Regina Chow - Singapore Fashion, Beauty & Travel Blog
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Lifestyle
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Regina Chow - Singapore Fashion, Beauty & Travel Blog
  • About Me
  • Fashion
  • Travel
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  • Lifestyle
  • Personal Thoughts
Beauty, Uncategorized

Svenson Trichology Hair Products Review

May 25, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments
[This post was written by Isabelle, a permanent writer on Shopping Queen’s Haven.]

Isn’t it true that hair completes a look? Perhaps that’s why we always bemoan bad hair days, as we instinctively feel the difference that great hair makes us look and feel.
It was therefore a pleasure to learn more about hair care and hair health from Svenson, the leading expert in solutions in hair and scalp problems with over 40 years of trichological expertise and knowledge. The scalp is actually an extension of our skin, so just as we spend lots of time and effort on our facial care and body care, we should not neglect our scalp. And indeed we’ll be thankful for it later when we do not need to battle hair loss problems, but enjoy the benefits of luscious, healthy, shiny hair!
Debunking Hair Myths
During the Svenson expert talk, they did a careful analysis of my hair and scalp, and also shared many professional tips that debunk hair myths we might have believed in.
Did you know that it is recommended to use combs with wooden bristles, as plastic bristles cause greater static and frizz? When applying styling products, you should also avoid getting them onto the scalp. Also, always wash your hair daily, especially in our hot and humid weather.
I have to admit that many years of hair dye and perms have inevitably caused damage to my hair. More importantly, I also need to continue to take care of my scalp to ensure my hair follicles can grow healthily.
That explained why I was really excited to try the treatments and shampoos, and immediately tried the entire regime as soon as I got home after the Svenson event.



Svenson Trichology Pre-Shampoo Treatment
Firstly, I applied the Svenson Trichology Pre-Shampoo Treatment to unwashed scalp, section by section. Then I used my fingertips to gently massage it into my scalp, left it for 2 minutes, and rinsed it off. So simple!
During the 2 minutes, what did I do? I was reading the label (I really like reading up on products): Svenson products are a concentrated blend of carefully selected botanicals and protective herbs combined with advanced bio-chemical technology, designed to help you achieve healthy scalp and strong beautiful hair. Sounds promising.
Svenson Volumizing Shampoo
Next, I started my hair wash. All it took was a small amount (around 50 cent size) of the Volumizing Shampoo rubbed in palm to create a very nice lather that I massaged through from scalp to ends, then washed.
I loved how the rich lather thoroughly cleansed my hair and scalp without stripping my hair of its natural oils.

Svenson PLGA Total Solution
And finally, the crowning jewel : Svenson’s PLGA Total Solution!
It is one of Svenson’s best-selling hair care treatments, and is a breakthrough Do-It-Yourself home treatment that combines remarkable properties of the rare Loquat leaf and nanotechnology to produce noticeably thicker, fuller-looking hair for those suffering from thinning hair. 
The key active compound extracted from the Loquat leaf is Corosolic acid, traditionally used as a herbal medicine. It encourages better blood circulation and manages testosterone level, often the primary cause of hair loss.
The PLGA Total Solution is to be applied daily after hair wash using a light head massage on problem areas, and a typical complete treatment process will take six months of consistent application. But the great news is, from as early as two months, a gradual increase in fine hair growth at alopecia neurotic areas might start to appear.

Do the products work?

Every time after I wash my hair, I experience a huge amount of hair fall. When I shared my concerns with the Svenson Expert, I was assured that hair fall after each hair wash is normal. We should not be afraid to wash our hair daily simply because we are worried about the amount of hair fall each time. After all, as they shared, the hair would fall, regardless of wash or not. Instead, washing daily and then applying the treatment is the proper way to treat and regain healthy scalp and hair. This was indeed reassuring to hear!
And the results speak for themselves. After I finished washing my hair and treating my scalp that night, I did my daily blow dry (remember not to sleep with a wet scalp), and I was so excited with the results that I immediately texted my friend to say it was amazing how my hair felt so light and bouncy. I could truly feel the difference. It was such a pity that night to sleep with my happy-looking hair (or rather, I was happy, haha!). I have been faithfully using the products these 3 weeks, and I can attest to the great results.
Besides using these products, I have been religiously following the Svenson 5-Step Massage to increase circulation, facilitate absorption and release tension.
Remember, do not hesitate to kick-start a good hair and scalp regime. You will certainly reap the benefits for a long time to come!
****
About the writer Isabelle:
An MBTI personality profile that believes in making the world a better place (one starfish at a time), Isabelle is a communications professional who enjoys creating good memories for others, and balances realism with a healthy dose of joie de vivre and can-do positivity. 
****

