The LEGO Group has partnered with Lazada to host LEGO LazMall Super Brand Day on May 18. This 24-hour shopping event invites customers to ‘Dream It, Build It’ by making their dream cars real with these enticing LEGO vehicle sets.

In line with the upcoming Fast X movie, customers can look forward to exclusive LEGO Fast & Furious starter kits. The top three spenders who purchase one or more of the LEGO Fast & Furious sets on LEGO LazMall will also stand to win movie tickets to the latest iteration in the Fast & Furious Saga.

Dream It, Build It!

The LEGO Group is also running its ‘Dream It, Build It!’ social contest from now until 18 May to encourage families to build their dream LEGO vehicles together, using LEGO bricks from any LEGO sets.

In order to participate, participants are required to:

• Take a photo of their dream LEGO Vehicle build
• Share the idea behind their design in a post with a caption
• Include the hashtags (#LEGOSG) and (#LEGOSGDreamItBuildIt)
• Tag @lazada_sg to submit their entries on either Facebook or Instagram

The top three winners with the most creative builds stand to walk away with prizes worth at least SGD 300, while 10 consolation winners stand to receive up to SGD 150 worth of prizes, courtesy of The LEGO Group and Universal Group.

In conjunction with LEGO’s LazMall Super Brand Day, there are also LEGO Vehicles-themed in-store activations happening on selected weekend afternoons from April 8 to May 28 in selected LEGO Certified Stores and Toys“R”Us stores.

Participants can try out the new Dream Car Generator game on iPads and engage in hands-on interactive play experience with a LEGO Vehicles set.

Upon completing both vehicle-themed checkpoints and sharing a video of the play experience on social media with the hashtags #LEGOSG and #LEGOVehicles2023, participants can redeem a free LEGO polybag on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV!

Bentley has pushed hard for a new lifestyle-esque direction for the company, and it’s doing so by launching a new retail concept store. Located in Cheongdam, Seoul, the aptly named Bentley Cube will serve as a destination for current and prospective Bentley customers.

The site will be located within Seoul’s exclusive fashion district and is said to be one of the first new retail and experiential concepts propping up around the world.

Inside, Bentley will house a Batur Studio Suite, where customers will be able to create their very own bespoke Bentley through the Mulliner programme, Bentley’s in-house commissioning division. An Azure lounge will also be created, providing an exclusive space for customers to relax and network. 

In the basement of the new establishment, a Sound Playground, complete with a sound theatre with Naim audio equipment, will be available for customers to experience music at the highest standards. Naim is Bentley’s long-established audio partner, and customers will get to try out the same quality they would receive in their own cars.

Will this lifestyle-oriented angle be the new trend for automotive companies? Guess only time will tell.

Read more automotive-related content right here on AutoApp!

2023 is set to be a big year for Porsche. The German marque has big plans for Singapore, and it’s already launching its first endeavour in the form of a new Porsche Now pop-up store, located at Guoco Tower, next to Tanjong Pagar MRT.

This store acts as a prequel to the future grand opening of a new Porsche Studio here, which will feature special themed car displays, integrated F&B establishment, as well as public community events. This upcoming Porsche studio is set to open at the new Guoco Midtown development.

Designed to entice us with an early customer experience into what the future Porsche Studio will feel like, the pop-up is finished with sustainable materials such as recycled banner holders and various Porsche branded merchandise.

For those who wish to learn more about their cars, the store also comes equipped with a configurator, with the ability to spec up anyone’s dream Porsche. It’s not so much a showroom, but more of an experience for anyone patronising.

On display now at the store is a Taycan too, and customers can get up close and personal with it. Speaking to the Porsche representatives there, we understand that this model will be rotated out for newer ones over time.

Apart from the opening of this store, Porsche is also joining in the Singapore Art Week 2023 happening this weekend with their own unique art installation. This is happening at Gardens by the Bay starting on 6 January 2023. More details can be found here.

The Porsche Now pop-up store is now open and is located at the following address – 7 Wallich Street, Guoco Tower, #01-07, Singapore (078884).

Opening hours are from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm on weekdays, and 11:00 am to 8:00 pm on weekends. 

Catch the latest news right here on AutoApp!

Valentine’s Day is just round the corner, and like many others, maybe you’ve got a nice romantic evening lined up. Perhaps you’ve even booked a staycation for the long weekend too. Whether you’ve made restaurant reservations a whole month in advance, or have a cosy celebration at home planned, chances are, you’ve also got some gifts ready.

Traditionally, Valentine’s Day gifting revolves around flowers and chocolates, but what if neither of these suits your SO’s tastes? Now, if you happen to be dating a car enthusiast, you’ve come to the right place. Not only have we got some great tips on getting to know them better, here’s a list of car brands that sell more than just cars. If your loved one happens to be big fan, Valentine’s gifts from one of these would surely make his evening, or any other occasion, for that matter.

