Buzz
Immersing myself in the vibrant pulse of Singapore, I was captivated by its dynamism and opulence, one of the four Asian dragons. Did you know? Rather than hastily visiting the famous tourist spots, I chose to experience this country like a new jazz tune. It's about immersing oneself as a local, exploring every nook and cranny of the urban streets to the fullest extent.
Post-Covid, Singapore seems to have slowed down a bit, yet its pristine atmosphere and fast-paced people made me feel like I've fallen into a whirlwind of urban living. In this article, I'll share with you my experiences in Singapore, the stories, the things that only Singapore can make my heart skip a beat. Let's explore together with me and Mytour!
A glimpse of beauty at Changi Airport.
Exploring Singapore's New MRT Experience
As usual, when visiting the island nation, I opted for Mytour for my journey, booking flights, hotels, and then, transportation within the city always leaves me undecided. Previously, Grab seemed compact, convenient albeit outrageously expensive. But this time, I chose MRT.
MRT is undeniably a cool spot, isn't it?
MRT is truly an amazing experience. It's a very convenient, fast, and safe public transportation system. If previously you had to use EZ-Link cards for trips, with complex and cumbersome installations, now the system has been upgraded to a whole new level. You just need to use your own credit card, swipe once and your entire route, destination is sorted. The cost is very cheap compared to the island nation's income level.
Being one of the most convenient means of transportation for islanders.
Once you have your ticket, you can enter the MRT system at designated entrances. Singapore's MRT has many different lines, each with stops and interconnected to make it easy for you to travel to any location in Singapore.
Easily admire breathtaking scenes through the window panes.
Singapore's MRT provides the best quality of service for customers. Trains run regularly and swiftly, ensuring you won't have to wait long to board. Most trains are equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seats, making your journey comfortable and pleasant. However, onboard, you must adhere to rules, wear masks, and refrain from eating and drinking to avoid hefty fines.
Chinatown Point, Valu$ store with super cheap items
Address: 133 New Bridge Rd, B1-22 Chinatown Point, Singapore 059413
Price: All starting from $1 Singapore (only from 17,000 VND)
Though not in Singapore for too long, I've discovered an extremely 'unique' spot, a super cheap grocery store priced at just $1 in Singapore - Valu$. Valu$ is a chain of grocery stores in Singapore, offering products at low prices. One of the Valu$ stores is located in the Chinatown Point area, right in the heart of the Chinatown district in Singapore.
You can easily get here via MRT!
Many wonder why visit here while traveling, why not enjoy? Well, Valu$ offers plenty of quality items, selling a wide range of groceries not only cheap but also super convenient, perfect for long day trips or connecting from Singapore to other cities.
It's easy to see everyone stocking up on a bunch of stuff at Valu$.
The Valu$ store at Chinatown Point is located on level B1 of the shopping center, offering a variety of grocery products, from fresh produce to household items and toys. Customers can find a wide range of fruits, vegetables, canned goods, spices, snacks, and beverages at this store.
Additionally, Valu$ also provides everyday consumer products such as toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, and other personal care items. The store also has a section for children's toys, including products from famous manufacturers.
One of the advantages of Valu$ at Chinatown Point is its affordable prices, helping customers save costs when shopping. Moreover, the store offers regular promotions, allowing customers to purchase products at even lower prices.
Overall, Valu$ at Chinatown Point is a great choice for those who want to shop for products at low prices in the central area of Singapore and for those who go on long trips!
At Bugis Street during the last days of the year
Address: Bugis Street, Singapore.
Singapore is like a colossal chessboard, where one feels there's no dust, no crime, everything is serene,... very Asian. Bugis is my primary stay for this business trip, a place that holds numerous cultural elements of the island nation.
Bugis Street corner easily captivates tourists' hearts from the very first seconds
Situated in the heart of the city, Bugis Street attracts millions of tourists each year with its historical charm, distinctive culture, and lively entertainment activities. It used to be the commercial hub of Muslims in Singapore, now it has evolved into a diverse shopping and entertainment district, with hundreds of retail stores, cafes, restaurants, and cinemas. Moreover, Bugis Street is renowned for its night markets, where tourists can find handmade items, souvenirs, and the characteristic street delicacies of Singapore.
