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The new season of Celebrity Car Wars is BACK! (And yes, vehicles and egos will get hurt…)

If you thought the first season was crazy, then the new season of Celebrity Car Wars: Crash of the egos is sure to blow you away with even wilder antics and automotive adventures!

The popular HISTORY hit returns for a second season, this time with six new celebrity contestants pitted head-to-head in a series of exhilarating four-wheeled feats. Catch all your favourite challenges from the past season, along with a whole new set of outlandish stunts (’cause why not?!) that’s sure to entertain.

For those who can’t wait to find out what mayhem and mischief is in store for these ego-fragile celebrities, here’s a sneak peak at some of the absurdity you can expect in the episodes to come…

The Airstrip Drag Race

You know the creators of the show mean business when an airport is used to stage a drag race along a fully functioning airstrip. In this episode, the celebrities get a chance to drive one of the fastest, most powerful super cars on the show—the Nissan GT-R, or more fittingly known as, Godzilla.

Expect plenty of excitement in this challenge as the celebs take turns to race these bad boys down the 850m-long runway, located at the WCC Aviation Airport in Pangasinan, Philippines— complete with propeller planes in the background.

The Great Caltex Fuel Efficiency Challenge

In this challenge, the celebs are forced to be frugal as they attempt to bid for the least amount of fuel they think will get them to the base of Mount Pinatubo, an active volcano in the Philippines. Told you this season was going to be exciting!

The journey will take them through wide open roads, volcanic landscapes and muddy crossings, and challenges them to reach the base camp in the most fuel efficient manner possible—thanks to the advice of their wise and fuel-savvy mentors!

To make matters worse (for them at least!), all their cash and credit cards have been taken off them. Should their vehicles break down or run out of fuel along the way because these celebs failed to take their mentors’ advice and drove inefficiently, well, it’d be up to their own ingenuity to hitchhike, walk, or do whatever it takes to make it to the finish line.

The ATV Challenge (Coconut Edition)

This season’s ATV challenge is arguably one of the show’s most epic, hilarious and touching episode yet. It involves the celebrities delivering ridiculous amounts of coconuts to the chief and kids of an outlying village (located in the foothills of Mount Pinatubo) in the fastest time possible—taking extra precaution not to run over anyone in the process of course.

The episode features some exceptionally hilarious moments between the celebrities and the tribal folks, as well as an especially touching moment that’ll tug at your heartstrings.

4 x 4 Extreme Buggy Challenge : The Sequel

Fans of the show will probably recall the outrageous off-road challenge from Season One, where the celebs raced across the dusty terrain of ‘Big Rock’ on a souped-up, V6 engine powered dune buggy.

This time, the challenge seeks to be even more impressive than the last, with a bigger and badder circuit devised by the newly appointed course designer and drift driving extraordinaire, Audel Sison, better known as, ‘Dr. Drift’.

The good doctor has staged a track along the treacherous shifting banks of the Sacobia River, where a fierce battle will commence, as well as an epic celebrity meltdown you won’t want to miss!

Obstacle Course

Another homage to Season One comes from the inaugural Celebrity Car Wars Obstacle Course which took place in the Uptown Mall in Taguig, Philippines. This year, creators have upped the ante with a military style obstacle, set in the historic WWII hanger at Subic Air Base.

The course, designed by the one and only Dr. Drift, features tight corners and slippery surfaces that the celebrities will have to manoeuvre through. As if that’s not nerve-racking enough, their every move will be scrutinised by a bunch of menacing-looking guards armed with machine guns.

Don’t miss your chance to catch these exciting challenges and more, with all-new episodes of Celebrity Car Wars: Crash of the Egos, every Monday at 9.55pm (SIN/HK), only on the HISTORY—StarHub TV Ch 401.

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Petrol vs. Diesel: Which engine should you choose in Singapore?

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Humanity’s top 5 most common fears

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What really goes on in a car wash?

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Keep your ride in tip-top condition with these 8 nifty tips!

Cars may be a hefty investment in Singapore, but keeping it in top notch condition shouldn’t have to cost you a bomb. Learn to protect your purchase with these simple and inexpensive ways to keep your vehicle looking good and running great for years to come.

