Streetdeal.com vouchers

Read:
$88 Streetdeal - vouchers purchased using my credits
Streetdeal $88 membership fee (quarterly) - beware!


I mentioned $88 was deducted from my credit card as membership fee.  I made a complaint and the amount was converted to credits, not cash refund.  The vouchers purchased via Streetdeal were horrible.  Shouldn't have been soft hearted and should insisted POSBank to stop the funds to Streetdeal.  Another reason was the cash credit was only $86.30 after Streetdeal have offset some fees so it was different - not the actual $88.  Was told vendor settlement is done on a monthly basis.  All I need to do was to fill up a bank form once I receive statement that showed amount has been deducted.

Most of the actual ad on Streetdeal were taken down so I can't printscreen or insert hyperlinks.

1) Tummy Detox Treatment at Aesthetic Pretty 360, Singapore Shopping Centre

I spent my time just for the beautician to brain wash.  The voucher I had was 30 mins so beautician said I must top up because she can't do any tummy detox with only 30 mins.  This is frustrating.  30 mins insufficient for tummy (one area only)?  Dishonest.  The worst was I heard a man's voice in the next cubicle and the massage cubicle wasn't locked for privacy.  Would female customers be happy to be almost naked in such environment?  Aesthetic Pretty sucks!


2) 30-MIN Tui Na Gua Sha Back Treatment + Back Cupping Detox (worth $68) with My Beauty Research!  I ended up with bad eczema.  Read review

3) $18 for 90-MIN of Facial & slimming Package - Includes Japanese Collagen Facial Treatment +
Japanese Slimming Treatment (worth $180) by Unicorn Beauty!
Total treatment duration: 90 minutes
Japanese facial & slimming combo
State-of-the-art technology and premium products from Japan
Advanced slimming technology from Japan

The beautician recommended that I try their facial and eye mask, which means skip slimming.  She suggested a top up so that I get a full facial that includes extraction, face massage and scrubbing but I said no. I asked why facial doesn't include extraction but no indicated in the Streetdeal.  She said it depends on how Streetdeal wants to market the deal, the company and her has nothing to say, there's nothing she can do to make customer like me happy.  If I'm unhappy, feedback to Streetdeal.  I didn't because Streetdeal sucks! The whole duration was less than the stated 90 min.

Facial was performed using a warm and cold KIRA machine - collagen scaling and lifting.  Beautician warned that I have a lot of blockage and since I didn't want to pay $68, which is their full facial price, the collagen is unlikely to be absorbed by my skin.

Felt the Slimming was something ok because she did put in some strength to rub.  Totally different from what I get in Skinologies/Prestigious Solutions. Believe it is also a form of cavitation.


4) $18 for 60-MIN Traditional Tuina Full Body Massage + TCM Cupping / Back Guasha
(worth $288) at Beautiful Life Beauty, Clementi!
Went on 31 Oct.  The beautician gave me a back massage.  Her method is quite different, she used her elbow to press and rub my back which is painful.  She asked me whether I have any ache, I said shoulder but she didn't really focus on it.  I indicated that no oil to be applied on my legs due to eczema but she completly skipped my legs claiming no time for my legs and arms.

Before I started my treatment, her senior came over to press on my acupoints and kept asking whether I felt 酸痛 on the points.  I said no.  She insisted that I should feel 酸痛 on the points she pressed because those are related to my kidneys - the cause of my eczema.  They tried to persuade me to top up $18 for infra red - a special light that detox and warm my back for easier tuina.  I asked how would I know my body is doing detox, they couldn't answer.  Later, the beautician said I could go to the internet to read about that infra red.

After my back tuina, I was giving a 20 mins cupping.  This is the first time, my back didn't show any cupping markings, it was totally clear skin.  Just shows what sort of quality they are delivering.  Beautiful Life Beauty is horrible.  I don't advise anybody go.

Groupon charges extra

I am using Posbank Everyday card to pay for Groupon, Streetdeal or Deal e-purchases.  I get automatic sms alert on the amount charged but I didn't verify with my monthly statement.  The only sms alert that has great discrepancy was Streetdeal .... charging me $88 as premium member.

Most credit card companies do not protect customers' interest.  
1) The minimum credit amount is not what I wanted.  All credit card limit is based on a few times of your salary, which is very high (to me) instead of a low credit limit eg $300.  Why customer cannot set a low credit limit?  Because .... "a higher credit limit will give customer the freedom you need to make the purchases you want" ... spend more, pay later at high interest rate.  Banks are prepared to increase your credit limit, maximise your spending power "To help you achieve greater financial freedom, we are pleased to offer you a credit limit review on your Credit Cards to complement any increase in income you may have had"

• Earning at least S$20,000 but less than S$30,000 - maximum 2 times your monthly income in 
• Earning at least S$30,000 but less than S$120,000 - maximum 4 times your monthly income 

2) When your card is lost or stolen, if you failed to report the loss on time, whatever amount being swiped is your responsibility.  

On 4 September 2009, The Association of Banks in Singapore (ABS) announced new measures aimed at providing clarity and giving credit cardmembers more certainty about their credit card liability for unauthorized transactions.

In line with these measures, all credit card issuing banks in Singapore have agreed to revise their Cardmembers Agreement to reflect a new S$100 liability cap before the loss is reported by cardmembers. However, the liability cap is only applicable to cardmembers who had not acted fraudulently or with negligence or had not failed to report the loss of card in a timely manner.

Bank's current practices, where thorough investigations are conducted to determine responsibility and liability for unauthorized charges, are already aligned with some of the changes announced by ABS. 

3) Free sms alert should be available for all transactions.  Posbank Everyday card provides free sms alert for whatsoever amount  swiped or online purchases that I performed.  Other banks either have to exceed a certain spending amount or are charging me for such a service.

4) Usually, there is a grace period of between 20-25 days for you to pay the outstanding balance on your credit card in full, without incurring interest. 

If you cannot pay the bill in full, bank advised that you pay the minimum sum by the payment due date and roll over the balance. The minimum amount is usually 3 - 5% of the outstanding balance.  Whatever amount you've roll over, the next month, your statement will show what you owe and the finance/late payment/admin charges for that month, eg $30-60. 

The interest rate is usually 24% per annum but one bank recently sent me a letter stating its interest rate for not paying in full is 26%.

Banks are very happy to see you spend more or more than what you earned.  You'll see a lot of Cash Line service or bank sending you a blank cheque to fill-in.



Let buyers know of extra charge, 1 Oct 2014
After reading Mr Lim Chye Hai's letter ("Be transparent on extra charges"; last Saturday), I realised I had been paying extra for my Groupon purchases too.

Though the amount is not too significant (about 0.8 per cent of the purchase price), I would appreciate it if the relevant authorities could comment on how extra charges could be levied such that consumers are not caught unawares.

I cannot reconcile the fact that when buyers confirm a transaction at a price agreed upon and authorise the sum to be charged to their credit cards, the billed amount by the credit card issuer is a different sum.

