28.8 C
Singapore
Saturday, May 17, 2025
Home Blog Page 81

Hotspots: Appetite

Some of us like to start a night out with a long, luxurious bath and time invested in getting party-ready. Others prefer to dive straight into proceedings, hardly pausing for breath while racing from boardroom to bar. Appetite offers a spot that bridges the gap between leisurely preparation and instant gratification. Tucked at the end of Amoy Street, you enter the venue through a nondescript shophouse door and head up a narrow flight of stairs into something of a hidden world. In contrast to the bustling eateries below, Appetite’s Lounge area is low of light, quirky of layout and warmly welcoming. The walls are lined with art which forms a curated exhibition that is swapped up every few months; the seating is stylish yet loungey; staff are smiley, friendly and knowledgeable. 

You could be forgiven for thinking that you’ve accidentally stumbled into a hipster’s apartment, especially when you take a second flight of stairs up into the attic, aka the Listening Room. This small but perfectly formed space features cosy sofas, antique rugs and a 3,000-strong vinyl selection complete with turntables and speakers that will get anyone born before 1980 feeling nostalgic and hot under the collar. (Look, don’t touch – there’s a music director on staff!).

But wait – as joyous as the scratchy sounds of Fleetwood Mac makes us – we are here for the food. Appetite’s new Happiest Hour features a menu curated by Ivan Brehm, chef-founder of Appetite and one-Michelin-starred Nouri on the ground floor. Alongside a glass of bubbly, guests can enjoy specially created small bites and sharing dishes based on Brehm’s culinary philosophy of exploring ingredients and cultures from different regions (what he calls “crossroads cuisine”). First up, Tortilla de Camarones, a tempura-like fritter topped with spot prawns, spiced Marie Rose sauce, and a squeeze of grapefruit and lime. Next, Foie Gras and Chicken Liver Parfait, a dish that celebrates Brehm’s formative years at Hesten Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck, UK, and his love for nouvelle cuisine. Last but not least, King Crab Bhel Puri, a rice bowl luxed-up with Norwegian king crab gives a nod to Vietnamese Chả Cá Lã Vọng. Each dish paired perfectly with the fizz and was not too filling.

But alas, the point of Appetite’s Happiest Hour is to provide a pit-stop. Happening from Tuesday to Saturday, 6pm to 8pm, it’s the ideal launchpad for a night on the tiles or a pre-dinner soiree. “We want our guests to come in and unwind before they transition to the rest of their evening,” says Brehm. The problem is, with nibbles and ambience this good, plus the possibility of a 1967 mono edition of Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band just waiting for a spin, it might be hard to get rid of us.

VERDICT: This two-storey gem is ideal for those who love an early evening start followed by bed by 9pm, or dedicated merrymakers wanting a chic spot to start the night in style. 

Appetite’s Happiest Hour includes three dishes paired with a glass of bubbly at $68++. 

72A Amoy St, 069891, appetitesg.com

Tuckerbox: World Cup Tastes

Qatar is the host country from Monday, 21 November to Sunday, 18 December, with the closing date being Qatar National Day. Thirty-two qualifying teams, with current champion France, will show their sporting skills to approximately 1.2 million visitors at eight venues during the 64-game competition.

The State of Qatar, on the Persian Gulf’s west coast, is a desert country known for its cleverly irrigated farming areas, and as an exporter of liquefied natural gas. Some Bedouin traditions are observed by the mainly Islamic population, where Arabic is the official language. Museums, modern shopping-malls and traditional souqs (marketplaces) are popular attractions.

STADIUMS

The eight stadiums where World Cup matches will be played are within a 50-kilometre radius of capital city Doha, known for its equestrian-centre. Stadiums, with seating capacities from 40,000 – 80,000, have unique designs reflecting Qatar’s heritage. Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor City, for the opening match, depicts a Bedouin tent. The seashore Stadium 974, is built from 974 used shipping-containers, the number indicating Qatar’s international dialing-code. The closing game will be at Lusail International Stadium with its exotic lantern design.

