Singapore Hotels

But it’s not just about the shopping. No, really. Stop laughing. Singapore’s history and culture will keep you busy, too. War buffs should hit the Battle Box, the underground command centre from the Battle of Singapore in WWII. Temple aficionados (that’s a thing, right?) should check out the Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple, a colourful and soulful place of worship dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy. For a culture-hit with a bit more pizzazz, the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay constantly hosts a bevy of plays, musicals and concerts. And if that doesn’t float your boat… well, there’s always the pretty flowers at the National Orchid Garden.

And foodies? Don’t fret. From Michelin-starred dining to thriving, street-food strips like the Bugis Food Village, there’s enough variety – on every budget – to turn any Skinny Minnie into a Chunky Monkey. Just don’t forget to down a Singapore Sling (or three) while you’re at it.

Singapore's Top 10

For such a miniscule dot on the map, Singapore has loads on offer. Including…

Singapore Local

The heart of the city and its hustle and bustle. Manhattan, eat your heart out! Absolute must-sees include the main street and luxe shopping and dining destination, Orchard Road. Fatten yourself up by demolishing a delicious meal and then rack up a shopping bill that’ll cause post-holiday trauma.

Marina Bay’s progressive flair is another must, featuring the iconic Helix Bridge that makes science look plain pretty (especially at night). Also, notorious tourist hotspot, Clarke Quay is the place to bag a souvenir for those annoying loved ones back home, then jump on a big ol’ boat for a nice harbour cruise.

Chinatown

A slither of this area officially belongs to the CBD, but Chinatown definitely needs its own mention. A colourful, tourist-friendly neighbourhood where you’ll not only find traditional wet-markets and fab eats but also a bargain or 10 to boot. Snap the Sri Mariamman Temple (a structure begging to be photographed) and ingest some education at the Chinatown Heritage Centre. The oldest Hokkien structure in the whole of Singapore, the Thian Hock Kheng Temple will make you feel all gooey and spiritual inside.

Little India

You’ll have no issues finding Little India… just follow your nose! An exotic combination of spices and incense fills the air and instantly transports you to the streets of Delhi. Expect bargain markets selling fine silks and other handicrafts at prices that’ll make you spit out your curry. The Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is a necessary stop, as is the Mustafa Centre, one of Singapore’s biggest discount department stores with storey after storey of bargains. If you’re after cheap electronics, Sim Lim Square is the stuff you dream about, but definitely won’t break the bank.

Kampong Glam

Also known as the Arab Quarter and Muslim District, it’s the friendly locals who make this place. Sure, they want you to give them as much of your money as possible in the Arabia-inspired bazaars and markets, but it’s hard not to get caught up in the sense of fun and their welcoming nature. It’s a great sales pitch!

Once you’ve worked up an appetite shopping, the masses of restaurants, cafes and street-food vendors on Arab Street won’t let you go hungry. For reflection amidst the hustle and bustle, try the Sultan Mosque.

Sentosa

It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but frankly you’d be a crazy to skip out on Sentosa. Jump on the Mount Faber Cable Car from the CBD and be transported to this island resort in just 10 minutes. Animal parks, including the ever-popular Underwater World, golf courses, swimming pools, theme parks, shopping and more – literally something for everyone. But if it doesn’t appeal, then you can always look down on the world in more ways than one from the top of the Carlsberg Sky Tower, Asia’s tallest observation tower.

Singapore Eat & Drink

From fine dining to street vendors peddling food that will keep you coming back for more (and more), Singapore has it all. The drinking holes ain’t too shabby, either.

Singapore Events

Chinese New Year in Singapore is a right party, particular in Chinatown. People flock to cheer like crazies and witness the spectacular celebrations, including an array of parades, firework displays and other cool stuff. The dates vary depending on the Chinese calendar, but tend to be around the late-January to mid-February mark.

The Huayi Festival (aka Chinese Festival of Arts) comes after the New Year, a series of eye-opening performances and events celebrating the Chinese culture. Check out what’s on offer at the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay and then feel all superior – and ever so slightly inscrutable – with your new Eastern cultural boost.

March welcomes music lovers to the annual Mosaic Music Festival at Esplanade Music Hall. It spans 10 days and showcases both local and international acts from a massive variety of genres. We’re talking everything from pop to dubstep to folk. Cool, young hipsters and dorks (aka regular peeps) are welcome.

The World Gourmet Summit is an annual food orgy where local and international gastronomy stars get down and dirty all over Singapore during mid-April to early May. Expect amazing food and wine, master-classes and workshops and all-round food sex.

The Great Singapore Sale (end of May to end of July) will see you grabbing bargains you never thought possible and getting a tad manic. This annual summer event also includes late night opening hours as well as shopping challenges and competitions (those crazy Singaporeans and their shopping!). Orchard Road is the place to be for this one.

When To Go

Because it’s so close to the equator, Singapore enjoys hot weather all year round, but also suffers from evil humidity. The humidity is unavoidable, but you can bypass its peak intensity and heavy rainfall if you visit during February to May or October to early November.

• Average maximum temperature: 31°C
• Average minimum: 26°C
• Humidity average: 84% (yuck!)

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What To Miss

There are a bunch of kooky laws in Singapore. Avoid being thrown in the slammer and paying hefty fines by leaving the smokes, chewing gum and porn at home, not littering the pristine streets and never, ever spitting or jaywalking. Don’t trawl the streets like a drunken fool, either. Weird and a little annoying, but necessary in this town.

While Singapore is pretty safe, you should avoid unlicensed retailers and other sketchy randoms who look for naïve tourists to swindle. If anyone stops you in the street to tell you about their ‘amazing wares’, keep on movin’. Also, hold on to your belongings and never leave them unattended. Despite the deterrents, petty crimes such as pick-pocketing and bag snatching still happen.

Geylang and Orchard Towers are home to many, er, ‘ladies of the night’ and some dangerous peeps. It would be best to avoid these parts at night. Unless, of course, it’s your thing… *wink wink*

Getting Around

One of Singapore’s main transportation systems, SMRT, hosts an extensive bus and rail network as well as a plethora of taxis zooming around the streets. Rest assured you’ll have no issues getting from A to B or find yourself crying in a heap because you’re lost.

Train and bus fare prices vary on the length of the trip, but budget-friendly tourist passes and smartcards are available.

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