Clean your car at least once a month

Anything from dirt, gravel, bug splats, harsh weather and air-borne pollutants can have a devastating effect on your vehicle over time. Show your car some love by having it professionally washed at least once a month, or give it a quick rinse at the end of the week to prevent any unwanted grime from damaging the exterior or seeping into the insides of your pristine ride.

Don’t eat in it

Small spills, ketchup stains and other messes can cause some parts of the interior to stain or even corrode. Keep the insides of your vehicle clean by having a rag or some wet-wipes handy. If you can, avoid eating in your car altogether. No matter how hungry you are, wait till you get home to unwrap that take-away. Your car will thank you for it.

Keep the kids clean

Children can get messy. If left to their own devices, they have a tendency to get themselves and everything around them covered in muck. If you’re determined to keep your vehicle spotless, don’t let them touch your ride. But if you absolutely have to (or have kids of your own), it’s always wise to have a change of clothes kept onboard for emergencies, or at the very least, a family-sized pack of wet wipes.

No drunk people either…

Nothing good ever happens with alcohol. Period. Save your car (and your friendship perhaps) and toss your tipsy amigo into a cab instead. What are friends for, right?

Knock your shoes off before getting in

This simple act goes a long way to keeping your automobile dirt and mud-free, especially if you’ve been out hiking or walking the dog at the park. Don’t treat your prized transport like a door mat! A quick stomp-around to remove any soil (or poop) from your soles makes cleaning up much easier in the long run.

Seriously, it like just takes two-seconds. Just do it.

Park in the shade

Don’t leave your ride baking under the blistering tropical sun. Harmful UV-rays can severely damage the vehicle’s surface, not to mention, turn it into a giant oven by the time you get back (with you as  roast). If you want to keep that paint job looking spanking new, park your car under a nice shady tree or plant it inside a multi-storey carpark.

Maintain proper tyre inflation

Under-inflated tyres can cause your breaking distance to be increased, steering to be heavy and forces your engine to work overtime to make up for the increased resistance. Make your ride a little less bumpy for you and your passengers and save yourself a trip to the mechanic by keeping them properly inflated to the recommended pressure at least once a month. If you feel that it’s time to get some air in those wheels, know that air pumps are readily available at all Caltex service stations. Be sure to keep them filled the next time you pop in to refuel.

Use Caltex with Techron®

Believe it or not, using an inferior-quality fuel could cause unwanted deposits to form in vital parts of your engine. 5-star fuels like Caltex with Techron® prevents the accumulation of these deposits, and contains a specially formulated Clean & Glide Technology™ that removes dirt build-up and protects your car’s fuel system, maximising its performance and improving fuel efficiency. This is a simple and inexpensive method to provide your engine gets the protection it needs. Take care of your ride and it’ll take care of you.

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5 annoying driving habits every Singaporean driver loves to hate

Driving can be dangerous business and it doesn’t help that there’s no shortage of reckless drivers on the roads. If you don’t want to be responsible for any accidents, then follow the rules of the road, stop when the light turns red and try not to repeat any of the bad driving habits below.

Failing to signal

If you don’t signal your intentions early, you can’t expect people to know where you’re going. This simple gesture can make a huge difference in keeping you out of harm’s way. Any indecisiveness behind the wheel could potentially be treacherous. Make it a habit to let others know where you plan to go before you make your move.

Signalling too early or forgetting to turn off your blinkers can be just as misleading. When you’re done changing lanes and still hear that little ticking noise, go ahead and flick that knob back to neutral to avoid confusing your fellow road users.

Tailgating

Following too closely behind another vehicle may not sound like such a big deal at first, but when you’re going at 90 kilometres per hour on the expressway, things can go south real quick.

Always ensure you have enough space between you and the vehicle in front. If you can’t see where his back tyres touch the road, you’re definitely way too close. Apply the 2-second rule and maintain a safe following distance.

Using your phone while driving

Everyone should know by now that phones and driving don’t mix. Not only does it distract you from the road ahead, it’s also incredibly hazardous and might land you a major fine, or worst, a trip to the emergency room.

It’s become all too common now for drivers to use their mobile phones as GPS devices or with Bluetooth attachments to make hands-free calls. This may be legal under certain circumstances, but it’s still a bad habit to cultivate when  driving. If you need to make a call or reply a text message, be sure your vehicle is stationary and in a safe area before doing so.

After all, a distracted driver is a dangerous driver.

Not checking blind spots

Checking your blind spots before you act is one of the easiest ways to prevent a serious accident. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to check your side and rearview mirrors before moving off.

