T R A V E L / C I T Y G U I D E S
SINGAPORE
Discover our favourite hotels, restaurants, nightlife and things to do in Singapore right now.
This insider's city guide has been a long time in the making. We've eaten in countless Singapore restaurants, dined in the best local eateries and visited the latest hotspots. We've also asked the most discerning Singapore locals we know to share their favourite hangouts – whether brand new or classic institutions. We bring you our hand-picked selection of our favourite places in Singapore right now.
HOTELS
| SINGAPORE |
Whether you're looking for the ultimate design hotel, a cosy boutique hotel, or an ultra-cool apartment, here is our pick of the best places to stay in Singapore.
1. Wow Factor!
FULLERTON BAY HOTEL
Expect contemporary living spaces, gourmet dining and a stylish rooftop bar.
Located in Singapore’s central business and cultural district, the Fullerton Bay Hotel fuses Singapore’s colonial heritage with a modern Asian aesthetic. With sweeping views of Singapore’s Marina Bay, the hotel's 98 contemporary guest rooms feature full-length windows showcasing views of the Singapore skyline and waterfront. Enjoy an evening of refined French cuisine at Clifford brasserie, followed by cocktails at the fashionable Lantern rooftop lounge bar. The hotel also offers a state-of-the-art fitness centre and an outdoor infinity swimming pool, the perfect place to escape Singapore’s soaring humidity. $$$
80 Collyer Quay, Singapore 049326
fullertonbayhotel.com | +65 6333 8388
2. Chic & Sultry ...
HOTEL VAGABOND
Legendary French designer Jacques Garcia brings his inimitable designer flair to this luxury boutique hotel.
Where art and hospitality conspire, Hotel Vagabond immerses guests in the sultry world of an intimate Parisian salon. This romantic haven of jet black and crimson velvet showcases golden sculptures of elephants, rhinoceri and banyan trees in full bloom. Each of the guest boudoirs feature king-sized beds, hardwood floors and Italian marble. Mingle with local and international artists over cocktails in the sultry Bar Vagabond. $$
39 Syed Alwi Road, Singapore 207630
hotelvagabondsingapore.com | +65 6291 6677
3. Funky Design ...
WANGZ
THE FOREST BY WANGZ
The Wangz Hotel fuses innovative modern design with the warmth of a boutique hotel.
With a visually striking façade and eye-popping interiors, The Wangz creates a dramatic first impression. Inside, the hotel’s 41 contemporary rooms feature neutrals splashed with vibrant scarlet and cobalt, accented by an impressive collection of commissioned artworks. Upgrade to enjoy your own private patio or free-standing bath tub overlooking the city. The hotel is located in Singapore's historic Tiong Bahru neighbourhood filled with charming shophouse restaurants and exotic coffee-houses. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby hawker market, a haven of delicious and affordable Singapore street food. The Wangz team also manage a second property in Singapore, The Forest by Wangz - stylish serviced apartments inspired by the sculptural forms of a lush, tropical rainforest. $$
The Wangz: 231 Outram Road, Singapore 169040
wangzhotel.com | +65 6595 1388
The Forest ByWangz: 145A Moulmein Road, Singapore 308108
forestbywangz.com | +65 6500 3188
4. Modern Haven ...
NAUMI
Ultra-modern and chic, the Naumi Hotel sets the benchmark for design hotels in Singapore.
With a clean, contemporary design, the Naumi Hotel offers designer-chic living spaces in Singapore’s Central Business District. The hotel's lavishly furnished rooftop swimming pool offers a peaceful escape with glittering city views. Enjoy a relaxing yoga class at the fitness centre, and take advantage of the personal concierge service. Located only minutes from Singapore’s iconic Raffles Hotel, the Naumi will place you in the heart of Singapore's central shopping, dining and entertainment district. $$
41 Seah Street, Singapore 188396
naumihotel.com | +65 6403 6000
5. Central & Affordable ...
THE QUINCY
The all-inclusive Quincy Hotel delivers cutting-edge interiors, personalised service and a great value price tag.
