SHC has several activities catered to the various interest of its members. During this pandemic Covid-19 period, walking was one of physical activities that is on-going. However, walkers were only allowed in groups of not more than 8 pax.
The Laughter Yoga+walks is one such group that conducts several scenic walks taking the lushes landscapes and waterways routes. Leisure walks, taking in the sights, discovering nature and KODAK moments are some of the highlights. I believe, there are other walking/hiking groups, but the level of intensity is beyond me. The route is much longer and the concentration of the terrain maybe tough for me too. More importantly, I enjoy the camaraderie of the Laughter Yoga+walks members. No hard pressure to keep up, but the discipline of each and every member is very important to adhere the safety and pleasure of other members.
On 27 Feb, our walk was unique as it was a ‘city walk’. EOs Irene, Lydia and Iris did a fantastic job planning and organising this walk. To organise these weekly walks, the EOs needs to gather the parks information such as the route, its intensity, toilet facilities. Not to mention meeting points, MRT/bus route, dinner place to chill out and the all important back up route, if it rains.
We began punctually at 4.30pm from Bugis MRT. Our 1st photo shoot, all aboard on the bullock cart pulled by Ox-y, since this is his year.
Our 1st destination was Blanco Fish Soup at Beach Road. The rich broth was flavorful and the chunks of meat from the fried fish head was fresh. Besides fish soup dishes, other yummy dishes such as ngoh hiang, omelette and fried vegetables were served too.
At Kampong Glam, Irene gave us a brief history of the place, and we spent some time to take in the area’s atmosphere. At the Sultan Gate, we admired the grandeur of the Sultan Mosque, followed by photo taking session. We came across a giant platform swing and the child within us had to have a go at it.
We walked our way towards Arab Street. The beautiful colourful Mediterranean wares added vibrancy to the street. The evening scene of Kampong Glam was so alive, touristy and full of night life. Muscat Street was laced with interesting eateries with locals and tourist having their meals al fresco style.
At Haji Lane, we could not resist dropping in the shops for its modern quirky items. This lane is known for catering to the youngsters as a hangout. On the walls, are several paintings and photo worthy graphics. At the end of Haji Lane towards Beach Road, tourists and locals were enjoying their drinks seated on bar stools, their tables filled with munchies, liquor and beer. They seemed to be having a good time, chatting and chilling out.
As we left Haji Lane, a more subdued road greeted us. We continued our walk towards Raffles City for McDonalds to cool down before heading home. It was so lovely to sit, chat and enjoy each’s company over soft ice cream, drink and food to round off the walk.
Though the walk was in the city, the walking along these routes, time mingling and looking out of each other in the crowd was equivalent to the time taken in the parks. Exhausted, I may be at the end of it, I totally enjoy it and look forward for my next walk with this group.
A big shout out to Irene, Lydia and Iris for efforts in organising our weekly walks.