Cars these days may come with hi-tech peripheral cameras and proximity detectors that can give you a better perspective of the area around your vehicle, but nothing can substitute first-hand judgment. Give a quick glance over your shoulder from time to time to make sure the coast is clear.

Driving tired

Sleep deprivation can impair your driving skills just as much as drinking can. When you’re tired, your reaction time is reduced, hand-eye coordination gets compromised, and you might even end up falling asleep behind the wheel, which could prove fatal.

If you feel yourself dozing off, pull over to somewhere safe, or recharge yourself at the nearest Caltex service station for a short rest and a quick bite. You might end up getting home later than usual, but it’s a small price to pay in exchange for your safety and those around you.

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Paktor then and now

Whip your notepads out! Taxi uncle and passenger share tips on bagging the best deals and making your next date a cinch.

Some of our favourite Plus! perks

Eating

Chope - Earn 2 LinkPoints for every $1 spent (Only applicable for Chope vouchers)

Mos Burger - Earn 1 LinkPoint for every $1 spent (Valid at AMK Hub and Parkway Parade outlets only)

Shopping

ZALORA - Earn 1 LinkPoint for every $2 spend (For total spend S$119.99 and below in a single order) OR Earn 1 LinkPoint + additional 90 LinkPoints for every $2 spend (For total spend S$120 and above in a single order)

Skechers - Earn 1 LinkPoint for every $1 spent

THEFACESHOP - Earn 1 LinkPoint for every $1 spent

Sephora (via Plus! Gateway) - Earn 1 LinkPoint for every $1 spent

AsiaMalls - Earn 3 LinkPoint for every $1 spent (only applicable for AsiaMalls vouchers)

Conveniences

Caltex - Earn 3 LinkPoints for every 1litre of petrol

Cheers - Earn 2 LinkPoints for every $1 spent with minimum spend of $10 in a single receipt Unity Pharmacy - 

Earn 1 LinkPoint for every $1 spend (for spending below $15) – Plus! Members

Earn 2 LinkPoints for every $1 spend (for spending above $15) – Plus! Members

Earn 3 LinkPoints for every $1 spend (for spending above $15) – NTUC Plus! Members & Healthcare Shareholders

All Plus! Members earn 2X LinkPoints every Thursday with minimum of $30 spend  

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Quiz: Are you keeping your kids safe on the road?

As parents, we all want to do our best to keep our babies safe. Take this fun and informative quiz to see how you fare at road safety and what you can do better!

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6 things to consider before buying your first family car

The quest to finding the right car is never an easy affair. Much like a vacation, careful planning and research is required before purchasing your very first family four-wheeler. But to help make that decision a little easier, we’ve compiled six vital tips to help you find out which vehicle best complements your family’s needs.

Type of vehicle

A family car is more than just a vehicle—it’s a comfort chamber, an amusement park, a grocery mule, a moving diner and a protective metal bubble. Whether you’re looking for a hatchback for extra storage, or a spacious 6-seater to transport your kids to school. The goal is figuring out what best suits you and your family, because as much as we love the sleek look of convertibles, coupés and child seats simply don’t mix.

How big is your boot

Depending on how much space you need, your family car should have plenty of storage space for the stroller, your week’s groceries, and even the family dog! SUVs and hatchbacks offer great storage potential for all your shopping sprees. Foldable backseats are another way of instantly increasing your boot space. Look to invest in vehicles that offer storage solutions like this. 

Safety first

Looking for a safe and reliable ride should always be at the top of the list. Cars these days are often equipped with state-of-the-art safety features and electronic driving aids that guide you on the road. Side-curtain airbags and a 5-star Safety Rating is also a MUST when ensuring the safety of your loved ones and cargo.

Comfort and convenience

Whichever car you go for, you’ll want it to give you and your family a smooth and comfortable ride.

Does it come with enough leg room? Is there limited head space? Are your kids bouncing off their seats every time you run over a speed bump? These are all important questions to ask yourself before making your purchase.

Convenience is another factor parents should consider—especially when you’ve got your squirming toddler in one arm and a heavy bag of groceries in the other! Simple conveniences like automatic doors or hands-free liftgates can make all the difference in your daily routine.

What about family-friendly features?

