tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17043093999133737192024-03-12T16:58:09.199-07:00WalkaboutSingaporeThe Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.comBlogger19125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-26210481002472644922022-01-02T21:14:00.001-08:002022-01-02T21:22:03.885-08:00The first walk of 2022 with Evelyn : Rail Mall to Ghim Moh and back<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgKdgv7x38ohjPxzh8pDAuWNOCwRxrMZZ6a5sg7O2YGtxI3OBEwTGAi6kK4Xkev4kR5sd_wupLnFNbv7zZhb_6m-hR8zWZaTVtoQ6vhpm2jfpXgHW2yxotVSN9lJLubTqVRdyveGxsE2cv5kgt5GmbvaSxI0UkNTS4HwkYcs2nThka_poEwcas7-X6c=s2400" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2400" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgKdgv7x38ohjPxzh8pDAuWNOCwRxrMZZ6a5sg7O2YGtxI3OBEwTGAi6kK4Xkev4kR5sd_wupLnFNbv7zZhb_6m-hR8zWZaTVtoQ6vhpm2jfpXgHW2yxotVSN9lJLubTqVRdyveGxsE2cv5kgt5GmbvaSxI0UkNTS4HwkYcs2nThka_poEwcas7-X6c=w288-h640" width="288" /></a></div><p>The title basically sums up the walk. Now already more than 2 weeks at our studio at The Hillier, I am ever closer to Evelyn living at Eco Sanctuary.</p><p>The walk was planned on a dare on New Year's day. Monday morning 8am rv at Rail Mall to walk the rail corridor, we exclaimed.</p><p>3 Jan morning, Pat drove himself to work. First, to offload the lab trolley that was used for the 17th Dec 2021 move and second, my date with Eve was an early start for Pat. It would have given him an extra 30 min snooze time if he sends himself to work.</p><p>Eve has 'forgotten' the pact but I proceeded without her. It was not a school excursion so it was ok if she wants to catch up on the rail corridor or her sleep. </p><p>In any case, she drove to Rail Mall and played catch up. It was about 8.30am. </p><p>We literally strolled to Ghim Moh chatting about everything as usual. 9.45am and some 6km away from Hillier, we sat down in front of a famous duck noodle store. Thanks to the benevolent government, we used the CDC voucher and enjoyed brunch at the expense of the taxpayers.</p><p>The rice pudding that Eve wanted to eat from refused to sell her anything less than 4. 不可以吃玩玩 the spunky store lady told her. Eat or don't eat, no sampling portions.</p><p>We proceeded to the soya bean drink stall and had our stomach filled to bursting point with bean curd. We snooped around the marketplace digging up cheap cups, offering beauty advice to an aunty who could not decide which hair clip to buy and poked around a sundry shop.</p><p>Now at almost 11am, I decided to march back. With lack of judgment, I did not visit the public toilet so the walk back was on an urgent allegro pace. It was almost mind over bladder.</p><p>12.5km later at rail mall, I took a ride back from Eve to Hillier. I cannot remember if I thanked her for the ride but the ride up 21 floors was the utmost thing on my mind.</p><p>Not bad for the first Monday of the year 2022.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi76O3-SHtlhOjAl-QCJPyl3k-MgnpHSB3HEN0BGkcyEqzbkTFQhWaMeaQ1lBZumCZEZqcyawCvyCwwmheMHlOIg3wQM_pkPuERJrbaIPDMmwyYjNBvGFZgXnpdaH2W8lsf6IYs2p1nuMxio-6W597TW9NLW0gamwa471EbYGnKA6fPSLep1jQwWuw8=s3264" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi76O3-SHtlhOjAl-QCJPyl3k-MgnpHSB3HEN0BGkcyEqzbkTFQhWaMeaQ1lBZumCZEZqcyawCvyCwwmheMHlOIg3wQM_pkPuERJrbaIPDMmwyYjNBvGFZgXnpdaH2W8lsf6IYs2p1nuMxio-6W597TW9NLW0gamwa471EbYGnKA6fPSLep1jQwWuw8=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhpo64j-OYXl97N9uKKieBDfDWVBrc_FJ5FbmQyToZebwiYxrmcfG-Vc-j8Fy_DFisNNdPFkA54zR8i90nqNVYGE1BpPiRAq_O00fFbwtpc5GGJmUAi4dUzg8LJFqcY4O2-XqpjnW2Ag6tMlrWSeIGt9GyNbTEt4XA8x2VpE5P-nYyiEhMc_RJc66Vc=s3740" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3740" data-original-width="2805" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhpo64j-OYXl97N9uKKieBDfDWVBrc_FJ5FbmQyToZebwiYxrmcfG-Vc-j8Fy_DFisNNdPFkA54zR8i90nqNVYGE1BpPiRAq_O00fFbwtpc5GGJmUAi4dUzg8LJFqcY4O2-XqpjnW2Ag6tMlrWSeIGt9GyNbTEt4XA8x2VpE5P-nYyiEhMc_RJc66Vc=s320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 'backyard'</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjIVEtfESZXXRVwWC3MscM9KxEW0zCIdDL5fFnimNzSKgoai8tXhvI3bNzEzCEI3PJkxpDfM_MCWqNMccglcXurBn1mYp1v6fBzFQpvozzaOpQmN_8GCWcP8iUuYgkPXl0HYth91pQ8Sv3kkUy45FhmXMM72Zl1T-qym1tGu0QIsju4d013INPFaSdQ=s4000" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjIVEtfESZXXRVwWC3MscM9KxEW0zCIdDL5fFnimNzSKgoai8tXhvI3bNzEzCEI3PJkxpDfM_MCWqNMccglcXurBn1mYp1v6fBzFQpvozzaOpQmN_8GCWcP8iUuYgkPXl0HYth91pQ8Sv3kkUy45FhmXMM72Zl1T-qym1tGu0QIsju4d013INPFaSdQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgaQDiD4CEjZ5vaNQ-SpefNVrOSRiOA2Okc80NGF72pNIXQDFzjk3NGGvCW6xiTH-wbPWW6LQQejhEcV542DiA_JzBDbeyUyY4_2jzEdYeLlHh9JqHmolaVMKr9jyHXmub8WKILyACEFdaXAC2WLKJrdvWFb7WX3g-Yf8MfSHrlJ2baPSiav3cJrL72=s4000" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgaQDiD4CEjZ5vaNQ-SpefNVrOSRiOA2Okc80NGF72pNIXQDFzjk3NGGvCW6xiTH-wbPWW6LQQejhEcV542DiA_JzBDbeyUyY4_2jzEdYeLlHh9JqHmolaVMKr9jyHXmub8WKILyACEFdaXAC2WLKJrdvWFb7WX3g-Yf8MfSHrlJ2baPSiav3cJrL72=s320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Ghim Moh market</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjtl95ySavk4VDWcEVsDUx-czlEMUfwh5dZHQ9pfAXK7SjvAwo6JNba_BgzUJfIj8ahN0Sl4Bm4WpFfKwlTqyEhu5OW9IjgDSzdlsi9FP7s9_gOnDEPL69IQoov8VK_A_8QJLJ9urz_5npzmd63xpuUPCBO5XGB1MuZITJugsuC6QCVaJCKt4O85lCt=s1024" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjtl95ySavk4VDWcEVsDUx-czlEMUfwh5dZHQ9pfAXK7SjvAwo6JNba_BgzUJfIj8ahN0Sl4Bm4WpFfKwlTqyEhu5OW9IjgDSzdlsi9FP7s9_gOnDEPL69IQoov8VK_A_8QJLJ9urz_5npzmd63xpuUPCBO5XGB1MuZITJugsuC6QCVaJCKt4O85lCt=s320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the way home</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6Cf_aZ4EgV6oTNwaf4aHCHxO5Zg82YF3LRw0131g11ClNEWC01MLo8F2UR5Vo3i5jgQTkLxgNLuhij8Fr7DT_w5yytWL7VtnQHCnDE0hBr9ABta557pYCQAGvdbpvnVfYc9xu24t041SJGmgizWUkQz_Uc6IXKVuQNthcLahxTkgRef_Lmd0VJMBs=s4000" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6Cf_aZ4EgV6oTNwaf4aHCHxO5Zg82YF3LRw0131g11ClNEWC01MLo8F2UR5Vo3i5jgQTkLxgNLuhij8Fr7DT_w5yytWL7VtnQHCnDE0hBr9ABta557pYCQAGvdbpvnVfYc9xu24t041SJGmgizWUkQz_Uc6IXKVuQNthcLahxTkgRef_Lmd0VJMBs=s320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cat cafe at Rail Mall <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p>The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-86780578451894133542017-05-26T01:44:00.000-07:002017-05-26T01:47:37.387-07:00A stroll from Bukit Timah to Zhenghua and back <div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">The morning of 26 May 2017 was a
good day for a stroll in the woods.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">The skies were overcast but rain was not imminent
(which meant a cool day). I made the impromptu decision to check out the trail
leading to ZhengHua from Rail Mall.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">My trail head
started from Rail Mall playground access point to the Quarry trail. My side of
Bkt Timah was still in the shadows and so the trail started on a cool note. Along
the way, the MOE learning center was buzzing with the excited chatter of school
children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I was on a
familiar route and opted for the longer path that points to Zhenghua PCN, in
the direction of Wallace Center. The trail was well maintained except for a
couple of spot where the bushes have grown faster that Nparks could handle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Carpark B was a 15
minutes from the Rail Mall trail head, a marker for me.
Runkeeper’s Kate noted that I made 1 km in that 15 mins.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I did a right as
the signboard said. A dirt trail opened on my left after a 5 minutes walk. The trail was part cement, part gravel and rotted vegetation. It
was a slight descent but my walking pole came in handy in parts that was slippery with
clay.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A clearing opened
up pretty soon and “Belukar Trail” running perpendicular to my dirt track
caused me to pause. Right to Rifle Range Rd or left to Zhenghua? A young ,
sprightly couple came trundling from the direction of Zhenghua, freshfaced and excited. Should we
continue or exit to Bukit Timah, they asked. Decisions, decisions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I made a left turn heading to Zhenghua. It was a shared bike/hiker path , wide and level for
walking. Belukar ran under Dairy Farm Rd and continued northwards beside the BKE. I
was never too far from the expressway and felt assured that should I encounter trouble,
help would be just steps away. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It was an easy
walk all the way to Chestnut Drive. The nature park turned into a typical HDB
style park with its ubiquitous wooden tables and chairs. In case you did not notice the change in landscape, big signs announced that you are in
Zhenghua territory.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aBD5rNUoMQA/WSfoWCFM_1I/AAAAAAAAH9c/qSrP7b7rfMkE_X_JeVKg4QILLpoS-3u4QCKgB/s1600/IMG_20170526_103304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aBD5rNUoMQA/WSfoWCFM_1I/AAAAAAAAH9c/qSrP7b7rfMkE_X_JeVKg4QILLpoS-3u4QCKgB/s400/IMG_20170526_103304.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Now that I have
accomplished my ‘goal’, I checked out the park for another 500m or so before
turning back to retrace my steps. Up to that point, the distance completed was just under 4km.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">At 10.30am, the
clouds parted and I was grateful to be in the shade until I reached Rail Mall.
It was a mini workout going back as the terrain has turned into a gradual and
long ascent, though it was nothing I couldn’t handle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Kate has turned
from loud to glum and I totally forgot about my Runkeeper time keeper. It was
only later that I realized Runkeeper has died on me and I have lost my logs for
the past hour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I would have
concluded it with a happy note by buying lunch at Rail Mall but I
discovered that I have left home without a single dollar on me. I have walked some
7km<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>but felt defeated because there
would be no reward at the end of the walk. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It was a 7km
saunter but perhaps the next time, I would try to reach Bkt Panjang and beyond
at a quicker pace. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-37912006393773261372017-05-13T05:50:00.004-07:002017-05-13T05:50:58.788-07:0014 going onto 17 (km) : Walking to Labrador Park from home <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rt1wpJ1YnEU/WRb-YB0kWlI/AAAAAAAAH0Y/aONIJrne57ANcniOYyp8Dvf6FlXlJbhjACLcB/s1600/Screenshot%2B2017-05-13%2B20.38.07.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rt1wpJ1YnEU/WRb-YB0kWlI/AAAAAAAAH0Y/aONIJrne57ANcniOYyp8Dvf6FlXlJbhjACLcB/s1600/Screenshot%2B2017-05-13%2B20.38.07.png" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">On Mother’s Day ( and Pat’s birthday as
well), we decided to check out Labrador Nature Park. Google suggested many walking
routes from home at Bukit Batok but we opted for the 14km route with promise of
minimal traffic crossings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mXpczJibEUM/WRcAkRqMsCI/AAAAAAAAH1Q/idk6urjiyHYH1otqkN_J58MJWeMoEFFnwCLcB/s1600/IMG_6345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mXpczJibEUM/WRcAkRqMsCI/AAAAAAAAH1Q/idk6urjiyHYH1otqkN_J58MJWeMoEFFnwCLcB/s640/IMG_6345.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We set off at 7.45am. The sun was just
visible from the next tower block in my estate and we walked in the long
shadows along Clementi Ave 6 before joining Sunset Way via Sunset Grove. At
Clementi Rd, we hit the second major traffic junction that disrupted an
otherwise smooth walk.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-um5cAok5KTw/WRb-mIhiMrI/AAAAAAAAH0c/26AgzBdgLkslpaU6BnvcsF5uWz3U27nzACLcB/s1600/IMG_6348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-um5cAok5KTw/WRb-mIhiMrI/AAAAAAAAH0c/26AgzBdgLkslpaU6BnvcsF5uWz3U27nzACLcB/s640/IMG_6348.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">From Ulu Pandan Park Connector, we walked eastwards.
The heat was starting to sap the life out of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>us so we kept talking <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to a minimum. We passed by Dover Station on
our right and almost persuaded ourselves to get out of the sunny PCN onto the
shaded walkway along Commonwealth Ave that came with a couple more traffic
junctions. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fO2-QscoSOA/WRb-xA50MhI/AAAAAAAAH0g/zqtFLdJ5r24tqhwVVBTD8N9nbRAVz91EACLcB/s1600/IMG_6350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fO2-QscoSOA/WRb-xA50MhI/AAAAAAAAH0g/zqtFLdJ5r24tqhwVVBTD8N9nbRAVz91EACLcB/s640/IMG_6350.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cB9BASe14nc/WRb_CI0XgTI/AAAAAAAAH0k/1jtNNRkHLMowB1ThYxs0ForC-tNnWMe9gCLcB/s1600/IMG_6355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cB9BASe14nc/WRb_CI0XgTI/AAAAAAAAH0k/1jtNNRkHLMowB1ThYxs0ForC-tNnWMe9gCLcB/s640/IMG_6355.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nearing the end of the PCN, it was now
southwards to Star Vista and then Rochester Mall to get onto North Bouna Vista
Rd. It was an uphill task as we labored in the heat towards Science Park. It
would have been a monotonous walk but pretty candy colored buildings at InSead
and Ayer Rajan JTC broke the monotony and injected some interest in where we were
heading.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VFIecM9ujzo/WRb_MQLqgMI/AAAAAAAAH0o/fL-B_DnzYuAiqNHg2ISf4-GS2qoTJcYigCLcB/s1600/IMG_6359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VFIecM9ujzo/WRb_MQLqgMI/AAAAAAAAH0o/fL-B_DnzYuAiqNHg2ISf4-GS2qoTJcYigCLcB/s640/IMG_6359.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Across AYE, we did a left to Science Park
Dr, passing shiny buildings that bore names of scientists. Clueless to their
contribution to mankind , I mentally made a note to look them up after the
walk.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X0Thkvdfqfw/WRb_VhVt_vI/AAAAAAAAH0s/XlKoYCCXU5Qzo_brEZoJVlPXxaWFnhvUgCLcB/s1600/IMG_6360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X0Thkvdfqfw/WRb_VhVt_vI/AAAAAAAAH0s/XlKoYCCXU5Qzo_brEZoJVlPXxaWFnhvUgCLcB/s640/IMG_6360.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">At Normantan Park, we accessed Kent Ridge
Park through a series of steep steps. It was hard work but the prospect of
shade and a view of Pasir Panjang Port <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>motivated
me to carry on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We continued left on
Vigilante Dr and finally got onto the Treetop walk leading to Hort Park. Now at
almost 10am, the sun shone relentlessly on us. Beyond us, the city smog hung
low, blurring the skyline. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sadzq-yYIkc/WRb_gdLocoI/AAAAAAAAH0w/JBZyIEkQctUx_w9avVYMHLy0_eaeXTofACLcB/s1600/IMG_6362.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sadzq-yYIkc/WRb_gdLocoI/AAAAAAAAH0w/JBZyIEkQctUx_w9avVYMHLy0_eaeXTofACLcB/s640/IMG_6362.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EV9navANMF4/WRb_qI4VHII/AAAAAAAAH00/ujPLuE6F6OUgONtXzXpiHaA2xfYV6ulSACLcB/s1600/IMG_6369.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EV9navANMF4/WRb_qI4VHII/AAAAAAAAH00/ujPLuE6F6OUgONtXzXpiHaA2xfYV6ulSACLcB/s640/IMG_6369.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1lMkD-yriyo/WRb_urju0iI/AAAAAAAAH04/PZb13VBPeHYp79NVnhQ3UWxmvWaJBKlJwCLcB/s1600/IMG_6372.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1lMkD-yriyo/WRb_urju0iI/AAAAAAAAH04/PZb13VBPeHYp79NVnhQ3UWxmvWaJBKlJwCLcB/s640/IMG_6372.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Hort Park is huge. Perhaps jaded from the
countless walks here, I hardly gave the place much of a glance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We used the bridge to the Southern Ridges to
access Alexander Rd. Very soon, the sky did an about turn and it became
overcast. It began to rain fat drops of rain and our pace quickened until we
sought shelter at Labrador Park Station.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AC9JPiTkGR0/WRb_2sKACwI/AAAAAAAAH08/5b52j5TsLr46djWOTexKrWHrF2HG9aIegCLcB/s1600/IMG_6376.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AC9JPiTkGR0/WRb_2sKACwI/AAAAAAAAH08/5b52j5TsLr46djWOTexKrWHrF2HG9aIegCLcB/s640/IMG_6376.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4-eSHDmeF0U/WRb_9tgTThI/AAAAAAAAH1A/5MDdNA5X0lA286MUtYYjspFW1WQxasL0wCLcB/s1600/IMG_6377.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4-eSHDmeF0U/WRb_9tgTThI/AAAAAAAAH1A/5MDdNA5X0lA286MUtYYjspFW1WQxasL0wCLcB/s640/IMG_6377.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It was a passing shower and with much
relief, we reached our first milestone at the park via Labrador Villa Rd.