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Fashion, Uncategorized

Fashion: 5 Female Celebrity Styles with a Backpack

May 23, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments


Think
backpacks are only for students? Well, the memo is out: backpacks are back and
they are more chic than ever. You’d be surprised at how many ways you can wear
your backpack with style.
No
longer just meant to carry heavy textbooks, backpacks are now making a
statement as an accessory for the out-and-about girl on the street. With so
many textures, fabrics, prints and colour palettes available for
experimentation, designers are flexing their creative muscles to produce
stylish backpacks worthy of every occasion.
If
you’re aching to switch your handbags or clutches for something comfier, take
your pick from the array of backpacks for women online. But first, check out what the stars are wearing.
Here are 5 celebrities who are also feeling the trend:
1.
Olivia Wilde
Olivia
Wilde’s style has always been utilitarian chic. The brainy and beautiful
actress does not waste time on pointless accessories, and prefers pieces that
are practical yet stylish instead. Here, she carries a limited-edition army
canvas backpack she helped design with Alternative Apparel to fund the Academy
for Peace and Justice in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. At the launch event of the
collection, Olivia teamed her backpack with an A.L.C. printed maxi skirt, a
black racer-back tank top, and brown ankle-strap sandals.”
2.
Bella Thorne
I know,
what a crazy outfit, right? Especially for Bella Thorne, who is usually seen in
sweet dresses and heels. But somehow, this outfit is so outlandish it works.
From the checked sneakers to the bright green jeans to the pink-heart-shaped
sunglasses and bright red Boohoo Natalie backpack, Bella is doing quirky cute
right. Bonus accessory: an adorable puppy.
3.
Mary-Kate Olsen
One
half of the trend-setting Olsen twins, Mary-Kate Olsen flaunts her avant-garde
style here with an embroidered emerald jacket by Dries Van Noten, a loose black
top, dark wash skinnies and a Pendleton leather and fabric backpack. The
backpack lends a touch of laidback earthiness to the elaborate outfit and tames
down the eye-catching jacket for a more casual vibe.
4. Kate
Bosworth
As a
lover of all things pink and girly, I’m in love with Kate Bosworth’s ensemble
here. That furry Isabel Marent sweater is all kinds of cute when matched with
pastel pink shorts and a white backpack from Alexander Wang. To avoid going
overboard with the sweetness, she slipped into a pair of brown ankle boots and
a pair of Ray Ban aviator shades that look sleek with a high ponytail. The
effect is ladylike and smart-casual.
5.
Selena Gomez
Another
proponent of the boots and shorts trend, Selena Gomez goes for a boho-inspired
look with an oversized oatmeal-coloured Free People top and brown knit scarf,
cutoffs and brown ankle boots. The black backpack casually slung from her arm
adds a touch of edginess to the laidback outfit.
 Which is your favourite style?
Thanks for reading and have a good weekend ahead!

 

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Fashion, Uncategorized

Singapore Fashion Week OOTD: White on White

May 21, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

May has been a busy month for me but by some stroke of luck, I managed to make it down for one of the shows at Singapore Fashion Week. Here’s what I wore to the Star Creation: The Winners’ Collection fashion show.  
The white-on-white trend seems to be here to stay, and it is easy to see why. Clean, sharp and chic, standing out from the crowd with an all white ensemble is a breeze. It also provides the perfect canvas for accessorizing, but if you prefer to keep things simple, go for the minimalist look with just a touch of accessories. If you think the outfit is too white for you, you can always jazz it up with a pop of colour, like I did with my bag and strappy gold heels.
Dress from Keepsake // Cape Blazer from Love Bonito // Heels from Vera Wang // Bag from Hermes

The white geometric tube dress I have on is yet another quality classic piece from Australian label Keepsake. I love how the structured silhouette and asymmetrical hemline add a dose of edginess to the otherwise feminine dress. 
Speaking of Australia, I am looking forward to my Gold Coast getaway that’s happening in just a bit. I seem to have so many things on my plate these days and I just need my precious “me” time to relax and recharge. 
If you’re interested in what I’ll be up to in Gold Coast, you may wish to follow me on instagram (@reginachow_sg) and snapchat (@reginachow_sg) as I will be sharing instant updates on these two platforms when I’m away! 

Have a great weekend ahead!
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Lifestyle, Uncategorized

Florida's Natural Juices (Giveaway Winners)

May 17, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments
I have always been a loyal fan of Florida’s Natural juices and my favourite is their Orange Juice with Most Pulp (Product of USA). Squeezed from Valencia oranges and not from concentrate, it is the next best alternative to having freshly squeezed juice.
Nothing else comes close, and naturally, I couldn’t conceal my excitement when I had the opportunity to be a part of their latest campaign, where I got to find out more about Florida’s Natural range of juices and their multiple uses through 3 challenges (hidden within the envelopes labelled A, B and C in the photo below) that were posed to me.
If you follow me on my Facebook page here, you may already have participated in my recent Florida’s Natural Juices Giveaway where the winner will receive 1-month’s supply of juices from Florida’s Natural. I asked you to choose the sequence in which I should open the envelopes which would determine the order of the challenges that I take up. 
Which sequence did I pick in the end?  
Who is the winner of this giveaway? 
Sorry for keeping you in suspense for so long!  The winner of the giveaway will be revealed at the end of this post, but meanwhile, read on to find out more about each challenge.
Challenge B: Cooking (Orange-Sesame Noodles with Grilled Shrimp)

I started with Challenge B, a cooking challenge using Florida’s Natural Orange Juice. 

