Category: Cool Places In Singapore

Escape Reality At These 5 VR Gaming Places In S’pore – Prices From As Low As $12/Hour

The gaming scene is ever-changing, with new gimmicks and gadgets trying their best to immerse us in the game as much as possible.

Today, we even have virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) gaming. For reference, Pokemon Go uses AR technology so it looks like you’re catching that Pidgey in your living room.

While augmented reality gaming is popular, virtual reality is by far the more exciting of the 2.

I personally enjoy virtual reality gaming much more than augmented reality. So here’s a list of the places in Singapore that you and your friends can try virtual reality gaming.

1. V-Room Singapore VR Arcade

V-Room Singapore has the widest range of games I’ve seen so far, for a virtual reality gaming arcade.

Most VR game centres only have 1 or 2 games but V-Room has an entire library, with various genres to choose from.

From puzzle games, to horror games and shooter games, V-Room has it all.

Every newcomer will have to sign up as a member. It’s mandatory, and there’s a $5 fee to register. But the good news is, the membership is lifetime and the $5 is a one-time charge.

It’s $12 per person per hour on weekdays, and $15 per person per hour on weekends. You can also book a private room though it has to have a minimum of 2 people.

It’s by far the cheapest VR game centre in Singapore, and for a maximum of $15, you have a whole library of games to choose from.

V-Room Singapore VR Arcade
Address: 2 Jurong East Central 1, JCube #02-11, Singapore 609731
Opening Hours: Daily: 11am – 10pm
Contact no.: 6904 4045
Website

2. Clique Gaming

While Clique Gaming is primarily a LAN gaming shop, it also provides many other gaming facilities.

And Virtual Reality gaming is one of them. At Clique Gaming, you can book the VR Room that accommodates a maximum of 4 people from $20 per person per hour.

They use the PS4 for VR gaming, so you might even be familiar with some of the games if you own a PS4 console at home.

If you’re playing alone, it’ll be $25 per person per hour on weekdays.

The best part about this is, Clique Gaming operates 24 hours a day, meaning it NEVER CLOSES.

Clique Gaming
Address: 35 Selegie Road, ParkLane Shopping Mall #B1-16, Singapore 188307
Contact no.: 9009 3707
Website

3. Sandbox VR

Located at level 5 of Orchard Central, Sandbox VR is a great place to go if you’re wandering Orchard/Somerset without a plan.

It uses movie quality, real-time motion capture rigs, which means, every movement of your limbs will be captured in-game.

https://www.facebook.com/discover.sg.official/videos/2547647328794287/

There are 2 games for you to choose from – Deadwood Mansion and Curse Of Davy Jones.

If you like your zombie first-person shooters, Deadwood Mansion is the one for you, with increasingly overwhelming hordes of zombies.

Each session is about 30 to 45 minutes and will set you back $29 per person off peak, or $40 per person during peak.

Sandbox VR
Address: 181 Orchard Road, Orchard Central #05-31, Singapore 238896
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 11.15am – 10.30pm, Fri – Sat: 11.15am – 12am, Sun: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Contact no.: 9832 5988
Website

4. Virtual Room

Unlike the previous VR gaming spots, Virtual Room is more like a VR escape room, in the sense that it’s team-based rather than solo play.

https://www.facebook.com/singapore.virtualroom/videos/501994736827925/

You and 3 other players will join forces to save the world by travelling back in time to solve puzzles and challenges.

However, the twist here is, each player will be in a different room. So it will take all your skills to cooperate and complete your mission.

The Virtual Room can accommodate up to 22 players at one time.

It’ll cost $44 per person during off peak timings (Mon – Thu until 5pm), if you book online. It will be $49 per person for walk-ins, email, and phone bookings.

Peak hour prices will be $49 for online bookings, and $54 for walk-ins, email, and phone bookings.

Virtual Room
Address: Basement 3, Lucky Chinatown, 211 New Bridge Road, Singapore 059432
Opening Hours: Daily: 10am – 11pm
Contact no.: 6966 8060
Website

5. Zero Latency

If you’ve been to Suntec City recently, you might’ve seen Zero Latency.

Zero Latency is the largest free-roaming, multiplayer virtual reality gaming arena in Singapore.

With 4,200 square feet of space for you to roam as you play, Zero Latency increases the immersion in their VR games.

You can literally walk to another point in the map in the game, and even use the “lift”.

There are 4 games for you to choose from, with 2 being zombie outbreak first-person shooters, a space shooter adventure, and an adventure puzzle.