Runkeeper announced my feat of 14km but I wasn’t too elated when Harborfront
was not even in my line of sight. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AU84RUTZtCQ/WRcAHESlAyI/AAAAAAAAH1E/Pot-WiyWb9IFM_F-Fd0RtKh23_PhyaqHQCLcB/s1600/IMG_6393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AU84RUTZtCQ/WRcAHESlAyI/AAAAAAAAH1E/Pot-WiyWb9IFM_F-Fd0RtKh23_PhyaqHQCLcB/s640/IMG_6393.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gbhp8twO1Zc/WRcAO6huNFI/AAAAAAAAH1I/w-eVWiADuZUwtkhcjG1P3KqWNqkzL28vACLcB/s1600/IMG_6397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gbhp8twO1Zc/WRcAO6huNFI/AAAAAAAAH1I/w-eVWiADuZUwtkhcjG1P3KqWNqkzL28vACLcB/s640/IMG_6397.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0mC7f8gJkKI/WRcAX9jqzAI/AAAAAAAAH1M/5_xZ74K_yq0FzI5bgR6cPILJaVFeSuwoACLcB/s1600/IMG_6403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0mC7f8gJkKI/WRcAX9jqzAI/AAAAAAAAH1M/5_xZ74K_yq0FzI5bgR6cPILJaVFeSuwoACLcB/s640/IMG_6403.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We hugged the coast and headed east on the
unsheltered boardwalk, passing multimillion dollar condos and the marina where
the rich played.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At Keppel Bay Drive, a
sign made known that we have reached the end of our trail. It was back to the
road again on Telok Blangah Rd. Harbourfront beckoned us and we made haste for
the sky has turned grey again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We took almost 4 hours for the 17km walk. Except
for Kent Ridge Park, we were sun drenched all the way. The shower did not
provide respite. If there was anything that was interesting and worth checking
out, it would have to be Gillman’s Barrack with its promise of food and art
galleries. Remind me to visit, but this time with a car.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-74285426837680940872017-05-10T04:56:00.001-07:002017-05-10T05:17:19.989-07:00Bukit Timah to Venus Drive 10 May 2017 <div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">For the longest time, we have been talking
about walking from our Bukit Batok home to MacRitchie Reservoir. It was all
talk for at least 10 years or maybe more, if the timer starts from the time we
even thought about it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We may live within walking distance to many
trail heads, but we mostly ignored the call of the wild because weekend sleep
is a precious commodity. That is, until the good doctor told me that I am in
dire need of exercise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I have been walking parts of the Green
Corridor off Rail Mall and making countless ‘summits’ to Bukit Timah Hill. The walks quickly
gathered steam to 10km walks and our forays went from our backyard to the
central catchment area. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Recently, I did a solo 10km walk from Venus
Rd to McRitchie . I raved about it until Pat felt compelled to join in the league. Soon enough, he
became my weekend walking partner. It must have brought back a bit of army days
to him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">These walks paid dividends handsomely. We
are now fitter and trimmer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D_BH4QAP5W0/WRL-BcBD5XI/AAAAAAAAHzQ/Huu9Jb6IxIQDllxpeCcp6KM8Xt8yxtJMQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3996.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D_BH4QAP5W0/WRL-BcBD5XI/AAAAAAAAHzQ/Huu9Jb6IxIQDllxpeCcp6KM8Xt8yxtJMQCLcB/s640/IMG_3996.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">This morning had an ominous start with
overcast sky. Despite a sudden shower , we were not deterred. We made our way
to Hindede Rd and found that half the population around the area has descended upon Bukit Timah Hill. The Kampong trail starts from the Monkey business placards. Among ruins, we traipsed along the disused road before coming to a crossroad of
sorts. Upon the sign post that points to
MacRitchie Reservoir, we did a right and
continued the dirt track until it hits Rifle Range Rd.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We made a left on the uphill Rifle Range Rd
that was devoid of cars since it was a holiday. It was about 9am and walkers
from MacRitchie were already at their tail end of their walk, soaked in rain
and sweat. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Rifle Range Rd extended over the BKE and at
long last terminated before ST Kinetics. There was no guessing where the dirt
trail towards the reservoir was; scores were emerging from a sign posted track
at our right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We took the obligatory selfie to prove our
accomplishment and hit the dirt track again. After a long walk on a proper
road, it was tedious stepping on gravel and stone embedded in red clay. My
$10 walking pole bore my weight reliably as it provided relief for my right
knee. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DE_bwtlBbUs/WRL_WyVwZ2I/AAAAAAAAHz4/opCUwgRhvaUQB0CNomBRZ7pdZMXvA5TygCLcB/s1600/IMG_4015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DE_bwtlBbUs/WRL_WyVwZ2I/AAAAAAAAHz4/opCUwgRhvaUQB0CNomBRZ7pdZMXvA5TygCLcB/s640/IMG_4015.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We passed countless water tanks and made
slow progress because of the terrain. Youthful runners zipped past us
both ways making a mockery of my slow progress.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z-d6094ZLz0/WRL_dOrnOmI/AAAAAAAAHz8/5SxH29x5FcUdoaNzYXKA77r-dal4Fi1IACLcB/s1600/20170510_094045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z-d6094ZLz0/WRL_dOrnOmI/AAAAAAAAHz8/5SxH29x5FcUdoaNzYXKA77r-dal4Fi1IACLcB/s640/20170510_094045.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">At the Sime track, we headed towards the
Treetop walk. The treetop trail is a one way trail so we gave it a miss and
used the bypass to head to Venus Drive. We couldn’t bash our way to the treetop walk even if we wanted to –
scores of walking folks of all scribes were pouring out from the treetop trail
making a celebration of the place. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">At the 2.5 hour mark, we chanced upon Pat’s
colleague Ivan and his wife ,Conney, at the Venus Dr carpark. We chatted a bit
and then it was down to Thomson Plaza
for an early lunch. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Would I do it again? Definitely yes! The
route is varied with a bit of urban and rural. The vibe from the other walkers
were infectious. The weather was cool, overcast with occasional glimpses
of sun but not too much. If there is anything to improve, it would be to get
another pair of hiking boots, thicker sole this time to take the strain from
the stone and gravel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</style>The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-2532929019851611322015-05-10T04:57:00.000-07:002017-05-10T05:00:45.971-07:00Nparks’ silent heroes – making our parks safe<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">On one of the rare days when
hubs was on leave, I brought him to Kent Ridge Park to enjoy my favorite view
of Singapore in the west. There by the lookout point, we saw Singapore growing
inch by inch at Pasir Panjang as truckloads and truckloads of sands were dumped
to reclaim the sea. The sun in the east beat down on the stretch of sand, man
and machine. A veil of yellow dust hung over the reclaimed stretch and made the
western waters beyond it a dusty blue.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I showed hubs my favorite
treetop walk that looks over the Normanton Park valley. Not far at the start of
a footpath, a tree has just recently been struck by lightning, its blackened
downward scar revealed. Plants at the end of the black welt were burnt to a dry
cinder.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It was another idyllic
morning until we saw a group of Nparks contractor getting ready for work. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">One end of the treetop walk
was out of bounds to the public as the walk was undergoing maintenance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The guys were preparing harnesses so that they
could rappel down the 20m high walkway to paint the supporting structures. One
of the workers was kind enough to allow us to see them at work and even
included a little narrative so that we could understand their work better.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The guys are specialists who
had gone through special training. They had with them a paint roller and ½ a
pail of rust resistant paint , all hung from clamps attached to their waist.
The rope that could take a load of 700 kg was just one of the 2 ropes holding
them in midair so that they can do their job safely. Hopefully the safety rope
need never be used.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">To lean backward to paint the
undersides of the walk, one of the feet will step on a looped end of a rope
extend from their waist to provide leverage. While this was going on, the rest
of the co-workers were securing ropes for themselves, looping the thick ropes
through the board slates. To retrieve the end of the rope hanging under the
walkway, they used the hooked end of an umbrella , a most innovative tool.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Each man did his own harness
and safety ropes. Minimal conversation was exchanged while the men very
systematically went through the setup. Hubs and I did not dare utter a word
less we distract them in the process. But seriously, I thought these cool dudes
should be in movies as stunt men in their spare time!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">No doubt these guys were
doing a job, but pride in their work showed. I could see that they loved what
they were doing and they knew they were a special bunch. The men looked out for
each other and took their work and safety seriously. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">What could I say? They, the silent
heroes , were there to make our recreation area safe. As for me, they were the
coolest guys I have met that day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-57165935814275977982015-02-02T05:32:00.001-08:002015-02-02T05:38:56.580-08:00A factory visit ( for Chinese New Year 2015 )<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">On 31 Jan 2015,
for the first time in twenty years, I participated in an outing organized by
Bukit Batok East CC. I am secretly a closet resident, cloistered at the end of
Bkt Batok East in my cosy condominium and anything that requires a walk to the
heartlands that can be done by a car is deemed to far away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">But when I
saw<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the notice of the trip on one of
the condo’s notice board , I<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>decided
that $5 whole day outing to wholesale centers and the fishery is far cheaper
than driving. Besides, how would I know where the factories are?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I have ideas of
factory visit, overlooking the bak kwa process from start to finish in a
viewing gallery and seeing fish thrown all over at fishery port road. The last
time that I have been in a factory of any kind was of the semiconductor type
and I am raring to see some action where the end result ends up in my tummy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">8.45am, the bus
punctually picked us up at the CC and went to the next stop at Southhaven at
Upper Bkt Timah. There were far more seats than people in the bus, so we have
lots of place to move around. The spirit of true blue Singapore Kiasuism was
well and alive in me – Pat and I sat near the front so that we could get off at
the soonest before the rest to do our buying part.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N2mmHBf_khk/VM95v1zfLuI/AAAAAAAAF50/gKuPr1KOqcA/s1600/2015-01-31%2B09.45.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N2mmHBf_khk/VM95v1zfLuI/AAAAAAAAF50/gKuPr1KOqcA/s1600/2015-01-31%2B09.45.50.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It was a bit of a
ride to Senoko near Woodlands on the PIE. Our first stop was at Ken Ken, the
cuttlefish snack supplier. Many people swarmed the place, all disgorging from
the tour buses.It was a frantic moment. My lack of height meant not knowing what
goods were before me. I picked a couple of packs of fish maws ( for CNY ) and a
disgraceful amount of cuttlefish snack , something I have not purchased for a
long time because of the cost. It was a crazy moment and I dare say , the
crowd made me do it. In my sanest moment, I will not even say yes to a pack of
potato chip.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Checkout was a
nightmare and it takes skill to attract the attention of the cashier and edging
fellow shoppers. It was cash transaction and I parted with almost $30 for the
snacks, extravagance that I did not realise until we boarded the bus. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QIdHnTPnD5M/VM96FGvrT4I/AAAAAAAAF58/_iMV69LB0bw/s1600/2015-01-31%2B10.15.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QIdHnTPnD5M/VM96FGvrT4I/AAAAAAAAF58/_iMV69LB0bw/s1600/2015-01-31%2B10.15.18.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A short ride away,
we were let loose at Kwong Cheong Thye. Now fully in the mood to spend, we did
the unimaginable thing. We tried all the foodstuff sample and ignored the
smorgasboard of yusheng salad and yufu noodles. At normal times it would be a
no-no, to have 2 unrelated items on the same plate. But hey! That was
extraordinary times indeed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Our modest loot
was a bottle of oyster sauce , black sauce and 3 packs of sauces for crabs. I
never cook crab at home but the pictures got me imagining and caused me to
think, why not? We drank sauces and soups from miniature tubs, ate noodles hot
off the pot but sanity prevailed, almost, and I held back stoically. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kLGmknSReps/VM98EBrr0RI/AAAAAAAAF7g/UWCXIg74Kig/s1600/2015-01-31%2B10.15.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kLGmknSReps/VM98EBrr0RI/AAAAAAAAF7g/UWCXIg74Kig/s1600/2015-01-31%2B10.15.18.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">KCT held some
nostalgia to Pat, whose dad used to work for eons ago. I knew he was in that
mood because he started snapping photos of KCT with his handphone. Most times
it would be unthinkable to use the handphone for anything but calling and the
phone camera was way below him. Anyway we had a good time doing all the ‘aunty
things’.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">By now, I figured
that no one will be punctual returning to the bus. Shuvin, the CC organizer for
the event, was not good at motivating us to return to the bus on time. For
every stop, we delayed and waited for the shameless folks who boarded last
without a word of remorse. The end result was that we had to drop the last stop
because time ran out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1oo3Locor2U/VM96TK6uIYI/AAAAAAAAF6E/HUZ1p14Nzco/s1600/2015-01-31%2B10.50.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1oo3Locor2U/VM96TK6uIYI/AAAAAAAAF6E/HUZ1p14Nzco/s1600/2015-01-31%2B10.50.23.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Back to our
shopping. The bus went up a humongous multistory factory to a trading cum
warehouse place, where an assortment of snacks and drinks were sold. I sampled
the yogurt,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a first because I could
never stomach yogurt drink, given out by the store’s staff. The mish mash of
goods followed no particular theme, for what has oats, chips, chocolate and
abalone got to do with each other. Just 2 days ago, I had purchased a big bag
of rolled oats but the frantic grabbing of Quaker quick cooking oats praised by
the aunties as good for everything made me grab one too. So yours truly now has
2 kg worth of oats. I wonder when I will ever finish consuming them. It was a
small place jam packed with a hundred visitors and the cashiers simply could
not cope.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FaQx3teQTKs/VM96jDVmSjI/AAAAAAAAF6Q/l-xvn7XK2io/s1600/2015-01-31%2B11.23.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FaQx3teQTKs/VM96jDVmSjI/AAAAAAAAF6Q/l-xvn7XK2io/s1600/2015-01-31%2B11.23.22.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The bus did a
couple of turns around Woodlands/Senoko and lo and behold! We ended up at Bee
Choon Heng bak kwa. BCH showed their retail chops with VISA, NETS checking
counters and staff decked in BCH uniforms reverently waiting for us to pounce
on the endless cans of floss of every kind. It was pork floss haven and prices
were going at 90% of prevailing prices outside. Pat worked the maths and I went
for 1 kg pack which deemed cheapest. I have yet to figure out how the 1 kg will
be consumed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">An ice cream
mobile store was stationed there and in true Kdrama style, Pat got me an ice
cream. It was a dollar purchase but it tasted a million bucks. Who says there’s
no romance at 50?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XJKnLlIemvU/VM96jNr1x5I/AAAAAAAAF6M/2-o2CjTpLcA/s1600/2015-01-31%2B12.37.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XJKnLlIemvU/VM96jNr1x5I/AAAAAAAAF6M/2-o2CjTpLcA/s1600/2015-01-31%2B12.37.13.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">By now near noon,
the bus made a couple of twist and turns before depositing us at Bengawan Solo
factory. Communications were poor and it was sometime before we realized that
we would stop for an hour for lunch and ‘looting’ Bengawan and Ping Si foods.
We were sure the organizer were not any wiser but collective wisdom dictates
that it was time for lunch and none congregated at the drop off /pick up place
until more than one hour later.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We had a
ridiculously cheap lunch at a bustling factory canteen, bursting to the seam
with bargain seekers out with their respective CCs. While everyone shopped, we
amused ourselves by harvesting dried pods of the blue flower vine(</span><span style="background: white; color: #545454; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-SG; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Clitoria
ternatea <b>flowers</b></span><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-SG; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">)</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">. Potentially, the
pods with their seeds would mean years of endless supplies of Pulut Tai Tai,
provided I get to plant them in my much neglected vegetable patch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wU0KmIWOg_4/VM96kQYADXI/AAAAAAAAF6k/kX-C3oEUHis/s1600/2015-01-31%2B13.31.41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wU0KmIWOg_4/VM96kQYADXI/AAAAAAAAF6k/kX-C3oEUHis/s1600/2015-01-31%2B13.31.41.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">To much relief, we
set off to a nursey at Jalan Bahar. I was beginning to feel the bliss of not driving.
