My flight back home will be at 2am the next day, therefore, I had a full day to roam around Singapore. What to do? I was longing to have a relaxing time, not in a spa but wandering around the city.
As soon as I woke up, I spent an incredible time at the rooftop of Hangout Hotel sipping coffee while waiting for the sun. I had this great view of Emily Hill, an imposing white house in a middle of modern buildings.
My only “appointment” was my friend since high school, Nanette, who wanted to take me to Chinese Garden. Hangout Hotel receptionist told me, “It’s at the other side of the city.” but it’s ok, I wanted to see the residential side of Singapore if that’s what he wanted to tell me.
But first, go to Church. I spread my map on my bed and I randomly chose Church of Saints Peter and Paul on Queen Street. From my nearest station of Little India, off I went to Bras Basah.
A quiet street so to speak. Slow-paced walking, great for my blistered feet. Ouch! Saw different buildings like a calligraphy center and the Jacob Ballas Centre or The Jewish Welfare Board on Waterloo Street.
Singapore Art Museum. Love that spot for coffee!
And I found myself lost again. Blessed to spot the church’s spire( ? not sure if that’s the right term) and it was like my comet..I just walked and I finally found it.
It is currently under renovation. There are many buildings in Singapore that are currently being worked to preserve just like this 19th-century Catholic Church.
I prayed the Holy Rosary at the temporary shelter within the church compound. Right across is still other side ( or I was at the back side earlier?!) of Singapore Art Museum. You can the admirable details of the building. Jotted the place on my list to places to visit in Singapore.
After that, I went back to the station and took a long train ride to Choa Chu Kang, which is a residential enclave in Singapore. I was a little bit hungry when I made it to the busy station. After meeting with my friend, Nanette, we did some shopping – sale and sale! I forgot about my hunger. We bought Singaporean dishes for lunch.
Rows of tall residential buildings. I also spotted a baby train ( single-car train). A different sight in Singapore for visiting tourists!
An hour after lunch, we went to Chinese Garden. It is free ( except for the Tortoise Museum) and it is just outside the station – Chinese Garden Station.
It’s iconic pagoda was currently under repair but Mulan was waiting for me!
At the Twin Pagoda. It is a very big garden. Just like Gardens by the Bay, I think you can spend half of your day here.
Past and future..
The last thing I expected to see in Singapore.. 🙂 Good thing it went back to the pond in no time.
There are several things to see and experience at Chinese Garden. They also have a Japanese Garden, but I had to leave before it gets dark to take a daytime shot of the Merlion.
This is along Boat Quay with a glimpse of the durian-inspired, Esplanade -Theatres on the Bay.
Taking notes…”must visit this museum”.
Spent some time at Merlion Park, I even spotted some monks. After I took all the photos I wanted, it was time to go back to the hotel and prepare for my trip back home.
I took the train from Little India Station to Changi Airport – 3 transfers. I was a little bit tired but it was a good experience so I can share them to you my dear readers and of course, for our next Singapore trip – hopefully!!
Changi Airport….
Hope to see you again Singapore! You are a lovely place and I can’t wait to spend some time with you with my kids. A must-visit, I should say!
Big thanks to my hotel partner – Hangout Hotel and Gardens by the Bay for the media pass.
Thanks for reading!
Do you have any questions? Feel free to ask by leaving a comment. Thanks!
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