A Morning Walk Through Food, Culture, and Nature: Serangoon to Kampung Lorong Buangkok

Singapore - Some mornings are meant for sleeping in, but on this particular day, I laced up my walking shoes and set off on a journey that combined my love for local food, Singapore’s rich history, and the quiet beauty of our park connectors. What started as a simple craving for Ku Chai Kueh and Soon Kueh ended up as a fulfilling 8-kilometre walk from Serangoon Central to Kovan, then onward to Kampung Lorong Buangkok, and finally through the Punggol Park Connector to Layar LRT. All in all, it was a 3-hour walk that reconnected me with Singapore’s past and present — one bite and step at a time.

From Serangoon Central to Kovan – A Breakfast to Remember

My day started early, around 7:30 AM, as I left the heart of Serangoon Central. The streets were just beginning to stir with life — uncles reading their morning paper, aunties doing tai chi in the void decks, and the aroma of kopi and kaya toast filling the air.

I strolled past familiar HDB blocks and neighborhood shops, eventually reaching Kovan Market and Food Centre, one of my favourite haunts for traditional Teochew breakfast dishes.

What drew me here was a humble but popular stall known for its handmade Ku Chai Kueh and Soon Kueh. These translucent-skinned dumplings are delicate but flavour-packed. The Ku Chai Kueh, filled with chives and a hint of garlic, brought an earthy freshness with each bite. The Soon Kueh, stuffed with bamboo shoots, bangkuang, and dried shrimp, was savoury and soft, with just the right chewiness from the rice flour skin. Both were served with a drizzle of light soy sauce and a generous spoonful of spicy sambal.

As I sat on the stool, surrounded by early risers and the clatter of dishes, I was reminded why these dishes have stood the test of time — they are comforting, handmade with pride, and deeply rooted in Teochew heritage

A Cantonese Detour: Char Siew Chee Cheong Fun

Not one to end breakfast on a single note, I crossed the street to indulge in another classic — Cantonese-style Chee Cheong Fun. This stall, famous among locals and hidden in plain sight, serves silky rice rolls freshly steamed and filled with sweet, smoky char siew. The rice rolls were soft and warm, swimming in a light soy-based sauce with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Each bite was balanced — the gentle sweetness of the char siew, the smooth texture of the rice roll, and that familiar umami-rich sauce. It was simplicity done perfectly, a reminder that even in a fast-paced city, there’s still a place for lovingly prepared food.

With a satisfied belly, I took a deep breath and set off for the second leg of my journey — one that would transport me from modern Singapore to a forgotten past.  Durian season is ending soon and this stall still has lots of fresh durians to sell.

Into the Past: Kampung Lorong Buangkok

I made a short detour to a small park in Hougang which was along the way - Ci Yuan Sports Park.

It took me about 40 minutes on foot to reach Kampung Lorong Buangkok, Singapore’s last surviving kampung (village) on the mainland. Tucked away in the Hougang area near Yio Chu Kang, the kampung is like stepping into a time capsule.

Originally established in 1956, this kampung has withstood the march of time and urbanisation. Amid a sea of HDBs and highways, it remains a pocket of nostalgia, with wooden houses, zinc rooftops, roosters crowing, and fruit trees lining the paths. The kampung is home to fewer than 30 families, most of whom have lived there for decades.

There are no security gates, no intercoms — just open doors and open hearts. The pace is slow. No one was in sight, and doors lock with a sign "Private Property". There’s a certain charm to it all — an authenticity and warmth that many of us yearn for in our concrete jungle.

I walked quietly, taking in the sounds of nature and the echoes of the past. While redevelopment eventually looms over this tiny piece of history, for now, Kampung Lorong Buangkok stands as a living, breathing reminder of our roots.  This was my 2nd time to this time frozen kampung.  

Walking the Green Veins of Singapore: Punggol Park Connector

After my kampung visit, I continued my journey via the Punggol Park Connector, which runs like a green ribbon through the northeastern corridor of Singapore. The sun was now higher, but the path was shaded by trees and occasionally flanked by canal views and gardens.

