Tanglin Halt - A Part of History

 

Tanglin Halt - one of the oldest estates in Singapore! Affectionally known to the older generation as chup lau chu (十楼) in Hokkien.

Earlier this year, we had the chance to follow a guided photowalk by Singapore Instagram (SGIG), and it was such an eye opener and also emotional to hear that an amazing part of Singapore's history will soon be gone (probably 1-2 years' time).

The 10-storeys HDB flats were built in the 1960s and has been confirmed to be part of the Housing's Board Selective En Bloc Redevelopment Scheme (SERS) in 2014. Much of what we can see now, including the famous Tanglin Halt Market will be demolished by 2024.

A few interesting places to check out if you are planning to go for walk in Tanglin Halt.

1. Photo spots at Block 89, 90 and 91.

These flats are 40-storeys tall! But don't just view it from the bottom up, take the lift at Block 91 and check out the view from the top!

2. Museum @ My Queenstown

Do check out the old traditional shops like this one that still sells biscuits in the old glass containers.

3. Liang Yew Beauty Salon

A shop that seems to have been frozen since the 1970s. Sadly, the salon is no longer in business, and who knows when will the block be demolished. If you are keen to visit and take some nostalgic photos, don't delay any further. You can find it at Block 39 Tanglin Halt Road.

4. Church of the Blessed Sacrament

Officially opened on 9 May 1965, the church is Queenstown first Catholic Church and has been awarded conservation status by URA in 2005.

One lesser known fact of this building, is the layout of the iconic blue tiled roof. If you are able to see it from a top down view, you will be able to see that the roof structure is designed to be a cross shape. 

5. Wessex Estate

First constructed in the 1930s as residential estates for non-commissioned British personnel, this estate has a vibe of "semi-retired" feels. The colonial-style residential estate currently house 26 blocks of walk-up apartments and 58 semi-detached houses.

Available units for rental can be found on JTC's website.

While you are in Wessex Estate, look out for this abandoned water tank sitting on a hill top.

6. Colbar Cafe

Opened in 1953, the Colbar (Colonial Bar in short) is a place you wouldn't want to miss.

The indoor seats are limited but you get the nostalgic feel. If not, the outdoor seats are plenty for bigger groups.

7. Railway Corridor

The former Malayan railway has long been removed, but in place of it, now you have the well paved Railway Corridor. Best for cyclists or just the casual walking groups! 

So that's all I have for you! Make haste to visit this piece of history before it's gone for good.

Raffles Marina Lighthouse, Singapore

Since young, I have always been fascinated by lighthouses. The structure, the purpose, the location of lighthouses are so interesting and unique. And in the tiny island of Singapore, one of the most talked about lighthouse has to be the Raffles Marina Lighthouse.

Located at Tuas (very near to the Second Link), this is indeed an ulu place to visit. However, it's pretty easy to find the place cos it's within walking distance from Tuas Link MRT (EW33). If you are planning for a visit, the evening sunset is the best time in my personal opinion.

Even the view from Tuas Link MRT is awesome!

The lighthouse is open to public but do take note that the opening hours are from 8am to 10pm daily.

Along the jetty is definitely a popular place for the anglers. We saw a few couple taking wedding shots too.

Raffles Marina Lighthouse also known as Johor Straits Lighthouse was built in 1994, it stands at 12 metres tall and is still in operation, flashes every 10 seconds with a beam that reaches 15 metres.

More photos of the gorgeous sunset and lighthouse.

[Review] Up & Away Balloon

 Sponsored

After so many years of celebrating the missus' birthday, it was really a challenge to think of something new to surprise her. Flowers are too main stream and bags are too expensive. At almost the perfect timing, the chance was presented to collaborate with Up & Away Balloons - an online balloon shop that specializes in customized balloons, balloon bouquets, and balloon hampers.

As with most online shopping platform, the website is very user-friendly, with the highlights right on the first page. You can either shop by occasion or simply browse through the entire selection with clear photos as reference. The company pride themselves on the affordability and quality of their products.

This is the first time I ordered balloons online for anyone, so to be honest I was a bit apprehensive on the quality of the actual product as compared to what I see online. But thankfully, the staff in-charge did a wonderful job to assure me of the process and made sure that the delivery was done on time for the birthday celebration!

The colors were as described and it truly brightened up the celebration! Never wrong to choose the "more feminine" colors like rose gold, purple and pink.

The Bubble Balloon Bouquet was especially nice, I thought it brought out the youthfulness in the photos. You can choose to print the person's photo on the bubble if you want. But knowing my wife, she will probably think that is a bit too "youth" for her liking.

I added a personal touch and ordered a Happy Chocolate Hamper with some of her favorite snacks. Score those hubby points for future use!

Here are some reasons why I would recommend this online service:

1. It is fuss free and easy to browse through the website, clear product explanation.
2. There is free balloon delivery if you order more than $100.
3. The staff support is good and sincere, the communication process is good and excellent customer service.
4. The variety is reasonable, and balloons are of good quality.
5. It is definitely an excellent choice of gift to brighten up any occasion you are celebrating with balloons!

So for my readers, here is another reason for ordering from Up & Away.
From now till 31 Aug 2021, you can enjoy a special 5% discount on any online order if you quote the following discount code: isaiah5

Enjoy the moment and enjoy the colorful fun!