Dear Diary | October 2023 Edition

Dear October, 

Hi, October. ❤ Here we are in the last quarter of the year. It is also the month that marks my one-year journey here in Singapore. And I am glad that I get to continue spending personal time doing my things I enjoy, despite entering into the peak season at work.

Favourite Cereal-Crusted French Toast & Chilli Crab Pasta in town!

01.10.2023 | Sunday brunch date @ Surrey Hill Grocers, ION Orchard. | Happy to finally be able to try out one of the best French toasts in town! This Australian-brunch café does not disappoint at all - will definitely be back for more. 

Totally my kind of vibes!

07.10.2023 | Here's another foodie weekend adventure and we are at Madu Bakery for the famous cereal prawn croissant -- so good! Just skip the drink and enjoy the fresh bakes here :) 

Favourite Bara Chirashi @ Age Ya (楊屋), Far East Plaza

Another highlight of the weekend... I am so happy to have found a hidden gem serving top notch Japanese cuisine. And it probably serves the prettiest Hana Bara Don in town! Beautifully presented in two-tier wooden boxes, it is composed of a medley of fresh ingredients, added with edible flowers, creating a lovely contrast in textures and flavours. Highly recommended!

Kohaku Sabo (琥珀茶房), Chinatown Point

08.10.2023 | My love for Japanese cuisine continues with a trip down to Chinatown for the Tokyo's highly raved Carbonara Udon. So happy to be able to have it in Singapore because the restaurant queue in Japan is just insanely long. Here we get to have the best Houjicha Latte and Matcha Latte too - plus, they are served in super huge Japanese ceramic mugs. 

Classics like Kohaku Tendon bowls are great here - the tempura is delightfully crispy yet not greasy. The Sweet Potato Creme Brulee dessert is something new to me, but the golden caramelised bruleed crust is a tad overwhelming. 

MacRitchie Nature Trail

15.10.2023 | Sunday morning at MacRitchie Treetop Walk. | Can't believe it's been half a year since I last came here for a morning hike. It is still my kind of happy place that I don't mind sweating it out in the morning for the calming reservoir view. 

EY Fiesta 2023

20.10.2023 | We were at the inaugural Fiesta at Singapore National Stadium, and it was a blast! Happy to be surrounded with amazing fun people who can party hard and enjoy such a great evening together. 

Brunch at French Fold, Palais Renaissance

21.10.2023 | Back to a sweet weekend date ❤. Lovin' the wholesome "breakfast galette" here, composed of ham, suny side up, sautéed mushrooms, Comté cheese and baked beans. 

24.10.2023 | Drone lightshow at Marina Bay Sands. It was a calming evening to sit by the pier, watching the 15-minute drone lightshow upon sunset. Albeit short, it was one of the happy little simple things that brightened up the day. 

Cafe hopping at Keijometo @ Johor Bahru

28.10.2023 | Finally a long-awaited day trip to JB! ❤ Been super excited to visit this popular industrial-themed café in town which reminiscents of an art gallery. The food here is mainly Japanese inspired, and I'd personally recommend the Salmon Ochazuke (so good!!), Tamago Mentaiyaki and Hojicha Latte.

Cravings fixed! Not forgetting to mention the JB Fried Oyster along Meldrum Walk,

and Oriental Kopi's egg tarts!

30.10.2023 | Happy one-year anniversary in Singapore. It is exactly one year since I moved here. And before writing this, I have read through my monthly diary for the past one year which reminded me of different emotions I had at different points of time.

I noticed how happy I was in the past 12 months with many beautiful memories collected along the way. But deep in my heart, I know I need to learn to pause and enjoy the process more...to focus on being happy.....to be more appreciative of the blessings thus far.....

❤ ❤ ❤

xoxo,

FiSh @ 31.10.2023

[TRAVEL] 2D1N Kawagoe, Japan feat. Kawagoe Million Lights Summer Festival (川越百万灯夏まつり)

Konnichiwa from Kawagoe, Saitama! ❤  Being one of the nearest towns from Tokyo City, Kawagoe is a great destination for day trip from Tokyo. But I'd strongly recommend an overnight trip to fully experience the city during both day and night time.

Kawagoe Station (via Tobu Railway line) is only 1 hour away from Tokyo City!

Once you arrive, you can get the one-day Kawagoe Discount Pass for unlimited bus rides around the city.

Kawagoe Warehouse District (川越 蔵造りの町並み)

Kawagoe, also known as the "Little Edo", features an ancient main street lined with old clay warehouses and merchant homes which literally transports us back to the Edo Period (1603-1867).

