Marina Bay Sands Review: High-Tech Luxury Staycation in Singapore

ABBEY: If there’s one iconic experience that calls out to tourists and Singapore residents alike, it’s the opportunity to swim in the world-famous infinity pool atop Marina Bay Sands Hotel. As part of our pre-cruise adventure, we treated ourselves to a night in the Sands Premier Room in Tower 1—and what an experience it was!

Our check-in coincided with a sudden downpour, temporarily delaying our much-anticipated pool visit. While waiting for the rain to subside, we decided to indulge at one of the hotel’s dining spots; Black Tap. A generously-sized burger and fries, paired with the decadent Crazyshake Brooklyn Blackout, turned the delay into a delightful mini-feast.

Once the skies cleared, we slipped into our swimwear and headed straight to the infinity pool. The panoramic view was absolutely breathtaking. From the glistening Marina Bay to the towering skyscrapers of the Central Business District and the endless sea beyond, it’s a sight that stays with you. We didn’t stop there—we also made time to relax in the hot tub, soaking in the luxurious atmosphere.

The Sands Premier Room was nothing short of extraordinary. Every detail showed sophistication, from the leather accents—yes, even the remote control and notepad covers!—to the thoughtful amenities. To our surprise, bath bombs were already waiting for us by the bathtub—no special requests needed.

Speaking of requests, the hotel went above and beyond to accommodate our sensitive skin concerns, providing alternative toiletries. It’s these small, considerate touches that truly set their service apart.

The bed was a dream; plush linens and perfectly balanced pillows. And the cherry on top? A beautifully presented birthday cake, adding a personal touch to our celebration.

From the stunning infinity pool to the impeccable service, our stay at Marina Bay Sands was unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a slice of luxury, this hotel delivers on every front. We left refreshed, pampered, and with memories to last a lifetime.

Marina Bay Sands Review High-Tech Luxury Staycation in Singapore

WILL: Back in July, Abbey and I booked a room at Marina Bay Sands (MBS) Tower 3 for SGD883.78. It was such a great deal! Fast forward to November, we tried to book the same rate but it was already gone, even after calling MBS to check. With no choice and time running out, we booked the available room—and it was completely worth it.

This is probably the best hotel room I’ve stayed in so far:
-- Bright and Well-Lit: The room was perfectly lit, which is very important to me. Good lighting doesn’t just hide imperfections in the room but also creates a breathable and open space that feels fresh and inviting.

-- Soft and Clean Linens: The bed smelled fresh, the quilt had the perfect weight, and everything felt clean and cozy.

-- Toiletries: Since I had allergies last time from the Ferragamo toiletries, we asked for alternatives—and MBS delivered Jo Malone’s. The bath salts placed beside the tub were such a nice touch.

--Teapot Bonus: I love tea, and I was so happy to see a teapot ready to use. It’s rare to find hotels that think of tea lovers like me.

The room had motion-sensor lights on the floors, the balcony’s glass door, and even the toilet area. While it’s impressive and modern, it might not suit you if you want a simple, unplugged staycation.

The MBS Infinity Pool facing Singapore’s CBD and it’s jacuzzi overlooking Gardens by the Bay, was the highlight of our stay. The jacuzzi was equally relaxing. We spent so much time here that we missed the gym again. Maybe next time!

Connecting our laptop to the TV or streaming shows was so easy. The room had cables ready and supported AirPlay, which was very convenient.

Marina Bay Sands is definitely worth the splurge. From the luxurious room to the stunning pool, everything felt special. If you’re looking for a beautiful stay with thoughtful details and a fresh, breathable space, MBS is worth every dollar.

Would you stay here? Newly renovated room cost SGD 1,071.91.

*** 

Marina Bay Sands Singapore 

(W) https://www.marinabaysands.com/

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Kenangan Coffee Singapore: Affordable Premium Spanish Latte

ABBEY: If you’re like me and have noticed Kenangan Coffee shops popping up everywhere, you’re probably wondering what all the buzz is about. I recently decided to satisfy my curiosity by downloading their app, which came with a nice bonus—a discount on their popular Creamy Aren Latte.

