Hotspots: Coucou

Jul 4 2023

We’re pretty fondue of the food at Coucou

Let’s face it, there is little need for après ski in Singapore, but that doesn’t mean we don’t crave the cosy atmosphere and the kind of epic feasting opportunities that come post a session on the slopes. Step forward Coucou – a darling Swiss restaurant sitting discreetly in Duxton and giving off seriously off piste vibes.

Leave your salopettes at home and step into intimate alpine cabin décor complete with stone-washed walls, pictures of the magnificent Swiss mountains, handmade cuckoo clocks, a happy atmosphere, but not a yodel in sight.

That is until we tried the food, which did make us what to release a little falsetto of joy. All flavours and ingredients at Coucou are authentically Swiss, as is the wine and cider thanks to Swiss chef and co-owner Yves Schmidt who inherited many traditional ‘secret’ recipes from his grandfather. Indeed, we start with the Salade Coucou, a clean and zesty number that looks relatively plain (and healthy!) to the eye, but is jazzed up with a special homemade dressing – the formula of which is shrouded in mystery!

The rösti, Rosti Saucisse de Saint-Gall, delights with the addition of a veal sausage and onion Confit sauce; meanwhile, Tagliata De Boeuf came in the shape of premium aged grass-fed striploin of beef in a garlic butter sauce.

Dip, swirl, dab

Fuelling our deep-rooted obsession with cheese is Malakoff, a crunchy dome of oozy gruyére that melts in the mouth and tastes killer with a touch of mustard. However, the showstopper at Coucou is the fondue. Fondue Moitie-Moitie (from $38 per person) is a classic original recipe from Fribourg that includes half Gruyère AOP and half Vacherin Fribourgeois AOP and optional alcohol, which is served in a bubbly cauldron-esque pot before you. The eating etiquette here is very important: stab your chunk of bread, dip, swirl, and add a dab of the accompanying nutmeg curry powder if you want to spice things up.

Meringue with gruyére double cream – the Swiss way to do sweets!

The cheese does not stop when you get to dessert, oh no. Coucou’s snowy white Meringue à Crème Double De La Gruyére is a swiss meringue topped with fresh berries, a tart berry sauce, and served with gruyére double cream. Coupe Suisse comprises vanilla ice cream served with hot Swiss chocolate and chantilly cream.

If you’ve never tasted Swiss wine before, here’s the place to try it. The Petite Arvine is a fruity and floral aperitif wine that beautifully complements fish; the Chasselas Wine, is you go-to to pair with the rich flavours of Swiss cheese. Both were refreshing, lively and quaffable – so much so that we were relieved not to be skidding around St Moritz afterwards, and instead headed straight home.

VERDICT: Coucou brings a moorish slice of Switzerland to Singapore with authentic, hearty and unique dishes that epitomise Swiss culture and heritage. Visit with friends and sample several dishes, or book up for a date night for some fromage-fuelled sharing and caring.

Coucou, 9 Craig Rd, S089669, Tel: 6226 0060

How’s the Australian housing market looking for 2024?

Jul 3 2023

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As 2024 approaches, Australian expatriates living overseas are increasingly curious about the direction of the Australian housing market and potential opportunities for those looking to return home or invest in property down under.

Key trends & developments

One of the primary trends shaping the Australian housing market is a shift towards sustainability and eco-friendly designs. Many new residential projects are embracing innovative energy-efficient solutions, such as solar panels, passive cooling, and water recycling systems. For environmentally-conscious expats, these sustainable homes will be an attractive option.

Another major development is the rise of regional living. As remote working becomes more popular, people are moving away from crowded city centres to enjoy a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle. This trend is likely to create unique opportunities for expats in regional property markets.

The Australian government’s commitment to investing in infrastructure will continue to impact the housing market. Upgrades in transport, healthcare, and education facilities can increase the appeal of certain areas and contribute to property value growth.

