Joanna James
A dazzling blend of natural landscapes, heritage sites and one of the world's most recognisable city skylines, Singapore holds its unique identity close to its heart. From forest adventures to dizzying rollercoasters, discover a city-state of contrasts, with the top experiences to try in Singapore that you won't find anywhere else.
Singapore is renowned for its hawker centres, but few know that some of these humble food stalls have been granted Michelin stars. These include Liao Fan Hawker Chan, a small eatery that serves up the cheapest Michelin-rated food in the world. Located in Chinatown, just a short walk from Ann Siang House by The Unlimited Collection, Chef Chan Hon Meng curates an unforgettable culinary experience, with a simple plate of steaming rice and tender, soy sauce chicken.
After indulging in the savoury delights at one of the island's many hawkers, treat yourself to a classic Singaporean dessert: the ice cream sandwich. Sold from carts and small shops around the country, a generous scoop of ice cream is tucked between two slices of soft, colourful bread, or sometimes a waffle. Popular flavours include durian, mango, and red bean, although classics like chocolate and vanilla are also available. All in all, these sweet sandwiches are a refreshing way to cool down in the tropical climate while enjoying a unique twist on ice cream, elevating any simple hotel stay in Singapore with a quick walk down the street for the nearest vendour.
Discover why this metropolitan hub has been nicknamed the "Garden City", with Singapore's several stunning green spaces—a tranquil escape from urban life. Hike through Clementi's forests along the Rail Corridor, a 24-kilometre stretch of overgrown historical railway. Further east, Tampines Eco Green is a fascinating lush park brimming with flora and fauna, while the Dover Forest is home to critically endangered animals, including an elusive soft-shell turtle. For a unique perspective, don't miss the Southern Ridges Canopy Walk, a beautiful elevated path through several parks, offering unbeatable views of the green landscape blending with the city skyline.
Along the edges and outskirts of Singapore, the small nation is fringed with diverse coastal ecosystems and smaller, charming islands. At Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, kayakers can explore diverse mangrove networks teeming with wildlife, including mudskippers and migratory birds. Alternatively, head to Pulau Ubin, a quaint island that retains the rustic charm of Singapore’s past. Kayaking around its coast allows you to appreciate the unique biodiversity and landscapes that many visitors overlook.
History enthusiasts will find the night tours of WWII bunkers in Singapore to be a haunting yet fascinating experience. The Fort Siloso Night Experience offers guided tours that delve into Singapore’s wartime history, sharing stories of bravery and resilience. Explore the well-preserved tunnels and artifacts cloaked in an atmospheric setting at night, that adds an eerie yet compelling dimension to visitors' understanding of the island’s past.
Singapore is home to some of the world’s tallest and most exhilarating roller coasters. Universal Studios Singapore features the famous Battlestar Galactica coaster, which boasts two duelling tracks and a mix of thrilling twists and turns, modelled after the cinematic universe. The ride features two rollercoaster experiences in one, with a traditional seated red coaster and an inverted track with suspended seats looping around each other.
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.