Located in Singapore’s vibrant Orchard Road shopping and entertainment district, the all-inclusive Quincy Hotel offers a unique hotel proposition in Singapore. Enjoy meals at the in-house restaurant, laundry services, happy hour cocktails, mini bar items and WiFi internet included within the nightly price. Escape the city’s soaring humidity by enjoying a refreshing swim in the glass-enclosed infinity swimming pool that appears to float out over the city skyline. $$
22 Mount Elizabeth, Singapore 228517
quincy.com.sg | +65 6738 5888
6. Rooftop Pool ...
MANDARIN ORIENTAL SINGAPORE
A luxurious 5-star sanctuary located in Singapore’s Marina Bay entertainment district.
With lavish contemporary Asian décor, spectacular views and gourmet dining venues, the Mandarin Oriental Singapore is one of the city’s most luxurious 5-star hotels. Designed with the brand's signature classic contemporary aesthetic, the 527-room Mandarin Oriental Singapore features an opulent marble atrium lobby and spacious, high-tech guest suites. The luxurious Oriental Spa offers massages, beauty treatments and yoga classes, while the palm-fringed rooftop pool brings an urban twist on the tropical island getaway. $$$
5 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039797
mandarinoriental.com/singapore | +65 6338 0066
7. Local Institution ...
RAFFLES SINGAPORE
The iconic Raffles Hotel recreates the glamour of Singapore’s historic colonial times.
With afternoon high tea served in the enchanting Tiffin Room and potent Singapore Sling cocktails shaken in the legendary Long Bar, the Raffles Hotel is a luxurious sanctuary named after the founder of Singapore, Sir Stamford Raffles. The landscaped swimming pool is a peaceful place to relax before enjoying a show at the hotel’s charming Victorian theatre. With a prime location in Singapore’s city centre, you’ll be only a short distance from attractions such as the Orchard Road shopping district and Chinatown. $$$
1 Beach Road, Singapore 189673
raffles.com/singapore | +65 6337 1886
8. Local Gem ...
AMOY SINGAPORE
A peaceful heritage boutique hotel in the heart of Singapore’s financial district.
Step through the heavy wooden doors of a 19th-century temple and discover the AMOY Singapore, a boutique hotel with a flair for mixing traditional touches with contemporary design. The hotel's 37 rooms offer the perfect balancing act between old and new, where traditional porcelain vases blend with modern touches such as iPhone docks. Thoughtful service is also draw-card of the AMOY, as is the fresh sushi by chef Thomas Kok at the hotel’s restaurant, Jin Fine Dining. Be sure to explore Chinatown, only a short walk away. $$
76 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 048464
stayfareast.com | +65 6580 2888
Average Price of a Double Room: $ = Around $100 or less; $$ = Around $200; $$$ = > $300
RESTAURANTS
| SINGAPORE |
Whether you're looking for a fabulous foodie dining spot, the city's best trattoria, or a see-and-be-seen dining spot, here is our pick of the best places to eat in Singapore right now.
1. Foodie Gem ...
BURNT ENDS
Discover this designer Australian BBQ restaurant with a sophisticated twist.
At this hip foodie eatery, a four tonne custom-made oven takes centre stage as diners perch on counter-side seats for a front-row view of the kitchen action. Serving a daily-changing menu, award-winning Australian chef Dave Pynt can be seen sizzling ingredients to perfection on three elevated grills, such as smoked quails eggs, short rib steaks, and Norwegian king crab smothered in garlic butter. Make sure to leave room for Burnt Ends’ signature ice cream sandwich to finish. $$
20 Teck Lim Road, Singapore 088391
burntends.com.sg | +65 6224 3933
2. Special Occasion …
RESTAURANT ANDRE
Enjoy an unforgettable dining experience at one of the World’s Top 50 restaurants.
Don’t be fooled by Restaurant André’s unassuming location, as this culinary address is renowned as one of Asia’s finest. Chef André Chiang unleashes his “Octaphilosophy” in the kitchens, centred around the eight gastronomic elements that inspire his cuisine: salt, texture, memory, south, artisan, unique, terroir and pure. Blending his love of French cuisine with a passion for fresh local ingredients, every plate of Chiang’s multi-course menu is a work of art. Look out for “Memory”, a signature dish first created by Chiang in 1997 - a medley of warmed foie gras jelly with black truffle coulis. $$$
