Seen This Scene That

MacRitchie Tree Top Walk

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 08:10:00 PST

MacRitchie Tree Top Walk

Tree Top Bridge at MacRitchie Park.

I brought my spouse and three kids to MacRitchie Reservoir to visit its Tree Top Walk recently on a hot weekend afternoon. We parked at the car park off Venus Drive to spend about three leisure hours getting to and from the MacRitchie Tree Top Walk. Even though it was not my maiden trip, I still learned a few things from this nature walk to the MacRitchie TreeTop Walk.

Here are some experiences that I would like to share with my fellow Seen This Scene That readers who may be considering a visit to the MacRitchie Tree Top Walk and suspension bridge.

Stay On Tracks and Follow The Signs
Although Singapore's nature reserve at MacRitchie is small compared to those overseas, it is still safer to stay on well trodden paths and to follow directional signs. Singaporeans have been reported loss in the area especially if new foot paths are created through the rainforest. I also discovered that my cellular phone could not receive any signal on either side of the tree top bridge.

Bring Fluid To Rehydrate
The rainforest provides good shade but it can still get pretty hot. In our humid climate and for visitors who have not been exercising regularly, the physical exertion can drain fluid out of unconditioned bodies.

Take A Toilet Break
Before you 'chiong' (charge up) the hill on your final ascent to the tree top walk, relieve tight bladders at the nearest ranger station. Trust me, you or your kids would not want to experience urgency of urination when crossing the tree top bridge. It could take a long while on the return trek to reach the ranger station again.

Don't Depart From The Ranger Station To The MacRitchie Tree Top Walk With Less than Fifteen Minutes To Closing Time (at 5pm sharp)
If your party consists of enthusiasts at extremes of age (very young or very old) or medically unstable, it can be a very tough walk to the PacRitchie Tree Top Walk. The walk from the ranger station to the Tree Top bridge is the steepest part (and the most taxing) of the entire journey. It will be prudent to give yourself ample time for the ascent. If you arrive late, be prepared to have the gates to the bridge shut in your face.

Bring Mosquito Protection
There are pesky creatures that bite without warning and leave irritating lumpy swellings on unprotected limbs. Even at relatively high altitudes, mosquitoes are everywhere. They seem to be able to cross the Tree Top bridge at will and are fond of accompanying visitors as you trek up and down the hills.

Don't Underestimate the Distance
It is a long trek from Venus Drive car park to the bridge and back. Nparks says it is 2.5 km from the car park to the entrance of the MacRitchie Tree Top Walk, but if you count the distance to cross the bridge and complete a big loop back to the car park, the distance is about 7 km. No wonder my kids complained that the hike felt like it was easily triple or even quadruple that 2.5 km distance. The path consists of unpaved tracks, concrete steps and wooden boardwalks. The ground is uneven and the ascending trails can be rather steep towards the Tree Top Walk canopy.

Keep To The Side of Foot Paths
On my visit, I noticed many cross country joggers pounding the dirt tracks up and down the paths of MacRitchie. To prevent collisions, walk along the side of the tracks.

Do Not Feed The Monkeys
There are monkeys out there around the MacRitchie Tree Top Walk. Remember to avoid feeding them as it is an offence to do so in a nature park in Singapore.

Enjoy Yourself
Finally, do remember to enjoy yourself at the MacRitchie Tree Top Walk. Go at your own comfortable pace and take time to see nature at its most relaxed state. Besides providing good exercise, a track to the MacRitchie Tree Top Walk offers lessons on the rainforest flora and fauna. It can also be an excellent bonding opportunity for the entire family.

Have you done the MacRitchie Tree Top Walk with your family?

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Floating Platform, Bedok Reservoir

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 08:15:00 PST

Floating Platform, Bedok Reservoir

Photograph 1: Floating Platform, Bedok Reservoir

Photograph 2: Floating Platform, Bedok Reservoir

Some of you may have seen this scene that is found at Bedok Reservoir. This is a floating platform that you can see at Bedok Reservoir that some residents on our little island would find less familiar than the larger floating platform at Marina Reservoir.

This smaller floating platform at Bedok Reservoir is seen by residents, visitors and travellers to this corner of Singapore. Come here for a peaceful scene of placid reservoir view, especially at sunset or sunrise.

Is the floating platform bouncy like a raft or steady like a rock? How deep is the water around this platform? How do you get onto this island without getting your body wet or using any improvised flotation device?

I'll let you discover more of this Bedok Reservoir park floating platform when you make the trip here at your own leisure time to compare it with the one at Marina Bay.

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Bird Park Singapore

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 09:05:00 PDT

Bird Park Singapore

This is a bird park in a quiet part of eastern Singapore. It is unlike the more illustrious and touristy Singapore Jurong Bird Park located in the west.

Photograph 1 of Bird Park Singapore:

This neighbourhood bird park attraction has no fencing to keep out the public. You need not pay an entrance fee to visit this heartlander sight.

