Everyone has heard a lot about this urbane island nation, known for its world class airport, best airlines in the world, cleanliness, discipline, excellent infrastructure and architectural marvels. But seeing for yourself is better than hearing because there are plenty of reasons why tourists love Singapore. Here are some key highlights from my trip:
Entertainment at the world's best airport
Smooth in process and gorgeous, the award-winning Changi airport boasts of the world's tallest indoor waterfall called 'The rain vortex' surrounded by terraced forests in the Jewel section. Jewel is a mall located inside the airport that provides lots of immersive entertainment options to visitors like canopy walk, maze, sky nets, experience studios and lots more apart from restaurants. You can explore the options of many branded outlets, unique outlets like the Pokemon Centre, pick up a souvenir from Bengawan Solo or Irvins, and even take up a cooking lesson!
Vertical gardens at Gardens by the bay
Gardens by the bay is a unique and stunning landscape located by the Marina Bay waterfront. You can visit the Flower Dome which is the world's largest glass greenhouse and make a stop at the other conservatories as well during the day. During the sunset, you can ascend to the top of the Supertree Grove which is a set of vertical gardens connected to a sky walk. Post sunset, there'll be the famous light and music show known as 'Garden Rhapsody' at specific timings which is a MUST attend. You will see many people just laying down on the ground and watching this spectacle.
Unique architectures at Marina Bay District
Singapore has an endless list of interesting architectures, from a boat shaped rooftop deck to Durians shaped theatre to a lotus shaped museum. You can see all of it in the Marina Bay District. The most iconic structure is that of the Marina Bay Sands which is a shopping and luxury hotel destination boasting of the world's largest rooftop Infinity Pool. In the district, one can do a tour of the ArtScience museum, catch a play at the Esplanade, get some snaps at the Merlion Park and dine at the upscale rooftop bars in the district.
Sky dining at Singapore Flyer
How about a stunning view of the skyline from a giant wheel that has air conditioned glass capsules? You can try out the Singapore flyer for 360 degrees view of the city and beyond for a good 30 minutes. You can also opt for an aerial dining experience!
Shopping the way you like it
Luxury brands can be found at Orchard Road, especially at ION orchard which is yet another splendid architecture of a mall housing high street fashion brands. Orchard Road is even more lit during Christmas time. If you are looking for affordable fashion, try Far East Plaza which is nearby or head to Bugis street for cute and local stuff.
Experiencing the multi-ethnic cultural diversity
Hearing announcements in Singapore Metro stations in 4 different languages will give you an idea of the diversity in this small city-nation! You can explore Chinatown, Little India and Haji Lane to immerse yourselves in different cultures, shop at these streets and try out the respective cuisines.
Chinatown: Take a tour of the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and street murals. Festive celebration is prominent here during during Chinese new year.
Haji Lane: Head over to Sultan Mosque, a magnificient place of worship for the Muslim community. Evening onwards Haji lane comes to life with hippie bars and restaurants. During Ramadan, explore the bazaar at Kampong Glam.
Little India: Walk through the vibrant and bustling area, stop by Sri Veeramakaliamman temple. The Serangoon road is beautifully lit during Diwali.
Home to Universal Studios
Universal Studios Singapore is the first ever Hollywood movie theme park in Singapore and a paradise for adventure lovers and movie buffs. You get your dose of adrenaline rush at the giant roller coasters (Human vs Cyclone ride is a must try!) or enter the realms of your favorite movie franchises like transformers, Jurassic park, Minions, Kung Fu Panda, Shrek and manymore.
Refreshing heritage sites like Botanical Gardens
The Botanic Gardens is the country's first UNESCO Heritage site and a perfect place to stroll about admiring the various species of flowers. Take a tour of National Orchid Garden, Healing Garden, Learning Forest or simply a heritage tour. You might witness wedding proposals and photoshoots as well at this very picturesque location ;)
Museums for history buffs
The National Museum of Singapore is the country's oldest Museums and yet another breathtaking architecture with its neo-classical design. This is the single most important place to learn about Singapore's past and its glorious transformation to the present.
Learning traditional virtues at Haw Par Villa
Think of a theme park home to Chinese folklore and beliefs but comes with some spooky graphics. Haw Par Villa is known for striking graphic depiction of 10 courts of hell along with installations of many statues and dioramas based on Chinese folklore. This place was built by the family that created the famous Tiger Balm.
Dining like a local at Hawker Centres
Vital to everyday life of a Singaporean, hawker centres provide affordable eats for everyone. Some popular ones are Maxwell food centre (near chinatown), Lau Pa Sat (near downtown) and Tekka centre (Little India). You can also find some Michelin star outlets in hawker centres (Yes, Michelin star food without burning a hole in your pocket)!
