What was once home to plantations and nurseries has evolved into one of the most convenient places to live in Singapore. If you like to walk, you’ll enjoy access to the 24-kilometer-long Green Corridor trail and can refuel with a mix of excellent hawker fare, trendy cafes, and independent boutiques. All this has made this a highly desirable neighborhood for locals and expats. In particular, the charming Chip Bee Gardens estate with its terraced houses and the decently-sized HDB apartments on Holland Avenue are particularly in demand. Its proximity to Launch Pad @ One-North (Singapore’s version of Silicon Valley) also adds to this all-in-one spot's buzzy vibe. 

For a coworking set-up, head down to Metropolis where you can rent a hot desk or a dedicated space, including printing and admin support. If you prefer a less corporate space, D’Good Cafe offers decent WiFi and a garden-themed setting and Aussie-style cafe Jimmy Monkey over at One-North Residences beckons with its lowkey ambiance and excellent flat whites. 

With so many college kids hanging out in Holland Village after class, many trendy eateries have popped up. Sitting side-by-side, Project Açai pretty superfood bowls offer a healthier treat versus Tai Cheong Bakery’s divine buttery, crumbly egg tarts. A short walk across the street, The Daily Scoop provides local-flavored scoops like the Surprising Coconut that come highly recommended; plus they are pretty generous with samplers. Get in the queue at Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao for a proper meal of juicy soup dumplings and hearty noodle bowls.  

A big part of Holland Village's energetic vibe is due to the local creatives found there. Ong Shunmugam’s modern cheongsams' artisan elements make her East-meets-West designs one to own. Similarly, Ling Wu’s sustainably-sourced leather bags are an indulgence but its zero-waste production process eases the consumer guilt to own a buttery soft piece of arm candy. The tropical climate almost demands the addition of printed threads from Our Second Nature to your wardrobe. Take your time over a cuppa from their in-house cafe to decide which one of its breezy, easy-to-wear pieces suits your silhouette best. 

Come sunset, head to Wala Wala Cafe & Bar, a stalwart of Holland Village that has been around for more than 20 years. The second-floor space is still the spot to listen to local musicians as you work your way through the beers on tap or bucket deals. If you need even more unwinding, get a late-night foot rub or massage at Natureland. It sounds terribly indulgent but this is a form of self-care you never knew you needed.