Is the bank's extra charge supposed to be an additional cost to the company, in this case, Groupon Singapore? If Groupon Singapore wants to charge an extra amount, should it not be reflected on the payment confirmation page?

Karen Chew Su-Fen (Madam)



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Calls to be open about 'hidden' credit card fees, The Straits Times, 29 Jun 2014
The "hidden" fees that can be slapped on to a credit card transaction have angered consumers and sparked calls for more transparency.  Many of these fees are imposed when payments are routed through overseas processors, leaving the card holder with a higher bill than he bargained for.

Oil analyst Tushar Tarun Bansal found such discrepancies in his credit card bills for a couple of transactions with the amount owing higher than what he originally signed for.  One instance was when he bought a ticket from Swiss Airlines from Singapore to London and chose to pay in Singapore dollars. The credit card bill was $87 above the initial amount.  Mr Bansal, 33, told The Straits Times: "That was surprising. If you buy it on other airlines or for any other thing, what you pay is what you receive on the bill.

"Apparently, the merchant routed that transaction through a non-Singapore entity, (adding) a charge of 0.8 per cent. That was surprising as no information was provided."

Mr Bansal contacted Swissair. It said it could not help as the charges were issued by the bank, which sai, in turn, that it would investigate.  He has since received a refund from the airline and was told it was a "gesture of goodwill". But he was troubled that extra charges were not disclosed upfront on credit card statements.

The Consumers Association of Singapore (Case) came across another incident where charges were unclear.  Its executive director Seah Seng Choon said a consumer booked a hotel room in Hong Kong for three nights online. The hotel asked the customer to pay HKD1,830 ($297) on check-out but an additional HKD2,013 was charged to his credit card by the hotel when he returned to Singapore.

"He requested for the company to clarify the discrepancy and refund him the difference in pricing," said Mr Seah.

In a joint reply to Mr Bansal's concerns, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the Association of Banks in Singapore (ABS) said card issuers generally state that Singapore dollar payments routed through overseas payment processors attract additional service charges.

These additional charges may vary from bank to bank and are usually stated in the list of terms and conditions.  Maybank Singapore said there is a 0.8 per cent service fee imposed by the scheme operators, such as Visa or MasterCard, for Singapore dollar payments routed through overseas processors.

It is difficult to find out if a transaction goes through an overseas payment processor but if the bill is the same as the amount paid at the point of sale, then it is safe to assume that it has not.  MasterCard and Visa earn transaction fees from issuers like banks and acquirers - firms that process purchases - for the network and the services provided, which are typically passed on to shopkeepers.

Ms Karen Low, head of cards and unsecured lending at Maybank Singapore, added: "Generally, the charge for foreign currency transactions is 2.5 per cent.  "For most of Maybank's cards, this comprises an administrative charge of 1.5 per cent by the bank and a 1 per cent charge by the scheme operators."

Ms Wong Chung Yee, OCBC Bank's head of cards, said: "In cases where the card member's local transactions are processed via an overseas payment gateway with the option of being paid in the local or foreign currency, we do not impose any processing fees."

The bank added that the amount on the credit card statement will be the same as the amount at the point of transaction for overseas transactions paid in Singapore dollars.  The MAS and ABS added that "more can be done to improve transparency and disclosure to consumers".

In the works: A product highlight sheet on credit cards that will contain key terms of use, including payment hierarchy.  This will be released later this year.  Mr Bansal said he was deeply dissatisfiedby the MAS and ABS as their reply merely sidesteps the whole issue.

"It's effectively a one-sided thing, that is, putting the onus on the consumer but no talk about what the banks should or can do. It isn't very fair," he said.  Case has been contacting banks on behalf of consumers but Mr Seah said it gets little or no response.  "It's time the banks look at this, I think there is a clear need for transparency," he added.


Credit card terms: Measures being taken to improve transparency, 22 May 2014
We thank Mr Tushar Tarun Bansal for his feedback on the need for card issuers to disclose the additional fees charged on credit card transactions routed overseas ("Hidden charges in credit card transactions"; last Thursday).

We agree with him that fees and charges relating to credit card transactions must be disclosed to consumers.  Under the Association of Banks in Singapore's (ABS) Code of Practice on Credit Cards, a card issuer has to provide every new cardholder with a highlight of its key terms and conditions, which include the fees and charges imposed for foreign currency transactions.

Generally, card issuers in Singapore also state in their terms and conditions that Singapore dollar payments routed through overseas payment processors attract additional service charges, which may vary from bank to bank. Nevertheless, more can be done to improve transparency and disclosure to consumers.

In this regard, the ABS and the banks, in consultation with the Monetary Authority of Singapore, have been working closely to develop, among other initiatives, a Product Highlight Sheet on credit cards for consumers, based on each bank's specific terms and conditions.

The Product Highlight Sheet will contain the key terms of use of the credit card, including the payment grace period, interest and late payment charges, fees for foreign currency transactions and dynamic currency conversion, as well as payment hierarchy.

Mr Bansal's feedback provides useful input on how disclosure standards can be further enhanced, as the industry reviews the specific contents for the Product Highlight Sheet, which is targeted to be introduced by the third quarter of this year.

Merlyn Ee (Ms)
Executive Director (Strategic Planning & Communications)
Monetary Authority of Singapore
Ong-Ang Ai Boon (Mrs)
Director
The Association of Banks in Singapore

Tui Na/Gua Sha/Cupping at My Beauty Research, Rochor Centre

Scroll to the bottom to read my update on natural eczema remedy....


I purchased an e-voucher via StreetDeal:
Tui Na Gua Sha Back Treatment at My Beauty Reseafrch
Total treatment duration: 30 minutes
Tui Na improve blood and lymph circulation
It has great healing properties to treat ailments such as back pains
Back cupping promotes better blood flow that in turn encourages healing

I wanted to use my first two vouchers purchased via StreetDeal because those vouchers led me to a $88 scam.  I couldn't get appointments after work, thus, I used above.  I still have a lot of buys to execute but StreetDeals didn't have any good deals that attract me.  Hope I could use up the credits and then cancel my Premium Membership before the next quarter starts.

  

If readers have read my earlier pages, you'll know I have tried cupping.  5 Sep, Friday was my first time to try Gua Sha so I was looking forward to find out how much it can relieve by back aches.

Upon reaching My Beauty Research located at Rochor Centre (near Bugis mrt), I was greeted by a tall and slim China therapist.  She said 30 min isn't going to allow her to do much so she suggested that I top up $18 for a full body treatment.  Yes, I heard full body, not 1 hour as the key words.  The way the China therapist said about paying additional money wasn't something hard selling.  It made sense that 30 min to have Tui Na, Cupping and Gua Sha is really insufficient.  By the way, I thought full body means head to toes like what I have experienced elsewhere but not with My Beauty Research.  Total I paid $9.90 + $18 for my first visit. Paying an extra $18 is definitely better than paying for Expression cold slimming sheet (Fat Freeze mask).  I paid for two pieces of masks at $20 +gst but I was obviously cheated.  What the consultant showed me wasn't what the therapist used. The Expression therapist took out one packet of Fat Freeze mask and torn the mask into two sheets.  That was the worst top up I had.  From then on, any deal merchants asking me to pay before I receive treatment will be denied.  If they insist that I must pay first, I'll tell them to stick to whatever terms stated in the e-voucher, not keen to top up/upgrade and then regret.

