Located at the south of South Korea, a tiny island has gained popularity with its dramatic volcanic terrains and picturesque beaches. Known for its island greenery, Jeju Island is a popular sweet escape from the bustling city. There are many places you can explore in Jeju Island but one thing’s for sure, have you really visited Jeju if you haven’t climbed their famous mountain?Mt. Hallasan in SpringNestled in the heart of this island is the famous Mt. Hallasan with the summit at 1,947m tall – the highest point in their country. Pride itself on offering a great view from the top, this mountain takes an average of 7h 19 mins to complete. Here is my experience about my climb and my take on the million-dollar question – Is it worth the climb? ROUTESThere are multiple hiking routes up Mt. Hallasan and each route offers something unique. Here’s a breakdown on the routes and what I would recommend best.1. Gwaneumsa Trail – 8.7km View from Gwaneumsa TrailThis trail serves you one of the best scenic views. As you bask in its evergreen nature and mountainous surroundings, you will be accompanied by butterflies, adding to the ethereal experience of the hike. At your resting stops, be ready to meet some of the most majestic crows that governs the area (Tip: do not provoke the crows!). Guaranteed to lead you to the summit, this trail is one of the safer paths due to its functioning stairway and rope rails. 2. Seongpanak Trail – 9.6km View from Seongpanak TrailA less steep option with a forestry scene lies in this trail. With a gentler incline, this trail up is generally less taxing compared to the never-ending multitude of stairs from Gwaneumsa Trail. Nevertheless, do not underestimate this trail as it gets rocky upwards and requires good footwear to thrive in this terrain. This trail does takes you to the summit, and you might even spot a deer along the way.You can get good hiking gears from Decathlon! If you are looking to explore Hallasan National Park but don’t wish to commit to the full hike, there are two other trails that are shorter: Eorimok Trail – 4.7km & Yeongsil Trail – 3.7km. These trails do not go up to the summit, but you could still clock some steps there and enjoy nature.If you’re hoping to complete this hike and fully experience Jeju Island, my recommendation would be to hike up via Gwaneumsa Trail and down the Seongpanak Trail so that you can enjoy the view up and safeguard your knees during the descend. View from the peak of Mt. HallasanADVICE TO NEW HIKERSIf you’ve read this far, you are probably serious about this climb. Mt. Hallasan is open all year round, however, the trails may close due to unforeseen weather circumstances or fog. Additionally, due to the shorter daylight during the colder seasons, the peak closes at different timings as well. In my opinion, the best seasons to climb would be Spring or Summer, when most days offer clear views of the scenic routes you signed up for!As an amateur hiker, there were a few things I wished I knew before climbing Mt. Hallasan and I hope this advice will help you on your hike. 1. Sunscreen As you will be getting closer to the sun, sun protection is extremely important. Either gear up with UV protection gears or apply sunscreen generously to every inch of your body. My mistake was not applying enough, and I had to face the unfortunate consequence of getting second-degree burns on my shoulders after only spending 20 minutes at the summit – that’s how strong the sun was.  Purchase your sunscreen & earn up to 4% Cashback from Sephora!2. RegistrationClimbing this mountain requires registration to prevent overcrowding at the summit and to account for every hiker. Do remember to register on their website before heading there to prevent getting rejected. 3. WaterDespite being surrounded by what we presume is Jeju spring water (which you’ll get to see along the hikes), I would still recommend bringing your own drinking water and snacks, as there are no stores mid-hike. Washrooms up the mountain do not have any water cistern so handwashing must be done with your own water. My mistake was only bringing 2L worth of water and I was dehydrated by the end of the hike – a huge and dangerous mistake. 4. Pace yourselfGoing down the hike takes almost the same amount of time going up as it can be very hard on your knees. If you are an amateur like me, factor in enough time so that you can leave before the sun sets. Remember, there are no streetlamps on the mountain. CONCLUSION: TO CLIMB OR NOT TO CLIMB?Coming from someone that does not have the best stamina, this hike is challenging but beginner-friendly. I took a total of 11h (8am – 7pm) to complete the whole journey, and I can say that the view at the top was breathtaking. Even though my hike was during the peak of summer, it felt cool, and I did not perspire as much as I thought I would. After the hike, my friend and I proceeded to eat 1kg worth of the famous Jeju Black Pork to celebrate our spontaneous hike. Was the hike worth it? Yes, but maybe just once in this lifetime. Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission. 

