Singapore Cheat Sheets - Travel Daily€¦ · Museum at Empress Place is a treasure trove of Asian...

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Singapore Cheat Sheets A set of 5 factsheets to keep Singapore at your fingertips #1 Dive into the Real Singapore #2 Stayover in Singapore #3 Getaway with the guys and girls #4 Singapore for Families? Easy! #5 R&R - Relax and Romance in Singapore

Transcript of Singapore Cheat Sheets - Travel Daily€¦ · Museum at Empress Place is a treasure trove of Asian...

Page 1: Singapore Cheat Sheets - Travel Daily€¦ · Museum at Empress Place is a treasure trove of Asian culture and artefacts. See And when you get hungry follow the Singapore Food Trail,

Singapore Cheat Sheets

A set of 5 factsheets to keep Singapore at

your fingertips

#1 Dive into the Real Singapore

#2 Stayover in Singapore

#3 Getaway with the guys and girls

#4 Singapore for Families? Easy!

#5 R&R - Relax and Romance in Singapore

Page 2: Singapore Cheat Sheets - Travel Daily€¦ · Museum at Empress Place is a treasure trove of Asian culture and artefacts. See And when you get hungry follow the Singapore Food Trail,

TD’s Singapore Cheat Sheets - #1

Dive into the real Singapore

This is the first of five special fact sheets on Singapore produced by Travel Daily in partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board. Collect all five from the TD website at www.traveldaily.com.au/features.

Singapore is one of the world’s global cities, but beyond its skyscrapers lie plenty of local flavours and culture which can be found if you get lost and explore. Lead your clients to the soul of the Singapore city with these simple insider tips at your fingertips.

Experience Peranakan culture, a rich mix of Chinese and Malay heritage, with a twist of British and Dutch influence, at Katong and Joo Chiat.

Emerald Hill near Orchard Road features stunning Peranakan-style architecture beside a laneway of trendy bars.

The Peranakan Museum houses the world’s largest collection of Peranakan life - including amazing shoes! (left)

www.peranakanmuseum.sg

Many cultures Singapore is home to a collection of diverse communities, cultures, religions, and languages. It’s a melting pot including Malay, Chinese and Indian influences - an intriguing mix for travellers seeking a little education, culture and history on their holiday.

Singapore’s Chinatown is as old as Singapore itself. Wander through the once notorious red-light district and learn why the area was once known as the ‘Place of Nightless Days’.

Join the chanting monks in the incense-infused aroma of the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.

Lose yourself in laneways lined with stalls selling everything from feng shui ornaments to reflexology treatments.

www.singaporewalks.com

For an insight into Singapore’s maritime history, a cruise on one of the city’s colourful old wooden ‘bumboats’ is a must. Get off at one of nine jetties along the river. Many locals wind down at the bars, pubs and hip restaurants nestled in restored traditional warehouses at Clarke Quay and Boat Quay. It positively buzzes with atmosphere at night.

See www.clarkequay.com.sg

The 1835-built Armenian Church and nearby St Andrew’s Cathedral are the Lion City’s oldest Christian churches - and are also national monuments. Or catch a performance at the world-class Esplanade Theatres, dubbed ‘the durians’ by locals because the building looks like the spiky tropical fruit.

See www.esplanade.com

Old meets new The amazing contrasts of Singapore see modern city life rush by historic buildings such as the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali. It’s one of the city’s most beautiful and extravagantly decorated. And that’s not all - check these out.

A cacophony of smells and sounds, Little India is one of the most vibrant and culturally authentic districts of Singapore.

Many olden-day trades are here - fortune-tellers (including parrots!), flower vendors selling jasmine garlands, roasted nut sellers on pushcarts and silk sari shops are among the riches

waiting to be discovered.

The National Museum of Singapore traces the country’s intriguing history all the way from its 14th century beginnings to the present. See www.nationalmuseum.sg And there’s lots of art too - 8Q SAM is Singapore Art Museum’s latest addition, showcasing current contemporary works.

www.singaporeartmuseum.sg

Art lovers will adore Singapore’s numerous galleries. They’re sure to find a fine piece to add to their collection - or just catch up on the latest vibe.

