Mother’s Day occurs just once a year, but many families celebrate the occasion the same way, year in and year out. You may take your mum, grandmother or wife out for lunch or dinner, give her a fancy breakfast in bed, or buy her flowers or a card. But while she probably appreciates any gift or gesture, no matter how inexpensive or small, it wouldn’t hurt to celebrate her special day a little differently this year. 

Here are eight fun and unique ways to show the amazing mothers in your life that you love them on the 14th of May – and don’t forget to take advantage of the exclusive SAFRA partner deals, too. 

 1. Treat her to a weekend getaway

Surprise her with a trip to one of the neighbouring islands or to a nearby city overseas that she likes to visit or has always wanted to visit. Make it a getaway to remember, with a weekend stay at a charming hotel, meals, guided walks, tickets to local attractions or a theatre performance, and so on. Or take her on a leisurely cruise, where she’ll be spoilt for choice with the array of activities and dining experiences on board. Invite the other mums in your family for a weekend they’ll never forget.

SAFRA members enjoy up to 15% off Genting Dream Cruises on all cabins, plus a complimentary cake and helipad experience, until 30 May 2023. Find out more at safra.sg/promotions/resorts-world-cruises

2. Book her in for a spa treatment

Being a mum is rewarding but it can be exhausting, too. Give yours a well-deserved break with a relaxing facial, massage, manicure or pedicure. After working hard and looking after everyone in the family, your mum will be thankful for the chance to lay back, put her feet up and be pampered for a change. 

Inspired by its location, The Spa by The Ultimate at SAFRA Punggol is a wellness haven that offers a blissful escape from the distractions of everyday life. Guests can look forward to a sensory experience through the selection of signature treatments that combine traditional techniques with the purest of ingredients.

SAFRA members enjoy a 1-for-1 offer on either the Premium Face Spa ($244.08) or Signature Body Ritual ($118.80 to $277.56). Does Mum have a sister or friend whom you also think deserves some TLC? Treat them both with this! Valid till 31 May 2023. Find out more at safra.sg/promotions/mother’s-day-@-the-spa-by-the-ultimate 

3. Organise a dance date with Mummy

If your wife is active or likes to dance, sign her up for a professional dance lesson together with your child. Whether it’s ballet, tap, jazz or hip-hop, she’ll have fun learning some new moves and getting a decent workout while she’s at it. It’s also a great way for her to build that special bond with your child, while having fun! 

Crestar School of Dance has a range of dance programmes, from core Classical Ballet to Jazz, Contemporary, Hip-Hop and more, and its dance teachers and instructors are recruited through stringent selection processes. 

SAFRA members can sign up for “A Dance Date with Mommy” – a complimentary, 45-minute dance session for mother and child, choreographed by experienced teachers at Crestar School of Dance at SAFRA Tampines. There’s also a complimentary “Hip Hop Date with Mommy” to get their hearts pumping! Mums receive a small gift from the school, too. Both Mother’s Day complimentary dance sessions are only available on 13 May 2023 at specific times and in limited slots only. Find out more at safra.sg/promotions/crestar-dance-date-with-mommy

4. Give her something to sing about

If Mum has always fancied herself a pretty awesome singer, why not buy her some time at a recording studio so that she can turn her musical dreams into reality? There are several top-notch recording studios on the island that allow aspiring singers and musicians to record their tunes and hone their music-making skills. You can even engage a creative team of technical directors, sound engineers and other experts to give Mum advice and help her create her own studio album.   

Perhaps Mum doesn’t harbour any professional singing ambitions but enjoys belting out a tune or two while she’s cooking or showering. In this case, gift her a karaoke session. Jewel Music Box offers games-equipped karaoke rooms and free-flow hot and cold beverages.

All mums enjoy 20% off at Jewel Music Box at SAFRA Jurong and SAFRA Punggol, from 8 May to 11 May 2023. Find out more at safra.sg/whats-on/safra-celebrates-mother’s-day-2023

5. Schedule a photo shoot for the mums in your family

Honour all the mums in your family at the same time with a professional photo shoot. Come up with a theme, get everyone to dress up, and hire a photographer for the job. Instead of a studio shoot, get their photos taken outdoors, like at the park, the beach or a local attraction. Gather all the mums and their kids for an extra-memorable group photo session.

6. Compile her favourite recipes

This is the perfect time to write down all of Mum’s secret family recipes and put them together in a pretty notebook or folder. If she has a whole stash of recipes, you may want to consider printing them out and compiling them into an album or book, complete with photos or illustrations of the dishes. Not only is this a cool way to honour your mum – such a gesture is flattering as it means that you hold her cooking in high regard – the compilation also makes a great keepsake for everyone in the family.

