Six reasons why Jurong is cooler than you think

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong confirmed what many westies (also known as people who live in the west) already knew - that Jurong East is actually cool.

PM Lee announced on Tuesday (May 5) that the Singapore terminus of the high-speed rail (HSR) between the city-state and Kuala Lumpur will be located in Jurong East.

He also added that this is part of Singapore's overall plans to transform the area into the country's second central business district.

So all of you making snide comments about needing a passport to go to the area, I would really like to take the opportunity to gloat.

As a westsider, I've endured numerous comments about how 'ulu' the area is.

It should be noted that these are also the people who will travel to the most secluded corners of the country for the newest hipster cafe.

So let me just remind you exactly why Jurong was cool even before PM Lee's announcement.

1. Shopping malls

WIthin Westgate and Jem, brands that are much sought after in Orchard Road, are also available in Jurong. H&M? Check. Uniqlo? Check.

Even if you are up for something a little more high-end, Jurong East has got you covered. Westgate has Kate Spade Saturday and Armani Exchange.

2. Unique cafes

Cafe-hopping is slowly on its way to overtaking shopping as Singaporeans' favourite past time. And Westgate, situated next to Jurong East MRT station, is the perfect place to cafe-hop.

After all, the cafes are within the same vicinity. And it's close to a train station. How nice would it be to not have to walk for 20 minutes before reaching the cafe?

Some examples?

Griddy Gourmet Waffles

You also don't have to head to town for the renowned Paul restaurant.

Cafe Crema

3. A break from the concrete jungle

The Chinese and Japanese gardens in Jurong East is perfect for just taking a break from your every-day life. It's hardly crowded and sometimes, you forget that you're even in Singapore. You can even take a run along the scenic route.

 

4. Science Centre Singapore

The criminally underrated Science Centre is great for both kids and adults. It's a guarantee that one would probably come out of the Science Centre more knowledgeable. 

One of the exhibitions at the Centre is the Human Body Experience. Remember when John Mayer said: "Your body is a wonderland"? We're sure he wasn't referring to the marvels of the human body and its functions. But that's what you would feel like after this exhibition.

Photo: Science Centre Singapore

 The exhibition takes you inside the human anatomy, through organs, muscles and systems, and lets you interact and play with the amazing functions of the body.

5. Ice Skating Rink

Is there a cooler reason than an ice skating rink in the midst of a residential neighbourhood?

Thinking of where to go on your next date? Ice skating at The Rink in another Jurong shopping mall JCube is a perfect date activity. You can even learn to skate - classes are available for all levels.

6. Jurong Bird Park

Can anyone else say that they have a Bird Park in their neighbourhood?

You can even have a majestic falcon resting on your arm as part of the park's Be A Falconer programme. It allows you to personally handle, feed and fly various birds of prey including eagles, owls, falcons and even vultures.

Jurong Bird Park

This unique experience costs $150 per person and the session will last for about 45 minutes.