Well, this is exciting … It certainly is! Fiamma offers an escape into the comforting embrace of Italian family dining in the lush surroundings of Capella Singapore. The restaurant, which opened two years ago, styles itself on an Italian farmhouse with wood-fired ovens and cosy seating nooks. You can choose to lounge by the “Den” or get front-row seats at the “Kitchen Chamber”.
Who’s cooking? Fiamma, which stands for flame in Italian, is built upon the inspiration of Chef Mauro Colagreco watching his grandmother cook during his younger days, coupled with his burning passion for cooking that is akin to the flame of a fire. His dishes are not just meals but entire stories, crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a deep love for authentic Italian flavours.
What are we eating? The new “Ci Vediamo a Casa” menu is a four-course dinner and a culinary journey through the heart of Italian homestyle cooking. It begins with a choice of two refreshing salads; the Insalata di Carciofi Crudi features raw artichokes dressed in a light lemon vinaigrette, or the Insalata di Asparagi with tender asparagus spears topped with a citrus dressing and shaved parmesan.
Sounds like a great start. What’s next? Pasta, naturally. Again, two enticing options await. The Trofie al Pesto is a hand-rolled pasta tossed in vibrant Genovese pesto, with fresh basil and pine nut flavours. The Sedanini Cacio e Pepe is short pasta tubes coated in a rich, creamy sauce of Pecorino Romano and freshly ground black pepper.
Are you still at the Capella or on the Ligurian coast at this point? Wait, it gets better! The main course comes in the shape of a classic Margherita Pizza, boasting a thin, crispy crust topped with San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh buffalo mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves. In my head, I’m in Naples.
Does dessert maintain standards? Fiamma serves an indulgent Tiramisu. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese, and a dusting of cocoa powder come together, providing a sweet and satisfying end to the dining experience.
What about the vino? There are great options by the glass. For white wine lovers, the 2022 Pala “Soprasole” Vermentino from Sardinia ($22) offers crisp citrus and green apple notes. The 2022 Peter Zemmer “Caprile” Muller Thurgau from Alto Adige ($26) features delightful floral and mineral hints. Red wine fans will enjoy the 2020 La Spinetta “Ca’di Pian” Barbera d’Asti ($28), with its ripe cherry and plum flavors and a touch of spice.
Any tips? Dining at Fiamma is a delightful escape into the heart of Italy and this weekday dinner feels like a decadent treat. We say start with a Fiamma Negroni mixed and served tableside – the night is young!
Thanks to our dedicated parent volunteers, community spirit, and regular netball sessions, ANZA Netball keeps our players of all ages motivated and enjoying the game throughout the year.
For our youngest netballers, we finish the term off with a specially designed Skills Challenge. This is to introduce them to various “skill stations” where they test their agility, coordination and control. The idea is to provide our little ones with a sense of achievement and accomplishment. Players have the opportunity to surpass their previous scores in subsequent skill challenges, which enhances their motivation, self-improvement, self-esteem and talent.
Building resilience
Left: The Skills Challenge in action with teenage ANZA players helping out
While competing, players are awarded a number of points for the level of expertise they achieve. The skills stations include the agility ladder, shooting hoops (softball), controlled toss, clap and catch, hurdles and shuttle runs. It’s a lot of fun as music blasts out and ANZA’s teen netballers provide support and cheers from the sidelines. This time, we had the 2010 netballers helping the young ones out and explaining activities and protocol at the various stations.
As always, the Skills Challenge went down a storm, providing young players with a refreshing change, blending obstacles with goals, and adding an extra layer of excitement to their usual netball session. Little do the players realise that while they’re striving to beat their own scores, they’re also building resilience in handling competitive situations, which is a win-win.
You Deserve A Medal
ANZA Lightning, Galaxy and Cyclones
ANZA participated in the annual SGNA Netball Tournament held in conjunction with the Singapore SVNS at OCBC Arena in May. This saw us fielding three of our strongest teams to provide match practice for the approaching Perth tournament. Other clubs participating included Singapore Netball Academy, Sport Ready, ACS International, Centaurs and The Netball Academy.
