Reading by the Seaside

Contemplating between Pulau Ubin, the Eastern Coastal Park Connecters and Sentosa, I finally decided on Sentosa. The last time I was there, I managed to get a nice tan while reading on the beach. No mosquitoes to worry about too. With my leave coming to an end, Ubin and the Eastern Coastal Park Connectors had to wait. Likewise for Memories at the Old Ford Factory, Reflections at Bukit Chandu, Toy Mint Museum and Labrador Nature Reserve. Perhaps, I could visit these places during weekends. I could wake up extremely early to avoid the crowd.

Finding a shady spot on Siloso Beach, I finally got to relax by the seaside and read my book. The occasional noise by visiting school children and beach bums failed to distract me from the book. After some time, it became too hot to bear and I shifted into the shade once more. I didn't leave the spot until I finally finish the book. It was about three hours later. I slowly made my way back to Xabi and went to Vivo City for some shopping. No, I didn't buy another trekking shoes. Instead, I bought two pairs of jeans to start work. Time to get back to reality soon. I just wished this holiday could last longer.

Lightning Never Strikes Twice

Having taken out my bandage prematurely, I decided to wake up extra early today to take on the Treetop Walk. It's NOT that I wanted to remove the bandage, but I simply couldn't stand the itch anymore. So out came the bandage, and in came the idea of doing the Treetop Walk today. I went out of the house before my brother left for work, which was at around 0745hr. Driving down the all so familiar road towards SLE, I had to keep telling myself that I'm NOT going to work today. The Treetop Walk is accessible from McRitchie Reservori (4.5km) or Venus Drive (2.5km), off Upper Thomson Road. I had chose to go by Venus Drive because of the shorter distance to walk and to drive.

With the sky slower getting darker and darker, I prayed that the good weather would hold until I finished this hike. To quote Joanne, I have become a dundee this week. Following the dirt track, I started my trek on Peirce Track. The trickle of the stream, the bird chipping brought me back to the day when I was strolling in the Botanic Gardens in Melbourne City. But slowly, the terrain got tougher and it soon became a workout for me. Along the way, some people were coming back from their morning runs. Maybe I should consider doing this before work every morning.

Along the way, I heard some noise. Looking up, a monkey was scratching itself on a tree. The sight of this monkey gave me a shock. Then I laughed at myself. Of course there would be monkeys here, I'm in a forest! Hahaha! I forgot the instructions from NPB's website state that the terrains here is graded as moderate to difficult. Soon, I realised I would need another pair of trekking shoes if I were to do this more often. I think I would as I seriously wanted to bring myself closer to nature after this bout of illness. There! Another reason for me to go shopping!!

After walking for 2.5km, I reached the entrancet of the Treetop Walk. The Ranger stationed at there told me to not spend too long on the bridge as a thunderstorm is brewing, and this is a one-way route. Worried about how to get back to Xabi, I asked about the return route to the Venus Drive Carpark. He told me there is a route at the other end that leads back to the Ranger's Station. From there, I can go back the way I came, to Xabi. Relieved, I opened the gate and walked on. A Chinese couple was there. The air is so fresh!! I can see McRitchie Reservoir from here! Enjoying the breeze and view, I slowly make my way across the bridge. But with the sound of thunder drawing nearer and nearer, I had to make my way down the canopy soon.

Turning around, I spotted a monkey sitting on the rail of the bridge. Torn between going back to take photo of it. It was SO near me. But the sensible side of me thought otherwise and I opened the gate and started my journey back to the Rangers' Station. Little did I realised that I had a shot of the monkey leaping from one side of the bridge to the other, before it disappeared into the forest. The Chinese couple had left earlier. With the thunder getting louder and nearer, I quickened my footsteps down the steps. Hmm... good thing it was all going down. Unlike the trip up, I was almost out of breathe when I reached the entrance. Lo and behold! I couldn't be more wrong! After three flights of steps down, there was a flight of steps leading up to God knows where!!

After that flight of stairs, there was another and then another. So this should be the most difficult terrains since I came into this secondary forest. Suddenly, the entire forest darkened. Thunderstorm is almost here. I started jogging to get myself out quickly. Overtaking the Chinese couple, the truth of not staying in forests during thunderstorms finally hit me. It's scary. Out of nowhere, I saw a flash of light. Oh no! Lightning! Then another flash, and behind us, we heard a loud crash. Glancing back, we realised the second bolt of lightning had strike a tree, sending the tree crashing. I broke into a run and charged towards the Rangers' station, which is about 1.2km away. The Chinese couple nearly went the wrong way, and I shouted out to them that it's the other way!

The rain started coming down. We ran towards the Rangers' station. But realised we could not make it there in time. Along the way, there was a resting place. The three of us seek shelter there, together with another guy. Soon, it was pouring. Some Caucasians continued their treks in the rain. The Ranger Station is only 0.6km away. But that does not include the 2.5km I had to cover before I reach Xabi. Bored, I squat at a corner, taking pictures of rain drops falling on leaves. I realised people does silly things when they are bored, and the thought of Stone Platoon came into my mind. I smiled to myself.

