Morning Walk with Friends at Chinese Garden and Japanese Gardens

Singapore - This morning, I had a wonderful and refreshing walk with a group of friends around Chinese Garden and the nearby Japanese Garden. It turned out to be one of those simple but meaningful mornings where good company, nature, and food all came together perfectly.

We arranged to meet at MRT Chinese Garden MRT Station at 9am. Unfortunately, just as everyone arrived, the sky suddenly opened up and it started raining cats and dogs. The heavy downpour caught many people by surprise, and instead of rushing around, we decided to wait patiently under shelter.

The rain gave us time to catch up and chat casually. Sometimes these unexpected pauses become part of the enjoyment, especially when spending time with old friends. We joked about Singapore’s unpredictable weather while watching the rain pour endlessly outside.

Fortunately, after some time, the heavy rain slowly softened into a drizzle. Seeing the weather improve slightly, we decided to continue with our planned walk.  It was great to see Gwee Koon joining us for today's walk with Kiat Leng, Carol and Heng Choo.

The cool weather after the rain made the gardens especially pleasant. The air felt fresh and clean, and the greenery looked even more vibrant with droplets of rainwater glistening on the leaves. 

One of our first stops was the beautiful Cloud Pagoda. The pagoda looked peaceful against the cloudy morning sky, surrounded by calm waters and lush greenery. Nearby, we came across the zodiac dragon sculpture and naturally stopped to take a fun group “wefie” since all of us happened to be born in the Year of the Dragon. There was plenty of laughter as we squeezed together trying to get everyone into the photo.

We then continued our walk toward the bamboo grove and waterfall area. The bamboo trees swayed gently in the cool breeze, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The sound of flowing water from the waterfall added to the relaxing environment, making it one of the nicest parts of the walk.

Along the way, we also visited the edible gardens where various herbs, fruits, and edible plants were grown. It was interesting seeing how beautifully the gardens were maintained while also serving an educational purpose. Nearby flower displays added vibrant colours throughout the pathways.

Another favourite stop for many of us was the bonsai garden. The carefully shaped miniature trees reflected years of patience and artistry. Some of the bonsai looked incredibly old and detailed despite their small size.

After exploring the Chinese Garden section, we crossed over into the serene Japanese Garden. The atmosphere there felt slightly different — quieter and more minimalist in design. We stopped for a while at the beautiful Water Lily Pavilion where the still waters reflected the surrounding greenery perfectly.

One particularly enjoyable section was walking through the forested walkways where tall trees provided shade and shelter. The cool post-rain weather made the walk especially comfortable and refreshing.

Eventually, we made our way to the Floral Garden shuttle bus point and waited for the shuttle service to bring us toward the North Car Park area. Around 11.10am, the shuttle bus finally arrived, driven by a kind and cheerful gentleman who greeted everyone warmly.

From the North Car Park, we walked toward Taman Jurong Market and Food Centre for lunch. After a good morning walk, everyone was naturally hungry.

We decided to try the famous lor mee there, and it did not disappoint. The thick, savoury gravy combined with noodles and crispy ingredients made for a satisfying local meal. After lunch, we headed to Ya Kun Kaya Toast for coffee and more conversation.  Alec managed to join us for lunch and coffee.

By the time we finally left and reached the bus stop, it was already around 1.30pm.

Although the morning began with heavy rain, it eventually turned into a very enjoyable outing filled with laughter, beautiful scenery, good food, and great companionship. Sometimes the best experiences are not about travelling far or doing anything extraordinary, but simply spending quality time outdoors with friends and appreciating the little moments together.

Tekka Market @ Little India MRT

 Singapore -  This morning I walked from Serangoon to Potong Pair MRT and got on the MRT to Little India station.  Little India is one of Singapore’s most colourful and culturally vibrant districts. Easily accessible via Little India MRT Station, the area is always lively with its mix of heritage buildings, bustling markets, traditional shops, and most importantly, amazing food.

My first stop was the famous 545 Whampoa Prawn Noodles at Tekka Centre, one of Singapore’s best-known hawker centres. Although the bowl cost $6, which felt slightly expensive for hawker food, this stall carries quite a reputation. It has received recognition from the Michelin Guide and was even featured in an episode of Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown by the late Anthony Bourdain. The stall has also attracted visits from famous chefs including Massimo Bottura and Julien Royer.

I ordered the dry bee hoon mee prawn noodles, and the highlight was definitely the rich umami flavour from the prawn broth. The prawns were fresh and the noodles absorbed the savoury taste beautifully. It was easy to understand why this stall has become so popular over the years.

