Furama RiverFront Singapore Family Staycation Review

A32A9350

A big HELLO from The Chewys! It’s so difficult to take a proper family photo with two young kids these days and when we checked into Furama RiverFront Singapore for our staycation recently, we just had to pose for one in the gorgeous Family Room that we stayed in. We have made travel plans but it will only take place early next year, so in the meantime, Furama RiverFront promises to create equally memorable moments in their newly launched Family Rooms. Featuring a comfortable space with two queen beds in a colorful setting, The Chewys can attest to that!

A32A9346

When we tapped the electronic card and entered our room, Little misschewy ran in excitedly before exclaiming, “Wow! So nice!” The colorful wall certainly brightens up the room and we all know how important colors are in our lives!

A32A9348

The Family Rooms are spacious enough to accommodate up to two adults and two kids. Even though Mini misschewy has her own playpen at home, the four of us always co-sleep in our queen sized bed. It’s also the reason why we didn’t request for a baby cot for our stay at Furama Riverfront. Anyway, two queen sized beds! What luxury! Misterchewy and Little misschewy shared one bed, while I co-slept with Mini misschewy. It was awesome because I didn’t have to push any hand or leg out of my face, if you know what I mean! LOL.

PA290520

PA290523

A32A9344

There was a platter of fruits and some titbits such as iced gem biscuits and peanut candies in the room. Little misschewy was quick to help herself to the biscuits while lounging on the couch watching cartoon. She really knows how to pamper herself la!

A32A9460

Complimentary bottled water and hot drinks. Ooh there’s Milo too! Instead of using glasses, Furama RiverFront is thoughtful enough to place plastic cups and spoons in the Family Rooms. Don’t have to worry about kids breaking a glass and getting a bad cut from it!

A32A9461

Look who’s helping herself to a packet of full cream milk from the mini-bar? What you see in there is complimentary!

A32A9465

Bathrobes and bedroom slippers for adults and the little ones! Adorable!

A32A9335

A32A9337

Toiletries for children are also included!

A32A9469

Gotta love the step stool! Little misschewy was able to brush her teeth and wash her hands without having us to carry her.

The Square @ Furama
Credit: Furama Riverfront

After all the excitement, we got really hungry and proceeded to The Square @ Furama for late lunch.

Tykes @ The Square 2
Credit: Furama Riverfront

Children aged 4 years old and below dine for free when ordering from the special ala carte kid’s menu. Apart from that, there is a dedicated kid’s play area within the restaurant – Tykes @ The Square, with interesting and fun activities such as popular cartoon video screenings, activity sheets and free-play toys. Parents can finally eat in peace, but please don’t forget to watch over your kids while you eat ok!

PA290548

PA290537

We ordered some fresh honeydew juice to quench our thirst on this hot day! Totally refreshing!

PA290549

We ordered from the a la carte menu and I had the Hainanese chicken rice. The portion was quite generous and it was so delicious that it definitely satisfied my chicken rice craving!

PA290557

It took quite a while for the hubs’ lamb shank to arrive but it was totally worth the wait. The meat was cooked till fork-tender and it was still very succulent! Should have paired it with a glass of red!

Playroom - PAWS
Credit: Furama Riverfront

As part of Furama RiverFront’s efforts to create a family-friendly environment for guests, they have introduced the Kid’s playroom – PAWS at level 1, for juniors aged 5-11 years old. Children get to jump around on the trampoline, build their dream castle or empire with blocks, LEGO, and practice their drawing skills on the black or white board. The little ones can enjoy cartoon screenings at PAWS as well. Babysitting services are available at a minimal cost, and can be arranged by booking a day in advance. Great for busy parents!

A32A9479

As it had rained earlier that day, we decided to put off swimming to the next day. Furama RiverFront’s location is really convenient! The hubs and I wore the girls and we walked to Robertson Quay for dinner! It was a really short walk which took about 10 to 15 minutes. Loved the nightlife and variety of food choices there! But if you prefer to stay in the hotel, there’s buffet dinner available at The Square @ Furama!

