Fresh air and free spaces - the best places to hang out and look good
Hang out where nature's most beautiful sides are revealed. It's easy because they're everywhere, plus you get fresh air, free workouts and instaworthy memories.
If one of your new year resolutions is to build a healthier mind and body, we hope you're sticking to it and feeling the benefits already. Here're our round-the-island picks of the best nature hangouts that will surely inspire and encourage you to get moving! Best experienced in the company of loved ones.
North: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
An oldie but a goodie. If the last time you visited Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve was during your primary school excursion, now’s the time to revisit it. There are four trails to choose from, so for a change of scenery from swamps and mudskippers, veer onto the Migratory Bird trail for a chance to catch flocks of shore birds. If you're bringing your kids along on this outdoorsy adventure, it will make for a very educational trip too.
You might want to layer on plenty of insect repellent and trade in your shorts for long pants. Yoga leggings are a great option because they’re so stretchy, comfy and sweat-wicking. Lululemon at ION Orchard has a good looking selection of active wear if you’re looking to stock up.
South: The Southern Ridges
This 10-kilometre trail connecting Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, Hort Park, Kent Ridge Park and Labrador Nature Reserve is equal parts nature and architecture.
While taking in the fresh air and working those leg muscles, don't forget to stop for Insta-worthy shots.
As tempting as it is, don’t just keep your sights trained on your smartphone though! Look through a pair of high-powered binoculars and you may catch a glimpse of white-throated kingfishers and Brahminy Kites - a real treat for the eyes because they're so rare.
Invest in a sturdy pair from Harvey Norman at Bukit Panjang Plaza.
(North) East: Coney Island Park
This little islet connected to Punggol is the new kid on the block, and you’re missing out if you haven’t checked it out. The 50-hectare park promises a back-to-nature experience with a variety of habitats from coastal forests and grasslands, to mangroves and casuarina woodlands.
So strap on a pair of reliable, ankle-supporting shoes (Timberland at Bugis+, Raffles City, ION Orchard or Westgate has got a pretty neat collection). Also, because the eco park doesn’t have piped water or electricity, be sure to fill up your water bottle before heading in. The easiest way in is via Punggol Point Park.
West: Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Get high on nature, quite literally, as you scale Singapore’s tallest hill at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.
This fun-for-the-whole-family destination comes with a plethora of options — on foot, you get to choose from four different trekking routes; if you prefer to pedal, there are two dedicated bike trails for you.
Just mind the macaques along the way!
To make it a full day out, load your backpack with hiking essentials and wet weather necessities, just in case the rain gets to you.
Outdoor Life at Plaza Singapura offers one of the largest selections of outdoor gear in town.
Central: Central Catchment Nature Reserve
Where do you go to feel on top of the world, when you live in a Garden City like Singapore? Most nature lovers would point you to the TreeTop Walk at the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. The free-standing suspension bridge connects the two highest points in MacRitchie to offer you a spectacular bird’s eye view of the surrounding flora and fauna.
While you’re soaking in the sights, protect your skin with a good sunscreen and a refreshing face mist from Kiehl’s at Bugis Junction, Plaza Singapura, Tampines Mall and Westgate.
There's something so alluring about being able to do something memorable or meaningful with the people that matter most - especially if it doesn't cost a thing to build these memories. After the great outdoors, consider heading indoors with your little ones and let them shop for free.