It is a short stroll from a body of water and a jogging track littered with stone next to a bus-stop.

Unlike the Jurong Bird Park of Singapore, feathered visitors to this off-the-beaten-path bird park cannot mingle with one another under the same roof.

If you listen closely at this bird park, you may imagine them talking to one another. How are you? Have you eaten? Are you the new bird staying at that block with the best reservoir view? Did you practice your pole dancing routine last night?

Photograph 2 of Bird Park Singapore: A bird park in Singapore where birds gather in their tiny cages perched high on poles.

Where in Singapore is this bird park? Have you seen this bird park in Singapore before?

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Jurong Park Connector IPPT Route

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 09:01:00 PDT

Jurong Park Connector IPPT Route

If you wander around Jurong Central Park, you can't miss the new futuristic-looking SAFRA Jurong Club house. Along the Jurong Park Connector that lines the canal, you will find this IPPT (individual physical proficiency test) 2.4-km run route marked out on the park connector track.

There is a sign board displaying the various test stations of IPPT with a map of this route. Fit NSmen who perform the annual pilgrimage to IPPT test centres throughout Singapore now have a new training ground at SAFRA Jurong to work out.

This Jurong Park Connector IPPT route starts and ends along part of the Jurong Park Connector network. The route takes runners into a maze-like run within the Jurong Central Park.

After your run along the IPPT track, you can cool off at the Jurong Shopping Centre
across the road.

Photograph 1, Jurong Park Connector IPPT Route, next to SAFRA Jurong.

Photograph 2, Jurong Park Connector IPPT Route Map.

Photograph 3, Jurong Park Connector IPPT Route, at entrance to Jurong Central Park car park.

Have you cleared your IPPT this year?

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Related posts:
1. Jurong Central Park
2. Ludo Garden, Jurong Central Park

Photograph of Rangoli / Kolam

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 09:01:00 PDT

Photograph of Rangoli / Kolam

Above: Photograph of Rangoli / Kolam

This photograph of a Rangoli / Kolam was taken at Changi Airport Terminal 2, Singapore. According to the inscriptions, the rangoli / kolam is a Hindu folk art which is drawn on the floor. It is prepared with a combination of diverse colours, using coloured powders, rice grains, sand, flower petals and / or pastes.

Rangoli / kolam designs include symbols of dancing figures, birds, flowers, leaves, human figures and geometrical figures. Lighted oil lamps or modern lights can also be places on the floor art to enhance the beauty of these Rangoli / kolam. Today, modern Hindu families paste stickers with intricate Rangoli / Kolem motifs on the entrances of their homes instead.

Happy Diwali to readers of Seen This Scene That.

Enjoy your public holiday today.

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Deepavali 2009 Singapore

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 09:05:00 PDT

Deepavali 2009 Singapore

cc flickr photo by chooyutshing:

The decorations and light-up for Deepavali (Festival of Lights) at Little India.

The Hindu Endowments Board has confirmed that Deepavali in 2009 will fall on 17 October 2009, instead of 15 November 2009 that is printed on many calendars in Singapore.

What are the Deepavali 2009 celebrations and Deepavali 2009 activities that we can expect to see around Singapore's Little India?

Deepavali Street Light Up 2009

This year’s street décor is in stunning shades of purple and pink, giving Little India a charming royal feel.

Date: Friday, 18 September 2009 – Sunday, 25 October 2009
Time: 7.00 pm onwards daily
Venue: Little India

Deepavali 2009 Heritage & Craft Exhibition

Learn about the origins and traditions behind Deepavali at the Heritage corner. Traditional craftsmen from India showcase intricate Indian crafts.

Traditional craftsman
Date: Friday, 18 September 2008 – Friday, 16 October 2009
Time: 11.00 am – 9.00 pm daily
Venue: Deepavali Festival Village, Campbell Lane

Deepavali 2009 Bazaar

The best place for festive foods, ethnic wear, Indian artifacts and bargains.

Date: Friday, 18 September 2008 – Friday, 16 October 2009
Time: 11.00 am – 11.00 pm
Venue: Deepavali Festival Village, Campbell Lane

Deepavali 2009 Trade Fair

Visitors to the trade fair can find the latest in festive foods, ethnic wear, Indian artifacts and bargains.

Date: Friday, 18 September 20089 – Friday, 16 October 2009
Time: 11.00 am – 11.00 pm
Venue: Serangoon Road, (opposite Serangoon Plaza)

UTSAV Street Parade 2009 Concert

Unique, native Indian performance art forms will be featured alongside cultural performances by various ethnic groups.

Date: Saturday, 10 October 2009
Time: 7.00pm – 10.00pm
Venue: Race Course Road

Vasantham – M1 Deepavali Countdown Concert

Be sure to catch the spectacular countdown concert with local and international celebrities. Televised live on Vasantham – a Mediacorp channel, to countdown and usher in Deepavali.

