Walk for Sat, 12 July 08 – HortPark/ HendersonWaves/Mt Faber

Dear SHCians,

Date:  Saturday, 12th July 2008.

Note:  slight change in routine from previous walks ie., a F&E time before  the actual Walk.

A headstart of approx 35mins… Step into a wholesome experience, SouthEast Asia’s 1st 1-stop gardening hub that is recreational, educational… @ HortPark located at  33 Hyderabad Road (off Alexandra Road), just before turning into AYE. 

Arrive at:  HortPark Centre @ 3.45pm

(FREE & EASY EXPLORATION ON YOUR OWN, strongly recommended! HortPark is an enclosed area, the paths are easy go & romp). Just watch your time as after HortPark, walk back to Floral Walk where I shall meet all of you at the base of Alexandra Arch – the bridge at 4.30pm).     emoticon

Getting to HortPark:

From HarbourFront NEL Station (NE1) : Buses** available 61, 93, 100, 166, 963

Other Buses**: 51, 97

**Buses will travel along Telok Blangah Road & turn right into Alexandra Road.
Alight at  the 3rd bus-stop (look for the overhead bridge that is White and looks like an opened leaf-like form).  When you alight from the bus, on your left is the Floral Walk, the gateway to HortPark.

For those who love floral/gardens, this will be a wonderful time to feast your eyes on some lovely blooms!  You have 35mins to enjoy a FREE & EASY delightful stroll along paths lined with flowering plants.        emoticon

When you arrive at HortPark, walk PASS the Floral Walk quickly (admire the flowers here later on the way back).  Go direct to the HortPark Centre/Lobby; walk right into the 23 hectare regional park.  There is a collection of 20 theme gardens in this gardening hub.

eg., find out…. why are there used baby cots, prams in the garden? 

What is the Skyrise/Vertical Garden?  Where is it?  As you retrace your steps back to HortPark Centre; as you are nearer, on the right is the Skyrise or “Vertical” Garden.

Freshen up   emoticon        head back to the Floral Walk!

Meet  @ the base of the bridge/Alexandra Arch @ 4.30pm (sharp).    

Our walk leads across the Alexandra Arch to the Forest walk – the Earth Trail, that offers a some what rugged experience bringing you closer to the wildlife found in the area.

We bring to you this part of the trail (approx 6km)  that provides a seamless link of green, open spaces spanning Telok Blangah Hill Park – Hilltop Walk, once a gathering place for trading communities that flourished in the area in the early 19th century; …… to Henderson Waves, the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore that connects Telok Blangah Hill to Mt Faber; a sanctuary of greenery that was previously not accessible.  

At Mt Faber — depends on the time and energy level of the group – whether we shall continue to meander through the slopes OR just spend moments to enjoy the skyline of twinkling lights, ships in calm waters….. Then satisfy our tummy urges at the quieter HarbourFront food court, away from the bustling Vivocity; to continue a pleasant evening of fellowship.

Register here.      :D

OR if you need clarification, drop me an email: chrischan5575@yahoo.com

Stay cool!  Be cool!    emoticon         c ya!

The Walk Team

ChristinaCL Chan, CharlesW, VeronicaW, MaryT, JeffreyL


Gentle Reminder:

1)  Always wear comfortable shoes; light, loose clothing; bring a small bottle of water; poncho/umbrella.

2)  Optional items: cap, sun block, camera/binoculars, insect repellant.

3)  Bring only the minimum, light is good.

Partipants: 1 KarenT; 2 Mei Foo; 3 Melissa Khng; 4+5 Venika+KristinL; 6 Esther Leong; 7 Ann To; 8+9 Vince Wong+Carol; 10+11 Paul Leong+ Jenny; 12 Ann Lim; 13 Lee Ah Nee; 14-16 Cheryl Ho+Janet Ng+ElizabethH; 17+18 Lily+Dolly; 19 VeroniqueL; 20 AnnaSeet; 21+22 SusanChang+Lina; 23 JudyLim; 24+25 GwynethL+Nina; 26+27 Aaron+JulietO; 28 LeeKS; 29 HelenK; 30 RonaldL; 31 DaisyP; 32 ElizaC; 33 StevenC 34 DoreenH; 35 DanH; 36 JoyC; 37 BoonLiang; 38 Peng2; 39 OiCheng; 40 Alice Seah; 41 PaulineKhoo; 42 SereneL; 43 CharlesW; 44+45 MaryC+NoraC …. and counting Regrets: AndrewYeung; CharlesChua; GingkoTay; Jane SC Chua;

