12 things to do in the North of Singapore that'll make you wish you lived there

Go forth to the North

The neighbourhoods in the North of Singapore – Admiralty, Sembawang, Woodlands and Yishun – contain Singapore’s second largest population, with at least 543,630 citizens and foreigners calling it home.

Why’s it so popular? Lovely estates, stylish shopping malls, leafy parks and plenty of spots to get your leisure on.

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1. Lower Seletar Reservoir Park

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Grab your picnic blanket and plan an al fresco feast at this man-made “ lake” recently upgraded by the National Environment Agency. It’s popular with joggers and kayakers, too.

Bounded by Yishun Ave 1 and Lentor Ave

2. ORTO

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Roughly the size of seven football fields, this rustic sanctuary offers various family-friendly activities like fishing, trampolining and paintball – 24 hours a day! There’s even a bistro and bar where you can dine and drink till 3am.

81 Lor Chencharu, Singapore 769198

3. Maximum Drift

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Also within ORTO : Maximum Drift, a drift karting arena (Yes, drifting is possible and legal!) with electric motor-powered karts that boast superior acceleration. It’s safe for the kids, too!

#01-15, 81 Lor Chencharu, Singapore 769198

4. Yishun dam

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Bring your camera and capture the old charm of Singapore as you stroll along this scenic dam. Just note: It’s only accessible by car.

Along Yishun Ave 1

5. Jurong Frog Farm

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American Bullfrogs farmed here are supplied to local eateries. Yes, frog meat is a thing, and it’s a local delicacy!

56 Lim Chu Kang Ln 6, Singapore 719164

6. Thohirah

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Spice up your life at this Indian-Muslim food house along the stretch of Jalan Kayu. Die die must try: the ridiculously delicious, crispy roti prata – for only $1!

258 Jln Kayu, Singapore 799487

7. Citrus by the Pool

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Located within the premises of Woodlands Swimming Complex, Citrus By The Pool is a retro-themed bistro that prides itself on its wide selection of Western and Asian fusion food available at affordable prices. The best part? Everything is set at a nett price with no service charge.

3 Woodlands Street 13, Woodlands Swimming Complex, 738600

8. Tagore Industrial Park

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This is where you can find housewares, furniture and grocery staples for up to 30 percent off retail price! Truth is, even most Singaporeans don’t know about the hidden place (and the secret’s well-kept – they haven’t got an established online presence, either).

440 Tagore Industrial Ave, Singapore 787820

9. Kampong Lorong Buangkok

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Visit Singapore as it was in the ‘60s at the last remaining kampong on the mainland. The zinc-roof houses and relaxed atmosphere of the village are a stark contrast to the vertical HDBs in the skyline.

7 Lor Buangkok, Singapore 547557

10. Chong Pang City

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Ask any local about “Chong Pang” and they’ll almost always come back to you with a reply involving “ Chong Pang Nasi Lemak “. Try this famous local dish comprising coconut rice and delish sides at this HDB estate.

447 Sembawang Rd, Singapore 758404

11. Bollywood Veggies

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This countryside organic farm organises educational activities and farm tours. Then, pop into the laid-back eatery and tuck into homegrown delights.

100 Neo Tiew Rd, Singapore 719026

12. Sembawang Hot Springs

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Welcome to Singapore’s one and only natural hot spring! The minimalist pump may not be much to look at, but your tired feet and skin won’t complain. BYO bucket and chair. Find out more here !

Along Jln Ulu Sembawang, Sembawang Air Base

This article was first published in The Finder.