Deepavali Countdown Concert
Date: Friday, 16 October 2009
Time: 9.00pm
Venue: Race Course Road

Further details of Deepavali 2009 Singapore:
Visit: Deepavali 2009 Singapore at deepavalilightup.sg site.

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Seen This Scene That Reflection

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 22:16:02 PDT

Seen This Scene That Reflection

Photograph: 'Reflection'

My Seen This Scene That posting rate has slowed to a crawl in the past month or two due to pressing matters.

As a parent with three school-going kids and with one child sitting for the PSLE examinations this month, I have been cutting back on my Seen This Scene That outings recently.

For those who are not familiar with the term 'PSLE' which stands for Primary School Leaving Examination, this is the same examination that all Primary Six students in Singapore must sit for before they leave primary school.

This is my second experience and it has not been any easier. As a family keen on regular outings, we have had to prioritize family activities and to curtail some trips. Public parks, park connectors, farms, reservoirs, playgrounds, beaches and open spaces in Singapore have not been seeing Seen This Scene That et el for some time.

With the exams completed, we can heave a collective sigh of relief and resume our usual activities and routine visits to the many family-friendly places in Singapore.

With re-visits to familiar haunts and exploration of new crooks and crannies around our Little Red Dot to plan for, Seen This Scene That's calendar should fill up fully.

Still, it will take time to crank up my engine for Seen This Scene That before postings start to flow.

If you know of exciting new places in Singapore to recommend, just drop me an email or comment. I enjoy reading your family-friendly suggestions on the places of interest to visit in Singapore.

For those looking to do something interesting before my next post arrives, here is a quiz to keep your brains active and your eyes engaged.

Where was this 'Reflection' photograph taken in Singapore?

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Places To Visit In Singapore

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 09:02:00 PDT

Image: Heading towards places to visit in Singapore.

Places To Visit In Singapore

Where are the good places to visit in Singapore? Before I can recommend the places to visit in Singapore, I would need to consider many factors relating to you, my reader.

The most important consideration will be your personal interests. What kind of places to visit in Singapore can make your heart flutter? What kind of places to visit in Singapore would elevate your spiritsn?

Are you looking for places related to Arts and Culture, Music and Entertainment, Sightseeing and Attractions, Business and Trade, Nightlife and Pub Crawl, Food and Drinking, Shopping, the Outdoors or even more?

As all of you have diverse interests, I shall write based on my own personal viewpoints and interests.

My approach to answer this question on the places to visit in Singapore will be to assume that I have an overseas couple with young kids who are coming to town for a week-long stay. Assuming this family has a reasonable travel budget, shares my interests as chronicled in Seen This Scene That and have never stepped onto our shores, I will make these recommendations on the places to visit in Singapore.

The Touristy Places To Visit In Singapore

Pick one or more from this list of places to visit in Singapore. These are the well-conceived, well-maintained, big-budget, blockbuster attractions that many tourists want to see, and many good hosts want to showcase, before our guests leave our shores.

The gloss and glamour may be blinding but these top-class places to visit in Singapore are made-in-Singapore and have become a binding fabric of our heritage. I offer them here as an option for our overseas visitors to decide on how many of these places they would like to visit and see.

Sentosa Island
Singapore Zoological Gardens
Singapore Bird Park
Heritage & Museums
Singapore Science Centre
Singapore Discovery Centre
Orchard Road Shopping

The Heartland Places To Visit In Singapore

Here’s a list of places to visit in Singapore that are found in the heartlands and outlying areas of Singapore. These places to visit in Singapore will show our visitors how residents on this Little Red Dot live their lives, beyond the concrete jungle in down-to-earth reality.

Singapore Parks and Gardens
Park Connector Networks
Reservoir Parks
Coastal Walks & Beaches
Nature Trails & Reserves
Animal& Vegetable Farms
Pulau Tekong and Island Hopping
Mall or Neighbourhood Shopping

I am sure you will have your own personal preferences that are not listed on my list. Where were the places that you brought your overseas guests to visit? Would you like to share some of your preferred places to visit in Singapore?

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Ludo Garden, Jurong Central Park

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 09:01:00 PDT

Ludo Garden, Jurong Central Park

I was wandering around Jurong on my regular outing when I came across the Ludo Garden at Jurong Central Park recently. This Ludo Garden is found within the confines of Jurong Central Park, located opposite the Boon Lay MRT station and Jurong Point Shopping Centre.

For a neighbourhood park, this addition of a Ludo Garden in Singapore is a breath of fresh air. Combining elements of play, fun, flowers and plants, this Ludo Garden is best seen with your own eyes than described using my words. Photographs may not bring out the positive impact as a physical visit to this Ludo Garden in Jurong Central Park can do.

I have put up a few photographs nonetheless for those who have yet to pay a visit to the first and only Ludo Garden in Singapore.