There was no pressure to decide how to go and already the hot weather and much
waiting was making me sleepy. At the other corner of Singapore, we visited a
huge nursery. My worries of heat and what nots were unfounded – the retail
section of the nursery was sheltered. It was a mini Chelsea flower show and I
actually enjoyed the place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Most of us left
empty handed. Our objective was food and the last thing was to lug bags of can
foods and a meter tall pussy willow back to Parkview.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N8h1UvZAYCA/VM97QYIdCjI/AAAAAAAAF60/ZJ3h2yVKOKM/s1600/2015-01-31%2B13.39.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N8h1UvZAYCA/VM97QYIdCjI/AAAAAAAAF60/ZJ3h2yVKOKM/s1600/2015-01-31%2B13.39.32.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JcI9hcQSmGI/VM97QY76z3I/AAAAAAAAF6w/1V2QbHblNcs/s1600/2015-01-31%2B13.39.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JcI9hcQSmGI/VM97QY76z3I/AAAAAAAAF6w/1V2QbHblNcs/s1600/2015-01-31%2B13.39.49.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4rTetLY_jyg/VM97QQ81hiI/AAAAAAAAF64/7grUW9_RDcg/s1600/2015-01-31%2B13.50.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4rTetLY_jyg/VM97QQ81hiI/AAAAAAAAF64/7grUW9_RDcg/s1600/2015-01-31%2B13.50.54.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5AlCUrQUsUA/VM97uLKLJ1I/AAAAAAAAF7Y/23_gANM-gRQ/s1600/2015-01-31%2B14.27.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5AlCUrQUsUA/VM97uLKLJ1I/AAAAAAAAF7Y/23_gANM-gRQ/s1600/2015-01-31%2B14.27.40.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Pan Ocean was our
first seafood place in Jurong and the smallish retail area could not contain
all of us. It was more than 5 buses worth of people poring over freezers of
frozen fish, lobsters, scallops and anything that lives in water. Then, just as
quickly as we came, the entire bunch left the place at almost the same time
giving reprieve to the folks running the place. Snorre was nearby but it was
not the sort of place for CNY goods so Song Fish it was. The crowd stopped me
in my tracks – the tiny place was literally swarmed with people holding
multiple baskets. Snow crabs, most about $70, were snapped up. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-td4tXzCXS5Q/VM97RhDIJOI/AAAAAAAAF7M/OlLXa9IJ63I/s1600/2015-01-31%2B16.08.57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-td4tXzCXS5Q/VM97RhDIJOI/AAAAAAAAF7M/OlLXa9IJ63I/s1600/2015-01-31%2B16.08.57.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It was more
waiting for fellow travellers caught in the endless checkout queue before we
made our way to Hock Seng Foods at Pandan Loop. This place, I like. HS carries
the Hosen brand of canned foods, one of my preferred brands. The outing was
near its end and almost everyone bought cans and cans of abalone like it was
free. I made off with a modest number of canned foods. No point waiting when I
can be one of the waited for a change. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We forgo the Tai Sun
Snacks and headed for home. Those at Southhaven were dropped off first before
it called base at Bkt Batok CC. Pat and I struggled with bags of purchase we
have no idea we had bought and it was a slow, painful walk home even if it
should be 500m down the road.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">So, the pertinent
question, will I go again? Yes and no. There are way too many warehouse retail
places in industrial areas that we do not know off and this is a good
introduction. On the other hand, our pet peeve of waiting for recalcitrant late
comers will be the main reason why Pat and I will not be joining the CC for any
outcoming anytime soon. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-SG; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-58490761047237539652014-07-01T05:48:00.000-07:002014-07-01T19:39:14.283-07:00Old Route, new eyes - Walking to Turf City and back<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-piUItrHXnoA/U7Krfb0ou6I/AAAAAAAAFsw/MS8-2AaZQGw/s1600/20140701_091818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-piUItrHXnoA/U7Krfb0ou6I/AAAAAAAAFsw/MS8-2AaZQGw/s1600/20140701_091818.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Relax. All is not what it seems to be!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jzpk-do85eE/U7KqF3kyPSI/AAAAAAAAFsY/gAy7R04_Y1M/s1600/Screenshot+2014-07-01+20.13.37.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jzpk-do85eE/U7KqF3kyPSI/AAAAAAAAFsY/gAy7R04_Y1M/s1600/Screenshot+2014-07-01+20.13.37.png" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Today, on the spur of the
moment, I decided to revisit a part of my favorite green corridor. This time,
my walk took me to Turf City, located off Bukit Timah Road. The almost round
trip took me a cool 2 odd hours. I have always wanted to do this, even though I
know the walk down Bukit Timah road to Turf City is not a scenic one. Still,
all is not lost. I am always in a hurry while driving along this stretch of
road but today, I managed to capture some scenes which I otherwise would not have
noticed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PQxp1OI3lCo/U7KqcX-pTjI/AAAAAAAAFsk/8-82kACa5lI/s1600/20140701_084623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PQxp1OI3lCo/U7KqcX-pTjI/AAAAAAAAFsk/8-82kACa5lI/s1600/20140701_084623.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning sky through sepia tinted visor<span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9f7I7DAAowI/U7KqcTywJbI/AAAAAAAAFsg/lwsZB2tiwws/s1600/20140701_084947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9f7I7DAAowI/U7KqcTywJbI/AAAAAAAAFsg/lwsZB2tiwws/s1600/20140701_084947.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The same sky through different 'eyes'</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Through my new visor,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>my surrounds has a safari feel to it, in sepia. In fact, it felt like a
long stroll in the setting sun and made the walk much cooler than it actually
is. Indeed, all it is not what it seems through a tinted visor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v2gSMgfy1i0/U7KrydSLz1I/AAAAAAAAFs4/qDiK5nZbcoY/s1600/20140701_084356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v2gSMgfy1i0/U7KrydSLz1I/AAAAAAAAFs4/qDiK5nZbcoY/s1600/20140701_084356.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Golf course it is not. At the grass patch near some HDB flats.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J3Y8F71fu5k/U7KsMweX9eI/AAAAAAAAFtA/fdg85IvVpGg/s1600/20140701_090117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J3Y8F71fu5k/U7KsMweX9eI/AAAAAAAAFtA/fdg85IvVpGg/s1600/20140701_090117.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grass cutters out in full force</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Td8FuENzrfw/U7KsYDfhHQI/AAAAAAAAFtI/hgyTLSKgKH4/s1600/20140701_091500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Td8FuENzrfw/U7KsYDfhHQI/AAAAAAAAFtI/hgyTLSKgKH4/s1600/20140701_091500.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'No tresspassing trespassers will be prosecuted'. What ??</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DYHkGHON76o/U7KsrI0gRyI/AAAAAAAAFtQ/fopfPNSiP9s/s1600/20140701_095739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DYHkGHON76o/U7KsrI0gRyI/AAAAAAAAFtQ/fopfPNSiP9s/s1600/20140701_095739.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The old and the new live side by side along Bkt Timah</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z7mtlNR8EUs/U7Ks50_MrZI/AAAAAAAAFtY/P9IwnMawx4U/s1600/20140701_100320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z7mtlNR8EUs/U7Ks50_MrZI/AAAAAAAAFtY/P9IwnMawx4U/s1600/20140701_100320.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This house has everything in superlatives, from the ultra big house number to the 100m odd driveway.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-11CqaNApj3g/U7KtNx9mbxI/AAAAAAAAFtg/9wwFCsN6q4w/s1600/20140701_094903.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-11CqaNApj3g/U7KtNx9mbxI/AAAAAAAAFtg/9wwFCsN6q4w/s1600/20140701_094903.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up close to the up and coming King Albert Station</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I rewarded myself for
completing a 7.5km walk<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>by buying a
$1.00 demitasse cup <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>at Totts. Ever the
housewife, I lugged a bag of potato and some grains from Bukit Timah Plaza NTUC
Finest as well. Had it not been for the weight of my loot, I would have walked
all the way back!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-57586447021627568022014-05-17T08:57:00.000-07:002014-05-18T22:44:56.562-07:00From concrete jungle to the green corridor – Bkt Batok to Choa Chu Kang to Hillview Ave<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iYqO1Okew4s/U3R-W5uTzLI/AAAAAAAAFmA/bvVfmL7YNaE/s1600/2014-05-15+11.08.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iYqO1Okew4s/U3R-W5uTzLI/AAAAAAAAFmA/bvVfmL7YNaE/s1600/2014-05-15+11.08.10.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">A different world awaits just a step away from Choa Chu Kang Rd</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Today I made a circuitous loop to Choa Chu Kang via Bukit Batok Central. It was a pleasant enough walk along the town's main thoroughfare and the slight drizzle did not deter me too much. 9 am at most times would be scorching hot in May but thankfully today the overcast sky has made it a pleasant walk.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14pt;">After my errand at West Mall, I proceeded towards Choa Chu Kang via Gombak. The plan was to go as the crow flies. Unfortunately crows have a hard time in this part of Singapore because of the hilly area. In the end, I hugged the road along Bkt Batok West Ave 2 that leads to Ave 5. At Bukit Gombak Station, the tail end of the morning crowd made their last dash to work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Bukit Batok West Ave 5 was long but pleasant for walking, with the Park Connector in the shade of the MRT tracks. The sky was clearing and gloom was gradually replaced by an emerging sun in the late morning.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14pt;">I made a right turn towards Bukit Batok Rd at the junction of Bukit Batok West Ave 5. It is downhill in the direction of Bukit Timah, which I was thankful. At ITE West, I was torn between going into the college for a drink at Kopitiam or to continue along the road. A huge banner shouted out that the food court is opened to the public but I was hesitant to enter. I was drenched in sweat and probably wasn’t smelling too good either.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14pt;">ITE West campus is gargantuan with its perimeter extending to the junction of Choa Chu Kang Way and Bukit Batok Rd. I made a left and mentally marked that there are 3 fancy restaurants at this section of the campus, all run by students, which would need a visit sometime soon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14pt;">The final leg of my mission was towards Keat Hong Center, where I was to do my second errand. Between the ITE campus and Keat Hong, not a tree grew. The pavement at the other side of Choa Chu Kang way was shadier because the path lies under the LRT tracks . <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14pt;">It was 10.30 am when I was done at Keat Hong Center. How should I get home? By train from CCK to Bkt Batok or complete the loop back home by way of the green corridor? In the end, the lure of the old KTM track prevailed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OroHDn_VN78/U3R-VncpODI/AAAAAAAAFlw/yQpQsBUWwhY/s1600/2014-05-15+11.07.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OroHDn_VN78/U3R-VncpODI/AAAAAAAAFlw/yQpQsBUWwhY/s1600/2014-05-15+11.07.26.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The old signal house at CCK</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14pt;">I joined the old railroad off Choa Chu Kang Rd, opposite Ten Mile Junction. From beyond the old signaling house, the entry point was like a rabbit hole opening me into a new world. The cacophony of traffic and insistent piling sounds of the nearby construction was drowned the moment I set foot onto the trek, now overgrown with grass. Safe for 2 trails of muddy, dirt track sculptured by determined mountain bikers rain or shine, it bears no resemblance to the flat, undulating rail road two years ago.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14pt;">There is a certain wild side that I love about this track of land. Flanked by Bukit Timah Rd at my left and the tail end of the army camp on my right, it is an oasis of calm. The shrubs waved waves of green and everywhere about me was bathed in jade green under the noon sun. I gave thanks as the rain clouds were nowhere in sight or this walk would be impossible on an already lumpy, wet path.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Mimosa carpeted the first section of the old railroad. The bustle from construction sporadically broke through the sanctuary of green. Without lifting my head, I would not have been the wiser that bus stops and The Linear a mere hundred meters away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PpVI6RYbqbE/U3R-XFXBVkI/AAAAAAAAFmM/GW5c2DHFtT0/s1600/2014-05-15+11.08.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PpVI6RYbqbE/U3R-XFXBVkI/AAAAAAAAFmM/GW5c2DHFtT0/s1600/2014-05-15+11.08.33.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Civilisation is just a stone's throw away</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The old KTM void of its sleepers</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CypJOAHBQiY/U3R-YHJ9AwI/AAAAAAAAFmg/CO9S4x8fx2U/s1600/2014-05-15+11.13.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CypJOAHBQiY/U3R-YHJ9AwI/AAAAAAAAFmg/CO9S4x8fx2U/s1600/2014-05-15+11.13.18.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The Linear beyond. New banana trees along the old track</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FlcIguRUj4s/U3R-YzVkZ-I/AAAAAAAAFms/uVB7MmvrevQ/s1600/2014-05-15+11.15.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FlcIguRUj4s/U3R-YzVkZ-I/AAAAAAAAFms/uVB7MmvrevQ/s1600/2014-05-15+11.15.14.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Lalang that is as thick as sugar canes</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x2yqGv3kroY/U3R-ZV6x2OI/AAAAAAAAFm4/wWZApC-UW9c/s1600/2014-05-15+11.17.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x2yqGv3kroY/U3R-ZV6x2OI/AAAAAAAAFm4/wWZApC-UW9c/s1600/2014-05-15+11.17.13.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">No worries about giving up halfway. The bus stop's yonder.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Welcome shade near the stretch outside Mindef</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">The wilderness is newly formed and distinct
fauna can still be observed at different sections of the trek.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the centre part of Mindef Hillview Camp,
shrubs gave way to tall lallang.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There
were telltale signs the path has been regularly maintained despite the thick
overgrowth. Dried thick lallang, sheared sometime ago, was strewn along the
trek. They have yet to dehydrate to twigs and the stalks were still thick like
sugar canes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UMEEY4BDCwY/U3R-cJdlW-I/AAAAAAAAFn0/0Jx0QvnN7mQ/s1600/2014-05-15+11.20.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UMEEY4BDCwY/U3R-cJdlW-I/AAAAAAAAFn0/0Jx0QvnN7mQ/s1600/2014-05-15+11.20.46.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Mindef fortified seen along the old track</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RkclyAfjMa4/U3R-c434KFI/AAAAAAAAFoE/k164_yB_TQs/s1600/2014-05-15+11.27.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RkclyAfjMa4/U3R-c434KFI/AAAAAAAAFoE/k164_yB_TQs/s1600/2014-05-15+11.27.54.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Well used path</span></td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0CEfyl0vY08/U3R-a8zKRLI/AAAAAAAAFnY/2XYAucuqnJ4/s1600/2014-05-15+11.19.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0CEfyl0vY08/U3R-a8zKRLI/AAAAAAAAFnY/2XYAucuqnJ4/s1600/2014-05-15+11.19.38.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">'Milestones'</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">The driveway entrance to
Mindef , which terminated the old track was in full sight. Two<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>huge<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>boulders marked the end of the first section of my walk, like some
milestones. The trek resumed, again marked by two boulders. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">From where I was, I could see
the huge campus of Assumption School rising majestically behind the grass. The
noon sun made everything I looked at appear crisp and sharp like on a focused
lens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3cFon4KCU3A/U3R-e2vvL8I/AAAAAAAAFok/J7-BZNFH_p8/s1600/2014-05-15+11.31.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3cFon4KCU3A/U3R-e2vvL8I/AAAAAAAAFok/J7-BZNFH_p8/s1600/2014-05-15+11.31.11.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Lalang gives way to trees near Hilliew</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x4ziW0a9Aao/U3R-daQZuxI/AAAAAAAAFoM/Bj1cLbWGFro/s1600/2014-05-15+11.29.31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x4ziW0a9Aao/U3R-daQZuxI/AAAAAAAAFoM/Bj1cLbWGFro/s1600/2014-05-15+11.29.31.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Glendale condo beyond</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">I did not meet a single soul
from the beginning of my walk on the railroad to the end. Most wise folks have better
plans that to trek at high noon. What to do, when my heart was bent on doing it
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the entire day even though I knew I
would be cinders from the sun.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BxDjHOYiq6E/U3R-eoAJ8SI/AAAAAAAAFog/kX_J3SovhGE/s1600/2014-05-15+11.33.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BxDjHOYiq6E/U3R-eoAJ8SI/AAAAAAAAFog/kX_J3SovhGE/s1600/2014-05-15+11.33.11.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">The thick vegetation afforded
a hiding place to different birds. Safe in the bushes, I heard the cooing of
pigeons and unfamiliar ‘coughing’ of birds. I even recognized the shrill call
of baby birds nestling in the deep thickets, incessant and loud.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MWmtD7ImEw0/U3R-g-yKoKI/AAAAAAAAFpU/TLLyJCLLwfM/s1600/2014-05-15+11.34.29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MWmtD7ImEw0/U3R-g-yKoKI/AAAAAAAAFpU/TLLyJCLLwfM/s1600/2014-05-15+11.34.29.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Hillview Heights at the end of the walk</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">At Hillview, the trek came to
a sudden stop. The original rail bridge across Hillview Rd has been dismantled
and barriers have been put in place to stop clueless trekkers from falling off the
elevated track onto the road 2 meters down. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">I got off the trail beside
the old Standard Chartered Bank, using a little path paved with coconut husk
and rocks. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is time to call it a day,
all 2.5 hours of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zyVTLscWmZM/U3R-fmqgtKI/AAAAAAAAFo0/gSXll4jDrWs/s1600/2014-05-15+11.33.57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zyVTLscWmZM/U3R-fmqgtKI/AAAAAAAAFo0/gSXll4jDrWs/s1600/2014-05-15+11.33.57.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Shredded husks, work of monkeys?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VOrfy8vl0zY/U3R-fxRNXvI/AAAAAAAAFo4/5uFkbUqdQLU/s1600/2014-05-15+11.34.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VOrfy8vl0zY/U3R-fxRNXvI/AAAAAAAAFo4/5uFkbUqdQLU/s1600/2014-05-15+11.34.15.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">This, not the work of monkeys. Paved path.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KQHkPesGLLk/U3R-g9-CqOI/AAAAAAAAFpM/m4w9IrZJexM/s1600/2014-05-15+11.34.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KQHkPesGLLk/U3R-g9-CqOI/AAAAAAAAFpM/m4w9IrZJexM/s1600/2014-05-15+11.34.42.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Old Standard Chartered</span></td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wV7WMwlIiqM/U3R-hKVbe9I/AAAAAAAAFpQ/sgcJBZT1ax0/s1600/2014-05-15+11.35.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wV7WMwlIiqM/U3R-hKVbe9I/AAAAAAAAFpQ/sgcJBZT1ax0/s1600/2014-05-15+11.35.03.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Looking back where I left, at Hillview Heights.</span></td></tr>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">I completed the trip home on
bus 963 which came almost immediately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The ride from HillView Heights to home took a mere 7 minutes,
instead of another 30-45 minutes should I decided to pursue it on foot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">It was a modest 12 km in 2.5
hr <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>which meant an average speed of 4.8km/hr,
a decent timing for me. Thankfully I did not suffer from any blisters nor was I
severely sunburnt. At every opportunity, I doused myself with cold drinks which
most likely was the reason for my stamina. Of course everyone cheats and I did too
on this occasion. I jogged some parts when the terrain was good or when it was
downhill to keep spirits up and my timing down. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Maybe next time I will forgo
the concrete jungle. Or perhaps I would wear hiking boots instead of running
shoes. Walking along HDB flats was not the most scenic way to see the morning
but the people watching did make up for it.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-72112808611952820942014-05-07T20:42:00.000-07:002014-05-08T00:06:22.965-07:00Walk ( Green Corridor from Hindhede to Rail Mall ) and more <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_WrOeFcForw/U2r2cWXQD2I/AAAAAAAAFiA/lSK1eEv_NQY/s1600/2014-05-08+07.20.07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_WrOeFcForw/U2r2cWXQD2I/AAAAAAAAFiA/lSK1eEv_NQY/s1600/2014-05-08+07.20.07.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First light. Morning has broken.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 20px;">Praise the LORD,</span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="1" style="color: #333333; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 20px;"></a><span style="color: #333333; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 20px;"> O my soul;</span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="2" style="color: #333333; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 20px;"></a><span style="color: #333333; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 20px;"> all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Ps 103 :1</span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">It started as an aimless morning
walk. I am in my usual self, undecided. Should I turn right towards to Bukit Timah , check out Rifle Range Rd and hopefully end up at Turf City ? Or
should I go for the familiar by doing the
Old Ford Factory route?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">In the end, after my mental dilly-dallying, I decided to do a right. Sometimes , I consider a bit of right as a major decision so as to inject excitement in my life. After all, I am at the crossroads and it has to be
either right or left , isn't it? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The walk from home towards
Hindhede Rd was cool. I was flanked by cars piled up towards Bukit Batok on my
left and a long, green lush<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>slope on my
right. Despite the sound of traffic, I could make out the songs of different
morning birds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">At the Old Fire Engine House
( The Spruce ), I headed right as decided. The pedestrian walkway opened
up to merge footpath and bike path. The space was a pleasure. I tsked at the
mass traffic pile up, cars waiting to turn off to PIE / Bukit Timah. 7.30am
should not look like this.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Now that I have turned right, I am faced with another decision. Should I make my way
towards Turf City, I would have to endure peak hour traffic on Bukit Timah on
the way back. It is a good 8 km one way and in my state of fitness, I am pretty sure a bus ride home is the only option for me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PLcwuvOiH3w/U2r2cfITMOI/AAAAAAAAFh4/JvkpW59ZZtg/s1600/2014-05-08+07.21.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PLcwuvOiH3w/U2r2cfITMOI/AAAAAAAAFh4/JvkpW59ZZtg/s1600/2014-05-08+07.21.42.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">So I am short, and all I see is grass.</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">From where I was, a good 100m from
the nature park reserve, I saw first light from behind Bukit Timah Hill. It is
a good sensation and I did not wish to lose it by walking among houses along
Rifle Range Rd.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XGinIPDS4BQ/U2r2cX6RKdI/AAAAAAAAFh8/LrdCUd2wNsU/s1600/2014-05-08+07.24.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XGinIPDS4BQ/U2r2cX6RKdI/AAAAAAAAFh8/LrdCUd2wNsU/s1600/2014-05-08+07.24.01.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Path to the secret garden, around Hindhede Rd</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">So, I did a little climb up
the slope, stepping on the steps carved out by those before me who trekked up the old railway track a thousand times. The dirt was fresh with dew and wet
with<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>yesterday’s rain. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y078bRTtXm8/U2r3ROLA_II/AAAAAAAAFiw/2YILfUplBnE/s1600/2014-05-08+07.25.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y078bRTtXm8/U2r3ROLA_II/AAAAAAAAFiw/2YILfUplBnE/s1600/2014-05-08+07.25.47.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the old railtrack , towards the nature reserve.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wquRpBW8T0I/U2r3RBwYOWI/AAAAAAAAFic/rFmvf6MsDiM/s1600/2014-05-08+07.41.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wquRpBW8T0I/U2r3RBwYOWI/AAAAAAAAFic/rFmvf6MsDiM/s1600/2014-05-08+07.41.23.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ok, this looks like many of the other walks, but it feels special to me.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">I skirted stones and puddles.
