Exciting Changes and Events Await in Singapore
SINGAPORE — Last week, we bid farewell to our cool, air-conditioned days and reluctantly welcomed back the sweltering 30°C temperatures. However, there’s good news: the end of the rainy season signals the return of late-night bus services and the highly anticipated Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar. Let’s explore these three exciting comebacks.
Goodbye to Sweater Weather
Singapore experienced a brief spell of chilly weather over the Chinese New Year period. While many lamented the incessant rain, the cooler temperatures provided a welcome respite from the usual humidity, averaging 24°C and even dropping to a low of 22.3°C at times. For those tired of the heat, it was a chance to showcase their winter wardrobes, leading to an influx of stylish rainy day outfits on social media.
Yet, the wet weather posed challenges for food delivery riders, who braved the rain to ensure hot meals reached our doorsteps. While many of us might offer tips in appreciation, it raises questions about whether this compensation truly reflects their efforts amidst challenging conditions. As the monsoon season comes to a close, we can only hope for drier days ahead until the next rain arrives.
Welcome Back Late Night Buses
Good news for night owls and late-night revelers: the return of late-night bus services means surge pricing is a thing of the past. With private bus charter company A&S Transit now offering services, late-night fares are set at a manageable $4.50 with an EZ-link card.
SMRT’s NightRider services, which were discontinued in June 2022 after a lengthy suspension during the pandemic, left many commuters disappointed. The reasons cited for this decision included low ridership and the availability of alternative transport options. However, the new night services hope to fill that gap, restoring nightlife options for partygoers and night shift workers alike.
The two new bus routes will operate on Fridays, Saturdays, and the eve of public holidays from 11:30 PM to 2:30 AM, with a 45-minute interval between services. The first route, NS-1, will travel through the Central Business District (CBD) and stop at various locations before concluding at Punggol. The second route, NS-2, will also start in the CBD but will end in Woodlands, passing through popular areas like Newton, Yishun, and Sembawang.
Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar Is Back and Bigger Than Ever
This year’s Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar promises to be an unforgettable event, featuring 700 stalls—ten times more than the previous year’s modest offering of 70. Running from March 17 to April 21, 2023, this will be the longest bazaar to date, filled with vibrant festivities.
Minister of State for Home Affairs and National Development Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, who oversees Wisma Geylang Serai, emphasized the bazaar’s focus on affordability, noting that every food and beverage vendor should offer at least one sampler item priced at $4. This initiative aims to cater to the growing demand for reasonably priced options while addressing concerns about rising stall rental fees that have led to a shift toward upscale offerings.
Despite the temptation for vendors to introduce trendy items to attract younger crowds, the essence of traditional pasar malam fare remains a cherished aspect of these events. We can expect to see a mix of classic favorites like Ramly burgers and keropok lekors alongside the latest culinary innovations.
As the Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar opens its doors, Singaporeans are eager to indulge in the vibrant food scene once more.