It is recommended that you come in a bigger group for a better experience. There are 4 packages to choose from and prices per person go from $59 to $69, depending on the package selected.

You can check out their packages here.

Zero Latency
Address: 3 Temasek Boulevard, #03-346, Suntec City Mall, Singapore 038983
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 11am – 10pm, Fri: 11am – 11pm, Sat: 10am – 11pm, Sun: 10am – 10pm
Contact no.: 6931 0331
Website

Also read Seoul Garden’s New Takeaway Kiosk Offers Korean-Inspired Sandwiches For Under $9

(Header Image Source: DiscoverSG)

This Authentic Mexican Joint In Tanjong Pagar Serves Tacos From $8 – And It’s Vegetarian-Friendly Too

One of the most enjoyable foods to eat, has got to be the taco.

It’s so simple yet so good, which probably explains why it’s considered to be one of the best foods to eat when drunk.

Is this why they serve alcohol with tacos?

In Singapore, there’s an increasing number of Mexican restaurants and a crowd favourite is Lucha Loco.

Going Loco For Tacos

Located on 15 Duxton Hill, Lucha Loco is a casual Mexican cocina (kitchen) and bar, serving up great Mexican food and tequilas (of course).

It first opened in 2012 and today, it is known as one of the few places in Singapore for great Mexican fare.

The coolest part of this restaurant has got to be the outdoor garden seating.

Beautifully decorated, yet still spacious enough to accomodate large groups, it’s almost as if you’re dining with fairies.

Now, for the food.

They serve up tacos and quesadillas, as well as a wide variety of other authentic Mexican snacks and sides.

Some of the favourites are the Baja Fish Tacos ($10), the vegetarian Corn & Artichoke Tacos ($8), and the Cangrejo Tacos ($16), which uses buttermilk fried soft-shell crab.

Lucha Loco has seasonal flavours for their tacos too, so do check their Facebook page for any updates on exclusive taco creations.

Their most recent creations were for the Trump-Kim summit.

If you’re looking for something easier to munch on, try their Crab Tostadas ($17), which uses blue swimmer crab meat, salted egg sauce, and crispy chicken skin. Mmm….

The good thing about Lucha Loco is that they’re also vegetarian-friendly, with many vegetarian options available on the menu.

For dessert, if you’re not getting the Churros ($14), were you really at Lucha Loco?

For drinks, Happy Hour takes place from 5pm to 7pm on weekdays, with discounts on their frozen lime, piña margarita, kirin draught, corona, cava, house wines, gin, rum, and house vodka.

Lucha Loco is a must-visit if you’re looking for an authentic Mexican dining experience.

Here are their Also read This German Restaurant In Joo Chiat Has Been Serving Handmade Breads And Wursts Since 1988

(Header Image Source: Lucha Loco)

Dare To Take A Walk Through Hell? Go On Haw Par Villa’s 2-Hour Twilight Tour After Dark

When I was younger, my mother used to tell me tales of how misbehaving kids, sinners, and criminals would be tortured in Hell.

Growing up Taoist, I’ve heard of the Eighteen Levels of Hell, as well as the Ten Courts of Hell. I’m still not sure which is right, and I doubt anyone living really does. I would very much like for it to remain this way.

Point is, if you want a well-behaved child below the age of 10, then this is probably the best (read: traumatising) parenting power move you can execute.

If you’re wondering how my mother did it, allow me to introduce this quaint little theme park in Pasir Panjang.

Enter Haw Par Villa.

Singapore’s Only Free Theme Park

Previously known as Tiger Balm Gardens, Haw Par Villa is an Asian cultural park that’s a treasure trove of Asian philosophy, culture, and religion that was built way back in 1937 by millionaire philanthropist Aw Boon Haw.

The park is filled with various statues and sculptures that detail specific aspects of Taoism.

While entry to the park is free, you can also choose to join their daily guided tour for a small fee of $10 per adult or $5 per child.

There is also another guided tour that takes you through Haw Par Villa’s most well-known attraction, the Ten Courts of Hell.

Twilight Tour: Journeys To Hell

As its name suggests, the Twilight Tour takes you through Haw Par Villa, The Hell’s Museum and into the Ten Courts of Hell.

Every detail is vividly captured in the sculptures that line the tunnel. You’ll also come face to face with the King of Ghosts, and also discover his backstory of how he got his title.

You’ll also get to visit the Aw family memorials.