Yes, that’s right. Orange Juice.

Before you start frowning at the idea, I have to tell you that I have tried using freshly squeezed orange juice to marinate shrimps previously. However, this was my first time using Florida’s Natural Orange Juice or any juice straight out of a carton for that matter as a sauce for soba noodles and I wasn’t so sure if it would taste good.
Here’s the recipe if you’re interested in recreating this dish:
Ingredients
1/4 cup fresh orange juice (I used the Most Pulp version)
3 tablespoons tamari
3 tablespoons peanut butter (I used organic unsalted peanut butter, but I think the sinful version would taste better)
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
2 teaspoons grated orange zest
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
10 ounce soba noodles
1 cup snow peas
1 carrot, cut into matchsticks (I used baby carrots as they’re sweeter and there’s no need to cut them up)
1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (I used ready cooked frozen shrimp for convenience)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
Preparation
1. Combine first 7 ingredients in a large bowl to make orange juice sauce.
2. Boil noodles according to package directions. Before draining, add snow peas and carrots to cook for 30 seconds.
3. Drain pasta, peas and carrots and toss immediately with orange juice sauce. Set aside.
4. Brush shrimp with sesame oil and grill over medium-hot stove for 3-5 minutes
5. Arrange pasta on serving plate, topped with shrimps.
And here’s presenting my final dish! I was surprised that it actually tasted better than expected. It had a pleasant nutty taste accompanied by a refreshing citrus flavour. I used organic unsalted peanut butter but I have a gut feel that this would taste better with the more sinful version.

Challenge C: Flatlay (What’s on my table?)

My next pick was Challenge C, which also turned out to be the easiest challenge for me as I love flatlays. I did a flatlay of my favourite beauty products, accessories (the lovely people who packed my challenge chose this gorgeous floral wreath and floral ring for me), and not forgetting Florida’s Natural Ruby Red Grapefruit Juice.

Since we are on the topic of beauty, did you know that grapefruit juice promotes a healthy complexion and helps with weight loss too? It gives you more energy at the same time and decreases the risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease too.  

Now, I’m sure this gives you ample reasons to start consuming grapefruit juice! I have just started taking grapefruit juice during breakfast every morning so I always have a carton of Florida’s Natural Ruby Red Grapefruit Juice in my fridge. You should try it too!

If you prefer something a little sweeter, you could give Florida’s Natural Cranberry Ruby Red Juice a try. Cranberry juice acts as a sweetener and promotes urinary tract health too, which is perfect for us ladies.


Challenge A: Upcycling (Juice Carton Desk Organiser)

I wished the challenges were as easy as ABC (in that order), but the truth was, I was stumped by Challenge A. I was tasked to upcycle an empty carton of juice and in a nutshell, what this means is I had to make a useful product out of waste materials. I have to say it is a very meaningful task, but handicraft is definitely not one of my strengths.
Thankfully, with the help of my brother who loves art and craft, we managed to convert the juice carton into a desk organizer to store my girly stationery. As frivolous as my pens may look, don’t you agree that they’re so adorable? Looking at them brightens up my day instantly. 

If you’re interested in making your own desk organiser, follow the instructions below:
What you need
 Empty juice carton
Craft knife
Hole punch
Preparation
1. Thoroughly wash and dry the interior and exterior of the juice carton. Use your craft knife to cut out an entire flap on the side of the carton.
2. Use your hole punch to punch several holes all over the flap that you cut out. Note that you have to use a hole punch that is able to create larger holes. The usual puncher does not work as well, so I used this hole punch that I purchased from Art Friend instead: 
3. Use blu tack to stick the reverse side of the flap back onto the side of the carton.
Here’s a close-up of the final product:
I had a lot of fun with these creative challenges and I certainly hope this post has given you a better idea of what you can do with your Florida’s Natural juices.
And now’s the time for the big reveal. 
Did you guess the sequence of my challenges correctly? 
 For those of you who guessed BCA, you could very well be my giveaway winner! 

Giveaway Winner Announcement
There are two winners for this giveaway and they will each walk away with 1-month worth of Florida’s Natural Juices. 

The winners are:
1) Serene Tay

2) Tan Bee Leng

Please drop me an email at regina.chow@gmail.com. Florida’s Natural will get in touch with you directly to make the necessary arrangements.

