese Fries from Shake Shack with every purchase of Night Luge’s 3 Ride Combo. Grab your friends and create unforgettable memories at Sentosa with adrenaline-pumping rides and beachside gatherings.
Ticketing Information
Tickets to Night Luge Ride the Beat are now available for sale at Skyline Luge’s Ticketing Counter — or skip the queue and purchase tickets from the official Skyline Luge site here!
Night Luge Ride the Beat Prices
Individual – Flexi
$36
The Ride the Beat experience transforms the Skyline Luge as you know and love it into a thrilling visual and auditory experience. Gather your friends together, because Ride the Beat promises to be a breathtakingly fun and unforgettable experience!
For more information and for the latest updates on the Night Luge Ride the Beat, visit Skyline Luge Singapore’s website here.
I honestly believe that in life, there is no way you can avoid interacting with another human being.
Humans come in all shapes and sizes, with different personalities, preferences, interests, motivations, and behaviours.
I always tell people that, “our emotions drive our actions“. How we feel about something influences the way we react or act, even in the case of non-action. Non-action does not simply mean doing nothing; it refers to consciously choosing not to do something. Therefore, the decision-making process to not take action is, in itself, an action.
The reason I decided to further my study in the area of developmental psychology is to unravel the mysteries of human behaviour at every stage of life.
The way a child acts and thinks is vastly different from how a teenager would, just as it differs from an adult or an elderly person.
At each stage of our lives, we have different needs, wants, and priorities. Some of these are shaped by our upbringing, the place where we live, our personal and family beliefs, religion, culture, and interactions with friends and other people.
If there’s one takeaway from this article, it would be that, “every story has two sides, just like a coin“. Whether you are left-brained or right-brained, left-handed or right-handed, there are varying degrees to which you lean towards one side. The ideal position is finding balance and harmony in the middle or center. Is it always possible to achieve this? Yes, but it requires time, effort, and a little bit of mindfulness i.e. being aware of your emotions and acknowledging the thoughts that arise.
Let’s consider some examples, if you’re feeling happy because you just received a promotion, you can either choose to indulge and reward yourself with a good meal, or you can choose to express gratitude to the people (colleagues, bosses, family) who made your promotion possible. If you’re feeling sad because you’ve been laid off, you can either choose to wallow in sorrow or see it as an opportunity for positive change.
Life is full of examples where our emotions and actions intersect. Understanding and embracing our humanity means recognising that there are different perspectives and choices available to us in every situation. It’s through self-awareness, empathy, and open-mindedness that we can navigate the complexities of human interaction and find the balance and harmony we seek.
Being human means acknowledging and embracing our emotions, thoughts, and behaviours, as well as recognising the diversity and complexity of others. By striving for balance, practicing mindfulness, and being open to different perspectives, we can enhance our relationships, personal growth, and overall well-being. Remember, it’s all about being human.
This article is written by Melvin Lee, an accomplished education management professional with over 11 years of experience in leadership roles. With a strong academic background, he holds an EMBA (Executive Master of Business Administration) and possess relevant credentials in adult training and education, as well as career coaching. Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in developmental psychology, he brings a unique perspective to understanding human behaviour at various stages of life. His expertise in education management, coupled with his passion for personal and professional development, enables him to offer valuable insights into fostering harmonious interactions. Through his thought-provoking writings, Melvin encourages readers to embrace their humanity, find balance, and navigate life’s complexities with mindfulness and empathy.
Having a maid take care of household chores gives you more time to focus on more important things, like working on your personal and professional improvement, spending time with your family, or enjoying leisurely pursuits. However, finding a good maid that suits your household’s needs can be a tedious process.
Many Singaporean families struggle to find a helper who’s a good fit with their household, and as such, they tend to rely on a maid agency Singapore families trust to help them with the task. That being said, it’s important to have awareness of some of the mistakes that could get you stuck in the hiring process in the first place. Here are some of them:
Not Complying with the Rules Set by the Ministry of Manpower for Employers
In Singapore, there are two primary ways you can hire a maid: hiring a maid directly or through a maid agency. Choosing to hire a maid directly has several benefits; you have more control over the hiring process, you don’t have any agency fees to pay, and you’re able to build a good relationship with your maid from the start. But before you can even start the process of hiring a maid, you need to comply with the requirements set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) first.
According to the MOM, you’re qualified to be an employer if you meet the following criteria:
You’re 21 years old and above
You’re not an undischarged bankrupt
You have the mental capacity to fully understand your roles and duties as an employer
Since maids in Singapore must live with their employers, you’re given a large set of responsibilities to ensure the safety and well-being of your maid. As such, you need to be of sound mind and have the financial capacity to support your maid’s compensation and basic needs.
If you’re hiring a maid for the first time, you need to attend the Employer Orientation Programme (EOP). This 3-hour programme is designed to help you understand your role and responsibilities as an employer of a foreign domestic worker. Attending the EOP in a classroom will cost you around 35 SGD to 60 SGD. Attending the programme online, on the other hand, will cost you 35 SGD.
Being Unfamiliar with a Singapore’s Work Permit Requirements for Maids
The MOM also created a list of requirements maids need to fulfil for them to receive their work permits. The requirements are as follows:
Maids have to be female (male maids are allowed under extremely rare cases and are usually hired to take care of the male elderly)
Maids must be between 23 and 50 years old
Maids must at least have eight years of formal education
Maids must come from approved nations, such as Bangladesh, Cambodia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, and Thailand.
Maids must not be on a tourist visa or sponsored by another employer
If you plan to hire a maid directly, you should familiarise yourself with these requirements. Otherwise, you could be fined between SGD 5,000 and SGD 30,000, imprisoned for up to 1 year, or both if you’re caught employing a foreign domestic helper without a valid work permit.