At Opera Gallery, masterpieces by famous names such as Picasso and Gauguin contrast with works by some of Asia’s top artists.

See www.operagallery.com

Kampong Glamour Surely Singapore is one of the only places where a fabulous Indian temple can be found just nearby a spectacular Malay mosque - right in the middle of Chinatown! But wait, there’s even more to experience such as art, music, dance and of course cuisine.

The Asian Civilisations Museum at Empress Place is a treasure trove of Asian culture and artefacts. See www.acm.org.sg And when you get hungry follow the Singapore Food Trail, a 1960s themed hawker food street next to the Singapore Flyer observation wheel. www.singaporeflyer.com

You can’t leave Singapore without trying Hainanese chicken rice - Tian Tian at the Maxwell Food Centre is said by locals to serve the best.

Browse the hawker stalls at Boon Tat Street for midnight munchies - they’re clean, easy and delicious and you can easily feed a whole family for less than

S$50 - www.myhawkers.sg

Once the British Army Barracks, Singapore’s Dempsey Hill is now home to entrepreneurs, chefs, artists, designers and dancers, as well as some great eateries.

It’s a well-kept secret favoured by the locals and visitors in the know, and a great choice for an al fresco meal with a difference.

See www.dempseyhill.com

History, not a mystery As the crossroads of Asia, it’s no surprise that Singapore has centuries of history - ancient and modern - just waiting to be discovered.The Changi War Museum is located at the most famous of Singapore’s World War II sites, and will resonate with many Aussies.

Discover tales of astounding heroism and celebration amid details of Singapore’s role in Australian military history.

More details online at www.changimuseum.sg

Insider tipA 3-day Museum Pass gives

unlimited admission to eight different galleries and museums across Singapore - including the Asian Civilisations Museum; National Museum of Singapore, Singapore Art Museum and the Peranakan Museum.

For info see www.nhb.gov.sg

NEED TO KNOW: • The currency used in Singapore is the Singapore dollar (S$). • Singapore is known for its hot and humid weather with average temperatures between 24°C-31°C. • The rainy season is from November – February. • Australian passport holders do not require a visa for Singapore.

Page 3: Singapore Cheat Sheets - Travel Daily€¦ · Museum at Empress Place is a treasure trove of Asian culture and artefacts. See And when you get hungry follow the Singapore Food Trail,

TD’s Singapore Cheat Sheets - #2

Stayover in Singapore

This is the second of five special fact sheets on Singapore produced by Travel Daily in partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board. Collect all five from the TD website at www.traveldaily.com.au/features.

If your clients think that Singapore is just a stopover destination, get them to think again! Try the suggestions below to help them get out of the airport to make the most out of their break en-route to or from Europe – and we’re not talking about just going for a Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel or eating chilli crab. Your clients will love you for this!

24 hours Only one day to spend in Singapore? Clients can make their stay as relaxed or as energetic as they wish. Sentosa Island is action-packed. Foodies can spend the evening sampling the local hawker fare; or just soak up the atmosphere by the river.

Resorts World Sentosa has plenty to fill a fantastic day.

There’s the extraordinary Marine Life Park (the world’s largest aquarium) along with six hotels, a casino and the Universal Studios theme park.

Not to mention plenty of places to eat and shop.

Just 10 minutes from Singapore’s CBD by taxi or the MRT; or stroll from VivoCity mall - for details see the website at

www.rwsentosa.com

Go back in time to 1960s Singapore at Singapore Food Trail at the Singapore Flyer.

Savour popular delights such as Hill Street Tai Wah Pork Noodle and Boon Tat Street Barbeque Seafood sold from makeshift carts and stalls in a vintage setting, complete with retro furniture, crockery and knick-knacks.

It’s a perfect way to get a delicious taste of the city - see

singaporefoodtrail.com.sg

Explore Singapore’s living cultural heritage at the Peranakan Museum.

