Are you usually the one gleefully collecting angbaos or doing the not-so-gleeful giving? Either way, we can all agree that the highlight of this tradition (other than the cash inside) is admiring the angbao designs. Bonus points if they happen to feature this year’s zodiac animal. So if you love hoarding red packets or simply want to impress your recipients this CNY, here are 19 cute and creative angbao designs for 2025 you’ll want to snag.

P.S. Our angbao guide has all the answers if you have questions on how much to give or when to start handing out your first angbao.

1. KFC x Mofusand

Cats + fried chicken = purrfection

Image credit: KFC

This CNY, KFC has teamed up with Mofusand to bring us fried chicken with a side of adorable cats. The best part is the angbaos are free to redeem from now till 11th February 2025 – simply purchase a Cereal Chicken or Cereal Chicken Burger Box/Buddy Meal/Feast. There are 2 designs available at all KFC outlets in Singapore, except the Zoo and Sentosa outlets.

It’s limited to 1 redemption per receipt, so you might want to plan your meals accordingly to cop these red packets featuring Mofusand’s signature chonky cats performing the lion dance. 

2. orchardgateway

Angbaos that are sustainable & gorgeous

Image credit: orchardgateway

orchardgateway is proving that going green can still be chic. Their angbaos are made from sugarcane paper and printed with biodegradable vegetable-based ink, so they are not just pretty to look at but also kinder to the planet. The designs feature an auspicious bright red, orange, and pink colour scheme, intricate lantern and snake motifs, as well as lucky words like “吉” (jí) and “福” (fú) for blessings.

Each set comes with 3 designs tucked into an equally gorgeous, big envelope that’s perfect for keeping all the angbao money you’ll be raking in. With a minimum spend of $88 at the mall from now till 12th February 2025, you can get your hands on 2 sets of these eco-friendly red packets.

And if you’re planning to do some CNY shopping at orchardgateway, spend a minimum of $168 to receive an additional $10 voucher, or go big with a $328 spend to enjoy an additional $20 voucher.

Find out more about orchardgateway’s promotions.

3. McDonald’s x Sanrio

My Melody & Cinnamoroll paradise

Image credit: @heli0323 via Instagram

McDonald’s has rolled out My Melody and Cinnamoroll angbaos which are almost too cute to give away. There are 3 designs to choose from, each featuring your fave Sanrio characters. Each pack comes with 6 pieces and is yours for free when you purchase any Prosperity Feast.

Like all good things, these angbaos are while stocks last, so head to your nearest McDonald’s before they’re all gone.

4. Changi Airport x Sanrio

Hello Kitty & Friends for those who love all things cute

Image credit: Changi Airport

Following the Hello Kitty Festive Wonderland, Changi Airport has something special in store once again for fans of all things kawaii.

To get a set of the Hello Kitty & Friends angbaos, you’ll have to spend a minimum of $80 or $100 on supermarket purchases in a single receipt at the public areas of Changi Airport Terminals 1 to 4. Take note purchases made at Jewel Changi Airport and on iShopChangi do not qualify.

Redemption is from now till 12th February 2025 and you’ll need to do it via the Changi App. Angbaos can be collected at vending machines in Terminal 3, Basement 2 or Terminal 4, Level 2 Departure.

5. National Heritage Board

Snake-themed designs with a touch of history 

Image credit: NHB International and Museum Relations

The National Heritage Board is back with its annual Museum Roundtable (MR) Lunar New Year Hongbao Campaign. From 21st January to 12th February 2025, you can pick up a set of 6 snake-themed red packet designs at 48 participating museums, heritage institutions, and galleries.

Redemption criteria vary by location – some might ask you to follow their social media page or participate in an activity – so it’s a fun way to learn more about Singapore’s heritage while collecting these unique designs.

For serious collectors, there’s the Collector’s Box Set priced at $98. It includes two full sets of red packets from all 48 participating members, complemented by an exclusive National Heritage Board design. Available only at the Asian Civilisations Museum on 1st and 2nd February 2025, this box set is limited to just 400 pieces, so make sure to mark your calendar.

6. Beyond The Vines

Bright colours & orange motif for double the huat

Image credit: @beyondthevines via Instagram

Beyond The Vines’ red packet design features an orange motif and bright hues that scream prosperity, and are perfect for adding a pop of colour to your stash. This set of 10 angbaos comes in 2 different colourways to double the huat.

Get a free set with every $100 spent in a single receipt, both online and in stores. Each order is limited to 5 packets, so plan your haul wisely. As always, it’s while stocks last.

7. Pop Mart

Featuring crowd favourites like Labubu & Crybaby

Image credit: Pop Mart

Pop Mart fans, this one’s for you. If you can’t resist buying figurines and blind boxes, you’ll be glad to know that your favourite characters like Labubu and Crybaby are taking over red packet designs too.

From now till 2nd February 2025, receive a set of red packets with a minimum purchase of $198 in a single receipt at any Pop Mart retail store or online at popmart.sg. Each customer is limited to 1 gift per transaction.

8. Wheniwasfour

Perfect for reminiscing childhood memories

Image credit: Wheniwasfour

Take a trip down memory lane with Wheniwasfour’s snakes and ladders-themed red packets. They are perfect for reminiscing about your childhood, particularly the fun and excitement of playing this classic board game with your friends.

Each pack is priced at $7.90 and contains 10 red packets. You can grab these nostalgic red packets on Wheniwasfour’s website.

9. All Would Envy

Mini fortune cats because the more the merrier

Image credit: All Would Envy

All Would Envy brings you mini fortune cat-themed red packets that are as adorable as they are lucky. These packets feature clever CNY motifs, like hotpot and lion dance, to keep the festive spirit alive.

With a minimum spend of $150 in a single transaction, you’ll receive a pack of 8 angbaos. These are available both online and in-store at Junction 8 (out of stock at the Plaza Singapura outlet). Each customer is limited to one pack per day. 

10. Ippudo

Daruma doll design for extra blessings

Image credit: @ippudosg via Instagram

Ippudo is serving up angbaos with a twist of good fortune this CNY, featuring the Daruma doll, a symbol of perseverance and good luck. Plus, the ramen noodles represent blessings that are unending, making these red packets a meaningful addition to your CNY festivities.

Spend $50 on dine-in or takeaway at any of their outlets ($70 at MBS) and you’ll receive a set of red packets while stocks last.

11. Genki Sushi

Featuring Genki’s bear mascot disguised as a fortune cat

Image credit: Genki Sushi

It never hurts to add some extra cuteness to your celebrations and Genki Sushi agrees. At first glance, the angbao design looks like a lucky fortune cat, but when you pull out the envelope, you’ll reveal Genki’s bear mascot in its original form.

Receive these red packets for free with a minimum spend of $50 when you dine in, while stocks last.

12. G-SHOCK

Ushering in the Year of the Snake in style

Image credit: @gshock_sg via Instagram

G-SHOCK is celebrating the Year of the Snake with a stylish red packet design. The unique snake motif is crafted from a watch strap and it even resembles the number “8”, which we all know is considered especially auspicious in Chinese culture.

Receive a set of 8 red packets when you purchase any G-SHOCK watch in stores or online. You must be a CASIO ID Member to redeem, but don’t worry – you can sign up easily and for free.

13. Dian Xiao Er

Quirky DD.Duck designs to brighten your day

Image credit: Dian Xiao Er

As a brand known for its duck dishes, it’s no surprise that Dian Xiao Er has incorporated its beloved DD.Duck mascot into their red packet designs. The bright colours and quirky duck illustrations are sure to bring a smile to your face.

With every purchase of any set menu from now till 12th February 2025, you’ll receive a free Prosperity Handbag Bundle, which includes a Fortune DD.Duck and DD.Duck red packets.

14. RE&S

Pretty pastels complemented by fortune cat designs

Image credit: RE&S

RE&S has angbaos in pretty pastel colours with fortune cat designs to add a lucky touch to your CNY celebrations.

You’ll receive 6 angbaos in 3 different designs with every purchase of Yu Sheng or Reunion Bundles at Ichiban Boshi and Ichiban Sushi, available in-store or online.

15. Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks

Not just cute, but also punny

Image credit: Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks

Featuring a snake-themed design, Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks’ red packets are also a play on the Chinese phrases “蛇麽都有” (have everything) and “蛇麽都旺” (everything prospers), making them as witty as they are festive.

Spend a minimum of $15 in a single receipt from now till 16th February 2025 and you’ll receive these red packets for free.

16. Downtown East

Switching things up with panda-themed designs

Image credit: Downtown East

Downtown East is switching things up this year with adorable panda-themed red packets that are sure to win over your young nieces and nephews, before they even open them to see what’s inside.

From now till 12th February 2025, NTUC members can spend $70 or $140 including NTUC FairPrice receipts to redeem these angbaos. Non-members need to spend $80 or $160 including NTUC FairPrice receipts to get their hands on them. Redemption is available while stocks last at the E!Avenue Level 2 Information Counter.

17. Asahi Super Dry x TERADAMOKEI

Customise your own angbaos

Image credit: Asahi Super Dry

Get creative and hand out one-of-a-kind angbaos to your loved ones with the Asahi Super Dry x TERADAMOKEI collab. Each set includes a Model Kit sticker pack, letting you customise your own angbaos for a personal touch.

Simply purchase a pack of 6 (330ml) Asahi Super Dry cans at participating supermarkets to redeem them, while stocks last.

18. Trust Bank

An ode to the classic childhood game

Image credit: Trust Bank

Trust Bank is taking us back to our childhoods with a snakes and ladders-inspired angbao design – a fun twist on the classic game we all know and love. These angbaos are only available for Trust customers, so it’s really exclusive.

