Coastal PlayGrove: Say Hello to the Newest Playground in East Coast

Looking for a recreational space where you can spend a day of endless fun? Search no further than the newest addition at East Coast Park! National Parks Board recently opened the family friendly Coastal PlayGrove. It is located at the Area B of the East Coast Park.

This recreational space may induce nostalgic memories as it was the former Big Splash site. The iconic Big Splash was redeveloped into the Coastal PlayGrove after it ceased its operations in 2016. Nowadays, we will be able to enjoy a 4.5-hectare recreation space with a Play Tower, a water play area, an outdoor classroom, as well as retail and dining offerings.

Let us breakdown Coastal PlayGrove’s interesting features. One of its main attractions is the 16m-high Play Tower. This impressive structure is hard to miss due to its massive size and its vibrant design. At its center is the Vertical Challenge. The Vertical Challenge is made up of climbing nets, which ascend from the base to the top of the building. Its dynamic design is a tribute to the coastal heritage of East Coast Park. Moreover, its vibrant colors are the same as the previous water slides. The Vertical Challenge is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 8am to 8pm. The slides are open daily, from 8am to 12pm and 4pm to 8pm.

Image Credits: facebook.com/nparksbuzz

Next to the tower is a water play area. If your kids are looking for ways to cool down on a hot day, try playing at the water play area. This area consists of wading pools, which are connected by a stream with numerous water jets. What is more? These water jets vividly light up at night!

Here are some friendly reminders when playing in this area. It is suitable for children aged 5 to 12 years old. A toilet is located nearby to allow visitors to dry up and change out. Lastly, it follows the same schedule as the Vertical Challenge.

As you stroll further in the Coastal PlayGrove, you will be delighted with the Nature Playgarden. This playgarden allows guests to be immersed with the beauty of nature. It is divided into several themed sections to introduce kids to the different habitats. In all these sections, natural materials such as wood and sand were used. For instance, the first section lets the children explore the bamboo tunnel trail. The last section consists of a trail leading to a sand pit with planted native shrubs. You will be able to spot various fruits and flowers as well as animals such as butterflies and birds. Its biodiversity aims to ignite the curiosity of its guests.

Image Credits: facebook.com/nparksbuzz

Next to the Nature Playgarden is an Outdoor Classroom made for the preschoolers. It is equipped with chalkboard and log stools. Indulge in the coastal views as you learn with your child.

Aside from these interactive features, the Coastal PlayGrove has its own Event Lawn. Large events may not be permitted now, but this spacious Event Lawn can accommodate a whopping 5,000 people once the pandemic is over. Nonetheless, you can use this space by having a seaside picnic, a relaxing kite-flying session, or an exhilarating round of frisbee with your loved ones.

When visiting the Coastal PlayGrove, it is important to follow the COVID-19 guidelines and other safety protocols. With this newest addition to the East Coast Park, guests will be able to bask in the sun, immerse in nature’s beauty, and have a quality time with the whole family.

 

 

Address: East Coast Park, 902 E Coast Park Service Rd, Area B, Singapore 449874
Contact: www.nparks.gov.sg
Arrive by riding the bus (31, 36, 43, 47, 48, 134, 135, 196, 197, 401, 853M) or by driving your vehicle. There is a spacious car park with current charges of $0.60 per half hour. Bicycle bays are also available.

Sources: 1 & 2

 

 

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Free Activities To Do Alone In Singapore

Whether Singapore is the most expensive city in the world or not, you should be able to explore the country freely. Take it in the most literal sense!

#1: DEDICATE A DAY FOR THE ARTS

As a concrete jungle, Singapore does not have numerous natural attractions. However, it boasts its variety of exhibitions and museums. Where can you begin your creative journey? Consider visiting the National Museum of Singapore. Its the country’s oldest museum. Then, you may hop a ride to Singapore Art Museum. Its contemporary take on art will warm your hearts. Lastly, you may visit a museum that features Asian cultures in a humble light. I am referring to the Asian Civilisations Museum, which overlooks the Singapore River.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Enjoy free admissions to these museums by presenting your NRIC to validate that you are either a Singaporean or a Permanent Resident.

