Want to earn cashback when you shop online? Do it with ShopBack!

ONLINE SHOPPING

I hate to admit this but I just can't get enough of online shopping.

 Gone were the days when I could only depend on physical stores to shop for items (and have nosey store assistants staring at me and making me uncomfortable). 

Everything is just within a click of my computer mouse to have it delivered to my doorstep (I can't deny I've became a lazier person though. LOL)

Being a self-proclaimed shopping queen, I've been doing it for a few years - and I always have burnt pockets when it comes to my favourite online shopping haunts such as Taobao, Zalora , Lazada, etc. 

DAMN IT. I'M SUCH A SUCKER WHEN IT COMES TO ONLINE SALES AND PROMOTIONS.

There was this day one of my friends told me that there is a website known as ShopBack offering cash rebates for my online purchases, which I did not really quite believe her.

"Where got so good?! Can get back money one meh?!" I asked her in my usual Singlish tone. Honestly, I thought it was another scam website. 

 I may be a frequent online shopper, but I always play safe and trust only certain websites that I deem legit.

 As the saying goes,  "If it seems too good to be true, it probably is". You can't blame me for being skeptical. 

"I am not very sure as I've never tried before," she said. "But I am going to try since I will be booking hotel rooms online for my upcoming trip".

"HOTEL ROOM BOOKINGS ALSO CAN CASHBACK MEH?!?!" I exclaimed. 

This is just too much. I warned her to be careful and left it at that.

It was not until she came to me one month later and said excitedly, 

"Cat, I received my rebates with ShopBack today! NOT BAD! I got back over 20 dollars in my account for my hotel bookings!!" She showed me the screen using her iPad. Hmm, seems pretty convincing. 

Since she already tried it (and didn't get scammed LOL), I decided to give the benefit of doubt.

When I got back home that day, I checked out the site.

 I was surprised to see many of the popular and familiar online shopping websites being listed.

It was just nice that I was planning for a family trip to Malaysia and had to source for hotel rooms. One of my commonly-used platforms is booking.com , which is listed in ShopBack as well with a 6 percent Cashback.

Which means that I will be able to get back a bit of money if I make my bookings using ShopBack instead of booking the normal way directly under the Booking.com.

Well, I figured I had nothing to lose since I had to spend the money anyway....

I began filling in my details. 

It was a lucky thing that the interface is still considered user-friendly - It did not take too long for me to understand how it fully works. I referred to THIS site and it's pretty much self-explanatory.

I clicked on the booking.com logo and was immediately redirected to the original website.

Everything looks normal after the redirection. I made my booking as how I would have on the original website.

When I logged back in to ShopBack, I discovered that it had already captured my online booking. 

It took awhile to reflect my next status, but eventually I was taken aback when I logged back in to my account the following month. 

It was indicated that my Cashback is $26.75 - which means I can get the amount back from my bookings.  IS THIS FOR REAL?!?!?!

It feels like free money (even though in reality it is a part of my money that I will be getting back).

But seriously... This can be a HUGE money saver (SPEND AND SAVE AT THE SAME TIME! LOL)- and for an online shopaholic like me, I felt that this is a MUST-USE platform. 不用白不用!!

(Of course, not ALL of the online shopping websites or merchants are listed with ShopBack but majority of my commonly-used online shopping websites are there)

In short, it means that I save more as I shop - BUT the downside is that I can't stop myself from doing more online shopping after getting my first successful cashback?!?! 

It's... so... addictive.

WHY, SHOPBACK, WHY?!?! 

I love and hate you at the same time. It's so ironic.

As a fellow kind shopaholic, I shall share this good lobang with you guys (I can confirm it's not a scam now because I have received my cashback successfully in my bank account!!)

(I can't help but think that the cashback mascot looks really cute in this video. Can I purchase a plushie version of it?! LOL.)

Discount Codes

As if cashback alone is not good enough, I discovered that there are even occasional  discount codes as well and it is not limited to just travel! 

This is getting... ...crazier. 

*grabs hair*

Some of them include my frequently-visited Sephora, which is a complete shopping heaven for beauty products. Utilising the discount codes will grant additional benefits that wouldn't have been possible at the physical stores. 

I am SO going to bookmark this one!

If you are looking to grab a better deal for hotel rooms, here are some Booking.com promo codes for booking staycations that you can enjoy. Personally, I've always used the platform for most of my online hotel bookings and the experiences were really positive so far!

And if you are a Groupon maniac (Btw Groupon is now known as Fave SG), you will surely fall in love with Fave promo codes for all the great deals. They ALWAYS have good deals from merchants and all are made even better with the discount codes!

