Top 5 Reliable Door Repair Services in Singapore

Few things tend to be as inconvenient as problems with doors. Sooner or later, everyone has to deal with unhinged doors, jammed locks, or lost keys. And you usually need to fix those issues quickly to enter your home, keep your business going, or prevent hens from escaping from the barn.

Naturally, you would want to hire an efficient and reliable service to help you out with a door predicament. Thus, we have compiled this list of the most reliable door repair services in Singapore for your convenience.

Besides the repairers, we have also included a well-established door maker if you need to replace your old door. Continue reading to learn more.

Joydom Engineering: Door Repair Service

SERVICE RATES
To learn how much exactly you’ll need to pay for repairing the door or gate, get in touch with the service provider by phone or via the official website. However, some approximate prices for common interventions are:

• Door alignment: Between S$120 and S$200
• Hinge replacement: If only one hinge needs replacement, the price range is from S$70 to S$80. In case that more of them are in question, the price per hinge decreases down to S$60.
• Knob replacement: Depending on the knob design, the pleasure of replacing it can cost you between S$150 and S$200.
• Door frame replacement: Usually between S$1,200 and S$1,600

7 Best IVF Centres in Singapore for Foreigners

Singapore is the right choice if you are looking for an overseas medical destination with the latest assisted productive technologies. Since 1982, Singapore fertility specialists have been successful in their IVF programs, resulting in Asia’s first IVF baby born in the country in 1983. In the recent decade, Singapore is a trusted destination for couples with infertility issues, especially those with complicated medical conditions.

In Singapore, IVF services are available at both public and private hospitals. Currently, there are 3 public fertility centres (operated by the three major public hospitals) and around 8 private fertility centres (situated at major private hospitals and medical centres).

A public fertility centre is often the priority of Singaporean couples who are struggling with infertility. It is simply because Singaporeans can get up to 75% of the costs co-funded by the government when being treated at a public hospital. This subsidy scheme doesn’t apply to non-citizens, so you have to pay the full price no matter what kind of hospital you choose. For that reason, patients from surrounding countries tend to seek treatment at Singapore’s private hospitals to enjoy better customer services and a shorter waiting time to see a specialist.

In this article, there are 4 private and 3 public fertility centres recommended. Please note that not all of them are located on the premises of a hospital. Thomson Fertility Centre and Virtus Fertility Centre are the two private institutes sitting at medical centres outside a hospital.

When a fertility centre is hospital-based, you can expect that all the IVF procedures that need sedation will be done in the hospital it sits in. But when it is situated outside a hospital, egg retrieval and embryo transfer procedures will be performed at one of the hospitals in the city.

Despite this, all the private centres are large-scale, equipped with the latest technologies and the most experienced fertility specialist. Mount Elizabeth Fertility Centre has long been famous as a reliable destination for overseas couples with complicated medical conditions. 3 out of 4 private centres in this list are located in the Orchard area, making it convenient to arrange accommodation, get around, and enjoy other services Singapore has to offer.

Sincere IVF Center

MEDICAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• MBBS (Singapore), 1974
• MRCOG (United Kingdom), 1981
• FAMS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology), 1984
• MD (NUS), 1989
• MMed ((Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Singapore), 1991
• FRCOG (United Kingdom), 1994

SPSPECIALTIES: Obstetrics & Gynaecology with a focus on reproductive medicine & IVF.

LANGUAGE: English

ASSISTED REPRODUCTIVE SERVICES:

• Oocyte Recovery
• IVF/ICSI
• Assisted Embryo Hatching
• Intra-cytoplasmic Morphologically-selected Sperm Injection (IMSI)
• Cleavage-stage Embryo Transfer
• Blastocyst Transfer
• Frozen Thaw Embryo Transfer
• Embryo Cryo-preservation
• Oocyte (eggs) Cryo-preservation
• Ovarian Tissue Cryo-preservation
• Laparoscopy and Hydro-tubation

SUCCESS RATES: The success rates at Sincere IVF Center in 2016, 2017 and 2018 are shown below

Years	No. of Cycles	Mean Age	Rates
2016	316	36	52.12%
2017	377	36.4	51.49%
2018	339	36.6	55.49%

10 Best Private IVF Clinics in Singapore

People decide to go with a private healthcare institute for many reasons. It could be for better customer service, shorter waiting time for an appointment to see a specialist, easy access to a clinic, a preferred doctor, or for all.

If you are considering having IVF treatment at a private place, then this article is for you.

In Singapore, the number of private IVF clinics is much larger than those of the public. Currently, there are more than 20 private clinics offering IVF services, while the number of public places is limited to 3 (those belong to KK Women’s & Children’s Hospital, Singapore National Hospital, and National University Hospital).

While the public fertility centres are of large scale with a big team of specialists, the private clinics are usually home to a single specialist.

The majority of private practice doctors are those who have has many years of experience in public hospitals. When entering the private healthcare sector, they set up their clinics at a private medical centre or hospital. Some even have their offices at two or three different places to make their service more accessible for patients.

Major private hospitals such as Mount Elizabeth Hospital, Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Gleneagle Hospital, Parkway East Hospital, Raffles Hospital, Mount Alvernia Hospital, and Thomson Medical Centre are where to find a private practice fertility doctor. They can also be found at a medical centre outside a hospital, such as Paragon Medical centre and Scotts Medical Centre. 

Scan through our list to have some ideas about top private IVF clinics in Singapore.

Noel Leong Fertility & IVF Clinic

MEDICAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• M.B.B.S (Singapore)
• M.Med (O&G) (Singapore)
• FRCOG (London)
• FAMS (Singapore)

SPECIALTIES: Obstetrics & Gynaecology with a focus on reproductive medicine, infertility & IVF.

