The Me Time TAG!!

It's Monday again!!

I know what a dread Monday is to most of us, 

so I decided to do something fun for my Monday blog post!

Essie Button & Amelia Liana have both been my favourite beauty blogger & Youtuber, 

for a very long time. 

& when they created the "Me Time Tag", I knew I had to recreate it into a blog post!

For those who are interested, this is their video!

Essie Button & Amelia Liana

& of course I can't forget my other favourite UK beauty bloggers & Youtubers!

Fleur DeForce's version of the "Me Time Tag".

Beautycrush's version of the "Me Time Tag".

So let's just dive right into it!!

What exactly does "Me Time" mean?

"Me Time" actually just means alone time. 

The time where you are away from everyone, and all you do is unwind, relax,

and simply just spend some time with yourself!

Q1. What do you watch or read during me-time?

Well for me, I am an ultimate beauty junkie & bookworm. 

My me-time would consist of me lying in bed, reading the latest fashion & beauty magazines, 

watching beauty related videos on Youtube, 

or reading a fictional book every once in a while. 

Yes, I am pretty much a book nerd. 

What I've been reading:

#GIRLBOSS by Sophia Amoruso (just got this yesterday!)

The Hunger Games Trilogy- Currently trying to finish "The Mocking Jay" before the movie starts screening in our local cinemas.

Q2. What do you wear during me-time? #nobra

Yes, #nobra. 

When I am at home, the bra goes off. 

It's just not comfortable being in something that binds your chest area, 

and whole of the boobies 24/7. 

Sometimes, you need to set them free. 

Too Much Information (TMI).

I'm not much of a pyjamas person, so I usually choose to wear really cute robes or nighties, 

from brands like Victoria Secret, La Senza or Anne Bra. 

Yes, I admit, I wear them for no one else to see, but myself. 

But why not doll yourself pretty, in pretty & comfy clothes, 

especially since it is me-time!!

Q3. What are your me-time beauty products?

My me-time beauty products changes now & then, 

depending on my mood, 

and also cos of the obscene amount of beauty products I have to finish through.

So my products kind of take turns to pamper me on different days & pamper sessions!

But here are my favourites!!

 Review for this products are below:

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence
Glamglow Thirsty Mud
Tarte Marcuja Oil
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Instant Oatmeal Mask
Peter Thomas Roth, Rose Stem Cell Mask

Vitamin Science Vitamin B & C serum & emulsion

 Bobbi Brown Eye Cream Extra
I use this on my undereye area before applying makeup to keep the delicate skin around the eye, hydrated & moisturised.
A very thick, creamy formula.
Will review this in detail very soon.

 Caudalie Grapewater Spray
I spray this immediately after cleansing my face.
It is said to increase hydration levels by 127%.
Not sure about the %, but I love how my skin feels hydrated , soft & less irritated after using this.
A cheaper & great alternative to the Caudalie Beauty Elixir.

Margherita Ghel by Superberry.me
Helps skin celles to regenerate. 
Love how this light cream feels on my skin.
Skin feels comfortable, subtly hydrated & less irritated.

Q4. Current favourite nail polish? 

I don't really paint my nails as I often get my nails done with The Stage Look. 

If you have not read about the awesome nail services that The Stage Look, Lynn, provides...

Read about it here!

@THE STAGELOOK NAILS

Q5. What do you eat/drink during me-time? 

For me, this is a pretty easy one. 

Recently I've been obsessed with the LOTTE Pepero Almond Sticks, Chips More Double Chocolate cookies,

& the Heaven & Earth Ayataka drink!!

If the Ayataka is not an available option, I would go for Green Tea Latte or Matcha.

Q6. Current favourite candle?

Almost any candle from Bath & Body Works!!

I am currently burning the Watermelon Lemoncade 3-wick candle.

It is sweet and fruity smelling, but not really suitable for Fall & Winter season. 

But, my Fall candles are still in the US warehouse & have not shipped yet. 

*CAN'T WAIT TO BURN MY FALL CANDLES!*

Q7. Do you ever have outdoor me-time? 

