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So what do I have in common with Daniel Craig, Aaron Kwok, George Clooney and Clint Eastwood ? well I have recently joined the hallowed ranks of the Lao Pek group… the dads who are more than half a century old … Covid times you can weep, wallow or make lemons or babies too.. And so after many years and a very long journey I am now finally a father and MCF is a helpful place filled with folks who have the experience in matters not limited to cars but little babes too. So I hope to get some advice on taking car of and brining up my little baby gal 😊 in preparation I’ve gotten triple concertina wires😏, will take her karate and where it hurts on guys for the future but any further tips will be welcome 🙏 xie xie everyone

I'm driving subaru impreza 2008 1.5r 5d, gh3. Can kakimoto regu 06 fit? Previous owner tell me its LTA Compliant on GH8.

Going mid-April, arriving in Fukuoka. Probably staying for 2 weeks. may extend visit to Osaka(my old home town). Some say avoid Tokyo for the time being. Much appreciated and Thank You.

For those stuck in the relentless, monotonous city grind and dreaming of crystal-clear waters and sandy shores for their next getaway, here's a thought: With Singapore as our launchpad, us locals can explore the charming beaches of Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam without breaking the bank. These nearby paradises don’t just offer cheap and affordable flights and accommodation; they also provide the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. So, if you're pondering your next escape, let this guide be your compass to seaside serenity and vibrant culture, all within a budget-friendly reach. Sun, Sand, and Serenity: Top Seaside Getaways in Thailand Explore Krabi: A paradisiacal retreat Krabi is a treasure trove of stunning beaches and scenic wonders. Home to limestone karsts and tranquil bays, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking a classic Thai beach setting. The Holiday Ao Nang Beach Resort in Krabi offers breathtaking views of Ao Nang Beach and unmatched hospitality. Here, visitors can savour seaside dining while enjoying the cooling ocean breeze. Affordably luxurious yet accessible, this resort is a perfect choice for a dreamy getaway. Ah Krabi, Thailand's Mr Consistent. The solid failsafe option. Phuket: Blend of adventure and relaxation With its accessibility and diverse attractions, Phuket remains a favorite. The Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa at Merlin Beach promises a balance between exploration and relaxation. Visitors can indulge in water sports or unwind on the expansive beaches. This vibrant locale offers an affordable seaside experience with proximity to tourist attractions for a comprehensive holiday. A Phuket cab driver once asked me why I was visiting. I said "beaches", he scoffed and replied: "Bangkok cheaper and prettier". I don't think he understood me very well. Islands Galore: Discover Malaysia’s Accessible Coastal Retreats Langkawi: An island of splendor Langkawi, a stunning archipelago in Malaysia, offers a blend of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and dramatic limestone formations. Perfect for a quick getaway from Singapore, it hosts activities like skybridge walks and jungle trekking. Accommodation ranges from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses, making it affordable for all travellers. Accessible by a short flight from Singapore, Langkawi's enticing beaches and rich cultural experiences offer the ideal seaside escape. Perhentian Islands: Nature's aquamarine gem Situated off the northeastern coast, the Perhentian Islands promise crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. From budget-friendly chalets to serene eco-resorts, these islands cater to both backpackers and families seeking relaxation. Beyond sunbathing, the islands offer kayaking, diving, and lush jungle trails. The journey to these islands involves a scenic drive to Kuala Besut Jetty, followed by a short boat ride - a small price for paradise. Oh, to lounge on a beach all day, soaking up the sun rays and frolicking in the water. If I had a patronus, it'd probably be a seal. Pangkor Island: A blend of relaxation and history Pangkor Island blends sandy shores with colonial history. Whether sunbathing on turquoise beaches or exploring Dutch forts, visitors experience a unique mix of leisure and culture. Accommodation spans from cozy beachfront chalets to welcoming resorts. Conveniently accessed via a short ferry ride, Pangkor’s charm and affordability make it a compelling nearby seaside destination for Singaporeans ready to unwind. A Bit of Both: Vietnam's Hidden Seaside Gems and Tourist Attractions Unveiling Vietnam's tranquil shores Vietnam's coastline is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Phu Quoc Island, with its pristine beaches and lush forests, offers snorkelling and diving as unforgettable underwater adventures. Beyond the horizon lies Nha Trang, a city blending beautiful beaches with lively nightlife, perfect for those seeking both relaxation and entertainment. Sand, surf, and most importantly; scenery This seaside journey isn't just about beaches. Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, enchants with its ancient architecture and lantern-lit streets, a testament to Vietnam's rich culture. Meanwhile, the Mekong Delta offers a glimpse into the unique floating markets, where travelers can experience Vietnam's vibrant local life right on the water. Anyone else reminded of the scene in Tangled (2010) where they release the lanterns? Convenience, affordability, and exploration Vietnam becomes more accessible with numerous affordable flights from Southeast Asia and a range of accommodation options to fit all budgets. Explorers can delight in the country's affordable local transportation, from buses to motorbike taxis, making it a convenient hub near Singapore for your next seaside getaway. Combining stunning landscapes with cultural depth, Vietnam's hidden gems present a balanced blend of relaxation and discovery. Conclusion Therefore, when planning your next seaside escape, remember that the perfect balance of affordability and relaxation is just a short flight away. Whether it's the pristine beaches of Thailand, the tranquil islands of Malaysia, or the stunning coastline of Vietnam, Southeast Asia offers a plethora of options to suit any traveller's taste. ~ Fremont (Photos by Audley Travel, Booking.com, The Danna Langkawi, Gill Divers, Trip Advisor, Vietnam Tourism, and HostelWorldBlog)

