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5 Of The Hottest Convertibles For Summer

Photo: Aston Martin

“If a grown man drives around with the top down, he looks like the central character in an advertisement for Viagra.” Jeremy Clarkson proclaims in The Grand Tour, and rightfully so. It’s a ‘douchey’ car, yet, there still exists no alternatives to the wind-in-your-hair freedom that a convertible offers.

Turn down the roof, and enjoy cruising through the summer air. Here is a round up of the hottest convertibles in 2018 to rely on.

5 Hottest Convertibles For Summer

Photo: Rolls-Royce

2018 Rolls-Royce Dawn

The British luxury automobile maker represents the same things it did in 1925, committing itself to class, comfort, and hand-built quality despite dramatic shifts in the car-making industry. It manages to stay true to its original motto, yet keeps up with the times.

The Dawn was launched in 2015 at the Frankfurt Auto Show with the tagline “The sexiest Rolls-Royce ever built, a daring claim that most do not contend with. To match its “sexiness”, the car also has a $416,100 price tag, and that makes it even hotter. At 5,776 pounds, the Dawn is still fast going 0-60 in 4.3 seconds via its Twin-turbo DOHC aluminium 6.6 litre V-12 engine with direct injection, an eight-speed ZF automatic shift and 575 lb.-ft. of torque. The top goes up and retracts quickly and quietly with the touch of a button. Inside, the sight, smell, and feel of the “Canadel” wood paneling and leather all around adds a delightful, luxurious touch.

Photo: Ferrari

2018 Ferrari 488 Spider

Starting at $284,650 and topping out at $393,411 with options and trimmings, this speed beauty blasts from 0-60 in approximately 2.9 seconds. Equipped with a 3.9 litre, DOHC 32-valve twin-turbo V-8 engine making 661 horsepower @8000 RPM, 561 lb-ft @3000 RPM, mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic shift, the Spider is state-of-the-art.

Its top takes a tardy 14 seconds to open, but compensates with the buttery purr and echoing charge of the mid-engine position behind your neck. With a large front trunk to boot, it is the perfect motor car to bring out the best in you, and a partner with.

 

Photo: Mazda

2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata

It is not the most impressive convertible at its relatively tiny build, but it is still the world’s best-selling sports mobile. Starting at around $26,000 for the soft top and $32,500 for the Refractable Fastback version, the Miata matches up to its heavy contenders with style and affordability.

Both iterations come with a 6-speed manual, available in automatic as well. Mazda also released a Brembo/BBS Recaro package this year that offers sport seats. A Miata RF Club comes fitted with standard heated seats and keyless entry for its RD models. Although the engines are only 2.0 litres making only 155 horsepower, the car is still great for the adventurous, especially on winding, twisty roads. A unique feature is the Adaptive Front Lighting System that turns the headlights as far as 15% via the steering wheel to allow for better illumination at night. It is not the big on interior space, but the trunk is relatively spacious for its size.

The 2018 MX-5 model comes in three trims – Sport, Club, and Grand Touring. The MX-5 RF retractable fastback gets two trims – Club and Grand Touring.

 

Photo: Jaguar

2019 Jaguar F-Type SVR Convertible

Even though Jaguar’s work on automobiles has been lacklustre over the last 10 years, the F-type is the one ride that is still praised and loved. The 2019 model is Jaguar’s most powerful, with 5.0 V8 twin vortex supercharged engines, achieving 0-60 in just 3.5 seconds, produced by the brand’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) technical center. It starts at $64,845 for the base convertible, and $61,745 for the coupe version. There is a variety of configurations for those who want to amp up the heat.

Its most powerful and pricey trim at $126,745 is the 575-horsepower SVR that comes with a titanium exhaust, extra carbon fiber, and the ability to reach 200 miles per hour. For 2018, the car gets added LED headlights, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, a backup camera and an upgraded InControl Touch Pro infotainment system. Customise the ride further with matte finishes in 18 shades for $8,500, and 20-inch wheels in a carbon-ceramic brake package for another $14,740.