Tips for navigating the market

Consider your goals
Align your property investment strategy with your long-term objectives. If your primary goal is to have a comfortable home upon returning to Australia, prioritise location and lifestyle factors. If you seek rental income, focus on areas with high rental demand and strong rental yields. For capital appreciation, research emerging growth corridors and infrastructure projects that may boost property values.
Understand tax implications
Consult a tax professional to understand any tax implications, such as capital gains tax, stamp duty, and land tax. Understanding your financial responsibilities will help you to plan your strategy and avoid unexpected costs.
Get expert guidance
A trusted real estate agent can help identify suitable properties and negotiate on your behalf, while an experienced solicitor can oversee legal aspects. Consider hiring a buyer’s agent who specialises in assisting expats and can offer tailored advice based on your situation.

By planning ahead and seeking professional advice, Australian expatriates living in Singapore can confidently invest in the property market back home, whether they’re looking to return or simply diversify their investments.

If you want to learn more about the Australian housing market, or are seeking the best advice on investment opportunities as an Australian expat, speak with a specialist adviser at Odin Mortgage.

Contact Ben today at [email protected]

What’s on in Singapore for July & August

Jul 3 2023

Silent Nights

If you’re young at heart, just young, or love a boogie, Silent Disco Asia offers a brilliant few hours to bust some moves under the Singapore stars without complaining that the music is JUST TOO LOUD. From now until May 2024, Silent Disco Asia takes place once a month from 10pm – 2am and includes your own individual headset, drinks, and some natty glow-in-the-dark accessories. There’ll be three DJs of three different genres to keep the tempo up and each partygoer can choose their preference – Rock Anthems, Electronic Dance Music Bangers, and Top 40 Pop Music. We cannot promise that your potential hangover will be quite so quiet …
silent-disco.asia

Family Festival FUN incoming

We usually associate Sarimbun Scout Camp with our adventurous ANZA Scouts, but September sees the venue host Sunda Festival, a new two-day shindig from 30 September – 1 October. Over two days there’ll be family-friendly workshops, curated activities for all ages, works from visual creatives, and live music across three stages including DJs, live bands, and electronic acts. What’s more, guests of the festival have the option to camp or stay in the on-site accommodation at Sarimbun for a taste of the wilderness.
70 Jln Bahtera, Singapore, 719921.
eventbrite.com

SG Night Festival RETURNS

After dark happenings are all the rage as the Singapore Night Festival returns from 18 – 26 August. Taking place at the Bras Basah.Bugis (BBB) precinct, the theme this year is “Singapore, the Great Port City”. Revellers can look forward to exploring the museums and heritage buildings around BBB alongside enjoying works by local artists, cool dynamic projections around the city, Night Lights installations, and lots of food and shopping experiences.
nightfestival.gov.sg

It’s showtime!
Fans of musicals rejoice – some classics are coming to town to add a little magic and joy to your life. Don’t miss them!

“Leave your troubles outside” for iconic Cabaret which will transport you to the sultry Kit Kat Club in 1930s Berlin where life is beautiful but dark forces are on the rise. Here you’ll find a glamorous backdrop for a romance to develop between American writer Clifford Bradshaw and English cabaret performer, Sally Bowles.
5 – 15 Oct. Sing’Theatre, 21 Tan Quee Lan St, #02-10 Heritage Place, 188108 singtheatre.com sistic.com.sg
So, what if Juliet had not ended it all for Romeo and got a second chance at life on her terms? Self-discovery, empowerment and love is the theme of & Juliet and comes straight to Singapore directly from a blockbuster season in Melbourne. Adding to the story are some iconic pop songs from the last three decades.
21 Sep – 8 Oct. Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, 4 Bayfront Ave, B1, 018973
marinabaysands.com sistic.com.sg
Unforgotten is an original musical set in late 1980s Singapore. Follow the story of a young doctor and his encounter with some senior citizens at Kranji Home who’re suffering from Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) from the Japanese Occupation.
28 July – 6 Aug. Drama Centre Theatre, 100 Victoria St, #03-01 National Library, 188064
sistic.com.sg
Mamma Mia! returns to SG for a limited season in October. Break out the hummus and head on a journey to a Greek Island where everyone converses in ABBA songs such as “Dancing Queen”, “The Winner Takes It All” and “Voulez-Vous”.
19 Oct – 5 Nov. Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, 4 Bayfront Ave, B1, 018973 marinabaysands.com