Taking a closer look, the wooden structures are very different from the modern Japanese architecture. These warehouses built from wood with clay walls are so well-preserved until today. And some still sell traditional Meiji-era Japanese confectionery and sweets (Kashiya Yokocho Candy Alley) which lure a lot of tourists every year. 

Toki no Kane (Time Bell)

The iconic landmark in the warehouse district is the bell tower. Since more than 400 years ago, the bell rings 4 times a day - at 6am, 12noon, 3pm and 6pm - creating a nostalgic scene to the town.

Starbucks Coffee Kawagoe Kanetsuki Dori (スターバックスコーヒー 川越鐘つき通り店)

If you are fascinated by the architecture of Starbucks Kyoto in a traditional Japanese house with tatami flooring, I think this Starbucks store in Kawagoe will equally impress you with its lovely exterior and Japanese zen garden inside the outlet.

Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine (川越氷川神社)

Date: 1 July 2023 - 3 September 2023 (summer)

Time: 09:00-21:00

Access: 10 minutes bus ride from Kawagoe St.

My favourite part of this Kawagoe summer trip is the Enmusubi Wind Chime Festival (縁むすび風鈴). Only for a limited time period (1 July - 3 September 2023), the shrine extended its visiting hours until 9pm to allow visitors to enjoy the mesmerising wind chimes display in different light. 

The summer display of 2,000 Edo-style wind chimes lining the entrance of the shrine, forming a "Furin Corridor" is just so beautiful! Plus, the calming sound of soft wind colliding with the wind chime perfects the scene.

The night view is equally magical! In fact, every nook and corner of the shrine is very well-decorated.

No doubt it is the most popular shrine among the locals and tourists all-year round.

Lovin' the beautiful traditional lanterns adorning the wooden walkway in the shrine!

There are also several large 'omikuji' fishing ponds during certain seasons of the year (New Year, summer festival, etc) where people enjoy "fortune fishing" which the shrine is known for.

42nd Kawagoe Million Lights Summer Festival (川越百万灯夏まつり) 

Date: 29-30 July 2023 (summer)

Time: 17:00-21:00

Access: 8 minutes walk from Kawagoe St.

The best part of this summer trip in Kawagoe is definitely its summer festival! The town is beautifully adorned with vibrant lanterns which brightly colors the city at night. 

It is my first time attending such a large-scale festival - with a full line up of performances, competitions, and carnivals with endless choices of food and games - amidst the full moonlight. Despite the heat at 30°C in the evening, the once-in-a-lifetime experience here is definitely worth the sweats.

During the festival, I see many people are dressed up in summer yukata - so festive!

Kawagoe Kumano Shrine (川越 熊野神社)

Operating hours: 09:30-17:00

Access: 10 minutes bus ride from Kawagoe St.

While this shrine is not as popular as Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, it is worth dropping by at Kawagoe Kumano Shrine, an ancient shrine blessed with the god’s spirit from the Three Great Shrines of Kumano in 1590. 

One of the most fascinating rituals here is "cleansing your money". Zeniarai Benzaiten (銭洗弁財天) is one of the gods enshrined in Kawagoe Kumano Shrine, and it is said that if you use the purified money, it will attract more money for you!

Coedo Ohana (小江戸オハナ)

Operating hours: 11:00 - 17:00

Website: http://coedo-ohana.co.jp/

Access: Along Kawagoe old street

Kawagoe is packed with famous eateries, but the queue can be quite painstaking especially during lunch peak hours and they do not operate till dinner time. My personal favourite goes to Coedo Ohana, an egg specialty restaurant serving two most popular items: Tamagoyaki (900 yen) and Oyakodon (1,350 yen).

The Oyakodon here is the best I've ever tried! Served piping hot, every mouthful is so rich and gooey with delicious whiffs of eggy aroma. Definitely a perfect tummy comforting food! 

Kumotoyuki (Kakigori)

Operating hours: 11:00 - 17:00

Website: https://kumotoyuki.jp/

Access: Along Kawagoe old street

The best dessert to beat the summer heat is no other than a cup of fluffy ice topped with a dollop of red beans and green tea syrup. The Kakigori (1,000 yen) comes in assorted flavours and it makes a perfect dessert for summer. 

Denbe Unagi skewer (500 yen)

Another popular food in town is the Unaju, grilled eel served on a bed of rice. While there are several unagi specialty restaurants in Kawagoe, each of the garners much popularity and the queue can be hours long. So I opt for a quick grab-and-go Kushiyaki Rinrinya (Eel Skewer) instead - just to have a taste of the slightly charred marinated eel. Worth a try! 