41 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089855
restaurantandre.com | +65 6534 8880
3. Creative Cuisine & Cocktails ...
THE TIPPLING CLUB
One of Singapore’s most innovative restaurant-cocktail bars.Nestled on the edge of a verdant forest in Singapore’s Dempsey Hill, The Tippling Club is set within a sleek, modern annex of canvas, stainless steel, glass and wood. Liquor bottles dangle from s-hooks in the ceiling, serving as a bold, central art installation. In the gleaming open kitchen, acclaimed British chef, Ryan Clift, creates inventive tasting menus of international avant-garde cuisine, while award-winning Australian mixologist and co-owner, Matthew Bax, crafts creative Asian-influenced cocktails using high-tech mixology. Enjoy your cocktail on the Tippling Club’s open-air forest terrace, sheltered by a canopy of ancient trees - one of Singapore’s most romantic drinking spots. $$
38 Tg Pagar Road, Singapore 088461
tipplingclub.com | +65 6475 2217
4. Sophisticated Dining ...
ODETTE
An elegant 2 Michelin Star dining experience in Singapore’s National Gallery.One of the hottest tables in Singapore, Odette enjoys a sophisticated setting within the newly-renovated Singapore National Gallery, where award-winning chef Julien Royer gives French fine dining a subtle, modern twist. Named in honour of Royer’s grandmother, Odette exudes a timeless elegance, with gorgeous interiors featuring a soothing palette of soft pink and pale grey, accented by a stunning overhead art installation by artist Dawn Ng. The striking glass-walled kitchen makes for a fascinating focal point as Royer and his team craft Odette’s artistic dishes, presented as either four-, six- or eight-course tasting menus and inspired by meticulously-sourced seasonal ingredients. $$$
1 Saint Andrew's Road, #01-04, National Gallery Singapore
odetterestaurant.com | +65 6385 0498
5. Dim Sum Heaven...
DIN TAI FUNG
A haven of perfectly crafted dumplings with multiple locations throughout Singapore.
Having first opened in 1969 as a Dumpling (“Dim Sum”) House in Taiwan, Din Tai Fung is renowned for its xiaolong bao steamed soup dumplings filled with a variety of seafood, meat and vegetable flavours which are made to order. The delicate dumpling skin is wrapped around a tender pork or crab meat filling, and then infused with a shot of steaming hot soup. $
Multiple locations in Singapore
dintaifung.com.sg
6. Authentic Japanese…
SHINJI BY KANESAKA
The upscale Shinji Kanesaka is renowned for serving some of the finest sushi outside of Japan.
Housed in the luxurious Raffles Hotel, Shinji is set within an intimate dining space designed with Japanese papers and dark wood. Enjoy the skill of Shinji’s expert chefs as they create Edo-style sushi and premium sashimi at the main counter, which is carved from a single 220 year old Cypress tree. Expect the service to be as immaculate as the cuisine, which is artfully presented on gleaming lacquerware and accompanied by a curated selection of Sake. $$$
1 Beach Road, #02-20 Raffles Hotel, Singapore 189673
shinjibykanesaka.com | +65 6338 6131
7. Chilli Crab ...
JUMBO SEAFOOD
A local seafood institution renowned for its fresh Singapore chilli crab.
Famous for its flavoursome fresh chilli crab - a local delicacy in Singapore-, Jumbo Seafood boasts seven restaurants located throughout the city. Having gained a reputation for serving the city’s freshest crab since opening in 1987, this popular eatery serves over a tonne of fresh crab everyday to a loyal following of local and visiting foodies. Settle into Jumbo Seafood’s casual dining room and enjoy a feast of fresh seafood. Our favourite location is the original East Coast Seafood Centre. $$
Multiple Locations in Singapore
jumboseafood.com.sg | +65 6442 3435
8. Garden-To-Table Dining ...
OPEN FARM COMMUNITY
Open Farm Community brings the farm-to-table concept to Singapore.
A lush haven for children and adults alike, Open Farm Community is a verdant wonderland set upon a former golf course. Nestled amidst gardens and greenery, Open Farm’s restaurant serves wholesome seasonal fare that highlights local Singaporean produce, with ingredients sourced from the Open Farm gardens or nearby growers. Whether seated on the decked terrace or in the light-filled dining room, expect to be surrounded by the great outdoors as Open Farm Community brings the city back to nature. Make sure to explore the orchard, play ping-pong and discover the kitchen garden while you're there. $$
130E Minden Road, Singapore 248819
openfarmcommunity.com | +65 6471 0306
9. Alfresco Dining ...
THE HALIA
Architecture and nature are in perfect harmony at The Halia.
