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Club Buzz

Here’s How to Spend Your NS LifeSG Credits at HomeTeamNS

From cheaper workouts to kids’ enrichment to new sporting gear, read on for some ideas on making the most of your LifeSG Credits at HomeTeamNS clubhouses.

You might have caught wind of it through the news, an old NS buddy, or a Gov.sg text message: the $200 LifeSG Credits, first announced during Budget 2024, will be disbursed to eligible past and present NSmen by 30 November this year.

These credits, given in recognition of NSmen’s contributions to Singapore’s defence and security, can be spent through PayNow UEN or NETS QR at any physical or online merchant.

For those keen to stretch their dollar, look no further than HomeTeamNS clubhouses, where you get to enjoy additional discounts and promotions when you pay with LifeSG Credits for selected facilities, dining, classes, and experiences. 

PLAN TO PLAY AND GET ACTIVE

The festive season often signals indulgence, but it’s also a perfect time to refocus on healthy goals, like spending more time with loved ones or getting fit.

At Fitness Workz Gyms in HomeTeamNS Khatib, HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok, and HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir, LifeSG Credit users enjoy an extra month of membership for every $100 spent on gym membership sign-ups or renewals, up to a maximum of 2 months. Redeem this offer at the counter of your preferred gym by 30 November 2025 and let your muscles — not your wallet — feel the burn.

For adrenaline-filled adventures with family or friends, check out the array of fun, one-of-a-kind facilities at HomeTeamNS clubhouses where you receive a $5 return voucher for every $50 spent using LifeSG Credits, with proof of successful payment of booking. From now till 30 November 2025, take advantage of the promotion at the recreational spot Playpen, indoor laser tag experience Laser Quest, thematic children indoor playground T-Play, Singapore’s first indoor player-vs-player AirSoft arena, TactSim, 4-story indoor adventure hub Adventure HQ, indoor water adventure centre Aqua Adventure, and gamified multi-level obstacle course Action Motion

DON’T MISS DISCOUNTED DINING

Satisfy your cheat meal cravings at Burger King’s outlets in HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir and HomeTeamNS Khatib. From now till 30 November 2025, redeem your LifeSG Credits to get a Turkey Bacon Croissan’wich Meal at $5.50 (U.P. $6.30), a Long Chicken Meal at $6 (U.P. $7), and a Mushroom Swiss Single Meal at $6 (U.P. $6.50).  Plus, every value meal purchase comes with a free pie.

If you’re planning a dinner with friends, head to Cheese Story Mookata at HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier, where paying with your LifeSG Credits entitles you to 10% off the total bill. Enjoy the discount on the buffet-style dining, featuring fresh seafood and marinated meats — dunked into a creamy nacho cheese sauce — from now till 31 March 2025.

For more dining perks at HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier, visit Indulge Teppanyaki & Grill House, where LifeSG Credit redemptions entitle you to a special $20 NSmen set lunch or dinner (inclusive of 1 main and 1 canned drink); and LK Thai Bistro & Café, where you receive 15% off the total bill. Both promotions are valid from now till 31 March 2025.

KEEP THE KIDS ENGAGED AND HAVING FUN

If your little ones can’t sit still, channel their energy into a sport like gymnastics. Redeem your LifeSG Credits at Bazgym Gymnastics School for 5% off school fees.

Budding chefs can join Genius R Us for baking classes. Sign them up for the Kidz Can Bake! class for $44 (U.P. $55), or the Tots Can Bake! class at $64 (U.P. $80).

For pint-sized Picassos, SmartArtz Studio offers 15% off course fees.

Aspiring martial artists, on the other hand, can hone their skills at St Teresa Taekwondo Centre with 50% off selected programmes: 4 lessons of the Mini Tots Program for 3 to 5 years old at $80 (U.P. $160), and the Kids Program for 6 to 14 years old at $70 (U.P. $140). Terms and conditions apply.

These merchants are all located at HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier, and the LifeSG Credit promotions are valid from now till 31 March 2025. Sign up early to avoid disappointing your kids.

TREAT YOURSELF TO SOMETHING NEW

Everyone deserves a little indulgence now and then. If you’re in the market for tennis gear, head over to The Physical Store at HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier. Here, you enjoy 15% off selected items — from rackets to bags — when you pay with your LifeSG Credits. This promotion is valid from now till 31 March 2025.

