Singapore Travel Guide: Where to Go and What to Do
Singapore might be a small city-state geographically; however, it is not short in cultural and natural attraction sites to offer. Whether you’re visiting backpacker-style or you’re looking to indulge yourself in some of the luxuries this financially well-endowed country has for you, you’ll be sure to find something that will pique your interest and find your trip rewarding. Here are some of the sites that you want to check out and some activities that are worth taking part of:
- The Gardens
One of the UNESCO world heritage sites, the Singapore Botanic Garden, hosts a vast area of gardens and forest reserves. The main attraction is the National Orchid Garden, where over 1,000 orchid species are bred and cultivated. It has been associated with the garden since its breeding program in 1928. Renowned foreign dignitaries who visited the garden had orchids named after them like Margaret Thatcher and Nelson Mandela.
There’s also the Ginger Garden, home for several hundred species of gingers and other related plant families. Enjoy a quiet stroll around the one-hectare nature preserve behind a waterfall and around a pool made exotically beautiful with large lilies. You’ll see a variety of beautiful flowers and of course, gingers that are organized by their origin.
- Check The Night Scene
Singapore, being the developed city-state that it is, has become a favorite destination for diverse individuals around the world. If you’re somebody who’s looking to step away from the “tourist traps”, finding a local guide or a social escort would help you find the best spots in the city. Whether you prefer a speakeasy bar, alfresco dining, or a music club, you’ll find popular bars to bring the ladies to through local contacts or social sources. These hidden gems offer a cozy and private environment, which is perfect if you want to spend some time outside without having to deal with the crowd – plus you’ll get some quiet intimate time with your lady friend.
- Explore Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Another nature reserve a distance away from the bustling city, the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is the last pristine rainforest and the country’s premier eco-tourism attraction. By virtue of the country’s location – at the planet’s equatorial belt, you’ll be able to gaze and experience the company of the members from one of the most diverse ecological systems in the world. You can enjoy hiking or biking around the reserve with a friend and encounter its local inhabitants like the flying lemurs and other exotic and beautiful birds. If you plan to drive to the reserve, make sure to check if you need an international driver’s license to rent a vehicle.
- Thian Hock Keng Temple
Translated to “Temple of Heavenly Bliss” is one of the remaining temples built by the first Chinese people who came ashore when the water was up to what is now known as the Telok Ayer Road. These sailors put up the shrine with wood and thatch to honor the goddess Ma Cho Po. Today, a temple stands on top of the shrine which was built in 1841. It is now a designated national monument and thousands of tourists flock to the temple to marvel at its structure while others pray for safe travels.
- Shop in Chinatown and Eat in Little India
You’ll be amiss if you don’t take the time to visit Chinatown and Little India. The former is an area nestled in the city where traditional Chinese life exists in the heart of the metropolis. Enjoy strolling through different shops, stalls, and restaurants. Little India is one of the major cultural and commercial attractions of the country but it is popularly known for satisfying gustatory inclinations with varied and affordable delights.
There are still a lot of gems you can find in the Lion City that can easily extend a week’s stay for you or your company. However, you’ll need to plan your trips accordingly as some of the premier amenities of the city don’t come cheap. A budget trip will cost you around $55 per day while a luxurious splurge would cost around $500. Take your pick as the country has everything you’ll need for a memorable stay.