Use your Trust card and spend a minimum of $88 to receive a redemption coupon for 2 sets of red packets. Present the coupon at one of the four Trust Experience Centre locations to collect your angbaos: FairPrice Xtra VivoCity, FairPrice Finest PLQ, FairPrice Xtra Hougang 1, and FairPrice Xtra JEM.

You’ll need to hurry as the redemption period runs from now till 26th January 2025, while stocks last.

19. The Smart Local

Dragon dance with a twist

Image credit: @thesmartlocalsg via Instagram

This year, TSL is saying goodbye to the Year of the Dragon and slithering into 2025 with a snake-themed angbao design that’s anything but traditional. Instead of a dragon dance, our design features a group of smart locals holding up a long snake – a quirky twist perfect for welcoming the Year of the Snake.

And here’s the best part: you could win a set of these exclusive red packets. Out of 10 winners, 3 lucky folks will walk home with angbaos filled with $88 cash. The giveaway runs from now till 23rd January 2025. Head to our Instagram post for all the deets on how to join.

Collect these angbaos for a mega huat CNY 2025

With so many creative and adorable angbao designs this year, there’s no shortage of ways to add a little extra cheer to your CNY celebrations. And if you can’t decide on one, why not collect ‘em all?

More to help you prep for CNY:

• Non-tacky CNY decorations
• Online stores in Singapore for new CNY clothes
• Card games for CNY
• How to play mahjong

This article contains partial partnership content. However, all opinions are ours.
Cover image adapted from: All Would Envy, Changi Airport, Pop Mart & KFC

The post 19 Cute & Creative Angbao Designs To Collect For CNY 2025, Includes Pop Mart, Sanrio & Mofusand appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

We’ve watched Crazy Rich Asians. We’ve seen the ways of the rich, and how opulent their lives are. Heck, we’ve probably even fantasised about being as wealthy as Nick Young’s family. While not everyone is born with a silver spoon, there are ways around being defined as “rich”.

If you’re content with just tricking your friends about your wealth status, we’ve rounded up different ways to pretend you are rich. Why, you may ask? Ask con artist Anna Sorokin, who posed as a wealthy heiress to access the upper-class New York social circle. Anyway, here’s how you can be the next Jamie Chua. Well, sort of.

1. Dine exclusively on small bites

If you’re known to be a big eater, it’s time to change your eating habits. We’ve seen how teeny tiny food portions are at fine dining restaurants, so you’ll want to mimic that and eat in small portions. Bonus points if you cook your meals – as you can split each meal into many days and save some money.

2. Start a car-washing biz & snap pics with supercars

Big, fancy cars are synonymous with the upper class. Since changing your 4-wheeled drive every other month will probably break your bank account, start a car-washing business instead. Target wealthy customers who drive said fancy cars, then snap pictures of the supercars mid-wash and pretend the cars are actually yours. Delulu is the solulu.

3. Attend new branded store openings for max tai-tai aura

We live in a society where we’re judged based on our outfits. If you’re adorned with diamonds and branded clothes from head to toe, you’re a shoo-in with the rich. Or shoe-in, if I may.

“Upgrade” your wardrobe by attending branded store events that showcase the latest collection. Don the pieces, then post your OOTDs on social media. Remember to add #newhaul to your posts so your followers will think you actually purchased it.

4. Go to club events where celebrities party & be “one of them” too

You don’t have to be an A-list actor to party with celebs – the wealthy raves with them too. Clubs like the one that sounds like “monkey” at MBS have frequent guest appearances by international artists.

Jackson Wang and Bruno Mars are just some of the stars who’ve been spotted there. So go to these club events, and take videos of yourself fist-pumping near them to pretend you’re part of the clique.

5. Use bombastic words when speaking

The more confused your friends are, the better. 

Wealth is often associated with education, so you’ll want to drop bombastic words when speaking to your mates. Learn how to pronounce foreign brands and words that might be used in conversation, as it’ll show that you’ve been to those countries too. And for the cherry on top, weave in an accent from whatever exotic country you’ve just vacationed to in order to pretend you are rich enough for that jetsetter lifestyle.

6. Religiously attend F1 races every year

Set an alarm to book tickets for next year’s race before tickets are sold out. 

We’ve talked about how obsessed the affluent are with cars. And you’ll notice how their attendance at F1 races are always immaculate – they never miss a race. So find your way into the F1 races, not just the free spots to watch F1 at, but actually enter the race track. And of course, snap a tonne of pictures to prove that you were there.

7. Say this “piece speaks to me” when staring at weird art

Having unnecessarily strong opinions about art shows that you’ve done your research and studied the art of fine art. Go to gallery shows – or even art auctions – and comment on various pieces of artwork.

Here’s a line you can keep at the back of your head if you’re unsure on what to say: “This piece’s raw gestural style of painting really speaks to me.” Or something along the lines. You get it.  

8. Learn golf & post IGS of your sessions

The fancy folk have a couple of niche hobbies, and golf is one of them. You’ll often see them padding around the golf course with their caddy, shiny golf club in hand. If you’re a newbie to the sport, fret not. Sign up for golf lessons, and document your sessions – for the ‘Gram, duh. Who knows, you might actually be good at it too.

How to pretend you are rich, for funsies

The reality is such – not everyone breathes the glitz and glamour of the rich. Whether it’s tweaking the way you dress or familiarising yourself with niche “rich people” topics, these different ways create an illusion that you’re part of the moneyed gang.

The sport is also a fun way to network and meet new people as you’ll be travelling around the golf course.

For those who are interested in picking up hobbies such as golf, Star Golf offers a slew of programmes for adults and children aged 7 and above that help make golf accessible to everyone, regardless of your status.

The academy offers a team of professional coaches who’ve been trained to teach both adults and children above 7 years old. Depending on your skill level, lessons will be customised to cater to your individual needs.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned golfer who’d like to refine your skills, Star Golf has various lessons including single sessions and on-course game lessons for 6-holes or 9-holes courses that you can opt for. There are different packages with saving options you can choose from, depending on your budget.

For the kiddos, there are junior group programmes that start from $40/pax. All sessions will be held conveniently in the North at Orchid Country Club, so you can swing by for a quick lesson and brush up on some golf lingo while you’re there too.

Tiger Woods, who? Kickstart your golfing journey with Star Golf where you’ll get personalised lessons with experienced and reliable coaches. Not only will you be able to learn a new skill, you’ll learn that golf can be therapeutic too. It’s par-tee time, friends.

Find out more about Star Golf

This post was brought to you by Star Golf.
Photography by Alastair Pang.
Article written by Joycelyn Yeow.

The post 8 Ways To Bluff People That You’re Rich & Fancy So You Can Fake It Till You Make It appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

Poker, Dai Di and Ban Luck are just some common card games that get played at every Chinese New Year gathering. But not everyone is open to losing their angbao money right away, and kids aren’t exactly old enough to be playing with poker cards. Won’t somebody please think of the children?

Without compromising the fun, here are some group card games you can bring to your next CNY house visit to enjoy with the whole family.

1. The Singaporean Dream

Image credit: The Singaporean Dream

Think of this new card game as SG’s take on the family favourite board game The Game Of Life. The cheeky, localised context of identities such as “Influencer” and action cards like “Get BTO Flat On First Try” make The Singaporean Dream instantly relatable, and hard for anyone at your CNY reunion not to get involved too.

Image credit: @thesingaporeandream via Instagram

How to play

1. Each player picks a Singaporean identity
2. Players draw 2 action cards and get to play 3 actions each turn
3. Buy, steal and gain “Dream” cards each round, each associated with a typical Singaporean scenario
4. The player with the most “Dream” cards wins

Number of players: 2 – 6

Why it’s perfect for CNY: Competition will definitely make your friends and relatives kanchiong and kiasu, so you’ll see exactly which Singaporean stereotype everyone falls into.

Buy The Singaporean Dream cards.

2. Smol Tok

Image credit: @starknicked via Instagram

With themed questions covering topics such as life experiences, personal phobias and opinions on the modern world, Smol Tok is the perfect icebreaker that brings friends and family closer in ways you never thought you could.

Instead of focusing on winners and losers, the card game emphasises and encourages healthy conversation among any group instead – from strangers to family members. Look out for questions that only Singaporeans can relate to such as “How do you choose 4D and TOTO numbers?”, that will surely pique the interest of the older generation as well.

How to play

1. Players take turns drawing question cards from the deck to ask a fellow player
2. Answer the questions accordingly and honestly to share experiences until the time limit runs out

Number of players: 4 – 6
Why it’s perfect for CNY: Not only does it counter irritating, recycled questions like “where you studying now?”, “got relationship already?” and the classic “why your jeans got hole one ah?”, but it also overcomes awkward silences and helps you get to know new introductions better.

Buy Smol Tok cards.

3. Superfight

Gotta catch all ’em Attribute cards to victory!
Image credit: @superfightgame via Instagram

A Darth Vader that shoots laser cats. A Pokemon trainer wearing an armour made out of Justin Timberlake’s ramen hair. These are just some of the crazy, customised characters you can come up with in the card game Superfight.

This game involves accumulating ‘Attribute’ cards to build an imaginary unstoppable fighter. The best superhero will be determined by a designated judge, meaning it’s a great game to play with the kids where they’ll be able to flex their creativity.

How to play

Video credit: Skybound via YouTube

1. Build your most creative fighter with Character and Attribute cards
2. The table decides who wins each battle!

Number of players: 3 – 10

Why it’s perfect for CNY: What’s CNY without a little friendly competition?

Buy Superfight cards.