Therapist gave me a small cup of water, telling me I should drink water because I wanted to do Gua Sha and Cupping.  By drinking sufficient water before and after will help to purge out toxins.  Then she showed me to a room to undress and put on a disposable underwear.  Therapist started with back Tui Na.  Her strokes were something acceptable and not those soothing kneading.  Since I've chosen to upgrade, she applied better essential oil which I didn't feel oily when I reached home.  Other wellness centres, the massage oil that they used made my soles oily and after shower, I still didn't feel the oil on my feet and ankle area being completely washed off.

Next was Gua Sha.  It was painful.  Therapist was amazed that I didn't scream out in pain.  She said since I could endure pain, probably taking up a package for monthly 'maintenance' will suit me.  If I have back pain, I shouldn't just wait till it becomes unbearable.  Gua Sha - the scrapping was really painful, although I didn't scream but my muscles get tensed/toughen.

Gua Sha is an East Asian healing technique. Gua means to scrape or rub. Sha is a ‘reddish, elevated, millet-like skin rash’. Sha is the term used to describe Blood stasis in the subcutaneous tissue before and after it is raised as petechiae. Gua Sha is the technique that intentionally raises Sha rash or petechiae.

When is Gua Sha used?
Gua Sha is usually used when a patient has pain whether associated with an acute or chronic disorder. There may be aching, tenderness and/or a knotty feeling in the muscles. Palpation reveals Sha when normal finger pressure on a patient’s skin causes blanching that is slow to fade. In addition to resolving musculo skeletal pain, Gua Sha is used to treat and prevent common cold, flu, bronchitis, asthma, as well as any chronic disorder involving pain, congestion of Qi and Blood.

Where is Gua Sha applied?
Sha is raised primarily at the Yang surface of the body: the back, face, neck, shoulders, buttocks, and limbs. On occasion, Gua Sha is applied at the chest and abdomen.

Gua Sha Procedure
- Lubricate the area with Gua Sha oil, or white flower oil
- Skip the areas with moles, cuts or unhealed areas.
- Hold the gua sha tool at a thirty degree angle to the skin allowing the smooth edge will touch the skin.
- The skin is then rubbed with a round-edged instrument in downward strokes.
- One area is stroked until the petechiae that surface are completely raised. If there is no Blood stasis the petechiae will not form and the skin will only turn pink.

Gua Sha stroke areas
Observe that the sha petechiae should fade in about 2-4 days. If it takes longer to fade, it indicates poor blood circulation and there may be more serious deficiency that will require additional treatments with combination of acupuncture or acupressure in specific areas. Gua sha treatment can be used up to three times weekly, and is most effective when used as a weekly treatment on chronic conditions.

What does the type of Sha indicate?

The color of the Sha is both diagnostic and prognostic. Very light colored Sha can indicate Deficiency of Blood. If the Sha is fresh red, it is of recent penetration. If the Sha is purple or black, the Blood stasis is long-standing. If brown, the Blood may be dry. Dark red Sha can indicate heat.

What are the benefits of Gua Sha?
In most cases the patient feels immediate improvement in their condition particularly in their pain or sense of constraint. Gua Sha moves stuck Qi and Blood, releases the exterior mimicking sweating, and moves Fluids. In a modern medical construct these fluids contain metabolic waste that congested the surface tissues and muscles. Gua Sha promotes circulation and normalizes metabolic processes. It is a valuable treatment for both external and internal pain, and facilitates the resolution of both acute and chronic disorders.

Is Gua Sha Safe?
Gua Sha is a completely safe technique, but it is serious medicine. Knowing when to use it and what to expect from treatment is as important as good technique. People who live in chronic pain often erect emotional defenses to cope with it or can feel completely hopeless. Having that pain ‘touched’ and relieved can be unsettling, even shocking. It is good to be moderate in activity after treatment, even rest. After treatment, stay mellow, no drugs, booze, vigorous activity, exercise, fasting, feasting or hard labor for the rest of the day.

Last treatment was cupping.  The sucking of flesh into the cups were 'shiok'.  I didn't feel really tight and painful, maybe because I have enough fats to 'lubricate'.  While doing cupping, therapist massaged my legs.  Thought she'll focus on my thighs, do some 'toning and pushing' but she didn't.  One point is that, I didn't like the way she pressed my fingers to hear the 'click' sound.  Basically, it was a one hour session.  Didn't wear my watch so I wasn't sure did I really receive 60 mins solid service. Note that if you opt for full body treatment and certain area required additional time, it will eat up your one hour entitlement.  The one hour also includes the time therapist is out to find her accessories. Quite disappointed because I realised my tummy isn't going to get any Tui Na.

When I got dressed, I could feel the aching part feeling better.  There wasn't any burning sensation, skin bruised or therapist didn't hit the nail feeling.

Finally, therapist sat down and gave me her package price.  She gave me a 10 hours deal at $680 + 5 free hours.  She promised that each visit (one hour session), I can choose Tui Na, Gua Sha and/or Cupping.  If I want to bring my friend or relative to utilise my hours, it is ok.  My Beauty Research also offer facials.  If I have taken up a package, I need to top up $20 + my one hour credit for facial.  That makes each facial at $68 + $20 because she said she will use two good ampules.  The reason why I took up a package is because therapist asked "Are you keen?  If not, I shall not carry on"  That makes me feel good.  I hate beauticians/therapists kept hard selling from the time I stepped in, lie down to receive treatment till the time I sat down with her to talk.... simply refuse to let me leave or get a 车轮战.  I highlighted to China therapist that I hope whatever she promised will be delivered and the service doesn't turn bad.  I had other bad experiences related to signing up packages.  Each time I visited, I get drilled over and over again, a real mental torture.  It was not some pleasurable experience.

The price offered isn't something really cheap or cannot be missed.  I can get better price elsewhere, eg the TCM registered Physician cum therapist in Jurong Point.  Her year 2014 rate is $50 for each spot trreatment.  Example my back, it is considered one area.  She will do acupuncture, cupping then tuina - no time limit.  If Chinese medicine is required, she can prescribe but all her prescriptions are expensive.  I visited her last month, her rate has increased from $38 to $50 and she was still using the same curtains to separate her male and female patients.  Should try Gua Sha when I was there, regret!  Not something I will look forward to re-visit... believe that's my last visit to a place with no privacy for women.  I bought some stuff and plasters from her, the same plasters, I found Yu Hwa selling at half price only!