Joggers passed by with earbuds in, aunties brisk-walked in sun visors, and cyclists rang their bells cheerily as they overtook me. I took my time, absorbing the peacefulness of the route. It felt almost meditative — the rhythm of my footsteps, the gentle rustle of leaves, and the distant chatter of birds.

As I approached the end of the connector, I reached Layar LRT Station, ready to hitch a ride back home. My legs were a little sore, my shirt clung with the weight of humidity, but I felt deeply satisfied.

A Peaceful Morning Walk at Hampstead Wetlands Park: Owls, Birdwatchers & Breakfast Nostalgia

Singapore - There’s something magical about early mornings in Singapore, especially when nature is involved. On a quiet weekday morning, my sister and I decided to start our day with a walk at Hampstead Wetlands Park, a tranquil green space tucked away near Seletar Airport. At 7:30am, the air was crisp, the skies clear, and the park was already humming gently with the sounds of birdcalls, rustling leaves, and a few curious visitors just like us.  There are ample pubic car parks around.

A Hidden Gem Near Seletar

Hampstead Wetlands Park isn’t a large park, but it’s a hidden gem for nature lovers. Managed by NParks, the park is part of a broader effort to restore habitats and biodiversity in urban settings, especially in areas like Seletar that are undergoing redevelopment. Once home to kampungs and later transformed into a private aerospace hub, this patch of land has found new life through ecological restoration.

According to NParks’ Handbook on Habitat Restoration, the park integrates carefully designed water features, native plant species, and conservation efforts to encourage the return of native wildlife. The wetland serves as a freshwater ecosystem that supports birds, reptiles, fish, and a wide range of flora. Despite its proximity to aviation and industry, the park has become an oasis of biodiversity.

A Chance Encounter with Birdwatchers (and Owls!)

As we entered the park, the golden morning light filtered through the trees, casting a soft glow on the waters and boardwalk. After a short stroll along the trail, we noticed three birdwatchers gathered near the edge of the water, their cameras mounted on tripods, all eyes fixed on something hidden in the canopy.

Naturally curious, we walked up to them and gently asked what they were observing. One of the men turned to us with a smile and whispered, “It’s a baby owl. And its mother is perched just a few branches above, keeping a close watch.”

Our excitement doubled—how often do you stumble across an owl sighting in urban Singapore, especially a baby?

To our surprise, one of the birdwatchers offered to fetch a pair of binoculars from his car, parked just nearby. A few minutes later, he returned and handed them over. Peering through the lenses, we could see the fluffy little owl nestled among the branches. Its head bobbed slightly as it blinked its round, golden eyes, looking both vulnerable and curious. Higher up, the mother owl sat alert, her feathers beautifully camouflaged against the bark, eyes sharp and unwavering. It was an unforgettable moment—the closeness to these majestic creatures, the stillness of the morning, and the kindness of a stranger all rolled into one.

Teeming Wetlands and Curious Creatures

As we continued walking, we noticed how alive the wetlands were. The still waters were dotted with floating leaves and ripples from beneath. A closer look revealed terrapins basking on half-submerged logs and fish swimming toward the edge, perhaps mistaking us for visitors who might feed them. We stood there for a while, watching the mini-drama unfold beneath the surface—schooling fish darting in unison, terrapins dipping in and out of the water, and the occasional insect skimming across the surface.

The trail itself is an easy walk, with plenty of shaded areas and interpretive signboards that explain the local ecology. The design of the wetland encourages natural water flow, helping to manage rainwater runoff and support aquatic life. Native plant species planted around the area attract pollinators and birds, contributing to an ecosystem that feels both wild and thoughtfully curated.

Watching the Skies—Seletar Airport in Action

The park’s proximity to Seletar Airport means that, at any given moment, you might hear or see aircraft overhead. As we sat on a bench near the open viewing area, we saw several private jets coming in for landing or taking off. It was an odd but fascinating contrast—on one side, the stillness of nature; on the other, the sleek noise of aviation.

For the aviation curious, Seletar Airport is a lesser-known civil airport in Singapore. It's mostly used for private and chartered flights, as well as aerospace maintenance. Interestingly, the only commercial airline operating out of Seletar is Firefly, which runs regional flights between Singapore and destinations in Malaysia. Watching the Firefly propeller aircraft land and taxi felt almost nostalgic, like stepping back into a simpler era of flying.

