Expat Advice Explore Singapore – the top eight spots for 2019
The Lion City is one of the most vibrant and singular islands in the world. This city-state is a multicultural hub that blends tradition and modernity like nowhere else. We’ve drawn on our Singapore-based office to bring you top spots for 2019 that will get you moving in Singapore – if not moving to Singapore.
Gardens by the Bay
One of the most famous images of Singapore is the otherworldly Supertrees and biodomes of the Gardens by the Bay. They’re famous for a reason. The architecture is stunning. The botanical displays are breath-taking. Head up to the Cloud Forest and you’ll see what we mean. There are also seasonal displays – including Tulipmania, Blossom Beats, and Orchid Extravaganza.
There are actually three gardens, nearby but crossing the river banks. It’s easy to make a day of it, especially with a range of restaurants and cafes to keep your energy up. And don’t forget to look out for events and festivals that are sometimes hosted here.
Lau Pa Sat
Image credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Roof_of_Lau_Pat_Sat,_Singapore.jpg
Singapore loves its food. If you do too, you need to visit this large, covered food court. While there are many hawker centres around the city selling delicious but affordable street food, Lau Pa Sat is the central place to visit. A huge range of different cuisines are housed beneath the roof of this historic building.
As a side note, foodies should look out for the Singapore Food Festival. This runs from 12 to 28 of July. The festival showcases Singapore’s rich food culture and runs throughout the city. One of the highlights is the 50 Cents Fest in Chinatown. Everything costs – just like the name suggests – a mere 50 cents.
Sungei Buloh
Image credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/joxeankoret/25255668446
There are still areas of wilderness on this cultivated island, and Sungei Buloh is one. This wetland reserve offers 87-hectares for nature lovers to explore. You can go hiking, picnicking, bird-watching, or keep an eye on the water for estuarine crocodiles or water monitors. Remember to take sunscreen and plenty of water.
Really Really Free Market
Image credit: https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Really_Really_Free_Market_DC.jpg
Singapore has a reputation for its shopping and consumerism, and for being expensive. If you want a break from this, why not head to the Really Really Free Market? This initiative focuses on sharing, and aims to build a caring community. Started in New Zealand, it’s made its way over to parts of Asia.
Everything at this market is free, and it’s not restricted to objects like food, books, or jewellery. It also includes services and skills, like haircuts, massages, and musical performances. Everything is offered for free – and you, in turn, are free to offer your own items or skills. Their Facebook page has all the details.
Haw Par Villa
Image credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Haw_Par_Villa_-_lake_with_pavilion.jpg
Once known as the Tiger Balm Garden, this weird little theme park isn’t quite like anything else. Haw Par Villa features scenes from Chinese folklore. More than 1,000 vivid statues stand frozen in some of the most unexpected scenes.
The “Ten Courts of Hell” is one of the highlights, depicting the various punishments Hell has to offer. Keep an eye out for demons stabbing loan sharks with pitchforks. In 2019, the villa is open from the start of March.
Singapore Zoo
This well-stocked zoo has animals from all over the world, kept and cared for in large enclosures. Jurong Park is also located nearby for avian fans. One of the highlights of this zoo is the Night Safari. Most of the animals are resting during the day. It can get hot (and very few of them have air conditioning like you will).
Marina Bay Sands
Another iconic structure, it’s worth visiting Marina Bay Sands for the views alone. If you visit at night, you’ll also have two chances to view a stunning 15-minute light show. This is also a great spot to cool off after exploring the island – a pool runs right along the edge of the roof. It’s connected to the hotel, but you don’t need to book a room to take a swim.
The rooftop bar also offers a great place to take in the city at night. You don’t have to go to the famous Raffles Bar to enjoy a Singapore Sling. Order the city’s signature cocktail here and sit back, taking in the view.
Sentosa Island
Are you not entertained? Visit Singapore’s self-proclaimed “State of Fun.” This resort island is home to the S.E.A. Aquarium, Universal Studios, and the Tiger Sky Tower, as well as plenty of shopping. You can actually walk there, or if you’re after something more scenic why not take the cable car?
This is, of course, an island, so if you fancy a day at the beach you’ll be able to find one here. While you won’t be able to enjoy a quiet, solitary stroll, there’s plenty of sand and sun to stretch back on.
Make the move to Singapore!
If these places have helped persuade you to make the move, get in touch with us now. We can help you get ready and provide a relocation quote. You can also check out our moving checklist Singapore to help you plan.