 

Photo: Aston Martin

2018 Aston Martin Vanquish S Volante

This 2018 Vanquish S Volante boosts Aston-Martin’s reputation for building stealthy, buttery, powerful machines. The Vanquish was first launched as a V12 at the 2001 Geneva Motor Show and was driven by James Bond in the 2002 film Die Another Day. Fast-forward 2 generations, the new Vanquish S comes with a more powerful engine and improved aerodynamics. It is a growly rear-wheel 5.9 litre, V-12 with 580 HP and 465 lb-ft of torque married with an 8-speed automatic transmission.  An integrated spoiler, side sills, and rear valance, as well as a new carbon fiber front splitter and quad exhaust tips ensure that the majestic stallion is heard blocks away.

At $312,950, the interior is luxurious with Strathmore enhanced grain-leather upholstery with embroidered headrets, satin chrome brightwork, and a ‘Rokona’ headliner on the convertible lid. This year, the new model comes with 20-inch 10-spoke wheels with fine gloss black accents and optional black side strake meshes, carbon mirror caps, and a carbon front grill with black mesh. The options of forged five-spoke ‘diamond turned’ wheels and painted graphic packages with seven colour choices and combos are also available to fully customise the extravagant ride.

The First Leopard 50 is Sold in Asia

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Leopard 50’s striking profile

Asia will witness the arrival of the Leopard 50 after it was sold to an Asian owner. On July 6th, 2018, it will be a special occasion for Leopard because it is launching the Leopard 50 in Asia and a special event will be held between Yacht Style Magazine and Lux Inc Media. This special date will be reserved for boat dealers only to climb aboard and see what the new model has to offer. A dealer meeting will be held on this day as well. On July 7th and 8th from 11am to 6pm we will gladly welcome the general public and invited guests for an open house event. Since the launch of the Leopard 50 at the Miami International Boat Show, she has proven to be one of the most successful products launched by Leopard Catamarans in her first year. Some key features that make this model so popular begin with her versatility. Owners are given the option to choose the classic hard-top exterior configuration (Leopard 50P), or for the first time on a Leopard Catamaran of this size, an optional flybridge accommodation (Leopard 50L).

The Leopard 50L is the ideal layout for anyone looking for more outdoor living space as she comes equipped with a flybridge that includes a lounge area, table, sunbed and optional exterior speakers and shade awning. An important distinction compared to similar sailboat flybridge configurations is that while under sail, passengers can move about the flybridge with ample headroom and never worry about interference from the boom. Sailors looking for the familiar, continuous hardtop can opt for the Leopard 50P. This version does not have the flybridge and can deliver increased performance particularly when fitted with the offered Squaretop mainsail and other available performance-orientated rigging and sail options. In addition to the exterior options, the interior offers multiple layout configurations with 3 plus utility room, 4 or 5 cabins, and an extensive options list.

The helm station is still located in the classic position— raised and to starboard. Move easily from the helm station to the spacious aft cockpit, and from there step into an open saloon by stacking sliding glass doors which seamlessly blend the saloon with the outdoors. Inside, the interior has an elegant, light finish that is accented with grey contrasts. The design is modern and fresh, with a focus on the quality of finish and materials.

Leopard 50’s interior

The stylish interior is designed with plenty of headroom and an ergonomic layout. A staple in all new Leopard models, the forward facing settee, situated aft, allows for direct communication with the forward facing galley. The saloon is finished off with a saloon sized overhead skylight, and the signature forward cockpit is accessible from the saloon through a weathertight door. True to the Leopard pedigree, the Leopard 50 emphasizes functional open spaces and ease of handling.

Kit Chotithamaporn, Yacht Sales Manager, Asia enthuses, “I’m very happy that the first Leopard 50 in Asia has been sold to an experienced Asian yachtsman with plans for long voyages in the Asian region and beyond. The Leopard 50 is the perfect boat for a yacht owner to do this in comfort and safety. I’m looking forward to the Asia launch of the Leopard 50 along with the open house so our dealers, invited guests, and members of the public can come and have a good look at what is now a very successful model worldwide.”

