The ideal holiday is one that rejuvenates you, recharges your body, and allows you to return relaxed, refreshed, and ready to go. With so many beautiful destinations around the world boasting sandy beaches, snow-capped mountains, and natural valley springs, the world is your oyster. We encourage you to explore as many of these wonderful places as you can. It’s even better when you travel with your family, so you can create and capture memories together.However, travelling with little ones can be tedious if not planned properly. Some countries may also not be as child-friendly as we would like them to be. What we’re looking for are destinations that are convenient to travel around, especially since you’ll be carrying luggage, strollers, diaper bags, and plenty of extra weight. Simple conveniences, like having elevators or escalators instead of stairs, may seem minor to some but make a world of difference for parents travelling with toddlers.In this story, we highlight countries that not only offer plenty of activities for children but are also easy and safe to explore. The goal is a stress-free holiday that keeps everyone happy and helps reduce any potential quarrels along the way.ShanghaiPhoto credit: Shanghai Disneyland websiteChina has changed over the years, and for the better. Shanghai, in particular, is a bustling city worth visiting any time of the year, and the level of convenience here is truly impressive.Transport: With their popular taxi app, DiDi, getting around the city is fuss-free and affordable. Most rides arrive within five minutes of booking, making it easy to travel even with toddlers, whether you are braving the summer heat or the winter chill.Attractions: The city is alive both day and night. With Shanghai Disneyland as one of its top attractions, you can be sure your children will have just as much fun as you do.Safety and cleanliness: Shanghai is generally a safe and clean city. As most vehicles have been converted to electric, the streets are quieter and the air is noticeably cleaner. However, do note that Shanghai can get very crowded, especially in popular areas. We recommend keeping your child in a stroller or carrying them in your arms in such places to prevent them from getting lost.PenangPhoto credit: Saanen Dairy Goat Farm on FacebookPenang is a food paradise and just a short getaway from Singapore. A quick trip is always less stressful than a long one, making it perfect for families. This destination is especially great for children who are old enough to enjoy solid food, as there are plenty of delicious treats to try.Transport: While there are public transport options in Penang, private hire rides are often a more convenient choice, especially for families. This makes travelling from place to place less tiring. With the unforgiving heat in Penang, it is also more comfortable for children to stay cool in a car as you explore the city.Attractions: Rich in history and culture, Penang offers plenty of experiences for children. Let your little ones enjoy a trishaw ride and soak in the sights of the city. You can also visit goat farms or butterfly gardens to introduce them to animals and nature. For older children, the Escape Theme Park is a must-visit, featuring water slides, pools, and endless fun.Safety and cleanliness: Penang is generally a safe destination, though it’s still important to stay alert and avoid loitering late at night. Since many of Penang’s most famous dishes are served at street stalls, we recommend bringing utensil wipes to clean cutlery before use, whether for your children or yourself.NetherlandsPhoto credit: Tulip Festival Amsterdam websiteThe Netherlands is one of the most child-friendly countries in Europe, with friendly locals who are always willing to lend a hand. Most importantly, it is a beautiful country filled with flowers and windmills, perfect for family portraits. It is especially great for families with young daughters who would love to see the colourful tulip fields, explore flower markets, and take in the charm of the countryside.Transport: The Netherlands has an excellent public transport system that includes trains, buses, trams, metros, and ferries. If you are travelling with children above the age of 10, renting bicycles for short-distance travel is also a fun and popular option.Attractions: The Netherlands is known for its scenic beauty and rich history, but it also offers fun, interactive experiences for children. Visit the NEMO Science Museum for hands-on learning or enjoy a family adventure at Beekse Bergen Safari Park and ARTIS Zoo. Don’t miss the chance to explore the country’s many historical