We all know the feeling. You’ve had a great night out in the CBD, the food was good, the vibes were right, and then the bill arrives. Suddenly, your nervousness kicks in and you take a deep breath before daring to look at the total. Sounds familiar?“You can't have the best of both words” as they say, but what if that narrative is altered? Enjoying a prime location, good food and a proper night out does not always have to come with a premium price tag. From hotpot and Italian comfort to Indian flavours by the river, you’ll be amazed at what’s hidden in plain sight, right at the heart of Singapore.The only thing that should leave you speechless is the food, not the receipt.Hotpot Without the Hot BillCraving hotpot but not quite ready for the bill that usually comes with it? 90 Minutes at Rendezvous Hotel might be your answer. The name is your giveaway; 90 minutes to enjoy a full Korean dining experience from start to finish.Photo credit: 90 Minutes websiteKick things off with fishcake skewers, move on to tteokbokki and ramyeon bubbling away in the hotpot, then finish strong with fried rice made to round out the meal. The restaurant takes inspiration from the streets of Seoul, with a warm and cosy interior enhancing your dining experience. Enjoy 1-for-1 Buffet Deals from 90 Minutes Here!Andiamo! When in Doubt, Make It ItalianPhoto Credit: @santis.sg on InstagramSometimes, nothing hits quite like a proper Italian meal made with amore. Santi’s Pizza and Produce is quietly tucked in Telok Ayer, a neighbourhood that has gone from Singapore’s old waterfront and landing point for early immigrants to one of the CBD’s liveliest pockets for food and nightlife. Santi’s keeps things equally interesting with open flame cooking, quality produce and a dining concept inspired by Santiago, the founder’s son, and his sense of childlike creativity. Fair warning, this next bit might get your stomach growling. For pasta, try the Vodka Sugo & Italian Sausage, made with tomato sugo, chilli, sausage, pecorino and stracciatella tossed through pappardelle. If pizza is more your thing, the Not So Classic Marg puts a twist on the classic Margherita with stracciatella, fior di latte, basil oil and pecorino.One thing for certain is that you’ll definitely come back for more!Satisfy Your Cravings and Claim 1-for-1 Pizza & Pasta Deals at Santi’s Here!Satisfy Your Cravings and Claim 1-for-1 Pizza & Pasta Deals at Santi’s Here!Spice be the RiversideCraving a taste of India without the plane ticket? Let your taste buds do the travelling at Manam, right by the Singapore River at Boat Quay.Photo Credit: Manam websiteInspired by family recipes passed down through generations, Manam combines ingredients from all around India, including meals based on the culinary customs of regions such as Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Goa. Their goal is straightforward; to continue the legacy of serving authentic dishes while making you feel at home. Set the mood right with their iconic Chicken Tikka, marinated with fresh herbs, spices and garlic before being grilled in the tandoor; a traditional cylindrical oven made of clay. Photo Credit: @manam.sg on InstagramImmerse into something richer with their Butter Chicken, an elegant dish of tender chicken simmered with tomatoes, cream, butter, cashew and spices. A Manam house staple, the butter chicken never fails to deliver that comforting, familiar flavour that pairs perfectly with a fresh naan.Indulge in 1-for-1 Starters, Curries, Cocktails and Mocktails from Manam Here! Save Room for Something SweetA proper night out deserves a sweet ending, and DOPA at Tanjong Pagar is an easy stop if dessert is still calling. Photo Credit: DOPA websiteDerived from the word ‘dopamine’, the hormone linked to happiness and excitement, fitting the cafe’s warm, feel good atmosphere. Inspired by Korean cafes, the space is decked out in maroon terracotta tiles, giving it a cosy and distinctive look.Photo credit: DOPA InstagramOne standout is the Pistachio Kunafa, DOPA’s rendition on the Dubai Chocolate craze, with the pistachio gelato topped with crispy handmade kunafa chocolate.No matter how full you think you are, dessert somehow always finds a little extra room.The Night Is Still YoungHave room to squeeze in just a bit more? Head down to No. 5 Emerald Hill, which is located inside a beautifully restored two-storey Peranakan terrace home just off Orchard Road, if the night still has some vitality.Photo credit:@no5emeraldhill on InstagramStep inside and have yourself welcomed by plenty of old school charm, from timber floors and intricate carved woodwork to red Chinese lanterns, Persian rugs and plush cushions tucked around the space. It feels more like drinking inside a heritage home than your typical city bar.Photo credit: @no5emeraldhill on InstagramThe real wallet pleaser comes later in the evening with 1 for 1 martinis from 9pm to 1am daily, making it an easy final stop when you want the night to continue without ending it on an expensive note.A good night out in the city does not have to end with a painful bill. With the right spots, you can enjoy good food, dessert and drinks in prime locations without spending like every meal is a special location.To simplify things… CBD vibes secured. Wallet still intact. Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission

Engines aren’t the only thing making noise this race weekend.Singapore is gearing up for one of the biggest weekends of the year, and while all eyes will soon be on the track and your favourite superstars, the streets deserve some attention too. Whether you’re going full throttle with bold motorsport inspired streetwear or keeping things simple with your favourite team’s colours, race weekend is the perfect excuse to put your style into pole position.For Those Who Like to Go Full ThrottleWhen it comes to making a statement, A$AP Rocky knows how to turn heads. Known for his aggressive approach to streetwear and high fashion, the rapper was given the keys as Creative Director for PUMA’s Formula 1 partnership in 2023, bringing his distinctive and Harlem flair into the realm of motorsport.The result? Race inspired pieces made to look just as fly off the track. If you’re ready to pick up the pace with your race weekend fit, Rocky’s PUMA is a good place to start.A$AP Rocky x PUMA Monstro OG SneakersPhoto credit: PUMA websiteA bold starting point for your race weekend fit. The textured design and statement silhouette give the Monstro OG a strong streetwear edge without going overboard. Rocky draws inspiration from Harlem’s jazz renaissance, giving the shoe a personality of its own with the snake pattern, deviating from the norms of PUMA designs.A$AP Rocky x PUMA Quilted Sweatshirt Unisex Photo credit: PUMA websiteInspired by the slim fitting of racing suits, the quilted designs bring motorsport style straight to the streets. Pair it with simple bottoms and let the top take centre stage.A$AP Rocky x PUMA XL GlovesPhoto credit: PUMA websiteHow do you expect to steer at breakneck speed without any grip?The A$AP Rocky x PUMA XL Gloves is your wild card. These oversized gloves take cues from racing gloves and add an extra statement piece to the look; a moulded silicone print on the back of the hand mimics veins, while badges from the collection are featured on the fingertips, inspired by Rocky’s nail art.Find the A$AP Rocky x PUMA Collection from PUMA and Earn Up to 3.5% CashbackFor Those Who Prefer Cruise ControlNot everyone enjoys feeling the adrenaline with their outfit. Sometimes, keeping it simple can make you effortlessly stylish. A clean team tee, jersey, cap or pair of sneakers can still get you race ready while keeping it minimal. Y-3 Mercedes Engineered TeePhoto credit: Adidas websiteGot expensive taste but prefer simplicity? The Y-3 Mercedes Engineered Tee brings a more elevated edge to the race weekend style, with a clean look that is easy to wear while still catching a few eyes.Experience the world of luxury fashion and sports innovation through this collaboration; with Adidas’s commitment to quality and Yohji Yamamoto’s avant-garde design, this shirt makes an effortless statement.Mercedes AMG Petronas Blue Wonder Driver CapPhoto credit: Adidas websiteKeep yourself shaded when the Singapore heat kicks in with the Mercedes AMG Petronas Blue Wonder Driver Cap. The team colours bring the race weekend energy, while the classic Adidas logo embroidery adds a distinctive finishing touch to an otherwise simple fit.Adidas Feroza Base Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team ShoesPhoto credit: Adidas websiteComplete the look from ground up with Feroza Base Mercedes AMG Petronas Team Shoes. Built around team colours and subtle racing details, they keep the look sleek and understated while offering enough comfort and grip for a full day around the city.FInd the Mercedes AMG Collection from Adidas and Earn Up to 3.5% CashbackPut Your Race Weekend Style to the TestPhoto credit: Madam Tussauds websiteNow that your fit does the talking, can your driving skills keep up?Make a pit stop at Madame Tussauds Singapore and take on its VR Racing experience, where you can join Lewis Hamilton’s team and feel the rush of going head to head in a virtual race.You can either go straight for the VR Racing experience as a standalone attraction, or make a full day of it with the Standard Ticket + Jumanji 4D + VR Racing Bundle.It is the perfect excuse to put that race weekend style to the test and snap a few photos while you are in your F1 element.Ready to get the gears going? Book through merewards and enjoy 5% cashback on your purchase.Race weekend is your chance to let your style take pole position. Whether you go full throttle or keep things simple, own the look, enjoy the atmosphere and make sure you’re living life in the fast lane.Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission.

