Singapore Travel Guide
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Top Attractions
Cheap Flying Tips
Where to Stay
Things to Do
Your Guide to Singapore
The nickname for Singapore is that of the “Lion City,” which does a perfect job of describing the type of trip you can expect within its boundaries. The jewel of the South China Sea, it is a destination for movie stars, high stakes gamblers, world leaders, and families looking for somewhere that has everything.
Singapore is a year-round tourism destination that offers nearly every luxury you could want within a vacation. The small nation has embraced its natural beauty and combined it with some of the most fantastic engineering marvels of our time.
Home to one of the unique gardens in the world, a glittering casino like no other, and dozens of other amazing sights, the city-state can be almost overwhelming with the breadth of its contents.
Top Attractions in Singapore
There is an endless stream of large and exciting attractions within the country. Only in Singapore can you experience the Marina Bay Sands splendor or take the family for a day of exploration within the Universal Studios Singapore.
The Gardens At The Bay, with its Supertree and Cloud Forest, is an essential visit for anyone finding their way through the country.
The centerpiece of Singapore’s adult playground, the Marina Bay Sands, are three colossal towers that hold the breathtaking Skypark, offering 360-degree views of the city.
Taking up roughly one-third of the park is a colossal infinity pool, letting you feel as if you are swimming in clouds. Enjoy relaxing by the pool or check out the ArtScience Museum, offering unique and fun exhibits that change regularly.
Surrounded by stunning flower groves, the resort is filled with luxury shopping and resort amenities. With a functional canal and Sampan boat ride services running through the center, the Shoppes boasts over 170 different stores. Brands like Gucci, Chanel, Cartier, and many more line the walls. Along with several celebrity chef restaurants, the Mall is a shopper’s dream.
For those staying in Club Rooms and Suites, there is Club 55. Located 55 floors up, you can dine in the heavens while looking over the sprawling greenery and glittering bay.
With complimentary tea in the afternoon and dinner on small plates at night, it is a great place to either work from in the sun or unwind in the evening. If relaxing is more your speed, there are the acclaimed Banyan Tree Spa and Fitness Cubs.
About an hour away from Changi Airport, Universal Studios is a family destination. Whether you get a pass for one day or more, there will always be something to do. The park possesses everything from numerous thrill coasters to child-friendly, leisurely rides. There is entertainment for the whole family.
Seven different zones make up the massive park, each with its cornerstone attraction.
- Sci-fi City: Battlestar Galactica Dual Coaster and Transformers Ride Simulator
- Ancient Egypt: The Mummy Returns Indoor Coaster
- The Lost World (Jurrasic Park): Water Rapids Ride, Glider Coaster, and Wall Climbing
- Far Far Away: Enchanted Airways Family Coaster, Puss in Boots Children’s Coaster
- Madagascar: Boat Adventure and Merry Go Round
- New York: Sesame Street Indoor Ride
- Hollywood: Character Meets and Parade
The park offers VIP experiences, guided tours of the park, and priority access to many of the most popular rides. If you want something special, you could even have breakfast with the characters. While you eat, you will be joined by Seasame street characters like Cookie monster, and you may even be able to see a minion or twelve. With close access to many luxury hotels, Universal is a prime attraction to visit.
Claiming to be a city within a garden, the Gardens At The Bay are like stepping into another, alternate world of greenery and life. As engineering meets botany, there are over a dozen attractions within the area, making it a wonderful day or evening trip.
The Supertree Grove is an impressive feat of art and architecture. The grove comprises several artificial canopies ranging from 75-160ft tall (25-50 meters).
The trees offer shaded areas for walking along the ground or atop winding observatory paths between the massive structures. At night the grove comes alive even further with dazzling lights. The entire forest is free to enter, with the other Gardens requiring some entry fee.
Made up of an ever-changing display of vibrant colors, the Flower Dome is a breathtaking massive greenhouse filled with flowers and plants. If you feel adventurous or want to cool off in the mist, the Cloud Forest Observatory is like entering another world. Simulating high mountains with cascading waterfalls and a bevy of greenery, it is truly a mystical place.
The Experience Flying into Singapore Airports
Making your way into or out of Singapore can be nearly as exciting as any of the attractions or sights you will visit within the country. The primary airport for those traveling commercially will provide the Illustrious Changi Airport. Eight-time winner of the “Best Airport In The World” this place is on a different level than even the most luxurious and beautiful airports.
As you travel amongst the Arrival’s terminal, you will notice a wonderful garden atrium with a bevy of flowers and palm trees reaching 70ft(20m) into the air. When departing, you may want to go early and set aside a day for the airport itself.
For families and children, there is a park with a net bridge and a large indoor hedge maze. As for sights, there is the Rain Vortex, the world’s largest indoor waterfall. Within the various terminals, there are 170+ restaurants and dining options alongside over 250 shops and boutiques.
Top 3 Tips to Fly Cheap to Singapore
Traveling to New York City alone can cost a small fortune, and the best way to limit cost would be to buy your tickets cheap. Here are a few simple tips to ensure you don’t ever spend before you’ve even landed.
1. Book your travel for the Summer
Try to book your travel for the Summer months from June-Sept. As Singapore is a year-round destination, there is very little of an off-season. Due to poor weather and hot temperatures, the cheapest flights find their way into the year’s rainy time.
