Living on the East Coast, Marine Parade

Each month we ask residents to talk about their homes and neighbourhoods – to help others who are living in Singapore make a better decision. Moving is always pretty stressful, so it’s good to get recommendations first. MARINA MATHEWS talks about living at Laguna Park condo off Marine Parade on the East Coast.

NAME: Marina Mathews
From: Australia via Bahrain
Occupation: Founder of Marina Mathews Communications, reputation management specialists

The Specifics

What’s the name of your street? Marine Parade Road.

What’s a common myth or misconception about your neighbourhood? That it’s so far from the city. It takes me approximately 15 minutes to get to Marina Bay Sands. That said, I can be at Changi Airport within eight minutes. I only know this because I’ve tested it on more than a few occasions!

Exact words you tell a taxi driver to get home? “Take the Siglap exit on the ECP, then turn right at the traffic lights. No, it’s not Lagoon View. That’s next door.”

Closest MRT station? It will be Siglap MRT, due to open in 2023 (brown Thomson-East Coast Line).

How long have you lived here? Since February 2011.

Why here? Laguna Park is made up of seven blocks of 96 apartments each, meaning there are almost 700 families residing within close proximity to each other. There’s a fantastic neighbourly spirit, and many of us know each other primarily because our kids play together in the main playground. As for the parents, we have our own “Laguna Mums” group chat to stay connected and keep each other apprised of the latest happenings in our ’hood.

The Scene

When you walk out of your place, what’s the first thing you see? A great big playground. I love that they’ve dedicated so much green space for outdoor activities. All the kids hang out every afternoon (weather permitting) and it’s fostered many a friendship.

What’s the closest store to your front door? We’re lucky to have Laguna Mart in Block F which is run by Mr Chetan. He’s super friendly and knows all the local kids. He’s also very accommodating and will order certain food items specially if requested.

If your street was chosen for a remake of a film, which would it be? Rugrats Go Wild.

We’re sure your neighbours are great, but is there anything you wouldn’t mind a little less of? Maybe I’ve hit the jackpot, but there’s not a thing to mention.

What’s the unofficial uniform of your street? T-shirts and leggings. Likely due to the many yoga enthusiasts who frequent Kate Porter Yoga in Block G – myself included!

What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever seen on your street? Not the strangest thing, but rather the surprising number of pet owners who take their cat or dog for a walk in a stroller. I’d never seen anything like it until I got here.

Condo Facts

Name: Laguna Park
Facilities: Playground, two swimming pools, two full-size tennis courts, gym, library, function room, four barbecue pits, mini mart, medical clinic, soccer field, Chinese restaurant, Kate Porter Yoga Studio
Size: Apartments start at 1,500 square feet
New or old: Built in 1978
Nearby supermarket: 1km walk to FairPrice Siglap Community vibe: Very friendly and social – everyone knows everyone; loads of families with kids.

This article first appeared in the March 2021 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy!

Moving to Singapore, or moving houses? Check out our guide on popular neighbourhoods and where to live in Singapore.