It’s midafternoon and we’re at the Raffles Hotel Long Bar in Singapore, sipping a traditional Gin Sling, eating peanuts from a bag, and throwing the shells on the floor – a tradition here since 1915.
We’ve had to line up for half an hour for this privilege. The hotel, a British colonial styled establishment, was built in 1887 and named after Sir Thomas Raffles, the founder of modern Singapore. This place is a must for first-time visitors to Singapore.
Statistics and rules
Singapore has a population of 6 million, a third of whom are non-citizens, including more than 20,000 Australian expats.
It is a multicultural country with 76 per cent ethnic Chinese, 15 per cent Malays and 7.4 per cent ethnic Indians. According to the latest cost of living index, Singapore is tied with Zurich as the most expensive city in the world to live. It’s no wonder that 10 per cent of the population are millionaires.
There are many rules to abide by when you are in Singapore, and you can expect heavy fines if you breach. The government is very strict towards offenders who break the law, and severe punishment can include caning or hanging.
The city is spotless. There is no graffiti. The people are friendly, courteous, and orderly. The crime rate is one of the lowest in the world, which means that you can feel safe walking the streets anytime of the day.
Traffic can build during peak times, but because of the incredibly high cost of cars and required permits, there are fewer cars on the roads. The COE (Certificate of Entitlement), which gives you the right to own a car and use the roads for 10 years, costs up to $160,000+, depending on the cars’ size. Then add the price of the car plus many associated add-ons, including the petrol price of $3/L, and the total is way beyond many people’s budget.
What’s there to do?
There are many things to do in Singapore (visitsingapore.com). I would suggest Googling the number of days you have, to get an idea of what’s available and what you can fit in. Don’t forget, Singapore is generally hot and humid all year round. There are only two seasons – a ‘dry’ season (March to August) and a ‘wet’ season (September to February). If you do a lot of walking, do it in the mornings or evenings when it’s cooler, otherwise expect to be drenched in sweat.
A ‘free’ walking tour
We did a “free” (give a tip at the end what you think appropriate) three-hour walking tour as a start to our Singapore explore. There are a few of these tours available, so go online to select one that suits.
The first stop gave us a 360-degree view of Singapore from the garden rooftop of the CapitaSpring building, 280m up on the 51st level, and close to our Raffles Square starting point in the centre of the commercial hub. If you are not on a tour, you must book a time slot online to get a QR code for the rooftop view.
The interesting Singapore River walk allowed us to view colonial government buildings, which are now part of the arts precinct. These historic buildings, including the magnificent former post office (now Fullerton Hotel), remind us of times gone by. Behind the hotel is one of the most popular tourist spots in Singapore and is the official mascot of Singapore – the Merlion, a mythical creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish.
As an alternative to a walking tour, take a river cruise from Clark Quay. An audio provides an overview of Singapore’s history and sights. If you have limited time, you might consider the many hop on hop off (HOHO) buses to view the major sights, and to get an idea of the city’s layout.
After our walking tour, a stroll through Chinatown revels stunning original Chinese architecture, which blends well with modern skyscrapers. We head to Chinatown Street Market and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, where outside we watch money change hands as elderly men test their luck with Chinese Checkers. At the nearby Maxwell Food Court, with its 100+ hawker stalls, we enjoy lunch and a cold beer.
Other worthwhile places to visit
- Gardens by the Bay (gardensbythebay.com.sg) – there are 100 ha to explore here, but the main attractions are the spectacular Flower Dome and Cloud Forest (get a combo ticket online). There’s a Supertree (50m tall) Garden Rapsody free sound and light show in the gardens at 7.45 and 8.45 every evening. Exhilarating!
- Marina Bay Sands Hotel (57 story ‘ship in the sky’) – great views at night. There are 2600 rooms starting at $1000 a night. Gulp! The foyer area is stunning, as is the adjacent boutique shopping complex, which houses the casino (passport and entry card are required – in and out). The observation deck at night will cost you $40. The infinity pool view is for guests only.
- Botanic Gardens – established in 1859, the 82-ha area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers the chance to take a leisurely stroll along the winding paths, or for a family picnic on the grassed areas. Don’t miss the National Orchid Garden, the main attraction in the Botanic Gardens. The three-ha site displays over 1000 orchid species and 2000 hybrids – the world’s largest. Absolutely spectacular. Go online for discounted tickets.
- Little India – just wander the streets and visit the Tekka Hawker Centre, Mustafa Centre Markets and Veeramakaliamman Temple. Nearby Bugis Street Market is an iconic site to visit.
- Arab Street – the interesting streets are filled with Middle Eastern restaurants and bars. The mosque is magnificent. Go at night for the fabulous vibe.
- Orchard Street – Singapore’s retail sector, with upscale boutiques and department stores. It is the most popular place in Singapore to shop and eat.
- Fort Canning Park – this is an historic landmark, and a pleasant place to wander around and remove yourself from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Sentosa Island – a resort area, connected to the city by road, pedestrian boardwalk, cable car and monorail. There are lovely beaches and attractions including the Universal Studios theme park, as well as luxurious hotels, beachside restaurants, and bars.
- National Museum – Dating back to 1887, the museum highlights the origin and moments in Singapore’s history.
How do I get around?
There is an extensive public transport system in Singapore including buses and trains. You can get a Singapore Tourist Pass for any number of days. However, we think the best and more convenient ways are to walk, get a taxi, or the more popular and cheaper GRAB.
If you are flying home with Jetstar, you will experience the top-notch terminal 4 at Changi airport – modern, spacious, and comfortable. I would say it was the best I have ever set foot in.
There are a multitude of things to do in Singapore. Just soak up the laid-back pace of the city and fit in whatever you are comfortable with within the time you have. You will not be disappointed with whatever you do.
Have you ever been to Singapore? Why not share your favourite places in the comments section below?
Also read: Six of the best Australian winter wonders to visit