The tour takes place every Friday from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Ticket prices are $20 per adult and $10 for children aged 7 to 12. If you’re a student, present your student card to the tour guide and get your ticket at the promotional student price of $15!

Get your tickets Also read 10 Budget-Friendly Karaoke Studios In S’pore From As Low As $1 For 2 Songs

(Header Image Source: Haw Par Villa)

10 Budget-Friendly Karaoke Studios In S’pore From As Low As $1 For 2 Songs

Recently I chanced upon this cute little Sanrio character on Netflix (of all places).

No wonder Lulu The Movie was filmed in Cash Studio Family Karaoke.

If you’re parched from all that belting, free drinks are available too.

They have 2. Grandlink Karaoke

Grandlink Karaoke is a disco, 24-hour KTV, and music hall that offers darts, billiards and pool, as well as game console rentals for XBox One, PS4 and Wii Station.

Their rates begin from $5 per hour and if you download their Loyalty App, you’ll get to enjoy discounted member prices.

If your group of friends cannot decide on 1 activity to do, head over to Grandlink Karaoke. There’ll surely be something for everyone.

Grandlink Karaoke
Address: 511 Guillemard Road, #B1-02 Grandlink Square, Singapore 399849
Price: From $5 per hour
Contact no.: 8114 1885
Website

3. K-Garden Family KTV

Even though it brands itself as a family KTV, it doesn’t really seem like one.

However, they do offer very affordable rates. $10 nett for 6 hours of singing (which is honestly excessive) and 1 free drink?

Can you get a better deal?

Though we definitely cannot tank 6 hours of continuous singing, it’ll be great for those who come in a big group.

K-Garden Family KTV
Address: 18 Maju Avenue, Singapore 556693
Opening Hours: Sun – Thu: 2pm – 1am, Fri – Sat: 2pm – 3am
Price: $10 nett for 6 hours
Contact no.: 6287 7256
Website

4. K.Star Karaoke

If you’ve been to Orchard Central recently, you’d have seen this karaoke joint take over a good part of the fifth level.

This new KTV is Singapore’s first themed karaoke, more specifically, themed rooms. With a total of 25 themed rooms (including a LINE-themed room!) in a space of 7,000 square feet, singing in this KTV is an experience all on its own.

Rates start from $18++ during happy hour for a mini room that can accommodate up to 6 pax. The price is actually quite reasonable considering the service and environment here.

So if you’re looking for a different KTV experience, check out K.Star Karaoke.

K.Star Karaoke
Address: 181 Orchard Road, Orchard Central, #05-01, Singapore 238896
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 12pm – 3pm, Fri: 12pm – 5pm, Sat – Sun: 1pm – 5pm
Price: From $18++ per hour for 1-6 pax
Contact no.: 6634 2801
Image Credit: K Star Karaoke[/caption]

Their rates are very reasonable, starting at $6 per hour for a small room if you book in the day. You can view the rates down below.

[caption id="attachment_35648" align="aligncenter" width="761"] Image Credit: K Star Karaoke[/caption]

It has been lauded as one of the CHEAPEST karaoke joints in Singapore. That’s not all, the service is great, with the friendly staff and a rather impressive sound system, this is a great place for a millennial to sing his problems away.

Our only gripe? It closes too early.

K Star Family Karaoke
Address: 20 Toh Yi Drive, #03-03 Bukit Timah CC, Singapore 596596
Opening Hours: Sun – Thu: 1pm – 12am, Fri – Sat: 1pm – 1am
Price: From $6 per hour
Contact no.: 6469 9989
Website

6. Karaoke MANEKINEKO

Karaoke MANEKINEKO, originally from Japan, is possibly Singapore’s cheapest luxury karaoke joint. There are 9 outlets across Singapore, all of which are easily accessible by public transport.

[caption id="attachment_35650" align="aligncenter" width="1536"] Image Credit: Scape[/caption]

Rates differ outlet to outlet, though all of them are within the price range of $12 to $15 for a 2-hour day time karaoke session.

Every outlet is fully furnished with a well-stocked snack and drink service bar.

[caption id="attachment_35651" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image Credit: here
Price: From $12 per 2-hour session
Website

7. Tang Music Box

Tang Music Box is rather unique, in the sense that they have a concept store stocked with premium snacks. However, there is a minimum spending per room per booking.

[caption id="attachment_35656" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Image Credit: Tang Music Box[/caption]

Every 2-hour session booked will entitle you to a free drink, while a 3-hour session will get you a snack as well.

The staff are friendly and blankets are also provided if the central air-conditioning system proves too cold for you.