How many of us can claim to be good listeners? I've come to realise that listening is an art. Think of all the people you've ever spoken to who is a 'good listener'. Apart from your friends, these folks are most likely doctors, counsellors, customer service reps, and yes, even barbers and hairstylists. Listening with an open mind does not come naturally to everyone. I feel it requires a genuine desire to hear the other person's perspectives and opinions without judgment. Only then will the other person feel secure talking to you. Being physically or emotionally vulnerable is scary. We don't let our guard down unless we can be sure that the conversation is confidential. We also won't do it if we know the other person doesn't listen. Needless to say, dozing off while your friend is confiding in you is unforgivable. Tell them if you're too tired and offer to speak to them at another time. 'Interviewing' skills Listening takes a lot out of the listener, for you must concentrate on what is being said. Get distracted for a moment and it makes the other person feel unimportant. Conducting interviews has helped me become a better listener. During these sessions, my task is to let the interviewee say as much as they can, while asking the right questions to glean more details or information. Interviewees must be put at ease. The more comfortable they are, the more they are likely to share. Conversely, a nervous interviewee will say little, and the story will be mildly interesting, if you're lucky. Offer solutions when asked, not before. (Image: Headway, Unsplash) It's not easy When friends confide, it's not always to brainstorm to seek a solution to an issue. Often, it's simply to talk about their problem/s. Over the years, I've realised the best move during such conversations is to listen quietly without making any suggestions. That's easier said than done, though. When someone tells us they're going through a rough patch, our first instinct is to suggest practical solutions. We want to help our friends resolve whatever they're facing as soon as possible. But our advice, no matter how sound, may not be what your friend needs at that moment. Dishing out advice before your counsel is sought isn't wrong, but you might make the other person feel stupid. It's more prudent to be a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on. Remaining quiet, sitting and listening patiently are not easy skills to learn. But they are worth the effort it takes to master them, for in the end, we become better friends. – Jeremy (Main image: Aarón Blanco Tejedor, Unsplash)

I just got into an accident. Back taxi failed to stop and ram onto me , resulting me banging onto front taxi vehicle. So if my case now, do i need to pay for excess if i proceed to claim for insurance. Front taxi damage quite jialat. Any benefit if i see doc and get 3 days mc?

Bro & Sis, Need your advice on holiday in Brisbane - Free & Ez + Self Drive Thanks In Advance

