This article is brought to you by Klook. Cheap Weekend Getaways from SingaporeWith 7 long weekends in 2023, it's time to start planning for all your getaways for the year ahead 😉! (after all, it's never too early when planning for a holiday, right?) Whether you’re searching for a beach island getaway, a foodie adventure or a shopping paradise, here are some places to check out.Malaysia1. PenangTravel time ✈️: ~1.5hrFrom mouthwatering hawker eats to laid-back cafes,  is a food heaven that serves more than great char kuey teow. Expect speakeasy bars, great coffee and pastries and more. Hop on the Penang Hill Funicular and go through the railway's 258ft-long tunnel, believed to be the steepest in the world! This 130 million year old rainforest has a myriad of flora and fauna which you can admire on your Tree Top Walk!Photo Credits: @_alissasyazanaLocated a short 10-minute ferry ride from Penang Island, don’t miss out on a day trip to Pulau Jerejak. This hidden gem is dotted with beautiful photo spots including a rainbow pier and a romantic swing on the beach. Don’t forget to book your stay in one of their many boutique heritage hotels for the complete Penang experience! Some top names include The Blue Mansion Cheong Fatt Tze, 23 Loveland Hotel and Yeng Keng Hotel.2. Johor BahruPhoto Credits: @tyeatsalotTravel Time 🚶🚌🚗: From 30min (depending on immigration)Oh, how we’ve missed trips across the causeway to Johor Bahru for cheap shopping, delicious food and much-needed massages! Parents, if you’re looking for ways to entertain your little ones, we definitely recommend Legoland Malaysia! It’s a theme park full of their favourite Lego toys, but just HUGE! 3. LangkawiTravel time ✈️: ~1.5hrTacked at the end of Langkawi’s dry season, March is a good time to visit for clear skies and warm days, with an odd rainy day or two. With days of sunshine and dry weather, a Langkawi holiday is great for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. The temperature still remains fairly hot at around 30°C, but you can choose to visit in the later half of March when it gets slightly cooler.With 99 islands making up this serene archipelago, get to exploring some on an island-hopping jet ski tour. Snorkel at Inchan Kechil, catch the eagle feeding at Pulau Singa Besar, and maybe even stop by the Tuba Island mangroves.There’s only so much time you can spend chilling on the beach. Book yourself in for a ziplining adventure over jungle canopies and waterfalls, or head on a tour of the Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark to discover more about the islands’ vibrant ecosystems.4. Kuala LumpurTravel time ✈️: ~1hrIf you’re looking for a place to go during the December peak travel season, Kuala Lumpur is a great destination that’s easy on the wallet. It’s as cool as it gets in the Malaysian capital during this month, at a comfortable average of 27°C – even dipping a few degrees lower during the night.The Petronas Twin Towers is a must-visit for the best glimpse of KL's stunning skyline, with panoramic views from 80-storeys above. Another iconic attraction is the Aquarium KLCC, which houses over 5,000 exhibits of both land and sea creatures.Although December is still considered one of the monsoon months, it sees less rain than the previous two months – so outdoor activities are always a possibility as long as you check the forecast and plan ahead.Explore the culturally rich suburbs of KL on a half-day tour out to the countryside where you’ll explore the beautiful limestone Batu Caves, as well as tour pewter and batik factories. You can also take a short trip out to Kuala Selangor for a fireflies night tour and seafood dinner on the Kampung Kuantan river, for a brief escape from the city’s bustle.5. Genting HighlandsTravel Time ✈️🚌🚗: ~3-6hr (depending on mode of transport)Finally had enough of Singapore's unbearable heatwaves and you're looking for somewhere cool to spend the weekend? You'd be glad to know that the perpetually cool (24 degrees) Genting Highlands is just a short drive away, and you definitely won't need to spend much to make your way up for a couple of days of fun!If you've had plenty of fun memories as a kid driving up to Genting during the school holidays for a weekend of fun, It's time to relive them as an adult and probably create some even better ones, especially with the opening of Genting SkyWorlds!There have been many drastic changes in recent years to make Genting a new entertainment hub and it has become almost unrecognizable. So if you’re not one for gambling, there are loads of other fun things you can do since the major facelift and upgrade!6. DesaruTravel Time ⛴🚌🚗: ~1.5-2.5hr (depending on mode of transport)Located along the east coast of Johor, Desaru is a laid-back coastal town that's an easy hour's drive from Johor Bahru. The town boasts lots to see and do, from its beaches to fishing villages for hearty seafood feasts, Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast and even an ostrich farm that's home to over 100 ostriches!Photo Credit: @serenexoxo (Instagram)Thinking of exploring further inland on your weekend getaway to Malaysia? Why not extend your road trip from JB to discover (or rediscover) what Desaru has to offer? From pristine beaches where you can surf to multiple waterparks where you can spend the day splashing away on the rides, check out some of the best things to see and do in Desaru!Indonesia7. BaliTravel time ✈️: ~3hrBali is not just a tropical paradise of clear glistening water and white coconut trees. Think exquisite archaic monuments, sunsets setting the clouds on fire and breathtaking landscapes of rugged mountains and steep cliffs.Swings have become a symbolic epitome of Bali; adrenaline, exhilaration, and