Rates go from $5 per person for a 3-hour session. See the full list of prices 8. Ten Dollar KTV Club

Ten Dollar KTV Club is a lifesaver if you’re sick of calculating per hour, per person, per song and all that nonsense.

[caption id="attachment_35657" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Image Credit: Price:

The best part about this place is, they charge you by song and not by duration or room.

Every 2 songs will cost you just $1. Which means you’ll probably tire before you realise you’re spending way too much.

That’s not to say that Voicebooth doesn’t have rooms for booking though. You can still choose to book a room from $10 per hour, per room.

It’s all up to how much you want to sing.

Voicebooth KTV
Address: The Cathay, 2 Handy Road, #03-14/15/16, Singapore 229233
Opening Hours: Sun – Thu: 12pm – 10pm, Fri – Sat: 12pm – 1am
Price: $1 every 2 songs OR From $10 per, hour per room
Contact no.: 8112 0480
Website

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(Header Image Source:

The Singapore Zoo Lights Up At Night This July With A New Luminous Rainforest Trail

Have you been to the Singapore Zoo at night?

I’m not talking about the Night Safari. I mean, the Singapore Zoo. Usually, you won’t. Or rather, you can’t because the Zoo closes at 6pm daily.

From 1 July 2018, you can!

The Singapore Zoo has come up with a new attraction in celebration of its 45th birthday!

Introducing Rainforest Lumina.

A Rainforest Light Show In The Dark

Held in collaboration with Moment Factory, Rainforest Lumina is apparently the first multi-sensory night walk experience in Asia, with more than 10 interactive zones along the 1km light trail that takes you through the Singapore Zoo.

However, don’t expect to see any live animals (they’re off-duty). The only animals you’ll see are on the various light installations or projections.

With zones that look like they’re lifted straight out of James Cameron’s 2009 film, Avatar, this is guaranteed to be a luminescent spectacle.

Stroll on the Luminous Pathway, step through the Shimmering Islands, and marvel at the glowing Lantern Passage.

Check out the trailer for Rainforest Lumina below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_M8WmEeh7Xk

There are 7 timeslots available per night, and ticket prices are $22 for adults and $16 for children between ages 3 and 12.

You may purchase your tickets here.

This is a rare opportunity to experience the Singapore Zoo in the dark so gather the family and take the kids to Rainforest Lumina this July!

Rainforest Lumina
Venue: Singapore Zoo, 80 Mandai Lake Road
Date: From 1 July 2018
Price: Adult: $22, Child (3 – 12 years old): $16
Website

Also read The Longest Lunar Eclipse Of The Century Is Almost 2 Hours – Witness It In S’pore On July 28

(Header Image Source: Jの背包旅行)

9 Fun And Educational Places To Bring Your Kids To That Are Wallet-Friendly

Being a parent is tough. Teaching a child is tough. Looking after a child is tough.

But what if it doesn’t have to be? Don’t worry I’m not trying to sell you anything (fight me, insurance agents).

I’ve compiled a list of places to take your kids that’s both educational and inexpensive. Because honestly, we’re quite done with the zoo, and the rooftop play area at VivoCity.

So parents, aunties, uncles, guardians, LISTEN UP.

Farms

Mainland Tropical Fish Farm

Personally, I love fishes and marine life in general. So I spent a good amount of time visiting fish farms as a child. If you live in the East, then you might want to pay a visit to Mainland Tropical Fish Farm instead.

While the place primarily sells aquarium fishes and supplies, there are activities available for the kids too. Spend a dollar or 3, on packets of food pellets and feed the fishes in the outdoor pond.

For $4, equip your child with a fishing net and a bucket for them to try their hand at catching their very own “longkang” fish! Just make sure they don’t fall in.

Mainland Tropical Fish Farm
Address: 1 Pasir Ris Farmway 1, Singapore 519352
Opening Hours: Daily: 8.30am – 7pm
Contact no.: 6287 3883
Image Credit: @emilymhx[/caption]

The Animal Resort is home to stallions, a variety of birds that includes a Cassowary and Marabou Stork, a German Shepherd dog training ground, rabbits and guinea pigs, fishes, a pet grooming centre, and a pet shop.

[caption id="attachment_35326" align="aligncenter" width="1082"] Image Credit: @fourlittlepalms[/caption]

You can buy the animal feed from the pet store. No outside food should be brought in.

[caption id="attachment_35327" align="aligncenter" width="1078"] Image Credit: @benayers1[/caption]

It’s a great place for children to interact with different animals in a relaxed and laid-back environment.