Stop by Rumah Bebe, a delightful 1928-built Peranakan heritage house, dedicated to preserving the traditional arts.

Take home a timeless artwork or traditional hand-beaded clothing - check it out at

www.peranakanmuseum.sg

48 hours You’re just scratching the surface with a one night stopover. Clients who extend their stay to 48 hours can really start to see the variety that Singapore offers - and you never know, they may book an even longer stay in the Lion City the next time they travel.

The Original Singapore Walks is a great way to make the most of your time, with an expert guide who uncovers the city’s insider secrets.

Excellent in-depth tours include Little India, Chinatown, the Malay/Arab quarter (Kampong Glam) and Changi.

Tours generally take 2-3 hours - see www.singaporewalks.com

Try the famous traditional rice dumplings and authentic Peranakan cuisine at Kim Choo, a Singapore mainstay since the 1940s - www.kimchoo.com

Or for an ultra-modern take on dining, sample ‘organic chemistry’ at the sophisticated Orgo Bar & Restaurant at Esplanade Theatres on the Bay.

See www.orgo.sg

Hit the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands for a range of affordable street to luxury designer brands and stunning celebrity chef restaurants.

Then, rest your aching feet at Kenko Foot Reflexology and Fish Spa before partying the night away at Ku De Ta atop the stunning Sands SkyPark.

www.marinabaysands.com

72 hours Three days in Singapore gives a good sampler of Singapore to leave travellers coming back for more. Try out some of the top eateries, get active or even indulge in a luxurious spa treatment - it’s all at your fingertips.

The Singapore Flyer is the world’s largest Observation Wheel, providing 360-degree views of the Singapore skyline - so high you can see into Malaysia and Indonesia - book at www.singaporeflyer.com

Or take the plunge with indoor skydiving in the world’s largest vertical wind tunnel at iFly - see www.iflysingapore.com

Insider tipThe Singapore Stopover

Holiday just got even better!Book in conjunction with a

Singapore Airlines/SilkAir flight and enjoy accom from just $30 for the first night, return airport transfers and free entry to 15 attractions including walking tours and Universal Studios.

Available for sale up to 30 Sep and travel between 01 Apr

2013-31 Mar 2014.

NEED TO KNOW: • Tourists in Singapore can claim a refund on the 7% GST paid on purchases.• Simply spend SG$100 or more to qualify, with refunds deposited via the Electronic Tourist Refund Scheme (eTRS).• Tip - shop using a single credit/debit card to make refunding easier - full info at www.iras.gov.sg

Clarke Quay buzzes with activity at all hours.

It’s a kaleidoscope of top-notch restaurants, wine bars, entertainment spots, retail shops and open-air bazaars - see www.clarkequay.com.sg

For an exquisite dinner of new meets old Asian cooking try Coriander Leaf at Clarke Quay - see www.corianderleaf.com

And head to The Pump Room for some authentic Australian

fare (and beer!).

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Explore via the efficient public transport system using the MRT Singapore Tourist Pass thesingaporetouristpass.com.sg

Buy a 1, 2 or 3-day See Singapore Attractions Pass for free entry to the Changi Chapel & Museum, Forest Adventure, Singapore Zoo and Jurong Bird Park, as well as walking tours.

www.seesingaporepass.com

Page 4: Singapore Cheat Sheets - Travel Daily€¦ · Museum at Empress Place is a treasure trove of Asian culture and artefacts. See And when you get hungry follow the Singapore Food Trail,

TD’s Singapore Cheat Sheets - #3

Getaway with the guys and girls

This is the third of five special fact sheets on Singapore produced by Travel Daily in partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board. Collect all five from the TD website at www.traveldaily.com.au/features.

Singapore offers a seductive mix of vivid entertainment venues, brilliant nightlife, colourful culture and sublime shopping which will delight couples or friends looking for an excuse to get away. Tell your clients to grab their mates and girlfriends and ‘Get Lost in Singapore’ for a few days or more.

