Joanna James
Singapore's straight-laced reputation makes the island the perfect getaway for those with children. Home to some of the region's biggest theme parks and family entertainment franchises, the Lion City is a one-stop paradise for the young and the young at heart. From timing the trip to creating an exciting itinerary, here's everything families need to know to plan a memorable vacation in sunny Singapore.
The first step in planning a family getaway to Singapore is deciding on the travel dates. Although Singapore is a captivating holiday hotspot for most of the year, those visiting with little ones should make sure that they time the visit in the drier months of the year. This means that the monsoon season from November to January is hardly ideal. The best months to head to Singapore fall between June and August as this is when sunny skies are a given in this part of the world. The humidity is also low so even if it does get warm, it is not too uncomfortable to take part in outdoor activities. Alternatively, families can schedule their Singapore trip based on a local festival or event such as the Chinese New Year or Thaipusam if they wish to experience local culture.
Singapore is one of the smallest island nations in Asia. It is just 725 square kilometres in size. This means it's 0.3% the size of the British capital and 0.5% of New York. This means spending a month or three weeks in the Lion City is unnecessary even if there are a great many landmarks and highlights to explore. Families on a budget can enjoy a fun and engaging time in the country in less than a week while those with funds to spare can stay as long as 10 days.
Where one is based makes a difference in Singapore even if local transport options are efficient and easily accessible. Whether it's the V Hotel Lavender or any other Lavender MRT hotel, a base close to the subway is suitable for families who intend to do a lot of sightseeing. Conducting research on the nearby restaurants, attractions, and family-friendly landmarks is advisable when choosing a family hotel in the Lion City.
When it comes to getting around with ease, there's no better option than the MRT train network in Singapore, which allows kids who are less than 90cm in height to travel for free in both buses and trains. Air-conditioned and clean, the MRT trains only get crowded during weekday rush hours from 7 am to 9 am and then once again from 6 pm to 8 pm. Be sure to purchase an EZ-Link card upon arrival to pay for the family's train transfers with ease. Additionally, the MRT system provides stroller-friendly access, making it a convenient and family-friendly mode of transportation to explore the vibrant city of Singapore.
When crafting a daily itinerary for a family tour, it's important to include some of Singapore's most popular children's parks and splash centres. There are also a wide variety of free splash pools where children can enjoy a swim for free. They include the Marina Barrage Water Playground, Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, the IMM Water Play Park and Happy Park in Waterway Point. At least a full day should be reserved for trips to Sentosa Island and Universal Studios Singapore while a half-day tour of Gardens by the Bay must also be part of every family's travel plans. Don't forget to pencil in a shopping spree down Orchard Road, Little India and Chinatown as the latter two destinations offer the best bargains.
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.