Buying online e-voucher means you get to try a cheap deal but the point I want to highlight is, the beautican/therapist tend to pay more attention and give you better service (to impress you and make you sign up a package).  Of course hard selling is something they won't miss out but how many of you can guarantee that after taking a package, your beautican/therapist/consultant will leave you alone and won't persuade you to upgrade or try something else?  I don't like beautican/therapist/consultant, telling me if I don't upgrade, I may get sub-standard service, the treatment is as good as nothing or she can't prove her services to me.  Whatever the merchants offered online, buyer accept means she/he is keen for whatever stated.  Same scenario for my experience at Moxibustion.  It was indicated 120 min but the therapist tried to slash to one hour + make me top up for her best treatment.  Some may argue if I hop around, I can't get a beautican/therapist who truly understands me.  I don't believe this is totally true.  Being a first time customer, you can tell your beautican/therapist your problems and preference so that she can recommend something or customise some treatment to suit you.  Notice beauticans/therapists like to talk a lot (doesn't let customer be ear-free) so this is your chance to feed her with info.



=========
I didn't buy a 10 hours package because I have doubts on beauty center's service quality and hard selling tactics.  My package is 5 hours + 2 hours free.  If I have taken  a 10 hours deal, there will be 5 hours free - each visit will cost $46 (one hour service rate).  Having good discount and flexibility is great .... very attractive but is it good as a sales talk or customer's real experience?

I noticed I have developed rashes after visiting My Beauty Research, mild itch but it got to this stage because I couldn't resist scratching.

Also, when my skirt or dress brushed the back of my knees .....especially under hot sun, I feel the irresistible urge to scratch. It now affects not just the back of my knees but also my thigh area. I applied moisturizer, pat with cold tap water and didn't see any doctor.... enduring for almost one month.  

Wonder are the rashes due to the therapist's hands weren't clean.   Therapist may have touched some other things, put oil on her palm and started to massage my legs without washing her hands..... my skin is quite sensitive.  I am sure she has touched the cuppings ... used by many people without proper sterilisation and the lighting up of fire using alcohol to heat up and drain the air inside the cup.  My previous cuppings were all vacuum type, I had my first flame suction experience in My Beauty Research.

Few years back, I had eczema near the joint areas (back of my knees were the worst) and it took me quite a long time to be healed with regular TCM visits - acupuncture and Chinese medication.  I hope this time, I don't need to take almost a year to recover.

Have browsed online about Guasha.  It seems that some people are unsuitable.  Kind of worried.
The start of my package, visited My Beauty Research on 26 Sep.  I decided to skip cupping but requested tuina and guasha for my tummy and back.  I wanted to find out am I suitable for guasha. Showed the therapist my rashes, she asked did I eat something unsuitable.  All the while I could eat seafood so I guess seafood is not the culprit.  Then she asked did I change my body wash .... then she said if I can't resist the itch, she has a product that I could spray on to relieve itching.  I said I have mist spray but lazy to carry out.  Also all these can't stop the terrible itch..... anybody with eczema will understand.

Therapist spent some time massaging my back with ginger essential oil.  This oil acts as a lubricant for guasha.  If you are doing you own guasha, you can rub with essential oil (better) or simply guasha wearing your clothes, which means you need to use more strength.... according to web search.  Then came my tummy.  It was the gentle scrapping, unlike my back.... so painful.  Therapist said she cannot use too much strength .... huh... but online I read if I want to break down the fats, the scrapping strokes should be hard.

After the one hour session ended, therapist asked me to consider having a full 10 hours package .... goodness, I merely utilised one hour, still have a balance of six hours .... she sure is a bit gancheong.  She also repeated her suggestion to try facial at an additional $20 + one hour package time.... not keen.  During that one hour, no hard selling, no product info, it was merely casual chat.  Overall experience was ok, not really having annoying bombarding.  Hope my next few visits will be good.

In the night, the itch didn't stop.  I applied aloe vera hoping it could heal the ugly skin.  The next day, I decided I better visit the Chinese Physician.  He gave me powder medication and acupuncture.  I asked whether I'm suitable to have cupping and guasha, he said no problem.  He also asked the same questions: did I eat something unsuitable, did I change my body wash, etc.  He said it is better that I avoid seafood for the time being.  On my way home, like a flash, I wonder could it be my body wash.  I think I have changed my cheap body wash to Dettol Nourish body wash.  Is it too strong?  While typing this, I did a web search and realised 'Nourish' doesn't mean moisturizing.  Somebody posted she felt her skin dry after using.... oh no!

The description that made me buy "Dettol Natural Nourishing Body Wash is formulated with the richness of almond extracts and silky olives which aims to restore the skin's moisture, leaving a soft, tender and supple feeling at all times. It is tinged with the captivating scent of nature to revitalise and  reinvigorate the senses."  Was I cheated?

The timing coincide.  Any way, I am going to be seafood free, including no fish and changing back to the cheap 3 for $10 1000ml moisturizing body wash.  I shall see with powder medication, acupuncture, no seafood, no expensive body wash .... will I recover faster.


Update: 12 Oct 2014
Visited TCM  and had 2 courses of medication and acupuncture.  The itch was horrible, especially when I am not in air con.  From the back of my knees, it spreaded to my things, lower legs, armpits, elbows and arms.

I have stopped eating seafood and applied aloe vera, emu moisturizer and another moisturizer with mentol to 'calm' the itch.  I tend to scratch more in the night, one of the common signs for eczema.  Morning ok, afternoon will itch especially if I'm outdoor and under the sun.  Went through the scatching ordeal for another one month.

One week ago, decided to read online for some natural plant remedy, realised I have 南非叶 and 七星针.  I plucked one biggest 南非叶, gently rubbed it, added hot water and drank it when lukewarm.  It tasted like green tea.  If I rub hard and crush the leaves slightly, my tea became bitter.  Nanfei leave is very cooling (寒) so it can damage my tummy (伤胃).  To protect my digestive system, I chewed 2 leaves of raw 七星针 qixingzhen before having nanfei.  Noticed I don't itch that badly.

I read online eczema is triggered when my immune system is low so to build up my immune system, I took a lot of vitamins.  Morning, empty stomach, I took a Cordyceps 虫草 capsule. After breakfast, I swallowed a 1000mg Vitamin C and my usual calcium or iron (alternate days or at different meals for better absorption).  I bought Flaxseed oil capsule (high in plant Omega) and swallowed too.  My special formula was taken for one week, daily with 南非叶 and 七星针.... staggered timings to avoid clashes.

For reader's info:
南非叶具有抗氧化性、保肝、降血脂、抗疟原虫和抗癌作用。东南亚民间长用南非叶治疗乳腺癌、鼻咽癌、前列腺癌、肺癌、结肠癌等多种癌症。
南非叶味苦涩性凉，具有清热解毒的功效；功能散热、凉血和清血；适用于降血压、降胆固醇、糖尿病、风热性或血热性皮肤病，及皮肤搔痒的治疗；对闪光、老花眼、近视及青光眼也有显著的功效。南非叶富含抗氧化剂，而抗氧化剂具有抵抗自由基（俗称氧化剂或恶性细胞 即‘癌’）的攻击、防止细胞氧化的功用。
身体虚弱、胃寒、低血压、手脚麻痹、贫血、骨瘦如柴和经常头晕者慎服或从小剂量服起加观察，孕妇、月事期间禁服。南非叶经过高温烹煮后，抗氧化剂就会削减，因此生吃的效果最好. 一般人每天吃一至两片南非叶已经足够，过量对肾可能带来负荷.




