Suggestions on where to live?

[ferrisld]

Hi there,

I'm looking for some advice to look for condos - I'll be working at Singapore Management University and would ideally like something close to it, but realize this means I'll be using the MRT, as I am only looking to spend about S$2000-3500/month for rent. At the same time, I'd like to be close to the university - 20 min commute or less would be ideal.

I also quite enjoy parks so that would also be a bonus!

Based on this it seems that Paya Lebar MRT area is ideal, but I've read some bad things about that area here. It is attractive in that the Circle line would eventually be built there, and I believe it will go quite close to SMU, once completed. However, I'd be interested in hearing what people with more experience might suggest for places to live!!

Thanks!

[Icemocha]

I personally won't stay near Paya Lebar MRT. It's not an area too many locals will even consider. It's not too far from the red lights district.

I don't remember any nice parks any where near Paya Lebar MRT.

If your like park, you should consider the central area. You should be able to find something around Bishan & Thomson area with your budget. Bishan park is lovely and you are close to the reservoir and central reserve area. Some condo in these area provides a free bus for residents to the MRT station. No walking, but pure air-con comfort.

Alternatively, you can consider condo near east or west coast park, but they are usually not near MRT stations.

Drop me a PM if you like treking or cycling and plan to stay around Bishan/thomson area. I bike to Upper Pierce Reservoir on weekends and trek in the central reserve area occasionally. You will love this neighbourhood.

[ferrisld]

Thanks for the response - was starting to wonder if I said something wrong. Yeah, Paya Lebar certainly doesn't have any nice parks, though it's (somewhat) close to East Coast park. I did the walk from PL to the park and didn't find it that terrible.

Bishan certainly seems intersting - is there any way to find out how long it takes to get from one MRT stop to another, short of actually *doing* the trip? I'd be curious to know how long it takes to go Bishan-Dhoby Ghaut.

And thanks for the invite for trekking/biking - will keep it in mind if I end up in the area! Though I'm not much of a biker - can't imagine that's any fun in this humidity!!

[sundaymorningstaple]

Bishan certainly seems intersting - is there any way to find out how long it takes to get from one MRT stop to another, short of actually *doing* the trip? I'd be curious to know how long it takes to go Bishan-Dhoby Ghaut.

http://www.smrt.com.sg/trains/train_timings.asp

[Icemocha]

If you find walking from PL to East Coast park a ok walk in this humidity, then biking will be a breeze.

I've not taken the MRT for a long time, I don't think it takes more than 20-25 from Bishan-Dhoby Ghaut. I know for sure I can reach cityhall in about 25mins.

In Bishan, there are also premium buses that goes on the CTE expressway and exit just before Dhoby Ghaut. Cost $2.50 per trip, but in great comfort. You will get a nice seat (unlike the MRT) and no standing allowed, so no smelly armpits. I've taken it once when I sent my car for servicing. A very pleasant trip.

[ferrisld]

Thanks Icemocha - my agent's taking me around today to look at some places, and I'll instruct him to add Bishan to the list! The day I did the walk to the east coast park, I also walked all through the park - by the end of the day I was pretty wiped. Though the weather was beautiful last night, so biking at night would seem like a better idea.

Thanks also, sundaymorningstaple, for the link! Very useful!

[ferrisld]

I checked out Rafflesia in Bishan area today - quite nice! Though the distance to the MRT and onwards to city hall seems like it could be a pain (I imagine I'll make the round-trip there and back twice a day). Still, very impressive! How is bishan area for buying everyday things e.g. is there a carrefour or somethign similar around?

[maneo]

Bishan certainly seems intersting - is there any way to find out how long it takes to get from one MRT stop to another, short of actually *doing* the trip? I'd be curious to know how long it takes to go Bishan-Dhoby Ghaut.

http://www.smrt.com.sg/trains/train_timings.asp

When you're out and about and can't access the link, a rough rule of thumb is 2 minutes per station (on average).

[jpatokal]

Based on this it seems that Paya Lebar MRT area is ideal, but I've read some bad things about that area here. It is attractive in that the Circle line would eventually be built there, and I believe it will go quite close to SMU, once completed.

Don't hold your breath: due to the Nicoll Highway collapse fiasco, the latest estimates are that the final stretch from Paya Lebar to Dhoby Ghaut (and hence SMU) may not open until 2013.

The area (or, more precisely, nearby Geylang) has a bit of bad rep, but this is Singapore we're talking about -- you're not going to get mugged.