The wet terrain has become uneven because it is heavily used by mountain
bikers and trekkers alike. I headed towards Rail Mall , soaking in the unfamiliar
calls of birds just meters from the private condo estate. The green track of
land is a world of its own, serene and isolated.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wPoXI0niREA/U2r3Rj7_ASI/AAAAAAAAFik/gGihj7bSHuE/s1600/2014-05-08+07.47.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wPoXI0niREA/U2r3Rj7_ASI/AAAAAAAAFik/gGihj7bSHuE/s1600/2014-05-08+07.47.16.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Rail Mall Bridge ahead. An early riser.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Sensors were put along the
track , a new addition. I suspect it is some sort of monitoring system because underground digging was underway for the downtown line brely 50 m away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Bxd8GQDP58/U2r3SM9c0PI/AAAAAAAAFis/gaDB7n_Sis8/s1600/2014-05-08+07.48.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Bxd8GQDP58/U2r3SM9c0PI/AAAAAAAAFis/gaDB7n_Sis8/s1600/2014-05-08+07.48.00.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Men at work. Have you given thanks for them yet?</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I got off the track at Rail
Mall because some workmen were at work. I have got to appreciate them, starting
their day so early while the rest of us have it much better than them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I did a Take 5 at Toast Box.
Tea C Kosong Ice at $2 , nicely executed by a cheerful staff of 4. Give thanks,
I thought, for the people who wake up so early to serve us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y5Jb4n1l38M/U2r2dcQfJ8I/AAAAAAAAFiM/UNDVuGPiLPA/s1600/2014-05-08+07.58.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y5Jb4n1l38M/U2r2dcQfJ8I/AAAAAAAAFiM/UNDVuGPiLPA/s1600/2014-05-08+07.58.44.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I continued along the bridge
outside Toast Box. A new bridge, longer, ramped and higher is coming up
alongside the present one. I could even touch it if I stretch out hard. In
the east, the glory of day shone behind the Bukit Timah Rail, as it always does.
It was beautiful, even with the traffic below and all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">At Hillview, The Hillier's monstrous twin towers broke the lush skyline. Just off the
roundabout, a man sucked the last of his cig, threw it on the grass and headed
for the bus. At the impulse of the moment, I called him back and pointed to the
cig butt. The burly man was like a school boy, caught littering. He backtracked and picked up the butt to bin it. Then he ran for the bus to join his friends who
were getting up. If the bus was not packed, he would have missed the bus altogether
because of me. I showed my approval and waved to him. The gesture was not appreciated. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I was thankful the litter bug responded to me; hopefully he will not do it
again. Perhaps I should consider getting a job at NEA. I have been doing this for free for too long.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Jubilant from the little
victory, I did my first jog for a good 3 blocks down. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I made a detour to the market
place at Bukit Batok. It was hardly <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>bustling and the closure of many grocers did not help. Where do folks get their grocery and stuff, I wonder? There was
nothing for me to see and I made my way back.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It was a 2 hour me-time and I
loved it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The watch I was wearing ‘died’
at the start of the walk and because of this, I could focus on my experience instead
of trying to achieve my timed target. Not totally a bad thing at all!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-59562994816453741492014-04-22T21:32:00.002-07:002014-05-08T00:22:08.209-07:00Bukit Batok Nature Park<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QZA35BBLHAs/U1c_hJtty0I/AAAAAAAAFbQ/PPxlBqZUb3g/s1600/20140423_084916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QZA35BBLHAs/U1c_hJtty0I/AAAAAAAAFbQ/PPxlBqZUb3g/s1600/20140423_084916.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 19.09090805053711px;">Just a stone’s throw from my apartment is a nature park that is hugely popular with the morning exercise bunch. Perhaps I thought that it will always be there and so for the past 15 years I have never ventured beyond the path from the main entrance of the park to the quarry lake.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iki2wfG74Rk/U1c_n83N3fI/AAAAAAAAFbo/W-U0CU9H_ls/s1600/20140423_085235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iki2wfG74Rk/U1c_n83N3fI/AAAAAAAAFbo/W-U0CU9H_ls/s1600/20140423_085235.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Off the beaten path.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">A week ago, I stumbled upon some tracks, while having a walk in the main park ‘thoroughfare’. ‘Stumbled’ would be an exaggeration because lots of the folks here know about it – just see their intense ‘been there done that’ look and sweaty shirts. I decided to check them out this morning. It is the morning of mid of April and the ground is already scorching hot in the morning sun so the park’s shady trails was a better alternative.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pE-ENp5rUUU/U1c_owDRfuI/AAAAAAAAFcE/QGUHxQY0C8o/s1600/20140423_085440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pE-ENp5rUUU/U1c_owDRfuI/AAAAAAAAFcE/QGUHxQY0C8o/s1600/20140423_085440.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was more taken ( aback ) by the flights of steps that the memorial stone.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZH3KyEQzxVg/U1c_o2xD7AI/AAAAAAAAFb8/bodBNoVPPDs/s1600/20140423_085505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZH3KyEQzxVg/U1c_o2xD7AI/AAAAAAAAFb8/bodBNoVPPDs/s1600/20140423_085505.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Story of WWII at Bkt Timah</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">I was among the weekday throng that came to enjoy the shade, well paved trails and songs of thrushes. It is a small park with not much of a signage to boot. The walk was easy and mostly flat except for some parts that are steep but nothing that a moderately healthy person can’t handle. I found a little footpath that led to a vantage point where I can look down at the quarry lake. Beyond that, in the direction of Bukit Timah Road, was a World War II memorial that sits right smack in between a flight of stairs leading to the transmitting tower. The ‘summit’ was uninteresting and I was more amused at the couple of Indian workers who were playing cricket in the carpark. There was work to be done but in between the wait, they had fun swatting a tennis ball with a wooden plank.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MM7_17VA1Lo/U1c_ps0BRSI/AAAAAAAAFcM/ECodenZow6o/s1600/20140423_085550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MM7_17VA1Lo/U1c_ps0BRSI/AAAAAAAAFcM/ECodenZow6o/s1600/20140423_085550.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Transmission tower on the knoll.</td></tr>
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<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WuB2H9D_CsI/U1c_qn0MyGI/AAAAAAAAFck/fMmUNV3PTOY/s1600/20140423_090805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WuB2H9D_CsI/U1c_qn0MyGI/AAAAAAAAFck/fMmUNV3PTOY/s1600/20140423_090805.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rest for the weary, if you don't mind the mozzies.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e34OcrCJuNA/U1c_rZbvVWI/AAAAAAAAFcw/C8swMraOxJ0/s1600/20140423_090811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e34OcrCJuNA/U1c_rZbvVWI/AAAAAAAAFcw/C8swMraOxJ0/s1600/20140423_090811.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have this pic everywhere. Just so besotted with the immensity of the granite wall.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I retraced my steps back the
trail to visit the pond. It is a deep pool of water accumulated over time in
the leftover quarry area. The trail that ended at a small cull-de-sac just in
front of the pond was filled with the music of a rather virtuosic<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>flautist. With the striated granite wall
before the shimmering pond bathed in Chinese music, it felt like a
scene plucked from a pugilistic movie.</span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eWLWw_ODCg4/U1dBRCyYlkI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/O0m5IYd678c/s1600/20140423_090834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eWLWw_ODCg4/U1dBRCyYlkI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/O0m5IYd678c/s1600/20140423_090834.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A neighbourhood park in the midst of a public housing estate. How cool is that !</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">It was a pleasant walk out of
the park. Its steep slopes, though paved with bricks, were somewhat demanding
on a body that is out of shape. Near where my walk terminated at the carpark, I
walked under the tembusu trees with air roots meters off the ground. I felt
much like a bride walking under an arch of branches and roots which got me into a
buoyant mood. A group of</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">people in deep
meditation</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">sat under a pavilion swaying gently
to soft music playing from a recorder in their midst. The scene completely
complemented the surreal atmosphere.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C0Zj7xLKz3I/U1dBRA91RHI/AAAAAAAAFeM/xJPxwAyjjoM/s1600/20140423_090950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C0Zj7xLKz3I/U1dBRA91RHI/AAAAAAAAFeM/xJPxwAyjjoM/s1600/20140423_090950.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sun breaks through. Just a month ago, this lake was half empty.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JveHLUcjTPk/U1dBRGHnRlI/AAAAAAAAFeU/9Mh_5MpLBrg/s1600/20140423_091327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JveHLUcjTPk/U1dBRGHnRlI/AAAAAAAAFeU/9Mh_5MpLBrg/s1600/20140423_091327.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j5NlFOBXfyo/U1dBRyhC5XI/AAAAAAAAFek/l_aeo-XBRYg/s1600/20140423_091427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j5NlFOBXfyo/U1dBRyhC5XI/AAAAAAAAFek/l_aeo-XBRYg/s1600/20140423_091427.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eerie air roots</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8N-TiKsnYwk/U1dBSNnVI4I/AAAAAAAAFeo/1sLLlXDN7lE/s1600/20140423_091507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8N-TiKsnYwk/U1dBSNnVI4I/AAAAAAAAFeo/1sLLlXDN7lE/s1600/20140423_091507.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Air roots, like a scene out of some horror show</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NzzgTKNndi4/U1dBTRUbPmI/AAAAAAAAFe8/4VRmeZGdins/s1600/20140423_091740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NzzgTKNndi4/U1dBTRUbPmI/AAAAAAAAFe8/4VRmeZGdins/s1600/20140423_091740.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gotta lose some weight</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z0weVPsrMeY/U1dBUdWhF6I/AAAAAAAAFfQ/etplHmVvanQ/s1600/20140423_091940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z0weVPsrMeY/U1dBUdWhF6I/AAAAAAAAFfQ/etplHmVvanQ/s1600/20140423_091940.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meditation time</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Bukit Batok Park may not have
fancy waterways but its slopes provide a good workout and its ( small )size means
that one cannot get lost anywhere. Amenities are located along the main park
thoroughfare and for those who are not sure if serious exercise is for them,
parking is available at both the Bkt Batok Rd and Bukit Timah section.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-86767338850276324722014-04-14T02:03:00.001-07:002014-04-14T02:05:03.557-07:0015 minute summit hike at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">I have been tasked
with organizing a walk on Labor Day and I wanted to understand the parking
situation at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">where our walk would most likely commence.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">To kill 2 birds with one stone, I used the
time to recee the Green Corridor and did a little hike up the hill.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It being a working day, the
crushing crowd is nowhere to be seen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Even so, the car park is 80% full and I took one of the coveted lot near
the park entrance. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g_UzITr-_P8/U0ufdcnAkMI/AAAAAAAAFX8/pxlF3eM3DvE/s1600/2014-04-14+08.23.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g_UzITr-_P8/U0ufdcnAkMI/AAAAAAAAFX8/pxlF3eM3DvE/s1600/2014-04-14+08.23.16.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parking is full, even on a weekday</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It took a little more than 15
minutes in my present state to reach the top of the hill. The immediate section
near the ranger was the most challenging to me. The walk was tricky because
overnight rain has made the steep leaf-littered slope<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>somewhat slippery.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2yKKY7MvMZk/U0ufeoMGMoI/AAAAAAAAFYI/MNaiLNXcfMk/s1600/2014-04-14+08.30.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2yKKY7MvMZk/U0ufeoMGMoI/AAAAAAAAFYI/MNaiLNXcfMk/s1600/2014-04-14+08.30.01.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not quite there yet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HY675Hzi6z0/U0ufepaOldI/AAAAAAAAFYQ/Zxgarp2mnE4/s1600/2014-04-14+08.30.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HY675Hzi6z0/U0ufepaOldI/AAAAAAAAFYQ/Zxgarp2mnE4/s1600/2014-04-14+08.30.13.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You will never walk alone, esp on the main track</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BJ6xo4zvpqQ/U0uff2Ei3TI/AAAAAAAAFYg/2_YP0_cJ96E/s1600/2014-04-14+08.31.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BJ6xo4zvpqQ/U0uff2Ei3TI/AAAAAAAAFYg/2_YP0_cJ96E/s1600/2014-04-14+08.31.02.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Resting station<span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span>
<!--EndFragment--></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3orfOC6iHOQ/U0uffiIaf3I/AAAAAAAAFYk/jC741mH-1SI/s1600/2014-04-14+08.31.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3orfOC6iHOQ/U0uffiIaf3I/AAAAAAAAFYk/jC741mH-1SI/s1600/2014-04-14+08.31.45.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sun dappled track</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">The jungle was very humid and I was totally soaked in sweat. Folks decades older passed me by completely absorbed in their mission to reach the summit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Light dappled track makes sifting patterns as the canopy of trees move in tandam with the breeze. I even spied a baby squirrel foraging clumsily on a low branch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I_keiUVVGN4/U0uffiBBfOI/AAAAAAAAFYY/Xm8CUhGA2b0/s1600/2014-04-14+08.32.36.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I_keiUVVGN4/U0uffiBBfOI/AAAAAAAAFYY/Xm8CUhGA2b0/s1600/2014-04-14+08.32.36.mp4" height="400" width="225" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o_u_1hlzudY/U0ufgv0mBfI/AAAAAAAAFYo/LkCzlGlD9zA/s1600/2014-04-14+08.33.23.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o_u_1hlzudY/U0ufgv0mBfI/AAAAAAAAFYo/LkCzlGlD9zA/s1600/2014-04-14+08.33.23.mp4" height="400" width="225" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PjyqmQNDiYY/U0ufhUhllMI/AAAAAAAAFY0/Ht29GC5_wh4/s1600/2014-04-14+08.34.31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PjyqmQNDiYY/U0ufhUhllMI/AAAAAAAAFY0/Ht29GC5_wh4/s1600/2014-04-14+08.34.31.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Are we there yet?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jr0sftpDEPQ/U0ufjlohCYI/AAAAAAAAFZE/9EDPbMfDICc/s1600/2014-04-14+08.42.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jr0sftpDEPQ/U0ufjlohCYI/AAAAAAAAFZE/9EDPbMfDICc/s1600/2014-04-14+08.42.30.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> I never cease being amazed at these trees</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bEmT5xYf1BY/U0ufk31N9PI/AAAAAAAAFZQ/df67hX_KYy0/s1600/2014-04-14+08.43.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bEmT5xYf1BY/U0ufk31N9PI/AAAAAAAAFZQ/df67hX_KYy0/s1600/2014-04-14+08.43.33.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our previous nature reserve</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wTMaEFFggmI/U0ufkvz0ymI/AAAAAAAAFZM/rgMYXrL_82E/s1600/2014-04-14+08.45.07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wTMaEFFggmI/U0ufkvz0ymI/AAAAAAAAFZM/rgMYXrL_82E/s1600/2014-04-14+08.45.07.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shemnu<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: medium; text-align: start;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Several paths branched out from the main walk. I checked out the trail nearest the summit which comprised mostly of steps borne out of the roots of trees. I had misgivings doing this by myself and chickened out 5 minutes after entering the unfamiliar trail. I backtracked to rejoin the main road which lead me to the summit in no time.</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g7zAJRE0SwY/U0ufl_qtV4I/AAAAAAAAFZc/E5BGzbGdkcw/s1600/2014-04-14+08.46.09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g7zAJRE0SwY/U0ufl_qtV4I/AAAAAAAAFZc/E5BGzbGdkcw/s1600/2014-04-14+08.46.09.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Secret Garden?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kF88qGi52vM/U0ufmHJ78YI/AAAAAAAAFZg/gQKRqTUwozE/s1600/2014-04-14+08.47.36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kF88qGi52vM/U0ufmHJ78YI/AAAAAAAAFZg/gQKRqTUwozE/s1600/2014-04-14+08.47.36.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jungle fall path- roots for stairs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-coH6FbjEWII/U0ufofKRE4I/AAAAAAAAFZs/bdINc3o3AiE/s1600/2014-04-14+08.56.59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-coH6FbjEWII/U0ufofKRE4I/AAAAAAAAFZs/bdINc3o3AiE/s1600/2014-04-14+08.56.59.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Been there, done that</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 19.09090805053711px;">Going down was a no brainer though some care was needed as I fought to prevent myself from going too fast down the hill. I still cannot understand why some folks would risk</span><span style="font-size: 19.09090805053711px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 19.09090805053711px;">their lives walking down the hill , trekked in slippers, high heels or go barefoot .