2025 Flavours of Tomorrow Festival

It is our second time going for Flavours of Tomorrow Festival. Call me bias, but it keeps getting better. I absolutely love this event because it introduces me to alternative options that brings me closer to a sustainable lifestyle. It is one of those events that make you feel more fulfilled and a better version of yourself after attending. Previously, the focus was just on alternative proteins, but I was really glad that they incorporated a lot more booths on other aspects. 

The location this time round was a lot more convenient at the newly built Geneo which was right beside Kent Ridge MRT. Talk about workplace goals, this probably ranks high. Beautiful, futuristic and a great selection of food and amenities. The organisers really did a great job making sure the place was quite children friendly - the bouncy castle was there again. 

On a separate note, there was also commendable effort to engage people for different walk of lives. Through the incorporation, of cooking demonstration, clothes pop-up, Grab-boxes, there was a lot more vibrancy. Personally, I was also pretty pleased to see some of the initiatives which I support there. Some being:

1. MoNo.sg - For people looking for some bang for their bucks, you can grab a contribution box (range of price varies depending on the size) and it up with goodies. Please note that ost of the food are close to their expiry date. It is one of my favourite place to check out because they hold very interesting snacks and at really affordable price. Plus, tackling food waste is one of my core casuse.
    
2. Slurpy Bear - We use this as home. The refillable dehumidiser is really effective and quite easy to use. Plus it makes me feel good about myself everytime I opt it instead because it makes me feel like I am contributing to the environment. 


3. w0w Noodles - My favourite. It taste really good and gives 0 glycemic response, leaving no impact on blood sugar response. Great for people with diabetes or pregnant ladies with gestational diabetes. Made from barley, it is high in protein and dietary fibre. As take-up rate is low, the price is still a little on the high side. But with time and a little public education, I am sure it will soon be econmoical. 

Some great new finds/ things I can't wait to try:

• Botanict - The nonya food was really good, can't wait to try the whole menu in its restaurant. 
• Fogo Fungi - Mushroom Grow Kits. Have always wanted one, but yet to get myself one. 
• Strawberry picking at Blooom - Have long heard about it but just couldn't find an available slot that matches our schedule to go down to. 

Flavours of Tomorrow Festival is from 25 – 27 April 2025, 10AM – 7PM at Geneo at Singapore Science Park. Catch it while it is there, don't miss it. 

Easter Sunday Brunch at Edge

You guys may know that Halloween is my kids' favourite. But given how we were celebrating Easter this year, I think Easter has just be a close second now. On Easter weekend itself, we also went to the Easter Buffet at Edge. I have heard from many people if you are looking for a place that is not just an egg hunt but involves a bit of feasting, this is the place to be. 

And after going, I have to say I pretty much agree. By now, you can pretty much tell I have been to Edge countless of time. But every time, the effort to surpass is always there. There were so many little Easter deco around. I didn't used to be one that was of a "Easter person", but just being there alone made me felt ready to enjoy the festivities. 

The kids, as usual, enjoyed their moments there. This year, an egg hunt, crafts, and magic show were organised for them, so it kept them quite well occupied. There was a good amount of breather for the husband and I to sit down, catch a breathe and just take in the moment. The whole place was bustling, but I thought the staff did an excellent job to manage the crowd. 

The Egg Hunt was staggered, so at any one time, not every kid was dashing around. For parents with younger children (like me), I felt safer to let them venture a bit on their own when it was their turn. The staff was also really helpful to direct them to the eggs. I thought it was nice that every kid came back finding something and feeling like a winner. I have even videos of my kids dancing around in joy. 

Even the magician was pretty good - engaging and not too lame. Pardon me, but some magicians really crack the worse jokes. But I thought this one stuck a good balance. 

Easter Sunday Brunch (20 April 2025 | 12:00pm to 3:30pm)

• $238 per adult | Inclusive of free flow of Tattinger Brut Réserve Champagne, Tiger Beer, House Red Wine, House White Wine, a selection of House Spirits, and House-made Cocktails, including Bunny Hop Martini, Bloody Mary, chilled juices and soft drinks.
• $158 per adult | Inclusive of free flow of soft drinks
• $79 per child (6 to 12 years old) | Inclusive of free flow of soft drinks

If you are like me and have kids under 6 years old, your probably just got the best of both worlds. Ending the post with more photos of my meal, because it was such a great one!