Cosy Up In OZ

Escaping Singapore’s summer heat for some Australian cold? Put hibernation on hold and head to Busselton in the Margaret River region where the Cabin Fever festival will warm you up good and proper! Expect fire, wine, beer, food, guest speakers and fine tunes at this spectacular which has over 50 events planned, with more incoming!
14 – 23 July.
cabinfeverfest.com.au

Live Well

If you’re looking for healthy activities to do with friends and family, head to Sentosa. From now until 19 July, Zentosa LiveWELL Festival is hosting more than 250 activities to promote wellness, boost energy levels and encourage rest.
zentosafest.sentosa.com.sg

Driving towards F1

Singapore F1 takes place at Marina Bay from 15 -17 September. Let’s hope it doesn’t rain so we can watch the race and see the likes of Robbie Williams, Post Malone and Jackson Wang performing without added mud.
singaporegp.sg

JCU: Celebrating 20 years of Excellence in Education

Jun 30 2023

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Education plays a pivotal role in shaping individuals, societies, and the world at large. After all, education empowers individuals by equipping them with knowledge and skills that are essential for personal growth and success. By raising awareness about environmental issues, promoting scientific advancements, and fostering cultural understanding, education also enables individuals to become active participants in shaping a better world for future generations.

These fundamental pillars characterise James Cook University’s aim to create a brighter future for life in the Tropics and beyond, through education and research that makes a difference locally, and globally.

In an effort to deliver quality education to a wider audience, the Singapore campus of James Cook University was established in 2003. Today, the campus sits along Sims Drive, connecting students and staff to the heart of the bustling city. 2023 marks the campus’s 20^th anniversary, commemorating two decades of providing a world-class education to students in Singapore and beyond.

High quality education

From its inception, JCU in Singapore has been committed to providing high-quality education in a supportive and inclusive environment. The University offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in areas such as business, psychology, and information technology, among others. As it adapts to evolving educational needs, the Singapore campus has also introduced programs that explore issues such as cybersecurity, business psychology, commerce, and more.

In addition to its academic programs, JCU in Singapore is also known for its research excellence, with faculty members making significant contributions to their respective fields.

For instance, the University shares its knowledge of aquaculture with local fish farmers and fish farm workers, crucially advancing the industry in Singapore. The Aquaculture Research and Teaching Facility, which launched in 2019, allows JCU to effectively deliver its world-class expertise in tropical aquaculture directly into Singapore and the immediate region.

The Singapore campus of JCU also maintains close relationships with various industry leaders, paving the way for student learning opportunities and ways for the University to contribute to society.

Commitment to diversity

One of the key achievements of JCU, Singapore has been its commitment to diversity and inclusivity. The Singapore campus is proud to have a diverse student population, with enrolments from more than 55 countries. Diversity extends to teaching and professional staff, bringing perspectives and experiences that celebrate differences. This diverse community enhances the academic experience, encouraging collaboration and open-mindedness. In addition, it promotes a global outlook and prepares students to thrive in a multicultural world.

To complement the campus’s thriving community, a number of upgrades to campus facilities have taken place in the past couple of years. New classrooms have been established to accommodate the growing student population, and the Student Hub and reception have both been revamped to offer environments more conducive to studying and forging meaningful connections.

As JCU in Singapore looks to the future, there is much to be optimistic about. In 2022, Professor Simon Biggs succeeded Professor Sandra Harding as the new Vice Chancellor and President of James Cook University, promising a strong guiding hand and exciting new possibilities. Together with Professor Chris Rudd OBE, Deputy Vice Chancellor and Head of the Singapore campus, the University will continue to develop new academic programs, expand its research capabilities, and build new collaborations.

With its commitment to innovation, excellence, and inclusivity, the Singapore campus is well-positioned to continue making significant contributions to the education landscape in Singapore and beyond.

James Cook University, Singapore, 149 Sims Drive, Singapore 387380
Find out more: https://www.jcu.edu.sg/
Tel: +65 6709 3888
Email: [email protected]

Hotspots: Boeuf

Jun 28 2023

Nestled in pretty Telok Ayer is a blue-hued shophouse oozing sweet charm. Step inside and you’ll find a carnivore’s paradise – the first sign being a fridge filled with hanging meats strategically positioned to showcase what’s on offer (and possibly to warn vegetarians that they may leave hungry).

