Cheryl Tay is a rare female motoring journalist in Singapore with a passion for life in the fast lane. In her career, she has rubbed shoulders with top executives and personalities in the automotive world. Here, she will be sharing unique places you can drive to for Valentine’s Day.
Rather than settle for a simple Valentine’s Day dinner again this year, think outside of the box and rent a car so you can go to places far from the madding crowd.
1. Punggol Ranch
Make a trip to Punggol Ranch where you will be able to enjoy horse riding with your loved one, choosing between a lesson of either 30 or 45 minutes with a qualified instructor.
After you’re done with your horse-riding lesson, chill at the Punggol Ranch Resort – a chalet that exudes an old western theme, with the exterior of each room resembling that of a horse ranch barn.
Finally, end the day off by impressing her with a specially prepared decadent barbeque spread using the facility’s BBQ pit and she’ll definitely have a day to remember.
Address: 900 Punggol Rd – Track 24, Singapore 829168 (Directions)
2. Naked Finn
If you’re up for a taste of fresh seafood this Valentine’s Day, head on over to the Naked Finn, a desolate restaurant located along Gilman Barracks. Using only the highest quality ingredients sourced from smaller eateries that focus on non-mainstream species and sustainable fishing practices, the natural flavours of the seafood that you’ll enjoy is merely enhanced with just olive oil and sea salt, and at times, unsalted.
Website: http://www.nakedfinn.com
Address: 39 Malan Road, Gillman Barracks, 109442 (Directions)
3. Coney Island
Coney Island is a great option if you’re planning a scenic date for you and your loved one this Valentine’s Day. Once a millionaire’s island and only reachable by boat, Coney Island is now accessible to the public since October 2015, following the construction of two bridges connecting the island to Singapore.
You can choose to drive to either entrances; the West entrance is located at Punggol Promenade, while the East entrance is at Pasir Ris Coast Industrial Park 6, off Lorong Halus.
You can choose to walk, cycle or skate the entire 2.4km route, where you might be able to catch migratory birds or the solitary cow roaming the island. It’s best to end your route at the West entrance, where you should be able to end your date at one of the many restaurants at Punggol Settlement.
Website: National Park – Coney Island Park
Location: Beside Punggol Promenade Nature Walk (Directions)
4. Kota Tinggi
If you’re bored of searching for interesting date options in Singapore, why not take a day trip out of the country to Johor Bahru for a refreshing experience? One area you can visit is Kota Tinggi, which is 42km North-East of Johor Bahru.
First, you can visit Desaru Beach, where you can catch a wave or two if you’re up for surfing. You can then head over to Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm to see all sorts of reptiles, before going to the Firefly Valley Leisure Park to witness throngs of fireflies.
5. Danga Bay
Thinking of a fun Valentine’s Date? Drive up to Danga Bay, which is located 70km north of Singapore. At Danga Bay, there are several shopping, dining and entertainment facilities, most notably Danga World – a theme park with various rides as well as a petting zoo with an extensive range of animals such as tiger cubs and lions.
Sum up the day with an unforgettable experience on board the Danga Cruise 8, where you’ll be able to enjoy a succulent dinner spread and catch the sun setting as you sail along the Straits of Johor.
6. Yi Jia Seafood Restaurant
It’s common for Singaporeans to travel to Johor Bahru to enjoy great quality seafood at much lower prices. Yi Jia Seafood Restaurant is one of the top seafood restaurants in Johor Bahru and it’s situated near Second Link Singapore- Malaysia, making it easily accessible, especially if you’re coming from Legoland Malaysia. Must-tries at this establishment include the Salted Egg Crabs, Otak-otak Crab, White Pepper Crab and Honey Sauce Crab.
Website: Yi Jia Restaurant / Facebook
Address: No.17, 19, 21&23, Jalan Setia 9/17, Taman Setia Indah, 81100 Johor Bahru