Pierre Ooi Photography, also at HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier, offers 20% off photography packages when you use your LifeSG Credits to pay, valid from now till 31 March 2025. Whether you’re marking a milestone or simply creating cherished family memories, this deal gives you another reason to smile.

LOWER THE COST OF A FUN DAY OUT

Bowling is always a fun choice for a group activity; it’s easy to pick up and perfect for any weather. Enjoy lower prices at SuperBowl in HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier and HomeTeamNS Khatib, where you pay $4.30 (U.P. $5.50) per hour between 12pm to 6pm on Monday to Friday, and $4.80 (U.P. $6) per hour between 10am to 1am on Saturday and Sunday.

For karaoke lovers, Jewel KTV, with outlets at HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier and HomeTeamNS Khatib, offers 20% off entry for NSmen and 10% off alcohol purchases. Grab your friends and sing your hearts out before these deals, valid from now till 31 March 2025 — or your LifeSG Credits — run out!

Looking for more ways to spend your LifeSG Credits? Visit this page for a full list of LifeSG Credits promotions.

CLAIM YOUR $200 LIFESG CREDITS TODAY!

The $200 LifeSG Credits will be disbursed to all eligible past and present NSmen by the end of November 2024 via the LifeSG mobile app.

Full-time NSFs who enlist by 31 December 2024 are also eligible. For those enlisted after 15 September 2024, credits will be received in December 2024.

To check if you’ve received your credits, open the LifeSG app and scroll down to the ‘Your Benefits’ section. These credits are valid for 1 year from the disbursement date, and are ready to use immediately. Simply scan the merchant’s PayNow UEN or NETS QR when using the app to make payment.

For assistance with accessing or redeeming your LifeSG Credits, contact the NS Call Centre at 1800 367 6767 or email contact@ns.gov.sg.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Categories
Travel

Pack an App: Essential Tools for Your Next Adventure

From translation to navigation, these must-have travel apps will keep you organised, save you time, and enhance your holiday experience.

Once upon a time, we travelled with physical maps. Now, it’s hard to imagine navigating the world without the convenience of travel apps. From directions to translations, smartphone apps have made exploring easier than ever, helping travellers overcome language barriers and logistical challenges.

Beyond the basics, there are also apps tailored for specific travel needs. Need to split expenses with friends? Unsure what to pack? Want the best exchange rates? There’s an app to address each of those needs.

So, book your ticket, and start downloading these apps to ensure a smooth and well-deserved holiday.

BEFORE YOU GO

Most travellers like to plan ahead to maximise their holiday time. Start with Tripit or Tripcase to build an organised itinerary, saving essential details like flights and accommodation bookings.

Tripcase collects data from forwarded emails, while Tripit offers an automated option that scans your inbox. Both are free and let you edit and expand your itinerary as needed, creating a handy reference on the go.

 Another essential app is PackPoint. Packing may seem straightforward, but it can get tricky depending on your destination, activities, and season. PackPoint helps you avoid overpacking — or forgetting essentials — by generating a customised list based on your location, dates, and planned activities.

CREATING THE PERFECT ITINERARY

With your basics covered, it’s time to plan your activities. Klook, Viator, and Pelago are excellent choices for exploring destinations in Asia, offering convenient booking options for local attractions. For trips outside Asia, check out GetYourGuide, which includes discounts and perks you might miss with direct booking.

Unsure about a place or activity? TripAdvisor provides reviews from travellers worldwide, helping you gauge the quality of hotels, eateries, and attractions. Just be sure to look for detailed reviews over sensational ones for more reliable insights.

For travel inspiration, social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are invaluable, especially with visual recommendations. For Chinese-speakers or those travelling to China, Xiaohongshu is an essential go-to for travel tips.

GETTING AROUND

Whether you’re exploring a bustling city or a remote area, a navigation app is essential. Google Maps remains a favourite, offering features like live traffic updates and street views to help you navigate.

In South Korea, locals rely on Kakao Map or Naver Map for the most accurate information. For China, consider Baidu or Gaodeditu, while Apple Maps can be helpful for non-Chinese speakers.

For additional transport support, Citymapper and Rome2Rio cover major cities, offering options across various transport modes. Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Uber are dependable, but you can also try local options like Gojek or Bolt. In Vietnam, Xanh SM uses electric vehicles and can be a cheaper choice.

BREAKING DOWN LANGUAGE BARRIERS

Translation apps have been game-changers for international travel. Google Translate is one of the best free options, with a camera function for scanning labels, menus, and signs. For optimal accuracy, capture the entire label rather than close-ups.