</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 19.09090805053711px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g_A7WlMe6m0/U0ufpN7cQJI/AAAAAAAAFZ4/VMjm-wAt6rE/s1600/2014-04-14+09.06.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g_A7WlMe6m0/U0ufpN7cQJI/AAAAAAAAFZ4/VMjm-wAt6rE/s1600/2014-04-14+09.06.06.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Forest bath means walking in the forest and soaking wet in perspiration</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YBpunXZDnwE/U0ufpaMx2JI/AAAAAAAAFZ8/cbBcJcS-TbA/s1600/2014-04-14+09.07.58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YBpunXZDnwE/U0ufpaMx2JI/AAAAAAAAFZ8/cbBcJcS-TbA/s1600/2014-04-14+09.07.58.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sun drenched canopy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--QVHoDXCrrM/U0ufp60dCEI/AAAAAAAAFaQ/Z2ztZFISa_0/s1600/2014-04-14+09.22.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--QVHoDXCrrM/U0ufp60dCEI/AAAAAAAAFaQ/Z2ztZFISa_0/s1600/2014-04-14+09.22.14.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Road leading to the park offers parking for public holidays</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-18129792262380701902013-11-18T06:12:00.001-08:002014-04-22T22:19:25.828-07:00Kent Ridge Park , Hort Park <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BiExMegHoM8/UooUqdG9ogI/AAAAAAAACPY/DrjqzFP5wu8/s1600/20131118_102510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BiExMegHoM8/UooUqdG9ogI/AAAAAAAACPY/DrjqzFP5wu8/s640/20131118_102510.jpg" height="361" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pasir Panjang Terminal , from Kent Ridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: 16pt;">It has been a soggy November but this morning offers a rare window of opportunity for a rain-free walk in the park. Seize the day I did and after depositing the little one at Science Hub, it was me-time at the nearby Kent Ridge Park, where Bukit Chandu is.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: 16pt;">The park is not exactly accessible by public transport. The nearest bus stop is located at Pasir Panjang Road which demands a very steep climb.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2EVC7HJBumw/UooWPlVVqTI/AAAAAAAACQg/e69_pHuHCko/s1600/20131118_114000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2EVC7HJBumw/UooWPlVVqTI/AAAAAAAACQg/e69_pHuHCko/s640/20131118_114000.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">A walk in the ( Kent Ridge ) Park</td></tr>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: 16pt;">I parked the car at car park B, steps from Kent Ridge Park’s lookout point. Facing west, I took in Pasir Panjang Terminal and the western sea, partially obscured by tree tops. 10.30am is a decent time for a nice , clear photo as the Terminal and sea was lit up by the morning sun.</span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ig_BGFhAgwE/UooWPt_VK-I/AAAAAAAACQk/jRLvH0aYIKU/s1600/20131118_113536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ig_BGFhAgwE/UooWPt_VK-I/AAAAAAAACQk/jRLvH0aYIKU/s640/20131118_113536.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Trees, trees and more trees at the canopy walk</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Apple Chancery";">South of the lookout point, a lush
avenue of trees led to the canopy walk and Bkt Chandu. The canopy walk is one
of Nparks works that links Kent Ridge to the Southern tip of Singapore, Mount
Faber. The walk, a 20m odd boardwalk with lookout points was immaculately
maintained, free of slippery leaves and debris. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-daGlEhKCycE/UooWPpFimEI/AAAAAAAACQc/C6OY1T99WRA/s1600/20131118_113629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-daGlEhKCycE/UooWPpFimEI/AAAAAAAACQc/C6OY1T99WRA/s640/20131118_113629.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Decisions, decisions, decisions<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7m987ZPf82k/UooWQ3jQhoI/AAAAAAAACQ4/b3Iw2vsgBlk/s1600/20131118_114051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7m987ZPf82k/UooWQ3jQhoI/AAAAAAAACQ4/b3Iw2vsgBlk/s640/20131118_114051.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kent Ridge Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EL42CzcOq74/UooWQzBO2cI/AAAAAAAACQ0/PuKKCRFMGek/s1600/20131118_114226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EL42CzcOq74/UooWQzBO2cI/AAAAAAAACQ0/PuKKCRFMGek/s640/20131118_114226.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near Kent Ridge lookout point</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Apple Chancery";">The boardwalk ended at the entrance of
Bukit Chandu, a heritage point that witnessed fierce fighting between the local
freedom fighters and the Japanese in WWII. Bukit Chandu was closed because
it<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>was a Monday but a nearby plaque gave
a vivid account of the battle which, as history knows, we lost.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Apple Chancery";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I9r_qyH1pJY/Uooa0EcshNI/AAAAAAAACRY/u_WnUrRsGSE/s1600/20131118_112204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I9r_qyH1pJY/Uooa0EcshNI/AAAAAAAACRY/u_WnUrRsGSE/s640/20131118_112204.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hort's own Lombard Street</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Apple Chancery";">At this point, a short slight of stairs
led to a Lombard Street like walk path that opens up to the nursery at Hort
Park. Hort Park was stately even at the 11 am sun, with a huge swath of green
that housed many greenhouses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Apple Chancery";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ElYSkhP6uHg/UooUtZMiH_I/AAAAAAAACQM/RiMUrJlALhQ/s1600/20131118_111129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ElYSkhP6uHg/UooUtZMiH_I/AAAAAAAACQM/RiMUrJlALhQ/s640/20131118_111129.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">A little of Botanic Gardens, no ?<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Apple Chancery";">I
especially recommend the community farm that grows dwarf versions of every
possible herbs and vegetables. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was
a small playground which was too hot to enjoy in the noon sun.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pzBdd_Po8wI/UooUr4IAifI/AAAAAAAACPw/QNYbXRhb-t8/s1600/20131118_110836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pzBdd_Po8wI/UooUr4IAifI/AAAAAAAACPw/QNYbXRhb-t8/s640/20131118_110836.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Community farm at Hort<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Apple Chancery";">Vineyards the Restaurant is located the
end of the landscaped garden. At this point, I refreshed myself at the public
amenities ( including chilled water cooler ). Hort Park, like Botanic Gardens
and the zoo, has one of the nicest, eco-friendly public washrooms in Singapore
which I highly recommend.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jk0ykyYlxmw/UooUqURt42I/AAAAAAAACPg/fwr2umK6kbQ/s1600/20131118_105947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jk0ykyYlxmw/UooUqURt42I/AAAAAAAACPg/fwr2umK6kbQ/s640/20131118_105947.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">As seen from Vineyard at Hort Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6xXDkT05znQ/UooUroxvfoI/AAAAAAAACP4/ro7sAzNd-Hs/s1600/20131118_110206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6xXDkT05znQ/UooUroxvfoI/AAAAAAAACP4/ro7sAzNd-Hs/s640/20131118_110206.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Mozaic murals, at Vineyard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Apple Chancery";">The total distance from Kent Ridge Park
to Hort Park is about 1.5 km which takes a leisurely 1 hour, more if you are a
chronic shutterbug. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n29LxbqPW68/UooUtAS9dSI/AAAAAAAACQI/e_p1rj9OhbI/s1600/20131118_111240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n29LxbqPW68/UooUtAS9dSI/AAAAAAAACQI/e_p1rj9OhbI/s640/20131118_111240.jpg" height="640" style="cursor: move;" width="360" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;">
Greenhouse at Hort, where testbeds of plants are housed</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Apple Chancery";">I backtracked my way uphill from Hort to
Kent Ridge. Between the stone steps and canopy walk up to Kent Ridge , I much
prefer the scenic canopy walk. Unless I am in a hurry, the steps look
murderously unending all the way to the top. Not to forget, there’s not much of
a view using the stairs up too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Apple Chancery";">All in all,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the 3 km walk gives a good summary to the
area which is impossible to navigate by car. If these parks have a personality,
I would think Hort is stately as Kent Ridge is friendly. Much as Hort is beautifully
manicured, I prefer the shadier Kent Ridge. Though the narrow park is flanked
by Normantan and Pasir<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Panjang, it
offers great views and is cooler because of the trees.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XrTK9TW_0No/UooUqdcjerI/AAAAAAAACPc/0CxjcQ-PU6M/s1600/20131118_102729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XrTK9TW_0No/UooUqdcjerI/AAAAAAAACPc/0CxjcQ-PU6M/s640/20131118_102729.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Normanton Park, from Kent Rdge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lruF1ycCdJc/UooWSXR-gCI/AAAAAAAACRM/dUbHyQNzCFw/s1600/20131118_114450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lruF1ycCdJc/UooWSXR-gCI/AAAAAAAACRM/dUbHyQNzCFw/s640/20131118_114450.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Pasir Panjang at noon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Chalkduster; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Apple Chancery";">Either end of the walk, there’s not much
in the way of drinks, except for a vending machine and water cooler. Bring
along a bottle of cold water because the Singapore sun does a good job of
sizzling you up at any time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-54299192405724352822013-10-11T22:53:00.000-07:002013-10-11T23:11:09.065-07:00Waterway Park @ Ponggol – Sept 2013<iframe frameborder="0" height="700" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com.sg/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=200786884274660620326.0004e67c13042abe530c5&ie=UTF8&t=m&ll=1.411407,103.903852&spn=0.0139,0.011651&output=embed" width="850"></iframe><br />
<small>View <a href="https://maps.google.com.sg/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=200786884274660620326.0004e67c13042abe530c5&ie=UTF8&t=m&ll=1.411407,103.903852&spn=0.0139,0.011651&source=embed" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">Waterway@Ponggol</a> in a larger map</small>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gjjVgUPN5iY/Ula0stVerVI/AAAAAAAACJs/qJEm5eRNAuA/s1600/IMG_3312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gjjVgUPN5iY/Ula0stVerVI/AAAAAAAACJs/qJEm5eRNAuA/s640/IMG_3312.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ponggol shore</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It has been wet, wet,wet for
many days straight so this outing was one executed in faith. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our place of interest was Ponggol Waterway Park
, Singapore’s northern suburb, located at the north eastern tip of
Singapore.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">It was a long way from where we are in the west. Traveling counter to peak hour traffic gave me a sort of sadistic satisfaction as I see cars crawling on the major expressways in the direction to city. Even so, from PIE to TPE via Mandai Road, it still took us a dreary 40 odd minutes which is already considered a modest speed. We were so close to joining the morning madness where SLE splits into TPE and CTE. Pity the folks who pay almost $7 in their daily commute to town at a crawling pace.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />
</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qypmRAiK4_I/Ula0lzZHsMI/AAAAAAAACJU/iVSa4NpSr8A/s1600/IMG_3310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qypmRAiK4_I/Ula0lzZHsMI/AAAAAAAACJU/iVSa4NpSr8A/s640/IMG_3310.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ponggol jetty</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">After we got off TPE exit 9,
it was all the way north on Ponggol Road ending at OBS near the Ponggol
jetty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am no stranger to the voice of
the forest since home for me is at the city’s fringe near the base of
Singapore’s highest ‘peak’ surrounded by nature reserves and parks. But Ponggol
Park blows me over, because the space was liberating. Joggers were scarce and
what human activities there were was confined to retired uncles with their
fishing rods and angling paraphernalia. The biggest difference between the park
at Ponggol and that at Bukit Timah was the sound of waves lapping on the narrow
shore around Ponggol jetty. What could<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
say ? Priceless !<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7HLXiZDmAak/Ula2YcQq3tI/AAAAAAAACKk/1iWpMAknVTY/s1600/IMG_3328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7HLXiZDmAak/Ula2YcQq3tI/AAAAAAAACKk/1iWpMAknVTY/s640/IMG_3328.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">This public place is good enough for wedding photos</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">At this point of writing,
Watertown construction was still underway but in a couple of year’s time, the
waterfront will be fronted by highrise condos with million dollar views of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pasir Gudang and Straits of Johor. What a
pity only a privilege bunch will have the best part of the precious seafront.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">9.45 am : We parked at an
asphalt area where the few visitors who parked had exercised civic consciousness
with their neat parking. At our right
was a cluster of cute restaurants ( Curry Gardenn and Bacon and Booze ).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> But u</span>nfortunately, they are not open on Mondays.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We took a short walk to the lookout
point facing the Straits. A tiny police post operated out from under the
lookout point. At least 2 police officers were on the watch ( for unauthorized entry into Singapore ?). Anyway, the patrol
car nearby provided much assurance to park users in the very quiet park.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qGbuJvPH3ys/Ula2YoM5OHI/AAAAAAAACKo/kbEkyaTWwbw/s1600/IMG_3339.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 19.09090805053711px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qGbuJvPH3ys/Ula2YoM5OHI/AAAAAAAACKo/kbEkyaTWwbw/s640/IMG_3339.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Egret on the lookout!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xrYx-2v2Hco/Uljg2Qx-38I/AAAAAAAACMw/taHHoS7qpPA/s1600/IMG_3344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xrYx-2v2Hco/Uljg2Qx-38I/AAAAAAAACMw/taHHoS7qpPA/s640/IMG_3344.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nothing will dislodge the egret perched there for a much needed rest!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zQj0ob9nCMQ/Uljg2C4-6CI/AAAAAAAACMs/tUVMeaXTrJQ/s1600/IMG_3346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zQj0ob9nCMQ/Uljg2C4-6CI/AAAAAAAACMs/tUVMeaXTrJQ/s640/IMG_3346.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clean beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Hubs took photos, as usual ,
while the attention monger in me wanted myself in every picture possible.
Nature and open space has a way of working on me and I became especially
animated. There is nothing not to give thanks for – the mangrove plants still
heavy with dew, the clear sand and clean water despite the port and ship
vessels across and kingfishers of the most brilliant turquoise flitting from
tree to tree when disturbed by my boisterous excitement. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<tr><td><div style="margin: 0px;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hhzw9Enbyro/Ula0vJomTGI/AAAAAAAACKA/CBSph6LJOuk/s1600/IMG_3315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hhzw9Enbyro/Ula0vJomTGI/AAAAAAAACKA/CBSph6LJOuk/s640/IMG_3315.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; padding-top: 4px;"><div style="margin: 0px;">
Mangrove flower</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TSKVd-Uh99U/Ula3kJYMQCI/AAAAAAAACK4/PknUHwIoQXg/s1600/IMG_3370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TSKVd-Uh99U/Ula3kJYMQCI/AAAAAAAACK4/PknUHwIoQXg/s640/IMG_3370.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lotus pond near the public toilet !</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">By 10.30 am and not quite noon, it was already sizzling
hot though the sky was slightly overcast. Coney Island, now called Pulau Serangoon
, still looks forested despite the developments across the waters at Ponggol’s
end. I visited the island while it was still called Coney Island with classmates
some 3 decades ago. Memories of that gathering is hazy , for all I remembered was good friends and even better food ) but it still
gives warm fuzzy memories of days gone by.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-family: Times; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; orphans: auto; padding: 6px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sDEiVy_j_14/Ula00CLapfI/AAAAAAAACKI/4ZlqNuwUB9M/s1600/IMG_3318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sDEiVy_j_14/Ula00CLapfI/AAAAAAAACKI/4ZlqNuwUB9M/s640/IMG_3318.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;">
Johor across</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A couple of speedboats zipped
back and forth, overtaking a police sea patrol boat that was barely making
waves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On a red marine buoy, a heron
perched precariously on the bobbing device with total disregard for the activities around it.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p4CiyCMyk_g/Ula6lag4c1I/AAAAAAAACLM/21XUYRUq3cg/s1600/IMG_3382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p4CiyCMyk_g/Ula6lag4c1I/AAAAAAAACLM/21XUYRUq3cg/s640/IMG_3382.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waterpark </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--aRRSa22d3Q/Ula6ke6MZCI/AAAAAAAACLE/T_eY5rkTV6k/s1600/IMG_3393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--aRRSa22d3Q/Ula6ke6MZCI/AAAAAAAACLE/T_eY5rkTV6k/s640/IMG_3393.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waterpark</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We headed down to Waterway Park,
a minute’s drive down Ponggol Rd. The park has a manmade lake that is fed by Sungei
Serangoon via manmade waterway / canal
that snakes past the yet to be built housing estate and light rail station.
