Weekend Reflections – Life in Singapore

 

This past weekend was a reminder of all the things I love about living in Singapore. It was relaxing, fun, and, as always, expensive — nothing comes cheap here. Still, after a bit of haggling (as the Japanese say, “price down”), we managed to knock a bit off the bills.

We started with a visit to our local strip mall at Woodgrove. Lunch was at our go-to spot — the upmarket version of a hawker centre, what used to be the Aussie Café. I had a chicken burger, and Hiroko had a pork chop. Not too pricey since we shared with the kids.

Unfortunately, Kai had a bout of pink eye and we had to visit the doctor. Alongside some antibiotics, we also got his form signed for a special needs school we’re hoping he can attend. All in, not too bad — $35. Then came the kicker: the doctor said Kai needs glasses.

So, we headed downstairs to check his eyes. Turns out, he definitely needs glasses — the quoted price was $600, but we got it down to $300. Still steep, especially for a child who’ll outgrow them quickly! Back in the UK, glasses for kids are free. Just one of those expat trade-offs, I suppose.

Next, I popped in for a haircut. The barber recognized me from the newspaper — we were featured recently about Kai’s learning difficulties and how football helps him cope. He started chatting about football and told me he's a lifelong Man United fan. I told him I’m from Fulham, but a Liverpool supporter at heart. Funny enough, his daughter is doing a PhD at Roehampton University — small world! He hasn't seen her in six years and really misses her. Hope they reunite soon.

The haircut was $17, but I gave $20. He reminded me of my old barber, Vito’s in Putney — always up for a chat, unlike most places here.

After that, we went shopping, and Hiroko went off for her hair appointment. Three hours later (yes, three!), she returned. My haircut takes 20 minutes and costs a fraction of what hers does — even including Kai’s cut and the tip!

That evening, we got ready for a friend’s birthday and headed to One Amber Condo. Honestly, I could never afford to live there — but being there, it felt like we were on holiday. BBQ by the pool, good company, the kids playing happily, and perfect weather. The birthday cake came out, and my younger son Ted was a riot — getting cake all over himself!

We had drinks, plenty of laughs, and the night flew by. One of the great things about Singapore — everything’s close by. We booked a cab at 10 and were home by 10:20. The kids were tucked in, and we had a bit of quiet time before bed.

Sunday morning was football at Sports Planet in Woodlands. This time, I went alone — no kids — which made for a nice break. Kai and Ted were tired and emotional later, but it was a fun and cheap Sunday to wrap up the weekend.

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