castles, where your little ones can feel like royalty for a day.Safety and cleanliness: As one of the safest and cleanest countries in Europe, the Netherlands is a great choice for families seeking a stress-free holiday. While serious crimes are rare, petty theft and pickpocketing can still occur, so it is important to stay alert and keep your belongings secure.HanoiPhoto credit: Trip.comHanoi is the kind of city where you can truly relax. With its many charming cafés and serene lakes, it’s the perfect place to slow down, ride a pedal boat, and watch your children enjoy nature while you unwind.Transport: Public transport is limited in Hanoi, but private hire rides can be easily booked through apps. These rides are convenient and very affordable, making it simple to get around with children and strollers.Attractions: While Hanoi may not have as many child-specific attractions, it offers plenty of cozy cafés where you can enjoy hearty meals together as a family while sipping on rich Vietnamese coffee. Be sure to catch the traditional Water Puppet Show, a unique cultural performance that both adults and children will love.Safety and cleanliness: As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is generally safe and clean. However, it’s best to dine in restaurants or cafés rather than at street stalls, especially if you are travelling with young children. The only area of concern is the city’s traffic. Crossing the road can feel daunting as vehicles continue to move even when pedestrians are present. Always hold your children’s hands near roads shoulders or carry them in your arms for safety.New ZealandPhoto credit: Hobbiton Tours websiteSlow down your pace and travel to one of the most scenic countries in the world. New Zealand will open your children’s eyes to the wonders of nature. A road trip with toddlers can be challenging, but if planned well and with more family members, it can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience.Transport: We highly recommend driving if possible. Renting a large caravan and inviting your parents or relatives along makes for a fun family adventure. While it may seem stressful at first, especially when travelling with a toddler, having a car means you can easily stop by a nearby megamart for essentials whenever needed. Plus, having extra family members helps share the load of caring for your little ones while you plan your next destination.Attractions: New Zealand offers endless attractions for families. The Hobbiton Movie Set is a must-visit for fans of The Lord of the Rings, while nature lovers will enjoy glowworm cave tours, dolphin watching, and whale spotting activities. These experiences not only entertain your children but also reconnect them with nature and reduce their screen time.Safety and cleanliness: New Zealand is one of the safest countries to visit and is even popular among solo women travellers. Most of your time will be spent exploring nature, chasing waterfalls, and enjoying peaceful road trips with your family. The only tip we have is to pack enough insect repellent for your children, especially if you plan to go glamping, hiking, or exploring the great outdoors.GreecePhoto credit: Klook websiteIf you love the beach, the sun, and stunning ancient landscapes, Greece is the perfect destination for your next family trip. Your little ones will love it too. While getting out in the sun can be uncomfortable in Singapore, Greece enjoys sunny weather most of the year, with spring and autumn offering pleasant temperatures. This makes it one of the best countries to relax and spend quality time with your children under the sun.Transport: Although Greece has public transport such as buses, most travellers prefer to drive to avoid steep climbs and stairs, especially when travelling with children and heavy luggage. We highly recommend renting a car so you can easily get around and bring along beach essentials like towels, sandcastle tools, and other fun items for your family.Attractions: Greece’s biggest draw is its beautiful beaches and fascinating ancient ruins that date back thousands of years. Families can also consider staying at resorts that offer child-friendly facilities and activities, such as boat rides and games by the sea. In addition, Greece is home to interactive museums like the Hellenic Children’s Museum, where kids can enjoy hands-on experiences such as grocery shopping, cooking, and other real-life simulations.Safety and cleanliness: Greece has a low crime rate and a strong family-oriented culture, which means locals are generally warm and welcoming towards children. Most beaches are child-friendly and