For her Safe and serene, yet bustling with life, Singapore is perfect for a girly getaway. Round up your friends for five-star spas, fabulous food, hot nightclubs, out-of-this world shopping, and sightseeing with a cultural twist.

First mission: unwind. Aramsa Spa in the award-

winning Bishan Park is a local favourite and also has couples’ suites - www.aramsaspas.com

Get a henna hand painting before scouring the silk and gold shops in Little India, and then have your fortune told at a parrot astrologer’s.

Or join a traditional cooking class in an old kampong house on Pulau Ubin - details at

www.cookerymagic.com

Orchard Road is home to every known fashion and lifestyle brand you can imagine.

For bargains try the eclectic stalls on Bugis Street, the largest street market in the city.

Head to Haji Lane in Kampong Glam to shop quirky local and international designers.

Shop all night at the Mustafa Centre - mustafa.com.sg

Want more? VivoCity has one million sq ft of shopping

heaven. www.vivocity.com.sg

Hit the Formula 1 circuit or Singapore’s spectacular coastline in a Ferrari F430 Spider or Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder with Ultimate Drive - www.ultimatedrive.com

Take the captain’s seat on Flight Experience, a real simulator used by professional pilots - all the details at www.flightexperience.com.sg

For him With its long list of action-packed activities and annual sporting events, Singapore also offers a great guys getaway any time of the year. Grab your mates and get set for some exhilaration!

Feel the rush of skydiving - without a parachute! - at iFly.

See www.iflysingapore.com Jump the bungy at G-Max

www.gmax.com.sg; or swing like Tarzan on the thrilling Forest Adventure - details online at www.forestadventure.com.sg

Or Tee off at the Marina Bay Golf Course, one of the best in

Asia - www.mbgc.com.sg

Prefer more relaxed than rugged? Find inner peace with early morning tai chi at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, see www.sbg.org.sg

Take a taste tour on the Tiger Brewery Experience and discover how this local favourite, as well as Heineken and Guinness beers, are brewed. www.tigerbrewerytour.com.sg

Work up a sweat clubbing or join in karaoke at St James Power Station - details at www.stjamespowerstation.com

Eat, drink and party into the wee hours at the many venues at Boat Quay, Clarke Quay and Robertson Quay.

And get high at the uber-cool and funky 1-Altitude - see www.1-altitude.com

Hip Hotspots After a hard day of activity or indulgence, the action continues at Singapore’s many trendy bars and night spots.

A heady combination of bar and beach getaway is Tanjong Beach Club, regarded as Singapore’s best stretch of sand - tanjongbeachclub.com

Splurge out at Waku Ghin, Aussie celebrity chef Tetsuya Wakuda’s new restaurant at the Marina Bay Sands resort.

It’s his only other eatery in the world outside of Sydney.

Insider tipSingapore gears up for the

annual FORMULA 1 Singtel Singapore Grand Prix in September - and it’s not just about racing, with a program of top entertainment including world class musical acts - full details at www.singaporegp.sg.

And shopaholics should make a note in their calendar for The Great Singapore Sale around May-July - get the lowdown at

greatsingaporesale.com.sg

NEED TO KNOW: • Tipping is not expected in Singapore, whether it be for restaurants, taxis or other services.• Taxis at the airport are plentiful, and will cost about S$25 for the 30 minute journey into the city centre• A one day Singapore Tourist Pass costs S$8 for unlimited public transport.

Brunch to your heart’s content at P.S. Cafe, housed in a Dempsey Hill colonial bungalow - www.pscafe.com

Dine in style at one of the ten celebrity chef restaurants at Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa.

If you have a sweet tooth, check out 2am:dessertbar at Holland Village, and lounge in plush daybeds or sit by the bar to watch your dessert prepared

- www.2amdessertbar.com.