Next, I visited another well-loved stall, Grandma Mee Siam. What made the experience memorable was not only the food but also the owner herself; a friendly and chatty aunty running the stall all by herself. She shared that she started helping her grandmother sell mee siam at the young age of eight and still uses the same family recipe dating back to 1963.

The mee siam had a comforting homemade flavour with the right balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes. It felt like eating a dish filled with tradition and history rather than just another hawker meal.

After that, I stopped by Sri Aachi Appam to try freshly made appams. Two appams cost only $3 and were served piping hot with coconut milk. 

Unlike the usual versions topped with coconut flesh, these had a slightly different twist that made them unique and enjoyable. Soft in the centre with crispy edges, the appams made for my delicious brunch.

After satisfying my appetite, I spent some time walking around Tekka Centre itself. Beyond the busy hawker centre, the adjoining shopping complex felt surprisingly quiet compared to the energetic food section downstairs. Nearby stood Citadines Rochor Singapore, blending modern city living beside one of Singapore’s oldest cultural districts.

Continuing my walk, I visited the iconic House of Tan Teng Niah along Kerbau Road. This brightly painted Chinese villa from the early 1900s is one of the most photographed buildings in Little India. Its colourful façade stands out beautifully against the surrounding streets and provides a striking contrast within this predominantly Indian cultural district.  I was not allowed entrance to this house.

Just beside it is the Indian Heritage Centre, which I had visited previously. The museum offers fascinating multi-level exhibits showcasing the rich history, culture, and contributions of the Indian and South Asian communities in Singapore.

I also wandered through the Little India Arcade along Serangoon Road, where restored shophouses sell traditional sarees, jewellery, souvenirs, and henna art. The vibrant colours and lively atmosphere perfectly captured the spirit of Little India.  Just before 11.30am, I took the MRT back home.

Fuego Mesa @ Farrer Park MRT – Great Food but Service Needs Improvement

 Singapore - I visited Fuego Mesa for lunch after hearing good things about their Mexican-inspired dishes. Conveniently located just about a five-minute walk from Farrer Park MRT Exit B, the restaurant was easy to find and accessible even during the busy lunch period.

When I arrived, the restaurant was surprisingly not crowded. The atmosphere inside felt calm and relaxed, which was a pleasant change from many packed eateries during lunchtime. I was quickly shown to my seat and settled down while waiting for Joseph to arrive.

After browsing the menu, I decided to order two chorizo pork tacos and one beef burrito. The dishes arrived reasonably quickly, and the presentation looked appetising immediately.

The highlight of the meal was definitely the chorizo pork tacos. The tacos were delicious, packed with flavour, and the pork was wonderfully tender. Every bite had a nice balance of savoury meat, seasoning, and freshness. The tortillas were soft and complemented the filling well without overpowering the flavours. It was one of those dishes where you immediately know the kitchen understands how to prepare comfort food properly.

The beef burrito was also enjoyable overall. The beef itself was juicy and flavourful, with generous portions inside the wrap. However, I personally felt the filling was slightly too wet. As I ate, the moisture from the filling started soaking through the wrap, making it a little messy to handle. If the burrito had been slightly drier or better balanced in texture, it would probably have been excellent. Still, the flavours themselves were good, and the quality of the ingredients was noticeable.

In terms of food, I would say Fuego Mesa delivered a satisfying meal with strong flavours and well-cooked meats. The tacos in particular were memorable enough that I would return just to order them again.

Unfortunately, the service experience did not quite match the quality of the food.

Although there were three staff members stationed at the front counter area, service felt rather inattentive throughout the meal. At one point, when I needed a refill of water, nobody came by to check on the table despite staff standing nearby. Eventually, I had to walk up personally to the front counter to request more water.

What disappointed me more was the attitude from one of the waiters. He did not appear particularly happy to serve customers and seemed somewhat disinterested throughout the interaction. When he finally brought the jug of water over, he placed it down rather abruptly with a noticeable thud on the table. It was not rude enough to ruin the meal entirely, but it certainly left an impression.

Good service does not always require elaborate gestures or constant attention. Sometimes simple friendliness, attentiveness, and basic courtesy can significantly improve the dining experience. In this case, the contrast between the quality of the food and the lacklustre service was quite noticeable.

That said, I still enjoyed the overall lunch experience because the food itself was genuinely good. The relaxed environment and tasty tacos made the visit worthwhile despite the service shortcomings.

