Singapore: Everything You Must See
Singapore is a wonderful experience for anyone who hasn’t been there before. The locals are friendly and ready to embrace travelers, and there are so many cultural differences to explore while you’re there. The area is filled with history, museums and breath-taking gardens (yes, rural gardens!). The city by night is something you’ll never forget, and if you’re brave enough, the local cuisine is mouth wateringly delicious. Here are some of the sights you shouldn’t miss out on.
Gardens by the Bay
The idea behind Gardens by the Bay is for Singapore to be a city within a garden. The concept is certainly achieved and it’s not something you want to miss out on. During the day, the garden is beautiful and often cascaded in sunlight, but during the night the garden really comes to life. The whole place is covered in lights and you’ll have a terrific time exploring the flower dome and cloud forest. However, it’s best to visit the Gardens by the Bay on a week day, as it can get overcrowded during the weekends, with visitors coming and far wide to see the spectacular sight. You may also want to wrap up warm while walking through the flower dome and cloud forest as temperatures are kept very cool.
Singapore Zoo
Singapore zoo is one for all the family, especially if you’re travelling with younger children. The zoo is set up in a rainforest environment which makes exploring extra exciting. Nearly three thousand animals call the zoo home, so there’s plenty to see and do while you’re there. Some of the activities you can take advantage of are, the night time safari where families get to see a variety of different species and their night time habits. It’s ideal for the nocturnal animals who are lively during the evenings. Families can also take part in an Amazon River quest that’s fun for everyone. Just try not to get too wet!
Singapore Flyer
The Singapore flyer offers a fantastic high view that never fails to impress. The height stands at 165 meters, so it isn’t for the faint of heart. This view is the reason why so many people have fallen in love with Singapore. Many have extended their stays with Singapore PR application. You can view Lion City, the surrounding islands of Indonesia and even parts of Malaysia. If you want a really special treat, you can book a VIP capsule and have a four-course dinner in the sky as you watch the wonderful views go by.
Supertree Grove
If you’re looking for somewhere to spend a relaxing afternoon, visiting Supertree Grove is your best choice. Walk through the magnificent garden hand in hand with your partner and be thrilled by the giant man-made trees the grove has to offer. When Singapore do gardens, they really do gardens. The trees look like they belong in another world. Their growth is so precise and it almost feels as if you’re walking on another planet. It doesn’t take up much time to visit this sight, but it certainly isn’t one to be missed.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
Just the look of the temple’s exterior is enough to stay in your memory for a lifetime, but the temple is so valuable to locals that they offer travelers free tours in English. The tour guides are volunteers from the temple and the tour can last up to ninety minutes long. The temple is dedicated to Maitreya Buddha who is known as ‘the compassionate one’. The Buddha used to teach on wisdom and compassion, and helped his followers to find true happiness. The temple has a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere, so you may find yourself leaving with clarity of mind and a new-found appreciation for life.
The Changi Museum
The Changi Museum is an inspirational place to visit. The museum is dedicated to the people of Singapore who suffered during the Japanese occupation of World War II. It is a real opener and you may come away having been thought provoked. The museum depicts the stories of prisoners who were able to find hope in the darkest of hours. Many visitors walk through the museum feeling tearful after hearing about what the people of Singapore went through at that time. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with Singapore and its people and understand their culture and heritage. If you’re interested in the history of the country, The Changi Museum should be top of your list.
Kranji War Memorial
Following on from The Changi Museum, the Kranji War Memorial is another historical sight you should see while in Singapore. Just 22 kilometers north of Singapore, it’s easy to just jump in a taxi and find your way there. This isn’t a guided tour, so you’re able to take your time and spend as much or as little time as you want to there. It’s only when you visit a sight like this that you realize how many lives were lost. The memorial is hauntingly beautiful, but leaves you with a sense of sadness and respect. Like so many other memorials throughout the world, when standing there, you are reminded of how much sacrifice it took to get to peace.
Orchard Road
You can’t go to a different country without doing a bit of shopping while you’re there. Orchard Road is 2.2 kilometers long and is full to the brim of well-known brand name shops and eateries. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it at Orchard Road. It doesn’t matter what your budget is either because there’s a shop to cater for everyone. Whether you want a designer handbag or a few cheap souvenirs to take home with you, you won’t leave disappointed. However, don’t just drop onto to Orchard Road without planning it. It can take a few hours to get through all the shops, so it’s best to set some time aside first.
Chinatown
Chinatown is a great place to get a sneak peak at Singapore’s Chinese culture and history. As soon as you reach the area you’ll be able to recognize the Chinese characteristics. If you’re missing your Chinese take-aways from home, Chinatown is where you’ll get some authentic and delicious Chinese food. You can also pick up some wonderful nick-nacks to take home with you. Chinatown is full of small, antique stores where you’ll find an array of hidden gems if you’re willing to look hard enough.
National Museum of Singapore
When you want to learn about Singapore’s culture, the National Museum of Singapore is where to go. With history dating back to 1887, you’ll have the benefit of seeing important collections of artefacts, thrilling exhibitions and even film screenings for younger audiences who may want to take part. Although the museum is full of history, it’s by no means behind on the times. You’ll find interactive ways of learning and multi-perspective presenting techniques. Even the people who insist museums are boring will enjoy a day out at the National Museum of Singapore.
Singapore Cable Cars
If heights are your thing, the Singapore Cable Cars could give you the thrill you’re looking for. They connect between Faber Peak Singapore and Sentosa Island. You’ll get to enjoy a 360-degree view of the Sentosa Harbor until the cars take you high above the forest, over the harbor and through jungle, sea and sand. It’s ideal for anyone who can’t walk for too long because you get to see everything from the comfort of your own cabin, and with one hundred cabins available, you won’t likely be stuck in a queue for long.
The Helix Bridge
The Helix Bridge in Singapore is your only chance to see a curved bridge. It’s the first curved bridge to be made in the world, and it’s quickly becoming one of Singapore’s top sights. If you wait until the night, you’ll be able to see the bridge lit up and make your way across it from Marina Bay to Marina Center. It’s the perfect opportunity to take those holiday snaps to show all the family when you return. The architecture of the bridge is inspiring so it’s certainly something you’ll want a good picture of.
Singapore River
If you’re looking for a romantic stroll after an evening meal, the Singapore River is a delightful walk during the night. The buildings will be lit up and the fresh air is welcomed after spending time in crowds. If you want to get a better view of the city, you can organize a boat ride across the River where you can relax, sip on a glass of champagne and take in the sights. It’s a great way to look at some of the architecture and perhaps spy some sights you haven’t yet visited. Be sure to take a cover up with you on chilly evenings.
Singapore is one of those places that stays with you forever, so be sure to squeeze as much as you can in during your time there. And, of course, have fun!
