Skip to main content

Park Connector hike to Toa Payoh - Singapore oldest HDB estate

Singapore -  I set off on my hike at 9:30 am, starting from Toa Payoh, Singapore's oldest HDB estate. The weather was pleasant, and I was excited to walk through this central area. Toa Payoh, known for its well-maintained HDB flats despite their age, reflects the charm of Singapore's earlier urban planning. The fresh coats of paint on the flats gave the estate a sense of vibrancy, showcasing how older buildings can still feel modern and welcoming.

Park Connector towards Toa Payoh

As I ventured toward Bidadari, I was greeted by lush greenery and serenity. Bidadari Park, a newly developed park, has a freshwater lake that not only adds beauty to the space but also serves as an innovative flood prevention feature. It felt peaceful, with birds chirping and joggers passing by. The park’s Hundred Acre Wood-inspired design is a refreshing blend of nature and urban life, making it a great spot to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the city.

Tesla showroom @ Toa Payoh Lorong 8

Toa Payoh, in the Hokkien dialect, translates as 'big swamp' (with 'Toa' meaning 'big' and 'Payoh' meaning 'swamp'). The name takes reference from the large swampy area that the town used to be.

Community Garden @ Lorong 7

I marveled at the community life still thriving in this historical area. Residents were busy with their morning routines, from exercising in open areas to chatting at coffee shops. This estate, built in the 1960s, still stands strong as a testament to Singapore's successful public housing model. The careful preservation and upgrades to its iconic flats maintain its character while providing a comfortable living space for residents.




Then I took the MRT back home.



Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Calesa around Intramuros

Manila - Together with Albert, we took a calesa (horse drawn carriage used in Philippines) around Intramuros. Albert and Lesley Albert and I Intramuros is the oldest district and historic core of Manila.  The walled part of Manila was called intramuros, which is Latin for "within the walls"; districts beyond the walls are known as extramuros meaning outside the walls.  Construction of the defensive walls was started by the Spaniards in the late 16th century to protect the city from foreign invasions.   Guarding the old city is Fortaiago wich is located at the mouth of the river. Gallery of Philippines past and present presidents General MacArthur Battle HQ Entrance of General MacArthur HQ Manila Hotel Manila Hotel in the distance Manila hotel is the oldest hotel in the Philippines and the most well known icon. Baluarte De San Andres Cannons lined in a semi-circle Colegio de San Juan de Letran was founded in...
Post a Comment
Read more

Cheong Guk Jang - fermented bean soup

Seoul - Lunch with Youngjin was at a traditional soup restaurant and it was crowded.   Youngjin asked me many times Cheonggukjang "ok", I said ok not knowing what to expect.  I have tried many weird and smelly good in Seoul, so I was very prepared.   My first time tasting Cheonggukjang and I like it. CheongGukJang 청국장 is fermented soybean soup aka Stinky soup.  Actually, I like fermented food and the smell does not put me off.   I like fermented food because of the many health benefits and also we have them here in Singapore - tempe, belachan, fermented bean curd (which I love with my porridge), chincaluk, etc.. very hot Cheonggukjang  I always buy danjang paste and bring home to make soup.  I understand that they are the same but the difference is Cheonggukjang beans are uncrushed and are fermented for a longer period of time.
Post a Comment
Read more

Temple Street Night Market

Kowloon - This flea market is full of quirky, Hong Kong souvenirs and t-shirts to take home. The actual market on Temple Street is in the Yau Ma Tei and Jordan sections of Temple Street. The flea market starts in the late afternoon every day and continues throughout the evening. You can find fake’designer' handbags, sunglasses, clothes, and electronic gadgets.  The atmosphere was filled with many tourist of different nationalities.  Along the sides were many seafood restaurants, mostly crowded.    You will also find fortuner teller stalls plying their trade.
2 comments
Read more