Smell great with Ferrari, Jaguar and Tonino Lamborghini

Charismatic, sophisticated, uncompromising. That’s how these powerful brands model their cars and how they hope wearers of their perfume would feel too. Best of all, these scents are reasonably priced and won’t break your bank or his by the time he needs a new bottle.

Buy online here: Ferrari | Jaguar | Tonino Lamborghini

Accessorise with Lamborghini and Volkswagen

If wearing cologne is not really your guy’s cup of tea, car brands have no shortage of fashionable accessories that are both aesthetic and functional. Whether he prefers bold looks that clearly spell out his favourite brand, or more subtle leather-embossed goods, Lamborghini and Volkswagen carry a range of premium leather goods and more that will leave you spoiled for choice.

Buy online here: Lamborghini | Volkswagen

Tell the time with MINI Cooper

Moving on to my personal favourite on the list — skip ahead if you’re the superstitious type. But, if you’re not worried the bad luck buying your partner a watch brings, MINI Cooper offers some intricately designed time pieces that sport the iconic Wing logo. (I particularly love the red stitching on this piece.)

Buy online here: MINI Cooper

Get a full range with Porsche

Bags, shoes, belts… You name it, Porsche’s got it. Porsche Design and Porsche Driver’s Collection boast a wide collection of premium men’s accessories, clothing, shoes, and even a handful of home goods. Whether you’re looking for something sporty or sophisticated and chic, Porsche’s got it covered.

Buy online here: Porsche Design | Porsche Driver’s Selection

In need of even more gift ideas? Why not consider some of these crowdfunded car accessories or these fun car-themed gifts?

Under normal circumstances, most of us would have made plans for an exciting holiday in an exotic destination, or a relaxing road trip up North. Unfortunately for us, the COVID-19 pandemic has lasted quite a lot longer than we hoped, and ‘staycation’ is now more in vogue than ‘vacation’.

Thankfully, Singapore still has plenty of places left to explore despite our tiny land area. From nature spots to secret shops, there’s much to discover without the need to touch your passport.

In September, we received exciting news that the government would distribute $100 tourism vouchers to everyone in December. That got all of us on the AutoApp editorial team thinking how we would spend them – so here’re some of our plans!

Marcus is going…

…for a staycation at Crowne Plaza Changi Airport

Except when taking a flight, I rarely ever visit Changi Airport; neither have I gone for a staycation in Singapore.

Sure, I’ve gone for a quick gander when Jewel Changi Airport opened to the public, but my non-travel related visits are as low as thrice a year. For quick getaways, I’ve always preferred to take a short drive up North to Desaru or Malacca for a change in scenery, rather than staying in a local hotel.

2020 has been the most unusual year for everyone, so I thought I’d have an unusual year-end holiday too. To take advantage of the SingapoRediscovers vouchers, I’ll be going on a staycation at the Crowne Plaza Changi Airport – because hey, that’s the closest I’m getting to jetting off on a holiday. Besides, it’s perfect to explore all that Changi Airport has to offer, particularly the Jurassic Mile and Canopy Park.

Sam is going…

…for a Coffee and Spirits Workshop

Originally, I would have settled for a day out at Universal Studios Singapore. However, as luck would have it, a friend of mine recently won us two free tickets (yay). This leaves me with a pleasant dilemma of figuring out what to do with my $100 voucher. While a staycation isn’t off the books entirely, the vouchers seem like a good excuse to try something out of the ordinary that I normally wouldn’t do. After all, having not paid (much) for it is a small comfort for a poor experience.

The idea of a coffee and spirits workshop is wonderfully enticing. For one, I would never say no to a good cup of coffee. For another, I would hardly turn down a well-crafted cocktail, either. What is most attractive about this workshop is the idea of mixing my own cocktails at home next time. I can’t wait to go crazy with the different combinations I could possibly dream up.

I’m keeping my fingers crossed, as there isn’t any indication so far that this workshop is eligible for voucher redemption. For my voucher balance? I might try one of these DIY terrarium kits.

Brin is going has gone…

…for a family staycation at W Hotel Sentosa Cove

Okay, okay, I know I’m cheating a little since I’ve already done this. But having just got back from a staycation at W Hotel Sentosa Cove, I’m pleased to say that I’d gladly do it all over again – $100 off the booking price, of course.

What I love about W Hotel is that with its chic décor and proximity to bars along Quayside Isle, you’d never guess it’d cater so well to families too. So I was pleasantly surprised when the hubs and I brought our cheeky 9-month-old out for a brief getaway. Apart from setting up a little bassinet for bubs to rest in, they also gifted us with some baby toiletries and made sure there was a high chair set up at our table for breakfast in the morning. Also, their WET® pool was definitely the highlight of our visit!