ASSISTED REPRODUCTIVE TREATMENT SERVICES:

• In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
• Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT)
• Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT)
• Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (MESA)
• Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA)
• Assisted Hatching (AH)
• Blastocyst Transfer
• Donor Sperm/Egg Programmes

LANGUAGE: English

Health & Fertility Centre for Women

MEDICAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• BM BCh (Oxford University)
• MRCOG (London, UK)
• FAMS (Singapore)

SPECIALTIES: Obstetrics & Gynaecology with a focus on reproductive medicine, infertility & IVF, and minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery & hysteroscopy.

LANGUAGE: English

COST GUIDE: Here is the cost guide to IVF treatment fees at Mount Elizabeth Fertility Centre where Dr Kelly sets up her business.

IVF Treatment	Cost
Fertility tests + consultation	$374
Egg retrieval (<6 eggs)	$8,500
Egg retrieval (>6 eggs)	$9,400 – $10,500
Embryo transfer	From $4,000

5 Best IVF Centres for Singaporean Couples

IVF is never an easy journey. But it is one of the most worth-trying journeys one can take in life. If you are going to embark on it then read our guide to find out all the must-knows.

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING AN IVF CLINIC:

• Success rate: IVF success rate is a must-ask while looking around to find the right fertility clinic. It is important because the proven success rates ensure the chance of achieving your dream of having a baby. The higher the clinical pregnancy rates, the higher your chance of getting pregnant.

• Specialist: There are clinics where the specialist is the one who manages the patient treatment every step of the way. There are also clinics where only the important tasks are taken care of by the specialist, the rest is left in the hands of the team’s healthcare professionals. So, make sure you know who will manage your treatment to ensure that you are provided with continuity of care and the best possible chance to solve your issue.

• Location: To many couples, IVF treatment is a hard and long journey to take. It requires couples to travel back and forth between home and the clinic often. So, make sure the fertility clinic you go with is located in a convenient location to save you time and hassle.

STEPS TO EXPECT DURING IVF:

1. Pituitary suppression: Your natural cycle is suppressed with the use of medication (GnRH agonist/antagonist).
2. Ovarian stimulation: A fertility hormone (FSH) is injected daily for between 9 to 14 days to encourage the ovaries to produce more eggs than usual.
3. Egg monitoring: The egg development is monitored via ultrasound to make sure the number and size of the eggs are adequate before aiding their maturation by the final injection.
4. Egg retrieval and semen collection: Eggs are retrieved by inserting a needle through the vaginal canal. Semen sample needs to be collected on the day of the egg retrieval procedure.
5. Fertilization: The eggs and the sperm are mixed together in an incubator for a few days to allow them to be fertilized.
6. Embryo transfer: Embryo transfer occurs two to five days after egg retrieval.
7. Pregnancy test: Your pregnancy blood test is due about 14 days after the embryo transfer.

HOW ARE THE IVF TREATMENT FEES CALCULATED?
IVF treatment fees often break down into three main types of cost:

1. Pre-treatment costs: Including the consultation fee for your first appointment with your specialist and the charges for initial tests.
2. IVF cycle costs: They are the charges for medications, egg retrieval, embryo transfer, laboratory charges, hospital accommodation, anesthetic service, use of operating theatre, nursing fees, and others.
3. Advanced science costs: Advanced scientific techniques such as PGD may be required, depending on your individual needs.

HOW MUCH ARE THE PRE-TREATMENT COSTS?

• Consultation fee: S$150 – S$300
• Fertility tests: S$240 – S$440

HOW MUCH DO THE IVF CYCLES COST?

• Fertility medication: S$2,500 – S$3,500
• Egg monitoring: From S$1000
• Egg retrieval: S$3,550 – S$10,000
• Sperm collection: From S$1,250
• Embryo transfer: S$1,500 – S$5,500

HOW MUCH DOES THE ADVANCED SCIENCE COST?

• Laser-assisted hatching: S$150 to S$600
• Blastocyst culture: S$150 to S$300
• PGD: Can be up to over S$10,000

So, in summary, costs of IVF treatment at public hospitals range between S$10,000 and S$15,000 per cycle while it starts from S$7,999 and can go up to S$20,000 per cycle at private hospitals.

GOVERNMENT SUBSIDY FOR IVF: MOH CO-FUNDING
As long as there is one person in the couple is a Singapore citizen, you can get MOH co-funding when seeking IVF treatment at public hospitals which are:

• KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital
• National University Hospital
• Singapore General Hospital

Couple’s citizenship	MOH co-funding (fresh cycles)	MOH co-funding (frozen cycle)
SG citizen + SG citizen	75% (up to $7,700)	75% (up to $2,200)
SG citizen + PR	55% (up to $5,700)	55% (up to $1,600)
SG citizen + Foreigner	35% (up to $3,600)	35% (up to $1,000)

GOVERNMENT SUBSIDY FOR IVF: THE USE OF MEDISAVE
This applies to Singaporean and PR couples, which allows you to use your Medisave to pay for IVF treatment. The maximum amount one can withdraw in a lifetime for this kind of treatment is $15,000.

IVF cycle	Medisave limit
1st	$6,000
2nd	$5,000
3rd & subsequent	$4,000

PROS AND CONS WHEN GETTING IVF TREATMENT AT PUBLIC AND PRIVATE HOSPITALS:

	Pros	Cons
Public hospitals	Lower cost (co-funding)	Longer waiting time for an appointment to see a specialist
Private hospitals	Shorter waiting time for an appointment to see a specialist Customer service is of better quality	Higher cost (No co-funding)

Couples who decide to go to a private hospital for IVF treatment should consider prenatal insurance that covers IVF to keep the cost manageable. Check it out with insurers like AIA, AXA, and Pacific Prime Singapore for those kinds of insurance.

Here are the best fertility clinics in both public and private sectors for your consideration.