With an enviable location in Singapore’s beautiful Botanic Gardens, The Halia is one of Singapore's most stunning alfresco dining settings. Take a seat on the elevated platform and enjoy sweeping views across the gardens, where over 250 species of ginger hint at the restaurant’s name – Halia means "ginger" in Malay. The view is perfectly complimented by Halia’s fresh, seasonal cuisine, a creative medley of European and Asian flavours such as Prawn Satay Salad with ginger flower dressing. $$
1 Cluny Road, Singapore Botanic Garden, Singapore 259569
thehalia.com | +65 8444 1148
10. Gourmet Haven ...
MARINA BAY SANDS
World-class dining by celebrity chefs in the cutting-edge Marina Bay Sands entertainment complex.
More than just a luxury hotel and shopping centre, the state-of-the-art Marina Bay Sands entertainment complex offers a wide range of upscale international restaurants helmed by top international chefs. Try chef Mario Batali’s Mozza Osteria & Pizzeria for authentic Italian cuisine, or opt for renowned chef David Thompson's creative Thai cuisine at Long Chim. Lovers of meat will be tempted by chef Daniel Boulud’s succulent burgers at db Bistro Moderne, fusing American and French inspiration, while perfectly cooked steaks are the speciality at CUT by Wolfgang Puck. For refined Japanese, don't miss chef Tetsuya Wakuda's Waku Ghin, followed by drinks at the panoramic rooftop bar, Ce La Vie. $$
10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956
marinabaysands.com | +65 6688 8868
Best Coffee Shop...
COMMON MAN ROASTERS
22 Martin Road, #01-00, Singapore 239058
commonmancoffeeroasters.com | +65 6836 4695
Average Price of a Main Meal: $ = Less than $10; $$ = Around $20; $$$ = More than $30
NIGHTLIFE
| SINGAPORE |
Whether you're looking for a beautiful alfresco cafe, the city's best wine bar, or a late-night club, here is our pick of the best places to party in Singapore right now.
1. Hidden Speakeasy ...
28 HONGKONG STREET
Discover 28 Hongkong Street, voted Asia’s Best Bar in 2016.
A visit to this secretive drinking den has discretely topped the to-do list of the city’s discerning cocktail lovers. You won't find a sign advertising the location of the bar - instead, look for an unassuming beige door at number 28 Hongkong Street and pass through the theatrical red velvet curtains into the secretive world within. The service here is as impeccable as the cocktail list, which makes use of 700 labels of craft spirits, all beautifully showcased behind a marble-topped bar. Opt for one of the leather barstools to enjoy a front row view of the action. Advance reservations recommended. $$
28 Hongkong Street, Singapore 059667
No Website | +65 6533 2001
2. Friendly & Fun ...
JIGGER & PONY
Jigger & Pony finds the perfect balance between serious and seriously fun mixology. Laid-back and unpretentious, Jigger & Pony’s shared table, cosy booths and eclectic style offers a warm welcome to cocktail connoisseurs. Behind the bar, ceiling-height shelves display Jigger & Pony’s dizzying array of premium liquors, hinting at the bar's serious cocktail know-how. The carefully curated cocktail menu features 24 classics with a twist, overseen by renowned bartender Anthony Zhong. Enjoy a refreshing Negroni or a Popping Corn - a playful mix of Grain Whisky, popcorn milk, egg white and coffee liqueur. $$
101 Amoy Street, Singapore 069921
jiggerandpony.com | +65 9621 1074
3. Waterfront Views ...
LANTERN BAR
Discover one of Singapore’s most glamorous alfresco bars.
Lantern Bar delivers dizzying panoramic views of Singapore's waterfront from its glamorous location in the Fullerton Bay Hotel. Surrounded by a glittering infinity pool, chandeliers and elegant canvas awnings, this lounge bar is the ideal place to enjoy a sunset cocktail as the city lights twinkle into life. Settle in as the resident DJ takes to the decks and order a cocktail and some gourmet snacks from your candlelit table or private cabana. $$
Fullerton Bay Hotel, 80 Collyer Quay, Singapore 049326
fullertonbayhotel.com | +65 6597 5299
4. Unique ...
OPERATION DAGGER
Put your cocktail preconceptions away and allow yourself to be lead by the experts - you won’t regret it.