#2: TAKE A TRIP DOWN HISTORY

Take some time to explore the historic route of the first HDB developed town – Toa Payoh. You may explore the facilities inside the Toa Payoh Sports Complex. Did you know that the 1973 South East Asian Peninsular Games was held there? As a resident of Toa Payoh, I can attest how efficient and convenient it is to have a wealth of fitness facilities close-by.

Adults with a youthful spirit can feel nostalgia by visiting playgrounds with soft sands. Relive your joyful childhood memories by walking or running in the Toa Payoh’s dragon playground. After all, it is the last of its kind!

#3: TAKE CARE OF ANIMALS

Making a difference starts with a single step. As an animal lover, you may leave a mark by helping a cause that houses abandoned animals. Said furry friends have physical and emotional well being too. It is time to give the support that they need! Volunteer at the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Volunteering to causes such as this one is not a piece of cake! It requires a ton of patience, commitment, and passion for animals. Are you up for that?

#4: SHOP AT THE REALLY REALLY FREE MARKET

You read that right! One of the country’s beloved flea markets is the the Singapore Really Really Free Market (SRRFM). SRRFM welcomes anyone to sell their goods or services by setting up their own stall. You are encouraged to roam around to experience different treats along the way.

Image Credits: facebook.com/srrfm

Who knows what gems await you? Will you be able to hunt old vinyls or vintage clothing? There is only one way to find out! Head to the next event by following their Facebook page.

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Singapore On A Budget: 7 Ways To Be A Tourist For A Day

Many Singaporeans are passionate about traveling. They are keen to absorb new cultures, to adapt with unique environments, to discover quality eateries, and to find the “rawness” of a city. Due to several factors, traveling overseas is not always possible. Fortunately for us, exploring the Lion City is amazingly doable!

Consider these seven interesting ideas:

1. The crowds clamor over places with colorful lights, luscious trees, and high-end malls. Experience all these and more by taking a walk around the Singapore River. Follow the The Poor Traveler’s route from Raffles Place to Gardens by the Bay. You will not be needing a tour guide to enjoy this enriching walk.

2. Satisfy your thirst for electrifying musical performances by knowing the right places to look. No-cost performances usually occur at Singapore Botanic Gardens and Esplanade. For instance, Singapore Botanic Gardens recently featured the “A Cappella Festival 2017”.

3. Aside from scoring seats from various performances, you may schedule a karaoke night with your friends. You may invite new co-workers or acquaintances to witness an array of live performances. Karaoke nights offer opportunity for you to socialize and to express yourself. After all, tourists are open to meeting new people.

Related Article: 4 Cheap And Awesome KTV Places in Singapore

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Image Credits: pixabay.com

4. Paint a bird’s eye view of the beautiful city by exploring the rooftops. Witness the magnificent aerial view of the city by stepping into the ION Sky. ION Orchard’s observatory is open from 3 to 6 PM daily.

5. Man-made skylines are captivating. However, nothing beats the charm of Mother Nature. Take Instagram-worthy photos as you stand in the MacRitchie Reservoir’s Treetop Walk. This is a suspension bridge that connects two highest points (i.e., Bukit Peirce and Bukit Kalang).

6. Many travelers focus on the vibrant art scene of the city. Visiting the local museums is a great start. Improve your knowledge of the Singaporean and Asian culture by visiting the Asian Civilisations Museum or the National Gallery of Singapore. Then, feast your eyes as Esplanade highlights the essence of Chinese arts and culture.  Connect with others, be inspired with unique artworks, and open your heart to new artistic experiences.

7. Embody the complete “tourist persona” by capturing your memories at the popular spots in Singapore. Snap cheesy pictures at Sentosa’s Merlion or bright pictures at Haji Lane.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Do not be afraid to translate your quirkiness in front of the camera. After all, you will only do this for a day! 🙂

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