This is Singapore’s public housing at its best, incorporating flats along the
island park connectors, wth water bodies and parks as part of its next generation public
housing landscape. For foreigners not in the know, they will find it
incredulous that so much expense is put into elevating the standard of living in
public housing.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hayI6EEEY5E/Ula8W9Ff0yI/AAAAAAAACLY/1bLPnWRw23E/s1600/IMG_3397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hayI6EEEY5E/Ula8W9Ff0yI/AAAAAAAACLY/1bLPnWRw23E/s640/IMG_3397.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It was not always this calm. Just
a couple of weeks earlier, the ST Run in the Park had thousands of people pounding down the Waterpark, Sungei Serangoon and<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>the coastal front. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RRav7WiHZfw/Ula8XDBVpvI/AAAAAAAACLc/_AVhe2N69S4/s1600/IMG_3417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RRav7WiHZfw/Ula8XDBVpvI/AAAAAAAACLc/_AVhe2N69S4/s640/IMG_3417.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manicured path. A shame there should be litter nearby.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We explored the Kelong
Bridge, its structure resembling the legs of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>floating kelongs that dotted the coast decades ago. On both banks of
the Waterway, cycling paths and pedestrian footway form an endless loop round
park and estate. It is possible to make a 15 km loop simply by walking on the
footpaths hugging coast or river. Nparks did an amazing job planting flowering
plants, reeds, mangrove and many others that reflected the former ecosystem of
the old Ponggol Kampong/village.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My only
grouse was that the fish tail palm and fox tail palm were a little out of place
because they did not reflect Ponggol's earlier landscape.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EDe7IRKwgQI/Uljf1NvtU-I/AAAAAAAACMg/LCHm3RzubFg/s1600/IMG_3384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EDe7IRKwgQI/Uljf1NvtU-I/AAAAAAAACMg/LCHm3RzubFg/s640/IMG_3384.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waterway at Ponggol. Thousands of flats yet to built.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The walkways
though beautiful and wide were too carefully manicured, lacking spontaneity.
However , on a scale of 10, I would give the park an 8 for the elaborate bridges
that bring joggers from one bank to the other every few hundred meters or so.
What’s more, there are public conveniences in the middle of the park that takes
its theme from the flora and fauna around it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The last part of the walk at
the WaterPark was an<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>unexpected little
adventure. Unable to bear the noon sun, I terminated the walk along the
footpath opposite Ponggol MRT station. For the second time in a month, I ‘scaled’
the large slope leading to road level.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>lookout point at Ponggol Walk was situated
opposite the train station but sadly the view was lacking.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cx71-OIcLmo/Ula92z1mN8I/AAAAAAAACLs/21xKPwBDHEo/s1600/IMG_3445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cx71-OIcLmo/Ula92z1mN8I/AAAAAAAACLs/21xKPwBDHEo/s640/IMG_3445.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L7e-64Egids/Ula99LabGyI/AAAAAAAACL8/iN-CahqJUJk/s1600/IMG_3446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L7e-64Egids/Ula99LabGyI/AAAAAAAACL8/iN-CahqJUJk/s640/IMG_3446.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Past Watertown condo ( under
construction ), we walked along<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ponggol
Central, Ponggol Place and Ponggol Drive past<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Ponggol View Primary School.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beyond
that, an even more modern Fo Guang Shan temple matched HDB’s uber modern public
housing at Treelodge. Stone caricatures dotted the perimeter of the temple’s
elevated compound. Hubs was tall enough to capture the adorable stone monks
that were contemplating over chess or fetching water from a stony well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vT6ncGBHnug/Ula98NU11RI/AAAAAAAACL0/3_qMFun3riw/s1600/IMG_3443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vT6ncGBHnug/Ula98NU11RI/AAAAAAAACL0/3_qMFun3riw/s640/IMG_3443.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-296EJg5Wlsc/Ula98bBaXdI/AAAAAAAACL4/hhK3XWWFlrM/s1600/IMG_3444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-296EJg5Wlsc/Ula98bBaXdI/AAAAAAAACL4/hhK3XWWFlrM/s640/IMG_3444.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">All too soon, we ended at
Ponggol Rd, where our car was parked along the roadside. The walk provided a
good balance of scenery – from sea to lake, from coast to tiled footpath and
mangrove to palms. It is no Gardens By the Bay but still, I am full of
gratitude that such a beautiful place beyond the reach of tourist exists for
the common man where he lives.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G6NqnTYrU1U/Ulje6d6yxjI/AAAAAAAACMU/jHHpu2u9HTI/s1600/IMG_3439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G6NqnTYrU1U/Ulje6d6yxjI/AAAAAAAACMU/jHHpu2u9HTI/s640/IMG_3439.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"></span></div>
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The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-46191877947178487312013-09-17T01:32:00.002-07:002013-09-17T02:40:35.704-07:00June 2013 - Walking the rail corridor from Bukit Timah hill to Buona Vista<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com.sg/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=200786884274660620326.0004e66ebdd36e3681d3d&ie=UTF8&t=m&ll=1.328068,103.783504&spn=0.036082,0.015106&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small>View <a href="https://maps.google.com.sg/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=200786884274660620326.0004e66ebdd36e3681d3d&ie=UTF8&t=m&ll=1.328068,103.783504&spn=0.036082,0.015106&source=embed" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">Bukit Timah trek to Buona Vista - rail corridor </a> in a larger map</small>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">After years of negotiation,
the Singapore government has finally taken over the more than 25km strip of land which links Singapore’s south at Tanjong Pagar Station
to Woodlands that was Malaysia’s in a historic land swap. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">It has been more than a year
since this rail corridor has been stripped of its sleepers. After the initial excitement where almost
everyone has descended on this corridor to walk, take photos and bike, the
former railway is finally undergoing a recuperation period. Grass has grown on the
parts where sleepers previously laid </span><span style="font-size: 16pt;">and vegetation has encroached into the space where trains used to run. Had it not been for NEA’s maintenance, there would not have been any trace of the former railway tracks.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt;">Starting from Bukit Timah :<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt;">We chose a weekday to check out the rail corridor in order to avoid the bikers and joggers who were constantly jostling for space with each other. From home, it was a kilometer walk to our starting point at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve at Hindhede Road. Hubs and I half crawled and climbed up the steep slope that led to the railway behind The Mondrian, clutching on tufts of overgrown grass.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kXsEMlaGjbU/UjXdVpjL2zI/AAAAAAAACE0/3hQF3Kvmb78/s1600/2013-08-21+09.40.09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kXsEMlaGjbU/UjXdVpjL2zI/AAAAAAAACE0/3hQF3Kvmb78/s400/2013-08-21+09.40.09.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We spied condos at the beginning of our trek. This point provides a chicken out if the going gets tough.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aKRWAm4Ej-s/UjXdV0Tw9NI/AAAAAAAACE4/mrsnWEcLEww/s1600/2013-08-21+09.40.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aKRWAm4Ej-s/UjXdV0Tw9NI/AAAAAAAACE4/mrsnWEcLEww/s400/2013-08-21+09.40.26.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This sandy part was where the railway formerly ran</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">It was not the best spot to
start our trek because there was no obvious trail or clearing leading to the tracks. A better access point
would be the other side of the railway bridge but this we only
discovered at a second trekking session a week later.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Tall grass obscured the
sounds and sights from Bukit Timah Road once we were on the former track. The black rail bridge is only the width of
Hindhede Road below, but it is a poignant reminder that not too long ago,
trains chugged along it to Malaysia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">We turned north and walked on
the grass where ballast </span><span style="font-size: 20.909090042114258px;">previously </span><span style="font-size: 16pt;">(
granite bed for sleepers ) lie. This makes walking easier without the risk of twisted ankles. Bukit Timah Road flanked our right while the boundary of the
nature reserve flanked our left. A couple of monkeys ignored us because we did not carry plastic bags which they
associate with food.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7RbubKL2tng/UjXdXjuJ-RI/AAAAAAAACFM/qAt7GgCXZzY/s1600/2013-08-21+09.42.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7RbubKL2tng/UjXdXjuJ-RI/AAAAAAAACFM/qAt7GgCXZzY/s400/2013-08-21+09.42.47.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Near Dunearn and Bukit Timah junction. Standing on what was previously sleepers.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">We walked on the green
corridor that ran under the PIE turnoff from Bukit Timah Road. Graffiti artists
had visited and left their indelible, artistic marks on the
concrete walls. Tyre sounds boomed above our heads and colorful graffiti on
both sides reminded me of some forgotten place in LA.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">At Rifle Range Road, the trek
opened up to a clearing. It was almost road level and a pathway provided access to
the bus stop on our right. Garden Vista was just before us and it was one section
that is closest to ‘human civilization’. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dY1AUz6HBG4/UjXeolZR4aI/AAAAAAAACFg/7AuSF0CXzhg/s1600/2013-08-21+09.44.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dY1AUz6HBG4/UjXeolZR4aI/AAAAAAAACFg/7AuSF0CXzhg/s400/2013-08-21+09.44.40.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Over Dunearn Road and the canal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">The rail bridge over Dunearn
Road and Bukit Timah Road was one of the longest on our trek. I like this
section because the enormity of the
black truss gives a feeling of reliability
and security. At this juncture, we traipsed carefully over the remaining sleepers, some
made of concrete and others of wood. The manufacturer’s imprint on the
fasteners connecting the track to the sleepers was still visible.</span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HKgivIZqhhg/UjXenD5ROeI/AAAAAAAACFY/T2VzGl4xQLE/s1600/2013-08-21+09.46.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HKgivIZqhhg/UjXenD5ROeI/AAAAAAAACFY/T2VzGl4xQLE/s400/2013-08-21+09.46.26.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Okay , we made the first km. Time to celebrate.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ojTS1Ou1GmQ/UjXep04gd4I/AAAAAAAACF0/yi6xUye0KsU/s1600/2013-08-21+09.51.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ojTS1Ou1GmQ/UjXep04gd4I/AAAAAAAACF0/yi6xUye0KsU/s400/2013-08-21+09.51.33.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bukit Timah Signalling Station</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ExLmzwqoRao/UjXeshD-nxI/AAAAAAAACGI/4WrFsa3C1hk/s1600/2013-08-21+09.51.57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ExLmzwqoRao/UjXeshD-nxI/AAAAAAAACGI/4WrFsa3C1hk/s400/2013-08-21+09.51.57.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now a property of SLA </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hRGNbnKgbQE/UjXesYtNNxI/AAAAAAAACGA/X-fSXKafx5Y/s1600/2013-08-21+09.53.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hRGNbnKgbQE/UjXesYtNNxI/AAAAAAAACGA/X-fSXKafx5Y/s400/2013-08-21+09.53.16.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This sign must have meant a lot to different people over the past </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9WT6PtN6BO0/UjXev2Z85MI/AAAAAAAACGg/auYoua6mzwU/s1600/2013-08-21+09.54.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9WT6PtN6BO0/UjXev2Z85MI/AAAAAAAACGg/auYoua6mzwU/s400/2013-08-21+09.54.28.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sections of rails at the signaling stations are called blocks.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">At the other end of the
bridge stood the defunct Bukit Timah signalling station. This section forms the
broadest part of the corridor, apart from the terminal at Tanjong Pagar. The sounds of the city ebbed and
cries of birds took over time and space. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B26E-vUf0yM/UjXeu0sNdXI/AAAAAAAACGU/tXET_LZyXhc/s1600/2013-08-21+09.54.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B26E-vUf0yM/UjXeu0sNdXI/AAAAAAAACGU/tXET_LZyXhc/s400/2013-08-21+09.54.18.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You won't believe it is meters away from Clementi Road.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">We could see parts of King
Albert Lodge and The Sterling at our right and left but what caught our
attention was this ostensibly huge bungalow </span><span style="font-size: 20.909090042114258px;">overlooking the rail blocks </span><span style="font-size: 16pt;">and the unused signalling house . There were
many fruiting banana trees in the clearing that got me planning my next visit so
that I can harvest the fruit.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sovUYshOD1s/UjXg03i852I/AAAAAAAACGs/s0yWfkCFkhU/s1600/2013-08-21+09.58.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sovUYshOD1s/UjXg03i852I/AAAAAAAACGs/s0yWfkCFkhU/s400/2013-08-21+09.58.46.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Morning! Glory!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Beyond this clearing, the
landscape resumed to a narrow corridor of grass now growing over the former ballast. A patch of blue and purple morning glory
carpeted the floor, attracting butterflies and sunbirds. The last time I saw so
many morning glory was many decades ago on the fence of my primary school.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sqOLRf2ZW1E/UjXg1732cpI/AAAAAAAACG4/AIBgciaZixw/s1600/2013-08-21+09.59.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sqOLRf2ZW1E/UjXg1732cpI/AAAAAAAACG4/AIBgciaZixw/s400/2013-08-21+09.59.10.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Immediately beyond Bukit Timah Signalling Station, off SIM</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7yphII0EvAc/UjXg1uoD-FI/AAAAAAAACG0/GqsGo247mDs/s1600/2013-08-21+10.04.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7yphII0EvAc/UjXg1uoD-FI/AAAAAAAACG0/GqsGo247mDs/s400/2013-08-21+10.04.21.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Take a break! Phew!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">A lady walking her Labrador
passed us by, followed by a jogger at the stretch near SIM at Clementi Road.
Being close to nature do wonders to people and we greeted each other cheerfully. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">I was particular thrilled to
walk over the Pandan Canal. For years, I would peer at the windy canal from
Clementi Road, wondering where it led beyond. This day I had my curiosity
satisfied.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FHuA3jA6nFE/UjXg33Ed6sI/AAAAAAAACHM/Nxg6YmDPu8M/s1600/2013-08-21+10.04.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FHuA3jA6nFE/UjXg33Ed6sI/AAAAAAAACHM/Nxg6YmDPu8M/s400/2013-08-21+10.04.30.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Every section actually looks different, contrary to what it seems here.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">At the section of the trek
near Clementi and Pandan Road, things got a little muddy. Rivulets of water near the undergrowth streamed here and there, making walking even on a sunny day a messy affair. We were
lucky no cross country bikers were around this 5 m stretch to fight for space
with us or we would end up in a muddy mess.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CpkNhIrsKIs/UjXg3k6aBcI/AAAAAAAACHE/E0daCIzzzbI/s1600/2013-08-21+10.04.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CpkNhIrsKIs/UjXg3k6aBcI/AAAAAAAACHE/E0daCIzzzbI/s400/2013-08-21+10.04.45.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">There! I always wanted to snoop the 'jungle' behind Clementi Road. Now I get my wish.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">The trek led us under a
service road that serves Holland Road. It was not a pretty section because the space was only enough for the train.