Sometimes, when I bring my dog, Bacon, out for his walks or to dog cafes & grooming sessions.

Sometimes it is good to go for a walk out there & to breathe in some fresh air!

Good exercise too!

Q8. Would you ever go see a movie alone? 

I have never gone to see a movie alone.

And though I usually think why not, if I have 2 hours to spare in between appointments.

But I'd rather just go to a mall and do some retail therapy!!

<3

Q9. Favourite online shop? 

Beautybay.com, Drugstore.com, Beauty.com (for all things beauty & skincare)

ASOS (for fashion)

Taobao.com using 65daigou for all other random stuff!

Q10. Anything to add? What else do you do during me-time? 

During me-time I simply just love to relax. 

It could be a random shopping trip alone in Town, 

or just snuggling under my covers.

I have one big habit though- & that is to book hotel rooms & sleep in them, alone.

Especially when I am feeling down, out & not motivated.

I love the big comfy white sheets & pillows. 

& hot water baths in the tubs.

Room service. 

Cable TV.

So if I ever go MIA for whatever reasons, I'm usually well hidden in a hotel room!

That's all for now.

Share with me what you would do for a pamper "me-time" session!

& play this tag if you'd like!

xoxo, @clarabeltan 

Akaifune: The BEST Shabu-Shabu I've tried!

What's good to have for dinner on a rainy night? 

Shabu Shabu/ Japanese Steamboat!!

On Thursday, I visited Akaifune at Singapore Expo to try out their Japanese food,

& the extensive menu really surprised me.

I was literally spoilt for choice!!

I was particularly interested in the Shabu-Shabu as the ingredients looked really fresh & yummy. 

& I MUST say, their prices are so affordable!

This are 2 of the MANY options you can choose from!

For me, since I'm slightly allergic to seafood, I went for the Wagyu beef set instead.

& boy, I was blown away by the quality of the Beef & even Salmon fish!

So let's just jump in!

This is how the restaurant looks like!

It is very cosy and simple, with some outdoor seating too!

This is their Shabu-Shabu pot, in the shape of the Yin Yang.

I love Yin Yang pots when it comes to my steamboat, 

cos that can only mean one thing..

More soup variety!!

I was recommended their 2 BEST SELLERS- 

Pork Tonkutsu Soup Base (left) & Kimchi Soup Base (right)!

*I personally LOVE the Kimchi soup base ALOT!*

Why?

Imagine a good, strong Kimchi flavour, that is SPICY enough and SOUR enough- 

The perfect combination!! 

Even my partner had to agree..

 The sauces!

From left: Chilli, Peanut sauce & normal Soyu with Wasabi!

The chilli sauce was not too spicy; perfect for dipping the meat in. 

Flavour added to the tender pork slices & wagyu beef. 

The peanut sauce was very nutty, fragrant & naturally sweet.

A good sauce dip for those who like a non spicy taste. 

AND NOW COMES THE MAIN LEAD!!

 Pork Belly, 

Wagyu Beef, 

Beef slices, 

Salmon fish 

& Chicken Slices. 

What's on your table tonight? *winks*

Just look at the amazing selection of meat & the other side dishes!

Did you guys notice the marbling on the beef?

Really top quality beef for sure!!

The PERFECT amount of fats!

OMG, my stomach is growling while I type this..

Let's see some dipping action!

Before

After

I really think that the Pork Belly was the perfect amount of fat. 

It was TENDER enough, and also had some chewiness to it!

The texture of the pork was pretty amazing.. 

& my another favourite, the Salmon slices!

One sentence, " Sashimi grade Salmon!"

I am not a huge fan of cooked Salmon, but I had 2 plates of this..
I love how the Salmon was not fishy smelling, but had the right amount of fishiness.
*if that makes sense*

& the texture.. It does not break off into pieces easily, but it is not hard either.
I must also mention the layer of Salmon oil underneath the Salmon skin,
which oozes into your mouth with every bite!
*mindblown, tastebuds lingering*

The ala-carte Chawamushi.