Examine the layout of the vehicle’s interior to ensure there is ample room for multiple child car seats, find out what material the seats are made of — and more importantly, if it would be easy for clean ups. Having power sockets for charging or even an onboard DVD player will definitely keep the kids occupied and in their seats on the way to grandma’s.

Think green

More car trips means spending more money on fuel and more CO2 emissions into the atmosphere.   Save money (and the environment) by choosing a car that can give you the best mileage per litre. Opting for a more efficient fuel like Caltex with Techron® can also help improve your car’s performance and give your engine better protection. Click here to find out more!

From 1 July to 31 August, fuel up at Caltex with OCBC Cards and stand to win a brand new Citroën C4 Picasso! Every S$50 nett fuel spend with your OCBC Cards gives you 1 chance in the lucky draw. OCBC 365 and NTUC/OCBC Plus! Visa Cardmembers will get 2 chances. In addition, 100 other lucky winners will each receive a $100 IKEA Gift Card. Check here for more details.

Plus! Visa Card is a banking product provided by Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited for Plus! U.

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“Kiasu” practices that could end up saving you a fortune!

Click here for more rewards

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If your car could talk, here’s what it’d say…

Talking cars? Sounds like something straight out of ‘Transformers: The Last Knight’ doesn’t it? But don’t dismiss the idea just yet. Think of all the secrets it could share that would improve the way you drive—not to mention how incredibly cool it would be to converse with your ride!

Here are four hypothetical quotes your car might say to you if it could talk. Check it out.

“Wash me!” A cleaner car makes for a cleaner ride! No time to wash your car by hand? Pop by to your nearest *Caltex service station carwash to have your vehicle rinsed and looking good as new in a matter of minutes.

Remember, rain and road debris can cause quite a bit of damage and rust over time. If you want to keep your vehicle looking fresh for a date (or an intergalactic battle), then don’t wait too long before getting it cleaned.

*only at these selected Caltex service stations:

Caltex Alexandra, Balestier, Beach Road, Bukit Batok, Changi, Clementi, Dunearn, East Coast, Jalan Bukit Merah, Jurong West, Lorong Chuan, Macpherson 465, Sembawang, Serangoon Avenue, Tampines, Upper Serangoon and Upper Thomson.

“Something’s not right…”

Just like people, cars need regular check-ups/tune-ups to ensure everything is in tip-top condition for driving. Think of the countless nightmare scenarios you could have avoided if your vehicle informed you every time it needed an oil change, or if it’s about to break down, not to mention the amount of money you could save from unnecessary maintenance repairs.

One thing’s for sure though, neglecting to do so will definitely shorten the lifespan of your engine and potentially cost you a lot more in the long haul.

“That’s just prime.”

If you’re looking to keep your vehicle running at its best, then using Caltex with Techron® as your primary fuel choice may just be the best thing for your car.

What does it do?

Caltex with Techron® helps keep your engine clean (and stay clean!) by reducing the friction damage on the engine and its parts, thanks to the new Clean & Glide Technology™ formula.

How does it help my car?

Not only does Caltex with Techron® enhance engine protection, with less frictional forces moving against your engine, it maximises your engine’s power and performance to its full potential, promising a smoother and faster ride.

What does this mean for me and my ride?

Caltex with Techron® is proven to help your engine burn fuel more efficiently, making long journeys more economical for you. And with the addition of the new Clean & Glide Technology™, you stand to save more on fuel and maintenance cost—not to mention earn more rewards from your Plus! Rewards Programme!

“Keep calm and roll out”

It pays to drive smoothly and efficiently. And while it can be fun to unleash your need for speed, those fast starts and sudden stops can take a toll on your vehicle and even land you in serious trouble with the law—or worst.

If you want a better relationship with your ride, keep your eyes on the road, drive within the speed limits and do your best to avoid exerting your poor poor car.

Simply spend $50 on Caltex with Techron® fuel with your Plus! Card and stand a chance to win a private Gold Class screening of Transformers: The Last Knight with you and 23 of your friends!

You could also drive away with exclusive rewards and prizes with our Sure-Win Scratch & Win card!

Promotion ends 30 June 2017.

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Yummy eats for your picnic

Taxi uncle knows best! Find out where to dabao the best local eats for your next outing.