With the rain getting less heavy, I decided to walk out of the forest. This downpour could go on forever, and I don't want to have an endless wait here. Plus, there is no reception here. Mum will get worried if she can't get me on my phone. So I put on my cap, and braved the rain. Thank God the rain didn't get any heavier. But the rain made the tracks more difficult to walk. It was slippery at certain point, and I had to detour onto the main road before I hopped back into the trail again at the junction. The stream at the entrance had became a small river. The signs that siad no fishing suddenly had another new meaning. People would get drown here during thunderstorms. I managed to get to Xabi at 1100hr. I thought Mum wouln't even realised that I had been out. But I left my house keys hanging at the gate and got an earful from her.

Searching for tranquility

With a bandaged knee, I thought I would just find a quiet spot to finish the book I was reading. So I drove away, initially, without an idea where would I end up. Then I remembered that Kerlin brought us to a place to film a link along Seletar Reservoir. It's somewhere along Mandai Road. Since I had yet to pass Mandai exit, I decided to find a secluded spot for me to finish my book. This Mary Higgins Clark book has been in my bag for eons! I just want to finish it. Besides, I had stopped at the most exciting moment of the story.

I ended up driving into Mandai Zoo. Finding After consulting the street directory, I embarked on the journey once more. Following the streets signs carefully, I turned and went pass the spot which I had wanted to settle down with my book. Venturing forward, I emerged, after a tunnel, into a golf club. Beside the golf club, is Upper Seletar Reservoir. After parking Xabi at the most shady lot possible, I started to walk around the area, despite funny stares from the gardeners. They must be wondering, what am I doing there in such hot conditions.

Walking further in, I saw a viewing tower. I thought, maybe I could finish my book there, on top of the tower with the breeze blowing. I climbed up the viewing tower and got a bird's eye view of Upper Seletar Reservoir. But I quickly banished the idea of reading at the top of the tower. First of all, I don't feel good about the aura up there. Secondly, there is a stench of urine smell. Probably some drunkards who had decided to spend the night there. Thank God they weren't drunk until they fall into the reserviour, or down the tower. As soon as the thought of them falling down the tower hit me, I ran as fast as my injured knee could carry me down.

Without a spot shady and comfortable enough for me to read, I went back to Xabi and returned to the scenic spot, hoping to finally, be able to read. But alas! Today is not a day for reading and I make my way back home. But still, it was fun to finally have drove to this part of Singapore.

I thought I saw a BUAYA!!

After visiting the Southern Isles, I told myself I can't stop at that. So, I packed my stuff and made my way to Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. It's free parking for visitors during weekdays, so I happily made my way to the entrance where I was surprise to see cocks walking about at the entrance. Hahaha! Have really became a city person, and I really need to find time to get back to nature at times.


Arriving there during the late morning, some of the students who are on their field trip there have already completed their outdoor lesson for the day. I took the map at the reception and decided to take Route 3 (will take about 4 hours) to make full use of the trip there.


Just when I was about to take on the Trail, I spotted an animal lying across the path. Oh my God! Is that a Buaya lying in front? I calmed myself down and thought, Couldn't be a crocodile as crocs are nocturnal, and since there have been students walking about, the buaya wouldn't be lying around by now. Sounds logical, so I pruck up my courage and venture forward. On the other hand, I just hope it wasn't a croc as Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve does have a resident crocodile, according to the website.


Upon a closer look, I realised it was a monitor lizard! But it was huge! I mean, it certainly resemble a small buaya lah! Laughing to myself, I walked towards it. Sensing a human approaching, it quickly made its way into the water. And I made up my mind to do this more often, and I began to plan my trip for tomorrow. Should I do the Treetop walk or go to Pulau Ubin? Wanted to do both, but can only go to one place at a day. But there are so many things to do in Ubin, and I would need a day there. As for Treetop walk, I could probably complete it in a morning.


Continuing the walk, I made my first stop at a hut where I could stand there and bird-watch. The moment I stepped into the hut, I heard scampering sound. I went into alert mode and looked around me. Realising it was a family of squirrels, I decided to leave them to themselves and quietly stepped out of the hut. The whole bunch of them started to make their way all over the tress there, and I managed this shot. Not bad for an amatuer right? Hahaha! If I venture to Pulau Ubin tomorrow, I would surely have to bring my insect repellent. Have already donated blood to this place!!


Walking forward just a couple of metres more, I heard a bird "singing" quite loudly. Searching for the source of the sound, I saw this tiny bird perched on the tree, where I quietly and patiently bid my time for this picture. The bird was so tiny that it was difficult to spot it among the trees.


