Let’s begin the tour of my neighbourhood with the humble bowl of porridge.

Redhill is one of the oldest estates in Singapore. If you are able to reach early, you can start the day with the best porridge in town. Just a 5 minutes walk from Redhill MRT, this porridge stall at the Redhill food centre is known for its long snaking queues. The stall begins business at 5.30am and sells out by around 8.30am. No wonder it’s been called ‘the elusive Redhill porridge‘.

Usually, if we plan to go for breakfast, we would go for a quick jog around the park, then head there directly. There would be a sense of urgency in our footsteps, because we know what it’s like to get in line, wait, and then be told “sold out, sorry”.

I love their pork porridge. It’s really smooth and the pork is so full of goodness. The hubby usually goes for the porridge and raw fish set. Obviously, I was too busy eating to capture a shot of his bowl. (Sorry!)

After your tummy is filled, it’s time to put on your walking shoes. About 10 minutes walk away is the Alexandra Canal Waterway. Opened in March 2011 by minister mentor Lee Kwan Yew, it was designed to be a spot of educational outdoor play and nature appreciation for the public.

Here’s the water-play area, located just beside Tanglin Road. On weekends, kids will be splashing and running about everywhere.

Some parents may worry about the water’s hygiene quotient, but I think it’s safe for splashing and wading in. At least, little Javier gave it his two thumbs up.

There are also educational boards to help children and adults alike learn more about water, and how wetlands help to improve the water quality of the canal.

You can find the different types of wetlands. Here’s the floating aquatic wetland, where you can see lots of lily pads, water lilies, and different kinds of insects.

The paths are made for cycling and walking. Ramps are everywhere, so it’s wheelchair-friendly too.

There’s also a little exercise corner that’s good for erm, mums trying to get back into shape.

I love to spend quiet moments here, taking in the beauty and gentleness of nature…

just watching the clouds go by.

After a quiet morning here, it’s time to head over to Spruce for a mid-morning cuppa. Phoenix Park is a short walk up Tanglin Road towards Orchard Road, perhaps about 10 minutes or so. Best to go on a clear-skies day and remember to take note of all the interesting details along the way.

I was there before the cafe was officially open at 10.30am, but they graciously allowed me in to cool off. I love the simple and unassuming decor of the place. The bright spots of colour from pretty canvas prints never fail to put me in the mood for writing.

Or perhaps it’s the view from my window seat.

Of course, quality coffee helps. It’s the very reason I’m here in the first place.

You’ll be glad to know they’ve got a playground just below the outdoor seating verandah, so little ones can keep themselves occupied.

Thanks, Sarah, for sending us out on this mission. I think I appreciate Singapore all the more now, starting from my own little nook.

Sometimes, all you need to entertain yourself and the kids with is right at your doorstep. This weekend, put on your explorer hat and go around your neighbourhood, and I’m sure you’ll find some interesting places and things to do too!

This post is part of a Blog Train hosted by Sarah at The Playful Parents. Do hop over to check out more posts!

Tomorrow on “Loving My Spot”, Jennifer from Little DinoEgg will be sharing a special place in her heart.

Jennifer Lim is a working mum who wishes that she can relax while enjoying motherhood but instead she has to deal with her feisty boy who is constantly testing her patience.  She writes about everything that is happening around her at Little DinoEgg.