Virtus Fertility Centre

SPECIALIST TEAM:

• Dr. Ann Tan: A senior consultant, Medical Director of Virtus Fertility, with more than 20 years of experience in the field
• Dr. Roland Chieng: A senior consultant with 20 years of experience in the field
• Dr. Yeong Cheng Toh: A consultant with more than 20 years of experience in the field
• Dr. Paul Tseng: A consultant with more than 30 years of experience in the field
• Dr. Andrew Kan: A consultant who has experience in many Asia countries and Australia
• Dr. Motoko Yeo: A consultant with more than 30 years of experience in the field

SUCCESS RATES: Their clinical pregnancy rate per frozen embryo transfer in 2018 is

• Overall: 58%
• Under 30 years: 65%
• 31-34 years: 65%
• 35-39 years: 61%
• 40-45 years: 41%

ADVANCED SCIENCE SERVICES AVAILABLE:

• Blastocyst Culture
• In-Vitro Maturation of Oocytes (IVM)
• Laser-Assisted Hatching
• Pre-Implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)

FREEZE BANKING AVAILABLE:

• Sperm
• Embryo
• Egg

DONOR PROGRAMMES:

• Sperm donation
• Egg donation

Yeobuild HomeRepair

SERVICE RATES
How much you’ll pay for mending your washing machine depends on several factors. Still, Yeobuild HomeRepair’s pricing is reasonable, so don’t consider a loan from a bank. Just note that there is a S$50 call-out charge.

WASHING MACHINE BRANDS

• Samsung
• Bosch
• Miele
• Ariston
• Whirlpool
• LG
• Panasonic
• Electrolux
• Sanyo
• Toshiba
• Brandt
• Fisher & Paykel
• Hitachi
• General Electric
• Simpson
• Eurotech
• National

Washing Machine Pro

SERVICE RATES
To learn how much fixing your laundry washer will cost, call Washing Machine Pro’s service to schedule a technician’s visit. Once the serviceman evaluates the issue, you’ll know the exact price.

NOTE: You’ll need to pay a small S$30 fee for a service’s handyman to come and diagnose the malfunction. But, if you hire the repairer, the charge becomes a part of the total cost.

WASHING MACHINE BRANDS

• Samsung
• LG
• Electrolux
• Panasonic
• Whirlpool
• Sanyo
• Toshiba
• Thomson
• Brandt
• Candy
• Maytag
• Ariston
• Bosch
• Fisher & Paykel
• Hitachi
• Kenmore
• Simpson
• General Electric
• Eurotech
• Zanussi
• Elba
• EF
• National
• Goldstar
• AEG
• Hoover

Washing Machine Repair & Cleaning Singapore

SERVICE RATES
How much you will pay depends on different factors. The type of malfunction, model, and the cost of parts needing replacement are some key determinants. Thus, give Washing Machine Repair & Cleaning Singapore a call to get an accurate quote.

WASHING MACHINE BRANDS

• LG
• Fisher & Paykel
• Panasonic
• Whirlpool
• Sanyo
• Samsung
• Electrolux
• Thomson
• Brandt
• Candy
• Toshiba
• Maytag
• Ariston
• Bosch
• General Electric
• Kenmore
• Hitachi
• Simpson
• National
• Eurotech
• Zanussi
• Elba
• Hoover
• Goldstar
• EF
• AEG

Royal Carpet Maintenance Services

JOB SCOPE

• Restorative Carpet Cleaning
• Upholstery Cleaning
• Parquet Sand and Vanish
• Vinyl Polishing
• Marble Polishing
• Carpet Supply and Installation
• Disinfecting Service
• General Cleaning

PRICE LIST

• Restorative Carpet/Upholstery Cleaning: Commercial– from 15 to 25 cts psf (minimum S$280); Residential – 50 to 80 cts psf (min. S$150); Rugs – S$3 to S$5 psf (min. S$100); Upholstery from S$50 per seater; Staircase from S$150 onwards
• Vinyl Polishing – 50 to 80 cts psf (minimum S$500)
• Marble Polishing – S$1.5 to S$2 psf (min. S$500)
• Parquet Sand and Vanish – S$1.5 to S$2 psf (min. S$500); Staircase Service starts from S$500
• General Cleaning starts at S$500
• Carpet Supply and Installation costs depend on the area and the floor covering\’s type
• The price of Disinfecting (Anti-Virus) Service is subject to the assessment

Venue Painting

JOB SCOPE AND PRICING

• HDB 2BR (3 rooms) single color/multicolor: from S$550 to S$750/ from S$650 to S$850
• HDB 3BR (4 rooms) single color/multicolor: from S$850 to S$1,150/from S$900 to S$1,200
• HDB 4BR (5 rooms) single color/multicolor: from S$1,050 to S$1,300/S$1,100-S$1,350
• HDB Executive flats and maisonettes: call for the quote
• Condominiums 2BR (3 rooms) single color/multicolor: from S$600 to S$900/from S$650 to S$950
• Condominiums 3BR (4 rooms) single color/multicolor: from S$950 to S$1,150/from S$1,000 to S$1,200
• Condominiums 4BR (5 rooms) single color/multicolor: from S$1,150 to S$1,350/from S$1,200 to S$1,400

ADDRESS: 66 Tannery Lane, Sindo Building, Singapore 347805

CONTACT: Phone +65 6319 7222 | WhatsApp +65 8590 2202

WEBSITE: https://venuepainting.com/

EMAIL: info@venuepainting.com

Everyworks Singapore: Aircon Services

SERVICES AND RATES:

• One-Time Aircon Servicing: 1 fancoil $45, 2 fancoils $75, 3 fancoils $95, 4 fancoils $110, 5 fancoils $125, 6 fancoils $140.
• Quarterly Subscription Aircon Servicing: 2 fancoils $70, 3 fancoils $85, 4 fancoils $100, 5 fancoils $115, 6 fancoils $130, 7 fancoils $145, 8 fancoils $165.
• Aircon Chemical Overhaul: Subjected to the BTU of your aircon.
• Aircon Gas Top-Up: R22 – $100 to $130, R410 – $130 to $165.
• Aircon Installation or Repair: WhatsApp or Call to enquire.