If you do have some extra cash to spare (saved up from that cancelled vacation overseas), I’d recommend splurging on one of their AWAY rooms which come with a private pool! Also, as a COVID-19 preventive measure, just a note that breakfast timings, use of the pool and fitness centre are staggered and have to be booked in advance.

Sheldon is going…

…for a family outing at Wild Wild Wet

Show my kids a body of water and they take to it like the proverbial ducks they are. As I love keeping cool with a good swim or soak, I’m only too happy to indulge them.

Since the family thoroughly enjoyed themselves on our previous sojourn, we won’t pass up the opportunity to go again for what would essentially be a free pass. Well, almost, since a family day pass for two adults and two children runs for $102.

The fact that the Missus will also have her SingapoRediscovers vouchers to spare, could be used towards a staycation at D’Resort which is right next to the water park.

Looking to see where else your SingapoRediscovers vouchers can be used? Here’s the long list of eligible merchants for you to spend them at!

Ah, Christmas. The favourite time of year for many, and quite possibly the only holiday that really gets us in a festive mood. After all, what’s not to love about Christmas trees, carols, and delicious food? (I always look forward to Mum’s homemade pork ribs.) Christmas is also the season of giving and the accompanying gift-buying headaches. You’ve probably lamented, “What’s a suitable gift for the boss?” Maybe you’ve worried about what your S.O. might like for Christmas this year that wouldn’t tear your wallet a new one like a Dyson hair dryer would.

Jump to best gift for:
Your office Secret Santa
An animal lover
The environmentally-conscious
The coffee aficionado
That sim racing enthusiast

We hear you, we really do. Personally, I often enjoy indulging my loved ones and getting them presents I know they’ll love. However, sometimes the pocket just won’t allow it. And what about gift shopping for people you’re not familiar with, like colleagues and casual friends? You might be tempted to settle for vouchers or gift cards – which are great in their own way – but these are probably your last resort if you’re aiming for personalised gifts. So, here are some Christmas gift ideas you might find helpful that suit a range of budgets. (I’m really not kidding about the range.)

Best Christmas gift for your office Secret Santa

In another lifetime that isn’t 2020, you have just received the name of a colleague for whom you play Secret Santa. Chances that you’ve been tasked to get your close office buddy a gift are usually pretty low, and you now stare at the name of someone you’re not very close to. The office has also given you a budget of about $20, just so everyone gets a present of roughly equal value. You sigh, feeling at a loss. Should you get vouchers? What about a(nother) mug that they can use? Maybe a Nerf blaster?

If you’re looking for a unique gift that is both aesthetically pleasing and not too generic, consider procuring a terrarium. Terraria are low-maintenance, miniature gardens that would add colour to a work desk without taking up too much real estate. Many retailers offer customisable designs too, so you can be assured that duplicate designs are quite unlikely.

Terraria available from $16
Where to buy: A Tilly A Day | In Out Atelier

Christmas gifts for an animal lover

Animal lovers are one of the easiest groups of people to shop for, especially if they have a favourite species or breed. Why, I’d be more than pleased to receive a hamper of cat-themed anything at any time of the year. However, you can certainly take it a notch higher when you purchase gifts that not only feature their favourite animals, but also contribute to a good cause.

Towards the end of the year, many animal welfare groups sell paraphernalia such as calendars or locally designed merchandise to raise funds for their welfare programmes. After all, the best Christmas gifts are those that not only bring cheer, but also help those in need.

Gifts available from $10
Where to buy: SoSD | The Cat Mama Shop by Cat Welfare Society | ACRES

Best gifts for the environmentally-conscious

Environmentally-friendly gifts are always tricky, simply because there are so many facets to take into consideration. Is it packaged in recyclable or reusable material? Is it ethically sourced? Are the products tested on animals? With so many questions in mind, often the easiest way to find a gift that checks all the environmentally-friendly boxes is to buy directly from a seller whose M.O. already is environmentally-conscious.

While there are many options out there that encourage sustainable living, such as reusable cutlery, bubble tea cups, and reusable straws, plantable candles are in a league of their own. The scented candles are made of pure, non-toxic soy wax, and the holders can easily be repurposed into plant pots. As for the seeds, these come together with the bundle, embedded into the paper lid labels. Even after all the wax melts away, the gift finds a life of its own as the plant continues to grow. Quite symbolic of many of our relationships, no?

