By Brazen Edwards

Singapore’s name is derived from ‘Singa Pura’ (which means “Lion City”) and has much to be proud of. It’s a city filled with stunning attractions, extraordinary culinary delights, and exciting nightlife. 

Located just off the southern tip of Malaysia, this vibrant city-state boasts a beautiful blend of many cultures, all with its own unique twist. My ultimate Singapore travel guide has travel tips to help you plan your adventure, whether you’re a lover of nature, an explorer of art and culture or after the taste of authentic street food. 

Art, Culture and Culinary Delights Await

If you’re interested in learning about the history of Singapore, the National Museum of Singapore has fantastic exhibitions and artefacts. The Singapore Art Museum (SAM) is a cutting-edge art museum comprising a worldwide perspective on contemporary art through research-led and evolving curatorial practice. 

Another notable museum to explore if you’re MAD for art is the Museum of Art & Design. They also have an art residency program where you can gain first-hand exposure to the creative process of resident artists and designers working on site.  

Haji Lane is the original hipster hideout in the city. It’s a funky lane lined with colourful street art, interesting boutiques and studios occupied by independent artisans that you can’t find anywhere else in Singapore. Home to a spree of charming cafes and watering holes, Haji Lane comes to life in the evenings with people heading down to grab some street food and a drink, or two, for a chilled night out with friends.

Orchard Road is a luxurious shopping and entertainment avenue in the heart of Singapore. The once farming area filled with fruit orchards is now brimming with lavish shopping malls and boutique shops. If you’re a book lover like me, check out Ngee Ann shopping mall, home to Singapore’s largest book store, Kinokuniya.

Delicious food is often the highlight of my day, and there are so many great places to eat out in while visiting Singapore. From gourmet to street food, you will find a feast of delights. Hawker Centres are where it’s at, with 3 of the city’s stalls even winning Michelin Stars! Here are some notable dishes: Chilli Crab is a seafood dish in which stir-fried crab is coated with a sweet, savoury and spicy tomato-based sauce. Hainanese Chicken and Rice might look a little bland to some people, but it is simply delicious. Laksa Curry Soup is also a must-try and a personal favourite of mine!

Stop and Smell the Flowers

Singapore was voted one of the greenest cities in the world, and it’s no wonder as it is full of beautiful open spaces to escape the hustle and bustle. Be sure to visit Gardens by the Bay, a 250-acre showpiece of horticulture and garden artistry that presents the plant kingdom in a whole new way. Its goal is to entertain and educate visitors with plants ranging from cool, temperate climates to tropical forests and habitats. 

The futuristic-looking Supertrees are an Insta-moment for sure and also provide a fantastic vantage point over Marina Bay. A real bonus is that more than 40 art pieces are scattered throughout the Gardens, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature and relax while enjoying the art.

If you love Orchids, don’t miss out on the Singapore Botanic Garden, the 200-acre garden holds a unique and significant place in the region but is also the first and only tropical botanic garden on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

Singapore also has one of the world’s first ‘open concept’ zoos and is home to more than 2,500 animals from across the globe. Take a river safari in the Mandai Wildlife Reserve to gain a deeper understanding of animals, birds, and the environment to learn more about the need for wildlife conservation.

Experience Fun-Filled Adventures

Immerse yourself in Hollywood-inspired attractions at the Singapore Universal Studios with adrenaline-pumping rides, interactive shows and a wide variety of exciting attractions based on the blockbuster movies and television series you know and love so well.

Skyline Luge is Singapore’s best gravity-fuelled thrill ride. Each trail has specially designed features, including hairpin corners and exhilarating tunnels that speed through the lush tropical forests in Sentosa.

As soon as the sun sets, Clarke Quay transforms into a lively and vibrant nightspot. This historic riverfront district once stored commercial goods, but the old warehouses have been converted into blocks of bars and restaurants that attract partygoers galore.

Unwind and book an overnight stay at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel; they have the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool that overlooks the entire city. You can sunbathe on a lounger, enjoy poolside cocktails, or party the night away in its rooftop restaurants and bars at this one-of-a-kind location.

Singapore is also home to many interesting festivals and exciting events. Check out their events calendar to see what might be happening when you’re there!

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