Changi Village may be right at the corner of Singapore and can be so easily forgotten. Truth is, Changi Village is quite the hidden gem, filled with a rich history of its own and can be an ample place to be away from the ever so bustling city.
The neighbourhood is just mere minutes away from Changi International Airport. If you’re in search of a short tranquil trip to the north, read on as we take a look at the places you can explore in Changi Village.
1. Changi Point Coastal Walk
Take a not-so-short walk with your loved ones at Changi Point Coastal Walk, AKA Changi Boardwalk, and enjoy the calming views of the water and you can even spot Johor Bahru from here. It stretches over 2.2km with such a picturesque view and there are a few entry points you could take at the coastal walk, or take the Beach Walk entry if you prefer to stay by the beach. Go for Creek Walk and pass by the Civil Service Club – you will also see boats heading out to sea from Changi Ferry Point Terminal.
2. Changi Point Ferry Terminal
The ferry terminal was formerly known as Changi Jetty, from there, you could take a short bumboat ride to Pulau Ubin and spend half a day exploring the island. The boat fare is fairly affordable, ($3) considering you don’t need to pay for admission in Pulau Ubin. The boat can accommodate a maximum of 12 occupants and will only depart when it’s full.
3. Pulau Ubin
After a 15 minute boat ride, you’ll arrive at Pulau Ubin and instantly feel like you’ve stepped into another era of Singapore as it gives off a 70’s vibe. Most residents ride a bicycle as a means of transportation, you can rent yourself a bike to go around discovering the island and enjoy the fresh air.
One of the things you can do is to visit the Butterfly Hill. Butterfly expert, Mr. Khew Sin Khoon once suggested to plant 50 different plant species on the hill just to attract butterflies. The hill in Pulau Ubin is now home to over 140 butterfly species! Follow the signs to the Sensory Trail where you can find local fruit trees and vegetables planted.
The trail is 1.5km and easy to walk through, so be sure to take some beautiful pictures with the natural greenery! After all the walking/biking, stop by at Season Live Seafood Restaurant to get a full seafood experience.
4. Changi Chapel & Museum
Take a tour at the Changi Museum and learn about the historical and catastrophic World War II event that affected the lives of many people around the world. Though the Changi Museum is a dark and sombre reminder of what had happened, it is important, especially for the new generation to know the story of the events during the Japanese Occupation between 1942 and 1945.
Note: The museum is currently closed and undergoing major redevelopment. It is expected to reopen to the public in 2020.
5. Changi Beach Club
Enjoy a night sky filled with stars at Changi Beach Club, chill and unwind by the beach with a cocktail in hand. It is located 1.7km from Changi Point Ferry Terminal. The yellow and orange beach club is open to the public for various activities such as swimming, bowling and deck bar. The beach club is the perfect romantic getaway you need as it is tucked away from the busy city and because the resort accommodates a rather low density, it is private and rather exclusive.
6. Changi Beach Park
If you’re in search of a park that your children can play at, Changi Beach Park is ideal just for you! Bring your kids back to nature and enjoy the tranquil park, let them wander around the open space offered and also the massive playground. It is also the perfect place to enjoy a picnic with the entire family. Enjoy the view of airplanes landing at the airport – it can be such a peaceful feeling to watch them come and go.
7. Smith Marine Floating Restaurant
For a unique dining experience, head down to Smith Marine Floating Restaurant. The restaurant is only accessible by bumboat because it is located, well, right in the middle of the sea! The first of its kind in Singapore, it’s also a halal certified restaurant.
First, you can go to Ferry Point Terminal and they have chartered boats that’ll take you to Smith Marine. The restaurant is ideal for birthdays, corporate events as well as family gatherings. You get to catch the freshest seafood and have them cook on the spot! Did we mention you can catch the sunset on the horizon and feel the cool breeze of the sea?
8. Changi Village Hawker Centre
Another place you must not miss out in Changi Village is their hawker centre! It is where you can indulge in all the local food, there are so many choices and it’s nothing short of a gastronomic galore. Some of the famous dishes you can definitely try in Changi Village Hawker Centre are the famous Nasi Lemak, Fried Hokkien Mee and Nasi Briyani. Quench your thirst with one or two fresh coconut juices, something that’s not easy to find in the city.