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** To get additional discounts, you can use the discount code "BABYNFAMKLOOK" when you book through Klook for a 5% Discount. Applicable to All Klook Activities with min. spend of SGD50. Discount capped at SGD15.

National Orchid Garden Review

As part of the school's field trip, my kid and I went to National Orchid Garden. I vaguely remember visiting it before a decade back, but don't remember it being so impressive. We both enjoyed ourselves thoroughly maybe because we both love flowers and prefer curated areas - don't thrive well with bugs and insects. The area isn't huge but it is really beautiful and I never knew orchids had so many interesting varieties. 

Photos of myself were taken by my kid who apparently has great angling skills and can take better shots than the hubby. The whole area was very instagrammable, photo lovers would dig this place. As I was with the school, time was tight and I didn't fully explore the whole place, but I would reckon myself staying for at least 2 hours if I were here on my own schedule. 

Limited photos again because I don't really want kiddo's friends faces to be exposed. But I caught some nice photos of the flowers. My favourite was the mist house because it was air-conditioned and provided nice respite from the humid environment. Also, I like that it incorporated water elements. Maybe it is just me, but flowers always look better around water features. Plus the trickling sound of water perfected the whole experience. 

Botanic Gardens is free to visit, while the National Orchid Garden charges a nominal fee. There is concession rate for Singaporeans, which make it super affordable. I think most locals may not even know about this hidden gem. But this is definitely worth a visit or more. Suitable for families with young kids too!

** Use the discount code "BABYNFAMKLOOK" when you book through Klook for a 5% Discount. Applicable to All Klook Activities with min. spend of SGD50. Discount capped at SGD15.

Taipei Itinerary - Toddler's Edition

Recently, we went on a terrible family trip to Taiwan. It was traumatic, the driver deviated from my itinerary and I was forced to check in at more places than required. I ended up reaching the hotel late, exhausted and with children to feed/bathe and wind down. I know I was an anomaly, Taiwan is touted to be extremely family friendly.

Given the number of numerous places we went, I decided to consolidate a series so that families with young toddlers could take reference and have a real good time. Rolling off with Taipei. 

Hits

1. Shifen Old Streets - Release of Sky Lanterns (~NT250)

This is probably one of the better spots to release the sky lanterns. The last time, I came to Taiwan I also released my lanterns here but in the night. I always had the impression it looked better at night but actually there can be quite a lot to see during the day. This area also serve as a teahouse but the menu is really expensive. It is a great pit stop because the toilet is really well maintained :) 

The kids also enjoyed feeding the fishes and checking out some of the owners' exotic pets. This is a great activity for the young and the old. Beware of the calligraphy ink as it stains the clothes. The kids got a few stains on their nicer clothes which I am still figuring out how to remove. 

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Passes

1. YehLiu Geo Park (~NT120)

This is also not my first time there. To clarify, I think it is definitely quite a must-see for adults given how unique it is. The whole area isn't shaded. I went during summer the last round and I could remember myself holding an umbrella. For children, it is going to be a tall task to appreciate rocks under the hot sun. With our driver, we didn't go into the park but a photo spot beside. It was a bit of a climb and my daughter slipped. The view is decent but I wouldn't recommend. Just want an easier and more relaxing family trip. 

2. Prince Creative Stationery Kingdom (~NT200)

We were only here at explore because we went for Wu Fu Yang Sock Factory (open only during weekends) and it wasn't open. Crayon Factory (read here on the review) is way better. Honestly, I am starting to have doubts on the reviews for Taiwan attractions. I think it gives a deeper appreciation and understanding on how erasers are made but not much of a must-go. The whole factory tour could be completed within 15 mins for the uninterested. The place is quite run-down and the redeemable DIY activities were pretty average. The kids had fun shopping for the cute-designed erasers. 

