Singapore Prime Districts

Over the years, the Indonesian Chinese community in Singapore has grown and expanded into considerable force. This group of hardworking and innovative expatriates appreciates the wonderful life on the island nation because such standard of living is something that they may not receive back in Indonesia. Singapore Prime Districts discusses the reasons that attract and retain this community.

Political stance
Unlike the Indonesian government that gives priority to their fellow natives, the Singapore government is renowned for their emphasis on meritocracy. This ideology provides an equal chance to all and ensures fair competition. Meritocracy in real life application means there is no quota to university entrance or application for business licenses because everyone is judged not based on race but on talent and diligence. In school or at work, the Indonesian Chinese community could maximize their potential through opportunities that may not have been available to them in Indonesia.

Clean and corruption-free
Many South East Asian countries suffer from dire consequences of corruption in both their political and corporate arenas. The case is starkly different in Singapore where our government adopts a harsh stance against every kind of corruption. This leaves Singapore almost corruption-free as we score 5^th out 163 countries in the Transparency International Perceptions Index. Clean public and private sectors enhance efficiency and productivity throughout the island nation; as such quality of life for the Indonesian Chinese community is much higher.

Economic development
Poised as one of the powerful Asian Tigers, the Singapore economy has performed surprisingly well in the past 20 years. Even after the Asian Financial Crisis in 1997, this determined island state picked herself up relatively faster than any other city in the region. This was due largely to the well-planned development routes by the local government that places huge importance on economic performance. As such, the Indonesian Chinese community has over the years, accumulated great faith in Singapore's investment prospects.

Value of investments
Due to the limited land size of Singapore, property is often viewed to be extremely valuable and precious. In comparison with Indonesia where land is in abundance, property investments in Singapore are more lucrative with greater returns. This is especially true for prime districts where the crème de la crop developments are located. Due to the openness of our condominium and private apartment markets, the increase in prices can occur swiftly in a few years, generating profits for investors. Recently, a surge in downtown property demand has in fact done so for the Indonesian Chinese community who prefer to live near Bukit Timah and Somerset.

Home away from home
Singapore is truly the home away from home for many Indonesian Chinese expatriates. They may start off treating this island as a place for business but most of them eventually move their entire families over. This is because Singapore has a lot to offer in terms of standard of living, security and stability. Furthermore, our metropolitan culture means that these expatriates could easily enjoy Indonesian cuisine like beef noodle soup or a relaxing Javanese message in Orchard. So really, home is not that far away.

Summary: For Indonesian Chinese looking for new investments and living prospects, Singapore is the ideal location due to its political stability, economic strengths and equal platform for competition.

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Talented executives around the world are looking for opportunities in the Asia Pacific region; most are raring to move into a new life with exciting projects and investments. However, one problem constantly bugs them and stops them from taking the step forward – their children. Downtown Singapore could be the solution. Hailed as second home to many expatriates, it is well equipped with holistic education and family oriented entertainment for your little ones. Growing up in a foreign country has never been this fun.

Quality International Pre-schools
Kindergartens in downtown Singapore are sophisticated education institutions that understand that a good and early start in learning is important. They mostly adopt an internationally recognized teaching method such as the Montessori system. Where kindergartens develop their unique teaching styles, these methods are also certified by the Ministry of Education and not to mention, avid parents. One such pre-school is the famous Eton House which promotes multiple learning goals for their students. This kindergarten has frequently ranked top among its competitors for its emphasis on learning through interaction and building confidence.

Kids-Friendly Malls and Restaurants
In a bid to cultivate a pro-family environment, various shopping centers and restaurants have transformed themselves to a haven for both the parents and their young ones. These malls feature fashion for juniors, major toy stores playgrounds and specially designed nursing rooms. Housing the largest Toys R’us store in Singapore, Forum Shopping Centre is one of the children’s favorite hangouts. Restaurants like Globetrotter at United Square swear by their slogan of where you can eat and kids can play as they serve up a conducive dining environment for families with energetic little ones.