In certain countries, local apps may offer better speech translation options. For example, in East Asian countries, local apps like Papago (South Korea) and Baidu Translate (China) often work better for regional dialects and nuances.

STAYING CONNECTED

Staying in touch with family, friends, or tour operators abroad is crucial. WhatsApp, Telegram, WeChat, and Line are widely used, though regional preferences vary. In South Korea, KakaoTalk is essential to access promotions and reservations, while WeChat is a must in China, even for payments. Viber is popular in parts of Europe, and Zalo is widely used in Vietnam.

If your mobile provider lacks a travel-friendly data plan, consider eSIM apps. Airalo and Flexiroam offer package options, while Roamless lets you pay by usage.

ADDITIONAL TRAVEL HELPERS

With the essentials covered, here are a few more apps to make your travels even smoother:

  • XE Currency and Oanda: Track currency exchange rates to make informed purchases.
  • Splitwise: Perfect for group travel, allowing easy bill splitting and payment tracking.
  • YouTrip, Revolut, Wise: These offer favorable exchange rates and easy card payments abroad, often with lower withdrawal fees.
  • Rain Rain, MyNoise: Need to tune out background noise? These white noise apps are lifesavers.
  • OpenTable: Reserve tables at popular restaurants with ease.
  • LoungeBuddy, Priority Pass: Find and access lounges for added comfort during long layovers.
  • HappyCow: Locate vegan and vegetarian dining options wherever you are.
  • Radical Storage: Securely store your luggage if your hotel or Airbnb lacks storage facilities.

With these travel apps in your pocket, you’re all set for a seamless and enjoyable adventure. Safe travels and happy exploring!

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Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Categories
Shape Up Club Buzz Featured

From skinny teen to Fitness Ironman Champion: How this physical trainer conquered his insecurities

Bumi (centre) competing with other Fitness Ironman 2024 participants.

Bumi Hikayat, the newly crowned Mr HomeTeamNS and Fitness Ironman 2024 Champion, opens up about his fitness journey, motivations and keys to building confidence through bodybuilding.

At age 16, Bumi Hikayat weighed a slight 50kg for his 170cm height. He was one of the skinnier boys in his class, and his quiet nature didn’t make things any easier. This combination sometimes made him vulnerable to teasing.

Feeling self-conscious, Bumi decided to take control of his appearance by hitting the gym. “Being skinny affected my confidence,” he recalls. “I didn’t feel good about myself or how I looked. During my NAPFA test, I couldn’t even do a single pull-up. That was when I realised how weak I was and knew I had to make a change.”

Bumi during his Secondary School days.

He initially began working out with friends, but when their schedules changed, Bumi found himself going at it alone. Not wanting to lose the progress he had made, he kept pushing forward, learning along the way with guidance from seasoned gym-goers and friends. He also dove into countless online articles, researching everything from resistance training to nutrition.

After two years of consistent training, people began noticing the changes. “I started getting compliments from family, friends, colleagues, and even on Instagram,” he shares. “It boosted my confidence, and I was glad all the effort was paying off.”

Now, at 27, Bumi works as a physical trainer and has spent more than a decade building his strength and physique. His hard work paid off at this year’s HomeTeamNS Fitness Ironman competition, which took place on 28 September at HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok. Bumi emerged victorious, clinching both the Fitness Ironman 2024 Champion and Mr HomeTeamNS titles. Organised by HomeTeamNS, Fitness Ironman is an annual bodybuilding competition that began in 2015, aimed at promoting bodybuilding and physique sports. Participants competed in 10 categories this year, with Mr HomeTeamNS as the newest addition.

Bumi receiving the Champion award for Men’s Physique Overall in the HomeTeamNS Fitness Ironman competition.

Reflecting on his big win, Bumi says: “I was overwhelmed with emotion, but in a good way. I didn’t expect it, but I’m thankful.”

A JOURNEY OF GROWTH

Bumi’s journey has not been without its challenges. His first competition, Fitness Movement Showdown in 2019, didn’t go as planned. Though he didn’t win, he saw it as a chance to improve both physically and mentally.

When he learnt about Fitness Ironman through social media, he decided to give it a shot. As the competition drew closer, however, he struggled to get lean fast enough, putting a lot of pressure on himself in the process. Fortunately, he had the support of friends and family, who kept sending him motivational quotes and videos to help him push through. “Their support gave me the drive to stay focused on my training and diet,” he adds.