4. Cahoots

First to get their deck to correspond to the Instruction card wins.
Image credit: Co-op Board Games

To score yourself the winning deck in Cahoots, players will have to resort to some cheeky sabo-ing of other players to not have the cards they want to build their deck. Otherwise, form an ally with a fellow player to help each other get the cards with the number or colour you both need by hinting to each other when no one’s looking. Sneaky!

How to play

1. Each player draws an Instruction card that sets the rule for their pile. For example, “All cards must only be pink”
2. Work together with your rivals to get the deck you need
3. First player to get the deck according to the rules wins!

Number of players: 2 – 4

Why it’s perfect for CNY: Cahoots doesn’t require a big group to play – which means it’s a fuss-free way to kill time while waiting for your CNY feast to be prepared.

Buy Cahoots cards.

5. Say What?

Say What? is a hilarious way of learning Chinese dialects by throwing slangs at players to attempt at guessing what they mean, similar to Heads Up! and Taboo.  Even if you are not a native Hokkien, Cantonese or Teochew speaker, that shouldn’t stop you from playing it with your friends over the CNY break – you might just become a bit more fluent after a round or two.

Image credit: @saywhatwithfriends via Instagram

Besides, it’ll create a better connection with ah ma, ah gong, and younger family members while learning about their respective dialect together. Nothing like good ol’ family bonding.

How to play

1. Players split into 2 teams, each with a dedicated reader
2. The readers read out 2 combinations of cards and the rest of the team has to guess what is the meaning of the Chinese dialect words within 1 minute
3. Players can act out the words as well
4. The team with the most correct guesses win

Number of players: 2 – 10

Why it’s perfect for CNY: Nothing brings people together during Chinese New Year than learning Chinese dialect slangs, terms and customs. It’s also perfect for educating the jiak kantang (Singaporean Chinese only fluent in English) among us.

Buy Say What? cards.

6. Fun Employed

Try going an hour into a CNY house visit before someone asks “how’s work?”. You can’t.

The topics of job statuses and career prospects are commonplace at any social gathering. Whether you’re getting ready for the working world or a veteran in your industry, Fun Employed is an interview-based card game that promises plenty of laughs while helping players ask and answer interview questions.

Image credit: @theflowerpunk via Instagram

How to play

Video credit: The Dice Tower via YouTube

1. Have 2 separate piles of Job Cards and Qualification Cards
2. 1 player starts as the Employer and everyone else assumes Applicant roles
3. Applicants draw 4 Qualification Cards each to “apply” for the Job that the Employer chooses.
4. Each player argues their case with their Qualification Cards to attempt at being hired
5. First player that gets the most Job Cards after 2 rounds wins!

Number of players: 3 – 6

Why it’s perfect for CNY: For those that are “fun-employed” IRL, you’ll be able to hone your interview skills so your relatives will see that you’re at least trying to find a job.

Buy Funemployed cards.

Card games for Chinese New Year

It’s pretty much customary to play card games over the CNY holidays, but instead of sticking to the usual suspects of poker and blackjack, try these alternative options that will definitely add some newfound fun and friendly competition for any gathering.

May the 福 (Fú) (good luck) be with you!

Celebrate your CNY with Häagen-Dazs ice cream

Group activities like card games are also always better complemented with ice cream. After feasting on your Chinese New Year spreads, wind down in the best way – with a comforting tub of ice cream or two.

Häagen-Dazs has just launched their limited edition Mint Leaves & Chocolate flavour, and it’s ideal for anyone with a penchant for light and refreshing mint ice cream and chocolate fudge. Consider getting the classic Strawberry flavour to bring along for your potlucks and open houses!

Having the variety of both flavours stocked in the fridge means that you won’t need to stress about your dessert plans whatsoever. The combination of family, friends and some delicious ice cream are all you need to make this CNY the most extraordinary one yet!

Try the new Häagen-Dazs Mint Leaves & Chocolate Flavour now!

Find out more about Häagen-Dazs here.

This post was brought to you by Häagen-Dazs. [Note: This promo has since ended.]
Photography by Gabriel Seow.
Cover image adapted from: The Singaporean Dream via Facebook, @starknicked via Instagram
First published on 24th January 2019. Last updated by Aditi Kashyap on 9th January 2025.

The post 6 Card Games For Big Groups Perfect For CNY Gatherings That Aren’t Blackjack appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

Unless your New Year’s resolution has been to limit screen time, you probably know Squid Game has returned to Netflix for a second season. Yup, there are new contestants who’ll play Korean childhood games for a cool KRW45.6 billion or literally die trying.

If you’re like us, the 7 episodes of season 2 probably went by in a flash and now all you can do is read up on theories and analyses of the show until season 3 drops sometime this year. Until then, we’ve scoured the depths of the internet and wracked our brains trying to come up with what we think is going to happen next. Here are our Squid Game season 3 theories:

Major spoilers ahead. You’ve been warned.

1. Seong Gi Hun is going to be the next Front Man

Screenshot from: Netflix

Sure, in season 2, all Seong Gi-Hun (Lee Jung Jae), or Player 456, wants is to end the sick games that have killed hundreds. But season 3 could see him have a change of heart. Maybe in a final battle with Front Man (Lee Byung Hun), he wins, and the secret society of people running Squid Game appoints him as the next Front Man.

We think Gi Hun will have no choice but to take on the role in a quest to finish off the entire Squid Game operation. Front Man is really just Final Boss #1.

2. Gi Hun dies in the first episode of season 3

Screenshot from: Netflix

In a plot twist to end all plot twists, Gi-Hun could possibly be killed in the first episode right off the bat. But he can’t die, he’s the main character! But that’s what makes it the ultimate plot twist in a show already riddled with them. Also, notice how he wasn’t shown in the mid-credit teaser at the end of season 2? Maybe someone else will step up in Gi-Hun’s place to take down Front Man.

3. The final game is human chess between Gi Hun & Front Man

Fans of Squid Game have pointed out that the walls of the Squid Game dormitory show 2 new games. One of them looks to be monkey bars where players fall to their death if they lose their grip. The other depicts a chessboard with players as the chess pieces.

Screenshot from: Netflix

It stands to reason that the king on either side of the board would be a battle of forces between Gi Hun and Front Man. While Gi Hun has done all he can to prevent more players from dying, he’ll now be forced by Front Man to use humans as literal pawns.

After all, it’s a game of strategy where losing a couple of pieces is necessary to protect yourself. Plus, it’s even alluded to by Gi Hun that they’re pawns in a game when he plays Russian roulette with the Recruiter (Gong Yoo).

4. The captain of the boat is the true mastermind behind Squid Game

The captain and Detective Hwang Jun Ho (Wi Ha Joon) have been searching for the hidden island where Squid Game is being played on for years now, and still haven’t found anything. Then in season 2 episode 7, it’s revealed that the captain has been a mole the entire time. He dismantled the drone and even killed off one of the hired mercenaries. We’re willing to bet he’s the one behind Gi Hun’s lost dental implant tracker.

Screenshot from: Netflix

Being a mole was a twist on its own but here’s where things get crazier: he’s doing all this because he’s the one in charge. He was supposedly the one who rescued Detective Hwang, but who’s to say he only did it to keep the police at bay so the games can continue? He’s a seafarer who should know the seas like the back of his hand, yet he can’t find one island? Sus.

5. Front Man isn’t the only VIP playing Squid Game this time round

Last season, we were introduced to a group of eccentric billionaires who’ve been watching Squid Game contestants kill each other for their own sadistic pleasure. We know one of them is Front Man, who also joins in as Player 001 in this season. But there are 2 others we believe could be part of the in crowd.

Screenshot from: Netflix

There’s Player 100 (Song Young Chang), who said he was an investor with a debt of KRW10 billion. The staggering figure leads us to believe he was likely a high flyer outside of the game. He’s also the instigator whenever it came time to vote to get everyone to keep playing. He could be an insider out to ensure the games kept going especially with Gi Hun trying to convince everyone to leave.

Screenshot from: Netflix

This one may be a bit more far fetched but Player 333 (Im Si Wan), who’s also Lee Myung Gi/MG Coin the YouTuber could also be a VIP. His backstory will have you believe he was a crypto investor who lost it all on the Dalmatian token. But maybe that was his plan to get people to invest, so he’d be able to reap the rewards of their folly.

We think it’s possible he’s in the game to see his “victims” of his crypto scam suffer and personally kill them off. Let’s not forget how he skillfully un-alived Player 230/Thanos (T.O.P) with just a fork.

6. Squid Game is a government ploy to scrub society clean

This one’s got a more Black Mirror interpretation to it, but Squid Game could be revealed to be a corrupt government scheme at the end of it all. The game only pits those who are in debt against each other, so they’re not effectively contributing to the economy. Squid Game is a way to get rid of those who owe so much to moneylenders and banks, which they also control.

Screenshot from: Netflix

It wouldn’t be a surprise then, that the police are in on it too, since they’ve refused to help Gi Hun hunt down the Front Man. It’s also possible that the healthcare industry is a part of all this, since they’re interested in harvesting organs to sell. They’re killing 2 birds with 1 stone essentially: getting rid of society’s unwanted and making money off their body parts.

7. Soldier 11 is trying to fight the system from within

Screenshot from: Netflix

It’s revealed early on in season 2 that Soldier 11/Kang No Eul (Park Gyu Young) knows Player 246 personally as the father of a daughter with cancer that works at the amusement park she also worked at. In the last episode of season 2, she meets him face-to-face during the battle between the players and pink soldiers, and while we hear a gunshot, it doesn’t yet mean he’s dead.

