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!

Hawker culture is one that makes Singapore unique and homely. It is the smell of familiar wok hey or the late night hokkien mee that you dabao (takeaway) home to eat after a long day. However, with most hawkers in their retirement age, the new generation must step up to continue the culture.In this story, we want to highlight some of the local hawkers that have now been overtaken by a new generation of young people, as well as arising and aspiring young generation hawkers that are starting out in this industry. We hope you’ll support them to preserve the local flavours our pioneers have built.Dragon CurryLocation: 505 Beach Rd, B1-01 Golden Mile Food Centre, Singapore 199583Hainanese curry rice is the rich supper meal many people love to indulge in occasionally. With the dish being one that is not easily spotted in Singapore, there is a humble store located at Golden Mile Food Centre that is operated by a young man who was a previously a chef for the famous Jumbo Seafood. Perfecting this dish in multiple tries through food science, his Hainanese curry rice is slightly different from the usual.Choose either from Chicken, Pork Cutlet or Sambal Fish, all are well marinated to bring out the flavour he desires to portray. Moreover, instead of fried eggs that are often spotted in curry rice, he replaces them with lava egg instead to make the dish less overbearing and greasy. A well-thought out dish that hits home, yet innovated to suit a new generation of diners.Botak Cantonese PorridgeLocations: Our Tampines Hub Hawker #01-65One Punggol Hawker #02-14 217 Bedok North (Foodloft)This family-owned porridge business has taken the Internet by storm because of a rising young hawker who used to be the bodyguard of Singapore’s President. Serving different variation of porridge (or congee), you can choose from Chicken, with the choice of including cuttlefish, or Pork and Seafood, featuring century egg, fish and more. All of their porridge also comes with you tiao (dough fritters) to provide that additional crunch.Starting at only $3.50, this porridge store is a must-try when you’re near their 3 hawker centers.Butter TownLocations: Holland Drive MarketCT Hub 2Owned by 2 sisters who love to bake, Butter Town has evolved from a home-based business to an iconic brand known by many now. Being the first to jump on the Shio Pan bandwagon, Butter Town is known for their shio pan, having carrying many different flavours. On top of that, they also launched a shio pan vending machine where you can get fresh shio pan with a few clicks!Their stores can also be found in popular Hawker places like Holland Drive Market. So head down now and taste some of their best creations.Grandma’s Taste Ipoh ClaypotLocation:42 Clementi Ave 3, #01-121 Bistro 8, Singapore 120442623 Elias Road Pasir Ris S510623 - Coffee United978 Toa Payoh North S319001 - The Space Foodcourt148 Silat Ave S160148 - Kopi HausGrandma’s Taste Ipoh Claypot is run by young owners from Malaysia whose goal is to bring a taste of home to fellow Malaysians here in Singapore. Try their iconic Pork Trotter With Black Vinegar ($7.80) that has won the hearts of many, including the NEA team through the Incubation Stall Programme (ISP) by NEA. This dish is a must-try when you visit, alongside a variety of bubbling goodness like Eggplant with Salted Fish & Minced Pork ($5.80), Traditional Curry Chicken ($6.80) and many more.Cha MulanLocations: Multiple locations across SingaporeCha Mulan was opened by 2 men whose aspiration was to hop onto the bubble tea bandwagon but make it healthy. Their drinks include ingredients you can find from your local TCM stall, such as Peach Gum, Snow Fungus, Goji Berry and more. Most importantly, these drinks are not just unhealthy sugar bombs, but they are packed with health benefits like collagen.The next time you’re having that sugar craving, find them in your nearest hawker center and satisfy that BBT urge with their healthier tea option!Rolina Curry PuffLocation: 6 Tanjong Pagar Plaza, Market and Food Centre, #02-15, Singapore 081006Rolina, originally pronounced as Novena, was a small curry puff store located in Novena and it has stolen the hearts of many. The story of becoming Rolina goes back decades when the grandfather first opened this store. Now, it is run by the 3rd generation, a 20+ year old girl whose dream is to carry on her family’s curry puff legacy. So the next time you’re planning to get a box of snacks for family or friends, why not try Rolina Curry Puff and get them in boxes of 10 or 20 pieces.So LemakLocation: 217 Bedok North Street 1 #01-77 S460217Innovative and a love for fried chicken, Shanice is the brain of So Lemak. She has fused this iconic Malay dish with one of Singaporean’s favourite chicken wing – the Har Cheong Gai Chicken. Her love for making Nasi Lemak has evolved over the years and she is often creating new variations of Nasi Lemak such as Grilled Nasi Lemak, where Coconut rice, sambal chilli, peanuts and ikan bilis are wrapped in the banana leaf then grilled over charcoal fire. Whether you’re craving a quick breakfast fix or want the ultimate indulgent, head down to So Lemak and try their innovation and enjoy a twist in traditional Nasi Lemak!Tea Inn Bak Kut Teh Location: 93 Toa Payoh Lorong 4 Market & Food CentreHerbal goodness with tenderised meat, Tea Inn Bak Kut Teh is for the herbal BKT lovers who often travels to Malaysia. Now, you can enjoy them at Toa Payoh Market. This store is man by a young who had 5 years working in F&B before selling his own claypot BKT. If you’re visiting, remember to order not just their claypot Bak Kut Teh, but try some of their other specialties like braised pork trotters, sesame oil chicken and braised pork large intestines.These are some of the new generation hawker stores that we should support to keep our culture and flavours alive. Let’s always support our locals by dining there and ensure that their dreams are kept alive with our patronage.