Breakfast at Boh Geh Uncle Canteen

By 9am, hunger called. Just a short walk away, we found ourselves at the Boh Geh Uncle Canteen, an old-school kopitiam with serious retro vibes. It’s a place that looks untouched by time—faded signage, creaky plastic chairs, and the unmistakable smell of kopi and fried noodles. There were signs clearly displayed around the canteen: “No Photography”. The request adds a mysterious charm to the place. Perhaps it’s about maintaining privacy, or simply preserving the no-frills authenticity of the space.

Despite its modest appearance, the food was delicious. I ordered steam bee hoon with egg, and my sister order the same steaming hot bee hoon with fried fish fillet. The Malay lady behind the counter moved with the efficiency of someone who’s been doing this for decades—minimal small talk, maximum flavour. 

As we wrapped up our morning and drove home, I thought about how rare it is these days to find places like Hampstead Wetlands Park and Boh Geh Uncle Canteen in a city constantly evolving and redeveloping. Both spots—so different in nature—offered the same kind of satisfaction: a quiet pause, an unexpected discovery, and a glimpse into the parts of Singapore that still pulse with authenticity.

Whether you're a bird enthusiast, nature lover, or just someone looking to slow down and reconnect with simpler things, a morning walk at Hampstead Wetlands Park promises a refreshing escape. And if you can pair it with a humble breakfast at a classic kopitiam, your day is off to the best possible start.

Fireworks at Marina Bay

Singapore - It was one of those perfect Singapore afternoons—sunny but breezy, and filled with anticipation. I had planned a casual meet-up with some of my classmates, and we decided to gather at Marina Bay for a truly Singaporean experience. The National Day Parade rehearsals were underway, and on this particular day, we were all excited to catch one of the most thrilling highlights: the Navy Divers parachuting from a Chinook helicopter and the majestic entrance of the Red Lions.

Marina Bay: A Buzz of Excitement

By mid-afternoon, Marina Bay was already bustling with activity. Tourists and locals alike had begun streaming in, many armed with picnic mats, foldable chairs, umbrellas, and bags full of snacks. Despite the crowd, there was a festive air of camaraderie in the atmosphere. People knew exactly where to go—some had staked out the best vantage points hours in advance, and whole families camped out along the waterfront promenade, chatting and waiting patiently for the aerial action to begin.

As we settled in near the MBS water lillly pond, the energy of the crowd became contagious. Children clutched mini Singapore flags, teenagers took selfies against the bay skyline, and older couples relaxed in the shade, sharing ice-cold drinks. It was a wholesome and unifying scene—Singapore in its full, multicultural vibrancy.

A Spectacular Sky Show: Navy Divers and the Red Lions

At around 5 p.m., all eyes turned skyward. A deep, rumbling sound echoed across the bay as the Chinook helicopter appeared in the distance, hovering with grace over the cityscape. Then, in one heart-stopping moment, we watched as several Navy Divers leapt from the chopper, their parachutes unfurling in perfect formation.

Cheers erupted as the divers descended over the shimmering waters of Marina Bay, landing with precision into the designated drop zone. It was a display of skill, bravery, and coordination—something you’d expect from the elite forces of Singapore.

And just as the applause started to settle, the Red Lions made their entrance. Seven of them in total, they emerged like red comets from a high-altitude aircraft. Against the bright cloudless sky, their parachutes blazed with intensity. The crowd watched breathlessly as they performed graceful mid-air turns, eventually landing with impeccable accuracy on the Padang. 

A Stroll to Lau Pa Sat: Satay and Local Flavors

With the adrenaline rush from the aerial performances still coursing through us, we decided to continue our evening with a walk to Lau Pa Sat. This historic hawker center, located just a short distance from Marina Bay, is one of Singapore’s most iconic food spots. Originally built in the 19th century, Lau Pa Sat retains its old-world charm with its intricate cast-iron architecture and high-vaulted ceiling—a blend of Victorian-era design and local heritage.

By the time we arrived, the sun was setting and the street beside Lau Pa Sat was being transformed. The famous Satay Street had opened, and smoke from dozens of charcoal grills filled the air with the mouthwatering aroma of marinated meats. Tables were packed with locals and tourists—all tucking into their skewers with joy.

