Off the beaten track - Shanghai Wild Animal Park

As you can tell by now, I stayed really long in Shanghai and explored some really good attractions that are not usually on most people's itineraries. For young families or even anyone, Shanghai Wild Animal Park was surprisingly fun and memorable!

You could feed literally every animal in the Shanghai Wild Animal Park which was awesome. As long as you paid around S$5, you would get a packet of food to feed the animals. We arrived in the late morning and missed a great deal of feeding sessions. Unlike our Mandai Zoo, the Shanghai Wild Animal Park had lots of animals of the same species. It was quite a sight watching the kangaroos fighting with another pair trying to mate in the background. 

The whole area was huge, we couldn't finish within the day. In addition, there was even a themepark nested within it. Truly regretted not arriving earlier. The children enjoyed it thoroughly and I think their mandarin might have improved, learning the names of all the animals there. If you love Pandas, there are even a pair of toddler twins there!

Our favourite was definitely the VIP ride that allowed you to feed ferocious animals up-close. I have never got to do that in my whole life and it was exhilarating. You had to pay around S$20 extra for the VIP experience and would be given some food. Depending on luck (which side the animals choose to stroll pass), you might not get to feed all. 

We were pretty lucky and got to feed the lions, white tigers, brown bear and a pack of hungry wolves. I took this ride the first thing when we arrived. But I think it could have been saved for last and I could focus feeding more animals in the park in the morning. In any case, this beats Mandai (Sorry Mandai!) For lunch, I would suggest having the Lanchengxiang Lanzhou Beef Noodles (if you can take beef) and get something separate for the children. The rest of the food selection was just meh!

Based on our research, best price is via Klook and there are occasional bundle options (1A + 1C, 2A +2C). Buy at least one day ahead for the best price!

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Shanghai Wild Animal Park: https://www.klook.com/en-SG/activity/29808-shanghai-wild-animal-park-ticket

** 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.

Off the beaten track - Shanghai

Shanghai was awesome. Believe it or not, we spent a total of 7 days within the city, without travelling out. There was so much to do and I am not even done. Not gatekeeping so here's 3 places that most people would have given a miss, but it is so worth visiting. 

1933 Old Millfun (Free!)

This used to be an abandoned slaughterhouse that have been revamped. Unfortunately, despite revitalisation efforts, this place still remained rather empty. There was very low take-up of spaces by shops and restaurants. As such, it was one of the most serene attractions which you could take photographs to your heart's delight. We saw some people modelling there as well.

For fans of architecture, this is not a place to be missed. I came with 2 kids in tow and we explored for more than an hour (which was way longer than what we initially planned). The whole place was like a concrete maze and there is something really pretty/ amazing about the design. It is a bit out of the way and not close to other attractions but it was 100% worth the detour. 

Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre

Another hidden gem in an office building, you are not really supposed to take photos of their posters. So here's one photo of a poster which I bought. To be frank, this place is not huge but it was really interesting watching how the government pivoted the people to certain beliefs and careers. If you can read mandarin, there will be more appreciation on the captions and quotes on the posters. To a certain extent, it also gives you a flavour of the old China. 

The entrance ticket is not expensive. As this is a private museum and the owner is getting on in age, I would really recommend you to get something for yourself at the souvenir shop to support it. Although most of the items there are pretty fairly affordable, another foreign lady and I each bought down some of their more pricey items. Perhaps he just wants to share his love and collection, but I am thankful he allowed us to buy a piece of history home. 

Marriage Market (People's Park)

It was so exciting to hunt this down. For the Shanghai market, it only happens on the weekend. It was raining that day and I was very anxious that the people will not gather. Fortunately, there was still an authentic crowd there with little curious foreigners. If you can read mandarin, you would be able to better understand the description of the notices and understand how materialistic the dating society is at the moment. 

I had the good fortune to chat with some of the matchmakers and candidates there. They explained to me they prefer this to dating apps because of the scams and onboarding fees of online apps. The matchmaker/ candidates would usually bring a bunch of profiles, some belonging to their other single friends/ relatives. For the profiles I read, their age tend to be on the higher side and most are very well educated. Very interesting and give you a good peek to the Chinese dating market!

