Hiking - Labrador and Gillman Visit

Hi Blog,

Saturday again. I was supposed to attend a class, but I wanted some me-time. After what happened yesterday, I had a stronger urge to just lie down and doom-scroll; however, I gave myself a little push to go for a hike.

So where should I go today? In my mind, Labrador Nature Reserve stood out, so let's go there and also visit Gillman Forest again to find the spot I missed before. If you missed visiting Gillman Barracks Forest, you can check here. I would rather explore that forest sooner rather than later because it will be deforested for a future project.

Speaking of Labrador Nature Reserve, it is one of my favourite places for exploration. I've been feeling a strong urge to go there lately, so let's go together and see why. If you missed my previous post about Labrador Nature Reserve, you can check it out: Exploring Labrador Nature Park (2017), Night Exploration at Labrador Park (2019), Half Day Hike (2019), With my Childhood Friends (2020), Batu Berlayar AMTB Battery (2022) and again (2022), Finding Old Hideout Shelter (2023), and Revisiting Labrador Nature Park (2024)

Hiking - Gillman Barracks Forest

Hi Blog,

This month, I've been hurriedly working to document some forests that are at risk of being lost forever. Last week, I visited Maju Forest (you can check out my post about it), and next on my list is Gillman Barracks Forest. You can also read more about the news regarding these forests here.

I took a half-day leave to visit the nearby forest, and the weather today is looking great.

Why can't I go on the weekend? Why do I have to take a half-day leave? The forest has gained a lot of attention, and I’d like to visit in peace. Additionally, I am trying to clear my leave. Dongsaeng K also wants to explore the forest, so I will go with him.

Hiking - Maju Forest Exploration

Hi Blog,

On my previous hike, I didn't realise I had gone to the wrong forest until I finished and compared photos with others online, discovering I had gone to Dover Forest instead of Maju Forest (last week's hike post).

It looked like today was a cloudy one.

The reason for visiting Maju Forest today is that the government plans to develop the forest for housing, which has concerned many Singaporeans. (news from CNA) Many of them will rally about it, and it will definitely expose the forest to many visitors before it disappears. I, for one, have visited it before (if you missed my first exploration, you may check here: 2021 - Maju Forest & The Jurong Railway Hike) and now it's better to visit today.

Hiking - Facepalm Wrong Forest

Hi Blog,

I am glad there is a public holiday, and I can go for a short hike. I wanted to explore Maju Forest (if you missed my first exploration, you may check here: 2021 - Maju Forest & The Jurong Railway Hike), which is set to be developed, angering many Singaporeans. (news)

Since there has been no rain these days, it is perfect for exploration!

I don't know why... I was thinking of exploring Maju Forest before it was gone, but somehow... I ended up going to the wrong forest... My Facepalm moment... (If you'd like to revisit my previous posts on the wrong forest I visited, you may check this out: 2022 - Dover Forest & Dover Forest Part 2, 2023 - Easter Dover Trees)

Hiking - Finding The Rock Garden

Good morning, Blog,

It's Sunday! Unlike the previous weekends, which were either stormy or busy, today I want to visit a place to properly register the route. If you missed my visit to Rock Garden (2025), you can check it out.

It's perfect weather for hiking because it won't rain; the ground will remain dry, and the place will be bright.

I plan to visit Rock Gardens to familiarise myself with the route so I can revisit it in the future. I hope I can find my way in.

Trip - Tiny Away Escape @ Lazarus

Hi Blog,

Today, I took leave to visit Lazarus Island. It seems I really love that place, don’t I? Yes, I have even thought about going to the island once a month, but I don’t want to get too accustomed to it and lose its magic.

Perfect weather for an island visit!

Today's post is special because I want to share my visit to an island feature: Tiny Away, or Tiny House @ Lazarus, which will soon be closing down. I wanted to experience it before it disappears, so let me show you how I spent my time there. Any new reader should take note. My experience at Tiny Away Escape is only a small part of my entire post. It may not provide useful information for everyone. Here, I share my stay at Tiny Away Escape.

If you missed my previous trips to Lazarus Island, you can check them out here. Oh my, I am a Lazarus regular. Lazarus Island and Kusu Island (2017) and again (2017), Solo trip (2017), Drone on the Island (2018), Disappointed Trip (2019), Chao Ta Day (2020), Me-Time (2020), Leading a Group (2020), Beach boy (2021), Visiting the island (2021), Explored the Unexplored (2021), Rainy Island (2021), Best Suntan (2022), Monday Orange (2022), Leading a Hike (2022), Sunny Island (2022), Mr Sun's Island (2023), Lesser Sun (2023), No Water (2023), Access while Low Tide (2023), New Tent (2024), Free Trip (2025), Quiet Battle Within (2025), A Day at Lazarus (2025), Weekend Suntan (2026), Eyesore Tanning (2026), Good Friday Lazarus (2026)

Hiking - Bukit Black

Hi Blog,

On Sunday morning, I was resting on my bed, reflecting on the movie I had watched yesterday. I had too many thoughts in my head, and I thought it would be better to spend the energy hiking than lying in bed reflecting.

