2D1N in JB 🤔
Need a short getaway without breaking the bank for 2?
[Day 1]
Took a bus from Woodlands Checkpoint. Breeze through customs within an hour; now with strict enforcement on bus lanes and e-gantries on both sides for Sgeans.
First stopPalates & Bagels by T.A.M - Melodies of Thai
A heavy brunch to kickstart the day. Pasta was underwhelming bt the bagel was great. Coffee was okay - but we chose a safe option just to get our brain to wake up.
We headed straight to St. Giles Southkey Johor Bahru for a check-in. As we are early, they did the check-in processes without keycards and told us to return at 3. (no early check-ins aww). We did some window shopping in Mid Valley Southkey Mall (just below the hotel) as we wait. Got ourselves some GiGi coffee as we stood in queue for the keycards, up to room and shoes off!
We washed up, watched some GoSe (ifykyk) and off we go to Photoism at Toppen Shopping Centre ! Our main order of business was the birthday kpop frames (Seonghwa of Ateez) which is super expensive in SG so we had to take then in JB. Cheapest is definitely in Korea for only 10,000₩.
Toppen not only caters to k-fans but also j-fans. Tons of pop-mart, anime figurines and collectables. The malls blasts korean and japanese songs when we there with concurrent events for the youths (Cosplay & Tamiya). Fret not adults, there's a huge Decathlon and Ikea attached to the mall as well. If that doesn't quench your shopping thirst, take a short 3mins walk - Aeon Tebrau Mall is just across.
Day 2 HOME by tales of paws
I need a purr-fect therapy session with furballs. A quick scroll on my phone and was recommended this cat (& DOG) cafe! 1st floor are for the big floofs, the 2nd floor are for the furballs. They are not afraid of guests bt
be prepared to get ambushed the moment you whip out the cat treats 🤣 The kitties would place their paws on you or a wave of the feather will get them to play with you. You may want to check with the staff if they allow kids but the cats are ultimately the calmest i've ever seen.
If you’re heading to Photoism at Toppen Shopping Centre, here’s some extra tips from my experience that made the trip even better. Photoism specializes in K-pop and J-pop themed photo frames and merchandise, and the birthday frames for idols like Seonghwa from Ateez are a must-have for true fans. The prices at Toppen are much more affordable compared to Singapore, although Korea still offers the cheapest deals. Toppen Shopping Centre itself is a lively spot catering to a diverse crowd—it features a vibrant collection of pop culture items including anime figurines, and often hosts events like cosplay and Tamiya racing that add a fun atmosphere. While waiting for your orders or just exploring, you can relax nearby as there’s also a Decathlon for sports goods lovers and an Ikea for home decor enthusiasts. Right below the hotel, Mid Valley Southkey Mall is perfect for quick shopping or grabbing a coffee, with local brands like GiGi coffee which was worth the queue! It’s easy to spend hours exploring without feeling rushed. For a recharge, don’t miss HOME by tales of paws – a cat and dog café where you can enjoy a relaxing session with their gentle furballs. It’s ideal for animal lovers looking to unwind, and their staff are friendly, making the environment welcoming and calm. Travel tip: traveling by bus through Woodlands Checkpoint was smooth, but be aware of new stricter enforcement on bus lanes and e-gantries for Singaporean travelers. Overall, this 2D1N JB itinerary balances culture, shopping, and cute cafe stops, making it a refreshing getaway without spending too much.
How much was the 1 Night charge at St Giles?