True to its name, the Creamy Aren Latte is rich and silky smooth. It has the perfect blend of sweetness and bitterness that makes each sip truly enjoyable. The temperature was just right, allowing me to savor every taste without it being too hot or too cold. If you’re looking for something equally comforting, I’d also recommend their D Spanish Latte—it’s warm, smooth, and has a subtle sweetness that makes it a perfect pick-me-up.

The atmosphere at their Sengkang branch is cozy and inviting, ideal for catching up with a friend or simply enjoying some quiet time with a delicious coffee. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just in the mood for a relaxing space to unwind, Kenangan Coffee offers a great experience.

Kenangan Coffee Singapore: Affordable Premium Spanish Latte 

WILL: Looking for good coffee that doesn’t cost a lot? Check out Kenangan Coffee, a new coffee spot in Singapore that offers premium coffee at budget-friendly prices! Kenangan Coffee brings the best beans from Indonesia, giving you rich, bold flavors in every cup. They’re all about serving high-quality coffee without the high price tag. The D Spanish Latte is a creamy, sweet treat that’s perfect for any time of day. And the best part? It’s only $4.90—way cheaper than big brands like Starbucks!

Kenangan Coffee is worth trying if you want tasty coffee at a great price. It’s a nice change when you’re looking for something affordable and special. If you’ve been to Kenangan Coffee, let us know your favorite drink! Don’t forget to grab the D Spanish Latte—you’ll love it! 

Whether you’re a latte lover or an espresso aficionado, stop by Kenangan Coffee and see if their Indonesian charm wins you over. 

***

KENANGAN COFFEE PTE. LTD.

(W) https://www.kenangancoffee.sg/

(H) 07:30 to 22:00

(A) 1 SENGKANG SQUARE #01-01 SINGAPORE 545078 

Tomoro Coffee Singapore: Aren Latte Review for only SGD0.88

ABBEY: If you’re a coffee enthusiast always on the lookout for new options, meet Tomoro Coffee—the latest contender in the coffee space. With a promotion that’s hard to resist, you can enjoy your first cup for just 88 cents when you sign up, which is 11 cents cheaper than similar offers from competitors.

I decided to give it a try and ordered the Tomoro Aren Latte at this incredible price. Admittedly, I picked an iced latte on a rainy day (not my best decision weather-wise), but it turned out to be a delightful surprise. The latte was velvety smooth and left me wanting more with every sip. Unlike some coffees that leave a bitter or burnt aftertaste, Tomoro’s blend is perfectly balanced and pairs wonderfully with milk.

To elevate your coffee experience, pair your drink with one of their pastries, wraps, or cakes. It’s the perfect match for a cozy coffee break or an on-the-go treat.
Ready to try it out? Grab your first Tomoro Coffee for just $0.88 with their ANYDRINK voucher. Simply sign up and use the referral code 3QRAKJ during registration.

Tomoro Coffee Singapore: Aren Latte Review for only SGD0.88

WILL: Abbey and I are always on the hunt for new coffee spots, and Tomoro Coffee caught our attention. They’re not just serving coffee—they’re building a community of coffee lovers, called the Tommunity.
What makes them different? Their app doesn’t just offer discounts (though there are plenty of those!). They also host coffee tastings and masterclasses for their members, creating a space for people who truly love coffee.

If you’re trying them for the first time, go for the Aren (Palm Sugar) Latte. It’s sweet, creamy, and just $0.88 when you download their app.
Looking for great coffee and even better connections? Give Tomoro Coffee a try!

👉 Sign up now and enjoy your first sip of Tomoro Coffee!

***

Tomoro Coffee

(W) https://h5-app-sg.tomoro-coffee.com/fission-invite?inviteCode=3QRAKJ

(H) 8AM t0 830PM

(A)70 Compassvale Bow, #01-04 Grand Mall, Singapore 544692

Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu: $25 Beef Cutlet with Unlimited Sides now in Singapore

ABBEY: Are you a fan of juicy, tender steak? Then you’ll want to check out Gyokatsu Kyoto Katsugyu, a fantastic spot to satisfy any steak cravings! We recently indulged in a meal here, and let me tell you—it did not disappoint.