ALSO...

With the GSS frenzy just around the corner, there are even discount codes for all the deals for the Great Singapore Sale

. SOMEONE PLEASE SAVE ME - THE SHOPAHOLIC INSTINCT IN ME CAN'T TAKE IT.

All thanks to this ShopBack - I'm going to be scolded by my parents after they have seen my shopping cart BUT heck... WHY shop the normal way when I can save more with those discount codes right?!?!

BUT COME TO THINK OF IT AGAIN... ...

HOW TO STOP MY ONLINE SHOPPING ADDICTION LIKE THAT??! (Not that I have any intention to stop anyway *shrugs*)

With so many merchants under one roof with ShopBack, I am sure anyone will be as amazed as I am. And with GSS coming, you wouldn't wanna miss out on the cashback from your many purchases. Find out more details about the event here!

Do feel free to share the good lobang around - EVERY SHOPAHOLIC WILL NOT WANT TO MISS THIS!

Looking back at my life... ...

Hello world!

I can't believe it has been SO LONG since I left my blog with cob webs piling all over - and to my friends who have been asking why my blog hasn't been updated... I appreciate that you guys are still following me. Yes, I hear you.

Life has been crazy lately - From happy moments to depressed ones, I would say it has been a rollercoaster. Apart from that, I have achieved certain "milestones" last year that I will be mentioning in this post!

1. I FINALLY DYED MY HAIR FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER IN MY LIFE. 

Ok, I admit - I was not daring enough to get a bolder shade of maroon colour as I was supposed to have a filming assignment coming up in that following week. It was a very mild colour (obvious only under strong sunlight) but that would do for a first time. I still remembered how strongly I was against the dying of my hair in the past but eventually gave in to temptation. 

AND I DYED AGAIN DURING MY Hong Kong TRIP (Just weeks ago)

AND I DON'T KNOW WHY I KEPT OPENING MY MOUTH WHEN I TOOK BOTH PHOTOS ON DIFFERENT OCCASIONS *rolls eyes*

Pictured here on the left is my Polytechnic friend whom is still one of my best buddies (Thanks for going on a trip with me, babe!) and both of us stumbled upon a salon in Hong Kong that provided decent quality service. We went for purple /magenta shade of colour for our hair and I was really pleased with the results! I don't really fancy strong colours so bleaching is a no-go for me.

2. I WENT CRAZY during my company event and dressed up as an unimaginable character

Yes.. You guessed it. Harley Quinn.

I love her exaggerated style of outfit in the movie and little did I know that I would eventually be sponsored and dressed up as her for my company event. I was really afraid that it would turn out bad because I was my own make-up artist and I do not have much experiences in such exaggerated make-up. Many of my friends always have the impression that I am a cosplayer (I don't know why!) but I am not. NOT. NOT. So please - I hope you professional cosplayers out there won't laugh at a poor human like me who only dresses up once in a blue moon.

The photo that officially scared the hell out of many people:

3. GRADUATED from Hark Music

Yay! I guess learning anything that is related to music is something that I will never think of quitting. Don't get me wrong, I am just someone who is a hobbyist of singing - and I'll never expect myself to be a professional but I do feel proud of myself for coming this far for my hobby!

My own little "mini studio": -

4. Had my first ever debut performance

(Photo credits to Hangi Tavakoli from Flipside Productions)

Even till now, I can't believe that I stood up there and performed. It wasn't a totally positive experience (to be honest) for me as I happened to fall sick during that period of time and couldn't recover fast enough. With a choked-up throat and strained vocal chords, I tried to give it my best shot . But what left the deepest impression on me was the support I had from my family, friends and colleagues who came down to sit through my performance!

I was shocked and touched beyond words when I saw the turnout. Some of them actually stay a long distance away from my performance venue but they made time to come down. 

THANK YOU SO MUCH, MY LOVELY PEOPLE. I LOVE YOU ALL. 

4. GRADUATED from Acting/Drama lessons in Level 1 @ Zoom Academy

Although I have been involved in a little bit of acting here and there during my 'younger' days, I have always wanted to take up professional lessons and understand more about the trade.

The 'typical' Ah Lian you see on the road:

I am currently into my Level 2 acting now, and am blessed to have the opportunity to be taught by one of the veteran actresses in the TV industry, Chen Bi Feng. (I believe the older generation can recognise her from the many TV shows that she acted in!)

5. Became a blog-writer for Mitsueki Blog

When I was approached with the opportunity to join Mitsueki's team of blogwriters, I was honoured. (If you are reading this... Thanks, babe!)