Vanitoy Bagel (バニトイベーグル 川越店)

Operating hours: 10:00 - 18:00 (until 17:00 on Tuesdays)

Instagram: @vanitoybagel

Access: Along Kawagoe old street

Apparently it is a 100% Hokkaido wheat bagel specialty store!

Wish I were here during breakfast hour so that I can try out the salmon cream cheese bagel here.

Soy Sauce Dango (150 yen) and beer by the street!

There are a lot more variety of food and drinks available in Kawagoe old town. One of the more popular options which I want to try is the colorful handmade "Kawagoe Matcha Soba" founded in the 38th year of the Meiji era - but... the queue is just too long and I have to skip this round. Hopefully I will be back to Kawagoe again for the matcha soba! 

Thank you Kawagoe for the beautiful summer memories!

So looking forward to seeing you again in a different season soon...

Is Microblading Right for You? Pros and Cons to Consider

Microblading, a technique that has gained remarkable traction worldwide, is becoming quite the talk of towns and cities across the UK. But is this eyebrow-enhancing procedure right for everyone? Let’s explore the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Microblading

Before exploring the pros and cons, it’s essential to understand what microblading actually is. Simply put, microblading is a semi-permanent tattooing technique that creates an illusion of thicker, fuller brows. By employing fine, hair-like strokes, a trained technician implants pigment into the upper layer of the skin, making sparse brows appear naturally full.

The Upsides of Microblading

What are the main benefits of microblading? The procedure has many advantages, including:

Long-lasting Results

One of the primary reasons why many people opt for microblading in Cornwall and other parts of the UK is its longevity. Typically, the results last between 12 to 18 months. For those tired of daily eyebrow filling, this offers a semi-permanent solution.

Natural-Looking Brows

Unlike some brow-enhancing methods that can look painted or overly dramatic, microblading provides results that mimic natural brow hair. This subtlety is appealing to many who seek a more authentic look.

Save Time on Daily Makeup Routine

If you’re someone who spends a considerable amount of time getting your brows just right every morning, microblading can be a game-changer. Once done, there’s little daily maintenance required.

The Downsides of Microblading

Before you decide if this treatment is right for you, there are some downsides to consider, including:

Initial Cost Can Be High

While microblading can save money in the long run, the initial investment can be substantial. Prices can vary, but it’s essential to remember that in such treatments, you often get what you pay for.

Potential for Allergic Reactions

Though rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to the pigments used in microblading. It’s always wise to undergo a patch test before the full procedure.

Pain and Discomfort

Some people might find the process painful. While most practitioners use numbing creams, everyone’s pain threshold is different.

Maintenance and Touch-Ups

While marketed as ‘semi-permanent’, microblading isn’t a one-time thing. To keep the brows looking their best, periodic touch-ups are recommended.

Choosing the Right Microblading Technician

The expertise of the technician plays a pivotal role in the outcome of the microblading procedure. Look for:

• Qualifications and certifications: Always ensure your chosen technician has the necessary certifications that validate their skill in microblading. 
• View before and after photos: This will give you a clear idea of the technician’s work quality and style. Look for natural results and consistent outcomes.
• Read reviews and testimonials: Local reviews can provide insights into customer satisfaction and the overall experience with the technician.
• Consult first: Before committing, book a consultation. This allows you to discuss your expectations, ask questions, and gauge the professionalism of the technician.

Microblading offers an appealing alternative for those who desire fuller, natural-looking eyebrows without daily fuss. While there are evident advantages, like long-lasting results and time-saving benefits, it’s also crucial to consider the potential drawbacks.

[BEAUTY] Review: THE FACE SHOP Yehwadam Hwansaenggo Snow Glow Dark Spot Correcting Treatment

Hi sweetie! ❤ I am so excited that THE FACE SHOP has added into the signature YEHWADAM family a new, specialised solution for dark spots. 

THE FACE SHOP Yehwadam Hwansaenggo Snow Glow Dark Spot Treatment Special Set

As part of the anti-aging Hwansaenggo line, it is formulated based on the Cheon-Ji-In and Gun-Shin-Jwa-Sa theory, which combines 12 traditional oriental medicinal herbs at an optimal ratio. 

Among the key ingredients in YoonSeolDan, LG H&H's patented brightening and anti-wrinkle care, are Peony (for healthy sky condition), Lotus Flower (for soothing benefits) and Bai Zhu (for radiant, glowing skin). 