七星针主治跌打损伤、各种内外伤，有消肿活血化瘀的功效，在新马一带，民间亦用来治疗妇女疾病，如子宫颈癌或卵巢瘤。七星针具有抗癌的功效，同时对于胃相关疾病，如消化不良、胃下垂、胃炎、胃灼熱、消化性潰瘍等有一定的疗效。

By the way, Polyclinic referred me to National Skin Centre but I requested for NUH.  My appointment is 1.5 months later.  Reason:  I'm a subsidized patient so need to wait.

If anybody says don't scratch, wait till you get it then you will know saying is easy.





My next appointment - 24 Oct, I requested for tuina and cupping.  I said no more guasha because I wanted to rule out all the possible causes of my tiggering eczema.  At the moment, the areas are under controlled.  The rashes markings (scars) on my arms and elbow are lightened.  My thighs are also better but the scars haven't lightened.  Still feel itchy behind my knees.

I have also consumed salmon fish once a week.  I want my life back.  I don't want to be deprived of fish.

Skinologies - Prestigious Solutions at Rendezvous Gallery

I have utilised this Skinologies voucher in July 2014 and signed up a short package.  The 5 session package allowed me to try their different services such as slimming, facing and hair care.

In other words, (according to the Manager), I can try its service - total 5 sessions, excluding fat freeze?

The voucher that I've purchased was a slimming voucher.  I have a really awful looking tummy so my current online 'shopping spree' is targeted in getting rid of my tummy.  I have to put my hobby - dining aside.

Voucher includes:
- Aesthetic Power Slim Fat Cavitation
- Radio Frequency Fat Lipo Reduction
- Vacuum
- Fat Burner Solution

I recall I only received Cavitation (machine producing medium pitch) and Infra-red (looks like the light used by Traditional Chinese Medicine for acupuncture).  I didn't print out the actual offer so I didn't know I wasn't given vacuum and fat burner (could it be infra-red?).  According to Skinologies' website, LipoSlim Cavitation utilizes revolutionary techniques in transforming our body sculpting with no anaesthesia, no scars, no discomfort and no down-time and presents a risk-free alternative to liposuction. The result is instant loss of fat cells.  I was told on my first visit, I won't be able to see any weight loss because the effect will take place 2 or 3 days later ... the broken down fat would be discharged by sweat, urine or stool.  Even if there's any slimming effect, I might not be able to see unless I visit them for regular treatment.

While trying to put up this post, I did a web search and found something better and cheaper offered by Skinologies.  Below $15 voucher includes:
- Lymphatic Drainage
- Acupoint Massage
- Infra-red
- Contouring Body Wrap
- Slimming Solution

For below e-coupon, the customer gets above x 10 sessions, that's a lot of difference!  I only had one session using above Deal.com voucher and seemed like I was short-changed. I heard them exclaimed in surprised she is not taking the 10 sessions deal... I was asked to fit another appointment and I said I only had one session stated.

During consultation, the Manager tried to persuade me to take up a package.  When she failed, I was shown into a room to receive cavitation.  While doing it, the consultant tried to get me to try Fat Freeze at a one session cost that was above $150.  She said my tummy wasn't hard, felt soft so Fat Freeze is suitable for me.  At London Weight Management, I was told certain parts of my tummy felt hard and need to be soften.  I have read review indicated Fat Freeze could harden the tummy.... so means make the tummy tougher but not toning down?

Skinologies - Prestigious Solutions' (PS) consultant said one Fat Freeze treatment, effect could last about one month.  It is for lazy people like me who doesn't want to keep visiting slimming center but I declined.

That machine, when pressed and slided/rubbed on my tummy produced an irritating sound and the longer PS consultant slided, heat built up.  You'll feel a bit of stingy hot feeling but still bearable.  Cavitation is using radio frequency waves selectively break down fat cells and cellulite without affecting neighbouring cells.  I think the machine worked on me for about 10mins.  Believe fat tissue responded by ultrasonic energy before being broken into smaller molecules.  Then I was given infra-red to shine on.  Looks quite similar to this:

 

The cavitation machine I used was bigger and has 2 handles on both sides.

After I was asked to change back to my clothes, the Manager tried her selling skills again.  Her final proposal was to pay for a 5 sessions which allowed me to try their services. I was given a screening, the Manager showed my roots weren't healthy, compared to hers (hairs looks more populated and rosy).


Since I was already there and lazy to visit Skinologies - Prestigious Solutions on six different days (1 voucher + 5 package), I said if you've a slot for scalp treatment, I'll take your package and try your other services.  To make me fork out money, I believe they will find a slot and they did but when I found out they were short-handed that day, the scalp service wasn't a pl easure, I regretted paying $214.  I could have been freed and need not visit PS again.  Because I was suddenly too soft hearted, I got to face PS and their hard selling.

Then I was told to lay down on a cold bed located near a washing area.  That place wasn't secluded nor comfy.  The Manager came to service me together with my slimming consultant.  They rotated.  One squeezed out some time to apply a mask on my head, let it absorb and another came to wash off for me.  Then my hair was blown dry and finished off with a serum.  No head massage was given.

4 more sessions to go.  I have an appointment for facial and slimming.  I wanted to kill 2 birds with one stone = one visit for 2 sessions.  I was told if I opt for facial, it will be machine based.  No shoulder massage or extraction like other centres.  I need to be mentally prepared it is a Cleansing and Exfoliation with steamer.   Skinologies - Prestigious Solutions claimed they are skin care specialists using technologies with aesthetic products and skills.  An aesthetic center doesn't provide soothing comfort that involves massage.

====================
On 15 Aug, my second visit.
I had a facial that is unusual.  A machine that looks a little like an electric razor (the head is metal, not sharp), used to scrap the white and black heads that surfaced automatically after I was applied some gel softener.  It sends ultrasonic vibrations that made me feel kind of weird and uncomfortable.


Looks something like this.  Beautician said this machine also provided some lifting effect.

After the cleansing and machine exfoliating, I was given a mask. Before I was given a mask, the selling took place, no escaping.  Also, she reminded me aesthetic is treatment basis so no massaging of head or shoulders ... she gave me an eye massage, guessed to pacify me.  Beautician recommended that I apply something that would reduce my big pores.  At a special discounted price for first time customer like me, she offered $280 for the pH add-on.  I didn't feel paiseh to tell her that was too expensive.  How many women would pay $280 for something to apply once only?  I really wonder how much PS earned from each woman who agreed to lie down and let them apply a layer of special pH formula ... take a beautician less then 5 mins to do the job!