NATIONAL CUISINE

Some of us might travel to Qatar to watch live matches. What can we expect to eat in this country whose history focused on fishing, pearl-diving and camel breeding? Qatar cuisine encompasses Arab and Eastern Mediterranean fare with input from Iran, India and North Africa, featuring seafood, meat, vegetables, rice and locally harvested dates.

Qatar’s national dish, machboos, highlights slow-cooked meat, usually lamb or chicken, accompanied by rice cooked with aromatic spices such as cinnamon, coriander, cumin, ginger, pepper, saffron and turmeric. 

Popular fare includes balaleet for breakfast, with savoury and sweet tastes from cardamom, rose water, saffron and sugar enlivening vermicelli, topped with omelette. A classic Arabian curry, chicken salona, richly spicy, has accompanying vegetables like zucchini, tomato, cauliflower and capsicum. Turkish chicken or lamb shawarma is ubiquitous, with thinly sliced meat usually wrapped in pita bread. Lebanese kebabs are plentiful, as are mezze platters with selections of small dishes, plus Moroccan tangine djaj of braised chicken. Basbousa (semolina cake), baked with yoghurt and dessicated coconut, is traditionally served in individual pieces, topped with syrup and nuts, eaten cold or warm.

DRINKS

Famed full-bodied Arabica coffee, drunk from small cups, is traditionally served without milk or sugar, enjoyed with luscious dates. Fruit-juices quench thirsts.

QATAR IN SINGAPORE

Middle Eastern restaurants may feature Qatar dishes, albeit with limited choice. National dish machboos is known as chicken kabsa and chicken mandi rice in other Arabian countries, and in Singapore. Basbousa dessert is also known as nammoura. Try Byblos Grill, seated alfresco in the fascinating Arab Street area at 14 Bussorah Street, or Marmaris Restaurant, seated upstairs, in Little India at 111 Dunlop Street, for savoury tastes. Enjoy basbousa (nammoura) accompanied by ice-cream at trendy Kazbar, 25 Church Street, #01-03 Capital Square 3. May the best team win! 

Born in Adelaide, Raelene Tan is an etiquette consultant and a food and travel writer. She has authored five books and has been a regular guest on radio and television.

The lowdown on the early years programme at Dulwich College (Singapore)

  •  Sponsored Content 

DUCKS is a community where children are at the heart of everything we do. The purpose built state-of-the-art DUCKS campus offers facilities designed to nurture the intellectual, physical, social and emotional development of our youngest students. Our children are inspired and have the freedom to inquire and steer their own learning. Here’s why we believe it’s so successful.

1. Dual Language Curriculum

In DUCKS, every class from Toddler to Year 2 is taught by at least one native English-speaking teacher and one native Mandarin-speaking teacher. Children are fully immersed in both languages daily as well as having daily dedicated Mandarin lessons. Our dual-language programme focuses on all areas of the curriculum as well as interactions, storytelling, and role play to boost the development of listening, speaking and literacy skills. It’s lots of fun and enables our children to gain the confidence to use language with meaning rather than just through imitation.

2. Specialist Teachers

Our specialist teachers are a particular highlight of our Early Years Programme. The DUCKS specialist teacher programme gives students the chance to excel within the likes of music, sport, drama and art. All children have weekly swimming lessons, and from the age of three years old, students have specialist PE, music and choir lessons. In addition, there’s weekly DUCKS library lessons.

“There is never a dull moment at DUCKS”

3. World Class Facilities

Children learn in bright, airy classrooms that open up into gorgeous outdoor garden spaces. They also enjoy access to three swimming pools, playing fields, an indoor gymnasium, a rooftop bike track, a dedicated library, two dining rooms, a water play area, our Forest School and a professional kitchen.

4. Forest School

All DUCKS children visit our Forest School regularly. They undertake making a fire, roasting marshmallows, sawing wood, and digging trenches. This open-air learning has significant positive effects on children’s physical and mental wellbeing and enables them to develop academic skills as well as build emotional resilience. And of course, they’re always happy when it has rained and they can jump in muddy puddles! 

