Coney Island: Singapore's Serene Nature Escape

• Hello你好
  [Nǐ hǎo]
• Goodbye再见
  [Zàijiàn]
• Yes是的
  [Shì de]
• No不
  [Bù]
• Please/You're welcome请
  [Qǐng]
• Thank you谢谢
  [Xièxiè]
• Excuse me/Sorry对不起
  [Duìbùqǐ]
• How are you?你好吗?
  [Nǐ hǎo ma?]
• Fine. And you?很好。你呢?
  [Hěn hǎo. Nǐ ne?]
• Do you speak English?你会说英语吗?
  [Nǐ huì shuō yīngyǔ ma?]
• I don't understand我不明白
  [Wǒ bù míngbái]

• I'd like to see the menu, please请给我看菜单
  [Qǐng gěi wǒ kàn càidān]
• I don't eat meat我不吃肉
  [Wǒ bù chī ròu]
• Cheers!干杯!
  [Gānbēi!]
• I would like to pay, please请给我付款
  [Qǐng gěi wǒ fùkuǎn]

• Help!救命!
  [Jiùmìng!]
• Go away!走开!
  [Zǒu kāi!]
• Call the Police!报警!
  [Bàojǐng!]
• Call a doctor!叫医生!
  [Jiào yīshēng!]
• I'm lost我迷路了
  [Wǒ mílù le]
• I'm ill我生病了
  [Wǒ shēngbìng le]

• I'd like to buy...我想买...
  [Wǒ xiǎng mǎi...]
• I'm just looking我只是看看
  [Wǒ zhǐshì kàn kàn]
• How much is it?多少钱?
  [Duōshǎo qián?]
• That's too expensive这太贵了
  [Zhè tài guì le]
• Can you lower the price?可以让价吗?
  [Kěyǐ ràng jià ma?]

• What time is it?现在几点了?
  [Xiànzài jǐ diǎn le?]
• It's one o'clock现在一点
  [Xiànzài yī diǎn]
• Half past (10)十点半
  [Shí diǎn bàn]
• Morning早上
  [Zǎoshang]
• Afternoon下午
  [Xiàwǔ]
• Evening晚上
  [Wǎnshang]
• Yesterday昨天
  [Zuótiān]
• Today今天
  [Jīntiān]
• Tomorrow明天
  [Míngtiān]
• 1一
  [Yī]
• 2二
  [Èr]
• 3三
  [Sān]
• 4四
  [Sì]
• 5五
  [Wǔ]
• 6六
  [Liù]
• 7七
  [Qī]
• 8八
  [Bā]
• 9九
  [Jiǔ]
• 10十
  [Shí]

• Where's a/the...?请问...在哪里?
  [Qǐngwèn... Zài nǎlǐ?]
• What's the address?地址是什么?
  [Dìzhǐ shì shénme?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?可以给我看地图吗?
  [Kěyǐ gěi wǒ kàn dìtú ma?]
• When's the next (bus)?下一班(公交车)什么时候?
  [Xià yī bān (gōngjiāo chē) shénme shíhou?]
• A ticket (to ....)一张票(到...)
  [Yī zhāng piào (dào...)]

Coney Island, also known as Pulau Serangoon, has a history dating back to the late 19th century. The island was originally owned by the Aw brothers, who were prominent figures in Singapore’s business scene. They were the founders of the Tiger Balm brand and sought to develop the island as a private retreat.

In the 1950s, Coney Island was purchased by an Indian businessman, Ghulam Mahmood, who envisioned transforming it into a resort. He named it 'Singapore's Coney Island,' drawing inspiration from the famous Coney Island in New York. Mahmood constructed a beach resort, complete with bungalows, a dance hall, and a restaurant, which became popular among locals for recreational activities.

In the 1970s, the Singapore government acquired Coney Island as part of its land reclamation efforts. The island was subsequently closed to the public, and plans for development were put on hold. For several decades, Coney Island remained largely untouched, allowing nature to reclaim much of the land.

In October 2015, Coney Island was officially reopened to the public as Coney Island Park. The National Parks Board (NParks) developed the island into an ecological park, emphasizing sustainability and conservation efforts. The park features a rich diversity of flora and fauna, and visitors can explore rustic trails, boardwalks, and beaches that highlight the island’s natural beauty.

Coney Island Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including over 80 species of birds, and numerous plant species. It serves as an important green space in Singapore, promoting biodiversity and offering a sanctuary for migratory birds. The park's design incorporates eco-friendly elements, such as solar-powered restrooms and benches made from recycled materials.

Today, Coney Island Park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It offers a range of recreational activities including cycling, bird-watching, and nature photography. The park is also a site for educational programs and guided tours that highlight its historical and ecological significance, contributing to the cultural enrichment of visitors.

Coney Island is located in the northeastern part of Singapore. The nearest MRT station is Punggol MRT Station (NE17), which is on the North-East Line. From there, you can take the bus service 84 from the Punggol Temporary Interchange to Punggol Point Park. The island's West Entrance is a short walk from the park. Alternatively, you can take a taxi directly to the West Entrance.

Once on Coney Island, the most common way to explore is on foot or by bicycle. The island features well-maintained walking and cycling paths. Bicycles can be rented from nearby Punggol Point Park. There are no motorized vehicles allowed on the island, ensuring a peaceful and eco-friendly environment.

The official currency in Singapore is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Most transactions in and around Coney Island are cashless, with credit and debit cards widely accepted. However, it is a good idea to carry a small amount of cash for small purchases or in case of emergencies. ATMs are available at Punggol MRT Station and nearby shopping centers.

Coney Island is generally very safe for tourists. Singapore has low crime rates, but it is always advisable to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid exploring the island alone after dark. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in the vicinity.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police assistance or 995 for medical emergencies. The nearest medical facilities are located in Punggol. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the Punggol area where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable and lightweight clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Don't forget to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Religion: Do respect the local customs and traditions. If visiting places of worship nearby, dress modestly. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local delicacies in the nearby Punggol area. Don't litter; always use the provided bins to keep the environment clean.

To experience Coney Island like a local, visit early in the morning to enjoy the serene environment and catch the sunrise. Pack a picnic and enjoy it at the designated picnic spots. Birdwatching enthusiasts should bring binoculars, as the island is home to various bird species. Don't miss the chance to explore the hidden beaches and mangrove swamps for a unique natural experience.