Relax in the tropical setting of Lantern at Fullerton Bay Hotel. At seven storeys high, it’s a spectacular rooftop bar in its own right, providing panoramic views of Marina Bay - www.fullertonbayhotel.com

Try Gordon Ramsay protégé Jason Atherton’s Pollen eatery in the Flower Dome at Gardens

by the Bay - pollen.com.sg

Stay and Play The wide variety of accommodation and activities in Singapore means there’s truly something for everyone.

For trend-setters looking for something unusual, check out boutique hotels such as the Naumi Liora in Chinatown www.naumihotel.com where funk meets fashion; the cool Wanderlust in Little India www.wanderlusthotel.com or The Sultan in Kampong Glam www.thesultan.com.sg - all give a great taste of Singapore’s

diverse neighbourhoods.

Sentosa Island is one big playground, with something for everyone - www.sentosa.com.sg

While the boys find action and adventure at the MegaZip, Sentosa Luge or Wave House, the girls can indulge in the exotic pavilions of Spa Botanica, Asia’s largest outdoor spa - details of fabulous pampering treatments and treats at

www.spabotanica.com

Page 5: Singapore Cheat Sheets - Travel Daily€¦ · Museum at Empress Place is a treasure trove of Asian culture and artefacts. See And when you get hungry follow the Singapore Food Trail,

TD’s Singapore Cheat Sheets - #4

Singapore for Families? Easy!

This is the fourth of five special fact sheets on Singapore produced by Travel Daily in partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board. Collect all five from the TD website at www.traveldaily.com.au/features.

With the current trend in multigenerational family travel, Singapore has universal appeal. From world-class theme parks for the young and young at heart, to free and easy activities grandma and grandpa can join in, there are plenty of ways for your clients to enjoy a family holiday in the Lion City.

Young at heart The huge variety of experiences available in Singapore means there’s something for everyone to enjoy - whether it’s action-packed excitement, serene relaxation, sightseeing, culinary delights or culture.

Whether they’re nine or ninety, everyone will love the Mint (Moment of Imagination and Nostalgia) Museum of Toys, a museum featuring toy collections from more than 40 countries - www.emint.com

Get into Singapore’s green outdoors on a Segway Eco Adventure on Sentosa Island - www.segway-sentosa.com

Interact with feathered friends in shows at the Jurong Bird

Park - www.birdpark.com.sg

Enjoy the blissful lush indoor greenery of the newly-opened Gardens by the Bay.

Wander through the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome of rare plants in this delightfully cool 100-hectare oasis which offers plenty to occupy the kids.

And watch the nightly Garden Rhapsody light up the stunning Supertrees (“vertical gardens”) which also offer amazing sky high dining- see

gardensbythebay.com.sg

At the Singapore Discovery Centre the whole family can have a ball with the amazing interactive exhibits.

Details at www.sdc.com.sg The fascinating Jacob Ballas

Children’s Garden is specially designed for kids to learn about plants www.sbg.org.sg, or meet dark creatures on a Night Safari.

See www.nightsafari.com.sg

Teen tempters There’s action aplenty for kids of all ages in Singapore, with the destination offering theme parks, beaches, activities and of course shopping - check out these options for a holiday that will keep the whole family happy.

As well as great shopping, the kid-friendly VivoCity mall’s rooftop garden provides great views of Sentosa Island and even a wading pool for the young ones to cool off!

Teenagers can blow their minds on the 6D effects of the XD Theatre featuring Canyon Coaster, Ravine Racer and more -

singaporexdexperience.com

Does someone have a special birthday? Give them the party of a lifetime on the Singapore Flyer observation wheel complete with balloon sculpting, a magic show and stunning views.

For something more sedate, the wheel also offers the world’s highest High Tea - details at www.singaporeflyer.com

Learn about the health benefits of aromatic spices like coriander and lemongrass at the Singapore Spice Gardens.

Discover more unique flavours as you stroll the exotic streets of Little India or the traditional medicine vendors in Singapore’s historic Chinatown - for expert guidance see societyoftouristguides.org.sg

Relaxed and easy A Singapore holiday doesn’t have to be action-packed - check out these options for a slower pace.