Day 6: A Beautiful Morning at Qiandao Lake and Our Journey to Wuzhen

Qiandaohu - After a miserable breakfast at our hotel; which the hotel did not replenish the breakfast dishes, we decided to spend the morning exploring the lakeside before beginning our next journey to Wuzhen. The weather could not have been more perfect. The skies were clear and sunny, and the bright blue waters of the lake sparkled beautifully under the morning sunlight.

Qiandao Lake, also known as Thousand Island Lake, is famous for its crystal-clear waters and lush green islands scattered across the reservoir. In the peaceful morning atmosphere, the lake looked calm and almost magical. Gentle breezes drifted across the water while the distant mountains created a stunning backdrop that made the scenery feel like a traditional Chinese landscape painting.

As we slowly walked along the lakeside promenade, we came across a charming coffee house overlooking the lake. The cafe had thoughtfully arranged its outdoor chairs and tables under a large tent facing directly toward the water. The setup was simple but perfect — allowing customers to relax comfortably while enjoying the magnificent scenery.

Naturally, we decided to stop for coffee.

Sitting there quietly with a cup of coffee while gazing out across the sparkling lake was one of the most peaceful moments of our trip. There was no rush, no noise, and no stress — just the gentle sounds of nature and the relaxing view of the water stretching endlessly before us.

Sometimes travelling is not only about sightseeing or visiting famous attractions. Sometimes the best moments come from simply sitting still and appreciating the beauty around you.

As we prepared to leave the coffee house, we encountered another unexpectedly heartwarming moment. A beautiful friendly dog slowly approached me. When I gently stroked the dog, it immediately rolled onto its back happily, almost paralysed with enjoyment under every stroke. The dog looked completely relaxed and trusting, enjoying every moment of attention.

That simple interaction brought smiles to our faces and made the morning even more memorable.

After leaving the coffee house, we continued our walk around the lake area. Across the road, we suddenly noticed groups of hikers descending from a nearby mountain trail. Curious and feeling adventurous, we crossed the road and decided to attempt the climb ourselves.

The trail started gently but gradually became steeper as we climbed higher into the forested hillside. Along the way, we were rewarded with occasional glimpses of the lake below through gaps in the trees. The fresh mountain air and peaceful surroundings made the hike enjoyable despite the increasing effort.

After climbing for about thirty minutes, we encountered several hikers coming down from further ahead. When we asked how much further it was to the peak, they informed us that it would take another two hours to reach the summit.

After a brief discussion, we decided it was wiser to turn back rather than continue the long climb, especially since we still had an afternoon journey ahead of us. We slowly descended the trail and returned to our hotel to wash up, rest briefly, and check out.

Our next destination was the ancient water town of Wuzhen.

First, we took a Didi taxi from our hotel to Qiandao Lake Railway Station. From there, we purchased first-class tickets on China’s impressive High-Speed Rail system back to Hangzhou. The train journey took approximately one and a half hours, travelling at speeds reaching an incredible 240 kilometres per hour.

The ride itself was smooth, quiet, and extremely comfortable. Looking out the window, we watched the scenery transition rapidly from lakes and mountains to towns, fields, and city landscapes.

Once we arrived in Hangzhou, I used my Alipay app to book another Didi taxi to Wuzhen. However, shortly after we sat inside the taxi, the driver informed us that we would need to pay extra for his return trip back to Hangzhou because there would likely be no passengers for the return journey.

Initially, we suspected it might be a scam.

Fortunately, Edmund negotiated firmly and managed to bargain the additional charge down to RMB120. Later, after checking online and confirming with our hotel front desk, we discovered that this arrangement was actually fairly common for longer-distance rides to destinations with limited return passengers.

Eventually, we arrived safely in Wuzhen and checked into our hotel.

After settling in, we immediately went out to explore the ancient town. For lunch, we found a crab noodle restaurant and enjoyed a delicious local meal. The noodles were rich and flavourful, with fresh crab adding a wonderful seafood sweetness to the broth.

After lunch, we tried some traditional Wuzhen desserts including mochi and pumpkin dessert soup. Both were comforting and mildly sweet, perfect after the savoury crab noodles.

We then spent the afternoon wandering through the beautiful ancient town. Wuzhen is famous for its canals, stone bridges, traditional buildings, and narrow alleyways. 

Walking through the town felt like stepping back in time. The waterways reflected the old wooden houses and lanterns beautifully, creating an atmosphere full of charm and history.

By evening, we found a reasonably priced restaurant offering three dishes and a soup for only RMB98. The meal was hearty, delicious, and satisfying after a long day of travelling and walking.

Just when we thought the evening was ending, Edmund suddenly decided he needed durian.

