How to Stay Cool When Visiting Joo Chiat

If you’re travelling to Singapore, especially during the summer months, you need to go prepared. The nation is situated just north of the equator, meaning that it gets quite hot. While many houses and hotels have air conditioning, they add to the problem by releasing high carbon emissions. Here are some natural ways to protect yourself from the heat if you’re in Joo Chiat, along with top attractions to see:

Stay hydrated and wear light clothing

Staying properly hydrated is important if you’re going sightseeing and will be outside for a while. Since you’ll lose minerals when you sweat, drink enough water to replenish them. A cold drink can provide relief from the heat, while a warm drink can help cool you down by stimulating sweat production.

The best types of clothes to wear in the heat are light-coloured, gauzy items. Avoid dark or heavy clothes - go for breathable materials like cotton and linen. These materials help you stay cool by allowing more air to circulate. They don’t trap heat against your skin.

Use fans and block out the sun

While fans don’t necessarily lower the temperature of the air, they help with sweat evaporation. This is by creating a cooling sensation through the circulation of air. If you want to keep cool indoors, place a fan in a strategic spot to help push hot air outside. Opening windows in shaded, cooler parts of the house can help with airflow. Often, the best thing to do is to sit in front of a fan to cool down!

Also, remember to close your blinds or draw the curtains. This helps with keeping the interior cool when it's hot outside. Neutral-coloured curtains with white plastic backings are usually best for this.

Take a warm shower

It might seem counter-intuitive, but taking a warm shower after an excursion outdoors can help lower body your temperature. The increased blood flow to your skin from the hot water helps release heat. Why shouldn’t you have a cold shower instead? When the body is exposed to cold, it works to maintain the core temperature, which can make you feel even warmer.

Attractions in Joo Chiat: Peranakan houses

The Peranakan houses are just a one-minute walk from the Venue Hotel, one of the best places to stay in the area. These colourful, historic buildings feature detailed motifs and facades. They represent a mixture of Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian cultures that define the Peranakan heritage. Stroll through this area and take photos to capture their unique beauty. It’s like stepping back into a different time.

Katong Antique House

The Katong Antique House has an eye-catching collection of Peranakan artefacts that provide a glimpse into the rich heritage of Joo Chiat. Visitors can admire many well-preserved antiques such as porcelain with beautiful designs, intricate beadwork, vintage furniture, and traditional clothing. Observing these displays will give you a deeper understanding and appreciation of the creativity, skill and cultural importance of these artefacts.

Kuan Im Tng temple

When you’re in this part of Singapore, top attractions in the area include the Kuan Im Tng temple. Here, you can find peace and serenity in the middle of the neighbourhood. This Buddhist temple honours the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin. Admire the detailed carvings and decorations, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere inside. This temple offers a spiritual retreat where you can unwind away from the busy atmosphere of Joo Chiat.

Intan Private Museum

The Intan Private Museum is a hidden gem that houses a large collection of Peranakan artefacts. These include beadwork, jewellery, and traditional costumes. Visitors can also talk to the owner, Alvin Yapp, who is very friendly and knowledgeable. You’ll gain some great insights into Peranakan traditions. A visit to this museum is truly educational and interactive – it’s a celebration of Peranakan heritage.