supervised by lifeguards, and food options are suitable for young ones. It is also a clean and comfortable country to visit. For extra peace of mind, booking a family resort is a great way to enjoy your stay, as many offer added safety measures and curated activities for all ages.SwitzerlandPhoto credit: Switzerland on FacebookSwitzerland is the go-to family holiday destination for all ages. It is one of the safest and most family-friendly countries in the world, offering a high quality of life and a secure environment for both young and old.Transport: Public transport in Switzerland is excellent, with trains, buses, trams, and ferries connecting cities and scenic towns seamlessly. The Swiss Travel Pass is especially convenient, allowing you to enjoy discounts on museums, cable cars, and more, while also serving as an all-in-one transport card. Travelling around is easy and pleasant, making it a great destination for families with children.Attractions: Switzerland offers endless outdoor adventures for children to experience the beauty of nature. Enjoy gentle hikes, visit charming car-free towns, or explore indoor attractions such as playgrounds and museums. The country’s breathtaking landscapes mean your children can interact with farm animals like cows or simply admire the magnificent Alps.Safety and cleanliness: Switzerland is renowned for its low crime rate and exceptional cleanliness. Many residents operate on trust, often selling farm-fresh eggs or produce at unmanned stalls with just a sign showing the price. The country also has many stroller-friendly attractions and alpine playgrounds designed with young children in mind, making it an ideal family destination.If you’re planning for a trip this coming holiday season with your children, try these countries for a stress-free travel. We recommend inviting your siblings or parents along to such trips so that they can be additional hands and feet to take care of your children while you and your partner can have a breather! Most importantly, travelling is fun but it is also important to come back feeling like you’ve taken a good break. We hope this story helps and wish all of you a happy holiday!If you’re planning a trip this coming holiday season with your children, consider visiting these countries for a stress-free getaway. We recommend inviting your siblings or parents along so they can lend a helping hand while you and your partner take some time to relax and recharge. Travelling is meant to be fun, but it’s just as important to return home feeling truly rested and refreshed. We hope this story helps you plan your next family adventure and wish you all a wonderful holiday ahead!

With less than 10 days to 2025, it’s time to welcome the new year in style. Just like every year, Singapore lights up the night sky with fireworks shows across the island, from nearby heartlands to a spectacular 15-minute display at the iconic Kallang Basin and Marina Bay.This year, spice up your countdown celebrations with friends and raise a toast to a brand new year filled with fresh beginnings. Soak in the festive cheer and enjoy a fun, electrifying night at some of Singapore’s most popular bars. Best of all, you can catch the fireworks while sipping on your favourite cocktails.Read on to discover five bars you can hop between this 31 December, or settle into for the night as you drink your way into a happy new year.SKAI LoftPrize: $35++ (with a free drink)Address: Swissôtel The Stamford Singapore (2 Stamford Rd, Lvl 70 #70-01, Singapore 178882)Photo credit: Swissôtel The Stamford on FacebookWhen we talk about “electrifying,” we picture a venue filled with vibrant neon lights and DJs spinning high-energy dance-pop and EDM tracks. This is exactly what awaits you on New Year’s Eve at Singapore’s tallest hotel, Swissôtel The Stamford.Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city and catch the fireworks as DJs Kidd Royale, Vianna, and Pillazion keep the party going with their beats throughout the night.BaiaPrice: Starting from $398 (4-course dinner meal)Address: Esplanade Mall (8 Raffles Ave, Level 4 Esplanade Mall, Singapore 039802)Photo credit: Baia websiteIf you prefer jazz music and live entertainment, along with a comfortable couch from which to watch the fireworks, Baia is the place for you. While it is on the pricier side, you’ll be treated to a sumptuous four-course dinner featuring a seafood tower, Wagyu steak, and a sweet tower.Beyond the dining experience, you’ll be entertained throughout the night by a jazz band, a roving magician, a gravity-defying contortionist, and dance anthems, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Marina