Good food around Upper Thomson

Nam Kee Chicken Rice

201 Upper Thomson Road, Singapore 574343

Kampong Chicken Rice

255 Upper Thomson Rd, Singapore 574382

Seng Haut Duck Rice

590 Upper Thomson Rd, Sembawang Hill Food Centre, #01-07, Singapore 574419

Casuarina Curry Restaurant

138 Casuarina Road, Singapore 579526

Springleaf Prata Place

57 Jalan Tua Kong, Singapore 457253

Biscuit King

130 Casuarina Rd, Singapore 579518

Pacamara Boutique Coffee

185 Upper Thomson Road, Singapore 574333

Fat Boy’s Burger Bar

187 Upper Thomson Road, Singapore 574335

Good food at Jalan Bukit Merah (ABC Brickworks Market Food Centre)

Ghim Moh Carrot Cake (#01-140)

Jin Jin Hot/Cold Dessert (#01-20)

Ma Bo Lor Mee (#01-139)

Yi Sheng Fried Hokkien Prawn Mee (#01-13)

Sheikh Indian Pakistani Food (#01-12)

Nearby and looking to replenish your picnic supplies or refresh yourself? Head to the nearest Caltex Star Mart below:

Caltex Upper Thomson

555 Upper Thomson Road, Singapore 574417

Caltex Jalan Bukit Merah

3781 Jalan Bukit Merah, Singapore 159463

Caltex Alexandra

360 Alexandra Road, Singapore 159951

Not in these areas? Locate your nearest station today! https://www.caltex.com/sg/find-a-caltex-station.html

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8 essential must-haves every parent should have in their car

Congratulations on being both a parent and a car owner—hurray to more responsibilities! Being the resourceful individual that you are, it makes sense to be well stocked on these must-have essential every mom and dad should have in their car.

Mop up spills, keep the kids entertained, and be ready for any crisis that might be going on in the backseat with this handy list of items you should definitely keep close by.

You can thank us later when they come to your rescue!

Snacks and Drinks

Hungry kids are angry kids. And angry kids throw tantrums and kick the back of driver seats. Calm the little rascals down with some healthy treats that you’ve conveniently kept onboard should an occasion like this arise.

Store some bottled water or juice packets to keep the restless critters hydrated, as well as some granola bars or chocolate chip cookies (depending on how much you love them) if they are feeling peckish.

See, you’re acing this whole parenting thing already!

Microfibre Cloth

At some point in your role as a parent, this is going to come in handy (especially after mentioning about packing snacks and drinks). Forget about wet wipes, those things aren’t going to save you when you have to mop up an entire Coke spill. Go big or go home! 

Hand Sanitiser 

Just to make things a little easier when you’re in a ‘sticky' situation.

*Note: Not a substitute for the microfibre cloth, trust us!

A Spare Outfit

You’re a dad/mom now, you’ll have to expect the unexpected. Sometimes you go to pick up your kid from school and he/she’s drenched in ketchup or covered in mud. You don’t ask questions, you just act. That’s what being a caregiver is all about.

Ziplock Bags

Where else are you going to put all the soiled clothes, half-eaten chocolate bars, and anything else that you might want quarantined. Ziplock bags are your best friend in these situations. Don’t forget that.

Portable Charger

This is perhaps the most important item on the list. Having a portable charger is a godsend for when you need to call for help, or just to let the kids play Candy Crush. You never know you’re your phone might die, so having one stowed away in your glove compartment is an absolute MUST. 

Jumper Cables

Another obvious necessity, unless being stranded on a highway with the spouse and kids is your idea of a good time, packing a set of these lifesaving cables could save you a lot of trouble in the future.

First Aid Kit

You never know when you might need to fix a cut or a scrape. Have a first aid kit at the ready for when your kid falls off the monkey bars or stumbles down a hill. It’s what any responsible parent would do.

You can purchase one from any supply store or pre-pack your own to include bandaids, dressings, antiseptic cream, medicine for various ailments and anything else you might deem useful during an emergency. 

And if you’re a Plus! Card member, you’re in luck! Check out what additional items you could redeem from Singapore’s largest consumer rewards programme

Best part? It’s free when you use your LinkPoints earned from fuel purchase to redeem them. Don’t say we didn’t let you in on this secret! 

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6 costly mistakes new drivers make in Singapore

Finally! After months of countless loops round the driving circuit at the top speed of 40km/h, you’ve finally obtained your driving licence and are ready to hit the Singapore highway! But not so fast young Padawan – you’re still very much inexperienced in the ways of the road.