So despite a long flight that wasn't enjoyable, my wife has decided she had enough fun to want to go through another. This time we will do a shorter flight and go somewhere with reasonably cool weather (baby loves the cold), and get a car.. Because she want to bring that mega cot again! haha So it's middle of March 2024, 6 days in Perth Australia and I will appreciate tips and advice again on places to go and stay. I've got tickets sorted, plus a rental car with an infant seat. My MIL will be going again too - brave lady, haha Now both wife and I have been to Perth a few times, so the city itself isn't very interesting, and we will want to stay in a same region, ideally even the same hotel / cabin throughout. QUESTIONS: Accommodations: So if we wish to do a farm stay, the Swan Valley area looks alright? - Anyone done farm stays before and has places to recommend? - I think we can go for two hotel rooms, OR a whole lodge / farm cottage for ourselves - ideally these have a small kitchen to prepare baby's food, not far from amenities eg Coles / Woolsworth supermarket? - Settler's Farm Stay - the only issue is that they don't have room for the whole stay, so I may have to get one night at the beginning elsewhere first -- does anyone have experience with this place? Attractions: Any tips on flying with a very active two year old - during the last flight, the entire aisle was the playground, haha I booked an infant seat and specified 2 years old, is their infant seat ok? Do I need deep cleaning? Any other attractions or recommended farm stays? Places to go - hiking? - markets? - Rottnest Island - is it any good for a two year old? - Caversham Wildlife Reserve - alpacas, and other animals (a few people have mentioned it) - visit Fremantle market (Fremantle Markets is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It’s also open on Monday public holidays) Thanks again!

My room is overcrowded and I'm moving to a new workplace soon. Looking for some storage space roughly the size of 1.5m x 2.5m area to store some of my stuff on a long term basis (at least two years). Does anyone have any experience to share? Currently on my list of consideration (not in order of merit) are: Lock and Store http://www.lockandstore.com.sg/ (Chai Chee, Tanjong Pagar) Big Orange http://www.bigorange.com.sg/ (Hougang, Bukit Batok, Woodlands) StorHub http://www.storhub.com.sg/ (Kallang, Toa Payoh, Changi South) Store-It http://www.store-it.com.sg/ (Pasir Panjang) ExtraSpace http://www.extraspace.com.sg/ (Boon Keng, IMM, West Coast, Eunos Link) SingPost S3http://www.singpost.com.sg/S3/index.html (Ayer Rajah) Out of my list: The Space Seller http://www.storages.com.sg/ (Dhoby Ghaut, Penjuru) -> Due to location.

Dear friends I have recently come into possession of some koi and large gold fish, and I am hoping to get some advice: - how do I clean the tank? - change the filter? - anyone I can hire for some professional advice or is there a bro here who is an enthusiast who does not mind coming to have a look? (will cook or provide super kopi and a big meal!) Thanks bros I have put aside some put in the balcony for this effort, this was something I did in my dad's old place and I am hoping to do something like that in future: Some advice on some solar powered lights to accompany this will be much appreciated too, thanks!

Dear Sir/Madams, I finally bought a new car recently after years of working and saving up. However last week I had met with a car accident and had been traumatised by the accident. The accident was totally not my fault and the other driver whom is driving a rental is claiming 3rd party damages against my insurance. I was travelling on a major road going straight and the other driver was approaching from my left with STOP wording and DOUBLE BROKEN WHITE lines on the road. I did not drive fast but the driver just abruptly drove out from the left side and his top right bonnet crashed into my top left bonnet. He had a kid and wife in the car, where his wife claimed to be feeling unwell after the accident. Although I felt his wife was over-exaggerating but giving her the benefit of the doubt, we called in the Traffic Police and ambulance. I basically had the right of way and he just drove out without checking for oncoming traffic imo. He claimed that he checked for all blindspots and only drove out when the traffic from the right was clear. There was a tree blocing both of our views but how can the traffic be clear as per what he claimed. But the other driver started scolding me that I was driving fast and could not stop in time to avoid him after the accident happened! He even asked me to write a letter stating that I am in wrong for the accident, which I did not write the letter. I told him that we should leave it up to the insurance companies to settle this matter. I claimed 3rd party damages for my car against the rental car insurer as it was not my fault. A few days ago I received news from my insurer that the a 3rd party claim had been filed against my insurer. What I cannot believe is that the other driver is claiming injuries for his whole family(Other driver: spinal injury, Kid: Chest pain and bruise on forehead, Wife: Bruise and hip injury)! How can they do this? The cars were slightly damaged only! On the accident day, when the paramedics and TP asked the other driver and kid if they were alright on that day, they replied that they were alright. Only the wife was conveyed to hospital by ambulance. My insurer is putting a reserve amount of 20k SGD for this 3rd party claim pending investigation outcome. This is not right! I am very unhappy about this matter and would like to seek advice on what I should do. I want to make sure I am not penalised and would not have to accept any liability for this accident.