Staying consistent has been his biggest hurdle. Early in his training, he suffered injuries to his wrist and lower back. Determined not to rush the process, he reminded himself that steady improvement was key, allowing time for recovery and gradually getting back on track. To prepare for the competition, he even enlisted his brother Burhan — a competitive bodybuilder himself — as his coach.

Bumi training for the HomeTeamNS Fitness Ironman 2024 competition.

Beyond the titles, Bumi wants to inspire others to build confidence through fitness. On Instagram, he shares his fitness journey and client progress to encourage others. “Not everyone is into fitness, but I believe it should be part of our lives because it can really improve our quality of life. As a trainer, I want my clients to be stronger and better every day,” he says.

Bumi credits his success to two key figures: His brother and his role model, Afghanistan-born bodybuilder Ali Bilal. “Without my coach, preparing for competitions would have been much harder. And Ali Bilal’s work ethic, determination, humility and amazing physique inspire me,” he says.

THE SECRETS TO SUCCESS

Bumi’s approach to bodybuilding is simple, structured and progressive — just like the routines he creates for his clients. He follows a weekly routine of five training sessions, dedicating each day to a different muscle group: Chest and shoulders on Monday, back and shoulders on Tuesday, legs on Wednesday, arms on Thursday and a full-body workout on Friday.

Nutrition is equally important. His diet is high in protein, including eggs, chicken breast, lean beef and protein shakes or bars. “I allow myself cheat meals occasionally, but I make sure they fit within my macros and daily calories,” he explains. To combat cravings, he drinks plenty of water and eats fibre-rich foods like vegetables. Chocolate is his weakness, so he occasionally allows himself a small portion to enjoy it without straying from his goals.

Bumi with his brothers and fellow participant at the competition.

On days when motivation is low, Bumi stays focused by reminding himself of how far he’s come. “Discipline is more important than motivation,” he adds, explaining the mindset that keeps him going. His guiding mantra is simple yet powerful: “Progress over perfection, consistency is key, strength is earned, and health is wealth.”

In addition to training, he emphasises quality sleep and prayer as essential parts of his routine. Spending time with loved ones also keeps him grounded and reminds him not to stress too much.

For those new to bodybuilding, Bumi recommends starting with a routine that feels manageable. “If two workouts a week are doable, begin with that and build up gradually. Remember, slow progress is better than none,” he encourages.

Looking to the future, Bumi has his sights set on international competitions. “I see bodybuilding as a possible career path, but for now, I’m enjoying the journey and doing my best with what I have.”

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Categories
Close Up

A Deep Dive into What It Takes to Be a Salvage Diver

As a salvage diver, dive medic, and offshore safety officer, SC (NS) Mohammed Zaki bin Zazali responds to sea emergencies worldwide — and in Singapore’s waters.

When people hear about SC (NS) Mohammed Zaki bin Zazali’s job, they often say, “Oh! Like Finding Nemo?” In reality, salvage diving is far from the serene, colourful coral reefs as seen in the animated movie. Commercial salvage divers tackle various types of marine accidents such as attending to damaged or wrecked ships, clearing debris, extinguishing fires on vessels, and performing repair and survey work — all in challenging underwater conditions.

“Sometimes, you work in muddy water where you can’t even see your hand. You’re like a blind man walking,” said the 36-year-old, who served his National Service in the Singapore Police Force (SPF). “Clear water is a bonus, so I’m definitely not finding Nemo!”

After four years in ship husbandry — maintaining and cleaning ships — Zaki decided to pursue a commercial diving certification in Tasmania, Australia, on a friend’s recommendation. After graduation, he worked as a freelance diver and surveyor, diving under ships to inspect them for damage before sale, before joining a Singapore-based salvage company (under a US parent company) as a diver in 2019.

“I initially dived for leisure, but as an adrenaline junkie, I like to push myself to see how far I can go,” he shared.

ON CALL ANYWHERE, ANYTIME

SC (NS) Mohammed Zaki bin Zazali welding sea fastening brackets at Colombo, Sri Langka.

“As salvage divers, we’re jacks of all trades,” explained Zaki. “I do firefighting, rope access, ship-to-ship transfers, coordination, and more. If I’m in Singapore, I report to work at 9am and handle my usual administrative duties. But then, I might get a call for an emergency response, with a flight at 2pm.”

