Kiztopia Prestige Review

We have always been going to their flagship outlet at Marina Square, so we thought we should explore their outlets before the #1 outgrow his indoor playground phase. Prestige is located at New Bahru. It is a pretty interesting place and deserve a whole post on its own. Prestige is a very new outlet and is in the soft, woody colour themed scheme that gives it a premium feeling. 

The space isn't particularly huge but has interesting corners such as an area outdoor, reading nook and a carousel. There was also an area dedicated for free-play with modular cushions and blocks. Because of the outdoor area, when parents/ kids leave the door open, the whole indoor playground can grow to become rather warm. 

I can imagine this being one of the best toddler-targeted playground alongside Pororo Park. The 2 kids still had a great time within the 2 hours. Any longer, they might have been bored. During special occasions, there will always be special activities - including a meet-and-greet etc. From observation, Prestige seems to be particularly targeted at the expats - a place for the families to gather. For the first time, the local children are the minorities. 

To fully complete the indoor playground journey, Prestige should still be a must-visit. But once is more than enough for me. For the parents, there is not much adult-targeted fun. Haha. Maybe I should have another baby to enjoy this place better :P

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Kiztopia (Super worth it when you are buying passes) : https://www.klook.com/en-SG/activity/114036-kiztopia-ticket-singapore-river-valley/

** 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.

Slava's Snowshow Review

Touted as a family show, I took a peek at the review videos. I have to say I was utterly intrigued. Riding on the promotional prices (1 for 1), we decided to head over as an family for Slava's Snowshow. No regrets because it was one of the most interactive clown shows we have seen. There were a few acts and I couldn't completely comprehend the storyline. But somehow, I couldn't keep my eyes off them. 

My impression of clowns were that they were always comedic. In the acts, although their actions were pretty funny, it seemed to explore different themes of fear,  desolate and despair. They were basically miming throughout the shows. No words were spoken, but there were always murmurs of conversations by their young children audiences. 

During intermission, we didn't step out. And surprisingly, there was a small performance on its own. Eventually, it became a full act. The clowns would come down the stage, splashing water at the audience. The energy was chaotic, but fun. We could not really anticipate what would happen next. The kids and I were excited laughing during the 2nd half. 

Our favourite was the giant spider web, snow blizzard and the giant balls. It was a spectacle itself watching how a snow blizzard was presented. The kids would raise their hands to try to catch the web, paper and balls. I love how there were not much rules to enjoy. The crowd maintain civil and for Singapore standards, was having an absolute blast chasing the balls and throwing Papier-Mâchée in the air. 

Slava's Snowshow is only at Sands Theatre from 15 to 26 July, do get your tickets before it ends. It doesn't come by Singapore often. So the next time you get to watch it, it might be 3 years later! Tip: To catch promotional prices, always keep a lookout and check the MBS theatres social medias. That's how I caught mine :D 

Forest Bathing Experience Review

I was so inspired by Will Smith in Pole-to-Pole doing forest-bathing and having this stark relisation of life that I decided to go on one myself. Forest Bathing basically originated in Japan which involves aimless wandering within nature. In Pole-to-Pole, it is recommended for the feet to touch the soil. It helps to alleviate symptoms of mental fatigue, helping to manage stress and boosting immunity. 

I went on a guided one with Gentle Walks because I didn't know how to start. And frankly, forest bathing isn't cheap. It is around S$60 per pax. Because it was an event hosted by Sttoke, I got it at a slight discount and goodie bag. I thought that was the most affordable it would ever be, if I ever wanted to try. 

It started off with some sharing and gentle meditation and awakening of senses. Through this, the guide "forced a slow-down to my pace" and I could feel myself hearing sounds and smelling scents I ignored - chirping of birds and earthy smell of the gardens. I could even and appreciate the breeze. When I re-opened my eyes, the world looked a lot more vibrant and beautiful. 

During the exploration, I was relaxed - no KPIs, no timeline to catch. I just let curiosity took over me. I ended up banging into my kids who were doing their own nature walk nearby. That got my cortisol pretty high again. I could feel myself speaking faster (maybe more agitated). Note: From that, I concluded it is better to go on this journey alone to enjoy a deeper self-reflection. 

The whole session lasted for 2 hours. I left feeling I would do that again (myself) cos I can't afford S$60 every time I do it. The husband said I looked happier and more radiant when I came home. The children also seemed more serene than usual. There was definitely a glow. To fully retain the therapeutic effect, you have to engage in nature frequently i.e. 20 minutes a day. 

Personally, I felt the garden you go to, matters. I doubt Garden by the Bays would have the same effect on me because it was so busy with tourist and had a lot metallic (non-natural) elements to it. Also, it was too close to my workplace, which by-association won't allow me to shake off and immerse fully. For those who are new to this, I would suggest going for a guided session first so that you would know how to start the journey and calm the mind. :)