A32A9473

A32A9500

Watched a bit of cartoon before calling it a night!

A32A9505

page

I didn’t wanna get out of bed the next morning because it was sooo comfy! By the time I woke up, it was already past 10am and the buffet breakfast closes at 10.30am! Misterchewy and Little misschewy went down to grab a quick bite while I continued to snuggle in bed with Mini misschewy.

A32A9325

It’s time for a dip in the pool! Whoohoo!

PA309489

Little misschewy loveeees being in the water and she could hardly contain her excitement!

PA309498

We brought our own float along but the hotel also provides pool noodles and styrofoam water guns.

PA309523

PA309522

PA309543

PA309556

Apart from the main pool, there is a baby pool which is great for kids to waddle in!

PA309553

PA309546

PA309561

PA309576

This is definitely the highlight of our stay! A gigantic inflatable waterslide! Even I got excited!

PA309569

PA309572

PA309570

PA309593

PA309597

Little misschewy was initially a little afraid to go down the slide, but with much encouragement from misterchewy and I, she finally did it! It was so fun that Little misschewy kept asking for “last one” when we told her it was time to go! We will be back next time!

A32A9355

Starting from $268 only, Furama RiverFront is having a special #FuramaKids staycation bundle which includes the following privileges:

– Complimentary breakfast
– Complimentary wifi
– Kids amenities upon request
– Access to swimming pool and Children’s play room – PAWS
– 50% discount for lunch/ dinner at The Square @ Furama and Kintamani
– Room accommodates 02 adults and up to 02 children (below 12 years old)
– Extra-bed is not allowed
– Enrolment to FURAMAfirst program with Gold status

Applies to bookings till 31 December 2016 and for stays till 31 March 2017.

Furama Riverfront
405 Havelock Road
Singapore 169633

For reservations:
Tel: +65 6739 6464
Email: reservations.riverfront@furama.com

Sheraton Towers Singapore Staycation 2016

A32A8180

We booked a two-night stay with Sheraton Towers Singapore on a whim recently because I’m due in about a month! Thought we should enjoy as much as we can now before the new baby arrives! Also, SPG is having a Triple Up promotion till end July for Sheraton properties so it was something we didn’t wanna miss! Our first time staying at Sheraton was last Valentine’s Day, and I had blogged about it briefly here.

A32A8165

Since I had my camera with me, I took a few photos of our room. I think it’s still the same as last year, but we got a room on a much higher floor this time. Very simple but spacious and comfortable room.

A32A8170

A32A8191

If I’m not wrong, the Handy smartphone is new. Didn’t see this last year. It is a complimentary smartphone service for guests to enjoy unlimited 3G internet and local calls. How awesome is that, especially for overseas guests!

A32A8172

A32A8173

A32A8238

I’m not sure who what where when why and how BUT we were so surprised when someone sent up a platter of desserts and a framed photograph taken during our Japan holiday. Coincidentally, it’s the photo that I use for my laptop’s wallpaper!

A32A8350

I was wearing the Lace Overlay Dress from Jump Eat Cry. The color and design are just so unique!

A32A8450

We wanted to enjoy one day of peace and quiet, so Little misschewy joined us only on the second day. LOL. After brunch and looking at some rabbits in the East, we basically nua-ed the whole day in our room and ordered food via Deliveroo.

A32A8452

So engrossed in the cartoon!

A32A8455

A32A8474

It will be a party of four for our next staycation! 😀

Hotel Kai Singapore Staycation Review

Sponsored Staycation

Hotel Kai
(Image taken from Hotel Kai’s Facebook Page)

The hubs and I were recently invited to review a boutique hotel named Hotel Kai, along Purvis Street. Having stayed in a number of hotels over the past few years, it is a refreshing change staying in Hotel Kăi which is centrally located in the heart of Singapore’s historic Civic District. Housed in a beautifully restored conservation shophouse, re-birthed with a unique blend of history and modernity, misterchewy and I were both very eager and looking forward to a cosy weekend together!

