Singapore has to be the easiest country we explored during our travels in Southeast Asia. Both rich in culture, and history, Singapore has so much to offer. From the delicious food to the clean metros, and everything from splendid green spaces to towering skyscrapers. It’s no wonder I can’t wait to go back!
We spent a glorious 3 days on this island nation, which we found was the perfect amount of time. But you could easily spend a week.
Day 1:
Little India
We happened upon Little India on our first day while walking to a nearby mall to catch a movie (we needed a bit of “normal” to start our short 3 day stay in Singapore). We were captivated by the sights, sounds and smells of the crowded streets lined with neon flashing signs, jewelry shops and loud speakers yelling the latest deals at each shop. We found an amazing open air restaurant that served us roti and an assortment of dipping sauces.
Day 2:
Gardens By The Bay
We caught the MRT, the local metro, from our hostel and bought tickets for the Cloud Forest and the Flower Dome. The Supertree Grove was what we were most looking forward to. These iconic green giants were like something out of Avatar. Adam and I roamed around in the early morning so as to beat the crowds (and the heat) later in the day and we were truly in awe at how spectacular these tree sculptures are! The true spectacle was at night, when the trees came to life to offer a jaw-dropping light show! We watched it twice in a row.
Then off to the Cloud Forest and the Flower Dome! The Cloud Forest is a green house that mimics a tropical cloud forest ecosystem. This indoor ecosystem has regular misting to maintain the humidity, a variety of vegetation, a large central mountain and a waterfall. As you ascend the mountain, around the spaceship-esque boardwalks, the vegetation changes with altitude gained, just like in an outdoor environment. We welcomed the short break from the heat, and the educational displays about the conservation efforts this green house is trying to bring to light.
The Flower Dome was our next stop. And just my luck, the exhibit was Tulipmania, my favourite flower! We spent some time roaming between the rows of tulips, and the variety of flowers from all different parts of the world.
Marina Bay Sands
Ravenous with hunger from all of the walking, we chose to find lunch in the neighbouring Marina Bay Sands hotel and adjoining mall. This famous boat shaped hotel is incredible on the inside. We ended up walking through the mall in hopes of finding a food court and happened upon a casino. In our food deprived state, we decided to go in. We had our passports scanned, our bags checked and entered.
This casino is unlike any you will ever see. They had robots wandering the aisles serving an assortment of beverages, they had fancy latte machines lining the walls, and floors and floors of game tables, slot machines and private gambling rooms. We tried our hand at roulette, but no luck! Our luck was found in the foodcourt when we had a delicious lunch!
Art & Science Museum
We spent a great couple of hours exploring the Alice and Wonderland exhibit, a display about the story’s creation. We also toured a virtual reality exhibit and a modern art exhibit.
Day 3:
Bugis Street Market
The cheapest, hottest and biggest place to shop in all of Singapore. We hopped off the MRT at the Burgis station to explore this crazy market before heading to China Town. We spent a while being jostled by the hoards of people, did some shopping, and sampled a variety of cheap food.
Colonial District:
Boat Quay
Adam and I happened upon Boat Quay, along the Singapore river, and we were so excited! This area is full of restaurants and pubs set into traditional Colonial style architecture. While a bit pricier than our usual corner market meals, we decided to splurge for a great seafood meal and some well deserved beers.
National Gallery Singapore
Our luck arose again, when we came upon the gallery on the last free day to view the art exhibits. This gallery is tucked into the old City Hall and the old Supreme Court Buildings. We were impressed by both the incredible architecture of the buildings and the historic and modern art pieces within. The rooftop bar offers some incredible views of the skyline.
We cannot wait to visit again one day soon! Hopefully this time we can grab a famous Singapore Slim cocktail on the roof of Marina Bay Sands or the The Long Bar in the historic Raffles Hotel where it was invented.