Those with an adventurous streak will love Operation Dagger, whose experimental approach to mixology has put it firmly on the map - despite its secretive location. Marked only by an inverted crown and a rectangle (code for “hassle us and we’ll go away”), the bar is nestled down a concrete staircase in a diminutive basement space, behind Michelin-starred restaurant Oxwell & Co. A beautiful light-sculpture undulates like a cloud overhead, softly glowing with 6,000 lightbulbs which illuminate apothecary-style bottles behind the bar. $$
7 Ann Siang Hill, Singapore 069791
operationdagger.com | No Telephone
5. Party Beach Club ...
THE TANJONG BEACH CLUB
Discover Singapore's renowned beach club on Sentosa Island.
Synonymous with elegant daytime relaxation and nighttime fun, Tanjong Beach Club offers an escape from the bustle of the city. Spend the day sipping cocktails by the palm-fringed pool, or sink into one of the day-beds with a platter of fresh seafood or a towering burger. By night, DJs get the party started as urban revellers arrive from the city to sip a Tanjong Fly cocktail, the Club’s signature mix of vodka, curacao and tropical juices. Expect a serious party at the weekends, when partygoers love to dance in the sand until the early hours. $$
120 Tanjong Beach Walk, Singapore 098942
tanjongbeachclub.com | +65 6270 1355
6. Panoramic Views ...
1-ALTITUDE
A panoramic nightlife destination on the rooftop of one of Singapore’s tallest buildings.
1-Altitude is a multi-concept lifestyle venue that occupies the top three floors of the 282-metre-high One Raffles Place, Singapore’s tallest building. You’ll find a variety of dining and drinking spaces to suit your mood: the world’s highest alfresco bar on the rooftop with 360-degree views of the Singapore skyline, along with Altimate – one of Singapore’s premier nightclubs. $$
1 Raffles Place, Singapore 048616
1-altitude.com | +65 6438 0410
7. Glamorous ...
MANHATTAN
Manhattan offers one of Singapore’s most glamorous settings for late-night revelry.
Famous for having the world’s first Rickhouse (a barrel ageing room), Manhattan is a New York-inspired haven with mirrored ceilings, Chesterfield sofas and a glitzy central staircase which leads up to a speak-easy style bar. Its dedication to serious cocktails is evidenced by its walk-in ingredients room, where bottles and jars line the walls like an apothecary’s workshop. Be sure to try one of the barrel aged cocktails to see what really sets Manhattan apart. $$
1 Cuscaden Road, Singapore 249715
regenthotels.com | +65 6725 3377
Average Price of a Drink: $ = Less than $10; $$ = Around $20; $$$ = More than $30
SEE + DO
| SINGAPORE |
Don't miss these incredible Singapore museums, cultural landmarks and local experiences.
Iconic Landmarks ...
The Singapore Flyer, the world's tallest observation wheel, is an excellent way to see beautiful panoramic views of Singapore island from the comfort of an air-conditioned glass capsule. During the 30-minute rotation, you can also enjoy a four-course meal with a personalised butler service, or enjoy a glass of champagne or a Singapore Sling. A ride on the Singapore Cable Car also provides magnificent views of the city’s skyline, the harbour, and Sentosa Island. You can enjoy a fine dining experience in a private cabin, or book a VIP Jewelled Cabin decorated with Swarovski crystal and large, black leather seats. In the vibrant Chinatown district, Thian Hock Keng Temple is Singapore’s oldest Chinese temple and plays an integral role in the local Hokkien community. Built between 1821 and 1822 by Chinese immigrants, the temple originated as a prayer house to thank the goddess Ma Zu for their safe passage across the South China Sea. Between 1839 and 1842, it was rebuilt as Thian Hock Keng Temple, using the finest materials and craftsmen from China. The rich ornamentations reflect the temple architectural traditions of southern China. Located in Singapore’s vibrant Little India district is one of the city’s best known attractions, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. Built in 1881 by Bengali immigrants, this is one of Singapore’s oldest temples. Dedicated to the fierce Hindu goddess Kali – the “Destroyer of Evil” who protects good people – many of the ornate statues in the worship hall depict her violent deeds, or portray her in more serene scenes nurturing her two sons. The temple’s most distinguishing feature is its entrance tower, which is an intricate, multi-tiered mass of brightly coloured figures representing the Hindu deities. The temple is open daily from 6am to 12pm, and 5pm to 9pm. The Kampong Glam district is home to the Sultan Mosque, one of the most distinctive religious structures in Singapore. Its most striking features are the two enormous gold domes positioned above the east and west façades, and a prayer hall that holds up to 5,000 worshippers. The mosque is open daily from 9am to 1pm, and 2pm to 4pm. No visitors are allowed during Friday prayer service from 11:30am to 2:30pm.