When that happens, Zaki quickly packs his diving and personal go bags, along with any required firefighting equipment, and heads straight to the airport. Jobs can last from a single day to six months, often requiring shift work within a team. Over time, he’s become accustomed to being resourceful and self-reliant. “In remote places like West Papua, it might take two weeks to get a proper diving knife, unlike in Singapore where everything is accessible,” he explains. “Salvage divers bring essentials, like water purification pills for locations like the Solomon Islands where fresh water isn’t guaranteed.”

Zaki’s team includes colleagues from South Africa and the Netherlands, working together in locations with vastly different safety standards. “For example, in Bangladesh, they have their own ways of diving,” he says. “What we consider dangerous might be normal for them — it’s a cultural difference.”

Though he doesn’t often discuss the risks, salvage diving does come with hazards.

“I’ve seen someone lose their hand,” he reveals. “There are explosions on vessels, people with pale faces due to decompression sickness. While we follow safety measures like the buddy system and safety talks, it ultimately comes down to individual judgment. At any point if you feel yours or your colleague’s life is at risk, you have to assess the situation and halt all work if deemed necessary.”

The job has its surprises, he adds. “Underwater drones can provide visuals during surveys, but they can’t open doors — that’s why we still need divers. Sometimes, we do ship-to-ship transfers, moving liquids, solids, or even rocks. It could be anything.”

MANAGING OIL SPILL CLEAN-UPS — AND THE PUBLIC

SC (NS) Mohammed Zaki bin Zazali in a morning toolbox meeting with general workers on Lazarus Island during the oil spill.

In June 2024, when an oil spill affected the Southern Islands, Zaki’s company was hired to assist with the cleanup around Lazarus, St John’s, and Kusu Islands. Taking over as coordinator, Zaki faced additional challenges, as oil dispersal chemicals couldn’t be used due to their impact on marine life. Instead, the team used absorbent, biodegradable materials to manually collect the oil and debris.

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It also involved unexpected interactions. “Some people asked, ‘When will you finish? My kids want to swim.’ Others, like a group of boys, expected us to throw back their frisbee, which had fallen into the oil. For their safety, I had to dispose it as it had been contaminated. Being predisposed to this kind of oil may also put them at a risk for cancer.

The crew worked nonstop for two months, even on National Day. Thankfully, not all encounters with the public were negative. “It was very hot, and there was a convenience store on Lazarus Island. I thought they’d chase us out because we were covered in oil-stained overalls, but they said, ‘You’re on the oil spill recovery team — everything’s on the house.’ Hearing that, we felt very appreciated.”

BALANCING FAMILY AND WORK

Zaki tries to video call his wife regularly when he’s overseas, knowing the commitment can be hard on her and their seven children, aged one to 16. “Once, on the second day of Hari Raya, I had to rush to West Papua. Imagine the stress — but it was nothing compared to the trembling I felt when I was telling my wife! My kids were already in their baju kurung. But my wife was very understanding. Nobody likes cancelled plans, but she told me to do what I needed to do.”

When he’s home, Zaki steps in to support his family, taking the kids out cycling at West Coast Park or to the playground, while he keeps fit by jogging. He also loves cooking family favourites like aglio olio pasta, lasagna, baked rice, and mac and cheese, and taking them on short tech-free vacations to places like Cameron Highlands.

Looking ahead, Zaki plans to continue salvage diving while upgrading his skills. Already a certified dive medical technician and safety officer, his goal is to eventually transition into a safety supervisory role, allowing him to spend more time at home. “Salvage diving is not a walk in the park, and nothing is straightforward or spoon-fed — you need to control your fear, make do with what you have, and be the eyes for the other guys,” he reflects. “But doing this job allows me to work in an environment that I love. It’s a rare opportunity.”

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Categories
Family Time

Local Escapes for a Memorable Stay with Your Family

Photo: The Serangoon House

Looking for a new staycation spot to end the year? Here are the top accommodations to make your holiday break unforgettable.

Want to relax and recharge without the hassle of long-distance travel? Or maybe you just want to dodge the peak tourist crowds and discover hidden gems closer to home? Whatever your reason, staycations offer a fulfilling way to enjoy quality family time and a refreshing change of scenery.

We’ve curated the best local escapes in Singapore, with options to suit every family. Whether you’re seeking new experiences, craving a touch of luxury, or simply looking for a place that has everything you need for a great time, these recommendations promise a memorable year-end break.

BEST FOR SMALL FAMILIES SEEKING A UNIQUE STAY

Photo: HomeTeamNS East Villa

The HomeTeamNS Villas are fantastic options on either end of Singapore. The West Villa at HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok feature BBQ pits while the East Villa at HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir provide access to the clubhouse gym and infinity pool. Both locations are nestled in lush greenery, allowing families to unwind and unplug in these tranquil chalet settings.