Partipants: 1 KarenT; 2 Mei Foo; 3 Melissa Khng; 4+5 Venika+KristinL; 6 Esther Leong; 7 Ann To; 8+9 Vince Wong+Carol; 10+11 Paul Leong+ Jenny; 12 Ann Lim; 13 Lee Ah Nee; 14-16 Cheryl Ho+Janet Ng+ElizabethH; 17+18 Lily+Dolly; 19 VeroniqueL; 20 AnnaSeet; 21+22 SusanChang+Lina; 23 JudyLim; 24+25 GwynethL+Nina; 26+27 Aaron+JulietO; 28 LeeKS; 29 HelenK; 30 RonaldL; 31 DaisyP; 32 ElizaC; 33 StevenC 34 DoreenH; 35 DanH; 36 JoyC; 37 BoonLiang; 38 Peng2; 39 OiCheng; 40 Alice Seah; 41 PaulineKhoo; 42 SereneL; 43 CharlesW; 44+45 MaryC+NoraC …. and counting Regrets: AndrewYeung; CharlesChua; GingkoTay; Jane SC Chua;

Click here to view photos

Author: ChristinA Chan (Walking group leader)

Interests: Health related and socials.

71 thoughts on “Walk for Sat, 12 July 08 – HortPark/ HendersonWaves/Mt Faber”

  1. Christina Chan

    I will be the first to register.

    Please do bring along Umbrella/Poncho cos there is no shelter along the walk.

    Karen

    ** Let Sally & Pauline register on line themselve.

  9. Hi EOs. Think I will brave the sun and join in. 6km! Don’t know if I can complete it. If can’t how ah? Get stuck up at the top, no escape route like before.
    Are we climbing any hill?

  10. Mary Chan

    Don worry la , all straight and smooth trail , no hill no mountain….

    If u cant walk , then I horseback u , ok. (haha)

    Come and have the view of the Henderson Waves – it Beautiful scene from Mt Faber.

    karen

  11. Dear All earlybirds… I’ve noted your attendance. Juz a quick note to clear certain caution:

    #1) KarenT, thanks for ringing the bells. There is no proper shelter, but the trail is shady! So, MaryC, no worries.

    The trail is easy. I will introduce “take 5s” along the way so, all have time to smell the flowers, rest your eyes on the greenery, the rainforest, try to catch sightings of birds., look around… that’s what walks are about at least to me; not just trudge along :D I will try to create a little challenge for some who prefer a little more stretch.

    The HortPark is an enclosed gardening hub, so no one will loose their way. ;) I truly encourage all to be early & explore it before we commence the Walk.

    Come, enjoy a beautiful afternoon!
    ChristinaCL Chan

  12. Karen and Christina. After reading your comments, I feel more confident.
    Yes,I agree with Chris. A walk is not just a walk. I love looking at the surroundings,especially the trees. Hope we get to see some birds.

    Eh Karen, u sure you can piggy back me? You are what Chinese describe as ‘san pi pa’ hehehe.

    Ok, rain or shine, I’ll be there. Oh dear, did I just say that?

  13. Last night, Media Corp Channel U features HortPark, Henderson Waves & Mt Faber. I was enthused by the whole show, so interesting and amazing. Hello Chris, please include me in your list, I am not going to miss this walk. :)

    Ah Nee

  15. Hee Karen.
    Might just try doing it. Sure to flatten up. I’m much heavier than you, but then again, you might be much stronger than you look.
    I look strong but I’m hopeless when it comes to lifting things. Muscles too soft, haha.

  16. Christina / Ah Nee,

    I saw the show on TV too and was impressed. I told myself I want to be there. So, EO Christiina please register me for the walk. Ah Nee since we are from the same kampong, can we go together, maybe I get someone to drive us there.

    Cheers
    Ann Lim

  17. Ann Lim,

    Goodie….we can go together. Oh yah, include Melissa Khng also, she is just a stone throw away from my house. Looking forward to the walk. Cheers! :)

    Ah Nee

  18. Hi Chris,

    Please include us and looking forward to see this place after the TV shows.

    Thanks !
    Cheryl Ho, Janet Ng & Elizabeth Hwang.

  19. Hi Christina,

    Please register me for the walk. As I have to work, can I “Meet @ the base of the bridge/Alexandra Arch @ 4.30pm (sharp)”? Not very familiar with that area. Will have to find out where exactly is this meeting place though.

    Dolly,
    Will you be out of town? Ai go mai?