5.  Nurturing High Potential Learners and Leaders

Teachers in DUCKS challenge students in subjects where they show strength and interest and believe they can flourish in areas where they demonstrate talent. This might involve additional maths for those who display an advanced understanding of numbers, or enabling children to lead a lesson in a subject where they possess particular knowledge. We also have several leadership positions open to children including Student Council, House Captains, Global Guardians, Creative Stars, Reading Rockets and Techsperts.

Find out more about Dulwich College Kindergarten School (DUCKS) at singapore.dulwich.org

Our admissions team can be contacted at +65 6890 1003 / [email protected]

Hot hotel beach clubs for lounging in luxury

The whispers surfaced in Singapore around 2018 and went like this:

“Have you heard? One & Only is coming to Desaru.”
“Wow! Um…where’s Desaru?”

Four years, one pandemic, and a $1 billion-dollar reinvention masterplan has finally placed Desaru back on the paradise-map. Located on Malaysia’s easy breezy east coast, it was a popular seaside hangout in the 1970s and today it’s being revived with a selection of properties pitching up on its golden sands. One & Only Desaru Coast Malaysia provides the high-end glamour.

There are many reasons why it’s easy to love this beachfront bolthole from a hotel portfolio which already boasts sister-properties from Montana to Mauritius. For starters, One & Only Desaru Coast Malaysia, the group’s first foray into Asia is – like many other new hotels in the region – a mere sniff away from Singapore. Guests can travel from the red dot via the new ferry service from Tanah Merah, but we  recommend the hotel’s private car escort which takes two and a half hours in Tesla-shaped transport with nibbles and massage chairs. Reader, I was pummelled all the way across the Causeway and arrived at the hotel completely chilled for evening cocktails.

Stamp of elegance

It’s sleek vibes all round upon arrival to the resort which has Kerry Hill Architects’ (The Datai Langkawi, Aman resorts) stamp of elegance all over it. Rainforest and ocean-view bedrooms are clad in local merbau wood, with reimagined batik designs and artwork. A beautiful outdoor space with plunge pool sits between the bedroom and bathroom and an indoor veranda extends the sense of space. Ambara, the hotel’s main dining room, and Dusky Monkey, the signature bar, offer just as much relaxation with lovely views of the main swimming pool thrown in for good measure. Japanese restaurant Hoshi, with its top-notch omakase menus, provided one of the most artistic and special meals I’ve ever tasted. There’s also a 24-hour library for those who need to work, a kids’ club for little ones who want to play, and the tranquil Chenot Spa offering exquisite treatments for those who just want to unwind. 

Away from the facilities are a hotbed of activities. The location lends itself to a myriad of watersports; wakeboarding, kayaking and water skiing are all available. Morning nature walks are a soothing start to the day as the hotel’s naturalist introduces guests to a fascinating array of flora and fauna and shares stories of how the locals use flowers and herbs in their beauty treatments and cooking. On dry land, guests can cycle, play table tennis, try techball, or head to the only padel tennis (a cross between tennis and squash) court in Asia. There is also martial arts classes, including Silat lessons, a traditional Malay martial art used for self-defence. I perhaps should not have been wearing a onesie and flip-flops when trying to attempt Silat, but my patient instructor gave me an informative insight into the history of the art and kindly took me through some of the more basic moves.

Seaside luxury

The cherry on the cake at One & Only Desaru Malaysia is Ember Restaurant & Beach Club. Open to the public as well as staying guests, it works as an idyllic destination for long stays and one-day getaways from the Singapore hustle. Set slightly away from the main property on the final spot of sand on the strip, the club comes framed with lush greenery, the soundtrack of rolling waves, and all of the sunset potential. 

Oozing chic seaside luxury, the hip open-air terraced bar overlooks two infinity pools dotted with cabanas that gaze over the hypnotic azure waters. Gentle beats play in the background. A bartender serves you colourful drinks with indigenous fruits and a smile. There’s a swish of a Paloma Blue kaftan here, a suggestion of a Melissa Odabash swimsuit there. It’s classy, stylish, and fast becoming a place for families, couples and friends to see and be seen. 