From now till 31 March 2025, get 6 complimentary Aqua Adventure passes for every East Villa booking.

Photo: Ascott Raffles Place

For a contemporary heritage-infused escape, Ascott Raffles Place is an excellent choice. Located in the former Asia Insurance Building, it boasts traditional touches like original steel window frames with brass handles and restored Travertine marble cladding. The spacious suites come with all the essentials, including a convenient in-built kitchen. With ample space for 3 guests, or 2-bedroom options that comfortably accommodate 4, it’s a luxurious getaway with character.

The Serangoon House is a true gem, with beautifully wallpapered rooms and marble bathrooms. But the real highlight? Its stunning, handcrafted canopy bed. With a clever design twist, this double-decker bed transforms when you remove the side panel and hook up the provided ladder. Perfect for a family of 4, it offers a cosy experience while placing you right in the heart of the vibrant Little India district.

BEST FOR LARGE FAMILIES WITH DIVERSE NEEDS

Photo: Glamping City

Planning a staycation for a big family can be challenging, but Glamping City offers a unique solution with customisable camping packages. Create your own little paradise by pitching multiple “Couple Deluxe” tents with queen beds to form a cosy village, or opt for a family suite that can accommodate up to 6 people. With battery-powered air-conditioning options, you can stay cool while enjoying serene sea views.

Photo: Tiny Away Escape @ Lazarus

For a more secluded escape, Tiny Away Escape @ Lazarus provides a tranquil, customisable staycation experience with repurposed containers transformed into relaxing mini homes. Each unit features modern amenities, including a kitchenette, Wi-Fi, and a sofa bed, comfortably fitting up to 3 guests. Families can book additional units to suit their needs (HomeTeamNS members get a 20% discount) and enjoy the shared green lawn for BBQs and picnics in a peaceful setting.

With options in Changi and Loyang, the Civil Service Club (CSC) Chalets are another great choice for escaping city life. From charming colonial cottages to a massive bungalow the size of 6 5-room HBD flats, these chalets, with scenic green surroundings or sea-facing views, are ideal for extended family gatherings. Already budget-friendly, CSC chalets come with extra savings for HomeTeamNS members through affiliate rates as a result of the new partnership with CSC.

BEST FOR FAMILIES WITH FURKIDS

Photo: Intercontinental Singapore

Imagine treating your dog to the high life at a top-tier hotel! While Singapore has limited pet-friendly options, Intercontinental Singapore leads the way with its luxurious Pet Getaway package. This exclusive staycation includes a plush pet bed for your furry friend, along with a welcome basket filled with essentials and toys, so you can pack light.

For a more spacious option, CSC @ Loyang offers 4 dog-friendly bungalows perfect for a ‘pet-cation’. Each chalet provides access to a common dog run, a washing point, and is just steps from the beach. Let your furkids explore a new environment or organise an outing with other dog owners for a fun, social experience. Plus, HomeTeamNS members can now enjoy affiliated rates on bungalow bookings!

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BEST FOR COUPLES

Photo: Pullman Singapore Hill Street

Pullman Singapore Hill Street offers a unique staycation experience with 2 key attractions. Embracing a “rail travel” theme as a nod to its heritage, the hotel is a visual treat, featuring stacked vintage luggage at the entrance and cabin-inspired corridors and rooms that transport guests to another era. Another highlight? 2 pools, including one next to a Mexican-themed rooftop bar, offering stunning views of the Marina Bay area.

If you’re into the latest trends, you’ve probably heard that The Standard is arriving in Singapore at the end of the year. Known for its stylish flair, this chic hotel on Orchard Road promises a memorable stay with photogenic designs and a laid-back vibe. Rooms serve as cosy, elegant retreats when you’re not relaxing by the pool with curated playlists or wandering through their landscaped garden. Cap off the night with dinner at Kaya, a refreshing Japanese izakaya with a botanical theme and a cocktail bar.

Although 21 Carpenter only opened recently, it’s already earned a 1-key rating from the Michelin hotel guide — and it’s easy to see why. This intimate hotel, housed in a heritage building from 1936, offers just 48 rooms that blend cultural elements with modern luxury. Enhance your staycation with complimentary access to Trapeze wellness club, explore the neighbourhood on the hotel’s Linus bicycles, or unwind at the rooftop infinity pool.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

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