After applying the mask, Beautician said she'd go out to bring in the slimming - Cavitation machine.  She took a really long time.  By the time she returned, she proposed that instead of spending 10 mins on the Cavitation machine, she said it would be better that I increase to 20 mins, by utilising another session.  One session cost $40 so for that extra 10 mins, another $40 flew away.  I know her seniors - the consultants are telling her to try other tactics, otherwise, why took so long.  She claimed 20 mins cavitation would be perfect, a good continuation.  If I stick to 10 mins, the break down effect merely going to start and I put a stop which won't let my tummy fat break good enough.  I said her colleague (first visit) told me not many customers could stand the heat and irritating pitch after 10 mins.  Anyway, I gave in to stop her hard selling/white lies.  Yes, I have doubts but I was laying in bed for them to slaughter so do I argue (reasoning) and waste my time with them?  I shouldn't have taken up their short-term package.  Seems like all these beauty and slimming centres need to hard sell in order to earn extra commission from each visiting customer.

According to web search, Radio Frequency Cavitation Slimming Machine:
1. Promote tissue metabolism.
2. Repel the cellulite
3. Tighten the skin
4. Fat dissolving

Not sure whether I had 20 mins .... seems too fast.  During cavitation, I had feedback I couldn't feel heat building up.  That China beautician said "is it?", felt the cavitation hand piece and made adjustment.  At the end of 20 mins, I still didnt get the same heated gliding feeling but I didn't write about my second slimming opinion in the customer feedback slip.

I was given a body contour wrap with hot solution.  After solution was applied onto my tummy, I was given a clingy plastic wrap, similar to this:


Immediately after I lied down, I could feel tummy flesh 'burning'.  I thought it was due to the infra red on full blast.  When the beautician came in to adjust, I placed my hands below the lamp and realised it wasn't hot, mild warm so I realised it was the Fat Burner solution.  To make my tummy feel better, I decided to self-distract by doing some stretching exercises (swinging my arms and leg) and massaging my tummy.  Seemed to relieve the burning sensation.   By the way, I was still wearing the face mask that was supposed to reduce pigmentation.... I wasn't given a chance go choose facial treatment such as anti-aging, skin renewal, oxygen rejuvenation, etc.... all the 'craps' listed on its website.   She didn't even discuss with me or tell me what she recommended!  When the beautician talked to me and even made me laugh, I was worried I'd end up with wrinkles.  She said no problem, that mask if ok.  I mentally estimated the time, the mask was only washed off one hour later ... very long.

Once the wrap was cut off, I looked at my tummy, not very redden or any stinky feeling .  I changed to my own clothes, signed my name and was told to write my comments before they let me off.  Of course, they didn't fail to get me to sign their packages.

My height is 1.57 cm.  My last visit to a slimming center, my weight was 59.1 kg (before shredding 700g of water in the form of sweat).  One day after cavitation, my weight was 62 kg .... scaring!  My dinner weighed so much?  The next morning, my weight didn't drop.  3 days later, I tried to put on a dress that I last worn less than one month ago, it felt tight.  I could feel the sleeves, which is arm areas quite tight.  What happened?  Did I suffer some side effects?

My earlier posts, I posted I tried fat freeze at Expressions and sweat slimming at London Weight Management.  All these are suppose to make me reduce weight, what's going on?

Frantically, I did a web search:
1) "Joseph Eviatar of Chelsea Eye & Cosmetic Surgery said CoolSculpting (Fat Freeze) is ideal for “anyone who has exercise-resistant, unwanted bulges of fat.” While almost anyone could be considered a candidate for the procedure, Dr. Eviatar said the current applicators are only intended to treat pockets of fat on areas such as the flanks or lower and upper abdomen.

According to Dr. Eviatar, “most patients experienced between 20 and 25 percent reduction of fat in the treatment site.” While it takes about two to four months to see a noticeable reduction from CoolSculpting, the end results are said to be long-term and are "ideally maintained by healthy eating and exercising." If you gain a considerable amount of weight after the procedure, the weight will be evenly distributed to the remaining fat cells in the body. "If there are less fat cells in the treated area, the re-emergence of fat in that area should be less as well," he added."

So means my fat is now being distributed and not destroyed or discharged by sweat, urine or stool?  I have not been eating oily/deep fried food or buffets, just the 3 standard meals.

2) Who is not a good candidate?
Someone who doesn’t have enough fat. You have to have at least “an inch to pinch” we tell patients. Or someone who has too much fat. This isn’t for someone who is 80-90 pounds overweight. Also, it’s not right for someone with loose skin or lack of skin elasticity. This procedure only removes fat cells, so if you have droopy skin from age or weight loss, this procedure won’t help you.”

3) Ultrasonic Cavitation has the similar result as liposuction. It removes cellulite and excess fat. preventing this from recurring in the treated areas, without damaging the vascular system. The procedure is painless and is very inexpensive compared to the thousands of dollars you could spend on liposuction.  The ultrasound cavitation causes an emulsification of fat, it rupture fat cell membrane, thereby releasing its fat content, converting it into a substance easy to eliminate through sweat gland, liver sausage circulation, lymphatic system which eventually eliminate through urine.

Cavitation is not a method to lose weight but to reshape the body. It is particularly indicated for the reduction of adiposity. Ultrasonic cavitation can be considered a deep fat blaster that reduces stubborn fat cells that cannot be removed with exercise and diet alone.

We recommend a low calorie diet with protein in each meal and drink at least a glass of warm water (not carbonated, sparkling water, pop, coffee) before and after the session. Drinking plenty of water and having exercise such as brisk walk, biking or other aerobic activities for at least 3 days after the treatment to stimulate the lymphatic activity as elimination of the fat continues through the Lymphatic System for 72hrs. Follow by a suitable exercise routine. Cavitation will be best performed under high hydration conditions, avoid taking any caffeine or diuretics 2 days before therapy. Drink a lot of water will help to improve your metabolism and increase urine output -- lipid metabolites release out of your body.  A lymph-draining massage is also encouraged to improve the circulation and lymphatic system, which helps to drain fluids."

Did my one day a time coffee caused an increase in weight?  Or because I didn't do exercise or a lymph-draining massage after my 20 mins cavitation?  I wasn't told to avoid caffeine.  Also, I confess I didn't drink a lot of water, more than my usual or the normal 8 glasses each day.   

4) This is something that is shocking ... cavitation just aid fat in moving from one area to another and no clinical trials listed proving fat is whisked out of the body.

One more visit to PS ... worry, hesitating.  Certainly will be another unpleasant and money not worth experience awaiting.  $200 + gst may be peanuts to you but not others.

Sigh!  Yes, I know some people were coerced to take up packages or consultants screaming "you want to slim down or not"?  Do you want to look good and healthy .... as for facial, beautician asked, "is your face important to you or not?".  For tummy, I told the China beautician, I would buy clothes that can camouflage my ugly tummy... she felt I wasn't fat until I lifted my blouse and showed her my tummy.  I will also buy underwear with tightening effect.