Plantable candles available from $32
Where to buy: Pass It On

Best gift for the coffee aficionado

Coffee can be a rather divisive topic. There will be the camp of people happy to have a venti-sized Starbucks Frappuccino with extra syrup and what-have-yous. And then there are the connoisseurs who wouldn’t ever be caught dead drinking that stuff. Coffee brewing certainly has an art to it, but unless you have plenty of time to brew your morning cuppa, you’ve probably settled for some quicker alternatives before. Don’t worry, we won’t judge you for drinking instant coffee.

There are plenty of coffee machines out there that can quickly deliver a decent-enough cup of joe, pushing hot water through capsules packed with coffee grounds, fluffy layer of milk foam sold separately. But here’s a coffee machine that not only promises a good cup of espresso in 3 minutes, it simultaneously froths your milk, ready for your next work of (latte) art. With different brewing modes and nifty controls, this coffee maker would be a real statement piece that is both tasteful and functional in any coffee lover’s home.

Seven & Me Coffee Maker available from S$295
Where to buy: Indiegogo

Best gift for that sim-racing enthusiast

Nothing says Merry Christmas to a sim racer like a gift that more than endorses their favourite hobby. The last, and probably the most extravagant gift on our list, is for the speed junkie in our lives. Sim racing exists on a whole other level from the favourite race games that you might play on a PlayStation or Xbox, with a whole plethora of equipment to bring the racing experience a step closer to reality. Especially when racing in real life is not a readily available option for many, sim racing is one of the ways to keep the dream alive for many aspiring racers. Most sim racers might invest in the bare-minimum steering wheel and pedal set, but often end up with improvised mounts like ironing boards and kitchen stools that don’t promise a great deal of stability.

That’s why a simulator cockpit is a real game changer, and elevates the entire racing experience. It provides a platform to mount the steering wheel, gear shifter, and pedals while ensuring full adjustability so aspiring racers can find the most comfortable racing position. On top of that, this cockpit in particular is also foldable and portable for easy storage and moving around. Pretty ideal for apartment dwellers with limited floor space.

Next Level Racing® GT Lite available from $399
Where to buy: Next Level Racing®

If these gifts are still too mainstream for you, check out these weird crowdfunded car accessories that just might make for the most memorable Christmas gift ever.

Don’t you just love crowdfunding sites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo? All you need is a great idea, simple prototype and you could be on your way to making a multi-million dollar product. Once you get all the necessary backing and support on these sites, of course. Afterall, your bright idea could solve major problems, minor ones, and even those people never knew they had!

Now, now, don’t get me wrong. I’m a big advocate for big ideas and creative solutions. I even once backed a cool looking water bottle on Kickstarter that I waited a whole year for. (That’s a different story for another time.)

But just like most Tinder dates, the line between good-weird and bad-weird is sometimes a very fine one. So when it comes down to assessing the weirdness of these… weird car accessories, well, maybe it’s better if you be the judge.

1. Pee whenever, wherever, as long as not together, with The Car Pool

Have you ever been on a long road trip, or in the middle of a massive jam on the expressway when you’re suddenly overcome with the undeniable urge to relieve yourself? Then why not go for a sneaky lil’ tinkle with The Car Pool, “the world’s most portable toilet for men”! Instead of just using the nearest empty Coke bottle in your car, this a-pee-ling (sorry) device will ensure that you umm… aim with efficiency and precision! OTOT!

And ladies, if you are feeling a little left out, cast your gaze upon this curious contraption too! She-wee whuuut.

Funding status: Fully funded!

Get it here: The Car Pool Store

2. Send emojis on the road with Car Wink

If you find yourself constantly wishing drivers would be more considerate on the roads or love FB groups like this, then this might be the gadget for you. Though I can’t quite decide if Car Wink is weird-good or brilliant, there’s no doubt it’ll help share some happy vibes! Simply attach this solar powered device to your rear windscreen and you’ll be able to send messages (in the form of emojis) to those around you. Did a driver just give way to you? Flash him a thumbs up! Are you being tailgated? Then flash him the… ‘too close’ emoji. Best of all, it’s voice controlled once you hook it up to your smartphone!        

Funding status: Fully funded!

3. Dip yo’ nuggets with swag with the Saucemoto dip clip

Saucemoto is an in-car dip clip (yes, you read that right) that lets you easily slot in your sauce tubs for quicker dipping on the road! And if the tub doesn’t fit, it comes with a little container of its own to fill up with sauce packets of your choice. Will likely not impress your date, but may earn you a second look from the fast food employee at the drive-thru faster than you can say, “extra curry sauce, please”.

Funding status: Fully funded!

Get it here: Saucemoto

4. Keep your lil’ one’s head in place with NoBob

If you’re one of the many parents who’ve frustratedly watched your tykes’ head bob from side to side once they’ve dozed off in the car seat, NoBob might be what you’re looking for! This special strap holds your child’s head in place so you don’t have to hazardously try to adjust them while driving. It’s also nice that the device has been safety-tested and specially designed to stop your child from pulling it over their head. Though it may look a little strange to some, can you really say no to that cute little sheep wrapped around your little one’s head? Aww.   