Vehicular sounds became more pronounced as we walked towards Holland Road above
us. At Holland Green, a jogging path ran parallel to the trek for a couple of
meters before parting ways.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TP5pPcqjzVE/UjXh0Utv7tI/AAAAAAAACHY/thbZ0VikLfA/s1600/2013-08-21+09.47.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TP5pPcqjzVE/UjXh0Utv7tI/AAAAAAAACHY/thbZ0VikLfA/s640/2013-08-21+09.47.27.jpg" width="361" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Truss </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WKl67JPRZ2I/UjXh2STx-KI/AAAAAAAACHo/7YdWDIhQbBw/s1600/2013-08-21+10.10.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WKl67JPRZ2I/UjXh2STx-KI/AAAAAAAACHo/7YdWDIhQbBw/s400/2013-08-21+10.10.39.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near Pandan Canal, off Clementi Rd</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FujUj2lvaBk/UjXh3vcmu-I/AAAAAAAACH4/bXaphlgyYyA/s1600/2013-08-21+10.19.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FujUj2lvaBk/UjXh3vcmu-I/AAAAAAAACH4/bXaphlgyYyA/s400/2013-08-21+10.19.12.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holland Rd above. We just navigated over the muddiest stretch of the walk.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ftNRDWwmABs/UjXh5CQsZ-I/AAAAAAAACIA/AnqvqnfkX_0/s1600/2013-08-21+10.20.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ftNRDWwmABs/UjXh5CQsZ-I/AAAAAAAACIA/AnqvqnfkX_0/s400/2013-08-21+10.20.14.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The space that could accommodate a train</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">After the next underpass, we
heard the school bells of Henry Park Primary School at our right. Caltex
Station was at our left but all I could think of was Cold Storage behind the
petrol kiosk where a cold drink or popsicle would be so possible. We were still
below road level and the steep slopes pregnant with bushes made going up
impossible. Now at 11 am, I was drying up inside and out. It made admiring the
green corridor difficult.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">We oohed and aahed at the
back of huge houses with lush gardens. Some pockets of backyards were
surreptitiously cordoned off as extended personal gardens in the days of the Malaysian
rail. Hmm, I wonder what the Land Tax folks think.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o0D5azGPoo0/UjXh6Fq4_GI/AAAAAAAACII/vP03DYWGcGU/s1600/2013-08-21+10.31.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o0D5azGPoo0/UjXh6Fq4_GI/AAAAAAAACII/vP03DYWGcGU/s400/2013-08-21+10.31.38.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Nearing the main thoroughfare at Holland Road.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">At Bouna Vista Road, I
decided to call an end to our walk. The last few hundred meters after Henry Park Primary School was flanked
by high fence ( Ulu Pandan Community Center on our right and houses on our left
). I felt claustrophobic and hemmed in especially when the track is mostly below road level even though we were out in the sun and the high fences on both sides did not help either. Bouna Vista provided the first break and with hub’s help, I overcame the slope and a drain to find myself in the
middle of Bouna Vista Road facing the Civil Service College.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">By then it was almost high
noon. We made our way to The Star where we rewarded ourselves with a long cool
drink and a pig-out at the hawker center.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">In the 2 hours, we covered a
modest distance of about 6 km. It was an undulated walk and other than the
muddy section near Holland Park, was simply a walk in the park.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<!--EndFragment-->The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-21670523184575141762010-10-31T07:35:00.000-07:002010-10-31T20:50:07.114-07:00Walkabout 30/10/2010 deepavali at Little India<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TMw8tsJeTNI/AAAAAAAALXU/3XklzK3o0Io/s720/IMG_2246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TMw8tsJeTNI/AAAAAAAALXU/3XklzK3o0Io/s320/IMG_2246.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beginning of Little India at Serangoon.Deepavali is one week away.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I have slightly less than 2 hours to burn this afternoon and this time was meaningful spent at the Deepavali fare at Little India.</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TMw-MUNM5iI/AAAAAAAALZw/J7JzhicmU88/s320/IMG_2265.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Jewel boxes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>From Dhoby Ghaut, it was an easy one stop train ride to Little India. 5 minutes later, from exit C of the station, purpose bound, P and I zoomed towards the main thoroughfare - Tekka market and the fare grounds opposite it, in search of excitement.</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TMw-MUNM5iI/AAAAAAAALZw/J7JzhicmU88/s720/IMG_2265.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TMw-44TopAI/AAAAAAAALas/hdME0H_XTs8/s400/IMG_2274.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="266" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elephant good luck charms for Indians</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The shopping spirit almost overcame me and I summoned every ounce of self restraint to tear myself away from the trinkets stores just mere steps from the MRT exit. Muruku sold for the festival reminded me that I have yet to take my tea break for the day.</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TMw-44TopAI/AAAAAAAALas/hdME0H_XTs8/s512/IMG_2274.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div>I checked out the gold at the well patronized gold smith shops and couldn't help but winced at the hefty price of the yellow mineral. At more than SGD 65 per gram, I wonder how many Indian families can afford the gold dowry for their daughters.</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TMw9S4qtgeI/AAAAAAAALYA/3DIS5XyjEmk/s320/IMG_2253.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More decorative stuff for the home</td></tr>
</tbody></table><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TMw9S4qtgeI/AAAAAAAALYA/3DIS5XyjEmk/s1600/IMG_2253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>While I agonized over the price of gold, P recorded Serangoon Road on film. Satisfied, we made our way to Tekka mall, now called the Verge. Whatever it is called now, the mall still operates at half strength with human traffic skirting around the building.</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TMw9jlEG3UI/AAAAAAAALYk/NtDY3AUJocw/s1600/IMG_2257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TMw9jlEG3UI/AAAAAAAALYk/NtDY3AUJocw/s320/IMG_2257.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="213" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bells to ward off bad luck ?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Some uninspiring coffee at the Banquet food court later, it is time to check out the fare grounds. Hastings road has been totally transformed into a compact tented market throbbing with music and brimming with merchandise. The transactions of shops from both sides of the lane spilled onto makeshift stalls set up under the tent. Giddying amounts of trinkets, festive lights, ceremonial pots, snacks and incense dazzled before us. I was ready to jive with the drum beats from speakers hanging overhead. In sensory frenzy, I commanded P to take pictures here, here, there and everywhere, worried that this moment of pleasure will soon be washed away by the impending clouds looming beyond the tents.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TMw9o8L7F_I/AAAAAAAALYs/P6psA3yUlP0/s320/IMG_2258.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peacocks in the air</td></tr>
</tbody></table><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TMw9o8L7F_I/AAAAAAAALYs/P6psA3yUlP0/s1600/IMG_2258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Tenacity helped me checked out prices of so many merchandise, from lockets, pashima scarves to cookies, a feat when all Indian communities has descended upon this 50 meters of space. I ended up with 4 packs of crispy snacks, 3 more than originally intended, 1 garland of flowers with another garland free ( Indians love me ! ) and some sundry from a provision shop, as we emerged soaked in incense and sweat. </div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TMw_JkScNyI/AAAAAAAALbE/MHSnl8WTGrQ/s320/IMG_2277.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The flower stall where I got my garland</td></tr>
</tbody></table><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TMw_JkScNyI/AAAAAAAALbE/MHSnl8WTGrQ/s720/IMG_2277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>A mini cultural exchange happened at the flower stall as an Indian lady gave me a mini lesson on the types of flowers used for offerings. For that moment, I felt totally Singaporean, sisterhood bounded by a common language and that little space we shared. It was awesome !</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TMw_Vdk3lYI/AAAAAAAALbc/b98NbyknLF8/s320/IMG_2279.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All flowers here come from India !</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TMw_Vdk3lYI/AAAAAAAALbc/b98NbyknLF8/s720/IMG_2279.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div>Of course, the trip could have been even more productive if there was more time, but at the rate I was going, I wasn't doing too bad either. The next time I come again, I am going to make sure I have a bigger bag and more cash - any rational Singapore girl would need it!</div>The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-6898078411959465152010-10-15T07:54:00.000-07:002010-10-30T07:22:23.402-07:004/10/2010 Johor Bukit Indah bus-aboutI have always thought that it is a lot of hassle taking the public transport into Malaysia . With the recent knowledge that a bus plies the route between Jurong East and Johor via the second link that ends at a shopping mall, the barrier is broken and I thought : why not ? <br />
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Afterall, Jurong is a stone's throw from home. And what can be more purposeful than a shopping mall as a destination. Besides , a bus ride will allow me to twiddle my thumbs and enjoy the scenery ( boy, was I wrong ). This is a far cry from the stress of driving to an unknown location on unfamiliar road.<br />
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So today, after depositing the Little H safely in school, together with Pat, we turned up at the Jurong East Interchange at 8.45 am for the Big Ride.<br />
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Jurong East Interchabge has a Causeway Link booth manned by 2 staff in yellow and blue, who collected our fares of $4 per person prior to getting up the bus. It was a bright yellow beat up bus bearing CW3 bound for Bukit Indah. The frequency is a decent 20 minutes. <br />
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CW3 gave a smooth ride down Jurong Town Hall Rd , pass AYE and Tuas checkpoint in about 15 minutes. After clearing immigration at Tuas checkpoint, we hopped up the same bus. A little sprinting is required in order to be on the same bus because any delay at the immigration means we will have to take the next CW3.<br />
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We went north via the 2nd link. At Johor immigration, we had to fill up forms, a delay that caused us to miss our bus this time. It was while walking up and down the bus bay that we realized that CW3 didn’t stop at the appointed bus bay located after the customs because of the many tour buses there. In our staid and Singaporean manner, we did not expect the bus to deviate from its prescribed course.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLrrSO-o5UI/AAAAAAAALDM/DWosyeU6X2w/s720/IMG_1961.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLrrSO-o5UI/AAAAAAAALDM/DWosyeU6X2w/s320/IMG_1961.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>We hopped up the next bus 20 min later. CW3 traveled a short stretch of the NS highway and passed a little quaint, busy town. Finally, at 10.15 am, CW3 disgorged us at an invisible bus stop outside Aeon Indah ( Jusco, Tesco,Giant framed by humongous carpark ) <br />
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We walked a well trodden path and cut across the Jusco car park. The charges are : 1st hr free, subsequent RM1 per entry. This information will be filed away for our future trips.<br />
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We surveyed the 3 level mall. It is cavernous and quiet , being Monday. Nevertheless, shops are opened. There are lots of clothing and shoe shops, quite hip and current. Aeon Indah looks half like any mall in Singapore with its familiar tenant mix: SK, Toast Box, Kenny Rogers, Face Shop, Secret Recipe etc.<br />
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At a toy shop, I spied a little notebook going for RM7.50. it will be a present for Hopey for not being with the party. The deal was made sweeter with a final discounted price of RM6.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLrrHbmkmpI/AAAAAAAALDE/YKeTT7Qxsa0/s720/IMG_1960.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLrrHbmkmpI/AAAAAAAALDE/YKeTT7Qxsa0/s320/IMG_1960.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Our tea break was at the Donut n Coffee shop. The price is affordable and place cheerfully set up with yellow chairs and tables. Most importantly, the colorful donuts were all priced at a happy RM 2.30. I had a holeless coconut and mango donut and Pat a choco peanut donut. 2 iced coffee cost another RM 10. <br />
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There are many silver ware shops. With gold price at USD1320 per ounce, I am squirreling silver for posterity instead. I bought a silver chain at a shop in level 2 for RM35. This will go well with my new handmade silver pendant. The deal was sealed with 9 future cleaning services at RM1, if I should ever visit. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLrpcbOGUqI/AAAAAAAALBE/Auo6IAVt6sU/s720/IMG_1938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLrpcbOGUqI/AAAAAAAALBE/Auo6IAVt6sU/s320/IMG_1938.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
At Jusco, restraint was needed as we did not drive. I bought 3 packs of A1 curry paste , RM3.40 each. It is cheaper compared to those sold in Giant IMM for 2.40 SGD. Another housewifely idiosyncrasy.<br />
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By noon, we have toured each level twice. The only thing that is cheaper is the nail color at Face Shop priced 9.90 RM. It retails at 7.90 SGD back home. October is too early for Christmas shopping spree so I abandon the notion of purchase with much regret.<br />
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The initial idea was to eat at the Jap noodles at Restaurant St Level 2 . But we were running late, and make do with lunch at the food court in front of Jusco. I had chicken noodle hot plate 6.15RM, Pat had chicken clay pot rice 5.50 RM. Food is pretty good, staff friendly. My only grouse was the modest portion.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLrqm7u8ZlI/AAAAAAAALCk/FkPxP3-1LD4/s720/IMG_1956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLrqm7u8ZlI/AAAAAAAALCk/FkPxP3-1LD4/s320/IMG_1956.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLrqsCVjoLI/AAAAAAAALCs/grummUMNigY/s512/IMG_1957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLrqsCVjoLI/AAAAAAAALCs/grummUMNigY/s320/IMG_1957.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>We had chendol from the dessert stall : a regular for RM2.50, durian chendol for RM4. I would not recommend this. The shaved ice, not fine enough , has too little ingredient. The red bean in the regular chendol was undercooked. It is expensive considering the meager amount of ingredients.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLrrxvNW4QI/AAAAAAAALD8/V3Jgk9lw-Yw/s512/IMG_2021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLrrxvNW4QI/AAAAAAAALD8/V3Jgk9lw-Yw/s320/IMG_2021.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>I thought our trip today was an anticlimax until our final mall sprint: 3 donuts RM6.90 that comes with a pretty box, Fragrance pork floss 200g RM12, rice crisps with pork floss, Malaysian caramel puff ( xiangbing ) at a modest RM20. The final scoop at Lavender bistro was 3 pieces of fancy bread : choc log bread, chicken charsiew bun, charcoal bun for less than RM7<br />
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This seems shallow but a housewife has to do what a housewife has to do. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLrqExyJQKI/AAAAAAAALB8/0U1_hsbM2rM/s128/IMG_1947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLrqExyJQKI/AAAAAAAALB8/0U1_hsbM2rM/s400/IMG_1947.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
We walked out of Aeon Indah towards Macdonalds' golden arches where CW3 terminates. We surveyed the length of the strip of shop houses behind Macs looking for CW3 embarkation point. There were no waiting passengers, only a dilapidated kiosk announcing a CW3 assembly point. No drivers were in view. Just as we were wondering, a CW3 rolled in from nowhere. The bus driver was puzzled why I was so anxious. How not to be ? Proper protocol back home was abandoned and rules here are fuzzy. Even answers from bystanders are non specific. I was afraid I would miss the bus again.<br />
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That was 1.30 pm.<br />
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RM5 (each ) paid, we were the only passengers on board. CW3 loped behind Macs, past Aeon Indah and went a short stretch of NW highway southbound. Now experienced, we cleared Malaysia immigration quickly and hopped up the same bus, all in a cool couple of minutes. It was quite a workout. <br />
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CW3 sped through the 2nd Link over the Straits of Johor. Singapore greeted us with her glistening Immigration and customs building. We made it through the automatic passport readers that scanned our passports and thumbs. More x-ray machines and we were off again.<br />
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Disoriented, we looked beyond the tour buses at the bus bay and saw our CW3 in the distant. The driver had made through customs and was awaiting his passengers. By now, he had recognized the 2 frenzied jog-a-trot plastic bags passengers and admitted us without asking for tickets.<br />
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Past Tuas, AYE, we reached Jurong East I/C at 2.30pm. It was a surprising fast 1 hr ride home, with enough time for a cool drink before we collect our car at IMM and bring the loot back home.The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-2869007757702625372010-09-29T07:45:00.001-07:002010-09-29T23:11:54.814-07:0029/9/2010 Wogabout at Bukit Timah, Hume areaThe day began early for me today. After sending everyone off to where they are supposed to be, I settled down with the usual morning routines with a flourish. For today, I will be doing a walk-a-jog of my neighbourhood.<br />
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I half hoped that the exercise will be aborted by a cloudy turned rainy weather but when things brightened up at 8.30 am, it was a signal that I was to go. Still one never knows, so with $10 in my pocket enough for a short ride home, just in case of inclement weather, I set forth.<br />
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8.30 am is the twilight zone of schools starting classes and the ebb of rush hour madness. It lends a pleasant wakeful purposefulness yet relaxed air on the streets. Starting from Bukit Batok St 25, I took off with a brisk walk on the pavement. I took in the cool shade , that will soon be gone in half an hour, provided by the elevated forested area on my right because of the low but climbing sun.<br />
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The familiar cries of warblers dominated the morning space, as they extend their territories beyond the Bukit Batok Nature Park. Down at the junction of St 25 and Bukit Batok East Ave 6, I made a right turn towards Old Jurong Road. My limbs has by now overcome the morning lethargy. With quickened steps, I tackled the long shady inclined pedestrian pavement opposite the park along BB East 6, thankful I am not riding a bicycle today. I crossed the road near Autobacs, intending to continue the walk on the cycling path behind and below it . However to do so would mean redoing the inclination to Old Jurong Road and energy conservation was top on my priority. Anyway, past the Shell petrol station, I made a note that petrol price has sustained for quite a couple of days at $1.786 ( 95 octane ).<br />
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It is now 10 minutes into the walk, not bad by my standards, since I am normally tardier. Encouraged, I marched forward like an amateur race walker. I estimate that I am now achieving my optimum walking speed of about 5 km/hr. My mind was alert, strides optimum and posture straight. Not a bad start.<br />
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The pavement along Old Jurong Road was relatively quiet today and bereft of the usual morning exercise crowd. Whatever. I had the pleasure of the entire pavement all to myself. At Bukit Timah Road, I made a left turn in front of the old fire station.<br />
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13 minutes now and another uphill walk. The section is exposed to the morning sun, without the benefit of the shade from the trees at the fringe of the park. I would deem this part as the most unpleasant because of the ongoing mrt construction all the way beyond the Old Ford Factory.<br />
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At this moment, walk gave way to jog ( Yeah, run out of an unpleasant situation ). Fully warmed up by the brisk walk, my muscles are now on GO mode. Leaning forward, I fought gravity and passed the bus stop at The Hillside. That is the first milestone -a little mental reward to keep me going.<br />
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Pass the Old Ford Factory on my left, I tut-tut at the entrance fees one has to pay to visit. The sun was beating down with a new vigor after a night's rest. A grey Malaysian bound train gave a couple of toots as it speed down the leafy corridor towards Johor, behind the boarding put up for the MRT construction. Now that the train will soon be gone, the hollow whistles of the train seem a lovely sound. I bet those living behind Railmall may think otherwise.<br />
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A quick visual assessment of the road works beyond the Bukit Timah and Hume Ave junction and I chose left. Another reason to escape the awful miasma of the generator used by the road pavers at that junction.<br />
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A nasty uphill task greeted me at the beginning of Hume but luckily , in this case, what comes up must come down. Straining past Hume park 2 and Symphony Heights, the slope turned into a little plateau, offering respite and shade. Maids walked dogs and office stragglers waited for taxis. The mood was wonderfully relaxed. Now, 25 minutes into the walk-a-jog and I was tempted to slow down and enjoy the morning.<br />
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From Parc Palais and Hillview Green, it was all downhill, the only kind I like. For fear of rolling down Hillview Ave, I maintained my strides, reminding myself not to take more than I can handle.<br />