AIR CONDITIONER BRANDS:

• Daikin
• Mitsubishi
• Mitsubishi Electric
• Panasonic
• Samsung
• LG
• Fujitsu
• Sharp
• Toshiba
• EuropAce
• Midea
• Sanyo
• Carrier
• Gree
• York

New Year Resolution Virtual Run 2021

#PLQRoamForGnomes Christmas QR Hunt

Paya Lebar Quarter (PLQ) has collaborated with local artists, artistes, influencers and designers like Oon Shu An, Jeremy Jiang and Andy Yangsookit, as well as staff of The Social Kitchen to hand-paint gnomes which are presently being displayed at its vast outdoor gardens.

There are over 50 gnomes hiding all around PLQ, each representing the artists, influencers and designers’ well-wishes for the community as gnomes are a symbol of good luck and finding treasure. They will only be available until 3 January, so come down to PLQ and snap your selfies with them while you can!

Stay tuned to our Instagram and Facebook pages for location clues.

Looking to save some time and money? Grab to PLQ now with promo code PLQ3OFF to enjoy $3 off a GRAB ride with minimum $6 nett spend. Meanwhile, don’t forget to redeem a $10 Lendlease voucher when you spend $150 ($130 for Lendlease Plus members).

Photo credit: Oon Shu An, actress and host

Pucky Christmas Music Parade at 313@somerset

Join in the Pucky Christmas Music Parade at 313@somerset this Christmas.  313@somerset has transformed into a magical and whimsical Pucky babies-land paradise with decorations inspired by the Pucky Christmas Music Parade blind box collectible series.

Created by popular Hong Kong-based artist Pucky, the loveable Pucky Babies have made their debut at 313@somerset in their first-ever Singapore mall collaboration to win the hearts of all ages and create a joyous wonderland. Shoppers can spot life-sized installations of the Pucky Christmas Babies around the mall, as well as a 2.8m tall Pucky Sleeping Baby taking centre stage.

Shoppers can redeem a special edition Pucky Christmas gift wrapper with every $60 spent, limited edition Pucky pouches by spending $150 at the mall, and many more Pucky rewards!

Get the full list of promotions here.

Shopping Made Easy

Doing your shopping at 313@somerset just got easier with the 313 x Rely “Shop Now Pay Later” shopping experience.  Available till 11 Feb 2021, shoppers can split their shopping purchases into four interest-free payments, paying only 25 per cent of the total price at the point of purchase through the Lendlease Plus App.

Best bit?  There are also instant rewards to be earned with min spend of $60 in a single transaction at 313 x Rely Shop Now, Pay Later participating stores.

More details can be found here.

It’s time to Jalan Jalan with Chingay!

The highly anticipated annual Chingay Parade will return as a spectacular digital showcase in 2021! Anchoring the digital Chingay 2021 programme is the concept of co-creation with the community campaign, ‘Jalan Jalan with Chingay’, which showcases the diverse local and community talents, and unveils the ‘hidden gems’ amongst us.

By sharing your creative works through activities like ‘We’ve Got Talent!’ or virtually designing a Chingay float and costumes that signifies hope or reflects our unique multiculturalism, to singing as one community, you can stand a chance to win attractive prizes such as a 3D2N staycation, Lazada e-vouchers worth S$4,000 and a whopping cash prize of (up to) S$16,500!

More information about the ‘Jalan Jalan with Chingay’ activities and contests are available below.

D:2 Dance Competition Vol. 1 If you love to dance, D:2 Dance Competition Vol. 1 is the platform for you to express your creativity by fusing Singapore’s local dance cultures in the form of dance genre and styles! Submit your dance videos at www.chingay.gov.sg by 20 Dec 2020 and stand a chance to win a total cash prize of S$16,500!

Sing With Me! Let your voice be heard at Chingay 2021 as we sing to the song \\\’As I Believe\\\’ as one community – signifying our hope and strong belief of a brighter future together. Submit a video of yourself singing alone or with your family and friends crooning to ‘As I Believe’ at www.chingay.gov.sg/join-us/sing-with-me by 31 Dec 2020, and stand a chance to win 3D2N staycation and attraction tickets (worth more than S$2,000), or get featured in the Chingay 2021 Special Webcast/Telecast on 20 Feb 2021

We’ve Got Talent! Jumping on the TikTok trend lately? Why not use those talents and submit a one-minute recording of yourself and your friends doing something creative – from dancing to singing, or even pulling a jaw-dropping (but safe) stunt? Share your submissions on Facebook or Instagram with the hashtags #ChingaySG2021 #WeGotTalent2021. Profiles submitting these entries must follow and tag @PAssion Chingay Club on Facebook or @ChingaySingapore on Instagram! Lucky winners will walk away with a 3D2N staycation (worth S$1,000) and Lazada e-vouchers (worth S$4,000). Submit by 31 Dec 2020 for a chance to get featured in the live webcast/telecast on 20 February 2021!

Let’s Build A Float! As Chingay 2021 is going digital, there won’t be any physical floats. Build your own Chingay float on the Chingay website and jazz it up using your favourite apps or software! All submissions are to be made via Facebook or Instagram with the hashtags #ChingaySG2021 #ChingayFloat included in the post. Remember to follow and tag @PAssion Chingay Club on Facebook or @ChingaySingapore on Instagram! Lucky winners will walk away with a 3D2N staycation (worth S$1,000). Submit by 31 Dec 2020 for a chance to be featured in the live webcast/telecast on 20 February 2021!

Sew (So) Stylo! Love fashion and playing dress-up? Create a stylish Chingay costume on the Chingay website or use the printable materials provided to do so! All submissions are to be made via Facebook or Instagram with the hashtags #ChingaySG2021 #SewStylo included in the post – don’t forget to follow and tag @PAssion Chingay Club on Facebook or @ChingaySingapore on Instagram while you’re at it. Lucky winners will walk away with a 3D2N staycation (worth S$1,000). Submit by 31 Dec 2020 for a chance to be featured in the live webcast/telecast on 20 February 2021!