But the huge pot of goodness made up for it!!

I had the PERFECT dining experience at Akaifune.
Everything was just wonderful!
The service staff was helpful, friendly & very patient.
Needless to say, the place really served some incredible quality meat!

Not like places like Ichiban Sushi. I hate that place & the food!

Akaifune also does private gatherings & functions for all occassions.

Birthdays, corporate functions, meetings or just a simple gathering!

Call them for more information & book your table today!

**********************************************************************
Akaifune was kind enough to offer a special promotion for all my readers!


Wagyu Set for 2 at ONLY $49.90 (U.P $79.90)
Quote my name, "Clarabeltan" for this amazing discount,
& SMS to 93800437 to make your reservation! 

Akai Fune Japanese Restaurant
Singapore Expo, Outside Hall 3
Carpark D
Unit #01-31
Tel: 93800437


I'm planning for my next trip down to Akaifune,
with my girlfriends this time..
Maybe I'd see you there!


In the meantime, happy midweek!!
xoxo
@clarabeltan

Cafe Hop: The Milky Way!

2 weeks ago, I went café hopping & dropped by The Milky Way!

The Milky Way serves home made ice-cream & coffee.

Home made ice-cream isn't that common in Singapore, as most cafes tend to just import them.

So expect unique, local loved flavours & tastes!

The Milky Way is a new start-up by a friend of mine, Renfred Ng.

If you find him familiar,

that is because he was from Campus Superstar & also had a few stints on Mediacorp!

This handsome young man, is really capable & ambitious!

Being about the same age as I am, he owns this new café,

While I'm still figuring my life out..

*embarrassed*

*pic credits to Daniel Fooddiary*

Anyway let's get to the food & drinks!

The Milky Way has awesome waffles & ice cream choices.

I tried their Pistachio ice-cream & totally fell in love with it!

Having visited Europe & Rome's Giolitti in particular,

I have always been on the hunt for good Pistachio ice-cream.

But have not found one, till I visited The Milky Way.

Latte

Hand made by the Boss himself, I am so impressed!

Did I mention that Renfred practiced a lot on his latte café art before the café opening?

His perseverance & hardwork, I salute!

If it's me.. I'd get someone else to do it for me..

*grins*

Waffles & Sicilian Pistachio Ice Cream

Just look at the goodness!

What I like about the Pistachio ice-cream is the right amount of sweetness & creaminess.

I hate it when the ice creams is heavy on artificial flavours and sugars!

Those kind just don't cut it for me!

Whereas The Milky Way serves ice creams that are just right!

The texture is just nice- soft and creamy..

BUT not too milky.

& also, no hint of artificial flavouring.

A slightly nutty flavor for the Pistachio ice-cream unlike the European ones,

which are much more nutty.

However, I feel that makes it more acceptable to the local taste preferences.

The waffles are not fluffy & pale white kind.

It is well done, with a little bit of browns.

Slightly crunchy on the outside, and soft on the inside.

I would say they really got the timing right for the waffles,

which is pretty difficult to achieve & standardized!

& when combined with the Pistachio ice cream-

PERFECTO!

If you do drop by The Milky Way, try out their top sellers!

Pistachio

Straciatella

Strawberry Cheesecake

*Approach their friendly staff/ pretty servers for a taste of the flavours if you can't decide.

They will be more than happy to get you the right kind of ice-cream for your taste buds!

A point to mention!

The Milky Way closes at 12mn on Fridays & Saturdays.

So what better way to chill on a weekend with your loved ones & friends?

 *pic credits to Daniel Fooddiary*

Quaint surroundings, cosy chairs, yummy ice-cream & waffles..

I couldn't ask for more!

You'd see the greedy me there very, very often *winks*

The Milky Way Homemade Ice Cream and Coffee (Tanglin Halt)
Blk 48 Tanglin Halt Road Singapore 142048 (nearest: Commonwealth MRT)https://www.facebook.com/Themilkywaysg

 Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm (Sun- Thurs),

12pm-12am (Fri-Sat)



The Influencer Network & Domino's Bola Bear Launch!