Thank you once again for participating in this giveaway. I took a while to sieve through all the comments as there were more than 100 responses! 
Missed this giveaway? I’ll be holding giveaways regularly, so do follow me on Facebook here for more updates!
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Fashion, Uncategorized

Fashion Fridays: REDValentino Takashimaya

May 15, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

REDValentino is one of my favourite brands. It epitomizes the feminine, preppy chic style peppered with quirky, whimsical elements.
“The REDValentino girl is an adventurer, a citizen of the world. She is
open minded and ironic, she speaks all the languages as she embodies the
contemporary. Intelligent and self-reliant, she likes to dare and to
rebel to common rules. She is a dreamer but has the capability of being
down to earth too. Inspired by the exciting new world unfolding around
her, she borrows bits and pieces and makes them her own.”
I always feel like I’ve walked into a fairy-tale when I step foot into a REDValentino store and the dreamlike experience continues in REDValentino’s third store in Singapore at Takashimaya, Ngee Ann City.

The new 116 square metre boutique, designed by Creative Directors Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli of Maison Valentino, currently stocks its Spring/Summer 2015 Collection.

White is the unifying theme for the store as it provides a blank canvas with which you can put together the outfit of your dreams and create your own fairy tale. 
It is a place where you can unleash your imagination and let your dreams and aspirations of becoming a princess come alive.

Bold prints in nautical colours, dreamy pastels, floral prints, polka dots and tutu skirts are what you can expect from REDValentino’s Spring/Summer 2015 collection. These feminine, timeless styles are injected with a dash of playfulness and a sense of adventure that is unique only to the REDValentino girl. 
Here are just some of my favourites (I would love to have them in my wardobe!): 
Red Valentino
Address:
Ngee Ann City #03-15 
Opening Hours:
10am – 930pm
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Beauty, Uncategorized

Beauty: Skin Shape Club Skin Shaper Plus Facial Review

May 14, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

Constant traveling and my hectic city lifestyle are reasons why my skin looks the way it does these days – dull and dehydrated. I am usually very diligent when it comes to exfoliating and masking the minute I get back to Singapore, but there are times when masks just don’t cut it anymore and a facial is required for that immediate pick-me-up.
My main gripe about facials is that a thorough treatment typically sets me back by about two to three hours on average, making it difficult for busy bees like you and me to indulge in these treatments regularly. Not many of us have the luxury of time, hence when I discovered Skin Shape Club which offers facial treatments that only take between 30 minutes to 1 hour per session, I knew I found a gem.
Located in the heart of town in Orchard Central, Skin Shape Club was established in April 2015 as a boutique wellness club to allow members to learn more about beauty and wellness, as well as to receive clinically-proven skin and slimming treatments to keep you looking great all year round.
Skin Shape Club has an in-house R&D team that works with doctors and dermal experts both locally and overseas to design treatments and programs that can be done daily, weekly and monthly. Skin Shape Club is also acutely aware that most ladies already have a basic skincare routine, hence a range of skincare boosters was exclusively developed to suit your lifestyle and complement your existing skincare products. This series of skin essence is able to address any skin issues (e.g. clogged pores, pigmentation, wrinkles and dark eye circles) that you currently encounter and can be easily incorporated into your regular skincare regimen.

As the treatment
duration is between 30 minutes to 1 hour, it suits my busy lifestyle and
I love how I can just pop in during lunch and return to the office with
glowing skin.
Whatever your concerns may be, be it wrinkles, acne or pigmentation, you can be assured that Skin Shape Club’s Skin Shaper Plus Program will deliver noticeable results without any downtime. Here’s what you can expect from the Skin Shaper Plus Program:
  • No downtime
  • Gentle treatments
  • Discreet as there are no side-effects
  • Fast treatments

The Skin Shaper Plus Facial combines light and heat energy with Skin Shape Club’s signature serum-infused facial massage to achieve younger looking skin. 
LHE technology (Light & Heat Energy) helps to promote skin rejuvenation, collagen regeneration and combat acne conditions. The diagrams below show how it works:
  
I had just returned from a week-long work trip on my first visit to Skin Shape Club and I desperately needed to revive my dull-looking skin. In the photo below, you can tell that my skin was really dull, which makes me look much darker than I usually am. 

It may not be very apparent from this photo but I have rather severe pigmentation on my upper cheeks as well, hence I was also hoping that the LHE Technology would be able to lighten these marks.


 How does LHE differ from similar light based treatments such as IPL? 

Unlike IPL, which can burn the skin and thus requires the use of cooling gel, LHE uses lower energy frequency as it combines two energies (light and heat) to give you optimal results with greater comfort and safety. It is suitable for most skin types and skin tones, but those with very dark skin would need to undergo a consultation process prior to the treatment so that the therapist can adjust the settings of the machine to suit your skin tone.

 Cleansing and exfoliating are integral steps before treatment begins as impurities are removed to allow the light heat energy to better penetrate into your skin. The LHE applicator is then placed onto your skin (including your eye area) where pulses of light will be administered. A slightly warm sensation is felt as the pulses of light and heat penetrate deep into your skin. The treatment is very gentle and comfortable, without the shocking rubber-snapping sensation that you would expect from a typical IPL treatment. 

