FOR a home with a view of the sea, Singaporeans are usually willing to break the bank, easily paying up to seven figures.

But Madam Normalah Salleh and her family have a spectacular view of the East Coast beach - for a mere $60 a month in rent.

Madam Normalah, 39, has been living in her one-bedroom flat on the 13th floor at Block 53 Marine Terrace for the past eight years.

The divorcee lives there with her son, 13, and daughter, 8.

She said being blessed with sight allows her to appreciate this amazing view from her flat every day at around 6am.

Said Madam Normalah: 'Every morning after prayers, I stand outside and stare at the horizon and enjoy every minute of the view.

'I love looking at the colour of the clouds and they are always changing, especially in the morning.

'I feel at peace when I look out (to the sea).'

The part-time baby-sitter, who earns $300 a month, said she can stand along the corridor for up to one and a half hours just lost in her thoughts as she gazes on the ships in the horizon.

She added: 'There's so much to feel, I can't describe it.'

But she said she may have to move out one day as her children are growing up.

But only if she has the money to afford another place.

And it has to be in the area simply for the view.

She said: 'If I were to tell people (about the view), they would probably not understand.

'It's the nicest thing in life.

'I really appreciate what I have now.'

This article was first published in The New Paper on October 28, 2008.