Principal Specifications:
Length Overall 50’ 6” / 15.4 m
Hull Length 48’ 11” / 14.9 m
Beam 26’ 5” / 8.06 m
Draft 5” 3’ / 1.6 m
Sail Area 1,660 sq ft/ 154.2 sq m
Engines 2 x 57 hp
Fuel Capacity 243 US Gal / 920 l
Water Capacity 185 US Gal / 700 l
Cabins 4 or 5
Heads 4 or 5

For more information: www.leopardcatamarans.com

An Anonymous Buyer Commissioned A 77-metre Damen SeaXplorer That Comes With Two Helicopters

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Palm Beach International Boat Show ©2017 Forest Johnson

Dutch shipbuilding company Damen stole the Palm Beach International Boat Show by revealing an on-going project: the construction of a 77-metre long SeaXplorer 77.

Damen was established by the two Damen brothers, Jan and Rien, in 1927. The company saw its humble beginnings with the duo building ships in a shed next to their family home. Five years later, they formalised the company as Damen Brothers. It was not until 1969 when Krommer Damen bought the company from his father and developed the modular shipbuilding concept. The strategy, known today as The Damen Standard, inspired fast delivery times, reduced costs, and birthed proven designs. Success of the standard enabled Damen to grow quickly, expanding the company to larger facilities in the Netherlands. Today, Damen is a leading shipbuilding company with more than 9,000 employees.

Who’s The Mystery Buyer?

The superyacht was commissioned by a mystery client for use as a surfing, diving, and heliskiing platform in remote places. Thus, Damen is committed extensively on helicopter operations – the vessel will be equipped with two helicopters, two helidecks, and two hangars.

Airbus ACH © Airbus Helicopters / Camille Moirenc

“It not only has a fully certified helideck for safe landings, it also has a standby surface for a backup helicopter… Both helicopters can fit in the below deck hangar, so they’re protected from the elements.” says Rose Damen, commercial director of yachting at Damen and Amels. The superyacht will carry 2 customised Airbus ACH125s.

Other prominent features include a separated ski room with avalanche safety equipment and a 10.5-metre tender to store Jet Skis and snowmobiles. The vessel is also fully functional in high latitude regions, boasting a reinforced ice-classed hull.

Damen SHADOW © 2017 Yacht Charter Fleet

Naturally, it is no wonder that the mystery buyer pulls considerable weight in the design process of such a magnificent craft that will accomodate 12 guests and 25 members of crew.

“Some people think that fans of outdoor activities should stay in fleabag motels and dry their wet socks on radiators. I believe that you can combine the most active outdoor adventures and sports with ultimate comfort,” the mystery buyer shared.

© Damen Shipyards Group 2018

The SeaXplorer 77 will have a maximum autonomy of 40 days to cruise at an estimated speed of 14.5 knots, boasting dedicated aircraft fuel tanks, storage for helicopter spares, and pilot accomodation to make it a true globetrotting superyacht.

The 77-metre explorer yacht with 2,700GT is scheduled to be launched in 2020, as a follow-up to the SeaXplorer 65, and will be fitted in and out by the end of the year.

On Your Mark: The Ultimate 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO by Scaglietti

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The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO by Scaglietti is officially driving into RM Sotheby’s Monterey auction on 24th to 25th August at Monterey. It was effectively the final evolution of the marque’s famous 250 model, which debuted in 1953 and ended with the last GTOs in 1964. Within that timeframe, only 36 examples of the 250 GTO were produced, all of which have survived, making this car arguably the world’s most collectable car.

On your mark, get set, bid!

The Ferrari 250 GTO on offer, chassis no. 3413 GT, is the third of the 36 examples built and began its life as a Series I car. Designed to compete in the GT racing, the Ferrari 250 model is widely considered the most beautiful Ferrari design that put vintage autos on the map in the realm of art. Fast forward a few decades, it has become the hottest ticket in the collectors car world, thanks not only to its incredible pedigree but all the glory it has lauded over since its creation. Every 250 GTO was raced, and chassis no. 3413 GT is no exception. The car contested a total of 20 races in its time, and was never involved in an accident, did not once fail to finish. In the year 1962, The Ferrari 250 GTO won itself nine of the ten races it entered, an incredible feat for any race car.

Having only its body reworked into its factory Series II, in which it was clothed by Carrozzeria Scaglietti in 1964, the racing legend had retained its original engine, gearbox, and rear axle, making the GTO is the most valuable motor car ever offered for public sale.