I ordered the Sirloin Gyukatsu Zen, which came with a delicious spread: tender breaded steak, a side of miso soup, an onsen egg, Japanese radish, and fluffy rice. The steak itself was cooked to perfection—juicy, flavorful, and incredibly tender. The restaurant recommends trying the steak as-is, but if you prefer it a bit more done, no worries! They provide a hot plate so you can cook it to your liking.

For me, a couple of bowls of rice were perfect to soak up all the flavors, and the umami-rich soup made for a great finishing touch. Overall, this meal was a satisfying, delightful experience that’s perfect for steak lovers!

Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu $25 Beef Cutlet with Unlimited Sides now in Singapore

WILL: Are you ready for a new way to enjoy beef? Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu brings the magic of deep-fried beef cutlet—known as “Gyukatsu”—straight from Kyoto to Raffles City, Singapore. Traditionally made with Wagyu beef, Gyukatsu is a dish you’ll want to savor.

At first, I wondered: Would Gyukatsu taste like pork tonkatsu? But one bite proved me wrong. The beef is tender and juicy, cooked to a perfect medium rare despite being deep-fried. No need for extra searing on a hot plate—it’s just right as it is.

We tried the Sirloin Gyukatsu Zen set for SGD 25, which includes soup, fresh cabbage, rice, and side dishes are eat-all-you-can. However, one thing I noticed is that the meat is quite thin, which may be a bit unexpected. Still, the bold flavors and textures make every bite enjoyable.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s more than just satisfying, Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu is a place to return to again and again.

*** 

                          Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu

(W) https://gyukatsu-kyotokatsugyu.com.sg

(H) Lunch 11am - 3pm (Last Order 2:30pm) / Dinner 5pm-10pm (Last Order 9pm)

(A) 252 North Bridge Road, #B1-63/64, Raffles City Shopping Centre, Singapore 179103

High Notes and Heartfelt Memories: A Night with Asia’s Songbird

ABBEY: When Regine Velasquez announces a concert, there’s only one thing to do: buy those tickets! We recently attended her “The Best of Times” performance, and it was nothing short of spectacular. While I’m not big on meet-and-greets, sitting just a few rows from the stage was perfect for enjoying the show up close.

Some might say Regine is past her prime, but this performance proved otherwise. She showcased incredible versatility, seamlessly moving between her beloved classics and powerful new renditions. Regine knows exactly how to keep her audience engaged, belting out hit after hit with those legendary high notes. Favorites like Dadalhin, Tuwing Umuulan at Kapiling Ka, Pangarap Ko ang Ibigin Ka, and Kailangan Ko’y Ikaw filled the venue, reminding everyone of her iconic range and emotion.

One special highlight was her heartfelt Elvis Presley medley, including Love Me Tender and Can’t Help Falling in Love. It was a beautiful way for her to share pieces of her journey through the songs that defined her career. And as a fitting finale, she brought the house down with renditions of Huling El Bimbo and Huwag Mo Nang Itanong.

Regine Velasquez truly is in a masterclass of her own.

High Notes and Heartfelt Memories A Night with Asia’s Songbird

WILL: Lately, I’ve been more of a "please, let me stay home and rekindle my love affair with sleep" kind of person. So when I first saw the Facebook ad for Regine Velasquez’s concert, I didn’t feel the usual excitement. It just didn’t fit into my cozy weekend plans. But Abbey, who’s been wanting to see a Filipino artist live, bought us tickets anyway—even though my answer to “Nood tayo?” was just a casual “Ok lang.”

Then, the night of the concert arrived, and from the moment Regine stepped on stage, old memories started to come alive. I was taken back to my high school days when she was my fashion inspiration. I remembered copying her hairstyles, wearing clogs, layering chokers, and even putting a little sparkle on my forehead just like she did. Regine wasn’t just a singer to me back then—she was a style icon.

And then she sang. Regine’s voice was powerful, clear, and rich, and she hit those high notes with such ease—it was like no time had passed at all. I was amazed! She reminded everyone why she’s known as Asia’s Songbird, her voice soaring over the crowd, touching each heart. Song after song, I felt like I was on a journey through my own past. Her music brought back memories and moments that had been part of my life. 