====================
On 19 Sep, my last 2 in 1 visit,  I had about one hour facial, 10 mins cavitation and 15 mins body wrap with infra red light shone on my tummy.

The therapist who serviced me is one of the best I have experienced, no hard selling!  She gave me a LED facial with the above machines and a mask that was washed off before I started cavitation. I learnt something that I felt I found out late ... she said customer shouldn't eat straight after slimming.  I should wait at least 2 hours.  If I really need to eat, best is salad with no dressing.  The past visits, I went straight for my dinner and even drank soup.  She said by having an unhealthy and heavy dinner, I am putting extra weight.  My body became very good to absorb so if I ate unhealthy food, I am sure to have unwanted weight gain ... that really happened.

The cavitation experience was similar to my first visit, 10 mins of solid rubbing.  I could feel the loud squeeky sound made by the machine and the warmth.  My second visit was horrible.  I utilised two of my session credit for a 20 mins cavitation which didn't make loud irritating sound nor did I feel the heat from the rubbing.  I realised I have been cheated.  That therapist didn't use strength to push/rub.  No wonder she felt with her palm, she could only confirm the machine is working.  It was her method that was wrong.  Wasted my money.

Almost one week after my 2 in 1 visit, a skirt that I have worn one month ago is so tight.  I almost failed to zip it up.  The waist line is so tight that I have problem breathing or sitting comfortably wearing that skirt.  I don't have the courage to step on a weighing machine.

Any way, this should end my slimming with machines.  The more I tried to control and get rid of fats, the more I put on weight.  Probably, I should continue be a food lover.

I was persuaded to take up a 'discounted facial package' but I said no.  I really don't enjoy facial that doesn't come with shoulder massage.  Extraction is definitely a no-no for aesthetic Centre.  Walking out of Prestigious Solutions isn't that easy but I managed to .... started to be pro already.

Streetdeal $88 membership fee (quarterly) - beware!

To whom this may benefit.  
Be a Streetdeal premium member at your own risks.  
There are many other websites to buy e-coupon/voucher.  Nobody would think there is a membership fee levied quarterly.  This was tagged under Terms and Conditions.  There's no prompt or a check box to indicate you are fully aware that by becoming a premium member, you need to pay S$88 x 4 (quarterly), each year.

I have browsed online and quite surprised there are people who noticed abnormality after being deducted twice.... more blur than me.  $88 is not a small sum of money to me so my eyes won't miss this in my monthly credit card statement.


This was my email to Streetdeal.  cc POSBank 

To:  Streetdeal
I tried to ring your office after receiving an unauthorised charging of $88 but an automated voice message stated your office is closed on 23 Aug 2014.  Frantically, I browsed online after being 'kicked' by POSBank, saw many complaints (click to read: Yahoo and Facebook) about your company unauthorised charging and shocked to notice you're closed on Saturday but active in charging me and posting updates on your StreetDeal Facebook.

Do you think I must be a premium member in order to get a miserable 20% discount?  
You think I cannot afford to pay your published normal price of $6 + $2.50 = $$8.50?  
Have not encountered any other website which has an online purchase with an expensive hidden clause.  Nobody enjoys being tricked.

My sms alert showed $6.80 was deducted (after 20% discount) for my first transaction with your company on 21 Aug.  This 20% deduction was by default and I thought it was a welcome discount.  There's no prompt of your hidden clause!  Your dishonest $88 membership came as a default, after transaction went through but I didn't know.  I have not opened below email which showed your 'explanation' of trial.  I only opened it, READ it with shock after I came back from police station.

You didn't make an effort to inform customer with big prints.  Below automated transaction show subject "Your deal Voucher"  not "Streetdeal membership fee".  When creating an account, I wasn't alerted of your unusual business tactic.  I was caught off guard.  I don't think anybody, informed clearly at the POINT of TRANSACTION would be willing to pay $88 each quarter to become a member.  This cost much more than any credit card annual fee.

On 23 Aug, immediately after receiving sms alert from POSBank, I rang its customer service to find out what happened.  Posbank was pointing you as the company with unauthorised transaction.  I do not want to use Streetdeal's services so I am requesting POSBank not to pay you $6.80 + $88, verbally and by this email.  Cancel my account immediately and give me back all my money if you've taken.  I have not used below vouchers.



POSBank
If you disregard my instruction and don't act in customer's interest, do note that I've made a police report and whatsoever amount you released to Streetdeal should be none of my business.  This is considered THIEFT/FRAUD!  

Do not find excuse to say I must communicate with Streetdeal.  Once I saw this unauthorised deduction, I've reported to POSBank, as per your sms message "If you did not use the card, pls call +65 6327 2265".  There have been many online complaints since Oct 2013 that Streetdeal doesn't refund promptly and avoiding phone calls.  I hope you won't give me hassle or intentionally leave me in the lurch.  
Thanks for providing on-time alert that 'awakened me'.  This service is fantastic, much better than other credit card companies which has a minimum transaction amount before automatic sms will be sent to customers.  I like your sms service and my Everyday mastercard! 


Email from Streetdeal after I made my first transaction on 21 Aug (I didn't click open.  My habit is to open when I intend to redeem the e-voucher).

Login today to Streetdeal and found 'Suspended', clicked ? and was prompted with 'cancel subscription' box.  I didn't cancel because Streetdeal didn't reply when they are paying back my money.  

$88 is deducted every quarterly which means I have about 2.5 months to get things settled, cancel Streetdeal account and end whatsoever membership fee from may occur.

Seriously, I don't know with a police report, would POSbank stop issuing my money to them.  I know the terms to hold a credit card is to consumer's disadvantage.  For example, I wanted a particular credit card to lower my credit limit but they said I can't set to $1000 or $500.  When I requested sms alert for all my purchases, one said sms alert will only be sent after hitting a certain amount, two said it is unnecessary to put a cap because if my card is lost and I have reported to the police timely, the bank will only charge me the minimal ie $100.  I didn't spend, didn't get to enjoy the buys but I am still liable to pay a certain 'minimal amount'.  This is the bank's so-call customer's protection and care.  

By the way, if you own a credit card, paying minimal instead of full amount will incur very high interest + finance fee.  I had two blur instances.  First, I forgot the actual amount so I underpaid by $14 and was charged bank finance fee of about $55. Another case was, I have 2 cards issued by the same bank, I overpaid the other and overlooked the outstanding card.  Both cases, the bank surcharge fee was more than what I owed/swiped.  I told the customer service officers, you mean I don't have money to pay?  Look at my past record, prompt payments.  Why the bank doesn't look at the customer's actual spending and levy just at token finance fee?  Posbank Everyday card T&C indicted no $55 late charge fee will be imposed if credit card bill is below $50.  

I am not owing like hundreds so why banks are so desperate to earn? I heard banks prefer customers to run into 'overdraft' or don't pay in full so as to earn 24% interest and finance fee.  I believe it is true... easy money!