We claimed a table and placed our orders: 10 sticks of chicken satay and pork satay, served with cucumber slices, onions, and a bowl of rich, spicy peanut sauce. The meat was tender, smoky, and perfectly charred. We followed up with char tow kuay (fried radish cake), which had crispy edges and just the right amount of wok hei. My personal favourite, char kway teow, arrived next—flat rice noodles stir-fried with cockles, egg, and Chinese sausage in dark soy sauce. It was decadent and delicious.

Some of my friends ordered fried rice with pork and roasted pork rice, both hearty and satisfying. To cap off the meal, I had a towering bowl of durian ice kacang. It was a true celebration of local flavours—shaved ice topped with red beans, sweet corn, attap seeds, and crowned with creamy durian puree. The taste was bold, funky, and sweet all at once. For durian lovers, it was heaven.

Fireworks Over the Bay

Bellies full and spirits high, we began the slow walk back to Marina Bay, weaving through the growing crowd. By now, the area was a sea of people, but everything remained surprisingly orderly. Police and army personnel directed foot traffic, and everyone seemed to know what to do. We found a good spot near the waterfront, far from where we had started earlier in the day.

At exactly 7:45 p.m., the night sky lit up with a cascade of color and sound. The fireworks burst in synchronized waves—dazzling reds, brilliant blues, golden showers, and sparkling greens. The reflections on the water doubled the spectacle. It was impossible not to feel a sense of awe and pride watching it all unfold.

The crowd gasped and cheered with every new explosion. Children clapped in delight, while couples held hands and watched in silence. Phones were everywhere, capturing the moment—but for many of us, we simply watched, content to let the magic unfold above us.

A Perfect Singapore Day

As the final burst of fireworks faded into smoke, we stood for a while, soaking in the view. Marina Bay, now illuminated and calm, felt almost surreal. The city’s skyline twinkled, and the buzz of the crowd slowly gave way to conversations and laughter.

It was a day of many experiences: daring parachute jumps, delicious food, historical charm, and a night sky full of fireworks. But more than anything, it was a reminder of what makes Singapore so special—its unity, its culture, and its love for celebrating together.

Dinner @ Waroeng Sunda - One of Top 7 Sundanese restaurants in Jakarta

Jakarta -  Jakarta’s food scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavours, and every now and then, a dining experience reminds you why Indonesian cuisine holds such a special place in Southeast Asia. My recent dinner at Waroeng Sunda @ Kebon Jeruk with our channel partners was exactly that — a memorable evening filled with laughter, good company, and some of the best Sundanese food I’ve had in a while.

The dinner was part of a casual get-together to catch up with our partners, but we all agreed to go local, authentic, and delicious — no better place for that than Waroeng Sunda. The restaurant, nestled in the heart of Kebon Jeruk, offers a traditional Sundanese atmosphere with rustic decor, open seating, and an air of warm familiarity. It’s one of those places where locals bring their families, colleagues come for a hearty meal, and visitors discover the magic of West Java’s cuisine.

As we entered the restaurant, we were greeted by the unmistakable aroma of grilled seafood and fried spices. The setting was charming — wooden furnishings, open-air design, and a humble buffet-style sambal and vegetable corner that immediately caught our eye.

One of the unique highlights of dining at Waroeng Sunda is the free flow sambal counter. This was not just one kind of sambal — but a variety that would excite any chili lover. There was sambal terasi, sambal ijo, sambal bawang, and even sambal mangga, each more vibrant than the next. Next to it was a fresh assortment of lalapan — raw vegetables like cucumber, basil, lettuce, and long beans, served cold as an appetiser. A small but delightful nod to the Sundanese tradition of starting your meal light, spicy, and crisp.

Each of us started with a small plate of sambal and lalapan while waiting for the mains. The sambal was fiery and fresh, with just the right balance of tanginess and heat. It whet our appetites perfectly.

The Feast Begins – A Symphony of Sundanese Dishes

When the main dishes arrived, the table quickly transformed into a colorful spread of Sundanese classics. First came the fried tempeh — golden, crispy, and wonderfully nutty. It’s a humble dish, but one that rarely disappoints when done right. Waroeng Sunda’s version had a nice crunch outside and a soft interior, perfectly paired with the sambal of your choice.