A couple of metres later, I heard something moved among the grass to my left. Turning around, I saw a small monitor lizard lying there. Almost frozen to the spot, I squat down and just watched until a group of kids came and one of them almost stepped onto it! Moving a few steps forward, the kids realised that it was a monitor lizard and started a din. The lizard ran for cover and disappeared into the water. A teacher came along and the kids said I spotted a monitor lizard.


At the next bird-watching spot, I patiently waited for some white storks to make their flight into the trees. Suddenly, I realised there are actually birds at the resting by the swamp. I just stood there, enjoying the peace and quiet. But soon, I realised it was a mistake to stop. Mosquitoes started their attack on me! There were all over legs! I really regretted not buying a new bottle of anti-mosquitoes! Arrghhh! Continuing into Route 2, I climbed up to a tower for a better view. It was a bad move. The vegetation have outgrown the tower, and the view is nothing fantastic.


Forging ahead while trying to keep the mosquitoes away from me, I spotted a dog in front, standing in my path at a boardwalk. I stood there on the spot, not moving and so does the dog. Then, it decided to turn around before I can take a picture of it. "She" turned left and vanished, but not before I caught a glimpse of a puppy running for cover under the thick undergrowth. It took me a while before I could find an angle to take a shot at the pup. Smart move doggy!


Decided that I have donated enough blood to the wetland, I skipped Route 3 and started on my trail back to the reception area. Nearing a huge body of water, I heard splashes. Forgetting about the mosquitoes bites for a moment, I saw fishes leaping out of the water. Going through the map, there is no info about the fishes that does that. Just as I decided to ask the ranger about that, I came across this board that said this type of fish is called Tropical Silverside. When disturbed, they synchronously leaps out of water. Ahha! That answers my question!


On the way back, I noticed some crabs were climbing on the trees at the Mangrove Boardwalk. It was not just one of them, but a huge lot!! Whow! I thought one can only see crabs at the seaside! Reaching the end of the route, I told myself I would make another trip there someday. I managed to complete the Kranji nature trail as well, but end up injuring my knee. Guess I have to go to sinseh again. Keeping my fingers crossed that it's nothing too serious and I can still go ahead with my plans for the next few days.

The Southern Isles

After the recent encounter with my health problems, I finally went on leave for a week. Planned for about a couple of days, I couldn't decide whether to book a chalet for three days in Sentosa or to just spend a couple of days in Changi Village. Stuck in a dilemma, I did neither and in the end chose to check out a couple of places which I have always wanted to.

Having settle some stuff in town, I drove down to Marina South Pier and bought tickets that would take me to the Southern Isles of Singapore - Kusu Island and St. John Island. Before boarding the fast boat, I ate my lunch and then wondered if I would feel seasick. It was about twenty years ago since I last visited Kusu Island. I used to visit the island with Ah Mah, Mummy, Uncle Patrick and Mum's siblings. Mum and Ah Mah would then make us wear a yellow strip of cloth around our wrists for a month. While waiting to board the boat, I read at the viewing gallery of the pier. It was a comfortable spot to just chill there and read. Had the weather been cooler, it would be perfect!

The Da Bo Gong temple has undergone a series of renovations, and I have forgotten that we would need to climb a flight of stairs - 154 to be exact - the reach. Upon reaching the shore, I suddenly felt nostalgic. But the feeling was all so different. Back in those days, we would wake at sunrise, and by noon we would be home. This is the first time, I am travelling there in the afternoon and will be there alone. My annual trip in my younger days was were hundreds of worshippers.

Gone were the hordes of devotees who will visit the island in the ninth month of the lunar calendar. During this period, all was quiet on the island. There was a tortoise sanctury there where is houses several different kinds of tortoises there. I made a wish at the wishing well there. Not that I believed it will come true, though I secretly hoped it will. Its more for old times' sake that I tossed a coin into the well to make a wish. Had a stroll around the island. It was so peaceful. Then, while standing at the Turtle Lagoon, I heard a cough and spotted a huge turtle surfacing to change its breathe. I tried to take a picture of it, but by the time I was ready, it was nowhere to be seen. But the moment was magical. It has been so long since I last saw a live turtle. (Not mentioning the one who's name after a ninja turtle).

I stood there for some time, and saw another turtle at the shallow waters. This time, it was much smaller. More like the size of a big tortoise. This time, I managed to take a shot before it dive in into the deeper waters. After spending twenty minutes on the island, the boat sounded for us to board. Soon, I was on my way to St. John island. It was my first trip there. Just wondering what was on the island and why the island was named St. John island. The fifteen minute boat ride there flew past.

There was a family there, just about to pack up for their one-day trip at the island. A short walk around the island and I realised that the island is now solely being used to Marine development. There is a football field there, and "chalets". Apparently, camping there is allowed as long as we applied for permission. As the return trip will take us back to Kusu Island again, I once again took to standing at the Turtle Lagoon as I awaits the turtle to surface. I thought I could said goodbye to an old friend. In the end, "he" did not. Does that mean that it would be goodbye to turtle?