Before you take off on your maiden cruise, remember these six common mistakes new drivers often make in hopes you won’t follow suit.

1. Failing to follow parking rules

Getting slapped with a hefty fine for a parking violation is like a rite of passage for new drivers. The parking rules in Singapore are very clear, with multiple signs and road markings indicating where you can and can’t station your vehicle.

Though you could try your luck in the hopes that no one catches you, it’s best to be well-informed about the dos and don’ts. Besides, parking attendants are everywhere these days. If you’re willing to risk a $50 fine to save on a $1.20 coupon, knock yourself out (literally).

2. Deciding to test your skills

Dangerous and illegal manoeuvres put everyone at risk. Speeding, drifting, doing doughnuts, or any of the crazy moves from the Fast and Furious movies (all of which you obviously can’t pull off) could easily land you with a heavy fine or worse, a spot behind bars.

Leave the crazy stunts to the professionals, go easy on the accelerator and drive safe!

3. Not wearing a seat belt

For new drivers, the habit of wearing a seat belt can take some getting used to. Of course, the alternative would be to reduce your chances of survival by half... But hey! At least you won’t have to deal with that annoying strap throughout your journey! Right? This goes for the passengers on board as well so make sure everyone’s buckled up before heading off.

4. Skimping out on maintenance

Road accidents occurring as a result of poor vehicle maintenance is a perennial problem. Remember, if you’re waiting till your brakes have worn and the engine starts making strange rattling noises, it may be too late.

Make a conscious effort to keep your car in tip-top condition. Schedule regular maintenance visits to an auto mechanic to ensure there aren’t any serious issues with your car that could leave you stranded.

Opting for cleaner fuel like Caltex with Techron® with its Clean & Glide Technology™ also helps to improve your car’s overall performance, cleans and protects the inside of your engine and prevents costly breakdowns from happening.

5. Being distracted

In our technologically-intense world, we’re so distracted by endless notifications on social media apps, Whatsapp alerts, and Tinder matches that we barely pay any attention to what’s in front of us – let alone when we get behind the wheel!

The next time you’re tempted send a text or Snapchat your own lip-sync routine mid-drive, don’t. Not only is it an offence to use your mobile device while your vehicle is in motion, these actions ultimately compromise your level of awareness and concentration, endangering both yourself and others around you.

6. Too many passengers

You’re not the only one excited about being able to drive. Young drivers who’ve just gotten their licenses are more than eager to be the ‘chauffeur’ for the day, and often overload their vehicle with more passengers than available seatbelts. But not only is this a considerable strain on your vehicle, it’s also dangerous and illegal.

Either keep to the legal passenger limit or start ditching some of your mates!

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5 of Singapore’s best memberships and loyalty programmes to get on

Great deals can be found everywhere, you just need to know where to look. Reap in the many deals and discounts with these nifty savings programmes.  

1. Plus! Rewards Programme

There’s a reason why Plus! is one of the largest consumer rewards programme in Singapore. With exclusive rewards, discounts and privileges to stretch out your dollar, get a taste of the Plus! side of life with this all-inclusive rewards programme.

How does it work?

Earn LinkPoints from fuel purchases and shopping at more than 1,100 Plus! Partner outlets and/or global brands (both online and offline).

You can earn 3 LinkPoints with every litre of fuel purchased at Caltex.

What are the perks?

Get instant rebates (150 LinkPoints = S$1) to offset fuel purchases at Caltex service stations, Plus! Partners’ stores, and online redemptions.

Redeem LinkPoints for exclusive dining, fashion, travel and lifestyle vouchers. Check out the full list of rewards here.

How to sign up?

Apply for your lifetime membership with Plus! Rewards Programme at any Caltex service station at a one-time membership fee of S$10 and receive S$10 worth of fuel vouchers so it’s as good as free!

Bonus perk!

Feeling lucky? In celebration of Caltex and Plus! first anniversary, stand a chance to win a million LinkPoints weekly from 1 March 2017 to the end of April 2017 at any Caltex service station when you fuel up with your Plus! Card during the campaign*!

*Terms and conditions apply. Check out the details here.

2. Starbucks Rewards

Starbucks has been responsible for a number of coffee indulgences and tasty bakes that help make our mornings better. If you’re a fan of quality brews and delicious Frappuccinos, why not earn some rewards while enjoying your favourite cuppa at the same time?