The HSBC SVNS SGP & SGNA Netball Tournament 2024 ran all morning with each round-robin match consisting of two 10-minute halves. The finals were held in the early afternoon, allowing the players to take in the Singapore Rugby SVNS afternoon session.
The U16 ANZA Lightning team were never threatened in the tournament and took first place and overall victory. ANZA Galaxy placed third in the U16 division and ANZA Cyclones placed second in the U14 division – amazing considering they were playing up in older age groups. All three teams finished the day with medals!
Living as an expat in Singapore is a privilege. It’s a place brimming with shiny, exciting, endless possibilities. Yet, beneath its glossy surface lies a significant challenge: stress. For many members of Singapore’s society, managing stress is a daily endeavour, and one that goes beyond the levels perpetuated by Little Farms running out of oat milk.
“Stress is the body’s natural response to demands or pressures, whether physical, mental, or emotional,” explains Dr. Neil Forrest, GP at Osler Health International in Singapore (osler-health.com).
“Stress triggers a cascade of physiological reactions, including the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, preparing us for action in the face of perceived threats. This can sometimes lead to physical symptoms like faster breathing, sweating, or a sensation of ‘butterflies in the stomach’.” He continues, “Mentally, the strain can cause heightened focus and a narrowed field of vision, helping us to deal with immediate danger by putting us in survival mode. The problems arise when we are exposed to stress on a chronic basis.”
Why is Singapore so stressful?
According to a 2023 study by Cigna International, stress levels in Singapore have been rising steadily, with 92% of residents reporting feeling stressed on a daily basis. These figures are not surprising; the past five years have seen us live through a pandemic, grapple with a more digitalised world, a cost of living crisis, and now a climate crisis with consistent heat and humidity which is draining over time. As Dr. Forrest says, “Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can affect our mood and energy levels. The body has to work harder to cool itself, which can lead to feelings of fatigue and irritability.”
For expats however, stress is often even higher due to the additional layers of adjustment and cultural integration. “A number of theories have been suggested as to why Singapore is a stressful place,” says Dr. Forrest. “The urbanised environment and the pressure on many young people to perform well at school may all be contributing factors. Being far away from friends and family, an unfamiliar environment and the weight of keeping your job when it’s closely linked to your right to remain in Singapore can also cause expat-specific angst,” Dr. Forrest explains. The removal of the ability to work for many people who are here for their partner’s job has also been a source of stress for many of his patients.
Managing stress effectively
Despite the challenges, stress can sometimes be a force for good. “Short-term it can be incredibly useful. The psychological tension of working towards an exam or deadline can give us a necessary drive and focus,” Dr. Forrest says. “Exercise is also a form of temporary stress that leads to healthy adaptations in the body. From a medical point of view, fasting is another acute stress which can lead to positive physiological changes.”
However, recognising when levels have become too high is crucial. “This is generally when you no longer feel able to manage stress in a healthy way and it starts to have an impact on your quality of life or ability to perform – this is often referred to as burnout,” he warns. Long-term unmanaged symptoms can lead to serious health issues, including depression, anxiety, heart disease, diabetes, and even neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Forrest suggests a lifestyle medicine approach to getting by:
Consistent sleep in terms of quality and quantity
Regular exercise, ideally cardio and resistance training. New ANZA groups include pickleball and padel – perfect for unleashing worries on a court!
Spending time with friends and family, forging meaningful social connections. Don’t miss ANZA’s Chill, Chat, Connect and Thriving in Singapore sessions which welcome new and established ANZA members to meet up
Limiting alcohol intake
Having a sense of purpose and helping others. Find out about charitable initiatives through ANZA Action where you get can involved with the local community through food deliveries, pre-loved clothing projects, sports programmes, and more
Recognising stress in others is also important. “They may seem very unhappy, or they may develop a short fuse and seem irritable or angry. In a work colleague, you may notice a change in their performance or regular absence. Many people socially withdraw and go out less when they feel under strain,” says Dr. Forrest. Offering support can make a significant difference. “Ask how they are doing and give them space to talk. Encouraging someone to seek help can be challenging, but it is essential. Try to check in regularly on those around you.”