P6200102

Two Hotel Kai staff were all smiles and greeted us at the reception area the moment we stepped in. The area is actually quite small but there is a lounge area beside it for guests. Hotel Kai lives by the philosophy, “Small is More” which is evident from the small little touches and services that can be found in big luxury hotels.

P6200042

We were really thrilled when we stepped into our Urban Heritage room which spans 25sqm. The first thing we did when we saw the flight of stairs in our room, was to scurry upstairs to see what’s on the second floor. Who wouldn’t? More on that later!

P6200046

We really like the clean and minimalist design of our room which exudes a modern yet homely feel. It wasn’t difficult for us to feel right at home! Yes, there is complimentary Internet access (Wi-Fi) provided.

P6200047

Impressed to find a washing machine and a microwave oven! It’s really convenient for guests who prefer to settle everything in the comfort of their own rooms.

P6200088

I know these are the few standard amenities that most hotels provide but I have come across boutique hotels that do not.

P6200043

P6200089

Hotel Kai does not scrimp on bathroom amenities either. They provide just about everything a hotel guest needs for a comfortable stay.

P6200090

P6200048

P6200049

Our Urban Heritage room is able to accommodate up to 3 adults and the additional super single bed is found on the second floor. Actually, misterchewy, little misschewy and I can fit in a super single bed but that’s another story. We noted that the temperature is a little warmer on the upper floor during the day but things were slightly better at night.

P6200093

P6200091

P6200092

Complimentary tea, coffee and Oreos! Awesome!

P6200095

Back to the Queen sized bed on the first floor!

P6200094

We found this really cool remote control located at the side of the bed. Actually the super single bed upstairs also has it. You can adjust the angle of the bed to a comfortable position for lounging, reading or sleeping! There’s even a vibration mode which we did not enjoy. Lol.

P6200097

Light switch and socket to charge your devices.

P6200052

Another thing that I like about our Urban Heritage room in Hotel Kai is that it allows sufficient natural light into the room for nice photos!

P6200036

P6200076

We celebrated Father’s Day that weekend but I will share more about it in a separate blog post 🙂

P6200101

The both of us had a blissful uninterrupted sleep and woke up feeling refreshed the next morning! Went for our breakfast at Bistrokăi downstairs.

P6210150

The buffet spread was small but my favorite scrambled eggs and pancakes were offered!

P6210142

P6210144

P6210145

The food was quite good and we went for a second helping.

P6210148

P6200079

Indeed, “Small is More” at Hotel Kai and the entire stay definitely surpassed our expectations of a boutique hotel. I would recommend Hotel Kai to travellers on a budget and to couples who just want to experience a staycation together without breaking the bank. Click here to find out more about the room rates and availability.
Stay connected with us on Facebook www.facebook.com/missuschewy and on Instagram @missuschewy and @misterchewy 🙂

Hotel Kai
14 Purvis Street
Singapore 188593
Tel: +65 6643 9999
Fax: +65 6871 8931
Email: info@hotelkai.com

Celebrating My Birthday & Our 3rd Year Dating Anniversary

DSCF0140

YOOHOO CHEWYS! It’s my birthday today! Please don’t ask me how old I am, just wish me happy birthday can liao! Hahaha. This post is a short summary of how we celebrated my birthday and our 3rd year dating anniversary over the weekend. Just nice our dating anniversary is on 26 July and my birthday is on 31 July, so it’s a tradition for us to celebrate these two special occasions together every year. Likewise for misterchewy’s birthday and our wedding anniversary, which both fall on 9 September 🙂

DSCF0094

I wanted the weekend to be a special one, and made sure that we indulged in some activity that we had not done together before. So, watching movie, karaoke, kite flying, etc were all ruled out. The husband wanted to sign us up for a cooking class with AFC Studio but he was informed that the studio was under renovation. To save misterchewy from the planning, I suggested attending a miniature food clay art lesson together! Actually, I was inspired by my good friend misstamchiak. She is able to make so many types of food clay that look so nice and impressive! I’m glad misterchewy enjoyed the lesson as much as I did! I did the sushi while misterchewy did the ‘McDonald’s extra value meal’. LOL! Will blog about this soon! 😉

photo

After the clay making lesson, we checked into Novotel Clarke Quay Hotel. Breathtaking view from the balcony of our room!

