Singaporeans growing up in the 80’s will be familiar with Haw Par Villa and Tang Dynasty. They were the places where families would visit during weekends. However, both places face an uncertain future and it lost it’s popularity to other spots like Downtown East.
A recent fire at Tang Dynasty just highlights the state of disrepair the buildings are in. It is now earmarked for demolition by the end of 2008. Haw Par Villa is now surrounded by construction of the MRT circle line train station with it’s future uncertain.
I only have a faint recollection these places in during my childhood. In Singapore, what is not successful will be replaced in the constant march for progress. Perhaps it’s time to pay these places a visit one last time before they are totally lost or changed beyond recognition.