Joanna James
Singapore may be relatively small, but it’s packed with fascinating sights and experiences. From urban sanctuaries to buzzing cultural neighbourhoods, it offers so much more than just modern marvels (of which it also has plenty!). Here’s a sneak peek of the key places you should explore.
To get a glimpse into the city’s history, the Civic District is the place to go! Explore the elegant former City Hall and Old Supreme Court buildings, now home to the National Gallery featuring a stunning collection of Southeast Asian art. Swing by the Peranakan Museum for a glimpse of unique culture and don’t miss the National Museum of Singapore, where the country’s rich heritage comes alive.
Step into a world of futuristic flora at Gardens by the Bay. Here, you will find the iconic Supertrees that tower above the landscape, the stunning Flower Dome, and the misty Cloud Forest. For families travelling with kids, the Far East Organisation Children’s Garden will be a hit. Don’t forget the Garden Rhapsody, a free light and music show at the Supertree Grove every night at 7:45 pm and 8:45 pm which is just pure magic!
Discover the Katong and Joo Chiat neighbourhoods, where Peranakan culture thrives. Look to be based at a property in Joo Chiat like Hotel Classic by Venue an ideal base for your adventures. From such a boutique hotel in Singapore, you can easily walk along Koon Seng Road to admire shophouses in pastel shades and visit the Katong Antique House, a charming time capsule filled with Peranakan artefacts. Don’t forget to also see the colourful street art and savour some authentic Katong Laksa!
For a day of pure exhilaration for the whole family, head to Sentosa Island. It’s got pretty much everything: Universal Studios Singapore for thrill-seekers, S.E.A. Aquarium for marine lovers, and Adventure Cove Waterpark for splash-filled fun. Siloso Beach is a great place to work on your tan or try water sports and if you are up for a challenge, experience the pure adrenaline rush of bungy jumping at SkyPark Sentosa by AJ Hackett!
The hawker centres in Singapore are where food dreams come true. At spots like Maxwell Food Centre, Chinatown Complex Market & Food Centre, and Old Airport Road Food Centre, you can savour local favourites which are certainly diverse. Try chilli crab, laksa, and Hainanese chicken rice, to name a few. Dishes here are cheap, authentic, and delicious so don’t be surprised if you go back for seconds (or thirds)!
Shopaholics and fashionistas need not be disappointed because Singapore caters for them too especially at Orchard Road, the city’s ultimate shopping strip. You can shop at upscale malls like ION Orchard, Orchard Central, and Paragon, or hunt for unique fashion finds at Far East Plaza. When you need a breather, head to nearby Fort Canning Park for a bit of greenery amidst a busy shopping spree.
Chinatown is a sensory delight, from the buzzing Chinatown Street Market offering super bargains to the majestic Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum. You can also visit the Sri Mariamman Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest Hindu temples, and when hunger strikes, there are plenty of street food carts too. If you can, plan your visit during the Chinese New Year to see captivating lion and dragon dances as well.
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.