  23. hmmm… something happened to my posting? It looks better now without all those extra lines, etc Thank you, whoever you are :D

    1st accept my apologies…. I might not respond to you because I am very buzzzzz.. at work & at home the modem gone bonkas! no time to rectify the fault. Whatever it may be, it is definite that I have noted your registration and appreciate your time to join the walk/fellowship. I will try to address those who needs clarification…

    We start the actual walk at 4.30pm. HortPark is an enclosed gardening hub, so I encouraged the “visit on your own” since you are already in the vicinity.

    If you are coming from Jurong, drive on AYE, when you pass Portsdown, IMMEDIATELY filter Left & Turn Right (opp is AIA building)you are now on Alexandra Road, pass Gilman Hts & Depot Road & make a U-turn (not sure if there is a U-turn) BUT you may make a right turn to any of the office buildings eg., Alexandra Pt; HP; NOL Bldg and turn out to Alexandra Road again( as it is a 2-way traffic road) then turn into Hyderabad Road ie. HortPark!

    Sorry, I try… hope above has not confused you more hahahahahah

    NOTE: all who prefer/must drive, the walk ends at HarbourFront!

  24. Chris

    Correct me if I am wrong. After pass Portsdown , if u make a left turn , u go into Queenway SHopping but if u make a right turn (Gilman Ht/AIA facing u) then u go toward ALexandra & Depot, make a U-turn around River Valley High School or NOL/PSA building …. HortPark is just directly under the New Bridge link to Henderson Wave.

    Hope I don confuse u ppl out there.

    karen

  25. Hi Christina CLChan,

    I would like to join you for the walk.
    I read yr comments abt the meeting place but still in
    DOUBT ?

    Can you pls tell me in more details where is our meeting place?

    @ HortPark located at 33 Hyderabad Road (off Alexandra Road), just before turning into AYE.?????

    From a member who takes the MRT and bus route from Clementi MRT
    Thanks.

  27. Steven & those living in Clementi are

    Take Bus 166 , it make a right turn at the Alexandra Hospital
    (left turn is to Queenway Shopping) , immediately after this right turn , there is a bus stop at the turning into Depot Road … The Bus stop is directly under the New Bridge , u wont miss it. If u are going to HortPark – u have to cross the bridge to get over the other side of the road.

    Hope it help

    karen

  28. Hi ! Christina,

    Being a Singaporean,am not even know the name of HortPark/Henderson Waves, I would like to take this Opportunity to visit this place. Pls include my name as my 1st walk with SHC’s member.

    Cheers!

    Judy

  32. Hi Christina; Charles’ Veronica; Mary and Jeffrey

    Thanks for organising the walk and visit to the Hortpark.

    I am joining you people and have fun.

  34. Hi Chris

    You are really hot, this route just open on May this year and now you already planned a a trip on it. How efficiency.

    I also saw the program “?????” as mentioned by Ah Nee, really attracting, and like to visit it. But got something on that day, so have to give it a miss, what a pity.

    Hope all of you have a nice trip.

  38. DEar StevenC,

    Perhaps it is better you drop me an email with your contact no. I will gladly explain to you the meeting place, the bus svc#…. etc.

    Alexandra Road is 2-way traffic. The bus-stop tt 1 should alight is opposite each other.

    “HORTPARK” the sign is rather visible from the road. Should you be coming from the West I believe there is only 1 bus service ie., #166. Let me try to visualize as I have not taken this # for abt 10years….From Dover road it will pass a cluster of JTC Flatted factories ‘AyerRajahCres’ also can see from the road…. pass Portsdown & will get out of AYE by filtering to the left. On the left is Alexandra Hosp & infront is AIA building.
    The bus will turn right… pass Gilman Hts/Depot Road… (look out of the bus window on the right, the WHITE overhead bridge is visible) alight at this bus-stop. There might be a traffic light that you can cross to HortPark!

    Still doubtful?! email me your contact.

    By the way, fyi, the recent Sembawang walk, I had actually held up the group to wait for you for 20mins. It was fortunate that later 1 of them said they have your contact… you remember what happened then?

    Rgds, ChristinaCL Chan

  39. Dear walkists,

    I have noted your registrations… so glad many are coming.
    Surely you will enjoy the trail! sorrie, if I did not mention each one individually.

    I might not have time to update the list…last count 31pax (including DoreenHo who had emailed).

    AndrewY: I remember your promise tt you will participate in all the walks. Intend to sms you last Fri but was so caught up in work heehee Was happy when I saw your posting but sad upon reading :(

  40. oops forgot to mention 1 more thing…

    HORTPARK is an enclosed area, you will not be lost within. It is a enriching and beautiful to stroll around.