“Keeping your job when it’s linked to your right to remain in Singapore can also cause particular stress”
Ways to cope better
If you’re trying all of the above and your head’s just getting hotter, speak to someone and ask for assistance. “If you – or someone you know – is anxious or unsure about seeing a mental health expert like a psychologist, speak to your GP,” says Dr. Forrest.
A professional will be able to help you discover ways to cope better with stress, plus it often feels easier to open up to someone impartial who is not involved in your day-to-day life.
The key is to acknowledge the stressors surrounding you and proactively address them. With the right support and resources, expats can not only learn to manage their stress effectively, but thrive in their home away from home.
A brilliant smile is not just a symbol of beauty but also a powerful expression of confidence. Thanks to advancements in aesthetic dentistry, achieving a flawless grin is now within reach. Discover the transformative magic of teeth whitening, a sought-after procedure that can turn lacklustre teeth into luminous works of art. This article takes you through the world of teeth whitening, exploring its advantages, procedures, costs, and key considerations when selecting the right dentist for your needs.
Illuminating Smiles: What is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a gentle cosmetic process that brightens tooth color, banishing stains and discoloration. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking an enhanced smile without intricate procedures.
Methods of Teeth Whitening
In-Office Whitening: A high-concentration bleaching gel is applied to your teeth and activated with a special light, often achieving noticeable results in one visit.
At-Home Whitening: Custom trays and a lower-concentration bleaching gel are provided for use at your convenience over a few weeks.
Concerns About Teeth Whitening: Under proper dental supervision, teeth whitening is safe and enamel-friendly. However, misuse of over-the-counter products can lead to sensitivity and enamel erosion. Your dentist can advise on the safest and most effective teeth whitening methods.
Duration of Teeth Whitening Results: Results typically last from 6 months to 2 years, depending on lifestyle habits and oral care practices.
Cost of Teeth Whitening in Singapore: Teeth whitening is a more affordable option compared to dental veneers. In Pure NZ Dental, the cost ranges from $600 to $1,500 depending on the chosen method and the clinic’s location.
Aesthetic Dentistry Implications: Teeth whitening is not just about physical transformation—it enables confidence. A radiant smile can positively impact every aspect of your personal and professional life.
Teeth whitening is a pathway to a beaming smile. Evolving dental techniques and materials make this procedure safer, more effective, and results-driven. Though costs and durability may vary, the returns in heightened beauty and self-assurance are invaluable. Your guide on this journey is a skilled dentist who tailors solutions to your unique needs. Choose wisely and embark on the path to the radiant smile you deserve.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to brighten your smile, teeth whitening offers an effective and affordable solution. By selecting the right dentist and method, you can achieve and maintain a luminous smile that boosts your confidence and enhances your overall appearance. Contact PURE NZ Dental today to take the first step towards a pain-free smile.
At Pure NZ Dental, our friendly and highly professional team are passionate about providing you with the dental care that you deserve!
Have a question or a concern? Contact us at +65 64630257 or via email at [email protected]
You may have strolled through Singapore’s beautiful Botanic Gardens many times before, but have you ever done a guided tour? Join us on this guided heritage tour of the gardens to discover the important role and historical background of this beautiful UNESCO protected landmark. You’ll learn about different garden styles and various garden designs implemented over the years, as well as its various heritage features. Some interesting living collections planted over decades of history will also be covered on the tour. Afterwards, we’ll head to a restaurant close by for a drink and chat (at your own expense).
That sound of tiles sweeping across a table during CNY and across Singapore’s heartland estates is all down to mahjong. This traditional game originated in China during the Qing Dynasty of the mid-19th century and is believed to have evolved from earlier Chinese card and domino games. Not wanting to miss out on local culture, ANZA Mahjong launched over 20 years ago, and today it’s one of our most popular groups. Considering the many benefits below, we understand why!