After the LHE treatment, your skin is all prepared to absorb skin-loving nutrients. This is the best time for Skin Shape Club’s signature facial massage followed by a mask. 
Although the entire process took only about 50 minutes, it was truly a relaxing and pampering experience as the therapist gently soothed my tense facial muscles. Before long, I was lulled into a deep slumber.

I wasn’t expecting immediate results as 6-12 weekly sessions are usually required, hence I was pleasantly surprised to see a significant difference in my skin tone after just one session. Can you tell that my skin is more radiant and much brighter than before? I literally woke up to beautiful skin.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of my skin before treatment, after my first session and after my second session at Skin Shape Club, taken in the same treatment room under the same lighting. To say that I was amazed by the results is an understatement. I could hardly believe my eyes, but pictures don’t lie. I became two shades fairer, my pores have become more refined and the pigmentation on my upper cheek has lightened tremendously.  The treatment does work wonders!

(L-R): Before treatment, After 1st session, After 2nd session
I was advised to avoid sun exposure and oily/alcohol based products for 48 hours after treatment. It is important to apply sunblock religiously too.
 
And if you were wondering if there are any side-effects, the answer is no, so you can head back to office or even go to a party right after. A small percentage of individuals may experience slight redness immediately after the treatment but this would only last for a couple of hours. 

Beyond its effective treatments, what I really love about Skin Shape Club is that its services extend beyond just facial or slimming treatments. If you have some time to spare, you can always feel free to have a snack, sip some tea or simply relax and read a magazine in their exclusive members-only lounge. 

Healthy light snacks are specially prepared for you in the lounge after each treatment. I have been there twice thus far and on both occasions, the food was so delicious I had to have two servings.

I don’t usually find myself looking forward to facial treatments but as I am writing this, I am eagerly anticipating my next treatment session at Skin Shape Club.
If you are concerned about wrinkles, dull skin, enlarged pores, pigmentation or all of the above, perhaps you could consider the Skin Shaper Plus Facial at Skin Shape Club too. 

4 Complimentary weekly sessions of Skin Shaper Facial worth S$480

For busy professionals like you and me who are always in a rush for time, you might want to try out Skin Shaper Facial instead. This is a 30 minute facial that includes LHE treatment without Skin Shape Club’s signature massage. And honestly, there’s no better time than now to try out this facial because you can click here to redeem a package of 4 Skin Shaper Facial sessions absolutely free from SampleStore! 

Upgrade to Skin Shaper Plus Facial (includes signature serum-infused massage) – worth S$680

For a more indulgent and pampering experience, you can also upgrade all 4 complimentary sessions to Skin Shaper Plus facials at a flat-fee of S$28!  

Skin Shaper Plus facials include Skin Shape Club’s signature massage (i.e. the same treatment that I did). The duration of this treatment is 50 minutes. 

To upgrade your redemption, simply quote “RC-SSC” when you book your appointment with Skin Shape Club.



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Travel, Uncategorized

6 Beautiful & Underrated Places In Europe

May 11, 2015 by Regina Chow 2 Comments

Cities such as London, Rome, Venice and Paris immediately come to mind when we plan our holidays in Europe, but if you prefer to take the road less travelled, here are 6 other breathtakingly beautiful places that you could visit based on my personal experience.

1. HUESCA, SPAIN
The province of Huesca located in northeast Spain is home to beautiful mountains, verdant valleys and pristine rivers. All natural and virtually untainted by commercialism, this is a dream come true for adventure seekers and nature lovers. You can easily drive there from Barcelona Airport.

Check out the
Sierra de Guara region if you enjoy activities such as rockclimbing,
canyoning, caving, hiking or wildlife watching.
During our last visit, we stayed at Rodellar, a quaint village situated above the Muscan gorge in the Sierra de Guara National Park. Rodellar is also one of the most famous places for rockclimbing in Europe. 
You can read more about JW’s rockclimbing experience in Rodellar below:
Climbing Natural Beyond Singapore

 

For a change of scenery, you can also head to a medieval city called Alquezar (30km from Rodellar by car). You can read more about our visit to Alquezar below:
A Day in Alquezar, Spain

2. BARCELONA, SPAIN
 I hesitated about placing Barcelona on this list as it is after all the most popular tourist destination in Spain, but when I speak to people around me about their travel plans in Europe, this city hardly ever seems to be on their radar. 

If you love beautiful yet distinctive architecture, Barcelona is the city to go. The fantastical buildings designed by Antoni Gaudi are exactly what fairy-tales are made of and you will never see architectural marvels of this nature anywhere else in Europe, or in the world for that matter. 