Photograph 1 of Ludo Garden, Jurong Central Park:

Photograph 2 of Ludo Garden, Jurong Central Park:

Photograph 3 of Ludo Garden, Jurong Central Park:

Not sure what is the game of Ludo? You can read instructions printed at a sign board here. In the game of Ludo, 2 to 4 players take turns to roll a dice to move their pieces (or members in this case) across the squares on the ground. The winner is the team that gets all members around the Ludo board and into the central area of their team colour. This Ludo Garden game can be an attractive proposition for large families, friends, and colleagues looking for an outdoor place for some fun and games.

But how many park visitors bring a dice with them to play Ludo in an outdoor garden? If you need a dice, guess where you may find one at Jurong Central Park?

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Seen This Scene That Hari Raya Puasa Greetings

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 18:19:14 PDT

Seen This Scene That Hari Raya Greetings

We wish all readers and visitors

A Happy Hari Raya Puasa Holiday!

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Hari Raya Celebration Singapore

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 09:10:00 PDT

Hari Raya Celebration Singapore

Hari Raya at the City is a series of events jointly organised by the Jalan Besar GRC, People's Association and Malay Heritage Centre.

Hari Raya Light Up
14 August 2009 – 27 September 2009

The Hari Raya Light-up is an initiative by STB, aimed at enhancing the festive ambience of Kampong Glam in order to attract visitors to participate in the Hari Raya activities through street bazaars, cultural performance, games and competitions at the Kampong Glam ethnic quarter to be held at the Malay Heritage Centre.

The theme for Hari Raya Light up 2009 is Hari Raya @ The City with a focus on the official launch concept called “Heartbeat of the City”.

This showcase of the Malay culture will not only be enjoyed by Muslims celebrating the festival on 20th September 2009, but also provide a vibrant experience to both the locals and tourists throughout the period of the light up which will run until 27 September 2009.
Time

(a) 7.00 p.m to 11.00 p.m on Fridays, Saturdays and Eve of Public Holidays.

(b) 7.00 p.m to 10.00 p.m on all other days.

Light-Up Zone:

North Bridge Road, Bussorah Mall, Kandahar Street and Sultan Gate.

How to get there:

By MRT: Alight at Bugis MRT Station

By Bus:
Bus numbers
7, 32, 51, 63, 80, 145, 197 along [North Bridge Road]
2, 12, 33, 130, 133, 145, 197 along [Victoria Street]
10, 14, 16, 70, 100, 107, 196, 401 [ Beach Road ]

Batik Fusion Exotica Exhibition

The exhibition will be showcasing the evolution of Batik making from the traditional and formal styles to become contemporary with the advent technology. There will be a demonstration of Batik making through a demonstration using dye, stencils and wax. A collection of the Batik will feature the theme on Batik Paintings and Batik Fabrics of the Royalties.

1 August 2009 – 30 September 2009

Mondays : 1pm to 6pm Tuesdays – Sundays : 10am – 6pm

Malay Heritage Museum (Gallery I & L)

Guess the number of Ketupat Competition

A competition as part of the Charity Ketupat fund-raising program in which anyone who donates to the Charity Ketupat will stand a chance to guess the number of ketupats in a container filled with various shapes of ketupat on display at the Malay Heritage Centre.

Photography and Video Competition

The Photography and Video Competition with the theme “Fasting in Ramadan” will focus on the values, teachings and interpretation of the youths towards fasting. Both open and student categories are available for participation.

There will be plenty of stalls to do some serious Hari Raya shopping around the Malay Heritage Centre and Geylang Serai. Visitors can also soak in the Hari Raya festival mood around this time of the year.

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F1 Rocks Live Music

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 22:39:35 PDT

F1 Rocks Live Music

This is a world's first - a series of live music events to be held at F1 events starting with the Singapore Grand Prix.

The inaugural F1 Rocks Live Music event will feature in Singapore from 24 September 2009 to 26 September 2009 at Fort Canning Park. Headline artists like Beyonce, Black Eyed Peas, Jacky Cheung and A-Mei will be in town to light up the live music performance scene during the F1 Singapore Grand Prix season.

Here's the introductory video on the F1 Rocks music festival, presented by Lady Gaga.

F1 Rocks Live Music Event Promo Video:

F1 Rocks Live Music Event Details:
The performers, the dates and the entry times for their performances are listed below.

THURSDAY 24TH SEPTEMBER (17:00 – 23:30)
17:00 GATES
19:00 DA MOUTH
20:15 SODAGREEN
21:30 A-MEI
22:45 JACKY CHEUNG

FRIDAY 25TH SEPTEMBER (17:00 – 00:15)
17:00 GATES
18:30 N*E*R*D
19:45 SIMPLE MINDS
21:15 ZZ TOP
23:00 NO DOUBT

SATURDAY 26TH SEPTEMBER (18:00 – 01:30)
18:00 DOORS
19:15 DJ HAVANA BROWN
21:15 BLACK EYED PEAS
00:00 BEYONCÉ

Music lovers can now get excited during the F1 Singapore Grand Prix season as these mega-stars and mega-performers will be flying in to town for a rare date with fans in Singapore.