Screenshot from: Netflix

While she’s been a ruthless killer throughout the games, even going so far as to shoot injured losers to ensure they’re dead, she’s also shown to be a person with softness in her heart. She can relate to Player 246 who’s here to get money for his daughter’s treatment, which reminds her of her own search for her daughter who may still be in North Korea.

This could be a changing point for Soldier 11 who might then decide that she’d rather fight with the good guys to take down the ones who’ve been killing off parents just trying to do the right thing looking out for their children.

8. The next winner is Player 222’s unborn baby

Player 222/Kim Jun Hee (Jo Yu Ri) is heavily pregnant at the start of the game. During Red Light, Green Light, she even leans on Player 149 for support because she feels pain in her abdomen – if anything, we’re betting those were contractions. She’s mere moments from giving birth, so there’s no doubt we’ll hear the cries of a newborn in season 3.

Screenshot from: Netflix

We also know a showdown between all players, the pink soldiers, and Front Man and his VIPs is coming. For all we know, it’ll be an all-kill fight where everyone dies in the end. The sole survivor? The newborn, wrapped up and tucked away in a corner so he’s not in the middle of the tussle. And as the rules of the game go: the last man standing wins it all.

Squid Game season 3 theories

There’s no news yet as to when Squid Game season 3 will be released, but we do know that it’s already been filmed and production has wrapped up. The mid-credits teaser also shows it’ll be out sometime this year, so it shouldn’t be too long of a wait. Until then, we’ll be rewatching both Squid Game season 1 and 2 for hints on what’ll happen next.

More shows to catch on Netflix:

• Singapore’s first reality dating show: One Week Love
• Alice in Borderland season 2 fun facts
• Best horror movies on Netflix

Cover image adapted from: Netflix

The post 8 Squid Game Season 3 Theories If The Show’s Stuck In Your Head Like The Catchy Mingle Tune appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

People keep complaining, “I see everything before already” or ”SG have nothing to do”. But they couldn’t be further from the truth. There are plenty of secret spaces and places hidden in plain sight, you just need to know where to look. Put on your explorer hats as we show you “secret” things you didn’t know existed in Singapore.

1. Jurong Rock Caverns

The deepest spot in Singapore

Image credit: @jtc_sg via Instagram

If you think that the Lion City is too crowded, perhaps you haven’t looked beneath the surface. Some of the coolest parts of our country are deep in underground Singapore, barred from public access. One such place is the Jurong Rock Caverns on Jurong Island, with hundreds of metres of winding hollows.

Image credit: @jtc_sg via Instagram

This stands as the first underground oil facility in Southeast Asia, where liquid hydrocarbons are stored for companies, rather than mined. Even with it being 40 storeys deep, there aren’t any middle-earth lurkers below, just terrifying staircases and sedimentary, tubing halls.

Jurong Rock Caverns on Google Maps

2. Kampong Mendoza

Kampong hidden in the forest floor

Image adapted from: veronkoksm via Youtube

Hiking trips can lead to very intriguing finds, but what about an entire lost village? Kampong Mendoza was a village that sunk into the forest floor of Upper Bukit Timah. Today, you can still spot remnants scattered around the area like an old verandah, old radios, and cooking utensils from yesteryear.

Cooking utensils and old radio found in Kampong Mendoza.
Image adapted from: veronkoksm via Youtube

Mendoza was one of many villages that were evacuated and demolished in the 80s by rehoming plans for squatters and kampong residents. You can find the kampong area between the Former FordFactory and Lorong Sesuai.

However there is no dedicated path for this trail, and it’s known to be a dangerous hike. So, proceed with caution and only embark on this adventure if you’re an experienced hiker.

Kampong Mendoza on Google Maps

3. Masjid Petempatan Melayu Sembawang

Last kampong-style mosque in SG

Speaking of kampongs, if you’ve ever tread on the many remnants of Sembawang, you’ve like seen the Masjid Petempatan Melayu Sembawang. Located along one of Singapore’s most haunted roads, Jalan Mempurong, this brightly coloured building is the island’s last kampong-style mosque.

The mosque used to be the key place of worship for residents of the then Kampong Tengah, and was saved from demolition by those same residents when resettlement of kampong dwellers took place. Today, it stands out from other modern architecture, with its vibrant yellow and green walls, metal roofing, and lone minaret.

Address: 27B Jalan Mempurong, Singapore 759055
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm | Sun 9am-12pm (Closed on Saturdays)
Contact: 6257 7614

4. Sijori Wondergolf

Defunct mini-golf course

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Long before the days of UltraGolf at The Palawan, Sentosa had its first mini golf course: Sijori Wondergolf. The park, perched on a hilly terrain near Imbiah Station, had 2 18-hole courses and a 9-hole course.

Image adapted from: The Putting Penguin & Nocturnia Productions via Youtube

The park was part of Sijori Resort and cost $15 million to make. Unfortunately, due to the SARS pandemic, it was only around for 3 years before it got shut down in 2006.

Now the resort is buried under Oasia Resort, but the golf course is still accessible with an easy hike from Imbiah Station. You’ll still find some of the holes intact, like a volcano-themed one or a surfboard with waves.

Sijori Wondergolf on Google Maps

5. Bus 825

SG’s only public minibus

PSA: Size doesn’t matter. We’re obviously talking about the size of public transport buses, specifically Bus 825, SG’s only public minibus. You can find it at Yio Chu Kang Bus Interchange, as it takes passengers up to the northern regions of Ang Mo Kio.

Seating only 24 people and having a low ceiling, the bus really lives up to its name as a minibus. Besides its size, it also has some additional quirks. Aside from it being a completely electric vehicle, the bus’ flooring has a wooden finish which is a nice change from the sprinkly grey floors of normal buses.

Yio Chu Kang Bus Interchange
Address: 3002 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 8, 567728

6. Condom lorry

Crashed truck in the middle of the forest

Image credit: Chasing Peaks

Nestled in the foliage of Chestnut Nature Park is a dilapidated lorry, tyres and steering wheel scattered, holding hundreds of condoms from the brand Sain et Sur. For the majority of us who don’t speak French, that translates to “Safe and Sure”. 

The truck has been rightfully nicknamed the condom lorry, and hikers can access it by following one of the smaller trails at the nature park. The exact location is not known but the spot is marked by stacks of flower pots. Either way, this makes for one of Singapore’s greatest unsolved mysteries, as there is no context to where this truck came from.

Well, it looks like even a lorry truck full of protection, still isn’t safe enough.

Chestnut Nature Park

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4.5

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Address

Chestnut Ave, Singapore 679514

Opening Hours:

Tuesday 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings Hide 

Monday	07:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Tuesday	07:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Wednesday	07:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Thursday	07:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Friday	07:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Saturday	07:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Sunday	07:00 AM - 07:00 PM

Contact Information

18004717300

7. Singapore Blue Tarantula

Singapore’s very own creepy crawly

Image credit: Mothore via Wikimedia Commons

Singapore is no Australia when it comes to deadly creatures, but the Singapore Blue Tarantula might just take the throne as the scariest of them. One of 3 known species of native tarantulas, this arachnid got its name from the titular ultramarine blue legs of females. As if they needed to look any more alien than they do.

As much as we’d like to say they are harmless little beasts, they can have a leg span of over 27cm and have painful venomous bites. That being said, they aren’t out get you; being shy and nocturnal, they’re only found deep in the forest floor. If you do come across these in your next hike at Rifle Range Nature Park or Central Catchment Nature Reserve, our advice is look from afar, very far.

8. Singapore Musical Box Museum

Find out how the cool antiques are made

Image credit: @swwong via Instagram

One of the wackiest Singapore museums is located within the rows of Telok Ayer shophouses. Singapore Musical Box Museum has over 40 antique musical boxes that date back to the early 19th century. Founded by Japanese collector Naoto Orui in 2015, the museum has boxes from all over the world, including Germany, Japan, and China.

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Museum guides will even play the boxes, some of which have visible cogs and teeth showing the mechanism. Tickets start at $10/child and $18/adult – do remember to book them in advance online as walk-ins aren’t accepted.

Musical Box Museum Cafe.
Image credits: @musicalboxmuseumcafe via Instagram

Aside from listening to melodies, you can also grab a bite at the Musical Box Museum Cafe which serves Peranakan cuisine such as Ayam Tempra ($13), a chicken currry, and Babi Pongteh ($13.80), braised pork.

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Monday	10:00 AM - 05:30 PM
Tuesday	10:00 AM - 05:30 PM
Wednesday	10:00 AM - 05:30 PM
Thursday	10:00 AM - 05:30 PM
Friday	10:00 AM - 05:30 PM
Saturday	10:00 AM - 05:30 PM
Sunday	10:00 AM - 05:30 PM

Contact Information

+65 98646021

9. Murai Reservoir

Secret reservoir in the North-West

Image credit: Gary Ng via Google Maps

The North-West has always been a very ulu place, considering so much of it is sectioned off as military and industrial land. But did you know there’s actually a secret reservoir here?

One of the sights regular peeps are missing out on is the Murai Reservoir, located inside a military zone. Measuring 2 sqkm wide, it’s nearly 2 times the size of the Botanic Gardens.

Image credit: Google Earth

If you’re already planning to go on a kayaking adventure, hold up. This waterbody is not accessible to the public. The only way to find out what it’s all about for now is by serving NS or getting an NS partner.

Murai Reservoir on Google Maps

10. Shuang Long Shan Cemetery

Hidden Hakka cemetery amongst HDBs

Image credit: @jazzquek via Instagram

Hiding between HDB blocks in Commonwealth is the Shuang Long Shan Cemetery, Singapore’s last Hakka cemetery. The eerie yet impressive symmetrical arrangement of gravestones stretches over 24 rows and has nearly 3,000 graves.