THE FACE SHOP Yehwadam Hwansaenggo Serum-infused Foaming Cleanser (50ml)

It is a premium foam cleanser that creates dense and rich lather containing herbal nutrients to leave your skin deeply nourished and moisturized without stripping skin of moisture.

How to use:

Use an appropriate amount and lather well.

Texture / Feel:

I am surprised by its gentle smooth liquid texture that is able to cleanse the skin thoroughly.

What I like:

I love how it is significantly more moisturising than many cleansers I have tried thus far. 

THE FACE SHOP Yehwadam Hwansaenggo Snow Glow Dark Spot Correcting Treatment (30ml)

While I always make sure that I put on sufficient sunscreen whenever I go out, sometimes I may still get dark spots over a prolonged sun exposure. And this Dark Spot Correcting Treatment is something I need to prevent the formation of dark spots by blocking UV light and attenuate both inner and outer dark spots. 

It helps take care of the skin before, during and after melanin is produced by the skin. In just 3 steps, it controls the occurrence, activation and transfer of melanin, in order to take care of the dark spots. It is proven to reduce the appearance of old complex dark spots on the W-zone!

How to use:

❤ As a daily care

In the morning, apply Dark Spot Correcting Treatment in a thin layer on the W-zone before using Dark Spot Correcting Cream, followed by Dark Spot Attenuating Multi Balm

❤ As a special intensive care

At night, use the Dark Spot Correcting Treatment → Dark Spot Correcting Cream → Dark Spot Correcting Treatment (apply a generous amount on areas in need of intensive care and gently pat for absorption). 

 

Texture:

As it is a highly concentrated spot treatment, I am not surprised that the texture is thick / rich. Therefore, a small amount is sufficient to cover all the targeted areas.

Feel:

The dark spot treatment is easily spreadable and is well absorbed into the skin. 

What I like:

It takes only one month plus to visibly reduce the appearance of dark spots around the W-zone (eye area, nose bridge, upper cheekbone).

 

THE FACE SHOP Yehwadam Hwansaenggo 

Snow Glow Dark Spot Correcting Cream (15 ml)

To achieve the best result of reducing the dark spots appearance, it is ideal to combine it with the Dark Spot Correcting Cream. This cream can be blended with the Dark Spot Correcting Treatment for a more moisturising texture. 

How to use:

❤ Apply all over the face, after the Dark Spot Correcting Treatment.

❤ Or blend together with the Dark Spot Correcting Treatment.

Texture:

Thanks to the lightweight cream texture, it spreads softly over the skin as it feels moist on skin without being oily at all.

Feel:

On the skin, it absorbs very well and leaves the skin with a silky finish without white cast or feeling sticky. 

If you are looking for a permanent solution to the older visible dark spots or pigmented areas on the face, then THE FACE SHOP Yehwadam Hwansaenggo Snow Glow Dark Spot Treatment set is ideal for your skin. It is now available at all THE FACE SHOP stores and online.

 

❤ ❤ ❤

Shop THE FACE SHOP online:

Official e-store: www.thefaceshop.com.my 

Shopee: www.shopee.com.my/thefaceshop.os

Lazada: www.lazada.com.my/shop/the-face-shop/

To find out more about THE FACE SHOP please visit:

Website: www.thefaceshop.my

Facebook: fb.com/thefaceshopmalaysia

Instagram: @thefaceshopmalaysia

[BEAUTY] Review: THE FACE SHOP Dr Belmeur x Bad Blue Collection - Clarifying Skincare for Oily Skin

Hi! ❤ I am so excited that something cute is brewing at THE FACE SHOP! This round, they have a special collaboration with a Korean project brand, BadBlue 배드블루, featuring BadBear® the adorable and playful bear character in the BadBlue universe. It looks so lovely!

Dr. Belmeur skincare series is not something new to me. I started using Dr. Belmeur Daily Repair for sensitive skin since 2017, then got introduced to the Dr. Belmeur Advanced Cica for delicate skin in 2018. Generally, it is a specialised skincare series formulated for sensitive skin and acne-prone / oily skin - hence more targeted for specific skin concerns.

What's special about Dr. Belmeur?

It is Dr. Belmeur's custom-made formula, SKIN-SYNC RX that comes very close to our skin cell structure, hence is easily acceptable by the skin as it connects to skin efficacy. In short, it provides solutions for different skin concerns. Surely there is something that suits your skin. 