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Singapore Grand Prix: First Night Race Photographs

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 09:01:00 PDT

Singapore Grand Prix: First Night Race Photographs - An Outdoor Exhibition

With interest in the second edition of the Singapore Grand Prix gathering momentum, I was attracted to this little-known upcoming event on the world's first-ever Formula 1 night race.

Photograph by acroamatic via flickr.

In an outdoor photographic exhibition that will soon hit the streets of Singapore (at Orchard Road, not the Marina Bay circuit), F1 photographer Paul Henri-Cahier will display his personal perspective of the Singapore Grand Prix from behind his lenses.

Little is known about what will be displayed at the Singapore Grand Prix Night Race photo exhibition except for this piece of information on the Singapore Grand Prix site.

THE FIRST SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX NIGHT RACE OUTDOOR EXHIBITION:

Photographs of the 1st Singapore Grand Prix by Paul Henri-Cahier Outdoor Exhibition.

Date: 22 September – 3 October 2009
Venue: Orchard Road (stretch between Wheelock Place and Far East Shopping Centre)

Singapore Grand Prix Exhibition Details:

"In 2008, internationally renowned F1 photographer Paul-Henri Cahier attended the first Singapore Grand Prix. Taking it as a new technical and artistic challenge, he came out with amazing pictures. Exhibited for the first time, 40 of these are presented outdoor on large format prints, featuring the Singapore circuit and skyline together with the famous champions and their cars!"

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Dairy Farm Nature Park

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 09:01:01 PDT

Dairy Farm Nature Park

Singapore's newest nature park, the Dairy Farm Nature Park, was officially opened to the public on 5 September 2009. Before that, blogger friend YG had given a sneak peep of Dairy Farm Nature Park with his posts.

On the way to Singapore Quarry at Dairy Farm Nature Park.

I visited the south-western end of Dairy Farm Nature Park where the Singapore Quarry stood before the park was opened to the public too. (Here is the earlier Dairy Farm Nature Park post.)

Dairy Farm Nature Park (from The Sunday Times graphics)

According to NParks site and the write-up in The Sunday Times of 6 September 2009, this brand new nature park has two unique features that I found interesting.

The first feature that I would like to highlight is the Wallace Education Centre, a former cowshed now turned into a learning centre. It houses the Wallace Environmental Learning Lab (WELL) and an interpretative centre where visitors can learn about the changing landscapes of Dairy Farm Nature Park and Bukit Timah Nature Reserve through various exhibits.

The other must-see feature at Dairy Farm Nature Park are the rare Little Grebe at the Singapore Quarry wetland reserve. The birds are just a small part of the rich biodiversity on the 63-hectare park. Visitors who walk or mountain bike along Dairy Farm Nature Park's nature trails can witness the amazing fauna and flora available in the area.

The Dairy Farm Nature Park is open from 7am to 7pm daily with free admission for visitors.

To get there, take bus service SMRT 700, 700A or 966 and alight at bus stop along Petir Road between Chestnut Ave and Dairy Farm Road. There are two public car parks along Dairy Farm Road.

As I was not aware of the rare Little Grebe (even if I did, the quarry was closed at the time of my earlier visit) and the Wallace Education Centre, looks like I will need to perform a follow-up visit to the Dairy Farm Nature Park soon.

Have you seen the new Dairy Farm Nature Park and its amenities?

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Army Open House 2009: Scenes

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 01:53:08 PDT

Army Open House 2009: Scenes

Here are several random photographs taken at the Army Open House 2009. These are scenes captured at the annual event where members of the public are welcome to visit for an interactive experience of the best hardware that SAF has put up to showcase.

The Army Open House 2009 is currently open to the public as I have highlighted in an earlier AOH 2009 post.

Army Open House 2009: Scene 1

Army Open House 2009: Scene 2

Army Open House 2009: Scene 3

Army Open House 2009: Scene 4

All photographs courtesy of one of SeenThisSceneThat's three kids who was invited to attend as part of her school activity.

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Army Open House 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 01:54:41 PDT

Army Open House 2009 Singapore

For members of the public who have never been through National Service, this is the event of the year in 2009 to visit the Army Open House 2009 in Singapore to learn more.

If you have grandfathers, fathers, brothers, uncles or other able-bodied male members of the family who have gone through National Service training or undergoing training currently, this is your chance to experience first-hand the ~~hardship~~ fun that they had to go through.

For hands-on involvement, civilians can try out the standard obstacle course to see if you have what it takes to be a combat fit soldier. You can also try squeezing the trigger with real weapons like the M-16 and the SAR-21 or practice on simulations like the Infantry gunnery and tactical simulators.

Keen for a ride of your life? In the Combat Ride Safari, ride the infantry Bionix IFV, the Bronco, M113 Ultra armoured personnel carrier and the Guard's LSV. In the Live Firing Safari, assume leadership as Field Commander to lead a team for combat mission.