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Activities mentioned above are either free or not on Klook at the moment. If you are booking any other experiences via Klook, you can use the discount code "BABYNFAMKLOOK" for a 5% Discount. Applicable to All Klook Activities with min. spend of SGD50. Discount capped at SGD15.

Fairy Story Ecological Farm - DO NOT STAY THERE!

I am writing this REAL review on the Fairy Story Ecological Farm because there isn't much honest reviews online. The husband found this place and went ahead to book it partially because of the nice reviews we saw online on Trip.com and Google Reviews and also because it was the vacation period, we couldn't find a place that could accommodate our huge group of people. 

First of all, you need to know that all their "5-Stars" reviews are bought. They will tempt you with a upgrade to a room with the skyroofs and make you write smashing reviews (pre-vetted by them) on the platforms. I was coerced to write 4 (2 on trip.com and another 2 on Google Reviews - sounds like duplications for 1 stay to rig the system) and edit until they were satisfied or pay S$60/ room/ night. I wrote eventually because I would rather NOT pay them any extra. Also, whatever additional farmstay activities they are providing are at least twice market price.

To be fair, the rooms at Fairy Story Ecological Farm were very decent. It was clean, well decorated and came with really good amenities i.e. hot filtered water which was great for sterilizing the children's bottles. There were even areas for you to hang your washed clothes. The children especially love the slides and we enjoyed staring at the sky to hunt for stars before we went to sleep. 

What I didn't like was how Fairy Story Ecological Farm didn't honestly manage the business. This place will forever be almost fully booked on various platforms. But, Fairy Story Ecological Farm is in fact very empty with the rooms on the top floor used to extort 5 stars. To set the record straight, I am not against giving well-deserved 5 stars rating, but it is another thing when you try to control my content and threatening to charge ridiculous extra charges if it was not done. I just don't like the idea of being milked off every penny. This leave such a bad taste, and I think anyone who is contemplating a stay there should know of true experience ahead before booking it. 

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** 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.

Oasia Hotel Novena Staycation

My very privileged kids got another staycation with their grands at Oasia Hotel Novena. Because my mother fell sick, I got lucky too haha and earned myself an overnight stay. For a staycation option, this place was awesome. It was convenient located above Novena MRT station and was surrounded by lots of malls. It also gave me a really good opportunity to explore this area. 

The hotel room isn't fantastically big (without a sofa), but there was enough space to dump our stuff. As we don't intend to spend much time indoors so that didn't bother us too much. The high-rise view was spectacular. For its price range, this place provided one of the most beautiful views. 

As usual, my kids were wild about the pool and just chilling around it was all they wanted to do. I really liked the fact that they had a shallow pool for the children to play in. I doubt the adult pool was a full lap pool, but my kids sure enjoyed floating (with assistance). Oasia Hotel Novena is not entirely branded to be family friendly, so don't expect floats/ indoor playrooms etc. My kids brought their own water gun and was shooting around the shallow pool (which they were the only kids.)

But what really surprised me about this place, was the club lounge, which was exclusive for the Club members. If you were staying on the club floor or suite, you would automatically gain access to it. Otherwise, you could pay an additional S$300 to enjoy the privacy and facilities. That's pretty steep in my opinion because you could actually stay another night there with that amount. 

Sheltered from rain, the jacuzzi was warm and the infinity pool's was alright. But you had to be really prim and proper here. My kids struggled with that. There was also an exclusive dining area for the breakfast buffet. But for families with young toddlers, such luxuries were difficult to be enjoyed. We ended up having a great time at the places for the masses. 

Novena is undergoing some constructions so it can be pretty difficult to travel on foot with a stroller. But there is United Square nearby which had lots of children-friendly stores. Lots to do and shop. It was a great recharge. Would really recommend it for any parents!

** 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.

Rendezvous Hotel - Review

 

The other day, the kids tagged along my parents for a staycation. Generally, I don't really bother to review these because I don't stay overnight. But for this one, we decided to upgrade to the family suite which came with an extra bed. So, I slept overnight. Personally, I thought the location was really good. There was a lot of good food / things to see in the district. 