Thank you, Abbey, for this special experience. And thank you, Regine, for coming to Singapore. Your songs are forever part of my story.

Cheap and Tasty: Enjoy Date Night at Yappari Steak VivoCity

ABBEY: If you’re a steak lover, Yappari Steak should be on your must-visit list. Although you might encounter a long queue, trust me—it’s well worth the wait! Each order of their perfectly cooked steaks comes with unlimited servings of fresh salad, fluffy Japanese rice, and hot soup, making it an unbeatable deal.

On my first visit, I ordered the signature Yappari Steak, and on my second, I tried the Mix Cut. Both were incredibly tender, rich, and full of flavor with a smooth, milky texture. A word of caution: the hot stone they serve the steak on stays sizzling, so handle it carefully!
While the steak is delicious on its own, I highly recommend pairing it with their garlic sauce—it’s a game-changer. I enjoyed it so much that I went through four servings of rice and multiple bowls of soup!

WILL: I’ve been stopping by VivoCity a lot lately. It’s my go-to spot when I want to avoid a long walk to the MRT. But now, there’s an even better reason to make the trip. Dinner! 

Yappari Steak is always buzzing with activity, and you can expect to wait at least 15 minutes during peak hours. But trust me, it’s worth it! The beef here is amazing, perfectly balanced between tender meat and just the right amount of fat. The cooks really know their stuff—they make sure the steaks don’t overcook, even if you leave them sizzling on the hot plate a bit too long.

My favorite has to be the hamburg steak; it’s so juicy and comforting. And don’t even get me started on the mixed-cut steaks—they’re incredibly tender. One of the best parts? Yappari Steak offers all-you-can-eat rice, soup, and salad, so you can really fill up and enjoy your meal!

I can’t recommend this place enough—let’s stop gatekeeping such a gem! The prices are fantastic, with sets starting at just SGD 16.80. See you at Yappari Steak! 

***Yappari Steak

(W) https://yapparigroup.jp/shop/overseas/singapore.html

(H) 11AM to 10PM 

(A) 01 HarbourFront Walk, VivoCity 02-110, Singapore 098585

Laughing Out Loud with Alex Calleja in Singapore

ABBEY: If you’re a fan of Alex Calleja’s hilarious content on YouTube, then you’ll understand why we couldn’t pass up the chance to see him live in Singapore. His relatable humor always hits the mark, so we were eager to catch his show, hoping for fresh material.

Alex didn’t disappoint! He brought along the Comedy Crew, who did a fantastic job warming up the audience. Their sets covered everything from reggae vibes to the ups and downs of married life, and even sibling dynamics – all delivered with perfect comedic timing. By the time Alex took the stage for the finale, the crowd was already in high spirits, and the laughter just kept coming.

While he did sprinkle in a few classic jokes, most of the material was brand new, and the energy in the room was infectious. Alex has a knack for making everyone feel included, even taking the time to explain his jokes if they didn’t land right away – which, trust me, only made the punchlines funnier!

Laughing Out Loud with Alex Calleja in Singapore

WILL: My husband is a huge fan of stand-up comedy, spending countless hours watching his favorite comedians on YouTube. Often, I’ll catch him sitting on the couch, laughing uncontrollably, with tears in his eyes. So, when we found out Alex was coming to Singapore for a one-night-only show, Abbey immediately bought us tickets without a second thought. I’ll admit, though, I was a bit skeptical – would it be worth it, or would he just be rehashing jokes we’ve already heard?

The night of the show arrived, and the energy in the venue was amazing. A couple of opening acts took the stage first, warming up the audience with their own humor, which helped everyone loosen up and set the tone for the night. Laughter filled the air, and by the time Alex Calleja finally came on stage, the crowd was ready for him.

And let me tell you, Alex did not disappoint. Even if I’d heard some of his jokes before, his delivery and timing had me laughing just as hard as the first time. Seeing him live was a completely different experience than watching him on a screen. The energy he brought, combined with the laughter and reactions from the crowd, made every joke hit differently. It wasn’t just funny – it was an experience. I could feel the positive vibes spreading through the room, and it was impossible not to laugh along. It was exactly the kind of break we needed – a chance to laugh freely and recharge.