Funding status: Fully funded! 

Get it here: NoBob

5. Keep cool with the Orion robotic sunshade

The Orion sunshade is purported to be the first windscreen sunshade that automatically expands or folds itself with a press of a button! What’s more, its compact nature allows you to easily store it in your cupholder, glove box or other compartments in your car. Found a much cheaper sunshade on Taobao, you say? But is it robotic, tho? Nope, didn’t think so. And also, you have to admit it does look pretty slick:

Funding status: Funding in progress.  

Back it here: Orion on Kickstarter

6. Breathe easy with Airbubbl

Based on their research (ooh science!), the folks at Airlabs claim that nitrogen dioxide levels in your car are on average, 21% higher than on the street. They attribute this to the unfortunate location of your car’s air intake, which happens to be behind the exhaust pipe of whatever car is in front of yours. And despite the use of the air-con or air filters that keep out nasty particles, Airbubbl hopes to improve the quality of the air in your car even further! Cool. But on a side note, doesn’t it look suspiciously like this?

Funding status: Funding in progress.  

Back it here: Airbubbl on Kickstarter

7. Live the nomad life with Carsule

For those of you who’ve always fantasised about living in an RV or feel that Airbnb’s are like sooooo 2019, you’ll probably love weird car accessories like Carsule. Essentially, it’s an inflatable booth that attaches to the back of your car. Offering ample sheltered space for a dining area and such, it also allows for panoramic views of the surroundings. It’s also easily packed and stowed into a portable package when not in use. Of course, there probably aren’t a lot of places you could use this in Singapore, but it might make for an interesting holiday up north once the COVID-19 restrictions clear!

Funding status: Fully funded!  

8. Clean, polish AND seal your car’s surfaces with Gentlewipes

Having worked as a copywriter in the advertising industry for some years now, I can confidently tell you that great branding goes a long way. That’s one of the reasons why I really dig Gentlewipes. They’re basically pimped-out, no-water-needed wet wipes that not only clean your car, they also give the exterior a high-gloss, sealing effect without the need for water or any fancy polishing treatment. But what really makes it all the more appealing is its cheeky packaging design and gritty product photography that’s sure to lure any hipster within a 5-mile radius. So does it do everything it says on the bottle? Who cares! Take my money anyway!      

Funding status: Fully funded!

Get it here: Gentlemonkeys

9. Get fancy with Snapbag, a sleek car… dustbin

If you can’t stand how some dustbins cheapen the look of your car’s interior and really suck at holding in the rancid smell from the trash inside, then you need to check out Snapbag. So sleek, it looks more like a classy backseat organiser than a bin! It also boasts high capacity, leak and odour proof qualities, and comes with a washable plastic liner too. Best of all, it fits snugly on your seat and doesn’t compromise legroom. Perfect for the aesthetically-focused driver!

Funding status: Fully funded!

_{Feature image credits: Medium}

Now that you’ve explored some weird car accessories, if you’re still in the mood for shopping, why not check out these cool car accessories for kids or visit these little known shopping places?

Do you refuse to buy fruits or vegetables online because you can’t “check if they’re fresh” with a tender squeeze or expert sniff? Is shopping online for clothes or gadgets just plain ole’ boring? We get it.

After all, staring at products on a screen for hours pales in comparison to the excitement of visiting a good ole’ physical shop! But with COVID-19 still ripe, avoiding crowds at popular shopping malls and venues is a must. So why not explore these ulu shopping places instead?

Brin says:

Get card and board games from an underground bomb shelter at Dueller’s Point

Whether you’re serious about card or board gaming, or just enjoy the occasional round of UNO, there’s no denying that they’re a great way to pass the time when you’re stuck indoors. So the next time you find yourself in need of some tabletop entertainment, check out Dueller’s Point.

Venturing to this little-known hobby shop is an experience itself. Hidden unassumingly at a HDB void deck in Hougang stands a glass door that opens up to a dimly lit staircase, before leading you past metal bunker doors to the main shop area. There, you’ll find shelves and countertops filled with card and board games, and also a big play area where card tournaments and gaming workshops take place.

It’s a spartan, no-frills set up, but those who know of the place are passionate about gaming and really don’t mind. Plus, though Dueller’s Point specialises in the classic card game, Magic: The Gathering, they’ve got a sizeable collection of board and card games and gaming accessories (dice, playmats, sleeves) too. You’ll be able to find popular titles like Blokus or Munchkin, and party favourites like Pie Face or Ultimate Werewolf: One Night. You may also discover some hidden gems like Tem-purr-a, a game where you fatten cats up with Japanese food… at a Taiwanese snackbar, obviously.