Answer for Where are the best places to rent costumes in Singapore?

Costume parties are always fun and choosing your outfit should also be an enjoyable experience. The holiday season is the perfect excuse to throw a party, even if it’s just for your closest friends and family. If you are planning to rent a costume anytime soon, here are my recommended places to rent costumes in Singapore.

Awesome Costumes

I have an annual year-end costume party with a certain group of friends and this is our go-to costume rental place since they give discounts for group rentals. Last year, our theme was Heroes and Villains. I went as Wonder Woman and won Best Costume! Thanks to the alteration service of Awesome Costumes, my costume fit perfectly. I truly felt like an Amazonian Warrior! The shop owner, Grace Wong, is a graduate from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) – School of Fashion Studies, so she certainly knows her work. She is very hands on with her shop and she is often around to assist her customers. Her staff are also very kind and patient.

Customade Costume & Merchandise

Customade Costume & Merchandise, more popularly known as CCM, is a family-run costume customizations and rental business that has been around for more than 20 years. They have over 20,000 costumes to choose from and more than 15,000 accessories. If you have no idea what to pick, the staff are ready to help you out and suggest the perfect look for you according to your taste. Their wide range of costumes include superheroes, fairytale and cinema characters, international costumes, work-related outfits, and medieval regalia. They also have garments for different occasions like Christmas, Halloween, and Chinese New Year.

 

Moephosis Concepts

This is worth mentioning because of its owner, Moe Kasim, who is an award-winning costume designer. Moephosis Concept first started as a costume provider mainly for local theatre productions. It later expanded as a costume rental business in 2008. Moe has also ventured into creating costumes for Miss Universe Singapore candidates. With all of his accolades, you can expect top quality costumes from Moephosis Concept. I also love how their costumes are well-maintained. They all look and smell good as new. You certainly don’t want a dirty and smelly costume! Moephosis Concept is your best bet if you are attending a fancy dinner and dance or a semi-formal costume party that warrants an elaborate and top quality costume. Don’t forget to book your appointment first before going for fittings.

Answer for Where can I buy cheap furniture in Singapore?

There are quite a few shops to buy cheap furniture in Singapore. Here are my recommendations for those who are planning to move  to a new place, new couples who are starting their new life together, or homeowners who are simply looking to replace an old bed or sofa. 

Castlery

I bought my new queen-size bed on sale at Castlery and I absolutely love it! It was also a great shopping experience, thanks to the very helpful staff who were not pushy. Castlery sells good quality Scandinavian-inspired furniture at affordable prices. I got my bed for S$690. It was quite a steal! You can shop at Castlery online or visit their studio at Jit Poh Building. Delivery fee is free for purchases above S$300.

Courts

Courts is more known as an electronics and appliance chain, but their furniture section is also worth a look. Watch for their constant deals and promotions to get a good price. Sofa beds can go as low as S$179, 2-seater sofas for S$199, and dining table sets for S$299. You can even pay in installments through their FlexiPlan financing option. You can check out their online shop or drop by any of their 12 outlets around the island.

FortyTwo  

FortyTwo is a 100% online furniture shop that does not have a showroom anywhere in the city. It is a homegrown company that has over 20,000 items in its catalogue. With that much choice, it is certainly possible that you can furnish your entire house from their collection. You can even buy everything from the sale section! Prices for dining tables start at S$145, coffee tables at S$80, 2-seater sofas at S$290, and queen-sized beds at S$530. Delivery is free if you spend S$300 or more,

BedandBasics

BedandBasics is another exclusively online furniture shop that claims to sell items at factory direct prices. Other come ons include Lowest Price Matching scheme, 100-day return policy, and free delivery for purchases above S$150. Always check their clearance sale section to get discounts up to 75%. You can find sofa beds at S$220, 3-seater sofas at S$300, and 4-seater dining sets at S$430.

Answer for Where are the best places to buy lingerie in Singapore?

Getting your special lady a gift for the holidays? Advance shopping for Valentines Day? Or simply updating your intimate apparel collection? Here are my top three recommended places to buy lingerie in Singapore. This short list does not include the popular international brands that you find in the city’s top malls because those are no-brainers. Instead, I just listed the top 3 choices among me and my friends based on our personal experiences with these stores. Read on to know why we love these shops and see if any of them will suit your needs.

Perk by Kate

The customer service at Perk by Kate is exemplary. I will never forget the first time I stepped into her old studio with my friends. We were very lucky to chance upon the owner herself, Kate Low. She was very kind and attentive and she assisted us all throughout our shopping experience. I loved all her suggestions and ended up buying five pieces! I very seldom shop for lingerie anywhere else since then. If there is something that you like that does not fit quite right, they will alter the piece for you to get that perfect fit and send it to you in a day or two. Aside from their own label, Perk by Kate also sells other brands like Eberjey, Timpa, Addiction Lingerie, Commando, Cosabella, and Samantha Chang. (Perk by Kate, 134A Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068600)

 

Change Lingerie

If you are well endowed in terms of physical assets, Change Lingerie is for you. This Danish brand is known for having the widest range of size options. Ever heard of M cup? Yes! Change sells that bra size! Finding the right size of underwear can be a little tricky especially if you are a foreigner in an Asian country. Good thing Change Lingerie opened shop in Singapore to cater to the more curvaceous beauties among us. A Filipina friend, who wears a cup D, always buys her bras at Change. Of course, there are also regular sizes for the average-sized Singaporeans. (Change Lingerie, Bukit Timah Rd, Cluny Court, Singapore 259760)

The Lingerie Shop

The name of the store itself answers your question. Where else do we need to go for lingerie? The Lingerie Shop sells collections from top brands like Paladini, Ritratti, Cotton Club, Andre Sarda, and Akiko Ogawa. Whether you are looking for sophisticated intimates or sensual sleepwear, The Lingerie Shop, located at swanky Orchard Road, is surely worth a visit. My bff, who is more into sexy laces, loves her collections from The Lingerie Shop. (The Lingerie Shop,   402, #02-20 Orchard Rd, Delphi Orchard, Singapore 238876)

Answer for Where can I buy cheap winter clothes in Singapore?

