Street Talk:
What life’s like in Siglap
NAME: MARINA MATHEWS
From: Australia via Bahrain Occupation: Founder of Marina Mathews Communications, reputation management specialists
The Specifics What’s the name of your street?
Marine Parade Road.
What’s a common myth or misconception about your neighbourhood?
That it’s so far from the city. It takes me approximately 15 minutes to get to Marina Bay Sands. That said, I can be at Changi Airport within eight minutes. I only know this because I’ve tested it on more than a few occasions!
Exact words you tell a taxi driver to get home?
“Take the Siglap exit on the ECP, then turn right at the traffic lights. No, it’s not Lagoon View. That’s next door.”
Closest MRT station?
It will be Siglap MRT, due to open in 2023 (brown Thomson-East Coast Line).
How long have you lived here?
Since February 2011.
Why here?
Laguna Park is made up of seven blocks of 96 apartments each, meaning there are almost 700 families residing within close proximity to each other. There’s a fantastic neighbourly spirit, and many of us know each other primarily because our kids play together in the main playground. As for the parents, we have our own “Laguna Mums” group chat to stay connected and keep each other apprised of the latest happenings in our ’hood.
The Scene When you walk out of your place, what’s the first thing you see?
A great big playground. I love that they’ve dedicated so much green space for outdoor activities. All the kids hang out every afternoon (weather permitting) and it’s fostered many a friendship.
What’s the closest store to your front door?
We’re lucky to have Laguna Mart in Block F which is run by Mr Chetan. He’s super friendly and knows all the local kids. He’s also very accommodating and will order certain food items specially if requested.
If your street was chosen for a remake of a film, which would it be?
Rugrats Go Wild.
We’re sure your neighbours are great, but is there anything you wouldn’t mind a little less of?
Maybe I’ve hit the jackpot, but there’s not a thing to mention.
What’s the unofficial uniform of your street?
T-shirts and leggings. Likely due to the many yoga enthusiasts who frequent Kate Porter Yoga in Block G – myself included!
What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever seen on your street?
Not the strangest thing, but rather the surprising number of pet owners who take their cat or dog for a walk in a stroller. I’d never seen anything like it until I got here.
The Superlatives What are your three favourite places to eat or drink in the neighbourhood?
I’m a huge fan of the Indian Curry House on East Coast Road. The butter chicken and garlic naan are my constant go-tos.
Not as close to our home, but owner Ales from Al Forno on East Coast Road makes the best pizzas in Singapore, hands down. We always eat in, as there’s nothing like the smell of real Italian pizza coming out of that traditional wood-fired oven. There’s a reason they’ve been there for more than 25 years! Make sure you book in advance.
Another favourite is Diamond Kitchen, a Chinese seafood restaurant (Cantonese style) located in Block F. They’re always busy so you know they’re good. The chilli crab is a must.
What are the best places to shop at in the neighbourhood?
Not technically shopping, but the nail salon Nails 916 on East Coast Road is a gem of a place. It’s not fancy by any means but they do the best manicures and pedicures in Singapore. The owners Barron and his wife set up shop over ten years ago and the majority of their team have been with them since. I know this because that’s how long I’ve been going there. I also love that they offer a delicious homemade margarita when I’m there on a Saturday afternoon. That’s what I call service.
What are some fun or interesting things to do in the neighbourhood?
Our back gate opens up to the ECP Underpass, which takes you directly to the Wake Park, situated right by the Aloha Sports Centre. It’s here I go outrigger paddling every weekend with my Waka Ama crew. Nothing beats being on the moana early in the morning. It just makes you feel so energised and alive. Not to mention the camaraderie of the members, which is simply special. I highly recommend it.
Most mornings at around 6.30am you’ll find me jogging along East Coast Park. There’s nothing like watching the sun rise over the water and that feeling of the start of a brand-new day.
The Siglap Linear Park also happens to be 350 metres away, so the kids and I ride our bikes to the Baker & Cook store at Opera Estate to collect our fresh-baked goods for the weekend.
What’s one thing you’d never change?
Laguna Park happens to have two tennis courts. Anyone can book the courts and, given they’re only $2 per hour, they’re popular for both residents and visitors alike. The convenience means there’s no excuse for my kids not to attend their weekly coaching sessions.
How about one thing you would change?
The construction noise that comes with the building of the MRT at our doorstep.
If the city gave you a million dollars to soup up your street, how would you use it?
I would use the million dollars to finish the Siglap MRT quicker. Given that it’s right opposite the entrance to Laguna Park, our property valuation will sky-rocket once it’s open!
Beyond the ’Hood What are your favourite Singapore spots for taking outof-town guests?
I love taking out-of-town guests to Artemis where the 40th-floor rooftop view of Singapore is unbeatable. It also helps that they cater to all diets, such as keto and gluten-free. Other places include Bistecca Tuscan Steakhouse and Spago Lounge & Bar because the food, service and ambience is top notch every single time.
When you’re in need of a dose of culture, where do you go?
I take my kids to the ArtScience Museum quite often. It’s kidfriendly, and it always has cool stuff on.
If you’re missing home, what do you do?
I no longer get homesick as I’ve been here for 15 years and truly consider Singapore my home. Aside from being able to visit wineries, I have everything I could possibly want right here in Singapore!