How does it work?

5 Star is earned with every S$5 spent. Redeem them for free drink or food items.

What are the perks?

Welcome Level (0-59 Stars)

Buy-one-get-one-free drink reward upon first time registration

Free drink upgrade on birthday month

Earn 60 Stars within 12 months to proceed… 

Green Level (60-299 Stars)

Redeem one free drink with every 60 Stars earned

One free complimentary slice of cake during your birthday month with a purchase of any handcrafted drink

One free drink customisation reward

Free size upgrades for featured drinks

Earn 300 Stars within the 12 month period to proceed to…

Gold Level (300+ Stars)

One free drink or food item with every 60 Stars earned

One free drink during your birthday month

Personalised Gold Card

Includes all Green Level benefits

How to sign up?

Membership is free!

Simply add a minimum of S$10 onto your Starbucks Card and activate your account online.

 3. IKEA Family Card

More of a fan club than a loyalty programme, IKEA isn't just about functional furniture but food, too (Swedish meatballs and fried chicken wings anyone?) Make yourself truly feel at home when you sign up for this family card.

How does it work?

Accumulate points with your purchases and redeem them for store vouchers.

What are the perks?

Special ‘member’s price’ on selected products and restaurant events

3x Bonus Points for transaction on your birthday month

Two free drinks during each visit

30% discount on 2x FAMILY meals on each visit

Monthly offers on Swedish Food Market products

Invitation to exclusive member-only events

Free parking with a minimum spending of S$5 

How to sign up?

A basic membership is free. You can sign up online here or at any of the self-serve terminals at the store and get a temporary card to use in the meantime. 

Once you spend S$150 in a year, you’ll be upgraded to a permanent member.

 4. The Entertainer

Covering across food, travel and lifestyle, The Entertainer app offers over 1,700 one-for-one deals in Singapore alone. If you’re a big spender on delicious eats, this wonder app could essentially save you thousands of bucks.

How does it work?

Visit one of the many Entertainer-approved eateries, select a featured dish, punch in your code to redeem a deal, have the restaurant input theirs too and voilà! Your second item magically becomes free! 

What are the perks?

The app entitles users to one-for-one offers at restaurants, bars, and even travel, valid all year round, but not on public holidays.

How to sign up?

Downloading the app is free, but the paid version costs a little over S$200+ for a year. This may sound pricy at first, but after a two or three meals at a fancy restaurant, it pretty much pays for itself.

Not to mention, the app often has special promotion periods which has it going for much less. Be sure to keep a look out for them here.

5. KrisFlyer Membership

Similar to most frequent flyer programmes around, the more you fly, the more you earn. The KrisFlyer membership card is a must-have for anyone looking to reward themselves through travel and making each journey count.

How does it work?

Earn KrisFlyer miles both in the air and on the ground when you fly, stay, charge, call, book, drive or shop at any of the 200 world-class partners from around the world. 

What are the perks?

Redeem your miles for travel tickets to your favourite destinations from around the world

Upgrade your flight (from Economy to a higher class) for a more relaxing and comfortable journey

Save 15% on your miles when you redeem your award ticket online to any Singapore Airlines or SilkAir destination

Be the first to know about bi-monthly KrisFlyer promotions for better ways to earn miles

More frequent flyers can advance to higher levels of the KrisFlyer membership, experience even more benefits and exclusivity. These include:

 KrisFlyer Elite Silver

Achieved by earning 25,000 Elite miles within a 12-month period

A 25% tier bonus on KrisFlyer miles automatically

Priority reservation when you are waitlisted for a flight on partnering airlines

Enjoy waived or reduced fees on KrisFlyer services.

KrisFlyer Elite Gold

Achieved by earning 50,000 Elite miles within a 12-month period

Gain access into the KrisFlyer Gold Lounge in Singapore Changi Airport, as well as the hundred other exclusive lounges from around the world

Priority airport check-in at designated check-in counters

Extra baggage allowance (check-in an additional 20kg)

How to sign up?

There is a nominal fee to bear for being part of this privileged group, but if you’re able to take full advantage of the benefits and perks, it’s well worth it.

Interested? Apply for it here.

Bonus!

