Bug Sighting at Botanic Gardens

Truth be told, we have been to Botanic Gardens tons of time. But never have we been there to actually bug-spot. Just at a stretch of path, this was some of the many insects we spotted. Believe it or not, the toddlers managed to observe for nearly an hour. It was pretty fun to spot bugs other than those flying into our view.

What we did was to look though each leaf. As the kids were tiny, they managed to spot bugs that were hiding under the leaves. A lot of people might think it is dangerous, as long as you stay away from the bees, you are probably fine. Being such city dwellers, the initial keen eye was the helper but we soon caught up. 

We were supposed to continue our bug spotting journey at Jacob Ballas Children's Garden, but the water playground got in the way. The kids ended up having a great, wet time there. Although there are changing areas near, the bathing area was at the entrance. A bit silly, oh well. It is complimentary and a very simple water playground. But kids don't really need sophistication to have a lot of fun. 

After the picnic, we did our all-time favourite - picnic - with food prepped from Bee's Knees. This time we picked the area closer to the "lake which was supposed to have swans". No swans, but I love this area too because it was more natural. And the chickens, monitor lizards would wander around to visit which thrilled and freaked the kids a little. 

Honestly, I didn't expect ourselves to enjoy insect spotting that much. It really does make you appreciate nature a little more and also great for bonding, especially when you tell each other about insects you sighted. To make things more fun, you can make it a competition. 

If you would like to identify the species of the insects, you can always upload your findings on inaturalist. Even after the day out, the kids continue to asked a lot of questions. Not the usual activities locals would do, but something we should all give a try. 

Chloé - House of Atelier des Fleurs

Made a trip to Chloé - House of Atelier des Fleurs and it was one of those event which I felt information could have been shared better. First of all, I have to say Mondrian Hotel is really drop dead gorgeous. I am absolutely in love with the suite and is so close to pampering myself with a night stay. The courtyard which I didn't take photos of was like a picturesque garden. 

I made a reservation ahead. Even though I came on time, there was a ridiculous queue ahead. I persevered through. It was pretty but I was a bit disappointed because it was very packed and there was not much personal space. Everyone was like jostling around. Even the hand massage queue was also really long. 

Despite my shots, I spent a quick 30 mins there max. What is not reported in many medias is that there is a whooping 15% off its items (maybe duty free may be able to beat it). On top of that, the deal is sweetened with lots of free gifts. I ended up snagging a small bottle of perfume and received a full-sized body cream as a free gift. It seems like a pretty good deal. 

The pop-up is only from 21st to 23rd March and my impression is always that such pop-ups offer pretty good discounts and deals. But I didn't see any complimentary mini floral watercolour artwork momento. I just felt the experience was not very consistent for the attendees. If you are a fan of Chloé , it is worth making a trip there. I am more of a convert but it is not because of the pop-up but because the floral scent is just up my alley and the hand cream had a really moisturizing effect on my housework-abused hands. 

MCM's Beach Club Juice Van

A quick shout out for the MCM's Beach Club Juice Van, it will be at 270 Orchard Road starting at 11.30am (Outside Adidas). You can get a nice bottle of juice to quench your thirst and also get your hands on this pretty red-white striped tote bag. Do go there on time, I went just 1 hour after the start time and everything ran out. The rules are pretty simple: 

For a bottle of cold-press Orange or Cranberry Juice

• Join the MCM database
• Follow @MCMWorldwide Instagram

 

To stand a chance to claim an exclusive MCM Beach Tote

• Join the MCM database
• Follow @MCMWorldwide Instagram
• Post a story of post of the MCM Beach Club Juice Van on Instagram
• Present the Instagram post or story at either of the following locations:
• On 13 March at MCM MBS (Marina Bay Sands, Hotel Tower 3, Unit 01-13)
• On 15 March at MCM Paragon (Paragon, Unit 01-26) or MCM Takashimaya (Takashimaya Department Store, level 2)

This is part of their series of regional public activities to launch MCM latest Spring Summer Collections. Inspired by "Under the Sea", Beach Club is a bold theme to celebrate coastal living. So expect to sun-drenched hues and nautical accents - think lush palm trees, vibrant coral reefs. Maybe all I crave is a vacation right now, becase all this is sounding so appealing to me! :P