According to Sotheby’s, the car is expected to fetch a record-breaking price at least $45 million. For a car that holds up to such an incredible track success and cementing what would become the GTO legend and legacy as known today, opportunities to own one are few and far between. And one very lucky buyer will be able to drive this home from the Monterey this August.

Register to bid here.

The Heritage Villas at Emirates One&Only Resort

A night’s stay at Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley is luxury lodging on a whole new level. Think a canyon-sized Jurassic Park of sunny escarpments and lavish aesthetic complemented with an access to over 7,000 acres of unspoilt wilderness. Situated within the pristine Wolgan Valley, the villa is a perfect fit for those on a luxury backpacking trip across the Blue Mountains.

Luxury Lodging In The Wilderness Of Blue Mountains

Using primarily wood and stone, Emirates took cues from grandiose architecture of the Federation era to construct the Heritage Villas. Inside each villa, a central double-sided fireplace made of local sandstone partitions the living hall and the bedroom. The choice of warm, earthy tones complemented by wooden furniture handcrafted by local artisans presents the villas with impeccable style and sense of place. Room amenities include a separate walk-in dressing room, Sodashi spa amenities, and mountain bicycles for both the adventurous and laid-back alike to explore the wonderful area. In addition, the luxurious bathroom in each villa features twin vanities, separate shower with skylight and a bath with panoramic views of the valley.

Each villa also offers exceptional privacy for individuals and couples alike to enjoy breathtaking Wolgan views in peace and serenity.

A private pool with its own deck also comes with each villa, complete with concertina doors, making it perfect for year-round use. Simply step outside to discover a courtyard garden and private verandah that allow guests to take in the view of Wolgan Valley with a pair of binoculars available in every room, a thoughtful touch that allows guests up-close-and-personal viewing of Wolgan Valley wildlife – all within the warmth and comfort of the luxurious quarters.

The Heritage Villas at Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley accommodates up to 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children. Prices start from $1477 per night.

Photos: www.oneandonlyresorts.com

 

 

 

12 Finest Floral Stores in Singapore for Deliveries and Online Orders

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On days when you are stuck in the office or you just can’t be bothered to visit a flower shop or flower market, the best flower delivery in Singapore can save the day. In case you forgot to buy a gift for your wedding anniversary or overlooked a calendar alert about a loved one’s birthday, these reliable Singapore flower shops and online florists are just what you need.

 

Here are the 12 of the most lauded and well-reviewed flower delivery options in Singapore. Don’t forget to bookmark this page!

Her Flowers

Her Flowers’ signature bouquets are large, lush and surprisingly affordable. Not only are their products budget-friendly, but their curated catalogue of varied and versatile floral arrangements are also handcrafted daily upon purchase so you know your recipient is getting fresh flowers in peak condition.

Their large mono flower bouquets of baby’s breath or powder pink roses are among their bestsellers. Though the reason why Her Flowers is a beloved florist in Singapore is their message of self-care and empowerment. Alongside the delicate appearance and gracefulness of flowers are qualities of strength, healing and inspiration that their customers imbibe with each carefully handcrafted bouquet.

Her Flowers’ standard delivery is free to all Singapore locations, including their same day flower delivery service. Their daily delivery time slots are 9-12pm, 12-3pm and 3-6pm, so order before 3pm to get your flowers on the same day.

Best for Lush handmade bouquets
Selection size Curated
Price range SG 68 – 119
Delivery Fee Free same day delivery
Website www.herflowers.sg
Instagram @herflowerssg
Payment methods Visa, Mastercard, American Express, DBS, UOB, POSB, Bank Transfer, Paypal

A Better Florist

Not enough time on your hands? Maybe the birthday party is happening in a few hours or a recuperating friend needs a quick pick-me-up, then A Better Florist’s guaranteed fast flower delivery is just what you need! With A Better Florist, you never have to miss out on an event or earn the ire of your significant other.

 

A Better Florist’s aesthetic is modern and minimalistic with a rustic touch. Their burlap-wrapped and twine-wrapped bouquets are hip, trendy and perfect for tech-savvy, young professionals. Of course, they also have the more traditional flower arrangements like grand opening flowers, funeral wreaths and sympathy flowers. To avail their same day flower delivery, order your bouquet before 3pm.