Though they’ve put a stop to events and tournaments due to the pandemic, they’re still open for business. Of course, if you’re looking for a specific title, it’s a good idea to check if it’s available first via their website or Facebook page!

Address: 450 Hougang Ave 10, #B1-541, Singapore 530450 (Map)

Marcus says:

Grab fresh produce and artisanal foods from the Kranji Countryside Farmers’ Market

If you’re sick of doing grocery shopping in crowded, stuffy supermarkets, here’s a refreshing change, set amidst rural kampong settings.

Since 2014, a group of farms part of the Kranji Countryside Association have banded together to provide a new shopping experience, in the form of the Kranji Countryside Farmers’ Market. Held quarterly at various locations in the Kranji Countryside – member farms take turns to host the market – it’s as authentic of a farmers’ market as you can get in land-scarce Singapore.

At the market, you’ll get to purchase premium fresh produce, or snack on farm-fresh treats you won’t find at a shopping mall. The farms come and set up shop themselves, so you’re guaranteed to get the freshest and finest they have. Unfortunately, this is a rather poorly-kept secret, and you’ll find that produce often sells out quite quickly. If you’re out to get a particular item, be sure to get there early!

Due to the pandemic, the farmers’ market has been on hold since its last event in December 2019. We’ve heard that they’ve got plans to resume it soon – keep an eye out on their Facebook page for the latest news.

Address: 240 Neo Tiew Crescent, Singapore 718898 (Map)

Sam says:

Head to Kin Yan Farm for the fungi (and gal), hurhur

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A post shared by Kin Yan Agrotech Pte Ltd (@kinyan_agrotech) on Mar 1, 2019 at 2:18pm PST

Just a stone’s throw away from Kranji Countryside Farmers’ Market is Kin Yan Farm, Singapore’s largest commercial wheatgrass and mushroom farm. The farm is situated in the Lim Chu Kang Agrotechnology Park, and sells other fresh produce like leafy greens, edible cacti and succulents.

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A post shared by Kin Yan Agrotech Pte Ltd (@kinyan_agrotech) on Apr 8, 2020 at 10:51pm PDT

Kin Yan also prides itself in keeping their farm free from pesticides and artificial fertilisers. Perfect for the organic-everything aficionado. If you’re still not convinced of the quality and freshness, why not give one of their farm tours a go? Some of the tours include a sample tasting session, and even some goodies to bring home, like a fresh rosella drink and a wheatgrass growing kit.

Make the most of your time in the Kranji area and head home with your favourite mushrooms and veggies! You’ll be dying to cook them for dinner.

Address: 220 Neo Tiew Crescent, Singapore 718830 (Map)

Sheldon says:

Get toys (for the, kids *ahem) at Tai Sing Corporation

Big Box chains like Toys R Us might offer a great selection of the latest and greatest play things. But if you’re looking for something less common, you may well find it at Tai Sing Corpn (sic).

Located within a stretch of shophouses along North Bridge Road, it can be an experience to show the little ones how Singaporeans used to shop in a time before malls existed. Within that historic quarter are numerous shops and eateries that can easily make for a great day out.

Coming back to Tai Sing, the unassuming shop front only serves to compound the element of surprise when you step into the store to face seemingly endless rows of toys, model car, action figures and dolls each begging for your attention and a place in your kids’ toy collection. It’s one of the reasons why Tai Sing is one of our favourite shopping places in Singapore!

Address: 732 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198700 (Map)

Jon says:

Score some great deals on pre-loved items at The Salvation Army’s Thrift Stores

Everyone loves a good bargain, right? But beyond specific seasonal events (such as Black Friday, or the recent 9.9 Sale), deep discounts can be hard to come by. The obvious solution? That would be the secondhand market, of course.

But for all the convenience of Carousell and the amazing variety of things you can find on it, there still exists the possibility of encountering a stress-inducing Carouheller, who will ruin your day faster than you can say “can nego?”.

This is where thrift shops come in, combining the sheer value of secondhand goods with the surprise and charm you could only get from a physical shopping experience.

Though thrift shops are aplenty, one of the most popular, budget-friendly shopping places in Singapore (and also the largest!), is the Praisehaven Mega Family Store run by The Salvation Army.

Spanning multiple levels, the place is chock full of pretty much anything you could want: furniture, fashion accessories, electronics, toys, clothing, household goods, musical instruments, sports equipment, books, and even artwork. Seriously, it’s like a treasure hunt, and most of the stuff is either nearly as good as new, or charmingly pre-loved and vintage, yet well taken care of.