Showcase unity and love in matching outfits with the people you enjoy having fun with. Whether it is couple fits or coordinated family outfits, this festive season is one that will definitely turn heads as you arrive dressed to impress with your partner or family.In Singapore, there are many local brands that ensure your family is dressed to the nines when visiting relatives during Chinese New Year, or help you double the joy of love when you and your partner step out in stylish and fashionable couple fits.Read on to Discover more Local Fashion Brand!Couple DressingModparadePhoto credit: Modparade website Every year, Modparade delivers some of the best couple fits. Especially for Chinese New Year, their designs are exceptionally vibrant and embrace traditional Chinese elements. Whether you are looking for a classic dress or a mandarin-collared top, their styles and patterns make the perfect choice for the season.All Would EnvyPhoto credit: All Would Envy websiteEveryone is sure to feel envious of your adorable matching fits from All Would Envy. Style them with your partner in bold prints that often tell a story. Love local snacks? There is a design inspired by that. Love the landscapes and colours of gardens? They have designs for those too.Their dresses come in a variety of cuts to suit different styles. If you are looking for a more traditional cheongsam design, check out their Chinese New Year collection for even more options.Topazette Photo credit: Topazette websiteThis brand is for the “it” couple that wants heads to turn on your Valentine’s Day date. Their patterns are trendy and chic, featured across stretchy tops, button-downs, and occasional dresses. The comfortable stretch makes these pieces perfect for date nights or Chinese New Year reunion dinners, especially when you know you will be eating plenty but still want a flattering fit.Beyond The VinesPhoto credit: Beyond the Vines Facebook If matching outfits feel a little too corny for you, try coordinating accessories instead. Beyond The Vines is the perfect brand for that. Their stylish bags and lanyards are functional, practical, and customisable, making them an easy way to add a festive touch this season.Family DressingFash MobPhoto credit: Fash Mob website Fash Mob is perfect for the fashionable family looking to coordinate this Chinese New Year in trendy yet wearable pieces. Their designs are classic and timeless, making them easy to wear even beyond the festive period. Most of their prints are picturesque and floral, which are especially lovely for mothers and daughters.They also offer matching sets for the men of the house. Whether it is for your husband or son, you can coordinate their looks in the same print with stylish mandarin-collared shirts.Le Petite SocietyPhoto credit: Le Petite Society websiteCasual yet chic, Le Petite Society is known for creating beautiful pieces designed for little ones. Whether it is for newborns, infants, toddlers, or preschoolers, they offer matching designs for both boys and girls, as well as coordinating styles for adults.LovetPhoto credit: Lovet websiteLovet’s designs are made for the modern-day woman. With padded tops and dresses, their pieces are convenient, comfortable, and perfect for a long day out this festive season. Featuring family-friendly styles, Lovet makes it easy to coordinate looks with both your little ones and your partner.This festive season, celebrate the spirit of unity with your loved ones and family, and turn heads in fashionable pieces from these local favourite brands.Read on to Find More Local Fashion Brands!

A nice hair profile can change a person’s look. It almost feels like becoming another person when you get a great hair makeover. In Singapore, there are many talented hairdressers who can help build your confidence, one colour at a time.As most Asians have different skin tones, like cooler or warmer undertones, choosing the right hair colour can make or break your features. This means that instead of picking colours from social media trends and dyeing your hair at home, it is always better to seek a professional’s opinion, do a strand test, and choose a colour that best suits your skin tone and facial features.In this story, we recommend some of the best hairdressers in Singapore who are known for creating hair colours that complement your overall vibe and look.Enjoy 20% Off One Tone Hair Colouring from HairForm with merewards!Picasso Hair StudioAddress: 1 Goldhill Plaza, #01-49 Singapore 308899Known for: All-rounder Hair ColouringPhoto credit: Picasso Hair Studio websiteThey are an innovative hair studio with hairdressers who are willing to fix the hair problems you have been stuck with. Whether you have brassy hair or a box dye experiment gone wrong, they are here to save the day. The team analyses your skin tone and facial shape to determine the hair colour that suits you best.They are a group of passionate artists dedicated to turning your hair into a work of art. Whether you are looking for bold balayage layers or simple, non-bleach Asian tones, head down to Picasso Hair Studio to work with hairdressers who truly treat you like a masterpiece.Bada HairAddress: 333A Orchard Road, #03-13 Mandarin Gallery, Singapore 238867Known for: Korean Beauty Hair Styles and ColourPhoto credit: Bada Hair Korean Hair Salon on FacebookOne of the most relaxing beauty lounges in Singapore, Bada Hair is inspired by the calmness of Jeju and aims to bring the Korean beauty experience into the local hair scene. Whether you are in the mood for