Couple of weeks ago scrubbed the front tyre against a kerb corner and sustained a small? cut (slightly longer than a nano sim card) at the side wall. Tyres mileage about 40K+ km. I am hoping they can go for another 20K+ km or for a year more before changing all, and yet... Do you all think this one can hang on for that duration? Thanks in advance.🙏...🙂

Hi all Just wondering if anyone had driven from SG to Bangkok before? According to Google Maps, it can be done and the distance is approx. 1850km. I know logistically and financially it is really dumb and waste of time to do so as a flight to Bangkok is only 2 hrs from SG. and budget airlines $$ are cheap. But I just thought the trill of actually driving to Bangkok from SG, and that you are the only SG plate car driving around the big traffic jam city of the world, the feeling would be great haha. I just wonder if there's any potential issues when crossing from Malaysia to Thailand borders. Is our insurance covered in Thailand? And I assume there's no problem using their fuel... Most of their cars uses E20 gas, meaning there's 20% Ethanol mixed into the gasoline. Their max grade gasoline is at 95 octane only. Their regular at 91. I have a close friend in Bangkok but she has no idea if the idea is workable or not... TIA

My aunty and mum wants to start a home based cake cum cookie business. I want some recommendation of a cheap and good web hosting. 1) a few pages showing the cookies and cakes. 2) a proper registered web address that will 'forever' belong to me cum a e-mail address. 3) a ordering page using visa or pay pal, etc. Anyone who got lobang pls pm me. Hope to get it ready for the 2011 Chinese new year goodies sales.

Hi All, anyone familiar with Langkawi? I will be bring my family of 4 for a short holiday in Dec. I've booked the flight but arriving time will be 8pm. Thinking of renting a car for our stay there, but feel that it will be quite a waste for the 1st night. So likely to take a taxi to hotel upon arrival. Do the taxi there go by meter? If not do they chop carrot when they see me & my family arriving so late with no other option? Thanks!

To follow up from bad advice, here’s good advice: 1. Wave to say thank you when being given way to 2. use hazard lights briefly to say thank you (Japan practices ) 3. When driving on nsh, high beam to inform opp road users of mata ambush(contentious) 4. ok add on

Good day everyone, I'm looking to purchase my first car. Have been driving the family car on and off but now i've decided to buy my own. Been driving for around 4 years now. I'm currently looking at the BMW E89 Z4, which has a depre of roughly 11k/yr. I have no plans to have kids anytime in the near future and it's a car that i really like. The only concern i have is the road tax for the 6 cyl 23i. At the 15th yr, it amounts to an astounding 2.7k/yr. With that in mind, does it ever make sense to purchase a 2.5l COE car? Or do i just play w it for a few years then sell? I have also looked at the 2.0l turbo variant (20i), but being a newer model, it costs way more than the 23i (around 14k/yr depre). If it doesn't make sense to purchase a 2.5l COE car, what other options do i have? I have previously also shortlisted the 320i coupe (underpowered and heavy) and e250 coupe (hearsay FC is below average). Budget is around 80-85k. All suggestions all welcome, thanks in advance!

Signalling is optional In Ubi driving school back in 2007, one instructor told me that "now you must signal every time, but once you pass it's up to you". My 5 years in Australia showed me what an uncultured a**hole/idiot I looked like by signaling arbitrarily. Since then I signal like a robot, 100% of the time, even when in carparks and when on empty-looking roads. Jam brake if someone tailgates you This one came from peers who were newly minted drivers during NS. I never had the balls to do it, but soon realised it was ridiculous, dangerous, and illegal. No need to signal if on a turning only lane at a traffic junction This is similar to my first point. When someone said this to me, I asked "do you signal to show other road users where you are intending to go, or for yourself to see?" There are all kinds of road users on the road, other vehicles, pedestrians, nowadays E-scooters and bicycles...etc. many people will be looking to your signal to make decisions and you may not even realise it. If you yield to faster vehicles while driving at 90km/h on the right-most lane, you are abetting them in commiting a crime (of speeding) If they speed and get caught, that's their business. All I can say is that you would be committing the (at minimum, antisocial) crime of road hogging if you failed to yield. --- What other bad driving advice have you received?