Looking like a great morning for hiking!

I quickly got ready and wondered where I should explore this time. I decided on Bukit Brown since I needed to head to Planter Market after my hike, so it made sense to choose something simple and nearby.

It seems I have a fondness for Bukit Brown, as you can read about in more detail from my past visits shared here: Bukit Brown Cemetery Visit (2021), Bukit Brown Cemetery Visit II (2021), Find the Third Car (2021), Mount Pleasant Cemetery (2021), Two Red Hikes (2022), Failed Urbex (2022), Failed Urbex Restored (2022), Bummer Hike to Bukit Brown (2022), Rainy Brown (2022), 2023 First Hike (2023), 2025 First Hike (2025)

Hiking - Lost in Woodcutter

Hi Blog,

On Sundays, I typically engage in cycling or hiking; if not, I have a class or meeting. However, I procrastinated, which made it take some time to motivate myself to go hiking.

Just looked at this perfect weather. I also think I mainly have to decide which area to explore.

Upon reviewing my previous blog posts regarding the trail I intended to revisit, it appears I have not returned since 2020. If you had missed out, you can click here: unexplored trek left (2020), unexplored trek right (2020) and medical cutter (2021)

Trip - My Disney Adventure Cruise Experience

Hi Blog,

I had the opportunity to go on a Disney Cruise with L, something we had promised to do since last year. The pricing for the staterooms is based on two adults, meaning that even if only one person travels, they still pay the full price. Since a stateroom can accommodate up to four guests, sharing the room is a smart way to save money. L is a big Disney fan, and since his partner isn’t interested in cruises, he invited me to join him on this trip. Given that the Disney Cruise rarely stops in Singapore, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to experience something special together. This is the background behind my decision to embark on this journey.

The weather seemed calm for travelling!

Honestly, the price I paid for the cruise was quite wallet-damaging, but I believe it offers great value for the experience I’m about to have. I hope it will be worth it with the amenities and activities included. I’m determined to make the most of this adventure and embrace everything the cruise has to offer. Let’s embark on this journey together! If you want to go on your own Disney Adventure Cruise, you can click here to find out more.

Hiking - Kay Siang Bunker Revisit

Hi Blog,

Today, I decided to continue exploring Kay Siang Bunker as the weather was pleasant and finally completed the hike I had left unfinished on 1st Jun 2026. Looking back, my last visit to Kay Siang Bunker was in 2022, followed by an impromptu one in 2023.

Hmm... I think the rain has stopped. According to the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), the coming months will bring warmer weather due to El Niño. Anyone interested can look it up and get ready for its effects.

While I can’t change the world’s temperature, I’ll focus on enjoying the present and hiking as often as I can. Let’s set off on a journey to Kay Siang Bunker—a perfect beginner spot for urban exploration.

Trip - Penang City Tour

Hi Blog,

For the second part of my journey, I will continue my post from Taiping to Penang City. If you have missed it, you can continue from there and come back again.

Taiping is a quiet town, but I love it. If I could teleport anywhere to travel around, I would visit Taiping again...

Thanks to our tour guide for arranging that itinerary, and I am excited about the next one to Penang. If you missed out on my first Penang itinerary in 2016, you may click here to read more of it. It was when I had just started my blogging habit, so my write-up was quite raw.

Trip - Taiping Sepatang Tour

Hi Blog,

This weekend, I will be travelling again! Many people have commented that I treat the airport like my second home. I understand they are teasing me, but it's not a pleasant feeling, and I need to learn how to manage it. My elder brother wants to organise another big family trip to Penang, and our itinerary will be managed by a tour guide. Previously, he had taken my aunts and uncles to Genting Highlands Day 1 & 2, and KL Day 3 & 4 (2024).

I will be staying overnight at my elder brother's house so that we can grab a meal together with my aunties.

I hope this trip will be conflict-free and less dramatic, and that we can bond well! Personally, I just wanted to relax during the whole trip. It was a four-day trip, and I will divide this into two long posts about different parts of Malaysia - Taiping and Penang.

Hiking - Short Dragon Teeth Revisit

Hi Blog,

Today, Dongsaeng K wanted to visit my house on the weekend to see my plants, and he also wanted to explore a little before coming over. I had some programs during my late Saturday afternoon, so this post will be a short one.

It looks like good weather in the morning, but I predict it will rain in the afternoon—a predictable weather pattern these days.

He wanted to know the actual location of the "Dragon Teeth," and I thought it would be a good idea to revisit some areas as well. If you're unsure which "Dragon Teeth" I'm referring to, you can check the link here: Dragon Teeth Structure (2026).

Hiking - Kranji Marshes Alone

Hi Blog,

On Saturday, I was scheduled to travel to a farm near Sungei Buloh to collect my plant. As I considered where to go before heading to the farm, I decided to visit Kranji Marshes again.

As usual, the weather is good and very encouraging. My friend RD wanted to join my hike, but it might be intense, which I will explain later.

Looking back on my last visit to Kranji Marshes, I can't believe it's been a long while since I was there. You may read my past posts - Kranji Marshes (Apr 2017) and Short Visit (Jul 2017). I will compare changes from then to now.

Blog - March Overview

Dear Chat,

There was a season in my life where affirmation felt necessary. I realised I often longed to be seen, acknowledged, and told that I was doing well. At the same time, I also told myself I shouldn’t need it — that I should be strong enough to validate myself. Through these reflections, I began to see that this wasn’t a weakness, but a pattern shaped by my past.

What I discovered: Affirmation is not the problem. Dependence on it is.

I learned that it is human to appreciate encouragement. But I also learned that my worth cannot fluctuate based on whether someone notices me. I can affirm myself. I can recognise my own effort. I can quietly acknowledge my own growth.

Personal - Eyesore Tanning

Hi Blog,

I took a leave of absence today to recharge before the start of Term 2 at school. I decided to visit my favourite island again! My boss did question why I couldn't take leave during the school holidays or go to the island on the weekend.

Whoever knows me understands that I need a quiet beach to be an eyesore for the day.

I don't want to go to a crowded beach; I just want to relax and do nothing for the day. Since Mr Sun, RD and T also wanted to join me, let's go!

If you missed my previous trips to Lazarus Island, you can check them out here. Oh my, I have visited Lazarus quite regularly. Lazarus Island and Kusu Island (2017) and again (2017), Solo trip (2017), Drone on the Island (2018), Disappointed Trip (2019), Chao Ta Day (2020), Me-Time (2020), Leading a Group (2020), Beach boy (2021), Visiting the island (2021), Explored the Unexplored (2021), Rainy Island (2021), Best Suntan (2022), Monday Orange (2022), Leading a Hike (2022), Sunny Island (2022), Mr Sun's Island (2023), Lesser Sun (2023), No Water (2023), Access while Low Tide (2023), New Tent (2024), Free Trip (2025), Quiet Battle Within (2025), A Day at Lazarus (2025), Weekend Suntan (2026)

Hiking - Keppel Hill Bunker

Hi Blog,

Today was my day off in lieu. Instead of sitting at home, I decided to step out and explore a bit. Where should I go today?

Today's weather was beautiful. I shouldn't waste this opportunity. Even though I felt burned out from visiting the same place, I told myself I should revisit some places to see the updates. Today I decided to explore Keppel Hill.

Previously, I had visited Keppel Hill many times, and I still love its quiet and all its possibilities. If you have missed out on my previous posts about it, you may read them too: Abandoned Keppel Hill Reservoir (2021), Big Banyan Tree (2022), West side of Keppel (2023), Finding the Wall in Keppel (2023), Revisit Keppel (2024).

Park - Yishun N8 Park

Hi Blog,

Let's continue our park exploration for the day - park (part) 3. The amount of pun here is perfect! (I understand it is not amusing.) Anyway, N8 Park is quite near 3G Park and Lower Seletar Reservoir Park, which offer more space for residents to use.

I think this photo would be perfect as a theme cover for my future SG parks adventure post.

Let's explore this new park located beside HomeTeamNS Khatib - N8 Park! It was getting hotter and sunnier, so we had to complete this as soon as possible.

Park - Lower Seletar Reservoir Park

Hi Blog,

I decided to overcome my break and lack of motivation to explore. To be honest, it was not a pleasant feeling. I often wish I lived in a larger country where I could explore more places or had a special way to easily access different locations.

But I know that's a fanciful and unrealistic thought. So, I need to find a way to motivate myself.

I have decided to visit all the parks in Singapore and provide reviews and ratings for each one. I developed a scoring system for this purpose, just for fun, and I am also taking this opportunity to practice my photography and observation skills. I will focus on the larger, well-known parks as the title and include some smaller nearby parks in my reviews. To begin, I'll start with Yishun.

Blog - February Overview

Hi Blog,

Chinese New Year has always felt different from the Western New Year. It carries less urgency and more reflection — a pause to look at what has stayed, what has faded, and what quietly follows us into the next cycle of life.

I had to reflect on what I want to do in life.

Now, close to 50, I no longer wait for dramatic changes in my relationship status. Looking back at my 30s and where I am today, I can’t tell whether I truly outgrew that longing or whether I numbed myself for so long that it felt like growth. Perhaps it doesn’t matter anymore. What matters is that I’ve learned to accept it. Instead of letting these unfulfilled hopes become stones that slow me down or injure me, I choose to turn them into stepping stones — a way to cross the river towards the place I’m meant to reach.