The Animal Resort
Address: T81 Seletar West Farmway 5, Singapore 798061
Opening Hours: Daily: 10am – 5pm
Contact no.: 6482 1160
Website

Bollywood Veggies

Tucked away in the Kranji countryside is a 10-acre farming facility complete with a bistro, food museum and even a cooking school!

[caption id="attachment_35328" align="aligncenter" width="1364"] Image Credit: @lowjolin[/caption]

After familiarising yourself with the different species of flora and fauna within the farm, visitors can enjoy a myriad of dishes made from local produce at the bistro, Poison Ivy, to nourish your body.

If you ever need a break from the fast-paced city life we’re all used to, make a trip down to Bollywood Veggies and experience an afternoon of serenity for a change.

Bollywood Veggies
Address: 100 Neo Tiew Road, Singapore 719026
Opening Hours: Wed – Fri: 8am – 5.30pm, Sat – Sun: 8am – 6.30pm
Contact no.: 6898 5001
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve has much to offer. Explore the vast mangroves and trails that span all over the reserve as you contemplate the beauty of your surroundings.

[caption id="attachment_35330" align="aligncenter" width="1566"] Image Credit: 2011 Bird Checklist released by the National Parks Board, over 200 different species of birds have been recorded on-site at the reserve!

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
Address: 301 Neo Tiew Crescent, Singapore 718925
Opening Hours: Daily: 7am – 7pm
Contact no.: 6794 1401
Website

Kranji Marshes

For those unfamiliar with Kranji Marshes, the 56.8-hectare freshwater marshland is home to unique biodiversity.

Kranji Marshes is actually split into two main areas – the public area that is open to all members of the public, and the restricted core conservation area that is deemed to be ecologically sensitive. You can enter the core conservation area if you sign up for a guided tour.

[caption id="attachment_35331" align="aligncenter" width="1262"] Image Credit: @fannaiaiwong[/caption]

According to NParks, Kranji Marshes is home to more than 170 species of birds, 54 species of butterflies, and 33 species of dragonflies! Alongside Sungei Buloh Nature Reserve, it plays an important role in providing a habitat for the conservation of wildlife in the Kranji area.

[caption id="attachment_35332" align="aligncenter" width="1282"] Image Credit: @damithprs[/caption]

Moorhen Blind and Swamphen Hide are 2 bird-watching stations that overlook marsh landscapes, perfect for taking in the sights of nature.

The park is open from 7am-7pm daily. Do note that there is no lighting in the evenings! The park is also wheelchair- and pram-friendly, with the exception of the Raptor Tower.

Kranji Marshes
Address: 11 Neo Tiew Lane 2, Singapore 718814
Opening Hours: Daily: 7am – 7pm
Contact no.: 6794 1401
Website

Play And Learn

Diggersite

If your child has a fascination for excavators, cranes, and dump trucks, then they’ll love Diggersite.

[caption id="attachment_35333" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: Diggersite[/caption]

Diggersite is a one-of-a-kind edutainment centre that provides realistic experience in operating small scale construction machinery. The main motive is to help your child build motor skills, which are vital for writing, crafts, and other fine motor activities.

[caption id="attachment_35334" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: Diggersite[/caption]

The experience is quite legitimate. Your child will get to put on a construction safety helmet, build small blocks, and operate a construction digger!

Diggersite
Address: Find your nearest Diggersite Clip ‘n Climb

Unlike most rock-climbing facilities, Clip ‘n Climb also caters for climbers of all ages with 19 different colourful climbing challenges. Meaning, kids can join in the fun too!

Clip ‘n Climb is great for improving a kid’s concentration and focus as well as sensory and motor skills.

Check out the packages and pricing at Clip ‘n Climb here!

Clip ‘n Climb
Address: Our Tampines Hub, 51 Tampines Ave 4, #03-03, Singapore 528523
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 12pm – 9pm, Fri – Sat: 10am – 11pm, Sun: 10am – 9pm
Contact no.: 6705 9410
Website

ORTO

I remember the days when ORTO used to be Bottle Tree Park.

Today, the 555,000 square feet space has been completely revamped and taken over by ORTO. Located in the North, it is Singapore’s first multi-recreational park that is open 24 hours a day.

Today, it houses a prawning and fishing facility, a paintball park, a trampoline park, a drift karting circuit, and even a sporting facility for rent!

