SINGAPORE: THE MOST COLORFUL DESTINATION I HAVE EVER BEEN

Singapore, a year-round colorful destination, pleasantly surprised me in the best way possible! It all began as a gift from one of my closest friends, and it turned out to be the best gift she could have given me.

While Singapore is often seen as a convenient stopover between flights, it offers so much more than meets the eye. During my one-week stay, I was captivated by its futuristic charm and impressed by its vibrant culture. Angel’s tip: If you’re planning a trip, I highly recommend staying for at least 3 days to truly immerse yourself in all that Singapore has to offer.

USEFUL THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING SINGAPORE:

• Singapore is an island(yes!!!) in South-east Asia, off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. (Malaysia)
• Singapore is a global financial center & a multi cultural city/country. Many people from all over the world live there (many from China, India, Malaysia)
• Singapore is expensive but you can find good cheap food. There are many great food markets like Lau Pa Sat in the Hawker center & Newton circle food court.
• The official Language is Malai but more frequent is English.
• Singapore has one of the best public transport systems worldwide. The metro (MRT) is very efficient, not very expensive and air-conditioned. Angel’s tip: You have great signal on your cell phone anytime inside the metro.
• The weather is always warm and there is not cold winter. You can meet mainly 2 seasons – rainy & dry. You can have rain all year long and mainly from September to January. But even that is not centain !
• Don’t forget your umbrella & rain jacket especially during wet season.
• Don’t forget to have Singaporean dollars with you, especially if you visit some local markets!
• The uber is called GRAB. Download it in advance, it is super  easy and it can take you anywhere. Angel’s tip: It even works with restaurants and provide food delivery.
• The Singapore dollar (SGD) is the currency of Singapore. The symbol of the currency is S$.
• Tap water is drinkable .
• Plugs: UK type

MY TIPS FOR YOUR TRIP:

• Search for affordable accommodation close to MRT that it’s their Metro (MRT-Mass Rapid Transit). The public transport system is great and super easy.
• You can use your credit card as a ticket in the Metro and sometimes it is even cheaper than to buy tickets or the Tourist pass. Singapore Tourist Pass allows you to use the unlimited bus and MRT transport. Angel’s tip: Check more about Tourist passes here. 
• Singapore is renowned for its impressive malls where you can find a wide range of products. However, it’s worth noting that prices in these malls can often be on the expensive side. Angel’s tip: If you’re looking for affordable souvenirs and local shopping experiences, I recommend visiting Bugis Street. It’s a bustling marketplace where you can find a variety of inexpensive souvenirs and unique items. On the other hand, if you’re interested in luxury products at discounted prices, IMM is a great option. It is Singapore’s largest outlet mall, housing over 90 outlet stores. Here, you can enjoy discounts of up to 80% throughout the year. It’s an excellent opportunity to find high-end products at more affordable prices.
  Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly souvenirs or discounted luxury items, Singapore offers a range of shopping experiences to suit different preferences and budgets.
• The airport alone is a compelling reason to visit Singapore. Jewel Changi airport, with its abundance of shopping options and the world’s largest indoor waterfall, is truly a marvel. Beyond the impressive waterfall, you’ll discover a plethora of amazing gardens, engaging activities for kids, renowned restaurants and bars, playgrounds, cinemas, and captivating artworks. One of Jewel’s most stunning attractions is the 40m HSBC Rain Vortex, which holds the title of the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Angel’s tip: Located in Terminal 2, you can witness a mesmerizing light and sound show every hour from 7.30pm to 12.30am. It’s an experience not to be missed during your visit in Singapore.
• Respecting local customs is crucial when visiting Singapore, as the country has strict regulations in place. Chewing gum outside, consuming food or drinks on public transport, using drugs, and smoking in non-designated areas can result in fines and penalties. However, it is worth noting that these rules contribute to making Singapore one of the safest countries I have ever visited. By adhering to these regulations, you can fully enjoy your time in Singapore while also contributing to the overall safety and cleanliness of the country.
• For breathtaking views with free admission, make sure to visit the Sky Garden at CapitaSpring. Located in the heart of Singapore’s central business district, this impressive 280m skyscraper boasts intriguing architecture and stunning scenery. On the 51st level, you’ll discover a captivating garden with an astounding collection of 38,000 botanical plants. The garden is open to the public from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM, but it’s always a good idea to check their website for any updates or changes. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the beauty of CapitaSpring’s Sky Garden.
• If you can afford one night at MBS hotel, book it! Only the guests can use the insane swimming pool at the top.
• If you want to enter the impressive casino in MBS, don’t forget to have your passport with you. Angel’s tip: Entrance is free for tourists with the passport.