Close to Nature
A dream-like childhood is not complete without exploring the beauty of Mother Nature. While this may be difficult in severely polluted cities like Jakarta and Beijing, Nature is just beyond the doorstep at downtown Singapore. Apart from the ubiquitous lush greenery along the streets, our National Botanic Gardens is a short drive away at Bukit Timah – the perfect picnic spot. For adventurous tots, the Sungai Buloh Conservation Area provides an adventure in a paradise of tropical flora and fauna. During specific periods of the year, your children can even go bird-watching!

Exciting Holiday Activities
School holidays for a child in Singapore are constantly exciting because there are so many fun-filled activities. You could bring them to the inspiring Science Centre or gaze at the galaxy at the Planetarium. If your children love wet rides, Downtown East has some of the wildest yet safest water slides. Furthermore, arts and music festivals throughout the year carry programs specially catered to children in order to spark off their creativity. These programs often invite children to join in the fun of producing art which can be very enriching at a tender age.

Summary: Singapore is an ideal place for young children to grow up because of its quality pre-school education and pro-family lifestyle malls. If you intend to expand into Asia, don’t hesitate in choosing this island state! Contact us for more details about children and parenting services in downtown Singapore.

Ever since Singapore gained her independence in the late sixties, westernization has crept into this city state’s architecture. Eastern influences in private residences were for a long time deemed out of touch with the changing times. Developers forsake the local flavors for modern designs imported from Europe. However, lately property buyers are gaining a new interest in the unique local cultural roots, especially Peranakan and Chinese buildings from our parents’ era. As such, Emerald Hill Conservation Area is once again in the spotlight of downtown property market.

Peranakan Heritage
Nestled between Orchard and Somerset, Emerald Hill was originally the high-end residential area for wealthy Peranakan families in the early 19^th Century. Today, the Singapore government, in a bid to preserve the terrace houses and shops rich in local tradition has listed Emerald Hill as a conservation area.

These buildings feature the special Chinese baroque architectural styles only available in very few places of the world, such as Malacca and here in Singapore. They usually spot white-washed walls with wooden windows and a black slanted roof. The design is reminiscent of the colonial era.

Buzzing Night Life
The beauty of Emerald Hill does not stop at mere tradition. Life in the area is a fascinating mix of both Peranakan culture and modern night entertainment. Well known for its exotic bars and eclectic late night establishments, Emerald Hill is a glazing spot for drinks and music.

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Que Pasa an exquisite wine bar offers one of the best wine-and-dine experiences in this part of town. After a hard day’s work, unwind and rejoice at the Acid Bar with a good drink and some live band performances.

All the exciting night life happens in renovated Peranakan shop houses with wooden furniture and dim yellow lights. Such contrasts between the new and the traditional make Emerald Hill as attractive as an oriental jewel.

Convenient Location
Emerald Hill does not stand alone. Due to its proximate location to Orchard Road and Somerset, you can easily access the shopping belt of Singapore. Retail moguls such as Heeren and Centrepoint are within walking distance. The nearby Cuppage Centre, house to at least 30 different dining establishments would also please every difficult taste bud.

Education for your little ones can be taken care of at the prestigious Chatsworth International School at Emerald Hill Link. This renowned international school is a very popular choice among the expatriate community in Singapore. Save your children the hassle of bus and car rides by staying at the Emerald Hill area as they can stroll to school every morning.

Affordable Prices
Don’t let exorbitant property prices in Orchard scare you off. The apartments and condominiums in Emerald Hill are still relatively affordable because most people are not familiar with the area as a residential site yet. Currently, the average floor rate ranges from S$1000 to S$2000 which is very rare in downtown Singapore.

With property prices rising madly in Orchard, buyers are likely to shift their attention beyond Orchard Road itself and notice areas on its peripheral such as Emerald Hill. As such, our guess is property at this area would increase in value in the foreseeable future. It is perhaps better to buy now than later.