    HORTPARK is optional! Free & Easy experience on your own.

    The ACTUAL walk starts at 4.30sharp. Meet at BASE of the Alexandra Arch (ie., the name of this unique WHITE overheard bridge) at HortPark – Floral walk.

    Thank you… ChristinaCL Chan

  41. Hi Chris

    Sorry I cannot keep my promise and really sorry I cannot make it this time beacause I really like this trip especially the HandersonWave. Now, nothing but sorry!

  42. Hi Chris,

    You must be very busy with work, even skipping most of your dance classes! And here you are busy organizing this walk. I take my hat off for your effort to keen us fellow SHCians fit and trim.

    I missed most of the walk as poor me i still have to work. This time I am coming to join in, with my camera lagging behind if he is wanted and loved by all the ‘Johnny n Jenny’ walkers !

    So much talk about Hortpark. I have no clue what it about. Will walk over as it is very close to where I am staying.

    Have you ever try sing along as you walk? It would be fun to sing and learn great folks and sentimental songs along the way!

    ‘It along way to Tipallary, it a long way to go…… ‘

    Danz

  43. Hi Christina

    Missed your company for supper after dance class. You have not been dancing, but walking!

    And walk I will this Saturday with you and fellow walking kakis.

    I will be coming with my pink teddy bear umbrella.

    Joy

  45. Although I’ve been walking from Mt Faber via these 2 bridges, thru Alex Hortipark to Kent Ridge park many times since this link open, I’ll be happy to join in this Saturday walk, Chrisina, ya….I’ll be coming, finally can make it to your walk.

  47. omg… seems all the fair ladies are gonna brave the wind and sunny man! Welcome…. to one & all :D

    #41 AndrewY, please dont feel ‘sorrie’, that’s not my intent… see so many fair ladies coming for the walk leh hmmmm.. ;)

    #42 DanH, ya lor pay $$ missed so many lessons… couldnt catch up liao.. how, you wanna show me the steps?
    Walk over?! sure or not, HortPark is the other end of Alexandra Rd not near Leng Kee end hor. Anyway, check the street directory okie. Well, you had disappeard from the walks but for sure not just your cam but you are most welcome to join the walks :D

    yup come wwalk walk…

  49. #25 #38 StevenC, are you now clear how to get to HortPark? have not received your email/mobile though.

    #43 JoyC, no worrries I planned to be back sooner then we can chow2 again heehee

  50. Some had emailed me interested about about HortPark… I believe the location details are clear… please read the directions in the Post as well as a couple of Comments I had responded & clarified. I know that even the maps aint clear because HortPark was only ready recently. Still unsure, drop me an email with your contact #, as it is easier to explain should I know which direction you are coming from… no worries.

    I do not wish to EDIT this post to add more details as I m unsure what will happen… the post might disappear! …then very jia lat!

    Regards, ChristinaCL Chan

  51. Wei Dolly ah, umbella soey soey onli, boey sai kongsi kongsi la. Ka ki boey jit ki leh..

    I would have written that in Hainanese, but then who would understand.

    I am still trying to figure out “Gu jio siew, gu jio niah, gu teh kia” which someone (hee hee) was trying to tell me in Hainanese. Any Hainanese can shed some light on this incomplete saying?

    Joy

  52. Hi Christina CL,

    Computer was down a few days ago due to “overworked” died of hirikatri ( DIE from overwork and NOT enough rest like some of the executives in Tokyo.

    Now it has been repaired and SPRING back to life.

    I will print out yr directns to Hort Park and staple it on my diary with yr walking event this Sat.

    This way sure to remember my appointment for this healthy lifestyle.

    THANKS for yr details of the route and will go earlier to EXPLORE the Hort. Park. Sounds INTERESTING!

    I aLWAYS look 4wards to your interesting walk with a battalion of SHCians.

  53. At #52, I am V> SORRY I MISS your last walk.

    NOT intentional but rely to much on my brain to remember.
    Luckliy,one of you sms me while I was in the MRT train heading to the gym.

    PAISEH, PAISEH! Made ALL of u wait for 20 mins.
    1000 Apologies and Kisses.

  55. Hi Joy,

    Direct translation below :

    Gu jio siew – Cow going up a tree
    Gu jio niah – Cow climbing up the hill

    So that someone is trying to sum up to you that it’s quite difficult to share your umbrella with Dolly loh.

    And while sashaying with your umbrella to Danz’s singing :

    “It’s a long way to Tipallary, it’s going to be a long way indeed cos’ it actually Tipperary.