Here are some of his signature works that you have to visit:
Park Guell
Casa Mila
Sagrada Familia

For more photos and information on the places to visit, read my previous posts below:
Palau Guell & Park Guell
 Casa Mila
Casa Batllo
Sagrada Familia
If you are a history buff or if bullfighting is your cup of tea, you could also visit the Monumental Arena and Museo Taurino (bullfighting museum). Bullfighting may be banned in Barcelona (since 2012), but this slice of history serves a reminder of the arena’s past glory and provides great photo opportunities.
For more information, read my post below:

Bullfighting in Barcelona: Monumental Arena & Museo Taurino
 3.  CESKY KRUMLOV, CZECH REPUBLIC

Everyone
talks about Prague and how gorgeous it is as a city, but did you know
that there is an equally picturesque (if not more) by the name of Cesky
Krumlov in the South Bohemian Region of Czech Republic?

 Both Prague’s Castle District and Cesky Krumlov are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Everything seems to come to a standstill at Cesky Krumlov as you are instantly transported back in time. The little town looks just a medieval town complete with locals dressed in medieval costumes. A day-trip to Cesky Krumlov is usually recommended but personally, I would recommend staying a day or two just to soak in the beauty and to take time to explore its breathtaking surroundings. 

For more information on places to visit in Cesky Krumlov, do read my posts below:

Curious Sights in Cesky Krumlov

I Left My Heart in Cesky Krumlov

4. EAGLE’S NEST, BERCHTESGADEN (GERMANY)

Eagle’s
Nest, otherwise known as Kehlsteinhaus, was built by the Nazis on the
Kelstein mountain above Berchtesgaden (located at the German Bavarian
Alps) in celebration of Hitler’s 50th birthday. It was meant to be a
holiday home and Hitler even had his own private route leading up from
the city to the mountains.
While Hitler hardly visited Eagle’s Nest, it is now a tourist hotspot primarily due to its mesmerizing scenery, which only gets better as you move up the mountain. Perched atop a mountain, Eagle’s Nest is surrounded by a confluence of white fluffy clouds that lay atop the city. You can easily book a day trip there via Munich (Germany) or Salzburg (Austria).

For more photos and information, you can read my post below:

Eagle’s Nest

5. INNSBRUCK, AUSTRIA

Innsbruck is known for being a winter sports center and the city has hosted the Winter Olympics on several occasions. If you enjoy skiing or snowboarding, this is the place to be in winter, but even if these activities are not the least enticing to you, the panoramic scenery is bound to set your heart aflutter. Here’s a short video clip that I took when I was there some years ago:



 For more photos and information on places to visit, do read my posts below:

Innsbruck Mountains

Innsbruck Alpen Zoo

 6. SALZBURG, AUSTRIA




 Salzburg’s Old Town (Altstadt) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is renowned for its baroque architecture, set against the backdrop of alpine surroundings.

Classical music lovers would also know that Salzburg was the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. I can still recall how I excited I was just before I stepped into Mozart’s home, also known as Mozart’s Geburthaus.

For more photos and information, you can read my post below:

Salzburg’s Old Town & Mozart’s Geburthaus

 If you are a fan of popular movie musical The Sound of Music, you can also book a day trip to visit all the filming spots. It was also here where I discovered the very scenic Mondsee Lake, a beautifully serene lake overlooking lush rolling hills.

For more photos and information, read my post below:

The Sound of Music Tour 
  
It has been a while since I last visited Europe and it is high time that I revisited this continent to explore other cities that I have yet to tick off my bucket list. 

Meanwhile, I hope that my personal experiences detailed in this post would provide you with some useful tips and inspiration if you are planning a trip there. 

Have a great week ahead!

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Fashion, Uncategorized

Fashion Fridays: Keepsake I Will Wait Dress

May 8, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

I have a soft spot for lace dresses, especially lace dresses with scallop trims and asymmetrical hemlines. Little wonder why Australian label Keepsake’s I Will Wait dress caught my eye. 
The silhouette makes it appropriate for work, but if you work in a more conservative environment, I would suggest throwing on a blazer to add structure. For events and functions, all you have to do is take off the blazer, slip into a pair of glamorous open-toe heels and you’re all set to steal the limelight.


The amazing thing about Australian fashion labels is that you never have to worry about quality. By and large, I have always been more than satisfied with my purchases because the material and workmanship never disappoint. Oh and did I mention that their smallest size usually fits me to a T? I have a couple of pieces from Keepsake in XXS and most require no alteration work, or in the worst case scenario, very minor nips and tucks. 

You can find Keepsake and other popular Aussie labels online, but personally, I like to shop from The Bird Cage Boutique as there are occasions (like now!!) when they offer an additional 40% off sale items! There’s also free shipping on orders above A$200!