For a fabulous pampering experience indulge in the exotic pavilions of Spa Botanica, Asia’s largest outdoor spa - details at www.spabotanica.com

Take some time out on the sand, work on your tan or simply reflect beneath a palm tree on Siloso Beach, Palawan Beach or Tanjong Beach on Sentosa

Island - see sentosa.com.sg

Insider tipSingapore is at your fingertips

with the YourSingapore Guide mobile app, which offers clients benefits at many attractions - yoursingapore.com/guide

And there’s no need to worry about roaming charges - Starhub’s Preferred Tourist Card gives unlimited data on the app, plus free IDD voice calls to Aussie landlines, texts and internet access - details at

www.starhub.com/visitsg

Singapore has lots of family-friendly accommodation ranging from five-star resorts to mid-range hotels.

The kids can meet Universal Studios characters and sleep in loft beds at Resorts World Sentosa’s Festive Hotel.

On the other end of the resort, the Beach Villas provide an escape for the whole family.

Their Ocean Suites give you an underwater view of 70 marine

species - www.rwsentosa.com

History buffs and culture vultures will enjoy delving into the past at Changi War Museum changimuseum.com.sg, the Asian Civilisations Museum www.acm.org.sg, and National Museum of Singapore - info at www.nationalmuseum.sg

There are also lots of intriguing temples, mosques and churches

for culture seekers.

Fabulous food Exploring the fusion of Chinese, Malay, Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines in one of Singapore’s cultural precincts is an adventure the whole family will love.

Food choices are never a problem in Singapore.

From cheap hawker-style fare at Maxwell Road Hawker Centre and Makansutra’s Gluttons Bay; to tasty Western dishes available at the many restaurants around Clarke Quay that will please even the most finicky eaters, no-one ever goes

hungry in Singapore.

Dine in lush surrounds at the Halia restaurant, right in the centre of the one-hectare Ginger Garden of the Singapore Botanic Gardens - thehalia.com

Or enjoy Italian cuisine at the historic Alkaff Mansion Ristorante, with panoramic views overlooking the ocean and the serene Telok Blangah

Hill Park - alkaff.com.sg

NEED TO KNOW: • Singapore’s hawker markets and food stalls all display prominent government-backed ratings based on regular inspections of their hygiene standards, so clients can enjoy this unique dining experience without worry.• The tap water in Singapore is safe to drink.

Page 6: Singapore Cheat Sheets - Travel Daily€¦ · Museum at Empress Place is a treasure trove of Asian culture and artefacts. See And when you get hungry follow the Singapore Food Trail,

TD’s Singapore Cheat Sheets - #5

R&R: Relax & Romance in Singapore

This is the fifth of five special fact sheets on Singapore produced by Travel Daily in partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board. Collect all five from the TD website at www.traveldaily.com.au/features.

You know about the shopping, the fantastic food and the dazzling nightlife. But Singapore also has its relaxed side, perfect for those seeking a revitalising or romantic getaway, or for more mature travellers. Suggest Singapore to honeymooners, clients wishing to spark up their romance or wanting to take it slow.

Serene It’s definitely not all hustle and bustle in Singapore, with the Lion City offering many experiences and secluded spots for those who enjoy the simple things in life. Take it as fast or as slow as you like - Singapore has something for all tastes.

Don’t miss the spectacular view of Singapore from the infinity pool atop the iconic Marina Bay Sands resort.

Stroll the safe Singapore streets to capture those essential postcard photographs such as the Merlion fountain at One Fullerton.

Walk to the nearby state-of-the-art Esplanade Theatres on the Bay for a world-class classical performance - details

at www.esplanade.com.sg

At dawn, learn tai chi from the masters at the Singapore Botanic Gardens or go bird-watching at Sungei Buloh Wetlands - www.sbwr.org.sg

See the world’s largest display of orchids at the National Orchid Garden - www.sbg.org.sg

Escape Singapore’s humidity in the cooled conservatories at Gardens by the Bay. The nightly Garden light show at the Supertree Grove is mesmerising

- gardensbythebay.com.sg

Opulent and sensuous, The Scarlet boutique hotel is great for an amorous getaway with aptly-named suites like Passion, Lavish and Splendour.

