Singapore
Singapore
Singapore is a fascinating melting pot of East and West. Here the hypermodern buildings of the financial district blend with Chinatown’s classic small houses. As an old trading town, Singapore is the natural place for anyone who wants to shop – the range is enormous. In addition, Singapore offers a cuisine with influences from all corners of Asia that exceeds the highest expectations.Find your trip
Gardens by the Bay are among the world's most spectacular urban developments. The Gardens' inauguration in 2012 marked a decisive step towards refashioning Singapore from "Garden City" to "City in a Garden" -- it's easy to see why while wandering its 100+ hectares. The Gardens’ Supertree Grove consists of 18 tree-like structures, some reaching up to 50m in height. What’s hard to wrap one’s mind around is how closely these “trees” mimic their natural counterparts: overgrown with exotic plants and flowers, they mimic photosynthesis via a complex system of environmental technologies, and collect rainwater that later goes towards irrigation and fountain displays. There is a spectacular Skyway stretching between 2 of the tallest trees, which features a light and sound display at night. Another two unmissable attractions at the Gardens are the two conservatories: the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest.
Singapore's Changi Airport has won multiple awards (voted "Best in the World" for 7 consecutive years), and the jewel in its crown of regalia is the world's tallest indoor waterfall, fittingly called just that: Jewel. The waterfall comes down from the roof, creating a breathtaking vortex which recirculates rain water. The Rain Vortex is surrounded by a multiple-level display of tropical flora, including various species of blooming orchids; the top level features a family-friendly canopy park, and there are dozens of further shopping and entertainment venues around. One doesn't often hear of city residents doing day trips to the airport to simple spend time there, but it certainly is the case with jewel -- you'll see many making the trip to Changi with no luggage whatsoever, with the sole purpose of visiting the Jewel.
The iconic Marina Bay Sands dominates Singapore's cityscape, and is probably the city-state's most recognisable attraction. The imposing structure consists of three towers with a continuous lobby at the bottom (open to visitors), and topped with a spectacular SkyPark that links them all at roof level. The infinity pool is no longer accessible to those who aren't staying at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, but the rooftop bar is, and so is the separate Observation Deck area (access via Tower 3 basement).
The Henderson Waves bridge is the highest pedestrian bride in Singapore -- stranding the Mount Faber Park and Telok Blangah Parks, it makes for what probably is the most exciting segment of the full Southern Ridges hike. Make it as long or short as you like (we recommend entering at HortPark and making your way there through the Treetop Walk). Keep moving west and you'll eventually arrive at a cable car station, from where you can continue on straight to the island of Sentosa.
This riverside quay was once the entrepôt centre of the Singapore harbour. Now a bustling nightlife area, the run-down warehouses - "go downs" - have been turned into nightclubs, restaurants and flea markets. Though fully renovated, historical buildings have been preserved, letting it retain its special character.
The island resort of Sentosa is a marvellous one-day beach escape from the bustling city. It's an artificial island with very real sand and swaying palm trees casting pleasant shadow, as well quite a few recreation options, particularly in the Palawan Beach area. Transport connections to the mainland are ample.
Singapore does not only offer big city life and urban activities, but also spectacular stretches of pristine nature, especially in the north west, at the country's border with Malaysia. The Sungei Buloh Reserve is a great place to spot a variety of different bird species as well as lizards and other exotic animals.
The Singapore Zoo is a so called “open zoo” and a world famous zoological garden with 315 animal species, of which approximately 60 are endangered. You can find all the big cats here: lion, tiger, jaguar, leopard and puma, as well as rare white tigers. If you want to, you can meet orangutans face-to-face. Most of the animals are kept in spacious, landscaped enclosures separated from the visitors by dry or wet moats. Dangerous animals are housed in landscaped glass-fronted enclosures. The park also offers an exciting Night Safari and River Safari, all available as part of discounted entry ticket bundles (along with the Bird Park in Jurong).
Gardens by the Bay are among the world's most spectacular urban developments. The Gardens' inauguration in 2012 marked a decisive step towards refashioning Singapore from "Garden City" to "City in a Garden" -- it's easy to see why while wandering its 100+ hectares. The Gardens’ Supertree Grove consists of 18 tree-like structures, some reaching up to 50m in height. What’s hard to wrap one’s mind around is how closely these “trees” mimic their natural counterparts: overgrown with exotic plants and flowers, they mimic photosynthesis via a complex system of environmental technologies, and collect rainwater that later goes towards irrigation and fountain displays. There is a spectacular Skyway stretching between 2 of the tallest trees, which features a light and sound display at night. Another two unmissable attractions at the Gardens are the two conservatories: the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest.