Dress from Keepsake (here)
Shoes from Miu Miu
Clutch from YSL
Bangle from Hermes

If you were wondering, this set of photos was taken along one of the back alleys in Little India. Can you believe that these beautiful spiral staircases were built as an escape route in times of emergency?
 I love venturing into back alleys, away from the hustle and bustle of the main street. It is such a therapeutic yet educational experience. You’ll see a different side of Singapore’s urban landscape and catch a glimpse of history too as many of these shop houses have their own stories to tell. 
The beauty lies in the tiniest of details, and all you need to do is keep your eyes peeled as every corner brings new surprises.
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Lifestyle, Travel, Uncategorized

Four Seasons Hotel: One-Ninety Wood-fired Steaks and Seafood Buffet

May 7, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

Buffets are usually known for quantity instead of quality, but in this day and age, discerning consumers value both qualities equally and Four Seasons Hotel’s One-Ninety Wood-fired Steaks and Seafood is one of the few places in Singapore that lets you have your cake and eat it. 

I first had a taste of their Mezze Dinner Buffet (S$58++ including appetizer and dessert buffet spreads and one main course) earlier this year and I enjoyed it so much that I had to take JW there on a separate occasion. 

Appetizer & Dessert Buffet

What I love about the appetizer and dessert buffet is that the extensive selection caters to all your whims and fancies. There is also an element of surprise as items are refreshed daily based on the freshest catch and produce, so you can expect nothing but the very best culinary offerings ranging from organic salads, cured meat, cheese, succulent seafood and exquisite desserts that promise to tantalize your taste buds. 


I was blown away by the wide variety of seafood and organic vegetables.The prawns were very fresh and came with a hint of sweetness while the sweet cherry tomatoes oozed juicy goodness with every bite.

If you have a sweet tooth, you will be in for a treat at the dessert buffet which boasts a delectable array of cakes, bread and butter pudding (my personal favourite!), cookies and fresh fruits.

  
Main Courses

The main course menu features a sumptuous spread of cuisine wood-fired over the sweet aroma of apple wood.  
Here’s what you can expect:
  • 120-day Grain-fed Steak Onglet
  • Sustainable Ahi Tuna Steak
  • Free-range Cajun-spiced Spring Chicken
  • Mediterranean Sea Bass Fillet
  • Grilled Ocean King Prawns and Calamari
  • Slow-roasted Japanese Pumpkin
  • Red Label Organic Salmon (add S$10)
  • Ranger Valley Wagyu 400-day Grain-fed Australian Rump (add S$10)
  • Black Angus Prime 200-day Grain-fed Beef Tenderloin (add S$32)
  • Baby Lamb Chops (add S$32)
If you are a meat lover, I would highly recommend the steaks here.I tried both the Wagyu Rump and Black Angus Prime on my first visit and I have to say they were well worth the top-up and calories. The Black Angus Prime was more tender, but both were equally succulent and tasty, with a delightful tinge of wood-fired flavour.

Black Angus Prime 200-Day Grain-Fed Beef Tenderloin

Good steaks are
hard to come by in Singapore, and given that JW is a huge fan of steak, I
insisted that he came along on my second visit. He too agreed that this was one of the best steaks he has tasted in Singapore.
On my second visit, I ordered the Grilled Ocean King Prawns and Calamari for my main course. I love seafood, and this dish has all the makings of the perfect dinner for a seafood lover. The King Prawns and calamari were very fresh and juicy, and the overall taste was enhanced with a slight hint of wood-fired flavour.

Some of the other ala-carte items that you have to try include the very fragrant truffle foccocia which was previously only reserved for VIPs. 
Before the start of the meal, pamper yourself with Four Seasons Hotel Singapore’s signature Singapore Sangria, a cocktail that infuses flavours from Asian fruits such as dragonfruit, starfruit and lychee liquer. This delicious concoction was exclusively created for Four Seasons Hotel Singapore by Javier de las Muelas and can only be found on our sunny island. You could also pop by on Fridays for Happy Hour between 6-8pm and enjoy 1-for-1 on cocktails of your choice.
Aside from the delectable food and drinks, I truly appreciate the cozy and intimate ambience at One-Ninety, where you can catch glimpses of Executive Chef Giovanni Speciale, Senior Sous Chef Nicolas Owen and the team working their culinary magic as you just sit back, relax and indulge in the freshest and finest gastronomical fare. Definitely what I would consider as one of life’s greatest pleasures.