Rendezvous Hotel though a little on the older side, I thought had a character. No photos on the lobby, but it left an impression because of the interesting art pieces. The building had a little of the Great Gatsby vibe. Glad that we grabbed a stay before it was refurbished, cos otherwise I doubt the $ per night would be as attractive for 3A + 2C.

Around the hotel, there was Chjimes, Raffles City, Capitol and Funan, just to name a few malls. In terms of food selection, there were plentiful too. The buffet breakfast despite its gorgeous-looking restaurant was horrendous. (Usually, I would never say that so you can totally imagine how bad it is.) My kids actually spat out the food and refused to eat. My suggestion would be to skip the breakfast and just try out all the nice eateries outside. 

In terms of play area, if you are Singaporean, you should check out the Children's Museum which is free and well within walking distance. You can read my review here. For foreigners you can purchase tickets. Overall, I really liked the hotel spacious room and its location. Would really recommend it for those who is just looking for a quick respite within Singapore. 

** 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.

Novotel @ Stevens Staycation Part 1 - Room and Facilities

If you have toddlers like me, and really need a recharge, I would say a staycation would do the deed. I always feel a lot more fresh and less stress after one. This time round we went to Novotel @ Stevens! We always go past it a few times and was always curious. I am glad we made the visit because we were so blown away by the design and the hospitality. 

Our room came with a toilet with glass walls. A blind could be lowered for privacy. For parents, this room worked really well cos we could keep an eye on the other children while showering one. And the kid left in the bedroom didn't feel too left out, so there were no fusses. However, if you are staying with a friend of an opposite gender, you must have a lot of trust. Otherwise, you might want to pick something which provides more privacy. 

We had the Premier Room which came with access to the exclusive Novotel Premier Lounge service at L’Apéritif Lobby Bar with cocktail and light bites from 6:00pm to 7:30pm and also complimentary access to the fridge in my room. If you are on business travel, the lounge is great because there are meeting rooms and printers available. 

As the first day was very gloomy, we ended up checking out the Kid's Room at Level 2. It is not really a drop-off place. The kids were tickled when the staff allowed us to bring some orange juice (in takeaway cups) from the Lounge. They felt so much like little adults. 

The facilities were also pretty awesome. I thought it was cool that the place held a tennis court and foosball table. As I didn't bring my sportswear, I didn't had a go at their gym but I loved the fact that the treadmill had a great view of the busy roads. We spent quite a good amount of time at the pool. There was a lap pool, infinity pool and baby pool. The kids adored just splashing around independently at the shallow baby pool. As the infinity pool had such a pretty view, we couldn't resist taking a dip there as well. 

The place also came with a laundromat. I took a peek at the prices and found it pretty affordable. I have so much photos and things to share that I would need to split this post into parts, LOL. In any case, I spent 3D2N there and this is our itinerary.

Day 1: Check In at 3pm

• Checking out the Lounge and Kid's Room 
• Free Shuttle Bus to Orchard to check out the X'mas Lights (Read Post here!) and Christmas Village (Read post here!)
• Dining and Shopping at Orchard because there is a lot to eat and shop there!

Day 2: Full Day of Fun

• Breakfast at Food Exchange (Read our post of food here!)
• Picnic at Botanical Gardens  (Read our post  of the experience here!)
• Swimming at the pool
• Dinner at Smiths Fish and Chips (Read our post of food here!)

Day 3: Late Check Out

• Breakfast at Food Exchange (Read our post of food here!)
• One last Swim because the kids loved it!

You can book a stay with Klook here! Or direct from their website to enjoy exclusive promotions!

** 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.

Staycation at The Bus Collective

If you are into novel travels or parents whose kids love "The Wheels on the Bus", this is a "hotel" you should not missed. It is quite new so it is relatively unknown, but somehow the husband spotted this and I found a good deal on Klook. Currently Klook offers the lowest price. With the discount code "Babynfamklook",  I managed to get it at a more reasonable price of "below S$300 a night", so off we were. 