Even if you’re not staying, romance your significant other at the hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant - a private, turned-down space with daybed coves and Mediterranean cuisine -

www.thescarlethotel.com

Seductive Couples can share Singapore’s many experiences and be enticed by the city’s charm, with many romantic options availableArrive in style by cable car

from Harbourfront Station at the Jewel Box at Mount Faber.

This stunning hilltop destination is home to Black Opal, Moonstone and Sapphire, F&B establishments each offering a distinct dining experience.

Afterwards, unwind completely with a couple’s massage at ESPA at Resorts World Sentosa.

See www.rwsentosa.com

Celebrate a very special occasion with the eight-course European degustation menu at Private Affairs on Boon Tat Street - privateaffairs.com.sg

Unveil the mysterious Secrets of the Red Lantern together on a Chinatown night walk, exploring the city’s other side and its reputation as the ‘Place of Nightless Days’ - see

www.singaporewalks.com

Raffles Hotel was a place of high society in the 1800s.

Soak in the historic atmosphere as you enjoy the “1887”, created for the historic hotel’s 125th anniversary - and a photo with the Raffles doorman is a must.

Emerald Hill, near Orchard Road, has beautiful Peranakan architecture, antique shops and

up-market bars.

Culture club Soak up the colours and flavours of Singapore, where there’s something intriguing around every corner.

The lush green Tanglin Village is a well-kept local secret by its community of entrepreneurs, chefs, artists and designers. While away time at Xin Yun Antique and Tea House.

Historic Fort Canning Park (Bukit Larangan or “Forbidden Hill” in Malay) is a lovely place for a romantic walk as you check

out its ancient artefacts.

Insider tipIf you fancy some R&R away

from the bustling city, Southern Ridges is a hidden gem - a peaceful 10km trail linking some of the city’s green spaces.

For an easy walk, start from Kent Ridge Park and end off at HortPark for lunch - you can stop any time and catch public transport from the main road.

Highlights include the Henderson Waves, Singapore’s

highest pedestrian bridge.

Go island hopping: first overhead in a glass-bottomed cable car to Sentosa Island - and try it at night when the whole city lights up - sentosa.com.sg

Take a pilgrimage by ferry to Kusu Island, a tranquil meditation space with a Taoist temple and a tortoise sanctuary - www.islandcruise.com.sg

Cruise or charter a private launch to secluded Sisters Island and St John’s Island from

Marina South Pier.

Ann Siang Hill and Club Street in Chinatown were once the homeground of traditional Chinese clan associations.

They now host a variety of quirky shops and cafes in elegantly restored shophouses.

At night the area comes alive with eclectic watering holes like B28, Club Street Social and La

Terraza - www.chinatown.sg

Enriching Take a moment to breathe in the peaceful atmosphere of Singapore, and let the city wash over your senses.

Feel rejuvenated through a holistic Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment at one of Eu Yan Sang’s centres - www.ihealth.com.sg

Balance your inner yin and yang with a session at Updog Studio- see updogstudio.com

Visit incense-laden Buddhist temples in Chinatown, one of which claims to hold a sacred

Buddha’s tooth!

Learn to make Singapore dishes with Food Playground, and enjoy your creations in a restored shophouse setting - foodplayground.com.sg

Take a lesson in history at the Malay Heritage Centre - see www.malayheritage.org.sg

The rainforest retreat at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve has easy walking trails amongst wildlife -

check out www.nparks.gov.sg

NEED TO KNOW: •The Singapore Airlines Hop On Bus connects key attractions, and is free for SIA Stopover Holiday visitors - siahopon.com• Duck & Hippo runs The Original Tour which is also a hop-on, hop-off bus for S$18 - ducktours.com.sg• Details of Singapore’s cost-effective sightseeing passes are all available at tours.yoursingapore.com