A charming corner street in Bugis.
A morning exploring the shopping center in Bugis.
However, what makes Bugis Street special is its unique architecture and diverse cultural history. Tourists can find ancient Hindu temples and mosques, beautiful architectural landmarks like the Victoria Theatre and Raffles Palace, as well as colorful art graffiti walls.
A glimpse of Bugis...
And there's a bustling Bugis night.
On a year-end day, with gentle rain and cool weather, people rush to catch the MRT for work while we prefer strolling. A feeling of being far from work, leisurely walking on tree-lined streets, the simplest things, only Bugis makes me feel that way.
Tajong Pagar Community Club
Address: 101 Cantonment Rd, Singapore 089774
Price: FREE.
We had an appointment with a friend living in Singapore, and we also visited a quite interesting place, Tanjong Pagar Community Club.
The center captured from a distance.
Paintings displayed within the residential center.
She mentioned that this is a multi-functional community center established in 1986, which is also one of the important places for the local community, providing many activities and services for residents in the area, similar to the 'collective cultural house' in Vietnam.
The center for community activities.
After visiting for a while, we rested in the club's courtyard. That's why I say, a developed country will care about the convenience of pedestrians, the elderly, or children... She mentioned that there are also many amenities and activities for all ages here. They offer various classes such as English classes, martial arts, and artistic activities, allowing residents to find hobbies and develop new skills. In addition, Tanjong Pagar Community Club also has good facilities such as a gym, basketball court, and artificial turf football field. The center also has a library and a computer room with free Internet access for people to study and work.
Tanjong Pagar Community Club also organizes many events and programs throughout the year, such as Tet festivals and community sports competitions. This helps create a positive and diverse living environment for residents in the area.
The minimalist design is extremely pleasing to the eye.
Plenty of greenery all around.
The pedestrian area is intricately designed.
The playground for children...
Since its establishment, Tanjong Pagar Community Club has become an integral part of the local community, helping people find useful activities and services to enhance their lives. This center plays a crucial role in creating a vibrant and diverse cultural and sports community, and is considered an important destination for Singaporeans.
Mixue - An empire or a new 'ideological system'
Address: 241 Victoria St, Singapore 188030
Price: 17,000 VND for an ice cream cone, prices according to the nationwide menu.
As you know, MIXUE has become a sensation in Vietnam with dozens of new stores popping up everywhere, each adorned with the cute and adorable snowman holding delicious ice cream. My sister calls it a new 'ideological system', where whether sad, happy, hot, or craving ice cream, we'll seek out 'MIXUE'. It's an ice cream shop that offers a variety of options, including ice cream, milk tea, and lemon tea... And Singapore is no exception.
Mixue is gradually becoming an 'ideological system' for Asian youth.
The system in Singapore, although not extensive, has an enormous number of stores. Under the scorching 35-degree heat, MIXUE here is discreet yet a must-try spot for most Singaporeans. With prices quite 'fixed' globally, a cone of ice cream for just $1 Sing will truly invigorate your soul.
Mixue in Singapore also sells plenty of souvenirs, with its own brand song...
Moreover, MIXUE in Singapore also sells souvenirs, cups, keychains, ... and even has its own catchy brand music.
Summing up
In conclusion, it's been a memorable journey, a seamless blend between tourists and locals. What I sought was the feeling of living and working like the locals there, doing simple, gentle things like embarking on my own adventure. I hope the little experiences I've shared will inspire you to travel in a new way, following the call of your heart, experiencing the little things, doing what you love, and exploring the country with sincerity and warmth.
Don't forget to book your tickets on Mytour and pack your bags and go, folks!
Author: Võ Duy Khánh
*This article is part of the Mytour Goglobal program.
Mytour Goglobal is a blogging program that introduces beautiful destinations around the world, under the framework of the Mytour Go & Share program. This is a great opportunity to promote new and exciting travel destinations around the world to everyone. For each qualifying article, you will receive 1,200,000 VND and the opportunity to become a collaborator with Mytour. For more details about the program, visit: https://trv.lk/goglobal