1 Mental stimulation
Mahjong requires concentration, memory, and strategic thinking. Regular play can help improve cognitive functions, such as problem-solving skills and mental agility, making it an excellent workout for the brain.
2 Social interaction
The gameis typically played with four players, making it a social activity that encourages interaction and camaraderie. It’s a great way to spend time with the ANZA community and meet new and like-minded people with a common interest.
3 Cultural experience
Playing mahjong in Singapore allows you to engage with a rich local tradition. Understanding the history and variations of the game can provide insights into Chinese culture and the cultural practices of other regions where mahjong is popular.
4 Stress relief
Many players find mahjong relaxing. The concentration required can help distract from daily stressors and provide a mental break.
5 Improved patience & focus
Patience and careful planning is key for mahjong. Learning to wait for the right tile and the ability to make thoughtful decisions can enhance your ability to focus and maintain composure in other areas of life.
ANZA Mahjong meets up on various days and locations each week. There is also a Monday evening session at the ANZA Office on Beach Road. All levels of players are welcome.
Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, has joined forces with renowned Chef Andrew Walsh of famed Cure to bring a touch of Ireland to Singapore’s culinary scene. From now until the end of August, guests can indulge in a meticulously crafted menu featuring premium Irish seafood, duck, and cheese. Complementing these dishes is a selection of Irish cocktails, including Dingle Vodka and Gin, Bushmills Black Bush Whiskey, Black 1847 with Jameson Irish Whiskey, and the innovative Black Velvet, combining Guinness Stout with Champagne. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience the authentic and sophisticated flavours of Ireland – so don’t miss out!
How does Bord Bia’s collab with Chef Walsh highlight Irish ingredients?
Bord Bia intends to present the finest Irish produce emphasising on the quality and sustainability of Irish food through innovative and sophisticated menus featuring Irish cuisine and spirits. Singapore, known for its discerning palate and Chef Walsh’s roots and acclaimed reputation present a great venue where Irish food can be celebrated.
How does Chef Walsh’s menu reflect traditional Irish cuisine with high-end culinary techniques?
His menu is masterful. Start with appetisers like Soda, Stout & Treacle Bread and Brown Crab, Seaweed & Caviar, which offer a contemporary twist on classic flavours. The main courses elevate Irish classics with dishes such as Irish Gallagher Oyster with Almonds & Dill, King Scallop with Cider & Sea Asparagus, and the Tales of the Silver Hill Duck.
A standout is Chef Walsh’s take on Colcannon, a true Celtic original, transformed with Cashel Blue Cheese and Caviar. Desserts include Café Gaelach & Truffle Sandwich, Lucky Gold in Chocolate Pot, and Almond Brown Butter Cake with Burnt Honey Cream.
Why should diners consider giving this menu a go?
While this menu is a premium offering, it promises a truly distinctive dining experience. The blend of traditional Irish flavours with contemporary culinary artistry creates a memorable feast and the opportunity to savour a unique taste of Ireland right here in Singapore.
About Chef Andrew Walsh
Starting his career as a dishwasher at the age of 15, Walsh’s rise through the ranks over 25 years is marked by a relentless commitment to excellence. His career took off in London under the mentorship of renowned chef Jason Atherton, setting the stage for his subsequent success in Singapore.
In 2015, Walsh introduced his reimagining of Irish cuisine with Cure, which quickly gained a following for its inventive approach and dishes such as Childhood Memories of Peat. His passion for creating exceptional dining experiences and his vision for a respected and collaborative culinary industry drive his impressive career.
Left: The Martin family escaped for the hills in a hire car. Right: Al Bustan Inn
As the father of three young daughters, Maddie, Evie and Bella (aged, 4, 6, and 8), my wife Millie and I usually opt for a beach getaway involving a substantial kids’ club and a bit of surf.
