🏙️ Stay Hip in the Heartlands: My Tiong Bahru Singapore Escape 🇸🇬✨

📅When you think of Singapore, glitzy Orchard Road or the iconic Marina Bay Sands might flash to mind. But this trip, I traded the skyline for the charm of Tiong Bahru, a retro-meets-hipster neighborhood that whispers stories of old Singapore while vibing with artsy cafes and indie bookstores. Here’s how I spent 3 days in the heartland where cool meets culture. ⸻ 📅 My 3D2N Itinerary Day 1: Arrived at Changi, hopped on the MRT to Tiong Bahru (Green Line magic!). Checked into my quirky boutique hotel, then spent the afternoon exploring Tiong Bahru Market for a taste of local flavors. Evening stroll along Tiong Bahru Park, watching uncles play chess under the old rain trees. Day 2: Early breakfast at Tiong Bahru Bakery (croissants to die for!), then wandered through the art deco streets. I spent hours at BooksActually—a book lover’s haven. Lunch was at Por Kee Eating House, known for their legendary champagne pork ribs (but I stuck to tofu & veggies!). Night ended chilling at Nylon Coffee Roasters, savoring their rich pour-over brew. Day 3: Last-minute souvenir hunt at indie shops and snapped Instagram-worthy shots at the spiral staircases of old flats. Closed the trip with a comforting bowl of laksa at Hua Kee Hougang Famous Wanton Mee. ⸻ 🏨 Where I Stayed I picked Hotel Nostalgia, a cozy boutique hotel right in the heart of Tiong Bahru. Vintage touches, rooftop pool, and walkable to all the hidden gems. It felt like staying at a stylish local friend’s place rather than a hotel. ⸻ 🍴 Must-Try Bites • Tiong Bahru Bakery: Legendary croissants, kouign-amann, and the best coffee. • Por Kee Eating House: Classic zi char dishes with a nostalgic vibe. • Nylon Coffee Roasters: Minimalist, hidden coffee spot for serious caffeine lovers. • Tiong Bahru Market Hawker Centre: For authentic Singaporean hawker fare like chwee kueh, lor mee, and wanton mee. ⸻ 📌 Tips for Young Explorers • Stay curious: The best gems are found in alleyways and quiet corners. • Go early to Tiong Bahru Market to beat the crowd. • Respect the heritage vibe: While it’s hip, it’s also home to many elderly residents. • Bring a good camera (or phone!): Every corner is IG-worthy. • Try walking the neighborhood at different times—morning, afternoon, and dusk all feel like different worlds. ⸻ Final Thought: Tiong Bahru isn’t just a neighborhood—it’s a love letter to old and new Singapore. For young travelers looking to swap malls for murals, and skyscrapers for spiral staircases, this is your sweet spot.