Imagine a place where cultures come together. Where the architecture pushes the limits of imagination. Where parks are built on sustainable technology. Where there is a pride in heritage and a vision for the future. This is Singapore. We don’t think there’s anyplace else like it in the world.
At first it seems that you can experience most sights in a short amount of time, everything appears to be so close and contained. But once you dive deeper into neighborhoods, parks, museums, and more, there’s a lot to take in. Here’s what we did in just four days…yes we were tired, but the collection of moments will last forever. Guided by our daughter who lives and works there, thanks for helping us go beyond the guidebook.
At night, they come alive with light color and music to perform a magical spectacle that is unforgettable. A highlight of our trip.
The Cloud Forest recreates a very special ecosystem found in only in the most remote corners of the earth. Immediately upon entering, the world’s largest indoor waterfall is mesmerizing, spraying a mist that reaches the top of the dome. You can climb to seven levels along walkways that lead to the ‘clouds’.
The Cloud Forest is a man-made structure brought to life with the most beautiful and exotic species of plants. The exhibit contains a sobering visual gallery with a clear message that sustainability is a must for our survival, a place to enjoy as well as learn.
The Flower Dome. A journey through the most exotic and colorful ecosystems on the planet. Areas are themed by geography, such as the Australian and South African Gardens as well as whimsical collections of species such as the succulent garden called ‘Aloe in Wonderland’.
We were extremely fortunate to see the special Orchid Extravaganza where the colors were absolutely breathtaking.
We ate at Satay by the Bay, a collection of small eateries known as ‘Hawker Stands’ which we frequented many times during our trip. As my youngest daughter likes to say, ‘everything’s better on a stick!’.
There were many more gardens and themed areas to explore, it’s easy to make an entire day of it. Seeing the signs for ‘otter crossings’ are a promising indicator that with creativity, technology and commitment, nature can co-exist with man.
Sentosa Island. A short trip by monorail, cable car or drive, this over the top entertainment complex houses days worth of activity. Universal Studios, Resorts World, S.E.A. Aquarium and Maritime Museum, man made beaches and beach clubs, indoor surfing and skydiving, and much, much more.
It is a bit overwhelming, so plan ahead. We chose the Aquarium and Maritime Museum with up close, interactive exhibits that were fantastic.
Dining choices are a wide range from McDonald’s to the Malaysian Food Street (indoor hawker center) both of which we did. Exotic ice cream lollipops at Candylicious, a Hard Rock Cafe…it goes on and on.
We spent the afternoon at Tanjung Beach Club, one of the islands four man made beaches. The heat was oppressive and it felt great to get out of the sun. Pool, drinks and daybed on the sand were the way to go.
The Night Safari. A bit north of the city center, the Singapore Zoo has major attractions including the river cruise, breakfast with orangutans, and so much more. We started with a tram ride, and explored the many walks that really get up close to tigers, elephants, bats and over 300 nocturnal species.
Little India and Arab Street. These are two separate areas, not to be confused (which we did). The first is a neighborhood with temples, stalls, a wet market and Hawker Center featuring everything connected with Singapore’s Indian heritage. Don’t miss the colorful Tan house… learn its importance in Singapore’s trade history.
Arab Street is a colorful collection of restaurants and shops, with a spectacular Mosque at its perimeter.
We ate a scrumptious meal of kabobs and dips, and dropped a fair bit on souvenirs.
Chinatown. Seems like every major city has one, and Singapore’s is amazing. Incredible adventures in food, featuring the signature black pepper or chili crab, Singapore noodles, sting ray…washed down with cold Tiger beers. Enjoy it all on the outdoor walking street. The carrot cake (which is actually a turnip) is not to be missed. Lights, smells, sounds make this a must see. Don’t miss the Buddha Tooth Temple, lit by hundreds of lanterns for a stunning splash of color.
The Civic District is probably the cleanest, most architecturally stunning city center we’ve ever seen. Amazing by day, and a dazzling skyline at night, showcasing the world’s leading corporate giants. A gem to stop and eat is Chijmes, a former convent and school, now converted to a collection of upscale eateries. Try the Dim Sum at Lei Garden, afterward enjoy a beer outside in the shade.
The National Art Gallery. This can be a blog in itself. Another architectural masterpiece, consists of two national monuments: the former City Hall and Supreme Court Building, each it’s own wing. Beautiful exhibits by prominent Southeast Asian artists. Rest your tired legs at the top level Smoke and Mirrors bar and restaurant for an exceptional bay view.
The Quays (pronounced ‘keys’)…Boat Quay, Clark Quay, and Robertson Quay are areas along the river for dining, drinking and taking in the sights. Expect everything and anything imaginable to feast on. We ate at Hot Stone, whose seating area extended out on to boat-shaped platforms on the river. Watch the river cruises pass by, or hop on one for a great tour of the city.
More great things to do:
- Hit some dive bars. Explore Club Street …narrow, loud and sweltering, full of life and music. We stopped for craft beers and belted out a few songs getting ready for a looong evening out bar hopping. Even if you’re older (which we are) who cares? Sing karaoke. Several bars later, We partied it up and ended with a late nigh Dim Sum Feast at Sweet Choo…one of the best meals of the trip.
- Take a bike ride around Merlion Park, (download the OFO app to locate and rent a bike) pass the lotus shaped ArtScience museum, stop to see the spouting lion and have a J-cone (ice cream). If you want to cool off, take a peek inside the historic Fullerton Hotel and check out the photo gallery to get a glimpse into Singapore’s rich history.
- Marina Bay Sands. Don’t miss this iconic landmark that dominates the city skyline. The casino (where I actually won a few bucks), shoppes and the incredible skypark, with its infinity pool, 57 stories above the heart of the city are all a must see.
This is the place to be at sunset, the crowd is lively, and the Singapore Sling is the best. Unfortunately, only pool guests can swim in the spectacular infinity pool 57 stories above the city. Stay for the light show at 8pm and be dazzled.
- Have a Black Pepper and/or Chili Crab. Singapore’s signature dish. We had ours at Holy Crab…it was both messy and expensive but I would not have missed it.
- Eat at the Hawker Stands throughout the city, and be adventurous. This will make up for your Crab dinner. I had a Clay Pot Chicken dish for $3 that was amazing.
- Have drinks at a rooftop bar overlooking the bay and skyline. Take a lot of pictures.
There is more, there’s always more. Shopping in the Bugis Area. A trip out to Changi Village. Maybe even an overnight on Bintam Island. All reasons to go back. For us, a piece of our heart (our daughter) is there right now, so the trip was so much more than a vacation. But this truly a place like none other, perhaps even a model for all urban environments…Tomorrowland…today.
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