There are so many things in Singapore that you should absolutely do! Great food, impressive buildings and architecture, beautiful murals and incredible views!

SOME THINGS YOU SHOULD NOT MISS

• Try local food in local markets / Hawker centers: Lau Pa Sat, Maxwell food center & Newton circle food court are some examples.

• One of the most impressive attractions in Singapore is Marina Bay, featuring the iconic Marina Bay Sands (MBS) hotel that resembles a ship nestled within 3 towers. Exploring Marina Bay is a must-do experience, where you can take leisurely walks along the bay, marvel at the breathtaking views, and encounter notable landmarks such as the renowned Merlion lion statue, the ArtScience Museum, and futuristic architectural marvels. Inside the MBS hotel, you’ll find an opulent shopping mall that caters to the affluent, offering a variety of amazing shops, a stunning waterfall, a casino, and world-famous restaurants. Angel’s tip: Don’t miss the chance to witness the spectacular water show called Spectra – A Light & Water Show. This mesmerizing display combines fountains, lasers, and light projections synchronized with music against the backdrop of the city skyline. The show takes place every night at 8pm and 9pm, with additional showtimes on Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm, 9pm, and 10pm (please note that showtimes may vary). Make sure to include a visit to Marina Bay and its captivating attractions on your itinerary for an unforgettable experience in Singapore.

• Gardens by the bay, a sprawling 101-hectare nature park located in the Central Region of Singapore, boasting an incredible array of stunning flowers that can easily occupy your entire day. Within this expansive park, you’ll find various attractions and sections to explore, including the enchanting Cloud Forest, the captivating Flower Dome, the whimsical Floral Fantasy, and the iconic Supertree Observatory, among others. Angel’s tip: Make sure to check online for the timings of the mesmerizing music and light show at Gardens by the Bay. Typically, the show takes place daily at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM. While entry into the garden complex is free, it’s worth noting that admission fees apply to access some must-visit sections.(you can check prices online) To avoid long queues, I recommend purchasing your admission tickets in advance by clicking here. This way, you can make the most of your visit and even spend the afternoon exploring before settling in for the captivating show.
• Sentosa Island, the most famous island in Singapore, is a must-visit destination packed with exciting events and popular attractions. From Universal Studios and the SEA Aquarium to great hotels and sandy beaches like Siloso and Palawan, there is something for everyone. Additionally, Sentosa offers Madame Tussauds museum, an amazing waterpark, and much more to explore. Getting to Sentosa Island is convenient as it is connected to Singapore Island by a bridge, eliminating the need for a ferry. The easiest and quickest way to reach Sentosa is by car or taxi. Another popular option is the Sentosa Express, a train that connects the VIVO City shopping center (accessible by metro) to the island. The ticket for the Sentosa Express costs 4 SGD (US$ 2.90) per journey. Alternatively, you can also reach the island using the Sentosa Bus, which connects the island with the HarbourFront terminal. For a more scenic experience, consider taking the cable car, although it is the most expensive option. The cable car ride offers breathtaking views of the surroundings. Angel’s tip: While visiting Siloso Beach, don’t miss the Wings of Time show, a nightly spectacle featuring colorful lights, lasers, water fountains, and 3D effects.

• The Singapore Zoo is renowned for its “open concept” design, where over 4,200 animals thrive in a lush tropical rainforest environment. It offers a range of exciting activities, such as feeding the animals, attending captivating presentations, and exploring the souvenir shops. One highly recommended experience that I unfortunately didn’t have time for, is the “night safari,” where you can observe nocturnal animals that are more active after dark. Additionally, the River Wonders (River Safari) is worth exploring as it focuses on animals found in rivers, providing a unique perspective compared to traditional zoo exhibits. The boat ride around the zoo offers a beautiful and immersive experience. (The Zoo, the Night Safari and the River safari are 3 distinct attractions, one next to the other).
• Singapore flyer, one of the largest observation wheels in the world with breathtaking views of Marina Bay. Cost to get in is SGD 40.

Angel’s tip: I didn’t have time to do it but a local friend of mine strongly suggested  the duck tour, a ride on an amphibious vehicle to discover the enhanced beauty of iconic landmarks of the country.

COLORFUL & INSTAGRAMMABLE PLACES I LOVED:

Singapore is very instagrammable!  Get reaaaady!!!