thrill. Teetering on the edge of paradise, this is the perfect way to upgrade your ‘gram game!From traditional Balinese restaurants to cool cafe joints and not forgetting authentic street food, the island has all your food cravings covered.Nusa Penida Island is one of Bali’s many offshore islands that many have recently come to know and love. Home to beautiful rock formations, clear blue waters, a huge array of marine life (read: dolphins) and chill vibes all around, it’s no wonder many flock here to experience the island life.8. BintanTravel time ⛴✈️: From 1-1.5hr (depending on mode of transport)Bintan is perfect for a weekend staycation – pristine beaches, crystal blue waters, The ANMON Resort and luxurious resorts. is the glamping resort IG dreams are made of! You’ll also be in the middle of all the water sports action with Treasure Bay’s Chill Cove right beside. If you feel like getting out of your resort and exploring the island, you won’t be disappointed. Home to beautiful landmarks like Gurung Pasir and also an Ecofarm and Safari, there’s so much to see and do! 9. YogyakartaTravel time ✈️: ~2.5hrWith pine tree forests, active volcanoes and stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites, Yogyakarta is truly a city like no other. The most iconic photo spot is an art installation in the form of a giant hand. Set against the beautiful panoramic views of the city, there are plenty of different photo spots around the area from giant brooms to bird cages and bird nests.The Jomblang Cave is one of Yogyakarta’s natural highlights and is comprised of a huge sinkhole, a long tunnel and a central cave. Getting down to the cave is not for the faint of heart and it is when your life is in the hands of the locals, that you realize how strong the locals really are.Thailand10. BangkokTravel time ✈️: ~2.5hrMention ‘Bangkok’ to anyone and you’ll most likely receive 2 unanimous replies; cheap food and shopping paradise!Of course, you can’t miss out on some Cheap Michelin Eats when in Bangkok! You’ll find one of the best Tom Yum noodle bowls in Bangkok at Jeh O Chula. This humble diner is best known for its Mama Tom Yam Noodle Soup, with an iconic thick and savoury broth.If you're looking to experience some lush nature, the picturesque town of Khao Yai couldn’t be more different from Thailand's bustling capital, and it's just a 3-hour drive away from Bangkok.Apart from quirky European villages and some of the most bizarre accommodation options, Khao Yai is also home to Thailand’s largest national park where wild elephants roam free.11. Chiang MaiTravel time ✈️: ~3hrSome of the things you must try out in Chiang Mai include - bathing an elephant at the Elephant Sanctuary, visiting the stunning White Temple and having a giant bowl of Kao Soi! Take a road trip out to Chiang Rai to visit the beautiful Blue Temple and have a scoop of Blue Coconut Ice Cream. Vietnam12. Da NangTravel time ✈️: ~3hrDa Nang is famed for its spectacular sunset views that can be enjoyed from Son Tra Mountain. The Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills named after the five elements, lies just south of the city and is home to various caves and peaks.Ba Na Hills is a must-visit when you’re in the region. This mountain-top resort complex is accessible only by cable car, with the cable car system holding the record for the greatest change in elevation!Stroll the cobblestone streets in the French Village, and take a ride on the adrenaline-filled alpine coaster as part of your day out in the hills.13. HanoiTravel time ✈️: ~3.5hrAside from cheap flights, the blissfully mild climate makes September one of the best times for a Hanoi holiday. Temperatures stay around the 20s as the month rolls by, and most days remain dry. Take a trip along the majestic Halong Bay for its crystal clear water and stunning cliffs.Just two hours from Hanoi, Trang An makes for a picture-perfect day trip. With rolling banks of lush greenery, majestic mountains and sprawling cave complexes, it’s also home to the Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest in Vietnam.Don’t miss out on the incredible local food in Hanoi's Old Quarter, where you can sample fresh nem cuon spring rolls, grilled pork-topped bun cha, sizzling pancakes of bahn xeo and more. End off your meal with sweet chè chuối – a traditional banana and tapioca pudding – and a cup of deliciously creamy Vietnamese egg coffee!Cambodia14. Siem ReapTravel time ✈️: ~2hrMake Siem Reap your choice for a February vacation. Cambodia is typically hot and humid all year round, but during this month, the weather is relatively cooler compared to the months ahead, with lows of 23°C.This makes exploring this “charming yet confounding kingdom” of temples and scenery much more pleasant in the day. Perfect for sunrise bike rides through the back roads of the Angkor ruins, or a tuk-tuk tour of the Angkor temples.Beyond its iconic ruins, Siem Reap is a treasure trove of natural sights. If you’re in the mood for adventure, hop on a jeep for a journey to Phnom Kulen, where you’ll encounter hidden temples and stunning waterfalls.Taking a Cambodian cooking class is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local cuisine. Peek into the lives of a local Khmer household, before getting hands-on at cooking up all kinds of dishes, from traditional Cambodian curry to Khmer brandy snaps.Another perk of visiting in February: you’ll be missing the Christmas and New Year holiday crowds, so accommodation is likely cheaper!Heading to these destinations for a holiday soon? Did you know that you can get up to 3.5% cashback on your bookings on Klook? Click here and start planning your holidays with Klook now!Book your tickets with Klook and earn up to 3.5% cashback now!

