Checkpoint: Singapore - Johor Bahru 2015

Late last year, I was faced with a challenge  that I thought I cannot surpass. Wounds were deep, time were wasted and I just know I cannot take it anymore. I took a time off to my go to place - Singapore. I traveled solo to reflect and met with a few friends to catch up.

I had braved the streets of Little India en route to my chosen hostel - Mitraa Inn. It was managed by a Filipino so I felt safe and welcomed. I plan to pass by Gardens by the Bay before I  meet with an old neighbor who also happens to be my classmate since elementary days. 

It so happens my visit was just after the Deepavali Festival. The streets have colorful lights at night. Too bad I wasn't able to capture it.

Happy to pass by this  Hindu Temple on my way to Gardens by the Bay

The sunset view I captured before meeting with my friend at Clark Quay

Finally able to experience SG's night life at Clark Quay with my Kiao tiong Friends.

The next day, I checked out early to meet with my former colleague so we can have a staycation at Johor Bahru. It is always a thrill for me to cross borders by land. There's no specific plan for this trip, it's a spontaneous decision to  visit JB and we just shopped til we dropped and ate whatever we want.

We attended a mass in Church of the Immaculate Concepcion

On my return to Singapore, I chose a different hostel - Little Red Dot Inn and luckily I got upgraded to the capsule type accommodation. It's  a solo adventure again for me since my friend have to prepare for her work week. 

Upon resting for a while, I explored Kampong Glam for a historical walk. If not travelling alone, I would definitely try one of the restaurants along the Arab street.

 

Sultan's Mosque

Arab's street at a different angle

I was also able to pass by the Malay Heritage Center where a Malayan traditional dance was being performed during my visit.

I was about to meet the Engineering head of one of the company in Singapore the following day for an informal interview. With my 3 days in SG and Malaysia, I decided to pass on the opportunity as I had reflected the life that I had envisioned during this "me" time. 

The following day was a full of adventure for my solo trip to further think about what I am going through. 

The first stop was the National Museum of Singapore where I was able to know more about the history of the diverse community of Singapore. I explored the different sections of the museum with a German friend that I met at the hostel who also happens to study Arts.

Next in our list is the Contemporary Art Museum of Singapore. It was a first for me to visit such establishment. I appreciated how we can perceive art in various angles. It also made me appreciate the little thing we have.

My friend and I had to go our separate itinerary after lunch as she still wants to explore the other museums in the area. For my case, I plan to do a walking tour from Fullerton Hotel to Gardens by the Bay.

The start of wandering around Singapore at the Fullerton Hotel

The Asian Civilization Museum. Too bad I was running out of time so I have to skip this one.


Victoria Theatre


Singapore's iconic symbol - The Merlion


The Esplanade. Due to time constraints, I wasn't able to check it out. Maybe some other time.


Finally able to traverse the Helix Bridge


Art Science Museum. Next time, I'll definitely visit this cool place.

Upon arriving at the Gardens by the Bay, it was unfortunate to know that the Cloud Forest is under maintenance. I was only able to visit the Flower Dome which I love so much, I had spent quite some time learning about the different flowers in the area. Plus, Christmas season was near, so the place was decorated to fit the season.

Flowery place makes me extremely happy

Christmas Feels

To cap off the night is me witnessing the lights and sounds show by the Super Tree at Gardens by the Bay.

The last day was alloted to explore Sentosa and to dine at the famous Michelin star restaurant - Din Tai Fung. 

Chilling at Sentosa

Thank you so much Singapore. You had answered again a lot of questions. I was able to understand what I wanna do with my life. Just like my 2013 trip, I was able to know what I have to do. You jump start my life again. You had made me remember my plans and goals.