We have read a few reviews ahead, so we kinda of had some expectations. We knew there will be frequent planes flying ahead (but no, the soundproofing was pretty good at night), we expected the ants/ bugs (so we brought our own mozzie patch, insecticide spray) and we anticipated the poor ventilation (just on the aircon throughout noon to keep your bus cool). To be honest, none of these were deal-breakers or even much of a big deal. 

We took a 4-bedder bus so we could squeeze more people in it (more value for money). :P Mandatory thing we did was to do our check-in photos! Whether in the day or night, the kids were clamoring over the bus seat. Although the bus was no longer functioning, most of the buttons could still be jabbed on and the steering wheel could still be turned. Even at night the photos turned out great!

We were assigned the bus closest to the restaurant area. It was not the most private bus but we suspected that the discounted Klook buses were a reserved few, that were not as premium in their location . Not that it was a problem because there were not many who patronised the inside dining area. Given that we had a stroller, the less aesthetic cement path was easier to navigate instead of a pebbled path. And we always had a clear view of the sky at our outdoor deck when the planes flew by. 

If you have checked on their location, you will know how isolated this place is. True enough, there is nothing much within walking distance in that area. Within half day, we knew we have exhausted the "things to do" around there. We did a 3D2N and basically, we still found enough things to do, just that most were day activities. There was a playground right at the doorstep but it was pretty worn. The one at the Pier is way better. 

Because I think we have quite a solid plan, I am going to share our itinerary here:

Day 1:

- Lunch at Smith Marine Floating Restaurant (Singapore's only kelong)

- Check in at The Bus Collective

- Prepare for BBQ in the afternoon

Day 2  - Realised Pulau Ubin was not very suitable for the kids and replaced with horse riding at Gallop Stable (read or review here) instead.

- Explore Changi Village Hawker Centre

- Explore Pulau Ubin and the pier area

- Dinner at Cosford Container Park 

Day 3

- Breakfast at Changi Village Hawker Centre

- Check out at 11am

** 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.

As for the playground, there is one right at the doorstep of The Bus Collective. However, I found it a bit old. The playground at the pier was definitely worth a walk to. As for the BBQ, you should opt for it if you don't intend to go out. Most reviews were not very informative on this. Basically, you could either bring your own food/supplies or purchase from the restaurant within or  the BBQ store at the Changi Village. 

The staff will not help you to set up the pit (not electric by the way) whether or not you purchase from their restaurant. The items sold within are quite limited though very reasonably priced, so consolidate a list and purchase from the BBQ to prevent multiple times there (My husband went there 3 times LOL!)

Generally, our staycay to The Bus Collective was a good recharge as it felt like we went overseas without the over-zealous packing. I would describe it as an atas chalet which also came with a novelty factor. I think we might actually go again, but with a few years break in-between. To note, there can be quite a bit of ants because it is quite an outdoorsy thing and  especially if you bring food/ milk (like us). It was still bearable but you just need to remind yourself not to leave food out in the open. 

Another thing I did was to toss food waste (and diapers) into our outdoor bin instead of our indoor bin and that helps greatly. And for those who wonder, every night I would collapse the stroller and park it within the bus. Lotsa space! Hope this review helps those who are planning a trip there!

Things to do in Desaru

Funny story, I went to Desaru twice in a month. So I am pretty sure I have explored quite a lot of terrains there and have shortlisted the more worthy places to share with you guys. 

Best Hotels

1. Four Points By Sheraton Desaru (~S$100 per night)

This was where we stayed and I loved it. It was right smack in its town and was close to a lot of amenities such a supermarket, shopping centre (didn't have time to explore) and pharmacist. Bringing 2 kids, this really matters to me because if I need to stock up on diapers etc., I have a place to go to right outside my hotel. Also, I sprained my back during my stay and I was so glad there was a pharmacist I could go to. 

The room we picked was the Premium Twin Room, 2 Double Beds, Balcony, which was very spacious. I know I am starting to sound like a broken record on space. But when you have strollers and tons of kids stuff like floats etc. space is vital. There was a playground within the vicinity and the pool had a shallow end for the toddlers! Also, we had free shuttle bus rides to  the beach and Adventure Park!