Bay fireworks.After a year of hard work, this is a spot that’s worth the once-a-year splurge for a memorable evening of great food, entertainment, and quality time with your loved ones.Ce La Vie Price: $118 (10pm onwards with 1 glass of champagne) – Walk ins are available on actual day.Address: Marina Bay Sands Singapore (1 Bayfront Avenue, Hotel, Tower 3 Marina Bay Sands, 018971)Photo credit: CÉ LA VI Singapore on FacebookEvery year, this venue is packed and remains one of the most popular and sought-after places to party through the night. This year, gather here to watch the sky light up in a burst of colours as the city ushers in a brand-new year.Come dressed in blazing red and gold to experience Midnight Rogue at its most passionate and luxurious. We guarantee this is a celebration that will make 2026 memorable before it even begins.MontiPrice: $130 Rooftop Party (with 2 house pours)$178++ 4-Course Set (First Seating)$308++ 5-Course Set (Second Seating)Address: Monti (1-Pavilion, 82 Collyer Quay Singapore 049327)Photo credit: Monti websiteMonti is another popular dining spot to consider if you’re looking to catch the fireworks while soaking in the festive vibes. Indulge in their four or five-course set menus, featuring mouth-watering mains such as Truffle Risoni and Wood-Fired Kagoshima Wagyu A5, among others.Expect a night filled with dazzling fireworks, flowing bubbles, and a sparkling dance floor where you can show off your best moves under the brightly lit night sky.Mr. StorkPrice: $298 (Standing & Teepee), $398 (Table Package)Address: Andaz Singapore, by Hyatt (5 Fraser St, Level 39, Andaz 189354)Photo credit: Andaz Singapore websiteMuch like a rooftop garden, this venue brings the comfort of nature into the heart of our urban jungle. This countdown, raise a toast to the new year and dance the night away under the brightly lit skies at Mr. Stork.Fuel up with free-flow drinks and bites as the DJ powers the night with electrifying beats.BONUS Dining DealThe Grumpy BearWhether it’s a 1st January 2026 family meal or a chance to close the chapter on 2025 with a hearty feast, The Grumpy Bear has got you covered. Their festive menu is affordable, delicious, and perfect for family gatherings, whether for Christmas or New Year. This family-friendly café offers an array of delights such as Beary Miso Chicken, the Joyful Gathering Platter with CranMerry Sauce, and our favourite, the Waffle Christmas Gnome.These playful names will definitely get your little ones excited about mealtime. Just tell them they’ll be eating a real gnome!Check Out More 1-for-1 Dining Deals from The Grumpy Bear!This Christmas and New Year, make it a memorable one by heading out with your friends to one of these bars. Most importantly, keep the night safe for everyone by drinking responsibly and avoiding driving if you plan to drink.Have fun, and let’s make 2026 our best year yet.

If you’re looking to “exercise more” this year and have been wanting to try the famous pickleball sport, this is your sign to commit to it in 2026.Pickleball is an easy-entry sport that you can pick up quickly. It’s inexpensive to start and, most importantly, requires minimal gear to carry each time you play. It’s no wonder the sport has gained so much traction over the years, with many players sticking with it long-term.As a beginner, there are a few things you’ll need to prepare before becoming a pickleball player. First, if you’ve never tried the sport before, we recommend borrowing some gear from a friend who already plays and giving it a go once or twice. Once you’ve fallen in love with the game (which you will), here are some essentials you can consider getting to fully commit to the sport.Enjoy up to 2% Cashback with Decathlon & Kickstart Your Pickleball Game Today!1. PaddleChoosing the right paddle will make a big difference in the beginner stage. Many paddles designed for beginners offer greater forgiveness on off-centre hits, are lighter in weight, and are durable enough for frequent play. These paddles are often wider and come with shorter handles, allowing for a larger paddle face. They are typically made from materials that are lightweight yet sturdy.What to look for:Wider paddles for a larger sweet spot.Shorter handles to maximise paddle face surface.Carbon fibre for durability and lightweight performance (ideal for beginners).Graphite for a thinner build and quicker response (better suited for intermediate players).Get Affordable Paddles from Decathlon & Enjoy 2% Cashback!2. BallsThere is a difference between outdoor and indoor pickleballs, mainly in their plastic material and hole size. Outdoor