Our association with Singapore started in 1980 and continues today. Somewhere in that time we managed to live and work there for the best part of 25 years. We are happy to share more insights but the following basic overview should provide some information on what to expect.
Taxis: Still the best way to navigate the island. Some advice, just watch the various taxis from the airport for cost. There are 3 types; the Limo, Business Class and Blue Comfort. The Blue Comfort is the most economical and we would avoid the Black and Yellow.
As a Stopover: You would spend one or two nights in a hotel in the Orchard Road district. The island does not shut early so just go for it. Shop ’til you drop. The stores close around 10pm. For late night drinks or food the hotel concierge will give you all the help required.
As a short Holiday: Four or Five days is sufficient to give you the time to see what the Island has to offer. The many tourist spots are all worth taking time to see. The hotel can arrange tours or the more adventurous can find their own way.
The underground rail or MRT is also a great way to move around as you never have to wait more than 2 to 4 minutes for the next one.
The feast of Singapore Food: The is no limit to the type of food available, from luxury buffet’s in the hotel to the local Hawker centres around town. What I would call the latest craze for food are the food courts. The one on the top floor of the Wisma Atria is a beauty and you can be sure the food is fresh.
For those ladies and gentlemen who like to indulge, High Tea at Raffles Hotel is a must.
John B
Having just returned from Singapore in November I can agree with John B on all points. We first went to Singapore in 1998 and although it has grown in terms of buildings and density it remains relatively the same.
Because we were taking children we loved the safe and secure environment that Singapore offers. It’s very clean and the people are friendly and helpful.
Shopping in Orchard Road is ‘amazing’ even for someone who finds that sort of thing painful. Just the sheer size of some of the centres is something to experience. The food court Wisma Atria is on Orchard Road and for just a few dollars you can have fresh authentic local food without the concern of falling ill. You can also drink the water straight from your Hotel tap.
Sentosa Island is a must see with water parks and a Universal Studios if you’re interested in spending a day there. Take the cable car over for a truly grand ride.
Eating out at either Clarke Quay or Boat Quay is a tourist thing to do amongst the hustle and bustle of the city but as with most things in Singapore remember to take your wallet.
We found a great way to see the city was to buy a 2 day pass on an open top Duck & Hippo bus tour. You can hop on and off as you please and when you’re on the bus you can plug the headphones into a guided tour.
Another adventure worth doing is the Night Safari. All sorts of animals wandering in the dark right near your cart provides a real atmosphere.
5 days in Singapore is ample to see the sights and as with most Asian countries expect to sweat.
Have Fun,
David Just