Singapore's grand dame, the Raffles Hotel. The Singapore Sling was created here in the early 1920s.
Must-see Singapore: The ultimate Asia holiday spot
Situated at the crossroads of Southeast Asia, Singapore is a centre of commerce and enterprise. Founded by Sir Stamford Raffles in 1819, this fishing village has transformed into a vibrant and cosmopolitan metropolis brimming with action. Amidst the urban setting, this island state is a garden city where pockets of greenery and tree-lined roads abound. Singapore is a veritable smorgasbord of experiences; arts, sports, shopping, food, culture, nature and nightlife. There is something to suit every palate.
Must See and Do
A ride on the Singapore Flyer, at 165 metres, is the highest observation wheel in the world. Step into the barrel shaped capsules to take in a 360-degree view of this island state and on a clear day, views of the Indonesian islands as well as parts of Malaysia. The ride lasts 30 minutes and provides a spectacular overview of the city.
Raffles Hotel, the grand dame of Singapore and home of the famous Singapore Sling is the place to sit and unwind after a tiring day of exploring or shopping. Set amidst lush greenery, this century old institution is an oasis of old-world charm and elegance.
Ride a river taxi along the Singapore River, taking in views of Clarke Quay and Boat Quay. Thequays, once home to warehouses, have been transformed into waterfront dining and entertainment venues.
Visit the Asian Civilisations Museum for a glimpse of Asia's great cultures. Take a leisurely walk through Esplanade Park on the way to the Esplanade Theatres on the Bay. Locals affectionately call the theatre the "Durian" because the façade is reminiscent of the spiky skinned tropical fruit. For a bit of sun and sand, make your way to the pristine beaches of Sentosa, Singapore's island resort.
 The Esplanade Theatres on the Bay. Affectionately called the "Durian" after a spiky thorny fruit as its facade is reminiscent of this tropical fruit of ill-repute. |
Culture
Explore Singapore's multicultural heritage by taking a stroll through its ethnic quarters of Chinatown, Little India, Kampong Glam and Katong. Here, double storey shophouses offer everything from the ubiquitous to the unique. Watch flower garlands weaved by expert hands in Little India or sip tea in a traditional teahouse in Chinatown. The Malay Heritage Centre, at Kampong Glam, showcases Malay culture while Katong is where you will find all things Peranakan. Visit the many temples, churches and mosques that dot these colourful cultural districts. In the evenings, attend a performance at the iconic Esplanade Theatres on the Bay.
Shopping
Orchard Road is to Singapore what Fifth Avenue is to New York. Singapore's pre-eminent shopping strip is guaranteed to satisfy the shopaholic and is crowded anytime of the week. More than a shopping strip, it is also the place locals come to unwind and stroll through the leafy sidewalks. Holland Village and Dempsey Village is where you can pick up antiques and artwork. Head to Funan Centre to fill up on computer and electronic gadgets. A must do is to shop at Mustafa Centre, Singapore's only 24-hour shopping centre where you can buy anything and everything from groceries to gold!
Eating outSingapore is a food paradise! Take your pick of five star dining or humble hawker fare. Hawker centres like Newton Food Centre at Newton Circus and Chomp Chomps at Serangoon Gardens are two great places to savour local favourites like char kway teow (fried flat noodles) and satay (barbecued meat on skewers). For a lofty dining experience, feast at the Equinox Complex while taking in magnificent views of the city.
 River taxis ferrying passengers along the Singapore River. |
When in Little India, stop by Muthu's Curry. This restaurant has been serving authentic South Indian dishes on banana leaves since 1969
The Blue Ginger, a vital ingredient in Peranakan cooking, is the namesake of Singapore's finest Peranakan restaurant.
The Silver Shell Café at the Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa Resort is Singapore's only beach front hotel. It also boasts an excellent café that serves international and vegetarian delights.
SportsSports enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice. Try wakeboarding at Kallang River, cycling at East Coast Park or rock climbing at Bukit Timah Hill.
Night lifeCome nightfall, Singapore's numerous clubs and pubs beckon. There is something for everyone, from the jazz clubs to dance clubs. Choose from Clarke Quay, the aptly named Club Street or head down to Zouk, Singapore's iconic dance club.