• Jewel Waterfall in Terminal 2 of Changi airport, the world’s largest indoor waterfall that stands at a height of 40 meters. Enjoy the light-and-sound show every hour from 7.30pm to 12.30am.
• National Orchid Garden in Botanic gardens: Wonderful nature & flowers that you can spend the whole day!
• Gardens by the bay, as mentioned above, that include many amazing different attractions & sections like Cloud forest, Flower Dome, Floral Fantasy, Supertree Observatory etc
• Little India, a vibrant neighborhood with temples and mosques, street art and brightly painted shophouses where you can experience the rich heritage of India in Singapore. The Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is a super unique Hindu temple. In Little India, you can find as well the former house of Tan Teng Niah, a famous beautiful building that you can admire only from outside.
• Kampong Glam neighborhood is a must and I loved it! You can find Arab restaurants and shops selling Persian carpets, teas, fabrics in conjuntion with cafes, beautiful murals around and vibrant atmosphere especially at night! Take a souvenir or have a drink or lunch in the Haji Lane street and Bussorah Street, 2 vibrant streets in the heart of Singapore!
• Sultan Mosque: a mosque located at Muscat Street and North Bridge Road in the Kampong Glam neighborhood.  During Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting, a popular night market with  food stalls are situated in front of the mosque.

• Street art & temples in Chinatown neighborhood are impressive. You shouldn’t miss the Buddha Tooth Relic temple, the Sri Mariamman temple, the Sago street and amazing murals around in Pagoda/Temple/ Trengganu street – they were my favorite part!
• Universal studios in Sentosa island are so cool!  Try to avoid the weekends and school holidays for less crowds and get an express pass to avoid long queues! Don’t carry big bags with you as some rides don’t allow bags and have water bottle with you to refill it anytime as there are stations. Angel’s tip: Get a ticket in advance  and devote one whole day there, it’s huge!

• The SEA aquarium in Sentosa island, as mentioned earlier! One of the world’s largest aquariums. S.E.A. stands for Southeast Asia, reflecting the focus on marine life from the region. The aquarium is part of Resorts World Sentosa, a popular integrated resort complex. Before planning a visit, it’s a good idea to check for any updates on exhibits, show timings, and ticket prices on the official website or through other reliable sources.
• Orchard library : a public library on Orchard road under the National Library Board of Singapore.
• Fort Canning Park  with the Tree tunnel. Angel’s tip: You may face long queues for a photo.
• 2D Monochrome cafe & Soul cafe. So impressive inside – a cool optical illusion as if you have entered a comic book world!
• Museum of Ice cream. A beautiful museum where you eat lots of ice cream and you learn about its history
• Helix bridge, a pedestrian bridge linking Marina Centre with Marina South in the Marina Bay area inspired by the DNA structure.
• Haw Park villa, a unique theme children-friendly park located in Pasir Panjang Road in Singapore. The park contains over 1,000 statues with scenes from Chinese Literature, folklore, legends, history etc
• ArtScience museum, where art meets science! It consists one of the most famous museums in Singapore with a blend of art, science, design, media, architecture and technology ! General entrance is S$48.

NIGHTLIFE 

Nightlife in Singapore is great! You can enjoy many places either more local and small or fancy and glamorous! Below are some places I recommend but it depends on what you are looking for :

• Celavi in MBS hotel, one of the top places in the country that you need to book some days in advance. You can try on the spot as well but it is not easy. The views are breathtaking!
• Smoke & Mirrors
• Raffles Long Bar. Angel’s tip: don’t miss to try the famous cocktail “Singapore Sling”.
• Zouk club
• Atlas Bar: Located near Bugis street, renowned for its art deco interior and an extensive collection of over 1,000 types of gin. If you appreciate craft cocktails and a sophisticated atmosphere, visit it!
• Clarke Quay that has many bars and restaurants where locals go and consists of a vibrant area that you must visit!
• Southbridge in Boat Quay with great views !
• Haji Lane, one of the most visited hotspots in Singapore for local shopping, cafe, relaxed drinks, food.
• Manhattan Bar: Located in the Regent Singapore,  known for having one of the best cocktail menus in Asia. The bar has a classic, old-world vibe, and the drinks are expertly crafted.
• Lantern Rooftop Bar: Perched atop The Fullerton Bay Hotel, Lantern Rooftop Bar offers stunning views of Marina Bay and the city skyline. It’s a great place to enjoy cocktails in a chic, al fresco setting.
• 28 HongKong Street: A speakeasy-style bar hidden behind an unmarked door, known for its craft cocktails, excellent service, and a laid-back atmosphere.
• The Library: another speakeasy. The Library, is located on Keong Saik Road. Look for the hidden entrance and enjoy the intimate ambiance along with creative cocktails.

