Exploring Singapore observations of an expat in singapore
Written by
Amanda Jaffe
A Three-Day Itinerary for The Red Dot Whether you’re new to Singapore or hosting visitors, you need a three-day itinerary that features the “real” Singapore. This is that itinerary – no Sentosa, no Long Bar. This itinerary jumps around, but Singapore’s compact, and transportation is inexpensive. It also doesn’t suggest restaurants. Go to your favorite or try anyplace that looks good – it will be, because this is Singapore and that’s part of the fun. “Doing” Singapore in three days means being on the move, but Singapore gets hot and visitors often arrive jetlagged. Be sure to keep hydrated as you explore. Bring a water bottle for each of your guests and for yourself. I’ve reserved afternoons for air-conditioned activities, but you might want to replace at least one Afternoon
Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay
Visit two of Singapore’s oldest Chinese temples – Thian Hock Keng and Yueh Hai Ching – in the vicinity of Telok Ayer. Then head to Singapore’s National Museum for 700 years of history or to the climatecontrolled Flower and Cloud Domes at Gardens by the Bay. Save the outdoor gardens for an evening visit. Late Afternoon/Evening Starting across from Clarke Quay, walk the right bank of the Singapore River toward Marina Bay. River cruises are an option, but strolling allows you to savor the public art and bridges. Cross the lovely Cavenagh Bridge (near the Fullerton Hotel) to Empress Place and view some of Singapore’s best Clarke Quay colonial-era buildings. Cross back over Cavenagh with a nap or pool time. I’ve also suggested activities Bridge and continue to Merlion Park. Pay your for specific times of day, but this itinerary is modular -respects to the Merlion, then stroll around Marina trade one morning, afternoon or evening for another. Bay as the sun goes down and the lights come up. Finally, please check hours and entry requirements MBS has a great light show, but Marina Bay’s skyline before you set out – hours and openings can is the real deal. Dinner options abound. change, and change is a constant here! If you have energy remaining, Theatres on the Bay DAY 1 often runs free performances, from Chinese opera to Malay rock to Thai dance. Weekends seem to offer Morning the most options. Begin in Tiong Bahru. Tiong Bahru Market is an excellent introduction to Singapore wet markets DAY 2 and includes a fantastic food center upstairs. Post- Morning Market, download the National Heritage Board’s Start at Pinnacle@Duxton for amazing panoramic guide and follow the Tiong Bahru Heritage Trail views from the 50th floor skybridge. Only 200 visitors past all this area has to offer, including art-deco are allowed each day. Each visitor needs a CEPAS architecture, a bird corner and the Monkey God card (such as EZ-Link). Purchase your entry (cash temple. Coffee, bakeries, and bookstores are your only) at the Management Office (Block 1G) and use bonus. Start before 10 am to see the wet market at your card to enter. its liveliest. -- 22 --
AWA Annual Issue 2020-2021