Singapore Botanic Gardens ...
The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a peaceful green escape in this tropical garden city. Founded in 1859, it offers a sprawling, bucolic respite in the heart of downtown Singapore. Here you’ll find a wide range of paths that wind through a colorful array of plant life, Victorian-era bandstands and gazebos, several lakes and waterfalls, lush lawns for picnicking, and even a small rainforest. But the main attraction is the National Orchid Garden, which has the world’s largest collection of tropical orchids, with over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids. To complete a leisurely stroll of the grounds, you’ll need several hours. Open daily, 5am to midnight, free admission (the National Orchid Garden is open 8:30am to 7pm daily with an admission of S$5.00 for adults).
Singapore Zoo & Night Safari ...
The Singapore Zoo is renowned as one of the best zoos in the world. Nearly 3,000 animals are showcased across 28 hectares of landscaped environments that simulate their natural habitats. The zoo is home to over 300 species of birds, reptiles and mammals, many of which are endangered, including the rare white tiger. Must-see habitats include the Fragile Forest (a flight area teaming with rainforest species), Wild Africa, Australian Outback, and the Elephants of Asia. A daily program of themed shows includes the popular Jungle Breakfast with Wildlife, featuring the zoo’s large colony of orangutans. Adjacent to the zoo is the Night Safari, another of Singapore’s most-visited attractions. Set in 40 hectares of tropical forest, it is the world’s first nocturnal zoo, housing more than 1,000 animals from 120 species that are observed under special moon-like lighting. The grounds can be explored via a guided tram ride and three walking trails that provide close-up views of the animals.
Museums & Art Galleries ...
Singapore has a thriving, ever-expanding arts scene filled with a variety of art galleries and museums showcasing a range of art influences, from Singapore’s rich cultural heritage to local and international contemporary trends. The National Museum of Singapore, set in a neo-classical architectural building, is the largest and oldest museum on the island. It traces the history of Singapore from its beginnings in the 14th century to the present day, and includes interactive galleries that examine culture through fashion, photography, food, film and puppet theater. The Asian Civilisations Museum provides an interesting perspective of the rich cultures that make up Singapore’s multi-ethnic society, with 11 themed galleries showcasing over 1300 artefacts from the civilisations of China, Southeast Asia, South Asia and West Asia. The museum celebrates Singapore’s cosmopolitan cultural heritage throughout eleven themed galleries housed within the museum. The Peranakan Museum explores the unique hybrid culture of Southeast Asia’s Peranakans, descendants of foreign traders who over the centuries came to the region and married local women. Here you’ll find one of the world’s finest collections of Peranakan artefacts and wares, including porcelain, clothing, jewelry, furniture and items related to elaborate wedding rituals. The Peranakan Museum offers an unrivalled collection of Peranakan objects displayed throughout ten different galleries.
Best Luxury Spa ...
If you’re in need of some pampering while in Singapore, there are many sophisticated spas which offer a variety of rejuvenating treatments that blend techniques and philosophies from both East and West. The Oriental Spa, nestled in the Mandarin Oriental Singapore, offers signature therapies developed with specialists in Traditional Chinese Medicine and masters of aromatherapy. Its small yet serene facilities include six treatment rooms, a foot spa and a relaxation room. Indulge in massages like Oriental Harmony (two therapists working in unison), Oriental Bamboo (warm bamboo rods roll away stress), and the thoroughly soothing Aroma Stone.
Best Chinese Massage ...
Qi Mantra, a day spa located in the Raffles City Shopping Centre, is known as one of Singapore’s best places to visit for traditional Chinese acupressure massages with a modern twist. Therapeutic Radio Frequency technology is combined with remedial massages to help warm up the muscles and ease deep tissue manipulation. Their hallmark sculpting facial, Gua Sha, uses a plastic “scraping” tool to lift and firm facial contours. The Herbal Punch Massage, using a heated bag filled with fragrant Chinese herbs and sea salt, is a treatment that will leave you blissfully relaxed.
Visit Sentosa Island ...