Not many people know much about Draycott. Some may have never heard of this place. Even when the downtown property market is in full bloom, most investors are too focused on the heart of Orchard Road to notice this petite stretch right next to the buzz. However, there are very good reasons to start looking in this direction.

Convenience of Orchard
Draycott is located on the outskirts of town. Tugged away at Tanglin and Scotts Road, you could enjoy the convenience of living less than 5 minute drive away from Orchard Road. Yet, still remain spared from the hustle and bustle.

Shopping
If you fancy retail therapy, trendy malls such as Palais Renaissance and Forum shopping centres are just a throw away. When these places fail to deliver, you could always drop by Orchard Road.

Education
In a competitive island state that worships premium education, sending your children to branded schools is often of top priority. Draycott Drive provides an extra edge in that respect because some of the best schools, such as Raffles Girls’ Secondary School, are located within the vicinity.

Lifestyle
For those who indulge in the finer things in life – a scrumptious dinner with friends or a game of golf to rewind from the week; the American Club is the place to be. The neighborhood is also surrounded in luscious greenery. In fact, families are often spotted taking a long weekend stroll in the relaxing environment.

Prices
All these come at an affordable price. With property prices in the downtown region shooting through the roof, most areas in Orchard Road or those close enough to be in District 10 are expensive. That makes Draycott exceptional. No other neighborhood in town can offer a floor rate as low as $1000.

8 @ Mount Sophia sits snugly beside the Istana and Plaza Singapura. For the uninitiated, the Istana is the Malay or Indonesian word for "palace". In Singapore, it is a ground for the most important ceremonial occasions and state functions.

Prime usage of land surrounds the stately presence along Orchard Road, with the Dhoby Ghaut MRT Interchange leading to Plaza Singapura, a nine-floor urban retail mall and The Cathay Picturehouse, for those passionate about cutting-edge film and international features. The well-reputed Singapore Management University adds dollops of youthful vibrance to a district well-heeled in historical events.

Fort Canning sits just across to the modish malls, unwavering in its historic importance as it still gives a bird's eye view of Orchard Road. Besides, with regular open-air events such as Ballet Under the Stars and World of Music and Dance (WOMAD), Fort Canning Hill complements the cultural interaction of people and venues such as the Singapore History Museum and Singapore Art Museum.

8 @ Mount Sophia offers a tranquil sanctuary with an address so auspicious it only bodes well. Amidst the unwavering buzz of arts and cultural activity, nearby Prinsep Street has cafes and pubs decked in old shophouses of past. Another incentive for those with a sweet tooth has to be the modest yet mouthwatering Rochor Original Beancurd dessert. The coveted 8 @ Mount Sophia is another sell-out project by Frasers Centrepoint Homes.

The "Estilo" refers to the Spanish word for "style". Enjoying similar conveniences and comforts as 8 @ Mount Sophia, the Estilo also complements the thrilling hustle and bustle of city life with a tranquil sanctuary-like residence within its compounds.

The Estilo is on Wilkie Road, and less than 0.1km away, Mount Emily Park is a serene and cosy open space at the peak of Mount Emily.

The Dhoby Ghaut MRT Interchange connects to Plaza Singapura, a nine-floor urban retail mall. Nearby, the Cathay Picturehouse is frequented by those passionate about cutting-edge film and international features. The well-reputed Singapore Management University adds dollops of youthful vibrance to a district well-heeled in historical events. Fort Canning sits just across Orchard Road, hosting popular open-air events such as starlight cinema, Ballet Under the Stars performances and Singapore's largest music festival, World of Music and Dance (WOMAD). Fort Canning Hill complements the rich presence of the Singapore History Museum, Asian Civilisation Museum and Singapore Art Museum. Amidst the unwavering buzz of arts and cultural activity, nearby Prinsep Street has cafes and pubs decked in old shophouses of past. Another incentive for those with a sweet tooth has to be the modest yet mouthwatering Rochor Original Beancurd dessert.