Boeuf Singapore is a modern restaurant based on a simple idea: to bring meat eaters the best in beef and wine. With a background in Economics, owner Sebastian Soh uses his skills to find the best meat and wine deals available, sourcing seasonal produce from farms around the world such as Australia, Wales, Scotland, Argentina. He then scouts out old and new world wines to bring together a dream pairing of flavours.

Chef Carlos oversees the curing of Boeuf’s prime ribs. You’ll find different breeds and cuts of beef and mouthwatering 21 – 60 days grass and grain fed prime ribs of varying marbling scores. Each choice cut is grilled on lava stones to render the fat before being oven-cooked for an immaculate finale.

Prime & superior cuts

Our dining experience began with the Board Minnie which featured a selection of cheese and quality cured meats ($48). Starters included Bone Marrow served halved and fragranced with parsley, garlic and portobello mushrooms ($30); and a wagyu tartare of Australian MB5 Wagyu, grass-fed for 400+ days and served bite-sized with capers, shallots and gherkin ($28).

The main event was the Signature Dry Aged Prime Rib Bone-In Steak ($18/100g), charcoal grilled and served with sauces – Steak Butter, Pepper, Mushroom, and our table favourite, Gorgonzola Blue Cheese. Hand Cut Fries ($9) served with a housemade mayonnaise, Kenya Beans ($9) cooked with olive oil and shallots, and Potato Gratin ($12) baked with rosemary and garlic were all satisfying sidekicks.

Also on the Premium and Superior List of beef cuts is the Japanese F1 Wagyu Iwate Sirloin 200g ($78); the Australian F1 Wafty Sirloin Picanha 200g ($34) grain-fed for 300+ days; and the USDA Prime Black Angus Sirloin 200g ($36) that’s grass and corn-fed for an impressive 300+ days.

We end on a sweet note with the Choco De Coco ($13) made with Weiss Li Chu dark chocolate and chestnut, and the caramalised classic Crème Brûlée ($13) infused with pure Madagascan Vanilla.

From left: Minnie Board – Bresaola, Veal Rilette and Terrine. Wagyu Beef Burger

Free-flow food

For midday meat lovers, Boeuf’s $29.90++ set lunch is a total crowd-pleaser. To start is a light wedge salad served with crème fraîche, pomegranate and pine nut, followed by a choice of Wagyu Beef Burger, Bouef’s Signature Steak Tartare or a Black Angus Flank Steak (upgrade to a sirloin or ribeye for $15). Finish with tea or coffee and macarons, or add a dessert for an extra $8.

In addition, if you’re up for a weekend foodie challenge, don’t miss the bistro’s recently launched free-flow all-day ribeye promo, where you get two hours to devour all the Argentinian ribeye steak you can manage for S$48++. The record is seven servings of steak in one sitting – can you beat it?!

Verdict: Boeuf is brilliant for high-calibre beef, wine, service, and ambience. With its cool aesthetic it’s ideal for date night, a special occasion, or just as a stop off when a meaty craving gets too much.

Boeuf
159 Telok Ayer St, 068614
boeuf.sg

Holistic health: The 101 on homoeopathic medicine

Jun 27 2023

Holistic Help: Homoeopathy

Nikki Hutchins visited the Homoeopathic Health Clinic. She consulted with homoeopath Dr Rukshin Master who also has a PhD in Autism and M.D in Pediatrics.

SYMTOMS: I’ve had three bouts of Covid in the last 18 months, all of which have left me with a cough. Just when I thought I was on the up, I now have another cough which is causing multiple coughing fits a day until I dry retch (sorry, TMI). Usual syrups, lozenges and inhaling are proving pointless.

CONSULTATION: Dr Master explained that contrary to common belief, homoeopathy can be used as a first aid remedy for something such as a cough, and my symptoms should be relieved quickly. She began our consultation by asking questions about the onset of my cough (thanks, Covid), the type of cough it was, whether it was worse when I was hot or cold, resting or doing exercise, in the morning or evening. She also took a general medical history to see if there were any factors which could be causing the weakness in my throat and the recurrent problems.