2. Booking your flights within two weeks
While it may be risky, booking your flights within two weeks of your departure date can save you a lot of money. Airlines need to fill seats and offer discounted prices compared to those provided months prior. Consider flying on one of the budget airlines. If you are flying out of most Asian countries, then consider booking on Air Asia. For those departing from the US, both Japan Airlines and ANA fly out of Los Angles with direct Changi flights.
3. Pack light
Pack light if you intend to make the most of your time when arriving or disembarking. Even if you check your luggage, many attractions do not allow rolling or large carry-ons to enter. If you have a wheeled carry-on and wish to explore the airport to its fullest, you will have to pay for storage.
Popular Areas in The City to Stay
For the enterprising traveler, there are three districts that you will want to check out for places to stay. Orchard Road is a luxurious and busy area with several hundred boutiques and pubs. Marina Bay is home to many of the landmarks that Singapore is known for.
If you seek something a bit quieter or are interested in immersing yourself in the city’s past, the Colonial District is the most historical and well-preserved area.
Orchard Road
If your interests lay in quick access to shopping, bars, or boutiques, then Orchard Road is the perfect place. With upscale and luxury stores lining the street corners, the area is very easy to walk around. With a bit of an explorers attitude, you will find several small bars and pubs that dot the area.
- For a truly five-star experience, there is the Four Seasons Hotel, which takes up a central position in the road. With easy access to everything and high-quality amenities, it is one of the highest-rated hotels in the entire nation.
- If you want a more cozy hotel with a lower price tag than others on Orchard Road, there is Loyd’s Inn. Here they have everything from tiny two bedrooms to luxurious suites. Bed and breakfast offer a break from the hustle and bustle of the busy road outside.
Marina Bay
The gem within the heart of Singapore, Marina Bay, is where all of the most well-known attractions and hotels are located. The area is a tourist’s dream. Being central to most of the urban area, you can take transit or walk anywhere with ease. Marina Bay is home to the famous Marina Bay Sands and the Supertree Grove.
- The Marina Bay Sands is the centerpiece hotel within the area. An experience unto itself, the resort is the premier hotel within Singapore and is worth staying in, even if it is to see the pool and view from the ship-inspired unique rooftop pool.
- Closer to normal hotel prices is the Pan Pacific Hotel. While it is not located as close to entertainment as others, it is still within walking distance of many attractions. The hotel does not compromise on luxury despite having a lower price point. The hotel has a unique pool, spa, children’s play area, and boutique shops within.
Colonial District
Like most of the other districts, the Colonial District contains much of the historical buildings that have been significant in Singapore. Brimming with culture, arts, and museums, the colonial is a great place to stay if you want a break from the more popular destinations.
North of the Quay, several pubic transport stops can allow you to make your way quickly to any other areas.
- One of the lowest priced hotels in the city center, the Villiage Hotel Bugis is the perfect place for someone who wants to go out and explore the cultural hub around them.
- Operating for over 150 years, the Raffles Hotel is the most luxurious within the area. With high-quality suites and exemplary service, the Raffles has earned its place as the nation’s longest-running and most historical hotel.
Coolest Airbnb Experiences in Singapore
Singapore has no shortage of experiences of any kind. But Airbnb makes it easy to book a local excursion with a local host, ready to show you the city from their POV. Here are some of our favorite Airbnb experiences in Singapore.
A houseboat in Sentosa offers a unique place to rest your head in between exploring the city. Laying out on the deck and watching the marina bustle or enjoying the cozy interior makes this the perfect spot for couples
Not far from the Quay, this two-story loft allows you to experience a little slice of the high life. With a community pool, stunning views, and a unique style, it is a fun two bed.
A hostel featuring snug capsules, this location is great for the solo traveler, as you will be sharing everything from the bathroom to the sleeping space with several others.
Offering low priced accommodations and everything you will need to clean up and rest, it is a great jumping-off point to explore the city.
Top Things to Do in Singapore
Whether you are looking for a short day trip or a once in a lifetime experience, there are several activities outside of the big tourist attractions.
- For a fast-paced and exhilarating day, you can try your luck at the Casino at the base of the Marina Bay Sands. With 15,000sq meters of floor space spread out amongst four floors, it is the premier place to find live entertainment in addition to the extensive gambling area.
- If you are looking to shop and entertain the little ones, the Marina Square Mall has several kid’s play parks within its walls. Children can climb and explore in the Kiztopia or interact with a small theme park at Pororo Park. The Mall includes well over 200 specialty shops and several places to sit down and dine between stores.
- The Singapore Zoo fuses nature and wildlife into a beautiful open concept conservation-focused location with a rainforest themed focus. They have a number of rare animals such as white lions and rhinos that cannot be seen in many places and stands up to the massive zoos like San Diego or Central Park.
Final Thoughts
Singapore is a place no other on the planet. A playground of a city-state, there is something entertaining for nearly any traveler.
Contending with juggernauts like Vegas and Monaco, the country has managed to pull ahead in terms of both cleanliness and the sheer volume of things to do.
If you have not visited, it is definitely worth the trip, and if you have been before, you are guaranteed to find something new each time.