3. YangMingShan National Park

This is my 2nd time there and still I don't find it impressive. Even when without kids, I couldn't take the heat and I think I have seen quite enough of volcanoes this lifetime. This time round we actually hiked up to find XiaoYouKeng (a dormant volcano group). I thought it was quite ridiculous because there was actually a parking lot right in front, which I thought would be better for families. Climbing up while carrying toddlers is just another level of exhausting. The toddlers hated the Sulphur smell too. The trip may be more worth if it Make your driver drops you right at the doorstep then maybe you can consider if it is the season of cherry blossoms. 

** Use the discount code "BABYNFAMKLOOK" when you book through Klook for a 5% Discount. Applicable to All Klook Activities with min. spend of SGD50. Discount capped at SGD15.

Family Egg Hunt - Children's Museum

Easter is probably the second most celebrated festival in the family. This year we contemplated DIY-ing but there were so many planned events so we decided to go with a few. The Family Egg Hunt organised by the Children's Museum had really great reviews so we decided to give it a try. Unlike the usual free entrance, this was a paid event. It cost $70 for 2 adults and 2 kids. 

Basically, there were 9 stations which the kids had to complete to obtain a chop on their card. The activities could be indoors or outdoors and was suitable for varied age groups. Personally, I found most of the activities suitable for preschoolers and may be boring for the older kids. The description of the activity on the card is also quite limited which makes it hard to pick and choose. 

You don't have to complete every activity to redeem the goodie bag, which was great for us. My toddlers would not be able to complete everything. When you complete each station, you can get a plastic egg. In each egg, there was a sticker except for one which had an eraser. My kids loved it because of the surprise element and also because they really like stickers!

The goodie bag consisted of Lego, packet drinks etc. Adults have no goodie bags, lol! They also got a plant to grow and some crafts to bring home. I think it is somewhat value for money as the amount of planning is probably immense. There was a gashapon and we won a cute and huge umbrella along with some merchandise from Yeo's. Overall, still a worthy Easter recommendation if you are not too keen to DIY the egg hunt yourself :D

Food Tour 56: Food I didn't really like...Oops

Just so you guys know, not all the food I try are always good. I always share the shitty things I tried as well so that you can avoid these pitfalls and spend your calories and money on better stuff. You are absolutely welcome. 

1. Kora Bakehouse

Newly Opened and they were going on a 1-for-1. Their original matcha drink cost S$12, which is insanely expensive. I watched them prepped the drinks and scooped tons and tons of matcha powder on it. There was a little bit of anticipation because more is always better, right? Nope, this was the absolute worse matcha I ever had in my life. They do sell food as well, but given how bad my experience with their drink was...I am scarred. 

2. Chocolate Origin

I think most people are either in camps of Awfully Chocolate or Chocolate Origin. I am actually a fan of the latter. But I think it is a deeply personal choice, so I thought I should still give Chocolate Origin a shout-out. Personally, I think the chocolate was too sweet and the bitter taste hit me too hard. I know, it doesn't entirely makes sense. So I guess it depends on how you like your chocolate. They definitely win in terms of aesthetics, which is why I have always been dying to try it. Plus, the Cacaocat makes great gifts. Apart from that, I am still an Awfully Chocolate Girlie. 

3. Moon Rooftop Bar

Interestingly, I have actually been there a few times. For the private events and their free-flow food, I enjoyed it thoroughly. It has a very beautiful moon hung in the middle of the bar which provided great ambience. This is their lunch set which I am not a fan of. First, portions were small and service was slow. Not ideal for office people who have a tight lunch schedule. 

Presentation was really pretty and the food generally is tasty. but this egg only dish cost a whooping S$10+ and came with a free drink. I could probably make it myself for way lesser. No way for lunch set, but for after works drinks/ private event , this place is the bombz!

Day trip Itinerary at Klang

Thanks to my delayed flight, I actually found some time to do in Klang. Klang is basically not quite the tourist town since people are trying to speak to me in Bahasa most of the time. If you are choosing a hotel here, the recommended accommodation would be Wyndham Acmar Klang, which was a recommendation by most of the drivers given the price differences. I stayed at Premiere Hotel (because I didn't have a choice), which was decent.