Kids can bounce around in Image Credit: ORTO[/caption]

What’s more, with a whole list of dining places at ORTO, it’s the perfect place for a family day out!

ORTO
Address: 81 Lorong Chencharu, #01-01, Singapore 769198
Image Credit: The Artground[/caption]

The Artground is an accessible play space for children aged 12 and below, and they aim to provide positive art experiences through interactive art installations that changes tri-annually.

Children are encouraged to climb over, under or through the interactive art installations, which helps to develop their motor skills.

On the weekends, there will also be various art-related programs that families with young children can participate in.

The best part? Entry to The Artground is FREE!

The Artground
Address: Goodman Arts Centre, 90 Goodman Road, Block J #01-40, Singapore 439053
Opening Hours: Wed – Thu: 9.30am – 5pm, Fri – Sun: 9.30am – 6pm, Mon – Tue: Closed
Contact no.: 6925 0621
Website

Also read Golden Village Cinema Is Bringing Movies Back To Bedok After 10 Years

(Header Image Source: @fourlittlepalms and The Artground)

Golden Village Cinema Is Bringing Movies Back To Bedok After 10 Years

While Bedok might be one of the most densely populated neighbourhoods in Singapore, it’s strange that the area does not have a cinema of its own.

One would have to go to Eunos, Tampines or further to catch a movie. The last movie theatre that served Bedok residents, was the iconic Princess Theatre, which closed 10 years ago.

Today, Golden Village Multiplex, Singapore’ leading cinema exhibitor, has opened its doors at Bedok with a new 576-seater multiplex at DjitSun Mall Bedok.

It’s somewhat serendipitous for the new Golden Village Bedok multiplex to be standing where the Princess Theatre once stood. It’s almost as if the Princess Theatre is passing on the baton to Golden Village.

Bringing Movie Magic To Bedok

This new cineplex will house 6 screens and can seat up to 576 people.

That’s not all. In line with the opening, Golden Village is launching a NEW curry-flavoured gourmet popcorn. This new popcorn is exclusive to Golden Village Bedok and will only be available for the first 3 months after the opening.

Golden Village will also be introducing 3 other popcorn flavours to all its cinemas islandwide – Seaweed Wasabi, Caramel, and Cheese.

If you’re living in Bedok, dry your tears because you no longer have to head to another neighbourhood to catch a movie!

Golden Village Bedok
Address: 445 Bedok North Street 1, #04-01 DjitSun Mall Bedok, Singapore 469661
Contact no.: 6653 8100
Website

Also read This New Arcade Is Supposedly The Biggest In The East Side – Tokens Go For As Low As 16 Cents

(Header Image Source: Golden Village)

This Is Home Truly – S’porean Millennials On Growing Up In Local Neighbourhoods

We all grew up in Singapore. Right? Most of us. Well, after considering the concentration of Singaporeans to foreigners in the country, SOME of us grew up in Singapore.

But anyway, my point is we all grew up in a neighbourhood and have lots of memories tied to a certain area in Singapore.

Since my colleagues hail from different parts of Singapore, I decided to do a little investigation to find out where they grew up.

Bedok

Melissa

“I grew up in Bedok North, Fengshan. It was the quieter side of Bedok because the people living there were mainly elderly. Time moved slowly in the area, which made it very homely and cosy. This was before the trend of food bloggers hyping food in neighbourhoods.

You know how they have the ice cream uncles who would sell ice cream downstairs? Yeah, mine wasn’t an ice cream uncle. It was the kacang putih man.

I moved to Yew Tee in my early Primary years, but to be honest, Marine Parade was more exciting. Don’t put that in.”

Pasir Ris

Farhanah

“I grew up in Pasir Ris all my life. Though I shifted from Pasir Ris East to Pasir Ris West.

But I remember that the area was like a ghost town, because nothing was really developed yet. And the only mall we had at the time was White Sands Shopping Mall, that’s still around today.

There was also West Plaza and Elias Mall. Every outing with friends was always at Downtown East. This was before Downtown East expanded into e!Avenue today.

My Sports Days were a little more special because ours wasn’t conducted in-school, rather the school put up a huge tent and held Sports Day at Pasir Ris Park.

Also, I think every Pasir Ris kid will remember that we had our very own theme park in our neighbourhood. Yes, Escape Theme Park was ICONIC.

I liked that everyone living in Yishun had each other’s backs. The neighbourhood spirit was palpable. Can feel one. There was this sense of unspoken security in the neighbourhood. So actually no need to build wall because we already feel secure.