Planning to escape the city this winter? The year end in Singapore means people planning their holiday vacations and booking their trips with their travel agents. Most would choose to visit cold-climate countries to get away from the Singapore heat. Who wouldn’t want to frolic in the snow in wintertime? If you are looking for winter outfits to take with you on your vacation, here are the highly recommended stores where you can buy cheap winter clothes in Singapore.

Coldwear

The name says it all! This is my go-to store for winter clothes because of their affordable prices and wide selection of items. Last year, I was able to buy a windbreaker for S$19! Coldwear is a Singapore-based company that specializes in winter clothes such as jackets, trench coats, sweaters, windbreakers, thermal wear, scarves, gloves, and hats. Aside from its own brand of winter wear, Coldwear shops also carry popular brands like Caterpillar, National Geography, Dexshell, and PackMate. You can find Coldwear outlets at Tampines, Orchard Gateway, Suntec City, IMM Outlet Mall, and Bendemeer.

Winter Time

Winter Time is known for its annual year-end sale that can give you as much as 80% in discounts! Parkas and jackets can go as low as S$29 while accessories can be bought at S$8. That’s surely a lot of savings! Winter Time sells winter clothes for men, women, and children so it is a good option if you are planning to shop for the whole family. You can shop at their online store or visit any of their branches at IMM,  Northpoint City, Vivo City, Parkway Parade, or Changi City Point.

Decathlon

Decathlon is primarily a sporting goods store where you can also buy durable outfits and gears for winter sports like skiing and hiking. Their prices are already affordable as they are but they can even go lower during their annual Black Friday sale. A friend of mine just bought a thermal vest for S$15 at Decathlon! There are items for kids and adults alike so check it out if your family is planning to go on a winter getaway. You can find Decathlon Experience stores at Orchard Road, City Square, Singapore Lab, Bedok, and Joo Koon. Decathlon also has Click & Collect stores at Tampines, Punggol, Novena, Chinatown, Tiong Bahru, Holland Village, and Sembawang.

Answer for What are the best private hospitals in Singapore?

Singapore is among the world’s leading nations in many things. Renowned international companies have branches in the island nation, and many Singaporean private universities are among the finest around the globe. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the republic’s healthcare system is equally advanced. 

Without further ado, let’s determine what are the best private hospitals in Singapore and why. 

Private vs Public Hospitals in Singapore: What’s the Difference?

Given that you need a medical or surgical service in the Lion City, here’s what you should know when deciding between independent and governmental hospitals:

• Price: As you might assume, private healthcare institutions are more expensive
• Waiting times: The city-state’s public hospitals admit patients on a first-come, first-served basis. Thus, you may save a lot of time by scheduling an appointment at a privately-owned clinic. 
• Healthcare workers’ experience: In general, doctors working in independent facilities are more experienced.
• Comfort: Overall, you will enjoy better amenities during your stay in a private health center.

Note: If you are a healthcare insurance user, you may not be eligible for every medical facility in the Lion City. 

Now, let’s get to the point.

Mount Elizabeth Hospital: Singapore’s Number One Private Clinic

Mount Elizabeth is a privately-owned hospital offering a wide range of healthcare services and treatments. While their prices are on the expensive side, even for the Garden City’s standards, you pay what you get. Some areas they specialize in are:

• Neurology (nervous system disorders)
• Pediatrics (children’s medical care)
• Orthopedics (specialty focusing on skeletal deformities)
• Ophthalmology (dealing with eye and vision issues)

Mount Elizabeth offers medical aid to international patients, too. 

Regarding the accommodation prices, these start at S$275 per day for rooms with four beds. For a stately treatment, plan to spend S$10,500 per day for a royal suite.

Gleneagles Hospital: Another Top Medical and Surgical Facility in Singapore

Gleneagles is another renowned Merlion City’s clinic excelling in many areas. In 2015, the hospital won the Singapore Service Excellence Medallion Commendation Award for quality service. 

Besides residents, Gleneagles caters to travelers and foreign patients. As a tourist in need of medical or surgical assistance, you can count on:

• Emergency care
• Flight extension
• Ambulance pickup and drop-off at Changi International Airport
• Visa application
• And many other healthcare services and benefits

 The independent health center excels in many specialties, some of which are:

• Otorhinolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat)
• Endocrinology (fixing problems with hormones)
• Respiratory treatments
• Gastroenterology (digestive system disorders)

 To stay in a room with three other patients, the daily fee is S$259. Suites cost from S$1,288 to S$8,088. 

Other Singapore Healthcare Centers 

Mount Elizabeth and Gleneagles are ahead of other Lion City’s clinics, according to patients’ reviews. Still, you should consider the following ones, too, for a specific treatment or service:

• Raffles Hospital offers health screening and a few 24-hour (including hotel/house and ship) services. Its doctors specialize in Chinese medicine.
• Concord International Hospital excels in minimally invasive surgery. So, if you need a surgical intervention on some visible body part, the remaining scars will be minimal. 
• Farrier Park‘s specialists offer various treatments, not limited to dermatology, hematology, general surgery, and gynecology. Their room and suite rates are more affordable compared to Gleneagles and Mount Elizabeth.
• Thomson Medical Centre is among the best institutions for maternity care.

 

Given that you are an expat wishing to deliver a baby in the Little Red Dot, read our complete guide to giving birth in Singapore hospitals. 

Answer for How do people celebrate Chinese New Year in Singapore?

