SearchWhen someone mentions Geylang, you probably think of its busy shophouses, various karaoke lounges, and infamous red-light district. Located near the central regions of Singapore, this area is constantly abuzz with activities late into the night.
Over the years, Geylang has garnered a seedy reputation thanks in part to the sordid activities that go on in this estate. As a result, you may be wondering why anyone would want to buy a property in the area. However, you will be surprised to learn that the properties in the Geylang district hold more gems than anyone could have thought of. Additionally, with recent developments and future changes, Geylang may soon rival popular estates such as Tampines and Sengkang.
One of the main factors contributing to Geylang’s notoriety was its parking and traffic issues, which have caused several disputes over the years. Understanding the need to address this issue, the Urban Development Authority (URA) implemented the rezoning of Lorong 4 to Lorong 22 to limit the number of residential zones in the estate. This effort has led to fewer condos in the area, increasing the remaining properties’ values due to the scarcity of resources.
With the recent development of Paya Lebar to position it as a new financial hub and Geylang’s proximity to both Paya Lebar and the traditional Central Business District (CBD) of Singapore, there will likely be a boon for those with the foresight to invest in this area. The relocation of Paya Lebar Airbase in 2030 will also impact the value of prospective properties in the surrounding area as there is no longer any height restrictions imposed on new housing development projects planned for Geylang.
These various factors combined have made Geylang an attractive prospect for investors and homeowners alike. Anticipating the high interest in this district, numerous developers are launching new condominium projects to cater to both crowds. Popular projects worth mentioning include Arena Residences and Penrose, which are expected to be completed by 2022 and 2024, respectively. Both condos are located in prime areas, within walking distance of Aljunied MRT station, and are surrounded by well-established amenities, such as Sims Vista Market & Food Center and Paya Lebar Quarter.
Whether you are looking to invest in this growing estate or eyeing a home that affords you great convenience, it is vital that you do your research before engaging a property agent. Let us explore what is in store for you should you relocate to Geylang.
Food
One of the best things about living in Geylang is the variety of food on offer. From overseas cuisines to local delights, you are sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. There are too many recommendations for us to list, so we will spotlight our must-try dishes when you are in the area.
126 Dim Sum Wen Dao Shi
Image credit: 126 Dim Sum Wen Dao Shi
After pulling an all-nighter at the office, Wen Dao Shi is one of our go-to places for cheap and good dim sums. This eatery is open 24-7, so you can pop up for a snack even during the wee hours of the night.
One of their must-order dishes is the prawn rice roll. Instead of the typical light soy sauce that accompanies this dish, Wen Dao Shi uses a delectable sweet sauce that pairs surprisingly well with the zhu chang fen.
Website: https://126.com.sg/
Address: 126 Sims Avenue, Singapore 387449
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun Open 24 Hours
No Signboard Seafood
Image credit: No Signboard Seafood
Established in the 70s, No Signboard Seafood has become a household name among seafood-loving Singaporeans. Its business has expanded significantly since its humble beginnings. However, its original branch remains at Geylang after the restaurant’s initial move from Mattar Road Hawker Center.
The restaurant is famous for bucking the trend with its White Pepper Crab dish, at a time where most chefs utilized black pepper to season the crab. This decision proved to be a masterstroke, as it successfully brings out the crab’s natural flavours.
The white pepper’s taste enhances the dish without overwhelming the sweetness of the crab meat. Spice-lovers are guaranteed to enjoy the mild peppery kick when they sink their teeth into the crab’s juicy, succulent meat.
Website: http://www.nosignboardholdings.com/home.html
Address: 414 Geylang Road, Singapore 389392
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun 11AM – 1.30AM
Recreation
After a hearty meal, you and your family may be looking for some light-hearted fun to end your family outing on a high. Kallang Leisure Park is but a stone’s throw away from Geylang, and you will find plenty of activities to keep everyone engaged.
Image credit: Kallang Ice World
If you have ever wanted to live out your winter fantasy in Singapore, you can get the next best thing at Kallang Ice Park. Located on the third floor of Kallang Leisure Park, this state-of-art ice skating facility is frequently used by professional ice-skaters to practice for their upcoming competitions. As such, you can rest easy knowing the ring is regularly maintained and in tip-top condition. They also offer beginner classes for any inexperienced skater looking to learn the basics of ice skating.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/kallangiceworld/
Address: 5 Stadium Walk, Level 3, Leisure Park Kallang, Singapore 397693
Opening Hours: Sun – Thurs 10AM – 10PM | Fri – Sat 10AM – 12AM
For those looking for a more beginner-friendly activity to pass the time, bowling may be right up your alley. Located below the ice park, Kallang Bowl offers the public an unforgettable bowling experience at a relatively modest price of $5 per game. The facility is also equipped with interactive touchscreen displays for you to easily navigate and start a new game whenever you are ready.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/KallangBowl/
Address: 5 Stadium Walk #02-22, Leisure Park Kallang, Singapore 397693
Opening Hours: Sun – Thurs 9AM – 1AM | Fri – Sat 9AM – 2AM
Amenities
With no less than three MRT stations within walking distance from each other, few places are as easily accessible as Geylang. The Central Business District is only four stops away from the estate’s nearest MRT station, Kallang. Other newer stations include Geylang Bahru MRT station and Mountbatten MRT station, which brings you closer to the likes of Kallang Basin swimming complex and Gardens By the Bay, respectively.
Further adding to the convenience of living in Geylang, a new Kallang Polyclinic is currently in development and is expected to open by the end of 2021. Residents previously had to visit private clinics for their medical needs. However, with the completion of this state-of-the-art medical facility, residents can now look forward to more affordable healthcare services.
For growing families with children, you will be glad to know there are various popular schools, such as Geylang Methodist Primary School and Kong Hwa Primary School, within the vicinity so your children need not travel far for their studies. Competition for places within these schools, especially Kong Hwa, can be fierce, with slots filling up fast whenever registration opens. Your child may stand a better chance if your family lives near the area, as the remaining spots often come down to a balloting process.
Conclusion
This list offers only a tiny peek of what life is like living in Geylang. If what we have described has piqued your interest in this estate, then you should consider hiring a property agent to assist you with your house-hunting.
Let our team at Selling Singapore handle the bulk of the house-hunting work for you. Our team of experts are happy to provide you with sound advice and guide you in building your dream home in Geylang’s various properties.
Of course, we understand that even as you are looking for a new home, you will also be seeking to list your property for sale. For your convenience, we can assist you in both matters, as we also specialize in selling properties in Singapore.
If you are looking to sell your condo or home fast, feel free to contact us at 8157 4855 for a quick catch-up session so we can better understand your needs and actively seek out buyers that are able to meet your requirements.