2. Hard Rock Hotel Desaru (~S$200 per night)

Using our free shuttle bus rides, we ventured to Hard Rock Hotel. Initially, our intent was to visit the Kids Club. But the programme for the day seems meh. So the kids ended up playing at the complimentary splash zone. Although we didn't pick this hotel, I thought it was a decent choice as well given the number of families there. It was right beside the Adventure Waterpark. There was a playground, an active lawn, kids club, splashzone etc. all within the vicinity. 

It seems to attract more Caucasians. Would probably give it a try in future, just that price point, it seems to be less value for money. 

 Best Seafood Restaurant

You Kee Seafood Restaurant

Generally, many people rave about the seafood at Desaru. We ate at a few places, and the initial thoughts was that it was really cheap but not super fantastic. Some of the places which had "high positive reviews" were incentivised review. But this place - You Kee Seafood, was super impressive. It is quite out of place and rather dilapidated. The butter lobsters were super delicious and was something we probably couldn't find in Singapore. 

There were good food options for the kids - tofu and the kids had an up-close experience with the lobster. Writing about this place because this is one restaurant I felt it was worth going out of the way for. 

Best Activities

1. Desaru Fruit Farm

If you have small kids who are into petting animals, this is a one-stop place for all these needs. The package comes with a visit into their plantation. I went on a separate tour and it was quite an enriching journey (suitable for older kids - maybe who is primary school). There are also ATV rides there for the teenagers and adults. Fruits are sold there and you should really buy them because they are super juicy and reasonably priced. 

When I went with the kids, there was a power shortage and it was raining cats and dogs. We decided to visit the paid petting arena outside instead so that the kids would not be disappointed. Personally I don't think it is as worth it because within the plantation, there is an animal feeding zone too that consists of goats, cows and even camels. The paid petting arena contains more exotic animals such as llamas, racoons etc. And not all animals can be fed/ petted. 

2. Adventure Waterpark

If your kids are older, this is the place that would probably entertain them the whole day. My kids were pretty young so we didn't opt to go in. I spotted lots of family and young couple enjoying a fun day out there!

** 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.

JB Cat Cafe: Chucky Cat Cafe

A while back, we made our trip to JB. One of things we are looking out for was for kid-friendly pets cafe because my kids really loved animals. Based on my humble research, Chunky Cat Cafe was the only pet cafe located within a shopping mall. Fortunately for us, this cafe was right smack beside our hotel. (We happened to stay at Holiday Inn.) So, we managed to save the Grab fees too. 

We got our tickets from Klook. You could probably get your tickets on the spot (with a lot more different package option). But if you want to be cash-free and accumulate credit card points and also use vouchers, the deal was better on Klook. The kitties were so clean and well kept. 

Generally, the kittens were also very gentle (despite how pushy my littlest one could be). The wilder ones had collars with bells, so I made sure our girl avoided them. She is not rough per-say but we were scared she could not manage her strength. Our only initial problem was that the felines were so reserved. After 15 mins in getting all the pets he wanted, my older one got bored. 

So I thought to get them some beverage/ ice cream. It was only then when I noticed they sold cat tidbits (RM5 each). It is quite a game changer. The cats flocked towards them and they started to enjoy the close proximity with the cats. Also, it helped the cats to start trusting these shorter humans. Tip: Please spend on the cat food! These cats are really realistic. No food, No honey!

We ended up buying 2 servings for each kid. The kids had lots of fun (so did I) and I also managed to capture a lot of good photos (to send to the relatives). Overall damage is less than S$100 for sure. I bought drinks and ice-cream too! The kids didn't stay longer than an hour because they were slightly hungry for their late lunch. I don't think I could have stayed the whole day with the kids. 

For the hotel, we came in a huge group so we took the suite at Holiday Inn. I think it could stay up to 5 adults. It was insanely spacious and the kids enjoyed just jumping around. Most importantly, it was super convenient to everything. We barely even needed to move out via Grab. The only problem was that the swimming pool was not very kids-friendly. But hey, we came prepared and brought our own floats. HAHAH

Just so you can get the best bang for the bucks, you can use the discount code below :)

** 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.