Being a beach club, the art of barbecue infused with Asian flavours is the name of the game, and this comes crafted by acclaimed Chef Andrew Walsh – the man behind Cure Singapore. Grilled Prawns feature a refreshing harissa and lemon dressing; Chili Crab Fried Buns are deceptively light and come with a coriander flavouring; Duck Prosciutto, Scamorza, Baby Rocket and 85 Truffle Oil are presented on a woodfired flatbread, bridging the gap between pizza and pita. Charred Baby Gem, Caesar, Nori and 45 Furikake makes for a moreish main of its own. 

Ember Curates: Andrew and Friends kicked off over the summer with Chef Walsh collaborating with Chef Julien Royer of Odette, Singapore for one night only. Plans are afoot to bring together more inventive collaborations with renowned chefs from all over the world, and with outdoor movie screenings, live bands and bar takeovers also in the pipeline, life at One & Only Desaru Coast Malaysia looks destined to just
get better. 

desarucoast.com/oneandonly 

Book Ember Beach Club at sevenrooms.com/reservations/emberbeachclub 

Keep on clubbing

More fabulous hotel beach club escapes

  • COMO Beach Club, Canggu
    From Canggu to Parrot Cay, COMO serves up a beach shack-esque club with a stylish edge at every COMO property. Open all day, fresh, regional ingredients drive the simple approach in the kitchen alongside an authentic wood-fired grill. Remember to book your spot in one of the swing-chairs for prime viewing at sunset. comohotels.com

 

 

  • Nammos, Four Seasons Resort, Dubai
    Tucked next to the main entrance of the Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Nammos Dubai has its own private stretch of sand, terrace and restaurant. Bleached wood, natural linens and pale walls pay tribute to the original club on the Greek isles, and bring a slice of Med to the Middle East. Sink into a white-washed timber chair and hunker down for the day. nammos.gr

 

  • Amanzoe
    Overlooking Port Helio on Greece’s east coast Peloponnese peninsula, Amanzoe is an exclusive and decadent wellness retreat with a serene private Beach Club attached. Situated 10 minutes away from the resort, guests can enjoy four tranquil pools (two for children), expansive terraces and the pick of loungers to relax upon. aman.com

Wine & dine at Drunken Farmer

  •  Sponsored Content 

Whether you’re a meat eater, vegan, or just here for the drinks, restaurants and wine bars are easy to come by in Singapore. Finding great quality establishments that suit your tastes however, can sometimes be trickier.

With an extensive menu that leaves even the most picky eaters spoiled for choice, Drunken Farmer strikes the perfect balance between variety and quality. The wine bar boasts a wide range of wines, from organic labels to trendy pet-nats, and even unique orange wines, all curated and sourced from France, Spain and more. The Farmer’s Flight, which offers a tasting of 3 of Drunken Farmer’s natural wines, is a good start if you’re a little unsure of which wines you’d like to pair with your food.

160-year-old pizzas and succulent chicken

Don’t even get us started on Drunken Farmer’s Signature Karaage Chicken. Topped with a dollop of Drunken Farmer’s kimchi mayo dip, the first bite is sure to get you hooked. It’s a savoury flavour bomb and a textural delight of crispy, tender, juicy chicken goodness up to the last bite. And that’s just one of the Hot Bites.

Their sourdough pizza is another fan favourite. Think of it this way: they are made with a 160-year-old starter, and left to proof for 30 hours before cooking. If it takes that much time and effort to make, you can bet it’s going to be good. The thin yet airy, crispy yet chewy crust elevates the variety of toppings they offer to a whole new level. Choose from the Margherita Pizza with its tomato base and stracciatella cheese topped with fresh basil, to the Pepperoni Pizza, and many more.

Olive oil for dessert

Drunken Farmer is one of a few wine bars in Singapore that have a deep understanding of flavour layering and excellent food pairings that are sure to wow the taste buds. Their Dark Chocolate Mousse, which is made with 70% Guanaja Dark Chocolate is one such example. Every single bite promises a rich and intense chocolate hit amplified by Maldon sea salt, and balanced out with the acidity of orange zest. All of these flavours are then brought together by a subtle touch of extra virgin olive oil which perfectly rounds out this multi-layered dish.