Angel’s tip: My favorite spot for a drink was Celavi in MBS hotel. But absolutely magical views you can find in Smoke & Mirrors in the National Gallery Singapore & The Lantern in the Fullerton hotel (Reservations necessary)

FOOD

In Singapore, a vibrant tapestry of cultures converges, offering a culinary adventure rich in diversity. Influenced by the flavors of China, Malaysia, and India, the city-state’s multi-ethnic heritage manifests in an array of enticing cuisines. From the iconic Chilli Crab and aromatic Laksa to the savory delights of fish head curry and the simplicity of chicken rice, each dish boasts its own distinctive taste and character.

For a culinary journey that extends beyond local specialties, Singapore provides a global dining experience.

Recommendations:

• Local food markets/Hawker Centers for local cuisine in affordable prices: Lau Pa Sat, Maxwell food center & Newton circle food court are some examples.
• From the Chinese Cuisine influences, try the Peking Duck. I tried it in MOTT 32 at Marina Bay Sands: A stylish restaurant offering a modern take on Chinese cuisine, including excellent Peking duck . Originating from Beijing, this dish features thin, crispy duck skin meticulously sliced before you by the skilled chef. Served with delicate pancakes, fresh vegetables, and savory sauce, it’s an indulgence not to be missed.
• Tim Ho Wan: A Michelin-starred dim sum restaurant known for its affordable and delicious offerings.
• For Cantonese Cuisine, visit Crystal Jade Palace: Located in Ngee Ann City, it offers exquisite Cantonese dishes in an elegant setting.
• For Indian Cuisine, try the fish head curry in Samy’s Curry: Famous for its South Indian-style fish head curry and other authentic dishes.
• For International and Fine Dining:

-Candlenut: The world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, offering modern interpretations of traditional dishes.

-Odette: Located at the National Gallery Singapore, it’s a three Michelin-starred restaurant offering contemporary French cuisine.

-Braci and LAVO Italian Restaurant And Rooftop Bar: 2 rooftop Italian restaurants and bars with stunning views and a diverse menu.

While dining in Singapore’s upscale restaurants may come with a higher price tag, the city also offers budget-friendly options in its bustling local markets. Places like Lau Pa Sat in the Hawker center, Maxwell Food Center, and Newton Circle Food Court showcase the affordability of delicious local fare. These culinary heavens provide a perfect opportunity to immerse oneself in the authentic flavors of Singapore without breaking the bank. Angel’s tip:  A great bakery I tried is the “Tiong Bahru Bakery” with French pastries and breads infused with unusual ingredients such as arugula, turmeric and squid ink.

COLORFUL BUILDINGS YOU SHOULD ADMIRE

• Haji Lane street in Kampong Glam neighborhood where locals go and you can find cute little shops and restaurants. During the night, it is so lively, as mentioned above!
• Selegie arts center which is actually an Arts gallery on 30 Selegie street which houses the Photographic Society of Singapore.
• Joo Chiat road with the perakanan houses.  The area’s identity is especially shaped by its unique pre-war architecture – colorful shophouses and terrace houses with ornate facades, complex motifs and ceramic tiles.

• The former house of Tan Teng Niah in Little India neighborhood.

• Old Hill Street Police station, a historic building and former police station of the Singapore Police Force.

IDEAL ITINERARY IF YOU HAVE ONLY 2 DAYS:

Day 1

• Start early your day with Marina bay, admire the Merlion statue, visit and the famous hotel MBS, do shopping and go to the skydeck for views.
• Enjoy a diverse range of local dishes at Lau Pa Sat, one of the most famous hawker centers in Singapore.
• Witness the stunning Supertree Grove light show at Gardens by the Bay. Explore the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest first, if time allows it.
• Grab a drink at the rooftop of Marina bay Sands (I loved CELAVI bar) and enjoy the amazing views.

Day 2

• Stroll around Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Glam neighborhoods.
• Indulge in some retail therapy along Orchard Road, Singapore’s famous shopping street or Bugis street for cheap souvenirs.
• Have lunch at Maxwell Food Center to savor local specialties like Hainanese chicken rice.
• Head to Sentosa Island for an afternoon of fun or skip some of the previous things and visit since morning hours. Visit Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, or relax on one of the island’s pristine beaches.
• Don’t miss the Jewel show at Changi airport – go earlier than your boarding!

Angel’s tip: Malaysia and its capital, Kuala Lumpur is only 1 hour flight from Singapore, if you have time visit it! Other options you have from Singapore is Bali in Indonesia, Bangkok in Thailand, Cambodia,  the Philippines and so much more. Singapore is a huge hub and you can combine it easily on the way to or back from your trip!

CHECK MY HIGHLIGHT IN INSTAGRAM FOR MORE

IG: angeliki.a_