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Another left turn into Hillview Ave, I reached the second stretch that I do not particularly like. Here Lam Soon Industrial Bldg and a couple of factories dotted an otherwise bucolic residential estate, bringing with it heavy vehicular traffic. Pavement is shaded by the long shadows of the grey building and this is one kind of shade I do not prefer. I summoned all my will power and residual strength to clear this stretch and was rewarded by space that opens up just before Meralodge and with it welcome light.<br />
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30 minutes into the run now. Beyond the Petals, I savored the last bit of peripheral greens of the nature park. Jog slowed down to a walk at the junction of Bukit Batok East Ave 4. From here, I turned right and joined the many joggers to retreat to the coffee shops behind the Bukit Batok Police Station. <br />
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It seems that I have accomplished the same distance with similar timings as when I usually set off with a jog. Still, 30 minutes into this junction from the start is a very satisfactory timing for me. All in all, the walkajog had been invigorating after all the unpleasant bits are overcome.The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-26844165250347855732010-09-19T03:21:00.000-07:002010-11-01T01:36:35.154-07:0018/9/2010 Of pavements along Victoria and Bencoolen Street<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">If there is something new I see today on the road I have walked countless times, it is the pavement.</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">For today, I have tried to be thankful for the weather and the shady trees, mercifully planted in an otherwise concrete jungle in downtown Singapore.</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">4.15 pm. We debated whether to take the train from church to the downtown national library or walk, what with the weather. A train change is needed ? Forget it, I'll walk. Mind over matter, ignore the afternoon heat and maybe a little walk to just a little down the corner of Victoria St can even be a good thing. </div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsYjxctb2I/AAAAAAAALG0/6FoKLc2VTPc/s320/IMG_5221.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="212" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SMU, an oasis of calm at the end of frantic Orchard Road</td></tr>
</tbody></table>With 6 paperbacks in my totebag meant to be returned to the library and a backpack, we set off with a spring in our feet. The heat has yet to sizzled my overly big enthusiasm to human size.</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">The exposed and sun-drenched pavement along Stamford Rd soon turn shady as we make a dash to the relative cool of Bras Basah Rd. Starting from opposite Rendezvous hotel, optimism turned high. The pavement was shaded by the big outstretched arms of Angsanas lined Bras Basah Rd.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsYjxctb2I/AAAAAAAALG0/6FoKLc2VTPc/s512/IMG_5221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">Smu students of the School of Economics were mugging on the spacious ground level. Wafts of soya fragrance from the nearby Mr Bean outlet greeted us . The walkabout has barely started but I was already craving for a cup of cold soy drink.</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">The pavement looks textured with shale of different shades of grey. It separated us from the snarl of the Esplanade bound traffic. Its safety extends to the pedestrian retreat of the SMU. </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsYvFrDGUI/AAAAAAAALHE/9PVSJoLE3oc/s320/IMG_5223.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The uni reminds me of Imperial College in busy London, but I think SMU looks nicer !</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsYvFrDGUI/AAAAAAAALHE/9PVSJoLE3oc/s720/IMG_5223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">I dawdled over an entire block of Shuimei plants, fragrant from fresh blooms, along Bras Basah. Has this stretch of the pavement always smelt so good ?</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsYpc81x9I/AAAAAAAALG8/ysunlPEg8kk/s320/IMG_5222.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nparks contribution to Singapore's downtown is enjoyed and appreciated.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsYpc81x9I/AAAAAAAALG8/ysunlPEg8kk/s720/IMG_5222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">Beyond SMU school of information systems, the shade opens into the light. That shades of shale grey were washed out in the sunlight. At our right, a generous water feature cooled down the light space by several degrees, even without a real fountain. Framing the water feature is an artificial turf that comes with sand and all. I would never have known had it not been for its ultra greenness and the pinch test.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsZEYWNX1I/AAAAAAAALHo/4cdM0eVNBJA/s720/IMG_5228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsZEYWNX1I/AAAAAAAALHo/4cdM0eVNBJA/s320/IMG_5228.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SAM - Singapore Art Museum at the old St Joseph's Institute </td></tr>
</tbody></table>Singapore Art Museum, or as the abbreviation loving authorities calls it SAM, is abuzz with 2 upcoming exhibitions. A couple of shiny modern animal sculpture were placed at the driveway of SAM, not exactly to my likiing. They remind me of gargoyles.</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">Opposite NTUC trade union house, the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd emerges to provide those in the CBD spiritual respite. Chjimes down the junction has succumbed to commercialism, however. Its carcass with her original intention of spiritual refuge is the only evidence of its early work in downtown Singapore.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsZNkcgWoI/AAAAAAAALH4/F4ObRXFfdfY/s720/IMG_5230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsZcgfC29I/AAAAAAAALIM/LRBLlfvH6ho/s512/IMG_5232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsZcgfC29I/AAAAAAAALIM/LRBLlfvH6ho/s400/IMG_5232.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="265" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The entertainment jaunt's previous life was a church </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsZNkcgWoI/AAAAAAAALH4/F4ObRXFfdfY/s320/IMG_5230.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cathedral among lush greens in town</td></tr>
</tbody></table>From the junction of Queen St and Bras Basah Rd, I see Swissotel arising from the canopy of trees . Beneath it, the rectory of the Cathedral stood. It looks like the secular and spiritual has somehow morphed from the profusion of green leaves.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsZlZLjWJI/AAAAAAAALIg/qJofs4zz4Bs/s512/IMG_5234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsZlZLjWJI/AAAAAAAALIg/qJofs4zz4Bs/s320/IMG_5234.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="213" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SMU's admin block has fat shiny pillars </td></tr>
</tbody></table>Finally, we turn left to Victoria St, using the pavement beside SMU admin block. Our destination, the National Library, is within our sight. The pavement was in the light, shaded by the massive building of SMU. In fact, its sidewalk bordered by huge metal pillars was dank, uninviting and dark. Victoria St at the right of the pavement was alive, blitzed by cars rushing about their business. 5 feet of safety on slates of grey, straddles between light and darkness. </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsZumP6lzI/AAAAAAAALIw/91fOmvxt6Nw/s320/IMG_5238.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sparrows at the median strip fighting over turf</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsZumP6lzI/AAAAAAAALIw/91fOmvxt6Nw/s720/IMG_5238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">Outside Victoria hotel, beyond its pavement, a little sandy patch broke the green monotony that separates the pavement and the road. About 15 sparrows fought over a sandbath spa. It was a peculiar sight seeing the little creatures shooing each other off and wiggle in the sand.</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsZ1HADbOI/AAAAAAAALI4/AGBVxFMPAYE/s320/IMG_5240.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="212" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree pruning watching is quite addictive</td></tr>
</tbody></table>We aborted the plan to cross over to Bras Basah complex. The pavement outside the complex as cordoned off as workers were trimming back the branches of Angsanas from a crane. It rained braches and caught the rapt attention of 2 elderly pedestrians. The fixated old men remained in the same pose for a long time, anticipated every movement of the chain saw. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsZ6eRWwaI/AAAAAAAALJA/kowZ2CSjDJA/s1600/IMG_5241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsZ6eRWwaI/AAAAAAAALJA/kowZ2CSjDJA/s320/IMG_5241.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsZ1HADbOI/AAAAAAAALI4/AGBVxFMPAYE/s512/IMG_5240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsaJvW6jaI/AAAAAAAALJY/tPfDR-ScBHk/s320/IMG_5245.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="212" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St Joseph - one of the oldest in Singapore</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">At St Joseph Church,we made a little jog across Victoria St to the library. NLB nestled among tall fish tail palms. Fringed by granite cobbled perimeter , the gravel path driveway broke the tedium of the tarmac road and uplifted the tired feel of the Bras Basah area.</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><br />
There was an open and free software exhibition at ground level on NLB. Crowds spilling to the eating area at Hans café dashed my hope for a nice cuppa.<br />
<div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">First thing first, I offloaded the library books into the book drop. The book drop was not fast enough for me, which couldn't cope with my eager feeding of the books. SNLB staff had to 'coach' me to take it easy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsaFr6xusI/AAAAAAAALJQ/mvwIyLvRydQ/s512/IMG_5244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsaFr6xusI/AAAAAAAALJQ/mvwIyLvRydQ/s320/IMG_5244.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="213" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">National library in Singapore<br />
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</td></tr>
</tbody></table>At NLB, I even managed to borrow a Ruth Rendell book and another award winning fiction for further reading pleasure in the weekend. What a fruitful trip!</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">Now 5.15pm, we walked towards Bugis junction. TCC sidewalk café was dismissed as a coffee break option. It's too hot and doesn't make my money work hard enough for the little expensive cup of coffee.</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">A building dotted with huge baubles, Iluma, broke the sleek skyline and throw into disarray the clean lines of neighbouring hotel and shopping mall.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsabBCJKHI/AAAAAAAALJ8/Oq5QKQ1V4m8/s720/IMG_5249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsabBCJKHI/AAAAAAAALJ8/Oq5QKQ1V4m8/s320/IMG_5249.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iluma, another shopping center. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsah2gGQ8I/AAAAAAAALKE/91UdNCZBWaY/s320/IMG_5251.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Art installations in Iluma</td></tr>
</tbody></table>We crossed Victoria St using the Iluma escalator, thankful for a knee relief moment. Iluma's immense volume and space is clearly felt. It's a far cry from the congested and 'compressed' space over at Bugis junction. At iluma, we felt that we were the oldest denizens there. Even the food served are catered to the young. Hard pressed for time, I did not get to ride the longest escalator. Well, next time, maybe.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsah2gGQ8I/AAAAAAAALKE/91UdNCZBWaY/s720/IMG_5251.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsamnGHCjI/AAAAAAAALKM/vhjCobCO3tk/s320/IMG_5252.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="212" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eat here when you have no choice</td></tr>
</tbody></table>At the corner of Iluma at Queen Street and Cheng Yan Place, I spied a food court painted vermilion red. Now is the time for that cuppa or never. Unfortunately, my happiness ground to a halt at the first sip of my afternoon's refreshment. The iced coffee was sour and kaya toast sub-standard. In fact, I was hard pressed to locate the kaya and butter or pin point exactly how may pieces of bread I was served. I am very sure the stall will never get a franchise from Ya Kun or even spawn subsidiary branches.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsamnGHCjI/AAAAAAAALKM/vhjCobCO3tk/s512/IMG_5252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsasaKCfyI/AAAAAAAALKU/Z_ob4lWQSW4/s720/IMG_5253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsasaKCfyI/AAAAAAAALKU/Z_ob4lWQSW4/s320/IMG_5253.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">Crossing Queen St , we trooped along Bencoolen Link that straddles the busy back alley of market place. The day here has hardly begun. Wholesale fruit dealers were unloading crates of fruits. In the office, I spied an entire wall improvised as notice board, pinned with sheets and sheets of invoices, letters and important looking documents. Nothing sophisticated here, but many families have built their business empires this way.</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">Nearby, the HDB architecture and design of scalloped eves and knobbed pillars gracing corridors blend with the nearby temple theme. I will never say HDB design is boring again.</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsbI5HB4WI/AAAAAAAALKw/cW_YlDWnJrE/s1600/IMG_5257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsbI5HB4WI/AAAAAAAALKw/cW_YlDWnJrE/s320/IMG_5257.jpg" width="320" /></a>The grimy back alley gave way to a pedestrian mall around the temple grounds. We were reminded of Mid Autumn Festival by a cacophony of sounds shouting urgent cries of sales. A bustling market place was filled with the loud sale of pomelo of all shapes and sizes from Malaysia to Thailand. Judging from the throng of the shopping crowd, I wondered since when Mid Autumn has become so big in Singapore. Or was I too cloistered up in my small little world ?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsbV_uM-SI/AAAAAAAALK4/B8L8t1wbj5Q/s720/IMG_5256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsbV_uM-SI/AAAAAAAALK4/B8L8t1wbj5Q/s320/IMG_5256.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsbcj2mJjI/AAAAAAAALLA/z0Fl0s-DdXo/s720/IMG_5260.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsbcj2mJjI/AAAAAAAALLA/z0Fl0s-DdXo/s320/IMG_5260.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Things for the everyday man</td></tr>
</tbody></table>5.30pm. Stepping off Bencoolen Link, we made our way to Burlington Square and make our first shopping stop at Shine Korea Supermarket. As time was tight, my browsing became very focused and purposeful. I bought 3 packs of seaweed, assorted flavors for snacking tonight. I even had the time to teach a woman down the queue how to use the bulgogi sauce. Another moment to fee like a pro. This shopping was very empowering indeed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLscc_oAk8I/AAAAAAAALMs/CTnPnshv9uA/s720/IMG_5275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">5.45pm. Our next stop, Phoon huat. We have to meet up H at 6pm, so shopping was fast and furious. I delegated P to look for some of my baking needs and bought Gaofen for making snow skin mooncake. Lotus paste and red bean paste are too expensive , now being moon cake season, so I gave them a miss. A plastic mold can be had for $3.90 and that is the last thing I can forego to make snow skin moon cake.</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLscc_oAk8I/AAAAAAAALMs/CTnPnshv9uA/s320/IMG_5275.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A cigar break for chef - tsk!</td></tr>
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</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">We walk past Strand hotel, now 5.55pm. A couple of interesting pavements caught my eyes and I demanded P to take photos. Its narrowness could only allow 1 pedestrian at a time. A lot of give and take was necessary to negotiate the path with oncoming human traffic. That's life in general too.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Singapore has lovely unobstructed pavements, a feature one usually take for granted.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLsbwTO3gjI/AAAAAAAALLY/KzDZKIWLO9M/s512/IMG_5263.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As the saying goes : walk on a path and create a road.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLscExc__HI/AAAAAAAALL0/DrImVnnKQoc/s512/IMG_5268.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLscQNCrCzI/AAAAAAAALMM/6F_YvIGxXpc/s512/IMG_5272.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7NKLqczV91g/TLscQNCrCzI/AAAAAAAALMM/6F_YvIGxXpc/s320/IMG_5272.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">The pace of walking Bencoolen St slowed as we encountered so many traffic junctions towards SMU and YMCA. It seemed to take more time to clear them than walking from whole of Victoria St.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ERP beyond our destination - electronic charging for use of roads is a bane especially when this section is not heavily utilised.</td></tr>
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</div><div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;">6.10 pm and it is back to church. Another interesting walkabout for the weekend but all I can remember are the sparrows and their little wriggling bottoms on the sand spa.</div><div lang="en-US" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0in;"> </div>The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1704309399913373719.post-67512171197973548512010-09-13T01:16:00.000-07:002010-09-13T01:48:03.002-07:00Chinatown on 11th Sept 2010It's another Saturday bursting to the brim with activities in church for Little H. In order to show our support for the good work that she is doing, first as a pianist and then as a violist in 2 different sessions, we had lunch in the corner coffee shop opposite SMU before all of us set off for our little busy schedules.<br />
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12.45 pm, we hopped up the NE train bound for Harbourfront. 2 stops down, the colors, sounds and smells of People's Park side of Chinatown MRT station greeted and excited me to no end. This part of the trip is always the climax to me. How I wish to bask in the buzz, stuff myself with all the snacks starting from the ice-cream stall to the fish balls, bug all the money changers with queries and enjoy the energetic efforts of street hawkers selling innovative products that solves all kinds of problems.<br />
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Walking down towards the old police station at EutongSen Road, we made our way towards Chinatown Food Center via the overhead bridge. The entire Chinatown is gearing up to celebrate mooncake festival . Fortunately, rationality prevailed and I stopped myself from buying the lanterns.<br />
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At level 1 of Chinatown food center, we darted among clothing stores punctuated with shoe shops towards the square where old folks hang out and hang up their birds. We were hard pressed to see these regular visitors though because it was a scorching 34 C.<br />
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Suppressing the impulse to hop over to LiangChen to squirrel some tarts and pies, we join the throng of tourists and headed towards the heritage center on our left. A burgeoning camera toting tourist crowd and us fought for what little shade there was on the pedestrian only walkway lined with kitschy tourist memorabilia. Scores of pashima scarves abound in the shops and after fingering so many $10 pashima with suspicion, I decided to forego such a bargain.<br />
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At DeRenXin medical hall facing North Bridge Road, we saw the traffic police closing the entire road in preparation for the evening's Mooncake Festival Road Show. In response to the shop keeper's live narration of the action unfolding before us, I bought a pack of XiaGuCao. This will make a 'cooling drink' to take away the heat in our near wilted bodies.<br />
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At this stage, the sun was strangling the very breathe out of us. We trooped over to Chinatown Point for ice cream at Swensons. At 3.30pm, refreshed and sufficiently chilled by the aircon, we crossed the road over to OG. By now, rehearsal for the night is in full steam. <br />
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Using the connecting pedestrian bridge linking OG to People's Park Center, we encountered a different kind of frenzy. Shoppers looked for clothing, travel and shoe bargains from the top level to the ground floor. I saw a black super-lite back pack selling at $ 160 which sent my head spinning. What audacity ! The boss expecting a bargaining session was disappointed. I scoot.<br />
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Back to Chinatown MRT over at People's Park, I did my first purchase of the day. The standalone cake shop under the overhead bridge was selling all the things I love. I caved in and netted a bag of cakes, bread, buns. <br />
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Skirting around People's Park and its myriad of hawker stalls, we made our way towards Chin Swee Road via upper Cross Street, taking in the smells of the many medical halls along the way.<br />
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We cross the junction at Chin Swee and Clemenceau Road and walked pass Robertson Quay towards UE Square. Its aircon and washroom facilties was a merciful close to the end of a very hot afternoon. On level 2 , we ogled at the little violin cases lying around Wolfgang Music School.<br />
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Past the traffic junction at Liang Court along Clemenceau, banners of a free sculpture exhibition at Teochew Building beckoned us. We were 1 week too early for the free show. Not in single soul was around.<br />
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The final couple of hundred meters with Singapore Shopping Center at our right was a non event. This is the quietest part of our Saturday walkabout. Beyond Parkmall junction, we sought shelter in the aircon comfort of the Dhoby Ghaut underground mall. <br />
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The church, our destination greeted us at the other end of the mrt cum mall. Now partially shaded by the shade of Angsana trees, the roof portion of the main sanctuary glistened with the leftover gold of a late afternoon sun. <br />
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5.15 pm had never felt so wonderful before.The Experimental Cookhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09562752217070825092noreply@blogger.com0