We’re just getting warmed up

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a foodie at heart or both, Drunken Farmer will not fall short of your expectations. From the extensive range of handpicked wines, juices and other beverages to the evidently well thought-out food menu, Drunken Farmer guarantees you’ll have an evening you’ll never forget.

And if all that is still not convincing enough for you to drop by for a memorable evening, redeem a FREE glass of wine when you flash this article (limited to the first 1000 redemptions) to get the night started!

Drunken Farmer outlets:

Stanley Street

11/12 Stanley Street

Singapore 068730

Joo Chiat Road

185 Joo Chiat Road

Singapore 427456

Martin Road

22 Martin Road

Singapore 239058

Quayside Isle

31 Ocean Way, #01-09

Singapore 098375

Contact 6877 4884 for any enquiries on orders and reservations.

Website: www.drunkenfarmer.sg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrunkenFarmerSG/

Instagram: @drunkenfarmer_sg

2023 changes to the Singapore Work Pass framework

  •  Sponsored Content 

Singapore is making changes to its work pass framework in order to attract high-earning or high-performing people from around the world including the introduction of growth plans across 23 sectors, highlighting what jobs are in demand and how to transfer knowledge to Singapore’s talent pool.

“When it comes to top talent, we can never have enough,” said Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at the 2022 National Day Rally. “We want to make top talent everywhere sit up, pay attention, and think seriously about coming to Singapore.”

After this speech it was no surprise, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) announced changes to the current work pass framework and introduced a new work pass.

New Work Pass: Overseas Networks and Expertise Pass (ONE PASS)

ONE PASS will be available from January 1, 2023.

To be eligible for One Pass, the applicant must have earned at least SG$30,000 per month in the previous 12 months. MOM will also take into consideration applicants experience and ‘outstanding achievements’ in:

  • Business
  • Arts and Culture
  • Science and Technology
  • Research and Academia
  • Sports

At this stage, we don’t have a lot of information regarding the application process. However, at a minimum, applicants will be required to submit supporting documents demonstrating they have worked or will work for an established company, either in their current overseas role or in future in Singapore-based roles.

The validity of the One Pass is for 5 years, with an option to renew for a further 5 years (a longer expiry than an EP or PEP).

The One Pass holder can sponsor their dependents, spouses, or partners for a dependent pass or long-term visitor pass once the pass is approved. Dependent pass holders will be allowed to work with a Letter of Consent.

Other upcoming changes to the current work passes framework

MOM will make the process of getting a work pass easier and will use a new set of criteria called COMPASS to evaluate Employment Pass applications. COMPASS will look at the applications in a more holistic manner, taking into account:

  • Applicants qualifying salary, academics and industry of employment based on skills shortages in that area.
  • Applicants employers local hiring strategy, diversity within the organisation and partnerships with the Singapore government on ambitious innovation or internationalisation activities.

Overall key changes:

  • Processing time for EP applications will gradually be reduced from 3 weeks to 10 days
  • A new system to process EP applications called COMPASS from 1 September 2023 for new applications and 1 September 2024 for renewals.
  • Salary benchmark for top 10% of EP holders to $22,500 starting 1 September 2023
  • Salary benchmark for PEP holders will be increased from $12,000/month (for residents) to $22,500/month as from 1 September 2023
  • 5-year EP to experienced professionals in tech-related roles

If you have any questions regarding the work pass framework in Singapore and/or you would like to know more about these upcoming changes, book a CSLB Clinic session.

Taking place on the first Friday of every month, we have our Business Check Clinic for owners of small-to-medium sized businesses needing a business sense check on accounting, payroll, tax, and HR matters.

If you’re looking for work pass applications, advice, or support, you can book a session for our Work Pass Clinic on the last Friday of the month.