The cemetery was built in the early 70s, making it over 50 years old. It was an area specially allocated to the Hakka community after independence.

The cemetery is open for public access but if you plan on going down, remember to be respectful of the space, especially when taking photos. A better rule of thumb would be to view the cemetery from a higher vantage point at one of the neighbouring HDB blocks.

Address: 9 Commonwealth Lane, Singapore 149551

11. Berlin Wall fragments

2 slabs stand on NUS hill

Image credit: @chie_singapore via Instagram

Yes, Singapore is heralded as a global centre. What we wouldn’t expect, though, is finding historical artefacts from other countries in the most random of places. In the National University of Singapore, behind Tembusu College, lie 2 Berlin Wall fragments.

Look closer, and you’ll find traces of graffiti artwork still on them today. The art represented rebellion against the partition of Germany in to East and West in the 1980s.

The Berlin Wall fragments were gifted to Singapore by Germany in 2016. They represent both countries’ strong ties with each other. We also found that there were 4 fragments in Bedok that were displayed on loan, however those have since been returned to their owners.

Berlin Wall Fragments on Google Maps

12. Jenal Jetty

Last fishing village in Singapore

If you’ve ever wanted to go off-grid away from society, you’d be jealous of the fishermen at Jenal Jetty. That’s because the jetty, known as the last fishing village in Singapore, has no water supply, no signal, no electricity, and no public access.

Although you can’t physically go there, you can spot the jetty – which is 4 different jetties bound together – from Yishun Dam. The only people permitted to go here are the fishermen who own the jetties, their families, and their rgeular customers. You’ll find them sailing here to catch seafood, hang out with each other, and even collect durians on occasion.

Jenal Jetty on Google Maps

13. Whampoa Dragon fountain

Centrepiece of Whampoa Drive

The last thing you’d expect to find while walking past an HDB block is a 4m-high dragon statue. Well, the next time you stroll by Block 85 Whampoa Drive, watch out for the Whampoa Dragon fountain.

Built in 1973, this centrepiece used to spout out streams of water from its mouth. The dragon itself was designed with great attention to detail, from every scale being stoned on and a stuck-in-time-like positioning of the beast. Today, even though it doesn’t function as a fountain, it still greets residents of Whampoa with grandeur.

Address: Block 85 Whampoa Drive, S320085

14. Gym Tonic

“Uncle Auntie” exclusive Gym

Image credit: Gym Tonic

If you’re trying to make your parents your new gym buddies, Gym Tonic has got you covered. They’ve got elderly-only gym programmes at over 20 gyms island-wide. The programmes are typically 12 or 24 sessions long, with each session priced around $5-$12.

Image credit: Gym Tonic

Seniors do need to get their doctor’s okay before heading down to the gym, where they’ll be met with instructors who are trained to handle their specific needs. Whether it’s the abductor machine for staying balanced on the MRT or the rowing machine for carrying grocery store bags, their sessions aim to make our silver-aged citizens as spry as grasshoppers.

Find the full list of outlets on the Gym Tonic website.

How many of these “secret” Singapore things did you know?

Some of the most obscure things and places in Singapore may just be right under your nose. Though you may not be able to go to a lot of these physically, it’s still a wonder that they exist and represent how bizarre our little island can be.

So, the next time you and the gang are bored, why not trying checking off some of these secret Singapore things and find out who’s the most suaku in the group?

While you’re here, read up about some attractions we had in the past, like the Van Kleef Aquarium or Tuas TV World. If you have a taste for adventure, try knocking down some hidden places in Singapore or our guide on hiking to abandoned places in Singapore.

Cover image adapted from: @jtc_sg via Instagram and veronkoksm via Youtube
Last updated on 24th May 2024.

The post 14 Things You Didn’t Know Existed In SG, Like The Last Fishing Village & An Ulu Reservoir appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

It’s back. That’s right, Netflix’s Squid Game is back for a second season this December. There’s more gore and massacres and exciting twists with Korean childhood games dipped in hell.

Squid Game is dark, thought-provoking and – thank goodness – fictitious. But what if it were real and, closer to reality yet, set in Singapore? We reimagine a Squid Game: Singapore Edition below.

When is Squid Game season 2 coming out on Netflix?

The second season of Squid Game is set to be released at 4pm SGT on 26th December. This season, Gi Hun or Player 456 (Lee Jung Jae) returns once more to the life-or-death survival game with a resolution to end this game once and for all, and maybe score the fortune of KRW4.56 billion again.

The star-studded cast of Squid Game season 2 sees Lee Jung Jae, Lee Byung Hyun, Gong Yoo, and Wi Ha Jun reprise their characters from season 1. New players include actor Kang Ha-Neul, known for his roles in The Heirs and Love Reset; Park Sung-hoon from The Glory; and Choi Seung-hyun, who’s more well-known as singer/rapper T.O.P from Big Bang.

– Games –

Same same but different.
Image adapted from: NT Foods, Netflix

Before we begin, any iconic game needs a mascot. For Squid Game SG, we propose the Wang Wang boy. You can’t deny its uncanny resemblance to the show’s Red Light Green Light doll, with his yellow ‘fit and equally unnerving eyes. 

Would you trust yourself to win these games with Wang Wang looking over your shoulder? 

1. Musical Chairs

Gameplay: In normal musical chairs, folks walk around a circle of chairs and scramble for seats when the music stops. In this version, the “Don Don Donki” soundtrack or chorus of The Road Ahead (EDM remix) will be played. The player who doesn’t get a seat when the music is paused will be eliminated – after 24 hours of non-stop Donki music.

How to survive: Don’t look at the chairs – look at the person stopping the music. Or, put a hovering hand over the chairs to chope them like how you do with tissue paper. 

2. 5 Stones

Image credit: Carousell

Gameplay: We all know 5 stones – except in this version, you’ll be playing with stones stuffed with lead, so they’re hard to toss. You’ll need super strength just to throw these babies into the air. Maybe you’ll be able to tahan a single game, but we don’t see how anyone could have that much endurance to play this for a long period of time.

How to survive: As any 5 stones prodigy will share, the key is in throwing your stones straight up so they’re easier to catch. 

3. Country Eraser

Gameplay: Remember how we played this on our desks in primary school? In this version, you are on stilts and tied to mega-sized erasers. Your objective is to “conquer” other countries – and players – by piling on top of them. 

Oh yeah. The eraser size is proportional to the size of the country, so good luck, Singaporeans. 

How to survive: Pretend you’re from the US or Soviet Union a few days before the game. Maybe they’ll let you pick a country that won’t crumble on the world stage. 

4. Capteh

Image credit: Carousell

Gameplay: Kick the feathered shuttlecock with your foot to keep it in the air for as long as possible. Only, instead of feathers, it’s artisanal Japanese knives loved by SG housewives that will cut you if you kick it the wrong way. If it drops before 100 kicks, you’re cut. Well, not literally, but close enough.

How to survive: Don’t geh kiang and whack the capteh high into the air. Kick it by lifting your legs parallel to the ground and use your instep.

5. Spin Tops

Image credit: Shopee

Gameplay: Secure the rope underneath your spin top and yank it off as quickly as possible to make it spin. 

If your top gets knocked down by another player’s or stops spinning before the time is up, you’ll be taken for a spin. Not in a car, but in Battlestar Galactica at Universal Studios Singapore on a full stomach. We suggest eating light before the match.

How to survive: Ask Leonardo DiCaprio for his spin top from Inception.

6. Pick-up Sticks

Gameplay: Pick-up sticks is often a wholesome, family-friendly game. But not here. This one involves a mega pile of sticks – think hundreds. Players will have to attempt to collect as many sticks as they can without moving the pile. Losers, however, get a free acupuncture treatment. The twist – you’re stuck with needles the same number as the leftover sticks.

How to survive: Don’t complain about a free treatment you’d have to pay for at a TCM clinic.

7. Jump Rope

Gameplay: Hop to the rhythm of the jump rope and make sure you don’t miss a beat. The pace will pick up, so make sure you keep up! One touch and you’re fried by the skipping rope’s live wire that sports an electric current. It won’t be enough to kill you, but it’ll sting for sure.

How to survive: You might want to sing a song to stay on beat – we’d choose Stayin’ Alive or I Will Survive. 

At first I was afraid, I was petrified….

8. Landmine Hopscotch

Gameplay: Everybody knows how to play hopscotch. You hop, you jump, you know the drill. Oh, just try not to become Minesweeper IRL by stepping on the landmine. You’ll be thankful they’re not real bombs, but they are lumps of dog poo that’ll be stuck on your shoes for the remainder of the game. Stinky.

How to survive: Don’t hop on the landmine lor.

9. Happy Family

Gameplay: We call this variation of the card game Not So Happy Family. Collect as many complete family sets as possible. The person with the least number of Happy Families will have to endure nosy questions like “when you getting married, ah?” and “so long already, not pregnant?” from relatives every single day of the rest of their lives.

How to survive: Faster get married lah. Then faster have baby lor.

10. Pepsi Cola 123

Image adapted from: TheSmartLocal via YouTube

Gameplay: The rules are simple – avoid getting stepped on or you’re out. Everyone stands in a circle and chants “Pepsi Cola 1, 2, 3” while jumping backwards as far as they can. If you can “hit” your opponent’s leg, goodbye to them. 

Image adapted from: TheSmartLocal via YouTube

How to survive: No hacks from us for this one. Just hope your reflexes are cat-like enough to dodge incoming attacks.