Whether you're a devoted foodie or simply looking to savour delectable dishes without breaking the bank, these merewards 1-for-1 promotions will tantalise your taste buds and leave you craving for more.Sit back and start feasting!1. Chiko PolloImage source: @chikopollo_Brought to you by the founders of popular Jalan Besar dessert spot Lola Faye Cafe - Chiko Pollo is an eatery serving halal Western grub such as the likes of XL Salted Egg Sotong ($24), Crab Meat Pasta ($18), and Cheesy Chicken Cutlet with Mushroom Sauce ($21). They are also located in the same Jalan Besar district as Lola Faye Cafe.Indulge in their delightful creations and discover why Chiko Pollo has earned a well-deserved reputation as a must-visit halal restaurant in Singapore!Opening Hours: Tue - Sun 12:00pm to 10:00pm. Closed on Mon.Address: 28 Madras St, Singapore 208422Redeem 1-for-1 deals on Mentaiko Fries, Cheesy Chicken Cutlet with Mushroom Sauce, and Crab Meat Pasta here2. Black CherryImage source: @blackcherrysgLocated at a corner of a quaint residential development in Pasir Panjang estate, Black Cherry serves a wide array of European dishes ranging from mouthwatering pastas to creamy risottos and chargrilled pork racks.Step into a world of refined elegance and captivating flavours as you enter this upscale restaurant. Black Cherry is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail, presenting a menu that showcases a fusion of European cuisines with a modern twist.If you work or live near the area, come on down and wind down with good food, good atmosphere, and a beautiful environment.Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 11.30am - 10.00pm, Sat & Sun 11am - 10pmAddress: 4 Jalan Mat Jambo #01-08/09 Bijou Singapore 119555Redeem 1-for-1 deals on Starter/Tapas, Pasta, and House Wine/Prosecco/Paulaner Draft here3. Genius CentralImage source: @geniuscentralsingaporeLocated within the CBD of Singapore, Genius Central is more than just a spacious cafe serving yummy and healthy international cuisine. It is also a community to inspire entrepreneurs, change-makers and digital nomads.Designed to nurture and inspire the brightest minds, Genius Central is a collaborative space that brings together entrepreneurs, startups, and forward-thinking individuals from various industries. With its vibrant atmosphere, it serves as a launchpad for innovative ideas, fostering connections and collaborations that fuel success.The next time you are looking for a spacious place to get some work done, or simply looking for yummy grub in the CBD, head down to Genius Central for some amazing 1-for-1 deals! Opening Hours: Mon - Thu 8.00am - 8.30pm, Fri - Sun 8.00am - 9.30pmAddress: 7-13 Amoy Street, #01-01 Far East Square Singapore 049949Redeem 1-for-1 deals on Mains, Desserts, and Non-Alcoholic Drinks here4. Paris2TokyoImage Source: @p2t.sgParis2Tokyo is a unique dining experience in Singapore, offering a fusion of French and Japanese cuisine in a stylish, chic setting. The menu features a range of dishes inspired by the flavours and ingredients of both cultures, offering a wide variety of options for diners to explore. From traditional sushi and sashimi to French-style desserts and pastries, Paris2Tokyo has something for everyone. The restaurant is known for its high-quality ingredients, expert preparation, and artistic presentation, making it a popular choice for special occasions or a night out with friends. Opening Hours: Daily 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 11pmAddress: 2 Stanley Street, S068721Redeem 1-for-1 deals on 4-Course Lunch Set, Australian Wagyu Sirloin, and Jim Beam Highball Classic here5. KeleKele is no stranger to Singaporeans. Established in Jurong West as a family confectionery shop since 1983, their pineapple tarts and roll cakes have been loved and devoured by generations of Singaporeans.Enjoy 2 premium roll cakes for the price of 1 when you flash your merewards app in-store! The 4 premium flavours applicable for this promo are Avocado Macadamia, Ondeh Ondeh, Lychee Martini, and Rum & Raisin.Read our review of Kele premium roll cakes here.Kele (Chinatown Flagship Store)Opening Hours: Daily 10am - 7pmAddress: 2 Smith Street, Singapore 058917Kele (VivoCity Concept Store)Opening Hours: Daily 10am - 10pmAddress: 1 HarbourFront Walk, VivoCity B2-K10, Singapore 098585Redeem 1-for-1 on Premium Roll Cakes at Kele hereRemember, a merewards subscription is totally free of charge and all you need to do is to flash your app at the store to redeem the deals! It is simply our way of thanking you for your support of Mediacorp's award-winning rewards programme. Stay tuned as we bring you more exciting merchants on board!Cover photo by Lily Banse on Unsplash.

