At first, when it was first announced that the iPhone X will cost US$999, it was within expectations. But when it emerges that it will be sold in Singapore at S$1648, I got a shock, because at the current exchange rate, it should cost around S$1350-1400. That sounds really unfair, and I won’t want to… Continue reading How much does the iPhone X cost across the world?
It has been five years since Grab and Uber entered the Singapore market, but it was not until last year when the slew of promo codes were dished out to attract users to use the app. As a frequent user, I used Grab more often after they introduced GrabRewards (which they made adjustments recently by… Continue reading I took 258 Grab rides and used S$920 worth of promo codes in the first half of 2017. Here are some interesting facts.
Ever since Uber came up with its upfront fare system, it has become less transparent about its surge pricing mechanism. For me, even a 1.2x surge would deter me from taking Uber, because the 20% increase is likely to offset any savings that I might get compared to taking taxis, provided taxis are readily available. We… Continue reading Uber tried to hide its surge multiplier. Here’s how to dig it out.
Nowadays I take Grab much more frequently than Uber. Why? Because with the GrabRewards scheme, I am saving at least 7% on all my Grab rides. That’s about a $1 discount for a $14 ride or $0.50 discount for a $7 ride. How is that so? First, Grab offers 1 point for every $1 spent.… Continue reading With GrabRewards, Grab is 7% cheaper on average
UOB has recently launched the new Krisflyer UOB Savings Account, claiming to reward savers up to 5.4 miles per dollar spent. Nice marketing caption, but is it really that good? Some basic information regarding the new account: You have to save at least S$3000 to start the account, and spend at least S$500 per month… Continue reading Three fine prints that you need to know about the new Krisflyer UOB Account
I had a dream. To play St Petersburg in St Petersburg, to play Cartagena in Cartagena and to play Puerto Rico in Puerto Rico. I have done the first in 2013, I have done the second in 2015. When am I going to do the third?
Bogota gives a very vibrant feel, and is not as dangerous as what people said. I managed to navigate my way through public buses, even though I don’t speak Spanish. Love the Museo de Oro (Museum of Gold) and Museo Botero too!
Despite this colonial city being the third largest in Ecuador, it feels like an off the beaten track small town shrouded with mystery. I also don’t know why I choose to take a 12 hour overnight bus from Quito just to visit Ingapirca. Maybe just out of curiosity. It didn’t start out well, as I… Continue reading Ecuador: Cuenca
I was very excited with the thought of visiting Ecuador, because this is the furthest possible country from Singapore, situated on the other side of Earth (enter 1.3521° S, 76.1802° W for the actual location opposite Singapore, it is in Ecuador). That aside, it produces a variety of exotic fruits which is possible due to… Continue reading Ecuador: Quito
Santiago gives me a feel that is different from other South American cities. It is rather organized, and the people are more orderly. That might be due to its more developed economy as they open up their economy earlier compared to the rest of South America. It is probably the first time I see a metro… Continue reading Chile: Santiago
Joseph's travel diary 