Even though Northpoint wasn’t much, it was great because it had Toys ‘R’ Us. For a kid, any place that had a Toys ‘R’ Us was a wonderland.

[caption id="attachment_35288" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Image Credit: SRX Property[/caption]

That’s not all, we were near Tuas, so factory smog and weird smells were common. Not to mention the presence of Tengah Air Base, which ensured that the 2 or 3 months leading up to National Day was filled with daily sonic booms of passing aircrafts.

I’m pretty sure my hearing is damaged thanks to the RSAF. Patriotism, I guess.

But to be honest, I grew to love Jurong West.

I love that the neighbourhood is quiet, even in the day. I love that we don’t have a huge amount of traffic passing through. I love that I don’t have to deal with crowd when I take the MRT, unlike Jurong East.

I guess there are benefits to living in the corner of Singapore after all.

Where did you grow up in Singapore?

Also read Bishan’s Carnival This Weekend Offers Food, FREE Workshops, And Black Panther Screening

(Header Image Source: Melissa Chan)

This Instagram Account Proves Why Yishun Has Always, And Will Always, Be Great

Tucked away in the northern region of Singapore, Yishun makes news headlines regularly. From drug ring busts and cat murders to civilians trying to attack policemen with stun guns, Yishun has developed a reputation for bad news.

“Build a wall around Yishun”, they said.

What’s up with Yishun? Could it be something in the air or perhaps the water? Is the temperature different in Yishun?

But it turns out, after multiple visits to Yishun, that the problem with Yishun is simple. There’s no problem. Nothing. Zero. Zilch.

Recently, I came across an Instagram (@makeyishungreatagain2018) that aims to make Yishun the greatest neighbourhood in Singapore. And here’s why I believe that Yishun is a pretty damn cool neighbourhood.

Contrary to popular belief, Yishun is a great place to raise your kids. Don’t believe? Come, I show you.

1. Yishun Has President Halimah, Your Neighbourhood Got What?

https://www.instagram.com/p/BjtW9HPnsWj/?taken-by=makeyishungreatagain2018

Remember when everyone went crazy about President Halimah living in a flat in Yishun. After being declared President on September 13, President Halimah continued to live in her flat, making her Singapore’s first head of state to live in public housing while in office.

In her Facebook post, she mentioned: “Therefore, as much as I would like to continue living in my current home in Yishun, I have accepted MHA’s recommendation and will make arrangements to move to a new place soon.”

She’s so chill and down to earth. She’s the kind of President we all need!

Who knows, living in Yishun might inspire your kid to be the next President of Singapore.

2. Cheap, Good Food For The Soul

Living in Singapore may be expensive but food doesn’t have to be.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bj3rlNPAdRU/?taken-by=makeyishungreatagain2018

You’ll be surprised but Yishun Hawker Centre is home to some pretty darn good and cheap food.

Ah Tan Wings (Yishun Park Hawker Centre)

They’ve managed to perfect Har Cheong Gai that is crispy yet juicy, perfectly cooked, smells like heaven and tastes like an umami bomb.

For just $1.70, you can get a bomb Har Cheong Gai that will keep you coming back for more. Their wings are so good that they sell out quite quickly, so if you’re feeling brave and want to venture into Yishun, don’t waste the trip and stop by Ah Tan’s because where else can you get Har Cheong Gai to die for?

You can read more about Ah Tan Wings here!

$1 Carnival – Reunion @ Yishun Park Hawker Centre

For the longest time, Singaporeans have complained about the increasing prices of food and housing.

But for a day in the month of June, Yishun Park Hawker Centre is taking things back to the old days, when food was still cheap, and a crisp $10 note made you seem like a rich man.

For ONE DAY ONLY, 26 stallholders in Yishun Park Hawker Centre will be showcasing food from its traditional and young hawkers and you get to try the signature dishes from the participating stalls, for just ONE DOLLAR.

You can find out more about the $1 Carnival here.

Raising your kids in Yishun is a great idea if they eat WAY too much. Beats paying $7 for a McDonald’s meal any day.

3. Coolest Playground That’ll Put Other Playgrounds To Shame

https://www.instagram.com/p/BkJZNzZAra8/?taken-by=makeyishungreatagain2018

Your neighbourhood got playground like this? Don’t have right?

Created by US-based light sculptor, Mini Pool consists of 16 pads on the ground that light up and change colour when they are stepped on, according to a Straits Times report.

Complementing the playground’s whimsical theme are three crooked houses that seem to have been plucked straight out of a Dr Seuss book. There is also a kinetic hammock trellis – a swing set with nine seats installed at different heights.