To book a clinic session contact us on [email protected]

Keep up to date with changes and business news by following us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

 

 

Australian High Commission: Ready, steady, GREEN!

Australia is serious about climate change. On 8 September the Australian Parliament oversaw the historic passing of new Climate Change Legislation. Australia has made a commitment to listen to our regional partners and to learn from the experiences of others. Australian High Commission recognise that climate change is not an abstract threat, but an existential one.

The Climate Change Legislation is the foundation upon which Australia’s climate policies rest. It will enshrine in law the nation’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 43 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030, and net zero by 2050. It provides a framework to accelerate investment in renewable energy, transmission, and storage. It provides a platform for transformative domestic policy, from which we can strengthen our leadership.

Passing this legislation is a step forward towards achieving our shared aspirations. Australian High Commission will work together with the region to build a resilient, clean energy sector and unlock green trade and investment opportunities because our partners recognise that climate change is not only a challenge we need to address together, but presents opportunities for us to embrace.

Prosperous future

Australian business is doing its part. For example, Australian company Sun Cable is progressing a project to construct a 4,200 kilometre undersea cable from Darwin to Singapore, to provide renewable electricity generated from what could be the world’s largest solar farm in Australia’s Northern Territory. This is the kind of ambition Australian High Commission will need to face up to the challenge of climate change and set the region up for a more prosperous future powered by cleaner and cheaper energy.

Australia is taking renewed collaborative international action to scale up the clean energy transition in the region, while we work with partners to adapt to the effects of climate change.

Australian High Commission are committed to facing up to the challenge of climate change and are working with our Indo-Pacific partners in the region to transition to greener economies and adapt to climate change through new climate finance and partnerships. Our Climate Change Legislation delivers a simple yet powerful message, at home and abroad. Australia is back.

Australia’s parliament has passed legislation on emissions reduction targets of 43% by 2030 and net zero by 2050

“There is no such thing as a healthy environment or healthy oceans without action on climate change. Ambition is our only option. The new Australian Government understands the urgency of the environmental challenges facing our planet, and we are committed to being a leader in the global fight to solve them. This includes working closely with our Indo-Pacific neighbours to address the impacts of climate change, reduce marine plastic litter, support the blue economy and manage marine protected areas.”
Australian Minister for the Environment and Water, the Hon Tanya Plibersek

New Zealand High Commission: Storm clouds & silver linings

New Zealand High Commission team on board HMSNZ Aotearoa, which was stationed in Singapore for a month

End of year message by Acting High Commissioner, Peter Kemp

This past year has been one of both challenges and opportunities – a year of storm clouds and silver linings. One significant positive has been the opportunity for family and friends to reconnect with the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions.

NZ Minister for Veteran Affairs, Hon Meka Whaitiri paying her respects to fallen NZ soldiers at Kranji War Cemetary

At the New Zealand High Commission, we have been delighted to see a return of New Zealand visitors to Singapore, and to see our Singaporean friends travel again down South.
In August, NZ Tourism launched its #ifyouseek campaign here in Singapore, which highlighted what a special place Aotearoa New Zealand is. If you haven’t already visited – or are waiting to visit again – here is your sign to do so.

It has also been a pleasure to meet New Zealand officials and business people who have been able to return to the market following Covid-19. In fact, the team did a great job seeing multiple New Zealand ministers come through over the course of just eight weeks!
It has been a busy 2022 indeed, and I can genuinely say I’m looking forward to things staying equally as busy next year. With that, I’d like to wish our kiwi whanau and our friends everywhere a very Meri Kirihimete me te Hape Nū Ia! (Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year). See you in 2023!

Team departures

From left: High Commissioner Jo Tyndal and Mohamed Hamli

 

Over the past couple of months New Zealand High Commission have bid farewell to two of our key team members. The first is High Commissioner Jo Tyndall who finished her posting in September to take up the role of Head of the Environment Directorate at the OECD. Although Covid-19 shaped her posting, Jo’s time in Singapore was bookmarked by two visits from PM Ardern.
The second is New Zealand High Commission driver, Mohamed Hamli, who first joined in November 1990. Over the past 32 years, he has shown exceptional professionalism, unparalleled knowledge of Singapore’s roads and most of all, incredible warmth and good humour. New Zealand High Commission will miss both Jo and Mohamed dearly, but wish them all the very best for the future.