However, as our kids have grown older, and after 16 years of living in Singapore and exploring much of the surrounding region, we have discussed venturing further afield to experience new travel destinations. When friends moved to the Middle East last year, the region and Oman came onto our radar. A bit of research uncovered many attractions, from ancient forts, bustling souks, and ornate mosques, to dramatic sand dunes, tropical islands, outdoorsy activities (and even some swells!). Several websites showcased adventure and escape via family road trips which planted a few seeds and simultaneously put our minds at ease regarding how to go about it.
We’d never undertaken a family road trip before, so the opportunity to explore Oman – ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ style – had a certain mystique and appeal. We also discovered that the region has an excellent road system! Thanks to our trusty travel spreadsheet, we mapped out our eight-day journey in advance including travel times, places of interest, and accommodation. We also downloaded Google Maps so we could access it in the middle of nowhere with no reception. (As ANZA Scouts would say, “always be prepared!”).
DAY 1
After flying from Changi to Dubai, we picked up our hire car from Avis at Dubai Airport as they allowed border crossings into Oman, plus we could drop the car back there when we came to leave. We spent one night in the city before setting off on a six-hour drive (it would take less without little people) from Dubai to Nizwa, one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Oman. We wanted to stay in the old town, home to the most famous fort in Oman, Nizwa Fort, built in the 1600s, plus several other attractions including the souq (market), selling everything from farm animals to trinkets. Our girls were enthralled by seeing camels, goats, and cows up close in a somewhat chaotic market environment! We also purchased some lovely pottery and trinkets to take home – yes, the shopping started early!
After a fantastic dinner at Tamrah Restaurant (tamrahrestaurant), which has an awesome rooftop venue overlooking the fort, mosque, and mountains, we spent the night at Al Bustan Inn (topomanhotels.com), a cute little place perfectly located by an entrance to the old town with a nice garden and a small pool. We highly recommend staying around this area when visiting.
Alila Jabel Villa
DAY 2
We got up early to embark on a two-hour drive up the Jabel Akhdar mountains which has to be one of the world’s epic drives, rising to over 2000m with incredible vistas mesmerising you. As we didn’t have the required 4WD for access, we parked our car at the mountain’s security checkpoint and hitched a ride with a friendly local in their Land Cruiser (who also charged several hundred dollars less than the hotel quote!). Given the majestic setting, we wanted to stay somewhere memorable so opted for Alila Jabel Akhdar (hyatt.com) which is set on a clifftop on what feels like the edge of the world. An infinity pool takes in the glorious view whilst the resort is camouflaged into the setting which brings a sense of connection to nature. The architecture draws on the ancient forts in the region for a truly unique setting.
In such a remote and elevated landscape, on top of the must-do hiking we also joined the star gazing experience led by a passionate astronomer – our kids loved the high-powered telescope! The barren mountains provided an incredible location and whilst we loved the Alila hotel, it would be hard to go wrong elsewhere.
DAY 3
A four-hour drive from Jabel Akhdar took us up to One Thousand Nights Camp (thousandnightsoman.com) in the heart of Eastern Omani Sands, a camp consisting of around 50 luxurious (by desert standards!) and traditional black wool Bedouin tents, and our home for the next two nights. Everyone was super-excited on the journey, not only for the desert glamping experience that awaited us but also because we were meeting some family friends, some from Singapore and others who have moved on.
We parked our SUV in the nearest town of Bidiyah and met our driver for the 45-minute ride into the desert which we pre-arranged with the camp at an additional charge. This was definitely the right call given our inexperience with dune bashing and unknown terrain.
Upon arrival, it was pure joy mixed with pandemonium as seven children were reunited and headed straight for the pool. Towards dusk, we all climbed the sizeable sand dunes. Reaching the peak as the sun began to set was our first real experience of being amongst gigantic desert dunes and it was just breathtaking. The kids rolled wildly down the dunes having the time of their lives; the adults couldn’t stop smiling. It was a beautiful moment, finally closed out with us back at camp post dinner lounging around a large fire and cooking marshmallows.