Hi Guys, This morning side mirror got hits by a Goods Truck and one of the side mirror cannot open up anymore. The mechanism inside have broken as it's causing some gear noise on one side of the mirror. How much will it cost to replace the side mirror with led side indicator and spray paint. (White) I want Original Parts ... Any place which I can call up for a quote? Thanks Guys ~

Hi folks, so I just quit a company I have been working at for the past 7 years to join a new company. Before leaving I had done the usual stuff of handing over duties and created a spreadsheet of the outstanding cases with their current status and follow up. Considering I left on good terms, I sent out a thank you email to everyone I worked with before my departure so they would have known. Yesterday was my last day and today I have been getting calls from my former employer on projects that I was involved in for advice and info. I'm contemplating if I should just ignore these calls or answer them to avoid burning bridges since word gets around eventually. I know this is probably not the right platform to seek advice on such matters but just wanted to get quick advice. Any advice would be appreciated! TYIA.

Hi Everyone, I'm going to Italy in June for two weeks. Going Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan. Any tips on things to look out for? Any things that I should or must buy? Any restaurant or food that I must try? Any places that is out of the ordinary that I should or must go? Appreciate everyone's contribution. Thank you! Rayd8or

I can't sleep 'till you're next to me~ In all seriousness though, I've been having a problem with insomnia lately. I'll be dead tired from work and everything but I'll still lie in bed awake for hours. Before I know it, my alarm is going off and I don't feel like I got any sleep at all. I'm scared to take sleeping pills. Don't want to OD or anything but I'm also too scared to see a doctor. Are there any natural methods you guys can recommend?

Hi, I would like to seek advice on whether to buy a new car before or after the new VES rebate in January. Given that the A2 has an additional $5k rebate in January 2021, say the car is selling at $100k after January vs 102k for now, which is a better deal? (if not 2k difference, what is the margin for it to be still worth the earlier purchase) I was told by the sale agent that the increased rebate will only have effect if you are planning to sell it after 9-10 years. Otherwise, whether or not the arf decrease by 5k has no significance as selling car/trade-in goes by "market value". Any advice and insights will be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Hi Appreciate if you can share your experience, recommendation or advice should you have had this similar problem I'm facing now........ Hired a 9 yrs experienced Indonesia maid - paid more hoping she can help my wife........Maid arrived & complained not happy, wanna transfer on her 3rd day. Called maid agency....... was told to hold on to her, no new Biodata available yet. Waited & waited, while bearing with her bad, 'bochap' attitude towards us despite treating her like one of our family.... makans, short tour, outings etc. Of course, gotta bear with her mistakes made........ she spoiled 2 TVs by wiping with wet cloth, choked toilet pipe & many others. Despite lecturing her, she continued her 'bochap' attitude. On the 4th week, she ran away (w/o our knowledge) to the agency & accused that my wife slapped her. Last I heard from maid agency that police report was made by them & she is now under investigation. I guess she's now either in the Home or agency's lodge. Obviously, agency is not helping us at all, for all this matter! We (me & wife) are concerned but not worry in proving our innocence. Yes, my wife chided her at times on her mistakes, but we do not lay hands on her! We lodged a police report for our perusal to further actions, if needed. Called MOM, they adviced to speak with concerned IOfficer for permission to cancel WPermit. Called police, they dunno if any abovementioned report was made against us, just asked us to wait . . . Called maid agency, I summarized the answer: 'no disclosure until investigation ends' Now, what can we do besides waiting........ WPermit is still under my name, I'm still liable for her & I'm sure there will be $$$ charged onto me during this 'investigation period'. Your Best Advice Please. . . . .

I have a main door that is sagging such that the bottom actually touches the floor at the furthest end when closing but I fixed that by sanding with the door on. The problem seems like the highest hinge is a bit loose causing the tilt but I cannot tighten it because the door frame is steel and the holes are a bit worn. Was thinking of anchoring it with long screws but how can I grip the concrete that is behind the door frame? I cannot insert a plug or anchor through the hinge hole and the screws must be able to seat flush at the hinge. Another is a concrete top that is seeping water, not leaking, just that the splashing from washing causes it to land on the edges n seep to the bottom. Plumbers putty would work but can I get them to cover a 2 inch by 36inch by half inch cheaply. At half inch would cement be able to stop the seepage? I cannot engage pros because I do not want to invest too much.