Novotel

Our premier room was very comfortable but the air conditioning was too cold despite our countless attempts to bring up the temperature. Our next blog post will most likely be a staycation review!

OTTO

Usually, I would have found out about whatever surprise dinner plans that the husband had for me in the past but this time, I decided not to probe him at all. When we finally stood outside OTTO Ristorante, misterchewy seemed very pleased with the shocked/surprised expression on my face. Keep a lookout for the review!

_MG_8094

And lastly, misterchewy spent more than $1.5K on this ultra sexy Fujifilm X100S as a birthday and anniversary present for me. Knowing that I had recently been considering getting a compact camera because lugging a DSLR with macro lens, wide angle lens and external flash (on my own if he cannot accompany me to tastings or events) is no joke, he parted with his money readily and got me the best compact camera (with his budget) after consulting some of his friends. The amount might not be huge to some, but to me, it is a lot of money given that we are a newly married couple and we are trying our best to save as much as we can for our future home. The husband says that it’s ok, money can always be earned back. Yes it’s true but I hope he doesn’t have this mentality all the time! All photos in this post except for the above and the panorama shot of Clarke Quay were taken with the Fujifilm X100S. Will there be a tech review for this baby? Maybe yes, maybe no. We shall see 😉

I really had a marvellous birthday and dating anniversary celebration and all I wanna say is a big thank you to my husband from the bottom of my heart 🙂

Stay connected with us on Facebook www.facebook.com/missuschewy and on Instagram @missuschewy and @misterchewy

The Chewys’ Guide to Valentine’s Day

_MG_3313

What comes right after Chinese New Year? Yes, Valentine’s Day! Rejoice because you should have collected enough angbao money just in time to splurge on this fabulous occasion! Yipee! Ummm.. But if you are giving out angbao instead then.. hmm nvm la 😛 While The Chewys are not dating or love gurus, we would still like to share some ideas as to how to spend Valentine’s Day with The One this year! 😀 Please note that the following listed below are based on our personal tastes and preferences 😉

Begin the Special Day with Brunch

_MG_2462

Nothing beats waking past noon together with your loved one and digging into some thick, fluffy blueberry pancakes the laid-back way at the charming and majestic Alkaff Mansion. Go for a stroll at Telok Blangah Hill Park after brunch!

Jiemei meetup @ Au Chocolat 012

If you wanna impress your date, take her to Au Chocolat at Marina Bay Sands. The eggs benedict smothered in dark chocolate infused hollandaise sauce are something unique. Remember to thank us if she happens to be a chocolate lover.

_MG_4836

Not a fan or eggs or pancakes? The Lawn at Biopolis serves really great tasting salads with a wide range of delicious grilled meat. The location might be a bit off, but hey, The Star Vista is just opposite!

Daytime Dating Activity

_MG_3445com

If you belong to the group who thinks that everyday is Valentine’s Day and prefer to spend it in a relaxing way, grab a kite and head down to Marina Barrage! Remember to slather on some sunblock!

RWS S.E.A Aquarium 420

Your date doesn’t like the sun? Well, there are plenty of indoor activities! The S.E.A. Aquarium at Resorts World Sentosa is certainly not to be missed! Be marvelled as the colorful fishes swim by~

DSC_1155

There’s always a first time for everything. Make your Valentine’s Day a memorable one by doing an indoor skydiving at iFly Singapore together! It might only be a few seconds of excitement in the wind tunnel but the memories are yours to keep for a lifetime.