DAY 4
This was a proper day of Omani adventure! The camp has lots of excursions on offer, so the dads thoroughly enjoyed an ATV excursion blasting around the surrounding dunes while the mums hung out by the camp pool. We rejoined forces in the evening to head on a sunset camel ride into the dunes with our 11 camels! While the ride was a little scary at first for the young kids who went solo on fairly sizeable camels, this proved short-lived as squeals of delight and much laughter took over – especially at the bodily workings of these large beasts.
In the evening our party was collected by a squadron of Land Cruisers and driven further into the desert for a buffet BBQ feast of succulent meat, Arabic salads and thick Lebanese bread on top of the dunes. The night was completed again with a fire, marshmallows, and memories of being reunited with friends against landscapes so completely new and foreign that we will all cherish forever.
DAY 5
It was time for our group to leave our Bedouin bolthole together and head back into civilisation. After being transferred back to our hire car in Bidiyah, we got ourselves comfy in the car again for the five-hour drive to Oman’s capital, Muscat. About three hours into the journey, we stopped to check out the coastal city of Sur, known as one of the oldest coastal ports and maritime cities in the world. With the kids faltering a little, we settled for a quick swim at the beach and a race around Al Ayjah lighthouse which faces out over the Gulf of Oman.
We would’ve loved to explore along the coastline to the south a bit further, however we didn’t want to risk overdoing it with the kids in the car so we settled on three final nights at the Grand Hyatt Muscat (hyatt.com) with our friends. Set in the heart of Muscat, it was an excellent location on the beach with spectacular views of the Hajar mountains. The lazy river here was a winner with all the kids!
Grand Hyatt Muscat
DAY 6
Amongst all the driving, we had to include a day at sea into our trip: cue the hotel helping us to charter a boat from Muscat to make the 18km excursion to the Ad Dimaniyat Islands in the Arabian Sea. These nine tropical islands are a protected nature reserve and blessed with pristine turquoise water begging you to snorkel (or dive) amongst rich turtle and fish populations. We got a little unlucky with an algae bloom which is growing more common in the gulf – it didn’t stop us snorkelling but it did restrict visibility. As the Ad Dimaniyat islands were not opened to the public until 2013 (they were previously reserved for marine researchers and conservationists), they felt like a well-kept secret and reinforced the sheer variety of things to see and do across Oman.
No surf? No problem!
DAY 8
After we bid farewell to our friends at the hotel, we set out for the five hour drive back to Dubai. This time we drove via a different border, crossing at Hatta – Al Wajajah in a bid to visit Hatta Rock Pools, a series of natural pools where you can swim between the rock crevices, bathe in a small waterfall, or just relax on the rock ledges. This was a welcome break and the swim was amazing. Wadis, which are spring or creek settings are a real highlight across Oman and in hindsight, I wish we’d visited more of them. Just as we were getting set to pack up, a local family sitting near to us insisted we join them in eating their homemade biryani, further reinforcing the very welcoming Omani culture.
CONCLUSION
Oman is simply incredible with so much to offer. Our fears about how our younger children would cope with the consistent road time were overplayed and our road trip ended up being a real bonding experience. Only two iPad movies were watched throughout the entire journey – a shockingly positive result and testament to the wonder of Oman. The Middle East has not seen the last of the Martin family!
Singapore boasts one of the world’s most efficient healthcare systems, with a strong emphasis on high-quality medical care. Understanding the local approach to child health and immunisations is crucial for expat families relocating to this vibrant city-state.
Our friends from Pacific Prime CXA is here to talk about the importance of vaccinations, and how you can ensure immunisation coverage by insurance.
Recommended + Required Vaccines For Children
Vaccinations are vital in ensuring your children receive optimal protection against preventable yet dangerous and contagious diseases.