Not only does the money from your purchases go back towards a charitable cause, but a new lease of life is given to otherwise perfectly usable goods that might otherwise have ended up in a landfill. It’s a win all around!

Address: 500 Upper Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 678106 (Map)

Now that you’ve discovered some awesome secret shopping places in Singapore, why not check out some cool places to lepak or learn how to zhng your living space here!

We’ve explored ways to child-proof your car and how to keep our mini-mes safe on a drive. But what of our precious canine friends on whom we bestow much of our love and attention?

Pets such as dogs are often like young children. For one, they spark joy in our (sad and lonely) lives. They also sometimes leave drool stains in unexpected places, or go to the toilet on our car mats and seats. Most of all, they can also be rather excitable if they are young and untrained. Properly strapping them in (like good children) will ensure a safe and comfortable ride for everyone.

There are various ways you can keep your pooch safe and comfy. Here are some pet accessories that do just the trick!

Dog seat belts

Most dog owners love it when their beloved forever-puppy pounces on them in a display of affection. Except while driving. Dog seat belts come with a clasp that can be attached to the pet collar, and a seat belt clip that will fit into the seat belt buckle. Simply slot the clip in, and your pup is ready for a ride. Other dog seat belts can be attached to the headrest instead.

Pet booster seats

For smaller dogs, booster seats are available, especially if they love watching traffic go by. These car seats also usually come with a strap that you can attach to your dog’s harness. These can also be directly secured with a seat belt, similar to how child car seats work. 

Pet hammocks

Big dogs certainly won’t fit into a booster seat, but don’t worry. You can transform your entire back seat with a pet hammock. The hammock can be secured to the headrests of the front and back seats, and folded when not required. They are usually made of a waterproof or water-resistant material. This creates a protective canopy that keeps your pooch comfortable and ensures that any wet and messy mishaps are confined to the hammock.

Calming treats

For your more anxious fur-babies, having some calming treats on hand is must. An uneasy dog may react or behave in unexpected ways, and calming treats often contain ingredients such as melatonin to help them relax. Be sure to offer these treats in moderation to avoid overdosing your pet with too much calming aids. 

Pet stairs/ramps

If you drive a hatchback and your dog’s designated seat is behind everyone else, investing in a ramp or pet stairs provides an easy way for your furry pal to get in or out of the car. Especially for vertically challenged breeds like corgis and dachshunds, jumping from a height can cause injuries to their legs and joints.

Bonus: Crate your cat

While many of the pet accessories here will work equally well with cats, the best way to keep your kitty comfortable is to have crate or carrier. Cats are easily spooked and startled and can become anxious during car rides. Having a comfortable crate or carrier that they can spend time in will help ease their nerves. Bring some of their favourite toys along too — they will appreciate the familiarity.

Depending on your cat’s temperament, it may be inclined to move around more and pace around. While this may not be an issue for short drives, bring a carrier with you nonetheless just in case.

Now that you know what to buy, check out these shopping tips to make smart purchases without breaking the bank!

Keep your personal details to yourself.

If you have the memory span of a goldfish, or if numbers just make you nervous, chances are you’ve probably saved your login or credit card details on several websites.

Well, it has probably made online shopping way more convenient hasn’t it? Groceries? Click and done! Phone bills? Click and paid! $120 designer dustbin with an obscure Swedish sounding name? Click and ordered! Wait, what just happened?

You see, just like the anti-drug campaigns of old and Pringles commercials have taught us: Once you start, you can’t stop. The easier it is to check out your ever-growing cart online, the more likely you’ll find yourself spending money on things you may not necessarily need. What’s more, having your login details saved makes you an easy target for hackers and the like too.

Know that the price isn’t always right.

So you’re looking for a new phone. What’s your game plan? Do you go straight to the official manufacturer’s shop or your favourite neighbourhood tech shop? Or maybe you’d rather skip the queues and just get it online instead?

You don’t have to dig too far into the money-saving tips jar before you come across this nugget of wisdom: Always look out for the best prices on more than one platform, whether online or off. And if anyone mockingly calls you an ‘aunty’, well they won’t be laughing once they find out how much you’ve saved! In some cases, searching several places could save you a hefty amount of cash. After all, no one likes paying more for something they can get for less.

If you’re a car owner looking out for car parts or accessories, the same rules apply. As a pro tip, check out websites like sgCarMart or platforms like Carousell which may offer bargains or money-saving tips on purchasing car accessories and more. Facebook groups specific to your car make or model may even feature certain parts and accessories that you won’t be able to find elsewhere.

Keep your purchases close and your receipts closer.

If you’ve ever purchased gadgets or other electronic equipment, you probably already know the importance of receipts. Afterall, they’re a life saver when the item you purchased turns out to be defective and needs to be repaired or replaced. But did you know that keeping your receipts for services such as hairdressing appointments, or even consultations with your doctor is just as important too?  