– Location candidates –

This could be us.

1. Pulau Semakau

Contestants can kill 2 birds with 1 stone after losing by becoming biodegradable waste on our beloved trash island itself.

2. Pulau Senang

“What on earth is Pulau Senang?” – you, probably. Never read our lesser-known Singapore islands article ah?

TL;DR: As part of a “social experiment” in 1960, criminals from Singapore were sent to Pulau Senang to roam freely. They were under the watch of one Superintendent Daniel Dutton that the detainees felt was draconian. To, erm, solve the problem, they ended up rioting and murdering Dutton. 

Oh, and this place is also referred to as “Comfort Island” in English. We can’t think of a better location, tbh.

3. Pulau Tekong

You didn’t think we’d let Pulau Tekong off the hook, did you? Good news for all our Singaporean Sons – they can officially share the burden of heading to Tekong with the entire country in the multiverse where Squid Game is a reality on our shores.

10/10 for bringing the nation together.

Singapore’s version of Squid Game

So there you have it – Singapore’s very own Squid Game where you can put your primary school shenanigans to good use, or die trying. We hope you walk away with a cash loot as high as our ministers’ salaries. 

For old school games that aren’t deadly:

• 90s kids toys
• Kampung games
• 90s kids video games
• Video games then and now

Last updated by Raewyn Koh on 24th December 2024.

The post Squid Game Returns For Season 2 On Netflix, Here’s How Jialat We Think SG’s Version Would Be appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

We’re soon entering 2025, and it’s that time of the year when everyone starts setting goals for themselves. More often than not, keeping our lives organised is usually on the list. To ensure we stick to our plan, here are some of the cutest 2025 planners so we can start our year right.

What planner layout should I use?

Whether you’re a Type A personality who pencils in toilet breaks or a Type B who likes being flexible with their time, there’s a planner out there to suit your needs. Here’s how to pick the best layout to organise your life:

• Daily planners: If you want to account for everything you do in a day, get a daily planner to zero in on your life, hour by hour. These are great in helping you stay focused on the day’s tasks at hand.
• Weekly planners: Get an overview of the entire week with weekly planners. This can help you plan out tasks that may require multiple days to complete.
• Monthly planners: Similar to weekly planners, monthly planners are suitable for those who want an overview of multiple deadlines and events. These are ideal for those who plan on using their agendas for both work or school, and social life.
• Monthly/weekly combo: The monthly/weekly combo is the best of both worlds if you want an overview of everything going on in your life.
• Digital planners: Customisable layouts mean you can pick and choose what works best for you. They’re also ideal for those with moving schedules and deadlines, so you can neatly erase and reschedule events as necessary.

Price breakdown of 2025 planners

– Daily planners –

1. Sanrio B6 Diary

Comes with 2 bookmarks to easily find pages

Image adapted from: Amazon

Sanrio fans, start your 2025 right by getting the Sanrio B6 Diary. Take your pick between characters like My Melody, Kuromi, Cinnamoroll, and Pochacco.

Write down your daily to-dos with the planner’s colourful and themed pages. For convenience, there are also 2 bookmarks so you can quickly flip to the month or week you’re at. Plus, 2 pages of adorable stickers to decorate your diary.

Price: $17.47
Get the Sanrio B6 Diary on Amazon.

– Weekly planners –

2. Typo B6 Weekly Diary

4 different themes like Hello Kitty & PEANUTS

Image adapted from: 玫 via RED

The Typo B6 Weekly Diary is a soft-bound planner perfect for those who prefer carrying small to medium-sized purses.

It’s compact yet spacious enough, with plain weekly layouts from January through December to jot down all your to-dos for the day. Choose your Typo planners from 4 cute themes: Snoopy, Gudetama, The Simpsons, or Hello Kitty.

Price: $14.99
Get the Typo B6 Weekly Diary.

3. The Paper Bunny Weekly Desk Planner

Makes a great desk decoration

Image adapted from: The Paper Bunny

For those chronically desk-bound, The Paper Bunny Weekly Desk Planner is both a practical decoration and the best way to have a quick overview of the entire week.

There’s loads of vertical space for each day to scribble over. The page also includes a section where you can pen down your top priorities of the week and daily water trackers so you stay a hydrated kween while you work.

Price: $10
Get The Paper Bunny Weekly Planner.

– Monthly/Weekly planner –

4. Muji Monthly/Weekly Planner

Minimal planners that you can customise

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I’m sure there’s not much of an introduction needed when we’re talking about Muji. Like all the brand’s products, the Muji planners are minimal and a great pick for anyone who’d like to personalise their journals.

Depending on how much writing space you need, there’s the monthly or weekly version, and sizes range from A5 to B5. The planners are also available in 3 colours: red, dark grey, and white grey.

Or, if you prefer something even simpler and lighter that you can chug in your bag, the Recycled Paper Weekly Planner is only $1.60 and perfect if you’re looking for a cheap way to organise your tasks.

Price: From $1.60
Get the Muji planners online or in stores.

5. Square Miffy Notebook

Comes with a protective PVC cover

Image adapted from: Amazon

Miffy isn’t smiling, but you will be when you’re using the Square Miffy Notebook to plan out your year. This cute planner has monthly and horizontal weekly layouts, so there’s plenty of space for writing.

Every page comes decorated with adorable Miffy characters and elements. A PVC cover is also given with the purchase to protect your adorable notebook from bends and scratches.

Price: $21.76
Get the Square Miffy Notebook on Amazon.

6. Jellybear Diary

Colourful neon layouts

Image credit: Shopee

Maybe you’re a fan of neon colours, or perhaps you’re on the hunt for a cute and fun planner for your kiddos. The Jellybear Diary is the complete opposite of the Muji planners. You’d probably find every rainbow colour with these loud and bright planners.

Available in 3 different colour themes, the purchase also comes with 2 sticker sheets for added pizzazz if the pages aren’t colourful enough for you.

Price: $24.42
Get the Jellybear Diary on Shopee.

7. Papier Photo Reel Diary

Customise your own cover

Image credit: Papier

The Papier Photo Reel Diary might be a little pricier, but it’s unique because you can customise and add pictures to the cover. With this planner, you can carry fond memories of your family, friends, or partner. There are options for spiral or hardback bounding, and you can choose from either a blue or beige colour.

The diary includes monthly and weekly pages, a section for monthly goals, and dotted, blank, and grid pages for you to write extra notes.

Price: $36.35
Get the Papier Photo Reel Diary.

– Monthly –

8. Korea Ardium Monthly Planner

Simple to colourful planner covers

Image credit: Shopee

It doesn’t matter if your favourite colours are the basic black and white or bright blue and purple; the Korea Ardium Monthly Planner lets you choose your style, from plain covers to colourful paintings.

The planner is thin, with plain monthly layouts from December 2024 to 2025. It also includes a yearly checklist and blank grid pages for writing down spontaneous ideas and thoughts.

Price: $12.28
Get the Korea Ardium Monthly Planner on Shopee.

9. Mofusand Monthly Diary

Has dotted blank pages for extra notes

Image adapted from: Amazon

If you’ve been obsessed with Mofusand of late, bring that obsession into 2025 and get yourself the Mofusand Monthly Diary.

The A6 planner features monthly and blank dotted layouts, and you’ll find cute graphics of cats on each page. It’s definitely a great hack to stay on track with daily tasks, as I’ll be cracking open the pages every day just to catch a glimpse of the adorable fluffs.

Price: $10.60
Get the Mofusand Monthly Diary on Amazon.

– Digital planners –

10. iamkai Digital Planner

Convenient planning on iPads or tablets

The digital version contains features and graphics from the physical planners.
Image credit: @iamkai.co via Instagram

Digital planners are changing the game for those on their iPads or tablets 24/7 and wouldn’t want to carry an additional book around. Not only is it sustainable, but it’s also completely customisable, and you can erase and change any dates or tasks without fuss.

The iamkai Digital Planner is an online version of their 2025 Personal Planner. It’s an interactive PDF file, and pages can be easily navigated through internal hyperlinks. The complimentary digital sticker pack includes 60+ stickers, which you can decorate your planner with.

Iamkai Digital Planner is compatible with Goodnotes, Notability, Collanote, and Flexcil.

Price: $19.90
Get the iamkai Digital Planner.

11. Goodnotes digital planners

Shop different planners in-app

Screenshot from: Kelly Lai

This one’s for students out there who have already purchased Goodnotes beforehand and have the app sitting on their iPads or tablets. Did you know that you can actually shop for Goodnotes digital planner layouts in the app itself?

There’s tons of options to choose from, from the usual monthly/weekly diaries to more specific ones like study planners or even habit trackers. They’re quite affordable as well, with prices starting from only $3.98.

Price: From $3.98
Get the Goodnotes app (App Store | Google Play)

Stay organised next year with these 2025 planners

If you have the means and time, get a plain planner and go ham with the colouring and decorating. But, if you’re a busy college student or working adult, maybe a cute, pre-decorated planner will suffice. Staying organised doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated, as long as you stick to a working style that works best for you.

Here’s some fun school/work reads:

• School supplies in the 2010s
• Workplace lunch topics
• 90s school experience

Cover image adapted from: @iamkai.co via Instagram, Shopee

The post 11 Cutest 2025 Planners From $1.70 If Your New Year’s Resolution Is To Stay Organised appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

If you’ve not heard, train services will be disrupted along the East portion of the East-West Line from 7th-10th December 2024. No, it’s not another train breakdown, but the laying of new tracks to connect the EWL to the new East Coast Integrated Depot.

Thankfully, we can pre-empt and make necessary adjustments this time. So, for all affected Easties, here are some preparations and alternatives for a smooth commute to and fro work or school.