Singapore's Changi Airport has won multiple awards (voted "Best in the World" for 7 consecutive years), and the jewel in its crown of regalia is the world's tallest indoor waterfall, fittingly called just that: Jewel. The waterfall comes down from the roof, creating a breathtaking vortex which recirculates rain water. The Rain Vortex is surrounded by a multiple-level display of tropical flora, including various species of blooming orchids; the top level features a family-friendly canopy park, and there are dozens of further shopping and entertainment venues around. One doesn't often hear of city residents doing day trips to the airport to simple spend time there, but it certainly is the case with jewel -- you'll see many making the trip to Changi with no luggage whatsoever, with the sole purpose of visiting the Jewel.
Set smack in the middle of the action with the Marina Bay Sands in plain sight, Gluttons Bay is a row of hawker stalls serving all manner of Singaporean delights straight off the sizzling pans and grills to the lucky ones who manage secure a spot in the outdoor dining area that tends to fill up very quickly, especially at rush hour. A must-try to start with is a classic oyster omelette.
The complex's primary attraction is food, and lots of it: apart from the celebrated, Michelin-listed Soya Sauce Chicken Rice Noodle that continuously draws lines, there are dozens of other stalls, including those serving fresh juices and even draft beers.
Squeezed up among the stalls of Amoy Street Food Centre (which in itself is worth a browse around) is its indisputable standout: A Noodle Story, one of Singapore's most revered ramen outlets. Springy noodles are served here with HK-style wonton, crispy potato-wrapped prawn, "hot spring" egg and other flavour-concocting additions.
Little does the uninformed visitor know walking by this unassuming little place that not only does it serves some of the best bak chor mee pork noodles in Singapore, but also has a Michelin star to its name. Prepare to wait (and be duly rewarded), while only parting with a few Singaporean dollars.
This is a major hawker centre in Newton, Singapore. The centre is often promoted as a tourist attraction in itself, and here you can find practically everything when it comes to food: noodles, satay, fried oysters and lobsters.
Set smack in the middle of the action with the Marina Bay Sands in plain sight, Gluttons Bay is a row of hawker stalls serving all manner of Singaporean delights straight off the sizzling pans and grills to the lucky ones who manage secure a spot in the outdoor dining area that tends to fill up very quickly, especially at rush hour. A must-try to start with is a classic oyster omelette.
The complex's primary attraction is food, and lots of it: apart from the celebrated, Michelin-listed Soya Sauce Chicken Rice Noodle that continuously draws lines, there are dozens of other stalls, including those serving fresh juices and even draft beers.
Eat, stroll and be impressed by this monumental indoor complex full of shopping arcades, cinemas, restaurants, conference centres and works of art - including a gigantic fountain. Moreover, it is a good place to cool down when the tropical heat is too oppressive outside.
Orchard Road is the main shopping street in Singapore. There are department stores and shopping centres at an incomparable range which beats most. Anyone who wants, could easily add a few days to their trip just to walk up and down Orchard Road in search for bargains.
At Clarke Quay, there are a number of newly renovated harbour warehouses accommodating some 150 shops. They sell antiques, clothes, souvenirs and other things, there is also a flea market on Sundays. Immediately adjacent is Liang Court, where there are a number of Japanese designer shops. Riverside Point is an exclusive shopping centre in the area.
The Centrepoint is the largest and most popular shopping centre in Singapore. It houses boutiques specialising in, among other things, music, clothing, optics, electronics, furniture, and books - everything anyone might need. There are also many restaurants and fast-food outlets.
The Heeren is primarily known for housing the upmarket Robinsons department store. The assortment of high-class items is ample in both the clothing and beauty departments, and several dining options are available as well.
It takes more than one day to properly get around this massive complex. The main attraction is Takashimaya, the large Japanese chain store. Apart from that, you'll find more than 100 specialised shops for sports, stationery, electronics, jewels and designer clothes. Brands like Boss, Zara and Mango are found here, as well as south-east Asia’s largest bookstore, Konokuniya.
This is Singapore’s first shopping mall with many shops, built in 1974 and a favourite with the locals. A one-stop-shop for lifestyle items with brands like Carrefour, John Little, Marks & Spencer and Best Denki.
Chinatown is located just next to the financial district's skyscrapers. It is colorful, crowded and with typical aromas of the Chinese district (spices, herbs, medicines, fruit). In Tanjong Pagar one will find traditional tea shops, masks and other artwork. In the narrow Smith Street, Trengganu Street, Temple Street and Pagoda Street, it's easy to find all kinds of bargains. Do not forget Sago Street with its China stores. Peoples Park Complex shopping centre is a must, especially for the crowd. Do not miss OG People's Park, which has become popular with its fashion boutiques, jewellery and cosmetics.
Eat, stroll and be impressed by this monumental indoor complex full of shopping arcades, cinemas, restaurants, conference centres and works of art - including a gigantic fountain. Moreover, it is a good place to cool down when the tropical heat is too oppressive outside.