Writing for her blog has given me tons of opportunities to attend media events and food tastings as well. (I have to admit that I gained weight after becoming sort of a food blogger... Which is not exactly a bad thing considering the fact that I don't usually gain weight)

One of my first-ever overseas media trip to Genting - with courtesy of Mitsueki.

6. Went on a radio interview by JIA 88.3 FM

It was a very last minute interview (I was contacted and interviewed on the same day) It was my first-ever experience on a radio show and thanks to my family and friends for being so supportive! 

7. First JB Trip with my colleague buddies

Nothing beats having colleagues who become your buddies.

It has always been a thing - To go on a half-day JB trip for some games and good food. Thanks for having me- It is always fun being with those quirky people.

8. Brought my mum back to hometown

Although I have been to KL countless times with my family, but this was the first time I took charge and brought my mum to her hometown. A big thank-you to our dear relatives in Malaysia who took time to drive us around and even treated us to great food. Both my mum and I were thankful.

9. Took up new hobby 

This is an addictive hobby that I took up after being inspired by so many designs online. The materials were sourced from Taobao and I wouldn't say they are exactly cheap. BUT ENOUGH TO KEEP ME OCCUPIED FOR THAT FEW HOURS YET FEELING ACHIEVED AT THE END OF THE DAY.

I really wish I have more time to do more of them now.

10. DID MY FIRST EYELASH EXTENSIONS

I have always contemplated to do eyelash extensions as I am a VERY lazy person. So much that I was afraid that it would be difficult to maintain. However, thanks to a sponsorship opportunity through Mitsueki, I decided to give a try and understand more about the procedure personally from the service provider. 

And there is no turning back. I loved the extensions and now I can't imagine life without it! If you would like to read about my experience, do stay tuned to Mitsueki Blog as the entry will be featured on there!

11. Chemical Peeling treatment with Dr Tyng Tan

I have been undergoing chemical treatment for my acne issues for 2 years now and I am always looking forward to the sessions. They work in clearing up acne and lightening acne scars, but maintenance is still needed to be done to ensure that there will be no breakouts. If you would like to know more about the procedures and my chemical peeling experiences, do feel free to click HERE.

12. Knowing a wonderful person who came into my life

 I think everyone probably knows who he is by now and to those who don't & still keep asking me who the heck is this frequently-mentioned name on my social media accounts, he is my lovely FISH.

He has got to be the most patient, nicest and talented people I've ever known. I know I am someone who isn't the easiest to get along with due to my temper, but he has NEVER ONCE thrown temper at me and still treats me like a princess. Most importantly, he respects me for who I am.

Thank you, Fish, for sticking by me always!!!!

13. I got famous

So famous that I spotted people printing my face and using them as wrapping papers which were eventually thrown to the rubbish chute. Thanks, huh.

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 I hope everyone enjoys reading this little update of my life that I did not get to blog much on here. 

Life hasn't been a bed of roses, but I shall exclude the negativity yeah.

I will be back to more active blogging soon and revive my title as the SGCOMPLAINQUEEN. (I AM NOT DEAD YET!)

*roars*

Have a lovely week ahead, people!

Best Job in the World? True or not?

What's possibly the best job in the world?

To be engaged in something you love, or simply just for the moolah (money)?

 

(Image credits to Google)

What if there's an opportunity for you to do something you LOVE and yet EARN $20,000 at the same time? 

"You have got to be kidding me", I hear you say. "Is this some kind of dirty job?"

OF. COURSE. NOT. LAH.

Carlsberg is currently giving you the chance to possibly hold the best job in the world and the payout is a whooping $20,000 for a mere 4 hours of work. ($5,000 per hour)

If you think it's too good to be true, then read on before deciding! 

Apparently, this is a campaign launched by Carlsberg and they are actually legitimately paying the successful applicant the amount of money that was promised! (Someone was selected as the lucky winner last year and he took home $10,000. That's even better than striking consolation prize in 4D!) 

SHIOK. 

And this year they have increased the amount to $20,000!

DOUBLE SHIOK.

Most importantly, it cost NOTHING to sign up for the campaign.

AND HERE'S THE CATCH:

Responsibilities:
- Be a Carlsberg ambassador
- Enjoy ice-cold Carlsberg during work
- Entertain your friends with probably the best beer in the world

Requirements:
- Zero experience (You don't have to be an avid drinker...)
- 100% Carlsberg Passion
- Able to Work for 4 hours
- Does not posess own transport (driver included!)

Job Requirements & Registration

Anyone who feels that they are the best candidate for the job can make an application at

www.probablythebest.com.sg 

This job is  only open to applicants aged 18 and above. 

