Thinking about moving to Bishan? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Bishan.
Located in the central region of Singapore, Bishan is a residential town that is home to a diverse mix of cultures, amenities, and attractions. It’s a place where modernity meets tradition, where bustling city life is balanced with tranquil green spaces. But like any other place, living in Bishan has its pros and cons. Let’s delve into the specifics of what it’s like to live in this vibrant town.
Pros of Living in Bishan
One of the biggest advantages of living in Bishan is its strategic location. Nestled in the heart of Singapore, Bishan offers easy access to other parts of the city-state. Whether you’re commuting for work or leisure, the excellent public transportation system, including the Bishan MRT station and several bus services, ensures you can reach your destination quickly and conveniently.
Bishan is also known for its wide range of amenities. From shopping malls like Junction 8, which houses a plethora of retail outlets, eateries, and a cinema, to the Bishan Public Library, a modern library with a vast collection of books and resources, residents have everything they need within reach. For grocery shopping, there are several supermarkets, while the Bishan North Shopping Mall and Bishan Street 11 Market offer a variety of local food and products.
For families with children, Bishan boasts some of the top schools in Singapore. These include Raffles Institution, Catholic High School, and Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Primary School. These schools offer high-quality education and have consistently produced top-performing students.
Another highlight of Bishan is its abundance of green spaces. The Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, one of the largest urban parks in Singapore, is a popular spot for picnics, jogging, and cycling. It also features a river that attracts a variety of wildlife, providing a refreshing break from the urban landscape.
Community spirit is strong in Bishan. Residents often participate in community events organized by the Bishan Community Club. These events, which range from festive celebrations to fitness classes, provide opportunities for residents to bond and foster a sense of belonging.
Lastly, Bishan offers a variety of housing options. From HDB flats to private condominiums like Sky Habitat and Clover By The Park, there’s a home to suit different budgets and lifestyle needs. Many of these residences offer modern facilities and are located close to amenities, providing a comfortable and convenient living environment.
Cons of Living in Bishan, Singapore
Despite its many advantages, living in Bishan also has its drawbacks. One of the main concerns is the cost of living. As one of the more established towns in Singapore, property prices in Bishan are relatively high. This extends to the cost of goods and services, which can be more expensive compared to other parts of Singapore.
While Bishan’s central location is a boon for commuting, it also means that the town can get quite crowded, especially during peak hours. The MRT station and bus interchanges can be packed with people, and traffic congestion can be a problem. This can lead to longer travel times and a more stressful commute.
Another downside is the lack of nightlife. While Bishan has a good selection of eateries and shopping outlets, it doesn’t have many options for late-night entertainment. Those who enjoy a vibrant nightlife may find Bishan a bit quiet and may need to travel to other parts of Singapore for a wider range of entertainment options.
While Bishan has several schools, the competition for places in these schools can be intense due to their reputation. This can put pressure on students and parents, and those who don’t secure a place may have to travel out of Bishan for schooling.
Lastly, while Bishan has a strong community spirit, it can also be quite insular. Newcomers may find it challenging to integrate into the community, especially if they don’t participate in community events or activities. However, this is a common issue in many residential towns and can be overcome with time and effort.
In conclusion, Bishan offers a balanced lifestyle with its mix of amenities, green spaces, and community spirit. However, the high cost of living, crowdedness, and lack of nightlife may not appeal to everyone. Ultimately, whether Bishan is the right place to live depends on individual preferences and lifestyle needs.
