Joanna James
A pulsating cityscape with out-of-the-box allurements calculated to thrill even the most blasé globetrotter, Singapore is full of magical enclaves that promise thought-provoking adventure and nature-kissed indulgence. Here’s what you can’t afford to miss in this stimulating oasis.
While this rip-roaring ‘Garden City’ gorgeously blends pristine nature escapes like the atmospheric fairytale of the Singapore Botanic Gardens and the lush orchards, lakes, and quarries of Pulau Ubin with avant-garde phenomena, such as the futuristic Hendeson Waves of undulating metal bridging verdant tropical panoramas and the vibrant, vintage waterside glamour of Clark Quay, are not to be overlooked, the wondrous horticultural realms of Gardens by the Bay steal the show! This dazzling 101-acre city garden, featuring breath-stealing Cloud Forests, musically crashing waterfalls, poetically flowering superstructures, 4-D Dragonfly Rides, and titanic eco-friendly ‘Super Trees’, presents a spectacular once-in-a-lifetime excursion.
Discover the enchanting blend of pastel-toned Peranakan shophouses, retro-chic boutiques, and charming cafés along Katong Joo Chiat and the East Coast Road. Explore heritage home-museums like The Incan with its vibrant ethnic collections and boutique hotels adorned with culturally-inspired décor. Singapore offers vintage enclaves seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary flair. Don't miss the striking sensory mosaic of Kampong Glam—a haven of shoppable, boho-chic fun, perfect for travellers seeking eclectic, heritage-rich diversions.
Singapore has no shortage of unique museums for unforgettable edutainment, from the Museum of Ice Cream, where you can make your own slime (and eat it), swim in sprinkles, and play with delicious sundae toppings, to the Mint Museum of Toys, which features nostalgic playthings from over 40 countries harking as far back as the 1800s! However, if your tastes run more towards a tech-infused fantasy world beautifully reflecting eye-opening realities, the spine-tinglingly immersive realms of Singapore’s ArtScience Museum, riddled with profound metaphors, will satisfy the mindful wanderer in you. If you’re looking for sophisticated serviced accommodation in Singapore offering exclusive access to its diverse enticements, venture no further than Citadines Raffles Place Singapore.
From the laidback high street vibes and cutting-edge whimsicality of Raffles City, where bespoke local designers and authentically innovative eateries abound, to The Editor’s Market for premium street labels and stylish vintage pieces at affordable prices, Singapore has a wide range of Insta-cute retail enclaves where shopaholics to dip their wallets! However, for hi-tech, jewel-toned emporiums showcasing collector’s edition fashion pieces, haute couture fresh off the runway, and artisan originals in bazaar-style shopping landmarks, Orchard Road is always in vogue!
After panoramic neon-lit night races down the Skyline Luge or an epic sunset stroll at postcard-perfect Marina Bay, don’t forget to satiate your tastebuds at one of Singapore’s bustling street markets! The best local delicacies to savour include coconut-creamy and sambal-punchy Nasi Lemak, barbecued stingray slathered in spicy sambal, Popiah crepes stuffed with a seafood-veg mix and doused in sweet hoisin sauce, and succulently juicy satays served with lip-smacking peanut dip.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