Unwind with an Afternoon Tea

_MG_3827

Always remember, ladies love to be pampered. After a long day, take her to a cosy and dainty place such as Fullhouse Themed Restaurant. We’re sure that she will be thrilled for being treated like a princess.

Us @ Arteastiq

Located at Mandarin Gallery, Arteastiq gives a unique high tea experience in Orchard like no other! The famous apple cake and orange cake are some of their must-try items besides their dessert teas.

_MG_0446

Duxton Hill area at Tanjong Pagar has a number of eateries and cafes. If your lady has a sweet tooth, she is likely to say yes to the drunken Spanish sponge cake and churros at Sabio Tapas Bar & Restaurant. Oh, there are many bridal studios around the area. If you are ready to take your relationship to another level, you know what to do 😉

Romantic Dinner for Two

_MG_3569

Try not to max out your stomach space during afternoon tea because this is where the important part comes. I’m sure you wanna make this really memorable for your special one right? One of our top picks for a romantic dinner for two is Backyard@Dempsey. You can totally be in a world of your own, surrounded by lush greenery around you. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious so you and your date can really be yourselves and enjoy the moment! Toast to the occasion with a glass of Kronenbourg or two.

_MG_6693

Oh yeah, it’s the Kronenbourg again. Haha. In our opinion, the more inaccessible the dinner place is for special occasions like this, the more brownie points you score. The Coastal Settlement is kinda secluded but the truffle mushroom fettuccine makes the trip worthwhile.

_MG_6978

For exquisite Italian fare, Senso Ristorante & Bar is the place to go to. Don’t forget to open a bottle of wine and clink glasses! Psst.. Senso serves really awesome chocolate molten lava cake!

_MG_4101

Stellar at 1-Altitude is bound to burn a hole in your pocket but it’s only a small price to pay to make your date feel on top of the world. Don’t forget to dress to impress.

Ku De Ta Valentine's Day Tasting

Another very romantic dinner location is none other than KU DÉ TA at Marina Bay Sands. From the 57th floor, the beautiful view of the city will take anyone’s breath away. After dinner, adjourn to the KU DÉ TA club lounge and party the night away!

Staycation in Singapore

_MG_0189

This is not a must but a staycation in Singapore is one of the most romantic thing that a guy can plan for a girl and vice versa. Grand Park Orchard is very ideal considering that it is located along Orchard Road. You have the option of catching a midnight movie at Cineleisure or borrowing a DVD from the hotel which means you can snuggle up to your partner under the sheets 😉

_MG_7113

For a romantic staycation experience like no other, Wanderlust Hotel is our favorite pick. There are various themed rooms but we reckon that the Space room is the best.

Just relax, be yourselves and have fun. Hope this gives everyone an idea or two about how to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year! Connect with us at our Facebook page and feel free to ask us any questions! 😀

Dining at Grand Park Orchard: Open House Restaurant and Bar Canary

Media Invite

_MG_0102

Happy Friday, chewy chewy folks! As mentioned in my Grand Park Orchard staycation post, I am gonna tell you more about the buffet dinner that misterchewy and I had at Open House Restaurant on the day that we checked into the hotel.

_MG_0099

Located in the heart of Orchard Road, Open House Restaurant focuses on dishing out numerous local culinary delights as well as serving a la minute signature dishes such as pizzas and dim sum.

_MG_0033

The Cold Buffet Selection consists of sushi, salads and other cold cuts.

_MG_0031

We kicked off our dinner with some Japanese Sushi! Of course, we had to resist carrying the entire tray back to our table. It was a pity that they don’t serve sashimi.

_MG_0043

There are four ‘live’ cooking stations at Open House Restaurant. Starting with the Roast Meats with Noodles or Rice station, we have Chef Jacky Chua expertly chopping up a roasted duck for us.