To top it all off, attend the Army Open House 2009 for a chance to take a spin on the Chinook helicopter aerial ride to get an aerial view of the Army Open House 2009 site in Pasir Laba camp.

There are lots more to see and learn at the various exhibits and stalls at the Army Open House 2009. For those inclined to learn about the past history and traditions of the Army, check out the intimate and engaging details at the Army Museum of Singapore.

After all that thrill, fill your hungry stomachs with Army food at the Tuckshop. To fulfill your retail shopping urges, bring home a piece of the Army Open House 2009 by grabbing army-themed souvenirs on sale at the SAF e-mart.

You won't believe the carnival-like atmosphere that exists at Army Open House 2009 until you visit. Best of all, this Army Open House 2009 is suitable for all age groups and is open to the public.

Army Open House 2009 details:
Date: 3 September 2009 to 7 September 2009
Time: 9am to 7pm daily
Venue: Pasir Laba Camp
Admission fee: Free
Website: Army Open House 2009

To check out some photographs, visit AOH 2009 Scenes here.

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Jurong Lake Park Playground

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 09:01:00 PDT

Jurong Lake Park Playground

Kids will love the numerous playthings that can be found at Jurong Lake Park at Chinese Garden Road in Singapore. If you walk around this Jurong Lake Park playground, be careful not to kick sand into the air, into other people's eyes or your shoes.

Jurong Lake Park Playground Photo 1:

Some playground items at Jurong Park Park are unusual while others are ubiquitous. If your favourite hang-out places are playgrounds around Singapore, the one at Jurong Lake Park may remind you of those present in West Coast Park. A few playground items like the rope pyramid structure may remind you of those in Pasir Ris Park.

Jurong Lake Park Playground Photo 2:

Other plastic-looking, toy-like playgrounds that you see at Jurong Lake Park playground are the common ones that can be found even in HDB estates. Swings and slides are also common playground items you find in other parks.

Jurong Lake Park Playground Photo 3:

This comparison of Jurong Lake Park playground is done through the eyes of an adult (me). It carries no weight for children out to have fun at a playground such as this in Jurong Lake Park as no child will compare playgrounds in terms of whether it is common / unusual.

Kids will always let their hearts decide.

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Run Singapore 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:09:00 PDT

Run Singapore 2009

Run Singapore 2009 is organised by Singapore Cares (SG Cares), a new initiative from the National Volunteer & Philanthropy Centre, providing flexible volunteer opportunities for community service. President S R Nathan will be the Guest-of-Honour at Run Singapore 2009.

What is this new running event called Run Singapore 2009? In Run Singapore 2009, participants get to run / walk or do both along the entire 2009 Formula 1 Singtel Singapore Grand Prix circuit. This is the same Marina Bay street circuit that Fernando Alonso raced to victory last year in the world's first ever F1 night race. The Run Singapore 2009 race distance is slightly more than 5 km long.

Runners at Run Singapore 2009 will get a unique experience to see the majestic sights around Singapore's Marina Bay. Included in these sights are some of the famous old places in Singapore which I highlighted in an earlier post.

Runners who part with $25 each will also be doing their part for charity by contributing to the President's Challenge. The President’s Challenge is an annual series of community-based activities initiated by President S R Nathan in 2000. The aims of President’s Challenge are firstly, to increase awareness about how the community can get involved in helping the less fortunate and secondly, to raise funds for the social service sector.

Run Singapore 2009 details:
Date: 6 September 2009
Flag off time: 5.15pm
Venue: Padang
Race Route: Marina Bay Street Circuit
Run Attire: Your brightest colours
Registration fee: $25 per runner
Free for children below 12 years old and Seniors above 55 years old
website: Run Singapore http://www.runsingapore.com/

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Charity Heritage Walk Singapore

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:05:00 PDT

Charity Heritage Walk Singapore

Thinking of combining charity and heritage with some walking exercises? Now you can have it all by participating in a charity heritage walk along the Singapore River.

Charity heritage walk map.

YHS (Singapore) Pte Ltd and Club Rainbow (Singapore) are organising this Pink Dolphin Charity Heritage Walk on 6 September 2009.

Besides getting a cardiovascular workout, you can train your mind to learn about the fascinating historical stories behind Read Bridge, MICA Building, Victoria Theatre, Fullerton Hotel and Elgin Bridge from the guides stationed at the different charity heritage walk pit stops in Singapore.

How many of you pay attention to these fine historical sites that the charity heritage walk will bring to you? Do you remember details of our rich heritage that our forefathers left behind along the banks of the Singapore River?

Take this opportunity on 6 September 2009 to grab your family and friends along for this fun & memorable Sunday charity heritage walk. Use this opportunity to bond with your loved ones and at the same time bring a rainbow of hope to the beneficiaries of Club Rainbow.