balls are harder and have smaller holes to account for unpredictable wind, ensuring a more stable and precise flight path. Indoor balls, on the other hand, are softer and lighter, with larger holes that make them slower and easier to control.What to look for:Outdoor balls with smaller holes and thicker plastic. Unless you’re certain you’ll only be playing indoors, outdoor balls offer greater flexibility for both indoor and outdoor recreational play.Choose the Correct Accessories from Decathlon and Enjoy up to 2% Cashback!3. Shoes Photo credit: Skechers websiteIf you’re not ready to splurge on this new sport just yet, that’s perfectly fine. However, shoes are one investment you shouldn’t scrimp on. A good pair of court shoes provides excellent grip and ankle stability, helping to prevent injuries during play. As a beginner, this is even more important, as you’re still getting comfortable with the footwork and movements of the game.What to look for:Outsole grip & traction: Choose shoes with rubber outsoles and court-specific tread patterns for reliable grip and reduced slipping.Cushioning & comfort: Sufficient cushioning helps absorb impact and provides comfort during longer play sessions.Stability & lateral support: A sturdy upper and firm heel counter improve ankle stability and support quick side-to-side movements, reducing the risk of injury.Breathability: Mesh uppers allow better airflow to keep your feet cool and breathable.Note of caution: Avoid running shoes, as they lack the lateral support and ankle stability needed for pickleball.Enjoy 1.5% Cashback When You Shop Skechers via merewards!4. Comfortable SportswearPhoto credit: Terrae websiteMuch like tennis players, pickleball players typically wear sports attire designed for mobility and comfort. You’ll often find their outfits come with pockets to store balls, so you don’t have to pick them up after every missed shot.What to look for:Breathable tops that allow for maximum mobility.Shorts or skirts with pockets to store balls.Sports caps, visors, or sweatbands for outdoor play.5. Pickleball Bag Photo credit: Terrae websiteAs pickleball has grown in popularity over the years, bag designs have also become cuter and more versatile. Some brands, such as Malaysian influencer-led sports brand Terrae, offer exceptionally well-thought-out pickleball and tennis bags. Terrae’s All Court Racket Bag, for instance, is functional, practical, and lightweight, making it ideal for carrying all your on-court necessities.What to look for:Compartments that can hold paddles, balls, water bottles, towels, and clothes.Lightweight materials, as your gear can quickly become heavy.Apart from these starter essentials, it’s important to remember to bring along a few other must-haves such as sunscreen, an overgrip for added comfort, and a water bottle to stay hydrated. Most importantly, bring your A-game to every match and enjoy the moment. We believe 2026 will be the year you find joy in pickleball and stay more active.Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission. 

Every year, we make resolutions to help us grow in the new year. Most resolutions involve losing weight, saving money, learning a new instrument, or taking on a new sporting challenge. However, as Singaporeans, there are many everyday habits we can improve to develop a better lifestyle and mindset in 2026.In this story, we explore 8 common Singaporean habits that we can be more intentional about changing this year so that we can become better versions of ourselves or even save more money along the way.1. Use That ActiveSG / Gym MembershipIf you didn’t know, every Singaporean and Permanent Resident receives a one-off $100 top-up to their ActiveSG credits. These credits allow you to book public swimming pools, courts for badminton or pickleball, and even kayaking sessions. If you’ve been wanting to try a new sport, now is the time to use those credits and get active.On the other hand, if you are someone who has declared “New Year, New Me” and signed up for a year-long gym membership, the goal is to stay consistent. You paid, so you go. Aim to work out more than twice a week this year.2. Complain LessComplaining is an iconic Singaporean pastime and a common conversation starter whenever someone asks about your day. Whether it is about the weather or the train, we always seem to have something to complain about.This year, let’s break the habit. The train was only late by five minutes. It is not the end of the world. Instead, let’s reduce how often we complain and replace it with gratitude. Be thankful that we have such an efficient public transport system that takes