Singapore's southern islands - St John's and Kusu

Urbanites seek our quiet getaways while those on the other side may crave the bright lights. This, I came to realize especially when we made a half day trip to St John's and Kusu islands this morning.

To get to the islands, we had to catch a ferry from marina south cruise terminal. From bayfront mrt station, take bus 402 in front of MBFC for 4 stops to the cruise terminal. We wanted to catch the first ferry at 9am otherwise the next one will beat 12pm, three ferries on Saturdays. $18 for a return ticket. The loop service starts from Marina south to St John's in about 20mins, stops for 15 mins and proceeds to kusu island and back to Marina south. There were about 50 passengers on board, I thought quite a lot for a lazy morning.

 

We were fascinated by the serenity when we  arrived on St John's. It was exactly like what we saw on TV - white, sandy beach, fat, peaceful cats and kampong houses. Spotlessly clean, nowhere like what we saw of the main island. I think there's a Malay uncle who looks after the island.

 

While it was a short 15 minute stay, I could appreciate the attributes of the island. From where we were standing, I could the skyline of Singapore, including the Singapore flyer, which I have grown sick of. St John's was heavenly in comparison. I know I'll be back for the marine life, beach, dolphin watch and a day of peace and quiet. No one seems to remember its dark past.

 

$18 for a return ticket: Marina South - St John's - Kusu - Marina South

The pristine, beautiful and peaceful St John's island the moment we got off the ferry.

The management office of the chalet. It's about $107 per night to stay at the chalet. Definitely going o be a good experience staying overnight on the island!

The mysterious looking but actually gentle cat. It struck different poses for me.

The last of kampong life on St John's. Quite a few kitties around. I think this is where the caretaker of the island stays. The island is many times cleaner than the main island!

Life is good - we could tell from the size of this cat.

Crystal clear water.

The Chinese temple on Kusu island.

Datuk kong temple. Chinese and Muslim temples side by side. But this is quite a climb.

Constant reminder we were on Kusu.

 

 

I just hope the islands' pristine qualities remain untouched and that they don't turn into the next sentosa. Singapore has lost much of that to development.