This week was a refreshing change of pace, I got an extra day off, which meant more time to explore new foods and enjoy the city. Work has been about the same, but I’ve been making the most of my lunch breaks by checking out more spots near Lavender Station. One of my best discoveries was Mixue (蜜雪冰城), a well-known Chinese ice cream chain famous for its affordable drinks and ice cream. I grabbed a matcha ice cream cone for just $1.50, kicking off my week on a high note. Matcha prices have been skyrocketing in the U.S., so I’m definitely going to enjoy the cheaper matcha here while I can.
Over the weekend, Matt and I visited the Chinese and Japanese Gardens. The place was amazing. There was traditional architecture, vibrant flowers, and tranquil scenery everywhere. The lotus flowers blooming in the water were definitely a highlight, and the area with small waterfalls and a bamboo forest was very peaceful. In the Japanese garden, there was a little gazebo leading to a traditional Japanese house, which was divided into sections showcasing different bonsai trees and other plants. The only downside? The unmerciful heat. We had to take breaks in air-conditioned buildings every 30 minutes just to cool down. Here’s a picture of me sweating through my shirt in the blazing sun.
Sunday, however, completely made up for the heat. A few friends and I headed to Marina Bay, where we finally got to see the iconic Merlion in all its glory. It was an amazing experience. The area was filled with so many people visiting the national symbol of Singapore. Which represents strength, resilience, and the city’s maritime history. Seeing it up close was pretty cool, like watching a piece of history standing in the middle of the skyline.
Of course, after all that walking, we had to refuel. We went to Little Lamb for an all you can eat hot pot meal. 90 minutes of competitive eating between us. We ordered two rounds of beef and lamb with varying levels of marbling, savoring every bite. Even though I was way too full by the end, there’s always room for ice cream.
This week was a mix of great food, exploration, and a battle against the humidity.