The country of Singapore is actually made up of over 60 different islands, with the largest island being home to the capital city and the majority of attractions, and also linked to the Malay Peninsula. Many of the main places of interest are in and around Singapore City. The second most popular attraction can be found on Sentosa Island. Time and funds permitting, some of the other islands are also well worth exploring.
Singapore is fairly pricey when compared with its neighbours. Public transport is very good on the main island though, with an excellent and quick train network, and many of the city centre attractions can be reached by foot.
The top ten places to visit in Singapore include the following:
1) Singapore Flyer
The Singapore Flyer is in the capital city and is the highest observation wheel the whole world over. At 165 metres high, it dominates the skyline and affords panoramic views to riders. Riding at day and night provides different experiences. Various packages are available. Nearby, you will find a selection of shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants, and the famous Singapore Food Trail is within close proximity. There is a reflexology centre and a spa at the bottom of the wheel. Different exhibitions in the flyer area provide interesting information and fun facts.
2) Raffles Hotel
Named in honour of Singapore’s founding father, Sir Stamford Raffles, no visit to Singapore is complete without a quick stop off at the world-famous hotel. It is an elegant colonial building that exudes style and class. There is a mall next to the residential part, with designer shops, restaurants, and bars. The main draw to this iconic hotel, however, is the Long Bar, the home of the Singapore Sling cocktail. Feel as though the clock has really gone backwards, and enjoy the atmospheric ambience, the free monkey nuts, the soft music, and the dim lighting, whilst sipping on your tasty pink cocktail.
3) The Merlion
The Merlin is Singapore’s national symbol, and it is located at the waterfront. An unusual figure, it has the head of a lion and the body of a fish. Surrounded by green parkland with a skyscraper backdrop, it is a great photo stop whilst exploring Singapore City.
4) The Quays
Clarke Quay, Boat Quay and Robertson Quay all come into their own as darkness descends. Popular with tourists and locals, the trendy, funky, and ultra-modern areas are packed with international standard eateries, hip and happening bars, and fun galore for all.
5) Little India
Little India is home to some of the best curries and Indian food. A stroll around this district is a heady experience, with incense and spices wafting through the air, the hustle and bustle of market life creating a vibrant atmosphere, the bright colours of saris, and the jangle of bangles all helping to create a feeling of being in a completely different place.
6) Chinatown
As well as sampling different dishes and snacks, you can also see some delightful Chinese Temples, see older long bearded gentlemen having a friendly game of Mahjong, and visit the interesting Heritage Centre to learn about the Chinese immigration to Singapore in days gone by.
7) Orchard Road
Packed with malls, shopping centres, and independent retail outlets, Orchard Road and the immediate vicinity is a shopping lover’s paradise.
8) Sentosa Island
A playground for old and young alike, Sentosa Island combines sandy beaches and a fun-filled theme park Luxurious spas help visitors to wind down at the end of a hectic day of adventure.
9) Pulau Ubin
Quaint, charming, and traditional, Pulau Ubin allows you to take a peek into the Singapore of yesterday. Steeped in authenticity and enjoying a slower pace of life, it is a far cry from the skyscrapers and hectic life of the city.
10) Night Safari
Singapore Night Safari is a global first, allowing visitors to observe animals in the dark for a different perspective. Walking tours and tram rides are part of the nocturnal fun.
