On 8 March, the world celebrates International Women’s Day (IWD) in recognition of the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. It’s also a day to raise awareness of the many issues affecting women, such as gender discrimination and reproductive rights.
There are many ways to honour the women in your life this IWD. From offering your time and skills to treating them to a fun night out, here are eight ways to make IWD a special and memorable occasion for your mum, grandmother, wife, sister, friend, and all the other amazing women you know. While you’re at it, don’t forget to take advantage of the discounts and deals for SAFRA members, too.
1. Express your thanks with flowers
Sending a lush floral bouquet to the women in your life is a great way to show that you love and appreciate them. Noel Gifts is one of Singapore’s leading florists, offering a variety of arrangements from simple to elaborate. They also specialise in hampers and gifts if you’re looking for something more substantial. Their Perfect Pairing Gift ($109), for example, includes flowers, a bottle of wine and chocolate truffles, while their Classic Beauty Gift (from $174.40) comprises a pretty hand bouquet and a bottle of designer perfume.
For SAFRA members – New customers enjoy 10% off flowers and gifts (capped at $20); existing customers get 8% off flowers and gifts (no minimum spend) plus free delivery. To shop this offer, go to safra.sg/promotions/noel-gifts.
2. Offer your mentorship
If you have expertise in a particular area, consider mentoring a young woman who’s keen to be make her mark in your industry. A mentor is similar to a coach; your goal should be to impart skills and wisdom to your mentee, be a role model, and guide your mentee in the right direction so that she can grow professionally and achieve her goals. As a mentor, you should also be willing to offer constructive criticism and have empathy and patience for your mentee. Mentees aren’t difficult to find – they could be your junior colleagues or even a family member who wants to follow in your career footsteps.
3. Go on a culinary voyage
What’s more romantic than a sunset dinner cruise on the Royal Albatross? Step aboard this opulent ship and feast on gourmet food and wine while being serenaded by a Spanish singer. As the ship pulls away from Sentosa Island, you’ll enjoy views of the city and witness the sky’s changing colours as day turns to night. Pet cruises are also available for guests with dogs or cats.
SAFRA members enjoy 15% off various cruises – visit safra.sg/promotions/the-royal-albatross for more details and terms and conditions.
4. An afternoon of yummy tea-time treats
Surprise her with a high tea spread at one of Singapore’s most popular buffet spots, Ellenborough Market Cafe at Paradox Singapore Merchant Court at Clarke Quay. The weekend high tea includes a mix of Asian and Western dishes, like congee with various toppings, Singapore chilli crab dip with fried mantou, dim sum, durian-focused desserts (like pengat, choux puff and egg tart), scones, red bean soup, pastries, noodles, sandwiches, prawns on ice, sashimi and sushi.
SAFRA members enjoy 50% off the high tea buffet (valid on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays). Reservations are required. Find out more at safra.sg/promotions/ellenborough-market-café
5. Give the gift of health
How about a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment to show your appreciation for Mum or Grandma? Chien Chi Tow is one of Singapore’s trusted TCM service providers and has five outlets around the island. Their treatments and wellness therapies are research-based and performed by professionally trained physicians and therapists with years of experience.
SAFRA members enjoy a free first TCM consultation + 10% off all services (wellness massage, herbal foot bath/steam therapy, foot reflexology and paediatric massage) and 5% off all products. For more information go to safra.sg/promotions/chien-chi-tow.
6. Lend a helping hand
Devote a weekend afternoon to a sick or elderly neighbour or relative who needs simple repairs done around her home or requires help with her grocery shopping or other tedious household chores (such as moving furniture, window cleaning or decluttering, for instance). Doing good doesn’t just benefit the benefactor – it gives your mood and self-esteem a boost, too.
7. Book a great escape
A staycation is one of the best ways to unwind and spend quality time with a friend or loved one. The Clan Hotel is the ideal place to kick back in style – located on Cross Street in historic Chinatown and surrounded by traditional shophouses, the hotel offers three luxurious room types, a sky pool and a sky gym that overlooks the city, and an outdoor terrace that’s perfect for lounging and enjoying the breeze. A restaurant and bar are on-site, but the hotel is just steps away from some of Singapore’s best dining and entertainment spots.
SAFRA members receive 15% off The Clan Hotel’s Best Available Rates. Get all the details at safra.sg/promotions/the-clan-hotel-sg.
8. Donate to non-profit organisations that support women
There are many non-profits that empower women and support women’s causes, such as the Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations (SCWO), Daughters of Tomorrow (DOT), WINGS (which is singularly focused on helping women through their later years), United Women Singapore (which advances women’s empowerment and gender equality), and Aidha (which supports migrant domestic workers and other low-income women).
There are countless ways to help, from donating money and serving as a volunteer, to joining the organisations’ events and planning fundraisers for them.
Save more with SAFRA! Enjoy special deals and discounts on dining, entertainment, travel, fitness and more from over 1,500 merchant outlets islandwide. Sign up or renew your SAFRA membership for one year at $43.60 inclusive of GST) and get two years FREE! Plus, get your spouse and children on board to enjoy the same privileges too at $5.45/year. Visit safra.sg/savemore for more details.
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