Hello! I'm back as promised!

I'm down with a flu & the allergies,

so I decided to skip work & stay home to churn out blog posts that are super overdue!

& of course, sitting infront of the computer with a box of tissues, my favourite Ayakata (no sugar green tea).

So let's begin! <3

On the 17th of June, Tuesday,

I was invited by the lovely The Influencer Network to attend the Domino's Bola Bear Launch.

It was hosted at The Colonial @ Scotts and I would say the place is so cosy & lovely.

If you are looking for a place for whatever events of yours, please do go down & check this place out..

So what are Bola Bears?

Popobe® Bola Bears by Domino’s are Dominos' latest launch in conjunction with the World Cup.

They are limited editions collectibles that you can get whenever you order a Bola Meal!

All you have to do is to add S$4.50 to get them.
And hurry! While stocks last..

*psst.. from what I heard, they are selling out fast, like hot cakes!

Heng I got my favourite one already.

Oh yes! Forgot to introduce the main casts.

The 3 Bola Bears are named,  Pedro, Juan & Eva!

Abit about the characters: Pedro is the male leader of this trio, who loves his pizzas!

Juan is the other male bear, who loves his sides!

& my favourite hottie Eva, is the only female in the group who loves her desserts.

We, women, love our desserts! Don't we?

* especially the to-die-for Chocolate Lava Cake from Dominos!!

PEDRO

JUAN

EVA

Me canwhoring with my favourite blue Eva!

Ain't she so pretty? :D

Official photos from The Influencer Network.

Me with Eva & Juan.

Anyway, during this World Cup season, Dominos has promised to keep to their promise of 30mins delivery.

Else, a free pizza coupon for your next purchase.

Dominos has no microwaves at all their outlets, just pizza ovens.

So be ensured that your food is fresh & baked from scratch.

Apparently, their pizzas take about 10-12 mins in the ovens after the ingredients are laid on the pizza dough. So riders will have to chiong to your place within 20mins or less.

I AM AMAZED AT HOW EFFICIENT THEY ARE!!

So here's some pictures from the event itself, and I was glad I got to meet the pretty ladies that I have not seen in ages, including Katty Tan & also Sheena Phua, both whom I got acquainted to due to the modeling industry! Great to see you girls after such a long time..

Katty, me & Dennis.

The awesome setup outside Colonial @ Scotts.

The World Cup theme!

Here's their regional manager talking about the bears & their significance to the World Cup & Dominos.

Helium balloons all over, in Domino's logo colours.

How apt!

The invited bloggers attentively listening to the Emcee while he explains the prizes to be won

for the selfie competition that was held that day itself, for all bloggers!

&&& yes, how can we forget about the food?!

Food, glorious food!

The meatballs are newly launched in Dominos menu.

& all I can say is, they are YUMMY!

& we had pizzas that day!

All types of crusts & flavours!!

Dominos really spoiled us silly, and filled all our tummies with the yummy pizzas &

yes, I got to eat my very much loved, CHOCOLATE LAVA CAKE!!

So for those interested, here is the updated Dominos menu with the Bola Meal 1 & 2!

Dominos is also have a selfie contest in which you can win amazing prizes like

A FULL YEAR OF FREE PIZZA!!!

I want! I want! I want! I want!!!!!!!!

All you have to do is to complete the caption,

"My #BolaBears and I..." & tag @DominosSG for a chance to enter!

For further details, please visit Dominos' Facebook page!

I would like to take this opportunity again to thank The Influencer Network for the lovely invite to this event, Colonial @ Scotts for kindly hosting us,

and also the AMAZING Dominos for the hosting & of course needless to say, the glorious food spread!

UPDATES:

I will be shifting to a new dot.com as mentioned in the previous post,

so please stay tuned and watch my Instagram & this space for further updates!

I'd see you guys soon.

In the meantime, enjoy your weekends!

xoxo, Clarabel.