Cairnhill Residences at Cairnhill Circle enjoys superior landscaping, sitting on elevated land overlooking Singapore's prime shopping belt, Orchard Road. It is but a short walk from Paragon and Ngee Ann City, both major retail malls for the designer-elegant, fashionable and quality-conscious.

Many parents are eager to send their sons to the nearby Anglo Chinese Junior School. It is part of the family of Anglo Chinese schools in Singapore, considered to be prestigious owing to both an illustrious history and an equally prominent alumni. Only a few turns after the Cairnhill Circle exit from the Central Expressway, Cairnhill Residences is considerably accessible.

Singapore's famous Newton Circus Food Centre is just around the corner. Indulge in a delicious spread of local delights which will leave you hungry for more. Not to worry though, since the favourite among both tourists and locals is but a mere 0.6km away. Set among a list of other condominiums, Cairnhill Residences will soon be the new kid on the block to join a neighbourhood, just where the heady thrills of Scotts Road and Orchard Road start.

The art of modern living epitomises in a designer condominium aptly named the Icon.

Characterised by simplicity, clean lines and brightness, the Icon is a dream home for those who have a deep appreciation for sleek modernity. Full-length windows are constructed to take in the wide expanse of the city skyline and the South China Sea. Stretch out in the morning sun since the apartments are designed to face only North and South such that an insulating afternoon sun does not linger. It is equatorial Singapore, after all. The most characteristic of The Icon has to be the private resort on the 7th floor, and a sanctuary on the 31st. Landscaped islands, a sun deck, jacuzzis, aroma areas… Truly a dependable retreat in tropical Singapore.

The Icon's location is tops as it is in the Marina Bay financial centre, a most attractive part of town with all amenities. Transport is a breeze with the Tanjong Pagar MRT Station, or the Ayer Rajah Expressway or East Coast Parkway. The Integrated Resort is virtually at doorstep, among the pubs, cafes and restaurants at Duxton and Clarke Quay, all on standby for painting the town red. If not, strolling down the sidewalks while taking in the sights along the Esplanade and One Fullerton can always make for a pensive night out.

Perched atop elevated land, Balmoral Hills is both at the fringe of Scotts Road and part of a cosy neighbourhood. Less than five minutes away by road, Delphi Orchard, the Forum Galleria and Palais Renaissance gradually open into the heart of shopping galore on one end, while sitting next to Tanglin on the other.

To the southwest of Balmoral is arguably the most prized asset of Tanglin, the Botanic Gardens. For sweet flora and fauna, and yet more overlapping luscious greenery, the gates to the Gardens are but less than 1.5km away. Closer by is Balmoral Plaza, which has become the community's favourite mini-mall for groceries and other family-friendly services, a homely sort quite different from the stylish skyscrapers in town. As dusk unfolds into a self-reflecting night, from private balconies, gaze upon functional day buildings as they take on their second identity to become the glowing nightline. When light streams in at dawn to hear the morning traffic ferrying students to the several well-reputed schools nearby, take comfort in the architecture of Balmoral Hills that has been designed for a gentle exposure to the scorching mid-day sun.

The Iridium evokes more than the Platinum-related element on the Periodic Table. It has been designed to provide an optimum level of privacy to its residents. Totalling 45 units, every floor has a maximum of only three apartments. Sitting on Lincoln Road, the Iridium is next door to the thrills of Scotts Road and Orchard Road, with the Far East Plaza and DFS Scotts less than 1.5km away. Situated in a relatively self-contained neighbourhood, the Iridium offers residents the option of a modest environment while the bustling core of downtown is not far away. Nearby, the United Square shopping mall is a favourite for families. A key tenant is Cold Storage and the mall also features kid specialty stores, creative home ideas shops and an entire floor dedicated to enrichment centres. It is linked by an underpass to Novena MRT Station. Also, another favourite is Velocity@Novena Square which houses an array of eateries and sports products, complete with the popular Californian Fitness Centre gymnasium. For local dining al-fresco, the Newton Circus Food Centre beckons with its mouthwatering delights. Not far away from the St Michael’s schools and others, the condominium is surrounded by places of learning, injecting a suburban touch to the air.