Next was the BBQ prawns, the crowd favourite of the night. Grilled over charcoal and brushed with a sweet-spicy marinade, the prawns were smoky, juicy, and utterly addictive. The natural flavour of the seafood was beautifully enhanced by the caramelised glaze, and we found ourselves reaching for more even before finishing the first piece.

Why Waroeng Sunda?

What makes Waroeng Sunda stand out isn’t just the food — it’s the entire experience. It’s the unpretentious authenticity, the generous portions, the pedas (spicy) thrill of sambal, and the joy of eating with your hands if you choose to. The service was friendly and efficient, and the restaurant’s family-style layout encouraged conversations and sharing.

And though some might consider the prices slightly higher than your typical warung, it’s easy to understand why — the quality of ingredients, the generous servings, and the clean, comfortable dining area all justify the experience. When you want to host partners or guests for a true taste of Indonesian flavor, Waroeng Sunda hits all the right notes.

Dinner @ Cut the Crab again - so good, so fresh

Jakarta - After a recent solo visit where I indulged in one of the best crabs I’ve had in a long time, I couldn’t stop thinking about sharing the experience. So when Pak Arifin mentioned he missed eating crab, I knew exactly where to take him. I extended the invitation to both Elton and Pak Arifin for a dinner feast, and they happily accepted. The destination: Cut the Crab.  This time was at their Kelapa Gading branch.  We were the only customers at this restaurant.

The vibe at Cut the Crab is casual and lively, designed for diners who are ready to roll up their sleeves and get messy in the best way. It’s not about fancy plating or white tablecloths here — it’s about bold flavours, fresh seafood, and the joy of sharing a hearty meal.

We each ordered the 500g Kalimantan crab, which is known for its firm, sweet meat and rich flavour. Choosing the Kalimantan crab was an easy decision — it’s a favourite for many, including me. We were also served fresh young coconuts, a perfect pairing to balance out the spiced crab and refresh the palate.

When the crabs arrived, they were poured directly onto the table — piping hot, aromatic, and coated in rich sauce. The Kalimantan crab was steamed to perfection, locking in moisture and preserving its natural sweetness. Every crack of the shell revealed tender, juicy meat, and each bite was deeply satisfying.

Watching Pak Arifin dive into his crab with a big smile was the highlight of the night. He hadn’t had crab in quite some time and clearly relished every moment. Elton was equally enthusiastic, savouring the flavours and appreciating the freshness. We talked, laughed, and took our time, enjoying every bite.

There was something special about this dinner. It wasn’t just about the food — it was the shared experience of eating with our hands, the conversation flowing freely, and the genuine enjoyment on everyone’s faces. In a world that often moves too fast, meals like this are grounding.

Lunch at Sate Senayan

Jakarta - Jakarta is a city that pulses with culinary heritage, and when it comes to celebrating Indonesia’s rich food culture, few places do it better than Sate Senayan. Recently, I had the pleasure of enjoying a laid-back lunch there with Elton and my Indonesian partner Pak Arifin, and the experience was as warm and satisfying as the food we shared.

Sate Senayan, a well-established restaurant chain in Jakarta, is known for its dedication to serving authentic Indonesian cuisine in a comfortable, contemporary setting. It’s a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike who are looking to indulge in nostalgic flavors with a touch of elegance.

We arrived just after the lunch crowd, and the ambiance was perfect — not too loud, with just enough background buzz to feel lively. The décor at Sate Senayan is a tasteful blend of traditional and modern Indonesian elements, with wooden panels, batik accents, and warm lighting that makes you feel right at home.

For lunch, we kept it simple but classic. The star of the meal was, of course, the chicken satay — 10 succulent sticks, grilled to golden perfection and served with a generous helping of thick, creamy peanut sauce. The aroma of the satay alone was enough to make our mouths water. Each stick was beautifully charred on the outside, tender on the inside, and infused with that unmistakable smoky flavour that only a charcoal grill can deliver.