Other on-site events at this charity heritage walk:
* Talks by trained guides
* “Colours for Life” Drawing Competition
* “Pink Dolphin Save the Earth” Bottle Art Competition

Charity Heritage Walk Singapore Details:
Date: 6 September 2009
Time: 8.00 am - 12.00 noon
Start Point: The Central (River Promenade, above Clark Quay MRT station)
Fees:
$15 /person
$50 for a family of 4
$10 /person with 6 Pink Dolphin labels presented
(Proceeds donated to Club Rainbow.)
Visit site: Pink Dolphin Charity Heritage Walk Singapore

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Jurong Central Park

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 09:01:00 PDT

Jurong Central Park Singapore

Jurong Central Park Singapore is located at the junction of Jalan Boon Lay and Boon Lay Way in the western part of Singapore. Most Seen This Scene That readers would be able to place it on a map of Singapore if I mention that Jurong Central Park can be found across the street from Boon Lay MRT station, Jurong Point Shopping Centre and the Integrated Bus Station (IBS) of Boon Lay.

Jurong Central Park is one of the newest neighbourhood parks opened to the public. Amenities abound within the perimeter of Jurong Central Park.

The usual amenities at Jurong Central Park would not raise any eyebrow when I mention them - jogging track, cycling pathways, toilet facilities, a fitness corner, shelters and park benches, open areas with minimal shade, free car parking and a children's playground.

What raised my eyebrows were the Snakes & Ladders playground and the Ludo Garden. You must see it for yourself to get a 3-dimensional idea of how much thrill these two unusual park additions will give visitors. I shall elaborate about these features in future posts. There is also a small mangrove plot tucked in a corner of this sunny, green-friendly, family-friendly park.

The main eye-brow raising item at Jurong Central Park was the Dice Tower. What is a Dice Tower? As you may know if you go back into history to read Seen This Scene That, I have a fondness for towers. When I heard that this new park in Singapore had a brand new tower, it made it to my Seen This Scene That must-see list.

Photograph of the Dice Tower at Jurong Central Park:

To my disappointment, this Dice Tower has no staircase or lift for visitors. In fact, it was not built to give visitors a bird's eye view of the Jurong Central estate. The striking colour and spiral-like design is hard to miss. It is the iconic feature of Jurong Central Park. But what is the tower at Jurong Central Park used for?

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Rewards Of Running In Singapore Bay Run

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 09:02:00 PDT

Rewards of Running In Singapore Bay Run 2009

As some of you may know, I completed the 10-kilometre Singapore Bay Run 2009 recently. What are the rewards of running in the Singapore Bay Run 2009?

The tangible rewards of running in the Singapore Bay Run 2009 are obvious. The SAFRA Singapore Bay Run Army Half Marathon runner's medal, the certificate of completion with your timing recorded for posterity (yet to be received), lasting memories captured on digital camera and some souvenirs that you can grab at the post-race expo at the padang.

The intangible rewards are harder to describe. I would say the completion of running 10 kilometres is nothing to crow about. There's always the Army Half Marathon, or even longer distances to conquer. How about the running speed and run time? If it were purely the timing that gives someone a high, then why not just run around a 400-metre track and time your run more precisely.

So what is it that attracts thousands (excluding army conscripts) who turn up year after year for the Singapore Bay Run and Army Half Marathon? Perhaps some runners get a natural 'high' when they run long distances. Perhaps it is the sense of participation in a nation-wide event that inspires runners to come together. Perhaps is the sense of friendship or togetherness that draws others to this event. Or perhaps it may be no simpler answer than 'because it is there'.

My 10-km run may not be the Mt Everest of running for many of you or even for myself as I have done longer runs before in my younger days. But as I am not growing younger, each year that I achieve a respectable distance in running is a mini-cause for celebration.

What rewards motivate you? Share with Seen This Scene That in the comments below.

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Related reads:
1) Singapore Bay 10-KM Run 2008
2) Singapore Bay Run Pre-race Thoughts
3) Singapore Bay Run Race Expo 2009

Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 06:52:59 PDT

Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009

Fresh from my euphoria of completing the 10km Singapore Bay Run / Army Half Marathon 2009, I have cast my eyes on the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009.

Looking at the running distances available in the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009, the shortest distance to participate in is a marathon distance 750 metres. This is for my kids if they intend to join in the fun. However, as of today, I note that all 2000 places in the 750 metre Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009 have been fully taken up.

The next shortest Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009 run is the 10-km run, followed by the 21-km route and finally the full marathon. As it will be my first attempt in the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009, I think I will go slow and start with the shorter races.

I can't resist comparing the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009 (SCSM) with the Singapore Bay Run (SBR). There are obvious differences.

The race registration fee for the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009 SCSM 10-km run ($50) is a whopping five times more expensive than my SAFRA Singapore Bay Run SBR ($22). Can I expect the running experience in the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009 SCSM to be more than twice better?

