

Out of the millions and millions of websites floating on cyberspace today, which are the ones that will really make a difference in the lives of us busy women (besides Nanzinc.Com, of course)? Our editorial team has compiled a list of 100 of its favourite websites ranging from beauty, interior decoration, travel and recipe tips to love stories, educational resources, and online shopping – all in the name of helping you to Do Life Better. Enjoy!
By: Audra Lim, Dorothea Chow, Lianne Ong, Ng Lin-Li, Sharlene Tan and Theresa Tan
1. Abcteach (USA)
Even if you’re not a homeschooling mum, you can still inject some fun into your child’s learning with the many fun activities and worksheets downloadable free on this website! Only downside is that the material is slightly skewed to the US educational system, but still, you’ll find plenty that works for your child’s needs here in Singapore. – Dorothea
2. All Recipes (USA)
Who needs to buy a cookbook when websites like allrecipes.com, a database of wonderful recipes submitted by an active community, exist? With the rating system, you really can’t go wrong. One of the handiest features is the Ingredient Search tool, which allows you to hunt down recipes with ingredients you want, and ingredients you don’t want – excellent for when you’re clearing out the fridge before going for an overseas holiday! – Lianne
3. Allure Magazine (USA)
The website of the leading beauty magazine in the US is not just token online presence of the hardcopy version, it is right on the mark with spotting beauty trends, and you get up-to-date information here as well as behind-the-scenes video clips of Allure shoots. If you love Before & Afters, the makeover section that traces celebrity looks then and now, is particularly jaw dropping. Reap the benefits of research for the best spas in the US and even Europe – if you’re not holidaying there, you can just pretend by reading descriptions of to-die-for spa treatments! – Lianne
4. Amazon (USA)
America’s biggest online store doesn’t really need an introduction. It has something for everyone – music, movies, electronics, and of course, what it started out with, the books. Even if you’re not looking to buy anything online, Amazon is a great resource to find new books to read and movies to watch on DVD, by browsing user-created lists (‘Listmania!’ or ‘So You’d Like To…’) and their user reviews and ratings are worth checking out before making a purchase. Better still, through Amazon, you can send a gift to a friend overseas, just to let her know you’re thinking of her. – Theresa
5. Apartment Therapy (USA)
This website features cool tips and tricks that are highly applicable to the space-restricted homes of Singapore. If you are looking for chic design inspiration, stylish (but easy) DIY projects, or even tasty meals you can whip up in a small space, this site is for you. Dedicated to helping people build calm and beautiful homes without large amounts of space, money or posessions, this site will get you thinking about how you can do more, with less- just what a Superwoman loves. – Lin-Li
6. BabyCenter (International)
First-time moms swear by this site for its comprehensive cover of practically every possible baby-rearing question there is under the sun. From the moment you find out you are pregnant, you can sign up with the site for weekly emails that will guide you through what you can expect from your pregnancy, right through to when the baby is born, and even into toddlerhood. There are how-tos on feeding, sleeping, playing, teaching, and forums where other moms share their experiences and advice. – Audra
7. The Barnes and Noble Review (USA)
There may not be a Barnes and Noble in Singapore, but this American bookstore chain’s online magazine has insightful reviews of books, films and music. In its ‘Guest Books’ section, personalities from the arts and culture scene, from James Patterson to Nigella Lawson reveal their must-reads. And if you’re looking for books on a specific theme, the Review has an interesting array of suggestions. For instance, their list of books on chocolate include not just recipe books but also those on the history of chocolate as well as Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory! – Sharlene
8. The Beauty Brains (USA)
A group of cosmetic scientists break down beauty myths and set the record straight. Their mission is a noble one: Cut down beauty jargon and misleading advertising claims, and explain to the layman how the science of beauty really works. Get to the bottom of these questions, like “Will silicones dry out hair?”, “Do sunscreen pills work?” and “Does my facial wash cause acne?” Soon you’ll be equipped to make better decisions and will be wiser the next time you’re stocking up on skincare and cosmetics! – Lianne
9. Bluefly (USA)
Fans of high-end labels, here is one of the original online discount multi-label stores. You can get a gorgeous evening gown from Badgley Mischka Platinum Label close to 50% off, or wear a design from an emerging designer like that of Project Runway winner Christian Siriano. Take advantage of the online personal shoppers to narrow your choices. There is always something on sale, but do look out for additional discounts! – Lianne
10. Blurb (USA)
Fancy publishing your own book? Whether you are a budding photographer or have a gift for writing, why not get your work published into a bookstore-quality book. They make excellent gifts or mementoes. You have total control over how to make it – Softcover or hardcover? Dust jacket or image Wrap? After you’ve put the finishing touches, and dedicated the book, you can buy a copy for yourself, share it with a select group of friends, or sell it publicly in the Blurb Bookstore! Who knows, you might have a bestseller in weeks! – Lianne