The satay was perfectly complemented by a side of gado-gado, Indonesia’s iconic salad dish. The version at Sate Senayan came beautifully plated — a colourful mix of steamed vegetables, boiled eggs, tofu, tempeh, and lontong (rice cakes), all drizzled with a luscious peanut dressing. The balance of textures and flavors was spot-on: crunchy cabbage, soft potatoes, and the creamy richness of the peanut sauce brought everything together in harmony. The slight kick of spice in the dressing gave it just the right edge.

Cut the Crab restaurant

 Jakarta - Dining alone is often an underrated joy. It’s an opportunity to be fully present with your food, to savour each bite without distraction, and to indulge in a little personal ritual of quiet satisfaction. On a recent evening in South Jakarta, I decided to do just that and treat myself to a solo seafood experience at the well-known Cut the Crab — a restaurant that has built a solid reputation in Jakarta for its hands-on, no-cutlery, full-flavour crab feasts.

A Crab Lover’s Paradise

Located in the upscale and vibrant district of South Jakarta, Cut the Crab stands out not for its glamour or fine-dining aesthetics, but for its unapologetic celebration of all things crab. From the moment you step in, it’s clear this place takes its crustaceans seriously.

I was warmly greeted and led to a table, where the waiter soon brought out an impressively large menu — not just in size, but in the depth of crab choices and preparation styles. The menu itself was like a crash course in crabology. From Papua to Kalimantan, they offer a wide variety of regional crabs, each with its own flavour profile and texture. There were even detailed descriptions explaining the difference between mud crabs, blue crabs, and others, including their weight ranges and ideal sauce pairings.

Why Kalimantan Crab?

Among the many tempting options, I chose the Single Kalimantan Crab, which weighed in at just over 400 grams — a decent size for a solo diner who wanted something substantial but not overwhelming.

The Kalimantan crab, sourced from the rivers and coastal regions of Indonesian Borneo, is known for its sweet, firm meat and thick claws. Compared to other varieties like the Papua crab (which tends to be larger and slightly more intense in flavour), the Kalimantan crab strikes a nice balance — not too mild, not too rich. It's the kind of crab you enjoy slowly, claw by claw, savouring every juicy bite.

The next decision was the sauce. Cut the Crab offers a wide array: from butter garlic to spicy Cajun, to their signature house blend. I opted for the signature sauce — a buttery, garlicky, slightly spicy blend that, I was told, pairs perfectly with the Kalimantan crab. It turned out to be a great choice.

To accompany the meal, I ordered a fresh young coconut — cracked open and served ice-cold, the natural sweetness and coolness of the coconut water proved to be a refreshing contrast to the savory crab.

The Ritual of the Feast

Before the crab arrived, the waiter laid down a sheet of brown paper over the table, topped with a thin plastic layer — the unofficial signal that things were about to get delightfully messy.

There are no plates at Cut the Crab, no cutlery, and no pretense. This is eating with your hands at its most glorious.

When my Kalimantan crab was ready, it was brought out in a plastic bag and dramatically poured onto the table right in front of me. The sauce sizzled slightly as it hit the surface, and the aroma was instantly mouthwatering. The crab, bright red and glistening with flavor, sat like a culinary crown jewel waiting to be cracked open.

The Taste of Satisfaction

From the first crack of the claw, I could tell the crab had been steamed to perfection. The shell yielded just enough resistance to feel rewarding, but not so much that it became frustrating. Inside, the meat was tender, sweet, and fresh — absorbing just the right amount of the rich signature sauce.

The garlicky base of the sauce combined beautifully with a mild chili heat and buttery smoothness. Every dip, pull, and bite felt like a miniature triumph. It was messy, yes, but gloriously so. That’s part of the charm at Cut the Crab — you are encouraged to immerse yourself, to let go of formality and just eat.

The Kalimantan crab lived up to its reputation.  This was undeniably fresh — you could taste the difference in every juicy bite. The claws were especially rewarding, yielding large, satisfying chunks of crab meat. The body was packed with juicy meat, and I found myself savouring the process as much as the result.

In between bites, I sipped on the young coconut water, which balanced the richness of the dish perfectly. The natural sweetness and slight chill of the coconut helped cleanse the palate and refreshed me for the next round of cracking.