Experience new sights at Changi Bay Point – a 140-metre-long boardwalk made out of slip-resistant glass fibre and reinforced concrete that provides a beautiful view of the waterfront. The attraction sits along the newly opened Changi Bay Park Connector which connects Changi Beach Park to the Eastern Coastal Park Connector Network – forming the eastern corridor of the Round-Island-Route (RIR). Take a walk along the boardwalk and up to the breakwater to be right at the water's edge, or sit down at the pavilion to soak in the views. This is a lovely, rustic section with photo opportunities on every corner. We recommend heading down in the early mornings to avoid the crowds.
An aviation hub, Changi is home to the best airport in the world – one that has held the title for eight consecutive years including 2020. But besides its glimmering glory, this 'hood in the east has a rather morbid past. Within its grounds is Singapore's largest – and oldest – prison which was used as a Japanese prisoner-of-war camp during the Japanese Occupation in World War II. Furthermore, its beach was the site of the Sook Ching massacre, and its infamous hospital – now abandoned – is the stuff of nightmares.
But further back in time, Changi was once a swampland known as Tanjong Rusa before it was given the name Tanjong Changi in the early 19th century. There are various origins to the etymological roots of its name. Some say it stems from a tall tree called Pokok Chengal, others say it comes from a climbing shrub known as the Changi Ular or Chengal Asir. A mix of old and new, Changi retains its old-school charm by the sea and has the world's tallest man-made indoor waterfall – all in one 'hood.
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