Located only 15 minutes from Singapore’s city centre is the island resort of Sentosa. Billed as ‘Asia’s favorite playground,’ it offers a variety of attractions and experiences. From the Imbiah Lookout zone in the centre of the island, you can ascend the Tiger Sky Tower in an air-conditioned glass cabin for panoramic views of Sentosa, Singapore, the Southern islands and beyond. You can also explore the walking trails of Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom, take a guided tour of Sentosa Nature Discovery, or enjoy aerial views above the treetops on the Sentosa Skyride. A focal point is Resorts World Sentosa, an expansive complex that features a Universal Studios theme park, Singapore's first casino, luxury hotels, shopping malls, and numerous dining and entertainment venues. Other island highlights include historic Fort Siloso, the MegaZip Adventure Park (with one of the longest and steepest zip wires in Asia), a 3.2 km stretch of beaches, Underwater World and Dolphin Lagoon. The Sentosa Golf Club, located on the eastern end of the island, is home to two of the most renowned golf courses in Southeast Asia.
Scenic River Cruise ...
A scenic boat cruise along the Singapore River is a great way to see Singapore’s best sights and attractions. Singapore River Cruise operates tours on Singapore’s iconic bumboats, while Duck & Hippo Tours offers cruises on more modern pontoon-style boats. Both companies cover similar itineraries, departing from Clarke Quay and heading upriver past Boat Quay, the Esplanade Theatre, Merlion Park and Marina Bay Sands, then circling back again. Boats depart every 20 minutes, and tickets can be purchased on the spot for a 40-minute or 60-minute bumboat tour with recorded commentary, or a 30-minute Duck & Hippo tour with live commentary. One-day passes allowing unlimited rides are also available. Singapore River Cruise also offers private charter services for a 10-passenger Duffy Boat, and a traditional 45-passenger bumboat.
Scenic Bus Tour ...
Singapore’s must-see sights can be discovered in a multitude of ways, whether by land, water or air. Hop-on hop-off bus tours are a fun and easy option for seeing Singapore’s best highlights, with 24-hour or 48-hour passes available. Duck & Hippo Tours operate double decker open-top bus services that run every 20 minutes, with recorded commentary in eight languages. Their Original Tour bus does a loop around major attractions such as Clarke Quay, The Esplanade, Orchard Road, Little India and Chinatown, while their City Sightseeing buses cover two separate routes – City and Heritage – that include additional stops such ass the Botanic Gardens, and a walking tour of the ethnic enclaves. FunVee open-top buses, operated by City Tours, offer the most comprehensive itineraries – City Attractions, Sentosa Attractions and Ethnic Attractions – with live commentary and buses running every half hour.
Scenic Riverwalk ...
Many of the city’s most notable landmarks can be found along the banks of the Singapore River, particularly those of historical significance. Several government buildings and places of worship offer a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. A great way to explore these sites is to follow the Singapore River Trail. Using a trail brochure, as well as storyboards and markers placed along the river by the National Heritage Board, you'll gain an introduction to Singapore’s three major quays: Boat Quay, Clarke Quay and Robertson Quay. The things you’ll see along the way include Raffles' Landing Site, the Asian Civilisations Museum, Parliament House, the MICA Building, Merlion Park, Po Chiak Keng Temple, Omar Kampong Malacca Mosque, and five heritage bridges. The walk takes approximately two and a half hours to complete, and brochures can be picked up from the Asian Civilisations Museum.
Hiking in Bukit Timah ...
Situated 15-minute drive from downtown Singapore, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is an enclave of primary rainforest that has remained relatively untouched despite the development that has transformed the island. Covering an area of approximately 160 hectares, this ASEAN Heritage Park is rich in biodiversity. Here you can see more than 500 animal species, some 900 plant species and a multitude of insects. At the center of the reserve is Bukit Timah Hill, Singapore's highest natural point, which stands at 163 meters. There are four well-marked hiking trails of varying difficulties, with completion times ranging from 35 minutes to two hours. The forest is teeming with wildlife, including a colony of macaque monkeys. The Visitor Centre provides an educational history of the forest, and free guided morning tours are given on the third Saturday of every month (advance registration required). Bukit Timah is also a great starting point for lengthy hikes that run through the Central Catchment Nature Reserve adjacent to it. Open every day, 6am to 7pm.
O U R O T H E R C I T Y G U I D E S . . .