Notice the skyline looking a little less sharp lately? You’re not imagining it.Hazy conditions have returned, with air quality slipping into the unhealthy range in parts of Singapore. As of 5th October, the 24 hour PSI reached 110 in Central Singapore and 102 in the west. So whether you are heading out for the day or planning to stay in, here are a few simple ways to stay prepared while the skies remain a little hazy.Check Before You Step OutKeep yourself informed and take a quick look at the latest air quality readings before making outdoor plans.It is recommended by NEA to use the 1 hour PM2.5 reading for immediate activities and the 24 hour PSI forecast when planning ahead. If PSI levels move into the 101-200 range, which is considered ‘unhealthy’, individuals are advised to reduce prolonged or strenuous outdoor activity.It can be a bit of a bummer knowing that your outdoor run or afternoon under the sun might have to wait for a clearer day, but as they say, health is wealth.Comeback Season for N95 Masks… When It Makes SensePhoto credit: Shopee Website Remember these bad boys from the COVID days? N95 masks are not just for viruses. When worn properly, they are designed to filter out very fine airborne particles, including the PM2.5 particles commonly found in haze.Although you wouldn’t necessarily need one for a quick commute, keeping an N95 mask strapped with you can be a smart move, especially if air quality worsens and you spend longer hours outdoors.Need to stock up?Pick up 3M N95 masks through Shopee via merewards and earn 0.4% Cashback on your purchaseMake Home Your Haze HideoutFor those who prefer staying indoors and want to reduce their risk of exposure, a few simple precautions can help keep the haze outside, so you can rest a little easier knowing your home is a cleaner escape from the smoky skies.Closing your doors and windows are highly recommended by NEA when outdoor air quality worsens, along with using portable air purifiers, which help reduce indoor particle levels. Photo credit: Dyson websiteThe Dyson HushJet Purifier Compact may just become your home’s new best friend throughout this hazy season. With the ability to automatically detect PM2.5 particles and adjust its airflow to help purify the indoor air, breathing easy at home just got a little easier. Moreover, its electrostatic filter captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, while its fully sealed design helps keep captured pollutants trapped inside.You can even monitor your home’s air quality through the MyDyson app, so while the view outside might still be looking a bit blurry, you can keep a closer eye on what’s happening indoors.Looking to make your home a cleaner retreat from the haze?The Dyson HushJet Purifier Compact through merewards and earn 1.2% CashbackLooking Out For OthersAlways checking up on your loved ones has its impact; children, the elderly, those with asthma or heart diseases are at most risk, so keeping them indoors is vital during times of severe PSI levels.Stocking up on health supplements that support respiratory wellbeing, lozenges or eyedrops helps with discomfort experienced during the haze.Lastly, sticking to the basics is essential. Keep yourself and family well-hydrated, which helps soothe throat irritation and supports your body’s natural defense systems. Yes, it might mean a few more bathroom runs, but staying hydrated is simply non negotiable.The haze may be out of your control, but being prepared is not. Stay vigilant by observing PSI readings, adjust your plans when needed and take appropriate measures to protect your home. After all, hazy skies are temporary, but looking after yourself should always stay clear.Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission