7 Days in Singapore - Part 2

We also hiked through several parks and trails. In the north, we tackled the Pierce Reservoir Trail, which is divided into various trails. First, a beautiful path runs along the lake, with a non-slip boardwalk, then it becomes rockier and wilder. We encountered many joggers and trail runners. In between, we kept having to find shelter because it was raining and thundering heavily – in some places, the paths had formed small streams.

When we found some shelter and had a quick bite to eat, two little monkeys immediately approached us wanting their share. So we packed everything up again and trudged on through the rain – the monkeys were a bit too pushy for a cozy break. In the end, we shortened part of the route because we were soaked after hours of walking in wet clothes.

Fortunately, right next to the hotel was the Balestier Market with a good selection of warm soups to help us warm up. Shaw Plaza was not far either – with a supermarket, a bakery, and an Indian restaurant serving a wonderful Teh Halia, a ginger tea with milk.

Next on the agenda was the Rifle Range Park. Walkways and canopy walkways were built through part of the nature reserve, where there are many climbing plants to discover – accompanied by a sweet, rotten smell left by the many split durian fruits on the path.

Since there are many flying squirrels, monkeys, and squirrels here, they probably enjoy cracking the durians and rambutan.

The Chinese and Japanese Gardens were highly recommended. Both gardens were created on small islands accessible via bridges. The bonsai area is especially lovingly designed, and some of the pagodas are accessible and offer a great view. Plus, there's a huge water lily garden with various species of water lilies.

On our way, we encountered a family of otters hopping from the fish pond to the river – the animals were impressively large compared to European otters.

We also spotted a monitor lizard that seemed to have its eyes on a young marsh hen; we were attracted by the squawking and chirping and scared it away.

We only briefly touched on the nearby Jurong Lake Gardens – they are more of a local recreation area for the surrounding residential complexes.

We continued to Kent Ridge Park and over the picturesque Henderson Waves towards Mount Faber.

Here too, everything is very well maintained and clearly marked, with drinking fountains and little highlights like a turtle pond. Hardly had we reached Mount Faber Park after many stairs and inclines when a heavy thunderstorm rolled in, forcing us to quickly tackle the entire descent again.

Very unfortunate – the park has so much to offer, and we will definitely try again on our next visit.

Before the trip, I confidently claimed that such a downpour is not a big deal when it's warm. But after getting thoroughly soaked a few times, which is quite uncomfortable when walking around like that for a while, I prefer to sit out the rain in the dry.