Pops' Singapore Travel Guide

Singapore used to be a stop on my way to Penang, Malaysia. Stopping in Singapore for a short layover is a treat as Changi Airport is consistently ranked as one of the best airports in the world. There are plenty of places to eat, the shopping area is like an upscale mall and there are places like orchid gardens to just relax.  Then, on a trip I was taking to India I had an extended layover in Singapore. For extended layovers, you need at least 5 hours; they offer a tour of the city which includes a boat ride on the Singapore River.

Tour Timings:
9:00 am to 11:00 am
11:30 am to 1:30 pm
2:30 pm to 4:30 pm
4:00 pm to 6:00 pm

After taking the tour I realized that I had been to Singapore for years and never got to see the gem that Singapore is.

On my next trip I decided that instead of going directly to Penang I would spend a weekend in Singapore.  I have been back several times.

Singapore used to be a state in Malaysia but due to its mostly Chinese population it asked and was granted permission to form its own country. Singapore was and still is a major shipping hub but now it is also a major airline hub and one of the world’s top financial centers. There is a strong British influence that you will see in the architecture and infrastructure. Singapore is also one of the cleanest and safest places in the world. Now that it is a world financial center there are people from all over the planet living in Singapore.

Places to Stay:

I have stayed at the Mandarin Oriental and the Holiday Inn.

The Mandarin Oriental is a luxury hotel in a great location by the Opera House. It is close to the Merlion statue and the Singapore River where you can walk to Clarke Quay. The lobby is atrium style and they have a Morton’s and the Morton’s Bar is suspended within the atrium (very cool).  

The Holiday Inn Orchard City Center is more in the city and closer to Orchard Road which is a shopping and entertainment hub in Singapore.  Rooms are upscale and hotel is perfect for both business and vacation travelers. Check out the pool area as it is very nice and relaxing.

Other hotels to consider are The Fullerton and Raffles Hotels that are luxury hotels from the era of the British Empire.

Attractions:

 

Go back in time to the height of the British Empire in the Raffles Hotel. The Raffles Hotel is home of the Long Bar where they invented the Singapore Sling.

Take a tour of the Opera House.

The Singapore Zoo is one of the best in the world.

Take the Night Safari and see the animals as they react at night.

Marina Bay Sands is a casino, hotel and shops spanning 3 high rise buildings. Across the top of all 3 buildings is a park and an infinity pool. Very cool.

Take a ride on a boat in the Singapore River.

 

Clarke Quay has very colorful buildings that house restaurants and shops along the Singapore River. I have spent afternoons drinking at outdoor bars along the river. Also, if you are into Single Malt Scotch try out the Highlander. They even have Haggis in the restaurant. Hooters has a great bar outside along the river also.

There is a Universal Studios Singapore now.

The Singapore Grand Prix is a Formula One race that is in the streets of Singapore. It is unique as it is raced at night.

Shopping:

Either go to Orchard Road or Clarke Quay. The shops range from tourist to upscale. I have even had an excellent quality suit tailor made for me.

Nightlife:

The top 5 nightclubs in Singapore are Avalon Nightclub, Pangaea Club, Zouk Nightclub, Ku De Ta Nightclub, Attica and Attica too Bar and Club. The only one I went to was Zouk. Zouk is really 4 nightclubs in one. You buy a wristband and you can go to all 4. The first one is a wine bar and fairly quiet. The other 3 are dance clubs that range from piped in music to a DJ to a live band. I had a blast there and would recommend it. I can’t talk to the other 4 top nightclubs but if they are like Zouk I would try them out. With the diverse population these nightclubs are off the hook.

Getting Around:

You can drive but I would take the taxi as they are easy to get. There is a restricted driving zone in the heart of the city and you need a special permit.

Getting There:

Since Singapore is a hub it is very easy to get there. From where you start there may even be a direct flight. Also, since Singapore is a hub you can extend your trip by taking a hop somewhere else. Air China and Air Asia have cheap flights.