MUJI Membership Programme

If you’re a fan of modest homeware and Japanese simplicity, the ultra-minimalist MUJI is the perfect avenue to get all your lifestyle shopping done.

How does it work?

Every $20 spent earns you 1 MUJI Dollar, which can then be used to discount future purchases.

What are the perks?

Redeem MUJI Dollars with a minimum of S$10 spent

Accumulate 2x MUJI Dollars on one purchase made during your birthday month

Get first-hand news on exclusive sales, promotions and more 

How to sign up?

Apply for it at the counter when you spend S$100 in a single receipt.

[yahoosg-autoknowhow]

The hottest cars of 2017 we want to test drive

2017 is truly a year for grease monkeys and auto enthusiasts to rejoice. From cutting edge hybrids and practical hatchbacks to luxury limos, we take a look at some of the most anticipated wheels that will hit the Singapore highway this year.

The Class Act (Lexus LC500)

by Autoweek USA / Flickr

The Lexus LC500 takes style and elegance to a whole new level, sporting a generous 5.0L V8 engine up front, as well as a 10-speed automatic transmission. The luxury coupe not only performs like legend, it looks like one too, with its classy design and well-made interior.

The Green Machine (Hyundai Ioniq)

by Automobile Italia / Flickr

Hyundai is looking to take its hybrid to new heights with this groundbreaking feat of automotive engineering. With both petrol and electric propulsion, saving the environment has never looked this good. The Hyundai Ioniq is the ultimate eco-friendly machine, outfitted with state-of-the-art interior features, blind spot detection and smart cruise control.

Its engineers didn’t skimp on the driving experience either, equipping the vehicle with a six speed dual clutch automatic transmission, giving it plenty of torque and a fluent ride. 

The Reliable Runabout (Nissan Pulsar)

by Kārlis Dambrāns / Flickr

This simple family hatchback may not look like much from the outside, but the all-new Nissan Pulsar is loaded with key safety features and advanced technologies that make up for its average-looking exterior.

The Pulsar’s 1.2L turbocharged engine delivers 115 horsepower and a high torque responsiveness for both power and fuel efficiency. Pair this together with a high-quality fuel like Caltex with Techron® and you’ll be able to stretch your mileage and savings even further!

Its spacious interior also holds a surprisingly generous amount of room for both you and your passengers to enjoy, along with 285 litres of deep boot space for all your storage needs.

As for its key safety features, the Pulsar’s electronic stability control as well as an built-in emergency braking system has earned it 5 stars in the Euro NCAP safety rating. Impressive. 

The Head-turner (Audi R8 Spyder)

by tofoli.douglas / Flickr

Audi pulled out all the stops when it came to the incredibly sexy R8 Spyder. The futuristic convertible houses a ferocious V10 engine and produces a ripping 540 horsepower roar you’ll never get tired of hearing.

Combined with a lightweight aluminium monocoque and a peak torque of 540 Nm, the R8 can reach 100km/h in a mere 3.6 seconds!

Arguably one of the sleekest cars on this list, this modern supercar is sure to turn heads and make onlookers go “Wow”.

The Urban Explorer (Toyota C-HR)

by Werner Bayer / Flickr

The Toyota C-HR is the ‘new kid on the block’ when it comes to being fresh and bold. Sporting a stylish diamond motifs that gives it its signature look. Notable for being the second only hybrid crossover to come to the market, the C-HR (which stands for “Coupe High-Rider”) is best set for inner city driving and nipping in and out of traffic and narrow streets.

Handling is exceptional. Providing an easy and comfortable ride that works well in all environments and road surfaces. Together with a pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning and an adaptive cruise control, the Toyota C-HR looks to be a promising urban vehicle new drivers should definitely consider.

The Casino Royale (Aston Martin DB11)

by Matheus Swanson / Flickr

Aston Martin CEO Dr Andy Palmer said in a statement, “We aspire to make the most beautiful cars in the world...” And boy, do they ever!

The DB11 oozes sophistication, much like its secret agent counterparts.

Aside from the obvious beauty of its aluminum structure, beneath its bonnet lies a 5.2L twin-turbocharged V12 engine that produces 608 horsepower and 700 Nm of torque.

A perfect combination of exceptional design with the latest technology, the DB11 is truly an automotive work of art (rocket launchers, oil slicks, and the classic ejector seat not included!).

[yahoosg-autoknowhow]

Motoring Marvels - Aston Martin