Orchard Road is the main shopping street in Singapore. There are department stores and shopping centres at an incomparable range which beats most. Anyone who wants, could easily add a few days to their trip just to walk up and down Orchard Road in search for bargains.
Airport
Like nearly everything else in the city, the Singapore Changi Airport is a miracle of efficiency. All services are provided locally and it is recognised as one of the best airports in the world. Both its terminals are linked by a skytrain which operates both at the transit and public areas and Terminal 3. Obviously, the shopping is high class here as well. Transportation to and from the city is excellent as the end station of one of the routes on the MRT tube is at the airport. The tube is also the cheapest and fastest way to the city. A taxi to the city takes around 30 minutes. Budget transport to the city and other parts of the island can also be by bus or by train. Terminals are located at the basement of airport terminals 1 and 2. Prepare the exact fare for buses as no change will be given. If you choose to go by train, you would have to switch trains at EW4 - Tanah Merah MRT Station to get downtown. A Ground Transport Centre (GTC) is available at the Arrival Hall of both Terminals. For more details on time tables and fares, pick up a copy of the MRT brochure at the Changi Airport MRT Station.
Passport / Visa
Citizens of the overwhelming majority of world countries do not require a visa for tourism stays of 30 to 90 days. Nationals of some countries do require a visa, which can often be easily obtained online and received in printable format. In orde to be granted entry into Singapore, all visitors must produce a passport valid for 6 months from the date of departure, proof of sufficient funds for the duration of their stay, a return or onward ticket, visa for the following destination (if applicable), and a yellow fever vaccination certificate (please consult the up-to-date list of countries whose national require vaccination at your planned travel dates).
Best Time to Visit
Singapore meets visitors with warm temperatures and nice weather nearly all year round, but the likelihood of rain is likewise present at all times. Be aware that indoor temperatures in malls and the subway are often significantly lower than outdoors, so those especially sensitive to such changes might want to carry a light jacket or sweatshirt. November through June are most popular with visitors, and with Chinese New Year also falling on that period, it might be reasonable to arrange for accommodation well in advance. Various festivals are held throughout the year.
Public Transport
The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) tube with its driver-free trains is the artery of Singapore’s local transport. The network comprises three main lines which link up the city. The train runs from early in the morning until midnight and it is clean, fast and very safe. Tickets and different types of reduced rate tickets can be bought at all stations. Singapore also has an extensive network of buses that cover local transport in areas to which MRT does not go. Buses are cheap and proportionately comfortable. There are buses both with and without air conditioning.
Taxi
Flexible and easy – there are a great many taxis in Singapore which all use taximeters. Taxis are cheap even if there is a surcharge at night time and for driving through certain areas during rush-hour traffic. There are a few large taxi companies of which Comfort is the largest. City Cab +65 6552 2222 Comfort +65 6552 1111 SMRT +65 6555 8888 Transcab +65 6555 3333 Premier Taxis +65 6363 6888 SMART +65 6485 7777
Post Office
Singapore Post has 1,300 offices spread across the island. These offer all postal services and telecommunications. General opening hours are Monday to Friday 8.30–17.00 and Saturdays 8.30-13.00. Singapore Post (main office):
Pharmacy
There are pharmacies in most supermarkets, department stores, hotels and shopping centres and they are usually open from 9.00-18.00. Many hotels have their own 24-hour doctors, while other doctors are listed under Medical Practitioners in the Yellow Pages.
Airport
Like nearly everything else in the city, the Singapore Changi Airport is a miracle of efficiency. All services are provided locally and it is recognised as one of the best airports in the world. Both its terminals are linked by a skytrain which operates both at the transit and public areas and Terminal 3. Obviously, the shopping is high class here as well. Transportation to and from the city is excellent as the end station of one of the routes on the MRT tube is at the airport. The tube is also the cheapest and fastest way to the city. A taxi to the city takes around 30 minutes. Budget transport to the city and other parts of the island can also be by bus or by train. Terminals are located at the basement of airport terminals 1 and 2. Prepare the exact fare for buses as no change will be given. If you choose to go by train, you would have to switch trains at EW4 - Tanah Merah MRT Station to get downtown. A Ground Transport Centre (GTC) is available at the Arrival Hall of both Terminals. For more details on time tables and fares, pick up a copy of the MRT brochure at the Changi Airport MRT Station.
Passport / Visa
Citizens of the overwhelming majority of world countries do not require a visa for tourism stays of 30 to 90 days. Nationals of some countries do require a visa, which can often be easily obtained online and received in printable format. In orde to be granted entry into Singapore, all visitors must produce a passport valid for 6 months from the date of departure, proof of sufficient funds for the duration of their stay, a return or onward ticket, visa for the following destination (if applicable), and a yellow fever vaccination certificate (please consult the up-to-date list of countries whose national require vaccination at your planned travel dates).