Tip: Ask the other mums in your family to contribute their favourite recipes, too, for a bigger and more varied collection.       

 7. Share photo memories

Look through old family photo albums and your photo library on your smartphone and select pictures of Mum that you think would be most meaningful to her – like photos of her on her first Mother’s Day, recent images of her with her children and grandchildren, and so on. Compile the best ones into a photo slideshow and play it for her on Mother’s Day, complete with a soundtrack of her favourite songs. If you have video recordings, you can put them together in a home video and make a viewing session of it with the whole family. She’ll love taking the trip down memory lane. 

8. Take over her To-do list

All mums are busy, even if they have help. Your mum will definitely be grateful if you offered to do her household chores for a week or complete whatever is on her To-do list, especially if the task is difficult or time-consuming. Many hands make light work, so if you have siblings, rope them in, too, so that Mum can take a short break.  

NSmen, sign up for your complimentary 1-year SAFRA membership and enjoy discounts on dining and shopping purchases at over 2,000 merchant outlets islandwide, as well as members’ rates at more than 45 sports facilities at SAFRA clubs! What’s more, your family can enjoy the privileges too – your 1st dependent pays $10/year, and it’s free for your 2^nd dependent onwards. Click here for more details.

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

The post Mother’s Day – 8 Unique Ways To Pamper Mum, From Cruises To Dance Classes appeared first on eNSMAN.

Travel-starved Singaporeans – including those who may have pooh-poohed the concept of cruises-to-nowhere previously – have been jumping on the cruising craze in a big way these past months. With Covid restrictions finally easing up, we may once again say “Ahoy!” to a holiday at sea. We take a look at the offerings from two major cruise lines – Royal Caribbean and Dream Cruises – so you can decide if you want to hop on board.

Ocean Getaway On Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Of The Seas

Need a break? Sit back and chill on Quantum’s popular three- and four-night ocean getaways that sail northeast towards the Riau Archipelago and back. Take in showstopping entertainment, such as “Starwater”, a theatrical spectacle that blends live music, dance and aerial artistry with cutting-edge technology, and embark on a glamorous sojourn from classic Parisian cabarets to modern-day stages of Las Vegas and New York in the musical production “Sequins and Feathers”. Australia’s top illusionist John Taylor and beloved variety comic James Bustar will also be putting out dynamic performances to keep the whole family enthralled and amused.

For those who wish to take the thrills up a notch, next-level first-at-sea experiences to try include the RipCord by iFly skydiving adventure and FlowRider surf simulator, so you can catch the wind and the waves without leaving the ship. Fun-seeking guests of all ages will find even more, from bumper cars and console gaming to flying trapeze and roller-skating at SeaPlex. And don’t miss the exhilarating 15-minute ride upon the North Star, a jewel-shaped capsule that elevates guests to a 360-degree view more than 90 metres above sea level.

And in case you were wondering, yes, subject to the latest Covid regulations (more on this below), you can enjoy endless eats in-between adventures, with 18 different restaurants to choose from. This includes international dining flavours at complimentary buffet-style Windjammer Marketplace and speciality restaurants such as Jamie’s Italian, Chops Grille, and the imaginative Wonderland.

Plan your ocean getaway on Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas at royalcaribbean.com/sgp/en?country=SGP

Super Seacation On Dream Cruises’ World Dream

Miss your favourite holiday destinations? Then you might want to book yourself a Super Seacation thematic cruise on board the World Dream. After ‘Rhythm of Korea’ and ‘Amazing Thailand’ were met with rave reviews, the latest ‘Wonders of Japan’ runs till September 18. Next up, taste authentic street foods from Europe to Oceania in ‘Markets of the World’. You can even stay in specially designed Western Australia Balcony Staterooms, complete with an adorable quokka plushie! Selected sailings will showcase Mid-Autumn Festival, Oktoberfest and Halloween, while those who miss snow can look forward to ‘Nordic Christmas’ from November 7.

Whether you choose the two- or three-night itineraries along the Straits of Malacca, enjoy up to 35 Asian and international dining options on Asia Pacific’s first Halal-friendly cruise ship. From the inclusive all-day buffet bonanza at The Lido to premium restaurants such as Prime Steakhouse by Mark Best and Umi Uma Japanese Teppanyaki, you’ll be spoilt for choice. More upcoming highlights include exclusive tea blends and ice cream flavours created in collaboration with local brands The 1872 Clipper Tea Co. and Creamier.