Best for Hip and stylish arrangements
Selection size Curated
Price range SG 29 – 139
Delivery Fee Free same day delivery
Website  www.abetterflorist.com
Instagram @abetterflorist
Payment methods Visa, Mastercard, American Express, DBS, UOB, POSB, Bank Transfer, Paypal

Singapore Florist

Singapore Florist has an extensive selection of roses in various combinations and bouquet sizes. They have Red Roses, Blue Roses, Peach Roses, Champagne Roses, Mixed Color Roses and Black Roses, among others. You can further customise your bouquet by selecting a pot or vase as well as choosing gifts to bundle with your bouquet.

 

Order by 4pm for same day flower delivery in Singapore. Singapore Florist is truly the 24/7 florist since they operate 7 days a week, 24 hours a day and ships flowers even during Public Holidays.

Best for Traditional Roses
Selection size Large
Price range SG 49 – 398
Delivery Fee Delivery is free to most areas in Singapore.

A surcharge of SGD 30 for deliveries to:

  1. All Army Camps & High Security Areas
  2. All PSA Ports
  3. Jurong Island
  4. Changi Airport Cargo Comple
  5. Sentosa Island & High Security Areas

Website  www.singaporeflorist.com.sg
Contact +65 9226 4252
Payment methods Visa, Mastercard, American Express, DBS, UOB, POSB, Bank Transfer, Paypal

Prince’s

Prince’s Flower Shop sells budget-friendly bouquets, but their most value-for-money products are their low-priced grand opening flowers which you can buy for at least SGD80. Grand opening flower arrangements can have equally grand price points, but at Prince, costs for 180cm flower stands can range from SGD110 – SGD220.

 

They have flower arrangements available for delivery for other occasion and in varying arrangements, too. Their daily standard flower delivery in singapore is free from 9am to 8pm. Express or special delivery, meanwhile, charges an extra SGD20.

Best for Cheap grand opening flowers and condolence stands
Selection size Medium
Price range From SG80
Delivery Fee Free
Website www.prince.com.sg
Instagram @princeflowershop
Payment methods Visa, Mastercard, American Express, DBS, UOB, POSB, Bank Transfer, Paypal

Freeman Florist

Freeman Florist, like most online florists with an extensive product catalogue, caters to all occasions and stocks all off- and in-season blooms. Their roses in particular are their bestselling blooms. They deliver flowers in Singapore as well as internationally. They have rainbow-coloured baby’s breath and rose bouquets which are perfect for celebratory occasions like birthdays and graduations.

Best for Premium quality roses
Selection size Large
Price range SG 35 – 1320
Delivery Fee Products are inclusive of delivery fee.
Website  www.freemanflorist.com
Instagram @freemanflorist
Payment methods Visa, Mastercard, Paypal

Sing See Soon

Over the years, Sing See Soon has seamlessly transitioned from being a brick and mortar shop to the trusted online florist that it is today. This family-owned florist is considered one of Singapore’s pioneers in the flower industry since they have been around since 1879. They get their flowers from a lot of sources, including New Zealand, Thailand, India, Malaysia and Holland. As for delivery, just add SGD10 for delivery charge and you’ll get your order within the day.

Best for Weddings and coporate events
Selection size Moderate
Price range SG 47 – 250
Delivery Fee SG 10 *Deliveries cannot be made to Jurong Island, Airline Road, Changi Airport Cargo and Airbase, and PSA (Free Freight Zone), Sentosa and military bases.
Website  www.singseesoon.com
Instagram @singseesoon

Katong Flower Shop

Katong Flower Shop was established back in 1948. They claim to have the most complete line in the horticulture and flora industries. Though they have adapted to modern times by putting up an online flower shop for tech-savvy customers, their site is still a bit old-fashioned. However, if you like browsing through a lot of flower arrangements, their large online collection of products will not disappoint.

 

They have a wide range of options for all budgets, from cheap flowers to deluxe bouquets. Flower delivery island-wide in Singapore is free, except for Sentosa or on-board vessels where an additional SGD21.40 applies. Purchases made before 2pm will be shipped within the day.