Global inflation & moving quotations

  •  Sponsored Content 

Are you planning on relocating or moving back to Australia? You may be surprised about how much international moving quotes have changed in the last year alone. The surge in moving costs has been influenced by a cocktail of global issues including the present chaos in the global supply chain, rising shipping demands, “the Great Resignation” and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, global inflation is yet another issue affecting moving quotes. As one of the best moving companies in Singapore, Sir Move want to help you relocate seamlessly backed by the best decisions. Hence this guide will offer insights on how global inflation affects you and what you can do to minimise your moving costs.

Global inflation & price surges

Every industry is presently experiencing the pains of the cost hike, which is the highest rise in material cost since 1974. In the moving industry, the following are the numerous instances fueled by global inflation that is driving your higher international moving quotes:

  • The rise in products such as lumber prices has driven the cost of cartons and custom crating to over 300%
  • The cost of labor (crew and drivers) has also risen dramatically so your hourly labor costs will be higher
  • Disruptions in the global supply chain also mean there have been delays in the availability of rental trucks and haulier drivers for containers
  • There are also home shortages and quick home sales in many real estates around the world. This means more people are using storage options which equally means that more warehousing units are reaching their maximum capacity and so driving up storage costs

This is notwithstanding the rising uncertainties in the global shipping network due to outbreaks of the COVID-19 cases, labor shortages, and other economic factors that have caused shipping lines to equally hike their prices.

How can I save on moving costs to offset the price surge?

1.   Always work with a FIDI approved International Moving Company

A FIDI Mover will ensure adherence to professional and quality standards. Yes, your quote may be higher that is because the FIDI mover has put in place stringent systems and   will be aware of the higher costs and will ensure that they offer an accurate international moving quote that will be honored.

2.   Assess your moving quote

The best international moving quotes will pay attention to certain items including hourly cost of labor, crating and carton costs, moving truck space, and storage options. Speak to your moving experts about how each of these items affects you and why you are paying what you are paying. They might even help you make the right choices about which items require long-term storage or items that require custom crates among others.

3.   Be aware of peak days & seasons

Your moving date and season will influence your moving costs. For instance, weekends are often costlier than moving on weekdays. Again, peak seasons, mean higher moving activities which will also influence your moving costs. Australia peak season is November through January.

4.   What moving services do you require? 

Your moving needs are unique to you. So, you need to speak to your ideal moving company about the moving services you need and why. That way, you only pay for the most important services and not services you don’t need.

5.   Get rid of unnecessary items

When you have fewer items to move overseas, you automatically pay a lower amount of money. Moves are often priced on volume. Carefully assess your belongings to sell, dispose or donate items. Be very honest about your assessment so any sentimental item you move with is worth it.

Overall, global inflation might be hiking your moving costs. But these tips help you offset any price increases by making the right moving choices. That way, you can move overseas without breaking the bank.

About SIR MOVE

Established in Singapore in and Malaysia since 2006, SIR Move Services is a Singapore/British brand, and it is a moving company that continues to build a business based on integrity and trust. SIR provides Complete Move Solutions for International, Commercial and Domestic Relocations inclusive of storage and insurance. We move pets too. Moove My Box (MMB) is the newest addition to our suite of services allowing customers to ship small shipments faster. Similar to Air Express Delivery with the addition of packing and collection services. SIR Move is a qualified FIDI/FAIM Quality Mover.

What’s on in Singapore throughout November & December

Holidays are coming, which means that Singapore is gearing up to see 2022 out with a bang! There are lots of activities and fun events taking place across the island throughout November and December, from food pop-ups to full-on Christmas celebrations, so good times are guaranteed! Here’s our round-up of where to go and what to do in the forthcoming weeks.