Interestingly, we then talked about food: what preferences and cravings I had and if there was a history of food allergies in my family. Lastly, we discussed general lifestyle choices, areas of my personality, and my family set-up. Using computer software to collate my answers, Dr Master could form a complete and detailed homoeopathic history for me. I was surprised by how comprehensive our 45-minute meeting was, and how it made me consider my health as a whole, rather than just the issue at hand.

“My post-Covid cough is keeping me up at night. Usual syrups and lozenges are pointless”

DIAGNOSIS: When it comes to homoeopathic medicine, it’s essential for the doctor to get an overview of precise symptoms as each one can lead to a different personalised prescription. After narrowing down my symptoms, Dr Master could immediately establish a relevant prescription for my specific cough in the context of my general health.

She also explained that homoeopathy works on a different, more subtle cellular level in the body than conventional medicine and acts by stimulating the body towards balance. Also, it doesn’t interact with other traditional medications or therapies.

TREATMENT: Later that day after my diagnosis I returned to Dr Master to pick up my bespoke prescription. She gave me a tiny homoeopathic tablet, Drosera Rotundifolia 200, which is a derivitive of a flowering plant and has been used in homoeopathic medicine for respiratory diseases for centuries. In addition, a homoeopathic cough syrup, Alpha-Coff, which is composed of important plant and shrub remedies had to be taken twice a day. Dr Master also asked me to sip a hot homemade herbal infusion of ginger, turmeric, cinnamon and lemon juice for a few days.

I was amazed at how quickly my symptoms eased – within 36 hours of taking the tablets, syrup and herbal infusion my coughing had stopped almost completely. I WhatsApped Dr Master after six days of my diagnosis and any remaining symptoms were minimal. The coughing and retching had stopped and I even had a weekend tipple! With such positive progress my dosage was reduced for a further three days by which point my cough had entirely disappeared – and it hasn’t returned since. Take that Covid!

If you think you have a health condition, do not visit a holistic practitioner instead of seeing your GP. Always see your GP first.

Rukshin Shah, 27A Loewen Road, 248839, and 583 Orchard Rd, 238884
drrukshinmaster.com
@theimmunitydoctor

Kick start your fitness journey!

Jun 27 2023

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Embarking on a fitness journey can be both exciting and intimidating but with the right tips and guidance, you can set yourself up for success. Here are some valuable tips to kick-start your fitness journey and how Anytime Fitness can play a crucial role in helping you achieve your fitness goals.

Set Clear Goals

Start by setting clear and realistic goals. Whether it’s losing weight, building muscle, improving endurance, or enhancing overall fitness, defining your objectives will provide you with a sense of direction. Break your long-term end goal into smaller bite sized goals that are more manageable such as exercising a certain number of days per week or completing a specific workout routine.

Create a Workout Routine

Developing a realistic workout routine and spending consistent effort is vital for progress overtime. Plan your exercise sessions in advance and ensuring they align with your goals and most importantly, your lifestyle. Include a mix of cardio exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises for a well-rounded routine. Did you know, Anytime Fitness offers a variety of equipment and classes to cater to different workout preferences, making it an ideal choice for those seeking versatility. Try out our free trial at the nearest gym to you!

Find a Workout Buddy

Workout Buddies can provide the necessary support and motivation throughout your fitness journey. Team up with a friend, family member, or colleague who shares similar fitness goals and hold each other accountable if you lack discipline! Anytime Fitness fosters a friendly and inclusive community and allows you to connect with fellow like-minded members who can become your workout buddies and bring your sessions up a notch.

Eat Right

Having a proper nutrition plan is vital for your growth in your fitness journey. Fuel your body with a balanced diet that includes lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and remember to stay hydrated! Anytime Fitness offers expert advice to help you make informed dietary choices that complement your workouts through our exclusive platform that will help you achieve your goals – sign up now at AF Connect for a free trial!

Track goals using Evolt 360 Body Scan machine

Track Your Progress

Monitoring your progress is essential to stay motivated and to adjust your routine or programme when needed. Keep a record of your workouts – take measurements, track weight loss or gain, and capture progress photos regularly. Anytime Fitness may provide tools such as advance body scans and access to Personal Trainers who can assist you in measuring your progress accurately.