Best for Bouquets for all budgets
Selection size Large
Price range SG 40 – 480
Delivery Fee Free
Website  www.katongflowershop.com
Payment methods Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Diners Club and Paypal

Hazel Florist

Hazel Florist, like most florists in this list, boasts a large collection of flower arrangements. What’s different is their unique packaging. For instance, their signature flower cones are designed like gift boxes in a funnel shape complete with ribbons. They also have flower baskets, piling on flowers inside a wicker hamper. They even have transparent bags as another packaging option.

 

If you do not want to burden your recipient with upkeep for cut flowers, you can check out their collection of artificial flowers that look very much like the real deal. For a minimum order of SGD 67.41, shipping is already free. However, there is a fee of SGD20 for deliveries to Singapore islands (e.g. Sentosa and Jurong Island) and restricted areas such as the Airport Passenger Terminals, Airport Cargo Complex, PSA ports and military camps. Order before 3pm for same day flower delivery in Singapore.

Best for Artificial blooms
Selection size Large
Price range SG 50 – 1500
Delivery Fee Free delivery for purchases SGD 67.41 and up
Website  www.hazel.com.sg
Instagram @hazelflorist
Payment methods Paypal

Far East Flora

Far East Flora’s giant bouquets are fantastic if you want to make an impression with your significant other. Otherwise, you can choose the usual bouquet sizes—petite, deluxe and premium—as well as an option to add gifts to your order. They also have succulents in cute, little planters sold in their online flower shop.

 

Far East Flora provides free same day delivery in Singapore 7 days a week. You can check out their e-catalogue for promos, deals, discounts and latest floral designs.

Best for Wholesale flowers and giant bouquets
Selection size Large
Price range SG 24.90 – 5349.89
Delivery Fee Free same day delivery
Website  www.fareastflora.com
Instagram @fefcom
Payment methods Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Paypal, ENets, DBS

Floral Garage

In case you don’t have time to browse their large floral collection, you can order a freestyle bouquet from Floral Garage. Just tell them the recipient, occasion and any other preference, then their florist will craft the perfect bouquet. It can be a regular bouquet or a premium freestyle bouquet, depending on your budget.

 

Order before 3pm for same day flower delivery. Their delivery times are 10am to 2pm, 1:30 pm to 5pm, and 5pm to 10pm. If you need it delivered outside of their delivery time slots, there is an additional fee of SGD30.

Best for Customised arrangements
Selection size Large
Price range SG 11 – 180
Delivery Fee SG 9.70
Website  www.floralgaragesg.com
Instagram @floralgaragesg
Payment methods Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover

Xpress Flower

 

Unlike the other florists in this list which specifies products as specialties, Xpress Flower’s edge or unique service is their midnight express delivery. For the truly panicked customers, trying to save the day with birthday flowers or an anniversary that’s about to end, you can count on Xpress Flower for last-minute gifts. Their last order is 9pm with a minimum purchase of SGD85.60. For deliveries from 10pm to 11:59pm, the delivery fee is SGD32.10. From midnight to 5:59am, the fee is SGD53.50.

Best for Midnight express delivery
Selection size Large
Price range SG 65.40 – 483.67
Delivery Fee Free during weekdays from 1pm to 5:59pm.

*For other delivery times, check their Policies page.
Website  www.xpressflower.com
Instagram @xpressflower_singapore
Payment methods Visa, Mastercard, Paypal

Flora Moments

Flora Moments also delivers until midnight. Deliveries within office hours is free, while for other timeslots, delivery fee starts at SGD10. To qualify for delivery, there must be a minimum order of SGD50 and above for flowers and hampers, and SGD80 and above for balloons. Orders placed before 7pm qualifies for same day delivery.

 

As for products, their rainbow-coloured bouquets stand out. Most of their flower arrangements are vibrant and looks like cotton candies, so they are perfect for children parties or as birthday flowers. You can also customise your online purchases by occasion, recipient and preferred colour for the bouquet in case you want something more personalised.

Best for Rainbow-coloured bouquets
Selection size Large
Price range SG 50 – 788
Delivery Fee Free
Website  www.floramoments.sg
Instagram @floramoments.sg
Payment methods Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Paypal, Bank Transfer, DBS

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