At the end of the day, it really depends what you are looking for. Premiere has a good enough gym and lap pool. For me, gym is more important than pool because it is more fuss-free for business travelers. The room was clean and I could get access to the lounge if I needed some munchies. Plus there was a massage in-house.

** Use the discount code "BABYNFAMKLOOK" when you book through Klook for a 5% Discount. Applicable to All Klook Activities with min. spend of SGD50. Discount capped at SGD15.

There was also a hypermart beside it which allowed me to do quick after-work shopping. It even had their Mothercare equivalent and Toys"r"us so it ticked quite a lot of checkboxes for me. I would have bought a lot more stuff if not for my limited luggage space (strategized by my husband to prevent excessive spending). 

To be quite frank, I will usually buy items that cannot be found in Singapore or cheaper (due to exchange). The Apache White coffee and Kit Kat Dark Borneo were super good buys and tasted super awesome. Somehow the place sold a lot of nice kits so I ended up buying quite a bit. I also stocked up on playdoh for my kids' birthday goodie bags. 

But nothing pleased me more than the A&W which was within the same walking enclave. I know it sounds absolutely ridiculous but it was such a highlight of my trip there. I had the coneys, chickens and root beer to satisfy my cravings. Better than all others I had. Tealive was a must-have recommendation by the drivers. The BBT was everywhere, but not really my thing at the end of the day cos I prefer drinks I can modify the sweetness level. 

The baked herbal chicken was at Tea Garden was so good. I tried their three layer coffee because I needed a coffee fix and it sure looked interesting. The milk is actually condense milk. I love it. Note, their coffee is insanely strong. Seafood and Bak Kut Teh are must-haves while you are there. Sorry, but I didn't note their names for these. 

Because of my delayed flight on firefly (read about my experience here),  I managed to squeeze in a bit of sightseeing. It was not a nice respite, but I missed my family or someone to share the moment with. Taking photos was a chore too, but the locals were kind enough to help and act as a commentary. I could choose on place so I decided on Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal Gallery, which was not too far away and free. It was in the Little India of Klang so there was more to see on the Streets as well. 

For the Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal Gallery, it is a must-go if you enjoy checking out the luxurious collection of the rich and famous and at the same time learn a bit about the history. If I had more time on my hand, I would have checked out i. Pulau Ketam (the boat rides were too infrequent) and ii) Sekinchan (too far and I think I can find similar views in other countries). That's all the time I had but if you are in a similar area, you can check out the places I did too!

Sunday Brunch - Kids Play Area is back

Back at the Sunday Brunch of the Edge because of the play area for the kids. Parents will understand how it important that is. Finally, I could leave them inside and will have a chance to roam freely, at to my heart's delight. This time round, I even found more goodies (when I thought I have tried everything). A less distracted mind really allows you to notice more

This time round, there was a balloon sculptor and no face painting. When the balloon sculptor was not  roaming around to make the children happy, she would be hanging around in the play room helping to keep a watchful eye on the kids. Generally, there was not much change to the playroom since our last visit. There were the tents, cushions and a dessert table which the children loved. 

Top new foods that we would recommend this time round includes:

• The first pic on the first collage - Didn't catch its name but it was divine
• Fried Kuay Teow which is the husband's ultimate favourite. 
• The unassuming plum gelato ice cream which me and the kids cannot get enough of. 

This place is so popular now, I even bumped into my boss who was on the Bottomless package. For at SGD178++ per adult, you get to enjoy all-you-can-drink beers, wines and cocktails, apart from the non-alcoholic drinks. I was told that this is the best alcohol deal in town if you are quite a heavy drinker or just needs a place to drown your sorrows. Ending the post with a cute neat hack, mummy made the napkin an apron for us and we managed to keep our clothes clean. :)

SGD118++* per adult | SGD 59++* per child (6 to 12 years old)

Inclusive of free flow chilled juices and soft drinks

** To get additional discounts, you can use the discount code "BABYNFAMKLOOK" when you book through Klook for a 5% Discount. Applicable to All Klook Activities with min. spend of SGD50. Discount capped at SGD15.