Tummies satisfied? Experiences galore await, from an exciting VR arcade to six waterslides, a rock-climbing wall and zipline suspended 18 decks above the sea. Headlining the series of live performances is “FAITH”, an inspirational original theatre production starring internationally renowned ballet dancers, acrobats, and comedians. Cap off the final night of your cruise by witnessing Asia’s one and only laser show at sea.

Plan your Super Seacation on Dream Cruises’ World Dream at dreamcruiseline.com/en-sg

Only Available For A Day Trip? Hop On Board The Royal Albatross!

Safe Cruising Despite Choppy Waters

If you’re planning to sail away on Quantum of the Seas or World Dream, both cruise ships have marked their third season extension (through February 2022) since returning to cruising at the tail end of 2020. While this is testament to the exemplary safety measures and wonderful holiday experiences the two cruise operators offer, much does depend on prevailing Covid-19 regulations. Here’s what you can expect as of now:

• In response to Singapore’s transition towards Covid-19 resilience, a vaccination-differentiated approach will apply on board as it does on land. This means you are required to show your vaccination status at check-in, using your TraceTogether app, Healthhub app, hardcopy vaccination card, or other government-approved forms.
• All guests must undergo Antigen Rapid Tests (ART) at the Marina Bay Cruise Terminal prior to boarding. As this is considered Pre-Event Testing (PET), it will allow all guests regardless of vaccination status to dine in at restaurants during the first day of the cruise. (Royal Caribbean provides an additional Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test within 48-72 hours before departure.)
• After the first day, only fully vaccinated guests (in groups of up to five, including unvaccinated children below 12 years from the same household) can continue to dine in at restaurants. For non-fully vaccinated guests, various takeaway and room service options will be available.
• Guests can enjoy most onboard activities and entertainment options, with group sizes and access determined by your vaccination status. Indoor mask-off activities (such as facials, saunas and massages) will only be available to fully vaccinated guests. Children may be allowed to participate in selected indoor mask-off activities.
• Standard safe management measures, such as mask-wearing, physical distancing and hand-sanitising, apply, and onboard venues will be operating at reduced capacities. You’ll also need to carry your TraceTogether token or app, as well as a TRACEY (World Dream) or Tracelet (Quantum of the Seas) for onboard safe management and contact tracing purposes, on you at all times.
• Enhanced HVAC filtration systems ensure a constant supply of 100% fresh ocean air to staterooms and public areas, with zero recirculation of air at any time. Rigorous sanitisation processes also take place throughout the ships, which are currently still operating at 50% capacity.

For the latest updates on Covid-19 regulations and safe management protocols, please visit dreamcruiseline.com and royalcaribbean.com.

The post Cruises From Singapore: What To Know If You’re Going On Board appeared first on eNSMAN.

As Singapore returns to Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) from July 22 to August 18, we will have to revert to having social gatherings in twos and dining at home again.

All is not lost, however. After all, being able to hang out in groups of two is still better than none, right? 

This month, invite a friend or family member to join you in checking out the latest activities. Think a Japanese-inspired cruise trip, virtual cooking classes, a virtual gallery of art pieces, and more!

Things To Do

SAFRA Punggol Foodtastic Travels: England And Korea

Satisfy your English and Korean food cravings by learning how to cook from the best. During this online cooking class, you will learn how to cook traditional English and Korean dishes from Chef Kang Hao from Social Food Cooking and Chef Suh from Chelabela.kfoods.

Fans of the English Sunday roast dish won’t want to miss Chef Kang’s version of the dish, Yorkshire pudding included, while Chef Suh will show K-foodies how to create Kimchi fried rice, Kimchi pancake and fried fish cake.

Sounds yum already!

Bonus: Five lucky SAFRA members may get to win an E!GHT Korean BBQ gift voucher worth $20 when they attend Chef Suh’s Korean cooking class, while five more SAFRA members may win a Jack’s Place voucher worth $20 when they take part in the contest after attending Chef Kang’s English cooking lesson!

Aug 10 (Korean); more info at https://www.safra.sg/whats-on/foodtastictravels-korea
Aug 24 (English); more info at https://www.safra.sg/whats-on/foodtastictravels-england

Wonders Of Japan

If you’ve missed Japan all year, satisfy your wanderlust at Dream Cruises’ latest country-themed sailing experience, Wonders of Japan.

The country-themed cruise to nowhere will transport you straight to the Land of the Rising Sun – from the iconic Torii gates surrounded by pink sakura trees reminiscent of the sights in Kyoto, to the aromatic lavender fields in Hokkaido.