Both instances, I had my finance fee waived.  I am trying to hold lesser credit cards.  If there are road shows with free vouchers or $80 cash rebate, I'll apply and compare.   I don't like free gifts because most don't suit me. If my old cards are no good, I'll terminate in order to flatten my wallet.  

Streetdeal has a simplified Sign-up page.  No indication of membership fee.
When you purchase a deal or click anything showing Premium, there wasn't any prompt of paying $88 per quarterly.  If Streetdeal really intend to be honest, such an important point shouldn't be hidden in its Terms & Conditions.  

How many of you read T&C?  When you sign up for credit cards, insurance, hire a maid, etc, do you fill up the forms/papers and submit or take your time to read the T&C in depth before you pay?  

Facebook comments:

Streetdeal scam, reported by Yahoo in Oct 2013
Over 200 customers of StreetDeal Singapore, a website selling deal vouchers for consumer goods and services, have complained on the company’s Facebook page that they had unwittingly been charged on their credit cards with premium membership of at least $99 annually.

Many of the complaining customers claimed they had been tricked into paying for the membership due to the way information was presented on the site.

On the Facebook page for the deal "40% off Boyfriend's Shirt Ladies Sleepwear (20 Designs)”, a Katherine Chen commented, "I tried to make a false buy and I see that the price is always defaulted to premium price! You have to be careful and manually select the non-premium price. Cheap trick. I want my 9.90 back and I will gladly pay u that 10% discount back!!"

Those who complained are also demanding refunds and have been waiting longer than the promised seven working days for their money back.  

Many customers also said that they have not been getting a reply and are urging the company to respond to calls and emails. 

In an email to Yahoo! Singapore, a Streetdeal Singapore spokesperson said, “Yes, we did receive some complaints regarding this service but it's perfectly within acceptable range (less than 5 per cent).”

He first explained that a premium membership “provides our premium customers with an additional 10 per cent discount on all deals, this membership is charged either $9.90 per month or $99 per year.”

During point of purchase, he said that customers are offered to “try” the premium membership service for 48 hours. 

“Premium charges are clearly stated twice on the payment page, first in the offer itself, second in the legal T&Cs right before customer confirm their purchase,” he added in response to the premium price option on the payment page, that is automatically selected and customers need to manually choose the non-premium price in order to not get roped into their membership.

However, customers tend to forget this step and proceed with purchase at a "premium member price" which is discounted.

“Customers might not pay attention to the offer when they purchase a deal; at no moment the offer is misleading,” he said. "They can unsubscribe without any charge in one simple click in their account.”

"If you require a refund, no questions will be asked we will process refund within seven working days,” he added.


StreetDeal Singapore is a subsidiary of Asia Deal Group, which has offices in Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Thailand.



Received Streetdeal's email on 26 Aug morning claiming they didn't charge me.  Below was sent in the afternoon-same day:

• StreetDeal.sg
 
• Aug 26 at 4:32 PM

To

• xxxxxxxxx@yahoo.com

Hi xxxxxx Welcome to our exclusive SD Premium club, you now have access to the best of StreetDeal! Being a SD Premium member, you can now enjoy an additional 20% discount on all offers available on StreetDeal. With these great benefits, we can surely say that you won't find such good deals anywhere else! We don't stop here, we are also giving you a free insurance and an unlimited access to Premium members only offers. Below is the full description of SD Premium benefits. GET 20% OFF ON EVERY DEAL! In addition to all the amazing discounts that you already enjoy on our website, get additional 20% off on all deals if you are a SD Premium member This offer is UNLIMITED, each time you buy a deal, you will enjoy additional 20% off (limited to $10 per voucher). GET UNLIMITED FREE INSURANCE! As a SD Premium member, you don't have to worry about any of your purchase on StreetDeal. If you change your mind after your purchase or if you forget to use your vouchers, don't worry, we will refund you without any question, even if you vouchers expire! The insurance normally cost 5% of the offer price, with StreetDeal Premium, it's free! UNLIMITED ACCESS TO PREMIUM ONLY OFFERS Everyday, StreetDeal will publish unbeatable offers for it's premium members only. And as a Premium member, you will be able to access to all these offer, without limits! Be it a cashback on famous brands like H&M, Zara, Subway, your cinema or phone bill or an extra discount at one of our most popular merchant, as a SD Premium member, you will be the only one to have access to these great deals. Your Account: www.streetdeal.sg Username: xxxxxx@yahoo.com Password: xxxxxxxxxxxx You have an active Premium status which allows you to enjoy 20% additional discount on all deals for unlimited number of purchases, free insurance and unlimited access to premium only offers. Your credit card has been charged SGD 88 today and your subscription will automatically renew Quarterly. See you soon on StreetDeal.sg Sincerely, The StreetDeal Team www.StreetDeal.sg You are receiving this email because you are a Premium Member of StreetDeal.sg Copyright © 2013 StreetDeal.sg, All Rights Reserved.

I emailed and the next day, I get this.  Not cash refund but StreetDollars to purchase till my value is used.

Dear xxxxxxx Greetings from StreetDeal! We are contacting you regarding your recent refund request to StreetDeal. Great News! The refund has been processed, please find below the details of the refund: Refund ID: 23669 Request Date: 27/08/2014 Subscription ID: 83395 Amount Refunded in StreetDollars: 86.30 Cash Refund Method: StreetDollars Refund Process Date: 27/08/2014 For any enquiry on this refund, please quote the above mentioned "Refund ID" to our Customer Support. You can contact us at 6361 0888 or at info@streetdeal.sg. It is our pleasure to serve you better! Thank you StreetDeal Team

I received this in my spam mail folder on 9 Sep.  Looks like not just StreetDeal is having membership.  

This online site is very clear about membership.  If anybody claimed they missed out .... I would say this is hard to miss because it is not hidden in a hyperlink for Terms and Conditions, eg StreetDeals.  The place they posted the sweet deal also tells you about the catch for a $1 deal.

The VIP membership is renewed every 30 days, which means $34.90 each month.

  

What is ShoppingDeal about?
ShoppingDeal is the first membership site for deals, discounts and promotions where you can for only $34.90 per month save up to $140 every month.

How can ShoppingDeal help me?
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update on 18 Sep 2014
Streetdeal fined for selling travel packages without valid licence, Channel News Asia
Streetdeal Singapore Pte Ltd has been fined a total of S$25,000 for carrying on the business of a travel agent without a valid licence, as well as helping another unlicensed travel agent with its business.

In a statement on Wednesday (Sep 17), the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) said that Streetdeal was previously a licensed travel agent from Oct 4, 2011 to Dec 31, 2012, after which Streetdeal chose not to renew its licence.

Regular enforcement checks by the STB found that Streetdeal was continuing its business as a travel agent from March to August 2013, despite not having a valid travel agent licence. The STB also found that Streetdeal had advertised and sold packages offered by an unlicensed travel agent, AbsolutInspira, from March to May 2012.

The STB said that it adopts a serious view against errant travel agents and will not hesitate to take necessary action to protect consumers and safeguard the reputation of Singapore's tourism sector.