We stopped at a fruit stall selling Vietnamese durians for RMB95. Surprisingly, the durians were excellent — creamy, rich, and wonderfully sweet. Completely satisfied, we continued walking down the street when we encountered another durian stall selling Thai durians for RMB92.

Naturally, we had to compare.

Although the Thai durians were good, they simply could not match the flavour and quality of the first Vietnamese batch we had eaten earlier.

After a long but deeply enjoyable day filled with lakeside scenery, hiking, train rides, ancient canals, delicious food, and even late-night durians, we finally returned to our hotel feeling tired but extremely satisfied.

It had been a perfect day of travel, discovery, and unforgettable experiences in China.

An Enjoyable Evening Boat Cruise on Qiandao Lake

Qiandaohu -  One of the highlights of my stay at Qiandao Lake was joining an evening boat cruise around the beautiful Thousand Island Lake. The cruise began at 6.30pm sharp and ended back at the same pier at 8pm, offering a relaxing combination of sightseeing, dinner, entertainment, and a stunning island light show.

As sunset approached, we made our way to the pier where the large three-level Chinese-style cruise boat was waiting. The boat itself looked elegant and traditional, brightly lit against the evening sky and calm lake waters. There was a sense of excitement among the passengers as everyone slowly boarded and settled into their assigned sections.

Our ticket package allowed us access to the first level of the boat, which included a buffet dinner and drinks. While the upper levels appeared to offer more premium seating and viewing areas, we were perfectly happy with our arrangement as the atmosphere downstairs was already lively and comfortable.

What impressed me immediately was the punctuality of the operation. At exactly 6.30pm, the boat departed from the pier smoothly and quietly, gliding out into the calm waters of the lake. As soon as we left the dock, the boat crew immediately began preparing dinner for the guests.

The dining area was clean and spacious, and before long the buffet dishes were carefully laid out and ready to be served. Once everything was prepared, the staff invited passengers to form a queue for dinner.

Most people queued patiently, but as with many buffet settings, there were a few unruly diners who attempted to cut the line. On more than one occasion, I had to firmly tell two individuals not to jump the queue. Honestly, there were not even that many diners onboard, so there was really no need for such rushing behaviour. Thankfully, the situation never escalated and most guests remained polite and orderly.

Once we finally collected our food, the buffet turned out to be surprisingly decent. There was a good variety of dishes available including vegetables, prawns, fish soup, chicken, bao, fruits, and desserts. The food was simple but satisfying, especially while enjoying the cool evening breeze from the lake outside.

The fish soup was particularly enjoyable and reminded us again of Qiandao Lake’s reputation for fresh freshwater fish. Combined with the relaxing boat atmosphere, the meal felt comforting and enjoyable rather than overly luxurious or formal.

As dinner continued, entertainment began onboard. First, a violinist performed several pieces while passengers relaxed and enjoyed the scenic cruise. The music added a peaceful and elegant atmosphere to the evening as the boat moved slowly across the darkening lake waters.

Later, a singer took over the entertainment segment and performed a selection of lively songs. To encourage audience participation, the boat operators distributed handheld clappers to the passengers. Soon many of us were clapping along to the rhythm of the music, creating a cheerful and festive atmosphere onboard.

The entertainment eventually paused as the boat approached one of the main attractions of the cruise — Moonlight Island.

From a distance, the island already looked impressive with colourful lights illuminating the buildings, pathways, and surrounding scenery. As we got closer, the entire island seemed to glow beautifully against the darkness of the lake.

After disembarking, we spent around thirty minutes exploring the island. The light displays were vibrant and visually stunning, combining traditional Chinese design elements with modern lighting technology. 

Walking around the illuminated island at night created a magical atmosphere. The reflections of the colourful lights dancing across the lake water made the scenery even more memorable.

Some areas also featured interactive installations where visitors could participate in small activities and photo opportunities.

After everyone had finished exploring, passengers slowly returned to the boat and we began the final leg of the journey back to the pier. The return ride was calm and relaxing, with many passengers quietly enjoying the night scenery or chatting softly among themselves.

Right on schedule, the boat arrived back at the pier at 8pm.

Although the cruise lasted only about one and a half hours, it felt like a complete evening experience filled with good food, entertainment, scenic beauty, and memorable moments. From the buffet dinner and onboard performances to the stunning Moonlight Island light show, the entire journey was both relaxing and enjoyable.

I enjoyed Qiandao Lake night boat cruise very much, this evening cruise is definitely a true highlight of my china trip. It offers not only beautiful night views of the lake but also a fun and uniquely Chinese cultural atmosphere that makes the evening truly memorable.