While you’re on board, don’t forget to snap a photo with one of the passing geishas for a lovely souvenir.

Other activities to consider during your time on the cruise include a relaxing lavender spa session, craft-making sessions, as well as mouth-watering Japanese dishes such as Okinawa wagyu beef and other delicacies.

Available till Sept 18; more info at www.dreamcruiseline.com/en-sg/cruise-offers

DANCE: A Tribute To Rudolf Nureyev

Even if you can’t travel to France this August, you can immerse yourself in the French culture with a series of exhibitions, film screenings and dance workshops held at the Alliance Francaise de Singapour.

Here, ballet lovers are in for a treat as the French language school unveils a tribute to Nureyev, a Soviet-born dancer and choreographer, who is widely known as the greatest dancer of his generation.

On display for the very first time are also 14 striking costumes from the famed dancer’s signature ballets such as Swan Lake, La Bayadere, and more.

Till Sept 15; more info at alliancefrancaise.org.sg/dance

The Rhythm Of Us

A night at the theatre, with a performance between the Singapore Dance Theatre (SDT) and the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO) is just what you might need to take your mind off these uncertain times.

In this cross-disciplinary concert, the audience will find themselves transported on a journey with three works – including a meditative cello number – that culminate in an appreciation for music and dance.

All patrons will have to either undergo an Antigen Rapid Test (ART) at the venue, or receive their second vaccination dose 14 days before the date of the performance with proof of vaccination.

Aug 7 & 8; more info at sifa.sg/programmes/music/the-rhythm-of-us

VR Gallery At The ArtScience Museum

Treat yourself to a multi-sensory experience at the ArtScience Museum’s new virtual reality (VR) gallery, where you get to appreciate VR artworks by some of the world’s best-known contemporary artists Olafur Eliasson, Marina Abramovic, and Anish Kapoor.

Within the exhibition, named Hyperrealities, the trio dive into topics such as nature, climate change, and the human body.

More info at www.marinabaysands.com/museum/exhibitions/hyperrealities.html

Shopping

G-Shock National Day Watch 2021

For a pop of colour on your wrist – and more importantly – to commemorate Singapore’s 56^th birthday, don’t miss G-Shock’s latest National Day Watch designed by local artist Toby (a.k.a. Tobyato).

Designed on the AW-500BB-4EDR, a revival of the first analog G-Shock AW-500, the design focuses on the colours of red and white – the same colours that make up the Singapore flag. On the red band, Toby has designed a powerful white lion that covers the entire band, interspersed with his logo. The watch comes in a specially-designed box printed with Toby’s lion design.

On the theme, Toby credits Singapore as being “more than just a home” to him. He adds that he “will always be grateful for this place I call home” and that the design shows his gratitude to this “tough, small resilient island home”.

Available from 1 Aug at all G-Shock stores, as well as a special installation at G-Shock MBS Premium

Garmin Forerunner 55

Track your fitness levels with Garmin’s latest offering, the Forerunner 55. The smartwatch offers a variety of tools to help runners of all levels achieve their fitness goals.

This includes an easy-to-use GPS, which tracks how far and fast, as well as where a user runs. The watch also comes with a wrist-based heart rate data tracking system, a counter for steps, calories, sleeping patterns, daily suggested workouts, training plans from Garmin Coach, as well as safety features that let runners send a message with their location to loved ones.

For runners seeking to take it to the next level, the watch lets athletes select a run distance and view their estimated finish time, as well as built-in recovery time which lets athletes know how long they should rest before their next big workout.

$299, available on Lazada, Shopee, Krisshop.com, and store.convergent.com.sg.

Dining

Subway’s Rendang Sub and Pandan Cookie

Spice up meal times with Subway’s limited-time-only rendang-flavoured sub and pandan cookie.

The aromatic dish, a familiar hit with Singaporeans, is available in both chicken and beef. Recommended greens and ingredients include mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, mixed pepper, onions and Old English Cheddar cheese.

Available at Subway stores islandwide and on GrabFood, FoodPanda and Deliveroo from 21 July, Subway will match the first 10,000 rendang subs purchased to distribute to staff and volunteers at vaccination centres, testing centres and the National Centre for Infectious Diseases (NCID). The subs will be served to staff and volunteers at these centres in light of the no dine-in measures.

SAFRA members enjoy 10% discount at Subway for 6” sandwiches, salads and wraps (excluding on-going promotions).

Chicken rendang starts from $7.30 for a six-inch sub, while beef rendang starts from $7.90 for a six-inch sub. Till 28 Sept.

The post What’s New In August appeared first on eNSMAN.