Embarking on a fitness journey can be daunting, but with the right tips and resources, you can set yourself up for success. Anytime Fitness offers an accessible and supportive environment, making it an excellent choice for individuals looking to kick-start their fitness journey. Visit your nearest club to sign up now!

10 Minutes With… artist Hafiiz Karim

Jun 26 2023

Your art is very clever! Please describe your style …
My art is most notable for remixing and combining different elements from various sources and time periods. I like to create something new and highlight the beauty of everyday life.

Have you always been creative?
As a boy I always felt different and didn’t have anyone to talk to about it, but I had art instead. I grew up in Yishun where there was always art materials around the house. I started to discover more about the concept of art around the age of 18. I did my Bachelors in Communications and New Media at the National University of Singapore and my Masters in Asian Art Histories at LASALLE College of the Arts.

Have you always worked digitally?
I began with watercolour and ink but was always interested in the artist Tracey Emin. It wasn’t until I started doing New Media Art in school that I picked up on digital techniques such as glitch art, photomanipulation and video collages.

Tell us about the art history collages we see here …
During my Masters I became inspired by the elegance of classic art pieces. I wanted to find a way to liberate the characters from the narratives in which they were created and reimagine how they would translate today. The process really started during Covid lockdown. We couldn’t travel, so I let the classical muses travel for me!

“Art opens up avenues for dialogue and connects people across different backgrounds”

How do you choose the location and image for pieces?
The local scenarios are from my personal experiences as a child, from the drink stall auntie in the hawker centre, to sitting at the back of a Singapore bus. I use classical figures which are all in the public domain and the figures I choose depend on the theme of the collage and the story I want to tell.

What’s your creative process?
The research takes the longest! Finding the right pose from the classical muse is time consuming and etching and matching the lighting and shadows requires finesse. Sometimes one piece takes two hours to complete, another can take three days. Sometimes the pairings or story I want to tell won’t work.

How did your art get noticed?
My ex-boss suggested that I invest a bit of money to boost my posts on Instagram. I took their advice and a week later I received an email from a newspaper. It snowballed from there.

What’s the aim of your work?
To offer a new perspective on classic art pieces. It’s also important that my work makes people feel happy and uplifted, especially during times that can feel negative and divisive. I hope it brings joy, and reminds viewers of all the wonders of life.

Discover more about Hafiiz’s art at @thenextmostfamousartist

Artworks featured: Drink Stall Auntie featuring “Eurypyle” by John William Godward, 1920; Monday Blues featuring “Flaming June” by Frederic Leighton, 1895; The Art Of People Watching featuring “The Orange Dress” by George Spencer Watson, 1926.

Understanding the maternity waiting period in Singapore

Jun 25 2023

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Did you know that you cannot claim maternity-related bills while you are waiting for your insurance to take effect? If you haven’t heard of the maternity waiting period, you’re not alone. We turned to our insurance experts at Pacific Prime to learn how to better understand the concept of a waiting period in health insurance.

What is the waiting period in insurance?

As the name suggests, a waiting period in health insurance is the time a policyholder has to wait before they can make a claim. Note that you cannot make a claim while you are in your waiting period, so it’s a good idea to check with your provider after how many days you can make a claim. The waiting period varies from insurer to insurer. In addition, a waiting period may apply to all of your coverage or only to certain conditions.

Maternity and newborn add-on waiting period

Health insurance plans that offer maternity and newborn coverage have a waiting period of 9 months to 3 years. This means that you cannot claim any maternity or newborn care bills during your waiting period, and you will only be able to claim after your waiting period is over.

In Singapore, the waiting period for maternity insurance varies greatly depending on the insurance provider. So, if you are planning to start a family, we suggest you start exploring your insurance options as healthcare in the Lion City can be very expensive without insurance.

Get in touch with Pacific Prime Singapore to learn more

Waiting periods can also apply to pre-existing conditions and more, so be sure to check with your provider to see how many days after you sign up for the plan you can start making claims against medical bills.

Navigating the world of insurance can be overwhelming. But luckily, Pacific Prime Singapore is here to simplify the process. From waiting periods to unbiased insurance advice, you can get all your insurance-related solutions under one roof.

With over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, Pacific Prime has helped thousands of people around the world secure comprehensive health insurance plans. Get in touch with their insurance experts to learn more!

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