Despite its small size, there are many things to see, do and experience in Singapore. Even Singaporeans who have lived most of their lives in their home country constantly discover new things about their rich cultural heritage and explore new spaces being evolved as part of the city’s vibrancy.
In fact, Singapore’s rich cultural artefacts, interesting historical monuments, idyllic nature spots and fun tropical spaces make the country an exciting leisure destination, indoors or outdoors.
These are just a few of the exciting attractions that dot the island:
Singapore River Festival
Don’t miss the Singapore River Festival as it comes alive with its exciting line-up of performances that include a dazzling bumboat parade, a romantic dance musical and magnificent aerial performances. This extravagant celebration of water, heritage and entertainment offers free nightly events and activities, all happening on and along the river itself. The wide array of food and beverage establishments available will round up the festive atmosphere as revelers soak in a magical nightlife experience.
Check out the official Singapore River Festival website for more information.
Sentosa
One of the city’s livelier spots is undoubtedly Sentosa, a sun-kissed paradise in the tropics which has more than enough attractions and activities to delight everyone! You can learn about Singapore’s past at the heritage centre, enjoy the lush greenery at the nature park and explore the themed attractions, which are dotted all over this island.
Singapore Flyer
If it’s an unbeatable “rooftop” view of the Singapore skyline that you want, hop on board the Singapore Flyer, our very own observation wheel which stands at a staggering height of 165 metres. As the capsule you’re in ascends, you may even catch sight of our closest neighbours, Malaysia and Indonesia.
Animal Kingdom
Singapore Zoo
Another sunny spot to head down to is the Singapore Zoo. If you’re early, you can catch breakfast with an orang utan, or lend your shoulder to an affectionate python. These are just a few encounters you’ll get at Singapore’s highly acclaimed 28-hectare “open” zoo which houses over 3,200 mammals, birds, reptiles and fishes.
Night Safari
If you’re an animal lover but can’t bear the heat of the midday sun, take a trip to Singapore’s Night Safari to enjoy wildlife under the moonlight. The night zoo is home to 900 over animals of 135 unusual species, and simulates tropical landscapes such as the African savannah, Nepalese river valley, Southeast Asian rainforest, South American pampas and Burmese jungle.
Nature in Singapore
Such devotion to nature is extended across Singapore to its reservoirs, parks, gardens, and nature reserves. Visit the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve a lush primary rainforest which lies just 12km from the city centre. For more respite from the city, take a tree-top walk and enjoy the flora and fauna in MacRitchie Reservoir. If the sea view is what you’re after, head to the Changi Boardwalk, a 1.2km scenic coastal boardwalk with views of the sea and Pulau Ubin, and see heritage trees along the way.
Marina Barrage
Make it a point to visit Singapore’s latest downtown icon, the Marina Barrage – a 350-metre dam built across the Marina Channel to keep out seawater, forming Singapore’s first reservoir in the city. It brings the total number of reservoirs in Singapore to 15.
More than just another reservoir to boost Singapore’s water supply, the steady water level in the Marina basin makes it ideal for boating, windsurfing, kayaking, dragon-boating, etc. The area also makes a perfect backdrop for water-based arts performances, cultural events and sporting competitions.
Gardens by the Bay
Comprising three waterfront gardens in the Marina Bay area, this attraction will open in 2010. Aside from adding to the beauty and impact of the bay area, these gardens are part of Singapore’s journey to becoming ‘A City in a Garden’.
Some of the Gardens’ main features are, believe it or not, SuperTrees - tree-like structures that measure between 9 and 16 storeys high! These vertical gardens will come alive at night with lighting and displays while providing shade and shelter in the day.
Pulau Ubin
Travel by a bumboat from Changi Point to one of Singapore’s quaint offshore islands for an off the beaten track experience. The rustic villages complete with coconut plantations, mangroves and isolated beaches allow a peek into the life of Singaporeans back in the ‘kampung’ days.
Bike rentals are available for those who wish to discover the sights and sounds of the island. Alternatively, get closer to nature by foot or join guided tours that are regularly conducted by volunteers.
Be sure to discover Chek Jawa, a unique coastal line that lies at the eastern tip of Pulau Ubin. This fragile marine habitat is rich with a variety of thriving ecosystems, an environment that is increasingly uncommon in Singapore.
St. John’s Island
Just 15 minutes away from the city centre, this island is home to a large variety of reefs, hard and soft corals. Parts of St. John’s Island are open to the public and visitors can find swimming lagoons, trekking routes, soccer fields and picnic grounds for recreation. Camping facilities and chalets are also available for those who wish to stay overnight on the island.
East Coast Park
Health-conscious nature lovers can work up a sweat at this park by the sea. Its landscaped terrains make East Coast Park one of Singapore’s favourite spots to bike or rollerblade; the equipment is available for rent at kiosks there. If you’d rather take the excitement indoors, there are always tennis complexes, the bowling alley, a golf driving range, the East Coast Sailing Centre and a water sports centre nearby.
Suburban hangouts
Changi Village
At the eastern tip of Singapore, life goes on at a relaxed pace in Changi Village, in stark contrast to the fast pace of the city. All that changes over the weekend when locals and tourists alike make a beeline there, to head for the beach, take walks around the lush green neighbourhood, visit Changi Chapel & Museum, or catch a ferry to Pulau Ubin.
Some go there for local shopping, to stroll on the Changi Boardwalk, or just to grab a bite. Food centres and restaurants abound in the “village”, which is famed for lip-smacking local fare, especially nasi lemak and fresh seafood.
Wessex Estate
This quiet neighbourhood off Portsdown Road will feel like a secret find. The original colonial-style apartments and houses, nestled in tropical greenery, are homes to creative cottage industries, cosy restaurants and chic bistros. Take bus no. 191, hop off and walk – yes, that’s the only way to get there, short of catching a taxi.
The Singapore Tourism Board offers you more on what to see in Singapore.
Images courtesy of Visitsingapore
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