_MG_0046

_MG_0068

We don’t have an enormous appetite so we decided to only try two of the roast meats. We were very satisfied with the Roast Duck as it was tender and had a very nice, deep flavor. The sauce was so good on its own that we didn’t even bother with the chili. Not forgetting the crisp and crackling skin!

_MG_0070

I have to say that the Roast Pork Belly was equally good too and it went really well with mustard. Very tempted to order another serving.

_MG_0048

Actually, I would see the Noodles station as separate from the roast meats station because they have laksa etc and you don’t really need to order say a plate of chicken before you can enjoy your laksa.

_MG_0077

Again, we only had two types of noodles. The Laksa was pretty decent and I guess the spiciness would work well for the average Singaporean and probably suitable for most tourists who are keen on trying our local food.

_MG_0079

We were recommended to try the Szechuan Noodles but I felt that it wasn’t sour and spicy enough like how the typical Szechuan noodles should taste like. In fact, it was neither here nor there.

_MG_0028

Both of us were excited upon knowing that there is a Dim Sum station!

_MG_0229

Heh heh.. Dim sum gone in a flash! Can tell that it’s very popular with the rest of the diners too right?

_MG_0071

Both the Har Gau and Siew Mai did not disappoint and I kinda regret that we did not eat the glutinous rice, radish cake and BBQ pork bun!

_MG_0036

We were pleasantly surprised that there is a Claypot station too!

_MG_0035

_MG_0081

I wish I could put in some good words for the Waxed Meat & Chinese Sausage Claypot Rice but it could have tasted better with more salted fish (if there were any at all, I can’t remember). Also, the claypot rice wasn’t cooked long enough for the fragrance to come through. And also, more sauce please!

_MG_0030

_MG_0034

_MG_0082

We went for our usual choice of pizza which is the Frutti Di Mare. Pizza dough was thick and chewy enough for our liking. Crust was also quite moist.

_MG_0075

Festive All-You-Can-Eat (till 23 Dec)
Lunch: S$42++ per person
Dinner: S$58++ per person

All-You-Can-Eat (26 – 30 Dec)
Lunch: S$25++ per person
Dinner: S$33++ per person

Here’s something for you guys! Quote “missuschewy” during reservations via phone (6603 8855) or email (fnb.gpor@parkhotelgroup.com) and 1 gets to dine free with every three paying guests at Open House for All-you-can-eat lunch or dinner! Please note that this offer is valid till 30 December (not applicable on 24 & 25 December).

Christmas Eve All-You-Can-Eat (24 Dec)
Lunch: S$42++ per person
Dinner: S$98++ per person
(Includes free flow of wines, chilled juices & soft drinks)

Christmas Day All-You-Can-Eat (25 Dec)
Lunch / Dinner: S$68++ per person
(Add S$50++ per person to enjoy free flow of Champagne, wines & soft drinks)

New Year’s Eve All-You-Can-Eat (31 Dec)
Lunch: S$33++ per person
Dinner: S$148++ per person
(Includes free flow of Champagne, wines, beers, House Pour spirits & soft drinks till 12.30am)

_MG_0050

_MG_0097

_MG_0064

_MG_0156

After a bit of strolling around after dinner, we headed to Bar Canary for drinks. It was fantastic chilling out under the stars!

_MG_0158

On ladies night (Wednesday), there is a 50% discount on champagnes, wines and standard housepours.

_MG_0159

Bar Canary’s talented bartender, Ryan, has come up with some Christmas specials that will put a smile on everyone’s faces! Misterchewy and I really enjoyed the drinks!

_MG_0161

_MG_0162

_MG_0166

_MG_0168

_MG_0169

Peanut Butter Martini ($18++)

_MG_0172

_MG_0176

Santanilla ($18++)

_MG_0304

Thank you Park Hotel Group for the invitation.

Grand Park Orchard
270 Orchard Road
Singapore 238857
Tel: 6603 8888
Email: info.gpor@parkhotelgroup.com