a pampering head spa, a Cinderella-style transformational treatment, or a fresh hair colour, they have it all.Bada Hair studios pride themselves on their hair treatments, which pair especially well if you are planning to bleach your hair for a bolder look. They excel at dyeing bright colours, whether it is highlights, half-up half-down styles, or a full head of red. With their skills and advanced treatments designed to protect your scalp and hair, you can trust that your hair will turn out healthy and gorgeous.HairForm SalonAddress: 29 Teo Hong Road, Singapore 088335 (opposite Outram Park MRT Exit 4)Known for: Affordable, All-rounder Hair Colouring.If you are looking for an affordable salon with professional expertise in hair colouring, HairForm Salon is your go-to spot. One of merewards’ favourite salons, they offer an array of services for every hair need. Led by award-winning stylist Michael Chiew, the team specialises in precision haircuts, creative colouring, highlights, and more.Whether you are planning to go bold with vibrant hair colours or looking for a subtle transformation, they can bring your vision to life and make it look like a piece of art. Do not just take our word for it. Check out their social media pages and website to see photos of past clients, and you will be impressed by the creativity and precision behind each look. Truly a salon to visit if you are ready for a transformation.Enjoy 20% Off One Tone Hair Colouring with merewards!Chez VousAddresses:Chez Vous Hair Salon (Flagship Store) - 91 Orchard Road, Ngee Ann City Podium, #05-05, S238872.Chez Vous: Private Space - 391B Orchard Road, Ngee Ann City Tower B, #08-01, S238874Chez Vous: Hideaway - 391B Orchard Road, Ngee Ann City Tower B, #14-04, S238874.Known for: Balayage, Grey Hair Blending, Premium servicePhoto credit: Chez Vous Hair on FacebookThe Chez Vous group is all about premium service beyond what you might expect from a hair salon. Imagine having a private room, being able to work while getting your hair done, or even being served food during your appointment. It almost feels like a first-class airline experience, but in a hair salon.Beyond their top-tier service, their skills are equally impressive. Dyeing your hair at any of their outlets guarantees attentive care, meticulous craftsmanship, and consistent service quality. Well known for their colouring expertise, many of their hairdressers are highly skilled in creating the ever-popular balayage as well as grey hair blending, helping you achieve a natural and youthful look.Located at Ngee Ann City, this hidden gem is one you should experience once in a while as a pampering treat. Whether you are going for highlights or an intensive hair treatment, their first-class comfort and care make it an experience worth trying for yourself. A word of warning, you may not want to visit another hair salon after experiencing Chez Vous.KIZUKI+LIMAddress: 31 Seah Street Singapore 188387Known for: Youthful, Trendy, Unique ColoursPhoto credit: kizuki_lim on InstagramOriginating from Japan, +LIM is a well-known franchise with many hairdressers proudly adding their names to the brand. In Singapore, you can experience top-tier Japanese service and cutting techniques at KIZUKI+LIM. Having styled the hair of runway models and artistes over the years, the team is made up of experienced and creative hairdressers who have built their lives around this craft.KIZUKI+LIM is especially popular with the younger crowd who love trendy wolf cuts, unique colour layering, and statement hairstyles that showcase bold personalities. Check out their Instagram (@kizuki_lim) to explore the wide range of styles they are known for.Eri Su SalonAddress: Orchard Gateway, B2- 25/26/27, Singapore 238858Known for: Non-Bleach ColouringPhoto credit: erisusalon on InstagramIf you are all about getting the trendiest hairstyles and hair colours, Eri Su Salon is the go-to spot. Known for fashion-forward and creative colours at affordable prices, the team can refresh even the most dull or boring hair. They specialise in non-bleach colouring techniques that elevate your look without leaving your hair brassy or dry.Conveniently located at Orchard Gateway, this is a salon where you should make your booking early, especially if you want your luscious hair ready for date nights or special celebrations.A+ Hair SalonAddress: 290 Orchard Rd, #05-08 Paragon, Singapore 238859 Known for: Textured Hair Colouring, Fixing Problematic Hair TypesPhoto credit: aplushairsalonsg on InstagramIf you are an expat living in Singapore, this one is for you. It can often be challenging to find a salon that caters to your hair type, as many local hairdressers primarily specialise in Asian hair. At A+ Hair Salon, however, the team truly lives up to its name and is confident in meeting diverse hair needs. With extensive experience working across a wide range of hair types and textures, they are dedicated to helping you achieve your desired look.Whether you are looking to dye your hair or address concerns at the crown, A+ Hair Salon offers an inclusive and welcoming space for all. Keep an eye on their space for more updates and information.Hair is an important aspect for everyone, as it plays a key role in building confidence. Whether you are a man or a woman, taking care of your hair is an essential part of self-care and enhancing your overall appearance. This season, remember to book your appointment and let professionals help recommend the perfect hairstyle and colour for your face shape and skin tone.