What to know about the EWL Service Adjustments

Image credit: Land Transport Authority via Facebook

If you live along the East portion of the line, you would probably already know of the service adjustments happening from 7th-10th December. But, for the uninitiated or peeps living in other parts of the island, now might be a good time to note the train disruptions expected between Tanah Merah and Pasir Ris MRT stations as well as the stations towards Changi Airport.

Will the rest of the EWL be affected?

Thankfully for Westies, we won’t have to endure the horror of the EW line train disruptions again. Rest assured that operations along the rest of the East-West line are normal.

Affected MRT stations during this period are Tanah Merah, Simei, Tampines, Pasir Ris, Expo, and Changi Airport.

How much longer travelling time do I need?

Just to be safe, we’d factor in at least 20-30 minutes extra travelling time while planning your journey. Tough, I know, but half of the disruption is happening over the weekends, so it’s really only 2 working days that’ll require you to set your alarms just a wee bit earlier.

Utilise the shuttle services provided

Shuttle buses

Image credit: Land Transport Authority via Facebook

Shuttle 7 will be the main bus service between Tanah Merah and Tampines stations. The buses will operate at frequencies of every 3 to 5 minutes, and hours will follow the first and last train times of the East-West Line.

Shuttle trains

Image credit: SMRT Corporation

If you’re going to be taking the trains per normal, there’s also shuttle train services available. The stations and frequencies are:

Train frequencies on the Downtown Line will also be increasing during the disruptions.

Are the shuttle services free?

Unfortunately, shuttle services are not free to the public this time around. Fares for the shuttle buses will be the same as regular train fares, while the rates for shuttle trains will remain the same.

Best alternative routes to take

We’ll definitely be expecting some level of crowd at the affected stations. Consider changing your routes, especially if your destination is also accessible via other MRT lines. Some options are:

Pasir Ris to City Hall via the Downtown and Circle Lines.

Getting to Changi Airport via the Downtown Line.

Simei to Serangoon via Downtown and Circle Lines.

Commuting during the EW line train service adjustments

Let’s not get too stressed over the MRT disruptions. As long as you make the necessary adjustments and factor in extra time, things should be A-OK. We hope that you’ll be able to plan your journey in advance with this guide. Do visit LTA’s website for more information and updates.

For other fun transport reads:

• “Bus hotel” in Changi Village
• KTM shuttle guide
• MRT hacks

Cover image adapted from: SMRT Corporation

The post Guide To Navigating The EWL Service Adjustments 2024 – Shuttle Services & Best Alternative Routes appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

We’ve seen the queues snaking all around the block – yes, Singapore Pools often boast crowds far beyond the most popular of F&B stalls. 

But when it comes to buying TOTO and 4Ds, while the older generations are the lao jiaos, most of us millennials are clueless about the ins and outs of the system beyond Quick Pick.  So here’s all you need to know about TOTO and 4D to actually understand what you’re doing the next time you place a bet:

P.S. Before you dive straight in, here is a gentle reminder to bet within your means and gamble responsibly!

How to place TOTO bet?

Here’s a quick run-through of the different terms:

• Group TOTO = split the bet with several people
• QP = Quick Pick (randomly-generated numbers)
• Void = cancel submission

The goal of TOTO, in short, is to correctly guess the 6 winning numbers that will appear in the draw. The more winning numbers you nail, the more you’ll win. Below are the different types of ways to place your TOTO bets:

1. Ordinary Entry

The most common and straightforward is the Ordinary Entry. Think of it as the basic setting in a game – it’s great for beginners, but there are no extra features you can use to increase your chances of winning.

Steps to placing an Ordinary Entry bet (each bet costs $1):

1. Shade the 6 numbers you wish to bet on, from 1 to 49. 
2. Leave the Sys 7 – Sys Roll options blank.
3. TOTO draws take place twice a week.  Shade Draw 2 to play your bet for the upcoming draw and the following one. Draw 4 will enter your bet in the next 4 draws. Leave these boxes blank if you only want to play for the upcoming round. 
4. Get your ticket and keep it safe – you’ll need it to collect your prize if you win.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for an even simpler way to place your bet, head to the counter and opt for Quick Pick (QP), where you’ll get a computer-generated set of random numbers, also priced at $1 per bet.

2. System Entry

There are also other “Systems” you can choose – which, if we are to continue with game analogy, you can think of as advanced settings. They cost more, but also statistically increase the probability of you winning by giving you extra “power-ups”. To indicate that you’re playing these systems, shade the system of your choice on the left side of the TOTO slip accordingly.

With System Entry, pick extra numbers to increase your chances of hitting the winning ones. Instead of being limited to the usual 6, choose from 7 to 12 numbers. Take note that prices increase accordingly and can range from $7 all the way to $924. 

3. System Roll

For System Roll, you’ll pick 5 numbers out of the 6. The extra feature you’ll get here is a Rolling Number (R). This R represents any of the remaining 44 numbers, pretty much like the blank tile in Scrabble. Since you’ll be essentially placing 44 different bets, prices start from $44.

Where to bet for Toto?

You can place your bets at any of the Singapore Pools outlets or authorised retailers – check out our list of “luckiest” Singapore Pools outlets and authorised retailers. Those looking for a more convenient method can also bet online on the Singapore Pools website or Application (iOS, Android).

Alternatively, call their hotline at 6212 0039 to place your bet.

How are Toto numbers drawn?

There are several categories of prizes you can win, ranging from Group 1 to 7.

Image credit: Singapore Pools

The one you’ll need to pay most attention to is Group 1, a.k.a. the ultimate jackpot prize, guaranteed to be $1 million or more depending on how much money is in the prize pool. If there’s more than one winner, the prize money will be split equally within the group – the same applies to Groups 2 to 4.

If you’ve got a Group 5 to 7 win, don’t worry, there’s no need to share that loot – your winning prizes in those categories are fixed!

To spice things up for players, there is also a bonus 7th number that’s drawn, called the Additional Number. Getting this number right will unlock extra prize money, as long as you get at least 3 out of the 6 Winning Numbers correct.

There are plenty of chances to place your TOTO bets, with  2 draws held weekly on Mondays and Thursdays at 6.30pm. If it is a snowballed draw then it’ll take place at 9.30pm. Make sure to place your bets before submission closes at 6pm on the day of the draw. Results will be posted on their website and also displayed at Singapore Pools outlets. 

How to place 4D bet?

In a game of 4D, players bet on a number between 0 to 9999, and in each round, up to 23 numbers will be drawn. Below are the different types of 4D bets:

1. Ordinary

Ordinary bets are the most common way to play and each bet costs $1 each. To bet, you’ll need to:

1. Pick a number between 0000 to 9999 and shade it on the slip.
2. Select your draw days from 3 options – Wed, Sat or Sun.
3. Leave the “iBet” and “SYS Entry” boxes blank
4. Choose between placing a Big bet (大) or a Small bet (小). The Small Bet has a higher risk and higher reward – read more about this under “How the draw works”.

2. System Entry

The thing about 4D is, unlike TOTO, the sequence of numbers matters – meaning if you’ve entered 1234 and the draw is 4321 instead, it doesn’t count. To cover all grounds, pick System Entry to enter all the possible permutation of the numbers you’ve picked. Prices will vary depending on the number of permutations.

3. iBet

System Entry can get pricey, and if you’d like your $1 to stretch across all the possible permutations, you can pick iBet as your bet type instead. It is essentially the same as System Entry except you pay just the standard $1. The downside? If you’ve guessed the right number, your prize money is less as well.

4. 4D Roll

The last type of entry you can play is 4D Roll, where you pick 3 numbers instead of 4 and mark R in the place of the remaining number. R represents any number from 0 to 9 and works much like TOTO’s System Roll. This will cost you 10 times your bet amount.

Where to bet 4D?

The places to bet for 4D are the same as TOTO.

How does 4D draw work?

The prize structure varies, depending on whether you’ve bought a Big(大) or Small (小) bet.

In each 4D draw, there will be 23 numbers drawn for Big bets and 3 for Small bets.

Prize structure for playing Big(大) and Small (小).
Image credit: Singapore Pools

With the Big bet, the chances of you winning something is higher as the prize structure includes the lower-tier prize Starter and Consolation categories. However, the prizes for the higher tiers are less. 

Small bet offers more prize money, but there are no starter or consolation prizes to fall back on.

The draws happen every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday and you can view the results on the Singapore Pools website.

Betting with Singapore Pools

Having a go at the lottery can be done in the name of fun, but always remember that the chances of striking it big with 4D or TOTO are slim – very slim. To put things into perspective, the chances of hitting the jackpot in TOTO is 1 in 14 million, which is less probable than getting struck by lightning, hit by a meteorite or going down in a plane crash. 

So always remember to gamble responsibly, and know when to stop!

Last updated by Kezia Tan on 23rd February 2024.

The post How To Buy TOTO & 4D In Singapore – A Guide To Place Bets Online Or At Singapore Pools Outlets appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

There is no shortage of cute baby animals around the world, you just have to know where to look. If you are chronically online on TikTok, you must have seen Moo Deng or even the “Rotund Table” of baby animals dominating your feed.

Other than Moo Deng, many other baby animals have found fame on TikTok, so here’s a list of them from around the globe we have deemed worthy to join Moo Deng’s gang.

Why is Moo Deng popular & where is she from?

Image credit: @immoodeng via Instagram

If you’re not living under a rock, you should be well acquainted with Moo Deng, the baby Pygmy hippo. Moo Deng’s name directly translates to “bouncy pork” in Thai and she has 2  siblings – Moo Toon, meaning “stewed pork”, and Moo Waan, meaning “sweet pork”.

