From iconic tourist spots to heritage buildings and ’70s shopping centres, our favourite celebrities reveal the places they get most nostalgic about.
JOSEPH SCHOOLING
Olympic Champion Swimmer
“The Singapore Zoo is one of my favourite spots in Singapore as I remember, fondly, taking many trips with my parents there when I was little. A trip to the zoo was not complete without a ride in the tram and my parents would make sure we fit that in each time.”
RRILEY
Singer
“I grew up in Jurong so I have too many memories at the old Jurong Entertainment Centre (now JCube). Hanging out with my friends after school; watching movies with my family, and I also got caught once sneaking away with a friend to go ice skating when I wasn’t supposed to. Oops!”
GURMIT SINGH
Actor & Host
“My favourite spot would be either East Coast Park or the Botanic Gardens. In 1987, it was at East Coast Park where my wife and I decided to ‘go steady’ (it was only our second meeting but we already knew we were meant for each other!). As for the Botanic Gardens, my wife and I used to go there a lot when we were dating, and when we started our family, we brought our children there to picnic, explore and play. Something about the Gardens makes us happy.”
TAN KHENG HUA
Actress
“My favourite place would have to be my old family home near the Botanic Gardens. I spent most of my life, till I was 30, there, and I associate a deep sense of peace and being cared for there. The people I love most are all part of that house, and I still feel all the emotions when I walk through those doors even now at 56.”
FAKKAH FUZZ
Stand-Up Comedian
“I’m sad that the soon-to-be en-blocked Queensway Shopping Centre will be gone. As a sneaker head, I enjoy the wide range of selections and I can spend hours there just looking at shoes. Back when I was a rock head, there was a store at the corner where an uncle sold CDs for cheap. They were original, I checked. Everything from Mötley Crüe, Metallica, Slayer to Limp Bizkit and Slipknot. Most importantly, Queensway Shopping Centre has the BEST — and I mean THE BEST — chicken curry rice I have ever tasted.”
DENISE KELLER
Host & TV Presenter
“For me, it’s got to be the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. It’s my favourite spot because I live for nature therapy. I need birds, insects, monkeys and even bats to make my everyday urban existence connect to nature.”
CHERYL MILES
One FM 91.3 DJ
“My husband and I love Luke’s Oyster Bar & Chop House at The Heeren. It’s so hidden away that once you’re inside, the ambience and beautiful view of the city will make you feel like you are in a metropolitan oasis instead of in a mall. I love the service and the selection of wines. Their fresh oysters and phenomenal steaks make this our go-to place for a romantic night out.”
DICK LEE
Entertainer
“The rooftop of the National Gallery Singapore offers spectacular views of the city. I’m always moved by the fact that it all began in that district, and feel blessed that I can enjoy and be part of how far Singapore has come. More meaningful to me is the fact that I’m directing our National Day Parade for the third time at the Padang, and I am so proud to view the parade from that spot.”
SHEILA SIM
Actress & Model
“East Coast Park is my favourite hideout. I love to take a walk to the jetty in the evenings after dinner at the East Coast Lagoon Food Village, which is also my go-to place for salty duck soup. I believe being near the ocean helps cleanse away negative energy, too!”
CLAIRE JEDREK
Race Car Driver
“One of my favourite places has to be The Ritz-Carlton’s Colony. We’ve had every major milestone celebrated there, from birthdays and weddings to memorials, births and just casual dates. We feel like part of the furniture and have known the really wonderful people there for many years. They are the real reason we go there so often.”
CYNTHIA KOH
Actress
“My favourite spot for now is Tanjong Pagar Centre. Firstly, it’s where I go to to work out. Secondly, it’s like a mini Korean or Japanese town with all the eateries popping up around that area. It’s a quiet and great place to hang out during the weekends. My favourite part is Stärker Signature because it’s nice and quiet and I can just chill with a mug of beer.”
JILL LIM
Kiss92 FM DJ
“Anywhere along Boat Quay would be a contender for being the favourite, but specifically Skinny’s Lounge. Not only was it the place I got married, but it’s always where I bring friends who are visiting. The people are great, cocktails are strong, and there’s bak chor mee or prata down the road. Bonus: The view of our skyline – it’s an unforgettable sight.”
COMPILED BY CAMILLIA DEBORAH DASS / PHOTOS: 123RF.COM