By the end of the night, Abbey and I left with big smiles, grateful we had gone. If you’re a fan of Alex Calleja, his YouTube channel is definitely worth watching, but seeing him live is an absolute must! The experience, the laughter, and the energy are on another level – one we’ll remember and laugh about for a long time.

*** 

Alex Calleja

(Y) https://www.youtube.com/@alexcalleja/videos

Singapore Coffee: A Unique Twist on Hawker Coffee at Raffles Hotel

ABBEY: We first came to know Singapore Coffee when we stayed at Raffles Hotel. It is one of the shop houses at the hotel. But we’re not able to go there during our stay as it is too late for a coffee.

Be sure to queue at the entrance at the courtyard and not near the street. We planned our visit after a sumptuous buffet and I ordered my cup of kopi. Once seated I noticed their foldable fans at the ceiling; a functional art installation. They are driven by a motor to help circulate the air. But it’s still warm though. The kopi is the same as what I’m having at other places. They also offer pastries and cakes. 

Aside from that, you can have Singapore food like mee goreng, chicken rice, congee, laksa, and satay to name a few. Western food like burgers, fries, salad bowls, and sandwiches are also available. And this is also where I bought the teas and coffee gift packs that I brought to Switzerland for my colleagues.

Menu:

https://www.singaporecoffee.sg/_files/ugd/65962c_e0d2815841f64a9d9b2fa403a7f2b968.pdf

Singapore Coffee: A Unique Twist on Hawker Coffee at Raffles Hotel

WILL: Singapore is renowned for its vibrant coffee and tea culture. But did you know there's a café in the city that takes traditional hawker coffee to the next level? Introducing Singapore Coffee, a popular destination for those seeking a refined version of local kopi.

Conveniently located within the iconic Raffles Hotel, Singapore Coffee offers more than just your average cup of coffee. The café boasts an elegant setting inspired by a Peranakan house, complete with air conditioning for a comfortable experience.

At Singapore Coffee, the beans are of superior quality compared to your typical hawker stalls. The café also offers a curated menu of local delights and even mocktails to complement your coffee experience.Expect prices comparable to international cafés, but with the added bonus of enjoying a local twist on coffee culture.

Singapore Coffee is perfect for both locals and tourists looking to try a premium version of Singapore’s beloved hawker coffee. For tourists, we highly recommend purchasing a pack of coffee as a unique souvenir to bring home.

***

Singapore Coffee

(W) https://www.singaporecoffee.sg/

(H) 9am to 6pm

(A) Raffles Hotel Arcade 328 North Bridge Road #01-13 | Singapore 188719

(T) +65 8878 7093

Simple One-Pot Chicken Recipe with Veggies: A Budget-Friendly Meal

Ingredients:

Chicken (preferably with bones or thigh). 

Celery couple of stalks

Carrot

Canned tomato

Garlic

Onion

Cut the chicken into 1x2inch sizes. 

Sauté onion then garlic then chicken until they brown. 

Mix in the tomatoes and continue to sauté for a minute or two. Put in 2 cups of water and simmer. Next is carrots. Once half-cooked, put the celery. Add salt and pepper to taste. 

Simple One-Pot Chicken Recipe with Veggies: A Budget-Friendly Meal

VERDICT

WILL: 

Why You’ll Love This Minestrone Soup Recipe:

-Budget-Friendly: Using bone-in chicken or thighs keeps this recipe affordable while still providing rich flavor.

    

-Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and the vegetables can be easily adjusted based on what you have on hand.

-Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from the carrots and celery, this stew is a wholesome, satisfying meal.

-One-Pot Meal: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, making it a perfect meal for busy nights.

This chicken stew with carrots, celery, and canned tomatoes is the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings or when you need a nourishing meal that’s easy on the wallet. It’s simple, quick to make, and packed with flavor. Whether you're cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy both your appetite and your budget.

Enjoy your cozy bowl of stew, and don’t forget to share your version with friends and family!