In 1989, after spending five years in Hong Kong, Geraldine and John McGrath relocated to Singapore. Since retiring in 2013, they now divide their time between Singapore and Flinders, where they have a 25-acre farm. They’ve also embraced life on the road, hopping in their new caravan and heading to those more out of the way places in Australia. The busy quite and open space of Australia perfectly balances the busyness of Singapore, which Geraldine loves and is only too happy to share her favourite spots around the city.
Best coffee
Jimmy Monkey Cafe and Bar – 9 One-north Gateway, #01-51 one-north residences, 138643
Singapore has many Melbourne-style coffee shops nowadays and my current favourite is a small local cafe. However, if you feel like a traditional coffee, then kopi-o is worth a try at any hawker centre.
Best cocktail
Hyatt Mezza9 Martini Bar – Grand Hyatt Hotel, 10 Scotts Rd, Singapore 228211
The lychee martini at the Hyatt Mezza9 Martini Baris my go-to. The two–for–one happy hour is a great place to start the night before heading to Haji Lane for some of Singapore’s more lively bar options.
Best breakfast/brunch
Alkaff Mansion – 10 Telok Blangah Green, Singapore 109178
Free flow champagne brunch is a popular Singapore Sunday treat. Most hotels have elaborate buffets, but my favourite would be the less extravagant Italian themed buffet at Alkaff Mansion. A colonial bungalow, originally the weekend residence of the wealthy Alkaff family, it’s a quiet, green insight into old Singapore.
Best local view
Level 33 – 8 Marina Blvd, #33-01 Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower, Singapore 1018981
Level 33 is a craft-brewery with fantastic views of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, the Marina Bay, CBD and out to the Singapore Straits.
One fun thing you can do for free
Walk The Southern Ridges. Starting from Kent Ridge Park, head along the canopy walk and over the Alexandra Arches. Continue on to Mt Faber – if you are energetic (be warned, it extends 10km!).
Something only a local knows about
Kilo Kallang – 66 Kampong Bugis, #02-01, Singapore 338987
A Japanese-Italian eatery with great food and atmosphere. Located in a converted warehouse in the Kallang Riverside Park, it’s a casual, friendly, open-air restaurant. It’s not easy to find, but the food makes the search worthwhile!
Favourite thing to do in and around the city
Singapore Cricket Club – Connaught Drive, Singapore 179681
This is a members-only club that plays a big part in Singapore’s history. It is in a great central location and serves excellent local food. Get to know a member!
Why do you love this town?
Singapore is an easy place to live. It is clean and green and the tropical climate means you can be outside all year round. It is very organised and everything works efficiently, especially roads and public transport, so enjoying a different cuisine in a different area every day is part of the Singapore lifestyle.
