The Insider View: Orchard Two residents of Orchard Mehmet Gurtin, who works in sales, and Matt Allanson, HR manager, talk about living in the heart of Orchard.
Why did you choose to live in Orchard?
Mehmet Gurtin: For me it was the particular condominium that I live in, the Cathay, which made me want to live here. That and I wanted to live somewhere central to get a proper experience of city living in Singapore.
Matt Allanson: Personally, I wanted to live in the Orchard district, which, when I arrived in 2008, was the area that I knew most about.
What are the pros and cons of living here?
MA: The cost of living, especially rent is high, but the ease of access – to work, to the shops, and to the entertainment stuff like restaurants and pubs – is great.
MG: Orchard is very central and there are excellent transport links and good leisure facilities. It can be a bit noisy at times though, especially with nearby construction work.
Can you tell us a bit about the property you live in?
MG: I’m staying at the Cathay. It’s right next to Dhoby Ghaut MRT, in fact it’s only a two-minute walk there. Mine’s a two-bedroom apartment, which is relatively spacious. The Cathay has excellent communal facilities as well.
What is the best thing about the area?
MG: It has to be the location. The Orchard district is very central, plus, there are excellent transport links, and good leisure facilities both in the condo and nearby.
MA: Being in close proximity to everywhere is great. Also, I actually find it fairly quiet close to where I live.
Does the area lack anything?
MA: Some cheaper eating places would be good, as prices are high around Orchard. Also, it can be difficult to find any proper hawker stalls nearby.
What would your advice be to people looking to relocate to this area?
MA: It’s a great area for your first few years here as it puts you right at the heart of the action. Families might not like it though, as it can get very crowded on weekends.
What is your favourite place to eat, drink, or shop?
MG: Somerset 313 has a great food court, while Kopitiam, which is very close by on Bras Brasah Road, is also very convenient and has excellent range of different foods and cuisines. Obviously, shopping opportunities are excellent and there is something to match all tastes and budgets. There are enough restaurants and bars off Orchard Road, to offer a real choice of venues and types of night out.
District Guide
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