Top 10 Things to do in Singapore
Despite its small size, there are many exciting things to do in Singapore, which does not include the usual places of attractions. Read on to find out the top 10 things you have to try in Singapore – from visiting interesting places to the different types of food that you have to taste!
1) Visit the heritage areas
Singapore holds quite a rich history of different cultural groups (Chinese, Malay and Indian mainly) within its small landscape. Back when Singapore was under British rule, these communities were allocated different living areas – Chinatown, Geylang Serai and Serangoon (Little India area) respectively. These areas still hold true to the cultural elements of the different groups, giving you an insight into their traditions and rituals when you walk around these areas.
2) Defy gravity on the G-Max Reverse Bungy
While there may be no high enough points in Singapore to do a bungee jump, there is always the G-Max Reverse Bungy that you ought to try when in Singapore. The G-Max Reverse Bungy launches you 60 meters into the air, hitting a speed of 200km/h and G-Force 5.
3) Ride the World’s Largest Observation Wheel
In London, everyone heads to the popular London Eye. But now in Singapore, there is the Singapore Flyer, which is the biggest observation wheel in the world. Standing at 165 meters, the Singapore Flyer offers you a 360 view of the city’s skyline and its surrounding areas. You can even see as far as Indonesia’s islands of Bintan and Batam and Malaysia’s state of Johor. If you’d like something even more memorable on the Singapore Flyer, you can choose to have a romantic meal with your loved ones on board the capsule.
4) Get close to the animals at the Night Safari
Experience a different type of safari at the Singapore Night Safari, known internationally to be the first night safari in the world. The Singapore Tourism Board has awarded the Singapore Night Safari the “Best Attraction” award 10 times. On this safari trip, you’ll get up close and personal with roaming animals going about their nighttime habits as you ride on a tram that takes you to seven different geographical zones. You can even go on walking trails and get closer to the bigger animals, such as the big cats (lions, jaguars etc.).
5) Head out to the Suburbs
Forget visiting the famed Orchard Road for your shopping needs because the suburbs is where everything happens these days. Large shopping malls have emerged in areas like Tampines and Jurong, which draw massive crowds, especially on weekends. Often the suburb malls offer good discounts and promotions, which you won’t find along Orchard Road. The suburb malls also boosts a wide range of popular restaurants such as Nando’s and NYDC, amongst others.
6) Explore Haji Lane
Take a walk down memory lane at Singapore’s Haji Lane located in the Kampong Glam area. This interesting lane is lined with rows of shop houses that are home to small boutiques and shops selling interesting and unique trinkets and even funky bars and bistros. You never know what “gem” you might find hidden in one of these shops!
7) Party the night away
Singapore has a pretty “happening” clubbing scene where party animals are able to let loose into the wee hours of the morning. Popular clubs in Singapore include Zouk, Avalon, Zirca and Butter Factory amongst others. If you prefer a slightly quieter bar-type setting, you can choose to head down to Ku De Ta at the popular Marina Bay Sands or 1 Altitude in the Raffles Place area.
8) Eat at hawker centers
The true gastronomical experience of Singapore lies in its hawker centers. Often found around suburb and industrial areas, these hawker centers are home to numerous smaller stalls selling a variety of dishes, from the popular Chinese chicken rice to the Malay Nasi Padang (mixed rice). Sometimes you’ll even find hawkers selling Italian and American cuisines at very decent prices!
9) Get messy with Chilli Crabs
When in Singapore, do as the Singaporeans do! And what Singaporeans love doing is eating chilli crabs. Enjoy the country’s signature dish of crabs cooked in thick chilli gravy and feast on them with piping hot buns (called mantau bread). We recommend that you feast on them with your hands as a fork or spoon are not going to get through the hard shells of the crabs! These chilli crabs can be fiery for those who are not used to spices, but you can always request for the spiciness to be reduced. Chilli crabs can be easily found at most seafood restaurants around the island.
10) Feast on the King of Fruits – Durians
Singapore is known for the king of fruits, the durian. As durians are found only in this Asian region of the world, foreigners in Singapore should take the opportunity to try this fruit, which has an acquired taste to it. For some, the smell of the durian will come off as pungent while others may love its smell. Best way to get around it is to pinch your nose and take a bite of the fruit – the taste will be worth it!
If you have kids be sure to check out our guide on Top places to visit in Singapore with Kids!