Living in Singapore means being exposed to the sun almost all year round. With temperatures reaching up to 35 degrees Celsius and high humidity, it is important to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Here are five reasons why sunscreen is essential in Singapore:1. Prevents SunburnsSingapore's tropical climate means that the sun is strong and intense, which can cause painful sunburns. Sunburns can lead to long-term damage to the skin, including premature ageing and an increased risk of skin cancer. By applying sunscreen regularly, you can prevent sunburns and keep your skin healthy.2. Reduces the Risk of Skin CancerThe intense heat and UV rays in Singapore can increase the risk of skin cancer. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is caused by exposure to UV radiation. In Singapore, skin cancer is the sixth most common cancer among males, and seventh among females (source: Raffles Medical Group).Reduce your risk of getting skin cancer by applying sunscreen regularly, especially when heading outdoors.3. Helps to Prevent HyperpigmentationHyperpigmentation is a common skin concern in Singapore, especially among those with darker skin tones. Sun exposure can worsen hyperpigmentation and cause uneven skin tone. Using sunscreen with a high SPF can help to prevent hyperpigmentation and keep your skin looking radiant.4. Maintains Youthful SkinThe sun's UV rays can cause premature ageing, including wrinkles and fine lines. By using sunscreen regularly, you can maintain youthful skin and prevent premature ageing.5. Helps to Avoid Sun DamageSun damage can cause a range of skin concerns, including sunspots, freckles, and rough skin texture. By using sunscreen daily, you can help to avoid sun damage and keep your skin looking healthy.ConclusionSunscreen is a crucial part of any skincare routine in Singapore. It helps to prevent sunburns, reduces the risk of skin cancer, prevents hyperpigmentation, maintains youthful skin, and helps to avoid sun damage. In Singapore, it is recommended to use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, which is sufficient for daily use in Singapore. However, if you have very fair skin, a history of skin cancer, or spend a lot of time outdoors, you may want to use a higher SPF, such as SPF 50.Get your high SPF sunscreen from these partners and earn cashback:Earn up to 4% cashback when you shop on SephoraEnjoy 1.5% cashback on your online purchases from WatsonsShop other health and beauty brands here.Cover image by BATCH by Wisconsin Hemp Scientific on Unsplash.