    Sorry Danz.. but du lary sana?

  56. Hi Wee Chin,

    What’s about the last part, ‘Gu teh kia’

    The umbrella will be too small for me! Anyway, I will be busy snapping away.

    Let’s go climb up the tree and let’s go up the hill! And then the cow give birth. And all of us merrying go round the mountain!

    Sorry Christina, what have become this thread of your’s. The Hainanese clan is taking over!

    Danz

  60. Dear SHCians,

    fyi from this evening onwards, I will be unable to log in as still no time to meddle with the modem at home to get it to work. Tomorrow morning, I will be out for meeting also not possible to log in.
    So, for those who register after 6pm today, I will see you at the walk. :D

    Warm regards, ChristinaCL Chan

  61. Hi Christina,

    While shopping at the new AMK Hub,I took a bus 166 back to Clementi.

    Mama Mia ! It took almost 2 hrs.for the whole journey.
    Any way,I kept a lookout for the WHITE bridge with long tubular columns and i found it .

    Above was a sign that says HORTI Park.At least it was worth my time but NEVER to take the bus 166 if I returned

    I look 4ward to seeing ALL of you after the long absence.

    I wanted to jog at Fort Canning Park.
    Sweh! Raining heavily yesterday .
    Has to postpone another time.

  62. ChristinaCL Chan, CharlesW, VeronicaW, MaryT, JeffreyL

    Thank u for organising such an interesting walk today , even though I been to Henderson Waves 3 times, I did not actually explore the other part of Mt Faber….

    Karen

  63. Hi! Christina CL Chan,

    I would like to thank u organized the walk. Usally I always avoid to walk under hot sun & yet I was enjoy today walk in HortPark. As I having a chance to view the amazing nature of Singapore, also enjoy chat with the members during my walk.

    Cheers!

    Judy

  64. Hi Christina and team

    Thank you for organising this wonderful walk and the visit to the HortPatk. The walk was really enjoyable with some many participants and everyone enjoying themselves to the fullest.

    It is worth all the effort you all put in.

    Cheers King Seng

  65. Hi Christina

    I was so mesmerised by the “Wave” when I first drove under it, and I thought to myself…uhmmm, I must get up there one day. That day came thanks to you! It was a great experience – especially doing it together with so many friends. Thank you, thank you. :)

  66. Hi Christina and all the co-EOs.
    Thank you all for a very interesting walk. Although I’m afraid of heights, I thoroughly enjoyed the Alexandra Arch, the Hilltop Walk and the Henderson Wave.
    It’s a pity it was so hot and we didn’t get to see any birdlife. I think they must have been laughing at us from their shady hideouts.
    A part I wasn’t quite comfortable with was the last section when we were descending Mt Faber. It was quite dim and damp. The last stretch had a path with loose stones and it was rather difficult to walk without sliding a little on them.
    This is one of the best walks we’ve had. Thanks again EOs. :-)

  67. With so many honest folks singing priases to the walk and its organisers, it must have been the Walk of 2008 which I shdnt hv missed. Or will it be a miss if Chris-C gathers enough courage to date and walk me there, holding my hands if she’s afraid of nite and height?

    Talking abt the fear for height, Steven, you’re very safe – in fact, you call the shots (but dont anyhow shoot) – in the company of Mary-C. Dennis-W, you’ll hv to hide since you dont hv too much height.

  68. Dear All Participants,

    Very happy that many enjoyed the walk; some even singalong hmmmm DanH #42… where you there, then? Thank you guys so much for a wonderful afternoon, I am thrilled!

    At Mt Faber…I would like to explain why I divert & took, apparently a longer route: it was because I saw there some ongoing construction works further down the road & my thought was for the safety of all. For those who had followed, please give yourself a pat on your shoulders as you didnt know that YOU had walked a total distance of approx 7km or more!

    Next walk, on 02Aug PipeLine Ramble 2 interesting & challenging! Don’t miss it!

    Regards, ChristinaCL Chan

  71. Hi SHCians

    Part of the the photos for the July monthly walk held on 12 Jul is ready

    Just click on to the link below to view all the photos one by one.

    http://s331.photobucket.com/albums/l467/lee_kingseng/?start=all&mediafilter=all&action=tags&current=Southern+Ridges+Walk

    or click on the link below to see a slide show.

    http://s331.photobucket.com/albums/l467/lee_kingseng/?albumview=slideshow

    Hope the links are O. K. else email to me at lee_kingseng@yahoo.com.sg and I will try to seek help.

    Regards

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