With Chinese people counting around 3/4 of the entire populace, Singapore is an attractive destination for celebrating the Lunar New Year. During this time, Chinatown visitors attend street performances, shop till they drop at bazaars, and more. Also, main festivities take place around Marina Bay Sands and nearby Esplanade Waterfront Promenade. 

Since we have located focal points, let’s see now how people celebrate Chinese New Year in Singapore. 

When Does Chinese New Year Take Place?

Also known as the Spring Festival (Chunjie), the Chinese New Year may occur anytime between January 21 and February 20. Also, the exact date changes every year, and happens on the following days in the next years:

• 2021 – February 12
• 2022 – February 1
• 2023 – January 22
• 2024 – February 10

Chinese New Year Atmosphere in Singapore: What Is it Like?

In short, the atmosphere during the Lunar New Year celebrations in the Lion City is contagious. That is among the main reasons why the Malays, Indians, and other Singaporean minorities readily join the festivities.

And small wonder since fire-eaters, lion and dragon dancers, and other performers in curious costumes heat the mood in no time. Add colorful decoration, mouth-watering treats, and the ongoing party, and there is nothing else you need to enjoy yourself to the maximum.

What to Do During the Spring Festival in Singapore?

Mingle with the majority of celebrants in the Merlion City’s Chinatown. There, browse the stalls for attractive shopping, admire lanterns and other street decorations, and catch a performance here and there. And, leave a lot of time to do so since shows take place both day and night.

Also, don’t miss the fireworks and firecracker displays. Ensure a spot to watch parades featuring giant floats, cheerful music, and magic shows. Finally, grab coconut cookies, meat from the barbecue, and pineapple tarts.

Singaporean Chunjie Hotspots and Related Activities

• A highlight of Singaporean Chunjie is Chingay, combining terms you can translate something like “true art” and “miniature stage.” It is the Spring Festival’s pinnacle, featuring international performers from China, Denmark, Indonesia, Taiwan, and Sri Lanka. The grand parade starts at the Formula One Pit Building, next to the Marina Bay Waterfront in downtown Singapore.
• Chinatown is the focal point of the Chinese New Year Countdown party taking place during the old year’s final hours. So, get your bearings to Eu Tong Sen Street or New Bridge Road at 9 pm or later.
• To watch international and Chinese performers, attend night-time shows around Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. There, you will see martial arts experts, let traditional dragon and iconic lion dancers amaze you, and listen to opera plays.
• If you wonder where to go for some Lunar New Year shopping in the Garden City, you will find stalls in various Chinatown streets. Chunjie Bazaar lasts for hours during the evening, encompassing Pagoda, Smith, and Trengganu streets among others. Some commodities you should particularly look for are handicrafts for artists, floral arrangements for gardeners, and waxed duck for gourmands.

 

Given that you are fond of festivities and good entertainment, there is a lot for you to look forward to in the Little Red Dot. Besides celebrating Chinese New Year in Singapore, you may wish to come during Christmastime for another big spectacle. 

A Big Fat Greek Christmas

Celebrate a traditional Greek festive by the famed Singapore River, as the Taverna dishes out an exclusive a la carte Festive menu this December.

Whet your appetite with a plate of Stuffed Mushroom with classic Halloumi cheese ($18++) on a spread of salad including delicious cherry tomatoes, pomegranate and lettuce. Get your seasonal fix with drool-worthy roasted turkey (35++) with aromatic pine nut, cranberry sauce and natural gravy, accompanied by traditional roasted pork with rice and herb stuffing. Seafood alternative for the main features all-time favourite – grilled salmon with nutty quinoa salad served with creamy lemon sauce. For a wholesome winter flavour, diners can opt for a classic choice of Christmas Log Cake (16++) and a comforting cup of Winter Spiced Latte ($8++), created especially for the season.

The festive a la carte menu is exclusively available from 1^st to 25^th December. Make sure to book in advance to reserve the best waterfront seating!

Answer for How do people celebrate Christmas in Singapore?

Christmas celebrations in Singapore feature a lot of entertainment and shopping opportunities. You are unlikely to have snow in this part of Asia, but Xmas lights, performances, and parties make up for that. Moreover, theme and amusement parks stage special programs for their visitors around Christmastime.

So, let’s find out how people celebrate Christmas in Singapore.

Admire Singapore Christmas Lights and Decorations

Strolling around and relishing the Lion City’s lights and decorations is a reason enough for visiting the island nation around Christmas. You can find giant Xmas trees laden with decorative ribbons and ornamentation in various locations. 

While getting from one such place to another, look up now and then to appreciate light bulbs, lanterns, and colorful adornments hanging overhead. Since these are available in many appealing colors and designs, you may wish to stretch your neck before getting on the street. 

Some of the Garden City’s best places for such activities are Orchard Road and Gardens by the Bay. 

Buy Presents at Singapore’s Christmas Markets and Shopping Malls

Christmas and New Year celebrations without buying gifts are something like a wedding without a wedding cake, do you agree? So, grab shopping bags and browse ION Orchard, Plaza Singapura, The Paragon, and other malls along Orchard Road. 

Given that your present hunt takes you near Sentosa Island, pay a visit to VivoCity, Singapore’s largest shopping center. As a bonus, a light show may surprise you while there.

To give a wide berth to overcrowded shopping malls, do check out Christmas markets and fairs. Besides discovering a true Xmas spirit there, browse stalls and chalets for home decoration, mouth-watering specialties, and eye-appealing accessories.

Want to know the best part? Shopping in Singapore is tax-free. 

Have Fun Christmastime at Singapore Fairs and Amusement Parks

To have a chat with Santa Claus and enjoy a Grand Carousel or some other ride, go to Christmas Village on Orchard Road. You would also do well to arrive hungry since you will have a selection of specialties to treat your taste buds and fill your belly. 