THE FACE SHOP Dr. Belmeur Clarifying Calming Pads (Bad Blue Edition) (80 pads / 150ml)

Instead of toner in bottle, the Calming Pads is more convenient and easy to use as it is a one-step toner pad to eliminate dead skin cells and excess oil, leaving the skin refreshed and hydrated.  

How to use:

1. After cleansing, use the soft side of the cotton pad to gently wipe from the middle of the face moving outwards along the skin texture, excluding eye area and wounded area. 

2. Flip over to the gauze side and wipe the nose, chin and forehead where dead skin cells and excess oils are concentrated at. 

3. Gently pat the face for better absorption. 

Texture:

I like how the toner pad comes in double sides targeted for different facial areas. And there is a tweezer included in the packaging to ensure hygiene when taking out the pads. 

Feel:

It soothes the skin instantly, while keeping the skin refreshed and away from oiliness. 

What I like:

It is easy to use for both face and neck, and I like how highly moisturising it is. 

THE FACE SHOP Dr. Belmeur Clarifying Moisturizer (Bad Blue Edition) (200ml)

With the Bad Blue special collaboration, isn't it more tempting to get your hands on this everyday moisturizer? This moisturizer is targeted for acne-prone skin to moisturize the skin and reduce sebum secretion, leaving the skin refreshed and no greasiness.

It is formulated with Skin-Sync RX: Clarifying (I), which contains ingredients such as Beta-Glucan, to sooth irritated skin, keeping the skin healthy and hydrated. Free from 11 harmful ingredients too. 

How to use:

After applying toner, apply sufficient amount in outward motions and pat to absorb.

Texture:

The fluid texture is just as lightweight as how I love it to be. Nothing burdensome/greasy to the skin!

Feel:

Fresh and moisturizing. No skin irritation even for sensitive skin.

What I like:

It exudes a soft citrusy herbal aroma which soothes the soul. The best thing is, it is good to create a moisturizing layer to the skin during the day before leaving home.

THE FACE SHOP Dr. Belmeur Advanced Cica Hydro Cream (Bad Blue Edition) (40ml)

My favourite product in the Dr. Belmeur line is the Advanced Cica Hydro Cream, a facial moisturizer rich in ingredients like Centella Asiatica extract, Hyaluronic Acid, and Beta Glucan to protect the skin barrier and add hydration to the skin. I personally have used at least 2 - 3 units of this product! 

How to use:

After cleansing and toning your skin, apply an even layer of hydro cream onto the skin. Pat the skin gently to allow optimal absorption.

Texture:

I like the gentle and smooth texture of the cream without feeling “heavy” on the skin.

Feel:

My skin feels extra hydrated and soothed upon application.

What I like:

After using the gentle cica hydro cream for some time, I am happy that it soothes sensitized skin, moisturizes, damaged skin caused by external environment and eases skin tightness caused by dryness.

THE FACE SHOP Dr. Belmeur Cica Peptide Ampoule Set

Advanced Cica Peptide Ampoule (50ml)

Advanced Cica Toner (30ml)

Advanced Cica Emulsion (30ml)

Advanced Cica Recovery Cream (40ml) 

I have tried the Dr. Belmeur Advanced Cica Peptite Ampoule previously and it is great for its intense repairing, soothing and firming benefits. I love how it helps repair my sensitive skin and I can see the gradual improvement on my skin when it can absorb other skincare products better.

How to use:

(1) As a pre-serum prep

Apply ampoule on cleansed skin and tap gently for better absorption. Follow with serum and cream for overall skin protection.

(2) As a post-serum intensive booster

First, use your cleanser, toner and serum. Then mix a few drops of ampoule with your cream and massage over face / neck.

 

Texture:

Lightweight type of serum and it does not leave any sticky residue on the skin. 

Feel:

Instantly soothing on skin, spreads out easily and fast-absorbing.

What I like:

I like how Dr Belmeur Advanced Cica premium line helps the damaged skin surface to recover and becomes more resilient towards the environment. 

If you are looking for specialised skincare with skin-repairing ingredients to treat and improve the skin, then the Dr. Belmeur series is something you to consider. THE FACE SHOP Dr Belmeur x Bad Blue Collection is now available at all THE FACE SHOP stores and online.

 

❤ ❤ ❤

Shop THE FACE SHOP online:

Official e-store: www.thefaceshop.com.my 

Shopee: www.shopee.com.my/thefaceshop.os

Lazada: www.lazada.com.my/shop/the-face-shop/

To find out more about THE FACE SHOP please visit:

Website: www.thefaceshop.my

Facebook: fb.com/thefaceshopmalaysia

Instagram: @thefaceshopmalaysia