 
One-Ninety Wood-fired Steaks and Seafood, 
Four Seasons Hotel Singapore
 
 Reservations:
Call (65) 6831 7250 or email one-ninety.sin@fourseasons.com

Address:
Four Seasons Hotel Singapore
190 Orchard Boulevard S’pore 248646
6.30pm-10.30pm 
Website:
http://www.fourseasons.com/singapore/dining/restaurants/one_ninety/
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Beauty, Uncategorized

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunblock Review

May 2, 2015 by Regina Chow No Comments

 Did you know that my very first sunblock was from Neutrogena? I used to be rather dark-skinned during my teenage years as a result of constant sun exposure from physical education classes. Believe it or not, nobody believed that I was Chinese then. Out of vanity (I had no concept of sun protection or skin cancer then), I turned to Neutrogena’s whitening suncare. I remember it was slightly greasy but still relatively lightweight compared to its contemporaries, hence I started using it religiously on my face. Looking back, it was one of the best things that I did for my skin because not only was I able to protect my skin from harmful UV rays that could have resulted in premature ageing, it also helped my skin to regain its fairness.
Fast forward to about two decades later, Neutrogena has made remarkable improvements to its suncare range to cater to our humid climate and skin concerns. For instance, its Ultra Sheer Sunblock range has everything that I wish for in a sunscreen:
 
  • Invisible, weightless feel on the skin
  • Non-greasy, matte finish  
  • Doesn’t clog pores as it is PABA free and non-comedogenic 
  • Superior broad spectrum protection against skin-aging UVA and skin-burning UVB rays thanks to its Helioplex Technology.  Here’s why it is important to have protection against both UVA & UVB rays:


    Helioplex® Technology

What exactly is Helioplex Technology?
Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Sunblock products are formulated using chemical filters as they are known to provide more coverage against UVA and UVB rays than physical sunblock.

One of the most powerful FDA-approved chemical filters for protection against UVA is Avobenzone, but it is highly unstable under sunlight. Neutrogena was among the first in the US market to stabilize this filter by adding Oxybenzone and DEHN. This breakthrough technology was named Helioplex.  

Not all sunblocks are created equal and there is a sunblock for every occasion. In today’s post, I will be reviewing not one but two Ultra Sheer Sunblock products that are perfect for Singapore’s climate.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 50+ PA+++

 I used to only apply sunblock on my body when I am at the beach, but given the blazing sun and unforgiving temperatures of late, I have started using body sunblock on a daily basis. 
 
As its name suggests, the Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock feels ultra-light and has a non-shiny finish. Besides providing broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, it is also waterproof, sweat-proof and rub-proof, making it the perfect body sunblock for our humid climate. You can use it for sports and outdoor activities too.

For optimal results, apply it liberally on your body 15-30 minutes before sun exposure. Again, I know many of us are lazy when it comes to re-application, but I cannot stress the importance of re-applying your sunblock every few hours, especially after water sports, sweating, towel drying or if you are exposed to the sun for an extended period of time.


This sunblock has a creamy consistency and a light floral scent that is reminiscent of a body moisturizer. It spreads easily and glides on like a dream, leaving a sheer, matte powdery finish on my skin without any greasy after-feel.

I am in love with Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock’s non-oily formula as it provides a veil of high sun protection (SPF50+++) without that icky sticky feeling. 
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Complete UV Waterlight Lotion SPF 50+ PA+++


In a country like Singapore where we experience high humidity and year-round summer temperatures, the last thing we would want to do is to slather thick, greasy sunblock on our faces. In fact, I have many friends who choose not to apply sunblock on their faces for this very reason despite knowing that they are putting their skin at risk.
 If you have similar concerns, you may want to give Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Complete UV Waterlight Lotion a go. Shake the bottle well before applying the sunblock to your face and body at least 15-30 minutes before heading out under the sun.


Formulated with Helioplex and Dry-Touch technology, its fluid, non-oily and non-sticky texture absorbs readily into my skin and dries to a sheer finish. It also feels absolutely featherlight, just like an oil-free moisturizer. It adds a slight glow to my face, but if you prefer a matte appearance, there’s nothing that a little loose powder can’t fix.


If you love the convenience of multi-tasking skincare products, you’ll be happy to know that this sunblock also doubles up as a makeup base. As I typically reserve foundations for special occasions, I would usually just add a light dust of blusher on top of my sunblock and off I go to face the world.
Powerful sun protection, non-greasy after feel and non-shiny finish – these three attributes pretty much sum up Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Sunblock series in a nutshell. I would highly recommend this series especially if you’re based in hot and humid countries like Singapore.

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About Me

Hi! My name is Regina and I am a style, beauty and travel enthusiast who enjoys writing, photography and letting my creative juices flow.

My blogging journey has been nothing short of exciting. I was recently named the winner of Her World Magazine’s Estee Lauder Style Superstar Awards 2016. My blog was also awarded Best Fashion Blog (Grand Winner) at the Singapore Blog Awards 2014. The year before that, it won Best Online Shopping Blog at the Singapore Blog Awards 2013.

Additionally, it is listed as one of the 10 interesting blogs on Singapore by AsiaWeb Direct (http://www-singapore.com/blogs.htm). I was also featured on both local and international mainstream media for my views on style, fashion and online shopping:

The Straits Times (14 Oct 2014)

The Business Times (14 Oct 2014)

My Paper (13 Oct 2014)

CNBC ("Pricey Singapore: Savvy shoppers go online" - 28 Dec 2014)

For advertorials/partnerships, feel free to contact me at regina.chow@gmail.com.

Thank you!

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