The Latitude is a fluid piece of architecture inspired by the contours of nature. While it provides for a myriad of man-made facilities, its design tends not to accentuate hard, fast and edgy lines. The Central Business District is less than a ten-minute drive away. As such, home can easily be a little abode of rest during lunch-break. The Great World City starts off the roll of shopping malls in the vicinity. Less than a kilometre away, the thrills of Orchard Road start with Wheelock Place which houses the resident tenant, Borders, the international books-and-music retail chain. Even though gastronomical delights are plentiful in Singapore, the Zion Riverside Food Centre and Covent Garden Food Centre are sure to bring more glee to the daily menu. The Singapore River, a witness to early Singapore immigrant activity to contemporary times, is not far away. Clarke Quay features a stretch of tastefully-furnished shophouses which can offer a relaxing night by the river. Indulge in a hearty meal of seafood or a refreshing pint of lager; stroll down the banks while quirky shops delight with their window displays; have the Ministry of Sound thump the night through with parties and clubbers. On another note, broods and broods of adorable yellow rubber duckies waddle their way through the river every year with the Duck Race for charity. “This is home, truly/ Where I know I must be/ Where my dreams wait for me/ Where the river always flows” sings “Home”, a favourite national song of Singaporeans. The river in question is none other than the Singapore River.

The Luma is located at River Valley Road, a stone’s throw away from The Latitude. But its design is unlike that of The Latitude: those who favour minimalist designs will take to the Luma, with open spaces and tall glass windows. The rooftop pavilion may be scorching in the day, pleasing only the sun-seekers but by night, gleaming moonlight bathes the rooftop sky terrace – then it becomes a first-choice venue to family gatherings and social functions alike. The quiet yet not isolated enjoyment of one’s property comes as each floor has only three units. Fitted with designer switches, the lighting up of each home goes beyond function, and panders instead to mood. Where the Luma is, the Central Business District is less than a ten-minute drive away. As such, home can easily be a little abode of rest during lunch-break. The Great World City is right opposite Zouk, a perennial favourite of clubbers and party-goers. Just down a few roads, Wheelock Place could become everyone’s default weekend hangout. It houses the resident tenant, Borders, the international books-and-music retail chain. The Zion Riverside Food Centre and Covent Garden Food Centre can be humble yet characteristic places to take on a feast.

“This is home, truly/ Where I know I must be/ Where my dreams wait for me/ Where the river always flows” sings “Home”, a favourite national song of Singaporeans. The river in question is none other than the Singapore River. Not far away, the Singapore River has been a witness to early Singapore immigrant activity to contemporary times. Clarke Quay features a stretch of tastefully-furnished shophouses which can offer a relaxing night by the river. Either a hearty meal of seafood or a refreshing pint of lager or both, can easily make for a fulfilling night. Or for the more energy-charged, go pub-crawling before heading down to the Ministry of Sound for clubbing.

Mackenzie 88 provides for cosy and enclosed areas of wading waters and napping or reading a book while tanning on deck chairs. In a relatively self-contained manner, the condominium is a more homely community as it only houses fifty-five households. The conveniences and amenities which come along with its location are also plenty. It is tucked away on Mackenzie Road which is nearby to Little India MRT Station on the North-East Line. A little further away would be the Dhoby Ghaut Interchange Station. Little India is a rich part of Singapore and is bustling with ethnic Indian-Singaporeans and foreigners alike. Especially during weekends, it is a crowded area of colour and lights mixed with the fragrance of freshly-tied jasmine garlands, the overpowering aroma of spices and delicious Indian curries and breads, rounded off by of course the clatter of packed traffic. Mustafa Centre is the only 24-hour shopping centre in Singapore that sells almost everything under the sky, in a somewhat cluttered yet complete manner. From watches to groceries, and from furniture to mobile phones, the experience is contained all in an endearing chaos of jostling down aisles and locating the nearest cashier, while trying not to upset stacks of products. For a more leisurely time however, Mackenzie 88 is also near to Mount Emily Park, right at the peak of Mount Emily.