Your kid will thank you for this. This playground is definitely not #basic.

Yishun River Green Playground
Where: Block 330 Yishun Ring Road

4. Home To The Largest Mall in the Northern Part of Singapore

Can we please talk about Northpoint City’s glo-up?

If you’re both busy working parents, figuring out where to bring your kids to over the weekends can be quite a headache.

Well, you won’t have that problem living in Yishun. Northpoint City recently opened their new South Wing and the options are endless.

There are over 100 food and dining concepts so if you have a kid who is a picky eater, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. If you need a quick retail therapy, there’s even Uniqlo in Northpoint City now.

Fun fact, Northpoint City has all major bubble tea brands in one mall. Gong Cha, Liho, Koi, Share Tea, Hi Tea, Teafolia, Yuan Cha etc. Your neighbourhood can beat anot?

Who needs Vivocity when you have Northpoint?

Good things do come to Yishun.

5. HDB Prices Are Considerably Cheaper Than Mature Estates

https://www.instagram.com/p/BkETq4rAQ80/?taken-by=makeyishungreatagain2018

If you work in the northern region of Singapore, or would prefer your abode to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city, then this location might make sense. With prices being correspondingly lower, a unit here could offer great value in the long-term.

If cost of living in Singapore is a major concern of yours, you can consider buying a house in Yishun to start a family.

Not only that, you don’t have to leave Yishun to access markets, schools, parks and even Khoo Teck Phuat Hospital. Everything you need is in one location.

There are also buses to almost everywhere from Yishun. Which makes travelling from place to place a whole lot more convenient.

6. Bowling, Prawning, Paintball, What Else You Want?

There’s no such thing as “nothing to do” in Yishun.

Welcome to the world of ORTO, where fun never sleeps.

Also Read Bishan’s Carnival This Weekend Offers Food, FREE Workshops, And Black Panther Screening

(Header Image Source: @makeyishungreatagain2018 )

This New Arcade Is Supposedly The Biggest In The East Side – Tokens Go For As Low As 16 Cents

5 months ago, VivoCity saw the opening of the Timezone flagship store and it was YUUUGE. You can see it for yourself in our video.

https://www.facebook.com/discover.sg.official/videos/2427312264161128/

Now, there’s a new arcade claiming that they’re the biggest arcade in the East side of Singapore.

Introducing Fat Cat Arcade. They recently opened in Bedok’s Djitsun Mall and they’re proudly owning the title of being the “Biggest Arcade In The East”, or as I would like to call it, B.A.I.T.E (The ‘e’ is silent.)

So Far, So Fat

Fat Cat Arcade claims that they have over 100 machines on the arcade floor and their tokens go for as low as $0.16 each!

Here’s a video tour of Fat Cat Arcade.

https://www.facebook.com/fatcatarcade/videos/194170894563006/

While I’m not a regular patron at arcades, the games I do go for are the shooters such as Time Crisis, The Walking Dead, and the Nascar racing games. Fat Cat Arcade seems to have more skill-based games than shooters.

Here are some photos of the arcade. Can you spot any games you’re familiar with?

To be fair, the arcade floor is quite expansive, though it’s not as big as Timezone. BUT, they have carpeted floors. So the point goes to them.

Of course, every decent arcade in Singapore has these cursed loose-clawed, money-sucking, token-eating machines and Fat Cat Arcade definitely didn’t forget theirs.

Oh, not forgetting these coin-drop arcade machines too.

Now, after you’ve spent hours upon hours farming and stocking up on your tickets, it’s time to redeem them for some prizes. And Fat Cat Arcade has a pretty decent “redemption shop”.

Actually we’re understating because you can choose from more than 500 items to redeem with your tickets. Also, the place reminds me of Mini-So.

Honestly speaking, Timezone is still bigger with more traditional digital arcade games and they have a bowling alley, bumper cars, an air hockey table.

But if you’re in the East and you’re trying to avoid the ‘Special Event Area’ near Sentosa at the moment, then Fat Cat Arcade is a good alternative.

Also, arcades are a better addiction than casinos. Just saying.

Fat Cat Arcade
Address: 445 Bedok North Street 1 Level 2, Djitsun Mall, Singapore 469661
Opening Hours: Daily: 11am – 1am
Contact no.: 6242 0221
Website

Also read There’s A New Sushi Joint At Northpoint City With Prices From $1/Plate

(Header Image Source: Fat Cat Arcade)