Singapore maintains a comprehensive National Childhood Immunisation Schedule that closely aligns with World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations. It should be administered to every person from birth. Here’s the schedule:
From birth
Tuberculosis
Hepatitis B (HepB) – First dose (D1)
At 1 month of age
HepB – Second dose (D2)
At 3 months of age
Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP) – D1
Poliovirus (IPV) – D1
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) – D1
Pneumococcal disease (PCV) – D1
At 4 months of age
DTaP – D2
IPV – D2
Hib – D2
At 5 months of age
DTap – D3
IPV – D3
HepB – D3
Hib – D3
PCV – D2
At 1 year of age
Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) – D1
PCV – Booster 1 (B1)
At 15 months of age
MMR – D2
At 18 months of age
DTap – B1
IPV – B1
Hib – B1
At 9 years of age
Human papillomavirus (HPV)
At 10-11 years of age
Tetanus booster
Oral polio vaccine
Additional Considerations for Expat Families
Expat parents may need to reconcile differences between their home country’s immunization schedule and Singapore’s requirements. Newly arrived children might require catch-up vaccinations to align with local standards.
Singapore’s Immunisation Policies in Schools
Most schools require proof of vaccination for enrollment. Regular health screenings and immunization checks are conducted in schools. Parents of children who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons should be prepared to provide appropriate documentation and work closely with school health officials.
Ensuring Immunisation Coverage By Insurance
Most expats are excluded from the vaccination subsidies at public facilities, so many opt for private medical facilities for their immunizations. A single jab could cost you hundreds of dollars, and the best way to address these costs is to secure comprehensive private health insurance that includes immunization coverage.
And here’s why you should consider working with Pacific Prime CXA. They have a team of expert advisors who excels at comparing and finding health insurance plans across reputed insurers for you and your family’s healthcare needs and budget. Contact them today!
At its core, ANZA Nippers is about learning to save lives. This may sound easy, but the process of training future lifesavers is not simple.
The myriad of skills required to safely navigate and understand the water and beach, as well as to perform rescue and first aid operations, necessitates a complex set of abilities. Teaching those skills begins at nippers.
What looks like fun and games at Sentosa every Sunday morning is often serious stuff that trains critical foundational skills needed for future rescue missions: confidence, sportsmanship, strength, speed, problem-solving, teamwork, safety, and respect for the environment.
Flags is one common game in which ANZA Nippers run around collecting hose off-cuts. It seems like chaos, but this and games like Four-Sided Murder-Ball train the nippers’ dexterity on soft sand, teach them how to maneuver quickly and change direction, and provide awareness of obstacles (including each other).
Left: Tug of War encourages team interaction
Agility & balance
Various other activities teach the kids how to maximise speed and dexterity in and around shallow water through resistance and balance. You’ll see them doing high knees along the beach, and using hoola hoops to take high and big steps, while dolphin diving creates confidence in shallow waters.
The efficient transition from sand to water (and back again) is a key skill that nippers need to learn. Relays and bucket relays, which involve fetching water and sand in buckets and bringing them up onto the beach, teach both agility and coordination as children transition from one environment to another.
Signalling is critical for communication given the distances and noise levels found on surf beaches. Games that involve signalling for help and teamwork like relays and Tug of War, are a core way to encourage team interaction and communication.
There are also plenty of skills to be learned on and in the water. Head Down – in which kids keep their heads in the water for long periods – educates them on how to be comfortable with air control, and also helps them to understand the types of animals we share the beach with.
Bucket relays and navigating beach obstacles boost key lifesaving skills
Plenty of the exercises involve other forms of equipment. A definite favourite is the boards, which are great for balance and coordination when taking rescue equipment to and from the water safely and quickly.
So what to most of us might look like just fun on beach (which let’s face it, it is!), is actually carefully curated activities that teach critical skills for surf life savers of the future.
Well, this is exciting …
L
Teeth whitening is a pathway to a beaming smile. Evolving dental techniques and materials make this procedure safer, more effective, and results-driven. Though costs and durability may vary, the returns in heightened beauty and self-assurance are invaluable. Your guide on this journey is a skilled dentist who tailors solutions to your unique needs. Choose wisely and embark on the path to the radiant smile you deserve.
T
Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, has joined forces with renowned Chef Andrew Walsh of famed 
About Chef Andrew Walsh
Singapore boasts one of the world’s most efficient healthcare systems, with a strong emphasis on high-quality medical care. Understanding the local approach to child health and immunisations is crucial for expat families relocating to this vibrant city-state.
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