us to almost every part of Singapore conveniently.3. Spend Less on Food DeliveryLove your food delivery membership perks? We get it. We do too, especially when a 9pm delivery hits different. But so does your wallet and waistline. With a minimum spend of $15, we sometimes end up ordering more than we should for supper.This year, aim to learn how to cook at least once a week and walk to your nearest kopitiam for supper instead of ordering prata or bubble tea.Save Money by Enjoy 1-for-1 Dining Deals on merewards!4. Learn to Guard Your RestBurning out should not be the norm. Work hard, yes. Burn out, no. In a city where hustle culture and overworking are often glorified, be someone who learns to guard their rest. Resting is not being lazy. It helps you stay productive during your working hours. Learn to say no sometimes and protect your evenings to spend time with family or friends. These are moments money cannot buy, so do not let them slip away in the name of hustle culture.More importantly, protecting your evenings also means resting at the right time and not staying online until midnight just to “prove” productivity. You only have one body and one chance at good health in the prime of your life. Learn to stay calm internally, even in stressful situations. If needed, take your leave to rest and unwind by doing something you enjoy without constantly looking at your phone.5. Drink More Water (Not Just Kopi & BBT)Fatigue seems to be a common issue faced by many Singaporeans, as we often have never-ending schedules. This can lead to a lack of sleep and a constant reliance on coffee, matcha, or bubble tea to stay energised throughout the day.However, these drinks are not substitutes for water, as they often contain sugar and milk that are high in calories. This year, aim to drink at least 3 litres of plain water daily and see how staying hydrated helps you feel more energised and reduces brain fog.6. Explore Singapore Like a TouristYou do not need a flight to have a life. Flying overseas every year is a good-to-have, not a must. Take your leave and explore Singapore like a tourist. Try that pastry from the bakery you have always meant to visit, or explore neighbourhoods you have never been to. Go for a walk in one of the many nature parks you have been meaning to check out, or visit local museums and see Singapore with fresh eyes.Singapore may be small, but it is far from boring. You do not have to travel overseas to take a break from work. Instead, use that same amount of leave to rest, recalibrate, and explore the places and eateries in Singapore you have always wanted to try.Book Local Activities with Klook and Earn Up to 3.5% Cashback!7. Save First, Spend LaterWhether you have an upcoming BTO to pay for or a baby on the way, saving money is a challenge for many of us, especially as we strive for a better standard of living.This year, pause before purchasing the latest gadget or that $100 “treat yourself” meal you find yourself splurging on almost every week. Build the habit of “sleeping on it” and avoid being swayed by urgent, last-minute deals. A good rule of thumb for bigger purchases is to give yourself a day. If you are still thinking about it the next day, take the time to compare prices before buying. Platforms like Shopee and Lazada often carry the same products, sometimes at lower prices with platform vouchers.Most importantly, make it a point this year to check in with a financial advisor to ensure you have sufficient emergency funds and automated savings in place for rainy days. Your future self will be grateful.Get up to 10% Cashback When You Shop at Lazada via merewards!8. Be Proud of Small WinsSingaporeans are great at achieving a lot, but we also tend to compare ourselves and undervalue our progress. As part of learning to be more thankful in 2026 and complain less, let us also learn to celebrate progress, not just promotions.Allow yourself to rest without guilt and remind yourself that you are doing better than you think. Comparison is the thief of joy, and everyone is running their own race. It is perfectly okay not to be exactly where social norms say you should be.Managed to hit the gym three times this week? Count it as a small win worth being proud of. Remember, surviving is also succeeding.This 2026, be kinder to yourself and to the people around you. Learn to prioritise your health and quality time with family and friends. Lastly, do not be afraid to try new things, meet new people, and explore new places.May 2026 bring more joy and peace into your life, and less fear of the future. Happy 2026!Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission.