Singapore - a nation of hidden gems

Singapore

a nation of hidden gems

DEAR PARTNERS As many of us know, Singapore is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city, where East meets West. But apart from being a modern and efficient financial and trade hub, Singapore has so much more to offer leisure travellers.

Multi-ethnic cultures, authentic local experiences, with off-thebeaten track adventures and treetop walks, amid lush greenery await and will define your idea of an urban metropolis. Combined with delicious street food to some of Asia’s 50 Best restaurants; rooftop bars to quirky coffee houses; Singapore offers a rich tapestry of experiences.

Singapore is the ideal destination in South East Asia where modernity and tradition is celebrated. This guide has been developed for you and your clients to showcase the exciting developments in this city state, and why it is more than just a stopover, but an experiential destination in itself.

Come and discover Singapore’s hidden gems, its authentic local favourites and the unique blend of cultures that have been attracting visitors from all over the world. Make Singapore your own at YourSingapore.com.

Jonathan Loh Area Director Northern & Western Europe Singapore Tourism Board

| Singapore - a nation of hidden gems 2

Singapore is a nation of rich heritage, reflected in its food, places of worship and shops. A melting pot of cultures, with major ethnic groups in the country, including Chinese, Malaysians, Indians and Peranakans, you can learn more about each culture by visiting the four ethnic precincts.

Chinatown is Singapore’s

largest historic quarters and is made up of exotic pre-war shophouses. It’s a blend of old and new, with beautiful heritage structures and is the only place where you can find three different temples in one street - Thian Hock Keng (Chinese), Sri Mariamman (Indian) and Jamae Mosque (Muslims). Here you will also find over 200 market stalls selling their wares from silk, jewellery and traditional crafts, cutting-edge restaurants and

Cultural kaleidoscope nightclubs. Every lane and corner conceals unexpected discoveries.

Kampong Glam is one of the

loveliest neighbourhoods to stroll around. With its strong ties to the Malay community, it was historically the Muslim Quarter and retains palmlined rows of conserved shopfronts, art galleries, shops selling crafts, textiles and coffee and some excellent restaurants. Don’t forget to stop by Sultan Mosque, it’s massive golden dome is a sight to behold and is Singapore’s oldest and most important mosque.

Little India serves as a

focal point for the Indian community. These streets are a rich and busy tapestry and offer a snapshot of life as it is on the streets of New Delhi and Mumbai. Here you will

discover a fusion of colours, sounds and scents as the smell of spices, flowers, incense and perfume fill the air. A trip is not complete without a visit to Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour complex, stocking an estimated 150,000 different items for all your essential needs.

The Katong/Joo Chiat enclave is traditionally known to preserve the lifestyle of the Peranakans – descendants of the 17th century Chinese and Indian immigrants who married non-Muslim natives.

The area is dotted with colourful shophouses and is known as a food haven among locals, where the famous Katong Laksa can be found.

Visit Rumah Bebe to learn more about Peranakan culture, where you will find opulent costumes, embroidery and other decorative items.

Singapore - a nation of hidden gems | 3

Endless Excitement

For a small island state, Singapore packs in a wide variety of thrilling adventures or family ‘funatics’. Everyone is guaranteed priceless fun at these amazing entertainment venues.

T

here is plenty to do for families or those young at heart. Visit the Mandai Precinct and you will experience three of Singapore’s key zoo attractions. Explore the award-winning Singapore Zoo during the day and have breakfast with an entire family of orang-utans. Famous for its ‘open concept’, it allows visitors to have a more intimate and

| Singapore - a nation of hidden gems 4

natural experience with the animals. In the afternoon, pop by the River Safari, Asia’s first river-themed nature attraction, where you can experience eight rivers of the world, including the Nile and Ganges; the River Safari is also home to two giant Pandas from China. In the evening, discover the Night Safari, as it exposes you to the nocturnal wildlife and you can see how animals behave in the dark.

The Singapore Flyer, one of the world’s largest observation wheel allows you to enjoy the city skyline and on a clear day even to the islands of Malaysia and Indonesia. Once your air-conditioned capsule comes back to earth, enjoy shops, restaurants, bars and a tropical rainforest garden at ground level.

Visit Merlion Park and hop onto a traditional bumboat to enjoy a leisurely ride along the Singapore River. The cruise will give you the opportunity to see the changes that Singapore has undergone as you pass former

shophouses and colonial landmarks, before you arrive at Clarke Quay for further entertainment.

Singapore is one of the best cities in Asia when it comes to extreme experiences. Take the GX-5 Extreme Swing and G-MAX Reverse Bungy at Clarke Quay, for example. Propelling people across the Singapore River, in a 70-metre arc and reaching 120 km/h, the high speeds of the GX-5 Extreme Swing are bound to make you scream out of sheer exhilaration. The G-Max Reverse Bungy, which operates as a slingshot, will raise you 20 metres in the air and fall at a speed of 200 km/h, feeling the influence of G-force on the body.

Experience the Flight Experience Singapore, Asia’s first flight simulator and test your nerves by sitting in the

captain’s seat and fly a Boeing 737 with 189 passengers at 835 km/h. Adults and kids alike can sit in the exact replica of a cockpit and choose to take off and land from 24,000 airports worldwide, from the Faroe Islands to London Heathrow and fully immerse yourself in highly realistic experiences, such as navigating

through challenging weather conditions.

Forest Adventure tests your agility, strength and balance in the great outdoors. Set in luscious Bedok Reservoir Park, the treetop course features 50 obstacles including bridges, trapezes and zip lines sending you flying across the reservoir’s beautiful waters.

At the water theme park Wild Wild Wet, brave the rapids of a simulated white-water rafting experience or plunge on a boat for two down a massive vertical ramp and up the other side.

For more water-based activities, water-ski, wakeboard and parasail over Singapore’s smooth waters at SKI360° Cable-Ski Park, or let someone else do the sailing on board the yacht Nymphaea, catered by il Lido, Singapore’s most popular restaurant.

Singapore - a nation of hidden gems | 5

CITY in a GARDEN Singapore is not just about gleaming skyscrapers, but you will also find a thriving ecosystem of nature and wildlife, where nature lovers can escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Singapore Botanic Gardens are one of the

city’s most accessible green spaces and in close proximity to Orchard Road. Showcasing 10,000 types of plants, spread across 64 hectares, it is also home to the world’s largest orchid collection at the National Orchid Gardens. Join the locals in the morning and enjoy a rejuvenating work-out and try your hand at tai chi to relieve the stress of your soul.

Singapore is one of two cities in the world to have a primary rainforest within its city limits.

On the clearly marked hiking trails of the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, look out for long-tailed macaque monkeys and forest birds like the fairy bluebird and the emerald dove. Stroll, hike or run among hundreds of species of flowering plants, mountain bike along special tracks, or abseil and rock-climb at the scenic quarry lake.

The MacRitchie Reservoir is used for recreational activities, such as kayaking and canoeing; it has

| Singapore - a nation of hidden gems 6

five routes that make up walking trails. One of the trails will lead to the popular and scenic HSBC Tree Top Walk, a 250-metre aerial free standing suspension bridge and has the perfect vantage point to view the beautiful natural setting of the vicinity.

Gardens by the Bay, located along the Marina

Bay, is a new addition to Singapore’s skyline.

This environmentally sustainable horticultural attraction consists of two massive glass-domed conservatories, interactive tropical gardens and 18 tall “supertrees” – vertical trees standing 2550 metres tall.

The Flower Dome contains 87,000 plants from the cool-dry Mediterranean climate while the Cloud Forest, has 130,000 plants from the cool-moist Tropical Montane regions and nine zones to wander through. You will find a cluster of the Supertrees at the Supertree Grove, where you can also stroll along the OCBC Skyway, a walkway that connects two of the Supertrees to enjoy amazing panoramic views of the Gardens and Marina Bay area. A sky show of dazzling lights and sounds take place at 7.45pm and 8.45pm nightly.

Singapore is a genuine shoppers’ paradise.

Explore individual shops with character for quirky casualwear, or hunt for the best of the world’s designer labels, some of them Singapore’s very own.

A

uthentic souvenirs can be unearthed in Singapore’s bustling cultural neighbourhoods. In charming Chinatown you’ll find lots of surprises, like Li-Hong Jade on Smith Street, which sells traditional and contemporary jewellery, much of it fashioned from premium Burmese stones. Just down the lane, explore curious and unconventional Chinese health remedies at local pharmacies, and investigate old-school street markets like those around Sago Lane. For local and boutique designers, visit Ann Siang Hill for chic fashion wear, such as Asylum and egg33. For bespoke suits and shirts, visit Swagger, which specialises in suits of highquality Italian wool and madeto-measure leather shoes, or Finespun Clothiers, whose tailors have an eye for detail.

Haji Lane, a narrow row

of vividly kaleidoscopic storefronts hidden away in the Kampong Glam neighbourhood, is a fashionista’s paradise. This raw and energetic neighbourhood is home to a collection of

SHOP till you DROP vintage shops selling quirky garments and accessories and exclusive fashion all with their unique style, which have been set up by young, local entrepreneurs. For more local knick-knacks visit Arab Street, where you will find authentic tailor-made batik sarongs and beaded slippers in this uniquely creative environment.

If you are looking for that extra something special, visit the spectacular Louis Vuitton Crystal Pavilion Island, part of the Marina Bay Sands complex. It is the largest boutique located outside of Paris and boasts a large

extensive range of items in store.

Feel the vibrancy of Singapore on Orchard Road, the famed two-kilometre boulevard of shopping malls and entertainment. With over 15 shopping malls, you will find designer labels, home-grown fashion and technical gadgets suitable for all needs and budgets. Some must see malls include ION Orchard, Tangs, Takashimaya and Paragon.

Make a trip to VivoCity, Singapore’s largest shopping mall which offers almost everything under the sun.

With wide open spaces, it is full of energy and vitality. As well as fashion, electronics and books, it is also home to a series of artworks, has an open-air playground for kids and a rooftop amphitheatre.

Or shop where the locals do, at malls not usually mentioned in guidebooks, such as the Tampines Mall with 200 retailers or the Queensway Shopping Centre where you can buy casual garb a third cheaper than elsewhere.

Singapore - a nation of hidden gems | 7

Local ARTS and CULTURE

An international centre for the arts, Singapore has countless galleries, museums and authentic cultural experiences which will indulge all your senses.

Spectrum of Arts For the art lover, head towards Bras Basah and Bugis, an enclave of historical and modern buildings housing galleries, museums, concert halls and theatres that’s a delight to wander through. Close by is the Renaissance-style National Museum of Singapore, dating from 1849 and crowned with a dome, whose exhibits focus on Singapore’s intriguing ethnography and arts. Its Gallery Theatre screens rare films, from world cinema to local auteur shorts.

Also nearby is The Substation, an independent hub for contemporary art, music and experimental theatre.

In the heart of the city, the spiky domes of Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay consist of concert hall, theatre, shops, cafés, a library and a stunning waterfront promenade where performances are often held.

Sculpture Square is set

| Singapore - a nation of hidden gems 8

inside a former Gothic-style church, now painted orange and dedicated to 3D works.

Take part in food sculpting, rubber-stamp carving and printmaking and enjoy the Middle Eastern restaurant Artichoke and bakery Overdoughs.

See an amazing spectrum of visual art from all over the world at 15 galleries housed

within the former colonial Gillman Barracks. While there, visit the Naked Finn, a seafood shack serving gourmet versions of local dishes.

Authentic experiences In Little India, ask a streetside clairvoyant to tell your future.

Dressed in robes and a sash, forehead touched with holy ash, the soothsayer will use

tarot cards, cosmic charts, images of Hindu gods and parrot astrology, whereby a parakeet will pick cards to tell the story of your life.

Step into the past at the architectural heritage gem Peranakan Place on Emerald Hill Road for some of the best examples of pre-war shopfronts, colonnaded walkways, shuttered windows

and brightly coloured Chinese Baroque ceramic tiles. To learn more about Peranakan culture, visit the Peranakan Museum and delve into its rich history.

To take a piece of Singapore home, create and design your own piece of Singaporean pottery at Jalan Bahar Clay Studios, guided by the hand of a ceramic artist or clay sculptor.

Do as the locals do and let an instructor induct you into the popular Singaporean leisure pursuit of prawning at the Hai Bin facilities in Jurong and Punggol. Catch prawns and barbecue your catch with a beer.

In the rural Kranji countryside, tour farms and fisheries promoting ecotourism and conservation.

D’Kranji Farm Resort offers a number of tours where you can grow and cook your own crops, enjoy a barbeque and stay the night.

Singapore - a nation of hidden gems | 9

REACHING

into the Past

Step into the past and walk down memory lane to relive Singapore’s tumultuous Second World War heritage. There are many historical adventures you can explore as the journey takes you through Singapore’s darkest period up to the present day.

O

ld forts, underground bunkers and war memorials scatter the landscape, recalling Singapore’s military heritage as a former British bastion and fortress. Experience the sounds of battles, peak into the life of an artillery man, lose yourself in a World War II underground command centre or look out from an

old observation post to recall battle scenes of old.

Changi Chapel & Museum –

Follow the story of prisoners of war during the Japanese occupation. The museum contains artefacts, letters and pictures of their experiences.

Fort Canning Park – A place

of historical importance, Fort Canning Park was previously known as “Forbidden Hill”, it became an important military base during World War II. Nowadays it’s a place to enjoy performances, concerts and nature.

Battle Box – Located at Fort

Canning, this bunker was Singapore’s largest military complex and was where Lt. Gen. Percival made the decision to surrender to the Japanese. Here you can relive

10 | Singapore - a nation of hidden gems

the moment through audiovisual effects, animatronics and specially crafted figurines.

Fort Siloso – Singapore’s largest

military-themed attraction, it became a concentration camp during the Japanese concentration. A wide collection of artillery guns dating from the 17th century is on display, as well as other interactive exhibits and film clips.

Kent Ridge Park – A relaxing

day out for fitness enthusiasts and nature groups, this hill was also one of the last battles to take place for Singapore.

Walk along the canopy walk, which links the park to the museum Reflections of Bukit Chandu, where you can hear the innermost thoughts of soldiers in this multi-sensory experience.

Architectural

WONDERS

S

ingapore’s dramatic cityscape has plenty of history, culture and architectural beauty, each with its own unique story. The majority of the grandest buildings are found downtown, many were developed under British rule in the 19th and early 20th centuries, so you will find many European-style buildings as you explore the area.

Old Parliament House, now the Arts House is the oldest government building left behind and dates from 1827.

With its distinctive Victorian structure, it has many extensions and wings and is fun to explore.

Beautifully lit up at night is the stirring neo-classical Fullerton Hotel, once a General Post Office building dating from 1928, it is now home to the classy Post Bar that retains the original high ceiling and wall motifs. The hotel is also linked to One Fullerton, a contemporary dining and

nighlife hub popular among locals. At the luxury Raffles Hotel, built in 1887 and named after modern Singapore’s founding father Stamford Raffles, enjoy the famous Singapore Sling and discover forward-thinking shops and galleries.

Venture into Chinatown, where one of the most distinctive buildings showcasing Chinese heritage is People’s Park Complex, a bright green and orange high-rise built in 1967. Learn more about the Peranakan community

and visit Baba House dating from the 19th century. Once home to a local merchant, it has been beautifully restored to recreate the domestic space of the period. Its colourful culture is a crucial component to Singapore.

Another ethnic group that has shaped Singapore’s culture and architecture is the Malay community and you can explore the Arab Street precinct for some spectacular examples of their architecture; the Sultan Mosque is one of the most significant mosques on the island.

Also opened is the awardwinning pedestrian Helix Bridge whose complex design was inspired by DNA’s double helix structure. At night, lights turn it into a spectacular glowing membrane.

Finally, don’t forget to visit the Merlion at Raffles Place, an iconic statue of the imaginary lion-fish creature symbolic of Singapore’s history – combining the country’s identity as the Lion City and its humble origins as a fishing village, so hard to believe now with all the surrounding superstructures.

Singapore - a nation of hidden gems | 11

Singapore’s

E

fabulous food

ating is an exceptional part of Singaporean culture. More than that, it’s part of the Singaporean lifestyle. The array of cultures that have settled here over the centuries each offers its own realm of unforgettably delicious dishes and sweet treats.

The variety of places to eat is staggering. Singapore is a treasure trove of authentic foodie delights, and every venue exudes atmosphere, whether it’s an upscale gourmet experience with a spectacular view or a friendly, heavenly scented food stall.

Local Food Hawker centres are sanitised and cover variants of the old-fashioned street markets and there are around 120 hawker centres in Singapore. They’re an experience not to be missed and all offer mouth-watering meals at a reasonable price.

Maxwell Road

Hawker Centre in Chinatown is a perennial favourite with locals, where you can join the queues waiting patiently at the highly reputed Tian Tian Chicken Rice for a taste of their eponymous dish – the Hainanese chicken rice. You can also head to Tekka Market & Food Centre, situated in the historical neighbourhood of Tiong Bahru, where you will find a great colourful mix of Chinese, Malay and Indian food, as well as wet markets selling spices, meats and vegetables.

Besides chicken rice there are plentiful other dishes to try, such as the popular breakfast dish, Kaya Toast, a local jam made from eggs, sugar and coconut milk; Char Kway Teow, a flat noodle dish; Roti Prata, a south Indian flatbread, ready to be devoured with curry; Laksa,

12 | Singapore - a nation of hidden gems

a rich, spicy coconut broth or. healthy leafy vegetables such as kalian and sambal kangkong.

Another satisfying must-try is the Singapore chilli crab – fresh crabmeat in a sweet spicy sauce to be accompanied with golden fried mantou buns to mop up the delectable sauce.

Local Restaurants To enjoy the best of local food in Singapore, discover some of the following restaurants for a mix of fusion cuisine. For a delectable seafood dinner, visit No Signboard Seafood Restaurant or Jumbo Seafood Restaurant, where you can enjoy the delights of the Chilli Crab and Black Pepper Crab.

For the delicate, yet spicy flavours of Peranakan food, visit Blue Ginger Restaurant or True Blue Cuisine for an authentic meal. Majestic Restaurant serves hip Chinese food, prepared in a careful

and artful manner, giving a unique and satisfying dining experience; while PS. Café, tucked away in Dempsey, showcases culinary creations artfully prepared in their open kitchen, for a vibrant, yet languid atmosphere.

Fine dining There are many options for fine dining too. But you don’t have to experience muchloved favourites like the Empire Café at Raffles or Les Amis. Five-star hotels provide outstanding world-class food, such as the versatile Straits Kitchen at the Grand Hyatt, the exquisite Summer Pavilion at the Ritz-Carlton and the romantic Lighthouse at the Fullerton.

For a flashback to European cuisine, call in at Alkaff Mansion, which serves

Tuscan cuisine inside an elegant colonial manor.

In a cosy setting, Ming Kee Live Seafood serves catches of the day from baby lobster to fresh steamed clams, while Eco Gourmet Café is set in stunning lush green surroundings where the rush of life quickly becomes just a memory.

Trailblazing celebrity and local chefs maintain innovative restaurants that are always using magic to create clever new dishes.

Violet Oon’s Kitchen and the Candlenut Kitchen by Malcolm Lee both rustle up some of the finest fusion and Peranakan cuisine, and the panoramic views

of Singapore’s stunning skyline are combined with superb dining at Justin Quek’s Sky on 57.

Why not test your own culinary flair and learn to cook local dishes such as OndehOndeh, a sweet, coconutcoated ball at the Food Playground; where friendly homegrown cooking talents will teach you how to make favourite Singapore dishes, while you meet new people and have lots of fun.

Singapore - a nation of hidden gems | 13

SENTOSA: Fun, forest & the deep BLUE SEA!

L

ocated just 15 minutes from Singapore’s city centre, Sentosa Island is known as Asia’s favourite playground and is located at the southern tip of Singapore. Sentosa Island is a tranquil resort and is a combination of actionpacked activities, a lush haven of tropical forest for nature lovers, a world-class golf resort and an idyllic beach retreat.

Zip, slide, wizz!

A Sentosa experience, covering one or several days, can begin with a breathtaking cable-car ride to the island over the stunning Singapore landscape of thick tropical forest and sparkling blue sea.

Upon arrival, you will find one of the biggest attractions to be Imbiah Lookout, which offers activities for everyone and includes:

14 | Singapore - a nation of hidden gems

Skyline Luge Sentosa – part go-cart, part

toboggan, navigate down the Jungle Trail or Dragon Trail as fast or slow as like and then board the Skyride and take in the fantastic scenery of the city and coastline.

MegaZip Adventure Park –

features extreme zip wires, an aerial rope course and free-fall simulator. Try the MegaZip, which is 450 metres long and 72 metres above sea level and whizz over the jungle canopy and Siloso Beach.

Wave House Sentosa –

experience the California beach lifestyle with this high-adrenaline flowboarding attraction and then relax with family or party with friends till late with this ultimate blend of entertainment.

iFly – the world’s largest themed wind tunnel for

indoor skydiving allows you to enjoy views of the South China seas and Siloso Beach.

Tiger Sky Tower, experience views across Singapore, even to Malaysia and Indonesia, from Singapore’s tallest observation tower.

Siloso Beach – home to the coolest bars and

restaurants as well as major volleyball action.

Views of nature For those looking to chill and relax, try one of the following activities: Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom - marvel at

thousands of butterflies, spiders, scorpions, beetles and bugs.

Sentosa Nature Discovery- explore the interactive

exhibits and embark on a journey of discovery and sharpen your detective skills while learning more about the wilderness and wildlife.

Sentosa Merlion - take in panoramic views from

inside the tallest version of Singapore’s iconic creature, then toss in gold coins into mercubs’ mouths for a special souvenir.

Singapore - a nation of hidden gems | 15

Water Adventures Sentosa’s awe-inspiring S.E.A Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the world. This magical experience allows you to see through the planet’s largest window to the ocean and is home to more than 800 species of marine animals, including manta rays, sharks and numerous types of tropical fish and gentle sea giants.

Adventure Cove Waterpark – enjoy an aquatic adventure with the parks thrilling waterslides and relaxing wave pools, as you pass through stunning scenes of the tropical jungle and a grotto inhabited by whimsical sea creatures.

16 | Singapore - a nation of hidden gems

Universal Studios Singapore® Singapore is home to the only Universal Studios in Asia and features 24-movie themed rides and attractions, 18 of which are unique to Singapore.

Featuring the world’s first Far Far Away Castle, thrill seeks can experience rides such as the world’s first Transformers The Ride: The Ultimate 3D Battle, the world’s tallest duelling roller coasters of Battlestar Galactica: Human vs Cylon™, Revenge of the Mummy™ and many more.

Award-winning golf Tee-off at an award-winning golfing arena, Sentosa Golf Club, home of the HSBC Women’s Champions and the Asian Tour. The exclusive club boasts two of the most scenic and challenging 18-hole championship golf courses in the region, making it a golfer’s dream.

Don’t forget to eat!

On Sentosa, meals are always served with a splendid view, overlooking the South China Sea or amid luscious greenery. The island now boasts more than 50 places to eat, from Asian cuisine to Italian and European dishes. Also enjoy bars, cafes, nightclubs and shops on Sentosa – the tropical island beach resort with everything!

Singapore - a nation of hidden gems | 17

As the sun sets, Singapore pulsates with excitement and energy, with a host of activities and places to go.

Whether you wish to dance the night away, lounge in some of the most laid-back bars or continue discovering eating haunts, the fun continues long into the night.

Singapore’s

amazing

Singapore is a spectacular highrise city, so it’s also home to the best rooftop bars in the world.

Below are some suggestions of rooftop bars with great views of the city: 1-Altitude - with a panoramic

vista of the city almost 300 meters above sea level. Set atop the OUB Building, this is the world’s highest al fresco bar.

Its incredible position means it closes if it rains or if winds pick up;

nightspots Marina Bay Sands with spectacular views of the city and its flowing waters; Loof - a chic and tasteful bar

with playful furnishings, you will get spectacular views of Raffles Hotel and the Civic District.

An idyllic wining and dining enclave Dempsey Hill has a hip cluster of establishments set amid lush, quiet surroundings that evoke old-world charm.

Once a former British army Breeze - a secret romantic oasis barracks, you will now find and Art Deco corner shophouse hidden within these conserved at boutique hotel The Scarlet. It black-and-white buildings overlooks Chinatown’s red tiled speciality food and drink to roofs and boasts an amorous satisfy every craving. oyster-influenced Holland Village is a haunt for Mediterranean menu; the expat community owing to its laidback charm. Along Helipad - a groovy spot with lots Lorong Mambong there’s an of space to enjoy views of the city eclectic mix of live music, ritzy above the Singapore River with restaurants and casual wine Helipad Iced Teas; bars, while Chip Bee Gardens has trendy Italian restaurants, KU DE TA - atop Singapore’s quirky fashion stores, gourmet newest architectural marvel emporiums and art galleries.

18 | Singapore - a nation of hidden gems

Or sit back into plush daybeds, as you watch your desserts being prepared at local Singaporean chef ’s Janice Wong’s 2am:dessertbar, a perfect setting for a romantic late-night desert or intimate conversation with friends.

Clarke Quay is a colourful kaleidoscope of buildings with antiques, restaurants, cafés, jazz clubs and restaurants, at night, the five blocks of restored warehouses light up and are transformed into an array of clubs from mainstream to alternative. It is also Singapore’s 24-hours entertainment area, which means the party never stops.

For the elite, Pangaea, the Ultra-Lounge that dominated the likes of New York City and London is the place to be. Located at the Marina Bay Sands’ Crystal Pavilion, you will be transported into a private journey into the surreal, where you are THE celebrity.

Book a trip to Singapore to coincide with the city’s lively celebrations.

Chinese New Year: Traditionally celebrated on

the first day of the first month in the Chinese calendar, visit Chinatown as the precinct comes to life during this festive period. Streets become a fairground as temples open their doors, stalls sell raw fish salad and decorations glow under the night bazaar’s lanterns. Watch floats and dance at the Chingay Parade at Marina Bay in early February.

Thaipusam: This Hindu procession in February

is a test of faith for devotees who carry colourful kavadi wooden frames from temple to temple.

Vesak Day: Monks

meditate in flowerscented Buddhist temples to celebrate Buddha’s birthday in May. Singapore Arts Festival: May and June evenings

are packed with dance ensembles, music and art installations as the city embraces the contemporary and avant garde.

Great Singapore Sale: Held for one month at the

National Day: On August 9, fireworks light up

the sky above Marina Bay after a day of military marches, acrobatics and children’s choirs.

Hari Raya: The maze of streets around the Sultan

Mosque comes alive in August and September with street stalls selling rainbow-coloured biscuits and batik-patterned fabrics.

Mid-Autumn Festival: Lion dances entertain in

Chinatown as locals buy moon cake pastries during this midautumn festival. The pagoda and bridges of Jurong’s Chinese Garden are also covered in lanterns.

Grand Prix Season Singapore: The only night,

street race in the F1 calendar, Singapore buzzes with excitement on the last weekend of September, with not only the race, but concerts, after-parties, exclusive showcases and much much more.

Deepavali: Little India’s henna artists and

end of May, shopaholics can enjoy up to 70% off for a range of items from fashion, homeware and electrical goods.

sweetmeat shops are experienced at their best during spicy evenings in October, as temple shrines are garlanded and the Hindu community parties.

World Gourmet Summit: This annual gourmet

Zoukout – One of Asia’s biggest outdoor beach

food and wine festival in April, promises gourmands everywhere the chance to immerse themselves in the finest haute cuisine from around the world. With line up events such as dinners by celebrity chefs, personal sessions from world renowned Michelin star chefs and culinary workshops, this is one culinary event you do not want to miss.

parties held on Sentosa Island, Singapore plays hosts to world famous DJ’s where you can party all night in your casual Sunday beachwear.

Christmas in the tropics: Orchard Road shopping

street turns into a tropical winter wonderland with giant snow scenes, toys, trees and candy canes.

Singapore - a nation of hidden gems | 19

Places

TO STAY T

here is a variety of options in Singapore when it comes to accommodation and they extend from budget rooms to luxury hotels, apartments and boutique hotels all around the city.

With more than 50,000 rooms available, each hotel provides consistently high quality service and facilities.

Many are located in the city centre and in close proximity to key attractions.

Here are some suggestions of the different types of hotels on offer.

A magnificent neoclassical landmark, the Fullerton Hotel Singapore combines old-world charm with first-class service. Housed in the former General Post Office and situated in the city’s financial and arts district, it is a masterpiece of heritage restoration and makes for a truly grand stay.

Set within a seven-acre garden oasis, the RitzCarlton Millenia professes to be Singapore’s first “art hotel” combining ancient Feng Shui architecture and design with modern art. Guests can book guided tours of some or all of the 4,000

20 | Singapore - a nation of hidden gems

pieces including art by Hockney, Warhol and Henry Moore.

Parkroyal on Pickering is

an ecological triumph, with luscious greenery inside and out. The 367-room hotel is set within 15,000 square metres of solar-powered, zero-energy “sky gardens” complete with waterfalls. It’s also close to Singapore’s central dining, shopping and sightseeing pleasures.

For those looking for something different, the quirky, four-floor, 29-room Wanderlust in Little India is set inside a former school building. In the lobby, a dental surgeon’s lamp stands beside a pair of barber chairs from the 1930s. Sit on seats made out of recycled road signs or relax in the different guest rooms, which are either decorated in different pantone colours, or based on a specific theme, such as ‘Tree’ or ‘Space’.

Sophisticated Naumi is a luxury boutique hotel with highly personalised service. A member of Small Luxury Hotels, it is located in Singapore’s central business district. Enjoy in-room spa

treatments and elegant yet tech-friendly rooms.

But the highlight has to be the rooftop infinity pool from which you can view the whole of the Singapore skyline.

For apartment-style accommodation, Village Residence Hougang by the hospitality wing of Singapore’s premier private property developer Far East Organization is the one to beat. Superbly maintained, facilities include a swimming pool, wifi of course, 24-hour food court, restaurants, shops, sauna, tennis courts. A little way out of the centre, it’s ideal for longerthan-average stays.

On the fun-filled entertainment island of Sentosa, Capella Singapore is housed in a former British army barracks dating from the 1880s.

It has been redesigned by famed architect Sir Norman Foster, where elegant rooms overlook this tropical paradise’s serene white-sand beaches. Spacious balconies are given privacy by plants native to the island.

Split into two wings, Mövenpick Heritage Hotel Sentosa is a great base for

exploring Singapore’s play island. The 62-suite heritage wing is a carefully restored wartime barracks with the colonial architectural details intact. The contemporary

wing has a spectrum of rooms and suites. The day’s pleasures are never over, as an amazing range of 250 whiskies, some very rare, is on offer.

With its private yacht berth, red carpets, glowing poolside chairs and underwater music in curvaceous pools, the W Singapore Sentosa Cove is designed to make you feel like a superstar. The rooms all have a wow factor, from the plunge pools to the in-room DJ booths.

Ever wanted to find out what it’s like to sleep underwater? Luxury and unforgettable, the 11 exclusive Ocean Suites at the Equarius Hotel, part of Resorts World Sentosa, are 5-star zones at the bottom of the sea. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the suites’ lower-level bedrooms give a direct view of thousands of fish and other ocean creatures.

Singapore - a nation of hidden gems | 21

a lax. We enjoy Island and re hter ug da y m d an nice brunch, end three or aged six can sp playground the four hours in playing ds ki r with othe out e so happy ab happily. We’r e W the city. t the security in nd day or nigh ou ar e ov can m assault or without fear of robbery. l the time.

- We eat out al street nt or Every restaura be in a local ay m , m ar ch own ry t and kitchen has its e White Rabbit, at an eate is rt a l a n o ti a th e rn te to lik in nt ay , B ra o e au er th rest by Joe Lab or at Gardens at Sweden: in Chinatown, uper trees”. It’s no secret th magician from “s e e th an th in e’s ce e er ac en th ri pl expe , and my favourite e love their food - Singapore is spend time here with my Singaporeans y to choose from. Singapor er th ue tr et ’s ri ly at al va th ci le pe ib world. I’d ra nd incred vers, es ywhere else. A ere ove for food lo h family than an ng Singapore or living th is a treasure tr and the street kitchens wit ti si vi e I’m in er is th s. cu he l ur w n to the loca onths betwee and up afood. for several m tter than to st be all kinds of se g in th no a os nt Se to - We know er k ov ke a short wal to the sun, ta

Martti Savojärvi, editor and Finland Travel Trade Maga former publisher of zine, from Finland: -

I have been to Singapore many times. I love all the different kinds of food. It really is a gastronomic country wit h all types of cuisine, whether you wa nt to eat at a street kitchen or a Michelin-star restaurant.

I love how all the different melt together in the gastro cultures nomy of Singapore. Really delicious tastes.

- And please don’t forget the golf. Marvellous and exciting courses with challenging greens.

- Everyone knows how eas y it is to fly into Singapore , but my wife and I also find it very easy to sail int o Singapore from different destinations.

22 | Singapore - a nation of hidden gems

Claus Meyer, restaurant owner from Denmark: - I am completely crazy abo ut the food on the street and in the small cafeterias à la Wee Nam Ke e. I love to work with people from Sin gapore. It’s transparent, focused and fun. At least for me. There are wonderfu l hotels all over the city and fantastic shopping.

- Hawker centres are the most ridiculously value for mo ney.

Cheap, super-hygienic, hon est and

unpredictable. And when now and then I drag chefs from the top restaurants around Singap ore’s best street vendors, they experie nce such delight. I feel also how food is an obsession for many Singaporeans, and people ask each other “What have you got to eat today?” more often than “How are you?”

Norway. Airline Erik Pedersen, Singapore Airlines: er, country manag seen

es I’ve ore so many tim Being in Singap ntly evolves and yet nsta how the city co angles to the Having further e places change e. m stays the sa how quickly th ed az n is am e ar u yo time conservatio city, sometimes hile at the same ks itself. You can w , gs in th w ne and you see history mar you can see how d radius. maintained and ite lim a uch within m so e nc rie pe ex

Singapore - a nation of hidden gems | 23

Singapore Tourism Board Tel: +44 (0) 20 7484 2710 Fax: +44 (0) 20 7839 6162 Email: stb_london@stb.gov.sg

24 | Singapore - a nation of hidden gems www.yoursingapore.com