The June school holidays in Singapore are just around the corner, and it's time to embark on an epic journey of fun and discovery. If you're wondering how to keep your little ones entertained during this break, worry not! We've curated a list of delightful activities that will make their holidays truly unforgettable. From interactive museums to thrilling outdoor adventures, Singapore has a plethora of options to engage, entertain, and educate children of all ages. So, parents, gear up and get ready to explore the wonders that await your children this June. 1. SCCC’s Cultural ExtravaganzaCultural Extravaganza 2023, with the theme "(Re)presenting Culture Across Every Generation," highlights the intergenerational nature of our local Chinese culture by showcasing famous local art groups.Both you and your child can look forward to 11 fascinating events, including plays, concerts, lectures, an exhibition, and even a TV festival!Purchase of ticket is required.Date: 12 May - 18 June 2023Location: Singapore Chinese Cultural CentreWebsite: https://singaporeccc.org.sg/events/cultural-extravaganza-2023/Grab 20% OFF tickets to SCCC shows here2. i Light Singapore 2023Image Source: i Light SingaporeAsia’s leading sustainable light festival - i Light Singapore returns to Marina Bay this June with eye-dazzling light art installations designed to give visitors an immersive experience.The art installations feature energy-saving lightings and/or environmentally-friendly materials designed to drive home the message of adopting sustainable habits in our everyday lives. Admission is free.Date: 1 - 25 June 2023, 7.30pm - 11.00pm dailyLocation: Marina BayWebsite: https://www.ilightsingapore.gov.sg/about/the-festival/3. Children's Season 2023Have a child who is constantly curious about food? Head down to the National Museum this June holidays for a fun and enjoyable time exploring food-themed workshops and interactive installations. The 'Little Food Explorers' multi-sensorial experience workshop by HaruPlate even lets your child have fun with food scraps while learning about ways to reduce and re-use food scraps.Admission is free except for a few selected programmes.Date: 27 May - 25 June 2023Location: National Museum of SingaporeWebsite: https://www.nhb.gov.sg/nationalmuseum/our-programmes/programmes-list/children-season-20234. Asian Festival of Children's ContentFrom book launches to performances and storytelling sessions, get ready to be mesmerised by a dazzling line-up of sessions to be enjoyed by both young and old!Check out the latest books, listen from esteemed writers as they share their journey in writing, or take part in author signings and other public activities!Admission is free.Date: 25 - 28 May 2023, 10.00am - 6.00pm dailyLocation: National LibraryWebsite: https://afcc.com.sg/20235. Purposeful Play @ Waka Waka Indoor PlaygroundSupported by the Familes for Life Council, Purposeful Play allows parents of children aged 4 - 6 years old to come together and gain more confidence in their skills to support their child's development. Learn and apply evidence-based strategies to create a warm and stimulating home environment for your child. Enhance your child's school readiness while strengthening your relationship with them at the same time. Admission is free.Date: 25 May - 22 June 2023Location: Onsite at Waka Waka Indoor PlaygroundWebsite: https://ffl.familiesforlife.sg/pages/activity/Purposeful-Play---Waka-Waka-Indoor-Playground6. Active SG FunFam Sport Fest 2023Bond with your family through sports! FunFam SportFest returns for a second edition this June with even more sport activities! Team up with your child and conquer obstacles, or try your hands at a variety of sport tryouts! Admission is mostly free except for a few selected programmes.Date: 28 May 2023Location: Singapore Sports Hub, OCBC Arena HallsWebsite: https://ffl.familiesforlife.sg/pages/activity/Fun-Fam-SportFest-20237. The Gallery Children's’ Biennale 2023Do you secretly think your child is a Picasso in the making? Then you'll not want to miss this year's The Gallery Children's’ Biennale 2023, featuring 11 interactive and immersive artworks responding to the theme of “Let’s Make A Better Place”. Get ready to be mesmerised by digital and on-site programmes that will inspire visitors of all ages.Admission is free.Date: 27 May 2023 - 31 March 2024Location: National GalleryWebsite: https://www.nationalgallery.sg/see-do/programme-detail/796426556/gallery-children%E2%80%99s-biennale-2023-let039s-make-a-better-place8. Clean Up, Or Else! Want to get your kids to be more involved in household chores? Clean Up, or Else! is the latest art installation at The Artground.Children are re-introduced to familiar areas in your home like the kitchen, shower, and laundry area, where they can slide down a giant toilet bowl, or 'swim' in a giant kitchen sink, in addition to learning about playing a part at home. Admission is free.Date: Now till 25 February 2024Location: The ArtgroundWebsite: https://www.littledayout.com/clean-up-or-else-at-the-artground-fun-times-with-household-chores/9. KidSTART Stories presents Adventures of AndiAdventures with Andi is based on Minister of State, Ms Sun Xueling's "What Ants Do" book series. The play that was adapted follows the story of Andi's discovery journey as he faces obstacles that endanger his family and friends while looking for the true meaning of home and friendship.Admission ticket starts from $35.Date: 9, 10, 11 June 2023Location: School of the Arts Singapore (SOTA), Drama TheatreWebsite: https://artsrepublic.sg/events/2023/06/kidstart-stories-presents-adventures-of-andi10. Nurturing Our Inner VoicesHeld at Tekka Place, this month-long holiday programme features experiential workshops, interactions, events, and exhibitions aimed at helping participants better connect with their loved ones' and their own inner voices.Both free and ticketed admission.Date: 28 May 2023 onwardsLocation: Tekka Place (Main Block)Website: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1VT39nJ3nmuet71bAbYIv6Js7DDip3kMowmFQRdcYA_w/viewform?edit_requested=trueAll study and no play makes Jack a dull boy. This June holidays, give your little one the perfect break and energising recharge with these exciting activities!