The 10-km race route of the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009 SCSM will take runners on a different route around Marina Bay, compared to the SBR. The scenery on the new running route will be an exciting change for me.

The starting time for the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009 is slightly later at 7.45am which will allow me to sleep a little longer on race day than at the SBR.

There is a charity effort known as the 'Run for a Cause' programme in the Standard Chartered Marathon 2009. It aims to raise funds for the beneficiaries of the three adopted charities supported by Community Chest, the Official Charity Partner of the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009.

Notwithstanding these differences, if I do run in the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009 it will be a totally new racing experience. I am sure there are many more differences than what I have mentioned. The only way to find out is to join in and experience it for myself.

26 August 2009 is the last day to qualify for the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009 promotional rates. Have you signed up for the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009?

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Singapore Bay 10-KM Run

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 09:01:00 PDT

Singapore Bay 10-KM Run

I completed my first 10-kilometre leisure run in the SAFRA Singapore Bay Run Army Half Marathon event on 16 August 2009, after having done the 6-kilometre fun run last year. This Singapore Bay 10-km run turned out to be much better than I had anticipated for my first competitive run.

Photograph 1 of 10-km Singapore Bay Run:

Before I started my SAFRA Singapore Bay 10-km Run, I was a little apprehensive. This 10-km run was supposed to be a competitive category with a chip on my right shoe constantly reminding me that my timing would be monitored closely.

Photograph 2 of 10-km Singapore Bay Run:

However once the starter's horn was blown a few minutes before the 7am Singapore Bay 10-km Run start time, I began to relax and to soak in the carnival-like atmosphere of the running crowd. The cool weather that followed a downpour the day before, kept temperatures low. The competitive field was noticeably thinner than at the start of my previous 6-km fun run which kept bottlenecks along the route to a minimum, except for the U-turn which was shared with the 21-km Army Half Marathon runners.

Photograph 3 of Singapore Bay Run:

Along the way, there was plenty of entertainment provided around the Marina Bay to cheer us on our Singapore Bay 10-km run. There were performances by various groups such as the Bhangra musicians with their dhol drums inspiring us to beat a path forward, the SAF band in red attire performing their musical pieces, and a jazz and drum band providing rhythmic beats to motivate runners.

Of note were two of the biggest head turning acts at the Singapore Bay 10-km Run and Army Half Marathon. Runners cheered the loudest for the acts performed by the cheer-leading mixed team and a dance routine by a party of belly dancers.

Photograph 4 of Singapore Bay 10-km Run:

I appreciated the ample opportunity for oral rehydration in the form of multiple drink stations along the entire Singapore Bay 10-km Run. Besides plain water, picky runners could choose to imbibe isotonic drinks and even chilled ice-water. My only grouse here would be that the drink stall attendants topping up the paper cups with fluid could not keep pace with the high demand. But there is no worry about the lack of water to drink. The real danger posed by it would be the need to find a washroom along the Singapore Bay 10-km Run to relief loaded urinary bladders.

Photograph 5 of Singapore Bay 10-km Run:

The end point at the padang in front of City Hall is a fantastically inspiring venue to end the 10-km Singapore Bay Run as well as the Army Half Marathon. As you approach the digital clock at the finishing line, and see the spectators cheering the runners on, it gives lungs to runners to enjoy a memorable finish.

I am happy that my Singapore Bay 10-km Run turned out pleasantly enjoyable, leisurely competitive, surprisingly injury-free and amazingly well hydrated. I am looking forward to the next edition of the Singapore Bay 10-km Run.

See more places. Live more life.

Seen This Scene That

Related reads:
1) Singapore Bay 6-KM Run 2008
2) Singapore Bay Run Pre-race Thoughts
3) Singapore Bay Run Race Expo 2009

Sunset Places In Singapore 2

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 09:07:00 PDT

Sunset Places In Singapore 2

In my previous post on Sunset Places in Singapore, I asked readers to share suggestions on the great places to see sunsets in Singapore.

Today, I shall feature one of my Seen This Scene That readers who has recommended not one , not two but four places to see such sunsets. In addition, he has also taken photographs of those scenic sunsets and is keen to share the photographs with you.

Take a look at those wonderful pictures taken at sunset places in Singapore. There are many sunsets at locations other than the four that were mentioned below. Visit his flickr site and search for 'sunset'.

tangenghui:

For sunset photography locations, I been to

(1) Raffles Marina - Tuas End
(2) West Coast Park - very near my home
(3) Labrador Park - go all the way out towards the jetty end
(4) Mt Faber Park - highest point of Mt Faber

My Flickr photos would have sunset photos of (2) & (4) .... It's time to take more sunset photos in Singapore !!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/tangenghui

JH
http://www.photojournalist-tgh.tv

Thanks Geng Hui! Keep up your photography and for sharing your photographs!

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National Day Greetings From Seen This Scene That

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 09:01:00 PDT

National Day Greetings From Seen This Scene That

To all Seen This Scene That readers,

Happy National Day!

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