Contrary to popular belief, neither Holland Road nor Holland Village was named after the Netherlands. Instead, the eponymous road is named after renowned architect and actor Hugh Holland.
Once home to plantations and nurseries, Holland has since evolved into a popular hangout amongst locals and expats alike. Besides its nightlife spots, the hip neighbourhood also features an array of trendy eateries, shopping options and fitness studios.
Feeling a little intrigued as to what Holland offers? Let us take you on a journey!
Foodie Spots
Chip Bee Gardens
A trip to Chip Bee Gardens could fix your week-long cravings just in time for cheat-day. Once home to married couples of the British Army, these colonial-like black and white shophouses offers an array of cafe options, ready to perk up your weekends.
Recommended Cafes:
%Arabica Coffee: For a perfect cuppa fix
Tiong Bahru Bakery: Home to handmade croissants and fresh bakes
Sunday Folks: We heard it’s got one of the best waffles in town.
The Daily scoop: After a day of exploring, treat yourself to a cone of Ice Cream.
Getting here: By MRT- take exit B from Holland Village station
Shopping
Holland Road Shopping Centre
More often known for the Cold Storage supermarket, the branch mainly caters to the needs of the expatriate community. Explore the shopping centre, and you would find vintage-looking stores as most tenants remain unchanged ever since the mall opened five decades ago.
Stores to visit:
Lim’s: Get home decors and Singapore souvenirs you could buy to send over to your pals overseas
Ten Feet Tall: Founded by two Moms, here’s where you could get proper fitting and measurements for your kid’s school shoes. You could also drop off pre-loved shoes for donations to help needy school kids around Southeast Asia.
Thambi Magazine Store
Walk around the corner of Holland Road Shopping centre, and you would come across this iconic newsstand which has been in Holland for over 25 years. Carrying over 4,000 publications from around the world, it’s easily said to be one of the biggest newsstands in Singapore.
To note: the store only accepts cash payment so do have sufficient change before coming over. (The nearest ATM is located at Holland Village MRT Station.)
Address:
Thambi Magazine Store
Holland Road Shopping Centre, 211 Holland Avenue, #01-K4, Singapore 278967
Telephone Number: 64625031
Discover more about Thambi Magazine Store here
Shopping for Party Supplies
We get the need for a celebration after going through a hectic year, so if you are looking for some party supplies, Holland’s got your back!
Party City
Whether you are panicking on the ultimate costume to win the best-dress award or merely looking for balloons to hype up the celebration, party city has it all sorted out. Despite being the only outlet in Singapore, they offer a vast range of party supplies to get the party going.
Address:
Party City
277A Holland Avenue, Singapore 278994
Opening Hours: 10am-7pm (Mon-Sat), 10am-6pm (Sun)
Discover more about Party City Singapore here
Khiam Teck
Walk into the store, and you would notice its retro-looking tiles that remain unchanged since it opened in the 1960s. Being one of the first party stores in Queenstown, locals often head over for affordable party supplies back in the day. Especially if you are on a tight budget, the shop uncle offers excellent discounts on bulk purchases.
Address:
Khiam Teck Party
265 Holland Avenue, Singapore 278988
Opening Hours: 10am-7pm (Mon-Sat), 11am-7pm (Sun)
Discover more about Khiam Teck Party here
Sweat it out at these fitness studios
Freedom Yoga
Time to loosen up to choreographed yoga sessions whilst jamming to the latest radio hits. Being a hotspot for ladies on weeknights and weekends, you would notice many lugging around their yoga mats so, why not join in the bandwagon?
Address:
Freedom Yoga
Holland Village, 25E Lorong Liput
Opening Hours: 7am-830pm (Mon-Fri), 830am-630pm (Sat-Sun)
Discover more about Freedom Yoga Singapore here
Ritual Gym
Guys, if you Looking for a quick pump while your partners are at Freedom Yoga, Ritual gym is the perfect spot for you. Also known as the 30-minute gym, get the most effective workout all within the slated time. The gym provides complete training gears (clothes, towels, toiletries) so you could be back in your dating outfit right after the session without the need to lug your gym duffels.
Address:
Ritual Gym
Holland Village, 17B Lorong Liput, #02-01, Singapore 277747
Opening Hours: 630am-9pm (Mon-Fri), 8am-6pm (Sat-Sun)
Discover more about Ritual Gym here
We do hope you have learnt a little or two about Holland Village apart from its usual bar hangouts and restaurants. Uncover the hidden gems of the estate sometime this weekend and capture some shots of the estate whilst you are at it.
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