They all live at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Si Racha, Chonburi, Thailand, where fans all over the world have flocked to to meet this icon.

Image adapted from: @immoodeng via Instagram

Now, as to why she became Internet famous. Moo Deng is known for her chaotic behaviour and unphotogenic nature with most pictures taken of her being either blurred or with her mouth wide open as if she is screaming.

@chonburilove?refer=embed

ชลบุรี รักนะ's Creator Profile

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From all her viral videos, it is clear that Moo Deng is a chomper who playfully bites her caregiver’s legs as a sign of protest against baths. And while she might not enjoy baths, she loves a good face massage.

Sadly, there are no more live streams to watch this lil hippo in action. But we’d highly recommend checking out the existing videos and memes for a dose of humour and overload of cuteness.

Moo Deng is not alone in having captured the hearts of people around the world. Here we’ve compiled a list of other adorable creatures that we’d happily hop on a plane to visit.

1. Hua Hua the panda

Hua Hua is a Giant panda born in the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

Image adapted from: @pandadoo666 via Instagram, Lisa Kitahara via Pinterest

While she is famous for taking the longest time of over 2 years to graduate from Panda Kindergarten, she’s also known for her onigiri or Japanese rice ball-shaped body.

You can’t blame her, though, as it’s due to some developmental delays she has, which makes her smaller and slower than her peers.

@panda_basecamp?refer=embed

PandaCarnival's Creator Profile

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Hua Hua is very demure and girly, and is seemingly unfazed when her food used to get stolen by her bigger companions from right between her paws. She has since learned how to politely gesture them away, protecting her food.

How to get here:

To see Hua Hua in action, hop on a discounted 4.5-hour direct flight from Singapore to Chengdu. Then book a 50-minute ride from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

2. Pesto the penguin

Image credit: SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

Hear yee hear yee, welcoming King penguin, Pesto who is an absolute unit at 22kg. Note that the average mass for King penguins is between 9.3kg to 18kg and that Pesto is just a baby.

@sealifemelbourneaquarium?refer=embed

SEA LIFE Melbourne's Creator Profile

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Despite being bigger and taller than his mother, Pesto is still a mama’s boy who follows his mommy everywhere she goes. To maintain his impressive figure, he devours 25 fishes a day, though he is expected to slim down once his big boy feathers start developing.

@katyperry?refer=embed

Katy Perry's Creator Profile

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Born in SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, Australia, this penguin is such a celeb that even singers like Katy Perry and Olivia Rodrigo travelled all the way there to visit Pesto.

You can see more of Pesto on SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium’s TikTok.

How to get here:

To meet this celebrity penguin, you’ll have to take a roughly 7.5-hour flight from Singapore to Melbourne, followed by a 30-minute car ride to SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium.

3. Biscuits the seal

@vammrs?refer=embed

Marine Mammal Rescue Society's Creator Profile

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Biscuits, the harbour seal, became an overnight sensation after a video of her looking sad was posted on TikTok. She had separated from her mother and was rescued near the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club on 2nd August 2024 by VA Marine Mammal Rescue Society in Vancouver, Canada where she currently lives.

Image credit: Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Centre

Biscuits has a sweet yet sassy personality, and from what we’ve seen, she loves to pose upright for everyone to see.

You can catch a glimpse of Biscuits and her fellow rescued ocean friends on Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society’s TikTok.

4. Cinder the porcupine

Image credit: @wildwestwildlife via Instagram

Known for always wearing baby grippy socks – no, they aren’t for pilates -, Cinder’s life has been a rough one. This poor baby girl was spotted by forestry workers, who rescued her and took her to Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center to get treatment after a wildfire at Lake Meredith, Texas, USA left her weak, with trouble breathing, and horribly burnt.

Due to her injuries, Cinder wears grip socks that help her get around while recovering from her burns. She’s come a long way from then and is not only healing well but also has a great appetite.

You can stay updated about Cinder’s recovery on Wild West Wildlife RC’s Instagram.

5. Little MEBO the red panda

Image credit: San Francisco Zoo via Bay City News

Little MEBO is an endangered young female red panda who now lives in the San Francisco Zoo & Gardens after being flown in from Memphis as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan for Red Pandas.

This is a cheeky and curious little one who loves to poke her head out to check out her surroundings and of course, snack on bamboo.

You can see more of Little MEBO on San Francisco Zoo’s Instagram.

How to get here:

To get to San Francisco Zoo, you’d have to take a long 15.5-hour direct flight from Singapore to San Francisco, followed by a 20-minute cab ride to the zoo.

6. Willow the snow leopard

Get ready for some cuteness overload when you see Willow, the snow leopard from Como Park Zoo in Minnesota, USA.

Image credit: Como Park Zoo & Conservatory via Facebook

Willow is a sweet cub that was born blind due to a condition, Coloboma, which causes structural abnormalities in her eyes – common in snow leopards.

@comozooconservatory?refer=embed

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory's Creator Profile

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Despite her inability to see, brave little Willow actively explores her habitat and learns how to navigate around with her keen sense of smell.

Occasionally, you can find videos of Willow on Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s TikTok.

How to get here:

You can meet Willow in person by taking a 20-hour connecting flight from Singapore to Minnesota, where you’ll then have to take a 3-hour car ride to Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.

7. Nibi the beaver

Image credit: Newhouse Wildlife Rescue

Popular since being rescued, Nibi the beaver is well-loved by the team and visitors of Newhouse Wildlife Rescue in Massachusetts.

@usatoday?refer=embed

USA TODAY's Creator Profile

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This sassy diva first tasted fame after a video of her moving her stick stash in protest of having a roommate went viral. More recently, Nibi’s near release into the wild by the state agency was covered by news channels and was the talk of the town.

Image credit: @newhousewildliferescue via Instagram

However, after much persuasion from her caregivers, fans, and even the governor, Nibi has secured her spot in the rescue centre for life. This was after consideration that since she was rescued as a baby with no beaver parental figures, she would not be able to survive the upcoming winter on her own if released.

Relieved Nibi fans can see more of Nibi on Newhouse Wildlife Rescue’s Instagram.

8. Monaka the koala

Image adapted from: @zoo.rascal, @miki_koala via Instagram

Born in Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden Nagoya, Japan, we have the adorable Monaka. Monaka the baby koala is best known for his incredibly white and cute tushy.

@kolbe_yasunari?refer=embed

Kolbe Yasunari's Creator Profile

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Being a baby and all, he loves taking piggyback rides on his mommy’s back as she wanders around the trees and relaxes.

Image adapted from: Japanese taste, screenshot from @monakakoala via TikTok

Another cute thing about Monaka is that when he lays on branches, you might mistake him for a furry starfish or even a snack.

How to get here:

To visit Monaka, you can take a 6.5-hour direct flight from Singapore to Nagoya, followed by a 25-minute cab ride to Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Garden.

9. Harry the cow

Image adapted from: @ralphranchnz via TikTok

Harry is a baby highland cow living in Ralph Ranch, New Zealand with his herd. He has super fluffy fur and always has a smile on his face.

@ralphranchnz?refer=embed

Ralph Ranch NZ's Creator Profile

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Harry’s favourite part of the day is receiving his daily neck scratches as well as grazing the greens with his homies. He also likes to stick his tongue out just to be goofy.

Honourable mentions that outgrew the baby category

Bonus: Neil the Seal

Image credit: @neiltheseal22 via Instagram

Count yourself lucky if Neil the Seal has graced your “For You Page” on TikTok. This Southern Elephant Seal is a thick boy who loves roaming around Tasmania, Australia. Neil is notorious for wandering around and chilling on roads, making sure he is in the perfect spot to disrupt traffic.

@neiltheseal316?refer=embed

Neil the Seal 's Creator Profile

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Thankfully, Tassies are well acquainted with this friendly giant and when he is too lazy to make it across the road fully, they corner off the area to ensure his safety.

You can see the latest Neil the Seal spottings on his very own Instagram account.

Bonus: Qi Zai the brown panda

Image credit: @qizai_pandaoficial via Instagram

Qi Zai is no ordinary panda as he is the one and only brown panda in captivity, as well as one of the few ever spotted in recorded history. He was first rescued by Shaanxi Rare Wildlife Rescue Center in 2009 after he was found abandoned as a cub.

Now, he lives at Louguantai Wild Animal Breeding and Protection Center in Xi’an.

His brown and white coat has led him to be known as the chocolate panda, resembling what a delicious white and milk chocolate panda would look like.

@soyandreyvlogs.vl?refer=embed

Andrey Vlogs's Creator Profile

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Even though he is a cutie patootie, Qi Zai is a ladies’ man and is not picky when choosing a mate. He’s definitely a certified loverboy who you can catch admiring his wife in the next-door enclosure.

When it comes to male pandas, however, let’s just say he is not very fond of them.

How to get here:

To visit Qi Zai, you can take a 5.5-hour direct flight from Singapore to Xi’an, followed by a 1.5-hour drive to Louguantai Wild Animal Breeding and Protection Center.

Follow these famous cute baby animals like Moo Deng

This list of cute baby animals is bound to grow by the day. While they help to bring more awareness to animal conservation and more visitors to zoos, it is important to be respectful to the animals and the staff caring for them.

Places to meet adorable animals in Singapore:

• Singapore Zoo
• Bird Paradise
• Night Safari

Cover image adapted from: @immoodeng via Instagram, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory via Facebook, Newhouse Wildlife Rescue

The post 9 Cute Baby Animals Around The World Worthy To Join the Ranks Of Moo Deng appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.