You should also be knowledgeable about the basic duties of a foreign domestic helper. Generally, a maid is tasked to do the cleaning, shopping, cooking, and washing and ironing of clothes. They can also take care of children, elderly family members, and pets. If you deploy your maid to do work that’s outside their job description, you could face legal repercussions.
Choosing a Maid Agency That Offers Rates That Are Too Good to Be True
Working with a maid agency is a more convenient solution if you don’t have the time or experience to hire a foreign domestic helper. Agencies have a large selection of highly trained and skilled maids who can perform their duties with great efficiency. As such, you’ll have an easier and quicker time finding a maid. If you’re having trouble choosing a maid, the agency will gladly match you with a maid that fits your requirements. However, most agencies will charge you between 1,000 SGD to 3,000 SGD for their services. This fee usually includes the cost of your maid’s insurance, airfare, and application.
To save money, some Singaporeans would rather look for an agency that offers cheaper rates. Though there’s nothing wrong with finding ways to cut your expenses, choosing an agency that offers services for a price that’s too good to be true isn’t the ideal compromise. Agencies that charge lower fees typically don’t have the best candidates to offer or have a history of providing their clients with inefficient applicants. They also might not provide their domestic helpers with proper training, medical care, insurance, or security bonds.
You want to hire a maid because you want your home, kids, and elderly family members to be well taken care of. Therefore, it’s in your best interest to work with a dependable agency that can help you get your money’s worth. To find a maid agency that offers excellent services at a reasonable price range, it’s good to do some research. You might also want to visit the agencies’ websites to check their legitimacy and to read comments from their previous customers.
Hiring a maid in Singapore can be challenging, and many Singaporeans may find themselves making mistakes that can lengthen the hiring process. However, if you familiarise yourself with these three common mistakes, you can save yourself the hassle of encountering problems when hiring directly or through an agency.
The job market nowadays is faster-paced and more competitive than ever. With the different ways and the speed at which technology evolves, entire industries can transform in the blink of an eye. If you want to be able to keep up, then you need to invest more in yourself. Specifically, you need to make sure that your skills and knowledge are up to par with the latest trends, standards, and requirements of your industry.
One way to do this is to pursue lifelong learning. After all, learning doesn’t just happen within the classroom, and it certainly doesn’t stop after you finish school. Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities to pick up new skills and hone what you already know. For example, if you live in Singapore, you can enrol in SkillsFuture credit courses in a variety of fields that include engineering, business, infocomm technology, and even culinary arts. You can also take up new hobbies, learn a new language, or get certified in first aid.
Apart from keeping up with the times, there are many more reasons to embrace lifelong learning. Here are just a few:
Future-Proofing Your Career
As mentioned earlier, industries evolve at a breakneck pace nowadays. The best practices today may not necessarily be the best practices tomorrow; the same can be said about in-demand skills. If you aren’t consistently working towards improving and increasing your competencies, you’ll definitely be left behind by your peers.
Through lifelong learning, you’ll be able to future-proof your career. Besides making you a valuable asset to your organisation, your commitment to continuous self-development also shows your employer that you are someone who’s worth keeping around.
Broadening Your Job Options
After working for years in a specific field, there may come a time when you feel like it’s time for a change. However, hopping from one role to another might not be as simple as you think it is. For one, there are plenty of qualified individuals vying for limited positions; this can make it difficult for you to stand out.
If you enrol in training programmes to learn new skills, especially industry-specific and transferable ones, it will be easier for you to transition into a new job. You’ll also have an easier time exploring opportunities in other industries, should you want a completely new career.
Expanding Your Professional Network
When you invest your time in lifelong learning, you’ll get to know more people outside of your usual circle of coworkers and industry colleagues. From your instructors to your fellow learners, you can expand your professional network considerably through continuing education. This will be quite valuable for your social life, as well as your future job prospects.
Getting to know other people can also help you in cultivating new ideas and encountering fresh perspectives. Both of these can further broaden your horizons, not just in terms of your career but also life in general.
Acquiring and Developing Soft Skills
Most jobs require highly specific skills, such as operating heavy machinery or writing a computer programme. However, if you want to truly advance in your chosen career, you also need to develop a variety of soft skills like the following:
Critical thinking
Creativity
Time management
Problem solving
Creativity
Conflict management
Leadership
Communication
Through lifelong learning, you can acquire and develop plenty of soft skills. These can then help you build character, as well as help you achieve your professional goals. What’s even better is that all of these soft skills are also transferable. As such, if ever you want to change career paths sometime in the future, your transition will be much smoother.
Keeping Your Brain Healthy
While the human brain isn’t actually a muscle, it still requires exercise to keep it in good shape. You can do this through many different ways, including solving puzzles or reading more books. If you want to hit two proverbial birds with one stone, however, you can enrol in a certification training course or any other lifelong learning programme you prefer.
By doing so, not only will you be able to improve your memory and strengthen your cognitive function, but you will also be able to boost your career prospects.
Feeling More Confident, Fulfilled, and Motivated
Last but certainly not least, lifelong learning can help you feel better about yourself. First, mastering new skills and learning new things boosts your self-confidence and sense of self-worth. When you know you can do your job well and exceed expectations, you’ll feel more confident and become a better, more efficient worker.
What’s more, lifelong learning can increase your sense of self-fulfilment and satisfaction. When you finish a course and are able to apply what you’ve learned at work, you feel proud about what you’ve accomplished. This feeling can then spill over to other aspects of your life, helping you feel even happier with your life progress.
As the saying goes, it’s never too late to learn. No matter how old you are or how far along you are in your career journey, there’s always room for growth. Consider all of the above benefits and you might just be convinced to start harnessing the power of lifelong learning today.