Online registration (free, of course) opens on Monday November 21 and closes on Sunday December 4.

Selected finalists will be notified to attend a simple job interview on the afternoon of December 15

 

Of course no guarantees that you will be selected, but as long as you participate - You stand a possible chance! Never try, never know right??? The best things come unexpected. I currently do have a few friends who have participated in it as well!

It's only a day's work, so you don't have to worry about resigning from your existing job. LOL. Just think about all the honeymoon and holiday that you can go after winning the sum of money.

ALL THE BEST, GUYS!

Groupon Deal Review: - LifeSpa massage - Worth Going?

You know, I have figured that my blog should contain posts that benefit others from my personal experiences - especially those that I spent money on.

I am sure plenty of you out there have googled companies, products or items from Groupon deals before purchasing them, and reviews from bloggers would have benefited you.

SO, so... I have decided to share more about my Groupon experiences here with my readers as I do purchase their deals quite often! 

So what kind of deals do I usually spend my money on, you ask?

MASSAGE or FOOD. 

(I feel that body massages in Singapore are darn expensive without purchasing Groupon deals!)

As I have a friend (I shall call her "Shrek" since it's a nickname we have been calling each other since our poly days, haha) who are into body massages as much as I do, we would often share lobangs with each other and purchase deals to try.

"Well... You know, you can share all of our experiences in your blog," she suggested. 

I thought it was a pretty good idea. (So to all those bad merchants, watch out! If you are one of those who do not honor your Groupon deal, I shall post about you on my blog!)

I shall start off my first entry experience on a positive one: - Here's one deal from Groupon that we tried: (Don't worry, this is not a sponsored post or anything like that -  We freaking paid money for the services from our own pockets!!)

$27 for a Swedish or Deep Tissue Stress Relief Massage at LifeSpa

$27 is considered an attractive price for a body massage service. (Without Groupon deals in Singapore, a body massage can easily cost up to $100 and above, which is crazy)

I know it's risky, but I did not bother to check or read reviews about the place before purchasing the deal. It was a pure luck thing. I remembered both of us were desperate for a body massage and were lucky enough to book an appointment for the next day.

There are 3 outlets of LifeSpa, and we chose the one at Carlton Hotel, which was quite a convenient location.

We were WOW-ed by the place upon arrival. We felt so out of place in such an atas venue.

The reception lady was well-mannered, and passed us the forms to fill in our personal details before heading in for our massages. 

When we were told that the room was ready, we were completely overwhelmed by excitement as they brought us to a luxurious-looking suite (it was a COUPLE ROOM!! It means that we would be able to communicate with each other in the room during massage, which was an additional bonus as we didn't expect we would be given the privilege. In most massage places, a couple room requires a top-up charge and we were NOT charged a single cent for it)

It was an out-of-the-world (in a good way) kind of experience as I was dazzled by the facilities as well. Can you imagine that there was a PERSONAL TOILET as well in the room? We had all the privacy to ourselves, and there was a heater pad on the massage bed too to warm our bodies.

The masseurs were very professional as well, and I would say they do have some good skills there!
(In the past, I always had this mentality that the masseurs will not give quality service since we purchased the Groupon deals at a cheap price. I am sure most of you would have this thought, too, right?! Sometimes, things are too good to be true. However, I was proven wrong on this occasion!)

After the massage, we were given a choice to choose our tea (I opted for Ginger tea, which I love!) and we were led to a comfy resting area (We felt like princesses with such atas treatment, LOL).
When we reached, I noticed that there was even a small plate of snacks- complete with our cups of tea- ready at the table.

NOW IS THE MOMENT. I HAD A FEELING THEY WERE GOING TO DO SOME HARD-SELLING OF PACKAGES.
I always hated this. I have read reviews of many places doing hard-selling of packages and throwing customers black faces if they say "NO".
I'm someone who has difficulty saying "NO", so you can imagine how dreadful it was for me.

Well, we waited.
There was indeed a young lady approaching us with a form.
Fortunately... We were only asked a question,
"Do you do massages often?"
We shook our heads.

"Well, its okay then. See you".
And that was it! No hard-selling. Wow. This is so un...un..un..un..believable. LOL.
We were stunned like vegetables. *pun intended. ahem*
I guess it was because I indicated we were students in the forms?
 (Yeah, students are always poor okay!)

Nonetheless, I would recommend this Groupon deal to anyone who would like to give it a try. Please do note that I am only reviewing the outlet that I went, and could not verify that the services in the other outlets are the same.
Till then. stay tuned to more of my Groupon deal updates~!