Marina Bay Residences will easily be described as the cream of the crop in high-end property. Its location is choicest for all of living, working and playing in Singapore. It is centrally-located on prime waterfront space in Marina Bay Financial Centre, which is Singapore’s new financial district. Raffles Place, the corporate and business centre, is a short five-minute stroll away. With the Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resort and the Esplanade just across the bay, Marina Bay Residences is truly surrounded by a spirit of entertainment, leisure and the arts.

The developers of the property are Keppel Land Ltd, Hongkong Land, Cheung Kong Holdings Ltd, all experienced and leading Southeast Asian companies. The architecture is not any less illustrious, as a product of Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates PC. The property will be a splendid addition to Singapore’s skyline. A visit to any effervescent city calls for a trip to ascend to its highest points, be it Victoria Peak in Hongkong or the Eiffel Tower of Paris. While a delightful spotting of the Marina Bay Residences from afar will certainly be quite delectable, being there, one is treated to a nightsky filled with speckling lights and dazzling buildings. A jewel of Marina Bay, its sky gardens will no doubt be infused with modern character.

The splendour of the property is complemented by the ease of transport. The Raffles Place Interchange MRT Station is a great convenience and construction of the Circle Line is underway. Changi International Airport is not too far away either. The river taxis on the Singapore River are a viable means of transport. Much like boating down the Thames, though of course with a speed limit.

Orchard: The epitome of luxury and sophistication

Tell somebody that you live in Orchard area and you will instantly sign yourself off as a member of Singapore’s elite. Orchard has prided itself to be the haven on Earth with an entire stretch of shopping malls and private residences. Recent developments of retail space and condominiums in Orchard seek to bring it closer to metropolitan stars like New York and Hong Kong.

Not just the average shopping mall
Orchard is upgrading itself from just rows of malls to a truly luxurious and exclusive shopping paradise. A very good example would be Ion Orchard, a joint venture between Singapore’s CapitaLand and Hong Kong’s Sun Hung Kai Properties. Scheduled to launch in the fourth quarter this year, it is a world class retail center that houses haute couture outlets. This dazzling line-up pushes Orchard shopping a few notches up the ladder of sophistication and exclusivity. Shopping in Orchard in the near future would resemble that of New York’s Fifth Avenue and Hong Kong’s Nathan Road as more and more duplex flagship stores grow in downtown Singapore.

Although Orchard has what downtown in New York and Hong Kong can offer, our statistics in Singapore Prime Districts tells us that the price of its property is still relatively much lower compared to these two cities.

Luxurious and exclusive condominiums
Strong growth spurts in the economy and good prospects in the near future have given developers the boost to conceptualize luxurious living space never thought possible before this. What we see in the market right now is a series of uber exclusive and luxurious private residences indulging in its dimensions and facilities. Furthermore, the developers are inching closer and closer to Orchard Road itself, rather than building their projects at the outskirts of this street because it was once considered too precious and too expensive for private residential projects.

Rising demand and record prices
The demand in the market is overwhelming. Over the past year, new developments in Orchard have been sold fast and at record prices in auctions open to only those with special invitations. This fight for a space in Orchard has led to a huge surge in prices. The price though steep should not scare off potential investors. Not every development in Orchard is going to cost a bomb. Projects lying slightly further away from Orchard Road but still close enough to be convenient are a good option. We at Singapore Prime Districts help clients negotiate for units in 8 @ Mount Sophia, a tranquil sanctuary hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the city yet are 20 minutes walking from Orchard Road.

Orchard Road is indeed the cherry on the cake of Singapore’s prime property market. The undergoing projects only serve to reiterate its position as tops in luxurious living in a sophisticated environment. If you are looking for the best in Singapore, Orchard Road is probably the answer.