For something equally, if not more, entertaining, stop by the Merlion City’s S.E.A. Aquarium on Sentosa Island. There, watch Father Christmas diving among tropical fish and his elves feeding them. Also, visit Universal Studios Singapore to win a Xmas gift, meet your favorite characters, and attend Christmas Parade. 

Check out Christmas Wonderland (Gardens by the Bay) to sing carols, admire illuminated structures, take part in parades and carnivals, and watch theatrical shows.

For a truly unforgettable Christmas wrap-up, attend the Marina Bay Singapore Countdown show. 

Party Hard and Do it Smart

Of course, we couldn’t forget partying for Christmas, could we? Besides hosting one at home, why wouldn’t you make it more grandiose, rent a venue, and invite more people? 

On the other hand, consider yourself invited to an outdoor party. Anti-Covid-19 measures permitting, come on Christmas Eve for a countdown on Orchard Road. Or, join a party on a Xmas Boat Light Parade suitable for both kids and adults. 

 

Also, spend some time walking the Singapore River waterfront to appreciate the embellished city. Moreover, check out the Lion City’s churches to attend Christmas masses.

Answer for Where are the best places to buy dancing shoes in Singapore?

I remember being asked this question once and I was not readily able to answer. I had to ask friends and colleagues who were more into dancing than me. Aside from the occasional party with friends at Singapore dance clubs, I am not really fond of dancing. You could say I have two left  feet! For this question, I looked into their recommendations and came up with this list of best places to buy dancing shoes in Singapore. Hope this helps!

Golden River Shoe

Golden River Shoe is a family-run business that was established more than 36 years ago. They sell popular UK brands, Prazo and Roby. They also offer customized dance shoes that are suitable for  various genres like tango, salsa, cha-cha, waltz, samba, and many more. Whether you are a beginner or a professional dancer, Golden River Shoe is worth a visit to see if they have what you are looking for. You can even consult with the owners who are very hands on with their business. One of my friends, who is a salsa dance club member, is a loyal customer of Golden River Shoe. She came in once and found her favorite pair of dancing shoes after receiving very helpful tips and suggestions from the owners. Talk about personalized service! (Golden River Shoe, 865 Mountbatten Rd, #01-14, Katong Shopping Centre, Singapore 437844)

Sonata

Sonata is another family-owned business that specializes in dancewear manufacturing and retail. From a simple store in 1982, Sonata has grown to become one of the leading dancewear providers in Asia, North America, and the United Kingdom. Their shoes are high quality and affordable. There are available sizes for kids and adults across different genres like ballet, jazz, tap dance, modern dance, and more. The store staff are very knowledgeable and can help you choose the right pair of shoes for your needs. (Sonata, 107 North Bridge Rd, #02-25 Funan, Singapore 179105)

John & Josephine Dance Creative

John & Josephine Dance Creative is a dance studio that also sells dance shoes and accessories. They are the exclusive Singapore distributor of the world famous dancing shoes brand, Supadance. There are also other brands available, mainly for ballroom and latin dance. There are several choices for men, women and children, either for training, casual classes, or competition. I suggest that you check out their online store first to see if they have what you are looking for. (John & Josephine Dance Creative, 1 Sophia Rd, #06-27/28 Peace Centre, Singapore 228149)

Answer for Where are the best places to buy school shoes in Singapore?

Finding the best school shoes for their children is a primary concern for every mother around the world. After all, school children spend most of their time at school in these shoes. It is only natural for mothers to make their children as comfortable as possible. If you are planning to buy a new pair of shoes for your young ones, here is a compiled list of the best places to buy school shoes in Singapore.

Ten Feet Tall

Ten Feet Tall was founded in 2016 by two moms who were frustrated about the availability of well-fitting shoes for their children in Singapore. Their mission is to provide a variety of high quality shoes that come with a proper measuring and fitting service. The founding moms definitely know what they are talking about based on their experience. No wonder that they are very popular among local and expat moms. Ten Feet Tall offers black leather shoes from European brands  Ricosta, Start-rite, and  Petsil as well as the Australian brand, Ascent. They are also the largest stockist of Asics footwear in Singapore. Sizes range from EU24 to EU46. For kids who have foot problems that need special shoes, Ten Feet Tall provides orthotic-friendly shoes through their collaboration with British podiatrist, Helen Crawford. 

The ShoeCo

The ShoeCo was originally named Heel & Toe when it was founded in 2004. This store specializes in shoes for moms and their kids so it is a sort of one-stop shop for busy moms  who are on the hunt for the best shoes for their children. The ShoeCo sells black leather shoes, active footwear and casual shoes from top brands like Bisgaard, Kavat, Richter, and Ascent. You may visit any of their 3 branches in Singapore or browse their online shop.

Bata

Bata is known for their selection of good quality black and white school shoes at affordable prices. The company was founded in 1894 as a small town shoe shop in Zlin, Czechoslovakia. That’s more than 100 years of family shoemaking history! Its first store in Singapore opened in 1931. It later expanded into more than 40 outlets around the island, establishing itself as a leading footwear chain in Singapore. Wherever you are in Singapore, a Bata store is most likely located near you. They also have an online shop for a more convenient shopping experience. Aside from their in-house brand, Bata also sells shoes from other manufacturers like North Star, Bubblegummers, and Toughees.

HolyCrab

AMBIENCE: HolyCrab’s interior has a no-frill elegance to it. Sure, the black walls and red accents will surely catch your attention, but not too much that they distract you from your main agenda: huge, succulent crab cooked to perfection.

MUST-TRIES: Of course, diners come for the famous Chili Crab, but HolyCrab also boasts an arsenal of notable non-crab dishes.

• Mini Squirters
• HolyCrab Fried Rice
• Hooked on Mee
• Oh My Cod!
• Fried/Steamed Mantou

NOTES:

• Reservations are encouraged.
• Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty!
• Vegetarian-friendly options available
• Car park charges
• Find HolyCrab on WhatsApp for promos and announcements.

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