Poinsettia Wishes

This floral display is inspired by Nordic countries and set to return with larger-than-life candy canes, gingerbread decorations, a Christmas carriage and glittering luminarie installations.
9 November 2022 – 2 January 2023. Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, 01. gardensbythebay.com.sg

Disney in Concert

Disney in Concert comes to the red dot this December with A Magical Celebration. Featuring Disney’s iconic movies alongside a 46-piece orchestra, the concert brings beloved stories and characters to life through musical performances synchronised to original film clips. Families of all ages won’t fail to be sucked into the joyful spirit!
17 December, 3pm. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, 397691.
trip.com.sg

Christmas Wonderland


Prepare for Singapore’s biggest Christmas fair with Christmas Wonderland featuring luminarie light sculptures, rides, carnival games, festive market, Santa’s Grotto and more. The human-made blizzard, massive Christmas tree and Christmas carols add to the cheer. Elves are currently hard at work finalising details and dates, but we have it on good authority they’re not going to let us down.
30 November – 26 December. Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Dr, 018953. christmaswonderland.sg

The Christmas Special

This annual musical treat is making a sparkling comeback this year. Featuring Singapore’s Supertrees but make them festive, watch as they light up to classic Christmas tunes sung by local artists.
2 Dec 2022 – 2 Jan 2023. Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Dr, 018953. gardensbythebay.com.sg

Prequel to STAR ISLAND


In the run-up to Marina Bay’s firework extravaganza on New Year’s Eve (see p6), eager beavers can get a sneak peek of the show at this exciting prequel. Expect DJ performances, family-friendly entertainment zones and gastronomic offerings at the food village.
25 – 30 December 2022. MBS Event Plaza, 10 Bayfront Ave, 018956. starisland.sg

Get Arty

Affordable Art Fair Singapore returns this November after a three-year hiatus. With thousands of contemporary artworks priced under S$15,000 from over 75 hand-picked international and local galleries, it’s a must for building up your art collection or learning more about defining your taste.
18 – 20 November. F1 Pit Building, 1 Republic Blvd, 038975. affordableartfair.com

Get $5 off your tickets to AAF!
The kind folks at Affordable Art Fair are offering ANZA readers $5 off General Entry and Arty-Licious Evening tickets. To claim your discount, all you need to do is checkout with the code R-ANZA5OFF or follow the instructions below:

Scan the QR code below
* Click on ‘Tickets’
* Select the number of tickets you’d like and click ‘Checkout’. Two tickets can be redeemed at a time
* Fill in your contact details and click ‘Register’. You’ll be taken to the confirmation page and a printable e-ticket will be emailed your way.
You can also find the full fair schedule via the QR code.

A meal to moan about

For a completely bizarre dining experience, head to ‘Karen’s Diner’. This pop-up offers rude service, ungrateful staff and singing – but it’s all part of the fun! The concept is based on a genuine diner in Sydney famous for its terrible service, and replicas have popped from Manchester to Melbourne. Thankfully, the burgers, fries and cocktails are fabulous – and it’s great for the ’gram.
Launch date and venue TBC – 31 May 2023. explorehidden.com / ​bemorekaren.com

Jurong Bird Park Takes Flight


Bad news for bird lovers: Jurong Bird Park will welcome its final guests on 3 January 2023, exactly 52 years after opening in 1971. All is not lost as its avian residents and staff will be moving to a brand-new home in Bird Paradise at Mandai Wildlife Reserve. Until then, guests are encouraged to pay a last visit to pick up limited-edition terrariums, embark on a Nostalgic Signature Tour, join a dining experience with traditional pushcarts, and enjoy carnival activities.
2 Jurong Hill, 628925. mandai.com

They Will, They Will, Rock you!

Jump start your January with some rousing musical moments at We Will Rock You. This new uber-powered production of the musical by the remaining members of Queen features 24 of Queen’s biggest hits, including Under Pressure, We are the Champions and Another One Bites the Dust – and we challenge you not to singalong!
5 – 22 January 2023. Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Dr, 038981. sistic.com.sg

1...808182...265Page 81 of 265
© Copyright 2017-2025 - ANZA