For instance, when it comes to servicing your car, a one-month warranty on workmanship is more or less standard. This makes sense since you’ll probably only notice issues a day or two after the initial work. As such, it’s definitely a good idea to remember to keep your receipts in a safe place. If a bulk of your receipts are on paper (and not digital), snap quick pics on your phone just in case the ink fades over time.

Don’t fall for the ad trap.

Unless you spend most of your time in hibernation, it’s almost impossible to go a day without seeing at least one advertisement. In fact, studies have found that the average person sees thousands of ads a day! And with social media platforms allowing companies to target consumers down to specific demographics (did someone say single, 28-year-old male with 2 golden retrievers and an interest in romcoms and juggling?), you’ll most likely be seeing ads that appeal most to you. That’s also why that image of a pair of sweet sneakers you viewed once has been following you around for days.

Since you can’t avoid ads, one way to deal with them is to make lists of things you do need to get, and to stop yourself from making purchases out of boredom. Of course, that’s easier said than done! *quickly closes Zalora, Lazada and Qoo10 tabs on browser and starts reading up on more money-saving tips*  

Don’t be fooled by marketing gimmicks.

Yes, we’re sure you know it all too well. That ‘clearance sale’ banner that you’ve seen at the same shop for months now, or even overly-excited youths at supermarkets offering you ‘buy 1 get 1 free’ promotions. Sales and marketing gimmicks have been around for years to help make products look more appealing to consumers.

For instance, one of the most used marketing gimmicks at car workshops is the classic bait and switch. They’ll start by offering customers low prices to service their car or perform repairs. Once customers bring their car in, the staff might then point out several things that could do with replacing too – these include brake pads, transmission fluid and more.

Well, boo to that.

As a rule of thumb, try to avoid car servicing packages which are well below the usual market rate. For instance, be wary of anything that costs less than $180 unless you know exactly what it entails. If you’re still clueless on whether something is a marketing gimmick or not, just remember this: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

But if you’d rather just avoid the hassle of finding a good workshop or trying to pick up money-saving tips you can use at your next car servicing then why not try out AutoApp? By only working with reputable and trusted partner workshops, you can rest assured that you’ll never fall prey to gimmicks or scams with us! And that’s the truth. 

Know the ABCs of T&Cs.

There’s a whole bunch of reasons why you should always pay attention to the fine print. Sure, most of us tend to just gloss over walls of text, especially when the font size is smaller than 10. However, the extra effort you make to read the terms and conditions of that car servicing contract or online website could pay off in the long run. The last thing you want is to be slapped with extra fees or charges that you weren’t aware of.

And… you don’t want to be signing off your first-born child to an unknown company do you? 

Stock up, but not too much.

If the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that some Singaporeans love stocking up on everything – from instant noodles, toilet paper to sanitisers and disinfectants. But what drives consumers to do so? Perhaps it’s the comfort knowing that everything is readily available should you ever need it, or maybe it’s just plain ole’ kiasu-ism.

That said, it’s perfectly fine to stock up on groceries or essentials every now and then, in reasonable amounts of course. And if you’re a car owner, it’s a good idea to keep a couple of bottles of engine oil at home so that you can do your own top-ups between servicing sessions. Wet wipes are also super convenient when it comes to cleaning dusty dashboards or your hands after you’ve been checking your engine or brake fluids. They’re also handy wiping down dusty dashboards and other interior surfaces. So be sure to keep a few packs in your glove compartment! Pro tip: Wet wipes come in large sizes as well and work better for car applications.

Gang up on shipping costs.

Don’t exorbitant shipping prices really just stink? I mean surely it can’t cost THAT much to fly a tiny wallet all the way to Singapore, unless of course it’s flying first-class. If you know the feels, then fret not. One awesome way to save on shipping costs is through group buys.

It’s simple. Customers seeking out products from the same seller, place an order together so that the shipping cost is split evenly across the board and you save precious moolah! What’s more, a quick online search should lead you to forums or group buy listings on platforms such as Carousell. Easy peasy.

If you happen to be in the market for car accessories or parts like performance filters, strut bars or tyres, group buys may be available on Facebook groups and forums too – so keep a look out! Plus, joining online communities of car enthusiasts such as these could earn you a new friend or two who may have some money-saving tips and ideas for you too!

Now that you’ve picked up some money-saving tips and learnt a thing or two about shopping smart, would it be wrong to tempt you with some cool car accessories for your kids, automotive merchandise or maybe even yummy foods to whet your appetite?

That said, at AutoApp, we’re all about transparency and clear-cut policies that make sense. Find out more about how we can turn servicing your car into a stress-free experience here.